The Inland Magazine Feb 2010

G RATIS - F RE E TM

ME N S UA L - M O N TH LY - FEBRERO - FEBRUARY 2 0 1 0

Angela Holst (Espa単ol) 622 792 563

Costa Blanca

FEBRUARY COVER

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PHOTOGRAPH Graham Brockbank Cocentaina, Alicante tel: 697 524 564 gkbfoto@hotmail.com

Inland and Coastal

Distributing to more than 125 Towns & Villages Distribuimos en más de 125 pueblos.

PÓNGASE EN CONTACTO CONTACT US

Welcome to the 63rd edition of The Inland Magazine.

In line with our continued expansion, this month we would like to welcome to the magazine our new representative Adrian David. Adrian joins the team at Tim magazine as our sales and distribution agent for Mazarron, Cehegin and all the places in-between, if you want to get your business seen in more areas and by more readers than with any other magazine then please feel free to contact Adrian on 687 888 033 or email Adrian.theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk to discuss your advertising requirements.

TIM THE ORIGINAL INLAND MAGAZINE SINCE 2004 TO ADVERTISE Contact one of our sales representatives listed below...

Last months competition winners were Mrs J Pughe of Almoradi who found Bully hiding on page 11 on the Assinetm advert, and the winner of the book competition was Mrs S Taylor of Hondon Nievies so our congratulations to both of our lucky winners.

Nickie (Alicante region)

Our re worked property rentals web site will be fully operational and up and running by February 3rd. For a limited time TIM readers will be able to place their rental property on the website for 1 year, FREE of charge! So, keep an eye on www.europeanpropertyrentals.eu and get your property rental on there and get 1 year of advertising free.

606 891 644 theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk

Don’t forget if you have a business, you can now place your business FREE of charge in our on line directory at www.timspain.com You can now also place your for sale items inc photos in our classifieds section Free of charge up to 500 euros at www.timspain.com or simply join in on our Forums at www.timspain.com go on, don’t delay join today!

John Chandler (Murcia region)

ickie

N Regards

620 042 601 john.theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk

Adrian David ( Mazarron & Cehigen ) 687 888 033 adrian.theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk

OR YOU CAN CALL:

Richard: 638 026 230 (Alicante Region) Dennis: 617 843 028 Orihuela Costa Angela Holst: 622 792 563 (Español) angela.theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.timspain.com E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk Our Bank Transfer Number: 2090 0038 0300 8400 2540 or write to T.I.M. Apartado de Correos 285 03630 SAX (Alicante)

DISCLAIMER TIM is an independently published magazine and cannot accept any responsibility for claims or advice given in articles or advertisements and reserves the right to withdraw or alter material without notice. It is advisable for the reader to check information prior to acting on it.

La revista T.I.M no se hace responsable de los errores cometidos o de las ideas u opiniones expresadas por los colaboradores o anunciantes.

Mientras tengamos un cuidado razonable, los publicistas no tendremos culpa ninguna por insatisfactoria que resulte cualquier transacción realizada atravez de la revista.

Saga Louts In Benidorm Aromatic Plants For The Garden Motoring TIM Blog Dream Team Route 66 Going Out Restaurant Review Interview with Steve Norman Photography Horoscopes Book Reviews Hondon Valley Golf Society Bargain Adverts

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FECHA TOPE PARA ANUNCIAR ES EL DÍA 20 Deposito Legal: A-1065-2004

RENUNCIA

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What’s Inside

ADVERT DEADLINE 20th NB: The Inland Magazine™ is a registered trade mark. Nº .2.665.866. No part of this publication wholly or in part can be reproduced or copied for any other publication with out prior consent, to do so may result in legal action being taken.

ALL THE ADVERTS designed by The Inland Magazine for use in its publication remains the property of The Inland Magazine and may NOT be reproduced in any other publication with out our prior consent.

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The Inland Magazine™

SAGA LOUTS IN BENIDORM

As you approach along the motorway, the skyscrapers stand proud making you think you are approaching a major city. It reminded me of Chicago. You exit the motorway and yes, some of the buildings are ugly whilst others are more impressive. However, what strikes you is - it is not oppressive. The sun does beam down on the wide boulevards; it is clean and relatively easy to move around the town, which comes across as spacious and inviting.

For many Benidorm instantly conjures up an image of beaches, Brits, and boozing. But it really deserves a much broader image based on the fact it is rather iconic in its own right.

I arrived on a fiesta day so it was heaving with people having a good time, soaking up the December sun whether they were promenading or actually enjoying the long since forgotten hard fought privilege of wearing a bikini and enjoying the beach.

Words and photos by Rob Innis

April 1st 2008 has a rather special reason to claim a place in Spanish history. Why? Because Pedro Zaragoza Orts, died on that date, after spending most of his life establishing Benidorm as one of the world’s tourist capitals.

It was his vision and determination to establish Benidorm as a leader in the mass tourism that we know today. His endeavours began in the early 1950s to attract German and Scandinavian visitors to sample Spanish sun and beaches in his small village. He had to take on the church that were appalled at semi naked bodies soaking up the sun and threatened to excommunicate him. He took the issue to the very top by riding his Vespa all the way to Madrid for an audience with Franco. Who, recognising the financial and commercial opportunities from mass tourism, backed Orts radical plans. The bikini was allowed and in a further show of support Francos wife visited Benidorm.

Orts knew water was key to the success of his grand plans and so arranged for a mains water supply to be piped into Benidorm. He also established an architectural strategy to build vertically so that as many visitors as possible could enjoy beachfront hotels with front line views. He must have been surprised how successful that strategy became given the millions of annual tourists. There are now over 300 skyscrapers reaching up into the Benidorm sky, one of the highest densities in Europe.

He continued to market Benidorm in all sorts of innovative and even outrageous ways. Exploiting every opportunity to put his growing town onto the map and encourage more holidaymakers. The British market became one of his biggest and Alicante airport started to grow from its humble opening in 1967 to over 1 million passengers a year in 1970. Many of whom were on their way north to Benidorm.

So how is the place faring during our current crisis? I recently took a short visit, my first, to see for myself. Many people had commented the old town was ‘worth a visit’ and that was my plan. However, over a short space of time, it became evident that Benidorm really deserved more than just a quick look at the old town.

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Given the sheer volume of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops all competing for your euros the next thing that occurs to you is how cheap it is compared to other holiday towns up and down the coast.

Sure, some of the places are tacky but others are clean, comfortable, attractively decorated and offering food and entertainment in pleasant surroundings.

The old town was not exactly what I had expected. Yes the typically Spanish narrow cobbled streets are quaint and in complete contrast to newer developments. Unfortunately, many bars and shops are British and frankly looked nothing short of squalid. However, in all fairness, currently money must be tight for owners to maintain high standards of decoration and maintenance. With low prices, profit margins must be miniscule. Survival is obviously the name of the game.

My sidekick for the trip knew of a good tapas bar and my faith in him was well placed, excellent tapas at very sensible prices, perfect for a Spanish lunch.

It is a myth to assume that the Spanish do not also enjoy Benidorm’s delights. My Spanish family, amongst thousands of other Spaniards, love its fantastic beaches and never-ending choices for dining and live entertainment and so prefer a few days in Benidorm to other more southerly options.

Pedro Orts would doubtless be pleased with the current Benidorm mayor’s campaigns to bring both the AVE high-speed train and cruise ships to Benidorm. Both very audacious projects and doubtless making Orts smile in his grave.

After a relaxing afternoon watching the world pass by it was back to the hotel for some rest and relaxation before checking out the Benidorm nightlife.

Next Month: ‘Going Bonkers in Benidorm’ Do not miss it - as the pace hots up and we see Benidorm’s most unbelievable live acts.

My thanks go to TJ Miles (check him out on the TIM blog, he is one of our Dream Team) for sharing his Benidorm knowledge.

More photos: http://picasaweb.google.es/Robi1305

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The Inland Magazine™

Aromatic Plants for the Garden

LAVENDER

by Barbara Barton I think Lavender must rate as one of my top 3 or 4 aromatic plants. I just love the scent and the flowers are so delicate and pretty and it gives a delightful cottagegarden look in the landscape. A feast for the eyes and a delight for the senses There are 25-30 varieties of this popular shrub and there is even a Spanish Lavender, sometimes also called French Lavender, characterised by little tufts at the top of the flower spike.

Cultivated from ancient times for its refreshing perfume it has both medicinal and cosmetic uses. Smoothing lavender oil into the temples is supposed to be very relaxing and a good remedy for tension headaches; massaged into aching muscles (after gardening maybe), the oil eases stiffness.

Its perfume is so popular you will find it in everything from toiletries to fabric conditioner, and in the garden butterflies and bees seem inextricably drawn to it. In France they grow huge fields of lavender for the perfume trade and anyone visiting Provence must have come across the famous lavender scented honey.

Lavender is a really successful plant to grow in Spain. It is totally drought hardy and just loves hot sunny conditions, in fact some gardeners will tell you to plant it in the driest area you have, in full sun and then ignore it! However, it will flower better if given a weekly watering through our hot summer months The foliage is silvery-green with a fine texture, making it an excellent choice to blend with other plants in a mixed border.

It is equally good grown as a hedge or edging, perhaps lining a driveway. It has an upright, bushy growth habit and is usually as wide as it is tall.

Plant in a hole with a little compost and put some grit in the bottom to help with drainage as they do not like to sit with their roots in water and then keep them moist until established.

Cut off the flower spikes as the fade 4

and this will encourage more blooms to appear Very little pruning is needed to keep lavender looking good, at the end of the growing season after they finish flowering just cut back to tidy and reshape but do not cut into the old wood.

You might like to harvest the flowers as they are coming into bloom and then use to make your own pot pourri, just bring in a few blooms and place in a bowl to enjoy the fragrance. I put a little bunch in a muslin bag and hang it from the bed post, it’s said that the fragrance will relax and aid sleep. I don’t actually have a problem sleeping – I can sleep standing up - but I just love the smell!

My recipe is one given to me by a friend from England. She has lots of lavender in her garden and makes these delicious little biscuits.

Ann’s Lavender Shortbreads Ingredients: 3-4 leafy sprigs of lavender (no flowers) 175g butter 75g caster sugar 225g plain flour A little extra caster sugar for dusting Method: Strip the leaves from the lavender and chop very finely or blitz in a food processor with 25g of the sugar Blend the butter and sugar until soft; add the flour and lavender and mix to form firm dough Roll the dough into a sausage shape about 2 inches thick, wrap in foil and place in the fridge for an hour until firm Remove foil and slice into ¼ in rounds.

Bake on a greased baking tray for 8-10 minutes at 190c Dust with the extra sugar

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The Inland Magazine™

H E A LT H FITNESS &

by Chris Haney

Hale & Hearty Your heart is muscle, and like other muscles, it benefits from being exercised. What makes it especially important that you keep your heart fit and healthy is that it is the pump that keeps the oxygen supply to the rest of your body going.

