RTN Newspaper - Costa Blanca South 28 April - 4 May 2017 Issue 914

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Issue 914

28th April - 4th May

Thousands returned to UK from Alicante province post-brexit

New EWNMG takeover EWn mEdiA Group (EWnmG) has further expanded its portfolio of newspapers by taking over the Sol Times publications p3

Los Dolores man facing jail after Murcia hit and run A mAn who was involved in a serious hit and run collision with a motorcyclist was already disqualified for driving p4

by Andy Mansell

Thinking of selling your Spanish Property?

Is it time to try another Estate Agent?

Wincham have all the right tools to find you a buyer!!

Read moRe with mark Roach p28

Dodge Challenger Demon •p53

The Caravaca Wine horses will run through the streets of the town on Tuesday May 2

Caravaca wine horses run next week

The Running of the Wine Horses is a unique fiesta which takes place on the same day every year, May 2, in the hilltop town of Caravaca de la Cruz.

Read more on page 20

FiGurES rElEASEd yesterday by the Spanish national institute of Statistics reveal 9,344 people of uK nationality registered as living in the province, returned home last year.

The figures are the highest within the Valencia region and run for the full year ending december 31 2016.

The amount of British expatriates living in Alicante Province has shown a steady decline year on year ever since the financial crisis, which crippled the country in 2009.

However, last year saw the greatest exodus back to the uK, putting the amount of Britons living in the province back to the levels of 2004.

The statistics show at January 1 this year 63,010 uK nationals were registered as residing in Alicante Province.

This still leaves British ex-patriates as the largest group of non-Spanish residents in the Province, with a total of 16% of all foreign residents.

The report shows that the lack of purchasing power felt by uK nationals since the economic crisis has seen the Alicante population fall by over half since 2008, but the numbers accelerated last year following the Brexit referendum and the decision to leave the European union.

Although the uK tops the list of people leaving, other nationalities also left the province to return home in significant numbers. German nationals were reduced by 3,054 and French by 354.

The figures show an increase in people moving into the Province from Algeria (144), morocco (1,131) and Columbia (1,049), wheareas Argentina, Ecuador and russia all saw decreases in population.

Continued on page 5

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28th April - 4th May

WEATHER IN BRIEF

News & views

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New EWNMG takeover

Sol TimeS acquired by parent company.

by Staff Reporter EWN MEdia Group (EWNMG) has further expanded its portfolio of newspapers by taking over the Sol Times publications.

The takeover announcement comes just weeks after EWNMG, the parent company of Euro Weekly News, added the well-established, three-edition RTN Costa Blanca newspaper firm to its expanding newspaper empire.

Originally launched in the almeria area in 2005, since then the Sol Times has further expanded into Costa Calida, Mar Menor, and Costa Blanca. after completing the latest takeover negotiations earlier this month, Michel and Steven Euesden, owners of EWNMG, instigated internal restructuring.

This has today led to all four editions of Sol Times being back on the streets with a greater print run and improved distribution, upgraded paper quality and size, and increased news content.

Michel said: “The aim of EWNMG is to offer all media clients the v e r y best advertising

and marketing opportunities to suit their target audience needs as well as their budgets. With the four additional Sol Times edition titles added to the group we now offer the widest choice of advertising options along the Costas with three newspaper brands and a total of 13 editions..

Based on more than 20 years experience and local knowledge originally gained

by EWN – the founding and ever-present strength of EWNMG – i know that exciting times lie ahead for the Sol Times publications and team members as part of a much larger media family.”

The Sol Times was originally founded by Rob and Chrissie Matthews and they have run the titles for the last 12 years.

Michel and Steven Euesden

28th April - 4th May

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28th April - 4th May

Los Dolores man facing jail after Murcia hit and run

by Andy Mansell A MurciAn man who was involved in a serious hit and run collision with a motorcyclist last week, was already disqualified for driving, Police have revealed.

The accident which occurred on Saturday April 22 left the motorcycle rider seriously injured and in need of emergency surgery in hospital.The MPV and motorcycle collided in a front-on to side crash on the rM 302 road connecting Beniajan and El Palmar, Los Garres on the night of the burial of the sardine fiesta. The motorcyclist was thrown off his bike, receiving serious injuries in the process. The driver of the car failed to stop and administer help to the injured man, or to call emergency services, instead driving away from the scene immediately.Witnesses to the accident called 112 and once police and ambulance arrived the injured man was transferred to the icu department of the Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca, to undergo life-saving surgery.Police investigators acting on witness statements were able to determine the identity of the vehicle that sped from the scene and the following day located the MPV in the nearby village of Los Dolores.

The damage on the vehicle clearly responded to the pattern of the accident investigated, and following a technical-ocular inspection, Guardia civil officers were able to pronounce

that ‘without any doubt’, it was the vehicle that had been involved the crash.

On arresting the owner of the vehicle for leaving the scene of an accident, the officers discovered the detainee had already lost all the points on his license for previous driving offences. in addition he had also failed to participate in the driver awareness course, required by law to recover his license. He has therefore been additionally charged with a crime against road safety. The charges the driver now faces are punishable by imprisonment from 6 months to 4 years. Additionally the crime of serious careless driving causing injuries can be punished with imprisonment from 3 months to 3 years and a total ban on driving motor vehicles and mopeds for between 1 and 4 years.The Guardia civil investigation into the accident took less than 72 hours before the arrest of the suspect was made.

Guardia Civil officers inspecting the vehicle involved in the hit and run

Unemployment on the increase in Murcia province The Murcian Community had the sixth worst unemployment figures in the whole of Spain between January and March of this year, according to figures released by the INE, National Statistics Agency. In the first quarter of the year, more than 6000 people lost their jobs in the Murcia region, a 5% increase on the numbers from October to December last year.This leaves a total figure of 136,900 unemployed workers in the region, which represents 19.34% of the total population. However the underlying trend is far more positive for the region as a whole, when year on year figures are taken into account. In the last twelve months, to March 2017, the number of unemployed in the Region actually fell by 16,900, which represents a decrease of 11%.Interestingly the number of men unemployed in the region (15.72%) is below the national average (17.22%), whereas the number of women without work in Murcia (23.94), is far higher than the national average (20.51%). With more short term seasonal summer positions due to become available over the next few weeks, the figures for the next quarter should see a reverse of the first quarter’s downward trend.

More immigrants rescued off Cabo de Palos

The mariTime service department of the Guardia Civil in conjunction with Spanish coastguards rescued a boat in Cartagena waters with ten immigrants on board early on the evening of Tuesday. all of the occupants on board the vessel were adults and they all appeared to be in apparent good health.

The Civil Guard's integrated Outer Vigilance Service detected the vessel at approximately 18.30h somewhere in the region of 20 nautical miles southeast of the coast of Cabo de Palos, sources have reported.

The vessel was intercepted two hours later by the maritime Service Provincial de la Benemérita who moved the boat to the port of Cartagena, where it arrived at around 10:00h on the same evening.

On board the vessel were 10 people, all adults and all male, thought to be of North african origin, probably from algeria.

The occupants of the boat were brought ashore and administered health care from the red Cross, although they were all found to be in good health and suffering no effects from their time spent at sea.

They were subsequently handed over to officials from the servicios de extranjería for further processing and detention.

28th April - 4th May

Murcian drug baron ‘El Karateka’ arrested

by Andy Mansell NatioNal Police working on an operation codenamed ‘operacion Piton’, last week detained an armed drugs gang in possession of weapons, firearms and marijuana with a street value of 1.4 million euros. the gang members were arrested last Sunday april 23 in raids on three properties in the alcantarilla area of Murcia, following a covert operation lasting over a year and a half. the national police officers seized up to 281 kilogrammes of marijuana buds from the homes in the Residencia Verona ii, Puebla de Sota. in addition to the drugs which have a value of 400,000 euros, but a bulk value of close on half a million euros, the agents also uncovered 330,000 euros of cash hidden in a false ceiling in the bathroom of one of the properties. they also seized eleven operational firearms, which included shot guns, revolvers, hunting and military rifles whose origins are still unknown. the arrested gang members were part of a criminal organization headed by Pedro SG, dubbed 'el Karateka', which was composed of four men and two women, aged between 18 and 46. the detainees were all subsequently arrested and charged with various serious criminal offences including drug trafficking, crimes against public health, illicit possession of weapons and membership of a criminal organisation. a police spokesman confirmed the suspects were part of a network dedicated to

Murcian drug baron Pedro SG, nicknamed 'El Karateka' after his arrest last Sunday

the cultivation of marijuana, collection of marijauna buds and distribution of the illegal drug for commercial gain.

Speaking to Spanish media last Wednesday, head of the operation inspector alberto Juan Benavente, from the National Police in alcantarilla, explained that the gang possessed: ‘’Very advanced technological means," including surveillance and espionage devices, "such as spy cameras and peepholes with cameras to monitor the exterior activity around their properties’’ He explained that the investigation had begun in october 2015 at the Polígono industrial de alcantarilla, where agents detected a possible production of marijuana buds and subsequent sale of them. the investigation ultimately focused on the leader of the gang, Pedro SG, who was known to reside in the town of Puebla de Soto.

He was caught in possession of the drugs and firearms at his home last weekend, along with the four other gang members detained, three of whom are of Spanish nationality one of indian origin. the detainees were caught handling large trunks in a van that contained 40 bags with a total of 17 kilograms of marijuana. investigating officers also recovered valuables owned by the detainees from the properties, including six cars, one of which was a Maserati. other items seized included high-end mobile phones, computers and tablets, plus luxury watches and expensive items of jewellery. inspector Benavente, told reporters his officers were not accustomed to the seizure of so much material, but went on to confirm that the investigation is now closed.

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Continued from front page By contrast, the chinese population continues to increase year on year since 1998, when the statistics were first introduced. There are currently 8,349 chinese living in the province, an increase of 80 on last year. the InE statistics show the population of alicante Province on January 1 was 1,820,325 people, 16,134 less than the previous year.

This is the largest fall registered in the Valencian community, in absolute values, since the provinces of Castellón and Valencia lost around 4,000 inhabitants each.

The exodus of people born outside Spain explains much of this situation, as in the last year 16,682 people of foreign origin have left.

Meanwhile, the amount of spanish nationals living in the region has slightly increased, in 548 people.

In the whole of the region of Valencia, a total of 24,958 inhabitants were lost in 2016, which puts the total population at 4,935,010 people. the total population of spain at the beginning of the year was 46,539,026, a slight decrease of around 17,000 citizens. the Valencian community has the largest decrease in population of the whole of the country, followed by Castille y Leon.

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28th April - 4th May

Trump warms to EU trade deal

by Tahnee Wright

Post-Brexit Britain at the back of the queue.

After famously refusing to shake Merkel’s hand at their first meeting, Trump seems to have warmed to an EU trade deal

by Tahnee Wright The UniTed States could strike a free-trade agreement with the european Union after President donald Trump warmed to a deal with the bloc, the Times reported on Saturday, quoting sources from both sides of the discussion.

Post-Brexit Britain would be pushed behind europe in the race to secure a U.S. deal after Germany's Angela Merkel persuaded Trump that talks on a deal would be simpler than he thought, the newspaper said.

Britain will not be free to agree new trade deals until it has left the eU in 2019.

A source close to the White house was quoted as saying that there had been a ‘realisation’ in the Trump administration that a trade deal with the eU - allowing the tarifffree exchange of goods and services - was more important to U.S. interests than a postBrexit deal with Britain.

Trump, who has repeatedly criticised the eU, had welcomed Britain's 2016 vote to leave the bloc and said he would work hard to get a quick bilateral trade deal done.

But German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said on Friday he was optimistic a U.S.-eU trade deal could be reached soon after he met his U.S. counterpart in Washington. he said he had seen a relaxation in the dispute with the U.S. over trade and believed a ‘non-confrontational solution’ would be reached when financial leaders of the world's 20 top economies meet in hamburg in July under Germany's presidency.

Any quick deal between the U.S. and europe could come as a blow to British Prime Minister Theresa May who had hoped to win a promise of deeper trade ties when she became the first foreign leader to meet Trump in office in January.

Trade became a major issue during the Brexit campaign when the then-president Barack Obama said Britain would go to ‘the back of the queue’ for a deal if it voted to leave.

The comment was denounced as meddling by those campaigning to leave the bloc, who argued that Britain would be free to negotiate quick trade deals with major economies around the world once it had left the bloc.

Fetch out the winter woolies for the weekend

The CosTa Blanca is set for a return to winter for the next few days, according to the latest forecast issued last Thursday.

This will come as something of a shock to our systems after the recent run of temperatures in the mid 20’s we’ve become accustomed to.

The whole region is likely to see temperatures plummet by over ten degrees, with accompanying rain and thundery showers to heighten the gloom.

Daytime temperatures will peak at 14 degrees, with night temperatures dropping to single figures. There is even a possibility of snow on the Northern mountains of the region. however, don’t get your thermal knickers in a twist, normal service will resume early next week when temperatures are set to return to a more seasonal, sunny 21 degrees.

28th April - 4th May

Ryanair begin major Spanish recruitment campaign IrIsh aIrlIne giants ryanair are looking to increase staffing levels by more than 3500 employees with a major recruitment drive throughout spain during the month of May.

by Andy Mansell The Low Cost airline arrived in Spain earlier this week and will stay until the end of May seeking to recruit new cabin crew for its flights.

In addition to 2,000 cabin crew members, Ryanair wants to employ 1,000 pilots, 250 aircraft engineers and will promote 300 inhouse officials.

Roadshows will be held in Málaga, Granada, Valencia, Sevilla, Barcelona and Madrid in a bid to take on more staff as part of its plan to expand the payroll by 3,550 over the course of 2017.

The Irish carrier has admitted its future investment in the UK is uncertain in light of Brexit, but this appears to be proving no barrier to its european continent-wide growth.

Ryanair started life in 1985 headed by current Ceo Michael o’Leary, with a single prop plane flying between Dublin and London.

Now, considered to be one of the world’s fastest growing airline groups, they currently hold bases in 84 european airports, including Alicante, Valencia, Murcia, Almeria and Castellon in our region.

Those seeking a job as a cabin crew member do not need any previous experience, since they will be fully trained once taken on, and the package includes major travel perks.

For anyone interested in attending one of the roadshows , visit the airline’s recruitment page on their website for exact locations. however, the dates are as follows: Granada on wednesday, May 3; Barcelona on Thursday, May 4; Madrid on wednesday, May 10; Málaga or Sevilla on Friday, May 19; Valencia on Thursday, May 25, or Madrid or Barcelona on Friday, May 26.

Interested parties can also register via the website www.crewlink.ie.

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28th April - 4th May

Lost painting fetches 8 million euros at auction

by Andy Mansell It mIght be time to take a look in the attic, as the painting that’s been passed down through your family over the years, may actually be worth more than you think. that was certainly the case recently when a painting that had been in the same family for generations and was only recently credited to Spain's famed artist Diego Velazquez was sold tuesday in madrid for ₏8 million, according to the city auction house Abalarte. the painting is believed to have been painted by Velazquez around 1616 or 1617, when the artist was only 17 or 18 years old and still living in the southern Spanish city of Seville, the auction house said.

It had been in the same family for several generations but had never been properly analysed until the owner decided to sell it. the "Portrait of a girl," which portrays a young girl with large, sad eyes, her hands held together as if in prayer, is believed to be an early work by the Sevillian artist best known for his masterpiece "Las meninas", on display in madrid's Prado museum.

Richard de Willermin, a specialist on 17th century Spanish art who collaborates with the auction house, examined the small oil on canvas painting and concluded it was

by Velazquez.

Specialists at the Prado museum have also looked at the painting, but the museum has not commented publicly as it never gives any opinion about works that are not part of its own collection. the painting's starting price had been â‚Ź8 million ($8.7 million), Abalarte said, but there was no higher bidding. the identity of the buyer was not revealed, but the painting is banned from leaving the country by order of the government, which prohibits any work that could be part of Spain's heritage from being taken abroad.

A slow and meticulous worker, Velazquez is thought to have painted fewer than 200 works in his entire career. About 120 survive to this day, roughly half of them in the Prado.

The Portrait of a Girl by Velasquez fetched 8 million euros at auction last week

Alicante province had 119 bike accidents involving minors last year Figures released this week reveal the alicante region recorded 119 accidents last year involving minors, aged 17 and under, riding two wheel modes of transport. The largest group of accidents involved mopeds driven by youngsters aged between 15 and 17. These figures sat at 62%, followed by those involving bikes, then motorcycles. The data was provided by Government spokesperson Juan Carlos Moragues, who spoke at length about safety issues regarding two wheel transport, to a group of over 100 children and young adults at the Sacred Hearts Marists School in Alicante. Moragues explained to the audience that 10% of the recorded accidents resulted in hospitalization for the victim. in his road safety lecture, he stressed the importance of wearing a helmet at all times when riding on two wheels, giving his audience stark figures that prove if a driver riding on two wheels, travelling at a speed of 30km per hour were to have an accident, the risk of them dying in the collision is a frightening 98%.

28th April - 4th May

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DKV prize for Abbeygate Insurance Sales Team A PRIZE for success in reaching a second category target in health insurance sales has recently been awarded to the sales team of Abbeygate Insurance, from the international specialists in health insurance, DKV Seguros S.A.

We are delighted to have been awarded this prize, it is always fantastic for our team of staff to be recognised for their hard work and dedication to excellent customer care

AbbeygAte Ate Insur A InsurAnce Ance have a great working partnership with DKV, which has resulted in their appreciation, in the form of a prize of €900, which will go towards a day out, where the team can have a bonding experience and a lovely meal out to celebrate their achievement.

Abbeygate said, “We are delighted to have been awarded this prize, it is always fantastic for our team of staff to be recognised for their hard work and dedication to excellent customer care.”

Abbeygate Insurance offer a variety of insurance for, health; motor vehicle; home; travel; marine; funeral; life; pet; golf; commercial including public and employment liability insurance. their head office is in estepona and they also have offices in Portugal, cyprus and the united Kingdom.

Abbeygate the largest independently owned expat insurance in spain offer tailored health packages with optional excess amounts available to best suit their client’ needs. Abbeygate are famous for professional friendly service. caring for their clients is the basis of there success. they are special because they have a great team of dedicated sales professionals, who are english-speaking. they assess the needs of the client on an individual basis, through an underwriter, to ensure that they receive the best service and the best advice. the underwriter houses medical professionals who assess each application accordingly and therefore give the best advice.

Abbeygate Insurance has accumulated many years of experience in caring for expatriate and local clients, giving an appropriate service that is tailor-made to each individual. the company is special in the way that they offer a service that fo-

cuses on the needs of the individual and are able to put the customers’ minds at rest. they are also offering discounted rates of 25 per cent, for the remainder of 2017. there's an offer you shouldn't miss.

