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Sylvia is honoured By Jack Troughton

SYLVIA Tatnell received her British Empire Medal on Tuesday and said it was a “great honour” to receive the award from British Ambassador Simon Manley. She was awarded the BEM in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June for “services to the community in Alicante Province”, and said she was “extremely proud”. Sylvia thanked the people who nominated her after 30 years of service; helping expats as part of a residents association and working for 20 years in local government as a Teulada Moraira councillor. She was councillor responsible for social services, health, youth, and for foreign residents. She left the town hall ahead of the 2015 elections and is now president of the Alzheimer’s Association Day centre in Teulada.

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

BEM for former councillor By Jack Troughton

Continuation from front page... The presentation was made at Casa Manet in El Portet and accompanying the ambassador was British Consul Sarah-Jane Morris, as well as two former mayors, Jose Ciscar and Antoni Joan Bertomeu. “It is a great honour to be here this evening and I am so pleased to be able

to share this special moment with not only my family but also my friends,” said Sylvia. “Over the years I have been involved in many cases; it has been a pleasure to help so many people – there’s nothing more gratifying than helping people. “However, I also had a lot of support from associations and many people here this evening…as an expat community we also help each other;

Simon Manley, Silvia, Consul Sarah-Jane Morris

we make things work.” Sylvia, her parents and brother came to the Costa Blanca in 1971. Her husband is Spanish and she has a son, two daughters and is a proud grandmother to four youngsters. She became involved in politics after working for the Moraira Residents Association and paid tribute to her family for their support. “I would like to thank my wonderful family; every time I have put them in second place to help someone else, no one has said a word, and they never complained or said anything. They have been behind me and I thank them as well.” Representing the Queen, Ambassador Manley said in four years he had travelled around Spain and met some of the many hundreds of thousands of British people who have “chosen to make this marvellous country their home”. He added: “I am constantly impressed and inspired by the Britons I meet as I travel up and down the country; I am inspired and impressed by the commitment of so

many of you to the lives of not just your fellow Britons but also to the communities in which you have chosen to make your home. “As we look across Spain and I meet all those people, there are some people who stand out above the crowd of volunteers; those people’s contribution to their fellow men and women is truly exceptional and as all of you know far better than me, Sylvia Tatnell is one of those truly exceptional people.” And Mr Manley said as a councillor, Sylvia had “worked tirelessly day in and day out” for British expats and people of other nationalities; and he told her: “You have given time effort and commitment to make lives better and communities stronger. “We don’t give the BEM to many people; Sylvia you are one of those very special people.”

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

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CONGRATULATIONS to Sylvia Tatnell BEM on receiving her honour from British Ambassador Simon Manley at a special celebration on Tuesday, surrounded by family and friends. Now retired from local politics, she keeps out of mischief as president of the Alzheimer’s Association Day Centre in Teulada, continuing her community work and on “grandma duty”, looking after the youngest members of the family. And, quite rightly, extremely proud of the award, she thanked the people who nominated her, seeing the honour as a thank-you from the many people she has helped in 30 year of service. When news of the award went public this summer, she said: “There is nothing better than a ‘thank-you’ from the community, the people themselves…I still don’t think I have done enough to deserve it, so I am extremely grateful to those who thought I did.” Dementia continues to be a scourge on society and in an annual festive giveaway, the Masonic Home of Valencia

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Marco Baiardo

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Adam King

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Association presented a cheque for €2,500 to Sylvia at the day centre on Monday – cash being invested in helping care for people suffering from the terrible disease. Almost everyone knows someone affected by dementia in their circle of family and friends and it spares no one when it strikes. This week has seen the deaths of singer David Cassidy and rock star Malcolm Young of AC/DC from the disease. The Weekender is very happy to publish any fund raising linked to the fight against dementia; or any charity drive along the coast – details of how to get in touch are here on page three. It is Black Friday today and a retail bonanza at the shops. However, with Christmas sneaking up on us, there is also a very full calendar of charity events, so bear in mind splurging a bit of cash at festive fairs is an easy way of helping good causes and the great jobs they do in the community.

Jack Troughton

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Jack Troughton

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Spain’s attorney general dies By Jack Troughton

JOSE Manuel Maza, the Spanish attorney general, died suddenly in Argentina, where he was taken ill while attending a conference. The 66-year-old’s death last weekend after being taken to intensive care after suffering a kidney infection has shocked the political establishment. Tributes were made to the lawyer, who was appointed attorney general in 2016, by King Felipe VI, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, and

other political leaders. Mr Maza has been heavily involved in Spain’s constitutional crisis over Catalonia and its ‘illegal’ independence referendum. He decided the separatist leaders had committed crimes and brought charges of rebellion, sedition and misuse of public funds against them. The main target of the prosecution is deposed Catalan president Carles Puigdemont who is in selfimposed exile in Belgium where he is contesting Spain’s request to extradite him.

Music in mourning By Jack Troughton

TWO giants of the music industry, singer David Cassidy and AC/DC guitarist and band co-founder Malcolm Young have died this week, both suffering from dementia. Former Partridge Family star and teenage heartthrob Cassidy, 67, died on Tuesday of multiple organ failure in Fort Lauderdale, he had suffered ill health for some months. And 64-year-old Young, the rock band’s rhythm guitarist, died peacefully last Saturday, the Australian was surrounded by members of his family.

Cassidy shot to fame playing Keith in the Partridge Family; a 70s sitcom about the adventures of a mother and her five children who formed a rock band; the show led to a number of hits and the singer went on to a hugely successful solo career. In recent years, he struggled with alcohol issues and in 2015 filed for bankruptcy. Married three times, recent performances had raised concerns about his health and earlier this year he admitted suffering from dementia, saying he was stopping touring to “enjoy life”. Scottishborn Young

moved with his family to Australia when he was aged 10. With his younger brother and lead guitarist Angus alongside him in the rock band, they sold more than 200 million records across the globe with hits including Back in Black, Highway to Hell and You Shook Me All Night Long. AC/DC formed in 1973 and the brothers were credited as cowriters on every song recorded from 1975 debut High Voltage to 2014’s Rock or Bust. Malcolm was described as the band’s “spiritual leader” and “the driving force behind the band”.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Brexit agreement close By Jack Troughton

BRITISH Ambassador Simon Manley believes an agreement over citizens’ rights post-Brexit is “close” - one of the “biggest” issues between the UK and its European partners. He said there was real behind the scenes progress. “We are close to a definitive agreement between the 27

countries of the European Union and the UK on this part of negotiations.” Mr Manley was speaking after meeting expats at the Miguel Hernandez University in Elche on Monday; an event organised by the Brexpats in Spain pressure group. He said more than 100 people attended the ‘outreach’ session, more than 70 have been held with the

ambassador and consular teams since the British people voted ‘leave’ in last year’s referendum. “I think it is still a very divisive issue; that’s as true here as back in the UK,” said Mr Manley. “I think, to be honest, there is a good deal of anxiety and some degree of misinformation and rumour. Even when we explain the progress we have made at negotiations, people, quite rightly, say ‘fine’ but when do you have a final answer? “What we tried to do at the meeting was a mix of explaining and listening; there are two sides of the coin which are equally important.” He said there was more progress on citizens’ rights for British people resident in the EU and Europeans living in the UK than was reflected in the media. “It is important we understand why people are worried and what they are worried about. Every time we do an outreach session we come away with a new issue we were not aware of and we look afresh at an issue we thought we were on top of.” Mr Manley said Spanish

government ministers and the presidents of the autonomous regions were positive and consistent about their view on British expats. “They think the presence of so many Brits here in Spain is a very positive one for what it brings to the economy, both directly and indirectly and there is also the link between residents and tourism,” he said. “They want to see the Brits here stay and more arrive in the future. They want this sector, Spain’s offer of a retirement centre for north Europeans to continue to be an attractive one. “They want to reassure people…in the short term nothing is changing and in the medium term that things remain as similar as today as possible; it will not be exactly the same because we will no longer be in the EU.” He said governments had a “duty” to work towards a deal that allowed expats “to live their lives with the least possible change or disruption.” Mr Manley and Consul SarahJane Morris are pictured enjoying afternoon tea at Calpe Town Hall on Tuesday, provided by local business Tea for Two.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Detecting allergies for the Trouble on the price of a coffee cards By Simon Russell

A team from Valencia’s Polytechnic University have developed a method for detecting allergies that could transform the lives of sufferers. Current detection methods are unreliable, costly and time

consuming. The new method takes less than half an hour and should cost around two euros. It works by analysing a small sample of blood and identifying biomarkers which it isolates. This should significantly reduce the “false positive”

results which currently make it so difficult to accurately narrow down the cause of an allergy. For the moment this will be utilised for the estimated 2.5 million people in Europe who suffer from allergies to antibiotics, of which there are many different types.

Greener every year By Simon Russell

EL Campello has received an “Iglu Verde” award for the second year in a row after once again increasing the amount of glass the city recycled over the summer. The 314 tons was 3% more than 2016, which in turn had seen record amounts of glass recycled.

The town’s councillor, appropriately enough named Alfred Botella, said that citizens and hoteliers should be proud of their efforts. El Campello recycles about twice the national average of glass per person, around 31kg per year. They have more than 200 green deposit points – or igloos – for waste glass.

By Simon Russell

POLICE in Alicante City were called after a card game got out of control in the Miguel Hernandez neighbourhood. Brothers from two families had been gambling when the dispute arose; a fight then broke out leaving three people needing medical care for facials wounds. When the police arrived they detained three men who then refused to identify themselves and it is believed they are wanted in connection with other incidents. They tried to flee the scene but were soon tracked down by police and the men have been remanded in custody awaiting charges.

