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ISSUE 016
IssueB #149
Friday 13th October
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@TheWeekenderEs @TheWeekenderSpain
Marina Baixa
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SAVINGS BOMBSHELL By Jack Troughton DEVASTATED and distraught clients of failed financial company Continental Wealth Management fear they have lost everything following its collapse. Hundreds of heartbroken Costa Blanca investors – some said to be suicidal - received an email on 29th September. For many it was the first notice all was not well. It stated: “Dear client, it is with immense sorrow that I have to inform you
that Continental Wealth Management will be closing today.” However, in the fallout, investors are advised to contact the regulator Trafalgar International – contact details below – following allegations of mis-selling, forgery and fraud. It is understood around 300 clients of CWM SL are affected – anyone turning up at the plush offices adjacent to the La Sella Golf Resort near La Xara will find them locked and empty. Continued page 2.
See Page 6
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
CWM COLLAPSES By Jack Troughton
From Front Page... Social media has come alive with angry customers trying to discover what has happen to their investments and pensions handled by a financial advisor claiming to have £50 million under management on behalf of 500 clients. CWM ‘owner’ and driving force Darren Kirby has vanished. It is understood he has fled to Australia to join his brother, who once worked with him at the company. In glossy brochures, CWM claimed to have 26 years of experience “in wealth management solutions on all aspects of offshore and onshore investment strategies for their clients” dealing in investments, pensions and QROPS pension transfer schemes. The company also threw a number of high-profile events including its high profile celebrity golf days at La Sella
with dinner at the adjoining Marriott Hotel. However, it is alleged CWM used cold calling and a ‘hard sell’ sales team to attract new clients and it has been accused of moving ‘safe’ investments in to high risk products, paying high commissions to the company. Pension Life, an action group attempting to alert people to potential scams and protect victims, has a page dedicated to CWM. The group’s Angie Brooks has investigated and wrote: “From 2013 onward, CWM invested hundreds of low to medium risk clients’ investments in high risk, illiquid assets. CWM completely ignored the suitability issue and paid no heed to the clients’ preference for safe low risk investments. “Clients’ signatures were repeatedly copied and once the losses started to appear, CWM assured them that there
was nothing to worry about and they were only ´paper losses´.” Trafalgar, based in Germany, Momentum Pensions in Malta and bond supplier Old Mutual International are working together trying to locate and pool remaining funds to compensate people. Christina Brady, regional manager of Blacktower Financial Management Group, has seen a stream of worried CWM at her Javea office seeking advice. She said people were “devastated and distressed” and “in bits” at the CWM crash. “Some people are suicidal. They have put their life savings into this and expected a quarterly or monthly income. Suddenly they get nothing; they are suddenly just on a state pension. “They are at an age where they cannot go out and work
and try to recoup losses – they cannot physically or mentally go out and get a job”. Christina paid tribute to the three “huge” companies for their dedicated and selfless work in trying to trace money and assets to try and repay
CWM clients, at least in part. Anyone worried about their investment can call 0049 69 3329 6730 or email support@ trafalgar-gmbh.com; both dedicate helplines run by the regulator Trafalgar.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
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SEVEN days can bring big changes on the Costa Blanca, not least for the Weekender and a move for HQ to new offices in Javea; a clever conjuring trick while still getting the 16th edition ready to hit the streets. The crew has quit the ivory tower and is busy making everyone feel at home in Calle Burdeos 9, local 22 – a stone’s throw away from Specsavers. Just look out for the big blue sign! New furniture is still arriving at ‘Dunroaming’ before we call finally get to call it ‘home sweet home’ and the premises are shared with our good friends at Galaxy Radio. It means a light and bright working space for the boys and girls; for readers another opportunity to pick up a copy and enjoy ‘a right riveting read’ – well, we like to think so. Our thoughts are with the victims of the CWM collapse; it is the sort of shock everyone could do without and understandably it must feel like the world has come to the end. There are three companies, including the regulator, pushing out all the stops to investigate and try and find out what has
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happened, and trace clients’ cash. The Weekender will continue to report on progress and research a very sad story where greed appears to have taken the saddle at the expense of good and prudent management of money. Meanwhile the Catalonia story continues to run and run. With the Spanish and Catalan governments unsure of what has actually happened after a ‘declaration’ of independence, it is difficult to predict what happens next. Certainly there will continue to be demonstration and counter demonstration on the streets of Spanish cities and most of all, along the boulevards of Barcelona. Crossed fingers the violence that marred the ‘illicit’ referendum will not be repeated and tensions will fall. It is a very emotional subject and hopefully progress will be made peacefully around the negotiating table.
Jack Troughton Editor - The Weekender
Editor
Jack Troughton
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Simon Russell
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
MONARCH COLLAPSE
LESSONS LEARNT By Jack Troughton
THE government is planning to avoid a repeat of the Monarch Airlines crisis by allowing cash-strapped airlines to keep flying and have an orderly wind down of operations. The reforms proposed in the House of Commons would offer passengers a parachute – Monarch’s demise left 110,000 people stranded abroad and 750,000 future bookings cancelled. And Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has faced calls from Labour and the unions to
stage a full investigation into the company’s failure – with the rescue operation expected to cost the taxpayer around £60 million. Mr Grayling told MPs the focus should be on finding ways for troubled airlines to “wind down in an orderly manner” to protect customers rather than aircraft and crews simply to be grounded in the event of insolvency. He said: “All parties considered options to avoid the collapse of the company. Ultimately, however, Monarch’s board took the decision to place it in
administration.” The repatriation operation is nearly completed and Mr Grayling said once finished, government efforts would “turn to working through the reforms necessary to ensure passengers do not find themselves in this position again.” Monarch, the UK’s longest surviving airline brand, went into administration early in the morning of 2nd
October. More than 1,800 employees – including 400 pilots – were made redundant and several hundred members of head office staff at Luton are set to lose jobs. However, shadow transport secretary Andy McDonald said Monarch collapsed because of a catalogue of failures by “government and regulators”. He said the airlines bankruptcy had left “huge losses on the shoulders of the public” hitting staff, pensioners, customers and taxpayers.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Catalonia stand off By Jack Troughton
CONFUSION has spread across Spain over the state of its troubled region Catalonia – has it broken away and declared independence or not. The ‘illegal’ referendum was staged with 90% of those who voted – some 2.5 million with a 43% turnout – calling for self rule, but there were reports of irregularities in the ballot. And in the region’s parliament in Barcelona on Tuesday, Catalan President Carles Puigdemont and colleagues signed a declaration of independence before putting the process on hold for further talks. In Madrid, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy asked for clarification before warning any move away from Spain could lead to direct rule from the Spanish government using powers granted under constitutional law. Crowds of people
supporting the break with Spain – separated from parliament buildings by a ring of police following the ugly scenes of violence on ballot day – cheered as Mr Puigdemont and other leaders signed the declaration. However, silence fell as the leader said he was “suspending the effects of the declaration of independence” for more talks with the Madrid government. He earlier urged the international community to recognise Catalonia as “an independent and sovereign state” and said it was the “people’s will” that the region was going it alone. However, the president said he wanted to “de-escalate” tensions surrounding the move, thus the need for more negotiations. Wealthy Catalonia has a population of 7.5 million and covers an area the size of Belgium – and despite a number of companies announcing they were moving
Ten illegal immigrants land in Denia By Jack Troughton
headquarters from the region, Mr Puigdemont said separation would go ahead. But Mr Rajoy said the national government had asked Catalonia to clarify whether it had or had not declared independence. The prime minister accused the Catalan leader of creating “deliberate confusion” and he wanted to restore certainty over the issue. “There is an urgent need to
put an end to the situation that Catalonia is going through, to return it to safety, tranquility and calm and to do that as quickly as possible.” Article 155 of Spain’s constitution would allow Madrid to suspend Catalonia’s autonomy. However, it is a power never before used and could add to the political turmoil and be seen as provoking a more determined stance in the region.
A group of 10 illegal immigrants were spotted landing in a remote cove on the spit of land dividing Javea and Denia on Tuesday evening. Hikers watched a small boat come ashore at Javea’s isolated Cova Tallada at around 6pm and raised the alarm. The walkers told police that once on land the immigrants split up, some heading for Las Rotas in Denia, others towards Las Planas in Javea. At around 9pm two men were stopped in Javea Port. According to the Guardia Civil they carried no documents “and were still wearing wet clothes.”
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Molly’s Bar & Restaurant Gem of old town
Molly’s Restaurant in the Old Town Benidorm is getting even more popular seemingly because of the high number of reviews sent to Trip Advisor web site that has seen their ranking shoot up to 69 out of 747 venues in Benidorm. The reviews show a top score of 5 all chosen as excellent! The marks are based upon the service, value, and quality of food; here are some of the most recent comments made:
Excellent food, friendly staff and coeliac friendly!!!
I am coeliac and suffer badly from cross contamination issues! I often avoid eating out due to lack of knowledge how cc affects coeliacs. I didn’t need to worry here! The chef and staff were very knowledgeable and I felt confident eating
Molly’s Special Burger
here! Have been here three days in a row and will definitely be back! A hidden gem in the heart of the old town serving delicious home-made food!
A Must
Went for lunch after being recommended so glad we did food was excellent. situated in a quiet area just up from Mecadonna at top end of Calle de la Palma you won’t be disappointed.
Great Food
Helen and Mike are good hosts; their menu is large and varied. Freshly cooked food is always the best; it is always worth the wait. Good luck! I recently went to the Old Town Benidorm and decided that Molly’s was the place for us to get a bite to eat, mid morning well getting on for lunch time was it to be? I fancied a breakfast but I was getting out voted for a lunch time meal. So anyway it really didn’t matter at Molly’s there is something for everyone and in fact after asking Mike what he suggested for a brunch. Leave it to me was his answer so I did. Whilst my partner could not resist the temptation of the Molly’s Special Burger! The burgers are all served on a slate with a salad it looks fantastic and tastes great, homemade,
with a seasoned fresh beef Pattie that is filled with a Chilli Cheese, served with lettuce, tomato gherkins and topped with a fried egg and chilli mayonnaise in a bun. So what was in store for me? Chorizo Hash... yes I asked for a surprise so that’s what I got. Something that not only sounded different but was actually delicious. Fried potatoes and chorizo with a chilli and tomato sauce topped with a fried egg. I would totally recommend this dish especially if you want something hearty and possibly a great hangover remedy! Not only did we have a wonderful brunch we loved the fact I could catch the early game on sky sports! Mike and Helen take great care in their hospitality, great service and quality home cooked food. Served from 10am daily except on Wednesday when they take a well earned rest. Make your visit to Molly’s for the varied breakfast menu including “The Flying Scotsman, An Irish Feast as well as the Classic English.” If you’re in search for some great pub classics then try their pub favourites that include the classic dish of “Bangers and
Mash” served in a traditional style with rich onion gravy and mustard mash. Other mouth watering pub favourites include fish cakes, Scotch Pie, Chilli con Carne, Spaghetti Bolognese and Vegetable Curry. When you have been to Molly’s then it’s almost certain you will also spread the word about this hidden gem of an eatery. You can sit outside on the sunny terrace, and watch the world pass you by in the heart of the Old Town Benidorm that offers a vibrant Spanish atmosphere.