Aerobic exercises are those which are specifically designed to promote the fitness and efficiency of your heart so that for the effort it makes your body obtains the maximum benefit.

These are some of the steps you should take to assess safely how fit your heart is before you consider starting a new fitness programme.

Remember to warm up first whenever you do exercise The process of training involves your body adapting, recovering and progressing to develop your stamina.

To obtain the most benefit from a fitness programme you need to combine exercises for your heart with those to improve your muscle strength and flexibility.

After a time, you will build up your ability to work your heart harder and longer. You will be able to make use of increased production of blood lactate which comes with aerobic exercise.

What this means to you Running for the bus won’t leave you red in the face and breathless for the whole journey home!!

Looking after your heart, at any age, gives you a better chance of living life fuller and for longer.

Taking the right exercise to gain and maintain aerobic exercise is a great way to feel good and have fun.

Chris Haney is your local Personal Trainer based at Esport gym in Hondon de los Frailes, and if you need any further advice on fitness and health related matters please contact him on 679 008 021

What aerobic exercise can do for your stamina Your heart will expand and become better at pumping oxygen round.

It will be able to pump more and more strongly.

Compared to how your muscles used oxygen before you began to exercise, there will be an improvement in the effiency of how they use oxygen as energy.

When you have taken regular aerobic exercise for a while, you will find that you will recover (your pulse rate and heart beat will return to normal) more quickly when you stop exercising.

The changes you notice will be most dramatic during the early stages of your training. As you increase in fitness, they may become less dramatic but will be easier to sustain.

Whatever your age you can benefit from taking steps to keep your heart in condition. Cardiovascular efficiency can be maintained and increased with regular training. Even deep breathing exercises can be effective in keeping your lung capacity in good shape.

The veins, ateries and lungs that make up your vascular system also gain from regular cardiovascular work to make more efficient transport system for the oxygen in your blood.

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Costa Blanca

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The Inland Magazine™

MOTORING

by Paul Lock

Hi again and welcome to the February motoring column. As again, like every year, this is the best year of the month, because I get a sackfull of cards and gifts on the 14th, and another on the 19th. Well, a few anyway, but I live in hope as I have done for many years of sitting by the letter box, waiting!!

Anyway onto some car bits. One of my favourite car brands reaches its 200th birthday this year. Peugeot was born 200 years ago, before the Battle of Waterloo and the births of Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens. Hard to believe really, but they started by producing household goods, like sewing machines and coffee grinders. Some of my fellow mechanics might say that maybe they should have stuck to this, after working on some earlier models!! Their entry into the car business came after progressing from umbrella frames, saw blades, wire wheels and bicycles. So when the Peugeot family met the Daimler family, they decided to go into the Auto industry and first came a steam powered 3 wheeler in 1890 which travelled from Paris to Lyons. After this they began to produce Daimler petrol engines under licence, delivering 5 cars in 1891, 29 in 1892, 72 in 1895 and by 1899 the numbers were up to 300 per annum. One early owner was Mr Rolls from Rolls-Royce fame and by 1900; the cars had pneumatic tyres, electric ignition systems and rack and pinion steering. To celebrate the 200th anniversary, Peugeot is moving into the diesel/hybrid market, due in 2011, 2 and 4 wheeled electric vehicles and a re-design of the companies’ lion emblem to celebrate the 200 years. As I wrote last month, Peugeot have designed bullet-proof diesel engines for years, so i’m sure that the new models will be just as reliable.

Those of you who remember the Fiat 500 from years ago will be pleased to hear that Fiat are producing it again. This time there is a slight twist for you macho male drivers that fancy a bit of nostalgia. Fiat has been re-producing the 500 for a few years now, but in different guises and this one is no exception. But, and there always is one, the latest one is called the 500 pink, and is only available in....pink. Based on the 1.2 litre Lounge edition, and comes with a Stop-Start system for town use, a sunroof, leather gear knob and a very twee, pink key fob cover. As well as this, special carpet mats and a black interior are added. The car is, according to Fiat, aimed mainly at young women (I should hope so!) and will also come fitted with a hair-dryer, make up kit and a stereo unit that automatically starts nagging, when a male enters the car! (Sorry girls, just joking with the last 3, but letters to the Editor!!) I reckon it should sell well if aimed at the female market, because a lot of girls like pink cars, but I don’t think ANY males would be seen in one, (imagine the ribbing!). Just one thing though, the car cannot be ordered from the dealers, as they are only available online. For anyone interested, it’s costing £11,700.

MOBILE MOTOR SERVICES PAUL LOCK • servicing and repairs to all makes and models • petrol and diesel • Full English to Spanish re-registration service from ITV/headlight change to spanish plates fitted • auto electrical repairs, vehicle diagnostics and code reading • collection/delivery or mobile service For reliable service call Paul on 679551665

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Just as a final piece of advice for drivers in Spain. The Policia Local has now taken over a lot of the driving law-enforcement in towns, both coastal and inland. Where as the Local Police were seen as glorified traffic wardens by some people, they are now doing more drink-driving stops and taking action against general motoring offences committed.

Here in Sax, they have been entering Expats owner’s business premises to warn of impending action, as the owners have UK registered vehicles, and stopping the vehicles around the town to give the owners 30 days to register the vehicle to Spanish. It seems the Guardias’ Trafico units are patrolling the Autovias and leaving the town vehicle policing to the locals. So be warned!!!

Till next month, drive safely and for any help or advice. You can ring me on 679551665 or email to pablotech2008@yahoo.com. See my ad on this page. Take care Paul Lock

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Costa Blanca

RE-PLATE MATE Don’t take a chance!

Don’t break the law!

Take the hassle out of re-registering your vehicle onto Spanish plates.

For a full, reliable service contact: Alan: Sandra:

662 249 159 664 496 801

We can obtain new & used parts for most vehicles

Refer a friend and save money!

www.replatematecostablanca.com

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The Inland Magazine™

by Rob Innis

The re-launched all new TIM ‘Life in Spain’ blog is now online at http://blogs.timspain.com/ and brings you the very best blogs on Life in Spain. Our team have lived, travelled, worked and played in Spain and they are now blogging for your entertainment and maybe even information – visit now – you won’t be disappointed and feel free to leave a comment or two, they appreciate your feedback.

Nicola Cleasby grew up in the north of England.

After training as an accountant, she spent four years working as a volunteer in Zambia, which left her with a love of the sun and a dislike of 9-5 work. She then spent a number of years mixing travel (whenever possible) with work (whenever necessary) but has now settled down to a life of writing and picking almonds on a remote farm in the mountains of southern Spain. She shares the farm with a husband, three dogs, four cats, a horse, two goats and a handful of chickens.

It is a perfect place to indulge her two great passions, reading and writing. Recently published (as Nina Croft) her new book is entitled ‘Tiger of Talmare’ http://www.ninacroft.com/index.html Ken Douglas was raised in the Scottish Borders, moved to that wonderful cosmopolitan metropolis of Newcastle upon Tyne at six years of age to attend the ‘University of Life.’ Published as Ken Scott he has received great critical acclaim for his first three works of fiction, ‘THE JACK OF HEARTS, and the sequel ‘A MILLION WOULD BE NICE.’ His most recent novel ‘THE SUN WILL STILL SHINE TOMORROW,’ introduces Ashley Clark, a Newcastle born detective drummed out of the force by the PC brigade. He also graces the airwaves and loves to talk football. http:// www.ken-scott.co.uk/index.php

http://blogs.timspain.com 10

Rob Innis came to Spain in 2000 looking for fun and adventure in the sun having escaped the corporate rat race. After 10 years on the Costa Blanca and having had many good and some bad adventures, he is a regular contributor to The Inland Magazine and various other publications. In a moment of complete madness, he took on the challenge of the TIM Blog. He does not own any pets (nor eat mushy peas because he is a southerner) although admits to having always wanted to keep chickens. http:// www.spainrico.com/ TJ Miles is a professional artist and has had his home and studio in Torrevieja for 8 years. He has a nomadic lifestyle but the lure of heady days spent lolling around in the sun and sea finally brought him to his senses, deciding to stay on a more semi-permanent basis. He also runs art classes, exhibitions and writes poetry. What is the art to living in Spain for him? A reasonably stress-free life, a relatively healthy tan on the outside and, hopefully, a sunnier disposition on the inside. Maybe I am just trying to capture some of that youth back and maybe, just maybe, help myself to live a little longer in the process? http://tjmilesart.blogspot.com/ Chris Thompson: male, fifty something, white haired and portly. Born and bred in Yorkshire, moved around a bit and then spent twenty plus years in Cambridgeshire. Liked Spain from the moment he got off the bus in Barcelona some 28 years ago. Upped sticks in late 2004 and drove to Santa Pola in a brown MGB GT co-piloted

by Mary the cat. Currently lives alternately in Culebrón, near Pinoso in Alicante and Cartagena, Murcia with Maggie the teacher and a newer cat called Eduardo. Fighting a losing battle with Spanish. http://lifeinculebron.blogspot.com/

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The Inland Magazine™

SUDOKU

FUN PAGE FUNNY Once upon a time there were two muffins in the microwave. Suddenly, one of the muffins says: “Man it’s hot in here!!!!”

The other muffin exclaims, “Look a talking muffin!!!!”

CROSSWORD ACROSS

1. A flower (7) 5. Reflected sound (4) 8. A rule or regulation (5) 9. dragging or hauling (7) 11. A large book (4) 12. Every two years (8) 15. A negatively charged ion (5) 16. A gnat or small fly (5) 19. A unit of computer storage (8) 21. (4) 23. Relating to the day-time (7) 25. A coral island surrounding a lagoon (5) 26. To give out, vent or discharge (4) 27. A place of residence (7)

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DOWN

2. Of or relating to the stomach (9) 3. Female horse (4) 4. A small towel of paper or linen (6) 5. Snakelike fish (3) 6. A tropical shrub from which a red dye is obtained (5) 7. The largest artery in the body (5) 10. A seed used in soups or stews (6) 13. Skilful or clever (9) 14. A spool on which thread is wound (6) 17. Lacking or showing no emotion (6) 18. A period in which events are completed (5) 20. A phrase or saying (5) 22. Two of a kind (4) 24. A sunken groove (3)

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Over the last couple of weeks you will have noticed that the “TT ON 4 “ channel has gone - this has nothing to do with the viewing cards at all, as a lot of you have been asking, it is due to the channel being withdrawn from the satellite.

For those of you with Sky boxes, you can still get channel 4 on 104 (depending on your area, dish size etc), if not, then in your “other channels” section. If it is not there, you can store it in the following way; Press SERVICES ,4,4 - this takes you to the “ADD

CHANNELS “ menu, then change the frequency setting only to 12480. The other settings should read V, 27.5, 2/3. Go down to “FIND CHANNELS” and select it. You will then see a list of channels in the left hand column.