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Knife Annual Christmas Giveaway threat to pregnant woman By Simon Russell

A 60-year-old man has been arrested after wielding a knife against a pregnant woman in the waiting room of a health centre in Alzira (Valencia). Police were called to the scene and they searched the man and arrested him after discovering the weapon on his person. It is not clear what triggered the incident; it is believed the man had been in the medical centre waiting with other relatives. No-one was harmed in the episode and the detainee has been charged with threatening behaviour.

By Jack Troughton

THE annual seasonal giveaway by the Masonic Home of Valencia Association took place this week with donations totalling €9,500. Board members were out and about to spread a little good cheer with three cheques to good causes; money raised through the Moraira Charity Shop. A €5,000 cheque was donated to Bay Radio for

the children cared for at the Preventorio de Gandia, €2,500 to the Teulada AFA Alzheimer’s Day Centre, and €2,000 to a second children’s charity, Make A Smile. And the a s s o c i a t i o n ’s President Jenny Hart said: “This is our give away ahead of Christmas; the Preventorio is always first on our list at Christmas when the board sits down to discuss our donations.”

9,500€ Raised

Jenny Hart and colleague Bernard Wilson

Nothing half-baked here By Simon Russell

A bakery in Alicante City has been voted one of the best in Spain. The Better Pan panaderia on Gran Via was among those establishments chosen by the Panatics, a group who have made it

their mission to seek out quality bread. They sampled bread in 400 bakeries before deciding on the best 83 which made their listing. The Valencian Community as a whole had six bakers in the final listing.

Is there anything more important than HEALTH?

Society is more and more interested in looking after their health because a good well-being means a better lifestyle. We see information on a daily basis on social media, television, newspapers etc. In order to have a healthy lifestyle, it is very important to look after yourself by having a balanced diet, exercise and rest, important steps that can make a difference in the future. Also, to prevent and cure illnesses, many people decide to take out a private health insurance because, is there anything more important than health? A private health insurance allows the insured to have immediate access to necessary medical facilities, avoiding the long waiting lists with GP’s and specialists or for diagnostic tests and surgery. Also, adapting to the timetable of each client. You also have the advantage to choose the medical clinic you attend and the Doctor you see, amongst the multiple options from our medical directory. Another advantage

is that when hospitalised you have a private room with a bed for an accompanist. Furthermore, there exists the possibility of a second medical opinion and preventive medicine by carrying out a yearly medical check-up. ASSSA, aside from the above mentioned, offers a unique health insurance with a personalised and multilingual customer service, we can insure those up to 79 years old and with exclusive guarantees: no premium increase due to age and no cancellation due to age increase or illness. Without a doubt taking out a private health insurance protects you and your family’s wellbeing. Improve your health by taking out an ASSSA policy.

ASSSA Branches: Altea Tel: 966 882 680 Ciudad Quesada Tel: 965 725 421 Denia Tel: 965 786 969 Jávea Tel: 965 795 077 Moraira Tel: 965 744 033, Orihuela Costa Tel: 966 761 794 - www.asssa.es

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Chainsaw tragedy By Simon Russell

A man in Lugo (Galicia) accidentally killed his 70 year old wife when cutting firewood with a chainsaw earlier this week. She was holding the wood in place while he used the saw, but the machine suddenly jumped up and caught her in the neck causing excessive bleeding. A medical emergency team in a helicopter arrived at the scene, but the woman had already passed away from her wounds. The Guardia Civil are investigating the incident and an autopsy will take place. However everything points to this being nothing more than a tragic accident.

Anti-discrimination law introduced By Simon Russell

THE Spanish region of Aragon is set to introduce a new law giving comprehensive protection against discrimination to the LGBT community. Penalties for those who breach the law will start at €200 and rise to €45,000 for the most serious offences. M i n o r infringements cover such things as insults and failure to co-operate with investigation of such cases. Serious infringements,

which carry penalties between €3,000 and €20,000, include violent threats, work clauses that are discriminatory and public disparagement of people on the basis of their sexuality. Major offences cover attacks, serial harassment and taking reprisals against whistleblowers within a business. The law also covers discrimination against the elderly, immigrants, gypsies and the disabled.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Finance Feature

provided by...

Chorus Financial is a trading style of Tourbillon Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar), Licence Number FSC1118B and registered with the UK FCA as an EEA Authorised firm, reference 539348.

Have you had THE letter yet??

By Tracy Storer

Senior Partner Chorus Financial

Over the last couple of months, I’ve had several concerned calls from people who have received letters and emails from their banks, pension and investment providers. The subject of these letters and emails has been along the lines of ‘Certificate of Status for Automatic Exchange of Information’, ‘Common Reporting Standards’ or ‘Individual Tax Residency Self Certification’.

These letters will be asking you to confirm a few simple details including your address, Taxpayer Identification Number (NIE here in Spain) and other information. So why do these financial institutions suddenly want all this information? On January 1st, 2017, the UK and Spain, along with all other EU countries, and many others Worldwide, agreed to a system of financial information sharing in an unprecedented global crack-down on tax evasion. This means that your financial information, including the movement and balance of money in any financial product you hold, will now be automatically shared with your local tax authority here in Spain. What does this mean for expats living in Spain? There are two main areas of concern. The first is for

those who live in Spain for more than 183 days a year but have not correctly registered as a Spanish resident – you should apply for the official documentation as soon as possible to ensure you are paying your taxes correctly. The second relates to the Spanish ‘Modelo 720’ which is a legal requirement to declare overseas assets worth more than €50,000 or GBP equivalent, to the Spanish tax authorities each Spring. Failure to make this declaration currently results in a minimum fine of €10,000 per asset group and up to 150% of unpaid taxes. The Automatic Exchange of Information will ensure that the Spanish tax authorities receive this information whether you have made the declaration or not, but if they find out before you complete the Modelo 720, then the fines will apply. It is important to understand that financial arrangements

set-up for UK residents, including ISAs, Premium Bonds, UK Investment Bonds and others, are not Spanish compliant. They are not designed for Spanish residents, can create complex accounting requirements and will not generally offer tax benefits here in Spain. There are equivalent products available for Spanish residents created by wellknown institutions like The Prudential and Old Mutual Wealth, which are, subject to suitability, available to Spanish residents through Chorus Financial. These products are not reportable under Modelo 720 and offer tax efficient growth in a similar manner to their equivalent UK products. Now, more than ever, is the time to ensure that the financial advice you receive is suitable, with solutions designed for your life here in Spain. The team of experts at

Chorus Financial are here to answer any of your questions and provide you with free, independent, fully regulated advice without pressure or obligation. Please call me, Tracy Storer, today on 693 107 044, or email

t.storer@chorusfinancial.es for your free consultation. This is for information purposes, and should not be taken as advice or an invitation to apply; If you have any questions about these products or their suitability for you then please contact us for more information. Investment contracts are intended as medium to long term investments, and all investments have some level of risk. Fees and charges for these investments can vary and will be fully explained to you before any advice can take place.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

One dead after Sign up and Fog causes 36 save money car pile-up By Simon Russell

By Simon Russell

ONE person died and 15 were injured, some critically, after a pile-up involving 36 vehicles in the Extremadura region of Spain. The incident happened on the EX-A1 motorway when a fog bank suddenly descended. Cars crashed into each other on both sides of the road, although it is unclear whether vehicles

crossing the central reservation caused this or the accidents happened independently of each other. The pile-up caused chaos as the busy road was closed for several hours; four fire crews, a helicopter, a mobile medical unit, two ambulances and four Red Cross ambulances attended the scene. The dead driver was a Portuguese national but no

other details have been released at this stage as their family needs to be contacted. A man of 59 is in critical condition in hospital while a 52 year old male also has very serious injuries. Seven men and six women aged between 23 and 62 were sent to hospital with nonlife threatening injuries.

TEULADA-Moraira is running a campaign to ensure that all of its residents sign on to the empadronamiento, or padron as it is commonly called. Councillor Laura Hillstead and Mayor Carlos Linares held a press conference to kick-start the campaign, which plans to stress the fact that not being registered reduces the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finances. The amount of people on the padron has reduced by 4,000

since 2012 which equates to a decrease in revenue from the government of â&#x201A;Ź800,000. In common with many towns in the area, TeuladaMoraira has a number of people who live there for all or most of the year who are not on the padron, and it is these that the appeal is aimed at. The information is in an audio-visual package and in five languages (including English) and tells people affected exactly how to register.

Playground hazards By Matthew Richards

A primary school in Valencia has been forced to close almost half of its playground as it is constantly being bombarded with food,

rubbish and even bottles. The most serious incident involved a lighter which exploded although thankfully no pupils or staff were hurt. The play area is

overlooked by apartments which appears to be where the missiles are coming from, and unions have asked for urgent action to be taken before a child or member of staff is hurt.

