RTN Newspaper - Costa Blanca North 29 December 2017 - 4 January 2018 Issue 949

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Issue 949

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29th December - 4th January

Reporting The News Photo credit Javea Ayuntamiento

Inside this week...

fifth outbreak confirmed

P3

A Happy & Prosperous New Year to all our Clients and Readers from the RTN team

2018

GREAT EXPECTATIONS: What the indoor pool is expected to look like

Pool plans approved… after 10 years!

by Tahnee Wright Javea Mayor Jose Chulvi has confirmed that a €3 million municipal indoor pool will be built next year.

With plans approved by the Generalitat Valenciana and cash already set aside, works will begin in 2018.

The main pool will be located behind the Sports Centre in the Port where the paddle tennis courts are. It will be 25 metres in length with eight lanes.

There will be another 16-metre pool

for complementary activities such as aqua-aerobics as well as a room of about 200 square metres with gym equipment and space for fitness classes.

Mayor Chulvi has been pushing the Generalitat to fulfil the agreement it signed in 2005 whereby it was agreed that Javea Town Hall would finance the construction of a trinquet court (on which Valencian pilota is played) in exchange for the Generalitat financing an indoor pool.

The mayor expressed his great satisfaction at having managed to resolve

the issue which has gone on for a decade and many thought was a lost cause.

From the initial project (which amounted to €6 million) the underground carpark (for only 20 cars) has been eliminated together with other unnecessary areas and spaces which had raised the cost of construction and maintenance.

Also, to reduce maintenance costs, connectivity with the Palau d'Esports and energy efficiency measures are being studied.

award winning author

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New post office

by Rose Holmes A British woman who had not been seen for just over a month has finally been located in Valencia’s La Fe hospital after an appeal was launched by concerned friends.

Sixty six year old Caz Williams was first reported missing by her pool cleaner, who was worried after noticing unopened bills and warnings that her water was about to be cut off at her home in Moraira.

Friends realised that the last time anyone had seen or heard from Caz was on November 22. The investigation revealed her car had been found abandoned in Benissa and towed away by police. She had withdrawn cash from an ATM in Benissa that same day and her bank card had not been used since.

Benissa medical centre revealed that Caz had collapsed in Moraira and had been taken to Hospital Marina Salud de Denia, where she had received treatment.

Believing she had been discharged, the investigation slowed but friends remained concerned as there had been no further sightings of Caz since she had been in the hospital.

They launched an appeal both via social media and email to try to locate her.

In less than 24 hours, a social worker from Hospital Marina Salud de Denia who had been supporting Caz got in touch with her friends to inform them that Caz had not been discharged but had in fact been transferred to La Fe hospital where she was undergoing

Photo credit Facebook

CORREOS opened its new Benidorm office yesterday on Calle Marques de Comillas.

The new office replaces the one on Avenida de l’Aguiera and offers more space with six customer service points.

The new Benidorm office welcomes concessionary companies selling stationery, books and toys, ‘Linea Verde’ packaging and telecommunications products as well as other accessories.

It also has a ‘Rincon del Coleccionista’ (‘Collector’s Corner), where philately books, the latest stamps and a colourful display of postal merchandising is displayed, with miniature mailboxes and toy vans amongst much more.

Missing Brit finally found in Valencia hospital

FINALLY FOUND: Caz had not been seen for just over a month treatment for Leukaemia.

She was set to be discharged this week and friends have gathered round to welcome her home and offer her support.

Huff, puff and blow your exhibition down!

WEDNESDAY’S strong gusts of wind knocked down a €15,000 exhibition in Gandia.

The ‘Gandia Funciona’ installation on the Paseo de las Germanias fell victim to the 60 km/h winds that also knocked down a tree on Calle Magistrado Catala. The exhibition was installed to publicise projects being carried out by the municipality’s left-wing parties – PSPV and Mes Gandia. The Port of Gandia was closed due to the weather, with sailors unable to go out to sea for two days as Boxing Day was a holiday in the maritime sector.

24 feb - 2 march 2017 Photo credit Lliber.org

LLIBER: Almond trees have been affected in this sleepy village

Fifth outbreak of Xylella fastidiosa confirmed

by Fabio Delucci The Ministry of Agriculture has confirmed a new case of Xylella fastidiosa on the Costa Blanca, affecting 20 plots in the Alicante Province.

The disease has been found to have infected almond trees in Altea, Benissa, Callosa d'En Sarria, Gata, Jalon, Lliber and Parcent.

In September, the European Commission said in a statement that Spain is “losing the battle” against the disease that is “officially out of control” Xylella Fastidiosa is one of the most dangerous plant bacteria worldwide,

Armed robber arrested A 22-YEAR-OLD MAN is being detained by police accused of several robberies with violence and intimidation throughout TeuladaMoraira. In one of the robberies allegedly committed by the accused, he cut his victim’s face with a knife. The investigation has been ongoing since the start of this month and police recently caught the man and arrested him. He has an extensive criminal record and remains in custody awaiting trial.

causing a variety of diseases, with huge economic impact for agriculture.

It was previously confined to Guadalest, where emergency action has been taken, but it then spread to 26 almond orchards in Balls in El Comtat and Alcalali before making its way to Altea, Benissa, Callosa d'En Sarria, Gata, Jalon, Lliber and Parcent.

The current protocol, in line with European Union regulations, dictates that a plant found to be infected by Xylella fastidiosa should be eradicated, along with all plants within 100 metres of it, even if they are not infected: “Strict eradication measures apply,

consisting in a clear cut of all host plants of the specific subspecies of Xylella fastidiosa, irrespective of their health status, in a radius of 100 m around the infected plants.”

The European Union recognises these regulations impact on the local agroeconomy: “Although these measures impact on the local agro-economy, they are needed in the interest of the Union as whole in order to preserve EU agriculture, as well as public and private gardens.”

Regional Secretary of Agriculture Fracisco Rodriguez has confirmed that the ministry will publish the compensation plan for farmers in January.

Everyone loves paying less tax TEULADA-MORAIRA Mayor Carlos Linares announced that the municipality’s rate of IBI will be lowered in 2018.

The reduction comes as the council has now cleared the €9 million debt it had some six years ago.

Mayor Linares said: “For the first time ever, Teulada-Moraira Council has no commitment to the banks, which means all the money from taxes can be ‘given back’ to make investments in the municipality.”

The lower rate of IBI will be reflected in the first facturas sent out next year.

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24 feb - 2 march 2017

Castle to be recovered with €1.2m from the EU Photo credit Benidorm Ayuntamiento

by Fabio Delucci BENIDORM CITY COUNCIL has requested European funds to recover the archaeological remains of El Castell.

The council has requested aid from an initiative launched by the Generalitat Valenciana in November, for the protection and/ or recovery of Valencian cultural heritage backed by the ERDF Operational Programme 2014-

2020 for Valencian Community.

The El Castell project is valued at €1.2 million and proposes to "archaeologically document the totality of the preserved remains" of the old castlefortress, including some remains that are currently "covered and practically imperceptible" under the Plazas del Castell, Castelar and Santa Ana. Benidorm Mayor Toni Perez has said the recovery of the archaeological re-

PLANNING AHEAD: The council announced its plans for the castlefortress last week

mains would see El Castell declared of Cultural Interest (BIC) and would attract more tourists: “The old castle-fortress would become an important tourist attraction as visitors could learn more about the history of Benidorm and the capital relevance of this castle in the founding of the city."

The total budget for Valencia's Operational Programme is €1.14 billion, of which the EU has contributed €568 million.

Strange smell sends students home STUDENTS from the CEIP Paternina school in Calpe were sent home last week when a strange smell led teachers to suspect some sort of leak.

The school was closed as firefighters and the local police spent time conducting a thorough investigation.

The smell was found to be caused by the works being carried out in the Man-

zanera by Aguas de Calpe.

The works include the use of a resin that, when heated with water, gives off a strong odour.

The fumes are not toxic but brought teaching to a halt as the unbearable smell came up through the school’s toilets, particularly near the infant classrooms and was making students feel sick.

Caught red-handed THREE YOUNG MEN were caught red-handed robbing a bar in Ondara last week.

Police arrived at the scene after a neighbour called 112, reporting to have heard a break-in.

Sure enough, officers caught two Spaniards and one Ecuadorian busting open the slot-machine.

They had already filled their pockets with money from the till and lottery tickets –returned to the bar owner.

The thieves, from Alicante, all have criminal records and remain in custody awaiting trial.

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Have your Say!

Nursing home investigated Photo credit marinasalud.es

A popular post this week is

“Correas announces Correos delivery improvements” reaching 1,216 people with 17 comments

Tina Howard Jones “I think they give a great service, post my letters in Dona pepa on a Monday morning, and their in England by Wednesday, well done Correos,,,”

@RTNNewspaper

Our most liked posts from this week Spain’s King Felipe calls on Catalan leaders to avoid confrontation in Christmas speech Happy British killmas Judge releases nine Guardia Civil officers on bail Concern grows for ‘missing’ British woman on Spain’s Costa Blanca What do I do with all these left overs?

HOSPITAL MARINA SALUD DE DENIA: Gangrene was diagnosed

by Tahnee Wright An elderly woman who was admitted to a nursing home last year had to have her left leg urgently amputated because she had gangrene.

The family of the pensioner has denounced the nursing home for its “lack of medical attention and care” and an investigation is probing whether the resident doctor is guilty of injury by negligence.

The woman moved in to the nursing home in December 2016 and at that time had a cut on her heel.

She was checked over at Hospital Marina Salud de Denia and doctors recommended that the cut should be kept under close supervision at the nursing home, especially given the patient suffers from diabetes so an infection could have serious consequences.

The family observed the deterioration of the woman’s foot but the resident doctor at the nursing home did nothing, ignoring the hospital’s recommendations.

Two months later, the pain in the patient’s foot was unbearable and the discomfort “made

British climber airlifted to safety A 28-YEAR-OLD British climber was rescued by firefighters from Calpe’s Morro de Toix after suffering a fall. The woman was climbing with a friend when she fell from a height of 4-5 metres. Her friend called emergency services and the climber was taken to hospital by helicopter, where she was found her to have suffered multiple injuries and hurt her left leg.

In Total 21,089 People reached 11,733 Total Likes

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it impossible to touch any part of her body.”

In February, the family decided to take action and called an ambulance to take the woman to A & E at Hospital Marina Salud de Denia.

After an exhaustive investigation, doctors diagnosed gangrene in the foot and given its severity, decided to amputate the patient’s left leg.

The family immediately discharged the woman from the nursing home and once she had fully recovered, they filed a denuncia in Denia.

The investigation continues.

Evicted on Christmas Day A STREET off Javea’s Arenal was evicted on Christmas Day after a fire broke out in an aesthetics centre. Residents on Avenida de la Libertad were evicted by firefighters and the local police at around 6.00pm as flames licked the building, causing significant damage. The fire - suspected to have been caused by a short circuit or by the Christmas lights – was extinguished quickly, allowing residents to return home before the night was over.

What a mess

PEGO COUNCIL announced this week that it will intensify its monitoring of the Monte Pego urbanisation.

The announcement comes as an illegal dump has been established – where unscrupulous individuals are dumping their home/ garden waste.

Councillor of Environment Laura Castella said the dump has been in operation for weeks: “We have had to remove waste abandoned there more than once now.”

Castella says the council is not talking about small amounts of home/ garden waste. Municipal workers have filled several trucks to leave the area clean, only to find it piled high a few days later.

She reminded individuals that the Ecoparque is available for their use and reminded businesses that they should be contracting accredited waste management companies to dispose of their waste.

Municipal workers have cleared the area once again, but the council has stressed that this situation cannot continue – individuals and businesses must not dump their home/garden waste there.

If you know who is dumping on their waste the Monte Pego urbanisation, use Pego’s ‘Linea Verde’ website and/ or mobile app to report it.

Photo credit Facebook

Fire, fire A FIRE broke out on Calle dels Furs in Denia early on Wednesday morning, next to the IEA Maria Ibars school. The fire was caused just before 8.00am as the power cables caught the tops of the trees.

Exacerbated by the strong gusts of wind, sparks were flying and flashes could be seen by neighbours before some of the trees caught fire.

Thanks to the speed at which the fire was controlled by firefighters, it was not necessary to evict any neighbours in the area.

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24 feb - 2 march 2017

Altea writer’s retreat welcomes award-winning author

by Fabio Delucci DON’T MISS your chance to take part in AlteArte’s exclusive ‘Writer’s Retreat’ in April next year.

AlteArte is a mojiteria and art lounge located in the heart of Altea's Casco Antiguo, just steps from the church square. It is owned and operated by Sara Wilson and David Fernandez, who view it as their “duty and privilege” to create a cultural hub in Altea.

The four-day retreat will be held from April 26 – April 29, 2018 and offer writers the opportunity, environment and space to focus on their writing while at the same time arming them with the helpful instruction and personal insight from a very special guest - published English thriller author R. J. Ellory.

Ellory was first published in the UK in 2003 and has now released fourteen novels.

Winner of 13 international literary awards, his books are available in 26 languages. Having sold more than six million books worldwide, he continues to publish annually and spends a considerable amount of his time travelling.

Ellory has presented documentary pieces about his work for Channel 4 and the BBC in both Georgia and Washington DC and represented the UK at

R. J. Ellory the European Writers’ Parliament in Istanbul, Turkey.

He has made television appearances on France 1, France 3 and has been a guest on 'Le Grand Journal' with Antoine de Caunes.