Abbeygate’s partner in health insurance, DKV seguros s.A. are specialists in health insurance and have an extensive network of branches, sales branches and exclusive agencies throughout spain. this allows them to provide a personal and quality service to all their clients. In recent years they have become one of the top five medical insurance companies in the country, though their two commercial trademarks in spain: DKV and ergO. studies have also recognised them on numerous occasions as the insurance company with the largest number of satisfied clients. their managerial policy is guided towards the client, guaranteeing them strength security and an excellent quality service. their focus is on innovation, which includes new specialised products that are introduced into already existing coverage and products, ensuring that clients are made aware of these as part of their individual. the staff at Abbeygate are always at your service, so if you

If you are interested in getting to know the team, contact sales at Abbeygate Insurance by telephone 951 277 455 or email sales@abbeygateinsure.com

happen to be in the area, just call in anytime to make some enquiries. there is Adam from Manchester, who has a background in management and has lived in spain for over nine years. there are the twin girls, Holly and toni, along with their older sister, charlie who have all been educated and living in spain for 17 years. sandy was born and raised in India and studied in barcelona. Matthew is from birmingham and has lived on the coast for five years. simona is the visiting rep from DKV and is of spanish nationality. they will start celebrating their prize money, with a trip on saturday April 29, when they visit the estepona go Kart track. the team will be joined by their dedicated renewals department and also the claims and accounting team.

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28th April - 4th May

Jeremy Corbyn promises the UK four new bank holidays

Jeremy Corbyn campaigning in Croydon

by Tahnee Wright A LAbour government would seek to create four new uK-wide bank holidays, Jeremy Corbyn says.

The proposals suggest public holidays on St David's Day (1 March), St Patrick’s Day (17 March), St George's Day (23 April) and St Andrew’s Day (30 November).

Mr Corbyn believes the move would ‘celebrate the national cultures of our proud nations’.

The uK currently has eight public holidays a year – the fewest of any G20 or Eu country.

Normally, England and Wales have eight bank holidays a year, Scotland nine and Northern Ireland 10. Labour says the average for G20 countries is 12. under the Labour bank holiday policy, the devolved administrations would have the final say on whether to approve the extra days off.

The leader of Plaid Cymru, Leanne Wood, welcomed the idea - telling the bbC her party had supported a holiday on St David's Day for many years. but a Conservative source said: ‘The british economy would be on a permanent holiday if Mr Corbyn got near Downing Street.’

UK banK hoLIdays - England and Wales (8): New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Early May bank holiday, Spring bank holiday, Summer bank holiday, Christmas Day, boxing Day - Scotland (9): Similar, but without Easter Monday and with the summer bank holiday at the start of August rather than the end, plus 2 January and St Andrew's Day in addition - Northern Ireland (10): Same as England and Wales, plus St Patrick's Day and battle of the boyne Mr Corbyn said in a speech on Sunday: ‘The four nations that make up our great country have rarely been more divided due to the damaging and divisive policies of this Conservative government.’ ‘but where Theresa May divides, Labour will unite our four nations.’

‘A Labour government will make St George's Day - England's national day and Shakespeare's birthday - a public holiday, along with St David's Day, St Andrew's Day and St Patrick's Day.’ ‘These holidays will be a chance for workers to spend time with their families, in their communities and with their friends.’ ‘but they will also be a chance to celebrate the national cultures of our proud nations.’

Ferry crash causes three-kilometre oil slick

EmErgEncy tEams in the canary Islands raced on saturday to contain a threekilometre oil slick caused by a ferry crashing into underwater fuel pipes, the regional government said in a statement.the regional government activated emergency plans to control and clean up the nearly two-mile spill around Las Palmas de gran canaria and telde, the two main towns on the spanish resort island of gran canaria, the regional government said. the ferry crashed into a pier where the pipes were located late on Friday after suffering a technical fault that caused a power cut, a spokesman for operating company naviera armas on saturday. the 140 passengers were unhurt apart from some minor injuries, he said.

28th April - 4th May

UNICEF calls for action in Central Mediterranean

by Tahnee Wright NotiNg iNcreases in number of migrants, including children, attempting to reach european shores using the central Mediterranean route and consequent rise in number of deaths, the United Nations children's Fund (UNiceF) has called for safe and legal pathways for those who are fleeing conflict, poverty and depravation. according to UNiceF estimates, at least 849 people, including more than 150 children, perished at sea while trying to make the perilous crossing since January this year. ‘it is deeply concerning that vulnerable people, including thousands of children, are risking their lives to reach europe's shores using this incredibly dangerous route,’ afshan Khan, the UNiceF regional Director and special coordinator for the refugee and Migrant crisis in europe, said in a news release on saturday. since the start of the year, nearly 37,000 refugees and migrants - 13 per cent of them children - have reached italy by sea via the central Mediterranean. this is an increase of 42 per cent compared to the same time period last year. in particular, unaccompanied and separated children are at most risk and these numbers too have seen a dramatic increase. in January and February this year, some

1,865 unaccompanied and separated children arrived in italy, an increase of 40 per cent compared to the same period last year.

UNiceF also noted that recent good weather and calmer waters in the Mediterranean have been accompanied by a surge in refugees and migrants attempting to cross. During the easter weekend alone, more than 8,300 were rescued from the sea between Libya and italy. at least eight migrants were reported to have drowned over the weekend. ‘this is further evidence that when safe and legal pathways to migration are cut off, desperate children and families will do whatever they can to flee conflict, poverty and depravation,’ noted Ms. Khan. as part of its global policy for children on the move, the UN agency has been calling for more action to protect child refugees and migrants, particularly unaccompanied children; end the detention of children seeking refugee status or migrating; and to promote measures to combat xenophobia, discrimination and marginalization in countries of transit and destination. it has also underlined the need to keep families together as the best way to protect children and give children legal status; to ensure that all refugee and migrant children have opportunities to learn, access to health care and other quality services; and to address the underlying causes of large scale movements of refugees and migrants.

First aid courses for hotel staff in Torrevieja area

Reception and Front of House employees working in Hotels and apartment complexes in the Vega Baja area now have the opportunity to learn First Responder techniques.

Hospital Quirónsalud torrevieja are running the First aid courses for hotels that belong to the alicante Sur Hoteliers association as part of an agreement between the two organisations. the courses are held at the Hospital and are designed to give the Hotel employees the skills and confidence to deal quickly and successfully with any medical emergency situations that are likely to occur in their establishments. anyone requiring information on the First aid courses should email the hospital on communicacion.torrevieja@quironsalud.es

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28th April - 4th May

National cystic fibrosis day recognised in Murcia city Last Wednesday a gathering of Murcian Health Officials met in La Plaza de Romea de Murcia to mark national Cystic Fibrosis day.

by Andy Mansell CystiC Fibrosis is a modern day disease of genetic origin affecting one in 4,700 newborn children in the region of Murcia. in fact every year between two and three new cases are diagnosed within the region. throughout Murcia, 130 patients are in medical follow-up, receiving treatment for this respiratory disease that progressively damages the lungs, ultimately causing pancreatic failure.

According to data from the regional Cystic Fibrosis Unit, of these 130 patients, 113 are undergoing treatment, for which the Murcian Health service (sMs) allocates more than 720,000 euros per annum, and 12 have already received a lung transplant. since 2007, the Center for biochemistry and Clinical Genetics of the Ministry of Health has carried out the so-called 'heel test' on an annual average of 18,000 newborn babies in the region to determine whether they show signs of the disease. thanks to the efficiency of the testing procedure, they have been able to detect between two and three new cases of Cystic Fibrosis each year. this clinical trial for early detection of congenital metabolic diseases consists of heel punctures performed on the newborn infant to obtain a blood sample.

Early detection allows the newly diagnosed babies to be referred to the regional Cystic Fibrosis Unit, located in the

Children gather in Murcia city centre to mark National Cystic Fibrosis Day

capital’s Arrixaca hospital.

Care for newborns in the specialist unit allows for treatment to delay the evolution of the disease, alleviate possible complications, prolong the life expectancy of those affected and improve their well-being. the basic treatment for the disease establishes adequate nutrition and uses medicines created to fight infections and respiratory inflammations. in addition the specialist team of doctors regularly perform therapy including respiratory physiotherapy, strengthening exercises of the thorax muscles and the practice of exercise and sport.

the Murcia Association of Cystic Fibrosis celebrates its 30th anniversary this year with an awareness campaign with an objective to improve the quality and life expectancy of people who suffer from this delibitating illness. the association, whose motto '’you breathe without thinking, i only think about breathing'’ was initially set up to support the early diagnosis of the disease and to carry out the proper treatment by specialists doctors and nurses. they are also there to ensure patients receive appropriate hygiene and correct treatment and medication for each individual case administered early in the symptoms of the disease.

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28th April - 4th May

28th April - 4th May

Searching for the ‘girl on the tram ’

By Andy Mansell The World always holds a soft spot for a hopeless romantic and one young, lovestruck, Murcian man has gone to great lengths to prove the art of romance is not dead.

The unnamed man has sellotaped literally hundreds of printed poster onto lamp posts, billboards and rubbish bins across the city trying to find a girl he saw on a tram on the night of the Bando de la huerta fiesta last week.

The poster with the heading ‘QUerIdA ChICA del TrANVIA’, describes the night the romantic optimist had the briefest of encounters with the mystery girl and asks for help in his search to find his ‘needle in a haystack’ on the night in question, she climbed into the last car of the tram in the Plaza Circular next to some friends who then left at Senda de Granada station, leaving her alone and apparently, without "a good end to the party" according to the boy.

The lovestruck guy watched from a distance to make sure the girl was safe, but could not raise the courage to speak to her, as he was mesmerised by her beauty. he now bitterly regrets not talking to the young girl in an effort to bring her out of "the hell she was going through" and make her happy. however, he feels it’s never too late and has spent the last week riding the Tranvia for hours on end hoping to catch a glimpse of the girl, without success, hence the poster

that he hopes might jog her and her friends memory. he would love the chance to take her for dinner and get to know her.

If we’re honest, how many of us have been in that same position for a fleeting moment and regretted not speaking to the person who caught our eye. let’s wish the young paramour luck in his quest and hope he meets his ‘Girl on the tram’.

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28th April - 4th May

Caravaca wine horses run next week

by Andy Mansell Next week one of the most famous fiestas on the Murcian cultural calendar takes place in a small town in the South west of the region. the Running of the wine Horses is a unique fiesta which takes place on the same day every year, May 2, in the hilltop town of Caravaca de la Cruz. the fiesta, known in Spanish as the ‘Caballos del Vino’ has been declared an event of International tourist Interest and is part of a week of festivities, which begin on Monday May 1 and run through to Friday may 5. there are great number of parades, processions and re-enactments aside from the main event of the actual running of the wine horses, which takes place on tuesday 2 May at 2:00pm. the history of this unique fiesta revolves around the story of the true Cross, in Spanish the ‘Verz Cruz’. this fragment of wood is said to have been part of the cross upon which Jesus was crucified and it has protected the city since the 13th century.

the presence of the true Cross in Caravaca is the reason for the small town’s elevation to a status of Holy City, one of only 5 in the world, on par with Rome and Jerusalem. the legend dates back to the days of the knights templar, who came to the aid of the townspeople. the invading Moorish army had cunningly poisoned the water supply, which flowed into the besiege town, and many people were dying of thirst, as they couldn’t drink the poisoned water. the only liquid that could be found to drink was wine.

So the brave templar knights tied flagons of wine to their horses and ran with them up the hill before the Moorish armies realised what was happening, bringing the precious liquid to the townspeople. the Vera Cruz was bathed in the wine and miraculously the sick and wounded were healed. today, to commemorate this happening 60 horses are dressed in spectacular embroidered cloaks and run up the hill to the sanctuary one by one, in a race against the clock.

It can be extremely exciting, as the streets are packed with onlookers who part to allow the

The Caravaca Wine horses will run through the streets of the town on Tuesday May 2

horses to rush past just centimetres away.

Prizes are awarded for both the fastest horses and those with the most exceptional embroidery.

In 1998, Pope John Paul II granted Caravaca de la Cruz Holy City status, along with Rome, Jerusalem, Santiago de Compostela

and Camaleño (Monastery of Santo toribio de Liébana). It celebrates its Holy Jubilee every seven years and 2017 is one of those years, which makes this year’s running of the wine horses a particularly significant event that should not be missed if you are in the area.

Charity antiques and collectors fair in Quesada ColleCtibles and antiques in every price range will be showcased at the second antiques and Collectors fair being staged at the la laguna spa and Golf Hotel, Ciudad Quesada on Wednesday May 10.

This will be a wonderful opportunity for antique lovers and collectors to see beautiful, elegant and different items on sale in a very elegant salon.

Visitors will have the chance to see some exquisite pieces for sale and a wide variety of antique, vintage and retro items along with collectibles in every price range, there really is something to suit everyone.

Organisers of the fair are this year helping to support and raise much needed funds for local animal charity, ASOKA, based in Orihuela Costa.

This very worthwhile charity takes in more than the usual dogs and cats, although these make up the greatest number, but they also care for horses, ponies, donkeys and many other kinds of animals large or small.

All these animals are rescued from the streets from which they have been abandoned and often from situation where they are cruelly abused.

Asoka will be represented at the fair and will be selling items donated by their kind supporters.

This year, the very popular collectors fair will be held in the elegant Salon Palmeral at the La laguna Resort and doors will open at 11.00am and close at 6.00pm.

There is extensive free parking at the hotel and there is no entry charge for the fair. The bar will be open for bar food and drinks all day.

For more information on the event, call Sue or Paul on 96 573 2741 or 626 795 587 or email filly1245@gmail.com.

Antiques and collectibles at all price points will be on show at the fair on Wednesday May 10

28th April - 4th May

21

Chase that bus by

Barry Duke

A few years back, I introduced my readers to Nigel – a malevolent invisible being from the planet May-Hem in the faraway galaxy of Pandemonium – after items started to disappear in my apartment. They would later turn up in the most unlikely places.

A screwdriver vanished from my toolbox, and was found days later in the fridge. A TV remote control turned up at the bottom of a laundry basket. A missing 50 euro note was recovered from the dishwasher. And so on until I thought I’d be hauled off in a straitjacket.

I called this dastardly alien Nigel because I once knew someone by that name who had a totally twisted sense of humour, and was always playing malicious pranks on people. well, after exposing Nigel, life returned to normality … until a fortnight ago. Nigel had simply been laying low, waiting for an opportunity to exact vengeance on me for revealing his secret existence. He did so by giving me several heart-stopping moments, the worst being the one when I discovered that I had left a bag on a Benidorm bus containing important legal papers and two passports. One was mine, the other belonged to my spouse-to-be, Marcus.

I was on my way to the Town Hall to renew our padrónes when I realised I’d left the bus without the bag.

....... Antiques an

d collectibles at

I turned around and sprinted along Mediterraneo Avenue in the hope of catching up with the No 3 bus. Sure, Superman could have done it in the blink on an eye but I quickly realised that I no longer possessed the youth nor the stamina for this kind of caper.

So, sweating, out of breath and in a blind panic, I leapt into a cab and screamed three words I never imagined would ever pass my lips: “persigue ese autobus!” (Chase that bus!).

The cabbie gave me a funny look, and would not move until I’d explained my predicament. And when he finally did get the message, he took off like a missile. when we eventually drew up alongside the bus, I realised it wasn’t the right one. The driver and the cabbie spoke to each other, and we were told that the No 3 I wanted was way up ahead, travelling toward the distant bus station.

So, again at breakneck speed, we tore along Av. de europa, heading for the station. Then, near the top of the dual carriageway I spotted my bus.

It was heading back in the opposite direction into the city centre. Burning rubber again, the cabbie, now thoroughly enjoying the chase while I was quivering with terror, resumed the pursuit. when we finally caught up with the

all price points wi

ll be on show at the fair on Wednesday May 10

bus, much to my relief I saw my bag still lying on the seat on which I had left it. I snatched it and returned to the cab.

But Nigel wasn’t through with me yet. Not by a long chalk. After the taxi dropped me at the Town Hall, I ran to the padrón counter, only to be told that it had been relocated to another part of the building. It took me ten minutes to find it, and when I got there it had just closed for the day.

A message to Nigel: if you’re reading this, please accept my apologies for exposing you. Now will you please move on and play havoc with someone else’s life.

• A padrón is best described as an ongoing census that needs to be periodically renewed. expats living in Spain should make sure that they have one (visit http://tinyurl.com/l5z7m6g to learn more about this document).

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28th April - 4th May

Know your enemy

by

Michael Conditioned to think of Walsh the armed forces as being

keyboardcosmetics@ gmail.com

the nation’s shield it is hard to accept that the greatest threat facing europe is neither Russia nor China but nAto. Neither Moscow nor Beijing threatens european interests other than set up a defence against NAto inspired provocations. on the other hand the west’s political cliques and orchestrated media wage endless information and trade wars on russia. so far, anti-russian sanctions have cost the 27 eU nations $65 billion. if today the peoples of europe stand on the abyss of extinction posterity will blame U.s-controlled NAto. “support by the United states is in the nature of the support a rope gives to a hanging man.” ~ Nikita Khrushchev. the charge sheet against NAto is damning and the effects may not be easily overcome. NAto forces have blundered into a score of military calamities and the effects are rebounding in spectacular fashion.

NAto’s destruction of the Libyan state is a textbook example of how not to conduct foreign policy. of 54 African nations Libya was by far the most prosperous and benign. our friendly Mediterranean neighbour was rich in natural resources, a nation where the quality of life was much better than any other African country. today, thanks to NAto’s totally unjustified regime

change, Libya is one of Africa’s most despotic, impoverished and anarchic nations.

Not satisfied with destroying Libya and drooling over the televised public murder of its popular leader the consequences of this disaster ~ as Muammar Gaddafi prophesied ~ is a non-stop flow of millions of displaced Africans seeking sanctuary in europe.

Like the Four horsemen of the Apocalypse NAto has come to symbolise conquest, war, famine and death. to this might be added wholesale population displacement. As a consequence of NAto aggression europe faces a tsunami of rootless refugees from Africa and now the Middle east. Understandably, many of

the displaced have good cause to hate the west. with friends like NAto who needs enemies. the inflow of non-european immigration causes immense suffering to both refugees and europe’s host communities. the misery of refugees and the threat to europe’s stability comes not from russia or china but from NAto. i recall a former ewN editor telling me he thought my predictions fantasy but conceded they usually turned out as i prophesied. i foresee that when europeans regain independence from globalists interests many NAto commanders will face war crime trials.

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28th April - 4th May

Taken down a peg by

Colin Bird

It Is rightly said that you should never judge a person by his or her appearance.

But only theoretically, because the majority of us have an inbuilt knee jerk reaction to the physical bearing of people we encounter. It’s a human failing.

Fat, thin, ugly, alluring, well dressed, down at heel; we tend at the outset to make snap decisions on people’s character based on outward appearances.

Some years ago there was a family of four brothers and their mother living in the next village to ours, who would not have looked out of place in Hillbilly country. It would have come as no surprise to see any one of the brothers perched on a five bar gate, knocking out ‘Duelling Banjos’ on a beat up old ukelele.

But the fact of the matter is, these

guys were prepared to take on any job in order to put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads. they advertised themselves as gardeners and general handy men and were a familiar sight in the surrounding villages, creosoting fences, tidying up gardens or stacking logs. no task was too menial for them and the back of their van was an Aladdin’s cave of bizarre tools and equipment, albeit just after someone had lobbed in a hand grenade.