Molly’s Chorizo Hash
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
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When you’re smiling... By Jack Troughton
DOWN at the Make A Smile charity shop volunteers say nothing has changed as they continue to raise money for youngsters on the Costa Blanca. The target has always been to help children living in Emaus homes in the region; but earlier this year the cashstrapped association was taken over by Salud y Communidad, a national non-profit making foundation – ending months of uncertainty over the future of the kids and the organisation caring for them. Make A Smile was founded to help support Emaus homes in the region – providing basics such as gas and food, as well as clothing, holidays, and birthday and Christmas presents. And now there has been a change in the running of the organisation, Make A Smile now also hopes to help
teenagers as they ‘graduate’ into the outside world after growing up in the family units. It is planned to help with education, work experience, and even apprenticeships; as well as remembering those all-important birthdays and Christmas presents. The charity shop on Avenida del Mediteranneo, Teulada, opened four years ago by Barbara and Dennis Carrier, trades as Amigos of Make A Smile, and officially as the Community Recycling Project. Barbara said: “Everyone is asking for your money. We thought people must have lots of things tucked away in their houses they no longer wanted or used – even unopened boxes when they moved here. “Rather than ask for money, we get their goods and make money through other means. We actually make new things out of old things; we sell scrap, take it to scrap merchants.” She said the shop attracted
an international clientele and was supported by Spanish people locally. “The sheer size of the donations we get has always amazed us; I think because it is a charity that helps children.” Make A Smile founder Tony Grande said Salud y Communidad was a “massive” national concern and provided basic food, clothing and education for the 94 children
currently in their care, many wards of court having escaped disruptive families. “I have had a meeting with the new charity, they run things now, and they emphasised the word ‘basic’ in what they do. The children moan about no chocolate or no puddings – they are happy with us providing extras,” he said. He said Make A Smile would continue to give birthday
and Christmas presents and wanted to give 16 to 18-yearolds a good start when they left. “Otherwise you are just taking them from the only home they have known and putting then back on the street.” The shop is open from 10am to 1pm Monday to Friday and hopes to open on Saturday mornings – it needs volunteers to join the team, just call in or email info@makeasmile.es.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Accusations of porkies in pig case By Simon Russell
THE trial has started in Almeria of a man accused of killing up to 79 piglets by jumping on them. The incident
happened in 2016 when the defendant was 19-years-old and working at the farm where the animals were raised. A video shown by the prosecutors shows
him jumping in their pen and rolling around on the piglets, “like a child in a ball park”. He said that it was done as a joke and that no cruelty was intended and that no
pigs had died on the day. A video was taken at the time and came into the hands of the farm owners a few days later; they then linked the man’s actions to the unexplained death of the 79 piglets over the next few days blaming these on injuries caused by the accused. The defendant’s lawyer is claiming that
the pictures of the dead animals are not the same ones that the accused jumped on, and appear to be older pigs. The man has admitted his
actions and apologised but denies any pigs died as a result of what he did. He may be facing up to two and a half years in jail if found guilty.
Quarryman horror By Simon Russell
A man has been airlifted to Alicante General Hospital after an accident in a quarry near Villena in the north-west of the province. The 57-year-old stepped on a large rock which toppled and trapped his leg between another huge boulder weighing about 2,000 kilos. This happened at about 10am and it was around 14 hours later before fire crews and ambulance workers were able to free him.
Due to the size of the stones involved, great care had to be taken that nothing was dislodged that would have put the man or rescue workers in further danger. Several fire crews as well as an ambulance and helicopter attended the incident at the El Saltador marble quarry in the village of La Encina. The crew had access to advanced cutting tools which allowed them to eventually extricate the man whose life is not thought to be in danger.
Drugs link to murder By Simon Russell
THE Guardia Civil arrested a man in El Campello on 9 October in connection with the murder of a man in Alicante. Few details have been released as the case is still under investigation. However it is known that the victim, aged about
40, was found in an apartment with stab wounds and other signs of a violent death. The arrested man is around 30 years old and it is has been reported that at least one other person is being sought in what has the hallmark of a drug related incident, possibly the settling of old scores.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Every cloud has a silver lining By Simon Russell
THERE has been an unexpected beneficiary from the recent unrest in Catalonia – the Costa Blanca’s tourist industry. Hostelries across Alicante and Valencia have reported a sharp uplift in bookings,
mainly from domestic tourism. Many Spaniards were planning to take a break in Catalonia this week as there were two bank holidays, one local and one national. However amid concerns of unrest and disruption in the region they have divert-
ed their plans and opted instead to stay on the Costa Blanca, with local hotels reporting a sharp rise in bookings, much of it last minute. Tarragona and Barcelona are the main losers where people have altered their plans while the Gerona coast has also suffered.
More safeguards for bull runs By Simon Russell
A number of new rules are coming in from 1 January regarding bull running and similar such events across the Valencian Community. The main focus is on improving animal welfare, and an approved veterinarian will now need to attend any event involving bulls. The vet must be hired by the organisers and
approved by local authorities. They must then be able to verify all documentation regarding the origin of the animal and the conditions it is being kept in for the duration of the bull running. Over the summer months there were over 6,500 bous al carrers across Valencia, which is actually 430 more than 2016, despite the regular protests over their staging.
Even the smallest fiesta will be subject to the new rules
once the legislation has been officially passed.
Zombies are coming! By Simon Russell
AN increasingly popular pastime across Spain are Zombie Survival nights, where you spend the night running and hiding from “zombies”, or being one of the un-dead yourself if you prefer. Usually there is a fee for taking part but on 21 October a local company is putting on a free event. This will be held at Beniganim in the Valencian province and is entitled “La Purga” or The Purge. You will need to register your participation and places are limited; you can visit www. masqrol.com for registration details. The event starts at 10pm and will continue until the following morning, usually about 6am. You can either take part as a survivor, zombie (slow) or Zombie Z (runner). As well as the challenge of avoiding the walking dead, there will be games and activities through the night.
Advertising Feature
Can I keep my ISA & Premium Bonds if I’m a Spanish Resident? By Tracey Storer
Senior Partner Chorus Financial
The short answer to this is ‘yes’. It is a question I get asked regularly and whilst the answer to this question is yes, the answer to ‘Should I keep them?’ would be different as ISA’s and Premium bonds (in fact the majority of NS&I products) are more hassle than they are worth when you leave the UK. Around two years ago, I met with a potential client who had been living in Spain for over 6 years. While living in the UK they had a financial adviser who had rightly maximised their annual ISA allowance meaning they were able to invest their savings tax free, and in addition to this they also had a modest amount of Premium Bonds. The first thing I pointed out to the client is that NS&I
(National Savings and Investments), are a stateowned savings bank in the UK and whilst you can keep these products open should you move overseas, you cannot pay into them and they no longer offer any tax benefits. This means that a £25 premium bond win or a 0.5% annual gain would mean a costly trip to your Spanish accountant to declare the gains. To make matters worse, the Premium Bond prize pot has recently been reduced to a paltry 1.25% of the total holdings, with each £1 invested having a 30,000 to 1 chance of winning that minimum prize of £25. Over the last 2 years she received just 0.5% from her ISA and 2 £25 prizes, all of which she had to declare to the Spanish tax authorities. She also had to put them on her overseas asset declaration, the Modelo 720. Her accountancy fees during that period were over 6 times her gains. Since the introduction of Common
Reporting Standards, risking not declaring these gains is out of the question, as these would’ve been automatically reported to the Spanish tax authorities. During that meeting 2 years ago I had recommended to that potential client that we set up an investment plan designed for Spanish residents – this one happened to be offered by The Prudential, a company very well known among British expats, although this is just one of several options available. Over the last 2 years the plan I recommended, which would’ve blended 2 funds, the Prufund Cautious and Growth, would’ve returned over 10% after ALL fees. This is a very good return and results such as this will vary, but as these are fully compliant and legally recognized products for Spanish residents, her accountancy bill would’ve been zero. Investment contracts are
intended as medium to long term investments, and all investments have some level of risk. Figures in this article are examples of what can be achieved, and cannot be guaranteed; the value of your investments can go down as well as up. Fees and charges can vary and will be fully explained to you before any advice can take place. This
article should not be considered as investment advice or a recommendation of any particular product. Do you hold bonds, ISAs or investment plans designed for UK residents but live in Spain? To find out about more suitable options, please call me today to book a free consultation on 693 107 044 or email t.storer@ chorusfinancial.es.
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.
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
CEO SCAM By Simon Russell
GUARDIA Civil officers have arrested four members of a gang who defrauded €83,000 from various individuals. The fraud was carried out using what is known as the CEO scam. Someone hacks into the customer database of a firm – in this case one in the Alicante province – and obtains customer data. They then send them e-mails purporting to be from the CEO of the company requesting a bank transfer.
The two ring leaders were both Nigerian men, while a Spaniard and Colombian arrested were both bank account holders and were being used as “mules” for the receipt of the money transfer. The police initially tracked down these two men, one in Valencia and one in Madrid, which then led them to the ringleaders. All four have been charged with fraud although the Spanish and Colombian national are both saying that they were
unaware of the scam and were just helping the men out.
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Fishy tuna By Simon Russell
THERE were sixteen recorded cases across Valencia last month of consumers suffering from food poisoning after eating adulterated tuna. There have been 150 such cases across Spain and the country has been warned by the European Union health department about the outbreak. The problem is a product that it is only suitable for canned tuna but is being used on “fresh” tuna steaks, although this is illegal. Freezing tuna causes it to lose its characteristic red colour and
turn brown. However by using the product it restores the red colouring and can be passed off as fresh - but can also result in flushes, vomiting and nausea for the consumer. The EU has said that Spain needs to introduce more food inspectors to ensure the practice is stamped out.
Sunday shopping By Matthew Richards
DUE to the influx of tourists expected for the Volvo Ocean Race, Alicante’s Department of Trade has decided that the cities shopping centre can open on the Sunday’s this month when
the race is in town, the 15th and 22nd of October. As the race is classed as a major sporting event, the ZGAT dispensation concerning unusually large numbers of visitors comes into force. Trade Unions were against
the move saying it will be a negative move for their members that work in the large centres. However the Trade Department overruled their concerns, although they did agree that the centres should not open on the 12 September national fiesta.
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Back In
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
CORONATION STREET ACTRESS DIES AGED 39
A family has been left shattered by the sudden death of Melanie Hughes, former Miss Wales and an actress who appeared in both Coronation Street and Cold Feet, at the age of 39. Melanie’s husband Rick has paid a moving tribute to his wife after she passed away on Sunday, leaving behind 3-year-old son Kaden and 16-year-old stepdaughter Taylor.