He has accumulated extensive newspaper and magazine coverage, and in 2012 was voted one of the 30 men 'who will influence the future in the arts, media, politics and sport' by GQ magazine.

When asked about what inspired her to organise the writer’s retreat, which she hopes to make an annual event, Sara said: “The idea for the AlteArte Writer's Re-

treat stemmed, partly, from AlteArte's Book Club. The members meet once a month to read and discuss a book.

Whenever possible, the author is present either via Skype or in person. This personal contact with authors like R. J. Ellory made me dream bigger, and I instantly envisioned an annual writer's retreat.”

The retreat is open to 10 participants and tickets purchased before January 1 are offered at a discounted rate.

For more information and to purchase tickets, check out https://www.aawritersretreat.com/ or call Sara on 697 810 804.

Local festival confirms second big headliner FRENCH indie pop band Phoenix has been confirmed as the second major headliner of Benidorm’s Low Festival 2018, taking place July 27 – 29 next year.

The news comes a week after organisers announced English electronic music duo The Chemical Brothers will be the festival’s main headliner.

Awarded with a Grammy for best alternative music album for ‘Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix’ (2009), the quartet captained by Thomas Mars has released six studio albums, from ‘United’ (2000) to the most recent ‘Ti amo’ (2017).

Low Festival organisers have promised the tenth edition of the event will be the “biggest and best yet,” after this year’s festival gathered 83,000 people.

For more information and tickets, check out www.lowfestival.es.

MOFTAG Christmas fayre The weather was perfect, the atmosphere jolly and Moftag would like to thank everyone who came along on Saturday 9th December and supported this event. This fayre has been the most successful with €1500 being raised. The money will be used to support local charities next year and they are thrilled that they can once again support

The Calpe Food Bank, The Red Cross, The Gargasindi School and Maite Boronat Centre.

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February

Bright future for your Easter boosts favourite free paper the creation of 5,800 jobs in Alicante

by Tahnee Wright

SINCE the RTN was first published on 1st October 1999 Geoff Gartland and his team spent the subsequent years establishing a newspaper that represented it’s thousands of readers, providing informative news, events and stories at a local, national and international level.

After almost 15 years Geoff decided to take early retirement, signing an agreement with a third party publisher allowing them to continue to use the RTN brand, unfortunately things did not go as planned. Negotiations broke down and Geoff had no alternative but to reclaim the RTN and joined forces with the EWN Media Group, who also own another publication called the Euro Weekly News.

Having sold the brand to EWN Media Group Geoff was asked to stay with the RTN and use his expertise and that of his team to bring the paper back to its former glory.

Geoff said: “this is a really exciting time, particularly as we have now joined the EWN Media Group who are a very strong company. They have the expertise, the infrastructure and are dynamic in their approach to sales. This can only be a positive move for the RTN, our readers and our advertisers.”

Today’s RTN hits the streets with a bumper 56 page edition, the original design style and an extensive distribution in both North & South Costa Blanca. The paper will continue to support local charities and events, but also cover national and up-to-date news articles from around the world Geoff said: “I couldn’t be happier to be back at the helm, with the original team by my side and backed by the EWN Media Group the future is secured for the RTN.”

Following the trough in employment since the Christmas and New Year campaigns and sales, recruitment figures are set to peak again as we approach the Easter period, with a forecast 5,860 jobs to be created in Alicante alone.

The forecast represents an increase of 2.7 per cent on Easter 2016, although it is still almost 5 per cent below the state average of 7.6 per cent.

Companies are beginning to actively recruit to ensure they are able to increase their activity across the Easter period, when many tourists will arrive to the coastal zones.

Of the new jobs, the majority will be temporary seasonal contracts and the employment boost will focus on the sectors in highest demand over the season - transport and distribution, tourism, hospitality and entertainment.

Companies will be looking for candidates who have previously worked in similar companies or in the

March same industry in order to reduce training time and increase efficiency. Those entering jobs with no previous experience should be able to adapt quickly to their new position, so everything is in place for the influx of Easter tourists.

Being able to speak a second language will be highly valued across all positions and candidates who speak English are likely to be favoured. English will be required for many of the job positions offered as it is the basic language in hospitality, catering and transport.

However, on an international level, Spain has received many more Russian, Chinese and Arabic tourists in recent years so the ability to speak these languages will be a bonus. In the case of European tourism, Spain remains popular with the French and German so proficiency in these languages will also stand a candidate in good stead.

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April

Benidorm to get more bike parks

by Andy Mansell Anyone who cycles in and around the city of Benidorm regularly will be aware of the cycle lanes that have appeared over the last year or so, particularly the controversial one that runs along the centre of Avenidas Jaime 1 and Alfonso Puchades.

This has been part of the City Hall's plans to make Benidorm a 'Bike Friendly' urban environment, intended to encourage residents and workers to use their bikes to travel into and out of the city rather than cars.

So far, so environmentally good. However until now, there has been a distinct lack of bike racks or stations around the city, leaving cyclists with no option but to lock their bikes against trees, lamposts, rubbish bins or any available railing they can find.

This situation is causing severe irritation to bike users and local residents who are unhappy with cyclists tying their bikes to any object they come across.

One cyclist making a complaint to the council explained: ''I have no choice but to leave it tied to a pole anyway, because there is no place to park nearby and the bar where I work is small and we have no space to put it inside," The problem is not confined to the pedestrian streets of Benidorm centre either. The promenades of levante and Poniente beaches and the Avenidas Mediterraneo, Europa or Jaime I also suffer from a severe lack of bike parking spaces.

The City Hall are painfully aware of the

parking problems experienced by cyclists in the town and also appreciate the problems have undoubtedly worsened following the new initiatives to create cycle lanes on the main avenues, improve signage, bicycle lanes and campaign to encourage the use of cycles by residents and tourists.

They have even run specific advertising

promotions aimed at attracting bike travellers, with the intention of encouraging eco tourism to the urban areas and reduce vehicle congestion.

Head of Mobility for the City, José Ramón González de Zárate January admitted the council had underestimated the amount bike users in Benidorm and had installed 50

bicycle racks in different areas since January with preference in school areas and sports clubs such as the Palau d'Esports.

In addition, there are plans to install at least another fifty more bike parking spaces. "People are using the bike more and more and we want to make it easier for everyone" he said.

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24 feb - 2 march 2017

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Lionsclub International celebrates 100 years of service

May

Finestrat nominated for rural tourism award

by Tahnee Wright The municipality of Finestrat has been selected by rural holiday booking website escapadarural.com to qualify for the IV Coetur Awards, in recognition of its efforts to promote rural tourism.

Escapadarural.com has over 950,000 registered travellers on its site and promotes over 15,000 ‘rural escapes’ across Europe. With this nomination, Finestrat is the only municipality representing the Valencian Community, versus other rural destinations in Madrid, Galicia, Catalonia, Extremadura, Basque Country and La Rioja.

The recognition comes after many months of hard work from the consistory in collaboration with INVATTUR

- to define the municipality as an Intelligent Tourist Destination (DTI) particularly focusing on its rural areas.

The Mayor of Finestrat and Head of Tourism, Juan Francisco Perez, expressed his gratitude for the nomination for the Coetur Awards, which will be drawn at the IV European Congress of Rural Tourism, held on May 23 and 24 in Asturias ‘Being selected is already an incentive for the consistory to continue in its efforts. Finestrat has a treasure - its beaches of the cove, the natural surroundings of the Puig Campana. And this nomination comes to recognise the efforts being made by the City Council to regenerate and promote indoor tourism with sporting events and also events such as

the recent Gastronomic and Traditional Mercat of the historic centre.’

The Mayor also highlighted the project of BTT Centre in the Font del Moli and the ‘Descubre Finestrat’ guided tours.

The actions in the rural area include, in turn, the reconstruction of houses of the old town with the purpose of converting them in to regulated tourist accommodations.

All forthcoming actions are part of the Master Plan as the City of Finestrat vies become an Intelligent Tourist Destination - ‘that is, a sustainable destination that improves the quality of life of residents, optimises the experiences of tourists and uses technology as a tool to improve services through real-time data collection.’

The Lions Organisation celebrates its centenary this year. The Lionsclub was founded in June 1917 in Chicago by businessman Melvin Jones. The club is an international service club and has today 1.35 million members worldwide.

In 1925 a lady writer, Helen Keller, who was deaf and blind, suggested the club to become Knight of the blinds. Since then the club adopted many aims to support, but in Spain the Lions stayed close to this first aim.

The Melvin Jones Centre of recycled glasses is located in San Vincente.

Many opticians bring their no-longer-used glasses to the centre and they are sent on to Latin America, Africa and also to European countries.

The Lionsclub in Alfaz del Pi has British, Spanish, Dutch and Flemish members. Annually they organise events such as a Flamenco show which, in 2016, was attended by 400 people and raised funds

for the food bank in Alfaz.

For those who are interested in golf there is an annual charity ‘Pitch and Putt’ tournament.

Children love to get involved in the annual ‘Peace Contest’ an artbased project which sees the winner in Madrid, where there is a selection of all schools participating and the final winner goes to the USA in company of their family.

For the younger ones there is the Saint Nicolas celebration in the beginning of December. The children get packages with fruits and sweets from Saint Nicolas. This celebration is attended by children of all nationalities.

If you are interested in attending a meeting of the Lions Club, they are usually held in the Casa Cultura of Alfaz del Pi every second Thursday of the month.

For more information, please get in touch with Bernardina Martini 608 541 299 or Peter de Lint – 669 943 734.

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June

Benidorm hotels booming Hotels in Benidorm saw a four percent rise in occupancy in the first half of June.

by Andy Mansell Figures released earlier this week show the town’s hotels experienced a 90.7% occupancy in the first two weeks of the month, four points up on the same period last year, with a projection of 91.2% occupancy predicted for the rest of the month.

Distribution of the tourism market by nationality consolidates the UK as

the first market with 53.1%, while the Spaniards were reduced to 34.7%, Belgians (3.2%), Dutch (2.8%), Eastern Bloc (2%) and Portuguese (1.8%) are the other significant markets.

Expressing concern regarding the drop in Spanish visitors to the town, hotel association, Hosbec’s president Antonio Mayor, said "There are worrying developments in the domestic market, owing to the rise in popular hosting platforms for apartments and

What about us?

room stays.”

He added that the situation is one of the prices to pay for Benidorm becoming such a popular good value destination, but on an optimistic note, he said “The overall results are still positive, because international tourism is responding to the repositioning of the Benidorm brand, therefore as a whole the entire brand strategy, private investment and promotion is giving very good results."

August

by Rose Holmes The City of Calpe has written a letter to Coca-Cola Spain in which it requests to be included as one of the destinations in the ‘Share a Coke’ campaign.

Coca-Cola first ran its ‘Share a Coke’ campaign back in 2011, where people could personalise a bottle with their name, replacing the brand's iconic logo.

Now it has revamped the campaign, putting popular international holiday destinations on bottles all over the world.

Nationally, Coca Cola Spain has joined

in the fun, selecting 15 Spanish hotspots to promote – but forgetting Calpe.

The letter to Coca-Cola Spain reaffirms Calpe as ‘one of the most important tourist destinations in Spain, which every summer receives thousands of tourists from all over Europe’ and asks that the municipality is considered for future campaigns.

It invites Coca Cola Spain representatives to the city to take in all its splendour – from the beaches and coves to the bustling streets of the old town.

Internationally, hotspots featuring on the bottles include Hawaii, Bali, Ibiza and Miami.

The 2017 Vuelta a Espana will replace 'podium girls' with men and women in tasteful attire, according to the Spanish press.

Following the lead of the Tour Down Under and several other events, race organiser Unipublic will make the Spanish three-week race the first of the three Grand Tours to move on from a practice that has faced increasing criticism in recent years, with some considering it an archaic tradition.

‘We are sensitive to the social and media debate that has been generated in recent months about the presence of hostesses of the podiums,’ Javier Guillen, director of Unipublic, told the Spanish press. ‘ ‘In Australia, the presence of the podium girls has already been done away with, the same as in other races in Spain.

We are not able to ignore these concerns and therefore we will incorporate some changes in the upcoming Vuelta. We are going to make a few adjustments. We are still working on it. What we do will always be with elegance.’

According to the Spanish press, the Vuelta may also do away with kisses from female podium hostesses.

‘We are still analysing possibilities. What we decide will be seen at the start of the Vuelta a Espana in Nimes on August 19,’ Guillen said.

Although Unipublic is owned by Tour de France organisers ASO, according to the report, no such changes are in store for either the Tour or the Giro d'Italia at the moment.

First steps for brittle boned baby OLAYA, the little girl from Javea who was born with brittle bone disease is reported to be responding well to treatment at the Hospital Universitario de Getafe in Madrid.

The mother of the 14month-old told the Spanish press "If anyone had have told me six months ago that my daughter’s condition was going to improve so quickly, I would not have believed them."

Brittle bone disease is a disorder that results in fragile bones that break easily.

The disease is often referred to as osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), which means ‘imperfectly formed bone.’

OI can sometimes be life-threatening if it occurs in babies either before or shortly after birth.

When Olaya was first born, doctors did not detect that the little girl suffered from OI but her mother immediately recognised that something was not right.

September Photo credit Facebook

MAYBE NEXT TIME: Nationally, Coca-Cola Spain are promoting 15 Spanish hotspots

Vuelta a July Espana waves goodbye to podium girls

TODOS CON OLAYA: The family post regular updates on social media Olaya suffered at least seven fractures, two of them during gestation and one during childbirth.