Highlight “CHANNEL 4 “ with the yellow bar, then press the yellow button once which will put a tick next to it. Then press “SELECT” twice, and “BACK UP “ 3 times. You will now be back on the channel you started from.

and you will see “ CHANNEL 4 “ in there somewhere.

Select it, and this will bring up the channel on the main screen. (You will still need either a freesat card or contract card to watch this channel).

So now to watch CHANNEL 4, press “SERVICES, 7, which takes you to your “OTHER CHANNELS “ menu,

Good Luck!!! Call me if you have any problems.

Regards, Lee

If you do not have a card, then you can store in “CHANNEL4 + 1 instead by following the above procedure, and changing the settings to 10729, V, 22.0, 5/6.

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The Inland Magazine™

Big switch off for Radio Pirates The Spanish government has bowed to pressure from the lobbying by holders of legal radio broadcast licences to shut down the illegal broadcasting by radio pirates.

It is claimed that around 3,000 radio stations are currently broadcasting illegally in Spain with around 350 of the total based in the Valencia region.

The government is setting up a new agency, the State Radio Communications Agency, to deal with this growing problem and they are planning to be in force on June 1st 2010.

FC Chaplins Before the Christmas break FC Chaplin’s were surveying the world around them in 9th position but a fantastic win against 4th placed Clima Beniarda catapulted them into 5th. On a bitterly cold December night Chaplin’s turned up to the match with a bare squad of 11 players, including 2 goalkeepers. With one player being delayed Chaplin’s even had to start the first 10 minutes with just 10 men but this galvanised their performance and they played some of their best football of the entire Season.

They scored some brilliant goals, their striker Sergio ‘Gutti’ Gutierrez giving Clima a torrid time and helping himself to a peach of a goal to put Chaplin’s 2-0 up after just 20 minutes. The referee did his best to get Clima back into the match with a very dodgy penalty but Chaplin’s merely went into overdrive and ran out as 4-2 winners.

The legal operators are concerned that the pirates are not only clogging up the radio frequencies, causing legal broadcasts to be interfered with, but also that they are illegally taking advertising revenue from those who have paid for legal radio licences to broadcast.

The Association of Commercial Radio, AERC, has compiled a list of the pirate stations, which it has supplied to the government to help solve the problem. Many of the pirates are British stations some of whom claim it is no longer possible to obtain a licence as no more are being issued.

So following the ongoing furore over the illegal UK TV broadcasting it now looks likely that many of the local radio stations broadcasting in English will soon be off air. Perhaps they will take to the sea like the pirates of yesteryear. Perhaps they could call themselves ‘Radio Carolina’ to add to the déjà vu.

If you are a business owner currently advertising on illegal radio and you want to consider a change of campaign to a fully legal magazine please contact The Inland Magazine and speak to Nickie on 606 891 644 who will offer you very competitive rates.

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This put Chaplin’s on 13 points and when the League resumed in January Chaplin’s were looking to build on that with what should have been a comfortable win against the Dutch team Oranje AHP/Heartbreak.

Oranje had surprisingly beaten them 6-2 earlier in the Season after Chaplin’s had played an absolute shocker of a game but unfortunately this second encounter was to be no better. The Oranje triumphed with a 3-1 win despite Chaplin’s having dominated for much of the match, but two ridiculously soft goals in the 1st half put them on the back foot and with the Dutch defending so well Chaplin’s just could not recover.

It was indeed ‘Heartbreak’ again for Chaplin’s but they now have a run of matches that should see them take a hatful of points.

A ‘bowler’ hatful, perhaps?

If you would like to keep an eye on FC Chaplin’s please visit their website at www.fcchaplins.com.

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Costa Blanca

www.EUROPEANPROPERTYRENTALS.eu

Advertise your property rental : FREE, limited time offer.

Homeclean Property Management Services was established in Spain some 8 years ago and worked mainly on the coast, from Gran Alacant to the Mar Menor areas. Three years ago they extended their operation inland, based in Pinoso, and covering Jumilla, Elda, Sax and surrounding areas, they are a fully registered and insured company. They cover all aspects of property management including pool maintenance, supplying and fitting grills, air con units, carpet upholstery and curtain cleaning, something they had done in the UK for over 20 years.

Homeclean also carry out garden maintenance, including redesigning your garden, which may include tractor work, which can be also carried out and building maintenance, including painting and decorating.

As part of their specialities they polish and restore marble floors.

They also carry out electrical and plumbing work and lock repairs.

Short and Long term holiday lets are available.

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The Inland Magazine™

On Route

66

by Chris Thompson

In the heart of Madrid, in the square called Puerta del Sol, there are usually tourists outside the Casa de Correos having their pictures taken. The clock on the Casa de Correos is the one used for the New Year chimes in Spain but it’s not the building the tourists want as a backdrop to their holiday snap. No, they want to be shown standing at “Kilometre Zero”, the point from which all distances to and from Madrid are measured.

Roads in Spain are designated on a sort of sliding scale. Those that cross lots of regions and provinces or those with a major significance are looked after by the state. Normally the numbers of such roads are prefixed with a letter N, standing for Nacional or National or, if they are motorways with the letter A for autopistas or autovias. Usually autopistas are toll roads so they get an additional letter, a P standing for peaje or toll. It’s quite common for a motorway to have toll and non toll sections so that the A6 and AP6 are the same road ybut money has to change hands to travel on some of it.

The next class of roads are those that stay within a region but cross provinces, then there are those that stay within a province and finally those that are looked after by the town halls. So the MU321 would be in Murcia, the CV83 in the Comunidad Valenciana and the A204 in Alicante. Town hall roads don’t usually get letters unless they are posh roads heading for big important places.

Six major roads radiate out of Madrid.. They used to be identified by the letter N for Nacional and Roman numerals-the NI, NII etc up to the NVI; they divided the country into six slices. So just as the A1 strikes out from London for Edinburgh and the A5 heads for Holyhead the NI headed for Irun and the French border, the NII for Girona and France and the NIII came our way and in to Valencia. And so on. By 2004 those old N roads had been replaced by new shiny motorways so the names were changed to A1, A2, A6 etc and branches from those main motorways took a subsidiary number. Hence the motorway headed for Murcia that comes off the A3 is the A30 and the one for Alicante the A31.

Back to Kilometre Zero. From there imaginary concentric lines were drawn around Madrid spreading out like the waves from a pebble thrown into a pond. National road numbers were based on where the road started and where it was in relation the the six main roads. So something to the left of the A5 but before the A6 was the N5 something. If it started within a hundred miles of Madrid it was the N51 something, If it started 300 kilometres from Madrid the N53 something. Finally, and again in relation to Madrid, if an extension of the road would take you towards the Capital then the final number would be odd but if it wouldn’t then it would be even.

So the N342 is on the left hand, going anticlockwise, side of the A3, it starts btween 399 and 499 kilometres from Madrid and it is transversal rather than radial. Phew, it’s like that thing with the Greek bloke and his hypotenuse.

As with any system there are lots of exceptions. I probably wouldn’t have mentioned them but, given that the A7 passes more or less by our door I had no choice. They simply used the A7 designation to show that it was an important road and because it doesn’t go anywhere near Madrid. It was the same with the A8 along the North coast up in Cantabria and for some reason the Radial motorways in the region of Madrid are designated R something or other.

Nonetheless, the next time you’re out with visitors from outside Spain you can amaze them with your knowledge of something as banal as the road numbering system!

Lots more, in a similar vein, on my blogs Life in Cartagena and Life in Culebron

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The Inland Magazine™

MABS Cancer Support Group

EX-PATS COMPETITION WINNER

GOODIES GALORE FOR MABS Lots of goodies were up for grabs in the Christmas hampers and raffles held by local bars and businesses around the Mar

In the picture the winners of our December 100 euro food shop competition with some of their shopping. Pictured at Ex- Pats El Campello. In the picture left to right, Patricia Preece, Mark the manager of Ex-Pats El Campello and Steve Preece.

Menor at Christmas, and there were some very lucky winners whose Christmases were made more enjoyable with some extra treats. In spite of the recession, these businesses managed to raise a staggering 1957 € between them, which will go such a long way to helping local people who are affected by cancer in the Murcia/ Mar Menor area. MABS Cancer Support Group would like to thank the following for these raffles and for their continuing support throughout 2009: Novo Carthago and Fuego’s in Los Urrutias, Brambles of Playa Honda. Fitzers in Los Narejos. Campbell’s of Roda, and Shape & Tone and Celt Bar in Los Alcázares.

MABS Murcia/Mar Menor helps all people in the Murcia/Mar Menor area who are affected by cancer, providing drivers, translators, information leaflets, equipment, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. If you want to volunteer, donate or you need help, you can contact MABS on 693 275 779, email: info@mabsmurcia.com or visit the website: www.mabsmurcia.com 18

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The Inland Magazine™

Play Your Cards Right!

Both the National Identity and Identification Cards are entirely voluntary. No one can make you show them or check the information

by Rob Innis on them without your permission. And you do not have to carry them What can people living in North West England do that no one else with you all the time. However, you are obliged by law to advise the agency of any changes of personal information provided at your time living in England can do? of application.

Answer - Apply for UK Identification (ID) Card. Why? Because that is where the trial implementation is based. So what - I live in Spain?

Well so do I - but it could still affect us and, in fact, there would be many benefits.

As Expat residents in Spain, we all know having a Residencia card was extremely useful. When they were withdrawn, due to EU changes, we were left ‘cardless’ feeling rather like displaced persons. Most other EU nationalities have national ID cards including the Spanish.

They use them for proof of ID when completing legal matters, tax and social security applications, credit card transactions etc. and for travel within the EU.

So if you are eligible, currently only if you have a certain UK postcode or work airside in Manchester airport, how do you apply? You will need to complete an application form and the IPS will also require scans of your finger and thumbprints, a facial digital photograph and an electronically recorded signature.

To record this information, you will need to make an appointment at a National Identity Service Customer Centre. Based in Manchester and London. New offices will be open in Liverpool and Blackburn from the end of February 2010.

A UK issued ID card would be acceptable for our Spanish legal transactions and we could also use it for EU travel without a passport.

They currently cost 30 pounds, much cheaper than a passport, and last for 10 years.

The only visible personal information they contain is: your gender, name, date and place of birth, nationality. All information contained elsewhere like a driving licence. Fingerprint information is held in the cards microchip.

The benefits of the card are probably already well established but the main one being a definitive proof of ID, which will help prevent ID theft.

There are 3 types of card: National Identity Card - This is for British citizens and is lilac and salmon in colour.

Identification Card - This is for European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals who live in the UK (and certain British citizens). It is turquoise and green in colour.

The UK Border Agency introduced the Identity Card for Foreign Nationals, in 2008. If you are a foreign national from outside the EEA and Switzerland, you may need to apply for this type of card when you make an immigration application.