Another of their little business enterprises was to deliver the Sunday papers, for which we paid at the door - although I could never remember from one week to the next what I needed to fork out. one of the brothers, who we referred to as the Chairman, because he was the one always directing operations, was our regular deliverer until one particular Sunday when brother Billy, the least

‘gifted’ of the family and known to us as Harpo because of his explosion of hair, was sent to the house.

As he handed me my paper I pulled out a fist full of shrapnel and asked, “What’s that then?”

Billy looked at me, then at the newspaper, then back at me with a pitying expression, and as if explaining to a mo-

ron said: “It’s the Sunday telegraph”.

Flustered, I gave him two quid, told him to keep the change and watched him trouser the cash before trudging away shaking his head.

A minor incident, but it gave me serious pause for thought about my own perceived superiority, and a sharp lesson in humility.

Brits tell fibs to appear more cultured Millions of Brits have claimed to have visited a place they have never been to, enjoyed a book they’ve never read - or eaten food they secretly can’t stand, in a bid to appear more “cultured”, according to a new study.

Researchers carried out a study into cultural experiences and revealed the hilarious exaggerations Britons tell to appear more interesting, better-travelled and more worldly wise.

According to the survey, four in ten Brits claimed to have watched a film they’ve never seen, while around one in five (19 per cent) have overplayed their interest in politics in a bid to impress their peers.

Meanwhile, 21 per cent have fibbed about where they have

been in the world - with new Zealand, new York, Australia and Rome emerging as popular places we’ve never been to.A similar number (17 per cent) have given the impression to their family and friends that they are more into ‘cool’ music than they actually are. There are even a handful of people who’ve gone as far as to be economical with the truth when the topic of plays, operas and arthouse films crop up.

The study of almost 2,000 people by MsC Cruises UK, found another 29 per cent make out that they are ‘foodies’ to their friends, family and colleagues – suggesting they regularly dine on oysters, quinoa and sushi - when in fact, this couldn’t be further from the truth. other popular pre-

tends include joining in discussions about famous pieces of literature we’ve never actually read (17 per cent). A further 35 per cent claim they would consider a cruise to a destination such as the Mediterranean or Caribbean in a bid to appear more cultured.

Despite the penchant for a bit of ‘spin’ from time to time to boost our social status the study found most Brits do get their fair share of culture.

According to the data the average Brit typically reads 16 books a year, will enjoy a fine dining experience on nine occasions and will watch 27 documentaries.on top of that they visit the theatre four times a year, watch seven independent films and visit four countries or cities.

Top 20 places BriTs claim To have visiTed 1. new Zealand 2. new York 3. Australia 4. Rome 5. Paris 6. iceland 7. Cuba 8. Brazil 9. Venice 10. Jamaica 11. Moscow 12. Dubai 13. Milan 14. Barcelona 15. Morocco 16. Berlin 17. Miami 18. florence 19. ibiza 20. sri lanka

Top 20 foods BriTs claim To like 1. sushi 2. Dark chocolate 3. Rare steak 4. Quinoa 5. oysters 6. Craft ales 7. smelly cheese 8. Hot chillies 9. Avocado 10. Granola 11. Raw Vegetables 12. sweetbreads 13. Kale 14. Korean food 15. Kimchi 16. sashimi 17. Courgetti 18. Rye Bread 19. Bowl food (Congee) 20. Aged meat

Name dropping by

Victor Pemberton

Emmy Award Winner

28th April - 4th May

This week’s article is by request, so bear with me.

As many of you will know i’ve had a long career in radio, television, films, and as an author of twenty novels.

Consequently I’ve met and worked with many famous actors, actresses, writers, producers and directors. therefore I thought it might be fun and interesting for you if every so often I revealed some personal stories for you about my time with some of the legends of show business that I remember with such affection. In other words I’ll do a bit of name dropping.

A few years ago, together with my partner and long time friend the late David spenser, we set up a small independent television company which we called saffron Productions. our first production was an arts documentary for the BBC based on the life of our old friend, Gwen Ffrancon-Davies. And when I say old I do mean old, for Gwen, one of the greatest classical actresses of the twentieth century, and whom in her youth had played Juliet to John Gielgud’s Romeo, was 98 years old and still conducting acting workshops at the Royal national and Royal shakespeare theatres. the film we made, which was called GWen: A JulIet ReMeMBeReD was beautifully directed by David and featured tributes on camera from such luminaries as Dirk Bogarde, Dame Peggy Ashcroft, sir John Gielgud, Alan Bates, Anna Massey, and sir Peter Hall.

But guess what? the film, which was the first made by our fledgling Company, astonished everyone, especially David and myself, by winning the International emmy in new york (television’s equivalent of the oscar) and first prize at the new york Film Fesitval.

Wow! But for me the biggest thrill was yet to come. the razzmatazz ceremony, held at the sheraton hotel in new york complete with red carpet and wavering searchlights, was beamed live on television from coast to coast in the united states, and required me, as Producer of the film, to accept the award on behalf of saffon Prodductions. this I did with shaking legs and dry mouth, accepting the award from the Hollywood actor F.Murray Abrahams, who won an oscar playing the villainous salieri in the film version of AMADeus. Following the ceremony, in which I thanked practically everyone including the tea-lady, but forgot to mention David, our Director, shaking with fear I was led off to be interviewed by over 200 media reporters on live television. But then – it happened. Clutching our emmy (which is quite heavy) I made my way through the deserted hotel Banquetting Hall but came to an abrupt halt when a lovely, familiar female voice called softly to me: ‘excuse me.’ I stopped and turned to see a vision of such female beauty approaching me, a radiating beauty that had adorned so many Hollywood and British fims over the years that I nearly dropped emmy onto my toes. ‘Can I just say,’ she purred, ‘that I thought your film tonight absolutely wonderful. Gwen has always been my idol. I adore her. Will you please give her something for me?’ utterly speechless, I stood motionless clutching emmy whilst this sylph like figure leaned forward and kissed me gently on the cheek, the cheek that has never been washed since. suddenly she was gone, leaving me in a state of disbelief. After all it’s not every day that you get kissed by someone like …….Audrey Hepburn. How’s that for a name dropper? By the way, on her hundredth birthday, Gwen Ffrancon-Davies became a Dame of the British empire. she died the following year. that’s all folks! From time to time I’ll be doing some more name dropping with people like Benny Hill, Mickey Rooney, and Burt Reynolds. If you want to know more about my name droppers please contact me at: victorfpem@gmail.com

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28th April - 4th May

Autumn on the Adriatic

Bari italy

Athens

There can’T be many things more exciting than cruising on the adriatic. Visiting Ports that are both historical and scenic, there is nothing better than waking up in a different port every day. and each of these ports are more exciting than the last. With coach travel to Madrid airport, you fly to Bari (Italy) to meet your costa crucero representative who will transport you to your Ship the Deliziosa.

On board we receive the “royal treatment” at dinner. From smiling waist coated waiters. relaxing meals, a bit of musical entertainment in the bar, a show in the theatre, a throw of the dice in the casino, and a good nights sleep, how wonderful to wake in a different port every day. as the 2nd largest town in Southern Italy, Bari contains the bones of St nicholas (aka Santa claus) in its Basilica, one of the 1st norman churches to be built in this area and its 11th century romanesque cathedral is Bari's most important church. a gentle stop to get you in the mood for the next few days. next day the famous Greek island of corfu. a history of constant wars and battles has left a heritage of many castles. a popular spot with the royals of europe, but really didn’t join the tourist route until the 20th century. next day the cliffs of Santorini tower over the ship. Transfers from the ship to the mainland using small local boats give us no clue

of what is to come. There are 3 ways to go up to the town.

You can walk – not really an option on the almost vertical road. You can use the cable car, Ok if you are not worried by heights. Or you can take the notorious Santorini Donkey ride, what great fun. Perhaps Donkeys up, cable car down might be about the right option. Whichever way you choose you will be enthralled by this delightful, sparkling whitewashed town, which seems to have come straight out of the film Mama Mia, with views to rival anything shown in the film. athens is the next stop, whether you want to see the world famous acropolis or visit old athens, this is a vibrant city with sights on every corner, why not take advantage of the hop on and off tour bus, with english commentary you can learn the history of this city while enjoying the sights. The following day is a day of rest, take advantage of the facilities onboard the ship and relax ready for the following days visit to Dubrovnik. a fabulously fortified city with strong city walls, charming narrow streets leading to busy squares. climbing in to the narrow back streets gives you a fabulous view over thousand of red tiled roofs to the mountains beyond. The following day, leave your cruise liner and take a water taxi to Venice’s world renowned St Marks Square and see the breathtaking St Marks Basilica. Most people can’t af-

Santorini

ford a G&T here, but the buildings are beautiful, and if you slip up the side streets, not only will you be able to have that G&T, you will be also rewarded by sights you thought only existed in the movies. hundreds of sleek Gondolas gliding silently through streets made of water. romantic little hump back bridges straddle the canals and provide super viewing points. after a busy day in Venice the following day we sail back to Bari, where we will be transported to the airport for our flight home. another wonderful 8 day, 7 night cruise sailing from Bari (Italy). costa cruises have 65 years of sailing history with each ship is designed in its own theme. This is reflected in the decor and atmosphere of the ship. Sailing on the "Deliziosa" this cruise visits the best of the adriatic.

With comfortable travel by coach to Madrid airport included, you will arrive in Bari (Italy). You will then be transferred to your ship ready to sail to corfu, Santorini, athens, day at sea, Dubrovnik, Venice and return back to Bari.

Our price includes coach travel to Madrid, flights to & from Bari, port taxes, insurance and a fully inclusive drinks package. cabin prices start at 1265€ for an inside cabin.

25th September - 2nd October. (price does not include 70€ p/p gratuity payable onboard the ship)

Cruise available with Davids Coachtrips SL. Bookings can be made online using our website www.coachtripsonline.com or by calling our office on 00 34 966 785 910. Monday - Saturday 10.00am-5.00pm or Sunday 10.00am-2.00pm.

money

28th April - 4th May

27

Final Salary Pensions – Why now is a Good Time to Cash In Juicy lottery-sized sums are being offered to savers to tempt them out of goldplated workplace pension schemes and into personal plans.

An example is Mrs Dee (not her real name), 4 years ago she asked for her final salary transfer value and it came in at £250,000, a nice sum you may think. Well after reviewing all the facts and figures available I advised Mrs Dee to leave her final salary where it was. Which she duly did, but towards the end of last year, because of favourable market conditions I applied for another transfer value. This came in at just under £600,000.

So instead of waiting until she was 60 (over 10 years away) for a guaranteed annual pension of £15,000, Mrs Dee decided to transfer out of her final salary scheme and move the £600,000 (40 times her £15,000 guaranteed annual pension) to a QROPS. Reason for transferring: Her main reasoning behind this, was that she wanted the flexibility to be able to leave her pension to

whoever she wanted on her death, her children and husband, under the final salary scheme her husband would have just received half of the £15,000pa. She also wanted when she reached 55 to be able to access her pension if required and to be able to take out varying amounts if and when required.

The demand for transferring workplace pensions into private arrangements has shot up since new pension freedoms were introduced two years ago and the temptation to switch has grown in the last year as transfer values have soared to record levels.The reason pension transfer values have soared are twofold, firstly a combination of rock bottom interest rates and gilt yields mean Pension Members are being offered a multiple of their promised income at retirement. This is usually between 20 and 25 times. But since the Brexit vote, multiples of 30 or above are not untypical.

These record transfer values will not last if interest rates rise.

Act now and you too can take advantage, before you start taking your pension speak to Blacktower. Opportunities like this don't come along more than once in a lifetime!

If you would like more information on this or any other financial advice please contact me by email christina.brady@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330.

Blacktower can also help you track lost pensions, including personal pensions or occupational pensions and schemes used to “contract out”.

If you have lost touch with a pension scheme since moving to Spain we can contact them on your behalf in order to find out what your pension entitlement may be.

The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

Interrupting discussions improves decision making GivinG teams advice ahead of time to prevent problems from emerging doesn’t work as well as interrupting them with in-process interventions.

Teams make better decisions if they are interrupted with advice during their task, rather than advised before it, new research from UCL School of Management reveals.

In a study published in Organizational Behaviour and Human Decision Processes, Professor Colin Fisher looked at the timing and impact of formal interventions in decision-making groups. He found that giving teams advice ahead of time to prevent problems from emerging doesn’t work as well as interrupting them with in-process interventions. Decision-making groups value interruptive advice more, which leads them to share more critical information and make better decisions, compared to groups getting the same advice before they begin their task – even when the difference between receiving the information was only a few minutes.

The findings go against the conventional wisdom that prevention is always better than cure. Teams that were interrupted had more productive discussions on a variety of measures, improving the quality of the decisions they made.

Surprisingly, it didn’t matter specifically how long we waited to intervene, so long as the group had already begun its discussion.’ said Professor Fisher.

To investigate, he conducted experiments with 124 three-person groups who made two decisions about opening a fictitious new gourmet restaurant. To reveal the best choices, members had to pool their individual information.

Groups received advice either before their discussion or at varying points during their discussions. Videos of discussions were used to measure the discussion length, level of advocacy, and amount of information shared, all of which predicted the likelihood of choosing the correct answer. Future research should examine in-process interventions outside of the laboratory and investigate on-going teams working on a variety of tasks, from brainstorming to problem solving.’ concluded Fisher.

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property

28th April - 4th May

Thinking of selling your Spanish Property?

Is it time to try another Estate Agent?

Wincham have all the right tools to find you a buyer!!

Situated in a prime location of Calpe, alicante, Wincham international have become one of the premier estate agents on the Costa Blanca.

As a member of the AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals) Wincham have a strong High Street presence as well as a commanding internet coverage worldwide. Our property marketing enables sellers to find buyers rapidly and for buyers to find their perfect property in Spain.

Wincham can be your ideal partner whether you want to buy or sell your Spanish property. We pride ourselves by providing a professional, friendly, and informative property service and since 1994 have been helping clients all over Spain, purchase, own, and sell Spanish property. Our extensive experience along with our unrivalled Spanish knowledge and broad range of industry contacts ensures that Wincham are the number one choice!!

Wincham are always keen to speak to anyone who would like to sell their property as we have ongoing enquiries from buyers worldwide who are looking to purchase property all over Spain.

We recognise that every customer property requirement is

different and this is why our experienced staff listen carefully so that we can deliver an excellent and precise bespoke service to help generate the results you wish to achieve.

One of the main worries about buying property in Spain is not only the legal and Tax concerns, but also the debts to properties and other hidden costs attached to the property.

Wincham is made up of qualified Lawyers, Tax Consultants, Chartered Accountants, Gestores (Qualified Legal assistants) and Economistas. Whatever your property requirements, Wincham are here to expertly and efficiently supply you with the best advice and service on all property matters in Spain.

These include:Comprehensive due diligence protecting your interests expert tax and Legal advice a free valuation and the best customer care Guaranteed no Sale no Fee Modified Property Deeds on Extensions 20 Year Defective Title Deed Policy By providing a first class, unique service to each individual client. Wincham will put your needs first and keep you informed at every stage of the buying and selling process.

Wincham International Limited, Av. Ejercitos Espanoles 10, Edificio Apolo VII, Calpe, 03710, Alicante, Costa Blanca, Spain Wincham International also have offices located in the United Kingdom and Costa Del Sol, Spain UK Tel: +44 (0)1260 299 700 | Spain Tel: +34 965 830 991 | Email: iht.info@wincham.com | Web: www.wincham.com

For more information contact Mark Goodman in our Calpe office on 0034 965 830 991 or 0034 638 162 877 alternatively contact our UK office on 0044 (0)1260 299 700.

Alternatively please go to www.wincham.com and complete the online Wincham enquiry form and one of our consultants will call you right back.

money

28th April - 4th May

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Are you paying too much? by

Jennifer Cunningham

Life moves so fast in the UK and they are now faced with another General election. i can well understand Theresa May wanting to inflict this on the country as she has a very small majority and is getting a lot of pressure from the Tory party itself.

With the Brexit negotiations starting sometime in the near future, I am sure she is aware and understands that they are going to be extremely complicated and drawn out – there is no quick fix and I for one, am aware that the grass is never greener on the other side. To make matters more difficult, politicians and civil servants are not business people, therefore their lack of experience in the art of negotiation, well I am certain, more than likely be beyond their capabilities, especially as there are 27 countries to negotiate with, different languages and cultures, and governments, then of course, it will have to be confirmed by the European parliament. What an awesome task.

I would imagine that it is going to take more than two years. In the meantime, the UK is in a state of inbalance, with understandable insecurity. Sterling does not like indecision and of course, prices will increase along with inflation and the Ex-Pats have to watch their purses even more carefully. I am even thinking of sending my access to UK television back and not reading any newspapers but especially the Daily Mail as I don´t know if I can take any more!!

In the meantime, I am introducing a bespoke Life Insurance policy. What do I mean by that? It enables you to select an amount that you feel your family

would be appreciative to receive on your death and you can tailor the policy to your own requirements.

On death which is always untimely, there are costs involved which your family could struggle with, including a large amount for the funeral, outstanding bills and credit cards plus inheritance tax, which of course all could work out quite expensive and cause even more stress.

Despite what you might be thinking, the costs are very nominal. An example for a 50 year old, cover of €30,000 on death could cost as little as €121 for the first year, with small increases for the following years, with a very simple questionnaire. This would mean that your untimely death would not be an extra financial struggle for your family.

My company is now able to offer various different types of life insurance, including the bespoke life policy. When considering to buy a new home, Liberty Seguros have improved their Mortgage Protection and Life Risk policy. Death due to an accident or road traffic accident is now available until 80 years of age. They will pay in advance, funeral expenses and inheritance taxes and also, you are able to have more than one beneficiary. Despite what the banks tell you, if you have taken a mortgage out with them, then you will need to take Life Insurance with them and they could threaten you with all kinds of higher interest rates and more costs– this is not legal. Under EU law you have the choice with whom you take out Life Insurance and the premium can be up to 50% higher than the Liberty premium, you must inform

your abogado of any conversations you have with your bank that you are uncomfortable with – do not just accept what the bank tells you. If however, you do decide to go with them, ensure it is only for one year and that you have completed and signed a medical questionnaire, which is supported where necessary by a doctor’s report.

If this is not carried out and death occurs, it will be difficult to prove that it was not a pre-existing condition and your family may have difficulties in claiming. No, it is not a nice world and Spain is very different than the UK. Please take care. If you are in any doubt, asks us, you may be paying far too much. Plus Liberty Seguros are offering cash back on new Life policies.

Are you self-employed? If so, you need to read this. If you are not insured you could be in for a very stressful and expensive time. Why do I say that? You need to protect yourself from personal accident, accidents towards clients or damage done to their property. For as little as €150 per annum, Liberty Seguros offers a Public Liability insurance. A very small amount to give you peace of mind. Isn´t it worth it?

You know it makes sense. Why not pick up the phone and ask for a quote.

A reminder that the Renewals Department has moved to Els Poblets. However, you can visit your nearest office to renew your policy or telephone the Renewals Department on 966 475 562.

Visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net or call one of the offices for any help you require.

legal

by

IGNACIO PELLICER MOLLĂ & PEDRO HEREDIA ORTIZ

LAWYERS

28th April - 4th May

31

Travelling with children Can my ex-partner travel our children abroad Q with when we have joint

A

custody? Does he need my permission?

In the case when both parents have joint custody of a minor, the written consent of the other parent must be given, in order to leave Spain. this can be done by a notarized letter in which the non-travelling parent accepts the trip of the minors for a fixed period of time.

Remember also that there is the LUXeMBOURG AGReeMent, that protects minors against the legal kidnapping of a minor by a relative, in the case when a custody or visitation order has been violated, if a child is taken to a foreign country.

In Pellicer & Heredia our expert team will be happy to assist you on this or any other matter. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

If you have any further questions about this or any other legal matter, please do not hesitate to contact us; we have a team of experts standing by to assist you in any way we can. Call 965 480 737 or 606 056 282 or email info@pellicerheredia.com Videos at www.pellicerheredia.com

32

28th April - 4th May

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The Sound of music UK Singles Charts Top 5

1. SHAPE OF YOU Ed Sheeran 2. SYMPHONY Clean Bandit Ft Zara Larsson 3. GALWAY GIRL

Ed Sheeran 4. SIGN OF THE TIMES Harry Styles 5. PASSIONFRUIT Drake

Britain’s Got Talent 11 SEASONS in, and BGT is still unveiling some surprise talent lurking within the UK… or is it? Take Sarah Ikumu’s powerful, soulful voice, which swept the judges away on Britain’s Got Talent and prompted Simon Cowell to press his golden buzzer. Later sources revealed, “A BGT scout spotted Sarah towards the end of last year, when she was performing at a local event. She was asked to audition on the show.

“She auditioned shortly after, and of course completely blew the producers away. There was no special treatment and she had to audition like every other act from then on.”

The other judges also showered their praise on the 15-year-old, with Alesha Dixon saying the only reason she hadn't pressed the golden buzzer was because she wanted Simon to do so.

We all know “pre-show-scouting” happens, but is it fair or just a fix?

No. 5 Celine Dion $400 Million

On everyone’s lips ....or hips

No. 2 Mariah Carey - $535 Million

I said I wouldn’t, but I just couldn’t help myself.

Unairbrushed Kim Kardashian busts out of her skimpy bikini!

Fans can now judge for themselves whether Kim has the “perftect” body - after the 36-year-old put her unairbrushed curves on show during a girls' day at the beach. Busting out of a skimpy bikini, Kim's body confidence was clear as she sashayed along the sand with her pals.

The pictures give a rare candid look at Kim's worldfamous figure. For while the brunette regularly strips off for revealing photo shoots, the resulting images are often carefully edited and then airbrushed!

The Money … mixed with music!

The globes wealthiest female singing artists: No. 3 Dolly Parton -

$500 Million - The most successful female country music singer, Dolly Parton has composed more than 3,000 songs and sold over 100 million worldwide; winning 8 Grammy Awards.

No. 1 Madonna - $800 Million - Not just a singer, Madonna has always been a savvy businesswoman since becoming a celebrity.

She has sold more than 300 million albums worldwide earning her entry in the Guinness World Records of world’s top-selling female recording artist of all time

No. 4 Gloria Estafan $500 Million

28th April - 4th May

33

34

28th April - 4th May

television

28th April - 4th May

friday 28th april

BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

7:00am 10:15am 11:00am 12:00pm 12:45pm 1:15pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:00pm 4:45pm 5:30pm

7:00am 7:30am 8:15am

7:00am 9:30am 10:25am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:30pm 2:55pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:25pm

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

Breakfast Health Homes Under the Hammer The Sheriffs are Coming Claimed and Shamed Bargain Hunt BBC News at One BBC London News Doctors The Boss Escape to the Country Garden Rescue Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Pointless BBC News BBC London News The One Show A Question of Sport EastEnders MasterChef Have I Got News for You Hospital People BBC News at Ten BBC London News The Graham Norton Show

9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 1:00pm 2:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm

Flog it! Trade Secrets Garden Rescue Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is The World According to Kids Victoria Derbyshire Snooker The Daily Politics Snooker Eggheads Debatable Snooker Versailles QI Newsnight

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm

7:30pm Debatable

Good Morning Britain Lorraine The Jeremy Kyle Show This Morning Loose Women ITV Lunchtime News ITV News London Judge Rinder Culinary Genius Tipping Point The Chase ITV News London Party Election Broadcast by the Liberal Democrats ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Judge Rinder’s Crime Stories Coronation Street Lethal Weapon ITV News and Weather ITV News London Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulo

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

7:00am 7:40am 8:05am 8:30am 8:55am 9:25am 9:55am 11:35am 12:00pm 12:50pm 12:55pm 1:55pm 3:35pm 4:00pm 5:00pm

7:00am 10:15am 12:15pm 1:10pm 1:15pm

7:00am

Countdown Will and Grace Will and Grace Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Formula 1 Frasier Ramsay’s Hotel Hell Channel 4 News The Question Jury Formula 1 F1: Grand Prix Fifteen to One A Place in the Sun: Summer Sun 6:00pm Couples Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 8:30pm Unreported World 9:00pm Posh Pawn 10:00pm Gogglebox 11:00pm Sarah Millican 12:05am First Dates

Childrens TV The Wright Stuff GPs: Behind Closed Doors 5 News Lunchtime The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 2:15pm Home and Away 2:45pm Neighbours 3:15pm NCIS 4:15pm Trump Unauthorised 6:00pm 5 News 6:30pm Neighbours 7:00pm Home and Away 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm The Gadget Show 9:00pm Barging Brits in the Sun 10:00pm Spectacular Spain with Alex Polizzi 11:00pm The Bruce Forsyth Story 12:30am Peter Kay: The Early Years

E4 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Below Deck The Ellen DeGeneres Show Emmerdale Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Psych Below Deck You’ve Been Framed!

Who’s Doing the Dishes?

Emmerdale You’ve Been Framed!

The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder You’ve Been Framed!

Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Shaun of the Dead Family Guy

7:10am 8:20am 9:00am 10:00am 10:35am 11:25am 11:55am 12:20pm 1:25pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:50pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 12:00am

7:00am 7:30am 7:55am 8:55am 9:55am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm

Hollyoaks Coach Trip Baby Daddy Rules of Engagement Brooklyn Nine-Nine Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy How I Met Your Mother The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory American Pie: Reunion 12:15am The Big Bang Theory

SaTUrday 29th april BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

7:00am Breakfast 11:00am Saturday Kitchen 12:30pm Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites 1:00pm Football Focus 2:00pm BBC News 2:10pm Weather 2:15pm Snooker 5:30pm Final Score) 6:30pm Who Dares Wins 7:10pm BBC News 7:20pm Regional News 7:25pm Weather 7:30pm Pointless 8:20pm Doctor Who 9:10pm Casualty 10:00pm BBC News 10:15pm Weather 10:20pm All Round to Mrs Brown’s 11:20pm Match of the Day

7:25am

On Moonlight Bay

9:00am

That’s Entertainment! 2

7:00am 9:25am 9:30am 10:25am 11:20am

11:00am Snooker 1:00pm

Raymond Blanc:

1:30pm

The Hairy Bikers’ Best of

How to Cook Well British 2:15pm

Talking Pictures

2:45pm

The Ipcress File

4:30pm

Meet the Moose Family: Natural World

5:30pm

Snooker

6:30pm

The Crucible:

7:30pm

Dad’s Army

8:00pm

Snooker

40 Golden Snooker Years

10:30pm St. Stephen’s Night Calvary 12:05am Versailles

12:20pm 1:25pm 1:30pm 2:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:30pm 7:15pm 7:25pm 7:45pm 9:00pm 10:20pm 11:15pm 11:35pm

CITV ITV News Weekend The Home Game James Martin’s French Adventure Tipping Point ITV News and Weather Big Heads ITV Racing: Live from Sandown Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs Britain’s Got More Talent Catchphrase Local News and Weather ITV News and Weather Take Me Out Britain’s Got Talent Through the Keyhole ITV News and Weather Yes Man

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

7:05am 7:35am 8:00am 8:25am 9:20am 9:50am 10:25am 10:55am 12:25pm 12:55pm 3:30pm 4:35pm

7:00am KIDS TV 11:50am Access 11:55am Car Crime UK: Caught on Camera 12:20pm The Gadget Show 1:15pm The Gadget Show 2:15pm On Benefits 3:15pm On Benefits 4:15pm On Benefits 5:15pm The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 6:10pm Can’t Pay? We’ll Take it Away!

7:10pm Can’t Pay? We’ll Take it Away!

8:05pm NCIS: Los Angeles 9:00pm NCIS 9:55pm 5 News Weekend 10:00pm Football on 5 11:00pm Football on 5 11:15pm Tower Block

7:00am 7:10am 9:30am

Motorsport Motorsport King of Queens Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Frasier Formula 1 F1 Meets... Daniel Ricciardo Formula 1 The Auctioneers A Place in the Sun: Summer Sun 5:35pm Big House, Little House 6:35pm Location, Location, Location 7:30pm Channel 4 News 8:00pm The Restoration Man 9:00pm Walking Through Time 10:00pm Carol 12:20am Zombieland

E4 The Hot Desk Emmerdale Omnibus Coronation Street Omnibus Britain’s Got Talent Britain’s Got More Talent Take Me Out Take Me Out: The Gossip You’ve Been Framed!

Flubber FYI Daily Flubber The Incredible Hulk FYI Daily The Incredible Hulk Scorpion Britain’s Got More Talent Celebrity Juice Family Guy

12:00pm 1:25pm 2:30pm 3:45pm 4:50pm 5:20pm 6:20pm 6:25pm 7:10pm 8:10pm 8:15pm 9:20pm 10:20pm 11:25pm 12:25am

12:00pm Britan`s Got Talent

7:00am 7:25am 7:45am 8:10am 9:10am 9:40am 10:05am 10:35am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 3:30pm

Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine Black-Ish Made in Chelsea Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Goldbergs Hop Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief 5:50pm Rude(Ish) Tube Shorts 6:00pm The Big Bang Theory 6:30pm The Big Bang Theory 7:00pm The Big Bang Theory 7:30pm The Big Bang Theory 8:00pm The Big Bang Theory 8:30pm The Big Bang Theory 9:00pm The Big Bang Theory 9:30pm The Big Bang Theory 10:00pm Safe House 12:15am Gogglebox

SUNday 30th april BBC1 7:00am 8:50am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:15pm 2:00pm 2:10pm 2:15pm 3:15pm 4:15pm 5:05pm 5:20pm 6:05pm 6:40pm 7:30pm 7:50pm 7:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:20pm 11:25pm 11:30pm

Breakfast Match of the Day The Andrew Marr Show The Big Questions Sunday Politics Bargain Hunt BBC News Weather for the Week Ahead Homes Under the Hammer Wanted Down Under Flog It! Points of View Escape to the Country Songs of Praise Pointless BBC News Regional News Weather Countryfile Antiques Roadshow Line of Duty BBC News Regional News Weather Match of the Day 2

BBC2 7:30am A to Z of TV Gardening 8:15am Around the World in 80 Gardens 9:15am The Beechgrove Garden 9:50am Countryfile 10:45am Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12:15pm Nigel Slater: Eating Together 12:45pm Simply Nigella 1:15pm MOTD2 Extra 2:00pm Athletics: World Relay Championships Highlights 3:00pm Snooker 7:00pm Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby 8:00pm Snooker 12:00am Drive

ITV1 7:00am KIDS TV 9:25am ITV News 9:30am Weekend 10:25am Countrywise 11:00am Peston on Sunday 12:00pm Judge Rinder 1:00pm ITV News 1:05pm Fishing Impossible 1:35pm Who’s Doing the Dishes?

2:35pm Tipping Point 3:40pm Britain’s Got Talent 5:00pm On Her Majesty’s Secret Service 7:35pm Regional News 7:45pm ITV News 8:00pm Bigheads 9:00pm The Durrells 10:00pm Grantchester 11:00pm ITV News 11:20pm Lethal Weapon 12:20am Rugby

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

7:10am King of Queens

7:00am KIDS TV

7:35am King of Queens

9:55am Football on 5

8:00am Everybody Loves Raymond

10:45am Football on 5

7:00am 7:25am 10:00am 12:25pm 1:40pm 2:20pm 3:25pm

7:00am 7:25am 8:25am 10:55am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 6:15pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm

8:25am Everybody Loves Raymond 8:55am Frasier 9:25am Frasier 10:00am Sunday Brunch

11:00am Great Birmingham 10k 1:00pm Getting Even with Dad 3:00pm 3 Men and a Little Lady

1:00pm Formula 1

5:00pm Housesitter

1:35pm Formula 1

7:00pm Robin Hood:

4:10pm Formula 1 5:30pm World’s Most Expensive Cars 6:35pm Channel 4 News 7:05pm George Clarke’s Old House,

Prince of Thieves 9:55pm 5 News Weekend

5:15pm 6:40pm 7:45pm

10:00pm Greatest Ever 90s Movies 8:45pm 8:50pm

New Home 8:00pm Escape to Costa Rica

10:00pm

9:00pm Transformers Dark of the Moon 12:00am Gogglebox

4:25pm 4:30pm

7:00pm Robin Hood : Prince of Thieves

11:00pm 11:30pm

You’ve Been Framed!

Emmerdale Omnibus Coronation Street Omnibus Take Me Out Catchphrase You’ve Been Framed!

Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium FYI Daily Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium Britain’s Got Talent Britain’s Got More Talent Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous FYI Daily Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous Take Me Out: The Gossip Family Guy Family Guy

Rude(Ish) Tube Couples Come Dine with Me Hollyoaks Omnibus Made in Chelsea The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Goldbergs Black-Ish Baby Daddy Kevin Can Wait Brooklyn Nine-Nine New Girl The Net Rude(Ish) Tube Shorts The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 11:00pm Tattoo Fixers

28th April - 4th May

television

28th April - 4th May

MONDAY 1st May BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

7:00am 10:00am 10:45am 11:45am 12:30pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 2:20pm 2:25pm 2:30pm 3:15pm 4:15pm 5:00pm 6:00pm

7:00am

Flog It!

7:30am

Garden Rescue

7:00am 9:30am 10:25am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:45pm 2:55pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:25pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:20pm

6:45pm 7:30pm 7:45pm 7:55pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 11:30pm 11:50pm 11:55pm

Breakfast Rip Off Britain Homes Under the Hammer The Wanted Claimed and Shamed Bargain Hunt BBC News Regional News Weather The Boss Escape to the Country Garden Rescue Money for Nothing Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Pointless BBC News Regional News Weather The One Show MasterChef EastEnders Saving Mr. Banks BBC News Regional News Weather

8:15am

Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

9:00am

35

Antiques Roadshow

10:00am The Titfield Thunderbolt 11:25am Talking Pictures 12:10pm Around the World in Eighty Days 3:00pm

Snooker

7:00pm

Top Gear

8:00pm

Snooker

12:00am Margin Call

12:10pm Around the World in Eighty Days

Good Morning Britain Lorraine The Jeremy Kyle Show Columbo Loose Women ITV Lunchtime News Regional News and Weather Judge Rinder Culinary Genius Tipping Point Babushka Off Their Rockers Regional News and Weather ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Devon and Cornwall Cops Coronation Street Little Boy Blue ITV News and Weather Don’t Ask Me Ask Britain

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

7:00am 7:25am 7:50am 8:15am

7:00am 10:15am 12:15pm 1:05pm 1:10pm 1:40pm 2:10pm 4:20pm 5:20pm 5:25pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm

7:00am

11:35am 12:05pm 12:35pm 1:05pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond The Big Bang Theory Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Question Jury Posh Pawnbrokers Countdown Fifteen to One A Place in the Sun: Summer Sun Four in a Bed Extreme Cake Makers The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Travel Man: 48 Hours in Vienna Britain’s Biggest Hoarders The Island with Bear Grylls 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Alan Carr Yap, Yap, Yap!

Childrens TV The Wright Stuff GPs: Behind Closed Doors 5 News Lunchtime Home and Away Neighbours Clash of the Titans Jason and the Argonauts 5 News Jason and the Argonauts 5 News Neighbours Home and Away FIA World Rally Championship 9:00pm Police Interceptors 10:00pm The Miranda Hart Story 11:30pm Most Shocking Celebrity Moments of 2016

7:25am 8:10am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:35am 11:30am 12:30pm 12:35pm 1:25pm 1:55pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:35pm 4:35pm 4:40pm 5:45pm 6:45pm 6:50pm 7:55pm 8:55pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:30pm

E4 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records You’ve Been Framed!

Who’s Doing the Dishes?

Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street You’ve Been Framed!

Flubber FYI Daily Flubber Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street You’ve Been Framed!

The Incredible Hulk FYI Daily The Incredible Hulk Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang FYI Daily Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang Evan Almighty FYI Daily Evan Almighty Family Guy American Dad! American Dad!

7:00am 7:30am 8:00am 9:00am 9:30am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:50pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

Hollyoaks Coach Trip Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy Baby Daddy How I Met Your Mother Brooklyn Nine-Nine Astro Boy Toy Story Toons The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Baby Daddy The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Made in Chelsea Empire

Pick of the Week

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief

Saturday 29th April, 3:30pm, E4 TUESDAY 2nd May BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

7:00am 10:15am 11:00am 12:00pm 12:45pm 1:15pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:00pm 4:45pm 5:30pm

7:00am 7:30am 8:15am

7:00am 9:30am 10:25am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:30pm 2:55pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:25pm

6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm 11:45pm

Breakfast Rip Off Britain Homes Under the Hammer The Wanted Claimed and Shamed Bargain Hunt BBC News Regional News Doctors The Boss Escape to the Country Garden Rescue Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Pointless BBC News Regional News The One Show EastEnders Holby City Peter Kay’s Car Share Our Friend Victoria BBC News Regional News Weather My Jewish German Passport

9:00am 10:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 2:50pm 3:05pm 3:55pm 4:55pm 5:35pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm

Flog It! Garden Rescue Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Great American Railroad Journeys Victoria Derbyshire BBC Newsroom Live The Daily Politics Super League Show Coast Natural World Who Do You Think You Are? Red Rock Red Rock Flog It! Eggheads Debatable Great British Menu Bake Off Crème de la Crème Horizon Later Live ... with Jools Holland Newsnight

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm

Good Morning Britain Lorraine The Jeremy Kyle Show This Morning Loose Women ITV Lunchtime News Regional News and Weather Judge Rinder Culinary Genius Tipping Point Babushka Regional News and Weather Party Election Broadcast by the Conservative Party ITV Evening News Emmerdale Save Money: Good Food Don’t Ask Me Ask Britain Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs: India ITV News at Ten and Weather Regional News and Weather Little Boy Blue

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

7:00am 7:45am 8:10am 8:35am 9:00am 9:35am 10:05am 10:35am 11:05am 12:05pm 1:00pm 1:05pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

7:00am 10:15am 12:15pm 1:10pm 1:15pm

7:00am

Countdown Will and Grace Will and Grace Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Car S.O.S Ramsay’s Hotel Hell Channel 4 News The Question Jury Posh Pawnbrokers Countdown Fifteen to One A Place in the Sun Four in a Bed Extreme Cake Makers The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners 10:00pm One Born Every Minute 11:00pm First Dates

Childrens TV The Wright Stuff GPs: Behind Closed Doors 5 News Lunchtime Can’t Pay? We’ll Take it Away!