She was diagnosed with OI soon afterwards at Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe in Valencia.

Olaya stood up just last month and her mother spoke of her joy as the little girl took small steps as she held onto her.

She said: “I told the doctors, who insisted that I

relax, but my daughter’s illness has taught me to enjoy every moment.”

"It has given me a lot of strength to get to know other families whose children suffer from this disease. These children have great strength and even greater potential.”

Olaya’s family have expressed their greatest thanks to the people of Javea for their support, especially Todos Juntos.

16

New HQ for EWN Media Group SPAIN’S leading English language newspaper publisher has a new home.

Switching from a quiet area in Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmadena, to a busy street in Fuengirola, it is another clear sign that the EWN Media Group (EWNMG) is continuing to go from strength to strength.

Since the start of this year the company has acquired two additional newspaper brands - the RTN Newspaper and Sol Times.

Meanwhile the Euro Weekly News (EWN) won the accolade of being voted Best Free Publication at the 2017 Spanish Periodical Association Awards in Madrid.

The EWNMG office relocation comes after the company outgrew its former

headquarters.

But the foundation of family values throughout all group publications remains even though the team to produce ten weekly newspapers is ever-increasing in size.

More than three quarters of a million people now read EWNMG newspapers every week and the team also produce Spain’s leading news websites in English with more than 700,000 page views a month (August 2017).

These are figures backed by nationally respected sources from a company that can be fully trusted and now operating from state-of-the-art new premises with the future looking ever brighter.

November

Making Calpe blush

Octobe r

SLOGAN: Sumate al Rosa’ (Join the Pink).

by Fabio Delucci

ON THE UP: The new EWNMG head office

MORE THAN 800 people took to the streets of Calpe last Sunday in the ‘Marcha Rosa’ (Pink March) against breast cancer.

The march was organised by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) and Calpe’s Department of Health and bore the slogan ‘Sumate

al Rosa’(Join the Pink).

All participants wore the commemorative pink t-shirt, some going all out with accessories including tuts and deely-boppers as they marched from plaza del Mosquit through the streets to the Paradero de Ifac before returning to plaza Colon where a manifesto was read.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among

women. Symptoms include a lump or thickening of the breast and changes to the skin or the nipple.

Risk factors can be genetic, but some lifestyle factors, such as alcohol intake, make it more likely to happen.

A range of treatments is available, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy

18

Sold out!

December Photo credit Benitachell Ayuntamiento BACK TO BASICS: Children learnt how to fish using only the essentials

by Fabio Delucci A workshop to promote the values of ecological, sustainable fishing to children in the Cala del Moraig last Saturday was so popular, Benitachell’s Department of Education has arranged another one.

Places for ‘Tu primer taller de pesca ecofriendly en el Moraig’ (Your first ecofriendly fishing workshop in the Moraig) were limited and some children were unable to participate, so another workshop has been arranged to take

place Saturday December 16.

The free workshop is open to boys and girls from eight years of age.

Participants will enjoy a variety of activities, including making their own fishing rods, learning how to tie knots, how to hook bait and how to fish without impacting the seabed.

In the workshop last weekend children learnt about the most common species to call the seabed home, as well as the most dangerous.

Councillor Myra van ‘t Hoff said: "It has been incredible the welcome,

spanish 9,750€

the children enjoyed while connected with nature and knew the art of traditional and ecological fishing in an environment of great scenic beauty such as El Moraig. It is important that someone teaches them how to fish using only the essentials with the least possible impact on the seas, as artisanal fishermen do."

Registration can be done in person at Santa María Magdalena CEIP or by phone – 686 907 320.

Participants need only bring lunch and water shoes.

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CONSTRUCTION works have begun at the new Marina Real development in Denia. Aedas Homes will build a complex of 80 houses complete with a swimming pool at the site located on calle Castor, between Cami dels Lladres and the IES Numero 3 school.

The development - which was planned before the burst of the housing bubble but paralyzed soon after – will offer a variety of super energy-efficient two and three-bedroom apartments, duplex penthouses and ground floor units with gardens. The complex will also boast views of the sea and the Montgo, together with a gym, playground and social club.

70 per cent of the development is sold, with the properties left starting at €192,000.

8,495€

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22

Going green for 2018

VEGANUARY is a charity inspiring people to try vegan for January and throughout the rest of the year.

If you’re thinking of trying vegan and are looking for support, head to Denia on Thursday January 4 where a group of friends have arranged a ‘Friendly Vegan Support Meetup’.

Organiser Zoe Gumm says: “You don’t have to be vegan to join us, we only ask that you at least have an interest in reducing the amount of animal products in your diet, whether it be for your health, the animals or the environment.

“We have a wide-range of knowledge between us, so as well as meeting with like-minded people, we can offer you advice, tips and support if you have any doubts, questions or worries about transitioning.

We’d love to meet you so please feel free to come along and grab a coffee with us.”

The event is being held at Codigos del Arte from 8.00pm – 10.00pm. For more information get in touch with Zoe – zoe.gumm@googlemail.com.

Black days are good too by

Michael Walsh

keyboardcosmetics@ gmail.com The opinions published in Mike´s weekly column are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or newspaper sponsors.

There wasn’t much about 2017 that brought a feel good factor. I waited 12 months for mine, which I hope isn’t misplaced. Grinning broadly, I watched ecstatic Africans welcoming the first White farmer to return to the ranch Mugabe’s regime had ousted him from. Remember Marxist Robert Mugabe, knighted by the queen, slobbered over by politicians and mainstream media.

One rose doesn’t make a summer but it was cheering to see Zimbabwe President Mnangagwa show pragmatism and Foreign Minister Sibusiso Moyo tell the West to butt out.

Upon his return to his beloved Lesbury Farm, 71year old Robert Smart punched the air as he was besieged by ecstatic Africans. The farmer brings with him a wealth of experience, the bank’s confidence; he returns hope, jobs and prosperity to the impoverished community.

Darryn Smart, the farmer’s son said, “Words can’t describe the feeling. Getting back to the farm has given not just us, but the whole community hope that it is a new Zimbabwe, a new country.”

Such jubilation won’t be lost on Zimbabwe’s new administration. One hopes it won’t be lost either on the Westminster canker and its media.

Sold as a transition of power to Black rule it was nothing of the kind. Europe’s colonies were surrendered to globalist banking corporations by corrupt European politicians.

The banking clique think waiters are farmers and restaurant tables are gardens of plenty. This

elite’s only interest is to squat toad-like on Africa’s vast mineral resources. As a consequence Africa today is poorer than ever, millions of Africans are uprooted and as many more starve.

As in Zimbabwe, many Africans would welcome return to peaceful colonialism that enriched everyone. Hopefully, Zimbabwe’s realism won’t result in yet another Washington DC regime change.

Is it too much to ask that the hapless anti-White South African regime, hopelessly mired in corruption, crime and poverty, might learn from the new Zimbabwean president?

Regardless of ethnicity I remind all South Africans that separate development was not as black as fake news mainstream painted it to be.

In 1972, South Africa’s non-Whites owned more vehicles than all the Black ruled nations put together. In 1988, the monthly income of Africans per capita was a comfortable R352pm, the highest in Africa.

There is much more we don’t know because we are not supposed to know.

Is there hope for 2018? Yes, the banking clique’s worst fears will be realised. Ousting the bankers, Russia and China will demonstrate how everyone can benefit from the resources of richest continent on earth. Sadly, to prevent that happening, NATO could get the war with Russia and China.

Michael Walsh is author of Rhodesia’s Death Europe’s Funeral. Amazon.

24

Here’s to the next one by

Colin Bird The opinions published in Colin’s weekly column are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or newspaper sponsors.

Another Christmas comes to an end, and a new year beckons.

As the beggars carry on their daily vigils for a few tourist euros outside the Vatican City walls, some without limbs and all without hope, the Pope gives his Christmas blessings to the world and prays for world peace from the opulence of St Peter’s. And once again as in Christmases past, not a thing will change with the hate and killing continuing on an industrial scale.

The extermination of the world’s wildlife will accelerate and significantly more percentage points will be added to the 58% loss since 1970, giving credence to the forecast of a 67% reduction by 2020.

Talking will continue on the subject of climate change, with the self satisfied politicians patting themselves on the back for their wisdom and leadership, but effectively doing precious little to prepare us for the inevitable and irreversible changes that are rapidly coming about.

The leaders of the world’s most influential nations range from power hungry megalomaniacs to brainless buffoons, with many others regarding their position as a ticket to rampant corruption. And with such a large proportion of the globe’s leadership portraying distinct strong sociopathic tendencies, it seems to have now become part of the job description.

The farcical Brexit talks will continue, with the EU making their demands and Mrs May and her incompetent side-kicks cravenly surrendering concession after concession, and thereby making a nonsense of the word ‘negotiation’. The end result will almost certainly be a betrayal of the wishes of the majority of the British people as made clear on the 23rd June 2016.

Our beloved NHS, once the envy of the world, but no longer, will stagger on from crisis to crisis and will remain a political bone for the hounds of Westminster to fight over, with our social services continuing their nosedive into becoming a toothless force with vulnerable adults and children paying the price, often with their lives.

But not to worry, because lessons will have been learned.

The escalation of international terrorism, the poisoning of our seas and oceans and the insatiable demand for more, more, more from the citizens of the wealthiest nations will continue, and the influence of mega rich corporations and individuals will still hold sway over our lives.

But where there is life, there is still a glimmer of hope.

Perhaps some strong and intelligent leadership will emerge from the melee, and at last begin to put the world to rights. But I shan’t be holding my breath.

Happy New Year.

25

The way I see it…

Shock? Horror?

Confusion?

by

Harvey Mann The opinions published in Harvey’s weekly column are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or newspaper sponsors.

A Christmas present had arrived a few days earlier than expect for the Catalan region, after a snap election held in Barcelona had delivered a crushing blow to Mariano Rajoy and the Madrid government, or did it?

The self-imposed exiled Carles Puigdemont leader of one of the three separatist parties of Catalonian, was the winner, or was he? just hours after the victory, or was it? He requested that Rajoy recalls the Spanish police from Cataluña, who had been policing the region previously to prevent voters from voting last October.

The victory for the three secession parties together had deliver a crushing blow to Spanish President Mariano Rajoy, or had they? Rajoy had requested for a very large turnout at the polls, believing that this would give him a majority, this the voters did, with an 82% turn out, his gamble failed.

The morning after the night before, many thousands of Catalans are still in a daze state, not necessarily from alcohol, but their hangover had come from a famous victory, or is it? delivered against the Madrid government that had in the past gone to violent extremes, metred out after Madrid claimed that the previous October voting to be illegal.

With 99 percent of the votes counted the three secessionists parties had together had won 70 seats of the votes of the 135-seat assembly, this allows the separatists a chance to form a coalition regional government if they wished to.

If they did, will they? it would be a massive blow to Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy Madrid government and a fresh headache for the E.U. I’m sorry for all the question marks placed against my earlier statements, but confusion seems to be the only winner of the election held in this North-

Western region.

Spain most guaranteed life style is sunshine and Sangria, however in the past Spain has been divided by a different language, dialects, and politics, this division had even caused a civil war, The snap election called was held hopefully to resolve a constitutional crisis, just two months ago Madrid had given orders for the police and guada civil officers to use force if necessarily to stop Catalans from voting, now the vote has officially happened, has it brought an outcome that Madrid fears?

If the three separatist’s parties form a coalition then they will have a majority in the assembly, but it will need more negotiations with Madrid who does not want Cataluña to become an Independent region, as they provide a huge amount of finance to an ailing Spanish government.

The next question is? will Madrid allow Carles Puigdemont to return from Brussels without arresting him for sedition, this was the charge levelled at him, Puigdemont said “That he will not return to Spain owing to the charges by the Spanish government, I would be arrested”, the only way forward is dialogue, but will President Rajoy leave Spain to have talks with me, I don’t think so”, “this is a very bad result for Madrid”, the Pro-independence party had a much stronger resolve, but it will need plenty of talking and more negotiations”.

Will the Madrid government want this thorn in their side for ever? The next national Spanish elections are due to take place in 2020, so will they just allow that this regional election, will fester on until then. So, this fight is over, but the battle has not really begun for the separatists, will they ever get autonomy from Spain? It’s as clear as mud, your answer is Mariano Rajoy as good as mine.

Carles Puigdemont

26

Nunca, nada, nadie Basic Spanish for everyday needs by

Jane Cronin

It’s time for another small digression away from verbs, just to let you know that there are other things to learn! Today we are going to learn three negative words, that is, the words that mean “never”, “no-one” and “nothing”.

These are as follows: never is “nunca”, no-one is “nadie” and nothing is “nada”.

Well that was easily done! However, as usual we need to look at them in a bit more detail because they are not used in exactly the same way in Spanish as they are in English.

The first thing to realize is that in Spanish we can use a “double negative”. For example, in English it is incorrect to say something like “I don’t

say nothing”, or “I don’t see no-one”.

We got told off for these kinds of things as children and told that if you say “I didn’t say nothing”, that means you said something, because two negatives make a positive.

Well, in Spanish this isn’t the case.

We say “No digo nada” (I don’t say anything) and “No veo a nadie” (I don’t see anybody). This means that the words “anything”, “anybody” and in fact the word “any” itself in most cases have no real translation into Spanish.

There are a few very common phrases that use this double negative. One is “no pasa nada” which we say as a response to an apology when we want to reassure someone that there isn’t

a problem. When someone is struggling to understand something which doesn’t make sense, you may hear them exclaim “No entiendo nada” – I don’t understand anything!

