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Issue 597

25-31 MARCH 2011

Reach for the sky

IT MAY be a sign of the times but residents of a Costa Blanca are wondering why an important looking sign has been obscured by a healthy looking and well-cared for tree p5

Getting in tune REHEARSALS ARE well under way as the Costa Barber Singers prepare for a convention in Murcia next month when the choir will compete against rivals from across Spain p24

the ten steps to selling your home WE ALL know it’s not the best time for selling but for some people it might be the only time p31

So what is the Vista card? The Vista card is a discount card that will save you money and cost you nothing! p47

maggots End THE MATCH this week was the first round of the summer championship p63

Minister Jose Blanco (Second from right) and fellow VIPS at the opening

by Jack Troughton See page 17

PASSENGERS WERE upgraded to Alicante airport’s new terminal yesterday (Thursday) as the 629 million euro building opened for business for the first time.

The first day of operations at El Altet’s new state of the art facility saw 143 scheduled flights – 73 arrivals and 70 departures - at a truly international airport handling

flights each week between 14 national airports and 75 foreign destinations. Just 24 hours earlier, Development Minister Jose Blanco officially opened the new terminal – capable of handling 20 million passengers a year. Amongst the 1,000 guests

at the ceremony were President of the Valencia Community Francisco Camps, Mayor of Elche Alejandro Soler, Mayoress of Alicante Sonia Castedo, and President of the Spanish airport authority AENA Juan Lema. Late on Wednesday night 126 people arriving from

Madrid made a little history -although they were probably unaware of their bit part – as they brought the curtain down on the old terminal buildings as passengers on the last flight to use the complex. Continued on page

25-31 MARCH 2011

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AGENTS NORTH Round Town Travel 1, Avenida Dr Severo Ochoa, 1, Urb. El Admiral, Local 1 Lisa 966 811 123 Round Town Travel 2, Calle Gerona, 39 (Next to Hotel Ambassador) Kerry/Gemma 966 813 261 Round Town Trips, Calle Narcisco Yepes, 4, Local 8, Albir, 03581, Alicante.Lee/Jackie 966 867 294 ProminenT, Teulada Industrial Est. Calle Llanterner, 2 alto, 03725, Teulada, Alicante. Marja 965 793 229 Quicksave, Partida Murtar 2/2, Pedreguer, Alicante. Andrew Thomas 966 456 157 Millie Munro Insurance, Avenida Lepanto, 6. Millie 966 493 082 • millie@milliemunro.com EasyBuy, Avenida del Portet 24, Moraira. 03724 Alicante 965 745 969 ICUK Foods sl, C/Gulliem de Casto, 8 Bajo, Oliva 46780 962 839 830 • icukfoodssl@hotmail.com

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SAN MIGUEL TORREVIEJA QUESADA ALGORFA ORIHUELA ORIHUELA SAN FULGENCIO LA MARINA MURCIA GUARDAMAR

25-31 MARCH 2011

PP is all ears by Jack Troughton

A REVAMPED Partido Popular has pledged to listen to the voices of residents in a Marina Alta town by opening a historic dialogue. The Javea party’s candidate for Mayor, Jose Juan Castello wants the whole community to play its part in the town’s future and believes the coming election campaign is the ideal opportunity to begin the process. Speaking at a meeting with expats at the Parador Hotel in Javea, he outlined his goal of modernising the resort, following the “inspiration” provided by the policies that worked so successfully in neighbouring Teulada-Moraira. The 35-year-old lawyer, who was born and lives in the town, said his mentor was Jose Ciscar – who was mayor of Teulada-Moraira for 10 years between 1999 and 2009 – and was behind the transformation of the municipality. And Mr Ciscar, currently Delegate of the Council of Alicante and General Vice-Secretary of the PP in the Valencia Community, is responsible for a new team and introduced Mr Castello as a “perfect” candidate for the Javea office. INSPIRE Mr Castello responded: “I would like to extend

my gratitude to Jose Ciscar, the former mayor of Teulada-Moraira, for his encouragement and support, and more importantly, because his experience has been an inspiration for my project and his experience will be fundamental for Javea.” He said he was at the disposal of all residents and the town to make the necessary changes – and the main aim of the PP was to make Javea a better place to live in. “From this meeting I trulywish for us to lay the first stone and gradually, stone by stone and together, we can build a mountain bigger than the Montgo,” said the politician. “Therefore, I want to have meetings like this one every three or four months to explain my work, what I am doing and what I have done, and to keep up with all your suggestions and claims. “With hard work and integrity we can, all together, achieve the very best for Javea.” PASSION Earlier Mr Ciscar said one of the responsibilities of the new PP team in Valencia was to find suitable candidates for towns like Javea – and had selected Jose Juan Castello as a professional who was passionate about his hometown. “WE all believe he is perfect for Javea.” And he said all candidates chosen must sup-

Land on free parking

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Showroom opening times; Monday- Friday 10am-1pm

Jose Ciscar (left) and Jose Juan Castello

port three basic PP policies – to protect the environment and the land, only allow sustainable development, and insure a proper use of public funds. Mr Ciscar said councils must appreciate the hard work of the population in earning wages and carefully spend the money it collected in taxes. “In these times of econom-

by Jack Troughton THE CONTROVERSIAL purchase of two underground car parks by Javea Town Hall has won motorists a temporary reprieve as they can use the facilities for free. Mayor Eduardo Montfort announced this week the car parks at Portal del Clot and Plaza de la Constitucion were now officially local authority property. And he said parking was for the moment free – until the town hall decided on a fair system of charges for the two sites – and there was an immediate surge in popularity of the car parks with drivers no longer fighting for spaces in the congested Old Town. Meanwhile, the war of words over the purchase of the car parks rages on after the move plunged the debt-ridden council even further into the red.

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ic crisis we must be extremely careful where we spend these funds,” he said. “The policy of contracting within town halls or public administrations must be transparent.” And he said the priority was spending on necessities. “The services our citizens require and the services our citizens need.”

25-31 MARCH 2011

continued from front page INVEST Mr Blanco said government investment in Alicante made the province one of the most important areas in Spain for both business and tourism – with the high speed AVE train linking the city with Madrid. He said: “Each euro invested in Alicante creates wealth for all the Spanish people. “This airport was the first in Alicante and since 2001 has seen an increase in passenger traffic of 43% making it the sixth largest airport in our country, with more than 25,000 passengers a day.” And the minister said the “commitment” to development of the Mediterranean Corridor “is not seen in words but in actions.” Passengers It is estimated that around 40% of passengers using the new terminal will be British and Consul Paul Rodwell has already praised the sign and design of a building that will provide a welcome to visitors to the Costa Blanca – and

A view from airside

the increased security measures. “I think this new terminal will give visitors to Alicante an excellent impression when they arrive,” he said. “Given that a large percentage of the arrivals to the airport are

British, I am pleased with the close working relationship with the airport authorities, especially in situations such as the crisis following the eruption of the Icelandic volcano last year. “I also noted that the arrivals hall looks like a vast improvement from a security angle, which I welcome.” Employment

The interior of the terminal

It is estimated that 14,000 people will work either directly or indirectly at the new terminal and staff have been busy familiarising themselves with the building ahead of the Easter and summer season. The statistics themselves are impressive. It covers 333,500 square metres and has 98 check-in desks and 26 gates with 16 air bridges taking passengers direct to the aircraft door. And there are 16 baggage carousels and an automated baggage control system is ready to process more than 7,800 items of luggage per hour. AENA believes passengers will notice an increased level of customer care and enjoy an improved travel experience – not least because there are 30 shops, restaurants and bars in the departure lounge, modelled on the ‘walk through’ system already successful at UK airports.

Firefighters killed in helicopter crash SIX PEOPLE have been killed in a devastating helicopter crash in Teruel. One man survived and is recovering in hospital. The crash was on the morning of Sunday 20thMarch and the cause is still unknown. The crew were working to douse the flames of a forest fire that had broken out near Rincón de Ademuz.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Got the message? by Jack Troughton IT MAY be a sign of the times but residents of a Costa Blanca are wondering why an important looking sign has been obscured by a healthy looking and well-cared for tree. The evergreen is growing directly in front of the notice in the pretty and tranquil garden of the Ermita de San Rafael in the centre of La Nucia, opposite the modern Centre d’ Especialitats. RTN is happy to bring an olive branch. There is nothing of vital importance being obscured by the foliage as sign merely announced the local authority was expanding the public gardens - but the council failed to twig it was time to remove it.

Hidden sign

Quality is Continental’s benchmark

Thehuge show room is packed with choice

By Jack Troughton QUALITY FURNITURE at great value prices is the no nonsense message at Continental Interiors, one of the largest furniture retailers on the Costa Blanca. Anyone looking to fit out their home or go for a stylish make-over should head along the N322 to Gata de Gorgos and Continental’s huge showroom that is packed with choice. And new ranges of solid wood furniture arrive every six months so it is always worth popping in to

see what’s on offer – the business is now in its third year but one thing never changes - Continental’s slogan: ‘Top quality, lowest price’. End of line pieces from ranges discontinued by manufacturers have a home on the upstairs clearance floor, a place of ‘odds and sods’ at excellent value knock down prices but still maintaining the same all important quality.

WOOD Furniture comes in a variety of woods: oak, ash, American oak, mahogany and pine, some with a painted finish. And there is something for every home – beds and bedroom furniture, sofas, sideboards, cabinets, dining tables and chairs. There is even a huge polar bear looking for a loving family. Naturally, there is a wide selection of mattresses to choose from to suit every budget, including popular memory foam models and memory

foam ‘toppers’. Recently arrived are a delivery of sofas, both fabric and leather. These are a bargain and an upstairs showroom is given over to comfortable two and three seat sofas with five different models of leather sofas in cream, black and brown.

STOCK Continental Interiors also stocks a wide range of wooden-framed mirrors and also sells picture frames and a number of additional pieces for the home such as cutlery sets, mugs, and ornaments. A delivery service is available for larger items and almost everything on show is in stock, so customers can test drive a sofa or bed in the showroom and soon be relaxing on their new piece of furniture back at home. Continental Interiors is well worth a visit and friendly and helpful staff makes everyone feel at home and have the experience to ensure customers make the right choice.

Iron Art Factory Outlet Announcement

DUE TO unforeseen circumstances the Saturday Market at the Iron Art Factory Outlet Garden Centre at Gata de Gorgos is temporarily suspended. The Garden Centre, Gift Shop, Furniture Showroom and all our concession businesses are open as usual with lots of bargains, gifts and products. And we are planning

some special events throughout the year. So please come and have a relaxing shopping experience while wandering through our lovely Garden Centre with stunning views of Montgo. We look forward to welcoming you. Open Every Weekday 10am – 6pm and Saturday 10am – 2pm. Tel.: 680 491 740.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Cuckoo sentenced to Grisly find in El three years Esparragal, Murcia by Jan Gamm RECYCLING PLANT employees discovered human remains wrapped in a cardboard bale at a recycling plant in El Esparragal on Wednesday. Murcia fire-fighters faced the grisly task of separating body parts from the pressed cardboard and

the Judicial Civil Guard took samples in an effort to identify the dismembered corpse. Investigations have revealed the cardboard waste could have come from Cespa. The body is that of a man of about 50 years of age wearing dark blue trousers and black boots. It is thought the man might have been a homeless person.

The minor known as ‘El Cuco’ being led from the court

By Jan Gamm THE MINOR involved in the case of the 2009 rape and murder of 17-year-old Marta del Castillo in Seville has been sentenced to three years imprisonment in a juvenile facility, to be followed by a further two years’ probation, by the Seville Court yesterday. Known as ‘El Cuco’ (The Cuckoo), the boy described by Marta’s grandfather as “…a pitcher of iced water,” was absolved of the crimes of rape and murder but found guilty on the lesser charge of ‘concealment’, there being

insufficient evidence to convict on a more serious offence. Marta’s body has never been found despite detailed investigations that included forensic searches of landfills, dry riverbeds and the River Guadalquiver. There are four other adult defendants still to be tried in the coming months, including Miguel Carcano, the ex-boyfriend of the victim, for whom the prosecution has requested a sentence of 52 years’ imprisonment against a predicted guilty verdict.

Octogenarian drug bust

The cardboard bale

AN 83-YEAR-OLD wheelchair-bound Uruguayan has been apprehended by police at Madrid Barajas Airport arriving on a flight from Sao Paulo in Brazil, in possession of 3.1kilos of cocaine. Disabled Florencio B was travelling with the drugs taped to his body with an elastic strap.

Funny money by Jack Troughton

RED NOSE Day fun at Xabia International College proved doing something for money really works, raising nearly 1,000€ for charity. Students took the opportunity to arrive at school in fancy dress or wear their own casual clothes – paying 2€ for the privilege. Radio station Heart FM broadcast live from the school – with presenter Adam King busy collecting new material after inviting youngsters on stage to tell a joke. And the talented musicians from The Rock Academy, many of them XIC students, also played live at lunchtime with an electric set – reaching an even bigger audience thanks to

Association of British Residents of Benidorm THE BENIDORM British Resident’s Association (founded and registered December 2010) would like to advise that meetings are held on the last Friday of each month at 12.00 noon in the town hall extension office in la Cala. (C/ secretario Juan Baldovi near Mercadona). Several topics will be under discussion, including medical and legal matters that affect British Residents living in Benidorm. New members are welcome to come along and join us.

Benidorm

Beetle Drive

THE COSTA Blanca Anglican Chaplaincy is to hold a Beetle Drive at Cuidad Patricia, Benidorm on Friday, 25th March starting at 6pm. Tickets at 10€ will include light refreshments and a raffle will offer plenty of enticing prizes. For further information call Keith Barsby on 96 626 0815.

the wonders of radio. This year’s event started a day early with students allowed to wear Red Nose T-shirts, including a limited edition of 40 bearing the photo of the school council, all proudly wearing red noses. And both the senior and junior schools were able tuck into homemade goodies after the parents group FOXIC organised a cake sale – and the selling of the characteristic red noses. School Director Michael Bayes told RTN the school council had decided half the money raised would go to Comic Relief and the reFancy mainder to support the Children of EMAUS. dress

25-31 MARCH 2011

Adam King gets the punch line

25-31 MARCH 2011

Art Competition

in association with

A COMPETITION for all RTN Artists – a chance to have your artwork exhibited in Spain. RTN often features the changing art displays at the Anneke Residence in La Nucia. Usually Art Clubs and Art Socities exhibit their pieces there, but RTN has asked Lisette de Leeuw, who runs Anneke, if we can run a competition for our readers to display their art at the Residence for the next four month period: April to July. In addition to their piece of art being displayed, each artist will be invited to attend the Opening of the Art Exhibition, and every artist will receive a signed certificate from Anneke and RTN to show that the item has been exhibited. First, Second and Third place winners will each receive an engraved shield and bottle of champagne. Also every piece of work will be pictured in the paper, together with a photo of the artist if desired. This is a wonderful opportunity to show your work and to obtain exposure if you are trying to sell your pieces, or if you are interested in offer-

ing your painting services for a commission. All RTN readers from age 1 to 100 (or older!) are invited to enter and all mediums of artwork are encouraged in pencil, oil, ink, pastel, crayon, watercolour or whatever. Michelangelo said, “A man paints with his brains and not his hands.” Since RTN readers are obviously brainy through their choice of reading the best paper on the Costa Blanca, we look forward to bringing you news of the Competition entries.

The Competition rules are: 1) 20 pieces of art will be displayed (we are limited by the available wall space). 2) Each reader can enter up to 3 pieces of art into the Competition and there will be a maximum of 10 winners. 3) A colour photograph of the entered pieces, together with a note of their physical size (we need to know the size of the pieces because of the available wall space) should be sent to the RTN Editor at the following email address: artcompetition@roundtownnews.com by the close of business on Friday 8th April 2011. 4) The winning pieces will be selected by RTN and the residents at Anneke, and the art owner will be responsible for delivering the piece(s) to either the RTN office in La Nucia, or directly to Anneke Residence in La Nucia (full address directions will be provided) by Friday 15th April 2011 for each piece to be prepared for display. 5) The Opening of the Art Exhibition will be on Friday 22nd April, with three top winners awarded i.e. First, Second and Third; each to receive an engraved shield and bottle of champagne. 6) All pieces displayed will receive a signed Certificate from Anneke and RTN to show that the piece has been exhibited, and every art piece will be pictured in the newspaper, together with a photo of the artist if desired.

25-31 MARCH 2011

British Consul welcomes Spanish authorities’ undertaking to tackle domestic violence by Patricia Thompson THE BRITISH Consul Paul Rodwell has welcomed the work being carried out by Spanish authorities to tackle domestic violence, at an event to highlight concern about the issue. At a meeting with the Mayor of Orihuela, Monica Lorente in Orihuela Costa last Thursday, the Consul said he was also pleased to hear of magnificent work done by associations such as that achieved by the Neighbourhood Watch group led by Chris Poole in terms of improving security and reducing crime by working with police forces. The Consul took part in an event to show solidarity with victims of domestic violence and to raise awareness around this issue. Paul Rodwell said, “A significant percentage of the arrests we are informed about in the Consulate are related to domestic violence and we are very pleased to see the work that is being carried out by the Spanish authorities in this area. We are working closely with the Diputación and the Subdelegación of the central government in Alicante as well as town halls to find a way of helping the British victims of domestic violence by ensuring they are aware of the resources available to them.” The Consul thanked the Diputación de Alicante for translating their Information Guide on Welfare

Retired couple receive €6,349 electricity bill

Rights for Victims of Gender-based Violence into English, which will enable a large number of English speakers to find out what support they can get. This can be downloaded from the Diputación website www.residenteseuropeos.com. He explained that the Consulate wants to avoid duplicating support that already exists here in Spain. ‘What we really want is for British nationals to be able to access the huge amount of support that already exists,” said Mr Rodwell. “We also want English speakers to be able to get the

Paul Rodwell and María Asunción Prieto, listen to Monica Lorente, Mayor of Orihuela

IBERDROLA HAS sent an electricity bill for €6,349 to a retired couple in Calpe. Francisco de la Fuente was stupefied upon opening the bill. The maximum amount the couple paid previously was €80. Iberdrola, who had not come to read the meter in three years despite it being easily accessed from the street, estimated the previous

New reforms authorise under cover action against internet child porn

same additional support that Spanish speakers can currently access. For example, a lot of people don’t know that they can call the Victims’ Helpline on 016 and speak to someone in English, or read the new English language version of the guide for victims of domestic violence that has just been translated.” The Consulate is also working with local volunteers, including Shana and Diana who helped to organise the event, to see what more practical By Jan Gamm help can be offered. THIS WEEK the Senate approved a PSOE vote against the PP to carry out penal reform regulating undercover investigations into internetbased pornography, child pornography and paedophilia, strengthening police authority to pursue such crimes. Spain is the World’s second highest prolific consumer of pornography. The PP urged the initiative be more carefully examined but despite this the motion bills since December 2007. to pay the bill. surged ahead carrying a 123 The estimates were too low and In response, Iberdrola admitted vote majority. now the couple have been hit with they made a serious error in not The revised regulations the full cost of all their bills since the reading the meter but claim they are expected to allow the use end of 2007, plus IVA. offered the customer an instalment of members of the security Francisco protests that by law plan to pay the bill. forces under cover using Iberdrola should read the meter They also state they have now false identities to secure every six months. made arrangements to meet with evidence leading to arrest. He said he will now have to take Sr Fuente to reach a payment A draft law is expected out the first loan ever in his life, just agreement. within the next two months.

Elvis Festival in Benidorm by Patricia Thompson IN 2004 we staged the first Elvis Festival in Porthcawl, a small seaside town in south Wales. That event has grown to be officially the largest Elvis festival in the World, attracting an estimated 30,000 fans to the town each September. We have now also established Elvis festivals in Ireland and England. Last year we staged the inaugural Elvis World Cup with twelve National Champions competing in the UK Final. Our track record makes us the largest independent Elvis promoter in the World. Benidorm is a perfect location for our latest Festival. Our formula is to use world class Elvis Tribute Artists and take the music very seriously but without losing sight of the fact that Elvis is an amazing party brand. With Benidorm a legendary party town we intend to make the event a huge Elvis Fiesta. The focal event will be the Melia Hotel where we will stage headline shows each night with top ETAs performing with Red

Alert, Europe’s leading Elvis show band. There will also be the Elvis Rock ‘n Roll Room next door. Saturday afternoon sees Elvis Bullseye followed by the Elvis Movie Show, staged on the Melia Poolside Stage. Sunday is the Karaoke Contest in one of the Levante beach bars, followed by the Elvis Gospel Show back at the Melia. Each afternoon nearby bars will be themed as Jailhouse Rock and Blue Hawaii with ETAs providing live entertainment from 3pm to 9pm. Elvis Tribute Artists appearing include Johnny Lee Memphis, who won the World Cup for Scotland, Paul Molloy, Ben Portsmouth, Paul Larcombe, Rockin’ Dave Riley, All Ireland Elvis Champion Tom Gilson, Ciaran Houlihan, Gordon Elvis, European Master’s Champion Pete Storm and Benidorm’s finest Simon Patrick. Admission to any of the venues is strictly ticket only.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Photo opportunity trashed by Jack Troughton RUBBISH DUMPED by a visiting fishing fleet has become an eyesore at a Marina Alta harbour says a councillor demanding an urgent clean up operation. Carolina Punset, councillor for Altea’s independent citizen’s party CIPAL, said visitors to the port were now taking pictures of the trash rather than the nautical scenes. She blames visiting trawlers from Murcia, Almeria, and Barcelona, recently tied up in the town’s harbour after chasing large schools of sardine and anchovy. And while she admitted landing the catch at Altea brought benefits to the fish auction, supermarkets, bars and cafes, it also had an un-

acceptable downside – the amount of rubbish thrown overboard. FLOAT “Rubbish floating in the sea is not an image that anyone wants to view,” said Councillor Punset. “I feel embarrassed at the sight of tourists photographing the rubbish and not the boats. “The mess even extends to areas where boats are moored for rental to visitors to Altea.” She said the local fleet respected the environment and called for a publicity campaign to raise awareness of the problem. And she said the local authority or officers from the Civil Guard’s environmental arm Seprona must take immediate action.

Vote in historic referendum by Jack Troughton EXPATS WITH a right to a voice in the UK Referendum over historic changes to the voting system will be helped to understand the issues at stake. Britain goes to the polls on 5th May to decide whether to keep the current ‘first past the post’ ballot or scrap the centuries old system in favour of AV – the Alternative Vote.

Margaret Hales

And Conservatives Abroad is holding a public meeting in Javea on Monday 4th April to help people register to claim their vote and to explain the Referendum. Currently expats who left the UK less than 15 years ago are entitled to vote in General Elections – and the international arm of the Tory party is part of an ongoing campaign to re-enfranchise all expats. Margaret Hales, the Chairman of Javea-based Conservatives Abroad, believes: “British people are not used to the idea of a referendum and anyway, most of us don’t want to change the current voting system.” And AV is controversial. Even Government leaders are split with Prime Minister David Cameron campaigning for a ‘No’ vote and his deputy in the coalition, Liberal Democrat Nick Clegg championing the ‘Yes’ cause. And while his party has called for

Altea’s rubbish dump

electoral reform for years, Mr Clegg himself has described AV as “a miserable little compromise.” Mr Cameron believes the complicated AV system could lead to unfair election results and it could lead to the public’s second or even third choice gaining power. “I don’t believe we should replace a system that everyone gets on with, with one that’s only understood by a handful of elites.” And back in Javea, Margaret agreed. “The only countries to use the AV system are Fiji, Australia and Papua New guinea. In Fiji they want to get rid of it and in Australia six out of every ten people want to scrap it.” Conservatives Abroad’s meeting is at the Casa de Cultura, Javea, at 5.30pm on 4th April. More information about claiming a vote can be found at www.dontleaveyourvoteathome.com and on the referendum at www.no2av.org. In addition helplines are available for both issues, call Lesley on 0044 207 984 8018, Margaret on 96 619 7239 or David on 96 647 1666.

Healthcare explained by Jack Troughton EXPATS HAVE the opportunity to learn more about the Spanish healthcare system in Alicante when a provincial government team visits the Marina Alta. The talk by members of the Diputacion de Alicante will stage a talk in English on Wednesday 6th April in Benitachell’s Social Centre, Plaza Nueva, at 11am. It is one of the series ‘Did You Know?’ information lectures organised for European residents living in the area.

25-31 MARCH 2011

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NOW NOW NOW NOW

21€ 27€ 33€ 36€

SASKIA QUILT COVER SET BEDDING RANGE SINGLE BED WAS 28€ NOW 16.80€ DOUBLE BED WAS 32€ NOW 19.20€ KING SIZE WAS 40€ NOW 24€ SUPER KING WAS 48€ NOW 28.80€ COORDINATING ACCESSORIES ARE ALSO REDUCED

MATTRESS PROTECTION

Our fully fitted quilted mattress protector is now reduced to clear.

SINGLE BED WAS 7€ DOUBLE BED WAS 9€ KING SIZE WAS 11€ PILLOW PROTECTOR PAIR

NOW 4.20€ NOW 5.40€ NOW 6.60€ WAS 5.50€ NOW 3.30€

OFFERS RUN FROM 25TH MARCH – 7TH APRIL ONLY… DON’T MISS OUT!!! OFFER PURCHASES ARE LIMITED PER CUSTOMER AND ARE STRICTLY ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS, AND ONCE THEY’RE GONE THEY’RE GONE!! – ASK IN STORE FOR DETAILS. THESE ARE JUST A SMALL GLIMPSE OF THE HUNDREDS OF FANTASTIC OFFERS WE HAVE IN STORE – COME AND SEE HOW MUCH MONEY YOU COULD SAVE!!