2:15pm Home and Away 2:45pm Neighbours 3:15pm NCIS: Los Angeles 4:15pm Brace for Impact 6:00pm 5 News 6:30pm Neighbours 7:00pm Home and Away 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm Police Interceptors 9:00pm The Yorkshire Vet 10:00pm A Walk Among the Tombstones 11:00pm 5 News 11:05pm A Walk Among the Tombstones

7:10am 8:00am 8:20am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:35am 11:25am 12:20pm 1:25pm 1:55pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:50pm 4:55pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm

E4 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records You’ve Been Framed!

Below Deck The Ellen DeGeneres Show Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street Psych Below Deck Who’s Doing the Dishes?

Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder You’ve Been Framed!

You’ve Been Framed!

You’ve Been Framed!

Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Hell’s Kitchen Family Guy Family guy

7:00am 7:30am 7:55am 9:25am 9:55am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm

Hollyoaks Coach Trip Baby Daddy Rules of Engagement Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy How I Met Your Mother New Girl Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Big Bang Theory How I Met Your Mother Brooklyn Nine-Nine New Girl The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Black-Ish: Just Christmas,Baby 9:00pm The Goldbergs 10:00pm E4’s Tattoo Artist of the Year 11:00pm Bizarre ER

12:00pm How i met your Mother

36

28th April - 4th May

television

28th April - 4th May

wednesday 3rd M ay BBC1

BBC2

7:00am 10:15am 11:00am 12:00pm 12:45pm 1:15pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:00pm 4:45pm 5:30pm

7:00am Flog it! Trade Secrets 7:30am Garden Rescue 8:15am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 9:00am See Hear 9:30am Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands 10:00am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC Newsroom Live 1:00pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm Two Tribes 2:30pm Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 3:00pm Natural World 3:50pm Who Do You Think You Are? 4:50pm Red Rock 6:15pm Flog It! 7:00pm Celebrity Eggheads 7:45pm Debatable 8:30pm Great British Menu 9:00pm Trust Me, I’m a Vet 10:00pm Second Chance Summer: Tuscany 11:00pm Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience

6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:45pm

Breakfast Rip Off Britain Homes Under the Hammer The Wanted Claimed and Shamed Bargain Hunt BBC News at One BBC London News Doctors The Boss Escape to the Country Garden Rescue Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Pointless BBC News BBC London News The One Show MasterChef Madeleine Mccann: 10 Years on BBC News BBC London News Peter Kay’s Car Share

ITV1

7:00am Good Morning Britain 9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm Culinary Genius 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm Babushka 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm Tonight at the London Palladium 10:00pm Benidorm 11:00pm ITV News and Weather 11:30pm ITV News London 11:40pm UEFA Champions League Highlights

10:00pm Benidorm

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

7:00am 7:45am 8:10am 8:35am 9:00am 10:05am 10:35am 11:05am 12:05pm 1:00pm 1:05pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

7:00am 10:15am 12:15pm 1:10pm 1:15pm 2:15pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:15pm

7:00am

Countdown Will and Grace Will and Grace Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Car S.O.S Ramsay’s Hotel Hell Channel 4 News The Question Jury Posh Pawnbrokers Countdown Fifteen to One A Place in the Sun Four in a Bed Extreme Cake Makers The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News How to Live Mortgage Free with Sarah Beeny 10:00pm Confessions of a Junior Doctor 11:00pm My Online Nightmare

6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

Childrens TV The Wright Stuff GPs: Behind Closed Doors 5 News Lunchtime The Gadget Show Home and Away Neighbours NCIS Taken Back: Finding Haley 5 News Neighbours Home and Away 5 News Tonight Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways GPs: Behind Closed Doors Can’t Pay? We’ll Take it Away!

One Night with My Ex

7:10am 7:35am 8:20am 9:00am 9:30am 10:35am 11:25am 12:20pm 1:25pm 1:55pm 3:00pm 3:50pm 4:55pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 12:00am

E4 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records You’ve Been Framed!

Below Deck The Ellen DeGeneres Show Emmerdale The Cube Psych Below Deck Who’s Doing the Dishes?

Emmerdale You’ve Been Framed!

The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder You’ve Been Framed!

You’ve Been Framed!

You’ve Been Framed!

You’ve Been Framed!

Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Shaun of the Dead Family Guy

7:00am Hollyoaks 7:30am Coach Trip 7:55am Baby Daddy 8:55am Rules of Engagement 9:55am Melissa and Joey 11:00am Baby Daddy 12:00pm How I Met Your Mother 1:00pm New Girl 2:00pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 3:00pm The Big Bang Theory 4:00pm How I Met Your Mother 4:30pm How I Met Your Mother 5:00pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5:30pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 6:00pm New Girl 6:30pm New Girl 7:00pm The Big Bang Theory 8:00pm Hollyoaks 8:30pm The Goldbergs 9:00pm The Big Bang Theory 10:00pm The 100 the Tinder Box 11:00pm Supernatural 12:00am The Big Bang Theory

thursday 4th May BBC1

BBC2

7:00am 10:15am 11:00am 12:00pm 12:45pm 1:15pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:00pm 4:45pm 5:30pm

7:00am Flog it! Trade Secrets 7:30am Garden Rescue 8:15am Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 9:00am Gardeners’ World 9:30am Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands 10:00am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC Newsroom Live 1:00pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm Two Tribes 2:30pm Countryfile 2:50pm Natural World 3:50pm Who Do You Think You Are? 4:50pm Red Rock 5:30pm Red Rock 6:15pm Flog It! 7:00pm Celebrity Eggheads 7:45pm Debatable 8:30pm Great British Menu 9:00pm The World According to Kids 10:00pm The Last Kingdom 11:00pm Match of the Day 11:30pm Newsnight

6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 9:30pm 11:00pm

Breakfast Rip Off Britain Homes Under the Hammer The Wanted Claimed and Shamed Bargain Hunt BBC News at One BBC London News Doctors The Boss Escape to the Country Garden Rescue Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Pointless BBC News a BBC London News The One Show EastEnders MasterChef The Truth About Stress BBC News BBC London News The Big Bang Theory Supernatural

ITV1

7:00am 9:30am 10:25am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:30pm 2:55pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm

9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm

Good Morning Britain Lorraine The Jeremy Kyle Show This Morning Loose Women ITV Lunchtime News ITV News London Judge Rinder Culinary Genius Tipping Point Babushka ITV News London ITV Evening News Emmerdale How Safe is Your Pension?

Tonight Emmerdale Joanna Lumley’s Postcards Car Crash Britain Caught on Camera ITV News and Weather ITV News London UEFA Europa League Highlights

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

7:00am 7:45am 8:10am 8:35am 9:00am 9:35am 10:05am 10:35am 11:05am 12:05pm 1:00pm 1:05pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

7:00am Childrens TV 10:15am The Wright Stuff 12:15pm GPs: Behind Closed Doors 1:10pm 5 News Lunchtime 1:15pm On Benefits 2:15pm Home and Away 2:45pm Neighnours 3:15pm NCIS 4:15pm Love, Again 6:00pm 5 News 6:30pm Neighbours 7:00pm Home and Away 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm Secrets of Great British Castles 9:00pm On Benefits 10:00pm Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords 11:00pm Mind the Age Gap

7:00am

Countdown Will and Grace Will and Grace Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Car S.O.S Ramsay’s Hotel Hell Channel 4 News The Question Jury Posh Pawnbrokers Countdown Fifteen to One A Place in the Sun Four in a Bed Extreme Cake Makers The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News The Supervet Born to Kill?

How to get a Council House

10:00 pm Nightmare Tenants,Slum Landlords

7:10am 7:35am 8:20am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:35am 11:25am 12:20pm 1:25pm 1:55pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:50pm 4:55pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records You’ve Been Framed!

Below Deck The Ellen DeGeneres Show Emmerdale Coronation Street You’ve Been Framed!

Psych Below Deck Who’s Doing the Dishes?

Emmerdale Coronation Street You’ve Been Framed!

The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder Totally You’ve Been Framed!

Gold You’ve Been Framed!

Two and a Half Men Mom Celebrity Juice

E4

7:00am 7:30am 7:55am 8:30am 8:55am 9:55am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm

Hollyoaks Coach Trip Baby Daddy Baby Daddy Rules of Engagement Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy Baby Daddy How I Met Your Mother New Girl New Girl Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Big Bang Theory How I Met Your Mother Brooklyn Nine-Nine New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks The Big Bang Theory Kevin Can Wait Brooklyn Nine-Nine New Girl The Inbetweeners

28th April - 4th May

37

Life

Busy month ahead for Mojacar animal charity May is set to be a busy month for Mojacar animal charity Paws-Patas with big fundraising events to be held over two consecutive weekends.

Back Row: Tony Matthews, Sam Spencer, Bill White, Ruth Wood, Jill Hussein with Kim and Sue Mehmet.

Front Row Sitting: Annabelle and Jim Dale-Grey

On Friday May 5 and Saturday May 6 they are holding a Spring Concert in the Salon Tercera Edad at Mojacar Centro de Usos Multiples.

The incognito Singers will be performing at both concerts singing a selection of music from across the years and featuring songs from all genres.

They will showcase songs from stage shows, film ballads, love songs, easy listening, light classical, Opera and sacred music, just about something for everyone, all under the musical guidance of david Murphy.

The Friday concert will start at 8.00pm, with the Saturday matinee beginning at 3.00pm Tickets are 5 euros each with all proceeds from the concerts going to Paws-Patas. They can be bought direct from the charity, from PC Playa in Mojacar and Connexions in Turre.

The following Saturday and Sunday May 13 and 14 they are calling out to all budding gardeners and diy enthusiasts interested in helping the charity at their shelter headquarters on a ‘Ground Force’ Weekend.

The idea behind the event is to invite local people to a

social day with free buffet and drinks, and a chance to meet other like-minded enthusiasts interested in gardening and general maintenance work.

They also hope to welcome any animal lovers who would like to go along, have some fun and help one another smarten up the animal shelter and also meet other volunteers and staff.

Saturday’s ‘Ground Force’ day begins at 9.30am and ends at 5.30pm, whilst the Sunday event will run from 9.30am and 2.00pm and volunteers are welcome to spend as much time as they can spare. They are also asked to bring their own gloves and tools if possible.

PaWS-PaTaS Shelter is situated on the track by the trees opposite the night Club on the Garrucha to Los Gallardos road close to Turre. Look out for the signs and red balloons advertising the event. anyone who would like to book lunch either day should call 629 252 292 to reserve. recent fundraising events for Paw-Patas have been very successful in raising much needed money for the animals and Chrissie Cremore from the charity extended her gratitude to

the organisers and volunteers involved.

Tony Matthews, who raised 150 euros from a Quiz night; Sam Spencer, Cattery manager; Bill White from the indalo Players; ruth Wood and Sue Mehmet, director and producer of the robinson Crusoe Pantomime, which raised 383 euros and Jill Hussein, who is in the photograph with Kim one of the shelter’s dogs found starving and scavenging as a pup and still looking for a "forever home".

She also extended the charity’s thanks to annabelle and Jim dale-Grey who raised a staggering 850 euros from the recent production of Hotel La resistance, explaining that owing to public demand, more shows will return after the summer. all funds raised from recent and future events will help the charity’s cat neutering programme, puppy vaccinations and medical needs and any other general requirements.

PaWS-PaTaS continually needs your help be it with donations to their shops, financially or volunteer work (please visit their website for more details - www.paws-patas.org) any Fundraising ideas...please contact Chrissie Cremore chrissie.3@hotmail.co.uk

38

28th April - 4th May

what’s on

Vega Baja charity nights sail into new home port Monthly charity events at a restaurant in Guardarmar, organised for the last three years by two local fundraisers have recently found a new home in Quesada. restaurante El alto la Dolores, in Guardamar, had hosted charity fund-raising nights each month since 2013 and at each event, the owners donated a Mediterranean cruise as a first prize in grand raffle.

However a recent change of ownership resulted in a change of direction, objectives and values on behalf of the new owners.

Fundraisers and organisers of these highly popular charity nights for the restaurant, Marlene Brown and Joan Rampton, were extremely saddened by the loss of this perfect venue.

Marlene and Joan were determined not to be thwarted by what they described as a ‘minor detail’ and set out to find a new venue willing to host their charity fund-raising events, which were raising an average of 850 euros each month, for local charities. two events were arranged with the owner of a new bar in Torrevieja, but unfortunately, the capacity of the venue proved to be too limited.

Once again, undaunted, the ladies set out to find a more suitable restaurant with a greater capacity for holding the type of fund raising events they were used to providing. the good news for local charities is that the fundraisers have now found the perfect venue, which will start to hold the events from June of this year.

Joan and marlene’s fundraising charity nights will now be held at and behalf of Quesada Fish and Chips in Quesada. a delighted Marlene told rtn, ‘’this newly refurbished restaurant, is already very popular with customers from a very wide area, and this new partnership is bound to be very successful in providing quality entertainment, coupled with excellent value cuisine, and most importantly, raising lots and lots of money for the very deserving charities in our local area.’’ the last charity night held at the event’s former venue El alto la Dolores raised 480€ for the chosen charity on the night, Torrevieja Stroke Support.

The fantastic entertainment was provided by Danny Fisher, with a rock 'n' roll night, including his tribute to Elvis Presley.

The final winner of the Grand raffle Prize Cruise was Larry Pereira, from Formentera.

Paul Owen (Torrevieja Stroke Support), Larry Pereira (Cruise Winner), Joan Rampton, Danny Fisher and Marlene Brown

Torrevieja U3A head for white water MeMbers of the Torrevieja U3A are planning a white water rafting trip for one of their more adrenalin fuelled trips out in the near future. However, if that's sounds a little too wet and wild for you, they have a lot more activities going on suitable for everyone.

This month the Torrevieja U3A will meet at the CMo building (behind Carrefour in Torrevieja) on Monday April 24. The guest speaker is Maureen Moss who lives in La Mata. Maureen has been married, had children, divorced and since travelled the world. she speaks several languages and has her own website for information on being a tour guide. she will be speaking about all aspects of her intersting and extremely varied life.

There will also be a chance for attendees to find out what is happening on the social scene. There are trips out, Theatre opportunities, a bbQ and new and existing group activities will be taking place during the of summer. fuller details of the group and its activities can be found at www.torreviejau3a.org If you are interested in attending but are not a member, you can join for only 5 euros for the year. Those who are already members of the group will testify, it will be the best 5 euros you will ever spend.

28th April - 4th May

39

food & drink

Supercharge your start to the day We are all familiar with the well-known mantras, handed down

by Mothers through the years since the dawn of time: How about, ''Eat breakfast like a King …... and dinner like a pauper!'', or maybe '' You must eat your breakfast, it's the most important meal of the day!'' anyway, here's a thing. It turns out, as usual our Mother's were actually right and these days there's no need for us to put up with a soggy bowl of cereal or burnt piece of toast in a morning. There are so many different options to tempt us to breakfast like a King every day. Here are ten interesting, crazy, quirky but ultimately very satisfying ideas for a power breakfast to supercharge start to the day: GOOD MORNING BREAKFAST SALAD Salad for breakfast? a zesty salad, with a fresh mix of green leaves, topped with avocados and smoked salmon giving it plenty of protein should get you through the day with no troubles.

MAPLE CUSTARD OATMEAL Love oatmeal but need an extra hit of protein in the morning? then mix oatmeal with sweet maple syrup making it thick like a custard. then pack it with protein by adding eggs that are whisked in with the milk and cooked slowly with the oats to create a creamy, custardy (and protein-rich) wonder.

BREAKFAST POWER BARS take almonds, pumpkin seeds, cranberries and mejdool dates then just toss everything in a blender to get these no-bake breakfast bars. tuck one of these in your purse or gym bag and you'll never buy the packaged ones again.

MASALA OATMEAL Like oats, but don't like sweet stuff? Why not try a savoury oatmeal in the morning? Mix your oatmeal with veggie broth, instead of milk, curry paste, onions and tomatoes. Even better, each serving has 10 g of protein to keep you full until lunch.

CARROT CAKE CUSTARD OATMEAL oatmeal again, but this time mixed with grated carrots and walnuts, just like carrot cake for breakfast this oatmeal, made

with eggs has lots of protein and vitamins (and a hint of your favourite dessert) to energize your morning routine.

CRUSTLESS MINI QUICHES Quiche without pastry. these mini quiche go perfectly with toasted English muffins, for an easy and filling breakfast sandwich. Just whisk eggs with milk, cheddar, parsley and salt in a medium bowl. Season with fresh pepper. Divide mixture into prepared muffin pan.

GREEN GODDESS SMOOTHIE BOWL Simplify your morning with a healthy, energising smoothie bowl. this easy, eye-pleasing meal starts with a fruit yoghurt base to which is added blended avocado, lettuce, apple and banana , meaning it's packed with protein, fibre and vitamins.

BANANA COCONUT TOAST to grainy brown toasted bread, add natural almond or cashew butter, thinly sliced banana, flaky Maldon sea salt and shaved or grated unsweetened toasted coconut. Forget avocado on toast.

With 13 g of protein and 8 g of fibre, this is the smartest slice around and it takes only minutes to make!

PARMESAN OATMEAL WITH MUSHROOMS AND ROASTED SQUASH tired of sweet oatmeal? try a savoury version made with mushrooms, squash and parmesan instead.

It has 19

Future chefs enjoy the ‘kitchen of smiles’ PIzzaS, PaSta, omelettes, salads and even an Easter bunny were on the menu, when 40 alicante children joined the ‘Kitchen of Smiles’ cookery school last week. under the supervision of chef and director of the school, Centro de Recursos de Consumo, Daniel Reina, the children aged between 8 and 12, learned techniques such as how to boil an egg and make a macaroni dish. ‘’In addition to learning to make some dishes, we tried to teach them to eat better and to introduce vegetables to them," said the director.

Adding that for many of them, it was their first contact with a cooking stove. the students gathered in the central market last wednesday to be presented with their diplomas by Mayor Gabriel Echavarri.

grams of protein in each serving. actually ….it's practically dinner!

EASY EGGS BENEDICT WITH HEALTHY HOLLANDAISE Classic hollandaise is made with lots of butter, but trade it for Greek yogurt and get amazing results. add a favourite fast-food ….. hash browns which are usually deep fried, but bake them instead using English Muffins and, wow, are they good!

40

28th April - 4th May

Horoscopes and Puzzles

Code Breaker

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 26 represents G and 7 represents Z, so fill in G every time the figure 26 appears and Z every time the figure 7 appears.

Now using your knowledge of the English language work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

Z

8

9

10

11

12

13

21

22

23

24

25

26

G

POSTBAG

Kenny, I have made a decision that I am going to live a further twenty years at least.

