Sol Times Newspaper issue 192 Mar Menor Edition by nigel judson

MAR MENOR

SolTimes issue 192

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WORKING OUT

PAGE 13

A group of 50 children of families affected by the tragic earthquake were treated to a day out at the Mar Menor. Organised by the Consejería de Presidencia, the visit took in the Parque Regional de Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas and Peña del Águila, all areas of great natural diversity of habitats, flora and fauna. The visit was an opportunity for the young people to learn about this unique natural area in the Mediterranean, and aimed to encourage their active participation and strengthen their commitment and respect towards the protection of this natural area of the Region of Murcia. It was also hoped that the visit would encourage public involvement in protecting the regional parks of the Autonomous Community, as well as explaining the actions of the European Union in the care and defence of the Mar Menor. The day concluded with a catamaran ride along the Mar Menor coastline, a protected area dotted with beaches, rocks and natural areas, which contain a variety of ecosystems of high environmental value and which are a refuge to many unique native species. The Parque Regional de Calblanque stretches for over 13 kilometers of coastline, extending into the municipalities of Cartagena and La Unión

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The Consejería de Presidencia announced that the wildfire in the Sierra de Atamaria and Calblanque Regional Park, Monte de las Cenizas y Peña del Águila has been brought under control. It has been burning along a perimeter of 20 kilometers and about 420 hectares, of which 328 belong to the Natura 2000 network have been affected. After holding a meeting today with the technicians of the various emergency services operating in the area, the presidential advisor, Manuel Campos, said that ‘thanks to an extensive fire device we have been able to control the flames in a timely fashion.’ The fire is controlled in both the perimeter and inside the affected area. This area ‘is under constant surveillance and effective control of extinction,’ said Campos, who added that ‘we are optimistic for the near future to declare it extinct, we still maintain alert to the smallest possibility of re-ignition.’ The fire has been fought by six brigades during the night, 16 troops from the Consortium for Fire Fighting and Rescue Region of Murcia, 24 Fire Service Fire Fighting and Rescue from Cartagena, and a hundred soldiers of the Military Emergency Unit. Still operating are three helicopters, seven vehicles of the Consortium for Fire Fighting and Rescue Region of Murcia, two vehicles of Civil Protection, one of the Firefighting Service of the City of Cartagena, two vehicles Civil Protection Union and seven vehicles of the EMU. Currently more than 200 people are still working to prevent the fire rekindled in some of the hot spots. The people who were evacuated from their homes for their own safety in the Sierra de Atamaria in Cartagena have been given permission to return to their homes, and power to the homes in Portman, which was suspended as a precautionary measure, has been restored.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

LOCAL NEWS.. LOCAL NEWS..

Alicante

After receiving an anonymous call, agents of the Cartagena Policia Nacional effected the rescue of a 26 year old Spanish national from Alicante. The officers received information which led them to set up surveillance on a house in the residential area of Los Nietos, which led to the arrest of five men and one woman on charges of kidnapping and bodily harm. The rescued man, whose name has not been disclosed, was taken to hospital with various cuts to his face, body and hands. It is thought that the kidnap took place as a result of an unpaid debt, and had taken place as many at 10 days prior to his release.

Sport

Benidorm

The Vuelta de España, which finished the second leg in an exciting sprint in Orihuela on Sunday, brought many revellers to Benidorm for the opening ceremony at the Castle at the weekend. However, a twenty minute blackout on Friday evening plunged the opening ceremony at the castle into darkness. Officials struggled to maintain order, and it was unclear as to how the ceremony was to proceed, but luckily power was restored within half an hour. It seems that the ancient system and infrastructure of the grid simply gave up under the unusual strain. Throughout the city there was chaos, with bars and restaurants struggling to cope with the situation, which occurred at peak time. It is very fortunate that the problem was resolved so quickly. There is pressure on the Ayuntamiento to address the problem before it arises again.

Altea

Bathers on the beaches along the Bay of Albir had a nasty fright when a small plane ditched in the sea yards from the beach. The plane, a Cessna 152 owned by a member of the Aeroclub de Alicante Mutxamel, experienced difficulties, giving the pilot no option but to ditch in the sea. Due to his skill and calm conditions, the plane came down

straight and remained upright, allowing the pilot and his passenger to scramble to safety, wet but unharmed. However, planes don’t float, and it took 20 hours of careful work with floats by the Guardia Civil and Salvaje Maritimo to bring the plane to the surface without damage.

Lorca

Thursday 18th August marks the anniversary of the murder of Federico García Lorca. The great Federico Garcia Lorca, who used to walk along La Barraca and to the Casa de Bernarda de Alba, is now only known by the many works he left behind. His remains are lost in one of those many mass graves, together with hundreds of thousands of innocent people who suffered at the hands of opposing factions. He, a teacher and two friends were killed in the early morning of the 18th to 19th August 1936.

Murcia

The President of the Community, Ramón Luis Valcárcel, and President of the Generalitat Valenciana, Alberto Fabra, met at the Palacio de San Esteban de Murcia, have met to address issues of interest to both communities. One of the first items raised with other leaders was strategies regarding the Mediterranean Corridor route from France to Algeciras, initially described as a priority project of the Trans-European Transport Network. The Government of the Region of Murcia strongly supported the Axis Rail Mediterranean on its way through Spanish territory, including passage through the regions of Andalucia, Murcia, Valencia and Catalonia. The development of the Mediterranean Axis Rail in its entirety is the only chance for Spain to become a major intercontinental logistics platform, due to the growing importance of trade with Asia and North Africa. Furthermore, it is a strategic corridor for the European Union, to unite the northern and central Europe to North Africa by the shortest and most economic activity and freight. Therefore, the regional government will maintain, together with the Government of Valencia, its full support to the inclusion of Axis Rail Mediterranean in its entirety.

Aguilas

The leader of the Mujer del Ayuntamiento de Águilas, María Patrocinio Martínez, accompanied by the Concejales de Cultura y Urbanismo, Francisco Miguel Martínez and Isabel María Soler, opened the ‘Mercadillo solidario’, organised for the Federación de Organizaciones de Mujeres de Lorca (FOML). The Market is to raise funds for victims of the Lorca earthquake. The stand, which was in the Plaza de Alfonso Escámez, opened for only four hours, selling an extensive list of items made manually by members of the organization, ranging from paintings to dolls, to tiles or stained glass, with curios and all sorts of collectables on offer.

Bullas

The Ruta de la Tapa y del Cóctel 2011 has taken place in the Museo del Vino de Bullas. It was an initiative by the Concejalías de Turismo y Festejos, in collaboration with local bars, restaurants and cafeterias. It was attended by the Alcalde de Bullas, Pedro Chico Fernández, and the Diputado Regional Gregorio Morales and the Presidente de la D.O. Bullas, Francisco Carreño. The Ruta involved a total of 36 establishments. For just 2€ local restaurateurs will offer the public a special tapa and a drink of wine, water, beer or soda. The Municipality of Bullas provided customers with a free bus service during the four weekends of the event. Up until September 18, customers can vote for their favourite tapa. These are sealed and placed in the ballot box. They will subsequently be drawn to win raffle prizes, which will be drawn on Friday 23 September, at the opening of the Feria de la Tapa 2011, www.way2gohire.com on the 23 to 25 September.

French farmers blockade border lorries and hurl a tonne of peaches at Spanish consulate

A group of French farmers hurled hundreds of kilos of fruit at the Spanish consulate building in Perpignan today in protest over what they consider to be ‘unfair competition’. Up to a tonne of peaches were splattered against the doors, after which the farmers dispersed before police arrived at the scene. Since June, farmers in southern France, close to the Spanish border, have been blocking off lorries known to be carrying agricultural produce and destroying their cargo. They have called a meeting with the French ministry of agriculture, since they consider that Spain’s exporting of fruit and vegetables into France at a fraction of local prices is destroying their livelihood. Peaches and nectarines have fallen in value in France by 20 per cent, they say, and tomatoes and cucumbers – partly due to Spanish cucumbers having been blamed for the E.Coli outbreak in Germany – have plummeted in price by between 20 and 40 per cent.

Temperatures in the shade to reach an average of 41ºC

As the heatwave sweeping across Spain continues, the met office has issued weather warnings for 16 provinces in nine of the country’s 17 autonomous regions. Temperatures of 41ºC in the shade could hit various parts of Córdoba – particularly Sierra y Pedroches – and Granada, mainly the Genil valley. Jaén, Zaragoza, La Rioja, Sevilla, Ciudad Real, Navarra, Badajoz, and Cáceres will probably see the mercury shoot above 40 in the next few days. Maximum temperatures of 39ºC in the shade are likely to be recorded in the provinces of Toledo, Teruel, Huesca, Lleida, Madrid and Álava, says the State meteorological agency, AEMET. All of these areas have been placed on ‘orange alert’ – meaning ‘major risk’ and one step below a ‘red alert’, being the highest and an official state of emergency. A ‘yellow alert’, meaning moderate risk, has been declared for all the remaining provinces in Andalucía and the Basque Country, as well as the Balearic islands, and the regions of Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León, Catalunya, the Comunidad Valenciana, Galicia, and Murcia, which are expected to see the mercury hover between 34ºC and 38ºC in the shade. The Civil Protection has warned people to stay out of the midday sun and drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids, eat light meals, avoid physical exertion in the middle of the day, and to keep a close eye on anyone they know who lives alone, especially if they are unwell or elderly.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Spain to adopt balanced budget law ETA suspect who Prime Minister Jose Luis Zapatero said Tuesday that Spain should change its constitution to incorporate a balanced budget provision, as part of wider efforts to combat the eurozone debt crisis.

The reform, covering both the annual budget deficit and accumulated debt, would “reinforce long-term confidence in the Spanish economy,” Zapatero told parliament as his government tries to balance Spain’s strained public finances. Earlier this month, French

President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel called on eurozone countries to adopt a ‘golden rule’ from 2012 requiring governments to balance their budgets. Massive budget deficits, way above the EU ceiling of 3.0 percent of Gross

Domestic Product, have left eurozone states with a massive debt overhang which they are now struggling to control and pay down. Greece has had to be bailed out twice -- in 2010 and in July this year -- when it could no longer service its debt and Ireland and Portugal also needed rescues by the EU and International

Monetary Fund. Germany, Europe’s strongest economy and the eurozone’s paymaster, has already adopted a balanced budget law, with its annual finances set to show no deficit by 2016 and Sarkozy plans a similar provision for France. Zapatero said the decision was “strategic,

not tactical, very well understood by Spanish society and its public representatives and we ought to be able to adapt our constitution, as others are doing or intend to do.” Spain’s right-wing opposition, expected to win power in November elections, has already endorsed the idea.

Ceremony in tribute to Spanair crash victims on third anniversary Spain urges new UN resolution A MEMORIAL service was held on Saturday by the family members and friends of the 154 people who died in the Spanair crash three years ago on that date.

Flight JK5022, bound for Gran Canaria, never left the mainland on August 20, 2008, when the engine exploded during takeoff from Madrid’s Barajas airport. Holidaymakers travelling from the capital, and islanders returning home, perished in what was said to be one of the worst air disasters in Spain’s history. Flowers were placed round an olive tree at the site where the craft blew up, and plaques and dedications were left alongside them. Poetry and music played on a violoncello dedicated to the deceased marked an emotional memorial, whilst many of those mourning their loved ones wore T-shirts bearing their photographs. Relatives and friends of those who lost their lives when the aircraft went up in flames have called for the report on the incident to be re-drafted from scratch and further research undertaken. Three years of investigations concluded with a verdict of the wing flaps not having been activated on take-off.

for ‘post-Kadhafi era’

Spain on Monday called for a new UN resolution to take into account the latest developments in Libya after the fall of Moamer Kadhafi, the foreign and defence ministers said in a statement. Madrid “backs an urgent meeting of the Contact Group on Libya with the participation of the new Libyan authorities, so their priorities and immediate projects can be known,” said ministers Trinidad Jimenez and Carme Chacon. The Contact Group is composed primarily of countries that participated in the NATO air campaign in Libya. Libya Resolution 1973 that the UN Security Council passed in March essentially authorised military action to protect the Libyan people and facilitate the humanitarian effort.

Police probed after officers seen beating peaceful protestors and reporters

An internal investigation has been opened within the Police after four people were injured during a confrontation between officers and protestors at an anti-clerical demonstration in the Puerta del Sol in Madrid. CCTV footage showed that some of the people whom the police appeared to be hitting with their truncheons did not seem to be causing any trouble whatsoever. The inquiry has been launched in anticipation of any possible complaints from those affected, since as yet

none have been recorded. A scene on one of the videos examined shows a young woman walking along the street, apparently minding her own business and not insulting or confronting any officers, when they set about hitting her with their poles on the body and face. A young man who tried to defend her was also beaten, as was a photographer attempting to catch the incident on camera. Another young man pushing his bike took a beating which he had apparently not

provoked.

The investigation has come

march, with many saying they were insulted, demanded to show their identification and hit, whilst going about their

association

Madrid,

reporters were treated in a similar manner during the demonstrations

both

Wednesday and Thursday.

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Eneko Gogeaskoetxea, 44, has been held in Belmarsh prison in the British capital since his arrest on July 7 in Cambridge, where he was living under a false identity. His hearing in the Magistrates’ Court of Westminster today via videoconference, and a further trial on September 7, could determine whether he is extradited to Spain. The terror suspect was detained after a European arrest warrant was issued over eight offences, which included the death of a Basque police officer and conspiracy to murder King Juan Carlos in October 1997. Once caught, he was then charged with a further six crimes, including a blast at the Guardia Civil station in Sallent del Gállego (Huesca) in August 1997, installing a bomb near a bull-ring in July and in Madrid’s Barajas airport in January of the same year.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Pope arrives in Spain saying economy not just for profit

Pope Benedict XVI called for the economy to work for people, not profit, as he landed in crisis-torn Spain last week, where protesters decried the cost of his visit He delivered the message hours after protesters clashed with pilgrims and riot police in Madrid as they vented fury over the expense of World Youth Day celebrations, which the pope will lead. “The economy cannot function as a self-regulated economy,” the leader of the world’s estimated 1.2 billion Roman Catholics told journalists accompanying him in the papal plane from Rome.