Queen will not be laying the wreath
The Queen will not lay a wreath at the Cenotaph this year as part of the annual Remembrance Sunday ceremony. She will watch the event on 12 November in Whitehall from the balcony of the Foreign Office with Prince Philip, Prince Charles will take her place in laying the floral tribute on behalf of the nation, along with the Duke of Edinburgh’s equerry. The Queen has not laid wreaths in six previous ceremonies since her coronation. Two were during her pregnancies with Prince Andrew, in 1959, and Prince Edward, in 1963. The other four occasions were when she was on visits abroad in 1961, when she was in Ghana, in 1968, when in Brazil, in 1983, when in Kenya and in 1999, when in South Africa. It will be the first time, as head of state, that the Queen will observe the ceremony from a nearby balcony. Royal officials told reporters that the Queen chose to ask her eldest son and heir to carry out the royal duty. It will be the second time the Prince of Wales
has laid the wreath, after standing in for the Queen when she was on a trip to Kenya 34 years ago. A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman added: “The Queen wishes to be alongside the Duke of Edinburgh and he will be in the balcony.” BBC Royal correspondent Peter Hunt said the change was “another sign of the Royal Family in transition”, as well as “an acknowledgment of the fact the Queen is 91.” Earlier this year Prince Philip retired from his public duties, but he has continued to join the Queen at some of her official engagements. In 2015, the ceremony was made shorter to limit the amount of time the Queen, Prince Philip and the veterans in attendance would have to stand. This move included making some members of the Royal Family lay wreaths together, rather than separately. However, plans for the prime minister to lay one wreath on behalf of all the political parties were scrapped, with opposition leaders still being allowed to place individual wreaths.
Britain
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
TEETHING TROUBLE
SUPERHOT: THE ‘VOLCANIC VINDALOO’ By Jack Troughton
THE hottest ever supermarket curry in the UK, the ‘Volcanic Vindaloo’, is being served up by Morrisons and carries a heat warning. The limited edition ready meal was launched in celebration of National Curry Week, which started on 9th October. Morrisons even recommends that only people aged over 16 try the chicken dish because of the spice punch it packs. The dish features one of the world’s hottest chillis, the Naga,
which is 200 times hotter than a regular jalapeno or Tabasco sauce. The chilli has a Scoville rating of up to one million. It is also topped with roasted green chilli. Volcanic Vindaloo is aimed at extreme curry lovers who are said to find spice levels in existing ready meal curries too tame; so the supermarket giant set itself the challenge of creating a meal with the fiery heat of a restaurant-made dish. Morrisons ready meal expert Sean Gill said: “Curry fans have been telling us that they just don’t get the fiery heat they want from ordinary ready m e a l curries. “With this in mind we decided to take up their challenge and create the hottest ready meal in the country – something with the extreme heat you get when you order a Vindaloo in your favourite restaurant. “I’m used to tasting spicy curries as part of my job but this one blew my head off. It tastes fantastic but my mouth felt like it was on fire. You definitely need to have a glass of milk ready.”
By Matthew Richards
THE rise of so called “gourmet popcorn” has been blamed for a huge increase in broken teeth according to dentists in the United Kingdom. Seen as a healthy alternative to snacks such as crisps, the supposedly healthier popcorn has seen a massive rise in sales recently. However the uncooked kernels are being blamed for a reported doubling of broken and chipped teeth. The snack can also get trapped in people’s teeth, leading to gum disease and
abscesses. Popcorn sales have reached £100 million in the UK while fatty snacks such as crisps have decreased in popularity. However Dr Mark Hughes, a Harley Street dentist for 25 years warned “Popcorn is easily among the top five reasons for broken teeth. Five years ago I would perhaps see one case in twenty caused by this, now it is one in ten and still rising.” Part of the problem is that the snack is often consumed in cinemas – where people can’t see when they are biting down on an uncooked kernel.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Local lookout
Javea-Xabia
Fire prevention Helping hand for better than cure animal rescue
By Simon Russell
JAVEA Town Hall is putting together a comprehensive fire prevention plan, consulting with the fire department, local police and members of the Civil Protection unit. The plan is focusing
on different specific areas which are controlling vegetation, agriculture and livestock, perimeter zones, fire hydrants and awareness/training. Once completed the document will be presented to the general public, who will play a vital part in any fire prevention initiatives.
Early line up THE first acts for the 2018 Montgo Rock Festival have now been announced. Vinila von Bismark, a rock band from Granada was the first name to be confirmed, while The VibroWaves (from Valen-
cia), Guadalupe Plata and Dinero will also be appearing. The bands fit the festivals ethos of showcasing local, national and international artists, new acts and old stagers; however the
one thing they all have in common is their love of rock and roll. Montgo Rock 2018 will be held on 11-12 May and more names will be announced on a regular basis until the schedule is full.
By Jack Troughton
BIG-HEARTED members of social media site Javea Connect joined together to help animal charity APROP – the Pego dog and cat refuge - weather a “desperate” need for help. APROP, the Associacio Protectora D’Animales de Pego, is in need of financial and manual assistance to bring its facilities up to a standard its four-legged friends deserve. Members of Javea Connect raised €600 to buy building materials to improve kennels, pens and other facili-
ties - new pens are needed after being swept away in winter storms when the animals needed to be evacuated. Nigel Webb of Javea Connect is pictured with Derek and Sue Lundgren, APROP volunteers who help coordinate the work of the charity; Derek has been almost single-handedly been working to construct new facilities, recently aided by Javea Connect volunteers. Anyone who would like to donate to the shelter or become a volunteer at the refuge or as a dog walker can contact Nigel at nrw1950@gmail.com or Sue at Suederek@live.co.uk.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Local lookout Javea launches Poppy Appeal
By Jack Troughton
MEMBERS of the Javea Branch of the Royal British Legion launch the 2017 Poppy Appeal with a traditional Sponsored Walk around the promenade of Arenal Beach. The event starts at 11am and branch members will look to collect donations as they walk; the traditional red poppies and
official merchandise will be available to the public. And on Sunday 12th November at 3pm, the branch will again hold its Remembrance Sunday Service at the Fisherman’s Church in Javea Port; an event that usually becomes ‘standing room only’ as people wish to pay their respects to those who gave their lives for freedom.
Grumpy strikes gold By Jack Troughton
THE going quickly gets grumpy On Golden Pond and Javea Players plan to bring all the resulting emotions of a Hollywood hit to a Costa Blanca stage next month. In the movie, Henry Fonda played the rather prickly Norman and Katharine Hepburn his loyal loving and understanding wife Ethel – the drama unfolds as their daughter Chelsea (Jane Fonda) dumps her stepson on the couple sending a tsunami through 48 years of family holidays in New Hampshire. Fearing old age, Norman is not happy and is frosty at the rhythm of his vacation being disturbed; entertaining a youngster is not his idea of
fun. Ethel understands and helps out – typically, big bear bonds with little bear. But on her return, Chelsea is envious of the relationship and finding herself the outsider. It is a warming, sometimes very funny plot, that examines long-lost youth, aspiration, and facing the simple fact of aging. On Golden Pond is performed each night from Tuesday 7th to Saturday 11th of November at the Unión Musical de Gata, starting at 8pm. Tickets are €12.50 and available and can be paid for at www.javeaplayers.com, or call 86 552 8551, or email boxoffice@javeaplayers.com. Groups of 10 or more booking together will be offered a free drink.
Javea-Xabia City of culture Simon Russell
JAVEA town council met this week to confirm and announce the programme for next month’s Xabia Negra Festival. This is a cultural festival, the second one held in the town, and features film, literature and photography. There will also be themed tourist routes, theatre and storytelling sessions for the younger residents. The town’s educational sector has been consulted, although the event is aimed at all age groups. Javea is also twinning with Edinburgh to give an international flavour to proceedings. The festival runs from 3 to 5 November and a full programme of events can be found on the Town Hall website (www.ajxabia.com) or by visiting the Tourist Information Office.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Local lookout
Benidorm Foot friendly By Simon Russell
BENIDORM came second in a national contest to identify the most pedestrian and cycle friendly cities in Spain. Valencia was third in the competition with Malaga being rated as Spain’s best large city for people on foot. The awards were part of the Sustainable Mobility Week and 467 cities took part. Mayor Toni Perez received the award from Julian Gonzalez, the Deputy Director for Spain’s roads. Benidorm’s urban mobility plan was
recognised as promoting the use of public transport, the creation of cycle lanes and for increasing access and room for pedestrians. It has also been actively encouraging the residents to seek alternatives to private vehicles where possible.
Cash boost for area By Simon Russell
THE Marina Baixa is to receive a €100,000 grant from the central Valencian government to help with tourist infrastructure. The seven municipalities, including the tourist hub of Benidorm, have been granted the cash for various projects such as increased accessibility for Benidorm’s
Levante Beach and installing facilities at the d’Algar fonts in Callosa. Some of the money is to be spent on promotion of the area and also foreign tourist assistance projects. Other towns such as Relleu are using the money to try and boost their domestic tourism sector while La Nucia is spending €7,000 on promoting its environmental tourism.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Local lookout
Benidorm
Golf on the agenda By Simon Russell
Double the care By Simon Russell
LA Nucia has hired six new staff for its Social Welfare Department, doubling the amount of people working there. The new workers consist of three social workers, two specialist teachers and a psychologist who have all been contracted until the end of the year. Mayor Bernabe Cano
BENIDORM’S Mayor met with the new board of the Benidorm Golf Club this week. Toni Perez sat down with president Raul Gomez and vice president Javier Garcia who talked about what was in the pipeline for the club under its new management team. They have 400 members and are looking to expand further, with a training programme for children one way of attracting younger enthusiasts to the game. The club are also hoping to hold an event on the high profile PGA senior circuit. The senior circuit is for professional players over the age of 50 – many of who will be more familiar to fans than the current crop of full time professionals.
said that this will allow them to work through a backlog of files and speed up new cases, helping out some of the most disadvantaged people in the town. Three extra offices have been opened in the El Calvari Centre for the new staff, whose recruitment has been funded by the Valencian Generalitat and the European Social Funds project.
Mental health pledge AS part of the recent World Mental Health Day, the city of Benidorm stressed its commitment and support to sufferers and their families. AFEM, a Marina Baixa support association for those with mental illness, organ-
ised several activities on the day itself. On the symbolic side there was a release of balloons and the unveiling of a commemorative banner on the town hall. There was also an exhibition of paintings and a speech by Mayor Toni Perez. In this, he congratulated
AFEM on their 20th anniversary and pledged to ensure the full integration of people with mental health issues into Benidorm’s society. As well as practical support, AFEM aims to help reduce the stigmas around mental health and promote social inclusion, all moves the town supports.
By Matthew Richards
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Local lookout
Benidorm
Poppy pride on the march By Jack Troughton
EMOTION and respect will again rule the waves in Benidorm on Friday 27th October when the Royal British Legion launches its annual Poppy Appeal in Spain. A parade of standards from the individual branches of the Legion – joined by the flags of the armed services – will be led down the seafront by the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums. Once again it is expected that the sight of the parade of veterans will interrupt ‘normal’ life on the promenade of the resort’s famous Levante Beach; holidaymakers of
all nationalities pause to take photographs of a colourful sight and donate to the appeal. The event starts at noon from Calle Castello and proceeds along the seafront to the dais at the Rincon de Loix; where a minute’s silence will remember the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for freedom. And the Mayor of Benidorm Perez Perez will be joined by a representative of the British Consulate, the Defence Attache to Spain, Captain Mark Fieldsend RN, and representatives of the Legion. The Poppy Appeal helps raise
money for the Legion which continues to support servicemen and women and their families, as well as keeping alive the memory of the fallen.