The word “nunca” works in exactly the same way. “No voy nunca al cine” (I never go to the cinema), “no juego nunca al golf” (I never play golf).

However, (the second big however in this article), if we change the word order round of our sentences and put the “nunca”, “nadie” or “nada” first, we end up with only one negative word again.

For example – “Nunca voy al cine”, “Nunca juego al golf”.

“No pasa nada” is more of a set phrase that doesn’t change in any way,

although we could say “Nada pasa en este pueblo” (nothing happens in this village).

When we put the negative word at the beginning of a sentence we do so for the sake of emphasis. “No voy al cine nunca” is simply a statement of fact, whereas “Nunca voy al cine” sounds more like a strong complaint or strong statement against visiting cinemas!

There is another way of emphasizing the idea of “never” which would translate for us as “never ever” or “never more” and that is “nunca jamás”. Peter Pan, who you will remember lived (or lives, I beg your pardon) in Never Never Land, in Spanish lives in “El País de Nunca Jamás”.

A.R.C. raises €1060 at Iceland

A HUGE THANK YOU to all the customers who supported the Jalon Valley ARC charity during the bag packing days at Iceland, Benissa on Wednesday 20th and Friday 22nd December.

All the money that was thrown into the buckets and the raffle tickets bought raised a brilliant

amount of €1060 for the animals in ARC’s care. A massive ‘thank you’ to Penny and all the staff at Iceland for their help and support and for the hamper donated for the raffle.

The money raised will go a long way to help pay for food and vets bills. Both days were

great fun with a lovely happy atmosphere.

ARC would like to thank all their volunteers and supporters who have helped so much throughout 2017, ARC could not survive without your help. ARC wish you a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.

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 email info@pellicerheredia.com Videos at www.pellicerheredia.com

money

Government agrees to raise minimum wage SPANISH PRIME MINISTER Mariano Rajoy signed an agreement with unions and companies' representatives this week to raise the country's minimum wage.

Spain's minimum wage would be raised by 4 per cent in 2018 to €736 per month from the current €707.60.

The following year, it would be raised to €773, a 5 per cent increase and in 2020 the wage would stand at €850 per month, increasing by 10 per cent.

These increases would be implemented if the

country experiences a real GDP growth of more than 2.5 per cent and the average amount of people affiliated to the social security system surpasses 450,000 people.

Rajoy said that job creation "is and will continue to be the main goal of his term.”

"We want economic recovery to reach everyone's household and all wages, especially the lowest and that is why we are going to improve them," he said.

The Spanish government is expected to pass the increase at today’s cabinet meeting.

29

Use it wisely!

SPAIN'S Christmas lottery has paid out some €200 million to tickets sold by a bar in a village in the north-western region of Galicia.

The parish priest in San Juan de Alba urged the winners to use the money "wisely".

The bar's owner said they were "humble and hardworking" people.

El Gordo, the world's biggest Christmas lottery, has no single jackpot, with winnings distributed among thousands of people in a complex system.

This year the prizes totalled €2.38 billion.

Each ticket has a five-digit number, reprinted numerous times in so-called series, costing €200.

Because of the price, they are divided into 10 subtickets or décimos, each costing €20.

El Gordo, Spanish for "The Fat One", is a Christmas tradition. People traditionally chip in together, participating with friends, families or workmates.

Some 130 series with the winning number 71198 were sold in Vilalba, a town of 15,000 people and annual budget of around €11 million. They will share a prize of some €520 million.

Of those series, 55 were sold in the San Juan de Alba parish.

Friday 29th December - Thursday 4th January

Pick of the Day

FRIDAY 7:00am 10:00am 11:25am 11:55am

1:15pm 1:45pm 2:00pm 2:10pm 2:55pm 3:25pm 4:50pm 5:20pm 6:45pm 7:30pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 8:30pm

9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 10:10pm 10:15pm 12:40am

Breakfast Monsters vs Aliens The Farmer’s Llamas Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom Bargain Hunt BBC News BBC London News Father Brown Revolting Rhymes Up Room on the Broom Brave Pointless BBC News BBC London News Celebrity Mastermind Tim Vine Travels Through Time Christmas Special EastEnders Would I Lie to You? BBC News BBC London News Gone Girl Michael Mcintyre’s Big Christmas Show

8:35am 9:55am

10:55am

11:25am

11:55am 12:55pm

2:35pm 3:05pm

4:05pm 5:05pm

6:30pm

7:30pm

8:00pm

9:00pm

10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm

11:30pm

G-Force The Big Family Cooking Showdown Nadiya’s British Food Adventure Nadiya’s British Food Adventure Natural World Three Coins in the Fountain Nature’s Weirdest Events World’s Most Extraordinary Homes Inside the Factory The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel Thailand: Earth’s Tropical Paradise Christmas University Challenge 2017 Morecambe and Wise in Pieces Eric and Ernie’s Home Movies Vic and Bobs Big Night Out Live at the Apollo Frankie Boyle’s 2017 New World Order QI XL

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

10:50am

12:45pm 1:45pm 1:55pm 2:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm

7:30pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm

11:50pm 12:10am

Good Morning Britain Lorraine Best Walks with a View with Julia Bradbury Everything or Nothing: The Untold Stories of 007 Bond Girls are Forever ITV Lunchtime News ITV News London Midsomer Murders Tenable Tipping Point The Chase Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs ITV News London ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ITV News Tina and Bobby

8:05am 9:50am 10:50am 11:20am 11:50am 12:15pm 2:20pm 4:40pm

5:45pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

10:00pm

11:00pm 1:05am

Black Nativity Lego Masters The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons Hotel for Dogs Cutthroat Island Four Rooms with Sarah Beeny Channel 4 News The Simpsons The Simpsons Hollyoaks Travel Man Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Gogglebox 2017 I Give it a Year

7:00am

Childrens TV

10:00am

Arthur 2:

On the Rocks

12:10pm

Dirty Rotten

Scoundrels

2:20pm

Labyrinth

4:20pm

Look Who’s Talking

6:10pm

Footloose

8:00pm

Yorkshire:

A Year in the Wild

9:00pm

World’s Strongest Man

2017

10:00pm

Victoria Wood

by Her Friends

11:00pm

Victoria Wood Live

Birds of Paradise Pirate Fairy The Big Family Cooking Showdown Natural World Behind Closed Doors Mansfield Park World’s Most Extraordinary Homes Six Robots and Us All About Eve Talking Pictures Alice in Wonderland Dad’s Army Grand Tours of Scotland’s Lochs Feud: Bette and Joan Feud: Bette and Joan Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte Absolutely Fashion

7:00am 10:25am 10:30am

12:25pm 2:15pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 5:25pm 7:10pm 7:20pm 7:30pm

8:00pm 9:00pm

11:40pm 12:00am

Childrens TV ITV News Saturday Morning with James Martin at Christmas Endeavour ITV News The Chase 3 Men and a Baby Despicable Me 2 ITV News London ITV News Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway Guess the Star Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 ITV News The Mask

6:15am

The Three Musketeers

7:00am

Childrens TV

8:05am

Bridge to Terabithia

11:50am

The African Queen

9:50am

Lego Masters

10:55am

The Simpsons

1:55pm

Greystoke: The Legend

11:25am

The Simpsons

of Tarzan,

11:50am

The Simpsons

Lord of the Apes

12:20pm

The Simpsons

4:30pm

Live Premiership Rugby

12:50pm

We’re Going on a

Bear Hunt

7:05pm

World’s Strongest Man

1:25pm

Born Silly

2017

1:50pm

Ever After

8:00pm

Blind Date

4:15pm

Pride and Prejudice

9:00pm

Greatest Celebrity

6:40pm

Channel 4 News

Wind-Ups Ever!

6:55pm

Crocodile Dundee II

9:00pm

The Price is Right

10:00pm

5 News Weekend

10:00pm

The Hunger Games:

10:05pm

Football on 5

Mockingjay - Part 1

11:15pm

Football on 5

Speed

11:45pm

How Magic Changed TV

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

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

Futurama Futurama Futurama The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons Modern Family Modern Family Modern Family David Attenborough’s Galapagos Hawaii Five-0 Fungus the Bogeyman Fungus the Bogeyman Modern Family Modern Family The Simpsons Futurama Futurama The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons Modern Family Delicious Music Legends We Lost A League of Their Own

Gone Girl, 10.15pm, BBC1

7:00am

8:00am 8:30am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 12:30pm 1:00pm 2:00pm

4:00pm

6:15pm

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

10:00pm 11:00pm 1:45am

Ashley Banjo’s Secret Street Crew Futurama Futurama Futurama Modern Family Modern Family Modern Family Soccer A.M. Greatest Goals Funniest Moments Sky Sports Funniest Moments Gillette Soccer Saturday Gillette Soccer Saturday The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons Football’s Funniest Moments A League of Their Own Minority Report Spielberg

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay- Part One, 10pm, Channel 4

Saturday 7:00am 11:00am 12:30pm

1:00pm 2:00pm 2:15pm 3:50pm

5:10pm 6:30pm 6:40pm 6:50pm 7:20pm 8:10pm

9:00pm

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

Breakfast Saturday Kitchen Nigel Slater’s New Year Suppers Football Focus BBC News 102 Dalmatians The Penguins of Madagascar Final Score BBC News BBC London News Celebrity Mastermind Pointless A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong Avengers: Age of Ultron BBC News Match of the Day The NFL Show

7:35am 8:35am 9:45am

10:45am 11:35am 12:35pm 2:20pm

3:20pm 4:20pm 6:35pm 7:20pm 9:00pm 9:30pm

10:00pm 10:45pm 11:30pm

1:40am

12:20am

NEW YEARS EVE 7:00am 9:00am 10:25am 11:55am 1:25pm 1:40pm

2:40pm

4:35pm 5:05pm 6:05pm

7:05pm 7:20pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm

11:00pm 11:20pm 12:20am

12:55am

Breakfast Match of the Day Bolt The Croods BBC News Comic Relief 2017: ‘Twas the Thanks After Red Nose Day Bedknobs and Broomsticks Songs of Praise Top of the Pops Attenborough and the Giant Elephant BBC News BBC London News Celebrity Mastermind Countryfile Antiques Roadshow The Real Marigold on Tour BBC News The Graham Norton Show Nile Rodgers and Chic: Good Times 2017 New Year’s Eve Fireworks 2017

7:35am 8:35am 10:00am

11:00am

12:30pm

1:15pm 2:55pm 3:55pm 4:40pm 6:15pm

8:00pm 9:00pm

11:00pm 11:50pm 12:20am

Birds of Paradise Mars Needs Moms The Big Family Cooking Showdown Saturday Kitchen Best Bites The A to Z of TV Cooking Shall We Dance?

Six Robots and Us Talking Pictures 84 Charing Cross Road Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Robot Wars Special Into the Woods: Stage to Screen Match of the Day 2 Live at the Apollo Jools’s Annual Hootenanny 2017

7:00am

Childrens TV

10:25am

Countrywise

10:50am

Casino Royale

1:25pm

ITV News

1:30pm

All Star Musicals

3:20pm

A Very Royal Wedding

4:30pm

A Right Royal Quiz

5:30pm

Victoria

7:25pm

ITV News London

7:35pm

ITV News

7:50pm

Cannonball!

8:50pm

Harry Potter and the

Deathly Hallows: Part 2

11:15pm

The Real Full Monty

12:45am

ITV News

6:45am 8:35am 9:00am 9:25am 10:30am 1:30pm 1:55pm 2:25pm 2:55pm 5:20pm 5:25pm

6:25pm

8:00pm

9:00pm 10:00pm

12:00am

The Four Musketeers Frasier Frasier F1: Grand Prix Sunday Brunch The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons We Bought a Zoo Channel 4 News Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast Britain’s Wildest Weather 2017 Amazing Spaces Snow and Ice Special The Crystal Maze Alan Carr’s New Year Specstacular 2017 Big Fat Quiz of the Year

7:00am 11:20am 12:25pm 1:00pm

1:55pm 3:55pm 4:55pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 8:00pm

9:00pm

9:50pm 10:00pm

10:55pm

Childrens TV Football on 5 Football on 5 Alaska: A Year in the Wild 3 Men and a Little Lady Groundhog Day 5 News Groundhog Day The Lego Movie Brick by Brick: The Lego Story World’s Strongest Man 2017 5 News Weekend Aviva Premiership Rugby Highlights All New: When TV Goes Horribly Wrong 2

7:00am 8:00am 8:30am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 1:00pm

3:00pm 5:00pm

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

10:30pm

12:45am

The Hour of Power Futurama Futurama Futurama Futurama The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons WWE Raw Greatest Premier League Moments The Last Dragon Slayer Attenborough’s Natural History Live Modern Family Modern Family The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons Carpool Karaoke Special Take That Live: Wonderland New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Jools's Annual Hootenanny 2017, 12.20am, BBC2

31

Pick of the Day

New Years Day

7:00am 10:00am 11:40am

11:55am 1:25pm 1:55pm

2:00pm 2:15pm

3:05pm 4:30pm 6:00pm 7:30pm 7:45pm 7:55pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:50pm 12:00am

Breakfast Cars 2 How to Train Your Dragon: Legend of the Boneknapper Dragon Bedtime Stories The Highway Rat The Archbishop of Canterbury’s New Year Message BBC News A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong Shrek Forever After Blue Planet II Maleficent BBC News BBC London News Grandpa’s Great Escape EastEnders McMafia Mrs. Brown’s Boys BBC News BBC London News Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

7:25am 7:55am 9:15am

10:15am

11:15am

1:45pm 2:35pm 5:25pm

5:30pm 6:30pm

7:30pm

8:00pm

9:00pm 9:30pm

10:00pm

11:00pm 1:10am

Stick Man Frankenweenie The Big Family Cooking Showdown The Big Family Cooking Showdown New Year’s Day Concert Live From Vienna 2018 Natural World Dances with Wolves The Archbishop of Canterbury’s New Year Message Final Score Eric and Ernie’s Home Movies Great British Railway Journeys Reindeer Family and Me Only Connect Christmas University Challenge 2017 Sue Perkins and the Chimp Sanctuary Noah Frankie Boyle’s 2017 New World Order

7:00am

Childrens TV

7:05am

Jamie’s Cracking

10:25am

Cannonball!