Sport

Nearly 100 illegal immigrants reach Spain’s coasts in one day

Coastguard rescuers had their work cut out this evening when a total of 96 would-be migrant attempted to access Spain via the back door by sailing into various ports on jerrybuilt rafts. A fleet of three rafts carrying 59 Moroccan and Algerian men was intercepted at around 22.00hrs some 36 miles off the Cabo de Gata coast (Almería).

“Man must be at the economy’s centre, which is not profit but solidarity,” he said. The pope landed in the sweltering capital for the rock festival-style celebration, lavish religious festivities lasting to Sunday that have lured more than a million pilgrims from around the world. The pontiff was greeted by King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia before parading in his popemobile through Madrid’s streets to be chased by relay runners and cheered by masses of followers.

At least two were thought to be teenagers. They were finally caught two miles out to sea off the shores of Carboneras.

In the evening, the papal cortege headed to the central Plaza Cibeles for a welcoming ceremony complete with an air force fly-over painting the colours of the Vatican and Spanish flags in the sky.

youth”; and “I am a sinner, sinner, sinner.” Some taunted the faithful shouting: “Nazi, nazi.” In an interview before he was elected pope in 2005, then Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger said he was an unwilling participant in the Hitler Youth movement.

Huge speakers blared out pop music in the city as hundreds of thousands of the pope’s fans waited in the heat in floppy hats, with backpacks containing alcohol-free beer and fans. But the party atmosphere was shattered hours earlier when thousands of anti-papal protesters and hundreds of young Roman Catholics hurled insults at each other in the central square Puerta del Sol. Lines of riot police separated the two sides late last Wednesday. Protesters chanted: “God yes, Church no”; “Not with my taxes”; “We are not the pope’s

“Long live the pope”, “We are the pope’s youth,” cried the pilgrims, some of whom sang “hallelujah” and sat on the ground and prayed. Police finally moved in with batons swinging to dislodge the anti-pope demonstrators from Puerta del Sol. They arrested seven people for “assaults on people in authority,” a national police spokeswoman said. Eleven people were lightly injured, she said. More than 100 protest groups took part, uniting many causes, including those seeking a change in the Church’s attitude to gay rights and those fighting for a clearer separation of Church and state. The outcry that has struck a chord with many -- including some priests -- is over the official 50.5-million-euro price tag, excluding the cost of police and security, of the August 16-21 celebrations. Spain’s economy has been one of the worst hit by the global economic downturn and its output has grown by only 0.2 percent in the last quarter. Nationwide unemployment stands at more than 20 percent while youth unemployment is running at more than 45 percent. Some protesters argue the real cost to taxpayers of the pope’s visit is more than 100 million euros including the policing, cleaning and discounts such as half-price bus fares.

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Organisers, though, say most of the cost will be covered by a registration fee from the assembled pilgrims, and the celebration will be a massive tourist boost for Spain. The Church has opened 200 white confessionals in the form of boat sails along the main thoroughfare through Madrid’s Retiro park. The pope held a “Prayer Vigil” on Saturday evening at an airbase southwest of the capital, where the pilgrims will spend the night on an esplanade the size of 48 football pitches. Pope Benedict also celebrated mass on Sunday morning at a white altar almost 200 metres (660 feet) long in front of a wave-shaped stage and under a giant parasol “tree”, made of interwoven golden rods.

Another nine, including two babies in their mothers’ arms, all of sub-Saharan African origin, were caught off the coast of Melilla – a Spanish-owned enclave on the north Moroccan coast – just after midnight, and only a day after 22 others had been detained attempting to enter the city by the same method. Melilla’s temporary shelter for illegal immigrants currently holds 750 people, although it was only built to have capacity for 480. At around 06.30hrs this morning, five Moroccan men on an inflatable dinghy and 12 North African males on a light craft were intercepted a few miles out to sea off the coasts of Tarifa (Cádiz) and Arrecife (Lanzarote).

Brazil Probes Zara Supplier Over Forced Labour

Brazilian authorities are investigating claims that a supplier for Spanish clothing brand Zara is forcing workers to toil in inhumane conditions, a labour ministry spokesman stated.

The probe that began in May focuses on unsanitary conditions and long working hours endured by workers - some of them undocumented Bolivians - in factories in the city of Americana, an industrial town outside Sao Paulo. According to authorities, the Zara brand - owned by the world’s biggest fashion retailer, Spain’s Inditex - subcontracted its work to the Brazilian supplier Rhodes, which in turn further contracted work out to other firms employing the undocumented workers in “precarious conditions.” Raids on factories in the city have found people working in stifling, confined spaces for 14 hours a day, in “degrading” circumstances, with sleeping quarters above the factory floor, the spokesman

said on condition of anonymity. Two other factories with similar conditions have been found in Sao Paulo, the spokesman said. Inditex acknowledged the issues raised by the probe, in a statement carried by the Brazilian press, and ordered its subcontractors to “immediately regularize” the conditions for all its workers. Brazil’s labor ministry said it had already slapped Zara with 52 fines and was considering prosecution on charges of “contracting slave labor,” and whether to include the firm on a blacklist of companies that exploit workers. The popular Zara brand is available in 78 countries, with 5,154 stores worldwide, according to company figures

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Spain holds Moroccan for Internet ‘terror training’

Police in southern Spain have arrested a Moroccan suspected of “indoctrination and terrorist training” for Al-Qaeda over the Internet, they said Abdellatif Aoulad Chiba, 37, is suspected of “belonging to an armed group with links to the terrorist organisation Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Mahgreb,” police said in a statement. He was arrested in the southern town of Linea de la Conception. “Abdellatif is believed to be the general administrator of an Internet site which was a jihadist forum with radical content, dedicated to the the public distribution of statements and media products designed for

the main Islamic terrorist organisations and their leaders.” He was specifically in charge of “the indoctrination and terrorist training” through manuals linked “to this criminal activity and aimed at encouraging terrorist crimes.” The arrest was ordered by the National Court, which handles terrorist crimes, after police noticed an increase in the activity on the site and found that the person running it was based in Spain.

Spanish govt seeks urgent parliament meet on economy Spain’s government will request an extraordinary meeting of parliament next week to approve reforms boosting revenue by about five billion euros in 2011, a senior minister said LAST WEEK.

Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero’s ministers are expected to agree the revenue-raising reforms in a cabinet meeting Friday, government spokesman Jose Blanco told state radio RNE. “The government will ask that these measures be approved urgently by the parliament,” Blanco said. “As a consequence, the government will ask for the holding of an extraordinary session as soon as possible for those measures to be approved,” he said. Zapatero would address parliament on the new measures and provide an analysis of the economic situation, he said. Spain’s government hoped that

the Congress would agree to hold a parliamentary session as soon as next week, said Blanco, who is also the public works minister. Finance Minister Elena Salgado has outlined two reforms aimed at raking in an extra 4.9 billion euros this year for hard-pressed government coffers and ensuring Spain meets its deficitcutting targets. One reform would save 2.4 billion euros on health spending through the obligatory use of generic drugs, which are cheaper than the major brands. The other reform would oblige large companies to pay some of their taxes earlier in the fiscal year, bringing in an extra 2.5 billion euros in 2011. Salgado announced the reforms to

try to convince financial markets of Spain’s deficit-cutting credentials at a time when its sovereign debt was under attack by traders. The European Central Bank has since intervened by buying hard-hit Spanish and Italian government bonds on the markets, successfully bringing down their borrowing costs. Spain’s public deficit last year amounted to the equivalent of 9.2 percent of its gross domestic product, or total economic output. The government has vowed to slice the deficit progressively to 6.0 percent of GDP this year, 4.0 percent in 2012 and 3.0 percent in 2013.

Leaders give lukewarm response to Sarkozy and Merkel’s bid to save euro

Lloret de Mar residents protest over boozy holidaymakers A silent demonstration protesting against drunken tourists attracted over 1,000 followers in Lloret de Mar last week. Carrying banners proclaiming ‘we love Lloret’, the protesters read out a manifesto outside the town hall in which they stated that living in the popular Costa Brava holiday destination was ‘a privilege’, but that it needed ‘a new model of tourism’. They claim that Lloret’s attraction as a sunshine resort town with cheap booze is damaging its image. Their march also took them past the Colossos nightclub on the seafront, where over 20 young people were arrested last week for drunken and disorderly behaviour, which included violence. The club had suffered a power-cut on Thursday night, when a world-renowned DJ was performing. Although the generators were switched on, the airconditioning stopped working, which meant all 1,800 clubbers had to be evacuated. Some attempted to go back in and ended up in a drunken brawl with other groups of holidaymakers, which involved punch-ups and throwing things. The Mossos d’Esquadra – Catalunya’s answer to the Guardia Civil – had to intervene and arrested a number of youths.

If Angela Merkel and Nicolas Sarkozy hoped their efforts on Tuesday to save Europe’s faltering economy would be rewarded with high praise, they would have been disappointed yesterday by Europe-wide condemnation in the European press and only a lukewarm reaction from other European leaders. Despite the grand, but unspecified, pledges of deeper fiscal co-ordination and promises to work together more closely, press sources were largely apathetic to the statement made in Paris. Worried at being seen by domestic voters as supporting the sick men of Europe with their own taxpayers’ money, the leaders of the eurozone’s two biggest economies rejected pressure from economists and politicians to agree to the issue of eurozone bonds. The bonds are seen with increasing inevitability as means of supporting the likes of Greece, Italy and Ireland. Even before Tuesday evening’s meeting, the Italian press was not confident. Last weekend, Libero accused Ms Merkel of using the crisis to assert German influence over the rest of the Continent. Portraying the German Chancellor as a bully in an SS uniform and sporting a Hitler moustache, the front

page screamed: “Germany sets the eurozone under pressure in order to control it.” More sober reflection was seen in other papers: “Germany and France try to grab control of the crisis,” said La Vanguardia in Spain. Shares fell on the disappointment in the market over at the leaders’ reticence over eurozone bonds. “We have exactly the same position on eurobonds,” Mr Sarkozy said. “One day we could imagine them, but at the end of a process of European integration, not at the beginning.” The Italian Finance minister, Giulio Tremonti, described the plan as a “masterstroke”. Italy would be one of the countries to benefit most. Others have been cooler on the idea, however, particularly those from countries with stronger economies. Mark Rutte, the Dutch Prime Minister, warned that a plan to introduce eurobonds should be accompanied by a schedule of punishments for countries that breach budgetary rules. Petr Necas, the Czech Prime Minister, said closer integration would create more problems than it solved. “Whenever some problem occurs in the [EU], some silver bullet is pulled out, and it is always closer and closer integration,” he said.

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Sport

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Eurobonds a ‘good idea’ but not now

Spain’s Finance Minister Elena Salgado has backed eurobonds as “a good idea” but said they would not be introduced any time soon due to German “reluctance.” The idea of eurobonds issued and guaranteed by countries with better credit ratings has long been floated as a way of helping debtsaddled Greece and other struggling eurozone members. But Germany is opposed to their introduction as it believes this would increase its own borrowing costs and allow countries to avoid implementing much-needed reforms. “I think it would be a good idea, but I can’t see it on the table, honestly, at the moment,” Salgado told Cadena Ser radio. “I repeat. I think it would be a good idea that can get on the road slowly.” But for that, “it is absolutely essential that countries which need to carry out reforms do it in depth and with determination.” And there is “reluctance” among the German

public “about greater fiscal integration of the economies” of Europe. German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble at the weekend told Spiegel magazine he ruled out introducing eurobonds at the present time. “I reject eurobonds for as long as member states operate their own fiscal policy and we need different interest rates so that there are possible incentives and sanctions to enforce fiscal solidity,” he said. “There will be no pooling of debt and unlimited aid,” he added. France’s Nicolas Sarkozy met Germany’s Angela Merkel in Paris on Tuesday as jittery markets anxiously awaited any sign that European leaders have a plan to resolve the eurozone debt crisis.

Men work on the roof of the new concourse at King’s Cross station in London. The station, which serves the east coast mainline, is undergoing a £500 million redevelopment, which is due to be completed by the end of the year.

Osborne hopes to kick-start economy with enterprise zones

Chancellor George Osborne is hoping to kick-start the economy and create businesses and more jobs with a series of new “enterprise zones”, announced THIS WEEK The enterprise zones will offer tax breaks, relaxed planning regulations and high-speed broadband in an effort to attract startup companies, and have been described by Mr Osborne as a “critical part” of the government’s growth strategy. But many have questioned the effectiveness of the policy, pursued by both Margaret Thatcher and John Major throughout the 80s and 90s, arguing that jobs created are simply displaced from other areas, and that the cost of setting up the zones outweighs the economic benefits. Months before an official announcement of the enterprise zones, two think tanks urged the government to reconsider the policy. A report by Centre for Cities released in February called for “a new approach to areabased growth,” suggesting that the scheme used in the 1980s by Thatcher was ineffective. “The enterprise zones of the 80s did not create enough jobs and were too costly for the public purse to be effective today,” the report said. It added: “The incentives used to encourage business growth and relocation – business rate relief or capital-based spending and allowances – also weighed heavily on public finances.” Supporters of Mr Osborne’s strategy point to the success of the Isle of Dogs in the London Docklands – now Canary Wharf – which itself began as an enterprise zone. But another think tank says this example is misleading. A report from the Work

Foundation, also released in February, said that when the Docklands enterprise zone expired there were just 7,000 people working in Canary Wharf, compared with 90,000 today. Andrew Sissons, a researcher at the foundation, told the Today programme that the zones were merely an “expensive way of moving jobs around the country.” The foundation’s report claimed that the zones typically provided only a three-year boost to an area before it slipped back into depression, and that four out of five jobs created were displaced jobs from areas outside the enterprise zone. This was the case in Dudley, according to John Rider, chairman of the Institute of Directors in the West Midlands, when it became one of the first waves of enterprise zones under Margaret Thatcher in the early 1980s. A former steelworks site was transformed into a huge retail park with the help of the scheme, but not without a cost. “I think the concept is reasonable but the reality was that they displaced people’s jobs over the boundaries into the enterprise zones,” Mr Rider said.

