Euro Weekly News - Costa de Almeria 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 Issue 1591 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

SSUENN 1555 //31 23 29 A IISSUE OO . .1591 Dec-2015 - 6PRIL Jan2015 2016

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COSTA DE ALMERĂ?A

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Salvemos Mojacar suffers a blow

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Population of Almeria falls

ONGOING saga is however set to continue

By Matthew Elliott Environmental groups fighting for the removal of the controversial Azata del Sol hotel in Carboneras were dealt a tough blow after the Constitutional Court ruled that there have been no vi-

olations of fundamental rights. Salvemos (Save) Mojacar had claimed that a previous ruling declaring the hotel legal had breached human rights by not delving into the substance of the issue, namely that the construct is built within 100 metres of

the sea and within the Natural Park Cabo de Gata. The scene is now set for a Strasbourg s how dow n a t the Europe a n Court of Human Rights as the ongoing saga, which has attracted international notoriety, continues.

The population in Almeria Province fell slightly between 2014 and 2015, new statistics from the INE (National Institute of Statistics) have revealed. Data released this week showed that there were 701,211 registered residents in the province on January 1, 2015, 477 fewer than the same day in 2014. While slight increases in numbers were registered in Huercal de Almeria, HuercalOvera, Pulpi, Vera and Viator, other areas including Berja, Carboneras, Cuevas, Gar-

rucha, Macael, Mojacar, La Mojonera, Olula del Rio and Velez Rubio saw their numbers fall. Nijar registered 500 fewer residents at 28,000 while Vicar rose by 200 to 24,751, with the highest growth in the whole province being reported in El Ejido, where population increased by 1,800 between 2014 and 2015. Almeria City has registered constant rises over the past decades and between 2014 and 2015 added an extra 1,000 to its number of residents.

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LOCAL NEWS

Two lucky girls ROQUETAS DE MAR Town Hall has invited the girls from San Ildefonso School who called out the winning lottery number for El Gordo, 79,140, which

brought €452 million in prize money to local residents, to visit the town whenever they wish to. They are Lorena Stefan and Nicol Valenzuela, aged 13 and 10.

Fatal accident A MAN, 57, died when the 4x4 vehicle in which he was travelling left the road from Chirivel to Cerricos for unknown reasons and overturned. Twenty-three people have died on the roads of Almeria this year, according to the provincial traffic department, breaking a two-year downward trend. The majority died on secondary roads, and four within towns.

Olive oil donated OLIVES from 367 trees at the Andarax Park in Almeria produced 150 litres of oil which will be donated to food banks and soup kitchens, according to the

Mayor, Ramon FernandezPacheco. The olives were pressed at the Santa Cruz de Canjayar factory and it is hoped that in coming years the amount will be higher.

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NEWS

More families without children in Almeria BIRTH rate in 2015 was the lowest since the 40’s BY 2035, there will be 10 per cent fewer ‘traditional families’ in Almeria according to the National Institute of Statistics. Data shows that there are 107,300 homes with traditional families in the province, but that by 2035 there will be 97,500. Meanwhile, there will be 82,200 families without children, 40 per cent more than the current number. So while there will still be more families with children, the difference between the two groups will have been reduced considerably. The birth rate in 2015 was the lowest since the 40’s, which shows that the trend in Spain is heading towards fewer children. In fact, benefits for young couples who do have children are being proposed. By 2035, there are also expected to be 10,000 more single-parent families, with a total of 30,000, and more one-person households, rising from 70,700 to 87,800. The main reason for the lower birth

MANY COUPLES: Are delaying having children because of the cost. rate is believed to be the financial crisis, which is leading many couples to delay

becoming parents because they can’t afford to have children.

NEWS

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Featured News 3

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Violence following the death of an immigrant MAN from Guinea Bissau was stabbed on Christmas Day

Russian Press 29

European Press 30

Finance 31 - 35

Stocks 32

Leapy Lee 37

Our View 38

Colin Bird 38

Letters 43

Daily TV 44

Time Out 47 - 50

Health & Beauty 51 - 53

Social Scene 54 - 56

Albox 58 - 64

Homes & Gardens 66 - 67

Pets 68 - 69

Legally Speaking 72

Classifieds 73 - 75

Motoring 76 - 77

Sport 78 - 80

FOUR people have been arrested in Roquetas de Mar following the death of a 42-year-old man from Guinea Bissau in the early hours of Christmas Day. At the time of writing, the alleged killer, a gypsy man in his early 20s, had not been arrested. The four sub-Saharan detainees had been involved in acts of vandalism protesting his death, which reportedly occurred following a traffic altercation. The Guardia Civil have not ruled out further arrests as it is not known how many people were involved in the man’s death. More than 100 officers were brought to the area to prevent any uprisings which were feared following the incident. The victim’s body was found with stab wounds to the stomach in Calle Valle de Orotava. The Government Sub-Delegate in Almeria, Andres Garcia Lorca, said that the situation in the area is ‘normal’. He also said that there had been special surveillance outside the homes of gypsy families. He pointed out that despite there being

GUARDIA CIVIL: More than 100 officers were brought to the area. 3,000 sub-Saharan immigrants in the town, there had been minor disturbances. Other reports suggest that two Local Police officers were injured and several patrol cars were damaged. Seven years ago there was a similar incident in Roquetas de Mar following the

death of a Senegalese man. However, the Mayor, Gabriel Amat, who met with the victim’s relatives, said that there are 110 nationalities living in the town but that there are very rarely any problems. He also pointed out that the alleged attackers are not residents of the town.

EWN’s 2015 - A year in review AT the risk of extreme understatement, 2015 has been an eventful year. Rather than bring you the usual rundown of global trends and excitements, we thought our readers might appreciate

some of the local highlights that their community has experienced over the past year. The following pages will be devoted to a recap of some of what we considered to be the defining tales that 2015 brought

to our papers. Some were of immense local significance, while others have touched all of our hearts, we hope you find time for both reflection and joy in this trip down memory lane.

NEWS

A REVIEW OF 2015 Y AR U N JA

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THEY’RE OFF: Runners in the San Silvestre Race. In 2012, the Madrid race achieved a record number of participants, 40,000. Wikipedia states that it is

Almeria stands in silence for Paris dead ALMERIA Provincial Government came together to hold a minute’s silence to show their solidarity with the Paris victims following last

Golden Indalos EVERY year the town of Mojacar awards entities or people who have contributed to the good of the municipality with their ideas, influence or projects, with a ‘Golden Indalo’. The Indalo is a symbol of Mojacar and Almeria, and is said to bring good luck to those it is given to. The awards will be made on Thursday January 29 at the FITUR exhibition in Madrid The award winners for this year have just been announced. They are Doctor Christiane Gohl, a famous German writer, who has lived in the Mojacar area for 10 years. Another goes to Rafael Antonio Hernando Fraile. Fraile is a Spanish lawyer, a politician and currently acts as spokesman of the parliamentary PP.

EWN

Racing for those in need

January 8 Issue 1540 MANY Spanish towns and cities hold the San Silvestre Race each year, and Almeria is no exception. The race first came to Spain in 1964, in Madrid. The Madrid version of the race has two versions, both held on New Year’s Eve. One version is a fun run for amateur athletes who are often in fancy dress, while the other is for more serious athletes.

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

week’s terror attacks. Government representatives gathered at the door of the provincial headquarters at noon on Thursday, January 8, and honoured the dead in a mark of respect for the Charlie Hebdo publication and those members of their staff who were killed by the gunmen.

based on the Saint Silvester Road Race, a Brazilian event, which has been held since 1925. In Albox, the ninth edition of

the race was held on Sunday, December 28, attracting hundreds of runners in fancy dress. The entry fee was a kilogram of non-perishable food for people in need. In Huercal Overa, more than 300 runners took part, with Jamal Dayane taking the title of fastest male and Maria Jose Martinez taking the fastest female prize. In Almeria City, more than 2,000 runners raced through the streets from 7pm. Jose Juan Perez and Virginia Vilchez took the top male and female spots respectively. The boys’ and girls’ winners were Paco Escudero and Maria Perez. The fancy dress theme in the capital

MINUTE’S SILENCE: Officials from provincial government.

The ceremony was attended by the deputy minister, Andres Garcia Lorca, who was accompanied by institutional and political representatives from all parties. They were joined by additional public sector employees and members of the public and State Security forces.

for 2014 was circus costumes, and many of the runners got involved. Funds raised during registration went to charity. Councillor for Sports in Almeria City, Juanjo Alonso,

commented: “Above all, we must mention the solidarity of the runners because of the amount of money that will go to the Duchenne-Spain Association.”

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Y AR U N JA

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Improvement works RY A U BR E F

January 29 Issue 1543

Farm rises from ashes A FARMER in Velez-Rubio who lost his poultry farm in early 2014 has rebuilt it with help from Junta de Andalucia regional government. In a fire, approximately 14,750 chickens burned to death. The Junta provided €60,000 towards the total cost of €100,300 as a grant from the Rural Development Programme for Andalucia, aimed at modernising independent business owners. The project included rebuilding the farm, installing fans, feeders and waterers, mechanical windows, a generator and hot air circuit.

February 12, Issue 1545. ON Wednesday, January 28 work began on various improvements, repairs and renewals in many areas of Mojácar. The works consist of the refurbishment of existing lampposts and installing street lighting in areas previously without any lighting such as the ‘Cuartillas’ area and in Calle Esquimo. Existing lampposts in Plaza Rey Alabez, la Avenida Encamp, Calles Melodías, Bellavista and Atalayones have been refurbished to enhance the image of the town. The council workers are also

PLAY AREAS: Being repainted and repaired. tackling the upkeep and refurbishment of the children’s play areas situated between Marina de la Torre and Cuevas del Lobo. The work includes repainting the installations where necessary, installing new swings and

carrying out any repairs as needed. The town hall estimates that the work will take about a month to complete, but stated that more work will be carried out to prepare for Easter and the summer holidays.

Medio Maraton in Almeria ALMERIA City is the location for Sunday February 8’s Medio Maraton, the annual race that sees thousands descend upon the capital as part of a weekend of sports. More than 4,500 runners are already registered for this popular race, already in its 18th edition, with that figure predicted by the organisers to grow before the starting pistol on Sunday. Councillor for Sports in the city, Juan Jose Alonso, added the council’s support for the event. He encouraged everyone to attend and said he hoped it would continue to grow each year as it has done historically. More than 30 businesses are supporting the event including Coca Cola, Cajamar and Ego.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Improvements under way on Mojacar’s Rio Agua bridge RY A U BR E F

February 19, Issue 1546. WORK has started to widen the bridge over the Rio Aguas, which connects Marina de la Torre and the Rumina roundabout close to Calle La Mata. The contract for the works has been agreed at a little more than €79,000, which is well under the original budget of €83,000. The aim of the bridge project is to improve safety and to upgrade the current

BRIDGE PROJECT: To improve safety. pedestrian connection between Marina de la Torre

and the local businesses. The work is expected to be

completed in 10 weeks and involves the widening of the

existing pavement to a safer width of between two and four metres, the installation of new street lighting, new railings and the construction of steps to provide easier access to the Mojacar football ground. The area will then be further enhanced aesthetically with the installation of new benches and a garden area. The mayor of Mojacar, Rosa Maria Cano Montoya, commented: “These works are in response to requests from our residents and the local hotels to enable easy access for people staying or working at the Marina de la Torre hotels. They are also to encourage walkers to pass through areas like El Palmeral with its bars, restaurants and businesses, or to venture along to the commercial park.”

2015 budget for works VARIOUS improvements are already obvious in Arboleas, with a large amount of urban works currently under way. Improvements include work on the rock walls and the creation of a pavement and cycle track at the town’s entrance, work in front of the medical centre, extensive works in El Chopo to control future flooding and to add a pavement, and the new children’s playground near the town hall. All the work is being carried out by PFEA (unemployed workers scheme) and the youth employment initiative, plus a grant from Madrid for flood control measures. The 2015 budget has now been approved and provides €1.5 million for new urban works, for which the town hall will have control. This will allow them to make improvements in the various neighbourhoods.

Tasting of home-made Christmas sweets and pastries for everyone ON TUESDAY December 22, at six o’clock, the doors of the Mojacar Centro de Usos Multiples opened up to offer a free tasting of typical home-made Christmas sweets and pastries, made by the village volunteers. The event was organised by the town council and was open to anyone who wanted to try the sweet delicacies. The council offered free ingredients to local people to produce their favourite family recipes that have delighted everyone for generations. Others brought along some additional desserts to demonstrate typical Christmas fayre. As part of the display, there was tarta de turron, mantecados, rosquillas, marzipan and a big repertoire of sweet ‘temptations.’ The making of these traditional recipes aims to keep alive the culinary traditions

SWEET TREAT: A special evening for the whole family. which need to be continued in subsequent generations as a legacy of the local culture. More than 30 amateur cooks took part in the event and the council team also provided visitors with hot chocolate. It was a very special evening for the whole family

and ensured a great time for everyone, particularly those with a sweet tooth! The tasting was followed by a lively Christmas concert performed by the Escalamo, Rociero de Mojacar ‘Embrujo Mojaquero’ and the Grupo La Fuente choirs.

A REVIEW OF 2015

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EWN

Race reaches a milestone CH R MA HIGH HOPES: Osaia enters European championships.

Mojacar kitesurfer takes on Europe

March 12, Issue 1549. COUNCILLOR for Equality in Almeria, Carolina Lafita, has announced the final number of women and children who participated in the third edition of the Race for Women. “This year has exceeded all expectations,” said Lafita. “We have achieved the challenge we had set of reaching 2,000 participants. In fact, the figure was far exceeded because we reached 2,136. “Therefore, we can announce this third edition of the race to be a success.” A total of 1,612 women and 524 children joined the race

RACE FOR WOMEN: Numbers exceeded expectations. which encompassed a circuit through the city centre. There were three distance choices to run, ranging from 2,000 metres (one lap) to 5,000 metres (three laps).

Mayor of Almeria, Luis Rogelio Rodriguez-Comendador, also added his support. He said: “We have been overwhelmed by the race, proving that once again when we plan something, we get

it.” Race day included a number of other events including a free toy library in the municipal music school, a flash mob at the race start and musical entertainment at various stages of the race circuit.

AT just 11 years old, Osaia Reding has been selected to participate in the European Junior Freestyle Kitesurf championships to be held at Saint Pierre la Mer in the South of France from April 10 to 13. She will be in competing in the ladies nine to 19-year-old category. Last year, Osaia participated in the Junior World Kitesurf Championship (PKRA) in San Pere Pescador, Catalonia, where she was the youngest competitor and was placed third in the world in the

11 to 14 category. This is her first participation in a European championship so the stakes and hopes are even higher. Her excitement and enthusiasm leads her to practise her favourite sport of kitesurfing off the beaches of Mojacar, opposite the Hotel Indalo, whenever the wind blows. The town hall in Mojacar is proud to support the young athlete by being one of her sponsors, as it did last year when she competed in the World Championships.

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SOFIA FLICKR

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Report crime without speaking Spanish RIL P A

EASTER OUTLOOK: Occupancy percentages are looking good.

High hopes for hotels HOTELIERS on the coast are cautiously looking forward to record occupancy over Easter. With a favourable weather fore-

cast the tourism sector is crossing its fingers for 10,000 visitors. This does not include tourists brought to the province by tour

operators or the IMSERSO subsidised holiday scheme for Spanish pensioners, stressed the Asempal business association. Fine weather is a good ally and visitors who enjoy their Easter break will want to return in the summer. Mojacar, Vera and Cabo de Gata expect the lion’s share of Easter tourists. The capital also expects an influx, attracted by the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions. According to latest figures, 60 per cent of accommodation is already booked.

A REVIEW OF 2015

April 2 Issue 1552. A NEW app for your iPhone or android that allows you to report a crime instantly with-

out having to speak Spanish is now available. For some, and in some instances, the thought of having to speak to the Guardia Civil when they have been the victim of a crime, is almost as bad as the crime itself. As of this week, that should be a thing of the past with the release of a mobile app called ‘AlertCops.’ The Interior Ministry supported development of the new app which is already set up in Madrid, Alicante and

Malaga, and has released a video guide to help explain its function. The new app will ask you to download and install from Google Play or Apple, then to register and confirm by return SMS. Once this is done and you are accepted, you will be free to report any crime directly to the authorities without speaking Spanish. The app speaks both! In addition, with the GPS function linked your location is known as well.

Desalinated water on tap TESTING at the Campo de Dalias desalination plant is entering its final phase. It should produce water by the summer, confirmed Acuamed, which is depende nt on the M inis try of Agriculture, Food and the Environment. This will go to Vicar, El Ejido and Roquetas de Mar w hos e tow n ha lls ha ve signed up for the water, as well as Usuarios del Poniente Almeriense. “ O nly minor finis hing touches are now needed,” a n A c ua me d s poke s ma n said. The central government’s delegate to Andalucia, Andres Garcia Lorca, paid a re c e nt vis it to the pla nt which is now almost ready to begin operations. Once

READY TO GO: Inspecting the Campo de Dalias plant. up and r unni ng i t i s designed to produce an annual 30 cubic hectometres of wat er a year, al t hough t hi s could be increased to an annual 40 cubic hectometres. Const r uct i ng t he pl ant and pipelines has cost €130

million and was part-funded by the European Union. It will supply the domestic needs of 300,000 Almer i a r esi dent s and hel p t o irrigate 8,000 hectares of intensive, industrial agriculture.

Praise for Cabo de Gata Y MA

May 7, Issue 1557. THE Cabo de Gata national park was singled out as set-

ting a good example for Mediterranean areas. Officials from the advisory council that oversees Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI or ZEPIM) recently visited Andalucia. They visited ZEPIM sites which included the Alboran Island, Fondos Marinos del Levante de Almeria (the seabed in Almeria’s Levante area), the Cabo de Gata-Nijar national park and the Maro-

Cerro Gordo cliffs (Malaga). This was one of the committee’s periodic reviews required by ZEPIM protocol of 1995 that integrated in the Barcelona Convention of 1976, signed by 21 countries to protect the Mediterranean from pollution. Committee members were checking to ensure the areas’ outstanding features that earned them their ZEPIM rating still exist and are being respected.

FINANCE

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EWN

New Year Financial Planning Review The New Year is an excellent time to carry out a “wealth-review” to make sure your money is working as well as it can for you. Spending a little time now will help you preserve your wealth over the long term to meet your financial objectives. Are you up to date with the latest developments in Spain and internationally that affect you? Do you have a considered, strategic tax and wealth management plan in place? Has there been any change in your circumstances since you last reviewed your affairs? Once you have assessed your investments, tax planning, succession planning and pensions, you will then be able to discuss any necessary adjustments with your financial adviser. Savings and investments Are you sure your investments, and the mix of them, is suitable for your life in Spain – and for your circumstances, needs, time horizon and risk tolerance? This is such an

By Gerald Turner, Partner, Blevins Franks important element of protecting and growing your wealth, yet many people do not have an investment plan in place, or have neglected one they set up years ago. You may have built up a portfolio of shares and funds over the years, without really considering how they work together or whether they suit your aims. Consider the principles for successful investing below. • Your appetite for risk

Obtain a clear and objective assessment of your appetite for risk, or your portfolio will not be suitable for you. • Match your risk profile to the optimum portfolio Make sure your investment portfolio matches your attitude to risk. • Diversification It is critical to ensure your investments are suitably diversified, so you are not over-exposed to any given asset type, country, sector or stock. • Yearly review Your portfolio can shift away from the one designed to match your risk profile and objectives, and your circumstances may have changed. Tax planning Get advice to make sure your investments and wealth are arranged in the best, most up-todate way to limit your tax liabilities. Choose someone who is well-versed in the nuances of both Spanish and British taxation. The right tax-efficient arrangement can keep most of

your investments in one place and help you legitimately avoid paying too much tax. Estate planning The first step is to establish your goals: • Who would you like to benefit from your estate? • Do you want them to have control over the money or not? • How quickly would they need to be able to access the money? • What impact will tax have? • Would you like to try and avoid probate on some of your assets? You then need to obtain specialist advice to ensure that your estate planning is specifically set up to achieve your wishes for your heirs. The new EU succession regulation allows you to choose between Spanish or UK succession law to apply to your estate on death. You need to ensure your will is up to date for your wishes,

or your estate may be distributed according to the restrictive Spanish law. The EU succession regulation does not allow you to opt out of Spanish succession tax, which can be costly in certain circumstances. This is due on death if the asset being inherited is located in Spain or if the recipient is resident in Spain. Tax is paid by each recipient, not by the estate, and the rate depends on the relationship between the benefactor and the recipient. Whether it is investments, pensions or tax planning, seek specialist advice to ensure you do what works best for your personal situation. Use an adviser who can guide you on all these aspects and provide holistic solutions so you can enjoy a healthy, wealthy 2016 and beyond. To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

British expats may have a new champion in Mojacar Town Hall SOMOS MOJACAR’S Jessica Simpson stands for mayor in this weekend’s elections

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May 21, Issue 1559. SPAIN is stuck in a year of elections. We had the Andalucian ones back in late March – still unresolved and now with the threat of fresh Andalucian elections for September. We face local elections across the country on Sunday, May 24. These are joined on the same day by regional

elections in most parts of the country (except Andalucia, Catalonia, Galicia and the Basque Country). In September, the Catalonians will be holding their own regional elections, with a view to independence in the near future. Finally, probably in November, we shall be called to the polls once again for the General Elections.

JESSICA SIMPSON: Has lived locally for most of her life.

The two major parties, the Partido Popular and the PSOE (the traditional right and left) are joined by not only the usual regional independent parties, some of which are as old-fashioned as the PP and the PSOE

themselves, but also by upstarts Ciudadanos (right wing) and Podemos (left wing anti-austerity). One of the more interesting struggles, however, will be resolved next Sunday, when the small town of Mojacar in Almeria goes to the polls, because one of the leading parties there is headed by an Englishwoman called Jessica Simpson. Thirty-five-year-old Jessica is the candidate for ‘Somos Mojacar’ (We are Mojacar) which is a group made up of various different local parties and associations. Jessica, like only a few of the majority British population in the resort, is bilingual, having lived locally for almost all of her life. She is married to a Spaniard and has two children going through the local school system. Jessica is interesting to the local panorama – a foreigner at last within

the town hall to represent integration and foreign participation in that most hallowed of Spanish institutions, the plenary session of the town hall (she already has four years’ experience as a local councillor). But she could be more interesting still as a champion for the voiceless Britons living in Spain. There are something between 290,000 and 750,000 Britons living in Spain (depending on who one believes) and they have little or no voice in what is going on. Spain to tax them unfairly or to demolish their homes? No one to stick up for them. The UK to leave the EU, causing untold and ill-considered hardship? No one to defend their interests. In Europe, we need more Jessica Simpsons, but first, she must win Mojacar.

German film in Almeria SHOOTING has begun on German film Der General in Almeria City. The film, directed by Stephan Wagner and starring Ulrich Noethen, is set in the 1950s and centres on Fritz Bauer, the German judge and

prosecutor who was behind the Auschwitz Trials after the Second World War. Filming commenced on the rooftop terrace of a building in the city centre and the entrance to the Escuela de Arte. This temporar-

ily became an Israeli hotel before shooting moved Cabo de Gata and back to the city’s Paseo Maritimo. Later the film crew will move on to the German cities of Baden-Baden, Karlsruhe and locations in Bavaria.

A REVIEW OF 2015

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EWN

Mojacar promotion CITIES with direct flights targeted to visit the established destination

FOREST AREAS: Restrictions apply also to a 400 metre strip surrounding them.