I am seventy years old and my family think that I am crazy to say this when I could die tomorrow. How do I explain to them my need to instruct Spirit in this way?

Bente V. Loved getting your message Bente! It’s not crazy at all, in fact I find it inspirational that you know you have work to do and that you are happy to live on this earth, especially with all the terrible things that are going on right now. yes we could die tomorrow, all of us in some nuclear attack we are powerless to survive, but we keep going; hopefully finding the happiness that we deserve on this, our journey of life. Here’s to your next twenty years...or more!

If It’s Your Birthday This Week

Emotions may be coursing around like a ride on the steepest roller coaster!

Remember that on highs and lows the ride is a fast one but you'll get through because you have to!

The entry of Venus brings about a reconciliation with a partner and it will help to re establish better relations for the future too. Not only does this person have your true interests at heart, but they are somebody to trust when the cards are there on the table at last; and honesty is challenged by those around you who don’t seem to give a damn!

Have fun. You are meeting new people and enjoying new experiences and it is about time too! Finances are encouraging, but you cannot scrimp and save all the time and expect to be happy. This week sees a splurge, but so too comes the opportunity to make someone else happy, repaying a debt of honour and making lasting memories.

You may feel as if you are living back in the past this week. The past is over and if you think about it, you are not that person that you used to be anyway. The Sun sextiles with Neptune and this is a time to spend some money, so make it something not only very special, but something that you have always wanted.

Reward yourself for a change!

Take a step back as others have to be responsible for their actions, especially as they have now a better way of dealing with their ups and downs. Ceres instils new values that are destined to take you to new depths, but remember that your feet have to remain firmly on the ground whatever happens. Time has been called, so tune in, take time to chill.

Thank someone for all that they have done and then agree to move on this week. Not all friendships are able to last a lifetime and yet this one is hard to walk away from too. Take the lesson that you have learned in life and give thanks that you saw the light when you did. Pay attention to small details that for others, now, can mean so very much.

: Now would be the best time to advance a plan, though you will not be able to sit this one out once the cat is out of the bag. People should enjoy rewarding you for what you do best, and your best move is to highlight your expertise, and take on all options. Venus rules actions from Aries, whereby there is some good give and take going on!

Take each day at a time because there is nothing to be gained by putting pressure on yourself. Recently there has been a confrontation which in hindsight you could have avoided but it has made change possible and nothing right now is written in stone anyway! Magic comes midweek when the Sun embraces Jupiter and Uranus takes on Mercury.

You are surely getting a broader perspective of what really happened. Mercury conjuncts with Uranus bringing in a wealth of new opportunities. You cannot change the wind but you can unfurl your sails and make your voyage into the unknown; now that the time has finally come. You are closer to a safe landing and in a far better place than you ever were!

Much enterprise and hard work this week as the agenda is stretched to accommodate all that it has to. Pace yourself and start to look and see how someone could help you to expand a little to cope with new projects. Energies from both the Sun and Neptune in cahoots show you that all is fair in love and war but examine all priorities and be sure.

A minor upset has to be dealt with immediately, but rather than wasting time worrying about things; which are after all out of your control, focus on that which you have already accomplished against the odds. Trust in your intuition and know where it can take you next; it will not lead you astray, but it will act as a signal to others to stay silent!

Don’t waste time thinking about how things could be, but do believe in yourself more and take no prisoners on your current journey of discovery. There are some practical details that have to be thrashed out, but do keep your temper please, even if those around seem to have lost theirs already. All can be and will be as Ceres directs!

Finally you have nudged things into the right direction, but rest assured you cannot please everybody this week. As minor hiccups come along deal with them on merit and let anything unimportant go straight over your head. Many have noticed the changes you are making and they support your enterprise, and your attention to detail too!

28th April - 4th May

Cryptic Crossword

Across 1 It can hurt to be niggardly (5) 4 Jack, Bill, you, and me follow the calculator (6) 9 One getting work, at last (7) 10 Disturbed by the unexpected result (5) 11 Competent to get back to the island (4) 12 Imagine an old Northerner on the Northern river (7) 13 Yes, it’s always out of date (3) 14 Compound discovered about 101 AD (4) 16 Uncovered knee-deep in hardship (4) 18 Pin-up girl? (3) 20 Summing up is noted to be expressed accurately (7) 21 Wild West food? (4) 24 Go off from the runner-up time (5) 25 One showing appreciation for a bell ringer? (7) 26 Strange desire to live in (6) 27 Push soldiers (5)

Down 1 There’s a lot of money in the parcel (6) 2 Sailor gets involved with a toff who’s someone big out East (5) 3 Stop being lame (4) 5/15 Fraudulent practice from exuberant East Europeans, one hears (8,7) 6 Expense socially acceptable to me as a matter of habit (7) 7 A model you can’t miss (6) 8 Nonsense talked about a journey to the Orient (5) 13 Owned up to being allowed in (8) 15 See 5 17 Dad comes back with fruit. Look! (6) 18 Tranquil time for a top gym instructor (5) 19 Suddenly veer south-west (6) 22 Get thinner and lighter (5) 23 Young elephant’s leg part (4)

Quick Crossword Across 1 Pure (6) 4 Absentee (6) 9 Set aside (7) 10 Punctuation mark (5) 11 Additional (5) 12 Watch (7) 13 Not up to scratch (11) 18 Obstinate (7) 20 Bohemian folk dance (5) 22 Marine carnivore (5) 23 Chuckle (7) 24 Number of players in a cricket team (6) 25 Ring-shaped bread rolls (6)

Literary Quiz 1 What is the Old English heroic poem, surviving in a single copy dated around the year 1000, featuring its eponymous 6th century warrior from Geatland in Sweden?

2 What relatively modern school of philosophy, popular in literature since the mid 1900s, broadly embodies the notion of individual freedom of choice within a disorded and inexplicable universe?

3 What was the pen-name of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson?

4 Who wrote Dr Zhivago?

5 What term and type of comedy is derived from the French word for stuffing?

6 What term originally meaning ‘storehouse’ referred, and still refers, to a periodical of various content and imaginative writing?

7 Who wrote the significant scientific book Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica, published in 1687?

8 What 16th century establishment in London’s Bread Street was a notable writers’ haunt?

9 Who wrote the 1845 poem The Pied Piper of Hamelin?

10 Which American poet and humanist wrote and continually revised a collection of poems called Leaves of Grass?

Down 1 Floor covering (6) 2 Benefit (5) 3 Sources of danger (7) 5 Frameworks for holding objects (5) 6 Fan (7) 7 Take a trip (6) 8 Art or science of flight (11) 14 Oblivious (7) 15 Certificate (7) 16 Harass (6) 17 Stroke affectionately (6) 19 Foot joint (5) 21 Metric unit of capacity (5)

41

Fill the grid so every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9

42

24 feb 28th april - 2- march 4th may 2017

health

Dairy free dilemma

For non-meat eaters, life in Britain has been fairly easy over the last twenty years or so. as more and more of the population chose to give up meat, the supermarkets and food producers increased their product ranges and these days, restaurants and cafes always offer at least one vegetarian option.

But throughout the rest of europe, attemping to adopt a meat-free diet was to put it mildly, extremely challenging. this was particularly so in spain, where less than ten years ago, vegetarians were seen as, if not freaks, then at the least, a little bit strange. and as for vegans? …. Well, they may well have stepped down off another planet, for all the understanding they received. ''no milk or cheese? are you insane?'' ask for a sandwich Vegetal in a cafe, and the waiter would invariably reply with '' si, Con jamon o atun? ''. even worse, in many cases the ham and tuna would be added without question, forcing a complete dissection of the sandwich before eating. skip forward a decade and the situation has changed dramatically for vegetarians and even more so for vegans as health conscious europeans turn away from traditional eating habits in their millions.

The 'Clean Eating' phenomenon, a diet eschewing meat, fish, animal products, wheat, yeast, dairy items and all processed foods, has moved at great pace across the continent and spain has been swept along too. specialist health food shops lined with organic, macrobiotic and meat free goods are springing up all over the country, even in small towns. even supermarket shelves have a good selection of gluten and wheat free, vegetarian, vegan friendly, dairy alternative products. ready-made, spiralised courgetti, which can be used as an alternative to pasta, mixed with a delicious vegetable sauce,

or as a healthy wheat free pizza base, is now available in the chiller cabinet.

With younger people in particular adopting a dairy free lifestyle, a new report delivered by the national osteoporosis society ( nos ) in the UK has caused a few shockwaves. a survey by the charity found four in 10 young adults have tried “fashionable diets” that often involve avoiding dairy, gluten, grain and sugar, while more than a fifth had severely restricted their intake of milk and cheese. they warned that restrictive diets among younger generations will lead to widespread health issues in later life, including osteoporosis which causes bones to become brittle and break. a charity adviser said ''Without urgent action being taken to encourage young adults to incorporate all food groups into their diets, we are facing a future where broken bones will become the norm. “osteoporosis is a painful and debilitating condition and young adults have just one chance to build strong bones.”

Dairy foods are a source of calcium, an essential nutrient for the health and strength of bones.

It’s unclear why young people are cutting out dairy, but the nos report suggests it could be linked to celebrity trends on social media sites like Instagram, where photographing of food has become something of a cult. a survey conducted by the BBC in the UK showed nearly half of 16 to 24 year olds say they have an intolerance to cow’s milk and dairy products, yet only 24% had actually had their condition diagnosed by a doctor, revealing the pressure young women are under to match what their idols on Instagram are eating is really high.

However it's not all bad news for non-dairy eating youngsters, as studies show it's not necessarily dangerous to cut out dairy from your diet it’s just

important to ensure you get enough calcium from other sources.

Dairy tends to make the biggest contribution to our calcium intakes and so this needs to be replaced by other sources such as bread, cereal, canned fish, nuts, seeds and leafy green vegetables as well as choosing dairy alternatives that are fortified with calcium.Other sources include kale, pak choi, okra, spring greens, dried figs, chia seeds and almonds plus alternative sources that can be easily obtained on a vegan diet, such as calcium-fortified plant milk and soya yoghurt, and calcium-set tofu.

Free information on following a vegan lifestyle can be found at the Vegan society's website www. vegansociety. com

24 feb 28th - 2april march - 4th2017 may

43

health

Sun protection sussed out Dr AnDrew Birnie busts some sunscreen myths and verifies how much vitamin D we should actually be getting.

Dr AnDrew Birnie is a consultant dermatologist and dermatological surgeon, specialising in skin cancer, based in Canterbury, Kent. The skin cancer lead for east Kent, he also practices at the Specialist Medical Clinic in Gibraltar, which provides a monthly dermatology clinic with UK dermatologists. He enjoys sport, in particular cricket, rugby and the outdoors. The rTn caught up with Dr Birnie to bust some sunscreen myths and verify how much vitamin D we should actually be getting.

advocate deliberately getting a tan for that purpose and would strongly advise against the use of sun beds prior to going on holiday - the high intensity blast of UV has been shown to be carcinogenic (a cancer inducer).

RTN - How much sunscreen do I need to use? enough to make the skin look white before the cream goes in and disappears. Typically, this is about a shot glass worth to cover the body. It needs to be applied every couple of hours when in the sun and daily on the face, especially when living in sunny climes.

RTN - Doesn't sunscreen prevent my child from getting much-needed vitamin D from the sun?

If you live in southern Spain it would be difficult to completely block out all of the sun. Most people using a factor 30 would still get some vitamin D from their daily activities. If somehow, you managed to remain completely white then taking 10mcg of vitamin D a day would alleviate the concerns (5mcg in children). Most people also don't realise how little sun they need to get enough vitamin D: just 15 mins of UK summer sun 3 times a week would be enough for most people to achieve adequate levels.

RTN - What is the right way to apply sunscreen?

It should be applied before going out in to the sun to all exposed bits of skin and then reapplied after swimming, towelling or every couple of hours. It's best to rub it in in one direction - in the direction of hair growth i.e. down the legs as this makes it go in more easily and reduces the risk of blocking the hair follicles.

RTN - Does a tan protect you from getting sunburn?

Yes, it does to an extent. It's the body's response to DnA damage and the tan develops in an attempt to reduce the further effects of exposure. However, as a dermatologist I wouldn't

RTN - Does my child need regular body checks? no. The likelihood of children developing skin cancer is vanishingly rare. rather keep them protected now to reduce their risk of skin cancer (and wrinkly, blotchy skin) later in life.

Dr Birnie strongly believes it is everyone’s basic human right to be able to protect themselves against skin cancer and that affordability shouldn’t come into it… taking matters in to his own hands, he developed ‘Altruist’ – a dermatolo-

gist sunscreen ‘with a conscience’. A tube of Altruist costs little more than a fancy coffee, but there are no frills.

What profit there is goes straight back into product development and manufacture and proceeds from the sale of every bottle of Altruist go to Under the Same Sun and children in Africa suffering from albinism.

44

28th April - 4th May

home and garden

Home grow in Spain successfully

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice just taking an interest in your little patch of ground or terrace, there is something completely satisfying and rewarding about being able to grow your own vegetables and herbs and take them straight from garden to plate.

In our hot summer climate, not every vegetable will grow its best. of course, with ingenuity and planning, it’s possible to grow virtually any type of vegetable or herb in any climate, but unless you’re willing to go to extremes, your gardening will by necessity be selective in its plants. here are some common hot climate vegetables and herbs to try planting in the garden.

AUBERGINES A part of the nightshade family, this vegetable has several names around the world: brinjal eggplant, aubergine, melongene or guinea squash. other nightshades include tomatoes and potatoes.

Aubergines are generally delicate by nature, but in warm climates with little freezing, they can come back year after year as a perennial. one little known fact about aubergines is that they are technically a berry. Native to India, they have been cultivated in Asia for longer than historical records can track.

OKRA Also called Moench, okra is often called ladies fingers and gumbo. Whilst okra’s origins are often disputed they are likely to derive from South Asia, ethiopia or West Africa. Most tropical, sub-tropical and warm temperate regions can support okra varieties and gumbo is a staple food in parts of the American south. the word “gumbo” is the Spanish and Dutch/French term for okra (quimbombo, guigambo or kingombo). okra grows best where it can receive plenty of moisture and prefers mulching.

SWEET POTATOES Despite its name, the sweet potato is only

distantly related to the potato with which we are all familiar. these are the only widely cultivated plant in the Convolvulaceae family and they are literally grown everywhere in the world. While heat tolerant, they will actually grow in almost all climates where enough growing season exists.

OREGANO A popular perennial herb associated with Italian, Greek and turkish food oregano originates in eurasia and the Mediterranean as part of the mint family. Also called wild marjoram, oregano also has a relative in the marjoran family called sweet marjoram. oregano is a perennial herb, so it is often grown and re-grown in pots and containers annually. It is one of the most popular kitchen herbs worldwide.

THYME the third of the triumvirate of Mediterranean herbs, thyme is a culinary and medicinal herb which has been used for everything from embalming in egypt, temple incense in Ancient Greece and cooking in Ancient Rome. It has also been used to ward off nightmares when placed under a pillow, the Romans used it to flavour cheese, a liquor spice in europe, t in Medieval europe to bring courage to those going to battle, and assure passage into the next life in Ancient egypt. thyme has been found to grow nearly anywhere that can receive adequate water, regardless of the hot climate.

ROSEMARY A woody, perennial herb, rosmarinus officinalis is grown the world over as one of the best-known culinary herbs. Native to the Mediterranean, it was one of the first spices commonly traded in the West. rosemary’s name comes from Latin for “dew of the sea” (ros marinus). In its native climate, its only water is the humidity from the ocean. rosemary is thus very heat tolerant and drought hardy.

28th April - 4th May

45

home and garden

Keep your granite looking GREAT! you finally picked out your beautiful granite counter top. now you’ll want to make sure it stays as beautiful as the day you bought it.

ThOugh IT’S not as porous as marble, it is still a porous material so you’ll want to ensure that stains don’t sink in.here are a few tips on how to get your granite sparkling clean and keep it that way: Make sure it’s sealed!

You’ll want to make sure that stains can’t penetrate your countertop. The best way to do that is to make sure your countertop is properly sealed. Drop a few drops of water on top of the surface. If it beads up, you’re good. If it soaks in after a few minutes, you’re going to need to re-seal it. It is recommended that you get your countertops professionally resealed every two to four years. Cleaning your granite countertop properly will ensure that the sealant lasts longer. steer clear of these cleaners…

Avoid harsh and abrasive cleaners and sponges that can damage and scratch your granite. This includes Windex and acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon, lime, ammonia and bleach.

These types of cleaners can dull and weaken your sealant.

Wipe up spills asap Leaving spills for too long on your countertop can stain it.

Make sure you wipe up spills as soon as possible. use WarM Water and soap The best way to clean your granite countertop is with a microfibre washcloth with some warm water and a mild or gentle dish soap. use alcohol and Water to disinfect Though soap and water should be adequate for daily sanitizing, if you need something a little bit stronger you can use a mixture of half water and half 91 per cent isopropyl alcohol. Put it in a spray bottle and spray it on your counter top and leave it for three to five minutes before wiping it down. reMove stains With baking soda paste Mix some baking soda and water until it forms a paste.

Place the paste over the stain and scrub it gently with a soft cloth, then rinse. You may have to repeat this process to fully remove the stain. If it’s an extra tough spot, you can leave the paste on the spot and cover it with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Leave it there until the paste dries, even if it takes a few days. Once it’s dry wipe it

away with your cloth and rinse with some warm water. shine it up If you need to shine your granite countertop, pour some cooking oil on a soft cloth and wipe your countertop down with it and buff gently. This will even help to prevent stains.

How to stop vermin in your garden Rats, gRey squiRRels, field mice and, if you are very lucky, shrews will all eat their fair share of seeds, bulbs, nuts, fruit and even snails. if you find a pile of nibbled snail shells in the shed or under your greenhouse staging, it’s a good bet a rat has been living there. Rats also love organic slug pellets – they will chew through the plastic pot and devour the lot.You cannot rid your garden or allotment of these creatures, and nor should you want to. Rats may be revolting and grey squirrels a version with a longer tail, as my mother would say, but they are part of the food web nevertheless; many an owl or fox would go hungry without them.

But you should do your best to prevent them from reaching your stash. Big seeds such as broad beans, squash and sweetcorn are their favourite spring treats. Squirrels also love to eat bulbs, though they often forget them, which is why you find them stashed elsewhere.

One traditional solution was to dip seeds and bulbs in methylated spirits, which was said to taste unfavourable. And, while that works, it’s questionable whether it’s good for the seeds and soil.Another trick is to cut the spikiest branches you can find, leave them to dry, then place them as a deterrent around whatever you’ve planted that needs protection.You’ll need to anchor the holly, so it doesn’t blow away: cut them into 10cm sections with enough stem to insert into the ground, which usually does the trick. Dry spikes seem to be much more fierce than fresh, and the idea is that those tender, sensitive noses don’t like to be jabbed by the prickled tips. Mind you, it certainly doesn’t make for pleasant weeding among the stuff. Once the seeds or bulbs are up, remove it, because your visitors are less interested in green shoots, though I tend to keep the holly clippings for another round, because they last for ages.For pots and containers, some chicken wire or fine-mesh netting fashioned into a cover will deter anything digging them up; again, it can be removed once growth has appeared.Rats are reputed to dislike mint, so grow this around places where they nest; the compost heap or alongside the shed is worth a try. Mothballs are also said to deter rats and mice, and can work in the greenhouse.You may, however, feel the need to resort to mice and rat traps, in which case humane traps are ethically better than snap ones. That said, I’ll warn you that an angry mouse or rat is quite something, and you need to take them a good few miles away before you release them.