The cards are recorded in a secure register, which is managed by the Identity and Passport Service, (IPS) the same organisation that issues UK passports. It is set up under the Identity Cards Act 2006 and operates in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and Human Rights Act 1998.

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At the moment, I cannot find any clear indication if they are going to be available to Expats. But I think by now you can begin to understand the potential benefits to us. Which ironically are probably currently greater than those living in the UK. Given how many dayto-day Spanish legal processes are geared around showing their ID (DNI) card.

According to the BBC website, they had invited people to comment on the ID cards, amazingly the majority of the UK publics comments were positive and in favour of having the card. Perhaps the UK living Brits are becoming more European that we realise!

What do you think? Do you have UK relatives who have already obtained their ID card? Post a message onto the TIM forum and share your thoughts.

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The Inland Magazine™

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Hondon de los Frailes Tel: 965 482 151

Open 7 days 7.30 am ‘til late (Closed Sun/Mon evenings) Tuesday to Saturday Special 8 € menu available lunchtime & evenings Saturday 6th February - is Motown Night with the amazing BARRINGTON – 4 course dinner with wine only 12.50 € from 7.30 pm Friday remains our famous FISH ‘N’ CHIP NIGHT - Takeaway service available Winter warmer Sunday lunch (including glass of wine or beer) 2 courses only 8.50 € served 1-3.30 pm Sunday 14th February is Valentine’s Special Sunday lunch with wine, served from 1.00-3.30 pm with live music from RUMOURS only 12.50 € per person Booking essential Our friendly staff look forward to welcoming you!

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La Romana Amateur Theatrical Society (R.A.T.S.) will be staging their first production at The Casa De Cultura, La Romana, on Friday 2th and Saturday 13th March at 8.00pm A mixture of experienced and enthusiastic beginners will be performig the farce “Running Riot” and it is to be hoped that they will be well suported as all proceeds are to be donated to the local medical centre.

Come along, have a laugh and enjoy the evening. Tickets are on sale from cast members, Amigos in La Romana, A.Js in Hondon de Las Nieves and Vente Ocho in Hondon de los Frailes at 5 Euros. Also on the door.

If anyone is interested in joining the group for further productions in any capacity, please contact Frank Bishop Tel 965 696 597 or E-mail bishopat2@hotmail.com

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The Inland Magazine™

PUMA 22 : Facebook

By Corry Granger Hundreds of people have joined the campaign for the reinstatement of health care with a protest group set up on the social networking site Facebook.

Thousands of people in the Valencia region are battling the regional health authority’s decision to withdraw healthcare, and putting a private insurance scheme in its place at a cost of 270 euros a quarter each for all family members including children.

PUMA22, an action group made up of ordinary people aiming to get the decision reversed, has renewed its efforts to bring the plight of mainly British and Irish citizens affected to the attention of the authorities.

In December protesters marched to the British Consulate in Alicante and presented a letter to the Ambassador to Spain Mr Giles Paxman.

Further demonstrations are planned, with a march in Alicante and a hunger protest at the parliamentary offices there. Meanwhile Mr Paxman has written to the group and a meeting between UK officials and PUMA22 members is planned for later this month.

Tha Facebook campaign, titled Sick and Abandoned – Ex-pats in Spain, has attracted more than 250 members in less than one week (check this at time of going to Press) and is being supported by many people in Britain, Spain and from Australia, the USA, and South Africa.

The group site has links to news stories about people affected by the withdrawal of health care and refers to people being charged 50 euros to see a doctor and others having their health cards snatched back or cut up. Others have been refused treatment for cancer and turned away from hospitals.

Founder members Mr Bill Bridges said the Facebook campaign was part of the PUMA22 group’s increased efforts to persuade the authorities to reverse the decision.

‘There have been some dreadful incidents reported to us here at PUMA22, where people have had their healthcare suddenly terminated whilst in the middle of serious illnesses and treatments,’ he said.

‘We at PUMA22 are having a meeting shortly to plan our next public moves, so watch this space.’

For updated information on the group’s activities visit puma22.org

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The Inland Magazine™

A couple of months ago, I asked readers to help me find some new

restaurants that they believed would be worthy of a review. This is the third restaurant from that list of recommendations. I received two recommendations for this restaurant in Busot. Although all the food in this restaurant was recommended, The Menu Del Dia was particularly highlighted, I had my doubts, menu’s of the day are, I cannot deny extremely good value but rarely if ever fall into a category worth writing about. Purely coincidentally I was having a meeting with Andy and his wife from “Restaurant Guide Costa Blanca. Com” and they also suggested this little restaurant, so I was particularly looking forward to it. I have also had some comments from people who have said that I should review some restaurants that fall into a lower cost bracket; this certainly qualifies to be great value for money, so this should satisfy those people with a lower budget.

The restaurant La Casa is located in the “Town Hall Square” (Plaza

Del Ayuntamiento) in Busot, which is a pedestrianised area, follow the signs for Public Parking Ayuntamiento and you can park right behind the restaurant and enter via the back door. La Casa is a little “oldie worldly”, small and quite, a quaint little place. This “British Owned” restaurant has a friendly easy going atmosphere. White table clothes and good size glasses, a good start.

The menu del dia offered was certainly a little above the normal run

of the mill menu del dia, but then again at 16 Euros the price is a little above the norm but as it turned out, believe me, well worth it.

A bottle of house red too start, Palacio, a young lively red, a mixture of Tepranillo and Bobal grape, my wife loved it, for me, it was one of those wines that gets better the more you drink. Our friends had the Palacio white and gave that the thumbs up. This upmarket menu of the day offers four or five options for each course, I must admit there were so many tempting dishes on offer, and it was not easy to choose.

For our first course, my wife and I chose the Chicken Curry Salad,

thin, tender, succulent strips of chicken breast coated in a mild curry dressing on a finely chopped green salad with a light dressing, what a lovely starter, tasty and fresh, a good start, I must admit, I could have easily eaten another portion. Our friends had the Goats Cheese Tart, a small individual puff pastry tart with hot goat’s cheese. A short rest, another glass of wine and the second courses arrived, three of our party chose the Couscous and Lamb, perfectly cooked couscous with chopped green and red peppers, raisins and small pieces of lamb,

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quite strongly flavoured with spices and herbs, my wife described it as “fabulous”. I chose the “Pelota”, a real traditional Spanish dish, a large meat ball in a strong meat consommé, delicious on a cold winter’s day but this one was slightly over salted but not enough to spoil it.

For our main courses, the two ladies chose the fillet of cod with a

cheese crust, a griddled fillet of fresh, tender, moist cod coated in a light cheese crust, a delicious combination. Andy chose the pork escalope, it looked good and Andy said it tasted good. I chose the “cushion” of lamb, I have never come across the description “a cushion” of lamb before, all I can say it was a delightful cut of meat about the same size and shape of a small fillet steak. Quite a firm meat, but juicy and very tasty, I had it well done but I think it would have benefited from being cooked pink. Much to my surprise, the restaurant had Mint Sauce, for that alone they gained 10 more “brownie” points. Lamb just is not the same without a good measure of mint sauce. All dishes were served with small cubes of beautifully cooked roast potato’s with a central dish of mixed vegetables. Everybody agreed that the dish they chose was very good.

Desserts were a delight, Sticky Toffee Pudding, just fabulous, highly recommended. The Profiteroles were good but nothing exceptional however for the price as part of a men del dia, you really cannot complain. No coffee’s or brandies today by choice as we had a long way to drive and the weather was absolutely atrocious. Overall a very pleasant experience, good food, good service in a relaxed setting.

Recommended if you want a more up-market Menu Del Dia. Price wise, it was extremely reasonable considering the quality and

choice of food on offer, 33.00 euros for the two of us excluding the tip was in my opinion very good value for money. For those of you that live closer to Busot than I do, then give La Casa a try I do not think you will be disappointed. La Casa is located in the centre of Busot old town in the town hall square. For reservations, telephone 965 699 681 for a reservation. Speak to John Chubb the chef if you require something special. Menu’s are in Spanish and English.

If you would like to recommend your favourite restaurant send me an email at barberic@terra.es or drop me a note to Eric Arnold, Appt.

Correos 201, Sax, 03630, Alicante. For Restaurants, email me your menu and price guide plus brief details of the restaurant and reasons why we should give you a try.

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The Inland Magazine™

The Route of the Squashed Tomatoes

by Derek Workman

The first views of Buñol are spoilt a bit by the towering chimneys of the cement factory that drives the local economy but as you drop down into the small town you soon lose sight of these behemoths and enter a busy little pueblo that snuggles up to an ancient castle whose history goes back to the first century BC. Buñol has more than 300 fountains within the town and its immediate surroundings, with such splendid names as La Alegria (Happiness), La Umbria (The Shady Place) and La Jarra (The Jar). It was this abundance of water that caused the first Iberian settlers to name the town Bullón, meaning – it comes as no surprise to discover - fountain.

Roman settlers created irrigation channels and aqueducts that fed the surrounding agriculture and built the original castle keep, later heightened to 25 metres by the Moors. These conquerors enclosed the Kalaa (Castle) with its high walls and built the Torre de Musa (later known as the Torre del Sur) that led to the first urban development, the narrow streets that ring the castle. The Iglesia del Salvador, built into the castle, sits on the site of a former mosque.

The castle has seen some notable visitors in its time including Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, more widely known as El Cid, but perhaps its most famous resident was Fancisco I, King of France, who was imprisoned there in 1525. In the early 19th century, the town formed the dividing line between Aragón and Castillá and the castle acted as a prison during the Carlist wars of 1833-1876.

Amada Mia from the Rita Hayworth film Gilda, using a funnel as a megaphone.

Shoppers and stallholders alike objected to his raucous rendition and began to pelt him with tomatoes and, as some of them missed the intended target and hit other promenaders, a tomato battle was soon in full swing all over the square.

The following year a local civic dignitary was in the wrong place at the wrong time and found himself the centre of unwanted attention as youths gathered in the square (this time with their own tomatoes) to celebrate what was already becoming known as “the day of the tomato”.

The local authorities banned the event but fines and even prison sentences could not stop the villagers from celebrating their bizarre annual beano. There were public uprisings and even a “funeral of the tomato”, when a giant tomato was paraded through the town as a protest against the ban.

At eleven on the last Wednesday in August, a single shot gives the signal for teams of men in six enormous wagons to heave 140 tons of ripe tomatoes onto the cheering crowd of some 30,000 cramming the town square.

Intermingled with the locals are visitors who have travelled from all over the world. Drenched in juice, they pelt one another with the tomatoes until, exactly one hour later, a second shot is fired and they sink wearily into the bright red slush that covers the square.

Anyone who likes twisting alleyways and cobbled streets will be in their element as they wander around the church and castle. A climb up the steep street behind the Ayuntamiento into the heart of the castle is rewarded by the Plaza de Armas, a medieval square still in much of its original condition.