Christmas

11:25am

You’ve Been Framed!

11:55am

50 Greatest

7:15am

Flash Gordon

Harry Potter Moments

9:15am

Thunderbirds

1:45pm

ITV News

11:05am

The Simpsons

2:00pm

ITV Racing:

11:35am

The Simpsons

Live from Cheltenham

12:05pm

The Simpsons

4:30pm

Charlie and the

12:35pm

The Cat in the Hat

Chocolate Factory

2:10pm

Hugo

6:45pm

Paul O’Grady:

4:35pm

Ice Age:

For The Love of Dogs

7:40pm

ITV News

The Meltdown

8:00pm

Emmerdale

6:20pm

Channel 4 News

8:30pm

Coronation Street

6:30pm

Mrs. Doubtfire

9:00pm

Spectre

8:40pm

The Great Festive

11:45pm

ITV News

Bake Off

12:05am

The Keith and Paddy

10:00pm

Pitch Perfect 2

Picture Show

12:15am

7:00am 7:30am

8:15am 9:00am

10:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 1:05pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:15pm

5:15pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm

8:00pm

8:30pm

9:00pm 10:00pm

11:00pm 11:30pm

Flog it! Trade Secrets Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman The A to Z of TV Cooking Celebrity Antiques Road Trip BBC Newsroom Live Westminster Abbey Coast The Wooden Horse The Wonder of Animals Operation Wild Penguins Spy in the Huddle Planet Earth II Flog It! Eggheads Great British Railway Journeys Kate Humble: Off the Beaten Track Christmas University Challenge 2017 Inside the Factory The Real T Rex with Chris Packham Inside No 9 Newsnight

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

11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm

12:10am

Good Morning Britain Lorraine The Jeremy Kyle Show This Morning Loose Women ITV Lunchtime News ITV News London Midsomer Murders Tipping Point The Chase ITV News London ITV Evening News Emmerdale The Greatest TV Moments of All Time ITV News and Weather ITV News London The Keith and Paddy Picture Show Clueless

7:00am

7:20am 7:45am 8:10am 8:35am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:35am 11:05am

12:00pm

1:00pm 1:05pm

2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm

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

7:00am

12:25pm

Oliver!

3:10pm

Mrs Caldicot’s

Cabbage War

5:20pm

The Hundred-Foot

Journey

7:30pm

World’s Strongest Man

2017

9:00pm

The Two Ronnies

11:00pm

Britain’s Greatest Ever

Double Acts

First Dates

1:50am

Football on 5

7:00am 7:30am 8:00am 8:30am 9:00am 11:00am

12:00pm

1:00pm

2:00pm

3:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm

10:00pm 12:25am

Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas 3rd Rock from the Sun 3rd Rock from the Sun 3rd Rock from the Sun Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Frasier Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA Sun, Sea and Selling Houses Channel 4 News Couples Come Dine with Me Posh Pawn Countdown The Secret Life of the Zoo A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun Come Dine with Me The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News The Secret Life of the Zoo 24 Hours in A and E Prince Naked Attraction

7:00am 10:40am

11:05am

12:45pm

1:40pm 1:45pm 2:40pm 4:15pm 6:00pm 6:35pm 7:30pm 8:00pm

9:00pm

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

Childrens TV Cats Make You Laugh Out Loud Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return GPs: Behind Closed Doors 5 News Lunchtime The Hotel Inspector 10.0 Earthquake A Date to Die for 5 News Barging Loving Celebs 5 News Tonight Secrets of the National Trust with Alan Titchmarsh Diet Secrets and How to Lose Weight Celebrity Big Brother One Night with My Ex Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side

7:00am 7:30am 8:00am 8:30am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm

2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm

1:30am

Childrens TV

10:25am On the Town

The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Last Dragon Slayer David Attenborough’s Conquest of the Skies David Attenborough’s Conquest of the Skies David Attenborough’s Conquest of the Skies Attenborough’s Flying Monsters The Bachelor King Modern Family Modern Family The Simpsons Futurama Futurama The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Best of the Late, Late Show Air Force One Football’s Funniest Moments

Futurama Futurama The Simpsons The Simpsons Moonfleet Moonfleet Modern Family Modern Family Modern Family Modern Family Football’s Funniest Moments Hawaii Five-0 Hawaii Five-0 NCIS: Los Angeles Modern Family Modern Family The Simpsons Futurama Futurama The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons The Simpsons Harry Hill The Blacklist Trollied Sky Sports Funniest Moments The Force: North East

Spectre, 9pm, ITV1

Tuesday 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 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:45pm 1:15am

Breakfast Rip Off Britain Homes Under the Hammer Wanted Down Under Close Calls: On Camera Bargain Hunt BBC News BBC London News Doctors Father Brown I Escaped to the Country The Farmers’ Country Showdown Antiques Road Trip Pointless BBC News BBC London News EastEnders Holby City McMafia BBC News BBC London News Match of the Day Stacey Dooley in the USA

Celebrity Big Brother, 10pm, Channel 5

32

Pick of the Day

WEDNESDAY 7:00am Breakfast 10:15am Rip Off Britain 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Wanted Down Under 12:45pm Close Calls: On Camera 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm Father Brown 4:00pm I Escaped to the Country 4:45pm The Farmers’ Country Showdown 5:30pm Antiques Road Trip 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm Celebrity Mastermind 8:30pm A Question of Sport 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm Would I Lie to You? 10:00pm Miriam’s Big

American Adventure 11:00pm BBC News 11:30pm BBC London News 11:45pm Pretty Woman

7:30am The Farmers’ Country Showdown 8:15am Antiques Road Trip 9:00am Fern Britton Meets...

10:00am BBC Newsroom Live 12:00pm Westminster Abbey 1:00pm Coast 1:10pm School for Scoundrels 2:45pm The Wonder of Animals 3:15pm Operation Wild 4:15pm Penguins - Spy in the Huddle 5:15pm Planet Earth II 6:15pm Flog It! 7:00pm Eggheads 7:30pm Great British Railway Journeys 8:00pm Kate Humble:

Off the Beaten Track 8:30pm Christmas University

Challenge 2017 9:00pm Tom Kerridge’s

Lose Weight for Good 9:30pm Trust Me, I’m a Doctor 10:00pm Rick Stein’s Road to Mexico 11:00pm Mock the Week 11:30pm Newsnight 12:15am Inside the Factory

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 2:55pm ITV News London 3:00pm Midsomer Murders 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm Tonight 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Girlfriends 11:00pm ITV News and Weather 11:30pm ITV News London 11:45pm Car Crash Britain

Caught on Camera 12:40am Britain’s Busiest Airport Heathrow

8:10am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:00am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:30am Frasier 10:00am Frasier 10:35am Frasier 11:05am Ramsay’s Kitchen

Nightmares USA 12:00pm Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 1:00pm Channel 4 News 1:05pm Couples Come Dine with Me 2:05pm Posh Pawn 3:10pm Countdown 4:00pm The Secret Life of the Zoo 5:00pm A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 6:00pm Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Kirstie and Phil’s

Love it or List it 10:00pm 20 Kids and Counting 11:00pm 8 Out of 10 Cats

Does Countdown 12:05am Miranda Does Christmas

7:00am Childrens TV 10:40am Primates of the Caribbean 12:10pm Pets Make You

Laugh Out Loud 12:45pm GPs: Behind Closed Doors 1:35pm 5 News Lunchtime 1:40pm The Hotel Inspector 2:30pm A Father’s Denial 4:20pm Drew Peterson: Untouchable 6:00pm 5 News 6:35pm Barging Loving Celebs 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm Starting Up, Starting Over 9:00pm GPs: Behind Closed Doors 10:00pm Celebrity Big Brother 11:00pm Marnie Simpson in Therapy 12:05am Celebrity Big Brother’s

Bit on the Side

7:30am Futurama 8:00am The Simpsons 10:00am Dogs: An Amazing

Animal Family 11:00am Modern Family 11:30am Modern Family 12:00pm Modern Family 12:30pm Modern Family 1:00pm NCIS: Los Angeles 2:00pm Hawaii Five-0 3:00pm Hawaii Five-0 4:00pm NCIS: Los Angeles 5:00pm Modern Family 5:30pm Modern Family 6:00pm The Simpsons 6:30pm Futurama 7:00pm Futurama 7:30pm The Simpsons 8:00pm The Simpsons 8:30pm The Simpsons 9:00pm A League of Their Own 10:00pm A League of Their Own 11:00pm xXx2: The Next Level 1:00am The Force: North East

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 2:55pm ITV News London 3:00pm Midsomer Murders 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Tonight 9:00pm Emmerdale 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Piers Morgan’s Life Stories 11:00pm ITV News and Weather 11:30pm ITV News London 11:45pm Great Art 12:45am Joanna Lumley’s Postcards

7:20am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:00am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:30am Frasier 10:00am Frasier 10:35am Frasier 11:05am Ramsay’s Kitchen

Nightmares USA 12:00pm Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 1:00pm Channel 4 News 1:05pm Couples Come Dine with Me 2:05pm Posh Pawn 3:10pm Countdown 4:00pm The Secret Life of the Zoo 5:00pm A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 6:00pm Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Food Unwrapped Diet Special 10:00pm Hunted 11:00pm Derry Girls 11:30pm 20 Kids and Counting 12:35am 24 Hours in A and E

7:00am Childrens TV 10:45am The Unbeatables 12:00pm Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 12:25pm Access 12:30pm GPs: Behind Closed Doors 1:30pm 5 News Lunchtime 1:35pm The Hotel Inspector 2:30pm The 19th Wife 4:20pm Deadly Stage Fright 6:00pm 5 News 6:35pm Barging Loving Celebs 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm Baby Ballroom 9:00pm Big Family Values:

More Kids Than Cash 10:00pm Celebrity Big Brother 11:00pm Celebrity 100% Hotter!

12:05am Celebrity Big Brother’s

Bit on the Side

7:30am Futurama 8:00am The Simpsons 10:00am Dogs: An Amazing

Animal Family 11:00am Modern Family 11:30am Modern Family 12:00pm Modern Family 12:30pm Modern Family 1:00pm NCIS: Los Angeles 2:00pm Hawaii Five-0 3:00pm Hawaii Five-0 4:00pm NCIS: Los Angeles 5:00pm Modern Family 5:30pm Modern Family 6:00pm The Simpsons 6:30pm Futurama 7:00pm Futurama 7:30pm The Simpsons 8:00pm The Simpsons 8:30pm The Simpsons 9:00pm Duck Quacks Don’t Echo 10:00pm A League of Their Own 11:00pm Delicious 12:00am Carpool Karaoke Special

Girlfriends, 10pm, ITV1

thursday 7:00am Breakfast 10:15am Rip Off Britain 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Wanted Down Under 12:45pm Close Calls: On Camera 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm Father Brown 4:00pm I Escaped to the Country 4:45pm The Farmers’ Country

Showdown 5:30pm Antiques Road Trip 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm Celebrity Mastermind 8:30pm EastEnders 9:00pm DIY SOS The Big Build 10:00pm Death in Paradise 11:00pm BBC News 11:30pm BBC London News 11:45pm Mrs. Brown’s Boys 12:15am New Tricks

7:30am The Farmers’ Country

Showdown 8:15am Antiques Road Trip 9:00am MasterChef: The Professionals 10:00am BBC Newsroom Live 12:00pm Westminster Abbey 1:00pm Coast 1:10pm Lucky Jim 2:45pm The Wonder of Animals 3:15pm Operation Wild 4:15pm Penguins - Spy in the Huddle 5:15pm Planet Earth II 6:15pm Flog It! 7:00pm Eggheads 7:30pm Great British Railway Journeys 8:00pm Kate Humble:

Off the Beaten Track 8:30pm Christmas University

Challenge 2017 9:00pm Hairy Bikers’

Mediterranean Adventure 10:00pm A House Through Time 11:00pm Live at the Apollo 11:30pm Newsnight 12:15am Robot Wars Special

Delicious, 11pm, Sky1

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Letters to the Editor

RTN welcomes Readers views for publication in its Letters to the Editor section. All letters by email or post should carry the writer´s address, and contact number, though only the name and town will be published.

Email letters to admin.rtn@ewnmediagroup.com with your full name and address

this weeks weather FRI Dec 29

sat Dec 30

sun Dec 31

mon Jan 1

tue Jan 2

wed Jan 3

thu Jan 4

20º 10ºC

21º 10ºC

22º 9ºC

19º 8ºC

16º 7ºC

13º 7ºC

15º 5ºC

Intervals of cloud & sun

Mostly sunny and mild

Partly sunny and warm

Pleasant with some sun

Overcast some rain

Plenty of sun

Plenty of sun

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34

Puzzles Code Breaker

Mercury takes a commanding position to ensure that the year begins with all levels of communication ready and awaiting your further instructions. With Mars currently in cahoots this brings the opportunity for you to start as you mean to continue and brings balance to your current situation in more ways than you can imagine.