Fire precautions in place for summer PUBLIC are asked to call 112 if they see smoke in wooded areas

MOJACAR: Playa Manaca, one of the beaches in the town. MOJACAR is currently promoting its tourist image in London, Manchester, Cardiff and Glasgow. The town hall chose Facebook to deliver its message on the social networking site which links to the promotional video ‘Mojacar making memories.’ The campaign targeting cities and regions with direct flights to Almeria was launched in May and continues throughout June. It was seen by 19,493 people in the first 10 days and the video, dubbed by native Englishspeaking professional actors, was viewed 10,159 times. “Using the video as a marketing tool aims to strengthen our brand image and promote Mojacar in a very important target market,” said Tourism councillor Manuel Aguero. The video has also generated more visits to www.mojacar.es website and

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June 4, Issue 1561. Mojacar’s Facebook page, which has 27,000 friends and reaches a weekly average of 98,000 people.

Mojacar recently targeted Northern Ireland and Ireland in a similar campaign and, closer to home, organised a roadshow visiting 12 major Spanish cities. The town was also present at the Expovacaciones tourism fair in Bilbao last month. According to Tourist office figures, Mojacar is already an established destination for residents from the Basque Region who represent 10 per cent of Spanish visitors.

BARBECUES, bonfires and motor vehicles are banned from forest areas until October 15. The Infoca fire-prevention programme came into force on June 1, with restrictions applying not only to woodland, but also a strip 400 metres wide surrounding it. Burning weeds, vegetation, prunings or fallen trees is strictly prohibited, as is food preparation over a fire or barbecue, includ-

i ng t hose t hat ar e pr ovi ded i n cam pi ng zones and leisure areas. Fires have decreased significantly since these measures were introduced in 2006, Infoca said. The public are also requested to ring the 112 emergency number whenever they see smoke in wooded areas or anything they consider to be a fire risk. The authorities are asking for extra care to be taken this year to avoid disaster.

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Beach is given all-clear after a medical alert BATHERS have been affected by a microscopic algae LY JU

July 2, Issue 1565. THE El Playazo beach in Vera was given the all-clear on the summer’s hottest day so far. The beach was closed to swimmers on June 23 after local health centres treated an increasing number of patients who complained of coughs and rashes. All had one thing in common:

EL PLAYAZA: Bathing ban has been lifted. they had been swimming at El Playaza in Vera or the Villaricos and Quitapellejos beaches in Cuevas del Almanzora. Analyses showed that they were

affected by ostreopsis, a microscopic algae found in marine and freshwater environments, and whose effects in extreme cases can require hospitalisation.

The three beaches were closed to swimmers on the regional government’s orders and the public were warned to stay away from Vera’s breakwater. Medical centres have now treated a total of 90 people but with no more cases reported in Vera, the bathing ban has been lifted although the Cuevas beaches have yet to reopen. Meanwhile Ecologistas en Accion want to know how the ostreopsis reached the beaches and questioned the Junta’s theory that the micro-algae’s presence was a natural phenomenon. The proximity of the Deretil pharmaceutical plant close to Villaricos could be more than coincidental, a spokesman claimed.

A REVIEW OF 2015

Spaghetti trek for soap star POPULAR singer (and soon to be Coronation Street soap star), Shayne Ward, is visiting Almeria this week. Shayne, who won the X Factor in 2005, is an ambassador for Hearts and Minds, a Manchester-based charity which raises money and awareness for autism. Shayne’s nephew is autistic and he aims to raise £8,000 for the Hearts and Minds Challenge with a 150mile (241.4 kilometres) charity ride in Almeria. Shayne calls it the Spaghetti Western trek because he will be travelling on horseback through the same countryside where so many films have been made. The money is destined for a support service offering legal aid, information and technology to families touched by autism. Shayne has spent three months learning to ride at a specialist training centre and his bosses have given him four days off for the trek.

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A bright outlook along the coast

Migrant rescues triple in 6 months

‘NO VACANCIES’ expected in August

MARINE rescue services went out 45 times Photo Steve Slater.

LY JU

July 30, Issue 1569. THE summer season is at its height and it looks as though initial predictions could prove conservative. As July ends official figures show that in June the province broke through the 160,000 ceiling for the first time. National tourism increased by 15.6 per cent and was largely responsible for last month’s record of 161,563 visitors. Foreign tourism was buoyant but stable with a 3.2 per cent rise. Meanwhile, early estimates predict 95 per cent occupancy for Almerimar and Balerma in July, rising to 100 per cent ‘no vacancies scenario’ in August. “Almerimar’s population has quadrupled and Balerma now has triple the usual

ALMERIMAR: Population will multiply by four.

5,000 hotel beds for Cuevas del Almanzora number of residents,” said El Ejido’s Councillor for Tourism, Luisa Barranco. These excellent results were due to the joint efforts of the local government and the town’s tourist sector, Barranco added: “Collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential if we are to make El Ejido a quality tourist destination.” Cuevas del Almanzora is also looking to the future and plans to allocate land for hotels between the

A REVIEW OF 2015

Quitapellejos beach in Palomares and Villaricos. The town hall believes that the area can easily absorb 5,000 hotel beds. “From Vera to Mojacar the coast is practically built-up but the Cuevas del Almanzora coast is still practically undeveloped,” said Mayor Antonio Fernandez. Future development will be sustainable and low density, the mayor stressed. He also pointed out that the Quitapellejos-Villaricos coastline did not have planning issues, unlike the Villaricos to Pozo del Esparto section which is protected as an Industrial-Archaeological cultural asset.

ALMERIA continues to be a preferred landfall for the people-trafficking mafias. Four out of every 10 emergency operations in the waters off the Andalucia coast during the first half of this year were carried out by Almeria’s Centro de Coordinacion de Salvamento Maritimo. Put another way, Almeria’s marine rescue service went out 45 times between January and July and saved 1,077 immigrants trying to reach the coast in the unseaworthy boats known as pateras. These callouts were 63 per cent higher than during the

ST U G AU

August 6, Issue 1570. same period last year. One of the biggest rescue operations occurred in June when the centre co-ordinated the rescue of 99 people aboard two boats found drifting 50 nautical miles (92.6

kilometres) off Ceuta, Spain’s enclave in North Africa. Like the majority of immigrants hoping to enter Spain clandestinely, they were all from sub-Saharan Africa. This is further evidence of a change in the origin of illegal immigrants, said Almeria’s Immigration and Borders Unit (UCRIF) which identifies and returns them to their countries of origin. Although the people-traffickers continually change their routes, 57 per cent of migrants were intercepted in 2014 were from Nigeria and other sub-Saharan countries, compared with barely 20 per cent in 2013.

Concert controversy ALTHOUGH a concert held by Alejandro Sanz earlier this month at Roquetas de Mar bullring was reportedly a success, many complaints were registered from attendees who insist too many tickets were sold. The matter was discussed at the council’s plenary session last week, and the council was urged to explain whether it intended to do anything about the matter or

ask the organisers for an explanation. While deputy mayor Eloisa Cabrera stressed the council had nothing to do with the event, that it had simply allowed it to take place within the bullring, she stressed that the maximum capacity of 6,000 people was not surpassed at any time, and said that the Roquetas de Mar Consumers’ Office was open to anyone who felt their rights had been affected.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

Best year in history!

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Flickr by Moli Sta Elena

A REVIEW OF 2015

Minister brings great news R

August 27, Issue 1573.

P SE RECORD JULY: Best figures in terms of tourism. THE province of Almeria has just seen the end of what has been accredited as the best month of July in history in terms of tourism, with a staggering 199,525 visitors. These are the best figures since records began at the National Statistics Institute (INE). Data show an increase by 14.7 per cent if compared with the same month of the previous year, and the forecast for the month of August is equally optimistic. The increase in itself is one of the highest of the past 15 years and, according to the INE, confirms the positive

trend which is expected to rate 2015 as the best year in terms of tourism since records began in 1999. President of the Provincial Hotel and Tourism Federation Javier Arnedo said these results could be credited to several reasons. The main one, however, being the perception of insecurity in other tourism destinations such as Tunisia and North Africa, which has motivated hundreds of last-minute cancellations, due to the recent scenes of terrorist attacks. “We will have to wait and see whether this trend continues next year,” said Arnedo.

September 3, Issue 1574. EMPLOYMENT Minister of Spain Fatima Bañez visited Almeria on Saturday (August 29) and announced very positive forecasts supported by the national government. Employment in Almeria is to increase at a high speed, even though, she said, August has traditionally not been a good month for employment as many tourismrelated contracts are broken

FATIMA BAÑEZ: Announced positive forecasts. after the summer season. “The most important thing is the upturn we are experiencing, and that Spain is the leading country in recovery figures from across the eurozone, surpassing the average numbers by three, especially in terms of employment.”

She added: “The recovery is also being felt in Almeria, as currently it is the fourth province in the whole of Spain where unemployment has decreased the most since the beginning of our term in office. It is a province which generates opportunities.”

Surge in cheap room rentals Flickr by Toprural

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E MB

LOW COST: A room of one’s own is cheaper in Almeria City. ALMERIA City is one of the Spanish locations with the lowest room rental prices. Interest in renting rooms throughout Spain has risen by 12 per cent in the first six months of this year, to 16,449,121, compared to the same period last year, according to website Idealista. Despite this, prices have only risen by 0.2 per cent to an average of €280.

In Madrid and Barcelona, where interest has risen the most, prices have also increased, by 3 per cent and 1.5 per cent respectively. The prices have risen the most in Burgos and Valencia, by 4.6 per cent and 4 per cent respectively. Meanwhile in Oviedo, it is now 6 per cent cheaper to get a room than it was last year. San Sebastian has the high-

est prices in Spain, at €346, followed by Barcelona and Madrid €344 and €339 respectively. Meanwhile, the cheapest are Albacete (€170 per month) and Almeria is amongst the cheapest at €178 on average. The tenants are mainly 30 years old on average, living in the centre of large cities, non-smokers and have no pets.

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People-trafficker is arrested off Almeria IMMIGRANTS crammed in unseaworthy dinghy ER B EM T P SE

September 17, Issue 1576. THE drama of people-trafficking continues unabated in Almeria. While all attention is turned to the plight of thousands of refugees at the border between Hungary and Serbia, mafias are still preying on Africans prepared to

SEA RESCUE: Immigrants brought to shore. pay to seek a new life. This week a Guardia Civil marine patrol rescued 44 immigrants crammed into a seven-metre rubber dinghy.

It was inside Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s territorial waters when it was first spotted 13 kilometres south of Alboran Island which lies off the Morocco coast.

Because the sea was rough and there were babies amongst the passengers, the Guardia Civil decided not to wait for the Marine Rescue boat but transferred them to their own craft. Here they were given food and water and checked by paramedics who found that they were all in good health, even the young baby. The man in charge of the clearly unseaworthy rubber dinghy was arrested by the National Police on reaching Almeria Port, sources said. The same Guardia Civil sources revealed that he did not flee on sighting their vessel because he had mistakenly identified it as a civilian craft.

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Catalonia polls fuel uncertainty R BE O T OC

October 1 Issue 1578. WHAT was supposed to be a simple election for the local parliament in Catalonia appeared in reality to be a massive test for the Spanish government. With a population of 5.5 million voters, the election held on September 27 could have farreaching effects on Spain itself. The pro-independence parties have won 72 seats out of 135 and although they only received 1.9 million votes out of the four million cast, they consider that this gives them a mandate to

declare independence from Spain. The central government has said that it intends to fight any declaration of independence through the courts and the EU has indicated that Catalonia would not be granted immediate membership, would have to leave the Eurozone and would have to apply for membership of Schengen. The pro-independence response is that within 18 months, Catalonia will be ready to declare independence and have the entire necessary infrastructure in place. It does seem a pipe-dream but the elections have to be held by the end of 2015 and it is a brave government that completely ignores so many votes which could easily be lost if it becomes too belligerent. Perhaps both sides will now consider a compromise which would allow for a form of recognised referendum to take place at some time in the future.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

R BE O T OC

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Welcome turnaround for Oria villa-owners PUBLIC Prosecutor calls off court action

October 8, Issue 1579.

Police resources stretched THE arrival of seven boatloads of illegal immigrants has pinpointed a lack of resources, police have complained. “We are faced with special circumstances caused by the immigrant boats,” said National Police commissioner Adolfo Castaño at a time when 103 were being held at the port. This is particularly noticeable when immigrants are transferred from Almeria Port to the courts as there is no coach transport available. Instead they are taken in small groups and officers from the Public Safety Brigade and the Immigration and Borders unit recently had to prevent two immigrants from running away on their way to court.

REPRIEVED: Villas in the town of Oria. By Linda Hall THE Sword of Damocles no longer hangs over five villas owned by Britons in Oria. Changes in national and regional legislation are already kicking in for homeowners who unwittingly purchased properties on non-development land. The decision to call off the criminal court prosecution was influenced by amendments to Spain’s Penal Code regarding illegal homes purchased in good faith. No home

may now be demolished without prior compensation and the Public Prosecution Department has withdrawn the demolition order against the five villas built in Oria between 2003 and 2004. The Prosecution Department’s decision was described as ‘important’ by Gerardo Vazquez, the lawyer representing the elderly British couple who own one of the villas. All the owners had asked him to convey their gratitude for the administration’s ‘sensitivity’ prompted by the Penal Code

changes. Vazquez is also legal adviser to Asociacion Abusos Ubanisticos Almanzora-No AUAN (members pictured inset at a previous meeting) which represents the owners of homes threatened by zoning irregularities of which they were unaware when buying. “Each case needs its own interpretation and the homeowners’ advanced years carried a lot of weight,” the lawyer said. “Losing their only home and demolition would have been significantly unjust.”

Residents demand River Adra solution SEVEN HUNDRED Adra residents protested peacefully this week, calling for the river to be re-channelled. The River Adra overflowed during last month’s storms, inundating ground floors and garages, smashing shop windows and sweeping away vehicles and everything in its path. The demonstrators marched to the banks of the River Adra where the mayor, Manuel Cortes, read a manifesto before they returned to town by the same route. All parties on the town council voted in favour of the protest with the exception of the Plataforma Ciudadana Abderitana, which abstained. “The town hall’s priority is minimising the risk of flooding during torrential rain,” he said. “The September 7 storm has put us on our guard and this is the moment to insist that something is done about the river.” It was his obligation to take the part of Adra residents and the demonstration proved that finding a solution was a worry for the vast majority, Cortes said. “It is essential that we obtain an answer to a demand that this municipality has been making for more than 40 years,” he declared.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

ER B M VE O N

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A REVIEW OF 2015

The world unites Picture from Reddit by Mr Finnegan

COLOURS of the French Tricolor light up iconic landmarks across globe November 5, Issue 1583.

Storms cause chaos in province WIND and rain brought the usual problems to Levante, Poniente and inland areas. Roads in Velez-Rubio, Zurjena, Vicar, Adra and Roquetas were blocked by fallen trees and branches and some ground floor buildings and garages were flooded. El Ejido bore the brunt of the bad weather and drivers in side roads had to be rescued as swollen streams and watercourses began to overflow. In Adra, a working committee will be set up to analyse ways of protecting greenhouses and crops during periods of heavy rain, Mayor Manuel Cortes announced.

AROUND THE WORLD: Whilst the Eiffel Tower (centre) remained dark, the world’s iconic buildings showed their true colours. By John Smith IN the same way that so many people stated ‘Je Suis Charlie’ after the Charlie Hebdo tragedy, city councils and governments around the world decided to show their solidarity with the people of Paris by decorating iconic buildings with the colours of the French Tricolor, blue, white and red. Whilst the Eiffel Tower may have been plunged

into darkness, buildings in every part of the world from Australia to Gibraltar, America to Brazil, Israel to Mexico, Spain to Albania, China to UK, all registered their support. One of most poignant tributes was the One World Trade Center in New York City where people still have vivid memories of the 9/11 atrocities. Perhaps unsurprisingly the demonstrations of support in the Middle East were somewhat less obvious. However, the world’s tallest building, Burj

Khalifa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), together with the 828-metre-tall building in Dubai, Burj Al Arab - the world’s only seven-star hotel - and Capital Gate building in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, were all lit up in the colours of the French flag. The government of the UAE condemned the attacks on Paris as did official government spokesmen in Iran, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia with other Muslim states following suit.

Funds from Madrid for those affected by flood damage FUNDS from the Madrid government will be released for regions affected by the

September and October floods. Cash will be available for

the Canary Islands which were badly affected by storms towards the end of last month as well as Andalucia, Murcia, Valencia, Tarragona and Gerona (Cataluña). The announcement came from Vice-President Soraya Saenz de Santamaria after the latest Cabinet meeting. Aid from the government will cover storm damage to public and municipal infrastructure as well personal property lost or damaged when flash floods inundated

ground floors and garages. The customary formalities will be made more flexible, Saenz de Santamaria added, and the period for making claims has been increased to two months. In addition, applicants will wait three months instead of six for an official decision. Given the nature of the damage, help will be available from the Treasury, the ministry of Public Works and the ministry of Agriculture, Food and the Environment, the Vice-President said.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Mojacar bans the use of swimwear and fancy dress in public NEW measures to preserve a peaceful way of life ELECTION RUN-UP: Socialist party accused the PP of ‘destroying workers’ rights.’

Socialists look for votes PARTY handed out pamphlets at the local market

ER B EM C DE EWN

This year’s El Gordo lottery TV advert launched THE draw has been so popular it even continued during the Civil War

lottery tickets SOME places ‘lucky’ AS well as from lottery offices in Barcelona, the internet, hypermarkets, on high streets and many tobacconist shops. Some of the places that sell El Gordo tickets are considered ‘lucky’ for one reason or another, and people stand in line for hours to buy their ticket there.

What are the odds? CHANCE is one in 10

THE Socialist party in Almeria handed out pamphlets to people visiting the local market in the run-up to elections. They accused the current party in power, the conservative Partido Popular of ‘destroying workers’ rights’ over the past years. The candidate for the parliament for Almeria’s PSOE party, Son Ferrer, said that a new

law is needed as soon as possible in order to protect workers from poor contracts, and also help older unemployed people to find work. The candidate for the Senate, Juan Carlos Perez Navas said that pensioners and returned emigrants had also come off worse with the current government and proposed changes to help both groups.

YOUR chances of winning the El Gordo jackpot, worth €4 million is about one in 100,000! It doesn’t take a mathematician to see why so many people like those odds, and the chance of winning a prize of any sort is one in 10 even though that may only be a refund of the ticket cost.

Who can play? SPANISH laws changed AN estimated 75 per cent of Spaniards purchase tickets and many hold lottery parties on the night of the draw

December 3, Issue 1587. MOJACAR does not wish to become the next Magaluf, and to prevent this from happening, the town hall has brought out new rules to maintain a peaceful way of life in the small whitewashed town. In Article 11.2, Rules of Conduct, the wearing of swimwear in public anywhere other than at swimming pools, on beaches and in beachside restaurants is banned. Another article bans the wearing of any item of clothing or fancy dress which may cause offence to the dignity or religious beliefs of others, or may be considered xenophobic, racist, sexist, homophobic or in any way degrading to anybody’s personal or social circumstances. This does not apply during carnival celebrations. The mayor, Rosa Maria Cano, has said that the aim is to avoid antisocial and inappropriate behaviour in public places. She told local Spanish daily newspaper La Voz de Almeria that while the town welcomes people celebrating

SWIMWEAR: For use at pools and beaches only. hen and stag parties, they cannot be allowed to damage the image of the town because other people who visit simply want some peace and quiet. The opposition socialist

party, PSOE, with Manuel Zamora as their spokesman, has criticised the new rules, but the mayor says that they are based upon the requests of residents and business owners in the town.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Let our business make your business the best business in town…

YOUR voice is important to us… HERE at the Euro Weekly News (EWN) we are confident we produce an excellent newspaper as well as the best English-language internet news site in Spain, but we also know we should never rest on our laurels. Our dedicated team is always willing to listen to our readers. Your views are important

e knew we could rely on our readers to come up with some ideas, and we were not to be disappointed with a bulging (virtual) postbag. On this page we give just a selection of the comments we received, plus a round up of the (previously announced) winners of the iPad minis. We have read every single one of the comments and taken note of some of the common suggestions as well as taking action. A recurring theme was the need to increase our local news content and be an even bigger part of the community. “It

would be great to see faces from the EWN around more and perhaps have a local office,” said Joan Adams from the Costa Blanca. We have taken such comments to heart and are opening three more local offices now, and a total of six by Easter, showing we are firmly at the heart of the community. From Marbella to Mojacar, Albox to Benissa, Benidorm to Mallorca, Benalmadena to Albir and Benijofar, we will have your local area covered – guaranteed. Moira Bartle from Caleta de Velez (Malaga) raised a subject echoed by several readers when she said: “Ensure that forthcom-

Almeria Murphy Stevens, from Arboleas, was the winning entry for the Almeria region. The 18-year-old Motocross fan said: “I wouldn’t make any changes to the company because it is perfect as it is.” Murphy, who is out and about on his bike constantly, has worked for Almeria Homes for the past 18 months but is thinking about returning to the UK to continue his studies, so his iPad will prove invaluable.

Costa del Sol Eveline Kleyngeld, from Estepona, took home the prize for the Costa del Sol. She likes the puzzles section. “I always turn to them first, so that gave me the idea that the index was very important, so I could find them easily. Then I look at the news, there is always so much to read.”

to us, so early in 2015 we asked our readers what they thought of the EWN. With a winning prize for the best comments of an iPad mini being given away in each of our six regions we asked: “If you were in charge of the EWN for a day, what is the one thing you would do to make it even better than it is?”

ing events be published in advance so readers can participate and enjoy, and not report after the event.” She was annoyed she missed an event that happened at 3.30pm on the day of publication and she read about it that evening, thus missing it. This is a very valid point, which the whole editorial team has taken on board. We pledge to strive to print as many upcoming events as possible, although for reasons of space we cannot always do so. Bill Mullaney, from Alicante Province, would like to see some travel features. He said: “I’d include travel features on

some interesting places in Spain to visit.” This is something that we have thought about and are delighted to have persuaded travel writer Kevin Pilley to start contributing. Although he will be writing about some Spanish destinations, we took it a stage further and he will give witty and informative reports from spots all round the world. Robert Walford from Campoverde (Alicante) came up with an excellent suggestion, shared by several readers. He said: “I would bring in a feature called Parish Pump News bringing input from correspondents

Costa Blanca South

Our winners Costa Blanca North Over in Javea on the Costa Blanca North, Brian Moreland showed his humour when asked what he would do if he was editor for a day. He quipped: “Immediately sack myself as I’d be useless.” Looking forward to checking out the iPad, he said it was the first thing he’d ever won, “apart from a turkey we won once on Christmas Eve!”

Axarquía Marcel Van den Huevel from Nerja’s suggestion was to do with team work, something we all recognise as vital at

of local news and items of interest from their village or town.” We thought it was such a good idea that we are actively recruiting volunteer local correspondents to report on their patch, and are inviting Mr Walford to be one of our first correspondents. If you would like to have a go then email us at newsdesk @euroweeklynews.com. Other ideas included increasing the number of distribution points, something we have done. Should you have any trouble finding a copy of the EWN drop us a line at distribution@ euroweeklynews.com.

EWN: “It’s all about motivating your workforce, you need everyone to go to work with a smile and job satisfaction is incredibly important,” he said. “Building a family atmosphere helps with communication, which is very important for any company, but in particular for a newspaper where it is vital that the readers get what they want – information. “I have always liked working for happy companies and I think that as the Euro Weekly News is the best English-language newspaper available, they need to make sure that everyone who works there is positive, upbeat and happy in their work.”