25-31 MARCH 2011

Money down the drain by Jack Troughton NUEVA JAVEA wants alternative water treatment projects to be urgently investigated to prevent the “prohibitive” cost of a new sewage scheme falling on residents of the Marina Alta town. Under a European Union directive local authorities have until 2010 to draw up plans to achieve a sustainable cycle for the collection, treatment, and purification of black water. However, the cost of extending the drainage system through the outlying urbanisations is estimated to be €60 million – with households having to each foot a bill of some 15,000€. Ana Vasbinder, President of Nueva Javea, said the party was committed to finding alternatives to a proposal that could prove disastrous for a cash-strapped town hall and many residents. CONSULT She said there must be proper consultation between all groups and a consensus reached to address the “enormous” problem brought under the EU ruling. Ana said yesterday (Thursday) that Nueva Javea believed there was no need to undertake such a large scale sewerage project at such a “prohibitive cost” for residents in the town’s suburban areas. She said the party was focused on “raising alternative solutions” and underlined the “deep concerns of residents and neighbours” in affected urbanisations following announcements the current scheme would go ahead with the town hall’s blessing. And she said the EU directive set a deadline for a certain level of sustainability in the water cycle but stressed the ruling also offered the possibility of alternative solutions “if the project would involve excessive cost and this included combining individual systems

to achieve an identical level of protection for the environment. DRAINS

Ana said the council would be responsible for installing a network of drains through the urbanisations and each household pay around 15,000€ for an individual connection. But she said town hall debts were already “at a record high” and the municipal coffers were “full of cobwebs with a record number of outstanding bills.” Nueva Javea noted the sewage project envisaged all black water being treated at the current plant in Javea yet it had not been extended and could not deal with the extra volume. The party claims nothing has yet been planned for the “third stage of purification” intended to restore collected water to a condition fit for human consumption. PROJECT Ana said the project was put on ice in 2009 because there was no local authority money and the situation had actually got worse. She called for the possibility of Javea’s existing desalination plant being employed as a viable option for treating water because it already had the capability to double its current usage. “It is a treatment plant that is at the moment running on half capacity and we assume would bear the same cost if it was working to its maximum potential,” she added. The EU directive refers to the collection, treatment and disposal of waste water in urban areas and is intended to protect the environment from the discharge of waste – based on the recycling of different levels of purified water.

Ana Vasbinder

25-31 MARCH 2011

how do they do it? ON 18TH MARCH my handbag was snatched from beneath the front seat of our car, parked in Lidl Supermarket carpark, Albir. The car was locked but, because we had our two small dogs on the back seat, we had left a slight gap in the back windows. The window on the passenger’s side had been lowered and the front door was not properly shut - the obvious method of entry. How it was possible to get a hand through such a narrow gap, I cannot imagine. We immediately reported the loss to the Guardia Civil office in Altea as Lidl said they had no security staff there. Having filled in the appropriate forms, I was informed that Lidl does have CCTV cameras in place and the video would be viewed to see if the incident had been recorded. Can we believe that this is true and that any thefts are solved in this way? Anne Riddell, Albir

Guided tour HAVING READ your article in RTN about the soon-tobe-inaugurated Torrevieja Music Conservatory, my friends and I went along to the free guided tour, an excellent opportunity to see all the facilities, including the many classrooms designed to provide first class acoustics, a recording studio and finally the spectacular auditorium with seating for 1,500. The Mayor gave a presentation in Spanish to introduce all the facilities. Graham Knight translated the speech and then they led the tour around the 2 buildings. We were very impressed with the buildings and the facilities. I attach a photo of me and my friend Mariela in the auditorium. Kind regards, Wendy Lawrenson Torrevieja

mail

talk tous

Email letters to rtnmail@roundtownnews.com with your full name and address

Email: rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

letter of the week

Let’s help others THIS IS the first time that I have written to ANYONE regarding my views or ideas on ANY subject, but the Japan disaster has put me in a position where I don´t feel that it is right to enjoy this (relatively) trouble free life whilst so many people are experiencing a catastrophe such as this. I have spoken to your reporter Julie Day, who suggested I write to you, and she has my (private) land line number. I WANT TO HELP I would like to suggest that one way of help, different to the supply of clothing, food, medicine and money, could be to offer welcome to anyone in Japan to the warmth and security of our home to stay with us whilst Japan was rebuilding and recovering from this tragedy. Naturally the evacuees would need to rebuild and recover also. This could well be for, possibly one year or two: who knows? We alone could only accommodate two people but if enough people had a similar

idea or felt that they could do something similar, I know that it could develop into an extremely welcome, worthwhile and gratifying system based similarly on the programme of evacuation for children during World War II. I can think of several precautions that would need to be studied and many questions to be answered, i.e. hosts and accommodation; questionnaires to be answered; travel from Japan to the Costa Blanca (We would have to get the resources of Richard Branson or John Travolta to help! – Unfortunately, neither are personal friends of mine!) Does anyone out there know the owner of Easyjet?) I’m sure you get the idea though, so please give the subject your own thoughts and brainstorm your own ideas so we may truly help those 600,000 (or so) and ease the enormous suffering they are going through. AGP, La Marina

Faith in human nature restored THIS LITTLE story restored our faith in human nature and concerns only Spanish people. My wife and I were visiting Orihuela City when the clutch on our Seat decided to pack up on the outskirts of the city! We didn’t even know where we were! Then a youngish lady came out of a nearby house and although she couldn’t speak any English pointed out on the map where we were and asked what the problem was. She then asked if I wanted a garage and walked me to a small one in the centre of

the city about half a mile away. She spoke to the garage owner with just a little help from me. We returned to the car and I phoned Linea Directa who said they couldn’t find the location I was at. Eventually I saw a Spanish man out shopping, no English again, who spoke to the lady at Linea Directa on my mobile and gave the exact location in Spanish. I was told that the pick-up truck would be there in 30 minutes and it arrived in twenty at the same time as the garage owner did. The car was taken to his garage and I was told

Thanks for the second chance

IN THE early hours of 2nd February, I felt pains in my chest and subsequently attended the Out Patients department in The Vega Baja Orihuela Hospital. On arrival I apparently collapsed and my heart stopped. I was rushed into the critical care unit and resuscitated and after ninety minutes was deemed stable. Some five days later I woke up in the intensive care unit and saw my wife and kids at my bedside. Had it not been for the instant attention and subsequent care I received in the hospital I would not be writing this now. I therefore wish to thank ALL the staff in the Intensive Care Unit, Ddctors, nurses and ward helpers for their excellent attention and care

to return a few hours later. When I did the car had been repaired and I was presented with a bill for 64.40€, which included nearly 30€ for the replacement part. I was astonished that it was so reasonable. All of the Spanish people we met were extremely pleasant, helpful and couldn’t have done more to help us. Needless to say the first lady received a nice pot plant as a thank you. A big ‘thank you’ to the Spanish! John and Pam Smith, Villamartin

that enabled me to return home within 10 days and to hopefully now carry on a normal life. I admit I was one of the lucky ones being ‘in the right place at the right time’ but I hope the above may help anyone who may have worries and doubts regarding health care should a similar incident occur. Remember if you think you are having an attack, don’t hesitate - get help. I did and have lived to tell the tale. This is NOT a letter about my heart attack but a letter of my warmest and deepest thanks to all the staff at the hospital for my second chance. Name and address supplied.

Got a story? 902 118 999

rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

not all experiences are the same I READ with sympathy the letter in RTN issue 11th -17th March regarding the lack of care received by a reader’s mother. Please pass on my condolences. I should like to point out, however, that not all stays in hospital are the same. My husband went in for an operation, last summer, at Denia Hospital. I have nothing but praise for the staff, facilities and medical treatment. His hospital room was similar to that of a four star hotel with a state of the art bed and a sofa bed for myself (linen for this was changed every day). My husband had a bed bath every day and his linen changed. There was a wet room for our personal use. We also had a television with digital channels. I also brought in my laptop (I have my own dongle) and we could listen to English radio programmes. No-one objected as we were in our own room and did not disturb anybody. We could not fault the meals; in fact they were the same as the ones in the canteen downstairs for visitors. The medical and other staff could all speak English, or those not quite so fluent found someone who could speak to us more fluently. And the quality of care was that of a private hospital in England. All in all we were there for 10 days. When I told them about the rate of infection in English hospitals, they were speechless: it is unheard of here. Perhaps having individual rooms and cleaning done four times a day has something to do with it. My husband has now made a complete recovery with no complications. Maybe we were just lucky but you have to say as you find. I would not like people of be frightened to go into hospital in Spain; not all experiences are the same. Margaret Philp, Benitachell

Warning to all

A WARNING to your readers who’ve switched from Telefonica to alternative suppliers for line rental and ADSL connection: without notice and completely unauthorised, Telefonica are taking back the line rental. The first time you will notice is when a mystery direct debit appears in your bank account. Apparently the alternative supplier then has to renegotiate taking over the line rental again. Only in Spain! C F Hughes

25-31 MARCH 2011

Earthquake escapees arrive home by Jan Gamm A GOVERNMENT-chartered Boeing 747 aircraft carrying 154 people including 115 Spanish citizens, landed at Torrejon de Ardoz at 2.30pm on Monday having transferred passengers from earthquake-stricken Japan via Bangkok, Thailand. The passengers were met by a representative from the Directorate General of Consular Affairs. The weary travellers were reported to be in good spirits and “happy to be home.” The Spanish passengers were accompanied by eight Brazilians and 22 Belgians, now under the care and supervision of their respective embassies. CHECKS The Spanish Health Department made a device available for passengers to undergo voluntary radiation contamination checks but some 34 of the passengers declined testing, all stating that they had no symptoms or experienced any proximity (within 100 miles) to the centre of the nuclear emergency in Fukushima. Spanish passenger Beatriz Alonso believes the Japanese government is playing down dangerous radiation safety levels in the country to avoid alarming the public. Frightened for her children’s safety, she made the difficult decision to return to Spain, despite living 197 kilometres from the nuclear plant at Fukishima: her Radiation scanning husband remains in Japan. in Japan

New speed limit could be bad for cars

THE NEW 110km/hr speed limit might prove detrimental to cars. EU vehicles are manufactured to travel between 115km/hr and 130km/ hr says the European Vehicle Guarantee Network. Cars that are likely to suffer the most are those with diesel engines and also cars with six gears. Exhaust gas recirculation valves, injectors, the catalyst and anti-particle filters could function less effectively.

Cars with diesel engines likely to suffer the most

www.monarch.co.uk

25-31 MARCH 2011

Good news and bad news for Spanish tourism by Jan Gamm SPAIN HAS welcomed the equivalent of nearly 250,000 more tourists in the first two months of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010 according to figures released by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade this week. This welcome boost represents a 4.5% increase in tour activity after a two year decline. It is thought that the independent hospitality trade is still struggling, however, as family holiday makers persistently seek economic all-inclusive package holidays that allow unlimited food and drink available within larger hotel complexes: 61.7% of tourists stayed in hotels. Smaller coastal resorts without such facilities therefore continue to see closures of privately owned bars and restaurants.

Valencia’s fallas more popular than ever

Visitors still flock to bigger resorts and bargain holidays

Elizabeth Taylor dies at 79

The incomparable Elizabeth Taylor

By Jan Gamm VIOLET-EYED Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor died on Wednesday of congestive heart failure at Cedar-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles following a six week illness. The 79-year-old Grande Dame of the screen and stage was best known for her string of eight marriages (two to the same man, Richard Burton); her flamboyant lifestyle; her extraordinary beauty and her incomparable jewellery collection.

Elizabeth Taylor’s movie appearances roles include title roles in ‘Cleopatra’, and ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf’ as well as starring roles in ‘National Velvet’, ‘Butterfield 8’, ‘Giant’, ‘A Place in the Sun’ and ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’. Ms Taylor was also the founder of the American Foundation for Aids Research (Amfar) and worked tirelessly to generate funding following the death of her long-time friend and costar Rock Hudson who died

of the disease. Amfar is one of the World’s leading non-profit organisations for AIDS research, prevention, treatment and education, investing nearly US$250 million since 1985 and funding grants to more than 2,000 worldwide research teams. The story of Elizabeth Taylor’s stormy personal history with its multiple romances, illnesses, tragedies and dramas was more compelling than any of her movie roles.

THE FAMOUS fallas festival in Valencia last week attracted more visitors than previous years, according to reports. Many tourists came to see the event from Madrid, using the new high-speed AVE train.

Open wide and pay up by Jan Gamm A BRANCH of the consumer association has confirmed that almost 20% of patients’ complaints in the health industry in Spain concerns dental treatment, with the incidence of complaint increasing dramatically during recent economic hardships. The Municipal Council de Consum Barcelona finds that main complaints include patients finding the dental fraternity sadly unsympathetic to their clients’ financial difficulties. Many dental practices spring last minute price hikes on their patients for treatment previously agreed on a fixed quotation. Expensive and ill-fitting prostheses (dental plates) that do not work properly are another source of aggravation and a general lack of communication between dentists and their patients. Cases quoted to the consumer board included many treat-

ment estimates of 500€ increased to 1,000€ without notice. Patients find themselves held to ransom in the mid-treatment stage with a mouthful of temporary crowns and no choice but to pay up. A great many other complaints against dental services in Spain arise from misunderstanding, such as private health companies offering dental cover that does not include drug prescriptions. The good news is that only 12% of complaints are prompted by medical malpractice. From dentists’ point of view, many patients seek dental attention as a last resort when ‘strapped for cash’, leading to unnecessary expense and sometimes ineffective dental remedies for gum disease and tooth decay. All dentists recommend regular check-ups to ensure dental health but many families, both Spanish and other nationalities, understandably prioritise paying the bills before regularly spending up to €50 on dental visits.

25-31 MARCH 2011

New classes and activities at the Orihuela Costa Sports Centre

by Patricia Thompson THE ORIHUELA Costa Sports Centre (CDM) is thriving and has recently introduced new Zumba and ‘Bums and Tums’ clases, with a free course offered to local expat residents to learn how to play the sport of padel. This week, two new activities begin: a basketball school and a dance school for adults and children. The Basketball School takes place every Monday and Wednesday from 6pm until 7pm at the centre´s basketball courts at a monthly cost of €28. However, until the end of March this will be free. For more information and to enrol in the school, please call 96 550 3915. The new Dance School is open to both adults and children and will involve learning how to dance to modern music. The Dancing School takes place in the dance studio at the Sports Centre at €24 per child, per month. The children’s classes are every Monday and Wednesday from 6pm until 7pm and are free for the month of March. Adult classes are also on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7pm until 8pm and classes are €30 per person per month, again free until April. For more information contact the centre on 96 550 3915.

Three caught redhanded in drug deal

The jawdropping price of dental work discourages check ups

A DRUGS bust by the guardia civil last week led to the arrest of two Spaniards and a British man. Police searched an apartment in Benidorm and discovered 2.5 kilos of marijuana, 27 kilos of cannabis resin, two machines for vacuum sealing bags, scales and €4,000. Police initially caught the men selling drugs in a car park in Villajoyosa.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Disneys Dream Voyage by Patricia Thompson IN 2011, five ships will embark on their maiden voyages for five different cruise lines. Four will be new-builds, one an existing ship that will be extensively refurbished and renamed. That’s not counting the Disney Fantasy, set to launch in April 2012. As is always the case when new ships hit the market, all of this new inventory will ensure a continuing supply of deep discounts on virtually all ships, especially for those who can wait to book within 90 days of departure. To be among the first passengers on any of these vessels, call as soon as possible as the first sailing of any new-build is generally in very high demand. DISNEY DREAM: 4,000 PASSENGERS Launched in January, the 5-star Disney Dream is the first new ship for Disney Cruise Line in more than a dozen years. With 14 towering decks, the vessel is on the style of other Dis-

ney ships with an early 20th century design mixed with stateof-the-art technology. One of the technological highlights, for the first time in the cruise industry, inside cabins will have outside views! Inside staterooms will have porthole-shaped, flatscreen monitors on the wall broadcasting live views of the sea or port via high-definition cameras. Onboard entertainment will include 3-D movies in the Buena Vista Movie Theatre and a cruise-industry first - the AquaDuck - a combination waterslide/rollercoaster. Young cruisers will have the opportunity to interact with Crush, from Finding Nemo, on cinema-sized plasma screens, and the oversized play area called Andy’s Room will allow kids to experience the Toy Story set from a toy’s point of view. These features, along with elegant adults-only dining facilities and pools, mean the Disney Dream will offer unforgettable experiences for the entire family. For more information contact The Cruise centre on 96 649 1711 or visit the website www.thecruisecentre.eu (See advert on page opposite)

Disney Fantasy, set to launch in April 2012

Bed Centre, Bay and Church Kitchens support EMAUS

A trio of local businesses getting together to support EMAUS

THE BED Centre in Calpe supports a tradition of supporting local needy children and teamed up with other local businesses to install new catering facilities at the children’s home in Benissa and also promote educational programmes for the kids, with the help of Bay Connect and Church Kitchens. Project Development Manager Mike Ferridge of the Bay team offered Bay Connect’s services by agreeing to donate 30€ to the kids’ home on behalf of each person signing up for one of their services: Bay Connect are specialists in telecommunications and offer phone and internet services, including free UK TV. Supporters need simply quote the special Emaus account number ‘051’.

Bay Connect is keen that the cash will be used to promote educational projects for the kids, including the potential connection of the children’s shelters to the internet, helping older children further their studies and improve their IT skills to improve their chances of employment.

NEW KITCHEN On Friday 11th March, volunteers including Wayne from The Barbeque Shop, Frank from Prompt Services and Tony and Maka from The Bed Centre, removed all the existing worn-out units and tiled work surfaces from the kitchen in the children’s home in Benissa. Smart new kitchen units donated by

Church Kitchens were fitted in an impressive five hours; a safe, functional, attractive space perfect for feeding hungry kids. Tony Grande of the Bed Centre is delighted that the trio of companies was able to improve standards for the children in this way. For information on Bay Connect’s ADSL and telephone products visit www.bay-connect.com or call 902 906 018 (don’t forget to quote ‘051’) For more information about The Bed Centre’s charity projects, email info@thebedcentre.com visit www.thebedcentre.com or look for them on Facebook.For Church Kitchens call 96 573 4585 or visit www.churchkitchens.eu.com

25-31 MARCH 2011

Staying in touch

Studio gets facelift by Jack Troughton JAVEA PLAYERS studio theatre is destined to play a bigger role in the group’s adventures after a facelift has expanded the facility. The theatre group has owned the Javea property but has always staged its two main productions each year at the Union Musical in Gata de Gorgos – meaning sets are built at the studio and transported to the neighbouring town along with the lighting rig and other equipment. But it was all change when storage space became available in Gata and a programme o f improvements was made possible at the studio. It took six weeks of hard work to prepare the new permanent store. Situated alongside

the Union musical, its 140 square metres has enough room to store equipment and build sets – with separate rooms for sound and lighting equipment and wardrobe and props. And by the end of the month the studio should be ready for its new part in the story of Javea Players. Modifications will have been made to the seating, bar toilet, and box office facilities. The first production at the new studio follows – the brilliant comedy ‘Quartet’ by Sir Ronald Harwood, soon to be filmed for the big screen, runs from 9th May to 14th May and is directed by Sybil Kent. Tickets at 6€ can be booked by calling 96 579 4937. New members are always welcome, whatever their interest in theatre - further information is available from President Lynne Martin on 96 597 7202.

Pictured are charity President Georgie Hervey presenting the equipment to Puri Hernandez at the Arenal shop

By Jack Troughton THE ORIGINAL Charity Shop and Library continued to help out in the Marina Alta community with the donation of a laptop computer and wireless telephone to the TAPIS occupational workshop. TAPIS is based in Javea and helps to promote the rehabilitation of mentally ill people to expand their level of independence.

Porcelain Painting Exhibition in Xalo A PORCELAIN painting exhibition entitled ‘Impressions in Porcelain’ featuring the work of Maire Luise Hoffman is to open at the Museu Etnológic de Xaló on 1st April at 7.30pm and will run until 22nd April. Marie Luise is German and a member of International Porcelain Art Teachers Inc and the World Organisation of Chinapainting Teachers, well known through her many exhibitions. The exhibition will be open Tuesdays from 5pm until 8pm; Thursdays from 4pm until 8pm and Saturdays from 10am until 2pm.

Couple rescued from Montgo mountain

A DISORIENTATED couple were rescued from the Montgó mountain near Jávea by the guardia civil on Sunday. Reports say the pair had become confused, and wandered for three hours in search of the correct path.

(Left to right) Store manager Peter Hooker, President Lynne Martin and Vice-president Norman Dunnington toast the store’s success.

Liberty of the Seas From Barcelona 5 Nights Barcelona, Nice, France Rome, Sardinia, Italy 30/04/2011

Adventure of the Seas From Valencia 7 Nights Valencia, Rome, Italy, Corsica, Malaga, Valencia 22/05/2011

Carnival Magic

Cruise only £294

£1151 £576

£1871 £789

From Croatia

12 Nights Croatia, French Riviera, Italy (Venice), Sicily

10/05/2011

Got a story? 902 118 999

rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

25-31 MARCH 2011

Catching up with the mail

Watts In Britain By

Paul Watts

I THOUGHT it about time to delve into my mail bag this week as it has grown pretty full of late. Well, I say mail bag it’s just a chap’s email box really. A big thank-you to all who’ve written recently; and I’m sorry if I haven’t replied promptly but I’ve been nursing a poorly pooch. My little dog Chica (originally from Alicante) had a major operation and has required much TLC. Anyway, she is on the mend now and I can get on with business…

consist of was her walking around the villa waving her arms in the air while screaming for her Spanish PA. However, I’ve given it a few weeks and do think that it has gotten better as the series has proceeded. Several times there’s been some real ‘belly laughs’ and as radio presenter Vince Tracy notes, “It’s always good to see the shots of Benidorm on the telly.” You’re not wrong there Vince, especially for us folks marooned here in Britain.

BENIDORM: A HIT OR A MISS JURY?

“AND THEY CALL IT PUPPET LOVE…”

Geoff and Angela Cherry, who live up in Gandia, have been in contact over a certain Costa Blanca based comedy show. Geoff writes: “Like you, we looked forward to the new series of Benidorm - having been avid followers since day one; and we have coerced our friends into watching it for the last two years.” I’ve a feeling there’s a ‘but’ coming, eh Geoff? “But,” asks Geoff, “do you share our feelings in what an absolute embarrassing [mess up] they have made of episode one?” Geoff and Angela said they cringed at the lines and the roles Cilla Black and Denise Walsh had to perform. Geoff adds, “We know poor old Mel has died in real life and allowances have to be made but we could never recommend this to anyone unless they get back to that magic mix of script writing that really made that show the hit that it was!” I have to agree with the Cherrys that it wasn’t the best series opener I’ve ever seen. All Cilla Black’s part seemed to

A few weeks back I ‘fessed’ up to my first real love being a puppet on a TV show (Venus from Fireball XL5). I needn’t have worried about thinking it weird because apparently quite a few others had similar predilections. Dan Meek emailed to let me know I wasn’t alone. “Don’t worry Paul,” counselled Dan, “at least Venus was a puppet, unlike my friend Alan who was mad about Wilma Flintstone – she was just a cartoon!” Dan Meek also confessed: “I had a real ‘thing’ about Atlanta [from Gerry Anderson’s undersea series Stingray] the daughter of Commander Shore.” He added, “It was a terrible moment when I found out she wasn’t real.” Life can be hard eh, Dan? Although, as he went on to reveal, the discovery of Atlanta’s fibre glass status was somewhat cushioned for him. “Atlanta, might be just a puppet” Dan explained, “but she was voiced by the delightful Lois Maxwell, who went on to play Miss Moneypenny.” Ms Maxwell did indeed Dan; in fact she had already played Miss Moneypenny

twice before Stingray had even been launched. And Lois went on to make Moneypenny her own for the whole of the Connery, Lazenby and Moore, Bond years - fourteen films in total. Mind you it wasn’t just us boys that had these puppet pangs. The wonderfully named Betty Bic (hmmm, is that your real name or a ‘pen’ name Betty?) emailed to say: “Don’t think it’s just you boys that had fixations on puppets. I was madly in love with the square-jawed Virgil Tracy - he was such a dreamboat.” Betty supposed that it wasn’t so much a case of puppy love as puppet love. Very good Betty... Cut to flash of huge white teeth; cue teenage heartthrob Donny Osmond, “...And They Called It Puppet Love...” A friend of mine Bernie, who describes himself as being from the pink end of

A young Noel Edmunds & Julian Clary in Space Patrol

the spectrum, says he had a ‘thing’ for a character from a series called Space Patrol. “There was a Julian Clary type puppet in this series called Slim,” said Bernie, “so you see Paul, the writing was on the wall even back then.” Bernie reckons that this show was probably ahead of its time. It lives on the outskirts of my memory but I couldn’t recall it as vividly as Fireball XL5 so Bernie sent me a picture to jog my memory. Apparently, the main protagonists roam the galaxy in a spinning-top type spacecraft. Is that a young Noel Edmunds alongside the Julian Clary puppet in our Space Patrol photo? Anyone else remember Space Patrol? p.watts@roundtownnews.com Well, that’s me for another week. Take care and enjoy watching Benidorm from the comfort of the Costa Blanca.