They don’t get long to settle, though, before a swarm of town hall staff, volunteers and neighbours swoop down with hosepipes, buckets and brooms. While the exhausted revellers drag themselves to the showers in the municipal swimming pool, the square is scrubbed spotless in less than an hour.

Lovers of marching music will be interested to know that Buñol boasts two bands, both of them with more than 120 musicians. One is named La Artistica but is known locally as Los Feos, the Ugly Ones.

For hearty mountain eating you could try Buñol’s famous perdiz en escabeche, partridge in pickle sauce, olla podrida, a thick stew of vegetables and pork, or the simple patatas en caldo, a working man’s staple of potatoes in broth. You will also find local sausages and plenty of rice dishes, including arroz con caracoles, rice with snails.

For a picnic you could try the bollos con sardines, flat loves baked with sardines and bacon laid over them.

These days, Buñol is most famous for the Tomatina, annual tomato battle, which, in a country known for weird fiestas, must be one of the weirdest. At least the town doesn’t claim the event has a deeply hidden religious significance but, believe it or not, is the result of an early form of karaoke.

In the 1940’s, a resident of Buñol was wandering across the square in front of the town hall on market day singing – badly – the song 30

This article is taken from Derek Workman’s book ‘Inland Trips from the Costa Blanca’, twenty two excursions through the Valencian Community, Teruel and Murcia, available from bookshops in Spain or from www.santanabooks.com

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The Inland Magazine™

Interview with Steve Norman from Spandau Ballet

by Clare Lawrence

This month’s interview is with Steve Norman from Spandau Ballet.

Steve has been involved in the house music scene for the last 10 years. He has another band called Cloudfish with his partner, Shelley Preston. He also has a house music production team called The Collective. He has a regular column in the magazine Ibiza Now, where he reviews Cd’s. You can check him out at his website at: www.steve-norman.com.

Hi Steve! Thank You for accepting my offer of an interview.

How are you?

I’m good thank you, even if I do have a bit of a cold which I caught off of either Gary Kemp or John Keeble. Hope it’s not swine flu, there’s a lot of it going around apparently.

So, Steve, back in the day, when did you and the other members of Spandau Ballet first get together as a band?

We first played together, all but Martin, in 1976 in the school music room at Dame Alice Owens Grammar School in Potters Bar. Gary and I were best mates with a liking for music. We both played guitar and wanted to form a band. When I met John in the music room we were over half way there. Then Tony approached me outside the 6th form common room and cockily suggested that he was the right man for the vocal job in our new band. He was. Martin joined a couple of years later.

What was it like when the band re-formed recently?

It was like finding a long lost family. I hadn’t realised how much I missed the guys until we got back together again. I haven’t laughed so much in years: real full on belly laughing. And because we now get on so well we are also working together well. By any standards, the band’s work output is for the most part phenomenal.

David (David Cox, who manages the band) tells me that you’re obsessed with Spain. I’m sure that our ex-pat readers here in Spain will be interested to know what it is about the country that attracts you to it...for example, the warmer weather!

My granddad loved Spain and took me on holiday when I was 9.

I also went with him and my mum when I was 12. It was the first foreign country I visited. He was responsible for kick starting my love affair with Spain, culminating with my moving to Ibiza early in 1993. I lived there for over 12 years. My ex wife is Spanish and we had our kids on the island. I love the Latin way of life; respect for the family and the fiesta. I adore the weather, of course but also the quality of light. Waking up to a sunny day almost every day has a positive effect on your wellbeing. The café con leche (coffee with milk) is the best in Europe. People look out for each other’s children and interact with them which we don’t do here for fear of being branded some sort of paedophile; a sign of the times I suppose.

In short, there is a little piece of my heart that resides in Ibiza and occasionally I have to go visit it in order to feel complete again.

Apart from your love of music, what interests do you have?

Music takes up nearly all my time but when I can I enjoy weekends away with Shelley. We normally go to the coast and stay in a small hotel or B&B: walking for most of the day followed by a well deserved pint.

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I love football. Tottenham Hotspurs are my team. I play occasionally and can run around a fair bit. However these days I tend to have more aches and pains following a game. I often play at the yearly Soccer Six events.

Spending time with my kids is important. I have a daughter, Lara who is 11 and lives with her mum in Spain (I speak with her every day), a son Jack, 18, who lives in the UK and a stepson, Ben who is 11 and also lives in the UK. Who inspires you musically?

It’s about the performance. You don’t have to be technically brilliant as a musician but putting your heart and soul into a performance is essential. BB King is a classic example. He can play a one note guitar solo and knock your socks off. A good groove also helps.

If you could re-live the last ten years of your life, is there anything that you would do differently?

I don’t really have any regrets although I sometimes wish I had DJ’d a few years back before it took off in a big way and everyone and his cousin wanted to be a DJ. I was perfectly placed, living in Ibiza. I have never DJ’d professionally but now I’m more than happy playing sax alongside the DJ from time to time, as long as it’s soulful stuff that he’s spinning. I can’t stand deep techno, or tracks with no musical movement.

What has been the greatest achievement in your life?

I find that all my little achievements are incredibly satisfying especially if I’ve ever doubted my ability in achieving something beforehand. The feeling of having finished writing a song is almost euphoric in a similar way that coming off stage after a gig is.

Learning Spanish was important for me as I never wanted to be an ex-pat who never made the effort, expecting everyone to speak English. Knowing Spanish has opened many doors for me and is the only way to truly understand a country’s culture. I have noticed that my accent in Spanish has suffered since being back in the UK though.

Where do you like to travel to for holidays (apart from Spain!)?

Shelley used to surf years ago and so it has just become a holiday consideration as of late. Last summer we went to North Devon. It was my first time on a surf board. I managed to stand up a few times but I need the practice. It was tough and exhausting and in the end I was quite content using the surfboard like a boogie board by just laying down on it and drifting in. Although, Shelley reckons I’ve got the hair for it. Better make the most of it while I’ve still got it, eh!

Well Steve, that’s all my questions. Many thanks for your time and I wish you continued success in whatever you do!

Many thanks, it’s been a pleasure. Hasta luego!

If you want to find out what Spandau Ballet are up to at the moment, you can visit their website, which is www.spandauballet.com or e-mail them at: daggerentertainment@googlemail.com

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The Inland Magazine™

No doubt a few of you went to some ‘bashes’ over New Year and maybe fancied trying your hand at shooting a concert or event. As in the case of most good photography planning and preparation are an absolute. It is worth trying to get a pass so that you’ll have a much greater chance of getting closer to the action.

One big mistake that a lot of people make is to assume it’s going to be dark and therefore they must use flash. With possibly several 1,000-watt stage lights aiming right at the performers why do you need to add one more? You’ll also want to see the colour and vibrancy produced by these lights which you’re flash will knock completely out. Also many performers don’t like flash and you may not be allowed to use it anyway.

Photography

Shooting Concerts

So, what can you do? Well, as many of you will know now I’m not one for saying the best gear makes you the best photographer, but you will at the very least need a camera where you can change the ISO and shutter speed settings.

A good zoom lens will help as well. You will need to set a high ISO on your camera, 800 or 1600, and try to get a shutter speed of 1/125th of a second. Use as low an aperture as you can and if you can get close to the stage take a wideangle lens as well as a zoom.

Look for details, such as close-ups of the guitar playing, as well as shots of the performers.

Don’t forget that the stage is often dramatically lit and the lights are constantly changing so keep checking your histogram and look for any significant ‘burn-out’. Taking photographs of concerts is not easy but then that is part of the challenge!

Rodger Holden LRPS www.photographyspain.com email:rodgerholden@hotmail.co.uk Images copyright of Rodger Holden and cannot be used without prior permission 34

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

by Roger Holden

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35

The Inland Magazine™

www.pcresolver.es Web Site

Design

On-Site Repairs

Maintenance / Sales

20 € (+iva) per hour

Individual Websites: Sell Your House / Promote Your Business Computers Repaired and Upgraded; Sales; Training steve@pcresolver.es Sax, Alicante STEVE: 966 967 439 or 650 354 629

www.TIMSPAIN.com

36

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Costa Blanca

Tel: 965 474 314 • Mob: 675 218 436

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FAB properties • FAB prices • FAB service

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Bargain house for renovation 3 beds, 1 bath Short walk in to town Roof terrace

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37

The Inland Magazine™

People who were born in February are not demonstrative in affection, but feel very deeply.

They are usually high-strung, and their nerves are generally overwrought.This people often lose control and then say or do things that they bitterly regret later.

They are generally very active for the public good, and often give all they have to relieve the distress of others.

They are good thinkers, and are very successful when it comes to debate and argument, and difficult to convince.

They are excellent in business and finance when they apply their minds to such things, but usually they are more successful for others, and make more money for other people than for themselves. Such people are a seekers of knowledge, rational, open-minded, gifted with breadth of vision.

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Working on behalf of those less fortunate than you will put you on the path to luck. In the past, people have accused you of being selfish. That’s all about to change. By using your pioneer spirit to break down the walls of a bureaucratic institution, you’ll free up funds for a good cause. Pretty soon, those who would otherwise be out in the cold will have access to much needed resources.

By focusing on a single cause, you’ll make the most significant progress.

Entering an exalted social circle will help your personal and professional prospects.

Whether you’re looking for love, work or both, you’ll find it among these new acquaintances. At times, you’ll feel as though you’re out of your league. Don’t.

These friends admire you, and with good reason. You’re a refreshing blend of creativity and practicality. Being able to realise your visions has made you a hot commodity. Bask in your popularity, and use it to help others.

Career opportunities are starting to open up, much to your delight. Lately, your work life has felt like a rollercoaster ride.

Now you’ll detect a steady upward trend as far as work is concerned. If an executive position opens up, be sure to throw your hat in the ring. Gather your best work samples, improve your interviewing skills and ask influential friends to write letters of recommendation. This chance is too important to leave to chance. Pull out all the stops!

Stop setting such small goals and reach for the heavens. Whether you want to travel, write or study, the stars are poised to make your wish come true. It’s just a matter of taking a risk. Stepping out of your comfort zone is always scary for Cancerians, but you need to do it. You’ve been given too many gifts to rest on your laurels. Yes, you’ve achieved a certain amount of success, but you can double your luck once you summon your courage.

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Your sex appeal is at an all time high.

Don’t be surprised if a bevy of admirers start swarming to your door. It’s nice to be appreciated, but only one of these flirts really appeals to you. Choose the one with the dreamy bedroom eyes and gentle manner. The two of you generate intense heat in the bedroom. It looks like your financial fortune is starting to improve, too. Don’t be surprised if you’re given an inheritance, grant, scholarship or dividend.

Put this money towards your long term security.

Two is your lucky number, so be sure to play it in every available circumstance. If you’re single, you could finally meet the love of your life at a religious, cultural or educational institution. Attached Virgoans will gain an extra level of support from their partners. It’s possible your other half will offer to work overtime while you focus on developing your creative talent.