Back In

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

AIN’T NOTHING LIKE A DAME

By Edward Graham

VETERAN actor June Whitfield said she was “proud” to be made a Dame after being honoured at a Buckingham Palace ceremony. Most recently a star of hit-comedy Absolutely Fabulous – on both the small and large screen - the 92-year-old has been a regular on television and radio for seven decades. She was given the award by the Prince of Wales and said afterwards: “It’s absolutely remarkable. One feels so honoured and proud. It takes a lot of getting used to.” June’s early career saw her appear with comedy legend Tony Hancock and appearances in the ‘Carry On’ franchise. She also teamed up with the late Terry Scott in ‘Happy Ever After’ and ‘Terry and June’ and became the voice of Agatha Christie’s ‘Mrs Marple’ in a long-running Radio 4 show across the nineties – and as well as Ab Fab, she has been a regular on ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ and ‘The Green Green Grass’. The star was given the honour for services to drama and entertainment; no stranger to Honours Lists, the award follows her receiving the OBE in 1985 and a CBE in 1998. Acknowledging her longevity in show business and with immaculate timing, June said she was “still going...or just about.” And asked about her future career plans, she said: “It just depends. I think I am now more suitable for a role that takes place in bed or in a wheelchair or something so there’s not too much walking about.” She said the acting profession had changed over the years and noted: “Now it is so much more about money.”

BELLS MARK ROYAL ANNIVER SARY By Edward Graham

THE bells of Westminster Abbey rang to mark the 70th anniversary of the wedding of the Queen and Prince Phillip on Monday. It was a golden moment to mark the platinum anniversary – Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh are the first royal couple to reach the milestone. The couple married at the abbey in1947. At the time they married, the then Princess Elizabeth was 21-yearsold while her groom, Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, was 26. There was no grand celebration to mark the anniversary; instead the royal couple marked the occasion with a private dinner with family and friends at Windsor Castle. However, the Royal Mail issued a set of six commemorative stamps, featuring the couple’s engagement and wedding; and new photographs of the couple, by celebrity photographer Matt Holyoak, were released. Prince Michael of Kent, now 75, was just five when he was asked to be a pageboy at the wedding and interviewed for Sunday’s Songs of Praise remembered a special day

that captured the nation’s imagination. The Queen’s cousin recalled a wedding that brought pageantry, colour and pageantry to a nation after the sacrifices of the Second World War; the monarch even used clothing coupons for her wedding dress. Prince Michael said: “It was a very exciting moment. It was in November, just after the war when everything was really grim and there wasn’t very much to brighten up people’s lives. “So suddenly they had this tremendous, exciting service and

it was something that radiated in people’s lives.” His own part, he said, was “daunting”. The wedding dress’ train was heavy, and there was a long way to walk to the front of the abbey. “One had to behave properly. I behaved particularly well. Going around corners was complicated, not treading on it was complicated, I seem to remember, and then one had shoes with buckles on.”

Britain

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

FESTIVE SEASON BENEFIT FREEZE credit was calculated By Jack Troughton

THOUSANDS of people receiving controversial new ‘universal credit’ state benefits could face a frosty Yuletide, warn money experts. The BBC’s Money Box has revealed the glitch will hit some of the 67,000 people who claim while working and who are paid weekly – the problem is there are five paydays in December and monthly income may rise above levels to receive the credit; other people may have to reapply. Universal credit merges six benefits into a single payment and allows people to work – the benefit taking into account earnings – the aim being to get people back into employment rather than relying on the state. The government denies it has become Scrooge; defending the system and saying the majority of claimants were unaffected. However, the Department for Work and Pensions has warned on its website that people paid five times in a month may earn too much to receive a benefit - it said people will be notified should this happen and also be told to reapply for the following month. Kayley Hignell, of help group Citizens Advice,

said the way universal brought some benefits but also “significant budget challenges” and believes “the key” was communication. She said: “People need to know that if they’re getting extra income in one month... it may stop their universal credit payment, and that they then subsequently need to put in a new claim to make sure that they continue to get those payments. “If you’ve got extra money in the month, don’t necessarily bank on the fact that your universal credit is going to stay the same, because it could change it either in this month or the next.” The Department for Work and Pensions said not all those paid weekly would get a reduced payment in December because it would depend on the date on which a claimant’s universal credit was paid. It also said the payments balanced out, because claimants entitled to more would receive it in the following month, and said those who reapplied for the benefits would not have to start an application from scratch. The DWP said: “For the vast majority of people in work, they will continue to get paid universal credit in a five-week month. Universal credit adjusts automatically to people’s wages. someone’s “When wages take them over the UC threshold, they can get universal credit the next month, and this process is working.”

SARAH TO LORD IT By Edward Graham

A feminine touch is coming to the House of Lords with the appointment of the first female Black Rod in 650 years. Sarah Clarke is taking over the Parliamentary role in the New Year, serving up a change in the corridors of power after being in charge of organising the Wimbledon tennis championships. She will be known as The Lady Usher of the Black Rod when she starts her new job early next year; the earliest references to the role of Black Rod as the ‘Usher to the Order of the Garter’ is in letters dating back to1361. Black Rod is perhaps best known for the State Opening of Parliament in modern times, knocking on the door of the House of Commons to summon MPs for the Queen’s Speech. However, through history there are thought to have been 60 holders of the position.

All have been men. As well as organising ceremonial events, Black Rod manages a team of 30 staff involved in the day-to-day running of the House of Lords. Ms Clarke, who has previously worked in senior roles at four Olympic Games, the London Marathon and UK Sport, replaces current Black Rod, David Leakey, who is retiring. She said: “I am both deeply honoured and delighted to be invited to take up the role of Black Rod. “The House of Lords is a place where the smallest detail is as important as the big picture and the depth of heritage and tradition is second to none.” Lord Fowler, who as the Speaker of the House of Lords advised the Queen on the appointment, said it was an “historic moment”. Black Rod is the monarch’s representative in the House of Lords and the role is symbolic of the House of Commons’ independence from the Crown.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia

Christmas Bingo helps kids By Jack Troughton

CHRISTMAS is coming and Javea Red Cross is organising “an evening of mayhem” to make sure Santa Claus delivers to youngsters whose families are being helped by the food

bank in the Marina Alta town and neighbouring Gata and Pedregeur. Christmas Bingo is being staged at Monroe’s Carvery in Pedregeur on 15th December at 8pm – people wishing to enjoy a meal are asked to be at the restaurant by 6.30pm. The Red Cross Appeal for Children at Christmas is again being hosted by the restaurant and John Harding will be a larger than life panto Dame with his elves Karen,

Wendy and Julie. And Gata residents and Javea businesses have supplied luxury hampers to be raffled on the night; all containing the traditional elements of Christmas cheer. Organiser Sandy Tsalikidis said: “Every child deserves to know the magic of Christmas and with this in mine the Red Cross wants to try and do this for the children of the families of the food bank. “These children would be forgotten by Santa unless we help. We need people’s support and are

inviting everyone to an evening of fun and mayhem, and to feel the spirit of Christmas; an event where we hope to raise enough money to buy every child a present.” She added: “Because of the ongoing economic crisis the number of families needing Red Cross help has risen.” On the evening, a carvery meal costs €9 and fish and chips €10 – both options include a dessert – and €2 from each meal ordered goes to the appeal. To book, call 96 576 1731.

Stalls up for grabs By Simon Russell

VACANT stalls in Javea’s Municipal Market are being offered to tender, the Town Hall has confirmed. Length of the lease is up to ten years and the price varies accordingly. Anyone interested has until the middle of

December to submit their applications to the Department of Economic Promotion, which is located in the Citizens Service Office. Final selection will be made on a points basis with factors such as diversification, current employment status and potential investment all being taken into account.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia

And this little piggy went to Javea By Simon Russell

THE pot-bellied Vietnamese pig population roaming around the Saladar de Xabia appears to be on the increase. Locals have taken a video and used this to denounce the problem and they believe that there are now over twenty adult and young pigs “running amok” in the area. They also took a picture of a large dead

pig which they say constitutes a health hazard. On top of this one sow is clearly pregnant meaning more piglets are on the way soon. The Town Hall has said they are aware of the problem but haven’t laid out what they plan to do about it. The large animals have no natural predators – at least not on the Costa Blanca – and are prolific breeders who have large litters.

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm High price of twin towers By Edward Grayham

THE controversial story of Benidorm’s twin towers continues after a senior court ruled they were illegal. The owners of luxury apartments in the illegal high rise are entitled to compensation, judges have also ruled – estimated to be more than €60 million. The two 21-storey towers, known as Gemelos 28 are yards from the sea at the Rincon de Loix, a stone’s throw from the famous Levante Beach. There are a total of 168 luxury apartments in the buildings and around half have been sold - and many are

occupied; the majority of owners are foreign nationals. There were a string of court cases surrounding the buildings after they were declared illegal; now they could be demolished after the Superior Court of Justice in Valencia upheld the ruling. Back in 1988, a building permit was issued for the construction but this was just weeks before new laws banned building within 100 metres of the coast. It meant the following year the permissions were withdrawn and the future of the towers has been before the courts ever since.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm

Unexpected catch 18th Century Anchor Found By Simon Russell

A fishing boat off Villajoyosa had an unexpected catch when it snagged a five meter long anchor. The “Pepe el Sargento” reported the find and the anchor was dropped off at the port. The local museum has said that it probably dates back to the 18th century and probably belonged to an oceangoing frigate or similar vessel. The Department of Historical Heritage has now moved the item to Villajoyosa’s Club Nautico before a final resting place for the historic piece is decided.

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Exploring the town’s history THE cycle of visits to La Nucia’s Old Town by its primary school children has now been completed. Second year

pupils from Sant Rafel School were the last group to take part in the initiative, aimed at letting La Nucia’s smaller residents better know the history, traditions,

customs and architecture of their town. Pupils were shown through the historic centre by a guide and highlights included the ancient clothes washing

site, the wall tiles portraying saints and the ancient old cemeteries. This is the fourteenth successive year that the tour has been taking place.