Answers to difficult questions

Spanish lessons by

Jane Cronin

A weekly ‘cut out and keep’ feature helping you to learn basic Spanish for everyday needs

Lesson 150

It’s been good news and bad news for me this week as far as these articles are concerned. On the one hand I have met a lot of people “up north” (my name for anywhere north of Alicante) who are enthusiastic readers of these articles. The bad news is that some of them told me that last week’s test was extremely difficult. I occasionally mention, but neglected to do so last week, that these tests are based on previous articles. Last week’s actually relates to the content of articles 61 to 70, which can be found on my website www.janecronin.eu in the section called RTN articles. Anyway, on to the answers • I’m clever Soy listo • I’m ready Estoy listo • He is boring Es aburrido • He is bored Está aburrido • He is attentive/waiting Está pendiente • It is an earring Es un pendiente (One point each – total 6)

The bit about the earring goes back to the time I was waiting for a class of Spanish children to answer a question and told them I was an earring – to the usual hilarity. Next section - Do the following phrases go with “ser” or “estar”? To be dead – estar muerto To be divorced - estar divorciado To be single - ser soltero To be a widower - ser viudo To be alive – estar vivo To be married - estar casado (One point each – total 6) To be honest it is very difficult to explain these differences without getting very long-winded indeed, and even then, not really getting very far in most people’s minds. There are times when you have to answer the question “Why?” with “It just is” and this is one of those occasions, I’m afraid. Moving swiftly on to the next section – we had to put the correct negative word into the following sentences – “nadie” 1. “no me gusta nada” (I don’t like it at all) 2. “No me gusta ni la carne ni los huevos” (ni … ni - neither … nor) 3. “No le doy ninguna importancia” (I don’t give it any importance)

4. “Bajo ningún concepto”. (idiomatic – the whole thing means “no way”) 5. “No he estado allí nunca” (I have never been there) 6. “No se lo digas a nadie” (Don’t say it to anybody) (One point each – total 6) The Spanish language makes free use of the “double negative” which we cannot use in English. There are a few exceptions, and one here is number 4. Next section - what is wrong with these sentences? I will write them here in their correct form with the change in bold: 1. Trabajamos a nivel nacional e internacional. 2. Tengo algunos pero quiero más. 3. Te vas sin mí o conmigo. 4. El regalo es para ti. 5. ¿Te gusta el azul claro u oscuro? 6. A mí me gusta mucho. (2 points for each correction – total 12) Next section – we’re nearly there: “Me gusta leer los artículos de Jane porque (because) aprendo mucho” “Me gusta leer los artículos de Jane aunque (although) a veces los encuentro difíciles de entender” “Me gusta leer los artículos de Jane así que (so) los leo cada semana sin falta”. (2 points each – total 6) And finally, the six adverbs I was looking for were: Openly – abiertamente Intelligently – inteligentemente (OR “con inteligencia”) Enormously – enormemente Carefully – cuidadosamente Surely – seguramente Desperately - desesperadamente (2 points each – total 12) I hope the last word doesn’t describe your current state! Add two points to your final score and multiply the total by two. You never know, it might help!

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Ilusión-Arte brings top Getting in tune class concerts to Calpe by Jan Gamm THE AURYN String Quartet from Cologne and the Trio Parnassus from Stuttgart are to perform in Calpe, courtesy of Ilusión-D’Arte. The outstanding Auryn Quartet is to perform at the Hotel Diamante Beach in Avenida Juan Carlos on Sunday 27th March at 6pm, as part of its Spanish tour. The programme will include Brahms Quartet Opus 51 and Debussy’s Quatuor Opus 10. Tickets at 7€ for members and 15€ for non-members are available from the hotel by calling 656 714 787 or email ilusionartecalpe@gmail.com A buffet meal is offered by the hotel at 15€ including drinks. The Trio Parnassus is to perform Friday 15th April at 9pm and Anja und Yaron Traub Saturday 14th May at 8pm (details to follow).

Costa barber singers

Auryn string quartet

by Jack Troughton REHEARSALS ARE well under way as the Costa Barber Singers prepare for a convention in Murcia next month when the choir will compete against rivals from across Spain. The Spanish convention for Barber Shop Choirs meets over the weekend of 8th to 11th April, and the Costa Blanca chorus will perform such favourites as Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah and Coney Island Baby, as well as contemporary arrangements of Hello Mary Lou and Breaking Up Is Hard To Do. And a highlight of the

weekend is tipped to be a sell-out concert Saturday night when all the groups will take the stage together to perform two especially composed harmonies. Member of Moraira U3A have the chance of a sneak preview when the Costa Barber Singers perform at the group’s 4th April meeting. The singers are always on the lookout for new voices and rehearse every Thursday evening at La Torre Bar in Benissa at 8pm. Alternatively, call Hugh on 96 574 0461 or 699 829 081, or email hughnorton46@gmail.com

1525-31 - 21 october 2010 MARCH 2011

Earth Hour this Saturday

People celebrating earth hour around the world

by Jan Gamm THIS SATURDAY 26th March at 8.30pm the World will once again switch off its lights for sixty minutes to celebrate the World Wildlife Fund’s ‘Earth Hour’. Earth Hour began in Sydney, Australia in 2007 with 2.2 million people turned off the lights for an hour in an awareness-raising exercise against climate change. Since then the global sustainability movement accumulated 50 million supporters with co-operation and support for the cause from the World’s most recognisable landmarks such as The Colosseum in Rome, the CN Tower in Toronto, Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge in San Franscisco. This year, FIFA, the International Federation of Associated Football has agreed to celebrate Earth Hour with stadiums across the

globe plunging into darkness. The Olympic Committee in Lausanne, Switzerland will also ‘go candlelight’ for the prescribed sixty minutes. PARTY TIME Earth Hour has become a symbol of the World without light as 4,000 cities do without light for an hour, typically passed with hundreds of candles being lit to illuminate barbecues, beach picnics and rooftop parties to the sound of live music. In certain parts of Spain, however, frequent power cuts are the norm so perhaps the hour in darkness is not quite the novelty it might be elsewhere! To take part simply organise plenty of refreshments and candles, invite some friends around and turn out the lights…! Saturday, 26th March, 8.30pm: one hour. To learn more about Earth Hour, visit www.earthhour.org

Driver given 1,000€ speeding fine A MAN caught speeding was given a fine of €1,080 by an Alicante court last week. He was driving a Porsche 740 CV at 148km/hr in a 50km/hr zone in Dénia. His license has also been suspended for 20 months. The man holds a previous conviction for driving while drunk.

New speed limit policies slammed by congress By Jan Gamm DEPUTY PRIME Minister Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba returned to work this week following two weeks sick leave. 59-yearold Rubalcaba was treated at Madrid’s Marañon Hospital where he was diagnosed with a urinary infection thought to have developed as a result of a prostate biopsy. Rubalcaba was nonetheless faced with vigorous criticism from congress over his new energy-saving speed limit restrictions, claimed to be thinly disguised attempts at raising revenue through fines. Rubalcaba fought his corner by saying the new limits do not hide a desire to increase the number of fines and in fact the incidence of fines has dropped along with the new average speeds. Indignant comments from the floor in response to Rubalcaba’s defence included “ridiculous,” “inappropriate” and, “…there is no point in applying a speed limit to a country going downhill fast without

brakes…” referring to Spain ‘losing ground’ in terms of competitiveness and efficiency.

SLOWING DOWN Traffic is reported to be slowing down significantly since the introduction of the new limits on speed, showing a 62% decrease from evidence collated from radars over the past few weeks. Trafico Director General Pere Navarros commented that drivers seem to appreciate the urgent requirement to conserve fuel. Petrol sales have also declined

Rubalcaba

“We are mo

re t h an j u

23 25

st a v oice on the phone”

25-31 MARCH 2011

1525-31 - 21 october 2010 MARCH 2011

Recurring themes THIS IS only my third week as a columnist at RTN and I am afraid that already I am going to be returning to a number of recurring themes. This isn’t because I have nothing else to say (honest) but is the reality of writing a column based around the current news in Spain. As dramatic and sad as the events are in Libya it is hard not to watch them unfold online and on our TV screens without a sense of ‘here we go again’ and ‘flashbacks’ to the two Gulf Wars, although I cannot help but think ‘Top Gun’ whenever I see footage of the planes taking off and the pilots preparing for action! Down here on the Costa Almería it is all a little surreal to be honest as we have seen a number of aircraft flying overhead and up the coast a little, reports came through of what looked like a ‘dog fight’, or else a very realistic training session. Looking out over the balcony into the Mediterranean we have seen a number of battleships off the coast and I can’t help but scan the horizon in expectation of seeing the missiles being launched from the submarine reported to be in the Mediterranean. Unfortunately domestic violence has once again hit the headlines with two deaths reported

this week alone: a retired policeman confessed to killing his wife in Granada, and a 44-year-old woman was killed by her ex-partner in the Jaén province. This now brings the number of deaths through domestic violence in Spain this year to 16! So it was good news to read earlier in the week that some work is being done by the Spanish authorities to set up more Neighbourhood Watch groups, but with the war in Libya costing Spain 25€ million it would have been good to have seen some money dedicated to sorting out this internal problem. The speeding ban won’t go away either, but if reports are to be believed on the Costa Almería they have seen a 71% drop in drivers stopped for speeding, year on year, since the introduction of the ban and across Spain the figure is reported as 62%. On the other hand one of the more interesting reports this week is that modern cars are tuned to perform at greater speeds and a number of manufacturers have said that the new speed limit may cause damage to their engines, and may not be covered under the warranty. Cynics say that the new speeding limit was

just a means to get more cash but I have always maintained that if that was the objective the easiest thing to do would have been to increase the police presence and catch more of the motorists who were already speeding, rather than incur significant costs in introducing the new ban, and then try and catch more people speeding when you had just made everybody aware of the new limits. And finally, another recurring issue, certainly down here on the Costa Almería and the Costa Tropical, as another 77 immigrants were intercepted this week trying to get into Motril and Alborán. It isn’t the ‘issue’ of immigration per se that catches my attention; it is hard to deny those escaping the likes of Egypt and Libya for the opportunity for a better life and the sheer desperation that must drive these unfortunate people. In the above case of the 77, 38 were stopped in an inflatable boat and the remaining 39 in a small ‘patera’ boat, including six woman, two of whom were pregnant, two children and two babies. I find it almost impossible to comprehend how terrifying these journeys must be, and how desperate they must be to attempt them.

Chris Marshall is a freelance blogger, broadcaster and writer living in Almerimar, Spain, with his wife Sands, four cats, two Harley Davidson’s, and more often than not a bottle of red to hand. His weekly column in RTN is sponsored by Bay Connect (www.bay-connect.com): Fast Broadband, Cheap Calls and FREE Online TV. You can hear him daily on www.bayradio.fm and read him monthly in the Daily Telegraph.

23 27

Help Japan!

THE ORIHUELA Costa Youth Association (AJOC) together with the Association of Commerce on the Coast (ECO) have taken the initiative to organise a huge clothes and dried food collection in Orihuela Costa for the people of Japan left devasted by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami of 11th March. All the items collected will be given to the Red Cross of Japan via the Spanish Red Cross. If you have any old clothes that you no longer wear and could be of use, please donate them. They are also looking for dried and easily transportable items of food such as bags of rice and pasta. All donations can be dropped off at the Civic Centre in Playa Flamenca, Orihuela Costa, throughout the month of April. Please help the people of Japan to get their lives back.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Lions Clubs International by Patricia Thompson AS THE current President of Torrevieja Costa Lions Club it never ceases to amaze me that wherever you go in the world there are generous kind hearted people who when disaster strikes are first in line to offer a helping hand. Throughout the World there are over 40,000 Lions Clubs working both locally and internationally to help those less fortunate, in times of need. It is with the generosity and support by the general public, for their local Lions Clubs that Lions are able to perform so effectively, and Torrevieja Costa Lions are no exception, being very active within the local community as well as fulfilling their International obligations. This past year, natural disasters have impacted millions of individuals across many regions. Hundreds of thousands lost their lives in Haiti and millions are still living in tent communities. In Pakistan, there were record floods killing 1,500 and affecting more than 20 million people or eight percent of the entire country. This past month alone, the earthquakes in New

Zealand and Japan have gripped the World. In Haiti, one year after the earthquake, six hundred families have now moved into new homes thanks in part to your donation. In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, Lions were among the first to offer help, providing food, water and shelter. New Zealand

In Christchurch New Zealand, LCIF has awarded US$110,000 to aid Lions with earthquake relief; $10,000 is being used for immediate emergency relief and a $100,000 grant will assist with long term efforts. A fleet of local New Zealand Lions responded immediately to this crisis by securing and distributing large supplies of bottled water, assessing needs door to door with the Red Cross to provide urgent medical and emotional assistance and volunteering at welfare centres . Japan In Japan, Lions are in the early stages of establishing a Disaster Relief Committee to provide

relief from the destructive Japanese earthquake and tsunami. Lions are mobilizing $5 million, building on LCIF’s $1.25 million in grants. The Lions office in Tokyo is the command centre organising Lion volunteers and reaching out to area governments in order to provide a timely and coordinated response. This is a personal tragedy for many Lions whose families and neighbours are affected by the devastating floods and building destruction. Lions Clubs International Foundation and the Lion volunteer structure are perfectly suited to providing a swift response in times of natural disasters. Lions are working in their own communities; they know the needs and culture of their town, village or neighbourhood; and are one of the first responders in any emergency. We thank you for your support of Lions and the World community in times of tragedy.

Interactive map released of world averages for penis size

By Jan Gamm A USEFUL and highly entertaining interactive map has been released by ‘Good Men Project’ magazine, showing average penis sizes all over the World. Data was collated by ‘trusted research centres’ to provide supposedly reliable results on which nationalities sport the largest penises. The World’s most ‘macho’ male population by reputation, Australians, trail a disappointing 94th (blimey, Bruce!) Ghana at 17.3cm was ‘self-reported’ and therefore RTN

considers its result unreliable. The UK keeps its end up in the true British tradition of not letting the side down and Ireland predictably came in slightly more impressive but again self-reported. Spain boringly nestles ‘bang on average’ centre scale. And the largest? RTN reports that flight enquiries to the Congo have escalated alarmingly. To consult the map, follow the link: http:// goodmenproject.com/newsroom/who-hasthe-biggest-penises-in-the-world/

Where to find the biggest penises?

Sailing tragedy off the coast of Denia

AN EXPERIENCED sailor and team coach lost his life during the easterly storm that hit the coast on Wednesday. 52-yearold Don Nordqvist, coaching Swedish teams in the Europe and Laser classes, was sailing in the company of another supervisor, examining the course in a Zodiac sailing craft. At 1.30pm strong gusts of wind recorded at 70kph capsized the boat. Nordqvist’s 30-year-old female companion managed to catch a lifeline thrown from the jetty but Nordqvist drowned before a Coastguard helicopter could reach him. His body was recovered 20 metres from the breakwater rocks south of

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legal

25-31 MARCH 2011

Disputes within Communities of Owners by

Michael Olmer Solicitor, Link Point Legal and Business Services

IF YOU live in a flat or on an Urbanisation, you could receive an invitation to attend a General Meeting of your Community of Owners to be informed that, unhappily, you are going to be subject to a surcharge on your service charges. What are your rights to object to or overturn a decision that you disagree with or that you believe is unfair? Communities of Owners are regulated by the Law of Horizontal Property Nº 8/1999 which has been subject to amendments which came into force on 22nd March 2011. The law imposes a democratic regime for decision making, with different levels of majority vote of the members depending on the importance of the relevant item. The majority is not on the basis of ‘one man one vote’ but on the basis of the proportion of the estate and expenditure which each property bears. Any change in the Legal Constitution of the Community requires the unanimous vote of all the members. Changes to means of access or services to the Community such as the installation or removal of lifts, the employment of a porter or concierge, or security system, or rental of any of the common parts, require the consent of at least 60% of the owners. If you do not attend the meeting at which these proposals are decided your vote will count as a vote

in favour of the proposal, subject to our comments below. Installations to improve the energy efficiency of your Estate, or improvements to the telecommunications services only require the approval of one third of the owners, but only those who have actually voted actually in favour of these items can be required to contribute to their installation or maintenance. To challenge any decision taken by the General Meeting of your Community the decision must be: Either unlawful or contrary to the constitution of your community; or Seriously detrimental to the interests to the community as a whole or one or more of members; or Seriously prejudicial to the interests of a particular member of the community. Your challenge is begun by formally registering your objection to the decision of the General Meeting, and then later starting legal proceedings to pursue your challenge. When the date of the General Meeting arrives, to have any say at all in the affairs of your community you must be up to date with all your service charge payments, unless the ground of your objection is that the service charge demands themselves fall into one or more of the three above categories. The actual amount of the Service Charge demands is

not in itself sufficient reason to bring a legal challenge. If you are able to attend the meeting you must ask the secretary of your Community to formally record in the minutes of the meeting that you object to the decision. In Spanish the expression used is ‘salvar el voto’, or ‘to reserve your vote’. It is not enough simply to vote against the decision or abstain from voting. If you cannot attend the meeting in person, you can appoint someone to act as your proxy and register your objection, or within 30 days after the decision has been taken you must send your objection in writing to the Secretary of your Community of owners by registered letter, not by email or fax. Of course, you should always send any official communication of this kind in Spanish. After registering your objection to a decision of your Community on this way you then have one year in which to actually begin Court Proceedings to overturn the decision. If you do begin proceedings it is vital that in your claim filed in Court that you ask for implementation of the decision to which you object be suspended until the Court has delivered its judgment. The rules for regulating Communities of Owners are rigid and as with any legal matter it is essential to take professional advice and our Spanish lawyers and advisers here at Link Point are always ready to help.

Calle Andromeda 24, 03581 Albir - Alfaz del Pí, Alicante. Email: client@linkpointlegal.com Web: www.linkpointlegal.com Tel: 96 626 0500 Fax: 96 686 52 77

Three arrested on drugs charges

Arrests made over false papers for sailors

THREE BRITISH men have been arrested in Benidorm as they were found in possession of the drug mephedrone. A package containing the drug was allowed to pass through Valencia airport and police tracked it to a post box at a mail office in Benidorm. When two men arrived to collect the parcel, they were arrested. The third man was the addressee on the package.

THREE ARRESTS have been made and 11 more people are implicated over the falsification of sailing certificates. False documentation printed for fake skippers was being put together in Sweden and sold in Spain for €400 to €1,200. Most of the documents were circulating in Altea and Sueca.

money

Suzanne O’Connell Customer Care at Ábaco

The ten steps to selling your home WE ALL know it’s not the best time for selling but for some people it might be the only time. Personal circumstances can mean that crisis or crash, the property must be sold. If you are in this position or just want to try your luck in the housing market, the following steps might just help reduce the impact of selling in a recession. Step 1: Find a good estate agent, or agents. Ideally, your estate agent should be locally-based, know the area and be well-established. As with everything, a recommendation from someone you know goes a long way. Step 2: Be clear what is included in the sale price and make sure that your estate agent is clear too. It can cause needless disagreements and you don’t want your quest for a sale thwarted by a tiff over water features. Step 3: Make sure your home looks its best. Remove clutter wherever possible. Your entrance and access should be clear: first impressions count. Step 4: Meet, greet and show off your home to its best advantage. Step 5: Get a good solicitor. It never fails to amaze us how many people in Spain try to negotiate buying and selling without using one. They

wouldn’t in the UK so why in Spain? Step 6: Make sure your estate agent follows your instructions. We have heard of the odd occasion when they have asked for a deposit from the buyer without the vendor even knowing about it! Step 7: Cancel your property related direct debits with your Spanish bank. You don’t still want to be paying someone else’s electricity bills in four years’ time. Step 8: Be prepared – You will have to pay the increase in land value tax to the Town Hall and you may have capital gains tax to pay to the government. Even if you don’t there will still be a 3% retention by the Spanish tax authority if you are a non-resident. This will only be released once it is confirmed that you haven’t made a profit and you’ve paid your annual non-resident income tax. A refund won’t happen straight away. Step 9: If you have moved from living in Spain back to your home country, remember to inform the people who need to know and cancel your residency. Step 10: If you’ve got this far – congratulations! You’ve sold your house and can move back to go. We can help with all legal aspects of a sale: contact Ábaco’s helpline (+34) 96 670 3748 for a free consultation (see advert on this page).

25-31 MARCH 2011

Are you owed money? ARE YOU owed money, a victim of unpaid debts, either personally or in business or within your urbanisation? A common problem is that many owners on urbanisations have not paid their fees; this has left the urbanisations with huge problems struggling to maintain the services and up keep of the public areas placing the burden onto remaining residents. The Horizontal Property Act covers the governing of the community of owners on urbanisations. All owners who buy a property on an urbanisation are legally bound to pay towards its upkeep. If your community is owed fees then we may be able to help. Anglo Spanish Collections has a proven history of debt and asset recovery and are the agents in Spain for many UK debt management companies and solicitors who utilise their facilities and knowledge to aid them in the recovery of their clients’ money. Based in Spain, the company has a better understanding of the way communities work and are able to tailor services to best serve their needs, even if the debtor has returned to the UK, Ireland or elsewhere in Europe. Services, unlike many of their competitors, include the use of specialist investigative agents to locate missing debtors and their assets. They are supported by lawyers in Spain and throughout Europe when the need arises for court proceedings to be instigated. A credit management service is offered and unlike many companies, Anglo Spanish collections is prepared to meet debtors face to face to speak to them personally on how to resolve the situation. Whether your debt is personal, business or involves urbanisation fees in Spain, UK or any other part of Europe, contact Anglo Spanish Collections on 965 992 805 or email office@anglospanishcollections.com Also visit www.anglospanishcollections.com

Got a story? 902 118 999

rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

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legal

25-31 MARCH 2011

Setting up a business in Spain has been simplified considerably by

Carlos Baos

of White & Baos Abogados English & Spanish Solicitors

IN THE current economic climate it is important to make the process of setting up a company and the paperwork involved as simple, fast and dynamic as possible, to establish and make the business as competitive as possible, as soon as possible. With this aim in mind, the RD-Law 13/2010 was approved on the 3rd of December 2010 containing several measures to streamline the process of setting up a company, making it much faster and easier. These measures affect primarily Spanish Limited Liability Companies (S.L.) these being the most used in practice, although the new law distinguishes between different types of

companies, etc. In Article 5 the new law states the possibility to reserve the company name online, directly from the Central Companies House (Registro Mercantil Central). Once the Deed has been signed to set up the company then this can also be referred online to the corresponding Company House where the Registrar must qualify and register the Deed of the company within a very short time period (see below) providing that there are no incidents or mistakes in the documents received. This Article also provides the possibility to obtain online the temporary tax number (NIF or CIF) from the Spanish State Tax Administration Agency (AEAT-Hacienda). And then once the company has been registered at the Companies House, the AEAT will notify the definitive NIF to the notary and registrar. The constitution of an S.L. will be fastest providing it has the following factors: a) The company’s capital should not exceed 3,100€. b) The company’s articles should adapt to the

approved standard regulations. c) The company’s shareholders must be individuals and not companies. d) The company should have a single administrator-director, or joint administrators or 2 joint co-directors (mancomunados). For companies fulfilling all the above details the time for the Registrar at the Companies House to qualify and register the deed and the company is a maximum of 7 hours, so in theory the whole process could be completed in just 1 day. Thus as previously mentioned these changes mean a great amount of saved time in reserving the company name, granting the Deed, obtaining the CIF number and registration of the company at Companies House. If you want to set up a Company Spain and you require our advice, please do not hesitate to contact us. The information provided on this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys general information related to legal issues.

Marc White LL.B. & Carlos Baos (English & Spanish Solicitors) © White & Baos Abogados 2011 - All rights reserved. C/Diana 19, 2º-D, 03700 Dénia (located 1 minute away from the La Via underground car park). Tel: 966 426 185. Send your questions to spanishlawyer@roundtownnews.com or info@white-baos.com

Policeman shoots colleague dead A LOCAL policeman has murdered his colleague by shooting him. The murderer then attempted to kill himself with a shot to his own head, but survived. He is in a serious condition in the Valencia La Fe hospital. The incident took place in the changing rooms of the station in Betera, near Valencia, at the end of the two men’s nightshift last Saturday morning.

Heavy rain and strong wind closes port BAD WEATHER forced the closure of Sagunto port last week. Elsewhere in the region, almost 100 litres of rain fell in the Vall de la Gallinera, say meteorologists.

business

Carlos Franco

CDF Arquitectura

25-31 MARCH 2011

Using an architect can SAVE you money, not COST you money “DEMOLITION IS the only option for my house. Come and see it….nothing is functional”. This is what Mrs Gill wrote in her first email to me. Many of you might be thinking in a similar way about your house, so then you start doing little bits of alteration here and there. We see many clients who maybe swap the kitchen units, fit closets in the spare room, or change the bathroom tiling etc…but after putting money and much effort into their work, they realise they are still not totally happy with the results. But of course the work is already done. Sometimes people are ‘pushed’ by neighbours recommendations, or their brother-in-law’s suggestions, and so on. Why is it that we look for a Doctor when we are sick, but do not look for a professional in construction and design when we are talking about our homes?

Your home is one of your most important investments in life, and where you spend the majority of your time – and hence it ought to be the place that you feel really happy about. Some people only look for an architect once they have been to the Council and informed they need to apply for a license and an architect’s services are compulsory. But remember, just like you and your family, your house is unique and special. It needs to reflect your likes and preferences, and it needs to ‘work’ for you…and when it does you will feel much happier there, much more satisfied and fully at ease. And also your budget is special, you need to spend your money wisely, and this is where an experienced architect can help you by getting the most profit and value from the money you are planning to invest. An architect can prevent many headaches

and the loss of money. And even more, if the architect has thousands of square meters of property built to his name, you can be certain that he has the knowledge, theory and skills in his profession. I am Carlos Franco, and I have 20 years architectural experience, and at my firm CDF Arquitectura I can offer you all the knowledge, theory and skills in the architectural field. You can lean on me as a professional and see how your money will be correctly invested, with good judgement and in your favour. Just as a quick example, during construction work I get involved during all the steps; I like to be personally involved in every decision, I manage and monitor every step, just as if it were my own house for my own family.