Joyce Gallagher from Catral would like to see recipes in the paper. “I always read the paper but I am a keen cook and there are no recipes, so I thought that was a shame and would invite people to send in their favourite recipes.”

Mallorca Congratulations to John Griffiths from Mallorca, who was forthright in his answer: “I would not change anything as I think that you have got things right.” Mr Griffiths, 66 years old, had been coming to Mallorca for 38 years, but retired to Son Ferrer 14 years ago. His parents had an apartment in Peguera so he had many opportunities to visit Mallorca over the years while he was working for a foreign royal family.

CONGRATULATIONS! Our winning ‘editors for the day.’

From left to right: Murphy Stevens, Eveline Kleyngeld, Brian Moreland, Marcel Van den Huevel, Joyce Gallagher and John Griffiths.

Marbella

Watch out, watch out, there is an EWN office about in your neighbourhood! Benalmadena

Albox

Mojacar

Benijofar

Benidorm

Albir

Benissa

Mallorca

NEWS

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almera

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RUSSIAN P RESS

Star in the making DUE to number of votes, came in second place

KAMILLA ISMAILOVA: Stunned the judges. RUSSIAN-BORN Kamilla Ismailova stunned the judges at the Junior Eurovision 2015 singing ‘Mirror’ for San Marino, and receiving the tiny former Soviet Bloc country’s first-ever ‘douze’ points. Due to the strength of the Russian votes, she managed second place.

Oil for India RUSSIA and India are reported to have signed multiple agreements enabling cooperation on matters such as energy, the military, technology and economy. As a part of this, Vladimir Putin has said Russia will supply 10 million tons of oil annually to India for the next decade.

Border bicycle ban THE Finnish border patrol service has banned cyclists from crossing the border with Russia on a bicycle. The border patrol service said that the measure was introduced because ‘riding bicycles in the winter is a threat to cyclists themselves and other participants of road traffic.’

Nuclear New Year TASS have reported that Russia and Iran plan to begin construction of Iranian nuclear

Toughen up on Turkey PRIME MINISTER Dmitry Medvedev, speaking at a cabinet meeting this week said, “Russia will be taking new restrictive measures against Turkey,” in response to the unfriendly actions seen recently. “Although we don’t plan on completely ending cooperation with Turkey, unfriendly actions need an equivalent response,” he said.

power plants within weeks, according to Behrouz Kamalvandi, a spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran. He added, “We wish to start the job as soon as possible after the New Year holidays.”

Big investment TWO months after the law on the Free Port of Vladivostok entered into force, Russia’s Far East Development Corporation has announced it has signed 16 agreements with businesses

wishing to invest to the tune of 164.4 billion roubles (€2.13 billion)

GDP down ACCORDING to Dow Jones & Company, Russia’s economy dropped in November after a brief recovery. Russia’s GDP fell 4 per cent in November, bringing the annual decline for the January-November period to 3.7 per cent, and with falling oil prices is likely to contract further in 2016.

EWN

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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GERMAN

EUROPEAN PRESS PRESS

Refugee housing SWEDEN: Sweden’s migration agency has signed a deal to house 1,260 refugees on board a cruise ship as authorities continue their search to find long-term asylum accommodation in the Nordic country.

King’s speech SWEDEN: In his annual speech to the nation, Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf referred to both the real threat of world terrorism and the refugee problems saying that Sweden must defend society’s values by remaining both trusting and open.

PRESS

Caring Katie sparks outrage

Robot teachers

POSTED an insensitive response to a news story KATIE HOPKINS has sparked outrage after posting an insensitive response to news a British Muslim family were banned from their dream Disneyland trip. She wrote: “two men and nine kids called Mahmood turned away from flight to America. Fair play. Were their mothers locked in the kitchen? Too female to fly?”

Speaker’s salary COMMONS Speaker John Bercow is now paid more than the prime minister after accepting an extra pay rise on top of the 10 per cent already handed to MPs which means that his annual salary is £150,236, while David Cameron earns £149,440.

Terrorism arrest A MAN has been arrested in south London in connection with “extremist Is-

BRITISH PRESS lamist terrorism,” the Metropolitan Police said. The 31-year-old was arrested at a business address on December 22. He was detained on suspicion of “being involved in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.”

Roadworks suspended NEARLY 400 miles of roadworks have been removed ready for one of the busiest days on the roads for motorists, Highways England has said. A total of 148 schemes were lifted on the morning of December 23 in an effort to free up motorways and A-roads.

Amazon gift

Photo Credit Fonats Shutterstock

SCANDINAVIAN

IT SEEMS that Amazon really does believe in the season of goodwill after sending a woman 42lbs of play-dough - even though she didn’t order anything from them. The surprise delivery - containing 180 cans of play-dough - even came with an added ‘gift’ of a laser scanner - presumably having been accidentally left in the box by staff at the Amazon depot.

Photo Credit Monkey Business Images Shutterstock

Getting the goat SWEDEN: The traditional Christmas goat has once again been set on fire in Gävle, central Sweden by Christmas arsonists, with one suspected perpetrator spending the night sobering up in a cell after being arrested by police with fire lighters and newspaper in his possession.

English is Scandinavian NORWAY: New linguistic research has concluded that residents of the British Isles didn’t just borrow words and expressions from Norwegian and Danish Vikings and their descendants. Rather, claim two professors now working in Oslo, the English language is in fact Scandinavian.

KEPT INDOORS: As they are milked three times a day.

Permanent cover for dairy cows MORE were kept indoors in 2014 than in 2013 MORE than three in 10 Dutch cows were kept permanently indoors in 2014, a slight rise on 2013, the national statistics office CBS has announced. Bigger farms, which use robot milking equipment, tend to keep their cows indoors because they are milked three times a day.

Tax benefits DUAL income families with children will benefit most from next year’s Dutch tax reforms now the senate has voted in

DUTCH PRESS favour of them and they should expect to have 2.5 per cent more to spend in 2016.

Victim compensation ALL victims of crimes will be guaranteed compensation from the Dutch gov-

COMBINING artificial intelligence and language acquisition skills, robots will soon teach refugee children the German language. Scientists are focusing on children to develop the technology’s effectiveness.

Naked truth GERMANY’S highest court has ruled that people have the right to force their exlovers to delete naked pictures of them. The Bundesgerichtshof confirmed a ruling made in October by a court in Koblenz, western Germany, on the case of a man who had taken several intimate photos of a woman during their affair.

Gun laws GERMAN gun club lobbyists were invited to the German Interior Ministry to discuss something that has been bothering them for a while the European Commission’s proposed plans to tighten Europe’s gun laws, which were suddenly revived from legislative stagnation in the wake of the ‘Islamic State’ attacks in Paris in November.

Train track selfies A NUMBER of German teens - in particular young girls pledging each other eternal friendship - are taking selfies while posing on train tracks. This reckless pastime has forced the rail operator into a counter-campaign using social media.

Feeling isolated FINLAND is isolated by the Baltic Sea both from Sweden and Estonia. There are increasing fears in the Finnish capital Helsinki of being ‘too far’ from the European continent especially with ground transport, as the EU has just granted Estonia €440 million to build a new high speed rail link to Poland and on to the rest of Europe.

NEWS

ernment from January 1, 2016. If the perpetrator is late in paying compensation ordered by the court, or refuses to do so, the government will pay the compensation to the victim and claim it back from the perpetrator.

Iraqi stowaways A 36-YEAR-OLD Hungarian truck driver was arrested in Venlo after seven Iraqi stowaways were found hiding in his truck, the Koninklijke Marechaussee.

Daesh eyes Germany ISLAMIST extremist Harry S wasn’t in Syria for long. But during his stay there, he claims, Islamic State leaders repeatedly tried to recruit him to commit terror attacks in Germany.

Tour de France ORGANISERS of the most famous bicycle race in the world have announced that Dusseldorf will host the start of the Tour de France in 2017.

FINANCE

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A temporary reprieve for Abengoa SPANISH banks and HSBC have agreed to lend further funds By John Smith SPANISH Banks and HSBC have agreed in principale to continue to support Abengoa by lending further funds which will allow it to pay December wages. However, they expect the stricken

is the amount of money that a consortium of Spanish banks is prepared to lend to Abengoa to allow it to keep going until mid-January.

PLANS: To reduce price differences between regions.

Prada sales are suffering in Asia By John Smith ALTHOUGH the Devil may wear Prada, people in Asia seem to have turned their backs on the Italian designer brand, and profits for the nine months to October 2015 dropped by an alarming 26.4 per cent to €235 million, compared to €319 million for the same period last year. Whilst the company is not

company to put up shares in its US subsidiary Abengoa Yield by way of collateral. Although this support will only carry it through until the middle of January, it gives the company some breathing space in which to review its situation and to allow the banks to

Npower failed its customers. Not only have its billing and complaint procedures been chaotic, it treated its customers poorly, which is unacceptable.” Dermot Nolan CEO of Ofgem on fine of £26 million

Photo Credit pcruciatti shutterstock

Quote of the Week

€113M

exactly facing hard times, they are clearly worried, especially as for the last quarter profit fell by 38 per cent. In accordance with tradition, the company will be looking to cut costs. Prada also apparently plans to reduce price differences between different regions, to discourage tourists from travelling to countries where some items may be cheaper.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Another Ortega purchase AMANCIO ORTEGA, owner of Inditex, has extended his real estate empire by purchasing the historic and protected Haughwout building in New York, just off Broadway at a cost of €133 million. This increases his holdings in property which includes iconic buildings in London, Madrid and Miami.

Electoral goodies JUST before the country went to the voting stations, the Spanish Government announced that in January, the cost of electricity would fall by 0.7 per cent and natural gas by 3 per cent. Minister Jose Maria Lassalle confirmed that if reelected and the economic climate was right, his government would reduce some IVA rates to 10 per cent.

Starbucks finally pay up IT has been revealed that Starbucks UK, which is an arm of the world’s largest coffee chains, has stuck to its word and has started to pay significant amounts of tax after averaging just over £500,000 (€700,000) per year over a period of 14 years.

$57 million (€52.5 million) is the record value of box office takings on the opening day of Star Wars The Force Awakens in the USA.

STAT OF WEEK

business & legal

EWN

Stung by widespread criticism and possibly suffering from a customer backlash from its lack of payment, it has seen a jump in profits and has paid £8 million (€11 million) in the past 12 months.

consider their positions if, as appears likely, there is no ‘white knight’ on the horizon to rescue the company and protect their investment. It appears the lawyers representing both Abengoa and the rescuing bank will be paid up to €40 million by the company.

IBEX 35

-0.07%

C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

Competitor for Amazon THE Spanish department store El Corte Ingles has launched a new online rapid delivery operation in order to try to combat Amazon, which is seeing a steady rise in its business within Spain. The new service from El Corte Ingles offers two-hour delivery on a series of items in six of the largest Spanish cities, with categories including, computers, and cosmetics.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almeria

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C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY Anglo American 328.05 4.70 Associated British Foods 3,339.00 21.00 Admiral Group 1,639.50 -7.00 Aberdeen Asset Management 290.00 -2.30 Ashtead Group 1,112.00 -7.00 Antofagasta 462.60 -0.50 ARM Holdings 1,038.00 -6.00 Aviva 519.25 0.00 AstraZeneca 4,540.00 27.00 BAE Systems 497.30 -1.60 Babcock International Group 1,023.00 -103.00 Barclays 221.65 -0.60 British American Tobacco 3,781.00 35.50 Barratt Developments 616.00 0.00 BG Group 987.75 -1.60 Berkeley Group Holdings 3,626.50 -65.00 British Land Co 793.50 4.00 BHP Billiton 776.50 -1.60 Bunzl 1,864.50 8.00 BP 365.95 5.55 Burberry Group 1,205.00 8.20 BT Group 467.25 -1.45 Coca-Cola HBC 1,470.50 -12.00 Carnival 3,800.00 8.00 Centrica 218.20 1.40 Compass Group 1,162.50 -3.00 Capita Group (The) 1,218.00 11.00 CRH 1,947.50 0.00 Dixons Carphone 497.70 0.00 DCC 5,485.00 -15.00 Diageo 1,855.00 3.50 Direct Line Insurance Group 410.70 1.70 Experian 1,203.50 6.00 easyJet 1,721.00 -3.00 Fresnillo 715.50 3.00 GKN 305.85 -2.70 Glencore 92.48 -0.69 GlaxoSmithKline 1,376.00 6.00 Hikma Pharmaceuticals 2,252.50 7.00 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,482.00 1.00 Hammerson 604.00 3.00 HSBC Holdings 541.30 0.40 International Consolidated Air 602.50 5.50 InterContinental Hotels Group 2,634.50 -11.00 3i Group 478.80 4.50 Imperial Tobacco Group 3,543.50 0.00 Intu Properties 321.05 2.10 Inmarsat 1,125.50 12.00 Intertek Group 2,791.50 12.00 ITV 275.00 0.00

% CHG. NET VOL 1.45 4,532.84 0.63 26,267.75 -0.43 4,594.12 -0.79 3,873.63 -0.62 5,647.52 -0.11 4,565.50 -0.57 14,695.37 0.00 20,997.43 0.60 57,028.15 -0.32 15,785.19 -10.10 5,142.81 -0.27 37,287.25 0.95 69,823.03 0.00 6,131.99 -0.16 33,745.48 -1.77 5,026.25 0.51 8,058.29 -0.21 16,434.03 0.43 6,239.13 1.54 65,898.56 0.68 5,386.93 -0.31 39,428.49 -0.81 5,418.53 0.21 8,196.54 0.65 10,784.79 -0.26 19,310.87 0.91 8,048.84 0.00 15,982.50 0.00 5,730.82 -0.27 4,971.09 0.19 46,593.54 0.42 6,135.00 0.50 11,841.35 -0.17 6,847.87 0.42 5,250.37 -0.88 5,074.36 -0.74 13,578.29 0.44 66,667.05 0.31 4,462.87 0.07 7,024.66 0.50 4,721.55 0.07 105,546.98 0.92 12,185.02 -0.42 6,250.02 0.95 4,622.11 0.00 33,914.52 0.66 4,236.63 1.07 5,026.25 0.43 4,482.63 0.00 11,069.88

COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) Johnson Matthey 2,711.50 -30.00 Kingfisher 328.65 -0.90 Land Securities Group 1,186.00 4.00 Legal & General Group 269.40 1.50 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 73.50 -0.15 London Stock Exchange Grp 2,701.00 -7.00 Merlin Entertainments 450.00 3.00 Marks & Spencer Group 452.25 6.40 Mondi 1,358.00 24.00 National Grid 933.20 -4.50 Next 7,200.00 -40.00 Old Mutual 181.70 2.60 Provident Financial 3,283.00 16.00 Prudential 1,540.00 -0.50 Persimmon 1,974.50 -12.00 Pearson 768.00 0.50 Reckitt Benckiser Group 6,217.00 21.00 Royal Bank of Scotland Group 305.00 0.50 Royal Dutch Shell 1,557.00 6.00 Royal Dutch Shell 1,571.00 6.50 RELX 1,180.00 -2.00 Rio Tinto 2,006.50 -8.00 Royal Mail 448.55 1.10 Rolls-Royce Group 594.75 4.50 Randgold Resources 4,233.50 -13.00 RSA Insurance Group 430.95 -1.20 SABMiller 4,075.00 30.00 Sainsbury (J) 265.95 0.40 Schroders 2,961.00 -7.00 Sage Group (The) 596.25 -4.00 Shire 4,609.00 39.00 Sky 1,099.50 -8.00 Standard Life 394.75 2.80 Smiths Group 958.75 -1.50 Smith & Nephew 1,173.50 2.00 Sports Direct International 563.75 3.50 SSE 1,529.00 17.00 Standard Chartered 589.00 5.40 St James's Place 997.25 3.50 Severn Trent 2,173.00 6.00 Travis Perkins 1,969.50 7.00 Tesco 150.98 -2.00 TUI AG 1,230.50 -4.00 Taylor Wimpey 197.85 -2.10 Unilever 2,891.00 8.00 United Utilities Group 936.75 -0.50 Vodafone Group 216.65 1.05 Wolseley 3,690.00 -281.05 Worldpay Group Ord 3p Wi 300.90 -1.50 WPP Group 1,540.00 -10.00 Whitbread 4,440.00 34.00

% CHG. -1.10 -0.27 0.34 0.56 -0.20 -0.26 0.67 1.43 1.80 -0.48 -0.55 1.45 0.49 -0.03 -0.60 0.07 0.34 0.16 0.39 0.42 -0.17 -0.40 0.25 0.76 -0.31 -0.28 0.74 0.15 -0.24 -0.67 0.85 -0.72 0.71 -0.16 0.17 0.62 1.12 0.93 0.35 0.28 0.36 -1.31 -0.32 -1.05 0.28 -0.05 0.49 -7.60 -0.50 -0.65 0.77

NET VOL 5,600.40 7,707.24 9,344.22 15,914.26 52,566.76 9,407.83 4,531.45 7,367.74 6,482.14 34,920.50 11,037.47 8,822.75 4,824.49 39,606.04 6,084.86 6,295.71 44,319.62 19,584.92 60,405.01 38,180.22 13,282.57 28,338.52 4,489.00 10,856.90 3,956.16 4,393.41 65,382.61 5,109.65 6,708.35 6,464.39 27,038.49 19,029.52 7,727.09 3,789.86 10,473.32 3,357.39 15,054.88 14,858.21 5,186.80 5,159.17 4,897.01 12,440.71 7,238.68 6,484.15 37,002.13 6,389.29 57,161.39 9,611.70 N/A 20,205.03 8,007.43

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US dollar....................................................................1.09713 Japan yen ................................................................132.302 Switzerland franc ................................................1.08428 Denmark kroner ....................................................7.46313 Norway kroner .....................................................9.53425

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DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

COMPANY MM 3M AXP American Express AAPL Apple BA Boeing CAT Caterpillar CVX Chevron CSCO Cisco KO Coca-Cola DIS Disney DD E I du Pont de Nemours and Co XOM Exxon Mobil GE General Electric GS Goldman Sachs HD Home Depot IBM IBM INTC Intel JNJ Johnson & Johnson JPM JPMorgan Chase MCD McDonald's MRK Merck MSFT Microsoft NKE Nike PFE Pfizer PG Procter & Gamble TRV Travelers Companies Inc UTX United Technologies UNH UnitedHealth VZ Verizon V Visa WMT Wal-Mart

PRICE CHANGE %CHANGE 151.19 +0.03 +0.02% 70.16 +0.19 +0.27% 108.03 -0.58 -0.53% 143.53 -0.53 -0.37% 69.38 -0.51 -0.73% 92.05 -1.76 -1.88% 27.38 -0.02 -0.07% 43.54 -0.13 -0.30% 105.86 +0.30 +0.28% 66.40 +0.37 +0.56% 79.33 -0.86 -1.07% 30.83 -0.12 -0.39% 182.47 -0.48 -0.26% 132.90 -0.21 -0.16% 138.25 -0.29 -0.21% 34.98 -0.02 -0.06% 103.72 +0.23 +0.22% 66.60 -0.13 -0.19% 118.57 -0.23 -0.19% 52.85 -0.13 -0.25% 55.67 -0.15 -0.27% 63.18 -1.18 -1.83% 32.62 +0.06 +0.18% 79.79 -0.13 -0.16% 113.27 +0.06 +0.05% 96.30 0.00 0.00% 118.34 -0.35 -0.29% 46.71 -0.24 -0.51% 78.26 -0.30 -0.38% 60.83 -0.26 -0.43%

VOLUME 848.4K 2.0M 13.6M 1.2M 2.3M 5.0M 8.2M 3.0M 4.4M 1.6M 5.8M 13.5M 1.1M 1.5M 1.5M 5.9M 2.5M 4.5M 1.7M 3.0M 9.6M 13.9M 7.9M 2.5M 507.3K 1.4M 900.1K 4.3M 2.2M 2.5M

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced Resource America, Inc. Allied Motion Technologies, Inc. Auris Medical Holding AG Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Hovnanian Enterprises Inc Memorial Production Partners LP Legacy Reserves LP Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Legacy Reserves LP Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Auburn National Bancorporation, Inc.

$ 4.61 $ 27.27 $ 4.17 $ 10.82 $ 5.3458 $ 3.08 $ 6.36 $ 10.12 $ 6.20 $ 10.84 $ 30.3899

1.01 ▲ 28.06% 5.76 ▲ 26.78% 0.8012 ▲ 23.78% 1.7301 ▲ 19.03% 0.5959 ▲ 12.55% 0.34 ▲ 12.41% 0.70 ▲ 12.37% 1.0501 ▲ 11.58% 0.63 ▲ 11.31% 1.04 ▲ 10.61% 2.8876 ▲ 10.50%

$ 3.01 $ 6.93 $ 16.39 $ 3.80 $ 43.08 $ 3.47 $ 13.65 $ 23.65 $ 12.63 $ 2.60 $ 13.35

0.3693 ▼ 10.93% 0.56 ▼ 7.48% 1.30 ▼ 7.35% 0.27 ▼ 6.63% 2.98 ▼ 6.47% 0.24 ▼ 6.47% 0.88 ▼ 6.06% 1.44 ▼ 5.74% 0.73 ▼ 5.46% 0.15 ▼ 5.45% 0.75 ▼ 5.32%

Most Declined Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. Northeast Community Bancorp, Inc. WAVE Life Sciences Ltd. Dawson Geophysical Company BioSpecifics Technologies Corp Ocera Therapeutics, Inc. Central Garden & Pet Company Bassett Furniture Industries, Incorporated Amaya Inc. Intersections, Inc. Central Garden & Pet Company

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016/ Costa de Almería

www.euroweeklynews.com

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

BA considers taking off to Spain Photo Credit NATS Press Office flickr

By John Smith ALTHOUGH the Davies Commission concluded in July of this year that a third runway at Heathrow was probably the best option for expansion of flights in and out of London, the government announced in December that a decision had been postponed until the summer of 2016 whilst further analysis is to be undertaken. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said that there was a ‘clear’ case for airport expansion “but it’s vitally important we get the decision right so that it will benefit generations to come.” This lack of decision has angered a number of British industry leaders, none more so than Willie Walsh, the chief executive of IAG, which owns British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, and has its registered office in Madrid. He has now warned the government that if it does not make a decision about a third runway at Heathrow soon, then he will look to

AS widely forecast, the US Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 0.25 percentage points on December 16, which was its first increase since 2006. This move takes the range of rates banks offer to lend to each other overnight known as the Federal Funds rate to between 0.25 and 0.5 per cent, although this still allows the banks to charge much higher rates to business and consumer customers whilst only paying very small amounts of interest on funds invested. The move is likely to affect economies throughout the world, such as Brazil which has been benefiting from the fact that although its economy is risky, investors were receiving better rates of interest than offered in the US, and can now expect to see a flood of funds leaving the country.

expand his business in either Ireland or Spain where the other airlines are based. Any decision to expand the business in that manner will be to the obvious detriment of the British economy and to the benefit of the Irish and/or Spanish economies. Writing in the Daily Mail he did not mince his words, saying: “We’re a small island, and this Government looks set to make us even smaller on the world stage. Our leaders bestride the world saying the UK is open for business, but their actions do not match the rhetoric. “If the Government continues to dither over a new runway, then I’ll move my business elsewhere. We now have airlines in Dublin and Madrid, and can expand our business there, supporting the strengthening Irish and Spanish economies.”