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By Simon Russell

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm

Bark and ride! By Simon Russell

THANKS to efforts by the Lions Club, in collaboration with the Department of Mobility, guide dogs and their owners can now travel on Benidorm’s Llorente Bus

fleet. 58 vehicles have been adapted to take the dogs and access has also made easier for the visually impaired. 224 taxis have also adapted their vehicles so platforms are accessible by blind people and those with

impaired vision. Councillor Jose Ramon Gonzalez de Zarate said “people who need guide dogs have every right to public transport. The animals are well trained and pose no nuisance to other users.”

Lighting the way By Simon Russell

PUBLIC lighting is set to be installed on Avenida Bernat de Sarria, running between the intersection

of Avenida Toledo and Calle Severo Ochoa. The Mobility Councillor said that although there is not a great deal of traffic on the road, many

vehicles go quite fast and better lighting is needed to protect cyclists and pedestrians in particular. The 37 new lights will cost a total of €40,000

including installation. Avenida Bernat de Sarria runs through the Benidorm Palace area of the Rincon de Loix, near many of the campsites.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Alfas, Albir & Altea, Windmill work sailing along By Simon Russell

THE initial phase of the work on the Moli dels Moros – Moorish Mill – in the municipality of Altea is nearing completion. The mill is protected by law and the council have been obliged to do some vital work on the building to avoid

irreversible damage. There are further actions required and ultimately they are planning to fully restore it. The initial phase mainly consisted of earthworks to shore up the structure as a whole before the next stage of restoration can be undertaken.

Help with parent’s teachers association By Simon Russell

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L’Alfas del Pi has renewed its fiscal agreement with the AMPA parents-teachers

association for the towns schools. A total of €25,000 is split between the four public colleges, depending on the number of pupils

who attend them. AMPA will use the cash for educational activities, family education programmes and extracurricular

activities. It will also be used to help fund excursions, theatres trips and the like.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Property

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Rental prices hit record highs in Balearics and Catalonia Average rental prices are hitting record highs after increasing in 2016 and 2017. In two regions, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, they’re already beating the record set in 2007. In a further five regions (Madrid, Castilla y León, Basque Country, Extremadura and the Canary Islands) average rentals are on the point of matching those registered in 2007, just before the property bubble burst. Figures are from the Spanish Ministry of Public Work’s Property and Land Report for Q3 this year. In comments to the Spanish press, departmental chief minister Íñigo de la Serna has highlighted the “obvious strength” of the rental market in Spain, pointing out that it is doing “better than the property market”. He rejected, however,

the notion that rental prices are too high. “Some are saying that rental prices are very high, higher than ever, but this isn’t true,” he argues. According to his data, the average price for a rental in Spain was €8 a square metre a month at the end of September, 20% below the record €9.60 registered in September 2007. Record rental prices in Catalonia and Balearics De la Serna does admit, however, that the gap between rental prices in regions has widened over the last few years, and that in two of them – Catalonia and the Balearic Islands – prices are already higher than they were at the last peak in 2007. At the end of Q3 in Catalonia, average rental prices stood at €12.30 a square metre a month, which as well as being the

highest in the country, is 1.3% higher than the record €12.10 registered a decade ago. Rentals have gone up by 17.2% in the last year. “These are figures from before the events in Catalonia since October,” he pointed out. In the Balearic Islands, average rentals were €9.70 a square metre a month, 1.4% higher than the record €9.60 in 2007. They’ve gone up by 9.6% so far this year. Increasing demand for rental accommodation is driving prices up all over Spain, with the percentage of households now living in rented homes increasing to 22% today from 17.8% in 2001. And in popular tourist destinations like Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, the surge in holiday lets could also be adding to price pressures. Laissez Faire The Minister has again rejected the call from some institutions such as Barcelona City Council for rental prices to be regulated. He argues the market should be left to fix the price as interfering in the market will just reduce the supply and drive up the price even further. As for the effect of holiday lets on

prices, he pointed out that this is the responsibility of regional governments and councils so “they should be the ones to regulate them”. At national level, the Minister believes that the “recipe” for the rental market should be to increase supply. “Councils can help here too by putting social housing on the market” and improving availability of rental properties. He said that his department intends to introduce a Housing Plan at the beginning of next year, which includes financial assistance for tenants and developers. Regional rental prices in Spain At the end of September, five regions were about to top records set ten years earlier. In the Madrid region, after a 11.4% rise in 2016, average rentals stood at €11.70 a square metre a month, just 0.9% below the record €11.80 in 2007. In Castilla y León, rentals were €6.10, compared to €6.40 in 2007, after a rise of 2.8% in 2017. In the Basque Country, they stood at €10.90 (€11 in 2007), 5.5% more. In Extremadura, rentals were €4.80 (€4.90 ten years ago), 3.2% higher. And in the Canary Islands, they were €7.20 (€7.40 a decade ago), 11.6% higher than 2016.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Business & Finance

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Jack talks By Jack Troughton

BREXIT cabinet big guns have apparently agreed the UK should offer to pay more to the European Union as it leaves in order to drive on talks towards an all-important trade deal. The offer will not yet be made formally until the 27 remaining members of the bloc agree to move on trade negotiations; and nothing is yet set down in ink – or even blood – but the amount is rumoured to be up to £40 billion. This is the so-called ‘divorce bill’ for when Britain leaves the EU in March 2019, two years after serving its notice to quit. It is understood leading Brexiteers within the cabinet, such as Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, were persuaded by Prime Minister Theresa May to back a “much larger sum” than the £20 billion already reported; as long as the EU negotiators will talk about a trade settlement...so far they have refused. However, such a move is not universally popular amongst Conservative MPs; indeed some have reacted with strong words. Nigel Evans said it would be like “a ransom payment” to the EU and Robert Halfon believes voters would “go bananas” at such a thing. So far the two sides in the ongoing negotiations have failed to agree on many things; not least what happens to EU citizens resident in the UK and British expats who live in Europe and how the Northern Ireland border will work with its EU neighbour. Naturally, the divorce bill, being money, is a major sticking point amidst everything else spoken about in the monthly Brussels talks. EU leaders are scheduled to decide at a summit on 14th and 15th December whether negotiations about trade can finally begin. Theresa May chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Exit and Trade (Strategy and Negotiations sub-committee (now there’s a mouthful) when she tried to unite

her colleagues in the cash settlement. The EU is demanding the UK settles its accounts and pay its bar tab before it leaves – the drinks bill scenario made plenty of headlines. It maintains that the UK has made financial commitments and these must be settled as part of the withdrawal process. And the UK does in general accept that obligations exist. Britain has promised none of the 27 other countries will be left out of pocket following the current budget period of 2014 to 2020. The problems are many; issues like what happens to EU staff pensions, it want a UK commitment covering many years, building projects Britain has committed itself to, including some in Spain, that will start after it has left. The EU has underlined the budget commitment to agriculture and fisheries, development of poorer areas, and projects such as business start-up grants, transport, and health amongst many others. There are also worries about the effect of the situation in Germany where coalition talks have broken down and Chancellor Angela Merkel is facing something of a political crisis in the EU’s largest economy. For the bullish ‘leavers’ on the Tory backbenches, there is a scent of advantage UK. Andrew Bridgen was quoted by the BBC, saying there could be no “meaningful” negotiations with the EU until the matter was solved. He asked: “Why would we want to make concessions now when we don’t have to?” And colleagues in the Commons agree. Iain Duncan Smith said the UK should “sit tight” and Jacob Rees-Mogg was also for playing a waiting game. However, Germany has warned that team Brexit should not try and take advantage of the country’s woes – in any case the timetable for talks with the EU negotiators remains in place.

HEADWINDS HIT EASYJET

By Jack Troughton

EASYJET’S profits have fallen but passenger numbers are up in a “difficult year” for the aviation industry. In the year to the end of September, pre-tax profits tumbled 17.3% to £408 million, while passenger numbers rose by 9.7% - results anticipated by the market and shares rose this week. Chief executive Carolyn McCall, who is leaving to become head of ITV, was in bullish mood and said: “EasyJet’s model is resilient and sustainable and we now have a huge amount of positive momentum.” And she said the airline was in a healthy state, despite the industry as a whole having had “a couple of years where it was a very tough market”. Profits would have been higher but for the weakness of the pound; especially in the fallout from the Brexit referendum in June last year. Last month, EasyJet announced it w a s

to acquire part of Air Berlin’s operations at Berlin Tegel airport for €40m (£35m). The deal is expected be completed in December, and will result in the airline entering into leases for up to 25 A320 aircraft, and offering employment to up to 1,000 former Air Berlin crews. The carrier announced that operations at the Berlin airport would result in a headline loss of around £60m in 2018, with one off-costs of around £100m. ETX Capital analyst Neil Wilson said: “EasyJet can boast record passengers; record loads and record capacity; but lower fares, currency headwinds and higher costs mean profits are down again. “In October we noted that EasyJet looks set to benefit from not only Ryanair passengers rebooking over the coming months, but also absorbing the demand on routes from the collapse of Monarch. “This should help with load factors over the winter, with the airline - along with Ryanair - enjoying the biggest complementary route coverage.”