A visit to their office of Ana and Carlos Franco is recommended where a no obligation discussion can take place to discuss your needs. CDF is located on the Calle Pedro Garcia Ortiz 25A, Plaza dels Mariners, Calpe 03710. Telephone 965 832 922 or 660 928 037: carlosfranco@cdf-arquitectura.com and www.cdf-arquitectura.com

Post office refuses service to courts due to massive debt owing THERE’LL BE no postal service for courts in the Valencia region until the regional government starts to pay of the massive debt it owes to the post office (Correos). The Spanish press has estimated the debt to be around €10 million, while workers’ unions say it is more like €30 million. The UGT union says that the refusal to serve the courts will bring the justice system to a halt because 90 percent of court communications are sent by post. A meeting has been scheduled to try and resolve the issue.

money

25-31 MARCH 2011

Mark Roach

Company Director and Spanish Tax Consultant

Wincham: shortlisted for an AIPP Award 2011

WINCHAM WAS the runner up in the AIPP Awards 2011 announced in London at ‘A Place in the Sun Live’, Earls Court on Friday 11th March. Wincham was nominated in the category of ‘Most Outstanding Example of Customer Service’ (Service Providers) and selected as the number one Spanish tax and legal consultant in that category. The Association of International Property Professionals [AIPP] annual awards panel looks for excellence in customer service and the awards were presented by Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun: Home or Away’s Jonnie Irwin on the exhibition’s main stage, in front of a packed audience of both consumers and industry professionals. Jonnie was also one of the 11-strong panel of judges who attended a full day of judging at the AIPP head office where the finalists were selected. Overseeing the judging process was Christopher Hamer, The Property Ombudsman (UK), who acted as Chair of the panel. “The winners of this year’s awards can be very proud of

their achievement and we send our congratulations to them,” said AIPP’s Chief Executive Mark Sharp. “Indeed, all entrants should be applauded for taking part. By putting themselves through the entry process and opening themselves up to independent assessment, entrants are playing their part toward defining a benchmark for higher industry standards.” “These awards are all about awarding overseas property professionals who are transparent, follow best practise and embrace business ethics” said Nigel Lewis, Head of Content at Prime location. AIPP members are located all over the World and part of the AIPP nomination process involved Wincham being asked to submit case studies for scrutiny. The clients were contacted directly by the judging panel and asked about the Wincham experience, how they were dealt with and what had been the effect of the advice given by Wincham. Since 1994 Wincham has offered clients a unique comprehensive tax planning solution, helping clients

address the serious lack of professional advice available to Non-Domiciled property owners in Spain regarding Spanish inheritance tax liabilities. Most clients do not appreciate that advice from Spanish lawyers can expose owners and their beneficiaries to a significant tax burden in Spain. Wincham has been advising non Spanish property owners for many years that owning a property in Spain via a UK Limited Company structure can protect their beneficiaries from Spanish inheritance tax but this strategy has been met with some scepticism from the market. “Hopefully our recognition by the AIPP demonstrates that Wincham is providing clients with a professional tax and legal service to the highest level, says” Mark Roach, Director at Wincham. “Our team in the UK and Spain are thrilled at the achievement which clearly demonstrates the confidence that the AIPP has in our company” says Malcolm Roach, Managing Director of Wincham. To make an appointment with one of Wincham’s tax specialists in the UK or

Wincham Consultants Limited, Wincham House, Greenfield Farm Trading Estate, Congleton, Cheshire, CW12 4TR, England. (Wincham Consultants also have offices located on the Costa Blanca) UK Tel: +44 (0)1260 299 700 | Spain Tel: +34 965 830 991 | Email: iht.info@wincham.com | Web: www.winchamiht.com

Spain, please call the numbers below or visit www.winchamiht.com to receive a FREE personalised Spanish inheritance tax illustration and assessment. Wincham’s unique range of services are suitable for all nationalities including residents and non-residents of Spain. The organisation has qualified professionals in both jurisdictions including Gestores; Economistas; Tax Consultants; Lawyers; Will Writers; Chartered Accountants and Members of the Institute of Credit Management. Wincham’s subsidiary company, Companies 4 U Limited, is a professional Companies House formation agent and provides company formation services and corporate management for clients companies. As part of the Association of International Property Professionals, Wincham is obliged to hold professional indemnity insurance for its services in the UK and Europe. A Money-Laundering Regulation licence issued by HMRC provides clients with the confidence to trust in the services provided by Wincham.

11 - 17 February 25-31 MARCH2011 2011

Home & Garden www.spanishhomefinder.com

Brought to you by

Vimaluz: Lighting at prices direct from the factory!

WHEN CONSIDERING the lighting options in your home, it is important to choose a company with wide choice, great pricing and vast experience. Vimaluz Lighting in Denia have been producing lamps and accessories for more than 40 years, and have great prestige throughout Spain and Europe. Four years ago they decided to open their doors to sell directly to the public. Merche, from Vimaluz, explained: “Our many years’ experience in manufacturing lamps, and our huge variety of stock and accessories, together with vastly experienced staff make us unique in lighting products and accessories, and our service is second to none. We have many English clients and they keep returning. From the first moment Vimaluz opened its doors we have led the market, giving customers a loyalty card awarding further offers and discounts. “We stock all types of lighting, even the very hard to find English fittings. We have a spring offer of 20% discount of new low energy bulbs when the client brings their old low energy bulb to recycle. As well as our own manufactured lighting stock, we do sell further brands and have an in-store catalogue to source almost any product.”. “English clients bring photos and plans of their homes, and we are able to help them find the ideal solution, be it LED, Halogen, Incandescent or lowest energy. We have even spoken with the electrician on our clients’ behalf, looking for best solutions on switch locations and electrical points,” explained Merche. With two floors of exposition, they save some of the biggest discounts on their second floor and even have offers at below the manufacturer’s price. CEILING FANS, PICTURES AND MIRRORS At customers’ request, they now also stock pictures and mirrors, also at special prices and offers for buying a pair. Ceiling fans are very popular, and the choice available in the shop is wide, with increased stock during spring and

summer reflecting the warmer weather... Vimaluz also stock other manufacturers’ products, and further silver accessories. They can be easily found in the industrial polygon in Denia. Coming from Ondara A7, upon entering Denia, simply turn right at the Chevrolet Garage, then the first left, take the next main right and they are one the left hand corner at the bottom (Madrigueres Sud 60b, Denia, telephone 96 643 2921: email info@iluminacionydecoracion.com The store is open until 8pm 6 days a week, closed midday. They look forward to giving RTN readers a bright welcome.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Spanish property matters:

Chris Marshall

www.almerimarlife.com

Glass half full or glass half empty IT IS hard not to feel encouraged about a number of the headlines regarding property in Spain these days with ‘illegal properties’ once again taking top spot with confirmation that the Andalucian regional government has declared that more than 11,000 of them in the Axarquia region near Malaga may be legalised. While the ‘illegal property’ issue has in reality only ever effected an incredibly small percentage of the property market here in Spain, it has been the most visible by far, and based on the old saying ‘perception is reality’ it is impossible to say just how adversely the negative PR has affected the property market in Spain over the years. One suspects not a lot, as Spain remains a favourite destination for people planning their retirement, and the survey we are running on our site (http://almerimarlife.com/survey-purchasing-a-property-in-spain) clearly indicates that, given the chance, the vast majority of people would have no hesitation in buying a property in Spain. Before we get carried away, though, according to government figures 100,000 homes built around the coast during the last decade face unresolved planning problems, and it was only a month or so ago that Beatriz Corredor, the Spanish secretary of state for housing, confirmed that the Spanish government was keen to woo British buyers back to the Spanish property market, so combine that with the local elections due in May and it would be easy

to drift down the ‘glass half empty’ route and view these announcements as a case of ‘words not actions’. It should be noted that the coverage regarding the above ‘amnesty’ was met with scepticism by many of the property owners involved, as many fear that regional government will override the decision made by the local council. More signs of recovery as for the first time in 3 years, the downward trend of property sales has been reversed with Spain as a whole reporting a 5.9% year-on-year increase in sales in 2010 compared to 2009. According to the official government data, a total of 491,000 properties were sold in Spain last year, 10,860 on the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Majorca, Minorca and Formentera alone. In fact the Balearics are very much leading the recovery with a 14.5% increase in property sales last year, although the figures aren’t as good in the mainland as regionally eleven autonomous regions saw an increase in property sales last year, while six decreased. The best was the Basque Country with a 30 per cent increase, while the worst, Murcia Region, with a year-on-year decrease of 16.3 per cent. No surprise then that the latest property prices figures for real estate in Spain show that prices fell by between 3.5 and 4.5% year on year in February. The data from the Department of Housing show prices fell 3.5% in nominal terms, but in real terms average prices were down 6.5%. It means that prices have now fallen 13.1% since their peak

on average. In popular holiday home locations though, such as the Costa Blanca, they are down 20%. Figures from the Internet support the positive direction of the market with a 38% increase in searches for ‘Spanish Property’ reported in January 2011 compared to the year before, but again the Balearics showed the strongest growth accounting for one third of all enquiries. On the other hand, a recent survey of second property owners in Spain stated that 60% would sell if they could, and more and more properties are being made available for long term let across Spain as people look for ways to retain their property but return home at the same time; one assumes to boost the rental market in the UK. And then we have the real problem surrounding the property market in Spain: evaluating the properties held by the banks in order to determine just how much capital the banks require to clean up their balances sheets in order to respond to tough new government requirements aimed at shoring up confidence in the banks and the country’s battered economy. Ratings agency Moody’s put the figure at €40-50 billion while Fitch estimated it at between €38 billion and €96.7 billion; Goldman Sachs at €22 billion to €59 billion and Morgan Stanley at €40 billion. The government insisted that the final figure would not exceed €20 billion. That, though, can wait until another day …

Property Matters by Chris Marshall is sponsored by www.piagi.com The Currency Specialists, offering the best foreign exchange rates and currency prices. You can hear Chris each month on the weekly Property Matters show on Bay Radio Costa Almeria 91.5FM and 95.5FM ( www.bayradio.fm) with Bob James, Mondays at 4pm.

Spotlight: Home & Garden

25-31 MARCH 2011

BENIDORM Fantastic apartment for holiday rental and also available through the winter months either weekly or monthly. A beautifully furnished one bedroom apartment, comfortably sleeping 4 people with fantastic sea views and a very short walk to Poniente beach. Contact us for availability and prices starting from an amazing 200€/week. OPI Alfaz S.L. Calle Ferrería 16, Local 2. 03580 Alfaz del Pi. (Alicante) UK Tel: 020 30062346 Spain Tel: 966 860 084 Fax: 0034 965 889 014 www.opialfaz.com

Big choices at Carpet Heaven GARY AND Kate extend a warm welcome to customers at Carpet Heaven, situated in the centre of Los Montesinos on the high street, with a wide selection of quality fitted and edged carpets, carpet tiles, modern and traditional rugs, vertical and roller blinds, and now, luxury breakfast and bar stools and cushioned vinyl flooring. Products from only the most trusted manufacturers in the industry are included in stock, with an ever expanding range from suppliers across Europe and further afield in the latest fashionable colours, fabrics and textures. At Carpet Heaven success is down to very simple values and the belief that good customer care is paramount if any business is to survive, as well as a choice of high quality products and a good knowledge of the merchandise and technical specifications. It is also understood that each customers has different tastes and needs when adding the finishing touches to their home. It can be difficult to hold a colour idea when making a final decision so the company’s ‘Free No Obligation, Select At Home Service’ has proved very successful and popular. Why not pop in to browse through samples and catalogues, or visit suppliers online via the Carpet Heaven website. With the emphasis on personal service feel free to call for more information or to book a home visit. Don’t miss the ‘end of season’ sale from 21st March to 2nd April! Tel: 96 672 0782 Email: carpetheaven@hotmail.es www.carpetheaven.es

Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com

25-31 MARCH 2011

Saving water for Spanish gardens by

Clodagh & Dick Handscombe Practical gardeners and authors

THE PROBLEM: Once the construction industry starts up again we may well face watering restrictions again and more expensive water so consider what you can start to do now at your leisure. We list possible ideas below: REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF WATER REQUIRED IN THE FIRST PLACE Add guttering to at least one roof slope with a storage tank to collect rain water. Improve the water absorbing properties of the soil before planting anything, by working in well rotted manures, composts and a water retaining gel such as TerraCottem. Plant mainly drought-resisting plants. Reconsider a lawn, or at least downsize it. Water with a drip head irrigation system versus a hand held hose. Construct all paths and terraces so that rainwater and car wash water runs off onto flower beds or the vegetable garden. Retain mature trees that have deep tap roots and will rarely need watering compared to younger trees that have yet to establish deep roots.

Maximise plantings in the semi shade at the edge of trees or in areas that are in the shade for half the day as the sun moves round. Plant alongside paths and terraces so that roots can soon find their way to the damper soil under the paths and terraces, especially in the summer. Water plants with the relatively clean water from the cleaning and cooking of vegetables, showers and baths and the washing up and washing machines if you use biodegradable soaps. REDUCE LOSSES Water in the cool of the evening or early morning to minimise immediate evaporation from direct sunlight and baking hot soils.

Stop using hand held hose and try with a drip head irrigation system

Clodagh and Dickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practical gardening books will be found to be useful for both experienced and new gardeners coming to Spain. The useful quartet of books can be obtained from bookshops or by email from the websites of Amazon, Santana Books, Bookworld and The Royal Horticultural Society. ÂŠ Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com February 2011.

Mulch the surface of beds with small stones, pebbles, wood chippings etc. Frequently check all hoses and irrigation systems for leaks and repair immediately. Close plant flower, shrub and vegetable beds to reduce the chance of weeds growing and to shade the earth between plants to reduce surface evaporation. Regularly hoe bare earth between plants to break up the top two or three centimetres of the soil to reduce capillary evaporation. Cover any unplanted areas with solid paths and terraces or large areas of attractive stone chippings laid over black plastic. Do likewise with areas planted with cacti, succulents and sun loving shrubs and trees. Line porous plant pots with plastic or paint them inside before filling with potting compost to prevent evaporation through the sides. Place catchment trays under plant pots to catch water that drains through compost. Plant plants through holes in black plastic sheeting on the vegetable plot. Build at least a low wall round the whole property, especially if on a slope, to reduce the rain water lost by run off into adjacent properties or fields during heavy storms. Construct a raised front edge on terraces to cause more water to soak into the soil behind the retaining wall. But ensure that there are good drainage pipes in the face of solid retaining walls. Mulch soft fruit bushes with grass cuttings, straw and composts. Place wide slabs over the root ball of climbers growing up walls and fences.

Plant drought resisting plants

Week by week mulch vulnerable quick drying areas of the garden with RTN (after reading it) and cover with soil or stone chippings. Tick those that you have already applied and those that you could implement ready for the coming spring and summer.

25-31 MARCH 2011

‘Leish-Mania’- a serious parasitic disease by

Vicente Mulet Clinica Veterinaria San Luis and Los Altos

“MY VET said that if I brought my dogs to Spain they would be dead within six months. I was determined to come so he gave me all these tablets and treatments to give, but seemed to think they would not be enough! My two dogs and the cat seem to be fine here at the moment but I’m quite worried as they are my children,” commented a new client. This was an extreme example, but there does seem to be a negative attitude amongst some members of our profession about the freedom of movement of pets, in and out of the UK. Why this should be is not really for me to speculate, but perhaps it’s something to do with our modern desire for perfection, and as someone said recently, “perfection does not exist.” The Costa Blanca is not a perfect paradise for our pets; any more than it is a paradise for us, but it is not a third world jungle either. I called this article ‘Leish-mania’, as Leishmaniosis seems to be the biggest worry. This is a serious parasitic disease affecting all species, including man. It can be particularly serious in dogs and those people suffering from immune incompetence, but it is not as wide spread or as uncontrollable as they apparently think. Dogs at greatest risk of infection are those that live in “the campo” and live outside. A particular type of mosquito spreads the disease and thus avoiding

A particular type of mosquito spreads the disease

Wounds that won’t heal

exposure to this insect as far as possible is common sense. Insect repellents are useful, but not perfect, whilst any insecticide whether it is a “spot-on” product, systemic chemical or collar will kill the mosquitoes after they bite, (when the damage is done) despite manufacturer claims. Whilst these “treatments” don’t protect healthy dogs they do kill the mosquito before it can infect another dog, so all affected animals should be rigorously treated in this way. (N.B. all insecticides have some repellent effect) Treatment is also less than perfect but newer protocols are more effective and less unpleasant for the animal than previously. Leishmaniosis is a ‘zoonosis’ (transmissible from animals to man) but not directly from infected dogs to people or vice versa, and is more easily treated in man than in dogs. The diagnosis is made from a positive blood test on an animal that has suspicious symptoms. Unfortunately leishmaniosis presents with a wide variety of

symptoms from loss of weight, alopecia, nose bleeds and the failure of small wounds to heal to lameness or simply greasy skin. Regular blood tests are strongly recommended, the idea being to pick up infected animals before symptoms start. Early treatment is as always much more effective: always seek early professional attention for any suspicious symptoms. There are positive aspects of living here for our dogs as well as us. Arthritic conditions are far less painful and the family pet benefits from a bit of sun on their backs, as we do! We don’t see the ear and skin conditions associated with living in over-heated houses, so it is not all doom and gloom. Life is a risky business; in fact it is positively dangerous. We should sensibly try to minimise the risks without being paralysed into inactivity by scare stories which at best are based on some small resemblance to the truth. Vicente Mulet Clínica Veterinaria San Luis Clínica Veterinaria Los Altos

Leishmaniosis in humans

Clinica Veterinaria over 20 years of the same great service and the same faces. Tel: 966 786 343, Emergencies 606 326 624 Plaza Tolosa 4 Urb San Luis 03184 Torrevieja sanluisvet@telefonica.net New clinic now open Clinica Veterinaria Los Altos, Los Altos Commercial Centre Urb Los Altos (close to Torrevieja hospital) Tel: 966 722 079 cvlosaltos@hotmail.com

25-31 MARCH 2011

Computing with aunty virus

Translating documents Ray via email asks: I HAVE a document already in English so is it possible to scan it and at the same time translate it into Spanish in order to later print off copies in Spanish? I have windows 7 and a Canon MP 250 printer. Thanking you for your assistance. Aunty Says: Hello Ray. The latest Canon printers come with a program called ‘MP Navigator EX’ and there should be a ‘one click’ button that will give you the option to scan your documents as Optical Character Recognition or OCR for short. You should be then given a choice of which text editing program you prefer, and I suspect by default this will be Wordpad or Notepad, but you should be able change it to Word. You may have to browse about to setup the preferred language to Spanish or simply copy and paste the English text into Google’s online translator or Yahoo’s Babel Fish.

Using McAfee Norman via email asks: I HAVE McAfee as protection and when I try to defragment (using Windows Defragment accessed via McAfee) I get the error message “Disk defragmenter has detected that Chkdsk is scheduled to run on the volume: (C:). Please run Chkdsk/f. How do I do this? Is there something that I can do to enable the defragmentation process easier?

Aunty Says: Hi Norman. This is quite a common occurrence and I covered this a few weeks back for Eddie. If you check the March 1st entry on the enetcomputers. net website you will find a step by step guide of how to run a manual disk check which should sort the problem out.

Changing to AVG anti virus John via email asks: HOLA AUNTY. I have a Dell laptop which came with a Windows 7 and McAfee Security package which was free for a limited time. This package is now due to expire and I would like your advice as to which package I should download. You often recommend AVG anti virus plus additional Malware and would like your confirmation that this is still your preferred package. Presumably I will need to delete the McAfee package before attempting to download a new package.

Aunty Says: Hi John. I still favour AVG 2011 free, SuperAntiSpyware and Malwarebytes. You can get all three from download.com or enetcomputers.net and I recommend doing the custom install with all three. I prefer to switch off most of the optional extras (link and email scanner etc.) and I prefer to set them all to do manual updates and scans. I do this so I can decide when they happen as they can be very resource hungry and eat up your internet bandwidth. Try and get into a habit of updating each one separately when you are not using the internet, and perform a complete scan once every week.

Piggybacking from Telefonica router Kevin from Alfaz asks: VAL EMAILED you about ‘piggybacking’ from her Telefonica router. I had the same problem in as much as my Telefonica router is non wireless too. Telefonica can provide a wireless one but it costs around 70€ extra (surprise, surprise). I simply plugged in an Azurewave wireless router to the Telefonica one. I tried other wireless routers and they all worked except the Azurewave is the most powerful and gets the signal through my thick walls. I’ve ended up with my desktop PC plugged into the router upstairs and my web book wirelessly connected downstairs: sorted. Aunty Says: Thanks for the info Kevin. I know you can pick up a decent WiFi router that will plug into an existing Telefonica router for around €30 from PC Box with shops all over Spain. I’ve not seen the Azurewave routers so I can’t comment, but the Conceptronic one I used worked fine.

Quarantined items Barrie via email asks: GOOD DAY Aunty, I have quite a lot of SuperAntiSpyware quarantined items, what should I do with them? Aunty Says: SuperAntiSpyware will safely quarantine anything that it deems potentially harmful to your computer. Anything in the quarantine folder is safe out of harm’s way but very rarely you may wish to restore something that you decide is not actually harmful (a ‘false positive’ as it’s sometimes known). A good practice is to remove anything from quarantine after a month which will permanently delete it from your computer and keep the quarantine folder clear.

25-31 MARCH 2011

GADGET INSPECTOR

the case of The Sony Ericsson Experia Play THIS WEEK the Inspector gets happy-slapped by the new phone on the block – The Sony Ericsson Experia Play, otherwise known as the PlayStation Phone. Some bright spark thought it would be a good idea to combine a smartphone with a PlayStation portable games console, a somewhat suggestive combination given the acronym: SExPlay. Still, it certainly does offer a whole wealth of opportunities of whiling away the hours with your favourite friend-inthe-pocket. First impressions are a little chunky – think of it somewhere in the phone-world equivalent of between Sophie Dahl (curvy) and Ann Widdecombe (chunky). But it slides out to sport an attractive 4-inch multitouch LCD screen and PlayStation DualShock-style gamepad. The front of the phone also has four hard keys controlling the Back, Home, Menu and Search functions as do most Android phones (Android is the muchvaunted operating system from Google this phone runs under). In use the Xperia Play has good graphic presentation and no noticeable lag in game play. The handset incorporates an auto rotate facility which rotates the display to landscape orientation when the control pad is slid out – ready for game playing. There is also a proximity sensor for auto turn off when

taking a call. The Xperia Play is equipped with a decent 5.0 Megapixel camera, with autofocus and LED flash. Video recording is also included, and there is a second camera on the front for video calling. Connectivity is not short-changed on the Xperia Play, with support for HSPA Mobile Broadband, GPRS, EDGE and WiFi 802.11 b/g/n with DLNA support – so sharing information on your home network will be easy. Bluetooth 2.1 and a v2.0 Micro USB connector complete the picture. There is plenty of memory available with 512 MB built-in, expandable up to 32 GB via Micro SD memory card - an 8 GB card is supplied. But what about battery life? The manufacturers quote a game playing time of up to 5 hours from a single charge; enough for most people. The Sony Ericsson Experia Play will be available in black, although Vodafone Spain has exclusive availability of a white model for the first 15 days from model launch set for 1st April 2011. So all of you fashion victims out there had better get your skates on. Soon after launch the Xperia Play will have close to 50 titles available for download from the Playstation Store, so there will be plenty of choice. The Inspector´s Verdict: Perhaps the Sony Ericsson Experia Play will spawn a new generation of outdoor game addicts – no

longer chained to a glowing LCD screen, with intravenous energy drinks and junk food, feverously devouring hordes of alien invaders with manic hand movements of their joy-sticks. Perhaps an Experia Play a day will help them talk, text and play! Or alternatively

annoy the hell out of anyone else within ear-shot: take your pick. The Sony Ericsson Experia Play will be available under contract and operator free (likely to cost in the region of 649€) with a one year manufacturer’s warranty.

health

25-31 2011 2010 15-21MARCH JANUARY

Are you fatter than you think? Doctors from Medcare, the Costa Blanca based British GP service, are highlighting important health research issued this week that suggests we have lost sight of what is a normal weight – with the result that millions of people around the world could unknowingly be at risk of developing serious health problems. According to experts at the 2nd International Congress on Abdominal Obesity the growing levels of obesity and the media’s constant fixation on extremes of weight have led us to readjust our idea of what is normal, leaving many people thinking they are a healthy weight when really they are carrying dangerous levels of fat. A statement issued by The International Chair on Cardiometabolic Risk (ICCR) at the congress warned that in the minds of society as a whole, including healthcare practitioners, the mental picture of an overweight or obese person has been reset inaccurately to a far heavier model. Because of this readjustment we are today accepting as normal levels of excess weight that in the past would have been classed overweight. This leads us to think there is no problem when in fact the levels of fat we are carrying could pose a serious health risk.

Said Dr Najma Hussain from Medcare, “We are all aware of the problems associated with extreme obesity but the congress highlights a very important point – that there are many people who are not so obviously overweight who could still be at risk of developing health problems. It is very important that with growing levels of obesity we do not lose sight of this and concentrate our efforts only on the extremes while others who could benefit greatly from preventative intervention miss out. “Individuals and doctors need to be aware that it is not only the most obese people who are at risk, and that people not viewed as excessively overweight by today’s standards could still have dangerous levels of excess visceral fat – fat stored in the abdomen and around the vital organs.” Excess visceral fat increases the risk of serious diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, stroke and heart disease. In a bid to help people understand more about what really is a healthy weight, and to achieve that weight and avoid serious health problems, Medcare is teaming up with Weight Watchers Spain to launch a new club at Medcare’s clinics. Medcare’s GP can give additional support with information and advice on nutrition and health. Medcare’s medical team also offers

important health checks to help people identify their risk and receive early diagnosis of diseases such as diabetes and other conditions that could be linked to weight,

diet and lifestyle. For anyone who has already developed diabetes, Medcare offers a specialist diabetes management service, including free diabetes club.

To find out more about how Medcare’s specialists can help you achieve a healthy weight and live a healthier life call Medcare on 96 686 0258 or email doctors@medcarespain.com

25-31 MARCH 2011

In spite of recession, Before optical chains on the Then After increase across Spain open in DESPITE THE on-going recession, optical chains in Spain have managed to buck the closing-down trend and actually increase their numbers. According to analysts, consumer demand for lower prices is driving this growth - large optical chains have the purchasing power to buy in bulk and subsequently offer customers lowerpriced glasses. Visión y Vida, a non-profit organization that campaigns for better optical health, has reported a 12.5% increase from 2006 to 2008 in the number of stores run by optical groups. This contrasts sharply with economic trends in general – in 2010 the National Institute of Statistics reported the second consecutive year (2008 and 2009) of decreasing numbers of active companies overall in Spain. Leading this positive optical trend is Costas-based Specsavers Opticas, which had a 95% increase in Spanish customers during 2010 followed by a record week of sales in February 2011 (with a 40% increase in like-for-like sales compared to the same week last year). Specsavers, the world’s largest privately-owned optical group, sold 12 million pairs of glasses in ten countries in

FY 2009/10. Encouraged by its Spanish growth, the chain is planning to expand this year, with new stores projected across the region, including in Benidorm, Marbella and Mallorca. Currently, there are four Specsavers Opticas stores in Spain, in Fuengirola, Calpe, Jávea and Torrevieja. “It is clear that our high-volume business model of quality eyewear at affordable prices is attractive to Spanish consumers today,” says Specsavers Opticas’ Business Development Manager José Ángel Moral-Tajadura. “We are now scouting for optical entrepreneurs to take up franchise partnerships as we gain retail ground across the coastal region.” He continued, “It may seem a strange time to expand, but the Specsavers formula has proven successful even in recessionary times. Specsavers increased its market share in the UK from 33% in 2007 to 39% in 2009 in the midst of recession. In Finland, Specsavers’ 2007 market entry was even credited with boosting the nation’s economy.” For more information, visit www.specsavers.es.