Takeovers continue in the pharmaceuticals sector By John Smith Photo Credit Maxwell Hamilton flickr

US raises interest rate

AIRLINE BOSS: Willie Walsh at the controls of a flight simulator.

IT h as b e e n a n inc re dibly bus y year for takeovers in the drug sector, with the latest announced being GlaxoSmithKline taking over HIV drug development assets from Bristol-Myers Squibb for $1.4 billion (€1.3 billion).

GlaxoSmithKline to take over HIV drug development assets from BristolMyers Squibb for $1.4 bn

According to financial software company Dealogic, which assists in many of these takeovers, global deals in the pharmaceutical industry have reached $677.5 billion

DRUG GIANT: GlaxoSmithKline headquarters UK.

(€625 billion) which is an increase of 64 per cent over 2014 and is much greater than the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of many countries around the world. At the same time, 32-year-old Martin Shkreli, former hedge fund manager turned CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals and said to be the most hated man in America, was arrested on securities fraud charges. Shkreli, described by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as being responsible for a ‘trifecta of lies, deceit and greed,’ is accused of running a Ponzi scheme. He is, however, perhaps best known for increasing the price of Daraprim, the HIV drug marketed by the company he took over by more than 5,000 per cent. Shkreli did reduce the price of t he dr ug sl i ght l y af t er m ass protests but then complained that he should have actually charged more than his original price.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016/ Costa de Almería

EWN

No more round pounds as they will be withdrawn from circulation DECEMBER 16 saw the production of the last ever British round pound by the Royal Mint. It will be introducing a new pound coin, which it claims is the ‘most secure coin in the world,’ in 2017. Whilst there will be considerable expense involved in producing and using this new coin, bearing in mind the number of vending and other machines which accept coins, the government was disturbed by the ease with which the old pound could be counterfeited. Conservative estimates suggest that there are 45 million forgeries in circulation. The new pound coin is based on the design of the old threepenny bit (3d), which was 12-sided, and it is intended that this new coin will be produced in bi-metal format (like the existing £2 coin) in similar size to the existing pound coin but incorporating special technology to combat counterfeiters.

Photo Credit Adrian Reynolds Shutterstock

By John Smith

The obverse will continue to carry the effigy of the monarch and the first reverse design has been chosen from a nationwide competition with the winner being a 15-year-old boy from Walsall. It is estimated that the introduction of the new coin and the withdrawal and destruction of the original round pound will cost the government something in the region of £20 million (€28 million) and judging from past experience there are

Current pound coin is too easy to be counterfeited 45 million fakes are in circulation

CURRENCY CHANGE: Round pound coins will be replaced with 12-sided ones.

likely to be delays and teething troubles before the coin is accepted throughout the country. Ironically, the original project title for the new pound coin was iSIS, which was still in use as recently as 2014.

OPINION & COMMENT

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

EWN

What the hell have we done? WE’VE brought people into our society who are totally alien to the Christian celebration LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

AND so this is Christmas and what the hell have we done? What we’ve done, is to bring hundreds of thousands of individuals into our society who not only couldn’t give a damn, but are totally alien to the whole Christian celebration. Instead of the normal warm feelings of unity and goodwill, we have now managed to introduce into our midst a bunch of aliens, most of whom would prefer to see the whole event banned altogether. And you can feel it. Something is missing. Great chunks of our towns and cities are not only ignoring the whole joyous occasion, but are no doubt decrying it. And still they arrive in droves. Yet another section of our western culture and lifestyle is being eroded by immigrants, many of whom are at best cowardly deserters and at worst Islamic terrorists

TRAVELLING EXPERIENCE: The whole thing is now a security-blighted nightmare. infiltering our society with a view to spreading death and destruction among us. Slowly but surely the Islamic extremists are bringing more and more gloom into our existence. Flying used to be great fun.

How many can remember when the plane reached cruising height the pilots would open the door and invite all and sundry into the cockpit for a magical treat? The whole travelling experience is now

a security-blighted nightmare. Tubes, buses, even music concerts and sporting occasions, are overshadowed by the possibility that some of its attendees may never see their loved ones again. Is this what our forefathers gave life and limb for? We’ve insulted their memories. In our complacency, we have wasted the precious sacrifices they gave to ensure we would live in a democracy, not afraid to speak out, free and safe from danger in the sanctuary of our homelands. Our leaders have betrayed them all. And for those of you who still feel we should let all these people in regardless, I’ve just read a report of 52 tonnes of arms and ammunition, found by the Greek border control in imported containers meant to be holding furniture to ‘make life bearable’ and ‘ease the discomfort’ of the ‘refugees’. Well I hope this ‘offends’ all of them. Happy Christmas Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

What to write about?

OUR VIEW

A FEW subjects paraded through my Sauvignon Blanc-ed mind, then I fell asleep Colin Bird A weekly look Each week, Colin brings his slightly off-thewall view of the world to the pages of EWN in his own irreverent style.

DURING the winter months, there is nothing I like more than a good long soak in a hot bath. Well that’s not strictly true, there are other things that I like much more, but space and modesty prevents me from enlarging on that. I regard it as pure luxury to lie back with a nice glass of Sauvignon Blanc, up to my neck in soap suds, listening to the honeyed tones of Nat King Cole or Deep Purple on my iPod. I have eclectic musical tastes. It’s a place where I can formulate new world shattering wheezes, compose brilliant pieces for my column, and reminisce about times gone by and people I have known. I can also play submarines with a half empty shampoo

MARINA: I pondered writing about the expensive boats you see in the Costa Blanca. bottle and a water pistol I purchased from our local Bazaar Chino, as I did yesterday before the Princess came in and

took them off me. She can be so childish at times. The rug would have dried out eventually.

Anyway there I was wondering what to write about next week. I pondered about the

amount of expensive boats you see in any marina along the Costa Blanca, and the fact that some of them never seem to move from one month to the next. I also thought that maybe I should do one more piece about Christmas, but then decided that the subject was about done to death. The Syrian crisis, mass immigration, the latest Strictly Come Dancing series, and the HM Revenue and Customs self assessment website that makes Einstein’s theory of relativity look like Play School , all paraded through my Sauvignon Blanc-ed mind as possibilities. But then I must have fallen asleep. I woke up in water that was so cold, I would not have been surprised to see icebergs bobbing around my extremities. Then resembling a giant raisin on legs, I hopped from the tub and realised that I was no closer to any firm ideas for next week’s EWN.

Another Spanish election probable WILL take place if no stable government is formed to take power DESPITE the fact the election results have only been out for a few days, there is little doubt that Christmas won’t be a time of peace and goodwill for all men as politicians try to review all of the combinations which could allow for a stable government to take power. The options however are very limited and in theory, although the PP will have the first opportunity to form a government, even with the support of Ciudadanos, the two parties would have to pick up another 13 supporters in order to have a one-seat majority. The left is in a slightly stronger position and could command a strong majority, if the PSOE combined with Podemos and all of the nationalist members, but even that doesn’t seem very likely or if attempted, very workable. In times of war, true coalitions have been seen to work and work well, but in times of peace, they tend to be unworkable with individual parties unable to agree to a common theme, and withdrawing if they disagree with any law that the party with the largest number of seats tries to put through. When you consider the number of seats that Podemos won and the fact they won on an anti-austerity manifesto, it seems highly unlikely that they would be able or prepared to agree to any government which does not espouse their basic policy. Apart from policies, there are also personal differences between the leaders of the various parties, most appearing to consider Mariano Rajoy a stumbling

Photo Credit European Union flickr

By John Smith

PP GOVERNMENT: Mariano Rajoy and Jose Manuel Garcia Margallo. block to power-sharing for various reasons including his personality, and support of various members of his government who have been caught up in a range of scandals. The surprise emergence of previous PP leader Jose Maria Aznar soon after the election where he called for an immediate meeting of the party, suggests that he has a plan. Although he has indicated he won’t stand as leader, it is possible he may be about to suggest that Mr

Photo Shutterstock by Brian A. Jackson

WISH: A prosperous 2016.

What about the future? FIRST of all, the publishers and staff at the Euro Weekly News would like to wish all of our readers a very happy and prosperous 2016. Most of us want to have a peaceful and stress-free life where we are healthy, don’t have to worry about our financial position, can enjoy a pleasant life here in Spain and where appropriate watch our children and grandchildren grow into well-rounded and happy adults themselves. Life isn’t always kind and sometimes it deals us fairly unpleasant surprises, but generally people are able to cope with difficulty and move forward. Even illness is being conquered, with cancer less likely to be the guaranteed killer it was just 20 years ago. What we can’t prepare for are the totally unexpected. We know that there has been an increase in natural disasters over the past few years, but who expected the Tsunami of 2004, or some of the devastating attacks by nature that have claimed so many lives over the years? There is now, not a new worry, but a much extended one with the reappearance of terrorism undertaken by Daesh in the so-called name of religion. Nowhere is safe but equally, we have to live our lives as normally as possible and not be afraid of being caught up in what would be an ill chance in millions by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Life doesn’t come with any guarantees so we need to enjoy it the best we can, try to protect those close to us and do no deliberate harm to those who aren’t.

Rajoy steps down in favour of his deputy Soraya Saenz de Santamaria, who is likely to be a more acceptable Now we partner to the other leaders. want to Whatever happens, some decision has to be made by hear your views. January 13 when the king is due to nominate the head of government. If there is a minority PP YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE government or a fragile coalition, then odds are - YOUR OPINION that it will not last for long and new elections will www.euroweeklynews.com need to be held.

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almeria

EWN

YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION

Letters for Your Say should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments straight on our website: www.euroweeklynews.com

Thirty minutes in his company is a memory I’ll never forget

Robert & Marie Barnes. Campoverde, Costa Blanca.

We need to look no further than our own doorstep I DON’T expect you to agree with m e 100 pe r c e nt but the re is no avoiding the fact that by definition we are immigrants. While I agree many are coming in to take advantage of our benefit system, there are also those escaping war, famine and other hardships in their own country. When it comes to sponging we need to look no further than our own doorstep in the UK. Not only working class layabouts but politicians, people fiddling expenses and people with more money they can spend in several lifetimes avoiding tax. We all use Amazon, Starbucks and McDonald’s etc, all of whom reputedly avoid paying tax in UK. By doing so we encourage the practice because it suits our needs. Ian via the website on Enoch Powell by Leapy Lee

would collect them before Christmas, which will now mean I can navigate through my living room without tripping over the boxes or bags. This has certainly encouraged me to k e e p o n colle c ting, but hopefully I can pass them on to the charity every month or so. Anne Lee, Coin, Malaga

Bottle tops Failure to find new home comply I JUST can’t believe how influential the Euro Weekly News must be. Wh e n I c o n t a c t e d y o u la s t week about what to do with the bottle tops and ring pulls that had been c o l l e c t e d , I d i d n ’t e x p e c t such a fantastic response. Within just five hours of the latest Costa del Sol edition appearing, I h a d r e c e i v e d a ca ll fro m your head office saying somebody wanted to contact me and when we spoke she confirmed that she

Decimation of Asturias

Photographs for possible publication should be sent by email with a full caption to: photonews@euroweeklynews.com

Photo Credit Allan Warren Wikimedia.

SHOULD these jottings reach your home internet base, before Christmas Day, then sincere good wishes f o r t h e d a y, t o y o u a n d yours. If received later, very best wishes for 2016! I enjoyed your splendid article on Enoch Powell MBE. In 1968, prior to my attending a speech to be giv e n b y E n o c h P o w ell, a t Birmingham’s Rag Market building, long now demolished, I decided to visit the Burlington Hotel, just off New Street, to firstly make use of the rather excellent toilets (too much information, I know) and the n t o t a k e a d r in k at th e Burlington lounge. Takin g m y b e e r t o a w in d o w seat, it was something of a shock to find that my companion on the couch was the great man himself. There appeared to be no security personnel in attendance, or perhaps it was their professionalism at work! Mr Powell at once stood and introduced himself. I explained that I would be meeting him again in about two hours, and was looking forward to his speech. We talked of his upbringing in Stetchford, and shared thoughts of how we saw the United Kingdom in the future. I felt privileged to spend just over 30 minutes in his company, a memory I will never forget. Very best regards sir.

DEAR Sir, In 2013 the PP Government in Madrid passed the Law of Transparency, Access to Information and Good Governance, perhaps in response to the wave of corruption scandals involving both main parties. This law required that local authorities at all levels publish on their website all information relating to their financial affairs, such as the levels of debt, full budget

Enoch Powell MBE.

information, cost of public services, details of public works, contracts and also full disclosure of councillor’s assets and salaries paid to elected members of the council. Most local authorities, whatever their political complexion, have voted for this... So why not Estepona? Over the past year opposition PSOE councillors have asked in vain for this information to be made public. Frustrated by the lack of response, the PSOE opposition group, he a de d by C ounc illor Manuela Benitez, has formally denounced the Estepona local government for its failure to comply with this law. Since coming into office in May 2011 the PP has undoubtedly made improvements to the town. So why the failure to provide the citizens of Estepona with information as to exactly what is being done with their tax money? It just doesn’t make sense, especially as this law was a measure

which was passed by their own government. Yours Mary Page Cancelada, Estepona

Expatriate voting rights FOR sure, we as expats, having no more property in our homeland, who live all year round and pay taxes in Spain, would need to be able to vote in the national elections, especially if we don’t vote anymore in our homeland. It’s here in Spain that we will endure the decisions not only of the politics of our town, but as well the general decisions taken by the main government. Let us vote please! Thank you! Micheline Via the website

IF they ever find the people who started these fires (I understand there were about 150), they should be tried for manslaughter. I am surprised there haven’t been more reports on the decimation of Asturias by arson - it’s a national disgrace. Annie Via the website

La Siesta worries DEAR Sir, It is now 10 years since work in an area of La Siesta was left in a terrible state with rubbish just all owed t o r ot . Mysel f and m y nei ghbour s have wr i t t en t o t he town hall but without any positive response. This is particularly upsetting when you consider that the local council has been promoting the fact that it is spending millions of eur os on bui l di ng a par k at La Siesta, yet does nothing to remove this eyesore. There were workers in the area earlier this year but they disappeared as the funds ran out, and we are still left with an area that not only looks bad but could attract vermin and fly tippers. Hopefully, when I return to Spain from my annual holiday in Holland, I can start to work with Euro Weekly News to try to apply pressure for this issue to be resolved. Fred de Jong, La Siesta

WHEN YOU WRITE All letters, whether by email or post, should carry the writer’s postal address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published. Letters may also be edited. Readers who have missed earlier correspondence can see all letters posted on:

www.euroweeklynews.com

The views expressed and opinions given in Letters are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. They accept no responsibility for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements, and reject claims arising out of any action that a company or individual may take on the basis of information contained therein.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de AlmerĂa

www.euroweeklynews.com

TV LISTING

THURSDAY 8:00pm

31 DECEMBER

Celebrity Mastermind Roald Dahl's Esio Trot BBC News Mrs. Brown's Boys D'Movie The Graham Norton Show Bryan Adams Rocks Big Ben Live

4:50pm Flog It! 5:50pm World's Sneakiest Animals 6:50pm The Odd Life of Timothy Green 8:30pm University Challenge 9:00pm Gareth Malone's Great Choir Reunion 10:00pm The Sapphires 11:35pm Live at the Apollo 12:10am Jools's Annual Hootenanny 2015

5:30pm 7:30pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:35pm 11:05pm

7:05pm 7:20pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:30pm 12:10am 12:25am 12:35am

BBC News BBC London News EastEnders Billionaire Boy EastEnders Dickensian Sherlock Mrs. Brown's Boys BBC News BBC London News Adele at the BBC

6:50pm

8:30pm 9:00pm

7:00pm

Bruce's Hall of Fame with Alexander Armstrong Iron Man 3 Casualty The National Lottery Live BBC News Match of the Day Weather for the Week Ahead

8:30pm 10:00pm 10:15pm 11:45pm 12:30am

FRIDAY 01 JANUARY

SATURDAY 02 JANUARY

SUNDAY 03 JANUARY

MONDAY 04 JANUARY

TUESDAY 05 JANUARY

WEDNESDAY 06 JANUARY

8:10pm 10:10pm 11:00pm 11:10pm 11:30pm 2:35am

7:20pm 7:30pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:20pm 11:30pm 12:35am 2:15am

8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:25pm 11:35pm 12:45am 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:25pm 11:35pm 12:35am 1:35am

6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:25pm 11:35pm 12:05am

BBC London News Countryfile Still Open All Hours Antiques Roadshow War and Peace BBC News BBC London News Match of the Day 2 The Road Weather for the Week Ahead

6:55pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:30pm 11:20pm 1:30am 3:15am 5:30pm 6:40pm 7:40pm 8:40pm 9:40pm 10:10pm

11:40pm 12:25am 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

12:00am 12:30am

The One Show Celebrity Mastermind EastEnders A Question of Sport Silent Witness BBC News at Ten BBC London News Mrs. Brown's Boys The Graham Norton Show

7:30pm

EastEnders Holby City Silent Witness BBC News at Ten BBC London News Reggie Yates' Extreme UK Stacey Dooley Investigates Weather for the Week Ahead

7:30pm

Pointless BBC News at Six BBC London News The One Show EastEnders Dickensian Great Barrier Reef with David Attenborough BBC News at Ten BBC London News A Question of Sport The Truth About Calories

8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:15am

8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:15am

7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm

11:00pm 11:30pm 12:15am

The Archbishop of Canterbury's New Year Message The Terminal University Challenge The Many Faces of Ronnie Corbett The One Ronnie Catch Me If You Can Shadow of a Doubt Top Gear

12:05am

9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:15pm 12:20am

Darts Natural World Flog It! The Many Faces of Ronnie Corbett Dad's Army Leningrad and the Orchestra That Defied Hitler QI XL Darts

9:30am 10:00am

The Millionaire's Gift Guide Dragons' Den My Mediterranean with Adrian Chiles Charlie Brooker's End of Year Review 2015 Abz on the Christmas Farm Darts

7:00pm 8:00pm

10:15am 10:25am 11:15am 12:20pm 1:20pm

9:00pm 11:00pm 11:20pm

12:20am

Great British Railway Journeys Celebrity Antiques Road Trip University Challenge Only Connect Immortal Egypt with Joann Fletcher Insert Name Here Newsnight Darts

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm

Great British Railway Journeys Celebrity Antiques Road Trip Victorian Bakers You Make Me Feel Like Dancing Mock the Week Newsnight Race to Super Bowl 50

8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

Great British Railway Journeys Celebrity Antiques Road Trip Trust Me, I'm a Doctor Three Days of Terror: The Charlie Hebdo Attacks Russell Howard's Good News Newsnight Darts

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 11:00pm

11:30pm 12:10am

11:40pm

12:45am

11:40pm 12:40am 1:10am 4:00am

Downton Abbey ITV News London ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Panda Babies Birds of a Feather Piers Morgan's Life Stories The Nation's Favourite Bond Song

6:35pm 7:35pm 8:30pm 10:00pm 12:10am 1:10am 3:10am

Coronation Street Gino's Italian Escape: Islands in the Sun Coronation Street The Big Quiz ITV News The Jonathan Ross Show American Pie: The Wedding

12:15pm 1:55pm 4:35pm 6:50pm 7:00pm 9:00pm

Thunderbirds are Go The Tom and Jerry Show The Tom and Jerry Show Murder, She Wrote The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show ITV News and Weather

12:40pm 2:30pm 5:00pm 5:20pm 5:50pm 7:50pm 10:00pm

12:00am 2:10am 4:00am 4:25am

11:35pm 2:00am

Ninja Warrior UK Beowulf: Return to the Shieldlands Endeavour ITV News and Weather Joanna Lumley's Trans-Siberian Adventure Rugby Highlights

2:25pm 2:55pm 4:55pm 6:40pm 7:00pm 9:00pm

ITV News London ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Griff's Great Britain Coronation Street When Ant and Dec Met the Prince ITV News Emergency! Trains v Weather

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

10:00pm 11:00pm 12:30am

10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am 1:10am

Emmerdale The Kyle Files Trawlermen Tales Saved ITV News at Ten and Weather Britain's Biggest Adventures with Bear Grylls Double Decker Driving School

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Midsomer Murders ITV News at Ten and Weather Joanna Lumley: Elvis and Me The Kyle Files Jackpot247 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA

4:10pm 5:00pm

9:30pm 10:00pm 12:05am

6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am

Hollyoaks Celebrity Couples Come Dine with Me TFI Friday: New Year Special Alan Carr's New Year Specstacular 8 Out of 10 Cats Big Fat Quiz of the Year Catastrophe Inspector Gadget Channel 4 Racing The Golden Compass Channel 4 News Tangled Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast Rude Tube Damien: Omen II Friday Night Dinner You Deserve This

7:00pm 7:50pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 12:55am

3:45pm 5:30pm

8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm

Thunderbirds Channel 4 Racing Channel 4 News The Simpsons Mission: Impossible Mission: Impossible II The World's Greatest Spy Movies Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy Marley

7:10pm 8:00pm

The Simpsons Jungle 2 Jungle A Monster in Paris Channel 4 News Fantastic Four Walking the Himalayas Deutschland 83 Gogglebox The Rich Kids of Instagram

3:30pm

The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Food Unwrapped Diet Special The Undateables Rich Kids Go Shopping Tattoo Fixers What Britain Bought in 2015

9:00pm 9:55pm 10:00pm 11:30pm 12:55am

5:35pm 5:45pm 7:25pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 1:40am 4:10am

7:00pm 7:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Tricks of the Restaurant Trade Travel Man: 48 Hours in Vienna Big Fat Quiz of Everything 24 Hours in A and E

7:55pm 8:00pm

Countdown A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun Come Dine with Me The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Mary Portas: Secret Shopper 24 Hours in A and E Bodyshockers The Undateables

6:30pm 7:00pm

9:00pm 10:00pm 12:00am

1:00am 2:00am

7:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild World's Strongest Man 2015 Ben Fogle in Winter Wonderland Britain's Best Loved Double Acts Most Shocking Christmas TV Moments

2:30pm Football Gold 2:45pm Football Gold 3:00pm La Liga Goals 3:55pm Football 6:00pm World Darts Championship 10:00pm Fight Night Review of 2015 12:00am SPFL Round Up 12:30am Barclays Premier League World

Dracula: Dead and Loving It Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes World's Strongest Man Final 2015 Christmas with the Double Acts An Audience with Ken Dodd

11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 8:30pm

World War II in Colour Ben Fogle in Winter Wonderland Building the Ice Hotel 5 News Weekend Football League Tonight 20 Moments That Rocked Talent Shows Access

12:00am 12:15am 12:30am 11:00am 1:00pm 3:45pm 6:00pm 9:00pm 12:30am 2:00am 3:30am

The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep 5 News Weekend Snow White Cinderella Legally Blonde Most Shocking Celebrity Moments 2015 Super Casino World's Strongest Man 2015

11:30am 1:30pm 4:30pm 7:30pm

Can't Pay? We'll Take it Away! 5 News Tonight Police Interceptors Sinkholes: Buried Alive World's Toughest Prison 14 Years on Death Row The Next Three Days

6:00pm

5 News Tonight Cats Make You Laugh Out Loud Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun Celebrity Big Brother Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side Celebrity Big Brother Super Casino Neighbours Can't Pay? We'll Take it Away! 5 News Tonight Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords GPs: Behind Closed Doors Celebrity Big Brother Bus Pass Beauty Queens Capital One Cup

10:30pm 10:45pm 12:25am

6:30pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:30pm 11:00pm 12:30am 6:00pm

6:30pm 7:30pm 8:30pm 11:15pm 11:45pm 12:00am 7:30pm 8:30pm 11:15pm 11:45pm 12:00am

12:30am 1:00am

Sporting Triumphs Sporting Triumphs Sporting Triumphs Sporting Triumphs Sporting Triumphs Football World Darts Championship Sporting Triumphs Sporting Triumphs Football Gold Soccer A.M. Scottish Premiership Pro 12 Rugby Ford Saturday Night Football World Darts Championship SNF: Match Choice SNF: Match Choice SNF: Match Choice Goals on Sunday Ford Super Sunday Ford Super Sunday World Darts Championship Sporting Triumphs Sporting Triumphs Cricket

Fantasy Football Club Hlts 21 (Tony Adams Special) Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits Football's Greatest Boys of Ford Mnf: 1966 Special Boys of Football's Greatest Fantasy Football Club Hlts 21 (Tony Adams Special) Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits Barclays Premier League Review Football To be Announced Football Gold La Liga World 2015 Capital One Cup Highlights Football The Mavericks Football Gold Sky Sports Originals Cantona: Return of the King Premier League Legends Capital One Cup Highlights

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

OPINION & COMMENT

www.euroweeklynews.com

The best of Cassandra Nash JUNE VOTERS demand exemplary behaviour from those they elect. Once politicians are in office they must be Caesar’s wife, not Cleopatra. Edition 1564

Cassandra Nash A weekly look - and not entirely impartial reaction to the Spanish political scene

JANUARY JIHADISTS claim that Spain was originally theirs, conveniently forgetting that the Romans were here first. Thankfully Italy has so far refrained from cla i m i n g t e r r i t orial rig h ts . Edition 1542 FEBRUARY THE Partido Popular (PP) should examine its unswerving loyalty to its high-ranking politicians linked to scandals. Double standards are self-indulgence in an election year. Edition 1548 MARCH “I ’ M h e r e t o g i v e ex p la n ations, not affection,” Finance minister Cristobal Montoro said. It’s an oxymoron, but that’s one sincere politician. Edition 1553

JULY PODEMOS second-in-charge Iñigo Erejon called Greece’s ‘no to austerity’ vote a triumph for democracy in the birthplace of democracy. Fitting, then, that this will be only a Pyrrhic victory. Edition 1567

CRISTOBAL MONTORO: One sincere politician.