BLOOMBERG TO STAY IN LONDON

London will remain Europe’s financial centre for the foreseeable future and keep its position alongside New York as one of the world’s dominant trading capitals though Brexit will reduce its growth, billionaire Michael Bloomberg said on Tuesday 14th. Bloomberg said he would still have committed to building a new European headquarters for his global data and news business in the heart of London’s financial district had he known that Britain would vote for Brexit. “London is always going to be the financial centre of Europe for the foreseeable future. It has the things that the finance industry needs,” Bloomberg told BBC radio. “What will happen with Brexit is that some jobs will move, although they may very well be replaced here, but that the growth rate of London as a financial centre will certainly not be what it would be if Brexit doesn’t take place.” The City of London, home to

global foreign exchange, bonds and fund management operations and to more banks than any other financial centre, faces upheaval as firms decide whether to shift jobs to continental Europe to keep serving customers there after Britain leaves the EU in 2019. Bloomberg, who founded the information and technology company that bears his name in 1981 after leaving Salomon Brothers, said voting for Brexit was the “single dumbest thing that any country has ever done”. But the former New York mayor said London would retain its top spot as one of the world’s major financial capitals alongside New York. “New York and London will be the two big financial centres,” he said. “In Asia there is no one city that dominates. New York is the financial centre of the United States, London is the financial centre of Europe, it’s going to stay that way for a long time.”

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Business & Finance

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Pension Freedom or Cold Calling Nightmare?

By Christina Brady

BLACKTOWER Financial Management

Ever since the UK chancellor announced he was going to allow pension freedom on UK private pensions from April 2015 the papers have had articles galore on what you can spend your money on, then some started to focus on the fact that there was a nasty sting in the tale for many people who cash in their pension

and that was TAX. But since then the biggest problem is the number of scammers and fraudsters that are after your money. This week the UK pensions minister Guy Opperman announced that in the UK alone 10.9 million people have been cold called about their pensions, that is 1 in 6 people. The figures for cold calling of expats living abroad with UK pensions is even higher. Pension freedom provides opportunities. But it also increases the danger of being hoodwinked by fraudsters eager to get their hands on your lifetime savings. Don’t let yourself become a victim, if you are cold called, hang up immediately, don’t get drawn into a conversation - the

people calling you are professional cold callers who know how to entice you into their schemes. The FCA highlights the following signs that should put people on the alert: * People offering high risk investments or scams will often cold call, but regulated firms are very unlikely to do this so the safest thing to do is hang up. * Fraudsters might make contact unexpectedly about an investment opportunity but pretend they aren’t cold calling you, by referring to a brochure or an email that they have sent you. They might make a cold call, email, or follow up call after you receive a promotional brochure out of the blue. * Another warning signal is if someone applies pressure to invest in a time-limited offer, for example by offering a bonus or discount if you invest before a set date, or by

saying that the opportunity is only available for a short period. * A dodgy firm might downplay the risks to your money, for example by talking about how you will own actual assets that you may sell yourself if the investment doesn’t work as expected, or by using legal jargon to suggest the investment is very safe. * Beware of promises of tempting returns that sound too good to be true, for example by offering much better interest rates than those offered elsewhere or investments with no risk or low or sometimes no charges. * Fraudsters might call you repeatedly and stay on the phone a long time. They could say that they are only making the offer available to you, or even ask you to not tell anyone else about the opportunity. The FCA’s other tips are to check its warning list of

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

companies running scams or operating without authorisation, and to get impartial help from a financial adviser not connected to the firm that contacted you. If you need advice or have any questions please contact me by email christina.brady@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330. Blacktower Financial Management has been established for over 32 years and have worked with clients through the good and the bad times, offering sound independent advice, we will be by your side both now and in the future. 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.

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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Out & About

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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FRIDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

Out & About

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Calpe Charity Festive Cheer In Jalon Christmas Event By Jack Troughton

The Charity Shop of Calpe will be holding its annual Christmas Event next week, raising funds for those in need at Christmastime. This year the event will be bigger and better than ever as it will run for a week, from Saturday 25th November to Friday 1st December. In addition, on Tuesday 28th and Thursday 30th the shop will be open all day, from 10am to 5pm. Alongside its usual range of clothing and household items, there will be home made cakes for sale every day, a great range of Christmas gifts and party outfits, a Christmas raffle and

special offers throughout the week. You´ll find the shop on Avenida Gabriel Miró – half way up on the right hand side – inside Galerías Mar Azul. So come along and get the festive season underway while helping to raise money for those less fortunate individuals at Christmas.

Jalon Valley Help held their annual Christmas Bazaar on Sunday and again it was an overwhelming success. The weather was very kind which enabled more stalls to be set up outside. Stallholders and visitors commented on the happy atmosphere and how impressed they were with the helpful manner in which the volunteers of the charity go out of their way to make it such an enjoyable occasion. Entertainment was provided by the U3A Casual Choir who sang seasonal music, there was a small fashion show where the models wore exceptional outfits picked from the charity´s two shops in Alcalali and Jalon and The Nomad performed his usual variety of songs and kept the party going. The accounts have still got to be finalised as there is

still an odd receipt to come in, but the final figure raised is expected to be in the region of 5,400 euros, which is a fantastic achievement. Elaine Horton, President of the charity has already circulated her thanks to the wonderful JVH volunteers and also thanked the number of visitors who attended the event. The monies raised will be used to help the sick and needy in the local area.

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

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Is Giving Ice or Ice Water to Dogs Dangerous? There has been a widely-circulated warning in recent years that giving your dog ice or ice water can lead to the dangerous and potentially deadly condition of GDV or bloat. Is it really unsafe to give your dog ice or ice water?

What Is Canine GDV? Gastric dilatation and volvulus is a condition most often seen in deep-chested dogs in which the stomach becomes filled with air, stretching the stomach wall (dilatation). In this state, the stomach may actually flip and be twisted off (volvulus). This is an emergency situation that requires immediate surgery. You can learn more about it here:

Does Ice or Cold Water Cause GDV in Dogs? No, consuming ice or cold water does not, in itself, cause bloat. However, drinking the water or eating the ice too quickly can result in bloat, due

to the dog swallowing lots of air while ingesting it. Ice or ice water is usually given to a dog when he is hot from exercising or because it’s a hot day. In those circumstances, the dog may drink the water or eat the ice fast. If GDV occurs, the appearance may be that the temperature of the water given is the culprit, but that is not the case.

So Can I Give My Dog Ice or Cold Water? Yes, but try to be sure he eats or drinks it slowly. This may mean giving him small amounts frequently instead of a large amount all at once. If your dog does drink a lot of water or eat a lot of food quickly, keep him calm for an hour or two. Don’t allow him to run, jump, and play afterwards because that increases the chances that an air-filled stomach will flip over and twist off. In general, it’s a good practice to get into to have your dog rest after eating and drinking,

especially if he is a deep-chested breed or one more prone to GDV such as: German shepherd Great Dane Doberman pinscher Saint Bernard Standard poodle Irish setter Bouvier Wolfhound Old English sheepdog Akita Mastiff Using a special bowl for food can help a dog eat more slowly and reduce the chance of GDV.

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What is a Sexual Health

Adviser?

By Family Medical Centre

My name is Vanessa Harvey and I am a registered nurse specialising in the field of Sexual Health. I operate a clinic at the Family Medical Centre in Albir,near Benidorm. After completing my studies for the Bachelor of Sciences degree in Adult Nursing at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Essex, UK, I undertook further training with the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) plus 3 years in a Genito-Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinic to specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections, followed by a post-registration course in Reproductive and Sexual Health. I have also continued my professional development by taking an advanced course in genital skin conditions, and have trained in “Delay” techniques to help when counselling young people who are thinking for starting a sexual relationship. As a Sexual Health Adviser, I offer asymptomatic (no symptom) and symptomatic (with symptoms) STI screening and treatments exactly as is offered at GUM clinics in the UK. I also advise people on safe and healthy sexual relations, give sex education to young people and adults, advise on the best contraceptive options, conduct contraceptive pill checks, do contact tracing

(anonymously contact sexual partners on your behalf), provide risky-behaviour advice and help you to work through mitigating factors, provide vaccinations against Hepatitis, counsel clients and discuss the best ways to tell their sexual partners if a test comes back positive, and can get your HIV test results back within 24hrs. Sexual Health is still a very taboo subject and many people suffer in silence when they don´t have to. I am very approachable and lend a non-judgmental ear to all of my clients. I see people of all ages, sexualities, ethnic backgrounds, those with disabilities, people working in the sex industry, those attending swingers parties, people trying to get pregnant, the list goes on… All I ask of my clients is that they´re completely honest with me about their sexual practices so that I can ensure I provide the best service and appropriate tests for them. Many people ask me if they need to be tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections. My answer is always “yes, if you have ever had sex without a condom”. Here’s why… Imagine you´re a virgin and you have sex with another virgin – you´re coming into contact with the “germs” of just one person. Now, say for example your first sexual partner has had unprotected sex with 5 people prior to you – you´re in contact with the “germs” of 6 people. If you then use the same theory of 5 partners for each new partner you have, and each of their previous partners also having 5 previous partners and so on, by your 10th partner change you´ve come into contact with the “germs” of more than 12 million people! So even if you think you´re “Okay down there”, it´s still a good idea to get checked after each partner change to ensure you have the All Clear.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

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SPECSAVERS LAUNCHES BALMAIN EYEWEAR COLLECTION ELEGANT, SOPHISTICATED, LUXURIOUS

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About Balmain Founded in 1945, the quintessentially Parisian house of Balmain perfectly balances its modern, trendsetting designs while respecting and taking inspiration from its long tradition as a historic French fashion house. Inspired by Balmain’s structured and expertly crafted clothing, this collection of frames feature styles and colours that make women feel beautiful, confident and empowered. Balmain is not only a look, but also a feeling.