Rats and mice are wary of change, so they can also be discouraged by disturbing their burrows and nests. If you see a rat run or find a rat hole, stick something down it (a brick, bunched up chicken wire, mint, a bucket of water) and repeat often. dry, warm compost heap makes a great home, so turn it often and drench it with water if you fear anything has moved in.

46

28th April - 4th May

Tech

Singapore researchers turn water into ‘virtual lemonade’ It looks like lemonade, tastes like lemonade, but it’s simply water.

Researchers in Singapore say they have invented a ‘virtual lemonade’, using electrodes to mimic the flavour of the beverage and LED lights to imitate its colour, that could one day allow people to digitally share drinks over the internet.

‘We are primarily motivated by the fact that our current digital interactions are not supportive for sharing beverages and food, which is something very common in our everyday lives,’ said Nimesha Ranasinghe, who led the team that did the research.

The team conducting the research at the NUS-Keio CUTE Centre, a collaboration between the National University of Singapore and Japan’s Keio University, decided to focus on the sour taste of lemonade to prove their idea.

A sensor dipped into a glass of real lemonade collects data on its acidity and colour, which is transmitted via Bluetooth to silver electrode strips on the rim of a tumbler.

The action of a drinker running their tongue over the strip in taking a sip causes the electrodes to simulate the sour taste, while a light-emitting diode (LED) flashes yellow.

The technology can also simulate bitter and salty sensations, Ranasinghe said, adding that it could help people on restricted diets who need to cut back on salt or calories.

‘We can even help the people who want to cut down their calorie intake,’ she added. ‘If he craves lemonade and can have a virtual lemonade, he can get the same experience, but zero calories.’

Still, the design needs some improvement, said student Genevieve Low, a volunteer who participated in tests of the drink.

‘I think it’s definitely the way the tongue touches the cup, because no one would, sub-consciously or consciously, put their tongue onto the electrode and then drink the water,’ she said in a recent test round.

Another volunteer student, Wang Pan, was surprised by the taste.

‘I was imagining the electronic taste, but it’s actually quite real to me because it’s really mild, like mild-sweet. It’s less sour An NUS student tastes a virtual lemonade simulator Photo credit: Reuters than the real lemonade,’ she said.

iPhone users can now use Siri for WhatsApp Latest update to the app aims to make hands-free operation easier Last week, WhatsApp released update (v2.17.2) for iPhone users which includes some visual changes to the app and also gives Siri the ability to read the latest WhatsApp messages.

The updates includes 4 changes in total.

Firstly, visual enhancements have been made to contacts info, group info screens and the calls tab. Secondly, WhatsApp will now allow Apple iPhone users to select multiple Statuses in one go to forward or delete them.

The new update also includes Persian language support and the most highlighted update will allow users to use Siri to read out their latest WhatsApp messages out loud.

The feature will come in handy for users while driving and is aimed at making handsfree operation of the app easier.

Prior to the update, WhatsApp only allowed users to send messages to their contacts through Siri.

Now iPhone users can simply say ‘Hey Siri, read out my last messages on WhatsApp’ and the voice assistant will start reading all the unread messages.

Siri will even ask the user to reply to messages if need be, by dictating the message to Siri directly.

The 90MB WhatsApp update will only work for users with iOS 10.3+ version on their Apple iPhone.

Four tech life hacks you need to know A life hack is a strategy, technique, trick or shortcut that can help make life easier – by speeding up efficiency, enhancing productivity and sometimes minimising a source of annoyance with a quick trick.

This week, we bring you four clever life hacks with a decidedly tech-orientated twist.

1. Re-open an accidentally closed tab We’ve all been there. You’re browsing the web with more tabs open than should be legally permissible. Next thing you know, you accidentally close an important tab and simply can’t remember what the URL was. Not to fear, if you press Command+Shift+T, your most recently closed tab will spring back to life.

2. Charge your iPhone faster If you’re looking to charge your iPhone and time is of the essence, you might be welladvised to put your device into Airplane Mode before charging. While doing so doesn’t always speed things along, the charging time can be significantly reduced if you happen to be in an area with a less than optimal cellular signal. Either way, even a 5 per cent increase in charging time is welcome when you’re in a time crunch.

3. Save money on flights by deleting cookies Booking a flight online can be exceedingly frustrating. Not only do the cheapest flight options often include multiple layovers that add hours upon hours to your trip, but you

also have to deal with prices seemingly changing on the hour.

One way to skirt around this is to delete your cookies and erase any evidence that you visited an airline website before. Doing so will ensure that you will be presented with the real travel price and not a price based on some algorithm that is programmed to charge users a tad more when the site recognizes that you’ve searched for a specific flight several times.

4. How to print when running extremely low on black ink If you need to print and are running desperately low on black ink, follow these two tips.

First, change the font colour to #010101 which is 99 per cent grey. Secondly, save on ink by adjusting the type of font you use. Century Gothic, for example, uses on average 30 per cent less ink than Arial. The top five fonts according to Printer.com for low ink usage are Century Gothic, Times New Roman, Calibri, Verdana and Arial.

28th April - 4th May

47

Tech

Are brain tumours linked to mobile phone use?

In a recent court ruling, an Italian court in Ivrea agreed that a man’s brain tumour was linked to his mobile phone use.

It awarded Robert Romero €500 a month in compensation.

He had claimed that using his business mobile phone for three or four hours a day, over a period of 15 years, led to the growth of the benign tumour.

The compensation will be paid by a body established to compensate people for work-based injuries.

There could yet be an appeal against the ruling.

‘We know that many people are concerned about a possible connection between mobile phone use and the development of brain tumours,’ said Dr David Jenkinson, chief scientific officer for the Brain Tumour Charity in an interview with the BBC. ‘However, the global research projects that have been conducted so far, involving hundreds of thousands of people, have found insufficient evidence that using a mobile phone increases the risk of developing a brain tumour.’ The decision of the court did not change the evidence, he added.

‘Of course, it is right that researchers continue to explore whether any such link exists,’ said Dr Jenkinson.

Romero, whose profession was not reported, said he wanted people to be more aware about mobile phone use but did not want to ‘demonise’ the devices.

His lawyer, Stefano Bertone from the law firm Ambrosio and Commodo, told the BBC his client currently has no plans to sue any of the handset manufacturers or the mobile phone industry itself.

He added that the firm has other cases in other parts of Italy.

‘We have also been approached by an interesting number of people in the last 24 hours saying they have experienced the same kind of thing. And they can show they have accumulative use of mobile phones that’s exceeding 1,000 hours,’ he said.

Preliminary findings released in 2016 suggested a ‘low incidence’ of brain and heart tumours in male rats exposed to doses of radiofrequency radiation totalling up to nine hours a day over a two-year period.

However, as it is not finished, the study has not yet been scrutinised by other scientists, a process known as peer reviewing, which is generally considered an essential stage of evaluating research.

App of the week

Super Mario Run asks you to surrender some direct control of Nintendo’s mascot, but what it gives you in return is a stylish, addictive platformer you can play with one hand. Slick new moves and highly replayable stages make Mario’s smartphone debut feel like a parkour collect-a-thon loaded up with Nintendo charm. Admittedly, Mario games have looked better on Nintendo’s own platforms, but Super Mario Run’s elegant mechanics and great level designs kept me coming back in search of hidden coins to grab, and scores to topple.

Last Weeks Puzzle Answers (Issue 913) Quick Soloution

Across: 1 Scared, 4 Drench, 9 Abolish, 10 Circa, 11 Evade, 12 Restore, 13 Dental floss, 18 Express, 20 Nudge, 22 Koala, 23 Elevate, 24 Yonder, 25 Unless.

Down: 1 Shares, 2 Aroma, 3 Evident, 5 Races, 6 Nervous, 7 Healed, 8 Shortlisted, 14 Explain, 15 Lantern, 16 Weekly, 17 Recess, 19 Erase, 21 Drake.

Cryptic Solution Across: 1 Decapods, 7 Roars, 8 Castigate, 9/19 Fan dance, 10 Silk, 11 Notary, 13 Vestas, 14 Severe, 17 Carton, 18 Hand, 20 Roe, 22 Carnation, 23 Naive, 24 Sentence.

Down: 1 Ducks, 2 Castles, 3 Prig, 4 Dragon, 5 Taffy, 6 Asinine, 7 Related, 12 Rat race, 13 Vagrant, 15 Elation, 16 Coarse, 17 Celia, 21 Last.

At its core, Super Mario Run is an automatic runner that utilizes simple touch controls to perform all kinds of actions. You can extend the duration of Mario’s jump, delay his fall mid-air, or somersault off of foes to reach high places. Like any solid game, these smooth moves are easy to pull off but difficult to completely master, and there’s plenty of open screen space towards the bottom, so my fingers were never obstructing my view.

I always felt like I had enough room to react and pull off a slick maneuver, even though I couldn’t stop Mario’s constant forward movement.

Literary Quiz 1.

Novella

2. Lord Alfred Tennyson (1809-92) 3. Lady Chatterley’s Lover (by D H Lawrence) 4. Twice (to create four leaves) 5. Dale Carnegie 6. Johannes Gutenberg 7. Joseph Conrad (1857-1924, full name Jozef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski)

8. Christopher Marlowe (1564-93 - Blank verse traditionally is unrhymed, comprising ten syllables per line, stressing every second syllable.)

9. René Descartes (15961650, French philosopher and mathematician, in his work Discours de la Méth ode, 1637.)

10. The two oldest sisters, Maria and Elizabeth died in childhood.)

48

28th April - 4th May

All Major Credit Cards Accepted - 0.42€ per word + IVA 0.55€ for printed and online versions

Book your advert now 965 83 37 39

email: admin.rtn@ewnmediagroup.com

Classifieds&Services ALARMS

ALARMS & CCTV: All types, quality systems, very reasonable, guaranteed. Tel: 966 797 370 / 662 243 099 (245707) BUILDING SERVICES

J & J PAINTERS. Inside outside - clean - fast - low cost.

Torrevieja - Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (244772) ALL types of construction services, reforms, reconstruction: kitchens, bathrooms, roofs, tiling, floors, plasterboard, bricklaying, plumbing & facades.

Reasonable Prices. Torrevieja & surrounding areas. Call 672 929 913 any time (250584)

BUSINESS FOR SALE

SMALL property rental business for sale. Potential to build and grow or add to an existing portfolio. Plug and play operation. Email: managedpropertymurcia@ hotmail.com (250577) CARAVANS

WE BUY, sell & transport all makes of static caravans 630 055 418 Elsyd7@hotmail.com (249246) CHARITIES/CHURCHES

LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English speaking Church. We hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11.00 am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and 11.00 am on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.)

On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s

our Services are at 9.30 am.

Our choir sings at our 11.00 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, called Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome residents, visitors and children. For more information see our website www. lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or telephone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life – damaging everything that is important to you. Englishspeaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia.

Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: *648 169 045* or Costa Blanca South: *625 912 078* or Costa Calida *679 385

105*. All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org (93323)

ROUNDABOUT CHARITY SHOP. We are now into summer and very soon we will be feeling the heat! It is time therefore for another visit to the shop where you might find a bargain or two. Choose from the clothing selection, jewellery, household goods, books or bric a brac.

There is usually something there for everyone --- but not always. Charitable donations have recently been made to The Alzheimers Centre, Cancer Research and The Amigos Ambulance Service. We still need your help with donations etc. Please keep them coming in! We are situated on Avenida Del Furs close to the Fountain Roundabout and immediate left by Don Colchon bed shop.

(93325)

THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, Torrevieja Branch, meet at 17.00 on the first Wednesday of each month at the Restaurante El Paraiso, Urb. Jardin del Mar 3 (behind Carrefour), Torrevieja. Contact Paul Edwards, Chairman 618 644 934 or Margaret Forshaw, Secretary 966 921 996. (95455) THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Orihuela Costa - covering from Punta Prima to San Javier.

The branch meets at Olympia restaurant, Mil Palmeras on 3rd Thursday of each month at 19.00 - 19.30pm. More info can be found on branch website www.orihuelacostarbl.co.uk.

(95457)

HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a nonprofit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle

Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4 (Tel 965 704 282). Both offices are open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 1.30 pm and the Helpdesk at La Marina is open every Thursday (10 am to 1.30 pm) at the Hope Fellowship Church (opposite the Thursday Market site) at Avda de Justo Antonio Quesada, Urb. La Marina (Tel 615770145). We are online at www.helpvegabaja.com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@helpvegabaja. com We also have a 24 hour Emergency help-line which is available to both members and non-members on 966 723 733 (95456) The Baker Foundation Spiritualist Centre.

Find us on the Saturday market road opposite the Chinese Restaurant.

Playa Flamenca.

28th April - 4th May

Different International and local mediums every Sunday and Tuesday.

Sunday, divine service with clairvoyance 11 am start.

Tuesday, evening of clairvoyance doors open 7’o’clock for 7.30 start.

Spiritual Healing is available on Sundays after service and on Thursday mornings from 10. 30 until 12.

We have a development group on Tuesdays 5 until 6.30 for those interested in meditation and advancing your knowledge of spirit. Private readings are available on request. Please join us and make new friends, a warm welcome awaits you all.

Tea, coffee and soft drinks are available.

You can join us on Facebook at, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre.

Hall is available for hire.

For more information please contact Linda on 606 990 665.

Email, schugy54@gmail.com CHARITY BOOK STALL PEGO THURSDAY MARKET. Selection of over 500 books, all proceeds given to the elderly/disabled of Pego and local Animal Rescue.

More stock always required please contact Chrissie 965 977 228/617 647 395 (95460) THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact

Frank Bentley on 966 495 188 (95461) CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462) PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH, Calle Canalejas, 3.

Pilar de la Horadada. Sunday Service at 11am & Thursday at 5pm for Prayer and Praise and Worship. Home groups meet during the week. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information www.pilarchurch.org Reg No: 2009-SG/A (95463) TORREVIEJA Christian Fellowship (TCF) is an English speaking lively church located at Avenida de las Valencianas 68, Torrevieja 03183.

Residents and holidaymakers are welcome to attend our services with communion and ‘kids church’ each Sunday at 10.30am. We have a Fellowship Meeting (Bible Study) each Wednesday at 6.00pm. For further information see our website www.tcf-Spain.org or tel 966 700 391. (95464) THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH. Former & serving aircrews of the UK or Allied Armed Forces are welcome to join this convivial

& friendly organisation, now in its 21st year. www. acacostablanca.org or call the Secretary on: 966 495 042 (95465) THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION JAVEA BRANCH meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month @ Scallops Rest on the Arenal at 11.00am. Everyone is welcome to attend as a visitor and join the branch if they wish. Anyone needing any help or advice on welfare, or any information regarding the branch can contact either Sheila on 965 791 270 or Roger on 965 790 123 (95472) TORREVIEJA STROKE SUPPORT GROUP meets each Friday 2.45pm to 5pm in The Annex, (behind Age Concern Centre), Calle Paganini, Urb. La Siesta.

Our aim is to support stroke survivors and their carers by a range of facilities from speech therapy, rehabilitation exercise, group discussion etc.

For info: Louie 966 718 964 or 965 071 920, e-mail: strokesupportgroup@ hotmail.com Donations and further voluntary helpers are needed and guest speakers with relevant knowledge or experience are very welcome.

(95473)

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch meets First Monday of the month 18:00 at “La Taberna next to Monte & Mar Restaurant & Bowls Club, Plaza Mayor (MASA Square) Gran Alacant. granalacant.secretary@gmail. com CAMPELLO CONTRA CANCER in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer has opened a charity shop at C/Virgen de los Desamparados No 13 (next door to Mas y mas) El Campello. The shop is open Mon-Fri 10 - 2pm and is run by unpaid volunteers and all monies raised goes to the AECC. We urgently need donations of clothes, books, large and small furniture etc, and we will arrange collection of large items. We need volunteers to help out in the shop and also clothes rails, shelves etc. for display.

Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone. Please stop by at the shop. Contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@ hotmail.com (95475) INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Calle Urbano Arregui

23, Torrevieja Evangelical non-denominational Sunday services 11am Children’s church 11am House groups in Torrevieja, Los Balcones, San Javier Ladies meeting Thursdays 11am. Pastor, Rafael Restrepo All nationalities welcome 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. (95476) ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION (Costa Blanca) The aim is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines.

We enjoy a full programme of social events, menus del dia, and an annual dinner. we are a friendly bunch that supports other local ex Service Associations and Charities.

We meet on the last Tuesday of the month. For further information . Hon Sec 692 93 86 64 ROYAL AIR FORCES Association Branch #1359 Costa Blanca The Branch meets on the third Tuesday of the month at the El Paraiso Restaurant located close to the Carrefour Supermarket in Torrevieja.

The meeting starts at 1430 hrs. You do not have to be an ex-member of the RAF to join this friendly Association which supports the welfare of the RAF

49

family and provides a social hub for ex RAF members and their friends.

For further information about the Association and its activities please contact the Chairman on 692 508 916 or the Welfare Officer on 615 048 892 or visit our website: www. rafacb.com.

MEETS at Hamilton´s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178. We hold a Sunday Service at 11.30 a.m., a Tuesday Evening of Mediumship at 7 p.m. Also, every alternate Thursday from 23rd February, there is an Development/Awareness Circle where you can develop your skills commencing at 6.30 p.m. Spiritual healing is available every Sunday and Tuesday after the service.

The Divine Service with Mediumship on 19th February will be taken by Ray Bailey.

Len Cox will take the Evening of Mediumship on Tuesday, 14th February. The Divine Service with Mediumship, on Sunday, 26th February will be taken by Anna Marie.

Contact Wendy on 965323028. www.spiritualistcentrebenijofar.com New email is phoenixchurch23@gmail.com or info@spiritualistcentrebenijofar.com Identificacion Fiscal G54713789.

50

28th April - 4th May

CHIMNEY SWEEP

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MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (245706) HouSE CLEARANCE

service, restaurant, bar or shop.

Contact Spain’s newest and brightest online directory TODAY. Call 952 561 245 or email mark.w@euroweeklynews.com for more details.

METALWoRK

MOBILE Metal Work Any welding or plasma cutting work carried out. For a free quote call 639 487 503 (250579) www.eriksmetalwork.com.

ALL METAL WORK UNDERTAKEN. Costa Calida. stan@eriksmetalwork.com.