The original urban enterprise zones were the work of town planner Professor Peter Hall in the 1970s. He proposed setting up small sectors that allowed for “shamelessly free enterprise” as a “last-ditch solution” to turn around disadvantaged areas, and the first zones were established in 1981 under Margaret Thatcher. Over the next 15 years, 38 were created across the country, with the most famous being London’s Docklands. There, the success of turning what had been derelict wasteland into a modern financial hub might be considered to form the perfect inspiration for one of the nearby Royal Docks, which has been designated as one of the new zones. While some would argue it would have been hard to encourage such a massive redevelopment without tax incentives, a report from the Work Foundation think tank has downplayed the impact of the project in encouraging investment in the Docklands, saying that when the zone expired, only 7,000 people were working there, as opposed to the 90,000 today when no such relief exists. Another of the old zones was set up in Dudley in the

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West Midlands, leading to the creation of the Merry Hill shopping centre. There, however, some people argue that it merely led to jobs moving into the zone from other places, rather than creating new jobs.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Residents swim to the town hall or to church

A village in southern Spain has turned its town hall square into a swimming pool for the summer. Cañaveral de León (Huelva) revealed this week that ever since 2009, it has been filling the main square in front of the council offices with water from nearby natural springs so that people strolling through town can take an impromptu dip. Based in the middle of two huge nature reserves – the Aracena mountain range and the Aroche peaks

– the municipality of 400 inhabitants is possibly the only one in Spain where you can swim to church or to the town hall. In the winter, although the 8,000-square metre pool is still in place, the water is drained off and used for irrigating the nearby agricultural fields, reveals the mayoress. Now registered as an official part of Andalucía’s heritage, the plaza-pool is said to be a major tourist attraction in the area.

A riverbank renaissance

Once they were near extinction, wiped out by pesticides and a dwindling food supply. Now otters have staged one of nature’s most remarkable comebacks. They have been spotted in every English county and are flourishing in some areas they have not been seen in for a generation, according to a survey for the Environment Agency. It is an incredible turnaround as otters all but disappeared in England after the Second World War because of toxic pesticides which were washed off farmland and into rivers and streams, killing them and the fish they live on. Their numbers only began to recover in the 1970s, when harmful pesticides were banned and it became an offence to hunt them. A clean-up of the rivers has also helped. This has increased the stocks of fish that otters live on, mainly salmon, trout and eel. The promising results of the survey have been hailed as a sign that years of trying to revive the population is paying off at last. While some areas of the country saw otters return quickly, others were not so lucky. As late as last year none had returned to parts of the South East and it was predicted it might take a decade of dedicated effort before they did. But yesterday conservationists confirmed there are two otters in Kent, who have built their holts, or dens, on the Medway and Eden rivers. Otter numbers have increased tenfold in the past 30 years, according to the research which examined data from 3,327 rivers in England in 2009-10. There have been staggering increases in some areas, such as the Ribble in Lancashire where the otter population has increased by 44 per cent since 2008.

Otters found in EVERY English county as they fight back from brink of extinction ‘The recovery of otters from nearextinction shows how far we’ve come in controlling pollution and improving water quality,’ said the Environment Agency’s national conservation manager, Alastair Driver. ‘Rivers in England are the healthiest for more than 20 years, and otters, salmon and other wildlife are returning to many rivers for the first time since the Industrial Revolution. ‘The fact that otters are now returning to Kent is the final piece in the jigsaw for otter recovery in England and is a symbol of great success for everybody involved in otter conservation.’ He warned against complacency,

however, and said further work was being done with farmers, anglers and water companies. Paul Yoxon, of the International Otter Survival Fund, based on the Isle of Skye, was delighted. ‘This is really good news,’ he said. ‘The way otters have been brought back is remarkable, especially as they only breed every other year. ‘Otters are a unique species as they live on land and in water and because they are at the top of the food chain they are essential to a healthy environment. They are still declining and endangered in many parts of Europe so it is good news that our efforts to improve water quality have been so successful.’

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Bat on a plane sparks panic

A bat on a plane caused panic among passengers on board a flight in the US. The animal was filmed flying through the cabin during a Delta Airways flight from Madison, Wisconsin, to Atlanta’ Georgia. It caused so much distress that the pilot was forced to return t o the departure airport, reports the Daily Telegraph. Passenger Mike Schmidt filmed the bat flying over passengers’ heads as they ducked and screamed. The animal was finally contained when it flew into

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the onboard toilet and a passenger shut the door. Mr Schmidt said: “I woke up to a small scream and then I saw the bat fly over my head. “I grabbed my phone to get some video as my friends would never believe this. “It went up and down the aisle about four to five times before being trapped in the back lavatory.”

Cow gets head stuck in ladder

A cow had to be rescued from a tight squeeze in Scotland after it got its head stuck in a ladder. Members of the public spotted the Belgian Blue bullock in a field on the Troon to Barassie road in Ayrshire. The startled onlookers immediately called the Scottish SPCA to help the animal. Inspector Kerry Kirkpatrick contacted the farmer who owned the cow and helped return the bewildered beast to the herd unharmed. Inspector Kirkpatrick said: “When the job came through my first thought was, this is a wind up, but I arrived at the field to find the cow looking confused but surprisingly calm despite having his head wedged tightly in between the rungs of the ladder. “The farmer’s family rounded up the whole herd into a holding pen and we managed to gently pull the ladder off the cow’s head.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

n a e b b i r a C e Th l o s o p m a C o t s Come More than 220 people enjoyed the songs of Bob Marley, limbo dancing and Caribbean capers with Barrington at the MABS Caribbean Night fundraiser. “It was so popular that we sold out of tickets on the first day of sale” commented Sue Jacob, MABS Fundraising Co-ordinator. Sue had been rushed into hospital with acute appendicitis just a week before, but the fundraising team made sure that everything was on schedule for the event. Undeterred by her recent major operation, Sue arrived in a wheelchair (decorated a la Caribbean, of course) to oversee the night’s festivities. MABS fundraisers worked hard to give everyone a true flavour of the Caribbean with some great decorations, including two palm trees, made especially for the event. Charlotte, granddaughter of Totana Shop Manager, Ann Vinall, made the tea-light jars in bright, Day-Glo colours, which added to the whole evening’s atmosphere, and she proved to be a valuable member of the event team. To complete the theme, and despite temperatures in the high 30’s, Barrington sported his Bob Marley dreadlocks like a true professional to entertain the crowd, many of whom had

also dressed for the occasion in colourful outfits. Fired up by the atmosphere, guests joined Barrington’s Caribbean dancing sessions and there was an impressive line-up of people willing to take on the challenge of the limbo dancing. Some excellent raffle prizes were donated by local businesses and ticket sales helped towards a final fundraising total of 1375 €. MABS Director, Lyn Baines, also attended the event “It’s been a fabulous night thanks to the Sue and her fundraising team.” she said “Everyone has worked so hard and I am very proud of them”.

When MABS Murcia volunteer, Val Vickery, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer it was a huge shock for her and hubby, Malcolm. As key members of the MABS team, they have raised a great deal of money with the weekly MABS book sale outside The Arches in Los Alcázares. Needless to say, fellow MABS volunteers rallied round and they have received lots of support whilst Val has undergone a major operation and now, during her ongoing chemotherapy treatment. Val continues to help Malcolm on the bookstall each week “It keeps me focused” she says “and the summer is always such a busy time for us.” They work very much as a team and are well known to residents and holidaymakers in Los Alcázares. They both knew that, with an aggressive course of chemotherapy, Val would quickly lose her hair and Malcolm wanted to do something to make sure that she didn’t feel out of place when it happened. He came up with the idea of having his own head shaved to keep her company and then the idea began to snowball. When The Arches owner, Ali, heard about it, she was happy to help Malcolm make it a fundraising event for MABS. Word soon spread and MABS supporter, Suzy G, offered to entertain everyone at the event. The news reached MABS sponsors, Iceland Overseas in San Javier, and Martin Lawrence of Customer Services immediately volunteered to join Malcolm and have his head shaved too. “This is turning into quite an event and I am delighted that Suzy and Martin are joining me” commented Malcolm. The sponsored head shave will take place at The Arches in Los Alcázares on Thursday, 15 September (7.30 pm for an 8.00 pm start) and tickets are available at The Arches for just 5€ each, which includes a buffet. If you would like to sponsor Malcolm and Martin, or if you would like tickets, please call Malcolm on 968 135 346 or email info@ mabsmurcia.com MABS Murcia/ Mar Menor helps all people in the Murcia/Mar Menor area who are affected by cancer, providing d r i v e r s , translators, information leaflets, equipment, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. If you want to volunteer, donate or you need help, you can contact MABS on 693 275 779 or visit their website: www.mabsmurcia.com

Close Shave for MABS

This is Roma. Saved from having a slow death by a very caring lady However as she does not have the facilities or space a horse needs she has contacted the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre to give Roma a home and the care and medical attention she needs. Why? You might ask are so many horses being left this way. The main reason is the Horse passport. Now every horse in Spain has to have a micro chip and a passport. There are hundreds here that do not. Roma is one of them so she and all the others are illegal. This means she cannot be legally transported, sold, kept in a livery yard, sold for meat. YES that happens here or to even be humanly disposed of. This is why hundreds of horses like Roma are being left to starve to death hidden away in old buildings or on plots of waste land. Because they have no value. Most people do not realise that to have a horse put to sleep and the body taken away in a sanitation lorry for incineration costs at least 450€. Again this is only possible if the horse is legal. IT IS AGAINST THE LAW TO BURY A HORSE There around 9000 registered horses

MABS Mazarrón is looking forward to its next big event, the Race for Life, on Sunday, 23 October. For entry and sponsorship forms visit the website: www.mabsmurcia.com or call 689 052 123 MABS Mazarrón helps all people in the Mazarrón area who are affected by cancer, providing drivers, translators, information leaflets, equipment, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. If you want to volunteer, donate or you need help, you can contact MABS on 618 896 381 or visit their website: www.mabsmurcia.com Phone: 968 432 525 or 693 824 511Email: info@mabsmurcia.com

easy horse care rescue - update

Roma...

in our region and about three times as many that are not. YES of cause we are going to help Roma but we need all the help and support we can get for the Rescue Centre to continue it`s work. Roma will make 39 horses and donkeys living here and unfortunately there are many more that need help. The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre is a registered charity No.G54405618 dedicated to saving abused and abandoned horses, ponies and donkeys and then providing a safe caring environment for them. The charity has no official funding and

relies completely on public support and donations. We are open to visitors every day from 1pm till 4pm with open days on Wednesdays and Sundays when you can have a guided tour and meet our residents and hear their stories and enjoy a light lunch or refreshment in the café garden. All proceeds go towards the support of the Rescue Centre. For more information and a map with directions visit www.easyhorsecare. net or call Sue 652 021 980

It’s a “Rocking Good Way” to get the Costa Blanca buzzing!

In the words of one of Shakin Stevens great songs “Its a Rocking good way” as Europe’s No 1 tribute Shaken Stevens opened his seven show tour at Asturias on Thursday. The show, a three hour spectacular tribute to Shaky and those that inspired him, was well acclaimed by the audience with several saying at the end that they were sure “he was miming”!! Peter Day, from Jukebox Promotions says “He is really is that good and so people often think he must be miming but, like most top tribute artists, he purposely spoke and joked in the middle of songs to prove that he was completely live. It’s just one amazing voice and so, if you haven’t booked yet, don’t miss going to one of the remaining dates”. The tour, raising money for

Help at Home (Costa Blanca) is due to burst into life this week as it features every day somewhere. Here are the remaining show dates at the time of writing: Tickets are at the named venues NOW! (pay for 10 or more and get 2 FREE - except at The Rendezvous) The Fox on the Fairway, Villa Martin on Tuesday 23rd August The Club, Quesada on Wednesday 24th August Rocajuna, Punta Prima on Thursday 25th August Casa Ventura, San Luis on Friday 26th August The Rendezvous, Campoamor on Sunday 28th August (tickets 10 Euros inc FREE buffet) Tickets 7.50 Euros - info line 695135134 or www. jukeboxpromotions.co.uk

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

HELP ASSOCIATION OF VEGA BAJA SOCIAL GROUP - FRIENDS UNLIMITED

Meetings will resume after the summer break on Thursday 1st September at ‘The Club’, Calle Toledo adjacent to Quesada

Bowls Club, from 2-4pm. If you would like to join us at our meetings or at any of our fund raising events or would like more information about the social group Friends Unlimited please call Pat Perrin the coordinator on 966 719 862. ALL THURSDAYS AT THE CLUB FROM 2PM, UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED. Sep 1st “Humming birds, Ecuador and The Amazon” by Ray Marsh HELP VEGA BAJA is a registered charity and helps people with all sorts of problems, particularly at time of crisis and emergencies and when

police or medical services are involved. Welfare Officer: The association is pleased to offer the services of a Welfare officer who can carry out home visits and offer advice and information about your need for care and help in the home. If you feel that you could benefit from a visit or know someone who could use this free service please contact us. For more information about this FREE service please contact us on 966 723 733 Offices are at: Calle Lope de Vega 46, San Miguel de Salinas, 03193 Alicante Tel.: 966 723 733 Opening Hours: 10:00 to 13:30 Monday to Fridays and Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4, Torrevieja, 03181 Alicante Tel.: 965 704 282 Opening Hours: 10:00 to 13:30 Monday to Fridays Email: office@helpvegabaja.com, www.helpvegabaja.com Our 24 hour emergency help-line 965 723 733

ADHOC THEATRE COMPANY

The ADHOC Theatre Company have announced dates for the first performances of their latest production “RUN FOR YOUR WIFE” A comedy Farce by Ray Clooney, Directed by Debbie Payton and Produced by Billie Anthony’Gaddess. The venue is at Los Monesinos Theatre in the Music and Culture Centre on November the 17th, 18th & 19th. The Very Popular Theatre Company are also in discussions with 2 other venues, with the possibility of playing in other towns around the area. Kevin Errol Flynn will be playing the lead role in this production as a bigamist Taxi Driver, with Shirley Watts and Jackie Lawson as his two loving wives’. Chris Powell as the sponging neighbour, Peter Cook and Richard Winter as the Police Sergeant’s. Martin Robinson as the Reporter and Billie Anthony’Gaddess as Bobby. Last week 10 members of the ADHOC descended on Benidorm to attend the Auditions, along with many others, for