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EYEWEAR from premium Parisian fashion label, Balmain, is the latest designer collection to be unveiled at Specsavers Opticas, available in stores nationwide from 20 November. The Balmain range features 17 exclusive styles - 13 glasses and four prescription sunglasses. Each pair has been inspired by Balmain’s structured and expertly crafted clothing. Balmain spokesperson, Maï Dao-Vu says: ‘The collection of frames feature styles and colours that make women feel beautiful, confident and empowered. Balmain is not only a look, but also a feeling.’ Featuring upswept cat’s eye designs, as well as classic round and exaggerated angular shapes, the strong yet feminine statement frames evoke elegance with a Balmain aesthetic. Meticulously designed Balmain brand details can be found on every frame, including a gold ‘B’ on the temple tips and detailed embellishments on the frames inspired by the Balmain belt chain collection. A colour palette of glossy black, gold, pink and tortoiseshell has been chosen to offer the wearer a variety of styles with sophisticated elegance to finish off their look. Maï adds: ‘The Balmain team take great pride in the launch of the new range, seeing it as an incredible opportunity to inspire fashion-conscious glasses wearers to update their wardrobes with a statement piece of eyewear. ‘The Specsavers collaboration has provided the opportunity to bring everyone into the House of Balmain. We wanted to add a signature Balmain twist to classic and modern styles so that the frames could hint at exclusivity while maintaining the simplicity of an everyday look. ‘The Balmain eyewear range offers Parisian chic no matter where in the world they are worn.’ As a high-end fashion house, Balmain embodies the opulence and glamour that Specsavers wants to make accessible to everyone. With two complete pairs for 299€, the range will be exclusively available at Specsavers stores from 20 November 2017.

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GARDENING ON THE COSTA BLANCA - Part 17 Mention was made last week about rooting cuttings in water. Although it’s quite possible to throw a cutting in a glass of water and have it root, you’re likely to have greater success with a wider range of cuttings if you pay attention to a few details. Take cuttings from plants that are in vigorous growth, free of diseases and insects outdoors. Indoor plants with soft, thin stems are unsuitable for rooting; outdoor plants that are dormant or entering dormancy are often difficult or impossible to root. Generally, the best time for rooting cuttings is in spring, but you can succeed with cuttings taken all through the growing season. Nonflowering stems are the best choice; remove any flower buds from other stems. As a hedge against failure, cut several stems of each plant, putting them all in one container unless they seem overcrowded. Cut each stem about 3 to 4 inches from the tip and remove the lower leaves on the part that will be submerged. Fill a container with water to just below the first leaves; at least the top third of the cutting should extend above the rim. Place the containers where they will receive plenty of bright light but no direct sun..

Changing the water every day is the key to success with rooting in water. It keeps the water free from bacteria that can cause stems to rot. A soluble aspirin dropped in the water is claimed to help. As soon as the cuttings have roots 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, they are ready to transplant into pots; don’t let them grow into a dense tangle. Keep the compost quite damp at first. Pinch the stem tips to promote branching after you pot them. Let the cuttings grow on for several weeks before transplanting them to a larger pot or into the garden. Most herbs will root within two weeks or less: mints in seven days, basil in five to ten days, pineapple sage in eleven, and lemon verbena and rosemary in fourteen days. (Although basil is usually grown from seed, some new cultivars either don’t flower well or don’t come true from seed, so rooting their cuttings is the most reliable way to propagate them.) Some herbs, like lavender, are less successful. A few herbs such as French tarragon, sage and thyme don’t seem to respond at all. Bay doesn’t look as if it is going to do anything but potting them up when the base of the stem is covered with wart-like nodes gives

a very high rate of success. Saintpaulia (African Violet), Brugmansia or Datura (angel’s trumpet), Platycodon (balloon plant). Begonias, Clerodendrum (Bleeding Heart Vine), Buddleia (butterfly bush), roses, Chlorophytum (spider plant), Thunbergia (Black eyed Susan) and oleander are just a few random examples of successful water rooters. If you don’t “stop” your tomatoes soon enough and end up taking cutting-sized pieces off your plants, these will root in

water and provide you with more plants to grow on! That’s all for this week.

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, 13th December at 2.30 in La Senieta. Google “Costa Blanca Gardeners Circle” will provide you with our website.

Relax

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles | TV

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What’s ON TV

Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast

Live International Rugby Union

NEW SERIES Guest Simon Pegg joins Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty as they rustle up dishes for the weekend from their cafe on Southend Pier. On the menu is a melt-in-the mouth lamb tagine, inspired by Simon’s time spent filming in Morocco.

Wales v New Zealand

Channel 4 9:00pm Fri 24 Nov

Witnesses

I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

NEW SERIES Episode 1 of 8 A police lieutenant in northern France is assigned to investigate the grim discovery of 15 frozen bodies, sitting on board an abandoned bus, on the first day of spring. All 15 men were at one time or another involved with a woman named Catherine Keemer, but she disappeared three years earlier. French mystery drama, starring Marie Dompnier

ITV 10:00pm Fri 24 Nov

BBC4 10:00pm Sat 25 Nov

Aliens (1986)

The Day After Tomorrow (2004)

Ant and Dec present the 90-minute edition of the celebrity survival challenge, as having left their plush pads and luxuries far behind, the famous faces grapple with daily life in the Australian jungle, struggling to complete the tough daily tasks and dreaded Bushtucker Trials

Lone survivor Ripley is rescued in deep space decades after an alien creature wiped out her ship’s entire crew. She is recruited to accompany a military expedition to a colony on the planet where she first encountered the monster, only to find the aliens have been reproducing and there are now hordes of them. James Cameron’s sci-fi thriller sequel, with Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn and Lance Henriksen

Film4 00:10pm Sat 25 Nov

(Kick-off 6.15pm). John Inverdale is joined by Martyn Williams, Jeremy Guscott, Doug Howlett and Sam Warburton to present coverage of the autumn international at Principality Stadium

BBC2 5:45pm Sat 25 Nov

A climatologist warns global warming will soon result in destructive freak weather, or even another ice age. He thinks the world still has time to prepare for the worst, but the crisis happens almost immediately - and as storms, earthquakes and hurricanes strike in terrifying fashion, he races across America to rescue his son from a frozen New York. Disaster thriller, with Jake Gyllenhaal and Dennis Quaid

Channel 4 7:45pm Sat 25 Nov

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017 TV | Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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V This Week

All T i Show mes n Ar e Span ish

Coastal Railways with Julie Walters Season 1 Episode 1 of 4

NEW SERIES. The actress travels around the UK coast by train, beginning by boarding the famous Jacobite steam train for a trip along Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West Highland Railway, famously featured in the Harry Potter movies.

Channel 4 9:00pm Sun 26 Nov

Guy Martin vs the Robot Car

Paul Hollywood: A Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Life NEW SERIES

The Great British Bake Off judge shares his favourite recipes from a lifetime of baking, from his early life in Merseyside to finding fame on TV. In the first edition, former Bake Off contestants Val Stones and Selasi Gbormittah challenge him to bake a pistachio and rose petal roulade, while Paul demonstrates his ultimate pizza recipe and visits Silverstone to make a childhood burger recipe.

Channel 4 9:00pm Mon 27 Nov

The presenter explores the world of automated self-driving vehicles, attempting to build one of his own in his shed. He takes a trip to Budapest for a ride in a completely autonomous vehicle, which is being tested on public roads for the first time. Finally, he heads to Silverstone, to take on a computer-controlled car in a race

Employable Me

Channel 4 10:00pm Sun 26

BBC2 10:00pm Mon 27 Nov

The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)

How to Spend It Well at Christmas with Phillip Schofield

A cynical lawyer who operates out of his car takes on the profitable case of defending a rich man accused of rape. However, he begins to suspect his client may be guilty of not only this attack, but an earlier rape case for which another man is currently in prison. Thriller, starring Matthew McConaughey, Marisa Tomei, Ryan Phillippe and William H Macy

Film4 00:20pm Mon 25 Nov

NEW SERIES - Documentary

examining the underlying forces behind sinkholes, which can swallow up streets, rip up motorways, destroy forests in Ripon, North Yorkshire, when a tage from Florida, often called the sinkhole capital of the worldm

The presenter reveals the musthave toys for Christmas 2017, and Jonathan Ross examinines the revival of nostalgic toys from the past. Stacey Solomon and her sons join other families to test the latest physical board games for December 25

ITV London 9:00pm Tue 28 Nov

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

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Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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QUICK CROSSWORD

Across 1 Shed tears (4) 3 Branch of mathematics (8) 9 Petty (7) 10 Room at the Top? (5) 11 Come in (5) 12 Precious metal (6) 14 Dairy product (6) 16 Lots and lots (6) 19 Movement (6) 21 Correct (5) 24 Heavenly being (5) 25 Conciliate (7) 26 Able to read and write (8) 27 Border (4)

Down 1 Yorkshire racecourse (8) 2 “The Waste Land” poet (5) 4 Finally (2,4) 5 Swimming stroke (5) 6 Correspondence (7) 7 Religious faction (4) 8 Ferocious (6) 13 So to speak (2,2,4) 15 Idea (7) 17 Brusque (6) 18 Very young child (6) 20 Loafer (5) 22 Magnificent (5) 23 Go by boat (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1 Ploys to find precious stones behind layers of rock (10) 7 Well-liked university in part of London (7) 8 Cooking, Delia suffered (5) 10 Bring up what may be brought up (4) 11 Produce good food in Derbyshire (8) 13 Notes, we hear, for singers (6) 15 Splendid bottle opener. Splendid! (6) 17 Warning triangle, possibly (8) 18 Confused impression of Britpop band (4) 21 Select a number with no factors (5) 22 Is this worn on the head to displace the rain? (7) 23 Puzzles responsible for angry speech? (10)