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Local lookout
International Day in Alfas By Spencer Williams
On Sunday (15th October, Alfas del Pi will be hosting its annual International Day which is one of the most popular events on the calendar. Every year about 3000 people turn up for this fabuloius event. On the day you will find over 50 stalls all representing a differnt country showing
the diversity of culture in and around Alfas. The different stalls are great to look around with friends and family all offering something different whether it be jewllery or other arts and crafts or even a tasty cup of tea and a slice of cake from the U3A’s annual ‘Ye Olde Tea Shoppe’ This year will be the 10th edition and coninues to grow and be a great success year after year.
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Alfas, Albir & Altea, Font Roja natural park tour By Spencer Williams
On Saturday, October 14 will be a guided tour of the Natural Park of Font Roja to learn practical medicinal plants, food and magical environment. Throughout the visit will discuss the different properties and uses that are attributed to plant species that grow in our mountains, especially mushrooms. The output from Altea will be at 7: 30h from the parking market. It offers stakeholders a bus, with limited places, which must
reserve by calling 965 841 334. If you wanted to go by car, the meeting point will be at Alcoy Sports City at 9: 00h. Around the village is scheduled at around 13: 30h. The main recommendations are: wear comfortable clothes, water and breakfast. The tour will know firsthand edible, medicinal and magical The teacher will guide the expedition Antolí Antonio Belda. Degree in Biology with specialization in Environmental Biology from the University of
Alicante (1999-2003) PhD thesis in the UA program “Conservation and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity”, coauthor of the books “Plants medicinal Sierra de Mariola “and” Nature and health “. And author of “Mushrooms Valencia” Plants have been used by humans for a long time for various uses. Thus, our lands have a high knowledge of this, thanks to the legacy they have left in the elderly, but now is the time to value and preserve this valuable information.
Paint away, this Saturday By Spencer Williams
For the 8th consecutive year the cultural association ArtAvant in conjunction with Alfas del Pi town hall is organising a meeting of painters on Saturday 14 October between 9am and 5pm. Adults and young ones are all encourages to participate and even make it a family event for the weekend, you just need to bring you own paint and brushes!
You can register for the event between 9am-2pm on 958 889 423 or if you wish to join after 2pm on 666 644 214. Those interested only need to pay 2 euros and in return you will be shown recieve and canvas to paint alongside other artisits as well as getting some tips on teqniques, participants must bring any other materials and equipment they wish to use; paint, brushes, palettes etc. At 2.30pm hours there will be a convivial meal for participants, is
optional, at a cost of 5 euros. The cultural association ArtAvant, was established in 2007 and currently has 21 partners that they work with throughout the year at various social events: lectures, conferences, workshops, exhibitions locally and across the region. such as painting classes for adults and children,
between October and June at the Casa de Cultura de l’Alfas. If you would like to attend any of the classes, you can get all the information from the Casa de Cultura de lin ’Alfas.
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Property
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
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Property
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Spanish property investment takes off in 2017 THE level of investment in Spanish property so far this year has almost overtaken the amount invested in the whole of 2016, reveals new research from the international property consultants JLL, reported by the Spanish daily El Mundo. In the first nine months of the year €8.679 billion has been ploughed into Spanish real estate by both local and international investors, a figure that is close to the total for 2016 (€9,508 million). With three months of the year still to go, this year’s total comes to 91.46% of last year’s with just €811 million between the two. The data comes from JLL for direct investment in property in both commercial and residential markets.
The figures don’t include indirect investment or company transactions to date. However, they do reflect two of the trends marking the recovery of the Spanish property market: the rise in retail, and the renewed interest in residential property. Investment in both sectors by September is already on a par with of last year’s total. In the retail sector, transactions worth highlighting include the sale of the San Miguel Market in Madrid for €70 million and Fuencarral market for €50 million. They’ve contributed to a total of €3,267 million in investment at the end of Q3, compared to €2,977 million for the whole of 2016. JLL estimates that investment will total €4,000 million by the end of the year, and forecasts that this will “a record year in the sector due to the number and volume of sales that have taken place or are in the pipeline”. Residential investment totals €1,188 million so far this year, against the €802 million for the whole of 2016. The figures underline the positive trend of other indicators such as property
prices, which rose by 5.6% in Q2 year-on-year; sales up by 14.7% over the same period; and the number of mortgage approvals – up by 32.9% in the year to July. “This all definitely reflects the idea that the market is beginning to build up speed after years in the shadows,” concludes the article at El Mundo. The level of investment in Spanish property so far this year has almost overtaken the amount invested in the whole of 2016, reveals new research from the international property consultants JLL, reported by the Spanish daily El Mundo. In the first nine months of the year €8.679 billion has been ploughed into Spanish real estate by both local and international investors, a figure that is close to the total for 2016 (€9,508 million). With three months of the year still to go, this year’s total comes to 91.46% of last year’s with just €811 million between the two. The data comes from JLL for direct investment in property in both commercial and residential markets. The figures don’t include indirect investment or company transactions to date. However, they do reflect two of the trends marking the recovery of the Spanish property market: the rise in retail,
and the renewed interest in residential property. Investment in both sectors by September is already on a par with of last year’s total. In the retail sector, transactions worth highlighting include the sale of the San Miguel Market in Madrid for €70 million and Fuencarral market for €50 million. They’ve contributed to a total of €3,267 million in investment at the end of Q3, compared to €2,977 million for the whole of 2016. JLL estimates that investment will total €4,000 million by the end of the year, and forecasts that this will “a record year in the sector due to the number and volume of sales that have taken place or are in the pipeline”. Residential investment totals €1,188 million so far this year, against the €802 million for the whole of 2016. The figures underline the positive trend of other indicators such as property prices, which rose by 5.6% in Q2 year-on-year; sales up by 14.7% over the same period; and the number of mortgage approvals – up by 32.9% in the year to July. “This all definitely reflects the idea that the market is beginning to build up speed after years in the shadows,” concludes the article at El Mundo.
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Business & Finance
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Jack talks By Jack Troughton
THE boss and her banker appear to be at loggerheads over money and once again it is over Brexit and a ‘war chest’ for leaving the European Union. Prime Minister Theresa May and Chancellor Philip Hammond have fallen out over spending as the UK continues negotiations - and the first hint of a ‘nodeal’ withdrawal. The banker suggested taxpayers’ money would not be spent on a no-deal Brexit until the last moment, although he was prepared for such an outcome. The boss said governments departments would receive an extra £250 million to prepare for a range of outcomes. There were immediately claims that the Cabinet continued to be split over Brexit. Back on the shop floor - sometimes called the House of Commons – it made for a lively Prime Ministers’ Questions on Wednesday. Mr Hammond has set aside £412 million for government departments over the next four years. Brexit Day is scheduled for 29th March, 2019, but there is already a two-year transition period. “We are prepared to spend when we need to spend against the contingency of a ‘no-deal’ outcome,” he said. “I am clear we have to be prepared for a no-deal scenario unless and until we have clear evidence that this is not where we will end up.” He added: “What I am not prepared to do is allocate funds to departments in advance of the need to spend. We should look in each area at the last point that spending can begin to ensure we are ready to deal for a day-one no-deal scenario. “Every pound we spend on contingency planning on a hard customs border is a pound we can’t spend on the NHS, social care or education. I don’t believe we should be in the business of making potentially nugatory expenditure until the very last moment when we need to do so.” Mrs May was pressed on the same issue at PMQs. Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith wanted to make sure “all necessary monies” would be in the
coffers to prepare for the UK walking away without an agreement. The prime minister underlined that an extra £250 million was available this year to prepare for the whole range of possible outcomes of ongoing negotiations with the EU. She said on the increasingly touchy subject of Brexit: “Where money needs to be spent, it will be spent.” Is it news for her banker? Mr Hammond has an important red box to fill with financial projections ahead of next month’s Budget; he insists there is a need to be “realistic” about the challenges of leaving the EU bloc and promised to spend only when it was “responsible” to do so. Labour’s Heidi Alexander accused Mrs May of “running scared” of her Tory backbenchers. The PM replied: “The honourable lady could not be more wrong...we are not ramping up a no-deal scenario”. Mrs May backed the Remain camp in last year’s historic referendum and in an earlier radio interview repeatedly refused to say how she would now vote for Brexit. She said: “I don’t answer hypothetical questions”. Back in the Commons, her stance was bounced back at PMQs. The SNP’s Ian Blackford claimed the premier “could not answer a simple question”, and called for her to “come off the fence”. The SNP – who want another referendum on Brexit as well as a vote on independence – believe Mrs May must recognise the risk to Scottish jobs by leaving the single market and customs union. The boss pushed the claim aside; she said she was clear the UK would be leaving the EU in 2019...and there would be no second referendum. Something to bring everyone back down to earth was also aired by Mr Hammond. He told MPs a worst case scenario for no-deal on Brexit day would men there would be no air travel between Britain and the EU countries – and then said he could not see it happening. There’s a joker in the woodpile.
TOY TOWN TAX INVESTIGATED
By Jack Troughton
ONLINE auction site eBay paid the taxman £1.6 million in 2016 despite total revenue from its UK operations topping £1 billion. A multinational business that trousers money from advertising and sales commissions, eBay has declined to explain how its UK revenues are not put through its UK books. And a spokesman stressed its tax affairs were entirely legal. “In all countries and at all times, eBay is fully compliant with national, EU and international tax rules including those of the OECD, including the remittance of VAT to the appropriate authorities.” The UK arm of eBay is wholly owned by eBay International, which is based in Switzerland and is itself owned by a US parent. According to accounts, £200 million
of UK revenue generated from the British operation came entirely from its Swiss parent, possibly for acting as its advertising agency. The books describe the role of eBay UK as providing “services” to eBay International; these include recommending marketing penetration, advertising strategies for the UK market, and third party advertising sales in the UK, Germany, Italy, Belgium and Australia. A pre-tax profit eBay UK made on those revenues in 2016 was £7.7m, according to the accounts - and it was on this figure that the UK corporation tax was levied. The ability of big international companies to route their incomes to the countries with the most favourable tax regimes has come under intense scrutiny in the past few years. Among those criticised have been household name giants such as Apple, Amazon, Google and Starbucks. And eBay in America admits its tax affairs were under the microscope in a string of countries which may hit it with a larger bill. They include the US, Germany, Korea, Israel, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Canada.
VALENCIAN AIRPORT IN THE RUNNING By Simon Russell
CASTELLON is on a short list of ten airports from a major German firm who are expanding their routes. Eurowings has asked its customers for their votes on which destination they would like to see them fly to, with airports in Italy, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, France, Montenegro, Ireland (Shannon) and Northern Ireland (Belfast) all being in the running. Valencia’s third biggest airport
is currently at third place in the voting, with Trapani in Italy leading the way. The response clearly shows there is a demand for routes to the small province, which is popular with Germans who currently have to fly to Alicante or Valencia and then travel up to Castellon. After being dubbed “Spain’s ghost airport” when it was first built, Castellon has gradually started to increase the amount of flights arriving and departing there and its future seems assured at least for the time being.