Alternatively, your beloved will give you the start up money for your own business.

Accept this help with a grateful and happy heart.

If you’ve never thought about going freelance now is the time to do so. You’ll have a list of clients as long as your arm.

In fact, business will be so brisk you’ll be hard pressed to keep up with the orders.

Don’t hesitate to invest in state of the art office equipment, an assistant or both.

There is one caveat, though: you’ll be working so hard it will be hard to find time to exercise. If you’re not careful, you could pack on unwanted pounds.

You’re finally able to let go and have a little fun, especially in the romance department. If you’re single, you’ll have the choice of several lovers. Play the field then narrow your focus to a single admirer who is kind, sensitive and loving.

Your other half won’t be scared by your passionate nature; on the contrary, they’ll embrace it. If you’re already in a relationship, it will feel as though you’ve embarked on a second honeymoon.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

You’re finally able to let go and have a little fun, especially in the romance department.

If you’re single, you’ll have the choice of several lovers. Play the field then narrow your focus to a single admirer who is kind, sensitive and loving. Your other half won’t be scared by your passionate nature; on the contrary, they’ll embrace it. If you’re already in a relationship, it will feel as though you’ve embarked on a second honeymoon.

Getting intellectual stimulation has become increasingly important. You’re sick and tired of focusing on money matters. Fortunately, the opportunity to study with a famous artist is within your grasp. Following their lead will help you develop your own style in a few months’ time. For now you’ve got to concentrate on mastering the basics. Subjects like film, photography and dance have special appeal right now. You’re a lot more artistic than you pretend. It’s time to drop the facade.

Sharing your good fortune with others will attract more luck. You can afford to do so, given the period of prosperity you’ve recently experienced. Still, it’s important to choose your causes carefully. Giving away money indiscriminately will put you in a financial hole. Making solid plans for the future can keep you on track. If you’ve been harbouring a cherished dream, it’s time to take strides towards it. You’ll be amazed how easily people yield to your requests.

As a general rule, you prefer to stay in the background, taking notes on your surroundings and soaking up the atmosphere. That’s all going to change; now you’re feeling a surge of self confidence.

Suddenly, the urge to take charge, show off your abilities and command the public’s attention will inform everything you do. If you’ve ever wanted to become a respected name in your desired industry, now is the time to try. Of course, you’ll have to take a few well timed risks.

By Philip Garcia - www.philipgarcia.com 38

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

Costa Blanca

BUY DIRECT INELBE GROUP

Inelbe Electricas s.l.

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PROMOTER of 4 new, individually designed detached villas. Full architect´s plans and 10 year builder´s guarantee, habitation certificate etc.

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Visit inurbefincas.com

Contact: José Ramon Office/fax: 966 779 788 679 951 140 (Español) 699 457 387 (English)

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Ref 01221 FORTUNA - MURCIA

Ref 01670 PINOSO – ALICANTE

Ref 01327 REDUCED ABANILLA - MURCIA

Ref: 01438 REDUCED ASPE - ALICANTE

Cave house requiring internal finishing to form 2 beds, 2 baths, lounge/kitchen/diner.

Could be extended. In a mountain area with panoramic views.

Detached country house requiring completion. 2 beds, bath, living area. Only 5 minutes from all amenities in the town.

Modernised two storey rural house with 4 beds, 2 baths, kitchen, lounge/diner. Interior patio. Separate 500 m2 plot.

10 minutes from town.

Renovated 3 storey traditional town house. 4 beds, 2 baths, fiited kitchen, lounge/diner. Sun terrace with lovely views. 5 minutes walk to all amenities.

Build: 80 m2 Plot: 2,400 m2

Build: 63 m2 Plot: 1,765 m2

Build: 150 m Plot: 500 m2

€ 67,500

2

€ 68,000

€ 80,000

Build 170: m

2

€ 95,000

Ref 01691 REDUCED FORTUNA - MURCIA

Ref 01700 REDUCED PINOSO - ALICANTE

Ref 01321 OFFER ABANILLA - MURCIA

Ref 01742 OFFER ABANILLA - MURCIA

Detached house requiring some modernisation. 3 beds, bath, lounge/diner.

Outbuildings, double garage.

Mountain area with panoramic views.

New detached villa with 10 yr guarantee. 3 beds (built in wardrobes), 2 baths (1 en suite with dressing room, fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge/diner with fireplace.

New, legal detached villa with 10 yr guarantee. 3 beds, 2 baths (1 en suite with dressing room), fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge/diner with fireplace. Many extras.

4 months construction time.

2 Build: 133 m 2 € 165,000 Plot: 1,500 m

Legal detached (4 months construction time). 10 yr guarantee. 3 beds, 2 baths (1 en suite with dressing room, lounge/diner with fireplace.

Lots of extras including electrical appliances.

2 Build: 133 m € 165,000 Plot 1,100 m2

2

Build: 160 m 2 Plot: 1,200 m

€ 114,000

Build: 120 m 2 Plot: 500 m

2

€ 150,000

Ref 01574 OFFER PINOSO - ALICANTE

Ref 01648 REDUCED ABANILLA - MURCIA

Ref 01712 OFFER PINOSO – ALICANTE

Ref 01645 RIOPAR

High quality new detached villa with 10 yr guarantee. 4 beds, 2 baths, fitted kitchen, lounge/diner with fireplace.

Pre installation for heating.

Spacious terrace. 2,000 m2 of the plot is enclosed.

2 Build: 135 m 2 Plot: 12,800 m € 168,000

3 storey detached house with 7 beds, 3 baths, 2 fitted kitchens, 2 lounge/dining rooms. Spacious arched porch, terrace with above ground pool. Sat TV, A/C. Ideal for B & B. Build: 235 m2 2 € 169,000 Plot: 1,500 m

New villa with 10 yr guarantee, 3 beds with fitted wardrobes, 2 baths, lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, utility. Large porch. Pre installation for heating. 4 months construction time.

2 Build: 140 m 2 € 170,000 Plot: 12,845 m

Restaurant/hostel in an area of outstanding beauty with established clientele. 15 beds, 15 baths, fully equipped kitchen, dining room with 26 tables, bar/lounge area. A/C and heating.

Build: 327 m2 € 255,000 Plot: 1,000 m2

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

REDUCED

39

The Inland Magazine™

by John Higgins

downs of the Realms of England and the torrid society throughout the ages, from William the Conqueror onwards, as recorded in the book.

Mad Dogs and Englishmen An expedition round my family

By Ranulph Fiennes Hodder & Stoughton £13.99

I have three heroes in my adult life that I have looked up to for a considerable amount of time, and one is Ranulph Fiennes, a truly remarkable Englishman, although, he prefers to be known as British.

Quite apart from his various explorations which in themselves are quite remarkable, it is the sheer gutsiness and apparent single-mindedness that he displays which is so refreshing in these grey times that we live in today.

An Irish expression that I have always liked to use when appropriate is.

Sure now, he is his own man I perhaps can be forgiven for using it to further describe the English (British) author of this enlightening, and incredibly interesting and informative book.

It does not take long into the historical machinations and political scheming that are associated to the family history of the author to realise what a complete madhouse and ethnic mess England appears to have been in, and still is to this day.

On reading this book, which takes a good deal more concentration than is required to read the average novel, it becomes increasingly apparent that nothing much changes, I mean in an historical context. It is of great interest, when the reader can trawl through the ages along with the author and his historic family tree. What I found so informative were the ups and

Sadly over the ever increasing years, my post war north London secondary education has left me bereft of important historical facts with regard to Great Britain. It is because of this personal loss that I found myself positively excited when, for example, discovering that many of the past Kings of England were medically insane! English was not always the language that was spoken by the royals. German, French or Dutch was the language of the royal court depending on who was on the throne at the time. In the year 1069 the citizens of York welcomed a Danish army as liberators from Norman tyranny, the aftermath of which, left bodies piled up everywhere. The place was unbearable and there was no village inhabited between York and Durham, and merely became lurking places for wild beast and robbers. It is simply mind boggling when one learns page after page of the wild actions by the numerous Kings and Queens, plots and sub-plots that were the order of the day; various wars and killings at the drop of a hat. The worst of the regal bunch would be headed (forgive the play on words) by Henry the eighth; what a nasty specimen of humanity, and the Queen with that equally nasty concoction named after her, Bloody Mary.

It would seem that Oliver Cromwell occupied a unique position in English history, a lot of the goings on perpetuated by him was thoroughly nasty, but he did cut an interesting figure. Cromwell actually encouraged immigration into England, bringing Jews into the country from Holland, Spain and Portugal. He felt that it would help with the economic revival after the devastation of civil war. And he was probably right. The book is structured around Ranulph Fiennes (Sir Ranulph Twisleton-WykehamFiennes to give the full family name); it is interesting to see how his family is so historically entwined in the turbulent history of the British Isles.

The family tree starts in the year 715 and is famously connected up to the present time. The family influence with the past royal courts and political figures are of great interest. It is all here within the pages; the lineage of Ranulph Fiennes must have helped to create this most interesting of men and has made him who he is.

I have great admiration for a man that can conquer Everest in his sixties, albeit with a great fear of heights, some people may call it madness, I call it gutsiness. Any man that can be moved to attempt to cut off his fingertips with a hacksaw due to frostbite, a legacy of a past exhibition, and to finally finish the hashed up job with a micro blade fitted to a Black and Decker, the recurring pain having finally got to him must be quite some character.

Certainly not run of the mill.

This book will have pride of place on our bookshelf.

40

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Costa Blanca

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41

The Inland Magazine™

Hondon Valley Golf Society

ELEMENTARY FOR BOB WATSON AS HE WINS AT ALICANTE

New Captain Bob Watson won the first HVGS meeting of the New Year carding 31 points to win the Gold Section at Alicante Golf. Dug Blair and Trevor Batchelor won Silver and Bronze scoring 29 and 26 points respectively.

An overcast sky with the sun threatening to poke through greeted the members as they arrived at Alicante Golf near Playa San Juan for cafe and tostada. The Society was unusually thin on the ground with three members snowbound in the UK and three other regulars suffering from the dreaded flu. Nonetheless, after breakfast, the first of six groups were on the first tee at 10 am and keen to compete in the Stableford and the Better Ball Team Competitions.

The fairways at Alicante, normally so green, had turned to a beige colour thanks to recent overnight frost. I understand this is normal for this particular type of grass when the temperature drops below 10 degrees. On the other hand, the greens were excellent and, being a different type of grass, green to boot!

Out on the course, apart from Cliff Parkinson finding every water hazard on the course and one member receiving a lot of attention from a domestic chicken who for some reason was running free with all the other water fowl around the 10th hole, the news was scant. However, Albert Baggaley did manage to get a peacock to ruffle his feathers and was caught on camera by your correspondent.