APRIL PODEMOS regional election candidates were democraticallychosen by party members, yet only two are women. Is gender equality less important to voters than political leaders believe? Edition 1556

MAY ARTUR MAS, who wants to guide Cataluña towards indepe nde nc e , routine ly forge ts that Catalan nationalism does not automatically entail separatism. Edition 1561

AUGUST NATIONAL MPs claimed €2.6 million in travel expenses between January and July. The parliament chamber usually looks empty so how do they manage to spend that much getting there? Editon 1572 SEPTEMBER CHURCHILL said that ‘to jaw-jaw is always better than to war-war.’ Sixty-one years later

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UK and EU citizens recover money from Spanish taxman PUNITIVE Inheritance Tax charges can be reclaimed THE Spanish government has started to repay millions of euros to British holiday homeowners who were hit with punitive Inheritance Tax charges. The tax charge – which in many cases was as much as a third of the property’s value – has been levied on up to 30,000 Britons inheriting a holiday home in Spain, according to research by the Spanish solicitors Spanish Legal Reclaims. The Spanish government has now hastily changed its Inheritance Tax law after the European Court of Justice ruled the legislation - which exempted residents from the charge - was discriminatory. Under the law, Spanish residents were exempted from up to 99 per cent of the tax charge, while homeowners living abroad had to pay the full amount within six months of inheriting. With more Britons owning holiday homes in Spain than any other nationality, UK citizens were disproportionately affected. The average repayment is €25,000, according to Spanish Legal Reclaims, a Barcelona-based law firm which specialises in helping non-residents to reclaim overpaid tax.

Spain’s president, Mariano Rajoy and Artur Mas could give that a try. Edition 1577 OCTOBER CIUDADANOS are creeping up on the PP and PSOE in the opinion polls. Appropriately the general election is set for December 20 and the pantomime season with its cry of ‘He’s behind you!’ Edition 1582 NOVEMBER DOES being a paid-up PP or PSOE member impair a judge’s impartiality? Opinions and prejudices are a mindset, not a standing order at the bank. Edition 1586 DECEMBER SIXTY-FOUR per cent of Catalans prefer EU membership to independence. And Artur Mas, who wants to be president of an independent Cataluña, gets no for an answer time after time but won’t listen. Edition 1587

About Spanish Legal Reclaims Spanish Legal Reclaims S.L. is a law firm specialising in legal reclaims from the Spanish tax authorities. Founded in 2011, its legal team are experts in Spanish and European tax law, and act on behalf of clients from across the EU. It offers its services on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis to non-residents of Spain who have paid Inheritance Tax on a Spanish property. It currently has a 100% success rate, with all clients receiving a tax refund (plus interest) within six to eight months of making a claim.

residents who inherited a Spanish property during the past five years can claim back the tax they paid – but doing so is a complex and daunting task, as there is no single form to fill in. “Inheritors can only claim once and there are time limits for claiming, so it’s essential they seek expert legal advice to ensure they get it right first time.”

TAX REFUND: Consult an EU tax expert to find out if you have a claim. Luis Cuervo, CEO of Spanish Legal Reclaims, comments: “Losing a loved one is hard enough, but to then receive an unfair tax bill rubs salt in

the wound. Yet for years this is what happened to thousands of Britons inheriting holiday homes in Spain. Spain’s authorities have agreed that non-

For more information about claiming back your inheritance tax contact: Donna Knight Spanish Legal Reclaims Tel Spain: (0034) 936 804 563 UK: 0845 680 3849 Email: info@spanishlegalreclaims.com www.spanishlegalreclaims.com

TIME OUT

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

www.euroweeklynews.com

Famous quote

This week

MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE

‘

Sometimes in life you don’t always feel like a winner, but that doesn’t mean you’re not a winner. Lady Gaga (1986)

in history 45 BC - The Julian calendar takes effect for the first time. 870 - Skirmish at Englefield: Ethelred of Wessex beats Danish invasion army. 1066 - King Harald of England crowned. 1431 - Joan of Arc handed over to Bishop Pierre Cauchon. 1640 - Portugal regains independence after 60 years of Spanish rule. 1642 - King Charles I with 400 soldiers attacks the English parliament. 1651 - Charles II Stuart crowned king of Scotland. 1762 - England declares war on Spain & Naples. 1776 - Gen George Washington hoists Continental Union Flag. 1781 - Bank of North America, the first US bank opens. 1818 - Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus’ is published. 1833 - Britain seizes control of Falkland Islands in South Atlantic. 1835 - Hans Christian Andersen publishes his first book of fairy tales. 1907 - For first time a ball drops at Times Square to signal the new year. 1913 - Mahatma Gandhi leaves the Tolstoy Farm in Transvaal, South Africa. 1946 – US President Harry Truman officially proclaims the end of WWII. 1958 - BOAC Britannia flies London to New York in a record 7h 57m. 1958 - Edmund Hillary reaches South Pole overland. 1965 - Martin Luther King Jr begins a drive to register black voters. 1968 - Evel Knievel fails in his attempt to jump Caesar’s Palace Fountain. 1969 - Australian Rupert Murdoch gains control of the News of the World'. 1979 - Sid Vicious’ trial for murder of girlfriend Nancy Spungen begins. 1988 - Margaret Thatcher becomes longest-serving British PM. 1999 - Boris Yeltsin resigns as President of Russia, leaving Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as the acting President.

Women’s wit

‘

Smoking kills. If you’re killed, you’ve lost a very important part of your life. Brooke Shields

World of English

‘

You fill in a form by filling it out, and an alarm clock goes off by going on. When the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible.

‘MUM, WOULD YOU BE ANGRY IF I STOPPED BEING A LESBIAN OVER CHRISTMAS AND THE NEW YEAR’

Kakuro

for next 7 days

Costa de Almeria

weather

Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.

TODAY VELEZ RUBIO

TOMORROW ALBOX

HUERCAL OVERA

VELEZ RUBIO GARRUCHA ALBOX MOJACAR HUERCAL OVERA ALMERIA

RETAMAR GARRUCHA ROQUETAS

MOJACAR

ROQUETAS

ADRA

Alicante TODAY:

CLEAR MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

17 10 C 19 8 C 18 11 Cl

Benidorm MAX 21C, MIN 11C Mon - 19 13 C Tues - 19 12 Cl Wed - 19 11 C

SUNNY MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

18 11 C 19 11 Cl 19 11 C

MAX 18C, MIN 11C Mon - 21 12 C Tues - 20 13 Cl Wed - 20 12 Cl

Fri Sat Sun -

15 11 C 15 9 Sh 15 11 C S Sun,

14 8 C 13 8 Sh 16 11 Sh

MAX MIN

Mon - 16 11 Sh Tues - 15 11 Sh Wed - 16 10 Sh

Madrid

SHOWERS MAX 16C, MIN 9C MAX MIN

MAX MIN

Mon - 17 11 C Tues - 17 10 Cl Wed - 17 9 C Cl Clear,

TODAY:

Fog,

18 12 Cl 18 10 Sh 19 12 C

TODAY:

CLOUDY MAX 18C, MIN 8C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

18 9 C 18 7 Sh 18 9 C

SHOWERS MAX 10C, MIN 3C

10 4 C 11 3 C 12 7 C C Cloudy,

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 14 8 Sh Tues - 14 6 C Wed - 13 5 Sh

MAX MIN

Mon - 19 11 C Tues - 18 9 C Wed - 19 8 C

Sh Showers,

CLEAR MAX 21C, MIN 9C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

19 9 Cl 19 7 C 19 10 Cl Sn Snow,

UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

UK THUNDERBALL

IRISH LOTTO

Saturday December 26

EURO MILLIONS

LA PRIMITIVA

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA

MAX MIN

Mon - 19 13 C Tues - 19 13 C Wed - 19 11 C

Murcia

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mallorca

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

CLEAR MAX 20C, MIN 11C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 19 13 C Tues - 19 12 Cl Wed - 19 12 C

SHOWERS MAX 13C, MIN 6C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Barcelona TODAY:

17 11 C 17 9 C 18 12 C

Bilbao

Almeria TODAY:

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Malaga

CLEAR MAX 18C, MIN 11C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

RETAMAR

ALMERIA

MAX MIN

Mon - 22 12 C Tues - 22 11 Cl Wed - 23 9 C Th Thunder

LOTTERY

ADRA

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SPONSORED BY

EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREAK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

EWN

Friday December 25

6 31

Saturday December 26

Sunday December 27

10 10

BONUS BALL

THUNDERBALL

BONUS BALL

LUCKY STARS

REINTEGRO

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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He Named Me Malala Directed by Davis Guggenheim Distributed through Fox Searchlight AN intimate documentary portrait of Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai, who was targeted by the Taliban and severely wounded by a gunshot when returning home on her school bus in Pakistan’s Swat Valley. The 15-year-old (who turns 18 this July) was singled out, with her father, for advocating for girls’ education. The attack on her sparked an outcry around the world. She miraculously survived and is now a leading campaigner for girls’ education globally as co-founder of the Malala Fund. This is a moving documentary highlighting how her father Zia and her family are committed to fighting for education for all girls worldwide.

King Juan Carlos I, January 5, former King On 22 November 1975, two days after General Franco’s death, Juan Carlos was designated King according to the law of succession promulgated by Franco. He abdicated in favour of his son Felipe in 2014.

Alex Salmond, December 31, Politician, 61 Scottish politician who was the leader of the Scottish National Party, became First Minister of Scotland in 2007 and is now an MP at Westminster. Verne Troyer, January 1, Actor, 47 Little person actor and stuntman who rose to fame for his role as Mini-Me in the Austin Powers films and other movies. Loic Remy, January 2, Footballer, 29 French striker who joined Queens Park Rangers in 2013 after spending three years with Marseille and is now part of the Chelsea FC set up. He has also played for the French national team. Michael Schumacher, January 3, Formula 1 driver, 47 Former world champion racing driver who was involved in a serious skiing accident but is said to be recovering slowly but surely. Michael Stipe, January 4, Singer, 56 Former front man and singer of American independent rock group R.E.M. Also known for his political activism. Nigella Lawson, January 6, TV Chef, 56 English food writer and critic who appears on TV ‘flirting’ with her audience as she makes various dishes. Daughter of former Chancellor of the Exchequer Nigel Lawson.

Funagram

Just Joking

Unscramble the name of a 1989 American comedy-drama film starring David Duchovny (three words): DRAW ANY EYES

I went to my sister’s house and saw her packing a suitcase. I asked, “What’s going on?” She said, “I’m feeling homesick.” I said, “But you’re at your home now.” She replied, “I know, I’m sick of it!”

Unscramble the name of a common New Year’s resolution (two words): LEG SO WHITE FUNAGRAM SOLUTION: NEW YEAR’S DAY, LOSE WEIGHT

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Hexagram

The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 six-letter words into the 19 cells. The letters at the edges of interlocking cells MUST BE THE SAME. The letters in the words must be written CLOCKWISE. The word in cell 10 (RESENT) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.

ALLELE ASTUTE ATTEND BEETLE BILLET CAREEN CHALET CREAKY EVENTS INGEST

LETTER QUAVER RELIEF RESENT(10) RUSSET SLATER STRAIN STRICT SULFUR

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 1 Retina 2 Pander 3 Attest 4 Vortex 5 Distal 6 Effort 7 Eldest 8 Banter 9 Serene 10 Dancer 11 Gambol 12 Cheery 13 Camera 14 Heater 15 Earthy 16 Yearly 17 Cheese 18 Scurry 19 Return

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Satisfaction with your love life is paramount this week, and the opinion of others seems important to you. Perhaps you are looking for an excuse to make a change. It is possible that a change is not required so much as a different approach. It is not essential to put all your eggs in one basket. ARIES (March 21 - April 20) A conversation with a colleague brings insights into how others live and it is quite an eye-opener. Friendships are particularly important this week. TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) There is something in you that needs a creative outlet. Perhaps you would like to write a book: memoirs, for instance, take up a craft or paint. GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Being very much in demand for your talents this week means less

CAPRICORN

(December 22 - January 20)

It’s a better week for travel with less likelihood of delays. Should you be feeling a little lethargic and sorry about recent events, just count your blessings. Consider raising some money and having fun by indulging in a garage or car boot sale.

time to spend socially, so it’s important to make time for loved ones at the weekend. Someone seeking your advice may simply be seeking your approval for an action they will take anyway. CANCER (June 22 - July 23) There may be some opposition to your ideas as Pluto turns this week. Perhaps your natural charm just doesn’t seem to be working. As you have helped others in the past, make it clear that you expect a bit of co-operation. LEO (July 24 - August 23) This is a week when progress is fast and plans run ahead. Try new ideas and seek information to hone your knowledge. An organisation that is new to you offers insight and social involvement. An offer that thrusts you into the limelight would be to your advantage. VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Although you have perhaps been

EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREA

12-Star Quiz New Year’s Day 1. Born in Washington DC on January 1,1895, which famous US lawyer was appointed the first Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in March 1935? 2. David Dinkins was sworn in as which US city’s first black mayor on January 1, 1990? 3. Entertaining Mr Sloane (1964), Loot (1965) and What the Butler Saw (1969) are all plays written by which English playwright and author, who was born in Leicester on January 1, 1933? 4. Euro banknotes and coins became legal tender in 12 of the European Union’s member states on January 1 in which year? 5. Riga is the capital of which Baltic republic that became the 18th member of the Eurozone on January 1, 2014? 6. Singer-songwriter and guitarist Joseph Allen McDonald, who was born in Washington DC on January 1, 1942, was the lead singer of which 1960s psychedelic rock group? 7. Which British cricket journalist and a past President of the MCC, who died on January 1, 2013, was known as CMJ? 8. Which central midfield player, born in Stevenage on January 1, 1992, made his Arsenal first team debut in 2008, becoming the club’s youngest ever league debutant at the age of 16 years, 256 days? 9. Which French actor, cabaret singer and entertainer, best known for his signature songs, including Louise, Mimi, Valentine and Thank Heaven for Little Girls, died on January 1, 1972, aged 63? 10. With what type of music would you principally associate Milt Jackson, who was born in Detroit on January 1, 1923? Not a lot of people know that… in Italy, people wear red underwear on New Year’s Day to bring good luck all year long

YOUR STARS AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) Spirituality seeps right through the week. As you are feeling particularly sensuous, invite someone special to dinner or on a trip. Visit garden centres and plan ahead. The colours and perfumes will be particularly pleasing.

TIME

looking to money-making ideas to progress finances, think also of alternatives. Perhaps there are areas of your lifestyle where money could be saved. Items that are not used could be sold for a profit and rid you of clutter. LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Having suffered a bit of a setback last week, you may be feeling less confident. Revving up your social life will certainly help to bring spirits up again. Be with people who liven or inspire you in some way. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Thoughts come to you, perhaps in dreams, that are creative and energy boosting. Someone who recently moved out of your sphere is sadly missed but is in some ways still a part of you. A person at work who has been causing you concern needs investigation. SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) A strong and exciting romantic feeling flows through the week, which is fitting as Valentine's Day comes round again next month. Someone returning from a trip makes you smile and boosts your spirit. People who have been a little bossy finally realise that you will not rise to the bait.

1. J EDGAR HOOVER, 2. NEW YORK, 3. JOE ORTON, 4. 2002, 5. LATVIA, 6. COUNTRY JOE AND THE FISH, 7. CHRISTOPHER MARTIN-JENKINS, 8. JACK WILSHERE, 9. MAURICE CHEVALIER, 10. JAZZ

Nonagram How many English words of four letters or more can you make from the nine letters in our Nonagram puzzle? Each letter may be used only once (unless the letter appears twice). Each word MUST CONTAIN THE CENTRE LETTER (in this case G) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

TARGET: Average: 7 Good: 9 Very good: 13 Excellent: 16

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION echt etch hens hues hunt huts shun shut such tech then thus tush chess chest chute hunts shuns shunt shuts tench tenth thens chests chutes shunts stench tenths tushes chestnut CHESTNUTS

Vulnicura Björk Released January 2015, by One Little Indian Records. Although Vulnicura, the ninth studio album by Icelandic musician and singer Björk has been out for a year now, it gained widespread acclaim from critics and is well worth listening to again. It was produced by Björk, who said, “The album expresses my feelings before and after the breakup with Matthew Barney and the healing process.”

AK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

Crossword

Enjoy filling in the following puzzles and check the answers in next week’s edition

Code Breaker

Across: 4

1 Custard, 5 Bards, 8 Elation, 9 Ladle, 10 Scrub, 11 Elegant, 12 Sacred, 14 Master, 17 Avocado, 19 Stall, 22 Loads, 23 Narrate, 24 Scent, 25 Clarets. Down:

16 17

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

CRYPTIC

Quick

Cryptic Across 1 Christmas visitors can include one conjuror (8) 5 Fiasco deep in computer instruction (4) 8 Roman emperor confined in one room (4) 9 End a hotel employee strike (8) 10 Got better after the morning was over (7) 12 A novice gets a large amount of grant (5) 13 British capital held by vigilant prince (6) 15 Discovers escapism in poetry (6) 17 Calls the conditions (5) 18 Land transformed into sea (7) 22 Actress Gloria comes to German capital for final appearance (4,4) 23 Depressed plumage (4) 24 The last word in a team entry (4) 25 Words of condolence may be expensive, darling (4,4) Down 1 The state of a man not getting upset (7) 2 Wolf in ravine (5) 3 Is little Susan having children? (5) 4 None can alter this element (4) 6 Wise words they utter could be so clear (7) 7 Maintain former monarch’s car (5) 11 Female resident of island or isthmus? (5)

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1 Chess, 2 Stair, 3 Amiable, 4 Dancer, 5 Belle, 6 Radiant, 7 Shelter, 12 Stables, 13 Chorale, 15 Austria, 16 Cognac, 18 Asset, 20 Awake, 21 Leeks.

QUICK 12 Proficient in a small department (5) 14 It obstructs gunners in a boat (7) 16 You’ll turn nuts if you use it (7) 17 A Scot translating one of Puccini’s operas (5) 19 A letter for Socrates (5) 20 Putting one’s head in this may make one so wretched (5) 21 Brave, we hear he’s out in cricket (4)

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 4 represents H and 7 represents Q, so fill in H every time the figure 4 appears and Q every time the figure 7 appears. Now, using your knowledge of the English language, work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid.

Across 1 Influences (7) 5 Farm buildings (5) 8 Proceeding in small stages (7) 9 Loans (5) 10 Additional (5) 11 Projectile (7) 12 Not open or public (6) 14 Implored (6) 17 Item (7) 19 Somewhat fat and rounded (5) 22 Reaches the highest points (5) 23 At a previous time (7) 24 Is compliant (5) 25 Decreases in size, range or extent (7)

Across:

Down 1 Discuss with reasoning (5) 2 Ceremonial dinner party for many people (5) 3 Bravery (7) 4 Serious (6) 5 Written accounts of money owed (5) 6 Sprinting (7) 7 Hang freely (7) 12 Hair cleansing agent (7) 13 Small house with a single story (7) 15 Male ruler of an empire (7) 16 Precious stones (6) 18 Court matters (5) 20 Marriage (5) 21 Components (5)

7 Parade, 8 Images, 9 Here, 10 Creation, 11 Whisker, 13 Treat, 15 Smile, 17 Reaches, 20 Organise, 21 Snow, 23 Funnel, 24 Skates. Down: 1 Bake, 2 Camels, 3 Peaches, 4 Given, 5 Fatter, 6 Lemonade, 12 Humorous, 14 Release, 16 Learns, 18 Casual, 19 Bills, 22 Oxen.

ENGLISHSPANISH Across:

English - Spanish The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English.

1 Sled, 2 Pesebre, 6 Fir, 7 Pan, 8 Zorra, 9 Poinsettia, 13 Gift, 14 New. Down: 1 Sleep, 2 Prizes, 3 Spirit, 4 Baya, 5 Early, 6 Fun, 10 Oro, 11 Elf, 12 Inn.

CODE BREAKER

Across 1 Chantaje (9) 7 Good-looking (5) 8 Sleeve (5) 9 Train (railway) (4) 10 Tazas (4) 13 Pala (para cavar) (5) 14 Derecha (5) 16 Motorway (9)

Down 1 See 15 2 Housewife (3,2,4) 3 Nudo (en hilo, cuerda) (4) 4 Soul (of a person) (4) 5 Lenguajes (9) 6 Latón (metal) (5) 9 Gusto (sentido) (5) 11 Ordenado (habitación, escritorio) (4) 12 Goteo (de líquido, grifo) (4) 15/1 Bolsita de té (3,3)

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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New Year’s Resolutions

Over the Top and Back

App of the Week News360 brings you quick news summaries with help from Apple’s 3D Touch News360 is a news aggregation app that learns from your habits. Grant it access to your Twitter and Facebook profiles and it will learn what you like and surface stories you might be interested in reading. And iPhone 6s and 6s Plus users, News360 has a tricks up its sleeve to save you even more time. The app is free and is available on iOS, Android and Windows devices.