Down

1 Is pea changing colour? (5) 2 Register for bread? (4) 3 Sailor gets brown, Scottish style (6) 4 Appreciative of a load of coal? (8) 5 Set meal prepared for islanders (7) 6 Ghostly light? (6,4) 9 Wilful leaders of dangerous enterprise get set free (10) 12 Pig’s feet for Del Boy and Rodney? (8) 14 North-east editor that is right is more poverty-stricken (7) 16 An Arab boat? Very much so! (3,3) 19 Los Angeles has three quarters with narrow streets (5) 20 He fibs about a mode of transport (4)

For Crossword & Sudoku answers - See Page 40

Sudoku

Easy

Medium

Hard

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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Pitch Perfect 3 & The Voice USA

LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd) ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) There’s no getting away from It’s now your main game plan it, you want to be number one to make a comfortable home today. You rarely have a selfish environment and to enjoy bone in your body so there’s the quieter less strenuous nothing wrong with being self possibilities that come along centred once in a while. What’s during the winter months. You ARIES LIBRA more you’ll discover those you don’t really enjoy this time of year. You’re more a spring person as you prefer care about most will be anxious to let you have the warmth of a fire in winter and the sun in your own way. summer. TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd)

It’s a great day for putting new It’s a day for exchanging ideas plans into action, so don’t with others and talking as much procrastinate. Get moving. as possible to individuals who Money matters are simpler to have it in their power to help deal with now and life carries you along. Don’t get tied down TAURUS with pointless routines and SCORPIO fewer complications than has been the case over the past few keep your schedule open for last minute events. Being flexible is the most weeks. Try to avoid unnecessary spats at home even if you’re not the one who started them. important factor here.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st)

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th)

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th)

VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd)

PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th)

Make more time to look into There may be the odd pitfall to the deeper side of life today. watch out for when it comes Spiritual concerns could be on to your money today. Maybe you mind, or at least you’ll want you’re not quite as sure of to feed your inner self. Your certain details as you might be. GEMINI If so ten check ad check again to SAGITTARIUS intuition is working well so it wont take you long to suss out make sure all the figures add up. Socially you’re pleased to mix with people who almost anyone you come into contact with. It’s a great talent. are different from your usual circle.

Your confidence is steadily Try to leave any major decisions rising and there’s no doubt until tomorrow, unless of course about your desire to get ahead. you have no choice. In situations This wont be that easy in a where you cant delay you could professional sense at first, but do worse than to enlist the CANCER support and advice of family CAPRICORN you’re good at mixing business with pleasure so you’ll do ok. members or good friends. Specialised jobs should be left to experts for Ideal situations could happen all by themselves the moment or you coiled end up costing but a little push from you would do no harm at all. yourself money.

Teamwork situations are Professional matters are well your best options today and highlighted today even if it this turns out to be the case doesn’t really feel that way at whether you’re at work or first. When you’re faced with simply enjoying yourself at awkward people today, turn on home. When other people your natural charm and watch LEO make suggestions you’re more AQUARIUS situations change quickly. Be likely to listen and will gain a great deal by prepared to show a good deal of give and take modifying the ideas of family members and over romantic attachments. adding to their happiness.

YYou’re beginning to develop Close companions may cause a deeply analytical approach you to think quite deeply to quite a few matters, which about the importance you’ve is highly typical of Virgo. Your placed on relationships of late. practical skills are on display Its possible you could decide and you’ll even manage to sort PISCES to spend some of your social VIRGO out a mess made by others. hours with people you don’t You’re certainly the right person to call on for see very often. it’s a good day to catch up with assistance. Watch and see how many people your correspondence, so send letters, emails or realise this. texts. Even make a phone call.

The Voice’s 12 artists competing for the top prize have released a mash-up antham and full legnth featured music video; first of its kind from The Voice; with the Pitch Perfect Bella’s featuing Gearge Micheals “Freedom!” and Anna Kendrick’ “Cups”. Pitch Perfect 3 finds the Bellas out of college and doing their best to make it in the real world, a world where making music with your mouth generally isn’t enough to get by. The ladies reunite for an overseas USO tour for a final time of misadventures and stellar music. Rebel Wilson, Hana Mae Lee, Ester Dean, Alexis Knapp, Chrissie Fit, Kelley Jakle, Shelley Regner, Elizabeth Banks and John Michael Higgins also return for the sequel. New additions include The Crown’s John Lithgow and Orange Is the New Black’s Ruby Rose.

The Voice airs Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on NBC EST. Pitch Perfect 3 is in theaters Friday, Dec. 22 within the USA and the earlier on the 20th Dec. for the lucky Brits.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Motoring

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Citroen C3 Aircross (2017)

In the classic Citroen spirit of being knowingly different, the company has called its C3-based crossover SUV the Aircross, rather than sticking an X on the end of it, or using the word ‘sport’ in addendum, like most manufacturers do. Different it may be, but it’s actually quite the apt name: ‘air’ denoting spaciousness and ‘cross’…well, they’ve stuck an X on the end of it, basically. Still, this is one very airy crossover, designed very much in the spirit of a compact MPV – indeed, it replaces the C3 Picasso and Citroen has no intention of losing any of those customers when their leases run out. The change from MPV to pseudo-SUV is a pure marketing move: the compact crossover is an ever growing market. That said, the Aircross is in no way an SUV because you can only get front-wheel drive versions, albeit a fancy traction control system with a setting for muddy surfaces is available plus there’s a good bit of ground clearance – 17.5cm more than a C3.

Still, while it’s pretending to be an off roader on the outside, inside it makes a good case for being a proper MPV. The Aircross has a bigger boot than the C3 Picasso it replaces, has just as much cabin space and the same sort of modular flexibility. That includes a sliding rear bench, roof rails and a front passenger seat that folds flat. Sadly much of that is confined to either top spec versions (the sliding rear bench) or the options list. Pick a basic C3 Aircross and not only are your rear bench and passenger seat fixed firmly in place, but the boot capacity drops from 520 litres to 410. The looks you can make your own mind up about, but it’s probably indisputable to claim this as one of the most interesting looking of the small SUVs. Sometimes forcefully so – on the one hand, 85 possible combinations of paint and contrasting roof colours is a good thing, but on the other some of the detailing is challenging, to say the least. Like the ‘venetian blind’ motif on the C-pillar. The same goes for the interior. If you’re willing to spend extra money brightening things up with a colour pack, that will do a decent job of masking what is otherwise a fairly uninspiring concretion of moulded grey plastic. In fairness to Citroen, the company has had a go – some of the shapes are interesting and there’s no lack of cubbyholes in which to deposit the litter that you and your trendy, urban lifestyle (so Citroen would have it) create. There’s always a ‘but’ with Citroen though, right? So here it is. The driving position is still flawed, the touch screen is still a finger-bashing frustration and the handling is from the Limp Bizkit school: keep on rollin’. Usually side-to-side.

And yet, there’s a joy about the C3 Aircross that you don’t get with most of these small SUV things. It’s different. It’s fun. And it is so while being one of the most practical of the lot - possibly the most practical. And for many, that will be a winning and definitive combination – the fact that it doesn’t corner as flat as a Ford EcoSport is irrelevant. It’s big, bold and bouncy. It’s cheap to run too, with power from either a three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol or a 1.6-litre diesel and average economy therefore ranging between 50-70mpg. Choose wisely and it’s relatively cheap to buy as well, starting at around £14,000 and topping out just below £20,000. As usual, the closer to the top end of that scale you buy, the more this feels like a high-tech, high-personality car. But whatever you spend, the basics of a spacious, idiosyncratic small crossover are intact. And for that reason it’s quite easy to recommend the C3 Aircross.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Motoring

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Benissa - La Nucia

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FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Motoring

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Kids behind car crime spike By Matthew Richards

Puzzle Solutions

POLICE think that two minors have been the perpetrators of a recent spate of car crime in the Alicante town of Crevillente. A total of 23 reports have been made in recent weeks about vandalised cars and a further six regarding theft from vehicles. When they

analysed these crimes police noted that they were nearly all carried out at the same time and only at weekends, leading them to think the culprits could be underage. This week a 14 year old and 17 year old were caught in the act and admitted they had been responsible for the other incidents. The younger child is in a young offenderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

QUICK CROSSWORD

institution but was allowed out at weekends which when he met up with his friend. They would then amuse themselves by throwing rocks at car windows, behaviour which escalated to stealing valuables from the vehicles. They had caused an estimated â&#x201A;Ź32,000 in damage during the crime spree.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Sport

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Hat-trick heaven By Jack Troughton

FOOTBALLER Ryan Colclough’s part in Wigan Athletic’s 3-0 win on Tuesday ended when he was substituted in the nick of time to get to the birth of his son. He scored twice and enjoyed a “perfect hat-trick” when he raced to the birth

– in full Latics kit – to see second son Harley Thomas make an entrance at 8lbs 6oz. Both mother and baby “are doing very well”. The winger later said he was “overwhelmed” with his great night “both on and off then pitch”. He admitted he had not been too worried going into the match with Doncaster

as a scan earlier in the day indicated the birth would be in “a couple of days”. However, just before he scored the first of his brace, his father indicated his partner had gone into labour and when he was subbed he was “straight down the tunnel...and got to the hospital as quickly as I could”.