Word Pyramid

11

Word Wheel There is 1x11 letter word and 105 others! Make as many 3 or more letter words as you can using any letter combination just once and you must use the central letter in every word!

Where there has been conflict see peace and resolve as the actions of Uranus bring you the ability to see things in a new light. Much that has happened has served to test you but this has taken you beyond the realm of forgiveness, and as such assisted in closing your eyes on something you will now take on board.

Actions of Mars see you seeing the light, and putting two and two together. The past weeks have brought about a lot of soul searching, but you must know that your integrity is balanced with your ego, and that now things can really get off the ground. Expect a busy year; be true to yourself and all whom you really love.

Mars is backing you, and whilst the conflict now is within you, in this your most indecisive phase, good can come from even your most negative thoughts. Empowered and willing use this inner energy to make a start on just what it is that turns you on right now. You are reluctant to commit, but the timing is spot on.

Saturn is en route to bring sage wisdom to you before you give up on something. There is a need to make amends, and to see the challenge that is developing. Nobody is saying what you are about to do is easy, but you have to rely on your gut instincts and sheer determination if all is to work with you the way it could.

Mars balances nicely with Virgo, just at a time when you are feeling it is time for a change. Beware of a simple request which sees you taking on more than you can handle at the moment, and know that you are protected by your faith and devotions at this time. Go the extra mile because a sign from you is what’s needed.

Mercury knows that you have written a message in your heart, and encourages you to pass this on to those who really do need to hear it. There has been a catalogue of excuses and delays, but facing facts is what you are all about, and what needs to happen right now. Things won’t be as bad as you think.

You are about to be rewarded for a job done well. It took courage and foresight to be able to do what you did, and though you expected no thanks there are so many people who have been touched by your need for transparency and resolve. Only one thing remains, and that’s to walk away with your head held high.

Venus forms a strong bond as you balance Virgo and Mars in conjunction this week. With love in your heart, and a strong intention to let bygones be bygones and to move on, you now have the right recipe for the future.

Not all will take what you have on offer, but you can’t please them, and you must think of yourself.

You attract so many people to your side with your mystical energies and your superior spiritual strength. This year ahead is all about change, and though there is nothing you would want to change for yourself, use your abilities to attract those around you who will help you in your journey and they will show you your destiny; as it is calling.

M N B O T

Start at a letter and spell out a 10-letter word by moving to adjacent letters. Each letter will be used at least once, but no letter will be used twice in a row.

Venus enters into Neptune bringing love around you on all different levels. Honest and truth seeking Neptune demands answers to the questions you dare not even ask your self. The Goddess of Love herself helps you to open your eyes, see what you are missing, and to, above all, give her blessing to open your heart.

Be methodical in your approach, and just let sleeping dogs lie for a while as you make decisions based on your own instincts and not the gossip spread by others. Some say that you have made your bed and now you have to lie on it, but this is the chance you have been waiting for, don’t lose any part of it.

E

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 15 represents R and 24 represents Z. 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.

Kenny’s Postbag Kenny what are your resolutions this Year ahead?

Wenke H.

WORD fit

Using just logic, can you make all the words fit correctly into the grid?

Well, Wenke! I have great hopes for the year ahead and all that it may bring both myself and those that I love and care for, and each one of you, dear readers. I never set unrealistic resolutions because they just don't last.

Though they sound wonderful at the start of another year, they are only a reflection of what I would like to happen. This year is different, I want to make things happen and so I know, personally that I have work to do, and I am unafaid to do it! 2018 here we come!

Don't forget to email or message me with your Postbag Questions!. Check out my new website: www.kennycorris.net

For Birthday Celebrants Inspiring energies are working with an open and free

Cosmos in this peaceful and tranquil start to the cal-

endar Year. Keep your eyes open because you are about to be shown the way forward, and how to use your inner energies in pursuit!

5 letter words ADAPT ADEPT CAMEL CRAMP CUPID LINER NAIVE NERVE NOISE QUEST REACT TENSE

6 letter words

7 letter words

EDITOR

ABSENCE

EVENTS

COMFORT

QUAINT SCORER SIESTA STICKY

CYCLIST ENSURED IGNORED PAINTED POPCORN RAPIDLY SCIENCE TORRENT

More Puzzles

Cryptic

ACROSS 1 One or two dairy products (10) 7 Trouble in Naples is not hurting (8) 8 Man in formal evening wear (4) 9 Pickpockets? Detective inspector has second thoughts (4) 10 VIP’s sea trip producing no reaction (7) 12 Money for guardian appointed by court? (5,6) 14 Take this if put out (7) 16 Goddess appearing in this island (4) 19 Scottish leader with horse problem (4) 20 Sermon translated by an old Scandinavian (8) 21 Fly from coloured container (10) DOWN 1 Meals provided for governors? (5) 2 It brings a guy down to earth (4-3) 3 Need to cultivate first garden (4) 4 Tin makes alloy wrong (8) 5 Sugar plums, perhaps? (5) 6 Bird beginning to peck sweetheart (6) 11 Refinement, for example, in eastern weapon (8) 12 Regret having broken mantle (6) 13 Sweet, with hair swept up? (7) 15 Majestic beer brought up (5) 17 Range of notes in Tosca, Les Miserables, etc. (5) 18 Members of an industrious group of musicians (4)

Word Ladder

Can you by changing 1 letter at a time, get from the first word to the last word in the given number of moves?

foods 1 2 3 4

pound Soduku

Quick

Futoshiki

The purpose of the game is to discover the digits hidden inside the board’s cells; each cell is filled with a digit between 1 and 6. On each row and column each digit appears exactly once; therefore, when revealed, the digits of the board form a so-called Latin square. The board may also contain some inequalities between the board cells; these inequalities must be respected and can be used as clues in order to discover the remaining hidden digits. ie > is greater than and < is less than.

35

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

Quiz 1 What in the world is at Zero Degrees Latitude and Zero Degrees Longitude: North Pole, South Pole; NATO HQ; or A weather observation buoy?

2 The first most popular book of seven from CS Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia (1950-56) is The Lion, The Witch and the: Table; Armchair; Bed; or Wardrobe?

3 Under normal Earth sea-level conditions water boils at how many degrees centigrade: Zero; 32; 100; or 212?

4 The term ‘histrionics’, referring to excessive emotion, is Latin ‘histrion’, meaning: Historian; Politician; Acrobat; or Actor?

5 Kangchenjunga, Nanda Devi, and Kamet are the three (What? of Where? - two answers required): First rulers; Highest mountains; Top security prisons; India; Australia; or Game of Thrones?

6 Spell the word for a type of neck pendant: Medalian; Medallian; Medalion; or Medallion?

7 A spoken error, considered perhaps more truthful than the intended word(s), is called a ‘(What?) slip’: Jungian; Freudian; Dickensian; or Shakespearian?

8 Dr Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel), author of ‘The Cat in the Hat’ and ‘Green Eggs and Ham’, is most famous in what literary genre: Crime/thrillers; Chick lit; Horror; or Children’s?

9 Roughly what is the volume of a ball 10 inches wide (in cubic inches): 105; 162; 524; or 2,500? 524 10 The name of which famous island borough, also a cocktail and Woody Allen film, derives from Lenape Native American Indian, land owners until Dutch settler acquisition, 1626?

ACROSS 1 Badger’s burrow (4) 3 Hindrance (8) 9 First book of the Bible (7) 10 Passenger ship (5) 11 Short-legged dog (5) 12 Tinned (6) 14 Pact (6) 16 Grown-ups (6) 19 Not moving (6) 21 Unit of weight for gems (5) 24 Name of eight English kings (5) 25 Bureaucratic procedures (3,4) 26 Flute player (8) 27 Isle of Wight resort (4)

DOWN 1 Wisdom (8) 2 Male singing voice (5) 4 Cut in two (6) 5 Sharp hooked claw (5) 6 Hide (7) 7 Nobleman (4) 8 Aid (6) 13 So to speak (2,2,4) 15 Baltic country (7) 17 Period of ten years (6) 18 Nuts from an oak (6) 20 Romantic assignation (5) 22 Prepared (5) 23 Gordon Ramsay, for example (4)

Last Weeks Solutions on page 45

36

whats on Calpe U3A table tennis group The Table Tennis Group is run by Alan Lawton and Mike Rodgers and meets Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm at Calpe Sports centre.

The Table Tennis group has a good mix of ladies and men; beginners and experienced and not only British members but also six other nationalities.

They also have regular Paella parties cooked by Isabella in the Sports Centre Bar. Also dining out in local restaurants from time to time; in addition, for the last 2 years there were organised excursions to Valencia and Requena vineyards and caves.

If this sounds like the kind of group you would like to join contact Alan Lawton on 965 875 701.

Or e-mail alan.lawton1@hotmail.com. or visit www.u3acalpe.org

Careline members and guests enjoying their Christmas meal in Orba recently

Robin Hood – The Panto

Careline Theatre's Robin Hood – The Panto, directed by Marian Carter, has all the ingredients of the classic panto, with The Babes In The Wood as the twist in the tale. It is written by Peter Denyer who is one of the “most produced writers” in the UK, but is still probably best known as the delightfully dopey Dennis in Please Sir! Opening night is “Party At The Panto” with a free glass of cava plus nibbles. Donations from this production will be going

to Help of Denia and Marina Alta, MABS, and Jalon Valley Help.

Performance dates at the Careline Theatre in Alcalali are Thursday18 to Sunday 21January at 8pm, with matinees on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 at 3pm.

Tickets are €12, with children under 10 years €8. Pre-paid groups of 10 or more adults €11.

To reserve your tickets contact the Box Office on the new number 605 181 726 and at carelineboxoffice@gmail.com

37

food & drink

Beef and ale stew with horseradish dumplings

Preparation time Max 60 minutes Cooking time 120 minutes

i e n til,s I n g rspelid ght olive o

shallots or 2–3 tb cubes, 9oz to in t cu f, ising bee ns, halved, 2lb 4oz bra ickling onio silverskin p inly sliced, 2 carrots, th left whole, ushrooms, m n o tt u b 7oz flour, 1¾oz plain al 18fl oz e, stock , 5fl oz beef alade, nion marm 2–3 tbsp o e sauce, ir h rs orceste tional), 1–2 tbsp W wning (op , gravy bro es per av ep le p ay ck b 3 bla hly ground salt and fres

s: mplinfog u d e h t usting, d r r o F s extra g flour, plu

sin , shredded a jar, 1¾oz suet sauce, from orseradish h t o h sp ey 3-4 tb pped parsl 2 tbsp cho

6oz self-rai

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 160ºC/140ºC Fan/Gas 3.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a deep ovenproof casserole dish over a high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown all over, adding more oil if needed. Transfer to a plate using a slotted spoon and set aside. Pour another tablespoon oil into the casserole dish, then add the shallots, carrots and mushrooms and fry for few minutes, stirring.

3. Meanwhile, put the flour in a bowl, whisk in a little ale to make a smooth paste, then whisk in the rest of the ale.

4. Return the beef to the casserole, and then pour in the ale mixture and stock. Stir over a high heat until thickened and boiling. Stir in the onion marmalade, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves and gravy browning (if using) and cook, stirring, for few minutes. Season with salt

Baked Dorada (Bream) with Lemon and Herbs Ingredients 2 doradas that have been cleaned and prepared for baking (ask your fishmonger to do this), 1 lemon, 1 fish stock cube, ¼ cup dry white wine, ¼ cup olive oil, fresh parsley and/or other herbs, salt and pepper For the salsa - 3 firm tomatoes (green, salad tomatoes are best), 1 medium sized red bell pepper 1 medium red onion, red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper Preparation time – 10 minutes.

Cooking time – 45 minutes.

Method 1. Set the oven to bake at 285°F (140°C) 2. In a small bowl mix the wine, olive oil, juice from half the lemon, a pinch of salt, pepper, half a stock cube, and the dried herbs (if using).

3. Make three large cuts diagonally across each fish.

4. Place the fish on a baking sheet and cover with the marinade.

5. Cut the other half of the lemon into 6 round slices and place one slice in each crevice.

6. Dissolve the other half of the bouillon cube in ¼ cup of hot water and halfway

through the cooking process cover in the liquid.

7. Put the fish in the oven on the middle rack for 40-45 minutes.

8. For the salsa, remove the seeds and pulp from the tomato and cut in a small dice.

9. Deseed the red pepper and do the same, and cut the onion in a small dice too. Season the salsa with salt and pepper and dress with vinegar and olive oil.

10. To eat the fish slowly pull off the spines and try to get most of the bones out in a few pulls. However, be extremely careful while eating that you don't swallow any bones.

and pepper, cover, then bake for 2–2½ hours, or until the meat is tender.

5. To make the dumplings, put the flour and suet in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Gradually add 150ml/5fl oz water and stir to make a soft, sticky dough.

Tip onto a floured work surface and gently knead until smooth.

6. Flour a sheet of non-stick baking paper. Put the dough on top and roll out to about 15x25cm/6x8in.

Spread over the horseradish cream and scatter with parsley. Roll up the dough, from the long side, to make a Swiss roll shape. Chill for 45 minutes, then slice into eight pieces.

7. When the beef is tender, remove from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 220ºC/200ºCFan /Gas 7. Remove the bay leaves and add the dumplings. Return to the oven, without the lid, for 25 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden and puffed up. Serve piping hot.