Play on Words

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION: Have a healthier 2016. IT’S that time of year again, partying away the old year, Old Lang Syne and the chimes at midnight. Lots of drink, dancing and waiting for somebody to ask you what your New Year’s resolution will be. If you haven’t given any thought of which one you would like to break this time.. here’s a few ideas! 1. Lose Weight and Get Fit Losing weight isn’t the hard part. Sure, you may swear that you will lose 10 kilos by the end of January, but can you keep it off? If so, are you really healthy? If you just make the resolution, you are already 10 times more likely to follow through than those who don’t make the resolution. 2. Quit Smoking People vow every year to quit. It’s hard. It’s difficult. Most people can’t stop forever. Only 4 to 7 per cent of smokers actually quit on any given attempt. Being so challenging, creating a New Year’s Resolution to quit smoking adds an extra incentive for many out there that can’t do it at any other time. 3. Learn Something New They say knowledge is power, and learning something new can be as simple as picking up a new hobby, sharpening a skill or developing your career goals. For those looking to broaden their academic horizons and shy away from the expense of physical courses, there are thousands of free online and virtual tutorials to keep you busy.

Sudoku

one month more per year than they were in 1970. Can you imagine what the numbers are today? With a fluctuating economy and a society in which being ‘on time’ is late, it’s no wonder we feel so stressed out. 8. Travel to New Places If you're looking to break out of your everyday routine and explore new places next year, booking some new travel experiences may be the best way to broaden your horizons. In 2014, around 78 per cent of all trips booked in the Europe were for leisure, so you won’t be the only one searching for the perfect getaway. Seeing new sights doesn’t mean you have to travel far, or spend lots of money doing so. 9. Be Less Stressed A 2015 study conducted by the American Psychological Association showed that 42 per cent of adults believe that their stress levels have increased over the past five years. Stress levels among adolescents have almost doubled since last year, with 31 per cent reporting higher levels of stress. Relieving stress and finding balance can be an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 10. Volunteer Honestly, most people focus on themselves when choosing their New Year’s Resolutions. But, the statistics show that a large number of people out there set out on January 1 to help others in need. There are many ways to accomplish this, such as giving moral support to your friends and lending a hand to those who are less fortunate.

Boggled How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules? The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms. No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice. No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.

TARGET: Average: 33 Good: 43 Very good: 62 Excellent: 76

SCORING: • 4 letters: 1 point • 5 letters: 2 points • 6 letters: 3 points • 7 letters: 4 points • 8 or more letters: 11 points

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION gnome goer gore gores goon goos goose gooses gorse noose norm nose noise honor horse hose hoses ores moron morose more mores mono moon moor moors moos moose mere meres merer merest errs rose roses rest room song some soon sore sores sorer sorest sermon sere croon crest broom bison berm best seem seer sperm perm peso pest skis specs

Word Ladder WORM

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3X3 box contains the digits 1-9. There’s no maths involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

4. Drink Less Letting loose on the weekends can often mean kicking back with a cold beer or curling up with a glass of wine, depending on your preference. But if you’re thinking about removing alcohol from your life, you should know that you’re not alone. Fifteen per cent of adults in Britain abstain from alcohol, with 43 per cent of those who abstain saying they used to drink alcohol but have given up. Cutting back on alcohol consumption could also mean a fitter lifestyle (an average beer has 154 calories) and a fuller wallet. 5. Eat Healthier and Diet Did you know that worldwide obesity has doubled since 1980? That’s not that long ago, and it’s a frightening prospect to think about. Luckily, there are many clubs, programmes, and support groups that can help you lose weight and stay fit and healthy. But choosing healthier food is a good start. 6. Get Out of Debt and Save Money The New Year arrives, and we often realise our wallets are empty. Or, maybe they aren’t as full as we’d like them to be. With a new year comes a chance for a fresh start, and many people try to crack down on their spending. It’s easy to do…for a while. However, around the end of January or maybe into February, we forget our vows to stop eating fast food. 7. Spend More Time with Family In this busy world of ours, finding time to spend with our loved ones is difficult. Even back in 1990, the British were working an average of

BONBNET

FISH BACK

Move from the start word (WORM) to the end word (FISH) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.

WORM WORE WIRE WISE WISH FISH

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OR OR QUITS

Answers:Double or quit, A bee in the bonnet.

In this, his first ever autobiography, Tom revisits his past and tells the tale of his journey from wartime Pontypridd to LA and beyond. ‘For a lot of years, I’ve answered a lot of questions, but have never told my story.’ Across six decades, Sir Tom Jones has maintained a vital career in a risky, unstable business notorious for the short lives of its artists. With a drive that comes from the love for what he does, he breaks through and wrestles with the vagaries of the music industry. But how did a boy from a Welsh coal-mining family attain success across the globe? And how has he survived the twists and turns of fame and fortune to stay exciting, and become more credible and interesting with age?

HEALTH BEAUTY

Costa de AlmerĂa

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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Five common cold prevention techniques

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Vitamin D could ease IBS symptoms

GETTING enough sleep is important THE average adult gets a cold three times a year, and each typically lasts around nine days, according to Jane Sadler, MD, a family physician in Texas, USA. There are prevention techniques that you can adopt to lower the risk of falling prey to the common cold. Sleep: Getting at least seven hours of sleep is t h e e a si e st w ay to w ard o ff colds. Sleep regulates the release of the hormone cortisol, which stimulates the cells that boost the immune system. Water: Without sufficient hydration, immune system cells cannot work optimally. Try to drink at least two litres of water per day, and more if exercising. Exercise: 30-90 minutes of moderate exercise multiple times throughout the week increases the activity of certain white blood cells

ATISHOO: Several factors can help lessen the risk of falling prey to a cold.

that attack viruses. Zinc: Foods rich in zinc, such as oysters and beef, may offer protection as zinc interferes with viruses by blocking their metabolic activity. Laughter: Although the process is not yet unde rs tood, s tre s s contributes to a de c re a s e d immune response, a nd la ughte r can ra is e those levels of infectionfighting antibodies.

VITAMIN D: Most commonly produced when sunlight hits your skin. VITAMIN D could be key to treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Scientists from the University of Sheffield found that 82 per cent of those with IBS also had low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is most common-

ly produced when sunlight hits your skin, which kicks off vitamin synthesis and is naturally found in food such as milk and tuna. In a study, the scientists found that vitamin D supplements could improve the symptoms of IBS.

IBS is a chronic disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that causes both diarrhoea and constipation, but affects each patient differently. Many take years to get a diagnosis due to fluctuating flareups and the symptoms being

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016/ Costa de Almería

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Could your personal trainer also be your best friend?

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Ask The Doctor

Brought to you by Helicopteros Sanitarios.

Rise in allergies

FitFoxy

Looking Good, Staying Trim

My role as a personal trainer goes way above and beyond counting out reps for clients and ushering them to the next piece of exercise equipment, I am quite often personal trainer/best friend. Client relationships become close, as a fitness coach I teach them to recognise that their physical appearance is much more a counter product of their mental state and attitude than they realise. When a client who generally leads an extremely busy life, juggling career and family, visits me twice a week for their hourly session, this becomes THEIR time. This I can virtually guarantee is the only opportunity they are likely to have in that week to focus on themselves completely. A good personal trainer genuinely cares about their clients. It does not take me long to see exactly what makes my

RELATIONSHIP: A close bond develops between trainer and client. clients tick, their strengths and weaknesses. I am in a sense the invaluable best friend that tells them when they need to change their habits or attitude to themselves and how hard they are capable of pushing themselves. I recognise if they are feeling low or having trouble coping with personal issues and I adapt the hour session that they spend with me, to incorporate the mental focus needed, just like a best friend would.

I agree that the relationship I have with clients is relatively unique in the way that they pay me for my time, it is a business transaction and this can sometimes be tricky. Most personal trainers would agree that even though a business transaction takes place, it does not change the level of care and fondness that develops for clients and the great feeling it gives to see them reach and achieve their goals.

Clever trainers A PAIR of trainers have been developed that could help spot the first signs of arthritis and delay the need for a replacement knee joint. The shoes, which are designed to shift the wearer’s stride to take pressure off the damaged part of the knee, have already been shown to ease the pain of arthritis in tests by researchers at Stanford University in the US. They are now looking at whether blood tests taken during six months of wearing the trainers can also detect changes in levels of inflammation, helping to diagnose the condition at an early stage. The structure of the shoes is

thought to alter the angles between the foot and the knee during walking, taking the load off the inside and shifting it to the outside, where cartilage is less damaged. One in five adults over the age of 45 has osteoarthritis of the knee, which occurs when the cartilage that lines and cushions the joint gradually wears away and thins, leading to inflammation. Over time many patients end up requiring surgery to replace the joint. The Journal of Orthopaedic Research reports that a previous Stanford study found wearing the shoes was linked to a 32 per cent reduction in pain after 12 months.

Health Food Shop & Community Centre Are you looking for inspiration? You’ll be surprised at the range of natural & organic products available to inspire you.

In the Community Centre Kids Karate, kids Gymnastics Art classes, Pilates, Yoga, Tai-Chi, Salsa-size Spanish lessons and health screening

C/Malaga s/n, Albox, Almeria, Tel: 639 089 170 Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-2pm email: alboxgirasol@hotmail.com

PREVENTION: Shoes shift body weight to prevent damage to knee joint.

SPECIALIST: Doctor Luis Perez Belmonte. THIS week we have asked Dr Perez Belmonte a few questions about allergies. In the old days not many people seemed to be allergic to things yet nowdays almost everyone claims to be allergic to something. Why is this? Over recent years allergies have started to appear a lot more often and can cause discomfort. This may be due to modern lifestyles, exposure to contamination and various substances. We now have allergy specialists who can diagnose them whereas in the past this wasn’t possible and anyone with signs of a possible allergy should see their doctor. How can I tell if I have an allergy? Allergies can cause all sorts of symptoms and even seem like other illnesses. Common symptoms include sneezing, an itchy nose and sore throat but can also cause breathing difficulties. The eyes and skin can be affected. These are the most common symptoms although others can affect the digestive system and in serious cases general allergic reac-

tions can cause collapse. Are there effective ways to control allergies? The first thing to do is get a diagnosis from a specialist. Then there are many different treatments ranging from tablets to vaccinations depending on the type of allergy which can help control symptoms and in some cases cure them. Can children with food allergies be gradually cured? Sometimes children can develop allergies to certain foods which stop them from leading a normal life. Although cases vary, they are usually unable to ‘get used’ to these foods. These allergies are important and require attention from a specialist in paediatric allergies. How should I react to a severe allergic reaction? At the first sign of a possible allergy, from a simple itchy nose or sneezing fit to a general feeling of being unwell or a reaction of any type, you should see a medical professional who will take any necessary measures. Once the crisis passes patients should see a specialist for tests and diagnosis.

The Coast’s Home GP service - wherever you are - at home - in the office - in the car - on the golf course your GP will get to see you any time, anywhere. A priceless service at an affordable price.

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Pill could solve the obesity crisis RESEARCHERS in the UK believe it could be available in next five years By Gemma Quinn IT could be the answer to many people’s prayers after a little overindulgence over the Christmas and New Year period, as British scientists say they have developed a ‘fat pill’ that could solve the obesity crisis. The capsule, packed with a mix of natural oils, is thought to trick the stomach into thinking it’s full and suppress the appetite. It could lead to a reduction in the need for gastric band surgery. The pill has been lab-tested on human tissue for more than two years by a team of researchers at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL). The project is part-funded by the charity Bowel and Cancer Research. Now, the researchers have won funding to test the capsule and its contents on human volunteers. Approximately 40 volunteers will spend 18 months helping to establish the correct dosage levels

‘FAT PILL’: Capsule is packed with natural oils and is thought to trick the stomach into thinking it’s full. and manage possible side-effects. The ‘fat pill’ works by sending special food supplements directly

to the lower bowel, bypassing the small intestine. This causes the release of hor-

Stay ‘dry’ in January AFTER an alcohol-fuelled Christmas and New Year, participating in ‘Dry January’ might start to sound more appealing, especially with research showing the health benefits associated with giving up booze. Resisting temptation may prove more difficult than it seems though, particularly in a cold and grim January where a glass of red wine has probably never seemed more inviting. Here are six tips to help you. Make a friend: persuade someone else to join you. Self-imposed sobriety won’t seem quite as boring if you have a buddy. Tell people: nobody likes to fail and lose face.

The more people you tell, the more likely it is you will see it through. Avoid the pub: nothing makes you crave alcohol more than being surrounded by other people drinking. Convince friends to meet up elsewhere on occasion, a cafe perhaps? Treat yourself: save up the cash you would have spent on booze and put it to good use. Keep busy: if you’ve established a routine of ‘6pm-wine-time’, it’s a good idea to find some way to distract yourself. Find a hobby: you’ll be amazed at the amount of free time you have when there’s no foggy head to clear or killer hangovers to nurse.

Winter skin care tips DURING the colder temperatures, both men and women find their skin is affected more than simply a rosy glow to the cheeks. Dry skin can lead to flaking and cracking, leaving you vulnerable to infections. There are ways to ensure your skin remains hydrated. Lip balm: cracked lips are uncomfortable and painful so invest in a lip balm. Drink water: try and consume at least two litres per day. Moisturise more: your skin care regime should adapt with the weather changes and you need a different moisturiser to the one you use in summer. Find a moisturiser that is oilbased, rather than water-based, as it will give your skin a protective layer and retain more

moisture. Avocado, primrose, or almond oils are all suitable for your face. Treat feet: buff away calluses with a pumice stone and then apply a thick moisturiser, put a pair of socks on and wear them overnight. Wear gloves: the skin on your hands is thinner than most parts of the body, meaning it can be more difficult to keep them hydrated. Wearing gloves in cold weather protects them from the cold, dry, weather, and can help prevent the skin cracking. Apply lotion and pop gloves on over to help moisturise parched hands. Warm water: it’s tempting to turn the temperature when showering or bathing, but hot water is dehydrating. Keep the temperature warm, and shower time short.

mones which suppress the appetite and helps with the release of insulin to control blood sugar levels.

Researchers hope it will be widely available in the next five years.

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OCIAL CENE

FACE spreads a little Christmas cheer THEY would like to thank everyone for the support they have received in the past and hope this will continue in future FACE (Fundraising in Arboleas, Caring for Everyone) has, after a very successful Christmas Market and Christmas Party events, tried to spread a little Christmas cheer. One person who definitely was cheered by FACE was the Grand Christmas Raffle winner Babs Kenningay of La Cueva, Arboleas who received €200. This was presented to her at the Bar Las Palmeros in Arboleas. The Turre charity group, called Stepping Stones Carers Support Group, took their patients to an Annual Christmas Dinner at the Miraflores Ballroom in Los Gallardos. FACE was also represented and Christmas gifts were distributed to all of the 23 patients who were in attendance. In addition FACE has this year joined with ‘Little Owls’ to provide all the approximately 35 children of the 24 fami-

GRAND CHRISTMAS RAFFLE WINNER: Babs Kenningay, receives €200 from FACE Vice President Carrie Green and Press Officer Richard Tolman. lies living below the breadline in Arboleas, with Christmas

gifts. Finally those very same families will receive a hamper

of food funded by FACE, just before the Day of the Kings so

that even the poorest families will have something to celebrate. FACE is acutely aware that it is only due to the caring community of volunteers and supporters, that it can continue. FACE would like to thank everyone for the support they have received in the past and hopes that people will continue to support it in the future.

Adele Wrigglesworth (FACE President) would on behalf of all the FACE Committee like to wish everyone, wherever they may be, compliments of the season. For further information on FACE please ring Adele on telephone number 667 255 094 or visit the FACE Facebook page or the FACE website at www.face-charity.com.

SOCIAL SCENE

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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Engines roar in Cuevas YOUNG local rider was given a 65cc motorbike from the club THE Almizara Motorbike Club from Cuevas del Almanzora presented the activities which it has planned for the upcoming season. A t a n e v e n t o rg a n i s e d with the local town hall in the multipurpose building in the town on Boxing Day, the club presented its schedule of competitions for 2016. At the event, young local rider Marcos Martinez was given a 65cc motorbike from the club with which he will take part in the Spanish Championship, the Andalucian Regionals, the Provincial Motocross events in Almeria as well as the regional events in Murcia and Valencia. The Riders’ School was also presented at the event, an initiative created by parents and supported by the club, to train future champions. It will be carried out at the Rincon de la Bonil supercross track in Cuevas del Almanzora and at La Tejera

Stepping Stones Carers THE Stepping Stones Carers Support Group would like to thank all those restaurants, groups and individuals who have helped and donated towards their cause. They say they couldn’t help their carers and their dependents in the way they do if they didn’t have the donations and the volunteers who make it possible. For one morning a week they endeavour to help them relax, get some ideas and support for the very difficult job they do. It seems a very small thing to be able to scream, even though it be quietly, to others who understand and appreciate what they do for 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The group supports all carers of patients who suffer from many types of illnesses. They meet at Turre Evangelical Church every Thursday 11am to 1.30pm. Call Fanny on 677 683 385.

motocross track in Zurgena. The event was witnessed

by the mayor, Antonio Fernandez, the directors of the

club, and members, riders and fans.

Visit from Santa Claus

SANTA CLAUS: Gave sweets to the children who spoke to him. SANTA CLAUS visited Carboneras at around midday on Christmas Eve on a quad. He was escorted on a trip around the town to the town hall square where he sat on his throne and gave sweets to the children who came to sit

on his knee to tell him what they wanted for Christmas. He was also visited by the local mayor, Salvador Hernandez. The town hall organised a workshop where children learnt to make Christmas decorations.

Christmas joy for everyone ALMERIA City Hall and the Social Fund of La Caixa provided meals for some of the poorest families in the city on Christmas Eve. The same will be done on New Year ’s Eve and Epiphany thanks to the Municipal Shelter. The meals were prepared for 30 families who are at risk of social exclusion, some of which have up to 19 members and were chosen by the social services. According to councillor Pilar Ortega, La Caixa do-

MOTORBIKE CLUB: Presented its schedule of competitions for 2016.

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nated money to prepare the special meals, which will include the lucky grapes for New Year ’s Eve and the Roscon de Reyes for January 6. The council delivered the meals to those who needed it so that their children would not have to come and see where it is kept. They hope to reach more families in coming years. Meanwhile, the shelter also provided a special meal on Christmas Eve for those who used the facilities.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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SOCIAL SCENE

Family works of art on show UNTIL January 15, the works of young local artist Blanca Dominguez are on show at the Arte Clasico Gallery in Calle Granada, in Almeria. Blanca comes from a family of artists and was born with talent. Having now studied Fine Arts in Granada and done a Masters Degree in Art Research and Production, she is showing her work in Almeria for the second time, this time alongside the works of her parents, Manuel Dominguez and Carmen Martinez at the gallery they manage. They have very different styles, and Blanca says that

it is easy to tell who has created each work of art, because even if they are painting the same thing they each interpret it in very different ways. They went to Castro de Filabres, their home town, to paint, and exhibited their work together there, which is when they decided to also do so in Almeria City. Since it opened on December 11 the exhibition has been very popular and several paintings have been sold, the artist has explained. They aim to exhibit the works of other people to give the gallery more variety. There are also art workshops held there.

Unique Christmas traditional events THROUGHOUT the province, events are being held over Christmas which attract both locals and visitors. In Los Velez region, to the north, there is the performance of the ‘Cuadrilla de las Animas’ (Souls’ Quadrille) which in the old days, collected money on Christian festivities for the ‘Blessed Souls in Purgatory.’ On December 28, it was the day of the Innocent Saints (similar to April Fools’ Day) which in Los Velez area is celebrated with a group of people taking over the town, playing the role of the mayor and the priest, having the power to take to the balcony of the town hall, give orders and fine local residents as they see fit, ordering them to pay fines before going to ‘prison’. Parties are held, especially on the beaches and often with bonfires in Roquetas de Mar on December 29 every year.

CHRISTMAS MUSIC: The audience also brought along non-perishable goods for the food bank.

Charity Gala at music school WILL include performances by the Youth Band, Music and Movement THE Cuevas del Almanzora Municipal School of Music, Dance and Acting celebrated its traditional Christmas charity gala. The audience collaborate d w ith the food ba nk by

bringing non-pe ris ha ble goods to donate. The councillor for Education, Ana Maria Castro, reported that 650 kilos of food had been collected. The Mayor, Antonio Fer-

Band, Musi c and Movement, guitar, flute, piano, saxophone, clarinet, metal and percussion and from the Rocio choir, Modern, Classical, Ballroom and Spanish dancing.

First of many to be held in Spain THE first San Silvestre race was held in Vicar on December 26. There was a six-kilometre route for adults and other shorter routes for children. The event, which is popular in other a re a s of Spa in, c ome s to the tow n

thanks to the local Sports Department and started from the Ciudad de Vicar s ports c e ntre and went al ong t he boulevard. Registration cost €5 for adults plus a dona tion of fo od, whi l e chi l dr en could take part for free and only had to

WINTER OPENING HOURS FROM 2nd DECEMBER

Choice of 3 draught lagers, draught cider, football competitions, pool, darts, table football. Comfortable inside lounge area, large sunny terrace with sea views and much more.

nandez and teachers at the school presented a plaque to Juan Trujillo to thank him for all the years he has dedicated to teaching there. The event included perf or m ances by t he Yout h

take some food. Each child got a bag with items and a medal for those who finished. There was also a t-shirt and commemorative bag for all adult participants. There was an adult fancy dress party. It is hoped the race will become a popular feature.

OPINION & COMMENT

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TFI Friday doesn’t look like returning, as Chris Evans focuses on Top Gear Richard Shanley

Dishing the Dirt OF EUROPA DIGITAL

THERE are apparently ‘no plans’ for TFI Friday to return again. Back in September, Chris Evans announced he was going to quit the Channel 4 show after this year’s comeback series to focus on his new-look Top Gear for the BBC. “This is the long goodbye,” he revealed at the time. However, it now looks like the latest 10 episodes are all you’re going to see of the popular show with any presenter for the foreseeable future. PA reports that despite some ‘preliminary conversations’ there are ‘timing difficulties’ preventing any more TFI. Top Gear returns to screens on May 5, 2016. Elsewhere, former hosts Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond’s new mo-

CHRIS EVANS: Top Gear returns in May 2016. toring series will air on Amazon with a reported budget of £160 million. Believe it or not, more than 9,000 households in the UK watched their telly this Christmas on black-andwhite TVs. Although Britain completed the

digital switchover a few years ago and most people now watch TV in HD or through tablets and smartphones, it’s been revealed that there are still 9,356 black-and-white licences across the UK. The amount of black-and-white licences issued is gradually declin-

ing year after year, though. There were as many as 212,000 in 2000, with that number shrinking to 93,000 in 2003 and 50,000 in 2006. Jason Hill, spokesperson for TV Licensing, said: “It’s astounding that more than 9,000 households still watch on a black-and-white telly, especially now that over half of homes access TV content over the internet, on smart TVs.” Television and radio technology historian Jeffrey Borinsky explained that black-and-white viewers just aren’t ready to make the change to colour yet. “There are hundreds of collectors like myself who have many black-and-white TVs; some of them are purists who won’t have this new-fangled colour TV in the house,” he said. TOP 10: 1. London - 2,222. 2. Birmingham - 429. 3. Manchester - 313. 4. Glasgow - 193. 5. Leeds - 151. 6. Liverpool - 145. 7. Nottingham - 123. 8. Belfast 100. 9. Sheffield - 89. 10. Bristol 85.