Javea Port

UNTIL NOW if you wanted to look ten years younger without having to spend a fortune you had to travel a long way, but not anymore. Before Then After, specialists in Dermal Fillers (Restylane & Juvederm) at incredibly affordable prices are now practising in Javea Port, beginning a schedule that will see them expand into North Alicante. Gail Wilkinson of Before Then After has performed treatment on more than 500 clients during an outstanding three year period in the Torrevieja area and is very excited at their expansion into the North. “We have had so many enquiries from Moraira, Javea, Jalon etc but until now we have not been able to find suitable locations. However, our first clinic is at the wonderful Halo Hair & Beauty Salon in Javea Port.” “More and more people want to improve the way they look for many different reasons; lip sculpture is very popular at the moment along with the filling of smoker’s lines that run upwards from the top lip. It’s exciting to be in a position to offer our treatments that start from only €150 and hopefully, to build on the success we have had in the South Alicante area.” All consultations with Gail are absolutely free of charge and there is never any obligation to go ahead with treatment. So why not give Before Then After a call on 647 782 646 or 966 196 798 and check out the website at www.beforethenafter.com

25 - 31JANUARY MARCH 2011 8-14 2010

Fallen angel There is so much unrest in our current World. Wars are raging, people are protesting and there is an epidemic of murder, terrorism, violence and general disorder throughout. People ask me why these appalling things are allowed by Spirit? To which my reply has to be that things would be even worse without their care, but they can’t be held responsible for all that happens on this Planet. Many ask me where the angels are that I talk about, and why they don’t intervene either and the answer is just the same. When the angels first began to work here on Earth a representative was called for to visit our Planet and to see just what was going on, with a view to reporting back to God just who and what we were, and what life was like. The angel chosen to make this journey to Earth was the most beautiful angel of all. He was the brightest illuminator of the Throne of God, and he was one who as a result of this was allowed to sit amongst the highest echelons of the highest triad of angels. He was handsome and kind, prime angel material in every way, and all set to be a reporter, researcher and representative for God on Earth. His name was Lucifer, and he soared in rank almost to the highest level of Archangel. Lucifer went to do his job and his duty, and was duly shocked by everything that life on Earth showed him. He saw degradation, lack of faith, fear, gluttony, deviation and distress. He saw pain and suffering and sexual promiscuity, jealousy, strife, war and murder. On his return to make his report no holds were barred in telling the truth of what we Earth dwellers were all about. As he told his shocking tale he told the absolute truth about his experiences on Earth and God rewarded him feeling that he had suffered in the name of progress. However, Lucifer asked if he could return to Earth to continue his work, and a reluctant God, who felt that he had suffered enough in his first visit, granted him a second, allbeit short, visit to Earth. Lucifer however had liked being empowered and he loved the badness he encountered in Earthly life. He enjoyed the pleasures of the flesh,

postbag Email your letters to me at: kennycorris@roundtownnews.com Kenny, my daddy is in heaven now and my mummy says that you can send him a message for me. I love you daddy. Michelle. T ( age 5) Thank you Michelle for your lovely drawing and your picture of Daddy with all the stars. I don’t think that your Daddy wanted to leave you, but he had to go. I have lit a candle for

and the cruelty and power abuse to the limit. He loved Earth and felt that he belonged there. During his second stay he decided to remain and not to return to his choir and so he jumped ship. God called him and then sent, “back up” to bring him home to Heaven and his rightful seat. Reluctantly Lucifer returned and brought with him the bad energies of Earth’s failings. He was thrown back to where he came from, and became known as the, “fallen angel.” On his journey back to Earth his wings were singed and his angel light was extinguished, by the time he returned to Earth he was blackened, and ugly, reflecting the sin of his grave errors. Terrifying, and outlawed by all he encountered, finally Lucifer had no option but to sink to the lowest level, and he became the partner of Beelzebub and was adopted by Satan in Hell, where he was cast to live eternally as a slave to the dark side. Quite a story! Earth has changed and gone forward thankfully in so many ways, but daily we are reminded of the bad things that still happen here, and so we go a step back. Where there is an abuse of power, greed, infliction of pain and suffering we are reminded that in some respects we should be further ahead than we are, and that Worldwide there are many who still have a lesson in life to learn. There is only one memorial to the Fallen Angel, Lucifer, in this World, and it may surprise you that it is in the Retiro Park in Madrid. The statue appears to be very oddly positioned amongst the splendour of monuments of Monarchs and Dictators and Statesmen, each depicting former glory, in a central European city park. The memorial is dark and forboding, depicting failure and the ugliness of the darker side of the World. When the sun shines and the bluest of skies reflects on the grey metal, and the serpent of sin writhes there around Lucifer’s feet; there appears no pride or sparkle, it is soulless and empty. People look up at it, and then look away. I wonder what they are thinking?

Love & Light... Kenny Corris

Kenny’s diary Saturday March 26th Readings at Joana Hairdressers, Calle Cuidad de Leval, Gandia. Call Lorraine on 654 092 691 for information and bookings. Sunday April 3rd Radio interview on Xtra F.M. from 10.00. Monday April 4th Readings at Bistro Maya Albir from 16.30. For information and bookings call Els on 966 868 213. HIGHER GUIDES WORKSHOP TO BE SCHEDULED FOR APRIL PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL FOR LISTING.

your Daddy and if you whisper your message then he will hear you when you call. I have sent your message with love and I know he is always going to be so close to you, always loving you and being proud of his brave and

contact kenny Appointments: 96 587 8424 Mobile: 686 361 594

beautiful daughter, in all that you do.

Web: www.kennycorris.net

The angels are looking after Daddy

Forum: www.kennycorris.net/forum

and they always will!

Email: kennycorris@hotmail.com Please contact me for inclusion in my healing list!

horoscopes by Kenny Corris Mars homes in to its favourite position just to bring some comfort and a suitable explanation for what has been going on just lately. You have reserved any judgment so far, but the facts may greatly change your next move. With the mighty power of a warring Mars you have back up for your claim, and have full and rightful permission to investigate just where things went so very badly wrong. With loving Venus and challenging Chiron both in the frame this week you get the clearance to start a creative task or project. Needing to get your teeth into something, this will allow you to show others just what you can do when you pull out all of the stops, and are left to your own devices to get the job done. Help is at hand too because you need to have someone there at your side. Outgoing and upfront, it suits you to take on that which you know you must to save the day. You are more than you think you are and taking over control you are connecting with your innermost powerbase. This is the motivation that you have waited for, and others will, in future, love to pay you for what you do best. Take heed of a warning, and put your love and energy into a satisfactory conclusion. Try as you may someone isn’t listening as they are not on your wavelength. Blame this static period in your relationship on a wayward and retrograde Mercury, and just take it easy. There will be temporary chaos in all types of communication, but especially with affairs of the heart, and loving relationships. All will be well, but the backward step of Mercury brings specific problems to a head. Aspects in your opposing sign bring you a dilemma. Both directions are highly possible, but you have to choose one shortly since hedging is so unattractive and shows you to be indecisive. With all the will in the World you cannot please everyone, and yet you can’t stop yourself from trying. Your dammed if you do and dammed if you don’t this week, so stall, do nothing just yet but wait. The Arian sun is currently shining on you and this has to be a great excuse for a fresh start, so long as you know that you are moving onwards and not running away. Sometimes it is wise to shed your skin, and to widen your experience and your motive. Eliminate any feelings that trap you emotionally and enjoy the freedom you deserve to have. Time will tell where this is taking you, and why? Saturn remains in Libra, testing balance and equilibrium whilst imparting some inner wisdom as Jupiter, Planet of Good Fortune looks on. There is complication right now and this may well be necessary since a smokescreen is in play. This is obviously for your benefit, and those who oppose you right now may find this out the hard way, though you are free to plan better your next step. Mars enters into Aries and you are on your hackles and expecting a backlash. Being on the defensive always shows you in a good light, since nobody works as hard as you do, and there is work to be done. Someone won’t toe the line and you’re here to tell them that under no circumstance whatsoever will you allow things to continue as they have been, and that means shaping up or shipping out! Financial pressures return and problems need a rapid solution and expertise to steer you through. A frivolent energy is set in motion by scheming Pluto and warring Mars. Now a proper analysis has to be done, and your money has to work for you, not you for it. Expert advice and a sincere revision compliments the belt tightening that will see you safely through this financial quagmire. Pluto can be a very dangerous playmate for you since you approach any conflicts with a devil may care attitude. This subsequently attracts the negative aspects of Pluto, the Lord of Darkness. What’s on call is an in-depth look at your motives, and a renewed sincerity in your positive actions and aspirations. Use your energies to better control your next steps and to consolidate that which you need right now. A tender, loving Venus and an inspiring Neptune are what is beating within your heart right now. There is a whole wonderful World out there, so go, get your piece of the action; you have waited a long time. With emotional freedom coming from within and your fearless attitude towards work and your abilities the future is rosy. Don’t let anything rain on this, your long deserved parade. Chiron brings timbre to your need for creativity and pastures new this week. Known to be an astrological catalyst, Chiron guides and directs with expertise and inner wisdom. You need to take all of this on board and match your inner wishes with your outermost skills, to achieve that Libran balance that you need to make progress and stay true to your spiritual and highly psychic identity.

If it’s your birthday this week... You have taken on so much, what is needed right now is a clearer way forward and a brief to consolidate your actions so that you can follow new directions and open doors for yourself.

- 31 MARCH2010 2011 8-1425JANUARY

Word Ladders The key rule is that you must only change one letter at a time as you move from one rung to another, and the word you make must be a proper word! Therefore you may move from BATH --> BATS but not from BATH --> CASH because that changes two letters in one go which is not allowed.

Cryptic Crossword

Sudoku Across 3. So dieting upsets one’s assimilation of food (9) 8. A double round to celebrate (4) 9. They may be punched by workers (4-5) 10. So rich a blend of voices (6) 11. Change seats and get something worth having (5) 14. Worthy of respect, though not entirely legal (5) 15. Witnessed a Pole cut in pieces! (4) 16. New easel to hire out (5) 18. Something from which danger may arise (4) 20. Tree for the sea-shore we hear (5) 21. Get involved in someone else’s business? (5) 24. How one should march on foot (6) 25. Ninety-ton order, yet

one of no account (9) 26. Reel back with some drinks (4) 27. It gives you time to play (9) Down 1. No notes? Call at the station! (3,6) 2. Distorted explanation of why a player was dropped? (3,2,4) 4. I take a bit of a risk for her (4) 5. Odds that aren’t odd! (5) 6. Finds broken crates (6) 7. Inequalities of chance (4) 9. Kind of spirit used in petrol lighters (5) 11. Knowing there’s a fight over a point (5) 12. Make moves to raise one’s standing? (4,5) 13. Almost in debt? Very well could be! (2,3,4) 17. It’s not easily carved by one in a confused state (5) 19. Temporary skylight? (6)

Across

27. Cheer (9) Down 1. Ease (9) 2. Conciliate (9) 4. Action (4) 5. Precise (5) 6. Tremble (6) 7. So (4) 9. Whiskers (5) 11. Speedy (5) 12. Translation (9) 13. Foster (9) 17. Covetousness (5) 19. Appear (6) 22. Keen (5) 23. Portent (4) 24. Genuine (4)

Wordwheel

Quick Crossword 3. Misfortune (9) 8. Sediment (4) 9. Conduct (9) 10. Eaten away (6) 11. Guide (5) 14. Fall into (5) 15. Curb (4) 16. Moribund (5) 18. Story (4) 20. Wireless (5) 21. Ant (5) 24. Dread (6) 25. Ignore (9) 26. Cosy (4)

You can play these wordwheels by whatever rules you like. But there is at least one nine letter word hidden in each wordwheel (and thus using every letter in the wordwheel). For many players the fun element and biggest challenge of the wordwheel is to find a nine letter word. Other than that, the rules are up to you - but generally you should restrict yourself to only finding words that contain the central letter, as otherwise you will find huge numbers of words in many puzzles!

Win a meal for 2!

Inn Plaice in Torrevieja (Mon-Thu) Nemos (Next to RTN offices in La Nucia)

by answering the Cryptic Crossword correctly. Answers by email to: office@roundtownnews.com | or Fax: 96 585 60 54

Euromillions Draw Friday 18th MARCH

13 20 26 50

No ticket won the 107,470,965 Euros (£94,101,577) jackpot prize

Answers & Winners Last week’s Crossword and Suduko answers found on page 51/54. Winner for 596 Ann Ashley, Benidorm

music scene

RIO - Melodic Rock Band Black Glitter –

IO CONSISTS of four of the most highly respected international musicians presently working in and around the Costa Blanca. Pam (vocals) and John Pearson (guitar) are currently Compiled by working as the popular duo ‘Chill Factor’ – together with Jack Hazebroek (drums) and Luc van Breda (bass) they are ‘Rio’, playing at the An Shebeen Irish Bar, Javea on Friday 18th March when Tommy Duffy (ex Lindisfarne) will be deputising for Luc van Breda. Featuring Pam’s warm soulful voice, John’s impressive guitar skills and supported by the tight rhythm section, ‘Rio’ plays a mix of melodic rock. For more details phone: 96 552 8671 or 696 731 290.

Eric Taylor

MARCH GIGS: Saturday 25th, Steinways Jazz & Blues Club Denia (RIO) Thursday 31st, Magic Bar (formerly The Lees) Orba (Chill Factor)

Sharni – vocal entertainer Monte Pego

SHARNI HAS over twenty years’ experience in the entertainment business with residencies in five star hotels in the Middle East and major holiday/leisure resorts in the UK. She has worked with many stars over the years as a warm up act and since arriving in Spain, Sharni has

been in great demand. She is ideal for cabaret, dancing or easy listening – singing hits from the 60s to the present day. For bookings and more info check out her new web site: www.thesharnishow.com GIGS FOR MARCH: Saturday 26th, Platino’s Lounge Bar, Arenal, Javea Monday 28th, Tower Lounge Bar, Benidorm GIGS FOR APRIL: Monday 4th, Tower Lounge Bar, Benidorm (Every Monday) Saturday 9th, Platino’s Lounge Bar, Arenal, Javea Saturday 23rd, Platino’s Lounge Bar, Arenal, Javea

Theatre Company - Mixed Doubles THE MONTE Pego Theatre Company is well into rehearsal for its Spring Production ‘Mixed Doubles’, performing on 31st March, 1st and 2nd April, at the theatre in Rafol d’Almunia. This enchanting entertainment on marriage is guaranteed to delight. We once again see Bruce Clench bringing his wonderful warmth and talent to a variety of very different roles and he will also have the ladies nodding knowingly at the antics of a typical MAN. Tickets at 12€ (group bookings available) including a charity donation and a free interval drink) can be booked by phoning 635 688 990 from the Ayuntamiento in Rafol, or on line at montepegotheatrecompany@gmail.com.

ET’s Golden Oldies Disco Tel: 965 748 199 or 659 921 875 or email: etinspain@hotmail.com If there are any music venues or acts that wish to be featured in this column,please contact Eric directly.

Parcent

April 6th Easter theme Charity Quiz for Eamus. Tickets from Paraiso or Heidi’s Flower Shop in Jalon. Thursday April 21st St Georges Day – James Hurst & The Good Old Music Hall Show Good Friday 22nd April Zodiac – (Book Early) Easter Sunday 24th April Lunch Please book early Tel 96 640 5398 For reservations

Rock/Soul Band GEOFF BRITTON has recently returned from playing in UK and is now part of a new and exciting band called “Black Glitter”. The line-up is Geoff Britton (drums), Kelly (vocals), Carlos (guitar) and Chema (bass). The band’s repertoire includes the great lady vocalists of rock and soul, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle etc. There is plenty to enjoy, quality musicians, classic songs and some great dance music. Come along to

the Don Quijote Bar, Paichi Centre, Moraira on Sunday March 27th, support live music and see a new and exciting band. For more information, phone: 647 946 306.

25-31 MARCH 2011

So what is the Vista Card?

Vista Costa Blanca are the fastest growing and leading internet site offering up to date information on restaurants, bars, entertainment and hotels. The Vista card is a discount card that will save you money and cost you nothing! Accepted at hundreds of outlets and resorts, you can benefit from all kinds of money saving deals from free wine with your meal, to ‘kids eat free’ deals or a straight money-off discount. What’s the catch? There’s no catch! Free information and a free discount card - it is all part of a bigger picture, the Vista Costa Blanca website – an online guide to all things fun in the Costa Blanca resort. Visit www.vistacostablanca.com to check out the areas bars, restaurants and club scene for inspiration of where to go. Read reviews, search by the cuisine you fancy or the area you’re in. It may be that you are looking to host your perfect party! So get online and click away to find the perfect venue and don’t forget to check out the Vista card offers to use your card time and again. Where can I get one? The Vista card comes free with the Roundtown Look Local handy pocket magazine this month – you can also pick one up at the municipal tourist offices and the Roundtown Travel shops in Benidorm. Where can I use it? You can use the card anywhere you see the Vista sign displayed, or go to www.vistabenidorm for a complete list of

offers and some inspiration! Typically, Vista card holders can enjoy the following great offers: · Hollywood opens in La Cala Friday 1st April, Vista Card holders get a Free drink on arrival and a voucher for the bar with 2 extra Free drinks. · Old Town Benidorm hosts many Tapas Bars, Vista Card holders visiting the area can choose from 3 new Tapas bars and get their first Tapa and drink Free at Patrizzi, El Rincon Navarro, La Taberna del Norte. · Camp Comedy at Rich Bitch 2 for 1 entry, Free Shot at Klee Kafee and now Molino 4€ discount on tickets. · India Gate can’t be missed on your list of restaurants, 50% off the menu on Tuesday nights or 10% on the whole bill any other day. · Our latest additions to the Vista Costa Blanca network are: The Grill House Benidorm, Coco Loco Albir, The Vincents Corner Pub Group, Queens Hotel Restaurant and show bar Old Town, The Drop Inn Rincon, to see the full list and search venues all over the Costa Blanca visit: www.vistacostablanca.com The list goes on and is growing; new bars and restaurants join in the action every day so keep looking at the Latest Offers page www.vistacostablanca.com. As we said – it costs you nothing! So pick up your FREE Vista discount card at one of our participating venues and Roundtown travel shops. Do you own a bar, restaurant or entertainment venue? Enjoy the benefits of being part of the Vista Costa Blanca & Vista Card product and promote your business in front of

Use your Vista card wherever you see the sign!

hundreds of new visitors each day. www.vistacostablanca.com is at the top of the search engines so when people are planning their holidays or simply deciding on where to go out, Vista Costa Blanca are usually number 1. Call Marco on 966 800 551 or visit Contact Us page on the website www.vistacostablanca.com The web site is also available in Spanish at www.vistacostablanca.es

25-31 MARCH 2011

El Corazon – heartfelt help for Japan THE WHOLE team at El Corazon Hotel were dismayed, as most people were, at the horrendous images broadcast across the world of the terrible aftermath of the earthquake and the following tsunami that hit the north east coast Japan on 11th March 2011. Edgar and the team decided that they wanted to support the relief effort by raising money with a Japanese evening on Friday 25th March. All profits will be donated to the Japan relief effort being organised by Jennifer Cunningham. The evening will begin at 7:30pm with fantastic live entertainment, teppanyaki, sushi, tempura and many other tasty Japanese delicacies. At 9pm there will be a fund raising auction so that diners can dig deep and contribute to a worthy cause. SOME OF THE MANY AUCTION ITEMS ARE: A painting kindly donated by the painter Willem Haenraets, whose paintings are displayed in the restaurant area at El Corazon. One month’s gym membership (including personal training with Frank). A Japanese Kiri facial cleanse, including a facial massage & hot towel treatment. In addition to this fantastic fundraising night there will be numerous donation boxes around El Corazon and anyone who plays mini golf in the next 3 weeks will be helping by donating their green fee to the relief fund. If you’d like to take part in the Japanese evening, the ‘all you can eat’ food is only 19.50€ per person. Or of course you can attend the auction and bid for your favourite item while raising money for a worthy cause. Devastation To find out more about the events at the hotel and how easy it is to caused by the become a VIP member just call 966 713 957or email earthquake info@hotelelcorazon.eu and tsunami

Lime

shake

2 Oranges 1 Lime 1 Banana 300ml Soya milk 150ml Soya yogurt 2 tablespoons of Wheatgerm Soak the Wheatgerm in the milk; using a citrus press, juice the oranges and limes. Add the juice to a blender and blend with the rest of the ingredients, not forgetting the Wheatgerm mix. Contains Vitamin C; Potassium; Zinc; Folic Acid; Calcium; Vitamin B Complex and Vitamin E.

These recipes are supplied by The Kamala Centre. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at The Kamala Centre on office@thekamalacentre.com or call us on 965 985 869. If you would like a copy of any of these recipes you can download them at our website www.thekamalacentre.com

Great for anyone recovering from infections, bacterial or viral illness likes coughs, colds or flu. Builds up the Zinc reserves from the banana that help with the absorption of vitamin C, which is the best boost for the immune system. A great juice for breakfast and will keep you full till lunch time.

25 2011 14- -3120MARCH may 2010

50 61

Your UK TV questions answered WELCOME BACK to RTN’s regular features about the world of British TV here on the Costa Blanca. If YOU have a question about British TV you’d like answered, please feel free to contact us! Thanks for all your emails and calls; we’re glad to be able to help!

Bill Pole

ConeXionS TV Solutions, professional sales, service, support & advice

Last month you wrote about BBC signals disappearing, which is EXACTLY what has happened to us. We used to get BBC1 & 2 Wales till around 11.30pm – midnight, but now the BBC signals go off MUCH earlier – from 9pm on. The strange thing is that when I checked the TV again just before going to bed last night at 11pm, the signals seemed to be fine again! This does not affect the version of ITV1 which you kindly programmed into my ‘Services, Other Channels’ on my digibox when you came over last, which now goes on all night. What can be done to get things back to normal? I have had literally HUNDREDS of calls and emails about the strange behavior of the BBC channels recently. When I attended a few properties to re-align big dishes, I found I was unable to improve viewing times, in some cases. After further research and talking with other satellite afficionados, it turns out that it may not be anything to do with me, after all. A combination of unfavourable atmospheric factors are causing already weak satellite signals to weaken even further! These include a very dense ionosphere at present. The ionosphere is made up of electrically charged ions, and when the ionosphere is especially dense, it can obstruct satellite signals much in the same way that a heavy rain cloud between your dish and the satellite can. In addition, on 19th March we experienced the

biggest full moon in nearly 60 years. This means that the moon is physically closer to the earth than it has been in most peoples’ living memory. The gravity effect of the moon being so close has caused satellite signals to be pulled off-target, meaning that signals we were already struggling to get with a big dish have been weakened even further! The answer? Sit tight for a bit, and wait it out. There is very little that ANYBODY can do to improve things at the moment, and it’s not worth paying a stranger to ‘have a go’ unless like me, they offer a ‘no fix, no fee’ guarantee. I have personally been turning jobs AWAY recently because I have found myself chasing my own tail... Within two to three weeks, signals should start to return slowly back to normal. Of course, in mid April we will have another problem beyond our control – the 11-year cycle of sun spots is due then, which also has a strong reputation for causing satellite reception issues…

I have an off-white PACE Sky digibox I bought in around 2004/5. It was fine until recently, but is now misbehaving. Every half hour or so we lose the picture suddenly, and get the sound on its own. After about 3 minutes the picture comes back on, but we’ve found we can get it back immediately by turning the digibox to standby (red) and then back on again (green). A friend suggested replacing the scart lead, but that hasn’t made any difference. Any suggestions?

Your friend was right to recommend swapping out the scart lead – it causes around 95% of all ‘no picture but sound’ or ‘no sound, but a picture’ problems. However you’re not the only one to write in to me with this problem this month. Another job I attended recently has the same issue. After swap-testing the scart leads and finding them to be fine, I swapped over the scart INPUTS on the TV, and separately, the scart OUTPUTS on the digibox; all to no avail. Testing the box overnight in a new location (new TV, new leads, etc) made absolutely no difference! It seems that the graphics chip inside the box is having problems, and is causing the picture to drop out. There is no easy answer here, except to get a new digibox. It sounds like you’ve had your box for 6-7 years, and it may now be time to consider upgrading to a new Sky+ or Sky+HD box. Please contact us for latest prices… Until next time!