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Food for thought...... Hello again and welcome. This edition I have decided to look at two areas, namely passion and motivation, as I consider that they go together hand in hand as it were. What are YOU passionate about? Last edition I said my passion is food an area whereby I could spend all my time thinking about it, talking about it, being creative with it, cooking it, serving it and of course eating it!! It is an area that to me needs little or no actual motivation to get me moving. Let’s first look at passion. What exactly is passion? Passion is, as described in the Oxford English Dictionary, amongst other things, (that is to say, leaving sex out of the equation!), as a strongly felt emotion or a strong enthusiasm for something, or, the object of an intense desire or enthusiasm: some of you might choose football as this desire, my partners’ passion is dancing, and mine is food. When you are passionate about something it is easy to get excited about it and this often inspires you to do something about the passion. In other words to feel motivated in to doing something – it may well be going to watch or even play a game of football, to dance or to cook. People can be passionate about all sorts of things, what ‘floats my boat’ may not necessarily float yours. If you have a deep desire about something then that desire or passion alone, may well be enough to motivate you. What if it isn’t? Or what if there is something you need to do for instance, like lose weight for health reasons, some area where there is little or no passion. How can we get motivated? If you are a self-motivator, (you’ve seen this expression I’m sure – it’s usually always in a sales oriented recruitment ad!!), then you can usually come up with a reason to do the task or challenge at hand. This may involve a lot of self talk, visualisation or the promise of a ‘treat’ when the ‘job’ is done. What ever it is you can usually come up with something. But what if you can’t? Who do you turn to and what do you do? Some people of course don’t do anything, especially those who always need to be motivated by someone. This someone could be your best friend or, it could be a therapist, sibling or parent. The point is this ‘other person’ needs to be someone who can inspire you sufficiently in order to motivate you. So who inspires you? Some people are inspired by their idols. Who is yours? I suppose if I were to say who inspires me it would be someone like

Gordon Ramsey for instance. He has a real passion for food in all shapes and sizes and not just the finished dish!! But then again there’s Nigella Lawson!! Now she is just quite simply a Goddess!! (Never mind in the kitchen Ooops!). Nigella, probably inspires me more, as her cooking abilities unlike Gordon Ramsey’s have never undergone any formal training. She cooks straight from the heart and uses her journalistic talents to ensure we are enticed or inspired into trying her dishes. Clever cookie! A lot of people I have talked to with regard to passion and motivation are motivated by someone who has achieved what it is that they themselves want to achieve. For example, people with a weight problem are often inspired by class leaders who have had a weight problem as with case of Weight Watchers Leaders. As far as I understand, unless you have been a member of a class and been inspired and motivated into losing weight then you cannot yourself become a leader. Of course having lost weight the Weight Watcher’s way, or Slimming World’s for that matter, then having been sufficiently inspired you then become passionate about eating their way. As the weight is lost on a regular basis so your passion AND motivation is increased. Once motivated into doing whatever is required the ‘doing’ becomes easier. Let’s look at motivation. Again quoting the Oxford English dictionary, motivation means, being inspired or having a reason for a course of action. Now this I find a little difficult, in that having a reason to do something or to follow a course of action may not be enough to get you moving or motivated. Think of the smoker who has just been told to give up smoking or risk even more serious lung damage to already damaged lungs. Well this should be enough to motivate any smoker into giving up smoking, I hear you all cry!! Apparently not is my reply. You see, I know several smokers who would benefit enormously by giving up the old weed, however despite being told that, they cannot get motivated to do it. Why? In the first instance I believe it is because they have been TOLD what they SHOULD do. For some reason it would appear, as adults we have an aversion to being told what to do, to being controlled, as in the word should. Far better to be inspired to do something or motivated into doing something. Now finding a link for the smoker to latch onto in order to be inspired or motivated into, quitting the habit, is where the fun starts! Why? Quite simply because we are all different! This is where the second instance comes into being. It is important to

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find or work out what ‘floats yer boat’ as previously stated. Because, unless a sufficient amount of passion can be aroused or raised, (no I don’t mean the sexual sort!!), then it is more likely that the smoker will continue to be just that - a smoker. Now I’m not picking on smokers here, what I am doing is highlighting that it is easier to do something (be motivated into doing something) that you are passionate about. With regard to being a smoker, being told to stop for health reasons is not always sufficient. After all, smoking or the act of could well be the smoker’s passion! To conclude, passion and motivation co-exist. Maybe if there is something you want to do but are not doing , then maybe you could work on finding out how to become passionate about whatever it is you want to do. Ask yourself empowering questions with regard to the benefits of what it is you want to do. Are the benefits sufficient to get you motivated and doing? Or, maybe, whatever it is you think you want you may not want enough. Now there’s a thought………. Food for Thought has been written and compiled by Body and Mind Therapist, Drew Ryder BSc. Psychol Hons, IIHHT, MICHT, ThAT He is available for private consultations on 968978876 or 660326194.

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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Look Good Feel Great On Saturday 3rd of September Calle Los Arcos is in for a big suprise, and if you go down there you will see why. DJ Nessie and Peephole Promotions kick off the evening at around 6pm, with live entertainment and the best music around. There will be loads of amazing things happening like a Zumba and Spinathon demos by Howards Gym and a fashion show, so amazing that Paris will be jealous, with this seasons

fashions and all the new winter ranges, organized by Carol at DL1. The models will be made beautiful by Diane at Deja Vu Hair and Beauty and will be sporting the most fashionable gels around town, by Fran and Rheana at Concept Nail Spa. Be entranced by the sensual Flamenco dancers and you will also have a chance to get consultations on the newest fashion beauty treatments. For the more daring there will be a demonstration and consultation service from Joe and Steve at Celeste Inferno Tattoo Studio. If you are hungry visit the two onsite restaurants and enjoy a FRESH! salad and smoothie from Trevor at the Juice Bar or a delicious Barbecue by Rick and Lisa from the Mini Golf. If you are still in the party mood we will be taking you up to the Midnight hour with Karaoke, so who’s brave?. Make sure you purchase your 1€ tickets, which ensures you

K.C.I.

Gold Centre Fashion show get a seat at this coveted event and includes a free glass of wine by We Know Vino, Bodega, free tapas and entry into an amazing prize draw. And we haven’t forgotten the kids with a free bouncy castle (adults not allowed and height restriction applies). Speaking of height restrictions you can always pop into iShop, iSell, iBuy to and see what they are about with Steve and his crew.. Come and raise a glass with us, to the end of summer 2011, with this fun filled Fiesta. Tickets area vailable from all units in the building and The Mini Golf....so we will see you at 17 Calle Los Arcos, Ciudad Quesada....for the last of the summer wine.

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The word m a n i c u re means “care of the hands” and pedicure “care of the feet”

The difference between a professional Photo from t r e a t m e n t K.C.I Nail and a home Academy treatment is that Gel polish with glitter a therapist can recommend the right products for you to improve the appearance of the hands / feet and nails, ny cleansing and nourishing them. It will also stimulate your blood circulation and feed the nail bed better so encouraging nail growth. They will be ble to advise you on problem areas such a dry, tight, cracked, soft or pliable cuticles. Strong, weak, brittle, flaking, discoloured, stained nails. Rough, dry, chapped, soft or smooth skin and advise the correct treatment for you. Out here with the amount of sun we are exposed to it affects all our skin although does encourage nail growth. Dry areas on hands and feet can benefit a lot from hand and foot scrubs, eliminating dead skin cells and creams, nail nourishment treatments are usually available to buy from the therapist especially for specific areas like heels and peeling nails. etc. There are so many ways to enhance nails nowadays, therapists are offering eye catching foil covers like minx or blixz that are applied with heat and last up to 6 weeks on toes and instead of nail polish there are gel polishes available that are cured under a uv lamp and again are more durable than nail polish with amazing sparkly effects. Article by Caroline Biggs Technical advisor K.C.I Hair and Beauty Warehouse and Academy. Photo from K.C.I Nail Academy.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

A 15-minute daily workout will ‘put 3 years on your life’

Exercising for as little as 15 minutes a day can add three years to your life, researchers say. Just a short burst of vigorous activity, rather than gruelling hours at the gym, reduced the risk of dying early by 14 per cent and the cancer risk by 10 per cent, according to a study of 400,000 people. Every additional 15 minutes of exercise a day further reduces the risk of early death by 4 per cent and cancer by 1 per cent. The Government recommends adults get at least two-and-a-half hours of exercise a week, or 30 minutes a day. While the benefits of exercise are well documented, little research has been done on the impact of short workouts. The study, published in The Lancet medical journal, followed men and women from Taiwan for an average of eight years between 1996

and 2008. On the basis of their weekly exercise, they were placed in five categories of activity: Inactive, low, medium, high, or very high. The researchers then calculated mortality risks for every group compared with the inactive group. Even the low-volume activity group who exercised for 92 minutes a week – or 15 minutes a day for six days – benefited, regardless of their age, sex, and even their risk of heart disease. The report’s authors concluded: ‘If the minimum amount of exercise we suggest is adhered to, mortality from heart disease, diabetes, and cancer could be reduced. This low volume of physical activity could play a central part in the global war against noncommunicable diseases, reducing medical costs and health disparities.’ Professor Ken Fox, an

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academic in exercise and health at Bristol University and former adviser to a Commons committee on obesity, said: ‘It adds to a wealth of knowledge we already have that exercise is good for you, but the idea of just 15 minutes a day is very, very useful. ‘The Department of Health recommends 30 minutes a day but for those who are not ready for that, such as obese and older people, this can bridge the gap.’ The National Health Survey for England found that only 30 per cent of

people think they are doing the recommended 150 minutes of exercise a week, but Professor Fox said independent studies suggest it may be as little as 10 per cent. England’s Chief Medical Officer, Sally Davies, said: ‘Physical activity offers huge benefits. Adults can get their 150 minutes of activity a week in sessions of ten minutes or more. ‘There are many ways to get exercise – activities such as walking at a good pace or digging the garden over can count too.’

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Hair extensions are not just about extending the length of your hair but also for increasing volume to thinning hair which can have outstanding results. The latest hair extensions from The Hair Studio come with Keratin (glue) tips or if you prefer there is the glue free Micro Loops. The Hair Studio hair extensions are made from 100% human hair without any chemical fibre and all their hair is covered by CE certification to meet standard EN71-3 which is your guarantee of the utmost quality. The Sol Times sent their very own reporter Stacey to find out what all the fuss was about and here are her Before and After photographs. Stacey went to Chantelle´s Hair & Beauty Salon in Rojales for her extensions but every week more and more salons are offering The Hair Studio products to their clients. Hair extensions are now available to everyone with offers like 100 braids including professional fitting from €249 and there are a host of colours to choose from. To locate a salon near you call Jay on 630 931 401

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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

with carol everett

Right Brain ...Intuition

Science is now looking more and more into this phenomena; Leonardo Da Vinci was a prime example of an advanced right brain, pioneer, ahead of his time with the ability to tap into and obtain information from tomorrows world. Releasing the right hand side of your brain enables it to run free to communicate with other dimensions where new information can be channelled, in my case through drawings, feelings and automatic writing. Things that your own thinking mind would not know. From the age of six I always had this natural ability to shut down the left hand side my brain. This is the logical thinking part of every ones brain where you store knowledge you read and learn. As I got older I was able to control this ability and access information at will. Of course at the time I didn’t really know what I was doing was different, it was just normal to me. I thought I was similar to anyone else. At school I was always in trouble for not concentrating, day dreaming they called it. The right hand side of the brain is the creative intuitive side of the brain, writing painting music etc. As soon as I was able to hold a pencil I would draw on anything in sight, walls, toilet paper, it was always the same drawings, little angel faces. One day my mum woke up to an angel on her leg, while she was asleep I had seen a hole in her tights and it just fitted a little angels face perfectly! As time went by this ability to shift my brain quickly from left to right just by slightly tilting my head to one side ended up a daily occurrence. As word of mouth spread this ‘gift’ seemed to enable me to be one step ahead. This ability to change my brain quickly from left to right has proved instrumental in my successes in life. I went on to help find missing people, and also being able to put the missing link into perspective for medical conditions. Plus using my art work to draw pictures for the police. This is what led me to being tested on all my abilities in Japan. In 1994 at the Denki university in Tokyo I was put through a very intense scientific testing. On our arrival in Japan I was sat in front of seven producers. How you do your work they asked. I answered “I shut down the left hand side of my brain put it to sleep and my right brain

does what ever it has to do.”

lifting up their vibrations

The answer, “We’ll see on Wednesday”

I came to Spain have more enjoyment with my work, to write, my book my poems ,paint my Angel pictures again, carry on with my research, do our own documentary, regular column, radio chats, TV but more light-hearted. I have a good sense of humour its always kept me going through hard times, dealing with people and families where they have been told someone has only a few weeks or days to live is draining. It was obviously part of my development but I feel things are changing now for me, I have to be freed up to do other things.

Wednesday arrived and to say was I nervous was an understatement. Everyone eyes were glued on me and the young woman in the room whilst all the scientific equipment was testing my brain waves etc - I was sitting there with what looked like a hair net on my head full of electrodes which didn’t help my confidence too much either. Once the testing was finished everyone stood up and clapped; my ability confirmed at last. I had correctly diagnosed and healed the young woman without even touching her by using my right brain to diagnose a condition then direct the healing energies from the top of my head to the area that I had diagnosed. The Doctors had all known about the woman’s health condition - I was given no prior information at all. I couldn’t wait to ring up my parents in Devon – and it was my Mum’s birthday! “Happy birthday Mum, guess what? I have just shrunk a tumour!” Well, for once, my mum was speechless. Since being tested in Japan I have used these abilities to help heal and diagnose a lot of people at times working in conjunction with doctors in Harley Street. I have used it to give insight into ‘cold cases’ from Japan, helped investigations for the FBI at their request with the Washington sniper. The UK police with the Soham murders. Finding a local missing woman here in Spain last year on the cliff tops near Bolnuevo. I’ve worked on crime watch type programs on Japanese TV and programmes in England and USA that have since been syndicated all over the world. I have helped people from all walks of life from dustbin men to sheiks. What I want to do now ? Now I want to be more upbeat and happier in my work. Blood healing and reprogramming is my baby, This has progressed to also include facial healing to flatten out wrinkles, with mind body soul uplifting and balancing. Healing will soon be available in anti ageing clinics in Spain, I am really excited about this, I feel that after all those years of experience I have something now to offer those that want to help themselves,

It’s important to have quality time with family friends and have some fun in your life, my nick name from my eldest daughter is Joan of Arc that says it all doesn’t it, working to live not living to work is why we came to Spain. I have helped a lot of sick people over the years, prevention is better than cure all the way round for me and for you. I would like to share with you some of my spiritual experiences and techniques and true stories in more depth with you and shed a light on some of the frustrations and pitfalls you will encounter on your spiritual quest. Its not the things in life we plan that are meant to happen it’s the things we don’t. What is down to us is whether we make the most of that path The way we lead our life and our behaviour patterns determine whether we get the best out of our life or not. I have done a couple of talks and demonstrations over here; people have called me the Psychic Life Coach! I picked up the phone to ring a friend, I got the editor of this paper, I put down the phone rang again the number I wanted, again I got Claire, the Editor for this paper. I always go with the flow and made the most of the moment, so did Claire, and here I am, a coincidence meant to be intervention, or a nudge to me to get me going to reach you. Old age doesn’t mean cramp and restriction, but gives you the strength of your convictions Those of you that have enjoyed this article and want to ask me questions, maybe about your own development, please email me at editor@soltimes.com and the Editor will forward me your queries. Remember. I am not a fortune teller so if you want to know if you re going to win the lottery I can’t help you! Bye for now...