Aside from the nostalgia factor, there is one major advantage to having a black-and-white TV: it’s cheaper. The ‘mono licence’ remains frozen at £49 until next year’s BBC Charter Review, while a colour licence costs £145.50. If you would like me to answer any questions you may have on satellite TV or to expand on anything I have written about please call me on 678 332 815 or email richard@europa-digital.com I look forward to your comments and questions. Don’t forget to listen to my radio show every weekday from 10am on Spectrum 96.1 & 106.8FM, now covering almost 3000sq kms of Costa Almeria and Calida or listen online at costaalmeria.spectrumfm.net for the latest news and views from the world of satellite television.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

2014 the most Final approval for land use important THE year 2014 has been the most important in the history of Albox said its mayor, Rogelio Mena. Referencing the new water supply for the town, the new health centre in Llano del Espino, the opening of the indoor pool, the new town gym and the installation of a second pavilion, Mena also added that the town’s population increased by more than 1,000 residents. “Residents highly value this government team,” urged Mena before adding: “We have reorganised the economy, we optimised resources, have managed to pay for a landfill, we negotiated a grant for the fire station, have assumed management of the PFEA, and are the only council in Almeria of more than 10,000 inhabitants that planned with

Y AR U N JA

RY A U BR E F

February 19, Issue 1546. ARBOLEAS

mayor,

Cristobal Garcia Granados has held a meeting with Almeria’s Agriculture, Environment and Spatial Planning department. The meeting was to revisit the General Spatial Plan, including regularisation. According to the mayor: “The end result of this meeting is very positive. It has broached the last problem in meeting all requirements and made

possible the partial revision of the General Plan in Arboleas.” Now it is necessary to amend the review document for the various suggestions made in the sector reports. After this the review document will pass for provisional approval by Arboleas Council before heading for final approval. The mayor continued: “Once we are in a place

where we can see some light at the end of the tunnel we are satisfied. We value positively this progress, but we appreciate that it is very difficult to successfully complete this intense process.” He concluded: “We have learned that urban issues are very complex to solve and require time, but we are also confident that this hard work will yield its fruit.”

January 15, Issue 1541. the Junta de Andalucia regional government for 300 jobs including young people.” In conclusion, Mena referred to the opposition: “We will not waste a minute with this destructive opposition, which led to the resignation of three of its councillors and which is obsessed with salaries and money.”

MAYOR of Albox, Rogelio Mena, and the councillor for Education in the town, Sonia Cerdan, met with students from IES Cardenal Cisneros who are representing Almeria in the national LEGO league. MORE than 265,000 students from 80 countries have already participated in the first stage of First LEGO League (FLL), the largest international competition to promote science and technology among youngsters. Spain

CH R MA

March 5, Issue 1548. held 20 qualifying tournaments

LEGO champions with more than 1,000 teams, more than 8,000 participants and 2,000 volunteers have been used to help keep the events running smoothly for the participants and their attending families. Teams must participate in time trials to complete programmable robots built with LEGO.

The next stage of the competition will be held in Tenerife in the Canary Islands on March 22. Thirty six teams will attend this next stage of the event. The students met with Rogelio Mena and Sonia Cerdan at the town hall to be congratulated for winning the Almeria leg of the competition.

ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

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Representative urged to remember issues ILLEGAL homes were one of the items given priority at a recent meeting between Albox business association representatives and Andalucian Parliament representative for Almeria Rodrigo Sanchez. AEPA Albox-Valle del Almanzora Professionals’ Association leaders met with the PSOE socialist party representative to discuss the main worries for the business sector which need to be defended at parliament. The two main priorities

RIL P A

April 23, Issue 1555. AEPA president Martin Martos stressed needed attention were the situation for owners

who bought illegal homes in good faith, and the motorway. Martos insisted on the need for promised changes to the Andalucian Ground Law to be made to legalise homes built on ground not authorised for construction. An access road to link the new Almanzora motorway to the ITV station on Terdiguera industrial estate was another must-do it was reported at the meeting, along with work to a final stretch of the motorway to link it to the A7.

Repairs for recycling centre REPAIRS are being done to Albox’s municipal recycling centre following damage by strong winds last January. The work consists of the replacement of the main door entrance, cleaning and implementation of a new wall and replacing damaged areas within the enclosure as well as containers. The work will also coincide with a project to

improve the area and carry out landscaping of the grounds with the placement of trees and greenery inside and out. Mayor Rogelio Mena, explained the works “respond to different actions contemplated by the City of Albox to repair the damage caused by the storm although our intention is also to improve those infrastructures and buildings.”

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

Population reaches a high ONCE a cosy village, it is growing in giant steps with its future in its hands

Y MA

May 7, Issue 1557.

THE latest population census carried out in 2014 registered a historical high for Albox with 11,715 inhabitants reported. The previous record of 11,499 was registered in 1932, after which civil war and dictatorship saw figures drop in many areas of southern Spain, Albox included. The all-time low of the 20th century was reached in 1960,

when just 9,049 residents were registered. The National Statistics Institute population report found that there were slightly more women than men in the town, and the largest age-group was 30-34. Albox was found to be one of the areas of Almeria that had grown the most over recent years, and topped the list for

growth in the Almanzora area. “Albox isn’t just growing at speed in services, the same can be said of the population, which is of vital importance for the future,” said Mayor Rogelio Meno. Although up to 52 different nationalities have been registered in Albox, the largest community of expatriates was found to be from the UK.

New tourism councillor AS recently announced, Albox now has a new English speaking councillor for Tourism and International Relations. Maura Hillen, an Irish national and former IT director, has lived in Albox for almost eight years and is well known for her work as president of AUAN home owners’ association, where she leads a cam- June 25, Issue 1564. paign on behalf of those who

NE U J

bought illegal properties in good faith. Maura said: “This is a new challenge for me. My immediate priority is to improve the avenues of communication between the English speaking community and the town hall.” To this end, and until official sites can be set up, the councillor has provided the following ways for residents

MAURA HILLEN: Lives in Albox. to contact her: Email: Maura.Hillen@yahoo.com Blog: MauraHillenAlbox.blogspot.com

ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

Albox motorway stretch now open ALBOX residents are finally able to access the town from the recently finished Almanzora motorway entrance. The Junta de Andalucia Regional Government inaugurated the structure on Friday (July 3), in an event conducted by Felipe Lopez, Regional Development councillor. This specific stretch incurred a total cost of €46.3 million. “With this inauguration, safety and driving comfort will be improved, facilitating mobility for more than 70,000 inhabitants, affecting 28 municipalities across the Almanzora Region. Mr Lopez said: “It is also expected to boost economy and production in the region as well as exportation, as Almeria has great development potential in these fields.”

LY JU

July 9, Issue 1566. The Albox entrance suffered several postponements since the project was started back in 2010, which has been delayed several times. This project was designated as a ‘Gran Proyecto,’ which gave it the status as an important regional infrastructure, and re-launched works that had been stopped for more than two years due to a lack of funds. Now, the project counts on European Funds.

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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Bringing new life into old clothing across the town LOCALS have been getting into the habit of recycling used clothes OVER the first six months of this year, people in Albox have put 7,991 kilos of used clothes into specific recycling containers spread across the town, almost as many as during the whole of 2014. East West Productos Textiles, the company in charge of emptying the containers, reported that locals have really started getting into the habit of taking their old textiles for recycling. Between January and June the company

ER B M TE P SE

September 10, Issue 1575.

ST U G AU

August 20, Issue 1572.

collected 1,529 kilos from a container on the Albox-Chirivel road, 1,368 from Avenida Lepanto, 1,098 from Avenida America, 1,034 from Ramon y Cajal, 993 from Plaza San Francisco, 723 from the municipal nursery school, 637 from Calle del Muro and 609 from Avenida de la Estacion. Mayor Rogelio Mena said the figures so far this year were very good and stressed the importance of recycling for the environment.

Recycling plant to be created ALBOX is to be home to a new recycling point especially designed for waste produced in the construction industry. Unanimously, the local government of Albox has derogated the current regulation on debris discharge and has approved a new one, which foresees the creation of a new Treatment Plant

for Construction and Demolition Waste. The new plant will be located next to the town’s Clean Point recycling station and will take care of eliminating those materials which cannot be processed for reuse, stocking up those which are suitable for recycling and grind up those which will be

reused as loose stones for the construction industry, amongst many other tasks, according to the information provided by the town’s Urbanism councillor, Sonia Cerdan. The debris tip currently located in the area is to be closed down, according to Tito Carillo, Finance councillor.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS ER B M VE O N

November 5, Issue 1583. FUN DAY: Dogs of all shapes and sizes were beautifully turned out.

Annual fun dog show ORGANISERS gave a massive thank you to everyone THE annual Fun Dog Show organised on Sunday September 20 by ACRAA Fundraisers Arboleas registered spectacular sucess. The sun shone and the dogs, of all shapes and sizes with their handlers in tow, were beautifully turned out and immaculately behaved. A net total of €920 was raised to be shared between Puppy Rescue and APSA animal charities. The organisers, ACRAA, would like to give a massive thank you to all who participat-

R BE O T OC

October 1, Issue 1578.

HUGE SUCCESS: A net total of €920 was raised to be shared among two local charities.

ed in the show, including all the helpers and the media who kindly publicised the event.

A special thank you was also given to Ray Peters of radio station ‘Smooth FM’ who kindly supplied the PA and music.

Help Desk ZURGENA’S Help Desk for British expatriates has dealt with 520 queries between June and September. The Help Desk is a service provided by the town hall to provide British residents in the area with information and assist them with various bureaucratic matters everyone has to sort out at the town hall at one time or another. Most of the queries received are regarding health matters including how to obtain a health card and access healthcare, administrative procedures including how to join the padron (residents register) or report incidents on public streets .

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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ALBOX & SURROUNDING AREAS

Central areas go pedestrian-friendly ALBOX should be a town where you can feel safe ER B M CE E D

December 10, Issue 1588.

AS of last week getting around Albox centre on foot is a little safer, the council has announced. Work has been carried out under the PFEA rural employment scheme to build pavements on the avenue leading to the Centro de Agua y Salud and the Albox health centre, both busy areas which locals often choose to visit on foot. In the past, although both centres receive hundreds of visitors

every week and many, especially in the case of the health centre, are elderly, there were no pavements at all making walking more of an adventure than a pleasure. “When we were running for the elections we promised to make Albox more pedestrianfriendly and that is exactly what we are doing, one step at a time,” local Mayor Rogelio Mena declared.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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GARDENS

End of year gardening thoughts A FEW general observations... from Cox’s Orange Pippins to ecological weedkiller Dick Handscombe

Gardening Corner By Spain’s best known expatriate gardening author living in Spain for 25 years.

1. I HAVE a bowl of very juicy and tasty eco-grown tangerines from the garden on the sideboard but miss the box of Cox’s Orange Pippin apples that were less tough and tastier to eat than the packing station apples that are mostly available in Spain. Has any reader been able to grow good Cox’s in Spain? If so I would love to have a photo via yourgardeninspain@ hotmail.com. 2. Early this year I obtained a carton of the then new Neudorff’s ecological citrus fertilizer, Fertilizante Citricos, to trial. My Christmas oranges, tangerines and lemons have been of an exceptionally excellent size. The micro-organisms in the product have worked well and should continue to do so. They do not exist in organic chemical fertilizers; yes, those often referred to as those little blue granules. 3. More and more Spanish magazines are including articles about the steady increase in the

MISSED FAVOURITE: Cox’s Orange Pippins are less tough and tastier than packing-station apples in Spain. number of people growing vegetables in urban areas in containers, on growing tables and in gravity watered hydroponic units as well as in small vegetable plots. This is probably not so in the British community. At a recent talk on the Costa Blanca I discovered that just 3 per cent did so. It was significantly higher at a talk the following week in Andalucia. Incidentally, I had a last

tomato, aubergine and several peppers at Christmas-time from plantlets planted last spring. 4. The researchers developing the early lie detector machines in the US found that plants had feelings. When they connected the machines to plants and then took out secateurs to prune them, even before actual cuts were made, an off-scale response could be detected. So do ensure you use

sharp secateurs during the winter cutback to reduce the pain. 5. How can some supermarket lettuces stay crisp in the fridge for a month when freshly-harvested ones from the garden never exposed to chemicals of any sort wilt in a couple of days? A search of the internet makes for interesting reading! 6. An international study of birdlife in urban areas including Valencia City concluded that

the noisy urban environment favours birds that sing shrill and highly pitched with tenor versus baritone tones. My observation is that the same applies to country gardens for there are more of those types of birds. How do such studies get funded? 7. Remember that ecological home-made garlic, thyme and soapy water insect sprays are easily prepared if your local

horticultural shop or agricultural co-operative refuses from January to serve you with your traditional chemical sprays if you do not have a new EU stimulated certificate to prove that you have been on and passed a spraying course. I wonder if the UK is introducing this new requirement as enthusiastically as the Spanish authorities? 8. Some years ago I managed to obtain a bottle of Neudorf’s ecological weedkiller from outside Spain to trial. It was very effective except on well-established perennial weeds which need to be dug out. Unfortunately, it is still not available in Spain although it is now in the UK. However, I have been informed that it may be authorised during 2016. When I hear anything more I will let you know in my weekly column. As tomorrow is the first day of 2016, may I wish you all a happy and productive gardening next year. © Dick Handscombe www.gardenspain.com December 2015

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Be smart Potted blueberries and give for your delight iDIY a try! SMARTPHONE apps aren’t just for sullen teenagers, there’s actually an excellent variety out there full of useful tips and tricks for a spot of Sunday DIY that will soon have you wondering how you ever managed without them. Best part – most of them are completely free. Take the Handyman Calculator app, for example, which has 125 tools which cover all your calculating needs from lumber and concrete to baluster and asphalt. With Homestyler you can take a photo of a room, upload it, then use thousands of editing techniques to mix things around by painting, laying new floor-

ing, placing new furniture, etc, to get a free feel for how your big idea will pan out in reality. The Family Handyman DIY Tip Genius is an incredible resource full of advice and information that you can consult on the spot without coming unstuck in the middle of a job. Other apps include basic tools such as flashlights and spirit levels, and if you really want to go overboard (or take a sneaky break), there’s even the Construction Sound Effects app,which can have you hammering nails, sawing wood or drilling holes while you pour yourself a cold beer and admire your handiwork.

New Year tricks WITH 2016 upon us, here are a few tricks to use in your gardening endeavours over the next year. To prevent your fingernails absorbing a thick layer of dirt, draw them across a bar of soap in order to seal your nails. Once you’re done, use a nailbrush to sweep out the soap and voila clean nails. Leftover tea and coffee grounds can help keep the pH of your soil on the acidic side, with a light sprinkling each month for acid-freaks like camellias, blueberries, azaleas and rhododendrons.

Photo by Madereugeneandrew, wikipedia

ENJOY fresh berries with your porridge every morning

EXPENSIVE TREAT: Growing your own will bear fruit. By Matthew Elliott BLUEBERRIES are considered one of the healthiest fruits around, full of anti-oxidants and low in sugar. Caught at the right time, they’re also delicious, with a plump juicy exquisiteness that has pies, cakes and sauces named after this punchy blue delight. But let’s face it, blueberries are shockingly expensive. You’re often faced with a bitter choice of paying more than €3 for a decent organic pack, or less for some disappointing rejects only good until the end of the day. Well, without further ado, here’s a quick run-down on how you can avoid being ripped off and enjoy a fresh batch of blue-

berries for your morning porridge every day. First, blueberries need to grow in an acidic pH zone of 4.5-5.5 so if you have alkaline soil then it’ll be best to cultivate yours in a pot or container. You can control the pH level by using organic acid fertiliser (blood or cottonseed meal are perfect) and be sure to top up the acidity levels with a small helping of fertiliser every month. Consider it your blueberry rent. Use a large pot of around 18 inches and also ensure that your blueberries get full sun for at least six to eight hours. Be sure to grow at least three plants close together and preferably of different varieties as they will bear fruit at different times and extend your blueberry season.

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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PETS PAGE www.euroweeklynews.com

Chocolate danger to dogs IT is made for human consumption and dogs are sensitive to the chemicals

David THE Dogman Listen to David on TRE every Saturday 10am to 11am Costa del Sol (Gibraltar/Sotogrande) 98.7fm (San Roque to Calahonda) 91.9fm (Calahonda to Motril) 88.9, Costa Calida 92.7fm Costa Blanca (Torrevieja to Elche) 105.1fm (Elche to Calpe) 88.2fm, (Calpe to Gandia & Ibiza) 104.6fm, (Denia to Valencia) 95.3fm Mallorca 103.9fm

CHOCOLATE made for human consumption can cause death in dogs. Dogs are sensitive to a class of chemicals called methylxanthines. Caffeine and theobtomine are members of that family. Dogs simply cannot metabolise and excrete methylxanthines as efficiently as humans. The half life of those compounds in the human body is in the order of two to three hours, in the dog it is more like 18 hours. In a dog the compounds are taken up by the liver and transmitted via the bile into the intestine. They are then converted back into the original methylxanthines for another circuit through the animal. This repeats itself a number of times and instead of getting rid of the substances the dog keeps repoisoning itself. There are many formulations of chocolate with varying amounts of caffeine and theobromine. The lethal dose of sweet milk chocolate for a dog is

DONKEYS: Are friendly and great company.

Caring for a furry family in a rural idyll MISTAKE: It would be tragic to encourage a dog to develop a taste for chocolate. 2oz per kilogram of bodyweight. For a five kilogram dog this would be about 280 grams. A lethal dose of milk chocolate for a 25 kilogram dog would be about 1.4 kilograms. Dark chocolate is at least 10 times as lethal. A 25 kilogram dog could die from the methylxanthines in five ounces. Symptoms include vomiting, hyperactivity, restlessness, hypersensitivity

to touch, a dog will jump when touched, very rapid heartbeat and rapid breathing rate. A loss of control of leg muscles, muscle tremor seizures, general weakness, coma and finally death. It would be a tragic mistake to encourage a dog to develop a taste for chocolate. A small dog left alone in a house with a box of chocolates might well follow his nose to the goodies and commit suicide by poisoning.

To find a pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com or call Lamia on +44 (0)1865 521508 PHILIPPA left the UK years ago and now lives in a beautiful rural part of Andalucia. She lives alone but for the company of her family of donkeys, dogs and cats. She is so happy in her rural idyll that she rarely leaves, in fact it is hard to pull herself away. However, once in a while she is tempted to return home to see family and friends and then she needs to find someone to care for her beloved pets. The dogs and cats usually go to kennels and the donkeys are fed and cared for by a neighbour who lives 20 minutes away. This is far from ideal. The dogs pine for home, and lose weight in her absence, and the cats actively ignore her for extended periods on her return. Recently she discovered an

online house-sitting platform that found suitable house-sitters to come and live in her home and care for her furry family. The most recent is a software engineer from Palo Alto in California, who having sold his business at a young age is cycling his way around the world! He has already cycled around much of Beijing and Shanghai, now he is peddling his way through Southern Europe. House-sitting helps him manage his budget. He lives rent free in exchange for caring for Philippaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home and pets. Carl grew up on a farm in California so he has plenty of experience with all manner of pets. Housesitting can be a winwin for both parties, free house and pet-sitting and the sitters get free accommodation!

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69 Photo by Budimir Jevtic, shutterstock

PETS

COMPANIONSHIP: Is an obvious benefit.

Elderly and pets RABBITS: Can be trained to understand commands and to use a litter tray.

Small Furry Friends HANDLE rabbits carefully from a young age so they get used to it By Steve Walsh THIS week in our Small Furries series, we take a look at Rabbits. Give your rabbit plenty of space and lots of different things to do so they don’t get bored. In their living space they should be able to dig, run and play every day. Give them pots filled with soft earth for digging, large diameter tubes for running through and cardboard boxes for exploring. Handle them carefully from a young age so they’re used to it and not scared. Ensure they have the com-

pany of another rabbit for companionship and play. Rabbits can be trained to understand commands and to use a litter tray - they are more intelligent than many people believe. Food and drink for your bunny PDSA.org.uk recommends this three-part diet for rabbits: At least their own body size in clean, good quality hay each day. Ensure it’s separate from their bedding. A handful of suitable fresh greens morning and evening. Vary the greens each day to keep the diet interesting. On-

ly feed small bits of fruit occasionally as they are high in sugar. One tablespoon of commercial rabbit nuggets once daily (or twice daily if your rabbit weighs over 3.5kg), and they should always have fresh water available. What not to feed rabbits: Rabbit muesli, which is a mix of seeds and flakes. This is linked to painful dental disease. Also avoid giving sugary treats. Hutch size: Make sure the hutch is large enough. Make it at least H2ft x W2ft x L6ft. Even bigger

would be better. It should be big enough to allow them to lie down and stretch out in all directions. Tall enough so they can stand up on their back legs without their ears touching the top. Long enough to allow at least three hops. It should also be weatherproof and raised off the ground. Out of the cold and rain in winter, and in the shade in summer. Line the hutch with newspaper or clean wood shavings, then put soft hay or straw on top. Put clean, dry hay or straw down as bedding in the sleeping area

REGULAR exams are vital to keeping your pet healthy in the long run by catching any serious problems early. Neutering your pet not only cuts down on unwanted pregnancies, but also helps reduce their tendency to roam around, whilst also offering numerous health benefits. Provide mental and physical stimulation with a rich environment of free movement and curiosities to keep them active. ID microchip your pet to allow them to be reunited with you should they wind up lost or in trouble, roughly 86 per cent of pets who become lost stay lost without a microchip. Never give your pet human medication and ensure they can’t

Lindsay Turner, via Flickr

Some tips from the vets

REGULAR CHECKS: Vital to your pet’s health in the long run. access it. Ibuprofen may seem harmless but is actually one of the biggest culprits

out there when it comes to pet poisoning, so keep it out of reach.

WHILE children might hog all the attention when it comes to pets, animals can be a fine friend to elderly people, providing a range of terrific benefits in the twilight years. Companionship is an obvious benefit as loneliness can become a serious issue, pets also offer the advantage of demanding a routine and daily exercise. Just what the doctors order. It has also been noted that older people with pets experience lower levels of stress and manage to engage socially much more by getting out and about and meeting new people. Having a pet might also

spark a new interest, whether it is a cleaner local park, or volunteering at a local animal charity. Protection is another advantage while the ability to look after something might rekindle a sense of worth and importance.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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FEATURE

Our first New Year’s Eve here. In a brothel. With my wife! Ric Polansky Ric Polansky moved to Mojacar in 1969 as a pioneer developer. He reads extensively and has travelled in South America panning gold and looking for El Dorado.

IT all happened unexpectedly. We had nothing to do New Year’s Eve and were searching for a venue. Felipe, head electrician, invited us to attend a new bar opening. We aptly agreed and I rushed home to tell my wife. I probably should have gotten suspicious when I was handed a very detailed map (printed) with small hash marks indicating where a road should be, but wasn’t. The event was to take place on the far side of Aguilas. When we arrived and stepped into the place, lots of middle aged women wearing extraordinarily short skirts and displaying more cleavage than the Grand Canyon rushed toward us, until Karen strolled in behind us. Felipe staggered over with a girl wrapped around each arm. They were singing and very plastered. He

PYRAMID OF GLASSES: Were subsequently filled with bubbly.

approached me and slapped me on the back of my head, and said in Spanish, “you stupid or what? You don’t bring your wife to a putey club!” I mumbled a rude reply but it was all lost in the merriment. Farmer types stumbled in, wandered over to our table and just grabbed Karen by the arm to pull her to the dance floor. But I wasn’t permitting any of that. Nor did Felipe. He became very irate, ecstatic tearing a strip off the intruders. We all sat in the corner and watched the shenanigans unfurl. It was rough. Just what you’d expect in a wild west bar 200 years ago. Lots of girls screaming when touched inappropriately, but culprits were forgiven instantaneously and all carried on as before. We ordered lots of drinks and talked amongst ourselves. I felt sincerely relieved as I don’t think the wife caught on to the actual situation. She presumed people were like that on the far side of Aguilas. As the clocked ticked down to

midnight Felipe asked permission to dance with Karen. I granted it and he did so on top of our table. When the song finished he filled the table with Champagne glasses, the Maria Antoinette type, building a pyramid. When it was almost a metre high he gestured for bubbly (cava) to be brought to him by the dozen. He started pouring from the top. Like magic, it flowed slowly down the contours of the glass, over the rim and down the stem to the next recipient. I immediately loved Spain. Damn it was different with lots of hidden secrets. On the way home we thought we had met our match as every five kms there were Guardia in their traditional tricorn hats with long full length cloaks. They stopped us religiously and enquired if we had been drinking. We said no and then they either waved us on or asked if we had anything like brandy we could give them to keep them warm. It all made sense to me.