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Business & Finance
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Investing in Structured Notes
By Christina Brady
BLACKTOWER Financial Management
Investments A few weeks ago I did an article called Tips on Investing, since then in light of what has happened to investments with Continental Wealth Management I have been asked to explain as simply as possible what are Structured Notes and why some are risky. So here goes. What are Structured Notes Put as simply as possible a structured note is an investment
whose return is linked to the performance of one or more reference assets or benchmarks. These assets or benchmarks can include market indices, equities, interest rates, fixed-income products, foreign exchange rates or any combination of these. Some notes advertise an investment return with little or no capital risk. Other notes offer a high return in rangebound markets with limited or without capital protection. As you no doubt know, there is no such thing as a free lunch. Generally, most structured notes are not capital-guaranteed. The investor may lose all or a substantial amount of his original investment amount in certain situations, which are described in the Note term sheet. The higher the return, the
higher the risk, you could lose all of your investment. What Are the Disadvantages of Structured Notes? Here are just a few: Credit Risk Since structured notes are an IOU from the issuer, you bear the risk that the investment bank forfeits on the debt. Therefore, it is possible for the stock market to be down only 50% but the note to be worthless. Lack of Liquidity Your money is tied up for a set period of time , usually 4, 5 or 6 years, there is a secondary market in structured notes that works well most of the time, but it should be made clear that some Structured Notes may be extremely illiquid.
Daily Pricing The pricing questionable.
accuracy
is
Conclusion Structured notes are very complex and few really understand how they will perform relative to simply investing in Funds or directly in the markets. I feel the disadvantages of structured notes such as credit risk and illiquidity must be given proper consideration. In the main, Structured Notes are considered only suitable for Experienced/ Professional Investors who have the ability to absorb a loss of capital in return for higher potential returns. At Blacktower we do not consider these products as a solution for our ‘Retail’ clients. For these reasons, the
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
majority of investors, with the exception of experienced investors should just say NO to this product if it is offered to them. If you have a Structured Note call us to see if the product is in fact suitable to your needs and risk appetite. Or if you would like to arrange an independent, professional and impartial consultation please contact me by email christina.brady@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330. The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.
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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Business & Finance
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BAE Systems slashes jobs DEFENCE contractor BAE Systems plans to shed almost 2,000 jobs with factories making parts for the RAF’s Typhoon fighter bearing the brunt of the losses. The cuts sweep across the firm’s military, maritime and intelligence services; but a total of 750 will be axed at the Warton and Samlesbury plants in Lancashire where components for the jet – also known as the Eurofighter – are made. A total of 1,400 workers are expected to lose jobs across England in the air and information sector of BAE; the other positions targeted are 400 posts at Brough, East Yorkshire, 230 at RAF Marham and 15 at RAF Leeming. And across the group, 340 maritime jobs would be lost at the Portsmouth and Solent operation and another 180 in London, Guildford and other locations. The news has provoked anger for “undermining” Britain’s defence capability and shedding “world-
class workers”; with calls for the government to act to support military manufacturing jobs. It is understood BAE faces an order gap for the Typhoon and wants to slow production before an expected order from Qatar. Overall the Eurofighter project, which also involves Germany, Italy and Spain, has received 599 orders from eight different customers; BAE has already sold 70 Typhoons to Saudi Arabia, but the kingdom has become politically sensitive as a customer. However, as order for the jet slow down, there is also growing competition from a revamped Lockheed Martin F-35 – part of which is made by BAE – France’s Rafale and the Lockheed Martin F-16. Support jobs will also go as the RAF looks to retire its veteran Tornado. Orders for the Hawk trainer have also slowed. And while BAE keeps
production lines open for both the trainer – flown by the Red Arrows aerobatic team – and the Typhoon, analysts believe the Ministry of Defence should give a clear signal to BAE over its plans as the company’s main customer. In a statement, BAE said it was making changes to “boost competiveness, accelerate technology and improve operational excellence”; adding restructuring of the cyber-security wing would “drive” growth. Chief executive Charles Woodburn admitted the planned changes to the company’s operations “unfortunately include proposed redundancies at a number of operations” and it was “difficult news” for some employees. The start of the reorganisation will be in January with job cuts being made over two years but BAE will look to achieve as many voluntary
redundancies as possible. Unite union assistant general secretary Steve Turner stormed: “These planned job cuts will not only undermine Britain’s sovereign defence capability, but devastate communities across the UK who rely on these skilled jobs and the hope of a decent future they give to future generations. “These are world-class workers with years of training and expertise on which an additional four jobs rely upon in the supply chain.” In answer to a question in the House of Commons, Business Minister Claire Perry said job losses at BAE Systems were because of restructuring and not related to decisions over UK defence spending. She said the government would continue to procure from BAE but insisted it would be “wrong” to interfere in a company’s affairs.
We Need To Ensure This Cannot Happen Again By Sam Kelly
Managing Partner Chorus Financial
I’ve been battling with myself over the last few days as to whether to write this article, and indeed what to say. As many of you will have heard by now, one of the largest financial advisory companies in our region lost their license last week. This has left countless clients unsure as to their financial future. It’s an incredibly sad and disturbing situation. Those of you who have been reading my articles or attending my seminars over the last few years will know that I’ve been warning against certain practises used here in
Spain, by a large number of financial advisors, that would be illegal in the UK. It was just these practises that lead to a financial advisory company causing large losses for many of their clients, and ultimately losing their license. All I can do is to continue with the same message, because what happened last week was entirely preventable. In the UK, it is illegal for financial advisors to offer funds or structured products that pay an upfront or ongoing hidden fee to the advisor. These rules prevent financial advisors from being biased towards a particular investment, ensuring that only the very best, high quality funds are recommended. This year alone, I’ve had over 50 people ask me to look at plans set up by other financial advisors in the area.
These are mainly investment portfolios held in QROPS and Spanish bonds. Every portfolio I looked at, without exception, contained funds that paid the advisor hidden fees to recommend them, which shows how prolific this problem is here in Spain. Despite the number of times I see this, it still upsets and disturbs me. These are often small funds, with little track record, that cost 4 to 5 times more than other funds in their category, and underperform the benchmark. The financial advisor has put their needs, i.e. being paid a hidden fee, before the needs of the client. This is absolutely unacceptable practise, and the sooner it becomes illegal in Spain, the better. Sadly, what happens when you have an industry acting like this, is that more
and more people are put into low quality investments, and sooner or later, we have a situation like we had last week. For me I’d expect to see an investment portfolio full of UK based, FCA regulated funds, which can’t use these illegal practises. Household names like Fidelity, Investec, Rathbones, The Prudential, Fundsmith, Vanguard etc. Fund houses with decades of track record; funds used by the top financial advisors in the World. I firmly believe that educating the public is the only way to prevent what happened last week from happening again. Thousands of you will be holding such investments already, without even knowing, or about to sign paperwork that will unwittingly tie you into such a
I will gladly look at any new proposal or existing plan without charge or obligation, and give you honest feedback. Please either email me on s.kelly@chorusfinancial. es or call me today on 664 398 702. Now is the time to act to ensure you do not become the next victim of rogue financial advice here in Spain. plan. You can invest safely and securely in Spain, and you should expect access to the same quality of financial advice as you would receive in the UK. If you, a friend or family member, are considering a new investment or pension transfer, it is essential to seek a second opinion BEFORE paperwork is signed. Anyone with an existing plan should have this reviewed immediately.
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.
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Refresh
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing
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Comparing Indoor And Outdoor Life For Cats One thing that both indoor and outdoor cat owners have in common is of course their desire to do what is best for their cats, taking into account all of the various different factors involved in this-but on the other hand, both types of owners will generally be very sure that their way is best, at least for their own cats, and it can be difficult to get objective, impartial information on the bigger picture!
Safety
One of the most common reasons for cats to be kept indoors only is due to safetyeither because the area in which the cat lives is unsafe for them to go out into due to the presence of busy roads, dogs or other things, or because of the owner’s perception of risk outside. It is certainly true that a cat kept indoors only will be exponentially less likely to be exposed to certain risks and hazards, but this should be weighed up in terms of the reality of the risk versus the loss of other things that come with living indoors, and balanced in total taking into account the cat’s overall quality of life.
Fitness
Cats that go outside tend to cover quite a lot of ground while they are outdoors, and so, are more likely to be able to keep themselves fit without the need for much input from their owners. Providing entertainment and
fitness opportunities for indoor cats can be more challenging, and requires more input and interaction with their owners in order to keep them moving and maintaining a healthy weight! Fulfilment Again, being able to go outside takes care of the vast majority of a cat’s natural needs for entertainment, fulfilment and the ability to exhibit natural behaviours-such as hunting or play-hunting, eating grass, establishing a territory, and leading as near to a natural life as possible. For indoor cats, once again their owners will need to spend more time and effort recreating scenarios and diversions that will help to keep the cat happy, occupied and fulfilled, and able to take part in natural activities like other cats.
Health
Health problems and chronic conditions are common reasons for deciding to keep a cat indoors-for instance, if they are physically restricted or disabled, or carrying an immunesuppressant health condition. Staying indoors means that the cat will be much less likely to come into other cats and so, catch illnesses or become injured in scraps-but on the other hand, they will not be able to build up their immune systems by systematic, low-level exposure to natural conditions, and so, will be more vulnerable if
they do then go outside, albeit vaccinations can help with this, and even indoor cats should be vaccinated too. Additionally, fitness and maintaining a healthy weight are important elements of health for all animals, including cats, and so this aspect of indoor-only life should also be taken into account.
Stress
Cats are fairly sensitive animals that are quite prone to feeling the effects of stress, but what leads to stress in one cat might be totally fine for another! Some cats may become stressed and feel restricted by being kept indoors, particularly if they are very lively and active and/or can see other cats through the window. But on the other hand, some cats may find going outside stressful because of the presence of other cats or dogs, problems establishing a territory, or feeling insecure in their place in the local area.
Natural behaviours
It is a fundamental right for all animals to be able to exhibit natural behaviours, and to lead a life that enables them to do this and gain fulfilment from it. For cats, natural behaviours come in many shapes and forms, and encompass a range of things such as hunting behaviour, burying their waste, eating grass, establishing a territory, and being active during the dawn and the dusk
rather than just during the day. Allowing an indoor-only cat to find an outlet for these natural behaviours can be challenging, and requires more input and thought from the cat owner-such as being able to provide a fulfilling, natural environment and being able to play-hunt. Some of these things will require certain aspects of the home to the altered to account for them and others mean a little time and attention every day on the part of the owner-but it is not impossible, albeit possibly more challenging. In conclusion, the decision on whether or not to keep a cat indoors only should be made on a case by case basis, weighing up all of the various elements above-but knowing what to consider can help you to make an informed decision on what is best for your own cat.