636 050 008. (248027) MEETINg PoINT

VERY YOUNG AT HEART 60YR Old Gentleman WLTM Fun Loving Lady for Serious/Lasting Relationship – Martin 966 392 845/447793 564 156 MoBILITY

MOBILITY equipment wanted. Cash paid. Scooters, wheelchairs etc etc Phone Will´s 602 547 878 (250705) MoToRINg

INSuRANCE & INVESTMENTS

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Buildings and contents cover from just 82 euros per year and cars from 120 euros. Tel 966 787 123 / 622 275 561 / 686 116 297 / email info@ sosinsuranceinspain.com (250254) INTERNET

GET YOUR business noticed online! Make sure that expats in Spain can find your product, LoCKSMITH

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance.

Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 902 123 309. (200726) WANTED

WANTED Cars, vans, caravans, 4 X 4’s British Spanish 600 781 873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com (249193) PERgoLA CoVERS

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667 879 399 krugercanopies@yahoo.co.uk (247317) PET CHARITIES

EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033 or sales@easyhorsecare.net www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706) P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog, or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals.

Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www.pepaspain.com EURO WEEKLY NEWS CLASSIFAX AGENT (95708) PLuMBINg

MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (245706) PooLS

POOL MAINTENANCE Repairs, Spares and Leak Testing. Call 965 725 565 / 676 945 360 www.pooltechspain.com (248286) Pool Maintenance, Repairs, spares and leak testing. Call 965725565 / 676945360 www.pooltechspain.com PRoPERTY FoR SALE

CIUDAD QUESEDA Villa 500m2 plot, 4 double bedrooms, large bathroom and shower room.

Large Balcony, Cloakroom, lounge dinner, large kitchen (white goods included). Oil central heating though out.

Double glazed conservatory, car port. 10x8 solar heated pool. Screened BBQ area, plus much more seeing is believing.

340,000€. Contact 688 486 752 private sale (250716) REMoVALS AND SToRAgE

MAN AND VAN UK - Spain. 2 vans travelling twice a month, Murcia - North / South UK. Storage in Spain. Tel 610 846 260 or 0044 751 918 6355 email van.man@hotmail.co.uk (249229) UK - SPAIN -Anywhere Europe!

Masses of experience. New clean vehicles. Insured with

Royal Sun Alliance. Genuinely CARING service. FULL and / Part moves. ONLINE QUOTES!! www.bmceuropean.com Tel: UK 08456 443 784 / ES 634 344 787 FIND US ON FACEBOOK! (243375) UK-SPAIN-IRELAND. Removals with the personal touch. Pets carried with care 965 696 750 / 0044 (0) 7447 918 589 e-mail chrisyounge73979@aol.com (249024) SPANISH MOVES Small removals and deliveries.

Spain/UK Budget prices. Last minute jobs undertaken. www.spanishmoves.net. Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Telephone UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960130537 (250330) SITuATIoNS VACANT

SALES REP REQUIRED for distribution company. Part time, one day per week.

Torrevieja / Orihuela Costa areas. Would suit active retired person. Call 600 061 202.

(252516) DO YOU CARE? If so, why not join our team of carers who work in the UK. Earn from £952 - £1,456 for 2 weeks. Good written/ spoken English, British or EU Passport required. Contact Sandra on 658 965 204 or email s.field@consultuscare.com (253024) AVON Cosmetics need enthusiastic agents. No outlay, immediate earnings. Hours to suit you. Ring Rosh on 966 785 520 for more information FIELD SALES positions available.

Must have own transport, English and Spanish preferred, but not essential, must have local knowledge of the area and be smart and presentable.

Applications by email with full CV should be sent to recruitment@euroweeklynews. com.

SWIMMINg PooLS

WOODEN POOLS LIMITED. Manufacturers & installers of wooden above ground pools.

Take the plunge with one of the above ground pools. Best of all “No Planning Permission Required” Tel: 634 322 672.

Phone or email for a FREE COLOUR BROCHURE & PRICE

LIST NOW. www.woodenpools. limited info@woodenpools. limited (250384) TELECoMS

FED UP PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR MOBILE PHONE CALLS? THEN CONTACT TELITEC TODAY. CALLS TO SPAIN 7C PER MINUTE INCLUDING MOBILES. CALLS TO UK 5.3C PER MINUTE. NO MONTHLY FEES, NO CONTRACT. WWW.TELITEC.COM TEL: 902 889 070 (0) WANTED

DIESEL car LHD and motorhome right or LHD wanted.Cash waiting Tel 650 722 905 (247258) WANTED Quad Bike and Jet Ski. Call 650 722 905 (247257) RECORDS & CDs WANTED. Pop, Rock, Jazz, Blues. Top cash paid.

Henry 630 665 363 (248884) XXX RELAXATIoN

Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the advertisements in this section offensive.

Viagra/Kamagra/Cialis/Weight loss pills the best prices in Spain! BUY ONE GET ONE FREE on certain items. Order securely & discreetly online: www.costapills.net Postal Nationwide delivery sales@costapills.net SOPHIE. Escort, sexy, slim, élégante, naughty lady, home or hotel. 3 languages spoken.

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For an appointment call 679 292 678 (247404) SPANISH lady - classic. Playa Flamenca, private house, 35 years, attractive. All erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie. From €40. Ana 865 646 437 (254520) LA ZENIA. Sexy 20 year old Spanish girl. Natural French, anal, lesbian, all services. I love white party. 645 385 461.

(248284) FRIENDLY MATURE ENGLISH lady offers massage plus escort service in a comfortable apartment in San Javier area.

Call Vicky on 691 842 737 for further information. (236602) www.chicosorihuela.com. Guys, transvestites, complacent, feisty. We are eager and hot.

DARE!!! 616 804 411 (240271) SPANISH lady. La Zenia, erotic massage with happy ending.

Private house. Sexy, elegant, 33 years. On whatsapp or call 611 472 803. (236718) KAMAGRA Gold 100mg plus Kamagra Jellies. Collection or Delivery. Roy- 602 579 481 (250580) VIAGRA/Kamagra/Cialis/ Weight loss pills the best prices in Spain! BUY ONE GET ONE FREE on certain items. Order securely & discreetly online: www.costapills.net Postal Nationwide delivery sales@ costapills.net (251393) VIAGRA, cialis, kamagra all areas 604 385 476.

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28th April - 4th May

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24 feb 28th april - 2- march 4th may 2017

motoring

China’s Copycat Car The year 2016 was a bumper one for car sales in China. Almost 25 million buyers took a new car home, many of which were built by Chinese production arms of companies we’re familiar with, such as Honda and Ford.

However, the country’s indigenous carmakers are becoming keen to cash in on the increasingly westernised tastes of Chinese motorists.

However, rather than creating rivals to the most desirable western cars, some manufacturers have taken to imitating them instead.

Many of the best-known cars from Europe and America have Chinese doppelgangers, but while many are all-but-indistinguishable from the originals, their Chinese makers aren’t necessarily breaching any law.

Unlike counterfeit watches or consumer electronics, these cars are sold under their own manufacturer branding and are, therefore, not pretending to be something

they aren’t.

Of course, these uncanny resemblances are entirely deliberate. Many of these cars have a similar visual appeal to their well regarded Western counterparts and can be sold at a far lower price to suit increasingly aspirational – though cash-strapped – Chinese buyers.

The lower price means that construction standards, technology and safety are often far less sophisticated than similar-looking western models, which typically hit the market after a more extensive development programme.

Perhaps the cheekiest and most blatant example is the Land Wind X7, which would easily pass for a Range Rover Evoque if it overtook you on a busy At a cursory glance the Land Wing X7 could easily pass for a Range Rover Evoque. motorway. Let’s have a look at the difference between the Evoque and it’s ‘evil twin’ £14,000, undercutting the imported Evoque the design similarities between the X7 and THE LANDWING X7 v RANGE ROVER EVOQUE The LandWind X7 is notorious for being one of the most conspicuous examples of Chinese imitation. It’s impossible not to spot

the Range Rover Evoque, even down to the positioning of the LAND WIND lettering on the bonnet.

This has caused considerable anger from Jaguar Land Rover, maker of the Evoque, particularly as the X7 sells locally for around

WAS 2015 SEAT IBIZA 1.2i REFERENCE with only 28,000kms with climate control, CD/radio with USB plug-in.

9,500€

2015 NISSAN NOTE 1.5 DCi cd/radio, alloy wheels, only 36,000kms.

8,995€

NOW

2014 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TI POWERSHIFT AUTOMATIC TRENDLINE, CD/radio, USB plug-in, 46,000kms.

12,995€

SOLD

2014 FORD FIESTA 1.5TDCi in flame red, CD/radio with USB & AUX plug-in, 35,000kms.

10,500€

9,500€

2014 VW POLO TSi air-con, CD/radio with USB & aux plug-in, alloy wheels, 41,000kms.

9,995€

2014 LANCIA YPSILON 1.2 GOLD 4dr, air-con, alloys, CD/radio & USB, city steering 36,000kms.

7,995€

SOLD

2014 FORD FIESTA 1.25 TREND in grey metallic 45,000kms Climate control, USB media music system.

9,995€

8,995€

2009 OPEL CORSA 1.2i AUTOMATIC air-con, CD/radio, alloy wheels, 71,000kms.

7,500€

6,500€

2007 RENAULT MEGANE 1.5 DCI EXPRESSION saloon, 4 door, 59,000kms.

3,995€

2006 SUBARU IMPREZA genuine Pro-drive car with certificate, 83,000kms.

10,995€

9,995€

2000 RENAULT MEGANE 5DR 1.6i AUTOMATIC EXPRESSION air-con, CD/radio, well looked

2,300€.

1,800€

1997 SUBARU LEGACY 2.0 GT-B TWIN-TURBO estate fully restored good Tyres 300+ BHP

3,995€

2,995€

1966 ROVER P5 MARK III 3ltr COUPE classic car recently restored, only 400 cars left in Europe!

14,995€

10,500€

on the Chinese market by £35,000.

The X7 is actually a larger car than the Evoque, but as convincing as it looks on the outside, its interior and general quality is a far cry from that of the British-built original, while the engine is a Mitsubishi design.

24 feb 28th - 2april march - 4th2017 may

Seat 600 Turns 60 With A Party in Madrid This Summer one of the most iconic cars ever seen on the roads of Spain celebrates it’s 60th Birthday at the Royal Palace in Madrid.

The first Seat 600 rolled off the production line at the Zona Franca Barcelona factory in June 1957 and almost 800,000 of them were produced until production stopped in August 1973.

Made under licence to Fiat, the SEAT 600 helped to start the economic boom, the Spanish miracle, that came at the end of the slow recovery from the Spanish Civil War. It was a relatively inexpensive vehicle (then 60,000 Spanish pesetas) and was the first car that came within the modest but rapidly growing economic means of most Spanish families from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. The vehicle has since become an icon of the period.

The arrival of the 600 practically put Spain on wheels and the impact of this tiny, rear-engined, rear-wheel drive utility car on Spanish society is still under sociological analysis today.

Not only was it the first car for many Spaniards, but it was an injection of quality of life that provided mobility and freedom like no other product in Spain had ever managed to do.

The appeal of the 600 lasted throughout the 1950s and 60s and this small car was lovingly dubbed simply ‘seiscientos’ in its homeland.

It quickly became the car most Young Spaniards learnt to drive in as it was snapped up by driving instructors and driving schools throughout the nation.

It is to Spain no less than the Citroen 2CV is to France, the Fiat 500 to Italy, the Mini to the United Kingdom and the Volkswagen Beetle to Germany

- a people’s car.

In the 60s early experiments with exports followed - hampered in part by Fiat demands that the 600 should be produced only for its local market.

Nevertheless, the Spaniards found their first tiny loophole for the 600 and exported 150 units to Colombia.

It was not until a later, more generous version of the licence contract that Fiat permitted more freedom - ultimately leading, between 1970 and 1973, to the SEAT 600 becoming the best-selling car in Finland!

Other affectionate nicknames for the Seiscientos were pelotilla (little ball), seílla or seíta (both stand for little SEAT) and ombligo (navel), because everybody had one.

There are still a good number of 600’s in daily use on the roads of Spain today and fully restored vehicles sell for thousands of euros on specialist websites.

As a tribute to the place it holds in the hearts of the Spanish people, the little motor car’s 60th Birthday party will be held at the prestigious Royal Palace in the capital on Saturday June 3rd.

The event is open to everyone and visitors will have the opportunity to view and inspect fine examples of the Seiscentos with activities and showcases being held all day, all rounded off by a rousing chorus of Cumpleanos Feliz to finish the festivities.

For full details on the Birthday event visit their website www.seat600aniversario.com or email the organisers at seat600tv@gmail.com.

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24 feb 28th april - 2- march 4th may 2017

Vw Brand Recovery Continues Volkswagen reported a 28 percent jump in first-quarter operating profit, helped by a return to earnings growth at its core VW brand which has struggled to recover from the German carmaker’s diesel emissions scandal.

Group operating profit came to 4.4 billion euros in the three months to the end of March, compared with 3.4 billion in the year-earlier period, Volkswagen said on Tuesday last week, as it published key financial figures ahead of schedule.

Although the group has bounced back from the scandal and overtook Japan’s Toyota last year to become the world’s biggest selling carmaker, analysts view a turnaround at the VW brand as key to its prospects.

Shares in Volkswagen jumped immediately the announcement was made public, trading 3.7 percent higher at 136.00 euros, making them the third-biggest gainers on the STOXX Europe 600 index.

Volkswagen said on last week that first-quarter operating earnings at the VW brand came to around 900 million euros, up from 73 million in the year-earlier period.

“Causal factors for the Volkswagen Brand result include the success of new model introductions, particularly the Tiguan, and a strong financial performance in the West European market,” Volkswagen said in a statement.

“Optimised fixed costs also positively affected the result,” it added.

DZ Bank analyst Michael Punzet, who has a “hold” recommendation on VW’s stock, said he had expected the brand’s operating profit to come to around 500 million euros.

Volkswagen said its other brands, which include Audi and Skoda, also contributed to the good performance but did not provide any further financial details.

However the group said it still expected to report a full-year group return on sales of between 6 and 7 percent this year.

“If Q2 continues to do well, we expect VW to increase its full-year guidance in summer,” said Evercore ISI analyst Arndt Ellinghorst, who had expected first-quarter group operating profit of around 3.8 billion euros.

Volkswagen is due to publish detailed first-quarter financial results on May 3.

VW on the road to recovery following the emissions scandal that rocked the company

2015 CITROEN C4 CACTUS BlueHDI 100 Feel Edition, Yelow color, Km 19.900

14.800€ JJM

2016 CITROEN C4 CACTUS BlueHDI 100 Feel, White color, Km 3000

16.500€ JLL

2013 CITROEN C3 14HDi LX, White color, Km 47500

8.900€ HRY

2005 CITROEN C3 1.1 I Furio, Blue color, km 85700

2.800€ DNP

2010 CITROEN C3 PICASSO 16HDI SX Km163.000 (P)

6.000€ GXK

2013 CITROEN NC4 16HDi 90cv Tonic, Grey color, Km 23600

10.600 € HPC*

2014 CITROEN C4 PICASSO 16HDI 115CMP Automatic Intensive, Silver color, Km 55.000

16.000€ HXY*

2013 CITROEN C4 PICASSO 16HDI 110CMP Automatic Exclusive, Dark grey color, Km 46800

14.000€ HRS

2005 CITROEN XSARA Picasso 20HDI SX Top, Grey color,

3.900€ DMT

2003 CITROEN C5 20HDI 110 CAS SX Automatic, silver color, Km166.000 (P)

2.700€ CGD

2013 FORD FIESTA 1.2i 82 Trend, Black color, Km 52300

8.200€ HPK

2015 NISSAN JUKE 12i 115cv, Km 19600, White color

4.300€ JDG*

2010 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 16DCi Automatic Wagon, Silver color, Km 99600

9.200€ JNH

2012 CHEVROLET AVEO 1.2, White color , km : 45000

7.300€ HMV

2004 CITROEN XSARA 2.0 HDi Blue color , Km: 158500 (P)

3.500€ CVP

2007 HUNDAY Matrix 1.6i X, color grey color, Km 115.000 (P)

2.500€ FNP

2010 PEUGEOT 207 1.6 Diesel Red color , Km : 102260 (P)

9.500€ GSY

2003 PEUGEOT 307 20HDI XS, Grey color, KM 281.000

2.500€ CDY

2000 FIAT DUCADO 20TD, 9 Plazas, Km198.000 (P)

3.500€ BGR

Volkswagens Iconic Beetle

28th April - 4th May

55

sport

Club 25 golf crowned Vega Baja premier golf league champions

Vega Baja Golf league secretary, Ron Nicholson hands the trophy to winning team Club 25 Golf

The final game in the 2016/2017 season of the Vega Baja Premier Golf league took place last week on one of the finest courses on the Costa Blanca, alenda Golf.

The golfers arrived at the course to find it as excellent as usual, with the greens in great condition. The beautiful Spring weather also added to the occasion.

Club 25 Golf took a handy lead into this game, but were challenged by el Valle who sat in second place.

Surprisingly Eurotoffs pulled off a great win over Club

25 Golf, which left the door open for el Valle, to sieze the initiative and leapfrog over them to the top of the table. however el Valle were also surprisingly defeated, which meant Club 25 Golf were crowned 2016/17 Vega Baja league champions.

Club 25 Golf were presented with the Coys Rental Cars sponsored trophy, by league secretary Ron nicholson, who took over the position following the sad loss of ivie Davies, co-founder of the league.

Ron expressed huge thanks to all the courses that hosted the league this season and all the members of all the Societies that participated. he also gave a big thank you to all the society Secretaries who posted the teams to me him promptly. he wished everyone involved a good summer break and looked forward to seeing the players next season, when he hopes more teams will enter into the Vega Baja premier Golf league.

San Miguel walking football team stroll to trophy win San Miguel Strollers recently competed with seven other teams in a Football Competition in Moraira and walked away with a trophy.

The walking Football team from San Miguel entered the tournament last weekend, along with local rivals Playa Flamenca Walking Wanderers.The two teams travelled up the coast together, staying two nights in Calpe, so they could compete in the event. at the beginning of the tournament, the players lined up with all teams challenging for 2 Trophies. There were two teams from Manchester , wearing the famous Manchester City strip, along with a team representing Horadada and 2 teams from Moraira. One more team was present representing their sponsors.

The day started well when Playa Flamenca Walking Wanderers competed in the 1st final against Moraira's 1st San Miguel Strollers with their walking football trophy won at the tournament in Moraira team. The match ended with Moraira's 1st team winning on a penalty shoot-out for the main Trophy.

Then it was San Miguel Strollers turn to compete in the second final for the Silver plate against Moraira 2nd team. San Miguel Strollers coming away the eventual winners.

Walking Football has continued to grow in popularity and to go on from strength to strength in the last few years, with more and more players taking up the sport. it is an ideal way for people over the age of 55 who may or may not have footballing skills to get some exercise and enjoy sport in a competitive environment. it encourages people to take up exercise, whilst at the same time getting the opportunity to meet other enthusiasts and enjoy a good social life.For more information contact on Walking Football and the San Miguel Strollers contact either: Bill Whitehouse on smstrollers@gmail.com or Bob or Maggie on bobbyg2542@hotmail.com

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24 feb - 2 march 2017