Back at the 19th hole Captain Bob congratulated all the competitors and organised the prize giving. Chairman Ron asked members to bring along suitable items for a hamper to the HVGS Golf Days in February and March.

The hamper will be put together by Les Goddard and raffled to raise funds for the Society. Ron also informed members of a misprint in January’s TIM – the March Golf Day will be at Alenda and not El Plantio as stated.

For information on how to join HVGS contact the Secretary, Trevor Batchelor, on 687987229 or email trevor.batchelor@hotmail.com . To reserve your place on the list for the Society Golf Days contact the Captain, Bob Watson, on 663316366 or e-mail linbobinspain@yahoo.co.uk.

Winners HVGS January Stableford – Alicante Golf – Tuesday 12th January 2010 Member

Category

Points

Bob WATSON

Gold Winner

31

Malt Whisky

Dug BLAIR

Silver Winner

29

Malt Whisky

Trev BATCHELOR

Bronze Winner

26

Malt Whisky

Geoff RABEY

Nearest the Pin

3rd

Bottle of Brandy

12th

Bottle of Brandy

17th

Bottle of Brandy

Dug BLAIR John AINSCOUGH John FOWLER

Prize

Best ‘Better Ball’ Team

Bottle of Wine

Team 3

Bottle of Wine

Dug BLAIR Bernard COX

Bottle of Wine

John ROSS

Bottle of Wine

Albert BAGGALEY

GF Refund

35€ cash

Bernard COX

Football Scratchcard

20€ cash

Forthcoming HVGS Golf Days and Other Events Tuesday 9th February Tuesday 13th April Tuesday 8th June

42

El Plantio Alicante Alenda

Meet 09.15 am in Clubhouse Meet 10.15 am in Clubhouse Meet 08.45 am in Clubhouse

Tuesday 9th March Wednesday 12th May

Alenda El Plantio

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

Meet 08.45 am in Clubhouse Meet 09.15 am in Clubhouse

Costa Blanca

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43

The Inland Magazine™ DETECTING WATER LEAKS

Without destruction; exactly of centimeter, with the newest equipment (Detectors+Cameras) we locate+repair every water leak inside/outside of buildingsand underground.

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Costa Blanca

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Digger Hire or just operation.

Pool cleaning and maintenance Land and Orchard Cultivation or Rotovation Anything you need we are here to help to Help You. Tel Jim 650 867 009 or Denise 965 562 594

The Inland Magazine often copied but never equalled. For impact advertising that works, Call Nicki on 606 891 644 or email theinlandmagazine@ yahoo.co.uk

Singer Entertainer Available for Private Functions.

Bars, Hotels, etc...

For Details or Demo Cd

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45

The Inland Magazine™

CLASSIFIEDS BARGAINADS@YAHOO.ES

IT’S SIMPLE IT’S FREE * & IT SELLS! FREE ADVERTS If you have an item to sell which is up to the value of 500 euros entrance into the Bargainads pages is FREE for no more than 25 words, no more than 3 items per household, this service is open to non commercial enterprises. Send your items for sale to bargainads@yahoo.es or text 680 976 823, please make sure your Bargain advert is accompanied by the area in which you live. If all available space is taken, your advert will appear in the next available magazine.

FREE at www.timspain.com You can now also place your Classifieds up to the price of 500 euros FREE of charge in our classified section at www. timspain.com

* PAID ADVERTS For Commercial adverts in the Bargainads section or to place adverts that are over the specified 500 euros, contact us on 606 891 644 or email theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk Closing date for Bargain Adverts is the 18th of the month.

Small Ads can be sent to TIM, Apartado De Correos 285, 03630 (SAX) Alicante

Send your small ads to BARGAINADS@YAHOO.ES 46

GENERAL Jacuzzi white bath for bathroom.

As new complete with pump motor etc and complete tap set, shower & bath fill.5 adjustable jet settings & padded head rest. Bargain at only €300.

Tel 693239123 0r email georgenewell@gmail.com Sony handycam, digital video camera with remote control and all leads and instruction manual , also sony digital cybershot still camera with manual Ring 968 371 216 or 691 958 111 Vodaphone 810 mobile phone, still boxed, 40 euros no offers tel 633 157 001 Sax Glass top computer desk for sale,with 2 shelves,54x74x78 high.very good condition.23e. tel 966180684. Macisvenda.

2 seater & 3 seater sofass, very good condition, clean & comfortable. Euros 125.

Tel: Home 965617316 Mob: 676650613 (Terol area) For Sale: Exterior roller blind with window 240mm (8’0”) x 290mm (9’6”)., Exterior door, white, with 3 security bolts Width: 87mm (2’10”) including frame, Height: 210mm (6’10”) ,expanding dining table and six chairs. Sensible offers please.

Albatera Tel: 965 970 246 Pair of wrought Iron gates, double 118 x 100 & single 92 x 100 30.00euros 5 steel arches.

Use individually or all link together 40.00euros,Tower fan unused 10.00euros Telephone: 968 37 10 20 or 628799971 Sucina - Murcia AIWA NSX-S707 compact disc stereo system.

FM/ MW/LW stereo tuner, triple CD tray, twin tape deck. All connections, remote and instructions. Excellent sound quality but tape section needs attention, hence bargain price of 55 Euros.

Hondon area 966195516/664897443 For sale: heavy duty Brick/tile saw Stihl TS400. 3.2 Kw (4.3 hp) motor. coast 1100Euros new.

Will sell for 400Euros. o.n.o. Tel 962386126 Mobile 690381084.

(Ontinyent) Free to good home sewing machine, old but in good working order Tel 962 254274 Xativa Computer desk as new 65 euros Tibi area Tel 664 753 231 Telephone table dark wood oak finish, excellent condition 55

euros Terol

tel 965 975607 Finca

(Pinoso area) E mail JRiley @ Terra.es

37 ins flat screen tv, Lg cost new 800 euros, only 400 euros Tel 633 157 001 Sax

Freezer Beko FSE1010 for under worktop. Hardly used. New 250€ will accept 180€. Electric heater/aircon calor 2000W Frio 75W 20€. Hondon area 966194780 697979736.

Two single beds with mattresses, storage drawers & accompanying bed side cabinet.

Grey matt finish, rarely used.

100 Euros ONO. Joan 687 074 097 Hondon.

Corbero gas water heater, new not used still under gte 150 euros Tel 633 157 001 Sax Solid Pine:- 8m of hand rail, 8m of base rails and 50) 41mm x 41mm spindles €190 will deliver. 649540016. Pinoso 5500 watts 9.5 H.P. Engine.3x220 volt output 1x3 phase output 1x12 volt output 6.0 Never used.

500 euros Hondon de Las Nieves 622250852 Panasonic NV-DS15EN Digital Video Camera.

Compact, zoom lens, rechargeable power pack, new tapes, carry case, all leads and instructions. Only used twice, as new. Bargain - Euros 145.

Hondon area 966195516/664897443 Sports-rower ;Cambridge with electronic monitor, bought in april 2009 new price Euro 299,- now Euro 100, Aspe; tel.

628029279 30 years of pop music cd’s 25 euros tel 633 157 001 Sax Riding boots new, black size 38/4 95 euros Hondon tel 628 749 209 Satellite dish, LNB & fixings, 1.4m offset 70 euros, Old grundig skybox 20 euros San Miguel 693 352 057 VERY NICE GLASS TOPPED COFFEE TABLE WITH LOWER SHELF 40 EUROS, TWO PORTABLE GAS HEATERS WITH REGULATORS G. W. O. 30 EUROS EACH TEL. 690 818090 COCENTAINA Ionic Combo Dual-Function Spa Foot bath Machine. Never used.

110 euros Hondon de las Nieves . Tel 622250852 CD Collection for sale. Pop Rock - Classical - Compilations.

Total of 63 CD’s from All Saints to Don Williams. Job Lot 140 Euros or phone for information. Hondon de las Nieves 966195516/664897443 SIEMENS INDUCTION HOB (as used by TV chefs) 18 months old. cost 450 sell at 100 ONO

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

Radio controlled model spitfire 3/4 built 1.4 m wingspan,4.57cc engine. 4 channel controller, servos,batteries. all new more info, tele. 968686263. 250euros.

ASPES IDEAL, WASHING MACHINE V.G.W.O. 120 EUROS. ROUND TABLE AND 4 CHAIRS 60 EUROS ,TWO OIL FILLED ELEC. RADIATORS V.G.C. 12 EUROS EACH. TEL 966500121 COCENTAINA Fujix8 video camera with case and all leads and accessories, 150 euros Tibi 664 753 231 Lateral Thigh Trainer with digital record meter 80 euros o.n.o New Leather Poufe 10 euros Ladies Cowboy Boots brown size 7 Italian as new 50 euros o.n.o ( cost 140 euros new ) tel. 620 417 684 Fortuna.

ASTORIA mens suit, charcoal jacket /waistcoat 54cm trousers 50cmx80cm washable. in perfect condition only worn once cost 104.50 euros will accept.25€ 968434300/617711872 Pinoso Pair strong wrought iron gates, mortice locking and fully screened call for more details 150 euros Tel 965 975607 Finca Terol Pentax Espio 160 Compact 35mm camera, with Autofocus, Autoexposure, Autoflash, 38mm-160mm Zoom lens, carry case and instructions. Excellent condition. Euros 95. Hondon area 966195516/664897443 Gas barbeque in vcg 50Euros, White Freeview Sky Card fully activated 45Euros, Brother Fax machine 25Euros. Please phone 965696730 or Mobile 616263586 Outside sink & metal stand.

Perfect condition,€25.Tel 619937237.Hondon Nieves area.

Two armchairs which convert into single beds. Dark blue patterned. Very comfortable 25 euros each 679548451 Two seater sofa, light green patterned with pine frame. 30 euros 679548451 Foot Spa 10 euros 679548451

Costa Blanca SERVICES

FRANCISCO MARTÍNEZ RIVAS Solicitors & Barristers, Murcia Got a problem you need to talk through?

We can advise you regarding alltypes of legal matters.

Discuss it with us in ENGLISH with Joaquin our FORTUNA based English Speaking representative Tel 628 623 406 To arrange a meeting locally to suit you

Long wheel base van with space returning to Spain from the UK at the end of February 2010, reasonable rates , very reliable Tel 966 500 121 or 690 818 090

Long wheelbase van leaving for the Uk, 10th February going to UK, returning to Spain 24th February , space available both ways Ring Paul on 634 030 636 STRANDED! Your Driver incapacitated but your vehicle available.

No Worries. Phone Michael.

Ex Professional Driver/ Chauffuer available to drive you wherever you want or need to go. Reasonable rates.

Tel: 965978907/659658760.

Satellite TV problems? Free assessment by fully trained SKY technician. Telephone Brian on 680 783 221 VEHICLES

Chain Link Fencing, Rigid Fencing and Perimeter walls.

For a free no-obligation quote, log on at www.