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing
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The Removal of Lumps & Bumps! By Family Medical Centre
People decide to have lumps & bumps removed for different reasons. These days we are all very much aware of the importance of regular skin checks and being ‘on the lookout’ for any skin changes such as the appearance of ‘moles’, changes in moles etc. Many patients visit the doctor for a ‘mole check’. The G.P. will usually be able to advise if a mole, lump or bump appears to be harmless or potentially sinister. If the G.P. is in any doubt the patient will be referred to a dermatologist. Sometimes the G.P. will advise that a ‘mole’ is harmless at present but should be closely observed for any changes that may indicate that the mole is becoming suspicious. Some
patients rather than ‘watch and wait’ prefer to have the offending mole removed right away. They think ‘get it over and done with!!’ Sometimes the G.P. will say a lesion is nothing at all to worry about but the patient will still want it removed. This may be for cosmetic reasons or sometimes the lesion is in an awkward place and catches on things such as your bra strap, hairbrush or knicker leg!! If minor surgery (removal of lump or bump) goes ahead, the area will first be numbed with a local anaesthetic. This is the only uncomfortable part of the procedure (a scratch of a needle and slight stinging of the product). This only lasts for a few seconds. The doctor will wait for the local anaesthetic to take affect and will check that the area is indeed numb before
proceeding. The actual surgery will not be felt at all. Once the lump is removed, the wound will be sutured (stitched). The doctor will take lots of care regarding the cosmetic result, using as fine a suture as possible. The patient will be advised as to when to return for removal of the sutures (a quick, painless procedure). If the doctor thinks the lump looks suspicious it will be sent to the laboratory for analysis. If anybody has any concerns about a blemish, lump or bump they should visit their Family Doctor for a professional opinion. Throughout the month of October the Family Medical Centre, Albir are holding designated ‘mole clinics’ where you can see the G.P. for just 15€ - an appointment is absolutely essential.
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Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing
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Transplant landmark By Simon Russell
THE General Hospital of Alicante University has been marking the fifth anniversary since they performed their first liver transplant. Since then they have undertaken 188 further procedures, 88 of them so far this year. The hospital is at the forefront of Spain’s transplant programme, which itself is one of the best in the world. Liver transplants are a relatively new procedure worldwide, but the centre has been performing kidney transplants since 1988 and has done 1,761 as well as corneal transplants which started in 2000 and has seen 1,310 operations performed.
The centre has also been piloting a successful scheme aiming to encourage the family of people who have died to be more willing to donate
their relative’s organs, addressing the cultural and religious issues that stopped some people in the past.
Oreo beer?
Read Online Weekender.News
Sweet-inspired alcohol is nothing new, with Aldi recently jumping on the bandwagon with its pumpkin spice liqueur. But one company has gone beyond the pumpkin spice – and has created what can only be described as the most sickly-sweet beer ever. Introducing: The Oreo beer. Oreo beer was first spotted at the State Fair, an annual event held in Dallas, Texas at historic Fair Park. The beer comes from Barrera, is made using American milk stout, and has an Oreo cookie floating around in it. And it gets better. The rim of the cup is then lined with Oreo cream filling and covered with crushed cookie crumbs, so that you can get a mouthful of chocolate cookie before it’s followed by that bitter taste of beer.
Residencia canina y felina Boarding kennel & Cattery
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RESIDENCIA CANINA Y FELINA BOARDING KENNEL & CATTERY Habitaciones individuales Ozono Hilo musical Calefacción Parques ajardinados Servicio a domicilio Admitimos todas las razas
Individual rooms Ozono Music Heated floor system Landscaped playgrounds Free home delivery service All types of dogs & cats allowed
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing
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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> All editions of “Gardening on the Costa Blanca” can be found at www.weekender.news/CBGC or visit www.costablancagardeners.weebly.com for more information.
GARDENING ON THE COSTA BLANCA - Part 11 Caring for Pelargoniums is basically quite simple - plenty of sun (though Regals might appreciate a little shade), water moderately from spring to summer.. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser according to the application instructions about every 2 weeks in spring. Once flowers start to form, switch to a high potassium fertiliser such as tomato feed. Many will continue flowering in winter if kept above about 7° or 8° C but reduce both feeding and watering to avoid producing great blowsy plants susceptible to any problems which come along.
There is no particular time of the year for taking cuttings of Pelargoniums because they have no dormancy and grow for twelve months of the year but you will
probably have less success in winter. Cut the mother plant just above a leaf joint on the main stem and then trim the cutting you’ve taken to just below the joint. Strip off most of the leaves. Don’t take a great long cutting. The healthiest part of a plant is nearest the growing tip, so short cuttings are best. The cuttings need to be inserted into, damp compost which is not allowed to dry out – damp not wet! (Curiously, you can root cuttings in a jar of water! Try it if the standard method seems too much trouble) Don’t cover them with anything as Pelargoniums are very prone to rotting in high humidity. In a few weeks you should have nicely rooted cuttings ready for potting on but remember that 100% success is unlikely - at least the ones you do get won’t have cost you much! If you do want to spend a little cash, it has been suggested that watering cuttings with a weak solution of vitamin C will improve results (you can always eat the surplus!). Don’t bother with hormone rooting powders or liquids which may make the ends of the
Ornamental leaf variety
cuttings rot. Many pelargoniums are naturally bushy but can be pinched back in spring or early summer to encourage further branching. Tall, vigorously growing varieties can be trained on canes to form a pillar. Young plants of trailing ivy-leaved varieties are best pruned back to promote branching. Deadhead plants regularly by snapping off the flower stalk where it joins the main stem to promote flowering. If kept actively growing all year round, the majority of pelargoniums can be renovated by hard pruning in spring. One little trick if you have let any plants become long and leggy with only a tuft of leaves at the top, is to bury the whole plant horizontally (pot and all, if appropriate). Leave the tuft uncovered as this will continue to
Regal
Angel
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, 8th November at 2.30 in La Senieta. Google “Costa Blanca Gardeners Circle” will provide you with our website.
Lemon scented
feed the rest of the plant and in a short time, each node (joint) will produce a new branch which can be removed as a cutting or left to produce a mini Pelargonium forest! That’s more than enough about Pelargoniums, so on to other subjects next week.
New Yellow flowered
Ivy-leaved
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles | TV
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What’s ON TV Australian Wilderness with Ray Mears
Best Laid Plans
heads deep into the Australian Outback discover how both people and animals have developed ways to thrive in otherwise challenging conditions.
NEW SERIES Architectural designer Charlie Luxton and property developer Sophie Morgan come to the aid of homeowners whose largescale renovations have hit stumbling blocks
ITV London 9:00pm Fri 13 Oct
Channel 4 5:30pm Sat 14 Oct
NEW SERIES - JThe survivalist
The Chase
Cold Feet Season 7 Episode 6 of 7 With her professional and personal life finally back on track, Karen meets attractive well-read builder Gareth, and after much deliberation agrees to go on a date with him.
ITV 10:00pm Fri 13 Oct
GoldenEye (1995)
NEW SERIES S7 Episode 1 of 8 The Chase: Celebrity Special New series. Bradley Walsh returns with the celebrity version of the team quiz show. As ever, four star contestants are challenged to pit their wits against one of the show’s ruthless quiz experts, in the hope of winning a potential prize pot worth thousands of pounds for their charity of choice
ITV 8:15pm Sat 14 Oct
Liar Liar (1997)
James Bond heads for Russia to investigate the connection between the theft of an experimental helicopter and an orbital satellite weapon with the power to devastate entire cities. He discovers both have fallen into the hands of a mysterious criminal mastermind with a grudge against Britain and a connection with 007’s past. Spy adventure, with Pierce Brosnan, Sean Bean, Izabella Scorupco and Famke Janssen
A lawyer, whose underhand ploys to win cases leave him little time to see his son, discovers he is incapable of lying after the boy’s birthday wish makes his dad tell only the truth. However, this causes a host of problems as the attorney tries to muddle his way through a high-profile divorce settlement. Comedy, with Jim Carrey, Maura Tierney, Justin Cooper, Jennifer Tilly and Cary Elwes
ITV4 10:00pm Fri 13 Oct Oct
ITV2 6:45pm Sat 14 Oct
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 TV | Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles
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V This Week
All T i Show mes n Ar e Span ish
The X Factor
Supergirl
ITV London 8:00pm Sun 15 Oct
Sky One 9:00pm Mon 16 Oct
The X Factor: Dermot O’Leary hosts the conclusion of the Six Chair Challenge stage. Each of the judges must make their final decisions about which of the contestants will win one of the coveted seats and make it through to the next stage - but they are still free to change their mind right up until the last moment
Victoria LAST IN SERIES - The Luxury of Conscience Albert resents Lehzen’s influence over the queen, and fears she is putting the health of their children at risk. The prince also unwittingly creates problems for Peel, who is facing the most important battle of his political career as he takes a stand against the corn laws.
NEW SERIES Kara deals with the loss of Mon-El by focusing all her energy on dealing with a mysterious new threat against National City. Alex confesses a secret to Maggie about their impending wedding and Lena makes a bold move. Return of the comic-book adventure, starring Melissa Benoist
Tricks of the Restaurant Trade
The return of the programme investigating whether consumers get the best deal at their favourite eateries, with chef Simon Rimmer exploring how the biggest coffee brands are copying the artisans to change what people drink
Channel 4 9:30pm Mon 16 Oct
ITV 10:00pm Sun 15 Oct
Louis Theroux: Dark States Trafficking Sex Louis explores the sex trade in Houston, examining how the city has become a major centre for people trafficking, with one in five victims in the US being transported there. He also uncovers the complex dynamic between prostitutes and pimps, learning the rules the sex trade is run by and the factors that prevent women from escaping abusive arrangements.
BBC2 11:00pm Sun 8 Oct
Hunted and Confronted: Cowboys, Crooks and Chancers NEW SERIES Investigative journalist Paul Connolly and his undercover team unmask Britain’s dodgiest traders and expose the scams run by businesses both big and small, using secret filming to gather evidence before nailing the villains.