38

The Original Charity Shop and Library, Party time Javea visit Raquel Paya School for Javea U3A

A number of the 50-plus groups have been celebrating Christmas with parties and get-togethers over the last few weeks.

The biggest turnout was the Dine & Dance group’s party night at the Parador, with more than 60 members enjoying a feast of food, fun and frolicking on the dance floor to the sounds of popular singer Matt Mason.

The function was organised by group leaders Pat and Eric Johnson, who unfortunately due to illness were unable to attend themselves. However, fellow members came to the rescue to ensure that a good time was had by all.

Many thanks go to Julie and Duncan Robson for helping out and to Anne and David Watts for hosting the event.

Another group which lifted a glass or two in recognition of the festive season was the Wine Appreciation group – affectionately known as WAGs! So popular is the pastime that the group has two monthly meetings, WAGs and WAGs Too, which meet at La Cocina restaurant on consecutive days. It meant that there were TWO Christmas parties …. and group leaders Trevor and Sally Rush had to do their duty and attend both!

The Spanish Culture and Cuisine group, run by Angela Chantry and Tony Dearie, held its Christmas party at Area 1 restaurant in Javea Old Town, the highlight of the event being entertainers Duo Intermezzo, who sang a mixture of Christmas songs both English and Spanish.

Mike Frost hosted his annual Christmas lunch for members at La Masena restaurant, which proved as popular as ever.

If you would like to be part of the U3A action, don’t miss the January monthly meeting at the Parador from 9.30am on the 31st. It is an open meeting when many of the groups will be represented – and new members will be welcome. Alternatively, you can visit the website at www.u3ajavea.org to find out more about what is going on.

EXCITED: The children were so pleased to see Santa In keeping with a long established tradition, volunteers of the Original Charity Shop and Library were more than pleased to help Santa deliver Christmas presents to the children at the Raquel Paya School in Denia for children with special needs.

The excitement reached fever pitch when Santa arrived, weighed down by his heavy bag with all those presents.

To start the show, the volunteers were entertained with a medley of popular Christmas carols including a solo, beautifully sung by Andreu.

Then it was time for Santa to open his bag and the children were overjoyed to receive a very special gift of their choice.

This year the Raquel Paya School is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

The Original Charity Shop and Library have been supporting the school for 25 years. During this time the Charity Shop has helped provide airconditioning, a hydrotherapy pool, a special sensory room, special bicycles, lap-tops, tables and numerous other essential items of equipment which help make life easier for these special needs children and their carers.

Every year the school also receives a generous contribution towards the cost of sending the youngsters on a spa- or snow trip. This year president Georgina Harvey was delighted to present them with a cheque for 1,000€

for this purpose.

The Christmas raffle was a huge success and they would like to sincerely thank everyone who made this possible: the generous sponsors, clients and customers who bought raffle tickets, staff who collected prizes, sold raffle tickets and helped wrap the presents for 65 children. A list of winning tickets is on display in the window of The Original Charity Shop on Carrer de Nancy 1, Javea.

Don’t forget to check your tickets – you could be one of the lucky winners!

The staff of The Original Charity Shop and Library would like to wish you all a peaceful festive season and a happy New Year 2018.

40

health Keep taking away...but in moderation BE honest, we’ve all done it. Out for a few pints with the lads and then there’s that urge for a late-night takeaway. Even in Spain, the number of tempting outlets is increasing and while takeaways are often cheap, convenient and satisfying, unfortunately, they're not always very healthy and can lead to a variety of health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.

The law now insists that food outlets now list calories on their menus, which lets you make a healthier choice.

Fish and chips There are lots of ways to make your trip to the chippy a healthier one. Have a portion of baked beans or mushy peas with your fish and chips. The thicker the chips the better, because they absorb less fat.

Ask for your fish and chips without salt – if you want some salt, add a small amount yourself.

Fish and chips that are cooked in oil at the right temperature taste better and absorb less fat. So watch out for soggy batter and chips, because this is often a sign that the oil wasn't hot enough.

Italian If you're having pizza, choose

TRADITIONAL: Check that your festive takeaway is a healthier option lower-fat toppings, such as vegetables, ham, fish and prawns, and don't ask for extra cheese!

With pasta dishes, if you want a lower-fat option go for a sauce that's based on tomatoes or vegetables, rather than cream.

Chinese Anything that’s battered or marked as "crispy" on the menu means it’s deep-fried. Watch out for starters such as prawn crackers and spring rolls, because these are generally deep-fried. Anything in batter will be high in fat. Sweet and sour pork is usually battered.

Indian Try to avoid anything that’s creamy or deep-fried. To reduce the amount of fat in your meal, choose dishes with tomato-based sauces, such as tandoori and madras, plain rice or chapatti. Also choose plenty of vegetables, including lentil side dishes (known as dhal).

Kebab and burgers Doner kebabs can be high in fat.

For a healthier option, go for a shish kebab, which is a skewer with whole cuts of meat or fish and usually grilled.

10 tips to make your New Year's resolution a success Many of us will make a healthy New Year's resolution – maybe to lose weight, quit smoking or drink less – but what's the best way to stick to it? Psychologists have found we're more likely to succeed if we break our resolution into smaller goals that are specific, measurable and time-based.

Top 10 goal-setting tips 1. Make only one resolution. Your chances of success are greater when you channel energy into changing just one aspect of your behaviour.

2. Don't wait until New Year's Eve to choose your resolution. Take some time out a few days before and think about what you want to achieve.

3. Avoid previous resolutions. Deciding to revisit a past resolution sets you up for frustration and disappointment.

4. Don't run with the crowd and go with the usual resolutions. Instead think about what

you really want out of life.

5. Break your goal into a series of steps, focusing on creating sub-goals that are concrete, measurable and time-based.

6. Tell your friends and family about your goals. You're more likely to get support and want to avoid failure.

7. To stay motivated, make a checklist of how achieving your resolution will help you.

8. Give yourself a small reward whenever you achieve a sub-goal, which will help to motivate you and give you a sense of progress.

9. Make your plans and progress concrete by keeping a handwritten journal, completing a computer spreadsheet or covering a notice board with graphs or pictures.

10. Expect to revert to your old habits from time to time. Treat any failure as a temporary setback rather than a reason to give up altogether.

Ginger pa beauty Ginger on the skin can increase skin's radiance and decrease inflammation that may contribute to conditions such as psoriasis and acne. Ginger is an antioxidant, which means it inhibits harmful free radicals that cause skin damage and aging. People can experience the benefits of ginger on the skin by eating ginger in foods, drinking ginger tea, consuming ginger supplements or using a gingerinfused skin care product.

Improve Skin Tone Ginger's antioxidant, gingerol, not only fights skin-damaging free radicals, but also promotes smoothness and evenness in skin tone. Blue ginger from

41

health

St. John‘s wort

Natural relief from stress and mild depression St. John‘s Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.), with its yellow flowers, can be found not only in all of Europe, but also in large parts of Asia, America and Australia. The leaves have distinc¬tive dark green dots, which are in fact tiny little containers of the red active agent hypericin. For a long time people thought it was the main ingredient, but nowadays it is known that it is the combination of the many different ingredients, acting together as a whole, that give it its synergetic effect.

Quite recently, it has been discovered that St. John‘s Wort stimulates the pineal gland.

Me¬latonin, a highly active hormone produced by this gland, influences and regulates our nerves and hormone production and plays an important role in our organism.

St. John‘s Wort has a stabilizing

and strengthening effect on the body when it is under nerv¬ous or mental strain. The effects of stress are lessened. It regulates and strengthens the func¬tions of the nervous system and has a favorable effect in cases of nervous strain and light depression.

On the one hand St. John‘s Wort relaxes, on the other, it has a stimulating effect; it lessens tiredness, but does not reduce energy and the ability to react. Hence, strained nerves can be balanced and strengthened in harmony with nature and our environment.

To achieve the full strengthening effect on the nerves, it is recommended that it be taken over a prolonged period of

time. The effects build up slowly, appearing within two to three weeks.

While taking this St. John’s Wort, intensive UV-radiation should be avoided.

Steam your skin at home

CLOGGED PORES are one of the top contributing factors to acne breakouts, no matter what your age is.

One of the best ways to cleanse your pores is by giving them a steam bath. Steaming your skin is like taking a bath that cleans from the inside out. Steam cleanses your pores by causing you to sweat, which opens the pores and helps push any dirt and debris out.

1. Pull your hair away from your face with a hair tie or headband.

2. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and rinse well.

3. Put five cups of distilled water into a large pot and bring to a boil.

4. Transfer the hot water to a large glass bowl, making sure that the bowl is set securely on a table.

5. Sit so that you can comfortably place your face over the bowl of steaming hot water.

cks all the benefits Madagascar is a type of ginger that is a particularly potent antioxidant.

Lighten Age Spots Ginger also has the ability to lighten age spots while acting as an energy-booster in aromatherapy spa treatments.

Because ginger is energizing and is believed to improved circulation, it is often used in cellulite-reducing treatments.

Fight Blemishes Ginger is an anti-inflammatory, which makes it a natural acne fighting ingredient. Ginger is also an antiseptic, which means it is effective in killing the bacteria that causes acne.

6. Drape a towel over your head so that you make a tent over you and the bowl of water. If at any point you feel the steam is too hot on your skin, move your face farther away from the water.

7. Stay over the steam for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the steam cools.

8. Wash your face with the cleanser of your choice, then rinse three to five times with lukewarm water.

9. Place some astringent or vinegar on a cotton ball and rub it all over your face. The astringent helps remove debris and cleanses the pores. Rinse the astringent with lukewarm water, then make your final facial rinse with cool water. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel.

Tips For extra pore-cleansing benefits, put some peppermint herb root or 1 drop of peppermint oil into the steaming water.

New Year - new you!

The New Year is always filled with new dreams and promises, and as time is passing, what we see in the mirror is also changed by the time. We cannot stop time, but with today’s medicine we can reverse the look of the aging process. Thread lifting is a procedure that works to tackle sags and folds. It’s the most innovative and newest treatment within non-surgical facelift. The procedure is becoming more popular than ever before as it can be done in one day, and your normal life can continue right after the procedure!

Hailed as a solution for both women and men that side-steps the commitment and healing time required for a face lift, invisible fine threads placed in the skin can get to places on faces other procedures cannot reach. The thread lift is a "small invasive procedure for the face, neck, or jowls in which threads, which have small cones on them, are passed under the skin.

The cones then grab hold of the skin from the under surface and pull to re-suspend the skin in a lifted, more youthful position. The procedure is done under local anesthesia and typically requires little downtime of about two to three days due to post-operative swelling, and bruising says Dr Vieru at Derma Clinic Spain.

To know more about this procedure, please call us and come for a free consultation at Derma Clinic Spain.

50% discount on all medical peeling

Derma Clinic Spain are located at Camino del Pincho 2, 1, 03580, L´Alfaz del Pi, Alicante.

For more information call 674 255 579 or email info@dermaclinicspain.com. Alternatively see their Facebook page facebook.com/DermaClinicSpain

42

home & garden

Protect plants from frost Cover plants before nightfall Covers don’t have to be elaborate or expensive in order to work. A row of sticks with newspaper, cardboard or sheets and towels tented over them will do just fine.

If you don’t have sticks, lay the covers directly over your plants. This too will prevent heat loss.

If you’re going to cover up your plants before a hard frost, do so before dusk. If you wait until darkness falls, most of the stored heat in your garden will have dissipated.

No matter what type of cover you use, make sure that it extends down to the soil on each side. In the morning, after the frost has thawed, remove the covers.

Warm plants with water jugs Fill plastic milk jugs with water and place them in the sun, allowing them to soak up heat during the day. Before dusk, set the jugs around your plants and throw a cover over them.

The water in the jugs will lose heat more slowly than the soil and the air and the warmth it emits will keep your plants warm.

Water before a frost It may sound crazy, but watering around plants the night before a spring frost can protect them from freezing. During the night, the wet soil will release moisture into the air, which will raise the temperature and keep plants warmer.

Cover plants with cloches Strictly speaking, cloches are removable glass or plastic covers that protect plants from cold. Sometimes called bells or bell jars, most fit over individual plants, but some are large enough to cover a row.

Glass cloches are highly ornamental. When you’re not using them outside for frost protection, you can use them indoors over humidity-loving houseplants like violets.

Plastic cloches are generally less expensive than glass ones.

Because they are lightweight, they must be staked into the ground to prevent them from blowing away in high winds.

Like other covers, cloches should be placed over plants before the sun goes down and removed in the morning after the frost has thawed.

Place plants in frost-resistant spots It’s as true for plants as it is for property: location, location, location. Set out seedlings and store-bought spring plants in areas that are less likely to experience damaging cold.

As cold air moves to lower ground, it will pass by plants located on high ground or slopes. That’s why it’s best to place seedlings and other plants that are susceptible to frost in these locations. Shrubbery also provides protection from light frosts.

Placing plants by walls and fences can provide additional protection, particularly if the structures are dark in colour.

During the day, the structures absorb heat. Throughout the night, they radiate it, keeping plants warmer than they’d otherwise be.

Avoid frost pockets Frost pockets are depressions in the ground. Cold air drains into these “pockets,” and it can’t get out. When this happens, plants located in the depressed areas can suffer frost damage. Avoid sowing seeds and bedding new plants in these low places.

Harden off seedlings Before setting out seedlings, acclimate them to the outdoors by gradually exposing them to conditions outside. This process, called hardening off, will help you grow stronger plants that are more likely to withstand the vicissitudes of early spring.