Advertising feature

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GLOBELINK have been providing specialist travel insurance policies for many years and offer a unique combination of personal service, sensible cover and security including a 24-hour multilingual emergency service. This enables you to relax and enjoy your holiday with the comfort of knowing that you will be looked after by experts if things go wrong. Travel insurance cover used to be a problem for Brits living in Spain. Most UK insurers will only offer cover if you live in UK, and Spanish insurers provide very restricted cover at an enormous premium. That’s all changed. Globelink International is a UK based travel insurance specialist, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority and approved by EU Regulators.

Globelink have become the leading provider of annual multi-trip policies and also single trip cover for people living in all EU countries. The policy is written in English and the premiums are the same irrespective of which country you live in. It is not necessary for you to have formal residential documents. In view of recent events, we believe that our clients should be insured for emergency medical expenses and repatriation should they be injured as a result of a terrorist attack, and our underwriters have agreed to include this cover. Cover for many pre-existing medical conditions are included, others may require you to make a quick telephone call to ensure you will be insured in the event of a reoccurrence, or in case it causes you to cancel a pre-booked holiday. If you have a pre-existing medical condition you can either accept that the policy will not cover you for claims related to that particular condition, or you can speak

GLOBELINK: The leading provider of multi-trip policies. to Globelink’s Medical Screening Service who may or may not agree to include additional cover for an extra premium, depending upon their assessment. Most hazardous activities are covered as standard and higher risk activities can often be included for an extra charge.

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OPINION & COMMENT

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What is the key to keeping your New Year’s resolutions? Ignore them! A LIST of ideas that should be smashed to smithereens and avoided at all costs Nora Johnson

5. Product placement on TV, in books. (Oops. In one novel in my own thriller series, one cigarette brand is named, I don’t smoke. Honestly!) 6. Slebs. All those sanctimonious ‘celebrities’, who tell us how to run our lives whilst failing to realise just how dysfunctional their own are. 7. Spam. Got spammed by a message purporting to be anti-spam but which came from a site advertising, yes you guessed it, Viagra, fake Rolexes. So please, anti-spam software that works. Just get it done. 8. Wish lists that are never, ahem, fulfilled. Ah, well, there’s always next year’s … it’s being so cheerful that keeps me going! Happy New Year!

Breaking Views Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/3.0.15/nora-johnson

I LOVE lists. Especially lists in alphabetical order. In fact, I love them so much I’ll share with you my latest for 2016. About New Year’s resolutions that should be smashed to smithereens, and what you should avoid at all costs. 1. Cookery shows on TV. Cook a gourmet meal in 30 minutes? Well, with superb knife skills, zillions of exotic ingredients and a professional kitchen/chef at your disposal. Simples! 2. Kids’ carol concerts. Maybe I’m in a minority but I can’t stand carol concerts with five-year-olds singing tunelessly and one little brat taking over as if auditioning for the X Factor. 3. Loudmouths. Who immediately comes to mind? Trumpeting his own

LISTS: I love them, especially in alphabetical order. loudmouth? Well, Donald Trump, naturally. Not to mention his ego, enough of that to make topless calendar boy Vladimir Putin look self-effacing. Talk about dumping Trump from the UK, how about some others, too? Like

Jean-Claude Juncker, who’s forever pontificating to Brits how they should run their country, when he’s made such a shambles of running the EU. Who would you ban? Feel free to add your own names either online un-

der this piece, or in the newspaper. 4. Piped muzak in stores, especially Christmas jingles. Stores spend millions on what customers see but zilch on what they hear. Poor assistants have to endure it all year long.

Nora Johnson’s thrillers ‘Landscape of Lies’, ‘Retribution’, ‘Soul Stealer’, ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora-johnson.com) available from Amazon in paperback/eBook (€0.89;£0.79) and iBookstore. All profits to Cudeca charity.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

It’s time for my last grump of the year Mike Senker

In my opinion Views of a Grumpy Old Man WELL that’s Christmas out the way and you already know my feelings about that so obviously my last grump of the year has to be about New Year’s Eve. When I was younger, much younger, it was OK to go out with the wife and a few friends to celebrate. (Yeah I know, smart ass, I do have some!) To be honest it used to be fun but as I’ve got older it’s just another day. If you actually want to go out to a restaurant you have to be prepared to get a second mortgage, because for some reason most places find it necessary to charge ludicrously high prices for extremely average food. I remember a couple of years ago we went to a local four-star hotel for New Year’s Eve and, as is usual these days, we had to pay up front and choose our menu in full in advance. Now, when you are a bit grumpy like me

this gives you nowhere to go when, after ordering what you want, you find that they have changed the menu and the dish you ordered was no longer being served! Of course, I was just about to have a ruck but Mrs S said to leave it so as it was New Year’s Eve I just had a mini moan to the waiter who just said sorry but couldn’t offer a reason for the change. At the end of the meal we were meant to have a plate of cheese and biscuits which turned out to be a slice of sweaty cheddar and three Ritz crackers. By this time my red knickers were really chaffing and I’d had enough. The 12 grapes were all spotty brown with pips in. The flashing fairy lights all around the room were giving me a migraine. Midnight came and everyone ran around kissing each other which, at any other time of the year, would be seriously frowned upon and would finish up in a mega punch up. Everyone then sat there on their mobile phones shouting, “I can’t hear you, you’re breaking up. Happy New ... what? You’re breaking up …. Year.” And that was it, another New Year’s Eve out the way. Happy New Year everyone – I’m staying at home this year.

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OPINION & COMMENT

LEGALLY SPEAKING

N332 team alert of potential scam AS part of a new series, we answer some common driving questions, kindly provided by members of the Guardia Civil based in Torrevieja, Costa Blanca, who set up the N332 website and Facebook page to help break down barriers.

ADVICE: Check around your vehicle before you enter it. A WARNING has been issued regarding a new scam warning that is being spread through social networks around the globe. The instigator of the scam places a cash note on the windscreen of the car, affixed by the windscreen wipers. The idea is that once inside the vehicle, the driver will see the note and, thinking that their luck has just come in, exit the car in order to retrieve the money. At this point, with the engine still running, the scammer would rush into the vehicle and drive off, leaving the victim holding a note, which is actually a fake. Although there are currently no reported cases of this happening in Spain, it is only a matter of time before somebody attempts it, and succeeds. The advice is always to check around the

vehicle before you enter it, not only looking for things placed on your windscreen or back window, but also checking for obvious damage and that your tyres are inflated. It is highly unlikely that anybody would leave money for you in this way, so if you do see such an occurrence, don’t build your hopes up and stay alert. E-Book Don’t forget the E-book ‘The New Rules of the Road’ is still available which details some of the changes to traffic laws in Spain, some already implemented and some due in the near future. It can be downloaded via www.n332.es/ebook/ with all proceeds going to the Elche Children’s Home based on the Costa Blanca.

For more news and articles visit www.n332.es or search N332 on Facebook.

Can the President act alone? Q. At our AGM in January an item on the Agenda was eventually withdrawn by the President after a debate with every speaker opposed to what he wanted to do. Coming forward to August, the very same Agenda item has been If the action included the spending of substantial Community funds or if it altered elements of the Community property, the President should have called an extraordinary general meeting to seek authorisation. However, there are many minor actions that lie within

implemented. Other than a health or safety issue, is this in order, or should there have been a special general meeting to discuss the merit of the issue again?

David Searl You and the Law in Spain

the President’s power to act on his own accord, even if they are not immediate issues of health or safety.

R.D. (Mallorca) We observe that the item was never put to a vote, so the members cannot say they denied it officially, even though they spoke against it. An opponent with his wits about him should have called for a vote on the Agenda item at the time. That would have made it official.

Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana & Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

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Motoring shorts

PIVE extends helping hand EVEN though the financial crisis has been consigned to the car industry’s ‘Book of bad memories’, the Spanish government has decided to extend subsidies via the PIVE scheme. Despite November’s car sales figures indicating a 20 per cent rise year on year, the powers that be have prolonged the ‘pay for scrappage system’ again to PIVE No. 9. Regardless of the fact that the government held manufacturers’ hands through the scary times while announcing that PIVE 7, and subsequently No. 8 would be ‘the last one’, the latest promised injection of €225 million came just before the General Election on December 20. However, the government has also said that once the funds – that theoretically won’t be available until July 2016 – run out, this will mark the end of the scheme. Again!

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Clarkson Quote of theWeek

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This [Ferrari F60 Enzo] isn’t just uncool, it’s seriously uncool. Think of it this way, if you walk into the bathroom and see a man standing suspiciously close to the urinal, he probably owns one of them.”

Some might say...

Zero hour THE engine is dead… Long live the motor! By Steve Walsh THE jury is out and the future of motoring has been decided; the internal combustion engine has been found guilty of pollution and has been given its execution date… 2050. Following the COP21 conference this month, the UK, as well as many other countries, has reaffirmed its commitment to an agreement that all new cars sold by 2050 will be zero emissions vehicles, and it’s likely only a matter of time until everyone else follows suit. The ZEV Alliance has already received the signatures of five countries including Germany, the Netherlands and Norway, as well as eight US states, who have pledged to kill off the

car as we know it and continue to support zero emissions’ technology while promoting the clean-up of vehicle-produced pollutants. By signing the agreement, the government has effectively signed the death warrant for petrol and diesel driven cars, and agreed to strive for all passenger vehicle sales in the UK to be zero emissions vehicles as soon as possible, with the 2050 date being the final deadline. ZEV Alliance members also have to provide incentives to purchase zero emissions vehicles, and use policies such as tax breaks and government grants to promote cars producing no emissions. That means cheaper vehicles! Like with any transition,

moving from cars with engines to transport with motors will be in stages. Today’s hybrids will be seen in the future as our first steps to that end. Although hydrogen power-plants are coming to the fore with Toyota and Honda investing heavily in development, battery electric hybrids look imminent to be taking over the roads. So with that in mind, which are the best hybrid cars you can buy today? Toyota Yaris Hybrid: Boasting 60mpg and 75g/km of CO2 emissions, the super-

mini has running costs to match its diminutive size, and a price to match. At around €17,000 new, a two-year-old Yaris can be bought for as little as €11,000. Toyota Auris Hybrid: Big brother of the Yaris, the 1.8-litre petrol hybrid achieves 78.5mpg and emits only 79g/km of CO2. Approximately €22,000 new, a two-year-old might be found for €16,000 Lexus IS300h: The near-silent electric-only is ideal for zipping around

CLASS ACT: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Hybrid. town, and its 67.3mpg at a mere 97g/km of CO2 doesn’t break the bank to run. The IS300h SE being the best edition starts at £29,000 in the UK (€40,000) Mercedes-Benz C-Class Hybrid: The rain-sensing wipers, reversing camera, climate and cruise control, plus a plethora of other toys as standard makes the Mercedes a class act and always a quality choice. Starting at £36,765 (€50,000) in UK.

Over 50s insurance renewals rip-off A PROBLEM regarding older drivers being taken advantage of by insurers that was brought to light by the TV star Shelia Hancock earlier in the year, appears not only to be true, but more serious than first believed. An investigation by thisismoney.co.uk has discovered that older drivers and homeowners are

systematically being fooled into unnecessarily paying hundreds of pounds every year in premiums by the very same specialist insurers who claim to be offering them ‘bargain deals for senior drivers’. It would appear that these companies routinely bump up premiums when the over-50s’ annual poli-

cies end, banking on the premise that older customers are less likely to shop around for a new deal and are likely to be more trusting. They say that many will not appreciate that their premiums have rocketed and blindly accept the renewal policy offered.

MOTORING

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almeria

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A classic investment BUYING a classic car can make you money WHILE some invest their time and money in the financial markets, and others in bricks and mortar, there are those amongst us that would like to see our money put to a more practical and enjoyable use. Buying a classic car can be a sound long-term investment, and if common sense is used and a few key rules are adhered to, collectible vehicles can provide a better yield than art, wine, coins or jewellery. In addition, there is the fun factor. I can’t ever remember anybody telling me they’d been stopped in the street and told: “Wow! That’s a beautiful bottle of wine,” or they had just had a wonderful experience, racing through the country lanes, wind in their hair, listening to the burble of their V8 oil painting. However, an investment is exactly that, an investment, and great care should be taken in buying the right car. If you let your heart rule your head when choosing, you

could well lose money in repairs and restoration. To avoid the ‘money pit motors’, and to ensure you have the best chance of a return on your investment, it’s best to stick to the popular marks, and even then only the best spec and condition on offer. For example: the market (and people with money to buy) for a pristine top spec Jaguar XJS Convertible in 10 years’ time will be far greater than the many tempting cheap rusty old ‘do’er up-ers’ that will be available. If you were to pay €15,000 for that pristine Convertible now, you’re likely to have 10 years of happy classic motoring every weekend and probably make €5,000 when you sell it with a smile on your face. Alternatively, buying an average Coupe with cloth seats and no history that needs ‘a little catching up’ for a bargain €8,000, then spending €4,000

repairing bits as they break, and getting everything perfect and running right (meaning you can’t use it a lot of the time). Then in 10 years when you sell, you would be selling a pristine average spec Coupe without history in a market of hundreds the same… You would be lucky to get your €12,000 back. In essence, the cream always rises to the top. Given the option of driving around in a beautiful and perfect XJS Convertible for 10 years and being paid €5,000 to do so, for me, is a far better option to 10 years of car trouble for no reward. The only hurdle in this principle would be the initial cost. But if you don’t have the €15,000 for that pristine top of the range 40-year-old Jag, don’t settle for second best… buy a pristine top of the range 20-year-old XK8. Just as much fun, and everything becomes classic one day!

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SPORT

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Costa de Almería

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Saints ‘alive’ as The 19th Leicester stay Hole Golf top of the league Society HARRY KANE sets new Tottenham record Tony Matthews International Sports A former player and now the world’s most prolific author of football books with almost 150 published since 1975, Tony is also the sports correspondent for Spectrum Radio and lives on La Pilica in the Sierra Cabrera Mountains overlooking Turre. Costa de Almeria

AS all sports-minded people know the annual Christmas/New Year period is packed full of action with events all over the country. This recent one has been no different to any other, and we haven’t finished yet… In fact who knows what happened earlier this week – we could have seen more managers lose their jobs, some sensational results, a few personal achievements and without doubt, many disappointments. FOOTBALL – On Boxing Day, leaders Leicester City lost away for the first time this season, beaten 1-0 at Liverpool, Arsenal missed the chance to go top when they crashed 4-0 at Southampton, Manchester United lost 2-0 at Stoke, their fourth defeat in a row (the first time this has happened since 1961). Everton netted a dramatic late winner at Newcastle (10), Manchester City eased past struggling Sunderland 4-1, Swansea got back to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over inconsistent WBA, Spurs defeated Norwich 3-0 with Harry Kane striking his 26th and 27th goals of 2015, thus beating Teddy Sheringham’s previous club record by one, Watford battled hard and long to earn a point at Chelsea (2-2), bottom of the table Aston Villa were held 1-1 by West Ham and Bournemouth played out a 0-0 home draw with Crystal Palace. In the Championship, leaders Derby County ac-

counted for Fulham 2-0, Hull City comfortably beat Burnley 3-0, and Brighton drew 0-0 at Brentford. Ipswich and Sheffield Wednesday kept in touch with the top six by beating QPR 2-1 and Birmingham 3-0 respectively. Bottom club Bolton lost again, this time 4-0 at Rotherham In League One, with Burton’s game postponed, Walsall (1-0 at Millwall) and Coventry City (1-0 vs Port Vale) continue to lead the way while in League Two there were wins for the top two, Oxford 3-0 v Exeter and Plymouth 1-0 v Yeovil. North of the border, Aberdeen could have gone top of the SPL but were held 2-2 at home by Inverness CT. Over the New Year, all 20 PL clubs are in action, the fixtures being LeicesterBournemouth, ArsenalNewcastle, Watford-Manchester City, West Ham-Liverpool, Crystal Palace-Chelsea, Manchester United-Swansea, EvertonSpurs, Norwich-Southampton, WBA-Stoke and a real six-pointer at the bottom between Sunderland and Aston Villa. It’s Burnley-Ipswich, Middlesbrough-Derby and QPR-Hull in the Championship, while Coventry visit Crewe and Plymouth have to go 385 miles north to play Carlisle (somewhere). GENERAL ROUND-UP • My tip Cue Card (9-2) won the King George V Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day. • England, 303 all out with Nick Compton 85, James Taylor 70 and Jonny Bairstow 41 top-scoring, had South Africa on 137-4 in the early stages of the first Test in Durban. • Exeter Chiefs beat Sale 3317 to go top of Rugby’s Aviva PL and Ospreys scored late to win the Welsh derby 27-26 against Scarlets.

SAD NEWS Former 1950s Wolves centre-forward Roy Swinbourne died on December 27 in a Kidderminster nursing home, aged 86. The scorer of 114 goals in 230 appearances, he gained a League championship winner ’s medal with the Molineux club in 1954. MY NEW YEAR’S ALMANAC FOR 2016 (tongue in cheek but you never know) • Jamie Vardy to leave Leicester City for Manchester City or even United! • Van Gaal to be replaced as manager at Old Trafford by Jose Mourinho – or will Pep Guardiola or even Ryan Giggs take charge! • Alan Pardew to become England’s head coach, despite Roy Hodgson and his team having an excellent Euro 2016 Championship in France. • Aston Villa to register the lowest ever PL seasonal points tally which currently stands at 11, achieved by Derby County in 2007-08. • Arsenal and Manchester City to reach the Champions League final. • GB to collect 50 medals at the Rio Olympics. • Lewis Hamilton/Mercedes to become F1 world driving champion again. • Rank outsiders to win three of golf’s majors. • Another ‘unknown’ wins the World snooker crown. • A teenage Filipino rides to glory in the Tour de France. • The Aintree Grand National goes to a 100-1 shot – the first since Foinavon in 1967. • Andy Murray to win three G ra nd Sla m te nnis title s , Djorkovic claims just one. • And England’s cricketers win three Test series against South Africa, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. And with all that, I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous 2016.

WEDNESDAY December 23, in gloomy misty, cold conditions a depleted number of 19th Holers arrived at Lorca Golf resort to play a Christmas Two Division Three Club Challenge. Most wore Christmas themed clothing to add the Christmas spirit to the competition. Gary Grey easily won the themed dress competition by wearing a selfdecorated hat complete with Rudolph and Santa and a Christmas jumper with flashing Christmas lights. In Division One, Brian (Dee) Lowden was unstoppable, scoring 35 points to easily take the win from Tony Mackay on 33 points. Tony’s trick shot on the 15th was definitely divine intervention, his short low approach shot to the green hit the now dry ‘moat’ area bounced 20 metres in the air landed on the wooden sleepers supporting the green, again took off and landed one metre from the hole. He spent the next two holes searching the sky for Father Christmas and Rudolph. Chrissie Dow just crept home the winner with 34 points in Division two, from Mike Palmer on 33 points. Full Results: Division One 1st, Brian Lowden, 35 points (21) 2nd, Tony Mackay, 33 points (22) Division Two 1st, Chrissie Dow, 34 points (35) 2nd, Mike Palmer, 33 points (28) Nearest the Pin 4th, Graham Ablett. 8th and 10th, Brian Lowden. Twos 4th, Tony Mackay. 12th, Chrissie Dow. The 19th Hole Golf Society arranges weekly games around the area playing Aguilon every other week. For more information ring 610 340 653 or email gs19thhole@hotmail.co.uk.

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The Los Amigos Drawn Triples CABRERA Lawn Bowling Club hosted the Los Amigos Drawn Triples Knockout Competition which is sponsored every year by Los Amigos Bar and Restaurant on Mojacar Playa. The competition was played from December 10-13. As the name suggests you are not allowed to pick who you play with, but the names are drawn so you could be playing with someone you are not used to playing with. There were some very fiercely fought rounds, none more so than the semi-finals where you had a husband and wife playing against each other in both of the semis. The final was Brian Firth, Sue Sephton and Steve Townsend, against Peter Marriott, Alan Saunders and Janet Jackson. The winners were the team with the most shots after 18 ends. It was definitely a final of two halves but Peter’s team fought to the very end and were deserved winners. Many congratulations to Peter, Alan and Janet and commiserations to Brian, Sue and Steve.

Veterans defy their years THE Indalo Bowling Club Veteran Singles competition attracted an entry of 35 energetic over 68-year-olds, which says a lot for the benefits of the gentle exercise of bowling. Quite a few of the competitors were over 70 and they looked highly capable of coping with the 21 shots needed to win a match. An occasional malfunctioning hearing aid but not a walking stick in sight! The competition was fiercely contested where one of the highlights was Helen Horton who, against the odds, reached the quarter finals where she played her husband David (President of the club). After a good start David was totally outplayed by Helen who won 21 4, much to the delight of the watching crowd who appreciated her good play under pressure. The semi-finals were contested by stalwarts

of the club John Dedman, against John Mannall. John Dedman had ‘one of those days’ and lost 21 - 4, and Helen put up a good fight but eventually lost to the experience of Mo de Boer 21 - 9. The final was a very close match-up on paper and John started off very well but Mo crept back end by end from being 9 - 14 down to win the match 21 - 15, with some really steady and clever play. The trophy was presented by Dave Ebdon, Club Captain, who said it had been a really enjoyable match to watch for the spectators even though the weather was a bit nippier than usual. Celebration drinks followed to warm a few aching joints! Visit www.indalobowlingclub.org to find out more about the club.

E W N Costa de Almería

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

ENGLAND CRICKET: All out for 303 against South Africa in the first test in Durban. Costa Blanca’s best guide to local sport

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Superb scoring at Forum Golf

SOCIETY held the Prize Scramble FORUM Golf Society’s final event of 2015 was as always at this time of year a Prize Team Scramble, with prizes for every one of the 36 competitors who took part in the event at Aguilon on December 18. Perfect golfing weather and a course in pristine condition combined to produce some stunning results, with the first five teams all returning net

scores under 60. The best of the bunch being a superb 56.4 from the winning team of Andy Birch, John Stone, Graham Spalding and John Smith. Geoff Hebb, Brian Gyer, Max Gonzalez and Pat Garrigan (57.3) were second, Phil Elam, Bob Vincent, Fran Elam and Sandra Vincent (57.4) third. Jim Barclay, Graham Tabberer, Bill Gibb and Kevin Manser (57.6) fourth, and

Adrian Foster, Keith Ryder, Malcolm Sibbons and Kevin Bircher (58.0) fifth. This was also the final qualifying competition for Forum’s Winter League, which was won by Douglas Dickson, Final top five players were: Douglas Dickson 65 points, Ron Wileman 61 points, Malcolm Tilley 53 points, John Smith 52 points and Brian Gyer 51 points.

FINAL QUALIFYING: Competition for the Forum’s Winter League.