Channel 5 11:00pm Mon 16 Oct
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Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles
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QUICK CROSSWORD
Across
1 Vow (4) 3 Seasickness (3,2,3) 9 Becomes visible (7) 10 View (5) 11 Wood nymph (5) 12 Crazy person (6) 14 Going by air (6) 16 Fleet of ships (6) 19 Champagne (6) 21 Film (5) 24 Keen (5) 25 Eight-sided figure (7) 26 Buy (8) 27 Genuine (4)
Down
1 Intermittently (2,3,3) 2 Slightly drunk (5) 4 Take for granted (6) 5 English county (5) 6 Eye make-up (7) 7 Peruse (4) 8 Make sorrowful (6) 13 Motherly (8) 15 Not so old (7) 17 Distant (6) 18 Stockings (6) 20 Accommodation on ship (5) 22 Imprecise (5) 23 Profound (4)
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
Across
7 US coach errs badly, providing intensive training (5,6) 8 Damaged gun’s alright internally (6) 9 A little rainfall indicator? (6) 10 It’s still produced north of the border (6) 12 Didn’t fail to deal out spades (6) 13 Some villain’s not well (3) 14 Fruit and nuts taken back by child (6) 16 Please turn and slip away (6) 18 Maroon filament (6) 20 Squeeze in a game (6) 22 Bird or animal turning on baby in nursery rhyme (4,7)
Down
1 Small vehicle making a mark (4) 2 A lot of money in a carton (6) 3 Take two inches off for good health! (4-4) 4 Pigs stand out with spotted eads (4) 5 Initially grand accommodation for stable men (6) 6 Young animals making vets reel (8) 11 Coarsest sort of ships? (8) 12 A planet’s teribly nice (8) 15 Ghosts in sunglasses (6) 17 Egyptian god transported in a bus (6) 19 Fingerprints of fishes? (4) 21 Droop before a long story (4)
For Crossword & Sudoku answers - See Page 38
Sudoku
Easy
Medium
Hard
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles
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LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd) ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) For the past twelve months This week’s events kick start an you’ve had the lucky amazing turnaround for you as benevolent planet of Jupiter you focus intently on all things in your sign, and for many long term, so it’s important you Librans is been one of your give it you best shot. Mercury best years. However the not to and the sun dance together ARIES LIBRA lucky Librans have realise that in positive fusion, so any arrangements that need to be sorted out will to move forward there are many outstanding issues to be sorted out first before the road be attended to immediately. ahead is clear enough to take that first important step. TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)
SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd)
GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st)
CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)
CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th)
LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)
AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th)
VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd)
PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th)
You’ve waited a long time upiter makes it’s mighty move for Jupiter to enter your sign, into Scorpio this week, so it will eleven years in fact, but it’s be all about people where you’re here now and you couldn’t concerned; how you deal with be happier. This will help you them, how you interact with TAURUS them and how you can build SCORPIO change, expand and go in new directions, if indeed that’s what and expand your relationships you wish to do. Jupiter in your sign gives you and friendships. the ability to think on your feet and inspires you to think outside the box and go in new directions. With Saturn in your sign still being It’s time to roll up your sleeves sporadically active, it’s what you’re and get stuck in. You’re felt very producing to the world out there held back over the last few years that you’ll be judged on. Some and there have been times you may see you as slightly moody and were so tired, you just wanted GEMINI to give up. Don’t! Jupiter’s move SAGITTARIUS changeable, but they have no idea what’s going on with you under the into Scorpio will give you the strength and ability to hit home at every turn, surface.You’re getting ready to clear out everything and consequently enabling you to make changes anything you no longer need, and that includes people, so you’re letting the world know you’re no longer willing in many ways. to hang around for the crumbs left on the table. For the past year others have You’ve worked long and hard for expected you to take on the everyone else for a long time so role of judge and jury over don’t you think you’ve earned many things, but you can now the right to do something for relax as Jupiter’s move offers yourself? The benevolent planet CANCER of Jupiter, some say it’s the lucky CAPRICORN you many different aspects and options. Where career planet, will have an immense effect on your life as it goes about changing is concerned, maybe it’s time to put your situations for the better. This will allow you to ambitions at the top of the list. It’s time to put your wants and needs on the table be they in loosen the reins a bit and have some fun. connection to life money or love. You need to take time to It’s now your time in the look deeply into the core of spotlight. Jupiter will now everything that’s going on in help you embrace new your life, as you’re not only opportunities, and you’ll make considering changes to your your way in the world with home, but to your relationships, confidence, be it in connection LEO friendships and working unions AQUARIUS to your career, making yourself too. Choose wisely as changes made now will last better know, or taking you relationships up a about a year. It’s also time to make decisions over notch. You’ve finally reached the place where things you’ve put off in the past as to move on success can be a reality not just a pipedream. you need a clean slate with no excess baggage. For the past year you’ve been analysing everything that brings home the bacon to you, which in turn has led you to focusing more on your own wants and needs. Financially VIRGO there have been peaks and troughs but you’ve always managed to keep our head well above water. However this is the week the month and the year that changes everything.
For the past year you’ve been dealing with interaction with others, taking on board other people’s input, and facing the reality of joint resources and PISCES joint connections. This week Jupiter the wonderful planet of luck and benevolence will arrive in your sister sign of Scorpio and will help you to shed old concepts and obsolete ideas you’ve held onto for too long.
The long anticipated Blade Runner 2049 was released to cinimas on 6th October. American neo-noir science fiction film directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Hampton Fancher and Michael Green. A sequel to Blade Runner (1982), the film stars Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford, with Ana de Armas, Sylvia Hoeks, Robin Wright, Mackenzie Davis, Carla Juri, Lennie James, Dave Bautista and Jared Leto in supporting roles. Set thirty years after the original film,
the story depicts a replicant blade runner named K, who discovers the remains of a oncepregnant replicant. To prevent a possible war between replicants and humans, K is secretly
tasked with finding the child and destroying all evidence related to it, leading him to discover that the child bears a connection to missing blade runner Rick Deckard.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Motoring
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SsangYong Rexton (2017)
With an upmarket cabin, hugely spacious interior, 3500kg tow weight and genuine off-road capability, the SsangYong Rexton has a lot going for it. It’s a huge step forward for SsangYong in terms of quality and refinement too – but it’s still not quite as well-finished as a Kia Sorento. It’s not far behind though. Not only is the exterior styling modern, but the cabin is really well finished. Mid- and top-spec cars get plush leather upholstery on the seats and leather dashboard inlays while the plastics are soft-touch yet sturdy. There’s a large touchscreen system too, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The second row of seats is very spacious, with space for three adults to sit with plenty of leg and headroom. The boot, too, is huge at 820 litres, or almost 2000 litres with the rear seats folded. Optionally, buyers can opt for a sev-
en-seater with two occasional-use seats in the boot floor. There is one engine choice – a 2.2-litre diesel with 181PS and 420Nm of torque. It’s quiet for the most part, though it does grumble when pushing on. It settles into a nice quiet cruise, though – and there’s little in the way of road or wind noise. There is a six-speed manual, but the Mercedes-Benz sourced seven-speed automatic is a much better bet. SsangYong has opted for a body-on-chassis design, which gives the Rexton a high towing capacity and good off-road capability – but it does mean the handling is on the soft side on the road. There is noticeable roll when changing direction suddenly and the steering isn’t particularly precise. But the payoff is a 3500kg braked trailer rating, plus genuine 4x4 capability. It has a selectable fourwheel drive mode and, if things get really steep and slippery, a low-range mode, with hill descent control. If you’re planning on towing horseboxes or caravans across fields, the Rexton will do the job without breaking a sweat. For a SsangYong the start price might seem on the steep side - it starts at more than £26k new – but the Rexton is bigger than the likes of a Hyundai Santa Fe and has a very generous level of equipment. Factor in the comprehensive five-year warranty and there’s lots to like – but if you aren’t going to tow or venture off road, it’s not the best choice.
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
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Motoring
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Benissa - La Nucia
GRUPO
Auto Mart Benissa Ctra Nacional N-332 Partida Bonaire 60 Opposite Benissa Motorway Entrance
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NISSAN Qashqai+2 Tekna Sport Year 2010, 2000cc, 140 hp, Manual, Petrol 135,000 km
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Motoring
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Four from same family among death toll By Simon Russell
Puzzle Solutions
FIVE people have been killed and a dozen wounded in a multiple pile up in Murcia. Four of the dead are from the same family and it is reported that they are residents of the Alicante town of Elche. The accident happened on the afternoon of 9 October near the La Paz services when
a truck ploughed into several vehicles at high speed. Some of these caught fire and the dead family were in a Seat which was hit directly by the lorry. The other fatality was a man in a Mercedes which again was flattened in the horrific smash. Witnesses said that the truck was to blame for the accident and was travelling too fast and failed to stop.
QUICK CROSSWORD
One witness said that the lorry “was like a demon� and he had narrowly avoided the collision. Many other people stopped at the scene to help the injured and even pull people from burning vehicles, with reports of people being pulled from windows to escape the flames. The crash site was visible for kilometres around and caused the closure of the A-7
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
motorway for several hours. Some of those injured are in a serious condition and have been admitted to intensive care. As well as the worst injuries there were multiple reports of minor cuts, burns and bruises. The truck driver was among the injured; he is said to be a middle aged Spaniard and has been tested for drugs and alcohol.
SUDOKU MEDIUM
SUDOKU HARD
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events
Out & About
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Boats & The Coast
Volvo Race Alicante will welcome the world for the start of the Volvo Ocean Race 2017-18 when the Race Village opens on October 11. Home to just short of half a million people, it’s the fourth time Alicante has opened the action, and the third since the race set up its permanent HQ in the port. The start of the longest professional sporting event in the world brings people from far and wide to explore the Alicante Race Village, see the iconic Volvo Ocean 65 boats first hand and even, if you’re lucky, bump into the sailors as they prepare themselves for battle. For boat lovers it is a perfect chance to
Ocean
get right up close if you re staying on the Costa Blanca and can provide a stunnign day out for all the family. Alicante is a vibrant city with a number of gorgeous city beaches and just out of town there’s a sevenkilometre stretch of sand and blue water at Playa San Juan. There’s great nightlife as well – particularly in the old town. You can basically
Concert to welcome ocean race By Simon Russell
choose any of the old streets in the Barrio as a starting point and you’ll soon find a host of restaurants, tapas places and cocktail bars to choose from. Perched on top of Mount Benacantil stands one of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses, the Castle of Santa Bàrbara, providing a great view of Alicante including the Race Village.
THE ADDA Symphony Orchestra is holding a free concert to welcome the Volvo Ocean Race to Alicante on 18 October at 8pm. Global unity is the theme of the hour long event held at Alicante’s principal music auditorium, reflecting the multi-national make up of both the race and the orchestra itself which has members from ten different countries. The various musical pieces will be accompanied by archive footage from the early days of the race and last year’s event, showing how much has changed but also how many of the competitors challenges remain the same. Although the event is free it is limited to the venues capacity so you will need a ticket and these can be reserved by contacting recepcion. adda@diputacionalicante.es Your ticket can then be picked up from the auditorium itself.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Out & About
Food | Drink | Leisure | Events
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Hiker winched to safety By Simon Russell
A young woman who fell on the Montgo Mountain and became trapped had to be rescued using a 75 metre cable hooked to a helicopter. The 30-year-old was climbing the path to the Creueta when she slipped and fell around five metres, hitting her head in the process. She was trapped in a bramble thicket, out of reach of her companions, and though she had remained conscious, had
severe back pain and could not extricate herself. The emergency services were called on a mobile phone and a fire-crew, medical team and helicopter quickly reached the scene. The north side of the Montgo, where the accident happened, is very steep and due to the complications it was decided to winch the woman out. This also proved tricky and required the full 75 metres of cable, but after a few hours the girl was eventually freed
and treated on a stretcher. When she was pronounced well enough to be moved, the young woman was flown to Denia fire station and then transferred
to the local hospital by ambulance. The victim was a local resident and would have known the route well; this was just an unfortunate accident said a spokesman.
Tourist influx By Matthew Richards
AROUND 5,000 cruise ship passengers came into Alicante port on one day this week, Tuesday 10 October.
They are the first wave of visitors for the Volvo Ocean Race between 13 and 22 October and three other ships carrying 5,000 to 6,000 passengers each are due into the port over
the next few days. There are some logistical problems for the port as the huge ships have to moor in the same place as much of the race vessels but port authorities are
happy that things are in hand. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity Constellation are the main three cruise companies entering Alicante this month.
All at sea By Jack Troughton
SEARCH and rescue struck gold when a sailor was plucked from the sea eight hours after being washed overboard during a yacht race. The annual crossing from Denia to Ibiza was abandoned last Saturday after a boat was hit by a freak wave and four sailors thrown into the water; just an hour into the 21st annual competition. The emergency turned yachts from a racing fleet into search and rescue ships in the storm. Three of the all women crew were quickly saved but the hunt for missing 44-year-old Sonia Pilar Mengod Zapata Salvamento Maritimo and a Valencia government helicopter joined the search and she was finally located shortly before dark and winched aboard the coastguard aircraft. Flown back to Las Manises airport in Valencia, transferred to an ambulance and was rushed to La Fe hospital; diagnosed as suffering mild hypothermia. A spokesman for the emergency services said the task of locating and rescuing “lucky” Sonia was complicated by the storm and resulting two metre waves.
FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events
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Out & About
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Red Cross romps home Friar flooding victim By Jack Troughton
THE recent spell of good weather broke in dramatic fashion last weekend across parts of Alicante as up to 30 litres of rain fell in some places. The Vinalopo area was the worst hit and a monk was trapped in his car outside the Orito priory. His vehicle was hit by a falling tree where there was also around five metres of water on the flooded road. The town of Montforte del Cid was the worst hit, causing traffic chaos as rain, wind and even hail all hit the small By Jack Troughton
A charity race night in aid of the Red Cross Food Bank in Javea was enjoyed by a “boisterous” crowd of punters who helped raise €1,935. A Night at the Races was staged at Monroes Restaurant in Pedregeur by Alan Higgins and the Unstable Lads. And Red Cross fund raiser Sandy Tsalikidis said: “It was a boisterous, loud, fun packed night with our compere Alan and his Unstable Lads.” She said the restaurant was “packed to the rafters” and thanked everyone who
attended for giving so generously and for all the sponsors for their support. The food bank helps needy families in Javea and Pedregeur. Alan, who organised the racing, thanked his team and Original Charity Shop and Library volunteers for selling the race cards and running the raffle. “If you had seen the large rooms, with almost empty shelves that sadly is the current state of the food bank at Red Cross headquarters in Javea, you would be very glad we have done a little to help,” he said.
town. Several houses were flooded and there were reports of people being injured by the force of the sudden floodwater. Novelda, Aspe and Monovar were all also badly affected and the police and fire brigade received several emergency calls. Tourists were caught out as the storm swept up the coast with Benidorm and Calpe both witnessing flooding and heavy rain while Callosa d’en Sarria was forced to postpone its Moors and Christians parade. However by later the same day the rains had stopped and most places were experiencing further sunshine.
Take the medicine By Jack Troughton
LAUGHTER is the best medicine and there’s plenty being prescribed next week at Careline Theatre’s production of the hilarious farce Nil by Mouth. Set in a mixed ward at the fictional St Christopher’s Hospital in North London, there is a whole series of medical mishaps under the golden rule of Sod’s Law – if something can go wrong, it will. Written by John Chapman and directed by Dennis Arthurs, a minor misunderstanding triggers a seismic chain of events that has trolleys going through
the ward like buses. The ward keeps on losing patients...not dead, just mislaid. And in this chaos enters a government inspector; who certainly gets more than he bargained for, including a resuscitation and a resurrection. The show runs from Thursday 19th October to Saturday 21st October at the Careline Theatre in Alcalali. at 8pm each night. Tickets are €12, with a 10% discount for pre-paid groups of 20 or more. To book call the new Box Office number 605 181 726 or email carelineboxoffice@gmail.com.
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FRIDAY 13TH OCT 2017
Sport
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Hernani 36 - La Vila 26 in the Basque country By Tony Fox
This was not so much a Basque win but a game lost by La Vila. You cannot win when you fail to gain possession from line-outs that follow a penalty, as happened in the first half on more than one occasion. You cannot win when having a man advantage, as the opposition has a player yellow carded in each half, and you allow them to score a converted try both times. You
cannot win when your player bad mouths the referee and you have a penalty decision awarded to you, close to your line, reversed allowing the other side to score. Why do you bother to import an Argentinian hooker of repute who plays but does not participate in one line-out? The home side opened the scoring with a converted try 7-0. La Vila came back via the same from Paco Martinez with Jara converting,7-7. Another converted try, when
even down to 14 men, and a penalty sent the home side in 17-7. The second half saw the home side score an unconverted try so it was 22-7. A splendid try by Jara, which he converted, and just for a moment a come back looked likely 22-14. Yet another try by the Basque’s made it 29-14 when again down to 14 men. Another converted try after a great interception by Hernani’s Mattin Collado made it
Elche Vets first home game of new season This year is a big year for rugby at Elche with them hosting the International 7’s tournament, also the vets team kick off their season on Saturday, 14 October at 17.00 against Wondervra CRU, Alicante vets team. This is always a good game specially as it is a local derby game, so come along and support local rugby. Elche CRU will
very soon be 50 years old, which is brilliant going for a rugby club here in Spain. Training for the vets team is usually on Monday night at 21.00, so come along and see if you still have what it takes to play. The training and the match are at the sports stadium in Elche just across the road from the Ibis Hotel in Elche.
36-14. In the dying moments of the game La Vila scored two more tries by Franco Salice and Luciano Martinez converting just one and allowed them to take one bonus point away from what was otherwise a disappointing effort. The final score 36-26 a difference of just 10 points shows what might have been had La Vila taken their missed opportunities. Their slow
build up through their phases, which worked well for them in the second division, needs to be re-adjusted as first division defences will allow them the space and not break their line. They will just wait for a handling mistake and pounce on the counter attack. Their next match is at home on October the 22nd at their VilaJoyosa stadium. Kick off 12.00.
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By Eric Malpus
As the Premier League takes a break for the 2nd time this Season and England become major contenders for the World Paint Drying Championship we can have a look back at which teams have impressed so far in this Seasons Alfaz Fantasy Football League. A former Winner of the A.F.F.L. Joe’s team Keith Lard F.C. started the Season at the top but for only one week then Kevin’s team Mason United took over for the next couple of weeks before Keith Lard F.C. returned to the number one spot.Darren’s team Daz XI became the 3rd team to reach the Summit when they replaced his mate’s team and have remained there for the last 3 weeks. Two teams have dominated our Mark Carter Ladies Section in the early stages and they are Pauline’s Vodka Army & Kim’s Ginger United.Pauline’s Vodka Army led at the start of the Season then gave way Kim’s Ginger United who held on to the top spot for 3 weeks until Pauline’s team returned to the Summit.While these two teams have been fighting it out at the top Isabel’s team The Bluebells were steadily climbing up the League and have now claimed the top spot and have taken a 12 point advantage at the Summit. Young Harrison is a newcomer to the Fantasy who enjoyed a great start to his campaign when his team Boden Boys raced to the top of our U.K.T.V.SPAIN Junior League and were there for the 1st 5 weeks then along came Robbie’s team Tea & Busquets who took over and have remained there ever since. There have been 3 different teams in pole position at the top of our Golden Boot League. Dave’s Pensioners got off to a flying start before losing out to Dani’s Chicken Tikka Mosalah but since then last Season’s Fantasy League Winner Wayne has taken charge of this Section with his team aptly named Two Years Running, Maybe.Currently, they have a 12 point cushion over Joe’s Keith Lard F.C. The highest score so far has been struck by Eric’s Blue Moonies who rattled up 89 points in week 5 while at the opposite end of the scale the lowest score has been made by Winnie’s team Le Hombre Rioja with a minus 7.Her defence is all Liverpool Players, enough said!
The Premier League has provided the Fantasy League with 173 goals,55 clean sheets,228 yellow cards,12 red ones and 11 penalties of which 3 were missed.It’s already been an action-packed start to the Premier League with the Manchester Clubs setting the pace which reflects on our top Fantasy League Players scores. Top Goalkeeper is Manchester United’s David de Gea with 36 points after keeping 6 clean sheets in 7 games. Fifty Fantasy League Managers selected the brilliant Spanish number one.Manchester City’s Ederson is in 2nd place just 7 points behind. Being an unknown quantity at the start of the Season not many Fantasy Managers fancied him, only 25. Top Defender is also a Manchester United Plater, Antonio Valencia who scored a fantastic goal against Everton which helped to keep him 1 point above his team mate Phil Jones and Spur’s Ben Davies who has also been amongst the goals this Season. Two Liverpool Players dominate our Mid-field positions Egyptian Mohamed Salah with 36 points and Sadio Mane with 29 points. Top Fantasy League Player so far this season is Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero with a total of 49 which is 4 points ahead of Manchester United’s Romelu Lukaku. Top Scorers in the Golden Boot League are Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling & Manchester United’s Romelu Lukaku both on 35 points. Two of the League’s deadliest Markmen are right behind them Spur’s Inform Harry Kane & the Injured Sergio Aguero both on 30 points. The Preliminary Round of our Weekender K.O.Cup Competition took place the other week and last Season’s Winner Dave’s team The Hatters were unceremoniously dumped out by Paul’s team Glory Leeds United.The Highest scoring game was between Adrian’s Chico Time who saw off Neil’s Blue Moon Rising by an incredible 73-40.Wow! The Draw for the !st round will soon be up on our website and will take place the Weekend 4th & 5th November. With 7 weeks of the Season gone the 24th Alfaz Fantasy Football League is shaping up to be the most open and exciting for Years. Let’s hope all our Players come back from the Internationals free from injury.
Jukebox Football Predictions League
ALFAZ FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
SPORT Week Saturday 14th October
13:30 Liverpool v Man Utd EPL 16:00 Man City v Stoke City EPL 16:00 Tottenham v Bournemouth EPL 16:00 Swansea v Huddersfield EPL 16:00 Burnley v West Ham EPL 16:00 Crystal Palace v Chelsea EPL 18:30 Watford v Arsenal EPL
Fixtures
Sunday 15th October
14:30 Brighton v Everton EPL 14:30 Southampton v Newcastle EPL
Monday 16th October 21:00 Leicester v West Brom EPL
Friday 20th October 21:00 West Ham v Brighton EPL
Saturday 21st October 13:30 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 18:30
Chelsea v Watford EPL Man City v Burnley EPL Swansea v Leicester EPL Newcastle v Crystal Palace EPL Stoke v Bournemouth EPL Huddersfiel v Man Utd EPL Southampton v West Brom EPL
Sunday 22nd October 14:30 Everton v Arsenal 14:30 Tottenham v Liverpool EPL
RUGBY UNION Friday 13th October 19:45 - Ulster v Wasps
FORMULA ONE Sunday 22nd October
United States
Sunday 29th October
Mexico
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FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER 2017
Weekender Sport
WORLD CUP WOES The Netherlands continue their awful record in recent qualifying for major tournaments and will miss out on Russia 2018
CRISTIANO Ronaldo’s Portugal and Antoine Griezmann’s France booked spots at the 2018 World Cup finals on Tuesday while the Netherlands crashed out. Portugal beat Switzerland 2-0 in Lisbon thanks to a Johan Djourou own goal and an Andre Silva strike. France needed goals from Griezmann and Olivier Giroud in a hard-fought 2-1 win over Belarus at the Stade de France. After a stuttering campaign,
France’s achievement in beating Bulgaria and Belarus in their final two qualifiers means they avoid the playoffs having had to go through that route for the last two finals. The Dutch, World Cup finalists in South Africa in 2010 and semifinalists four years later, bowed to the inevitable as they failed to achieve the unlikely 7-0 scoreline over Sweden they needed to salvage a wretched qualifying effort. Arjen Robben scored twice in a 2-0 win
over the Swedes in Amsterdam and said afterwards he was retiring from international football. The Netherlands however, were not the only shock exit of the current World Cup campaing with the USA, Ghana, Chile, Cameroon also missing out, other teams that may miss out depending on the outcome of the Play-Off games are; Greece, Sweden, Switzerland, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Denmark, Italy and Croatia.