Begin the hardening off process about 14 days before transplanting. When the weather’s mild, place the seedlings

ays ristmas Holid h C r fo d e s lo C 7-1-2018 24-12-2017 to

outside during the day in a warm, shady spot that’s protected from the wind. At night, bring them indoors.

After two weeks, the seedlings will be stronger, sturdier plants, ready for transplanting.

Protect potted plants When frost is predicted, bring planters and hanging baskets inside.

The roots of potted plants experience more severe temperature fluctuations than those planted in the ground.

They’ll reach lower temperatures, too. That’s why potted plants are especially susceptible to root damage due to cold.

It can cause their roots, particularly those near the edge of the pot, to turn spongy and black. Although root damage may not kill the plant, it will stunt its growth.

If you opt to cover a hanging basket rather than bring it inside, place it on the ground first, and then place the cover over it in order to take advantage of the ground’s relative warmth.

Wrap fruit trees If you grow fruit trees, be sure to wrap the trunks in the fall with burlap strips or tree wrap. Most fruit trees have thin barks that are susceptible to splitting when temperatures fluctuate dramatically. Tree wrap will prevent this splitting, which is known as frost crack.

43

pets

House-training an adult dog Through no fault of their own, some pet dogs reach adulthood without being fully house trained. Fortunately, with time and patience, it is possible to establish new habits and teach your dog to stay clean in the house.

What to do Before starting the new routine Carefully clean all areas where your dog has previously ‘been’ using a warm solution of biological washing powder (for example, a teaspoon of powder dissolved in a cup of warm water) or a specially formulated product from your vet, which will remove all traces of the smell from your house.

Every day When you first wake up, last thing at night and very regularly during the day, take your dog outside to a place in your garden that you have chosen. Put soiled newspaper or faeces in this area as the smell will help your dog to know where to go to the toilet. Let your dog walk up and down or run about and sniff the area (both exercise and sniffing help stimulate going to the loo).

Avoid playing exciting games in the garden during this process, as this is likely to distract your dog from the main purpose of going outside! If they want to come back inside straight away, or look confused, patiently walk up and down slowly to encourage them

to move about and sniff the ground. Stay outside with your dog until they have done their business at which point you can give gentle praise.

If they still haven’t gone to the toilet after five minutes, come back inside the house, but keep a very close eye on them. Repeat this process 20 minutes later (and 20 minutes after that if they still haven’t gone) and hopefully your dog will eventually toilet in the right place. Set aside lots of time for this and be prepared for several visits to the garden at first as this is a new routine your dog will have to learn. Be patient and your persistence will eventually pay off!

Between trips to the garden, supervise your dog when in the house. This means keeping your dog in view at all times and being aware of what they are doing – this is especially important in the first two weeks of this training. Pay particular attention to the times after your dog has eaten, woken up or after periods of excitement, such as play.

Signs to look for Watch for the typical signs that your dog needs to go to the toilet – these may include sniffing the floor, circling, looking restless or going into a room they have previously toileted in. Take your dog immediately to your chosen place in the garden and wait patiently until they have done their business and praise gently.

Dog crates (also known as indoor kennels) Dog crates are a fantastic tool to use during this process if used correctly. Dogs rarely soil their own beds and if your dog is used to a crate, you can pop them in there for short periods when you cannot directly supervise or have to concentrate on other things. If your dog isn’t used to a dog crate, refer to our ‘indoor kennel’ leaflet to help them get used to being left in there for short periods of time. It’s important to help them feel comfortable, otherwise they may become distressed which can lead to toileting.

Establishing the routine You need to continue with this routine for at least two weeks, although some dogs may need extra time and help. During this process, your dog learns about getting praise for going to the toilet outside and, since they don’t have the chance to go inside, they will get into the habit of going outside instead.

Throughout the first few weeks and for a while afterwards, continue to go out with your pet to the garden in order to praise them until your dog knows exactly what to do.

After two weeks of the above routine, gradually increase the time between visits to the garden. Your dog will eventually want to go to the toilet at a time other than the one you choose. At this time, your

Rabbit and guinea pig winter survival guide Hutches should be positioned so that wind, rain, snow or sleet can’t blow in. If the weather’s particularly bad, move the hutch into an unused garage or shed if it’s possible. For guinea pigs, it’s better to keep them inside in winter, in a conservatory or unused garage.

If your pets need to stay outside, help keep them snug as a bug in their hutch by covering the front with an old blanket or sacking and adding extra bedding. Don’t forget you need to change their bedding regularly.

Check their water bottle regularly because the little ball freezes easily. Press the ball every few hours to keep it moving – you can get specially made bottle covers but you’ll still need to do regular checks.

Your pet still needs to have access to their run during the day so they can get their regular exercise.

Cold pets need more calories to keep warm so give them lots of good quality hay to nibble on.

Blan ca

BLANCA – She was wandering the streets of Jalon for weeks before she was caught. She is about 11 months old and has a sweet temperament. She has been spayed and is in good health. She will need a home with a secure garden.

And y

ANDY This young boy has a stunning personality, medium sized, he is a good walker on lead, good with children, and is very laid back.

He has the most amazing hazel eyes. Come along to Akira Shelter and gaze into his eyes, you´ll be smitten !

dog will probably become more active or may wander over to the door. Watch for a change in their behaviour and take them out quickly. Gradually, as you start to recognise the signs that mean your dog needs to go, you can relax your supervision in the house.

Some dogs may need reminding regularly (especially those who have a history of house-soiling), so make sure you give them plenty of opportunities to relieve themselves outside.

House-training will happen more easily if you keep to the same routine of feeding and exercising each day.

Although housetraining a dog can be hard work and tiring - be patient and consistent, and all your efforts should pay off!

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REMOVALS & STORAGE

Last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s puzzle answers (Issue 948)

Wordwheel Solution mo no oe oi om on or to emo eon ion moi

mon mor mot nom nor not nov one ore ort reo roe

rom rot toe tom ton tor voe inro into iron meno more

morn mort mote move neon noir nome none nori norm norn note

nove omen omer omit oner oven over riot rome rote roti rove

tiro tome tone tore tori torn trio trom veto vino vote emote

enorm envoi intro irone metro minor moire monie monte mover movie ninon

niton nitro nomen nonet noter overt ovine roven tenno tenon tenor toner

tonne trone trove veeno venom vireo vomer vomit voter emoter enviro

intone intron mentor merino meteor moreen motive nonmen norite orient remote

remove renvoi revote toneme tonier tonner vetoer emotive enteron envenom environ

intoner ironmen mention nominee ONETIME overmen tenoner ternion venomer vomiter inventor

nonevent noninert overmine overtime vomerine mennonite mentioner vinometer environment

Codebreaker Solution

Word Pyramid thereafter

Cryptic Solution

Quick Solution

Word Ladder

SLEDS STEDS STETS STOTS SOOTS SOFTS SIFTS GIFTS

WANTED

situations vacant

Soduku Solution

Wordfit Solution

Quiz solutions

xxl relaxation

Language lessons

1 Kidneys 2 Parry 3 William 4 Lyme Regis 5 March 6 Iain MacLeod 7 Dr Crippen 8 Ellen MacArthur 9 Surrey 10 Dawn

46

motoring

Pre-war Alfa Romeo to be the star of the auction

THE oldest-known surviving Alfa Romeo, a 1921 Alfa Romeo G1 sports roadster, has been consigned to RM Sotheby’s annual Arizona auction in January, part of a private collection of 11 Italian cars collectively entitled “A Century of Sports Cars,” each of them offered without reserve. The pre-auction estimated value is $1 million to $1.5 million.

The Alfa G1 is the sole intact example of the first batch of automobiles produced by Alfa Romeo after the company was taken over by Nicola Romeo prior to World War I. Just 52 examples of the G1 were built after the war, including two prototypes, powered by huge, 6.3-liter straight-6 engines.

Like many early cars, the roadster has a chequered past. The Alfa was purchased by an Australian businessman, who hid the car from his creditors after going bankrupt. The owner died and the car remained stashed away for 25 years.

In 1947, the derelict Alfa was acquired by farmers who proceeded to use it for farm chores, including rounding up cattle. At some point during its rural duties, the car was

crashed into a tree, and thereafter used to power a water pump. The damaged roadster was rescued in 1964 and purchased by Ross Flewell-Smith, who restored the G1 during the next decade. Back in the limelight, the Alfa was twice awarded at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the latest time in 2013, according to an RM Sotheby’s news release. It also participated in the 2014 Mille Miglia and the 75th Goodwood Members’ Meeting, and was displayed at Museo Enzo Ferrari in 2015.

“The only complete G1 in existence today, the offering of chassis No. 6018 is a rare opportunity to acquire the earliest piece of Alfa Romeo history,” Sotheby’s said when the auction was announced.

The Italian car collection includes two other historic Alfa Romeos, a 1942 Alfa 6C 2500 SS Spider valued at $900,000 to $1.1 million and a 1955 Alfa Romeo 1900C SS Speciale by Buono valued at $1.25 million to $1.75 million.

The most valuable car in the collection, which also includes seven Ferraris and a Ford GT, is a 1964 Ferrari 250 GT/L Berlinetta Lusso

by Scaglietti valued at $1.8 million to $2.2 million.

The collection will be part of around 160 collector cars offered at the auction.

47

sport A former player, Tony Matthews is now the world’s most prolific author of football books with 150 published since 1975. He has also been a PE teacher, policeman, radio correspondent and is now a quizorganiser and fund–raiser, for various charities.

FOOTBALL: The Manchester City bandwagon continues to roll on, and after the festive season results, their chances of claiming four major trophies in the 2017-18 is quite and simply definitely on. Pep Guardiola’s goal-happy team currently leads arch-rivals Manchester United by a mile. Indeed, no team has ever had such a massive points advantage at this stage of a League season (1888-2017).

City have been terrific; they’ve already scored over 100 top-flight goals in 2017 and the last time this happened was back in 1982 when Liverpool bagged a century. And star striker Sergio Aguero netted his 100th Etihad Stadium goal for City just before Christmas.

In the recent Everton-Chelsea 0-0 PL draw at Goodison Park, the reigning champions failed to get a single shot on target – the first time this had happened for six years.

Bristol City, who sensationally knocked the holders Manchester United out of the League Cup, now

face favourites Manchester City in the semi-final, while the other ‘semi’ showdown features an allLondon clash between Arsenal and Chelsea.

Barcelona’s recent 3-0 El Clasico win over out-of-sorts Real Madrid, was their third successive La Liga victory at the Bernabeau.

Harry Kane has already scored 56 goals in 2017, including a record 39 in the Premiership alone - beating Alan Shearer’s tally of 36 in a calendar year. He’s also netted eight hat-tricks in 2017 and, in fact, the Spurs’ striker is the top-marksman in all European top-flight Divisions this year, bagging more goals than Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski.

The team who is sitting at the bottom of the Premiership on Christmas Day usually goes down! This year it was Swansea City, who sacked manager Paul Clement a few days earlier, the sixth PL boss to lose his job in 2017. WBA are

next to bottom and their ex-boss Tony Pulis is now in charge at Middlesbrough.

Leicester City’s Daniel Amartey was sent-off in his first Premiership game of 2017-18 in the 2-2 draw Manchester United.

Newcastle United ended a run of eight games without a win with a 3-2 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium.

CRICKET: At the time of going to print, England were heading for victory in the fourth Test against the Aussies in Melbourne. Having been battered in the first three fixtures, losing the Ashes in the process, Joe Root’s team have responded superbly, thanks mainly to Alastair Cook’s 244 not out after day three. They dismissed Australia for 327 and replied with 491-9 before stumps.

HORSE RACING: The annual King George VI Steeple chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day was won by 6-4 favourite Might Bite and it

was hearty congratulations to one lucky punter who placed £10,000 bet on the winner.

DIARY of EVENTS: All of Rugby Union’s AVIV Premiership teams will be in action over the next three days, with these fixtures to look out for – Bath-Wasps (tonight), Gloucester-Sale Sharks, secondplaced Saracens-Worcester and Harlequins-Northampton Saints (tomorrow), and in-form and current leaders Exeter Chiefs against Leicester Tigers (Sunday).

Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor (playing in his final major tournament), Michael van Gerwen and Gerry Anderson were all going well in the annual WDC end-of-year Darts tournament at London’s Ally Pally which is nearing its climax.

The World Junior ice hockey championships are taking place (until 5 January)… there are ATP/WTA tennis tournaments starting this weekend in Brisbane (Australia), Doha (Qatar), India, New Zealand and Shenzhen in China… the women’s U18 World ice hockey champion-

ships, Group 1 and qualification matches, are underway (ending in early February)… Poland’s Kamil Stoch is attempting to retain his Four Hills Ski jumping title in Oberstdorf, Germany (which runs until 6 January)… and the forthcoming top football matches include ChelseaStoke City, Liverpool-Leicester City and Manchester United-Southampton, Celtic-Rangers and Bristol City-Wolves (Saturday), followed

by Crystal Palace-Manchester City and WBA-Arsenal (Sunday) and virtually a full programme of Premiership fixtures early in the New Year, including Burnley-Liverpool, Everton-Manchester United and Stoke City-Newcastle United (on the 1st January), Manchester CityWatford, Southampton-Crystal Palace, Swansea City-Spurs and West Ham United-WBA (on the 2nd) and Arsenal-Chelsea (on the 3rd). And after that we have 32 third round FA Cup-ties to look forward to.

And with that, I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous New Year.