De-Stress Beautifully

Every bit of us, from hair to toes, mind to skin gets stressed from time to time. Feeling overly strung out has a knock on effect and leaves us looking and feeling less than fabulous? Here are a few ideas to help you calm down and regain your usual serene and lovely self! Unclog tense, stressed skin (telltale signs are a sallow look, blocked pores and dryness) with natural oils, herbs and mixes… Add 1 drop each of lemon, grapefruit and bergamot essential oils to a basin of hot water. Immerse your face cloth, then wring out until it stops dripping – still heavy with aromatic water, open it our over your palms and, using a press and release action, compress face and neck.

Add three drops of rose essential oil to a spray bottle filled with mineral water. Use it after cleansing and twice day over makeup. To ease stressed skin around the eyes, soak a flannel in ice cold milk, wring out and lay over eyes for five minutes while you sit propped against pillows. Meditate and deep breathe at the same time for double the benefits.

Repeat several times, breathing deeply to quench body and soul.

Tense, tight and grey skin can be brightened and relaxed with a post-cleansing oil massage.

Treat dull skin to a brightening mask – it helps rebalance it beautifully. Mash five strawberries with a tablespoon of honey and another of cream, but judge tour mix carefully – it mustn’t be too runny.

• Rub a favourite skin oil between your palms, hold your hands over your face and breathe in the aroma before sweeping the oil from your nose to temples a few times.

Slather onto skin and relax for 10-15 minutes before rinsing away with a herbal or floral skin tonic.

• Next, using the palms of your hands, work from your collarbone to your chin using long strokes.

Sensitive skin? Use raspberries instead! Treat yourself to a gel-filled mask- it makes the fastest complexion booster. Warm it in water and pop over moisturiser to nourish your skin, or chill it in the fridge and slip it over a spritz of toner to de-puff and energise. De-stress and hydrate your skin throughout the day with a soothing toner.

• From chin to ears, pinch all along your jaw line using your thumbs and the knuckles of your index finger. • Now using index fingers, massage upwards along your laughter lines and out across your cheeks. • Massage your forehead by stroking upwards in high arcs towards your hairline, really concentrating on those frown lines between your eyes. • Finish by pressing firmly with your middle fingers from the start of your brows along the brow bone, around the eyes over cheekbones to your nose. • Leave the oil on your skin for a while or leave it do wonderful things overnight. Soothe tense, uptight hands. Zap a little aromatherapy hand cream in the microwave for 10 seconds, then smooth it on (check heat first) before covering with clingfilm; unwrap silky-soft hands in just five minutes. A stressed body doesn’t always need relaxing – invigorating works too! Forget scrubs – use a creamy body wash and a rough little glove. Start at your toes and briskly move up using circular movements. Rinse off, pat almost dry, then smooth on a zingy wake-up body lotion. Dead easy and so feel good!

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Intro D Db Bm Db (x2)

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

THE UNDERTONES

MU USSIC M IC L LE ESSSSO ON NSS

Verse 1 D Db A teenage dream’s so hard to beat Bm Db Every time she walks down the street D Db Another girl in the neighborhood Bm A Wish she was mine, she looks so good Chorus G G# I wanna hold, wanna hold her tight A D And get teenage kicks all through the night Verse 2 I’m gonna call her on the telephone Have her over ‘cos I’m all alone I need excitement, though I need it bad And it’s the best I’ve ever had Chorus Solo D Db Bm Db (x2) Repeat Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, Chorus Solo(x2)

were performing their own threechord pop punk material, and in 1978 they released their debut four-song EP “Teenage Kicks” on Belfast’s Good Vibrations record label. The EP became a hit with support from BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel, who considered the title song his all-time favourite. Later in their career The Undertones began to change musical direction, with their later songs being of the power pop genre, which was very different from their earlier punk rock offerings. Falling sales and tensions within the band led to their split in 1983. In 1985 brothers John O’Neill and Damian O’Neill formed That Petrol Emotion with Raymond Gorman. The Undertones reformed in 2003 with Paul McLoone taking over for Sharkey and released the critically acclaimed album ‘Get What You Need’.

TEENAGE KICKS... The Undertones are a punk rock/power pop band formed in Derry, Northern Ireland in 1975. The original line-up released four studio albums — ‘The Undertones’ (1979), ‘Hypnotised’ (1980), ‘Positive Touch’ (1981) and ‘The Sin of Pride’ (1983) — before disbanding in 1983.

The Undertones drew inspiration from Buzzcocks, Sex Pistols, and the Ramones. They began practising and playing cover versions of punk rock songs at schools and scout huts under the name ‘The Hot Rods’. Some of the band members were unhappy with the name because there was already another music act with that name, so the name The Undertones was chosen by one of the band members who discovered the word in a history book. By 1977 the band

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Many expatriates living in Europe have experienced problems incurred by death overseas. A main issue facing people today is to ensure they have appropriate provision for their final affairs. There are many issues to consider for example the stress of arranging a funeral, control over your final requests, planning; payments and rising costs are just a few shown by thousands of expats across Europe. Prepare Now… Planning and pre-arranging your funeral may seem morbid but it isn’t. It’s sensible and straight forward, it puts your own affairs in order and saves your family and friends unnecessary worry at a stressful time.

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‘Don’t put it off, speak to Avalon and protect those you love the most!’ FINANCIAL loans to children and grandchildren are costing the average over- 65-year-old £2,000 a year according to new research. As mortgages become more unobtainable than ever, one fifth of UK adults over the age of 65 admit to gifting family members £10,000 a year to help fund costly expenses such as housing deposits and children’s tuition fees. The average pensioner spends £2,000 a year helping out children and grandchildren. A survey of more than 1,000 men and women over the age of 65 by Avalon, the UK’s leading funeral plan provider, reveals old age concerns that are dominated by money troubles. Some 22 per cent of respondents said they were more concerned about the financial security of their family members than they were about their own situation. This is despite pension cuts and a weakened housing market, whittling away retirement nest eggs. Whilst baby boomers have enjoyed free education, second homes and comfy retirements, the ‘lost generation’ – those under 35s plagued by financial insecurity – is facing an uphill battle if they are to expect any kind of comfort in their old age. “It is clear the older generation is having to pay dearly for the dire financial situation the under 35s have found themselves in,” explained Mike Cooper, Avalon’s managing director. “Planning for their funeral now is prudent and most clients’ concern is to ensure families don’t have to worry about this inevitable bill when they have more than enough on their plates to worry about,” Mike added. Research shows an astonishing 46 per cent of over 65s would rather spend money on their family, than themselves. This is often a “false economy” added Mike. “With care homes costing upwards of £50,000 a year, those who aren’t planning for their own future will face a rough ride in the coming years.”

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

pause for thought

I suspect most of us here in Spain were sickened to learn of the recent riots and looting in various cities around Britain, with hundreds of mostly teenagers and young children running amok, with apparent impunity, burning and destroying other people’s property and assaulting and robbing innocent passers-by. But sickening though those scenes were; far worse to me were the subsequent wranglings as to who or what was to blame; with Government and Police clearly at odds, and many parents, ‘dogooders’ and others blaming poverty, boredom or ‘disadvantage’ as the root cause of such savagery. What utter nonsense! For such scenes were never witnessed during the recession of the 30’s, nor in the Dickensian era when poverty and disadvantage were far more widespread. No indeed, to my mind, the cause is far more basic, being rooted in the systematic destruction over many years of any understanding of moral obligations, of right and wrong, of respect and of meaningful discipline. So, effective policing is hamstrung for fear of the consequences of a rioter being hurt. There seems more concern for the ‘human rights’ of criminals than for the victims of crime. Parents fear the consequences of disciplining a child, so many permit them to roam the streets unchallenged at all hours. Teachers are unable to effectively console or punish a child for fear of condemnation. And successive Governments have encouraged the breakdown of family life, by offering financial benefits for single parents, such that many selfishly prefer that state to any concept of commitment; an attitude often reflected in their parenting skills. The Bible, with its Ten Commandments and basis of moral values has been abandoned, but no alternative replacement has been found, necessarily leaving the Nation in a Moral Vacuum. The very foundations of our culture have therefore in my mind been removed. So is there any wonder that the structure has collapsed? To quote the article by Melanie Phillips published 11th August in the Daily Mail: “Repairing this terrible damage means, dare I say it, a return to the energetic transmission of Biblical morality. When church leaders stop prattling like softheaded social workers and start preaching, once again, the moral concepts that underlie our civilisation, and when our political leaders decide to oppose the culture war that has been waged against that civilisation rather than supinely acquiescing in its destruction, then — and only then — will we start to get to grips with this terrible problem.” There are a number of English Language Churches in the region for any wishing to Worship; further information about the Anglican Church in this area may be seen on the web site www.mojacarchurch.org Duncan Burr is Licensed Lay Reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Cálida and may be contacted at djburr@avired.com

Five Cuckoos Fitted With GPS Migration Trackers Arrive In Africa For Their Holidays After Flying 3,000 Miles Five cuckoos who headed south for the winter have reached Africa, scientists who fitted them with GPS devices in tiny backpacks have said. British conservationists decided to track their movements to find out more about the birds’ lifestyles following concerns about their dwindling numbers. After leaving East Anglia in June, the birds - Clement, Kasper, Martin, Chris and Lyster - have reached the continent more than 2,800miles away. Four of the birds are now south of the Sahara - after managing to cross the world’s largest desert - and the remaining bird which left the UK on the night of the 22/23 July is making his way to sub-

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Saharan Africa. Experts said the Saharan crossing was one of the major sources of mortality for many migrants. Chris - named after BBC wildlife presenter Chris Packham - crossed the desert on July 23 and was in Chad

negotiating a lava field around the rim of a volcano. The birds are now spread over 1,860 miles but will be much happier in the Sahel and Sudan savannah zones over the next few months as the rainy season beings. The trackers, fitted by scientists from the British Trust for Ornithology, transmit for 10 hours and then go into ‘sleep’ mode for 48 hours to allow the solar panel to recharge the battery. Scientists hope to use the information about their routes, wintering grounds and habitats to form conservation strategies. Cuckoo numbers have plummeted by two-thirds in the last 25 years, leaving as few as 7,000 breeding pairs migrating here from Africa each spring. And scientists are struggling to explain a catastrophic decline in the number of birds whose annual visits are part of our folklore. With no one quite sure what is behind the fall – which is much more pronounced in England than in Scotland – there are very real concerns about the cuckoo’s future.

Possible reasons include a drop in the hairy caterpillars it feasts on while on British soil. Chris Hewson, research ecologist at the British Trust for Ornithology, said: ‘We know that a lot of the moths that produce these caterpillars have declined massively, particularly in Southern England, where the decline of the cuckoo has also been particularly severe.’ It had been thought that the cuckoo, which famously does not build its own nest, might be a victim of climate change. Scientists feared that birds that the cuckoo relies on to rear its young, such as the dunnock and meadow pipit, were nesting earlier, meaning the cuckoos weren’t making it back from Africa in time to take advantage of their nests. But research shows this isn’t the case. Deforestation and other forms of habitat destruction in Africa may also be in the frame. But, as yet, no one is sure just where in Africa the cuckoos go – or how much they move around when they get there.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

THE NEW CARDS OF PUBLIC URBAN TRANSPORT WILL BECOME OPERATIVE NEXT 1ST OF SEPTEMBER

The price for the new card will be 35 Euros per year, amount that will serve to cover the production management expenses of the same ones, and will allow all the citizens registered in Torrevieja to have a free service of urban transport 365 days a year The mayor has indicated that the Town hall will discount the 35 Euros payment for the CARD to all the citizens registered of the Third Age (pensioners, etc.) that have the same one The TARGETA CIUDADANO will incorporate gradually other municipal services as for example the access to the Municipal Center of Leisure (CMO) or Macrodiscotheque, as well as to the different museums of the city The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón accompanied by the delegate of Transport, Urban Mobility and Communications, Antonio Boix, has presented the new card of public urban transport (TARGETA CIUDADANO), and that will come into force next 1st September, remaining invalidated from this day all the cards that nowadays are in service. Eduardo Dolón has informed that from the 16th of August it will begin the issuing of the new Cards in the new facilities of the municipal department of Transport, situated in Torrevieja’s former Town hall. This new card will have the only price of 35 Euros per year, this amount will serve to cover the expenses of production management of the same ones, and will allow all the citizens registered in Torrevieja to have a free service of urban transport 365 days a year. The mayor has indicated that the requirements necessary to have the new card (TARGETA CIUDADANO) are: 1) To present the deposit slip from the bank of the payment of 35 Euros. 2) ID card or supporting documentation of the holder of the card. It is important to notice that the citizen cards with passport number cannot be issued, except for the ones

with NIE number, unless you bring the town hall registration paper. 3) To be registered in Torrevieja. With the implantation of this new computerized card of transport, Torrevieja’s Town hall will have wide information about the use of the service and, especially, the different lines. This information, in the near future, will allow adapting and optimizing the service to the demand of the users. Likewise, Eduardo Dolón has announced that the CARD CITIZEN will incorporate gradually other municipal services as the access to the Municipal Center of Leisure (CMO) or Macrodiscotheque, as well as to the different museums of the city. Eduardo Dolón has indicated that throughout the time it has been detected a bad use of the transport cards, for what with this new system it is expected to eradicate this bad use with the consequent improvement of the service, and to be able to finish the saturations and problems that can exist at present, since it will allow to have information of the real use of the service. In addition, as soon as the CARD CITIZEN is operative and together with the study of the Plan of Urban Mobility that already is developed, it will provide important information which will be used to base the measures to adopt to improve Torrevieja’s public urban transport. Finally, the mayor of Torrevieja has indicated that the Town hall will discount 35 Euros payment of the CARD to the citizens registered of the Third Age (pensioners, etc.) that have the same one. For it, it might include these 35 Euros in the Municipal annual Helps destined for Pensioners and Retired, previous justification of the effective payment of the card.