Bill Pole owns and runs the successful business, ‘ConeXionS Digital Satellite Solutions’ (based in Javea). Originally established in 1988, it is one of the longest-running and best known satellite TV names on the northern Costa Blanca, surviving through success, customer loyalty and recommendation. Find out why clients rate them #1 for installation, service, after-sales and pricing! Phone (+34) 660 638 975 or visit www.conexions-javea.com for the latest news, info and special offers: legal & licensed, and the best value for MILES around!

tv Friday 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Heir Hunters 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News; Regional News 16:05 Deadly 60 16:35 Deadly 60 Bite Size 16:40 Deadly Art 17:00 Dani’s House 17:30 Tracy Beaker Returns 18:00 Newsround 18:15 The Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Rip Off Britain 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 QI 22:00 New Tricks 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Comic Relief 24:35 National Lottery Friday Night Draws 24:50 Scary Movie 3

07:00 Childrens TV 11:20 Pingu 11:25 64 Zoo Lane 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Meerkat Manor 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:30 Restoration Roadshow 16:00 Flog It! 16:45 Helicopter Heroes 17:30 Pointless 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Royal Upstairs Downstairs 20:00 Britain by Bike 20:30 An Island Parish 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 Gardeners’ World 22:00 This Is Britain 23:00 Frank Skinner’s Opinionated 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 The Review Show 24:50 ICC Cricket World Cup Highlights

25-31 MARCH 2011

07:20 The Hoobs 07:45 The Hoobs 08:10 Freshly Squeezed 08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 Frasier 09:35 Friends 10:10 Supernanny USA 11:00 Brothers & Sisters 11:55 Gok’s Fashion Fix 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 River Cottage Bites 13:15 Gunman’s Walk 15:05 Cookery School 16:10 Countdown 16:55 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:25 4thought.tv 20:30 Unreported World 21:00 Supersize vs Superskinny Kids 22:00 Embarrassing Bodies 23:00 Friday Night Dinner 23:35 Rude Tube 24:40 10 O’Clock Live

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Children’s Hospital 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Benidorm 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 The Cube 24:35 Take Me Out

07:00 Childrens TV 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:05 Cowboy Builders 13:00 Meals in Moments 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:20 House 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Vanessa Show 16:05 Animal Rescue Squad 16:20 Love Is a Four Letter Word 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Vets in Action 21:00 Ice Road Truckers 22:00 The Mentalist 23:00 Law & Order 23:55 CSI: Miami 24:55 Cops in Crisis

08:00 Lion Man 09:00 Top Design 10:00 Wedding SOS 11:00 Lie to Me 12:00 Customs UK 13:00 Oops TV 14:00 Body Language Secrets 15:00 Stargate SG-1 17:00 Oops TV 17:30 Futurama 18:00 The Simpsons 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Oops TV 19:30 The Simpsons 20:30 The Middle 21:00 The Simpsons 21:30 Modern Family 22:00 Raising Hope 22:30 A League of Their Own

08:30 Inside WTCC 09:00 Curling 11:30 Snooker 13:30 Cycling 14:30 Curling 17:00 Cycling 18:15 Euro 2012 Flash 18:30 Live Cycling 22:00 Timbersports Series 22:30 Timbersports Series 23:00 Curling 23:45 Extreme Sports: Freeride Spirit 24:15 Cycling

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 America’s Next Top Model 11:00 Four Weddings 12:00 Maury 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 15:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 19:00 America’s Next Top Model 20:00 Ghost Whisperer 21:00 Bones 22:00 Criminal Minds 23:00 CSI: Miami 24:00 Criminal Minds

CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS for 596 Across: 1 Mastiffs; 5 Quid; 9 Fowl; 10 Carousal; 11 Rigid; 12 Evident; 13 Tender-hearted; 18 Note-book; 19 Norm; 20 Inverse; 21 Coach; 22 Gash; 23 Asserted. Down: 2 Aconite; 3 Tallied; 4 Flame-throwers; 6 Unspent; 7 Diluted; 8 Godiva; 13 Tanning; 14 Natives; 15 Embark; 16 Rancour; 17 Earache. QUICK SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Splendid; 5 Adds; 9 Prop; 10 Assassin; 11 Funny; 12 Globule; 13 Objectionable; 18 Teutonic; 19 Sick; 20 Amnesia; 21 Cover; 22 Tell; 23 Strident. Down: 2 Perturb; 3 Expense; 4 Insignificant; 6 Disturb; 7 Sincere; 8 Baboon; 13 Outcast; 14 Journal; 15 Choose; 16 Abscond; 17 Lectern. WORDWHEEL 597: BACKTRACK

WE INSTALL THROUGHOUT THE COSTA BLANCA INCLUDING INLAND AND RURAL AREAS

DIGITAL SATELLITE SYSTEMS

UK Authorised Sky Agent

A GENUINE REGISTERED COMPANY, WITH GENUINE REGISTERED PREMISES INSTALLING DAILY IN: RECEPTION OF BBC & ITV ALCOY • CASTALLA TO RECEIVE BBC AND ITV ON THE COSTA BLANCA 24 HOURS A DAY YOU WILL REQUIRE VILLENA • ELDA • PINOSO NOVELDA • CREVILLENTE • ORIHUELA A 2.4, 1.9, 1.45 OR 1.4 METRE DISH DEPENDING ON THE SIGNAL STRENGTH IN YOUR FORTUNA • MURCIA AREA. WHY NOT RING US TO FIND OUT YOUR EXACT REQUIREMENTS OR CALL INTO SEGORBE • SAGUNT • LIRIA OUR FACTORY SHOWROOM FOR A LIVE DEMONSTRATION OF OUR COMPLETE RANGE CHIVA • REQUENA • PICCASENT BENIFAIO • ALCIRA • CULLERA OF SATELLITE SYSTEMS XATIVA

INSTALLING DAILY IN: GANDIA • DENIA • JAVEA BENITACHELL • MORAIRA CALPE • ALTEA • ALBIR ALFAZ • BENIDORM • VILLAJOYOSA CAMPELLO • ALICANTE • ELCHE SANTA POLA • GUARDAMAR TORREVIEJA • CARTAGENA LA MANGA

Sky C ards Available

Sky Television Satellite Systems

Sky freesat C ards Available SKY+ HD SATELLITE SYSTEMS

All the systems below are fully installed using the Professional range of Famaval Dishes & Invacom LNBS DISH / LNB ONLY INSTALLATIONS

SKY / FREESAT HD SATELLITE SYSTEMS

1.45m DISH SYSTEM – 595€ INCLUSIVE

1.45m DISH SYSTEM – 795€ INCLUSIVE

1.45m DISH SYSTEM – 895€ INCLUSIVE

1.9m DISH SYSTEM – 695€ INCLUSIVE

1.9m DISH SYSTEM – 895€ INCLUSIVE

1.9m DISH SYSTEM – 995€ INCLUSIVE

2.4m DISH SYSTEM – 995€ INCLUSIVE

2.4m DISH SYSTEM – 1195€ INCLUSIVE

2.4m DISH SYSTEM – 1295€ INCLUSIVE

Famaval professional portuguese dishes

Have you already had your fingers burnt by having a microwave or rebroadcasting system installed, well don’t get them burnt again by having the wrong satellite dish installed. There are several manufacturers of 2.4m, 1.9m & 1.45m dishes on the market throughout the costa blanca, two manufacturers from portugal, one from spain and one from turkey. Our company use the famaval professional portuguese dish manufacturer who are known throughout the industry as having much higher quality and a supreme higher gain, our 2.4m professional dish in particular has a unique future proof option of increasing the size of the dish to 3.1m by using extender panels, this dish is easily distinguishable by the 24 small holes around its perimeter for these panels to be fitted if need be in the future, we call this our professional 2.4m upgradable dish. We can also supply an economy 2.4m dish but these can only be used in strong signal areas, please note these dishes are not upgradable as they do not have the adaptability of the professional dish. We use the same professional manufacturer of our 1.9m dish which again has supreme higher gain and quality and performs perfect with weaker signals such as bbc, itv etc. We call this our professional 1.9m dish. Our economy 1.9m dishes again can only be installed in strong signal areas, please note that bbc, itv etc. Will go off at approx. 10pm on the economy dish in certain areas. We also offer due to the robust build on all our professional dishes a 5 year guarantee against warping or kinking in high winds. Unfortunately this guarantee is not offered with our economy range of dishes. Check our website for more details.

LOOK AT ALL THESE FREE HD CHANNELS YOU CAN NOW RECEIVE WITHOUT PAYING ANY SUBSCRIPTION BBC1 HD – ITV1 HD – CHANNEL 4 HD – CHANNEL 5 HD – BBC HD – LUXURY LIFE HD PLUS 45 ENTERTAINMENT CHANNELS, 11 LIFESTYLE CHANNELS, 10 MOVIE CHANNELS, 13 NEWS CHANNELS, 8 KIDS CHANNELS, 13 MUSIC CHANNELS, 30 SHOPPING CHANNELS, 16 RELIGION CHANNELS, 38 INTERNATIONAL CHANNELS, 25 ADULT CHANNELS, OVER 65 RADIO STATIONS AND ALL TOTALLY FREE WITH OUR NEW Sky/Freesat High Definition USB PVR Recording Satellite Digibox with unique card slot function for the use of a Sky subscription card or a Sky FTV card. So if you are already a Sky television subscriber and you commute back and forth to Spain, all you would have to do is take your Sky viewing card out of its original Sky digibox in the UK and put it into the card slot on the front of the Sky/Freesat HD digibox to view whatever Sky viewing package you subscribe to. UK Authorised Sky Agent

WHY NOT PAY US A VISIT?

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COMPLETE SYSTEM PRICES COMPRISING SATELLITE DISH AND LNB SKY/FREESAT HD DIGIBOX FREE SKY FTV CARD FULLY INSTALLED AND GUARANTEED 1.45m DISH SYSTEM – 795€ INCLUSIVE 1.9m DISH SYSTEM – 895€ INCLUSIVE 2.4m DISH SYSTEM – 1195€ INCLUSIVE

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tv Saturday

52 40

25-31 MARCH 2011 Feb 26 - March 4 2010

07:00 Don’t Forget the Lyrics 08:00 Lion Man 08:30 Zoo Vet at Large 09:00 Gladiators 10:00 WWE: Superstars 11:00 Soccer AM 13:00 Road Wars 14:00 A Town Called Eureka 15:00 WWE: Smackdown 17:00 Oops TV 18:00 Ignition 18:30 The Simpsons 19:00 Emergency Animal Rescue 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Futurama 21:30 Futurama 22:00 The Mummy Returns 24:30 Road Wars

06:00 Formula 1 08:30 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Secrets 13:00 BBC News; Regional News 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 Formula 1 15:15 Cycling 16:45 Boat Race 2011 18:50 BBC News; Regional News 19:10 All New Total Wipeout: The Final 20:10 So You Think You Can Dance 21:10 The National Lottery: Secret Fortune 22:00 Casualty 22:50 BBC News 23:10 Live at the Apollo 23:55 John Bishop’s Britain 24:25 The Armstrong & Miller Show 24:55 The Football League Show

07:00 Childrens TV 11:00 Trapped Ever After 11:25 OOglies 11:45 Copycats 12:15 My Life 12:45 MOTD Kickabout 13:00 Lifeline 13:10 Priceless Antiques Roadshow 13:15 Diagnosis Murder 14:00 Anatomy of a Murder 16:35 Churches: How to Read Them 17:05 The Spice Trail 18:05 Escape to the Country 19:05 Flog It! 19:35 Dad’s Army 20:05 Reputations 21:00 Story of Variety with Michael Grade 22:00 Goldie’s Band: By Royal Appointment 23:00 The Tudors 23:55 Nurse Jackie 24:25 Frank Skinner’s Opinionated

07:00 Mini CITV 08:25 CITV 10:25 Coronation Street 12:45 This Morning: Saturday 13:50 Monk 14:50 ITV News 15:05 You’ve Been Framed! 15:35 HouseSitter 17:30 Granada News 17:45 Bean 19:25 ITV News 19:40 You’ve Been Framed! 20:10 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 20:40 Ant & Dec’s Push the Button 22:00 Quantum of Solace 24:00 ITV News 24:15 Criminal

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 IAAF World Cross Country Championships 08:25 The Grid 08:55 The Morning Line 09:50 Friends 10:25 Real Stories 11:30 Glee 12:35 Great British Hairdresser 13:40 Big Bang Theory 14:10 Big Bang Theory 14:45 Channel 4 Racing 16:40 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 17:45 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 18:15 Dubai World Cup 19:00 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 19:30 Channel 4 News 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 River Cottage Every Day 21:00 Seven Ages of Britain 22:00 Peter Kay’s Britain’s Got the Pop Factor 24:00 Stand Up for the Week

07:00 childrens TV 09:30 Milkshake Monkey 09:35 Play! 09:45 Rupert Bear 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Mr Men Show 10:30 Gerald McBoing Boing 11:00 The Gadget Show 12:00 Ice Road Truckers 13:00 While You Were Sleeping 15:00 Dune 17:40 The Professionals 19:55 5 News Weekend 20:00 NCIS 20:55 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 21:50 CSI: Miami 22:50 CSI: NY 23:45 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 24:45 Forensic Files

07:00 Formula 1 10:00 The Andrew Marr Show 11:00 Big Questions 12:00 Country Tracks 13:00 The Politics Show 14:00 Formula 1 15:55 EastEnders 17:55 Songs of Praise 18:35 BBC News; Regional News 19:00 Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers 19:30 The Boat That Guy Built 20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Antiques Roadshow 22:00 Waking the Dead 23:00 BBC News; Regional News 23:25 Imagine: The Trouble with Tolstoy 24:30 The Flying Scotsman

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Sam & Mark’s Guide to Dodging Disaster 09:30 Gimme a Break 10:00 Dick & Dom Go Wild 10:30 My Life 11:00 Something for the Weekend 12:30 MasterChef 13:30 Escape to the Country 14:15 Two Rode Together 16:00 Cycling 18:15 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels 20:00 Top Gear 21:00 Japan Earthquake: A Horizon Special with Iain Stewart 22:00 Wonders of the Universe 23:00 The Grumpy Guide to Work 24:00 Infamous

07:00 Mini CITV

Reading

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 FIS Freestyle World Ski Championships 08:25 Crunchtime 08:55 Friends 09:20 Friends 09:45 Hollyoaks 12:15 Friends 12:50 Glee 13:50 The Simpsons 14:25 The Simpsons 14:55 Four in a Bed 15:25 Four in a Bed 15:55 Four in a Bed 16:25 Four in a Bed 17:00 Four in a Bed 17:30 Deal or No Deal 18:30 Time Team 19:30 Channel 4 News 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Come Dine with Me 21:00 Civilization: Is the West History? 22:00 Country House Rescue 23:00 Vera Drake

07:00 Childrens TV 09:30 Family! 09:35 Funky Valley 09:45 Rupert Bear 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Mr Men Show 10:30 Gerald McBoing Boing 11:00 Rock Symphonies: David Garrett in Concert 11:50 Starlight: For the Children 12:20 Zoo Days 12:50 Cowboy Builders 13:50 The Second Jungle Book: Mowgli and Baloo 15:30 The King and I 17:10 Oliver! 20:05 5 News Weekend 20:10 Joe Kidd 22:00 3:10 to Yuma 24:30 Young Guns

07:00 Hour of Power 08:00 Zoo Vet at Large 08:30 Zoo Vet at Large 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 Wayne Rooney’s Street Striker 11:00 WWE: Superstars 12:00 WWE: Experience 13:00 Road Wars 14:00 A Town Called Eureka 15:00 Emergency Animal Rescue 15:30 Emergency Animal Rescue 16:00 Futurama 16:30 Futurama 17:00 UK Border Force 18:00 The Simpsons 19:00 Live to Dance 20:00 The Middle 20:30 Modern Family 21:00 Raising Hope 21:30 The Simpsons 22:00 Hawaii Five-0 23:00 NCIS: Los Angeles 24:00 House

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 A Hundred Years of Us 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 32 Brinkburn Street 16:00 BBC News; Regional News 16:05 Deadly 60 16:35 Deadly 60 Bite Size 16:40 Deadly Art 17:00 Big Performance 17:30 Blue Peter 17:55 Shaun the Sheep 18:00 Newsround 18:15 The Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Bang Goes the Theory 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Panorama 22:00 Waking the Dead 23:00 BBC News

07:00 Childrens TV 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Meerkat Manor 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:30 Restoration Roadshow 16:00 Flog It! 16:45 Helicopter Heroes 17:30 Pointless 18:15 Escape to the Country 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Royal Upstairs Downstairs 20:00 Chilean Miners: What Happened Next 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Secrets 22:00 Neil Morrissey: Care Home Kid 23:00 Never Mind the Buzzcocks 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 The Brain: A Secret History

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 The Dales 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Law & Order: UK 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Real Crime 24:35 River Monsters

07:00 Treacle People 07:10 Max Bear 07:20 The Hoobs 08:10 Freshly Squeezed 08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 Frasier 09:40 Friends 10:10 Supernanny USA 11:00 Brothers & Sisters 11:55 Relocation, Relocation 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Jamie at Home 13:30 Rope 15:05 Cookery School 16:10 Countdown 16:55 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Fern 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Dispatches 22:00 One Born Every Minute 23:00 Heston’s Fairytale Feast 24:10 The Event

07:00 Childrens TV 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:05 Brighton Beach Patrol 13:05 Family Recipe 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:20 House 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Vanessa Show 16:05 Family Recipe 16:15 A Place Called Home 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 How Do They Do It? 21:00 The Gadget Show 22:00 You Don’t Mess with the Zohan 24:20 Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo

08:00 Zoo Vet at Large 09:00 Top Design 10:00 Wedding SOS 11:00 Lie to Me 12:00 Customs UK 13:00 Oops TV 14:00 Body Language Secrets 15:00 Stargate SG-1 16:00 Stargate SG-1 17:00 Oops TV 18:00 Futurama 19:00 Glenn Martin, DDS 19:30 The Simpsons 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Brit Cops: Frontline Crime UK 22:00 Ross Kemp: Battle for the Amazon 23:00 Spartacus: Gods of the Arena 24:15 A League of Their Own

tv Sunday

08:25 CITV 10:25 May the Best House Win 11:25 House Gift 12:30 This Morning: Sunday 13:30 Dinner Date 14:25 ITV News 14:30 Live International Football 17:05 Ad of the Year 18:05 Granada News 18:20 ITV News 18:35 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 19:05 Mr Bean’s Holiday 20:40 Dancing on Ice Final 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:15 Burn after

tv Monday

08:30 UEFA Women’s Champions League 09:30 Cycling 11:00 Live Curling 13:00 Cycling 14:30 Live Cycling 18:00 The Boat Race Live 19:00 Euro 2012 Flash 19:15 Curling 20:00 Fight Club 24:00 Cycling

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 Four Weddings 11:00 America’s Next Top Model 12:00 America’s Next Top Model 13:00 Biggest Loser 15:00 Nothing to Declare 15:30 Nothing to Declare 16:00 Nothing to Declare 16:30 Nothing to Declare 17:00 Addams Family Values 19:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 20:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 21:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 22:00 Criminal Minds 23:00 Criminal Minds 24:00 Criminal Minds

So You Think You Can Dance BBC1 20.10

08:30 Timbersports Series 09:30 Cycling 11:00 The Boat Race 11:30 Cycling 12:30 World Superbikes 13:00 Live World Superbikes 14:00 Live World Supersport Championship 15:15 Live Cycling 16:15 Live Cycling 18:00 World Superbikes 18:45 Curling 21:00 Live WTA Tennis 22:45 Motorsports Weekend 23:00 Cycling 24:00 Cycling

Mr Bean’s Holiday ITV1 19.05

08:30 Live Snooker 11:30 WTA Tennis 12:30 World Superbikes 13:30 Live Snooker 16:50 Euro 2012 Flash 17:00 Live WTA Tennis 20:45 World Superbikes 21:45 World Supersport Championship 22:30 Live WTA Tennis 24:15 WTA Tennis

Watch New Season TV for Free with the RTN Network 966 463 170

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 Four Weddings 11:00 Four Weddings 12:00 Four Weddings 13:00 Dating in the Dark 14:00 Dating in the Dark 15:00 Nothing to Declare 16:00 Passport Patrol 17:00 Dog Patrol 17:30 Dog Patrol 18:00 America’s Next Top Model 19:00 America’s Next Top Model 20:00 Four Weddings 21:00 Cougar Town 21:30 Hot in Cleveland 22:00 Katie 23:00 Jade Changed My Life 24:00 Grey’s Anatomy

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 America’s Next Top Model 11:00 Four Weddings 12:00 Maury 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 15:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 18:00 Charmed 19:00 America’s Next Top Model 20:00 Ghost Whisperer 21:00 Katie 22:00 Four Weddings 23:00 Stepkids in Love 24:00 Criminal Minds

tv Tuesday

25-31 MARCH 2011 Feb 26 - March 4 2010

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 A Hundred Years of Us 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 32 Brinkburn Street 16:00 BBC News; Regional News 16:05 Deadly 60 16:35 Deadly 60 Bite Size 16:40 Deadly Art 17:00 Dead Gorgeous 17:30 Blue Peter 17:55 Newsround 18:15 The Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Silk 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 See You in Court

07:00 Childrens TV 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Meerkat Manor 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:30 Restoration Roadshow 16:00 Flog It! 16:45 Helicopter Heroes 17:30 Pointless 18:15 Escape to the Country 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Royal Upstairs Downstairs 20:00 Wonders of the Universe 21:00 The Hairy Bikers: Mums Know Best 22:00 Bible’s Buried Secrets 23:00 Have I Got News for You 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 ICC Cricket World Cup Highlights

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Live International Football 23:10 ITV News 23:40 Granada News 23:45 International Football Highlights 24:45 Cops with Cameras

07:10 Max Bear 07:25 The Hoobs 08:15 Freshly Squeezed 08:45 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 Frasier 09:35 Friends 10:05 Supernanny USA 10:55 Brothers & Sisters 11:55 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 To Catch a Thief 15:05 Cookery School 16:10 Countdown 16:55 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Fern 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Supersize vs Superskinny 22:00 Katie: My Beautiful Friends 23:00 Lily Allen: From Riches to Rags 24:05 Pete Versus Life

07:00 Childrens TV 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:05 Brighton Beach Patrol 13:00 Meals in Moments 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:20 House 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Vanessa Show 16:05 Family Recipe 16:20 Nightscream 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Extraordinary Dogs 21:00 Tutankhamun: The Mystery Revealed 22:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 23:00 CSI: Miami 23:55 CSI: NY 24:55 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

08:00 Zoo Vet at Large 08:30 Zoo Vet at Large 09:00 Top Design 10:00 Wedding SOS 10:30 Wedding SOS 11:00 Mental 12:00 Customs UK 12:30 Customs UK 13:00 Oops TV 13:30 Oops TV 14:00 Body Language Secrets 15:00 Stargate SG-1 16:00 Stargate SG-1 17:00 Oops TV 17:30 Oops TV 18:00 Futurama 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Glenn Martin, DDS 19:30 The Simpsons 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Live to Dance 22:00 The Mummy Returns 24:30 Fringe

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 A Hundred Years of Us 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 32 Brinkburn Street 16:00 BBC News; Regional News 16:05 Deadly 60 16:35 Deadly 60 Bite Size 16:40 Deadly Art 17:00 Trade Your Way to the USA 17:30 MI High 18:00 Newsround 18:15 The Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Boat That Guy Built 21:00 Waterloo Road 22:00 MasterChef 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News

07:00 Childrens TV 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 See Hear 14:30 The Hairy Bakers 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:30 Restoration Roadshow 16:00 Flog It! 16:45 Helicopter Heroes 17:30 Pointless 18:15 Escape to the Country 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Royal Upstairs Downstairs 20:00 Coast 21:00 Great British Food Revival 22:00 Truth About Lions 23:00 Mock the Week - Again 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 ICC Cricket World Cup Highlights

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 The Unforgettable Diana Dors 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Bird on a Wire

07:30 The Hoobs 08:20 Freshly Squeezed 08:45 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:10 Frasier 09:40 Friends 10:10 Supernanny USA 11:00 Brothers & Sisters 11:55 Country House Rescue 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 River Cottage Bites 13:15 Thirty-Nine Steps 15:05 Cookery School 16:10 Countdown 16:55 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Fern 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Vacation, Vacation, Vacation 21:30 Superscrimpers: Waste Not Want Not 22:00 Jamie’s Dream School 23:00 The Model Agency 24:05 Lily Allen: From Riches to Rags

07:00 Childrens TV 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:05 Brighton Beach Patrol 13:00 Meals in Moments 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:20 House 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Vanessa Show 16:05 Rough Guide to... 16:20 Prairie Fever 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Starlight: For the Children 21:00 Emergency Bikers 22:00 NCIS 23:00 Law & Order: Criminal Intent 24:00 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 24:55 Poker

08:00 Zoo Vet at Large 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 Wedding SOS 11:00 Mental 12:00 Customs UK 13:00 Oops TV 14:00 Body Language Secrets 15:00 Stargate SG-1 16:00 Stargate SG-1 17:00 Oops TV 18:00 Futurama 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Glenn Martin, DDS 19:30 The Simpsons 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Louie Spence’s Showbusiness 22:30 The Simpsons 23:00 Fringe 24:00 Spartacus: Gods of the Arena

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 A Hundred Years of Us 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 32 Brinkburn Street 16:00 BBC News; Regional News 16:05 Deadly 60 16:35 Deadly 60 Bite Size 16:40 Deadly Art 16:55 Shaun the Sheep 17:00 Prank Patrol 17:30 Animals at Work 18:00 Newsround 18:15 The Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 DIY SOS 22:00 Crimewatch 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News

07:00 Childrens TV 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Meerkat Manor 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:30 Restoration Roadshow 16:00 Flog It! 16:45 Helicopter Heroes 17:30 Pointless 18:15 Escape to the Country 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Royal Upstairs Downstairs 20:00 David Attenborough’s First Life 21:00 Great British Food Revival 22:00 Neil Morrissey: Care Home Kid 23:00 Rhod Gilbert’s Work Experience 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 The Joy of Stats

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Monroe 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Benidorm 24:35 Party People

07:15 Treacle People 07:25 Max Bear 07:40 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 Frasier 09:35 Friends 10:05 Supernanny USA 10:55 Brothers & Sisters 11:55 Restoration Man 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 River Cottage Bites 13:15 The Lady Vanishes 15:05 Cookery School 16:10 Countdown 16:55 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Fern 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Three in a Bed 22:00 Love Thy Neighbour 23:00 10 O’Clock Live 24:05 Friday Night Dinner 24:35 The Ricky Gervais Show

07:00 Childrens TV 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:05 Brighton Beach Patrol 13:05 Family Recipe 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:20 House 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Vanessa Show 16:00 Meals in Moments 16:15 Relative Stranger 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 How Do They Do It? 21:00 The Blasters 22:00 Exit Wounds 24:10 CCTV Cities

tv Wednesday

tv Thursday

08:30 Live Snooker 11:30 WTA Tennis 13:00 Snooker 13:30 Live Snooker 16:45 WTA Tennis 17:45 Euro 2012 Flash 18:00 WTA Tennis 19:00 Live WTA Tennis 20:45 Snooker 22:45 Extreme Sports: Freeride Spirit 23:00 WTA Tennis 24:00 World Superbikes

53 53

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 America’s Next Top Model 11:00 Four Weddings 12:00 Maury 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 15:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 19:00 America’s Next Top Model 20:00 Ghost Whisperer 21:00 Cougar Town 21:30 Hot in Cleveland 22:00 Katie 23:00 Bridalplasty 24:00 Criminal Minds

The Mummy Returns

Sky1 22.00

08:30 Extreme Sports: Freeride Spirit 08:45 Live Snooker 11:30 WTA Tennis 13:00 Snooker 13:30 Live Snooker 16:45 Snooker 17:45 WTA Tennis 18:45 Euro 2012 Flash 19:00 Live WTA Tennis 20:50 Wednesday Selection 20:55 Show Jumping 21:55 Riders Club 22:00 PGA Tour Golf 23:00 European Tour Golf 23:30 Golf Club 23:35 Yacht Club 23:45 Sport Destination 24:00 Snooker

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 America’s Next Top Model 11:00 Four Weddings 12:00 Maury 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 15:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 18:00 Charmed 19:00 America’s Next Top Model 20:00 Ghost Whisperer 21:00 Four Weddings 22:00 Bones 23:00 Grey’s Anatomy 24:00 Criminal Minds

08:30 Live Snooker

07:00 Nothing to Declare 08:00 Jerry Springer Show 09:00 Maury 10:00 America’s Next Top Model 11:00 Four Weddings 12:00 Maury 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 15:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 18:00 Charmed 19:00 America’s Next Top Model 20:00 Ghost Whisperer 21:00 Chuck 22:00 Hairy Women 23:00 Katie 24:00 Criminal Minds

Midsomer Murders ITV1 21.00

08:00 Zoo Vet at Large 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 Wedding SOS 11:00 Mental 12:00 UK Border Force 13:00 Oops TV 14:00 Body Language Secrets 15:00 Stargate SG-1 16:00 Stargate SG-1 17:00 Oops TV 17:30 Oops TV 18:00 Futurama 19:00 Glenn Martin, DDS 19:30 The Simpsons 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Hawaii Five-0 22:00 Martina Cole’s The Runaway 23:00 House 24:00 NCIS: Los Angeles

11:30 WTA Tennis 13:00 Snooker 13:30 Live Snooker 16:45 WTA Tennis 19:00 Live WTA Tennis 20:45 Fight Club 23:00 WTA Tennis 24:30 Snooker

Watch New Season TV for Free with the RTN Network 966 463 170

25-31 2011 Feb 26MARCH - March 4 2010

54 44

TV chat is not dead

The TV Round Up by

Alex Trelinski

Broadcaster and freelance journalist

aul O’Grady said last week that serious tv chat shows died with Michael Parkinson, who last time I checked was still very much alive and kicking!! Despite mediocre ratings, the genial Scouser will have another run of his primetime show later this year for ITV1, but I just don’t agree with him. Piers Morgan has proved you can do a probing yet populist interview with his ‘Life Stories’ , and there are some hidden gems knocking around at the moment in obscure places. This week I watched Mark Lawson have an hour long

fascinating conversation with David Mitchell, in his occasional series for BBC4 which always treats the viewer with intelligence. And over on Sky Arts, the wonderful Shelia Hancock bared all over her alcoholic husbands, to Laurie Taylor at the start of a new run of his ‘In Confidence’ series, which last year had a brilliant session with Lily Allen. Both shows have no studio audience, and frankly are better for it as an intimate atmosphere is created, clearly proving the art of tv chat is still very much alive, albeit in a different form.