Ultras kicked into touch By Simon Russell

VALENCIA Football Club has cancelled the season tickets of two of their fans who were involved in the 9 October right wing rioting. The two are both prominent “ultras”, right wing supporters often associated with football violence. The courts have identified seven other Valencia fans who

Rob Cross - Top Seed were involved in the violent protests but the club has taken no action against them at this stage. The group

have been accused of hate crimes, assault, criminal damage and public disorder offences.

Rob Cross heads to Minehead as the top seed but all eyes will be on Grand Slam champion Michael van Gerwen as he chases another hat-trick. The brilliant Dutchman claimed a third successive Grand Slam crown at the Wolverhampton Civic with

a 16-12 victory over Peter Wright on Sunday and he will head to the South West chasing another treble. MvG saw off Dave Chisnall in the final last year and Adrian Lewis in 2015 to go with his first title at the event when he beat Phil Taylor in 2013.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

Sport

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Vila Joyosa get ready to samba By Tony Fox

In what should be a carnival atmosphere, their rugby stadium host Spain vs Brasil in an International rugby Test Match. This follows on from the success of the Russia vs British Army and the Spain vs Wales friendly womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International held there earlier this year. Although minnows compared to England and New Zealand the two fifteens play with flair and tenacity and will, I feel sure, provide

Spanish Team Training

excellent sporting value. The Costa Blanca region owes a debt of gratitude to the Town Council of Vila Joyosa who have been both responsible for the Stadium and tremendous support for rugby in this area especially the local team of La Vila. They are organising a free bus service from the town to the 2300 all seater stadium this coming Saturday 25th. Of November. Kick off is at 4.00 and tickets are 10 eus. Available on the day at the ticket office and online at marcaentradas.com To continue this rugby fiesta La Vila play a home match against CR Cisneros the next day kick off at 12.00. The two teams are evenly matched with just 3 points between them in the league. If the home side can play with the form they showed in their last away match (albeit without the usual stupid mistakes) they could well come out on top of this encounter. Tickets for this match are 5 eus with under 18â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free. The ground is well sign posted off exit 66 of the auto pista.

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017

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scored and kept a clean sheet in the scored a Hat-Trick in their 4-0 tonking Pensioners 4-0 thrashing of West Brom of newly promoted Huddersfieid Town. at the Hawthorns which also resulted The other 2 teams to join them are our By Eric Malpus in Tony Pulis getting the sack.Roo & lowest scoring teams Liz’s Legs Eleven With the International Break out Woo’s Wombles have dropped down & Maxine’s Plaistowe 13 Hammers of the way we now have a long run of to next to the bottom but they look who only managed a single point fixtures until next March for the Alfaz reasonably safe being 37 points above apiece when the average score was Fantasy Football League.The Premier Harley’s Ginger Ninjar. nearly 30 points. League was back in action last weekend In our Mark Carter Ladies Section, Manager of the Month for when the 9 games supplied the Fantasy Izzy’s Bluebells are making it a November is being kindly sponsored League,with 28 goals,7 clean sheets, one horse race as they now have an by Wayne at Wayne’s World Diner 33 yellow cards and 1 red one which impressive 46 point lead over Pauline’s in Albir who provide freshly cooked was Bournemouth’s Simon Francis Vodka Army. Down in the basement, homemade food as well as putting on who was dismissed by Referee Lee our usual Suspects Laura’s Legends special theme evenings.With one week Probert after receiving 2 yellow cards. & Reggie’s Rejects are struggling to to go, we are heading for an exciting Fortunately, only 1 Fantasy Manager keep their heads above water as they finish. At the moment Andrew’s picked the Cherries Full-Back. are now 21 points away from Chris’s Bariloche Upstarts have a slight 2 point Isabel’s team The Bluebells Crown Jewels. advantage over Kelvin’s Republic of are soaring away at the top of the There is no change at the top of our Ashton.Two teams are right behind the A.F.F.L. as they have now opened up Golden Boot League where Wayne’s leaders on the same number of points a 17 point advantage over Tom’s team Two Years Running,Maybe have held and they are Tom’s Loose Connections Loose Connections who have replaced on to the Summit for the last 9 weeks. and Adam’s Bacon Sane who are just 5 Darren’s Daz XI in 2nd place. The two The nearest challengers are Graham’s points away from the top spot and are front-runners are full of Manchester team Laurel & Vardy who are trailing both well in contention for this super City Players so if the Citizens fine run them by 35 points.With Spur’s Harry meal for 2 at Wayne’s World Diner. of form continues it looks like Isabel Kane off the mark and Manchester Duncan’s Cami Rovers have won & Tom are in for a good Season.Down City’s Sergio Aguero not playing it this weeks Breakfast for 2 sponsored at the foot of the table, only one point gave other teams a chance to close in by The Bar Code in Alfaz after separates the bottom 2 with Laura’s on the leaders which is what Dave’s jumping up the most places this week Legends lagging behind Tommy’s Pensioners did by slotting into 3rd from 206th to 138th spot in the Main Quantrill’s Raiders. spot.At the bottom, 3 teams are locked League. The race for the U.K.T.V.SPAIN together with just 3 points between The six teams who made it through Junior League is hotting up with Jack’s them.Shawn’s Thrummy’s Cool is 3 to the next round of our Weekender Bulatellitubbies moving to within points above bottom placed Laura’s K.O.Cup Competition after winning 7 points of the leaders Robbie’s Legends while Reggie’s Rejects are their replays are Gerrard’s Bitch, Altea Tea & Busquets. Wade’s team Alli sandwiched between them. Autos, I Love George, Walkden Town, Barber are in 3rd place just 3 points Three teams are going to our City Slickers and Foxy Filberts.The above Harrison’s Boden’s Boys who Wyndham’s Monthly Wine Draw and closest game was between Walkden have slipped down 2 places this week. they are our top scoring team which Town who beat the Giant Killers in the At the other end of the table, last Years was Tom’s Loose Connections who last round Glory Leeds United by 34winners of this section Leo’s 6 in a waded in with a tally of 56 points. He 32. Row have climbed well away from was one of two Managers to select The Draw for the next round will the relegation Zone with a little help this week’s top Fantasy League Player soon be upon our website which is from Chelsea’s wing back Alonso who Bournemouth’s Callum Wilson who www.alfazffl.com Read All Alfaz Fantasy Football League Reports at www.alfazffl.com

Jukebox Football Predictions League

ALFAZ FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE WEEK 12

Sport

FRIDAY 27TH OCT 2017

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SPORT Week Friday 24th November 13:30 West Ham v Leicester EPL

Saturday 25th November 16:00 Man Utd v Brighton EPL 16:00 Crystal Palace v Stoke City EPL 16:00 Tottenham v West Brom EPL 16:00 Swansea v Bournemouth EPL 16:00 Newcastle v Watford EPL 18:30 Liverpool v Chelsea EPL 16:15 Real Madrid v Malaga La Liga 20.45 Levante v Athletico Madrid La Liga

Sunday 26th November 14:30 Southampton v Everton EPL 15:00 Burnely FC v Arsenal EPL 17:00 Huddersfield v Man City EPL 20.45 Valencia v Barcelona La Liga

Tuesday 28th November 20:45 Brighton v Crystal Palace EPL

Fixtures

20:45 Leicester v Tottenham EPL 21:00 Watford v Man Utd EPL 21:00 West Brom v Newcastle EPL

Wednesday 29th November 21:00 Bournemouth v Burnley FC EPL 21:00 Arsenal v Huddersfield EPL 21:00 Chelsea v Swansea EPL 21:00 Man City v Southapton EPL

RUGBY UNION SATURDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2017

Italy v South Africa 14:00 Scotland v Australia 15:30 England v Samoa 16:00 Wales v New Zealand 18:15 Ireland v Argentina 18:30 France v Japan 20:45

E LA OabN FORalMRaU ce- Abu Dh i Fin Sunday 26th November

FRIDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2017

Weekender Sport Your Weekend Starts Here!

R E C CAN T H G I F K C A B

Sport

- AGAINST SEVILLE FIGHTBACK 3 3 TELLS LIVERPOOL AFTER COACH HALF TIME AT ER C N A C S A H E H S ER PLAY

Sevilla’s Argentinian coach Eduardo Berizzo has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, the club confirmed on Wednesday (Nov 22), just hours after his side staged a remarkable comeback against Liverpool in the Champions League. “The medical services of Sevilla FC can inform that the coach of the first team, Eduardo Berizzo, has been diagnosed with an adenocarcinoma of the prostate,” the club said in a statement. “Further tests will determine which steps

to follow regarding his treatment. “Sevilla FC wants to show their full support to the coach right now and wishes him a speedy recovery.” Berizzo, 48, made no statement on his health when speaking to media after the Spanish side came from 0-3 down at half-time to draw 3-3, but reports suggest he told the players at half time. A former centre-back for River Plate, Marseille and Celta Vigo among others, Berizzo is in his first season as Sevilla boss

after three successful years in charge of Celta Vigo. Several Sevilla players had hailed Berizzo’s powers of motivation to orchestrate their secondhalf fightback. “We had to come out with a different attitude for the fans and for the boss, he made us play like that,” said Argentinian international Ever Banega. “He turned the situation around in the secondhalf.” Spanish football has rallied round Berizzo with numerous clubs, including his former side Celta

sending their support. “All our strength and support for Berizzo,” the Galicians posted on Twitter. “Be strong boss, you are in the best place in the world to not give in because there they never give up,” said Sevilla’s legendary former sporting director Monchi, who joined Roma earlier this year. Sevilla sit fifth in LaLiga and need just a point from their final Champions League group game away at Maribor to secure their place in the last 16.