Spurs Supporters Spain

Spurs Supporters Spain, based in Cabo Roig at Moores Bar, is pleased to announce that it has received formal recognition that it is now an Offficial Tottenham Hotpsur FC Supporters Club - the first anywhere in Spain. Moores Bar shows every game live on the big screen and other screens both inside and on the sun terrace, with members getting a free half time buffet, while Spurs Supporters Spain holds special Spurs themed events and organises trips to selected away games, including last season´s match at Real Madrid. This is to continue but will be extended to include more events in the future. Membership is a one off payment of

15 euros and an annual subscription of 15 euros. Members receive a limited edition polo short, membership card and a bumper sticker, plus access to a range of discounted products and services all supplied by local businesses run by other Spurs fans. For more information check the website www. spurssupportersspain.com which also includes details of how to find Moores Bar. Graeme Secretary Spurs Supporters Spain The future is bright - The future is Lilywhite

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Why Fixtures Make a Difference... If you’re remodelling your bathroom, choosing your fixtures could seem like the least of your worries. But fixtures make a big difference in how your bathroom will look when it’s finished. A well-planned choice will provide the perfect accent to your bathroom, while a less well-suited set of fixtures will lessen the impact of your decoration. In addition, some metals are more high-maintenance than others - and how often you need to clean can make a significant dayto-day difference. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of fixtures on the market: Chrome: Chrome was made popular in the 1930’s, and it remains one of the most popular choices for bathroom fixtures today. Modern chrome fixtures are usually made with a layer of chrome electroplated onto an underlayer of brass. The reasons for its popularity are numerous: it’s a lovely silvery colour, it’s tarnishresistant, and it’s usually an economical choice. However, chrome must be cleaned often to keep that beautiful shiny glow. In addition, it can show some wear and tear over time. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel isn’t as shiny as chrome, but it’s rugged, long-lasting, and affordable. Stainless steel plates won’t tarnish or corrode, and they’re made from a solid mix of chromium and steel alloys. Many people love stainless steel because it goes with a wide variety of decors. It does have its drawbacks, however as it can get scratched, and may rust at the site of the scratch. It loses its shine over time as well. Brass: Brass gives a beautiful and distinct look. It’s not an adaptable metal like stainless steel; brass stands out, and it won’t go with every bathroom design. Still, if you want to make a statement with your fixtures, brass just might be the right choice for you. Brass fixtures are made from a single metal, with no mixing or plating. This means that, unlike electroplated fixtures such as chrome, the top layer can’t erode over time. They’re usually a more expensive choice, however, and they do tarnish. Brushed Nickel: These tend to be more expensive, but they’re also easier to take care of. Brushed nickel is made of a layer of nickel electroplated onto a layer of brass. Unlike brass, stainless steel, and chrome, brushed-nickel fixtures don’t register water spots and fingerprint smudges as

well—so you won’t have to constantly wipe them down to maintain that shiny look. They don’t tarnish, and rarely show scratches. However, the nickel plating can wear down over time.

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Bronze: No two bronze fixtures are alike, as the forging process gives the metal irregularities that make them unique. Bronze fixtures are often coated with finishes that are exposed to the environment—they can rub off where the fixtures are often touched, darken where they are not, and change color when exposed to some materials. Those who like bronze love this “living” aspect of the fixtures. Copper: Copper fixtures give a stunning, unique look that goes well with antique décor. Copper is naturally antibacterial; while bacteria can live for days on stainless steel and other metals, they can survive on copper for only a few hours. Many people prefer copper for its antibacterial properties. It will tarnish to a light green colour, which can be removed with the proper cleaning products or prevented with the right coating. Copper tends to be on the pricier side. If you’re interested in a new look for your bathroom but don’t have the budget for a full-scale redesign, changing your fixtures is a great way to change the look of your bathroom for less. Update tired stainless steel fixtures with shiny chrome or smudge-free brushed nickel. Add an antique feel with copper, or a pricier look with brass. For a bigger change, switch your towel and shower curtain colours or change movable furniture such as shelves and cabinets. This will make it possible to update your bathroom’s look without breaking your budget. However, it’s also important to make sure that the fixtures you choose don’t clash with your décor. If you prefer clean lines and a smooth, contemporary look, choose a silvery, shiny metal such as stainless steel, nickel, or chrome. Copper and bronze are ideal for antique bathrooms, and can definitely give your bathroom a one-of-akind look. Take your time shopping for fixtures, and you’re sure to find some that fit your décor and lifestyle.

Flights and theme park boost for Spanish property

The owners of property in Europe hoping to rent them out to holidaymakers will be pleased by a series of new international flights announced by low cost airline EasyJet. It has announced 20 new flights a week to Europe from Southend International Airport in Essex and five of the first eight routes are to the Spanish Costas, the perennially popular holiday destination for Brits. Fares from Southend to Spain will be priced from as little as £25.99 and take off in April 2012. Flight destinations include Alicante on the Costa Blanca, Malaga on the Costa del Sol and the Balearic island of Majorca. They will boost access for many home owners in the region, according to Ignacio Osle, sales and marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey de España. ‘For people buying property overseas it is very important that they have affordable and easy access to their property. These new flights operated by EasyJet from Essex are really terrific news for both our prospective buyers and our current Taylor Wimpey de España home

owners,’ he said. ‘The 800,000 people who will be flying in to Spain from Essex will all need a holiday apartment, villa or hotel to stay in which bodes well for our existing owners who are keen to let out their homes for healthy incomes,’ he explained. ‘There is a great deal of affluence in the South East of England and we look forward to showing the more aspirational around our beautiful show homes. It is difficult not to want to buy once you have seen the fabulous opportunities available here,’ he added. Sales of properties in Spain are also being boosted by the Paramount branded Theme Park to be built in Murcia, another popular destination for holiday makers and second home owners. ‘Property is now the cheapest it has been for a decade. If you can afford it, there’s no better time to buy. At Mercers, we have seen a small but steady increase in sales over the past 18 months. Prices do seem to have finally bottomed out, vendors either cannot or will not go any lower, and this is creating the necessary motivation for people to buy,’ said Chris Mercer, founder of Murcia based estate

agent Mercers. The proposed Paramount-branded Theme Park, tipped to open in 2014, could indeed apply upward pressure on local pricing. Predicted to attract up to three million tourists each year and located literally ten minute’s drive from Mercers’ head office in Mazarron, this Park is creating a lot of interest and excitement however this is not yet being filtered back to property prices. ‘I think the reason for this is that until work actually starts on the site, people are wary of these grand ideas coming to nothing. If the Paramount branded Theme Park does happen, and indications are certainly encouraging judging by the number of press conferences and official visits by US based Paramount Licensing personnel, then a Disney effect is certainly expected for both demand and property prices in the catchment area,’ explained Mercer. ‘In fact we’re already handling a number of clients who have decided it is time to buy a holiday home because of Paramount. Some had been toying with the idea but the Theme Park announcement pushed them ahead,’ he added.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

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Spanish and Portuguese explorers probably brought agave plants back to Europe from Mexico with them, but the plants became popular in Europe during the nineteenth century when many types were imported by collectors. Contrary to popular belief, the plant is not related to the cacti or the aloe family but in fact Agaves are closely related to the lily & amaryllis families, The term “century plant” is used because of the long time before the plant flowers, normally between 25 – 30 years depending on the richness of the soil & the climate. The flowers are an amazing sight to behold, as when it flowers, the spike with a cyme of big yellow flowers may reach up to 8 m in height. Amazingly almost every part of the agave are edible: the flowers, the leaves, the stalks or basal rosettes In fact each agave plant will produce several pounds of edible flowers during the summer. Roasted, they are sweet, like molasses. More importantly to people who like their drink, the flower shoot is cut out and the sap collected and subsequently

I hope you have enjoyed learning about yet another amazing plant that grows throughout Spain in your garden and along the roadsides, in fact there is so much more to learn and I look forward to sharing more with you in the coming weeks. Should you wish to visit us at Casa La Pedrera to walk around the reserve or book an activity we are open 7 days a week and just to remind you of our End of Summer Party with Jazz Band ¨All that Jazz¨ on September the 3rd. For more information on our events or activities always check our Facebook Page Casa La Pedrera – The Grand Design House or visit the website at www.thingstodoinspain.info Jenni

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fermented. By distillation, a spirit called mezcal is prepared; one of the most well-known forms of mezcal is tequila. However if the if the flower stem is cut without flowering, a sweet liquid called agua miel (“honey water”) gathers in the heart of the plant. This may be fermented to produce the drink called pulque. The plants have additional uses. When dried and cut in slices, the flowering stem forms natural razor strops, and the expressed juice of the leaves will lather in water like soap. The natives of Mexico have used agave to make pens, nails and needles, as well as string to sew and make weavings. When dried out, the stalks can be used to make didgeridoos, a wind instrument. Many times in the Campo I have seen the large stalks cut down and when I approach the elderly spaniard he said he was using them for his pigeon roosts. I have also seen them used in roof structures of the ruins here in La Pedrera. Unfortunately however, a nasty black beetle Scyphophorus acupunctatus have almost decimated the Argave in the Pedrera Reserve. Also known as the “Agave snout weevil,” they devastated 40% of the blue agave in Mexico.and caused the price of tequila to rise as a result. The large, fat white grubs have their uses however, and have become a delicacy and can be bought at markets in Mexico roasted and are apprarently tasty and nutrious, but I would give them a wide berth. A word of warning however, as many of you have these varieties as ornamental plants in your garden and it looks attractive when the leaves are cut back to resemble a pineapple but avoid making any contact with the sap, as the juice from many species of agave can cause acute contact dermatitis. It will produce reddening and blistering lasting one to two weeks. Episodes of itching may recur up to a year thereafter, even though there is no longer a visible rash.

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Cycle Route 13 :

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

La Manga and the Mar menor

If you fancy a great day out then this trip is definetly for you .For this route you need to take your bikes in the car to San Pedro or closer to Santiago if you wish. We parked on the outskirts of San Pedro at the Thaiasia hotel and cycled along the cycle track all the way to Santiago de Ribera (Approx 6kms) nice and flat. We located the ferry terminal which is right next to the canoe club and waited for the ferry. We boarded the ferry which was the first one of the day and was very busy, the cost was €4 each and a €1 to take our bikes. It was a very picturesque crossing with great views of the mainland and the strip. Their was masses of jelly fish all the way across weve never seen so many. After a 45minute crossing we disembarked to find that one of our group had a puncture ( their was 10 of us 5 couples) so I had to quickly change the tube before getting on our way .We were now at Thomas Maestre Port the largest marina on La Manga . We started cycling about 12.30 leaving the Port and heading for the one and only road which had a cycle track on various places, we cycled for about 15kms and stopped at a really nice sandy beach for a drink, swim and cool down as it was in the high 30s. We continued on our trip just following the road , you can’t really go wrong. At the end of the strip we kept to the right ( Cabo De Palos on the left ) and headed for Los Nietos passing the salt flats and staying as close to the shore as we could. We followed rough tracks most of the way to los Nietos where we all stopped for another swim before having Sunday lunch. After lunch we picked up the road (F34) which was dead flat and more or less straight all the way. We passed through Los Urrutias, Punta Brava, Los Alcazares, Los Narejos, San Javier and finally arriving back at Santiago De la Ribera where we found a nice Tapas bar on the sea front and ordered 10 Tinto de Veranas and coffees, we also had our final dip in the sea before cycling the last 6kms back to the cars. We had an excellent ride, one of the best trips we have done although

Cyclogical CYCLE ROUTE

it was relatively long we took all day enjoying the scenery and stopping regularly for drinks and swims. If you’ve not done this one then I recommend you do it soon before it gets cooler as it was fantastic being able to swim whenever we felt like it. If you think it might be too far then you can always cycle to the top of the strip and cycle back to the port and get the ferry back. (Roughly 40kms) The ferry goes every 2 hours.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are looking for extra

By Gary and Lynn “Cyclogic al” in Ques ada

Total Distance : Approx 70 kms Total Time : Allow 6 Hours All Routes are now available from our website: www.cyclogicalcostablanca. com Next month : I’m taking the same group up to “The Sierra De Espuna”staying overnight and cycling around the Mula area. Remember Gary and Lynn are available at Cyclogical in Quesada, Monday to Friday from 9-30am till 5-30pm and from 10am till 2pm every Saturday to assist and advise you on all your cycling requirements including route maps.

All of our routes are now available from our website on www.cyclogicalcostablanca.com

Remember Gary and Lynn are available at “CYCLOGICAL” in Quesada, Monday to Friday from 9.30am till 5.30pm and from 10.00am till 2.00pm on a Saturday to assist and advise you on all your cycling requirements including route maps. Ladies Cycling Group every Wednesday from 2pm- 6pm with Lynn cycling approx 20km -30km. Maximum of 10 Persons . Gents Cycling Group every Wednesday morning from 10am-2pm with Rob cycling approx 30km – 40km. Maximum 10 persons. Both groups start and finish at Cyclogical so if you fancy coming along for a leisurely cycle, learn new routes and make new friends just give us a call to book your place!

volunteers to man our office in Torrevieja. Office hours are Monday – Friday between 10.00 am and 13.30 pm. The main tasks involved will include dealing with queries and giving help and advice, either in person or on the telephone. The HELP Association Vega Baja helps people of all ages, with all sorts of problems. We operate a 24 hour help line (965 704 282) and our aim is to assist in practical ways at times of crisis, or when police or medical services are involved. If you think you can help by giving us one or two mornings a week, or if you would like to understand more fully exactly what we are asking of you, please contact Richard in the San Miguel office on 966 723 733. The office is open Monday to Friday 10.00 – 13.30.