I’m a movie fan who has never seen ‘Gone with the Wind’, and with the small screen, I never watched ‘The Sopranos’ when it popped up on Channel 4 eleven years ago. Many say it is one of the best dramas ever made, and so I’ve been lucky to check it out for myself from the very start on the Sky Atlantic channel as of a couple of months ago. For once the critics were correct as I have been riveted by the quality of it all, which would have been trail-blazing when it first appeared in 1999. It still packs one hell of a punch…..literally! I’ve also been watching the first series of ‘Battlestar Galactica’, which I missed first-time round on the same channel. I can fully understand why so many sci-fi fans raved about it and it’s great to watch a show like that without stupid cardboard monsters and clichéd plots. Thank heavens for repeats and digital recording I say!

Book Review by

Danny Collins

copy@dannyjpcollins.com

What a fantastic effort it was last Friday for Comic Relief to raise £74 million. A record figure and some £17million more compared to the last event two years ago. I’m sure there were some ironic sniggers from BBC executives over the presentation pairing of Jonathan Ross and Claudia Winkleman. Winkleman has made a pig’s ear of taking over from Ross on ‘Film 2011’, and I kept looking out for the occasional whisper into her left ear from Ross over how he did it so much better. By the way, shall we have a collection for a razor to get rid of Jonathan’s dreadful facial hair which is akin to the boss of a Venezuelan drug cartel?

Bev Callard will be badly missed when she leaves ‘Coronation Street’ for good in a few weeks time. It’s been great to see her back as Liz trying to work out the full extent of the mess that Steve and Becky have created after her long stay in Spain. It’s been a week of returns with Leanne and Peter home from honeymoon, Liz’s ex-hubbie Jim back, and dustman Trev ready to whisk away Janice

A Star Called Henry RODDY DOYLE was born in Dublin in 1958 and is a legend among writers of his genre. In 1993, his third novel of historical and contemporary Dublin life, Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha, won the Booker prize. A Star Called Henry breaks new ground in moving on from the devil-may-care attitudes of an Irish gallant to the fictional autobiography of beggar, rebel, and Fenian assassin Henry Smart, son of a one-legged whorehouse bouncer and settler of scores. By the time he can walk, young Henry is out begging and robbing, often cold and always hungry. At 14, already six foot two, he’s at the General Post Office on Easter Monday 1916 as a soldier in the Irish Citizen Army. A year later, ready to die for Ireland again, he has become a Republican legend, working for Michael Collins as an assassin on a stolen bicycle. Many British readers shy away from tales of Ireland’s struggle against English rule at the start of the last century and are poorer for it. This is an historical novel like none before it and marks a new chapter in Roddy Doyle’s writing. It is indeed a subversive look behind the legends of Irish

Suduko Answer

republicanism but it holds at its centre a passionate love story. It is a beautifully written and triumphant work of fiction, and I loved it. I thoroughly recommend it to readers of this column whatever their political bent. Author: Roddy Doyle Publisher: Jonathan Cape (hardback) Price: 27.20€ ISBN: 0 224 06019 8

Battersby from Weatherfield for a camper van tour of Europe. Who says that romance is dead? Plus the original ‘Loony Tunes’, John Stape, is back from his hospital guilttrip stay, ready I’m sure for the corpses to start piling up again! It’s certainly all a bit different from the hairnet days of Ena Sharples! But am I the only to find the arrangedmarriage plot involving Graham to be a real yawn?

motoring

DEAR MR Deller, I have been told at our local “watering hole” that it is dangerous to use cruise control when it is raining as it could cause the car to aquaplane. Is this true? Roger Blake, Roquetas del Mar.

Brian Deller

Author of Motoring in Spain

MAY I first explain ‘aquaplaning’ for those unfamiliar with the term: This is when the road is sufficiently wet with a depth of water (even ½-inch (12 mm) is sufficient) so that over a certain speed, usually about 70-80kph, the tread on the tyres cannot dispose of the standing water on the roads. So the tyres will ride on the water like a surf-board. When this happens, the tyres build up a ‘wedge’ of water and the car is no longer under the control of the driver as the treads are not in contact with the tarmac. Firm braking does not help much as all that happens is the wheels lock up and the car continues on its water cushion, and drivers who have suffered this have commented that during braking the car seemed to speed up. This probably did not happen but would be the sensation the driver felt because the brakes were expected to slow the car but did not.

RAF training shows films on aircraft aquaplaning while landing on very wet runways. This is where ABS anti-lock braking systems were first developed. When a wheel is about to lock up due to the brakes being on hard, the braking system automatically releases that particular brake for a fraction of a second, allowing it to brake again when it is turning. This action can be felt on the foot pedal and happens several times a second. Now just about every new car has this system. As far as using the cruise control in pouring rain, I would agree that it should not be used. Again for those who need to know, a cruise control is a system where the driver can fix the speed of the vehicle and the system will automatically increase acceleration when a hill or incline is reached and backs it off down a hill, thus maintaining a constant speed. It is restful on the autovias as you do not have to keep your foot on the ‘go-pedal’. It automatically switches off when the brake is applied. Use on wet roads is okay if they are empty and not very wet. But each decision should depend on the conditions and this includes the state of the tyres as well.

25-31 MARCH 2011

I hope that satisfies your question Roger and thanks again for writing. Expat’s foreign registered vehicles - again! There has been a reaction to my advice that only Spanish Insurance companies can insure Spanish vehicles in Spain, not e.g. UK plated vehicles. This is an EU Regulation for good reasons previously given. However, now we have recently available insurance information from the relevant (policing) authorities in Spain for Spanish cars. You can rest assured that the major insurance companies such as Liberty Seguros have added all expats details on the UK motor insurers database so you will not be stopped and ‘arrested’ as you drive back in the UK with your UK-plated car insured with a Spanish insurance company such as Liberty Seguros and Ibex, two i have just been in contact with for their assurances. Both advise that this is standard procedure for their expat clients and i stress again, just about all such UK vehicles are insured through, e.g. a company that is registered with Lloyds of London underwriters as in the EU law.

There is much more detailed information on all motoring subjects in my book. Brian Juan (John) Deller, Malaga, author, ‘Motoring in Spain’ www.spainvia.com. Tel: 666 888 870 Brian Deller, author, book Motoring in Spain, ISBN No 978 84 611 9278 6. Shops’ addresses in my web site at: www.spainvia.com/bookshopslist.htm

25-31 MARCH 2011

Classified Ads 25-31 MARCH 2011

All Major Credit Cards Accepted - 0.31e per word + IVA

Book your advert now 902 118 999 (ext 2)

EMAIL: classifieds@roundtownnews.com | WEBSITE: www.roundtownnews.co.uk | Fax: 96 585 60 54 | Or see our list of classified agents in this section

UK-SPAIN-IRELAND All European Destinations

Removals with the personal touch. Full/part loads. Parcels, flat packs, luggage, door to door service, Storage available, pets transported

Phone 965 696 750 • 0044 (0) 1460 74191 email: chrisyounge73979@aol.com

PRISTINE POOLS

• Professional pool maintenance & cleaning • Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems Ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed • Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired • Structural leaks investigated and repaired • Refurbishments & upgrades undertaken British Trained with over 15 years experience. Extensive references. All work guaranteed Tel: 96 677 4199 or 678 080 500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com Torrevieja and surrounding areas plus Costa Calida

25-31 MARCH 2011

FORMER WORLD KICKBOXING CHAMPION lessons in kickboxing/martial arts. one on one, get fit, blackbelt programs. 659-696-455

SERVICE AIR David Higton: (Tel) 966-865-883 (Mob) 629308-505 (Email) cool@serviceair.biz

ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS 50kms radius Calpe. Ray Bowers 626576706

BYTEBACK MICROS computer repairs/upgrades in your home. Qualified technician. Systems custom

SAILING BOAT ARAEZ 22FT moored MarMenor. Good condition. Marina 8 engine. Spinnaker, Depth Finder etc. Offers around 6500€. Tel 968582-358/618-489-904/ UK+44-7895-055-198

built. Whatever your problem call: 965-312-006 or 606-127-424 PC SOLUTIONS 4U For all your computer needs. Reliable & Friendly service. Alicante North area. Call Fred:-634-638-664

PAWS PET TRANSPORT Spain-UK-Spain every month. We look after your pets as if they belong to us. Call Joe for a chat on 966-074-576 or 650-341-087. email:pawspettransport@hotmail. com

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - COSTA BLANCA Confidential Helplines South - 625-912-078 North 648-169-045 www.aa-costablanca.org

10 COLD DRINK/SNACK VENDING MACHINES with sites,€39,900.excellent cash income, no overhead, work from home, work only one day per week, €31,000 nett yearly. 25 pringle vending machines with sites €14,900.€250 per week guaranteed.965-326442/659-696-455 SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Long established company, own product range. First class training & support. Telephone 606586587

AVONDALE LEDA (UK) twin axle, Approx. 22 feet.5 Berth caravan. Good condition many extras including 5m awning. 4250Euro 966-491-354 Moraira MOBILE HOME 2 bed Aitana Mobile Home 5yrs, unfurn. sited but can be moved 6500€ ono. Tlf-660-061-684 CAMPING LOS GALLARDOS Come to Mojacar! Large campsite + mobile home park open all year, great expat community site, all welcome. 950-528-324. www. CampingLosGallardos.com MOBILE/PARK HOMES FROM 17,000€ Fully furnished ready to move into, A/c, tel, Eng TV, on permanent site, bar/res, pool, tennis, gym, shop.Walking distance to San Javier. 5mins to beach, Airport, hospital by car. (also bungalows for rent & caravans plots short term or permanent stays.) Carol 968-192-425 mob. 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com

FULLY QUALIFIED UK ELECTRICIAN with 10 years experience on the CostaBlanca. All jobs undertaken-extra sockets, rewires, fault finding. Tlf:Hugh-690-275-223

PENSION TRACKERS Looking for rewarding enjoyable work, then join our fast growing lively telemarketing booking team. If you are hardworking, enthusiastic and well organised then this is for you. Experience preferred but not essential as full training is given. Contract available after completion of training and trial period. Call:-966-864-598 AVON NEED AGENTS AND LEADERS work hours to suit you. For info Phone Rosh 966-785-520 HYGIENIST IS REQUIRED for a dental practice in Benidorm. The person must speak Spanish and English. Please send curriculum in Spanish to flor@id-mediterraneo.com GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY For a good Cook and Average Handyman. Small apartment in La Manga, in a chalet situated in the front line of Mar Menor, to let in exchange for light services. For full details Tlf Ernesto:-968-564-022 FEMALES AND COUPLES 18 to 65 required for adult internet photo and video modeling. Excellent rates. 697-697-842.

THE BRITISH EMBASSY IN MADRID IS LOOKING FOR A SECURITY MANAGER

Are you an experienced security professional with a strong track record, a flexible approach, knowledge of Spanish and the wish to join an organisation with a highly respected worldwide reputation? If so, the British Embassy network in Spain is looking for a Post Security Manager, who will lead on day to day security matters throughout the extensive British Embassy network, based at the Embassy in Madrid and with eight offices around Spain. You will work closely with all other Embassy teams, the Post Security Officer, a Regional Overseas Security Manager and the Security Department of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in London as well as Spanish security suppliers. Requirements Essential • British National • Demonstrable operational security experience, preferably in a security management role. • Proven customer focus-with the emphasis on delivery of outcomes. • Excellent communication skills, with fluent oral and written English and working knowledge of Spanish. • IT literate (Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Internet). • Ability to work both under minimal supervision and as part of a team • Ability to multitask and work under pressure to tight deadlines • Capacity to deal patiently and effectively in a wide range of situations • Inter-personal, organisational and line management skills • Driving licence (UK or EU) Desirable • Current UK Government DV clearance • Experience of crisis management • Knowledge of UK Health and Safety policies Main Duties • Day to day management of the security of the Embassy and the Ambassador’s Residence (which will include liaison with emergency organisations, police, security authorities, fire brigade, building owners and other embassies); • Management of Spain wide security guarding contract by ensuring that the performance standards of the contract are maintained; • Preparation and issue of the Embassy emergency procedures, and the frequent rehearsal of emergency drills as Incident Control Officer; • Management and maintenance of all security equipment; • Management of the Alarm, CCTV and access control systems (for which in house training will be provided); • Management of the Security budget (€500k); • Provision of Security Briefings to staff; • Provision of security advice for Consular and UKTI network in Spain and all Embassy events; • Security clearance for all new staff to the appropriate level; • Review and revise security policies; • Management of the Transport and Support Office team; • Contribute to Embassy Health & Safety responsibilities; • Contribute to the Embassy Emergency response and business continuity plans; If you have any questions about this role please contact Sarah Young on

+35 121 392 4111 or 00 34 917 146 300.

Working hours: 37.5 hours (net) per week starting daily at 0730 hrs. Salary: 40.109 Gross Euros/year. Applications: please send a detailed CV and completed application form by e-mail to rrhh@fco.gov.uk to arrive no later than 23 March 2011. Short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview on 4 April 2011 in Madrid. Those applicants who have not been contacted by 28 March 2011 should assume their applications have been unsuccessful. For further information on the work at the British Embassy please see www.ukinspain.fco.gov.uk

25-31 MARCH 2011 and 3 metal flight cases tel:617-046-946 APPLE 1-POD classic black. 160GB, as new 130€ docking station for Ipod. Black 30€. 630-259-355 STERLING ELITE MOBILITY SCOOTER with reverse facility, indicators, lights, horn and charger. 950€ + household goods.Tel:-610-322-653-Denia ANTIQUE PINE EXTENDING DINING TABLE 70€ Oil filled electric fire 30€, Double bed and head board 50€, Light wood 3/4 size wardrobe 30€, Chest of Drawers 30€, Sofabed 20€. Catral Area. Tlf:-965976-756 AUTOMATIC GATE SYSTEMS €399!! Automatic Garage Doors €249!! Fully Installed/Guaranteed! All brands repaired 627-191-639/ www.elektro-nex.com SOLAR PANEL´S (THERMAL) NEW 194x94x10 CM Copper/Selective coated. 250€ each TLf:-677-260-473 SOLID PINE DINING SUITE. Large 250cm x 100cm table, 6 hand Carved chairs and two matching Carvers.All in perfect condition.650euros or sensible offers.Can deliver.965-771592609-370-594(Javea) HAIRDRESSING EQUIPMENT 1 backwash unit, Hood Dryer on Stand, Climazon Dryer Nearly New 1000€. Genuine Interest Only Tlf:-620-408-678 WHEELCHAIR Light, Foldable, Hardly used. 150€. Mobility Scooter 40km range 499€. Both like new! Tlf:627-019-403 2 X MATCHING SOFA TABLES Circular, Diameter 60cm, Height 55cm, 3 legged pedestal base, Light oak finish. VCG. Altea area, Buyer collects. 50€ the pair. 691-202-307

TEETH WHITENING. Professional Pain Free Cosmetic Treatment, from 99€. Javea, Denia, Calpe, areas. Tel:-680-501-404 www.nulookteeth.com SLIMMING WORLD Everything you need to lose weight with the new extra easy plan. Just 10e email. Nd321@live.co.uk for infornation. WEIGHT LOSS GUARANTEED/GET FIT world class personal trainer €50 per hour.659-696-455. PRESTIGE NURSING offers Legal, Registered and Professional Home Care on the Costa Blanca. All your home nursing care service needs can be undertaken by our highly trained nursing/ domiciliary team. Call Prestige Nursing on 687-015-517

S.O.S. INSURANCE CarHome-Health-Comercial. Funeral Plans and Insurance. Tlf:-966-787-123/622275-561/686-116-297

3 SWISS CABLE DIGI BOXES. Technisat MF4-k. 40 euros each (New 110 euros each.) Tlf:-965-770-594 Javea PIONEER AMP WITH EKO AND KEY CHANGE 2 Peavy speakers and stands plus mixer 390€ plus karaoke items

AT MICHAEL’S Very high quality Chesterfield leather 4-piece suite, large 3-seater + 2-seater + armchair + foot stool. Visit our Port shop or see photos: www.michaelsjavea.com Tel 96-579 1328 AT MICHAEL’S weekly deliveries to JALON area, MORAIRA and DENIA. Stock changes daily! Designer furniture half price! New beds - quick delivery. www.michaelsjavea.com AT MICHAEL’S you also get NEW high quality Spanish beds. All sizes available as we deal directly with the manufacturers! Famous brands like United Colors of Benetton, etc www.michaelsjavea.com AT MICHAEL’S you can get part exchange on certain beds when you buy a New bed from our New Bed shop in the Arenal. See photos (updates every 5-6 days): www. michaels-javea.com MICHAEL’S 28 YEARS IN JAVEA ENSURES YOUR SATISFACTION! We sell high quality pre owned furniture, many from show apartments etc. Look at: www.michaelsjavea.com Tel 96-579-1328

WANTED INSTANT CASH PAID Antique and modern jewellery, vintage watches bought sold part exchanged, insurance valuations. Jewellery & watch repairs. Alexanders, Javea Port seafron near Bar Esquina. Established since 2003. Tel:965-792-595

BALLROOM/LATIN/ SEQUENCE DANCING with LA BAMBA’s.Los Arcos Restaurant, Avenida Baleares,Torrevieja, New Beginners class Monday 10.30am-12.30pm. SOCIAL DANCE Saturday 7.30pm10pm.Tuesday Improvers Lesson 7.30pm-8.30pm plus SOCIAL DANCE 8.30pm10.30pm. New Venue: The Wok Royal, Benijofer (966714-820) New Beginners Class: Monday, 7.30pm8.30pm, Argentine Tango Class 8.30pm-9pm plus SOCIAL DANCE: 8.30pm10.30pm Tel: Andrea and Brian 616-478-157 WEIGHT WATCHERS Call our Free English call centre now to find your nearest meeting. 900-818-794

INDUSTRIAL CATERING EQUIPMENT dish washer 800euro,bottle fridge 285euro,6 ring gas hob(no oven)900euro,glass top chest freezers 275euro,upright stainless freezer 900euro,2 door glass fronted fridge 800euro,double electric frier 350euro,90cm electric plancha 650euro.tele 693-004-845 QROPS FEES! Have you looked at transferring or cashing in your UK pension only to be dissappointed by expensive fees? If so call me. Lowest QROPS Fees Guaranteed! Paul 965-058-488 or 691-219-354 BEV´S CAKES For all occasions, made to your

specification. Alfaz/Benidorm areas. Call for more info 670-533-488 KARAOKE MEDIA PLAYER “Brand New” 500GB. 70,000songs, software, songbooks, bar/home use. 275euros Tlf:-657-766-341 POOL, SNOOKER TABLES Also Table Tennis and Darts. Will beat any price!. Tlf:-666-933-726. www.spainpool.com

HONDA BROSS 650CC LIGHTWEIGHT Water cooled v-twin (75mpg) superb condition ITV & TAX 32K just serviced including new battery & plugs, Spanish reg 1000euros ovno 651-186-765 SCOOTER.KYMCO BET & WIN 125CC Matching 45ltr top box, immaculate condition, as new €1300. 965-770-301

OPEL ASTRA ESTATE 1.7 CDTI, Late 2007, very low kilometers, fully serviced, top spec with ALL extras, looks and drives as new, only 7950euro may part exchange. tel 680 665 583 or exchange for motorhome cash either way CITROEN C5 ESTATE 2.0 HDI year 2002, UK Car fully loaded, just serviced, Tax and Mot until November 2011, excellant condition, Perfect for returning to UK as has large boot, 2950 euro will part exchange for Spanish car/van. cash either way. tel:680-665-583 FORD FOCUS ESTATE, 2006, 1.6 ltr auto, petrol, Spanish LHD, pale blue, FSH, one owner,27000 kms CD player, air conditioning, electric windows, multifunctional steering wheel and remote central locking. Excellent condition throughout. 7995€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 FORD FOCUS ESTATE, TREND, 2005 1.6 TDCi diesel, Spanish LHD, graphite, CD player, electric windows, air con, FSH 6995€ www. venuscars.com 965 368 274 FORD KA, 1997, 1.3 LTR Petrol, Spanish LHD, blue, electric windows,central locking, air conditioning, only 80510 klm. 2495€ www. venuscars.com 965-368-274 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT T200, 2005 1.8 TDCI, diesel, Spanish LHD, only one owner/driver. Very well maintained.4995€ www. venuscars.com 965-368-274 SUZUKI VITARA, 2002 4X4, Spanish LHD, Burgundy/Silver, 1.9 Ltr diesel, manual, only 43000 KLM 5995€ www. venuscars.com 965 368 274 SEAT TOLEDO, 1998 Petrol Automatic, white, Spanish LHD,air con, all round elc windows, good condition 2495€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI SPORT 2010 One owner, only 16,000Kms, Fully equipped with alloys, cruise control, ´phone system and much more. Light Pearl Blue. 12,750€. Call Frank on 600726-622/965-687-976 or view our easy to use website www.fwreurocars.com CHEAP CARS! Ford Fiesta, Opal Corsa, Renault Cleo,

Seat Ibiza From 950€-3000€. Call Frank on 600-726622/965-687-976 or view our easy to use website www.fwreurocars.com SELLING A CAR? We can buy your car! Or let us sell it for you. We take care of the transfer and all relevant paper work. Simply Call Frank on 600-726-221 or Keith on 661321-036 or email us info@fwreurocars.com LOOKING FOR A CAR? We have a good selection of LHD and RHD Vehicles, Automatics, 4x4´s, MPV´s, Saloons, Estates, Sports, Vans and Commercials. New and used Vehicles Sourced. Call Frank on 600-726-622/965687-976 or view our easy to use website www.fwreurocars.com BUMPERS, WINGS AND MIRRORS All body panels for all cars supplied. Tel:966-877-145 or 618-592-396 HEADLIGHTS4U.COM Left hand drive headlights supplied and fitted. All makes. Also air conditioning rechargeTel:966-877-145 or 618-592-396 MERCEDES 230 CLK ADVANTGARDE KOMPRESSOR. Summer is coming,cabriolet,2002 pristine condition,Sat nav and tel,cruise, plus all the extras. Silver with black hod and leather interior.8,500€, Tel:667-681-142 Teulada. HYUNDAI SANTA FE V6 AUTO 2003 Spanish lhd 104,000km 7,400euro tel: 660-375-093 BREAKERS YARD HGV, Vans, 4x4, Cars, Bikes. Most vehicle parts in stock. Delivery service for engines, etc. Vehicle sales and scrappage service. Free pick-up and transfer. Call 692-790-377. E-mail: hgmservices@yahoo.com WANTED Scrap cars, vans, lorries, plant and caravans. Turn your scrap into cash. Free collection. Tel.689929395 1.3 FORD FIESTA 5DOOR HATCHBACK 2003-Excellent condition,full service history, 34000 klm. 2years ITV. Non resident owned car for own holiday use.3750€. Mazzaron area. Mobile:-605-372-048 WE BUY any car,van,motorhome,boat, jet ski. Instant decision at good prices. Tel 680 -665-583 WANTED I buy any car, van,Caravan,4x4 Etc.British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600-781-873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

PAINTOR AND DECORATOR Exterior/interior Spray Painting Specialist. Woodwork, iron work, all aspects. For a free friendly, no obligation quote call Kevin Guilfoyle. 965-831209/636-653-516 or Guifoyle.kev66@gmail.com

ACE AUTOS British & Spanish used car sales

00 01 03 01 96 01 98 97 96 97 03 04 02 92

RENAULT KANGOO VAN 1.9 DIESEL P/S 1,950€ SEAT IBIZA DIESEL 3 DOORLOW KMS A/C 2,750€ HONDA CIVIC 5 DOOR A/C ALLOYS C.D. 3,750€ NISSAN ALMERA DIESEL 5 DOOR A/C 2,450€ SEAT CORDOBA 1.9 DIESEL 4 DOOR A/C P/S 1,950€ DAEWOO LANOS 5 DOOR A/C P/S CLEAN 1950€ FORD MONDEO GHIA 4 DOOR A/C P/S E/W 1,950 DAEWOO LANOS 3 DOOR HATCH A/C P/S 1,450€ OPEL VECTRA ESTATE ALLOYS A/C CLEAN 1,950€ FIAT PUNTO CABRIOLET ALLOYS, C.D. P/S 1,950€ U.K. CARS HONDA ACCORD 5 DOOR ALLOYS A/C C.D. 4,250€ FORD FOCUS 5 DOOR T.D.I. ALLOYS A/C T/T 3,950€ VAUXHALL VECTRA 1.8 5 DOOR A/C ALLOYS 2,750€ SHOGUN 4X4 7 SEATS AUTOMATIC PETROL 750€ MANY MORE CARS IN STOCK ALL WITH NEW ITV/MOT´S P/X ON MOST CARS.