Billericky.com or call Keith 962 389 622 or 628 613 350

Joiner / Carpenter Fully qualified Joiner. Can undertake anything from A shelf to a new roof.

All general repairs including break in damage Pergolas/ carports/ wood stores made to order and any size or collect one today Example of items stocked Pergolas: 5m x 3m €330 - 3m x 2m €230 Mature, solid timbers. Treated clear Workshop between Pinoso & Fortuna

649540016 or

whitworthjoinery@gmail.com --------------------------------------------Enjoy out door living 100% free from Mosquitoes, Flies, etc GO TO – www.insectcurtains.eu Email: insectcurtains@gmail.com Tel: 649540016

PREMIER PLASTERING All aspects of plastering undertaken.

Large variation of finishes available including: > Skimming (Smooth walls) > Rendering (Sand & Cement) > Monocapa/Raspado (All Colours) > Stone Cladding > Tiling All work guaranteed.

All areas covered Call now 868 000 039 Mobile 636 573 791

Fiat Punto 75 sx RHD Spanish Registered, itv Nov 2010 , Alloys, Stainless steel exhaust, tow bar, 5 door, good condition 1,300 euros Tel 633 157 001 Sax

CASH CASH

CASH

We pay INSTANT CASH same day for cars, vans, bikes, quads, aravans, trailers.Absolutely anything

From 1€ - €10.000 Same day collection

Ring Lee Now 663 673 143 Phil: 607 848 332 FORTUNA

Ford Focus. 1.6 auto 2003 L.H.D. I.T.V to 2011. Good condition 68000KL 4850 euro. Tel. 644125867.

Rover 216SLi UKreg 1993 1600cc 40k gen miles, SH, very tidy inside slight sun damage to paintwork, new tyres good runner. No tax or mot €300 639234048 Monovar

www.

TIMSPAIN .com

ENTERTAINMENT

Annie K Karaoke

House on large plot, close to Pinoso, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, lounge, dinning room etc, electric and water connected, 109,000 euros, 90 % finance guaranteed Tel 610 044 860

Kabaret & Race Nights.

Bar, Private Function or Celebration.Call me now to discuss your requirements.

689 077 551

Fortuna & Inland Areas Covered “SOMETHING DIFFERENT” La Fuente Country Pub Ramblers Paradise If you like the Countryside, come & join us in a Traditional Spanish Restaurant.

Full Menu Available Quality Beers & Wines CV925 Torremendo-Hurchillo Text 680 755 943 or 689 645 946 LINE DANCE CLASSES Tue 10.30am - 12.30 Improver/ Intermed Bar Central Barbarroja Wed 12 - 1.30 pm Impr Bar Yenisa La Matanza Thur 2.45 3.45pm Beginner La Carcelera Fortuna Thur 4 - 6pm Impr/ Inter Bar La Carcelera Fortuna LINE DANCE SOCIAL At Bar Yenise (Pizzeria) La Matanza February 19th 7.30pm till late. Featuring Coles Country All Welcome Phone Ian or Kate 660 234 754 email ian.k8@hotmail.co.uk

Are you house hunting/ or looking for a relaxing Holliday 30 minutes inland from the coast and 25 mins from Alicante Airport in the real Spain! Long and Short lets available, fabolous road connections to all parts of Spain. Golf Couse 15 mins drive away.Two beds, two bathrooms, American kitchen/ dinner, Sky tv, Air con, use of pool and jaccuzi, beautifull views, great for walking or cyclists. Sax area call 638 026 230 for more info and prices.

PROPERTY RENTALS Available now in Pinoso 2 x Static Caravan Plots, pool, bar and park area Tel 669 880 544 FOR RENT/OR FOR SALE. LA ROMANA. Unfurnished newly built end townhouse.

Close all amenities, 30mins Alicante Town & Airport. 3 beds, 3 baths, Kitchen/diner, Utility, Lounge/diner leading to small courtyard & large upper sun terrace. Massive underbuild.

Long term preferred. Tel: 659658760/ 965978907

PROPERTY SALES Private sale. Onil - Fully renovated town house.

3 Double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, new fitted kitchen.

Light, bright and spacious.

Close to all amenities.

Absolute bargain. 79,000 euros. Tel: 636 167 650. No agents please.

Static Caravans 4 sale starting from 2,000 euros excellent condition Tel 669 880 544 House for Sale Brand New

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

www. classifiedsspain .eu 47

The Inland Magazine™ BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Restaurant San Francisco

Well here we are now three years in business, and although we have been for sale for 6 months of that it seems entrepreneurs are thin on the ground. The Bar and restaurant continue to do well and even a year into the “crisis” is still profitable!! plus when this economy does turn around will double it (profit).

If you are a family or a couple with some experience in the restaurant bar business come and talk to me. This is a very solid investment opportunity.

For sale way below the cost of building it.

All books for three years, income and net very clear.

Owner will work alongside to train and advise.

662 048 747 steve.

NEW Health and Wealth Products. Electronic Cigarettes.

Vaporized HARMLESS Smoking Alternative. Different nicotine strengths available.Distributors wanted in Spain and UK. P/ Full time.www.myinlife.com/ wellbeingnetwork Tel:696640747 wellbeingnetwork@hotmail. co.uk

PETS

preferably. Contact Robert on 966 193 426

CLAIRE CROFTS, Mobile dog grooming service. Back in business. Tel: 649 280 204

Wanted.Bass player for 4 piece band,Rock/Heavy Metal.based in Aspe. Age range 16 to 25.Spanish speaking helpful but not critical.

Call Rory.Tel,690364590.

All types of solar equipment, windturbine, generators, panels, inverters, chargers, batteries, etc, etc. Also, Solar hot water equipment. Cash waiting, call 686 181 995 Musicians wanted to play music & just have fun. Fortuna 627 806 934

ENGLISH BULL TERRIER PUPPIES for sale. English Stock. Both parents can be seen.

Deposits now being taken. Text 680 755 943 or 689 645 946

WANTED WANTED I WILL BUY ALL YOUR SMALL UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, BRIC A BRAC ETC PHONE ALLISON 965 560 707 OR 675 989 866 FOR PROMPT AND COURTEOUS ATTENTION AND COLLECTION (CASTALLA) I am looking to purchase pure bred chickens, English breeds

Looking for scale -modelling friends to built together. I”am building military models (tanks).

Lots of models for sale as well!!region Caudete, tel.:655238314 or mvandendorpe@live.nl Wanted dog transporter cage for two small dogs reasonable price paid Tel 619721833 Albatera Wanted Property to rent in Salinas, must be minimum of 3 bed campo or Town contact Amanda 618367850 Wanted, for needy family in Pinoso, sewing machine, computer for studies and tumble dry for 10 people Free or very cheap please tel 679 548 451 Looking for a job 2 days a week. any job will do! in English speeking firm. Tom van den Dorpe, tel.: 655238314 or mvandendorpe@live.nl

Wanted T chests good condition 649229353 HEALTH REIKI courses in Dec/Jan and Feb. Also Cosmic Ordering seminars. A method of Healing for self, friends and Family.

Reiki Master. Tel. 696640747 email wellbeingnetwork@ hotmail.co.uk EVENTS

Absolute beginners Spanish classes commence at Bar Pepin, Hondon de los Frailes on 1st February at 11.30 am.. Only 3.50 € per hour.

Reserve your place on 667 858 434.

Bargain adverts can be E-MAILED to bargainads@yahoo.es or a TEXT TO: 680 976 823 (Please do not phone this number)

THE 19th of EACH MONTH. Adverts received after this will not appear in the next issue of TIM theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com 48 CLOSING DATE FOR ADVERTS IS E-mail:

GADGET PAGE The (oh, so beautiful) Apple Mac Mini

Reviewed by Steve from PC Resolver

Costa Blanca Apple Mac computers are beautiful, secure, reliable and fast – fact! So, why don’t we all have one? Because we can’t afford one – until now! Welcome the Mac Mini! The Mac mini represents the cheapest option for entering the Mac world, with the 2.26GHz version costing you £499. This comes with 2GB RAM and 160GB hard drive: more than enough for most users.

Remember the beauty? The box itself measures 6.5 inches square by 2 inches tall. It is wrapped in aluminium with a slot-loading DVD drive at the front and the connectors at the back (5x usb, DVI, Monitor, Firewire & Ethernet, audio …). Despite the size, this computer packs a punch with all the power you need for your home computing needs.

Bluetooth and WiFi are fully integrated and it has a built in speaker.

You need to supply your own monitor, keyboard and mouse – but you have them already don’t you? The only thing you’ll need is the monitor adaptor (£15). You can also connect your Mac mini up to your TV and use it as an entertainment centre on the big screen, using it for internet, storing movies and using the likes of BBC iPlayer. Because the Mac Mini is only 6 inches this is a doddle (try doing this with your elephant of a PC!).

From opening the box, it takes about 5 minutes to get up and running including connecting you into your wireless network with no problems.

It’s refreshing when compared to the out-of-the-box experience of a Windows PC, which takes much longer and forces the update cycles on you. In this case, however, there were a couple of updates to Snow Leopard (the operating system) and the installed applications, although these may well be updated on the retail unit you buy.

Despite its compact dimensions however, the Mac mini packs in plenty of power. Graphics are handled by the Nvidia GeForce 9400M GPU, as it is in many other models across the Mac range, which means you get silky smooth playback of your high-definition content and the power to play your Mac games, if that’s what you want to do. With a 2.53GHz processor you have the power to do some of the more power-hungry features too, so photo and basic video editing and encoding is fine, but you don’t get the power you’ll find in the new quad-core iMac here.

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It comes pre-installed with iLife 09 (media editing), but you can find Mac versions of most popular software, or simply use cloud applications like Google Docs.

But if you need to use a particular Windows-only application, Boot Camp comes with every new Mac, and it lets you run Windows natively — as if your Mac were a PC. Running and switching multiple applications doesn’t faze the Mac Mini like it does some cheaper nettop offerings, and playing a DVD whilst browsing the Internet and writing up some notes all on the same page is no problem at all.

The Mac mini also features a built-in speaker, so if you are only after basic system sounds and the occasional soundtrack to online videos, then you don’t need to worry about hooking up external speakers. Of course, if you are after digital audio, you can always make use of the optical output, something that those using this as a home entertainment device might take advantage of. It runs relatively quietly, without the offensive disc accessing noises that can sometimes blight computers and doesn’t suffer from the sort of fan noise that we have all got used to.

VERDICT

The Mac mini is a fantastic entry point into the world of the Apple Mac for those switching over from a PC - with existing peripherals - or for someone looking for a compact but powerful desktop computer. So, if you always wanted a Mac but weren’t quite brave enough, this is your chance. If it wasn’t for the fact that I need to run a Windows computer to support the 99% of my customers that use them, I’d have a Mac! Enough said!

E-mail: theinlandmagazine@yahoo.co.uk • Web site: www.timspain.com

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