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REMEMBERING THOSE WHO FELL

The Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion, BR3600, was first approved by the Board of Trustees from it’s headquarters in Pall Mall, London, on 18 January 2008. The Branch boundaries were set in place from Los Balcones, at the southern edge of Torrevieja, as it’s northern perimeter. The western boundary was formed by San Miguel de Salinas while the branch extended down to San Javier in the south. The branch was formed when a number of members moved across from the existing Torrevieja Branch of the RBL and were supplemented by recruits from the newly approved remaining areas. Almost sixty members and potential members attended that inaugural meeting in the Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras, at which the very first Branch Committee was elected. Just three of the founder members from that first committee are still with the branch, Kevin Reardon, Colin Middleton and Eric MacDonald, two of whom still serve as local officers. Since those first heady days, the branch has gone from strength to strength, raising over 50,000 euros for the Poppy Appeal and, under the current Chairmanship of Keith Carter, increasing it’s membership to almost 130 fully accredited members. However one of the most important celebrations in the short history of the Orihuela Costa Branch took place only last Thursday evening, 18 August 2011, with the dedication service of the recently established International

Garden of Remembrance, situated in the grounds of the Capilla de las Mil Palmeras in the diocese of Pilar de la Horadada. After a short and moving introduction by Branch Chaplain, Keith Brown, the Branch Chairman, Keith Carter, invited the Chairman of RBL District North, Chris Wyatt, to formerly unveil the dedication plinth. There followed a reading by Branch President Kevin Reardon after which Keith Brown led a congregation of fifty or so members in a short prayer. Keith explained that the Garden of Remembrance was dedicated to the memory of “all those who gave their lives in the cause of International Freedom.” He said that it was dedicated to soldiers and civilians of all nations and would be of great significance to all who used it in the future. It would also be the focal point of Remembrance Day celebrations in Orihuela Costa in years to come. As the flanked the garden, all three standard bearers, Eddie Coleman, RBL Standard, Jim Haythorpe, Spanish flag and Graham Wharrad, Union flag, were resplendent in their appearance. The garden came about a little under two years ago during which time it has gradually been developed and improved by members of the branch. Keith Carter and Vice Chairman Eddie Coleman have been largely instrumental in it’s enhancement, organising virtually all of the work and labour necessary to achieve it’s current situation. They were supported by many members of the branch, by local tradesmen and

benefactors and at Thursday night’s ceremony the magnificent results were there for all to see. The garden was built with the support and donations of the Old Tower Lodge, the Queen Victoria Pub, the Hop Bar, Bar med, La Zenia Tool Hire, Call Net, Booker Garden services, Listers Bar, Spud Murphy’s, Marinasol Restaurant, Penny’s Supermarket, Butterfly’s Restaurant, Coffee del Mar, Imperial Pools, Vialis Restaurant, Bills Lounge Bar, Rocky’s, The Judges Chambers, Milans Restaurant, Sun Mar, Park and Fly, J&H Security, Tanatorio Virgen del Pilar. Branch Committee: President Kevin Reardon, Chairman and Poppy Appeal Keith Carter, Vice Chair Eddie Coleman, Secretary Helen Lloyd, Treasurer Vincent McGough, Membership Phillip Spear, Social Cathy Carson, Chaplain Keith Brown, Welfare and Merchandising Colin Middleton, Webmaster Norman Scotting, Committee Jim Watt, Janet Spear and Jean Heald. Standard Bearers Edie Coleman, Jim Haythorpe and Graham Wharrad. Branch meetings are held at the Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras, on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm. More info from Chairman Keith Carter by email at snkeith@live.co.uk or by telephone on 965 32 8897

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

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Fuel Prices Fail To Fall With Wholesale Cost In the past week, average UK petrol prices have fallen less than 1p a litre despite falls in wholesale prices equivalent to at least 3p a litre, the motoring organisation said. Petrol at the pumps is now averaging 135.71p a litre, with diesel at 139.89p a litre. The mid-August figures compare with mid-July figures of 135.62p a litre for petrol and 139.68p for diesel. Petrol is now 19.22p a litre more expensive than it was a year ago, while diesel costs 20.91p more. The A A puts the continuing high prices down to the increasing needs of emerging markets and commodity

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in wholesale costs will be more properly reflected at the pumps,” said A A public affairs head Paul Watters. “However, there is clearly a need for price transparency covering oil, wholesale and retail markets, taking into account the exchange rate. “Many independent retailers seized their chance over the past fortnight to undercut two of the major supermarkets. “With a six-mile or more roundtrip to a superstore costing a litre of petrol, cash-strapped consumers may have looked closer to home for their fuel and top-up shopping.”

New Borrowing Figures ‘Show Budget Cuts Work’

New public finance figures show the Government’s deficit reduction plan is working, according to the Treasury. In July, there was £20m of UK borrowing, compared to £3.5bn of borrowing in the same month a year ago, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. This was substantially lower than the £2.5bn borrowing figure expected by the City. However, Sky’s economics editor, Ed Conway said that the figures were not as good as expected. He explained: “When people realise that it is going to be tough and that Britain itself may be struggling to pay off its debts, that’s when we have to worry about the UK being pulled into this recession, slightly more than we feared before.” It comes after ongoing criticism for the Government’s harsh austerity plan, designed to lop off £110bn from the UK budget deficit over five years. The ONS said the public sector current budget made a surplus of £1.9bn last month. It added new taxes on banks and higher corporation taxes boosted the Government’s coffers. The ONS said Government receipts were boosted by £660m in July as it began to account for expected receipts

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from a new bank levy. Local-government net borrowing also fell due to grants that have not been spent, although that effect was likely to be temporary, the ONS said. Tax receipts, which tend to be healthy in July, rose to £51.5bn from £49.8bn a year earlier after the Government raised value-added tax from 17.5% to 20% at the start of the year. This revenue was also boosted by a small rise in National Insurance contributions and corporation tax. In a statement, the UK Treasury said the public finance figures ‘show that the deficit reduction is taking place’, adding that the turmoil in the eurozone shows sticking to the deficit reduction plan is ‘vital’ for the UK. Kerry McCarthy MP, Labour’s Shadow Treasury Minister, hit out at the Chancellor. “Today’s public finance figures show that with four months gone the risk remains that George Osborne will miss his deficit targets for the year. “These deficit targets have already had to be revised up since the recovery was choked off in the autumn. “George Osborne is already expected to borrow £46bn more than previously planned over the Parliament even within these revised targets. “As the IMF warned this week, if you slam the brakes on too hard you risk jobs and the recovery. “The Chancellor is risking a vicious circle where slower growth means fewer people in work paying taxes and more people on the dole claiming benefits - making it harder to get the deficit down.”

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p.t.o....................

For me a visit to the Monastry at Saliente is always worthwhile, even if only for the view, but this time I was combining a visit with a view of more than simply the surrounding spectacular countryside – I was going to see an exhibition of photographs of the Spanish countryside as seen through the lens of Jill Brookes, on display in the Restaurante, or Hospederia, as it is called if ecclesiastical connections can be made. As we wended our way from car park to Hospederia we passed the open door of the church; we went inside, admired and dipped a reverential knee to La Pequeñica, the little Madonna high on her shrine and the focal point of the church. As we emerged again into the sunlight we fell into easy conversation with Peter, English, but now a well integrated local. The three of us sauntered into the bar, deserted apart from a green-eyed young man who was busy cleaning the already spotless bar top. A pleasant hour passed, punctuated by coffees and tasty tostadas, served promptly and pleasantly, followed by an appreciation of the vibrant yet peaceful images caught and preserved in photo form by Mrs Brookes. So far so good, until Pete spotted a cabinet containing dozens of cards bearing some legend in Spanish. Attached to each one was a keyring holding several tiny keys and a horseshoe. He had to know what it was about, so Peter and I set to trying to read the cards. This was not easy to do through the thick glass, with the cards all jumbled up on top of each other, and us without our glasses, but we persevered. We did very well, considering, except for one word – Herradura. We were not to be beaten, and called for assistance. The green-eyed lad approached cautiously. We explained that we didn’t understand the word Herradura, and he fetched a key out of his pocket – no, we understood Key, we were stuck on Herradura – what was a Herradura? He fixed me earnestly with his green gaze, and said with

viewpoint

great clarity ‘Caballo.’ Right, I got that – Horse. He then picked up his foot, and mimed hammering something on to his sole. Of course! Herradura – Horseshoe! It is a keyring with a horseshoe on it! Why couldn’t I have worked that out for myself! Have I been taking ‘Stupid pills’? Worse was to come; the lad unlocked the cabinet, took out a card and turned it over, exposing the English translation on the back. The moral of the story? If you can’t read the front, then Please Turn Over! Of course I had to buy one, even if only to restore my credibility.

By Jos Biggs josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk

time is an illusion ‘Cast Off’..........

Some time before we left England for sunnier and more bureaucratic climes, an acquaintance from a neighbouring village telephoned us to say that he had picked something up in a back street antique emporium that he thought would be of interest to us. As politely as possible and using my customary best diplomatic turn of phrase, I told him to get stuffed, and that we were not in the market for antiques. “Really . . . I’ve seen your car” he replied, and besides you’ll like this – at least I think you will but I need you to authenticate the item”. He said no more, but intrigued by this I jumped into my Regency style automobile (it was red with a gold stripe down the side) and drove the short distance to his rambling old farmhouse. “It’s nothing valuable”, he informed me as his rambling old farmhouse wife poured me coffee, “but I saw this in a junk shop near Stamford, and I need you to confirm it’s what I think it is”. So saying, he produced a small picture of a cottage, simply but skilfully drawn on card and marked in red ink - Wickhambrook 27/6/53. My village. It was a pencil drawing of a thatched cottage with a large tree in the foreground - was about the size of two postcards and unmistakably

the house where we had lived since 1976. Although there was no tree as depicted and never had been during our residency, we knew from the stories coaxed out of the local rustics with the aid of many pints of Greene King IPA, that there had once been a huge Walnut Tree in the front garden. Apparently this had become so large and oppressive that it had been cut down and sold to a carpenter and joiner from Lakenheath. According to one hirsute local - after much chin scratching and gesturing suggestively with his empty pint pot – I subsequently discovered that this had happened sometime in the late fifties which tallied with the date on the drawing. I immediately confirmed to my acquaintance that it was indeed our house, ‘Cuttbush’, and yes I most certainly would like to purchase it. “Oh I don’t want to sell it” he informed me, then after pausing for effect and noting the disappointed look on my face, added, “You can have it. It’s not worth much, but I thought that if it was your cottage as I suspected, it would be something that you would like to have”. My hitherto acquaintance was immediately mentally elevated up the promotional ladder to special life long friend and I thanked him sincerely for this unique gift. I envisaged – not begrudgingly - yet more Greene King bitter being purchased in the weeks to come. How such a thing had survived for over forty years and had found its way into a junk shop a hundred miles away was anybody’s guess,

By Colin Bird badbirdnow@gmail.com

...with Robbie France

Thanks to all of you that have been in touch with me regarding my column... however, I’m off on holiday for a couple of weeks so don’t go away...keep watching this space and keep in touch via editor@soltimes.com

and is a mystery that can never be solved - particularly as the drawing does not bear a signature. But it’s now an important piece of our family history, and hangs on the wall in the bedroom here in Spain. I often study the little drawing, and as evocative as the sketch of the little house is, it’s the red ink script at the bottom of the picture that captures my imagination. That English summers day – the 27th of June 1953 - was a Saturday, I checked. An unknown artist decided to plonk himself down across the narrow lane from a cottage known then as ‘Grimwoods’ and sketch away. Perhaps it was a one-off impulse thing by a passing amateur enthusiast, or perhaps it was a villager who simply liked to sketch local scenes in his (or her) spare time. It may even have been one of the Grimwood clan who were the owners at that time. We will never know. But as the artist picked up his pencil, a very young skinny boy with about as much meat on him as a vegetarians tooth pick and wearing baggy short trousers, was probably playing in the back garden on a council estate in Berkshire. Totally ignorant of even a place called Suffolk, he would have been oblivious to the artist and the artist of him, and yet many years later that boy and his

wife would be the happy owners of ‘Cuttbush’ - formerly ‘Grimwoods’ and would spend a large portion of their lives there. Who was it said that time is an illusion? No I don’t know either, but as I look at the picture and imagine the pencil strokes being applied, I also think of that grubby little boy and the invisible silver cord that even then linked him and an unknown East Anglian artist.

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

oh, by the way....

I do not particularly like the heat; but that is me! I am aware that others love the heat; some even can not get enough of it. I am also alert to the fact that there are some who love heat to the extent that they set the bone-dry, dehydrated vegetation on fire. One or more of these despicable individuals have been at it in Portman near La Manga Club. Firefighters and army personnel have at time of writing been fighting a fire of mass-proportion for 20 hours. 2,000 people have been evacuated – that is, the mayor of La Unión says it is closer to 2,500 people, but of course he is a local politician and needs the votes of each of all the ones he has ‘rescued’ for the next elections. Whatever! Pictures of the fire shows scenes that would make the person responsible for special effects in a billion dollar Hollywood block-buster green with envy. Sometimes reality surpasses fantasy, and we are not to forget that truth is relative, meaning one person’s truth may not be the same as another’s, but either person believe their own respective truth with the same amount of conviction. A Rumanian man has been apprehended and charged for beating his girlfriend, and driving her into the Rio Segura in the boot of his BMW. ‘I didn’t mean to kill her’, he said when he was arrested, ‘I only wanted to take her to her father’. Hm! Unusual way of taking your girlfriend to a family reunion, even if she did not want to go. Ah, well! He did claim that she travelled in the front seat of his BMW – much more appropriate! She and witnesses on the other hand declared in court that she was in the boot. The relativity of truth! However, truth does appear not only to depend on the perspective of the individual, but can change at any given moment. Before he was arrested and thought the girl dead, the man phoned both the girl’s father and 112, saying that he had killed his girlfriend. Grupo Masa, formerly ‘in charge’ of Camposol, also in charge of Plaza España in Cartagena???? Apparently Plaza España has been without streetlight for more than a year. Sounds familiar? ‘Everybody’s looking for something. Some of them want to use you. Some of them want to get used by you. Some of them want to abuse you. Some of them want to be abused.’ Eternally wise words by Eurythmics. I read on the Internet that an EU pilot scheme is/has been tested in the Netherlands and Spain, which will allow buyers of property to apply their home country’s law for purchases abroad. Sounds too good to be true? It is because it is! Anyway partly, but when even MEPs can get it wrong, no wonder that we, the citizens, also get it wrong. Allow me to quote from Maastricht European Private Law Blog: ‘The project, which for now consists of a pilot study between The Netherlands and Spain concerns the sale and transfer of ownership of land between two Dutch parties (my underlining), that conclude a Dutch contract of sale and a Dutch notarial deed of conveyance that is sent to Spain for registration and transfer.” Further on: ‘First of all, the project moves beyond a mutual recognition approach and aims to create a deed of transfer that is both valid according to Dutch and Spanish law’. And: ‘Secondly, the CROBECO project does not aim to change any applicable national law and therefore acts in accordance with the lex rei sitae principle’. (http://mepli.blogspot. co m/2010/11/cro b e co - cro ss-b ord erelectronic.html) So, no! It does not remove Spanish law in favour of British law, when you buy property here. ‘Sweet dreams are made of this. Who am I to disagree?’ Biggy Marshall is educated within law and administration and has been writing most of her life. She has been published in the Danish press as well as in local English publications. She has lived in Spain for nearly 20 years, the last 14 years in Murcia. Biggy can be contacted on lbtmarshall@yahoo.com DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this column are the opinions of the columnist and not the opinions of Sol Times Newspaper Group. The newspaper takes no responsibility for the content or the opinions of columnist.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

coffee break STANDARD CROSSWORD

Down

1 Dolphin (8) 5 Slaps (6) 9 Shot up abruptly (8) 10 Capital of Canada (6) 12 Scavenging (9) 13 Barf (5) 14 Shadow (archaic) (4) 16 Purposes (7) 19 Romantic (7) 21 Passport (4) 24 Coops (5) 25 Global (9) 27 Not senior (6) 28 Marrow squash plant (8) 29 Messy (6) 30 Insincere praise (8)