Tel: 620 738 023 10am to 5pm FIND US NEAR NEW MERCADONA. PUEBLO PRINCIPE, VILLA MARTIN

Cars wanted for cash LHD/RHD

25-31 MARCH 2011

ASHLEY- ENGLISH MIXED RACE South American, very sexy 29, tall, slim with long legs, excellent rates, near Hospital-de-Torrevieja. Call me direct:-634-336-712 TALL, DARK AND HANDSOME GUY Likes Travelling, Music, Good Food. Solvent, own Home, seeks similar N/S attractive slimish lady, 50 - 58 for Friendship, Romance. Possible future together.Tlf:-609-417-110 BI-GAY PLUMBER W/E Spanner. Specialist in Ballcock, Overflow Services Ladies, Gents, Couples. Tlf:660-409-206. CASA ANGELA TORREVIEJA Luxury Private Chalet, parking. Drinks invitation. Feeling alone? Just want some company? Exotic girls from South America. Call us, come and enjoy! Also Escort Service. Full discretion. Street: Avenida Asociacion Vistimas del Terrorismo. 609-573-468 or 639-832-118 NEW PLACE! TORREVIEJA Sexy girls from South America. Come and enjoy, economical prices from 40?. NEW ADDRESS Zone Los Locos beach. 639-622-285 TORREVIEJA CHINESE SUPER SEXY Young and beautiful. Calle Orihuela Nº60, 2º1 SENSUAL MASSAGE & EROTIC SERVICES. Sexy young lady, kind and lovely with natural breasts give erotic services only for gentlemen. Comfortable apartment.On the road CV-705 from Gaianes to Muro (Alicante inland). Discretion.Call:625-683-829 DANI 24, SWEET GERMAN GIRL Offers erotic service. House and Hotel visits or in my apartment. 650-104-534 Torrevieja BEAT THE CREDIT CRUNCH! Blonde, English, Aged 44. 40€ all inclusive. Tlf:626-324-088 NEW IN BENIDORM MATURE SUSI 49 Made in Switzerland. 7 days, Incalls or Outcalls. Tlf:672-836-234 or www.maduraescort.com PORNO DVD´S! The Best You´ve Ever Seen! Gay, Bestial, She-Male, BDSM 10€ each. Rebecca:-Tlf:636-929-511 SPANISH LADY PLAYA FLAMENCA near new Carrefour before La Florida. 35 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, economical prices from 40€. Full discretion. Call Ana 680-735-412 TORREVIEJA TRANS BELLY Stunning Redhead,.Huge breasts, sculptural body. Speciality erotic masage.Very feminine and sexy. Call me 671-424-456 www.hisparelax.com/belly ARE YOU MALE, FEMALE OR A COUPLE? Need some Sexy FUN? Contact me soonest. 63 year old Dom/Sub switch. Available for fun with Males, Dom and Sub and Cross Dressers, Females Dominatrix and Submissive. Couples including Same Sex Couples. “Anything Goes” Can sometimes accomodate. Home Visits no extra Charge/Low Fees. Call me now on 655-058-554 GORGEOUS ENGLISH BLOND 45 years, Massage,

1 hour or over night, 15 mins Alicante airport.Tel:-Karen 662-049-021 ELEGANT, SLIM, SEXY LADY ESCORT My Place, Home or Hotel visits. Torrevieja-La Manga-Mazarron Areas. Tlf:693-357-526

SPECIAL OFFER Los Altos, Detached Villa, 220 square metre plot, only 104,000€ 669-283-973 VILLAMARTIN AREA Middle Town House, 2/3 Bedrooms, Bathroom, Seperate Toilet, Garage, F/F, Fitted Kitchen, 84.000€. Tlf:-669-283-973 MOBILE/PARK HOMES On Camping Pueblo in San Javier from 15,000e Carol 968-192425 mob 626-055-622 Www, mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com CLASSIC SPANISH OLD TOWN HOUSE CALLOSA. 3 double bedrooms (one en-suite) new kitchen, large living room/diner. Bbq terrace and LOTS more. Recently reformed/fully furnished. 135,000€ Tel:609-177-032.

POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired. Structural leaks investigated and repaired. Professional, consciencious service to the highest standards. Refurbishments and upgrades undertaken. Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems, ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed. All work guaranteed. British trained in the UK pool industry with over 15 years experience. 8 years served on the Costa Blanca. Torrevieja and surrounding areas including Costa Calida. Tlf:- Pristine Pools on 966774-199 or 678-080-500 www. pristineswimmingpools.com SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING SERVICE BY POOLTECHSPAIN. We are a fully legal, qualified and registered business who have been operating on the Costa Blanca for 6 years. We offer a professional, reliable, safe and efficient pool service, inc. re-grouting, pressure testing and leak repairs. Private and community swimming pools undertaken. Call now for more information on 965-725-565 or mobile 676-945-360/ 620-743048 www.pooltechspain.com

LOOKING TO RELOCATE We have new and pre-owned luxury park homes for sale throughout the UK 12 month occupancy part exchange considered on your Spanish or UK home for more information call 0044-151633-2321 or email : alan.aitken@hotmail.co.uk

LA SIESTA 2 bedr 2 bath Villa. Secluded Pool €500 P/M Long Term + Bikes 628-478-313 JALON VALLEY Quality apartments and Villas to let long term. All facilities. Call Rod 605-231-331 APARTMENT FOR RENT 3 bedroom, clean spacious apartment in Pedreguer town, close to all amenities. 2 bathrooms, lounge, kitchen, aircon and lift. Available now €450 per month bills included. Call 638-207-343 EL PINET F/F 2 BED FLAT Sea View, 10 mins to Beach, Overlooking Pool. Call:-649-411-634 www. carefreproperties.co.uk CLOSE TO THE VILLAGE OF ALTEA LA VELLA Refurbished Apartment. Fully Furnished. A/C and C/H, 2 bedrooms, bathroom, large lounge, Kitchen/Diner. 40M2 Sun Terrace with Bar-b-que. Very large Garden, Private Pool. Transport essential. No Pets or Small Children. 495€

per month plus bills. Available Now. Tlf:-966-881-048/ 691-202-307 1 BED PART FURNISHED BUNGALOWS on Camping Pueblo in San Javier. With lots of ameneties Carol tel 968-192-425 mob. 626-055-662 Www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com ORBETA New 180M2, 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom,Town House with garage and courtyard with plunge pool. Phone:-965-730-774

LONG TERM RENTAL JAVEA AREA Small 2 bed villa preferred, casita or ground floor apartment. Needs garden for dog, Internet and TV. Tlf:680-501-404

INSURED UK TRANSPORT Fully Insured space available in modern clean van with experienced driver, going to UK early April. 85 euros per cubic metre with Goods In Transit insurance included free, up to 19 cubic metres available for single items to full load. Ring 673-767-776 anytime TRUCK TO UK Truck leaving Torrevieja area for Wiltshire early April. Space available for part loads. Call Steve 693-455-396 for info. MICK WITH HIS VAN Removals Collections Deliveries. For a reliable effective service. Hourly rate or quote. Call Mick anytime 600-247-535 VAN LEAVING FOR THE U/K every two weeks space both ways. Great rates contact Joe on 966-074-576 or 650-341087 or email civic1235@msn. com LARGE EMPTY VAN with experienced owner, driver returning to UK regularly. Dave: 965-329-610/ 686-767-839 MAN & LWB SPRINTER VAN going to UK- Spain twice a month. Tel: 610-846-260 or 0044-7519-186-355 email:van.man@hotmail.co.uk

jewellery and coins. Tlf:Peter664-890-990 RECORDS AND CD´S WANTED Top cash paid. Pop, Rock, Blues.Tlf:-630-665-363

WEBSITE DESIGN AND MAINTENANCE. Our experienced designers create modern websites for business or recreational applications. QUALIFIED TRANSLATOR Bi-Lingual Spanish-English, High Level French and German. Confidential and Reliable Service. Competative Rates. Torrevieja Area. Call Virginia on 629-201-192. TRANSLATOR Spanish and English speaking. Available for medical visits etc. Benidorm and surrounding areas. Tel Dawn: 626-337-258.

Dual language our speciality - English / Spanish. If your current website is old and drab, we can give it a refreshing, new look to help you attract more business. Quick and efficient service priced to suit all pockets. codex.rt@hotmail.es

SPANISH LESSONS ONLINE I can teach you the easiest way to speak Spanish. Tlf:-600-400-668. www. howtospeakspanish.es COMPUTER TUTOR Software training, ebusiness education, website publishing, photography, videography and more DIY tips and tricks for all of your business and personal needs. Karla Darocas - certified instructor since 1990. Tel: 96 597 3234 info@KarlaDarocas. com Referrences - www. KarlaDarocas.com BRITISH GRADUATE TEACHER Offers secondary/ primary tuition. English/ Mathematics. Tel:-Margaret Johnson B.Ed. 965-350516/616-660-687

ALL SATELLITE SYSTEMS Installed, Maintained and Repaired. 10 years experience with Satellites in Spain. All areas covered. Tlf:-Hugh690-275-223 CRYSTAL CLEAR SATELLITE AND INTERNET TV for all your digital and TV requirements. No Annual Fees on Sky Cards. Steve:-660-186505/Ros:-965-584-097. www. ccsattv.com info@ccsattv.com

WANTED Experienced kitchen

Designer - Salesperson required for busy showroom in Pedregeur.

TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Brica-brac into Cash. Anything! Anywhere! 965-319-220/618165-877 WANTED TECHNICS 1200 OR 1210 TURNTABLE in good condition. Tel:-617-893036 or email kath_poole@ hotmail.com GOLD WANTED!! English Jeweller, will buy for cash, broken or unwanted gold

CAD experience preferred but applicants otherwise qualified will be considered. Full time position with basic salary and commission and contract after trial period

Tel: 96 645 6269 or 686 237 874

25-31 MARCH 2011

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25-31 MARCH 2011

The final whistle With Andy Kay www.andykayevents.com

RTN Golf Club update

Lamp’s Post Dennis Jordan NORTH REGION

Mike Probert SOUTH REGION Frank Lampard FRANK LAMPARD has his fair number of detractors but I’d suggest he’s been a loyal and decent servant to the national football team. Okay, a few more goals from the Chelsea player would have been welcome but he gets through a lot of unseen work, even though his partnership with Steven Gerrard always seems to be under the microscope. But now, after years as a regular and automatic choice, Lampard’s place in the team for the European Championship qualifier against Wales is in doubt. It’s sad for him but good news for England fans. Players who don’t have to fight for the right to play are always in danger of losing that little bit of hunger and edginess that got them noticed in the first place. If Lampard is replaced in the side by Jack Wilshire, an hour or so on the bench won’t do him any harm at all. RTN AND FERGIE I’m not 100% certain that Sir Alex Ferguson reads the RTN sport section (though he should) but after last week’s article suggesting that he end his ridiculous feud with the BBC, it’s good to see that Fergie and the BBC’s Mark Thompson will be meeting to try and resolve the matter. The get together, which has been brokered by Premier League chairman Sir Dave Richard, is due to take place towards the end of the season. Let’s hope that both parties act like grown-ups and get a deal done, so United fans can once again hear the views of their manager on Match of the Day. 5 YEARS OF DRAPER Even keen followers of sport might not know the name Roger Draper. If you’re in that category, let me enlighten you....Draper is the chief executive of the Lawn Tennis Association. He’s been in the job for five years now and is coming under pressure to outline his achievements during his tenure. Sadly, his successes are few and far between. While there has been some improvement in the women’s game and in grass roots organisation both of those are more than offset by disappointments. Andy Murray is the most popular player in the UK and he has signalled a boom in the sport in Scotland. So, how many indoor courts have been built there since 2006? The answer is just two. Huge sums of money have been paid to big name coaches who have come and gone without achieving much apart from increasing their bank balances and as for LTA staff, it would probably shock you to learn that the organisation now employs nearly 300 people at a cost in excess of £13 million. Doing what exactly? Certainly not producing quality male singles players who can compete on the main tour. In fact, the LTA insists on counting doubles rankings as a mark of success; mark of desperation more like. If Draper had been in charge of a commercial venture for as long as he’s headed up the LTA the share-holders would be calling for results, his head and probably other body parts too. New balls please!

Murcia Golf Hound Murcia Region

THE GOLFING year is now often a full one, with minimal time for major maintenance work. When major works are taking place such as ditch clearing, fairway replacement or drainage, it needs minimal disruption so play is possible. Typically, the main reason to core aerate putting greens is to physically remove organic matter from the upper root zone. Failure to carry out a programme of lawn aeration can lead to an entirely different problem. This is when surface sealing can often occur, due to the compacting effect of trampling feet and heavy maintenance machinery. Under these conditions, water is prevented from percolating; it will remain on the surface, restricting gaseous exchange and lead to moss or the build up of fibrous growth. If steps are not taken to relieve the compaction, a fibrous matt develops, restricting the amount of air, moisture and nutrients available to the grasses and creating ideal conditions for diseases to thrive. So for these reasons our courses start the process anytime now, if anyone wants to know when they are starting, just give your golf course a call they will inform you, generally takes a week from start to finish.

WELL THE weather has improved for us this last week with higher temperatures and sunny days. In an attempt to ‘lure’ some of you back onto the golf course we have a special offer exclusive to RTN Golf Club members and readers. At the beautiful Vistabella course located close to the town of Los Montesinos, we have a limited number of ‘2 player and 1 buggy’ deals available for only €82 which is a full €10 lower than the already discounted spring public price and represents unbeatable value. There are still more spring deals than normal available on a number of local courses and in particular the deal at La Peraleja has proved popular, as have the deals at Altorreal, Las Colinas and La Serena. Remember that we are fast approaching the main greens hollow tining season when putting surfaces will not be at their best so get in a round at a good price before this happens.

THIS WEEK I trotted off to Las Colinas for a swift 18 holes and WOW what a course! If you haven’t played Las Colinas yet then, what HAVE you been doing? From the moment you arrive through the carved entrance to the moment you leave, Las Colinas lives up to all expectations. The green fairways against the backdrop of browned rough look fantastic; a great example of over seeding at its best! The greens are a shade over scarily quick and very true so make sure you have a putt before starting. One piece of advice: don’t play from the Black Tees! With two par 4s to start measuring 435 and 421 meters respectively you won’t find a tougher start in Murcia! Oh, did I mention they are uphill? News from my ‘hounds on the ground’ is that Sensol has made big improvements in its greens and I therefore re-include it in our list. Enjoy your weeks golfing!

NORTH Region Golf Course

RTN Price

Comments

Alenda

€45

Single Green fee

Alicante Golf

€46

Single Green fee + Buggy

Bonalba

€42

Single Green fee

Don Cayo

€43

Single Green fee

El Plantio

€45

Single Green fee

Font del Llop

€40

Single Green Fee

Villaitana Par 62

€39

Single Green fee + Buggy

Villaitana Par 72

€45

Single Green fee

For more information email Dennis at dennis@roundtownnews.com or direct to www.benidormgolf.com on 630 714 373.

SOUTH Region RTN Price

Comments

Altorreal

Golf Course

€55

2 Players and 1 Buggy (Fri)

Hacienda del Alamo

€30

Single Green Fee (3pm)

La Serena

€90

Single Green Fee (3pm)

Polaris World Courses

€92

2 Players and 1 Buggy

Roda

€100

2 Players and 2 Buggy (limit)

Las Ramblas

€33

Single Green Fee (3pm)

VistaBella

€82

Single Green Fee (S.Deal)

La Finca

€42

Single Green Fee (2.30pm)

Las Colinas

€260

4 Players and 1 Buggy (3pm)

La Peraleja

€76

2 Players and 1 Buggies

€140

4 Players and 2 Buggy

For more information contact Mike at mike@roundtownnews.com or direct at Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931.

MURCIA Region Golf Course

RTN Price

Comments

La Envia

€41

Single Green fee

Valle del Este

€90

2 Green fees and Buggy

Aguilón

€40

Single Green fee

Alborán

€48

Single Green fee

Cortijo Grande

€30

Single Green Fee

Almerimar

€60

Single Green Fee

Desert Springs

€65

Single Green fee

For more information contact the Hound on Facebook, twitter: murciagolf@roundtownnews.com or 671 748 625.

ANYONE FOR FOOTBALL? Aged between 20 to 40 ? Torrevieja area Call Doug on 628 789 335

Criticism does not help Noel’s world of golf By Noel Eastwell Teaching Professional Campo de Golf El Plantio 639 730 891

IN THE last two weeks I have met with several golf course managers arranging deals for members of RTN Golf Club. Every single one of them appreciates just how much the British expatriate community contributes to golf on the eastern coast of Spain. Every single one hates the way some golf societies criticise their golf courses in golf society reports in the press. No doubt some people responsible for writing theses reports would be far better thought of if they approached the golf course managers after they had finished their rounds. Are some hiding behind the fact that they have had a bad day or just hiding behind the name of their society? That is a big question to answer and one where I would not mind betting both options are true. Just think for a minute though about what is going to happen to the societies that have their names attached to these bad reports. Some managers have told me they have and will continue to ban societies from their courses if this practice continues: I don’t blame them. It is far more beneficial for all to talk about any problems than act irresponsibly by issuing inaccurate reports that the majority of society golfers will not agree with. Those who write these reports have a duty to their members and the whole of the golfing public here in our part of Spain. Now I am all for free speech but is criticising golf courses in newspapers and other media the most beneficial way to gain respect and see improvements? The answer surely has to be a resounding no! Just think how anyone can explain to the members of a society that they are no longer welcome and ABC Golf Club because of the reports they have read in the press. Would it not be far better for everyone if an explanation of where the societies concerned feel

improvements could be made? The mutual respect can only foster good relationships where all can benefit if such actions are taken. The golfing community is in some ways very small and word will soon spread if a golf course is genuinely in substandard condition. Golfers of all types will then stop going there until it improves and then there are no hard feelings about anyone. Remember it is very easy for the British expatriate community to get badly thought of if we continue to criticise instead of enter dialogue and offer worthwhile advice. WIN A ROUND OF GOLF FOR 2 INCLUDING BUGGY AT THE BEAUTIFUL EL PLANTIO RESORT IN ALICANTE To enter this competition, simply answer the question below correctly. Every correct answer will be entered into a draw at the end of the month and the winner of this fantastic prize worth over 180€ will be picked at random at the end of each month. Send your entries by email to golf@roundtownnews.com. The decision of the editor of RTN will be final in making the winning selection. QUESTION FOR 25TH MARCH 2011 Who won the 2010 US Masters? A. Phil Mickelson B. Martin Kaymer C. Graeme McDowell All answers must be received no later than 5pm on 28th March 2011 to be entered into March’s draw, to be made on 28th March. The winner will be announced in RTN on 1st April 2011. NOEL EASTWELL GOLF ACADEMY AT EL PLANTIO For the very best in golf tuition, contact Noel on 639 730 891.

Any questions you have for Noel should be sent to golf@roundtownnews.com

Cast Off with

Robbie France

OKAY. WE’RE ready for your foray in to Boat World. We’re ready to buy that all important first boat. My first rule is always; Take someone with you! An experienced person, who knows the ropes, (literally!) is easier to find than you think. Let me take you through my most recent purchase… at La Manga’s Tomas Maestre Marina. I took two seasoned mariners with me: it’s remarkable how willing sailors are to help out a fellow tar. The three most important check points are: rust, rust & rust! You wouldn’t buy a car with rust around the bodywork, would you? Same principle with boats - take particular care to inspect around the stanchions on the deck. Look around below deck. Check the wear and tear of sails. Ask for the outboard, if applicable, to be started and let it run for 5-10 minutes. Common sense is at a premium here, gang. In my experience and talking to other sailors, the beauty about buying a good second hand boat is the amount of chandlery you acquire, gratis. I personally had enough good quality rope on board to open up my own store! A brilliant bonus. Sail covers, spray dodgers, anchors, tiller covers etc., etc. all of these may well be aboard and included in the price. The VAT status of a second hand yacht is also important, as your vessel needs to have ‘VAT paid’ status to be

allowed free transit throughout the EU. I bought mine through a reputable broker, so there was a ‘bill of sale’, (a sales contract)…oh, and a log book. I asked for all registration documents. Sort out the following: Insurance, (which I kept up, as the premium was only €50.00 per annum for a really comprehensive policy), make a note of which model of outboard you’ll be taking on and research on the internet if necessary. Not to mention the antifouling and general cleaning the vendor should provide for you: all inclusive. A bit of common sense will cast you off in the right direction. Speaking of casting off…ask about transport conditions. I got a fabulous trailer thrown in with my purchase price: a beauty. There are a number of articles on the net regarding this topic, but keep this article and you won’t go wrong. Any questions, email me at robbiefrance@gmail.com, okay? Full sails to you all…and I’ll see you next week. PS: Recently seen off the lighthouse point in Puerto de Mazarron… A Kevlar mainsailed yacht with a huge spinaker dragging behind it…oops! There goes last year’s Christmas present!

‘There is NOTHING…absolutely nothing…half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.’ Kenneth Grahame.

25-31 MARCH 2011

Fishing Maggots End by

David Hoare

968 199 279 For further details ring Alan Roscoe 968 570 876 or email: anglerstogether@gonuts4free.com

THE MATCH this week was the first round of the summer championship; a series of 9 matches with the best 6 to count, the venue being the Rio Segura in Murcia. Again, the day wasn’t too bad. However, we did have a westerly wind blowing for most of the day, but it never rained. The river was pushing through and the water level was up but virtually all anglers caught out in the flow on the feeder. This could only be done by putting extra lead on the feeder; something I never thought we would be doing here. Where they have come from nobody knows, but the river is now alive with bleak. This will make interesting fishing with maggot this year!

TOP ANGLERS ON THE DAY 1st Stan (The Man) Roberts fishing the feeder using maggot with 15.84 kg. 2nd Dave (The Sweetie Man) Hutchinson fishing the pole using corn with 15.80 kg. 3rd Dave (Yours Truly) Hoare fishing the feeder using maggot with 15.10 kg. The sweetie man must have gone back to his jelly babies as bait again, as part of his catch was a carp of 8.10 kg. (in old money: 17.8lbs). ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS supplied by Terry Screen The 8th Match of the Abbey Angling Cup was once again fished at Murcia on the 15th March 2011. With a strong wind and the river carrying extra water it made fishing difficult, the feeder was the method of the day, and with the Bleak causing problems on the maggot feeder making the tip never still. Stan (The Man) Roberts took advantage of the pests catching 300 Bleak on the whip plus 10kg of Carp for a winning

weight of 15.620kg 2nd Ian (The Irish Wizard) Dalzell with 11.460kg 3rd Mike (The Arsenal) Hill with 9.200kg: all on the feeder with maggot and corn. I have received numerous phone calls regarding Zocco Fishery, as people are not catching any fish; the water is a bluey green colour and looks as if it has been polluted, but where from remains a mystery at present. All details available from the Match Secretary Terry Screen on 96 532 8368 Anglers Together ANGLERS TOGETHER was formed to introduce and encourage anglers of all abilities to meet up and get together to fish, either sea or freshwater. Firm friendships have been formed during the time the group has been active and information on fishing venues and licenses required are available at the meetings or by regular emailed newsletters. Meetings are held in two locations on the second Friday and Saturday of each month. Anyone with an interest in fishing (sea or freshwater) is welcome to come along to a meeting to see what we’re about. The next meeting at Mary’s Bar, Campoverde (near Pilar de la Horadada) will be held on Friday 8th April at 12 noon. There is a new venue for the Puerto de Mazarron meeting starting in January 2011. On Saturday 9th April at 12 noon the meeting will be held at The New Royal Bar and Restaurant at El Alamillo, opposite the sea-front between Isla Plana and the Port. Refreshments and lunch are available at each location. Come along to a meeting nearest to you.