1 Examine (6) 2 Amply (6) 3 Classical music theatre (5) 4 Appearing (7) 6 Incites (9) 7 Disputant (8) 8 Most intelligent (8) 11 Tangelo (4) 15 Intersection (9) 17 Wolverine (8) 18 Supposedly, a policeman’s favorite (8) 20 Seeded (4) 21 Realistic (7) 22 Manly (6) 23 Prove true or correct (6) 26 An old gold coin (5)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

1 Rule is complete before roller-coaster, say (8) 5 Disorder as mother receives the endless... (6) 10 ...goodbye - say final goodbye in gold? (5) 11 Rut makes court insure building (9) 12 I married male journalist, I consumed instant (9) 13 Colour I’d repeated (5) 14 Alien singer who makes an impression? (6) 15 Rum is taken from collapsing Portsmouth, the special place (3-4) 18 Yield copper back and forth inside southern doctor (7) 20 Shellfish break lock in church (6) 22 Famous chef returned and was ill (5) 24 Food destroyed Mister Bearhug (9) 25 Do court King in a lake, to do with teaching (9) 26 Ali leaves Colombia, perhaps for musical group (5) 27 Live and die awkwardly after half consequence (6) 28 Unambiguous version of windows arouse outside (8) Down 1 Acid is in box, Alice (6) 2 Puzzling one in magnetic disruption (9) 3 He surrounded old development, crooked (5-10) 4 Aspired to become hopeless state (7) 6 Old city within southeast city, reportedly advise peacekeepers

(8,7) 7 Animal who undid its insides? (5) 8 Story of an English recording of books by Ernest initially (8) 9 19 tree in mid-afternoon? On the contrary! (6) 16 Funny, myopic gal having lots of mates (9) 17 Is ruler without country a Briton, perhaps? (8) 19 Trailing welcome in curve (6) 20 Cole, MP: “new Times is intricate” (7) 21 Test score 0, at first test after mid-January (3,3) 23 Look at key American setting (5)

HARD SUDOKU

Very Hard!

CRYPTIC crossword

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

William James

SUDOKU PUZZLE

Sudoku is a placement puzzle. Enter the numbers 1 to 9 in each row and column of a grid, made up of 3 x 3 subgrids. The catch is that each row, column and grid must contain only one instance of each number or letter.

Across

Belief creates the actual fact.

STANDARD SUDOKU

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Britain’s Supermoto Ace heads for Pontevedre This weekend will see the best supermoto racers in Spain making the long journey to Pontevedre for the 4th round of the Spanish Supermoto championships. Among the racers is Britain’s Anthony Ford – Dunn who will be setting out from his home in Bullas, Murcia to make the 9 hour journey to the circuit that is situated above Portugal on the North West coast of Spain. Anthony is starting to get his season back on track after a crash had previously forced him out of the Oliva round with no points. Last time out at Villena, Alicante, Anthony came away with second position after two fine rides saw him secure his current position of 4th in the championship standings. Anthony is pushing hard for wins this year and the Pontevedre track is where he secured his first ever win in the championship last year, so it ranks as one of his favourite circuits. The www.supermotoland.com team that Anthony rides for has been testing new suspension and chassis parts at a test track near benidorm with continued success. Anthony is delighted with the set up of the bike and will be running Michelin race tyres this weekend for the first time. Michelin have agreed to support Anthony by supplying him with the latest specification Michelin tyres so that he can continue to fight for the top step of the podium.

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Life with Linda

Is it a Time or Generation Thing? Bright blue skies, birds tweeting away, as one eye opens and then another consciousness starts taking a grip, and my body starts to stretch. What a great start to the day, a quick peek at the clock 7am, then alarm bells start ringing, jump out of bed and into the next bedroom, there sleeping peacefully are my daughter and grand daughter, not a care in the world. I tip toe to the kitchen and very quietly make a cuppa, sitting in the lounge my mind drifts back 20 years to when my daughter was born, how different things were then. Strange how you forget lots of things until something comes along to prod your memory. If I knew then what I know now, would life have been very different? would I have done all the things I have done? For sure it would have been different, but that is not to say better. Life tends to throw us a few curved balls, some real emotional and physical pain, but also some exquisite times like the peace of this morning, the great feeling of well being, peace and harmony. There have been times when life seems to get the upper hand, you get stabbed in the back, people tramp on your dreams, but if it seems that way at the time, they were actually doing me a favor, because without each and every single moment I would not have been in this place, at this time, feeling the way I am feeling right now. They say (whoever they are) things go in a cycle, the seasons,

SOLTIMES

life, relationships, whatever you plant, and nurture you will reap. Some things quicker than other, some mountains seem to go on for ever, but reaching the summit the views and feeling of achievement is totally worthwhile. Sitting here on this sofa, with the sun coming in on my face and a cuppa in my hand, is my top of Everest, it seems you can think clearer and feel more just surrounded by peace. Thinking of all the people who have gone before, who would be so proud of moments like this too., but whose contribution to it was so very important. Just bringing me out of my revelry the gurgling sounds of a new generation, happy, vibrant and with so much potential as yet unleashed, she has brought a new element into everyday living. A simplicity that often gets lost in adulthood. Although it is sad that past generations can´t always see the progression into the new; the new can carry the teachings and the thoughts of them a legacy of belonging and history rich in achievement and success. I can remember my mum sitting in the quiet of the early morning our lounge in Zaragoza with a cuppa and the sun coming in, sitting in peace and content with the world, I never quite understood why she liked to be up and sit there alone, now this morning I finally get it, I wonder in twenty years (or so) time if my daughter will be doing just the same?

By Linda Sage BA Ed(Hons), Dip REBT, Dip CST ~ www.lindasaqementoring.com ~ Tel: 966 716 919 Member Toastmasters International

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

h t i W a Past e h c a n Pa

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Smarten up this weekday staple with ingredients like pappardalle, scallops and truffle oil.

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Pasta with Peas, Parmesan & Tarragon

Ingredients

200g giant pasta shells 2 cupfuls of frozen peas Parmesan , grated to make 2tbsp, plus a few shavings a small bunch of tarragon , chopped 4 tbsp 0% fat Greek yogurt

JUST FIND WHERE WE’VE HIDDEN A BOTTLE OF WINE IN THIS ISSUE AND SEND THE ANSWER TO BLANCASALES@SOLTIMES.COM OR DROP YOUR ANSWER INTO MANHATTAN’S DIRECTLY!

Method

~ LAST WEEK’S WINNERS ~ CONGRATULATIONS TO

Cook the pasta following the packet instructions, adding the peas for the final few minutes. Drain, leaving 2 tbsp water in with the pasta and toss with the rest of the ingredients. Season. Serve with Parmesan shavings while the sauce is hot. If you leave the pasta to sit, it will soak up the sauce.

MEAL FOR 2 : jennifer smith BREAKFAST FOR 2: gordon skingle

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Ingredients

150g pappardelle or tagliatelle olive oil 150g shiitake mushrooms , sliced 3 leeks , washed and sliced 3 garlic cloves , crushed 2 tbsp truffle oil 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan, plus extra for serving

Method

Cook the pasta following the packet instructions. Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp

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olive oil in a large frying pan and cook the mushrooms, leeks and garlic until soft and just beginning to brown. Season with plenty of salt and freshly ground pepper. Drain the pasta, reserving about 4 tbsp of the cooking water. Mix the water, vegetables and pasta together, then trickle over 1 tbsp truffle oil. Stir briefly, then scatter over the Parmesan and toss to combine. Divide between 2 plates and drizzle over the rest of the truffle oil. Serve with extra Parmesan.

membership required. Food is served all day and there are two indoor bars and an outdoor bar to choose from. Don’t miss

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www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

Taglierini with Scallops, Courgette, Tomato & Capers

Ingredients

pan of salted water to the boil for the pasta. Cut the courgettes into rounds 1cm thick, then cut into small batons. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large frying pan, add the garlic, then the courgettes. Cook over a medium heat for 10 minutes, until the courgettes are lightly golden. Add the scallops, increase the heat and fry for 2 minutes, until they turn creamywhite. Stir in the tomatoes, capers and parsley, then season. Cook the taglierini in the boiling water for about 3 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, then tip into the sauce and toss together, cooking gently for a minute or so before serving.

6 small courgettes olive oil 1 garlic clove , finely sliced 8 scallops , each sliced into 3 4 plum tomatoes , skinned, deseeded and chopped 1 tbsp capers , drained 1 tbsp flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped 300g ‘00’ flour 100g fine semolina , plus extra for dusting 2 large eggs 6 large egg yolks

Method

Make the pasta following the step-bystep instructions. You’ll need 250g of the taglierini to make this recipe. Bring a large

How poor quality pine nuts for that summer salad can leave you with a bad taste in your mouth

Celebrity chefs love them and they are a must in a fashionable salad recipes. But pine nuts are leaving many diners to cope with something called ‘pine mouth’. Increasing numbers have reported that after eating the tiny nuts, often as a snack or in a pesto sauce, they have developed an unpleasant, metallic taste in their mouth that lasts for up to two weeks. It is caused by eating poor quality pine nuts and the Food Standards Agency has asked its officers around the country to look into the problem. Graeme MacPherson, a standards officer in West Sussex said: ‘The condition is the name for the bitter aftertaste that you get after eating poor-quality pine nuts. ‘It’s a harmless but unpleasant condition that usually disappears after a few days. However, there have been reports of it lasting as long as two weeks. ‘We urge consumers to report any new cases – where you bought the nuts, batch details if you have them and how long the symptoms lasted. ‘This will enable us to accurately assess the extent of the problem. This information will then be passed on to to the Food Standards Agency.’ The first reports of pine mouth came in 2008 in the U.S. with attention focusing on imported Chinese pine nuts. Some victims say that even though their sense of taste recovers after eight to 14 days, the only thing they could drink during that time was water. One said drinking wine was ‘like swallowing liquid metal’. Tests on the pine nuts were unable to identify any chemical differences between those that cause pine mouth and those that don’t. No pesticide or heavy metal contamination

was found and there is speculation that the condition is an allergic reaction. One victim, Roger Hyam, a botanist from Edinburgh, thought he might have contracted jaundice or diabetes when he got the metallic taste. When he discovered the true cause, he launched a pine mouth website in the hope that fellow botanists might be able to offer help or an explanation. Home remedies recommended by sufferers include drinking liquid aloe vera and taking activated charcoal tablets - charcoal is often used as a detox in cases of drug overdose. The Food Standards Agency contacted doctors at the Brussels Poisons Centre, who carried out tests on the pine nuts, but were unable to identify any chemical differences between those that cause pine mouth and those that don’t. Research is continuing into why some people get pine mouth but others do not, despite eating from the same batch of nuts.

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Real Hand Cut Chips Delicious Homemade Pies Mouthwatering Steaks Fabulous Homemade Desserts Finest Teas & Coffee Homemade meals from €4.50

“The Raven”

“The best kept secret in Cabo Roig”

Served 9.30 till 5pm (Sunday till 12)

Not easy to discover but well worth it, could you find us?

1 course €5.95 2 course €6.95 3 course €7.95 Food orders 9.30am - 9pm Mon - Sat Sunday 9.30am - 8pm

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

send your birthday & anniversary greetings to editor@soltimes.com

Paddywacks Irish Pub......... Learn to Paint ..........................

Swingtet

Every Wednesday and Thursday Live entertainment and dancing every Wednesday and Thursday from 21:00-23:30 at the Hotel Costa Narejos. Los Alcazares. Swing, jazz, Bossanovas and Latin. Everyones favourite melodies. Free admission. Tel: 968 432 630.

Quiz Night

Every Friday Weekly quiz night with prizes commencing at 21:00, Potters Bar, Calle Mar Menor. For further information contact Karen Tel: 968 137 459

Boat Trip

Every day. Running every day from Puerto Tomas Maestre La Manga to Santiago de la Ribera in San Javier. Operates Monday to Saturday at varying times depending on season. Trips take 30 minutes. Bikes can be taken on board. Tel: 649 201 610

VALENCIA & ALICANTE photographic exhibition

Atesorar España (Treasuring Spain) At Bancaja Cultural Centre in Valencia, & Bancaja Cultural Centre in Alicante daily until 13th November featuring 345 snapshots that capture Spain at the time of the great artist Joaquín Sorolla. The exhibition depicts photographic visions of Spain at the time of the Valencian artist, through images captured in the second half of the 19th Century and the first three decades of the 20th Century by some twenty photographers. Martin the artist in Rojales. Artist / photographer, Spain & UK www.martin-enterprises.eu www. CostaArt.Net

Live music every Thursday. Spanglish karaoke every Saturday. Showing all Sky Sports on 3 TVs. La Manga Strip. Tel: 616 056 048

Fitzers Irish Bar.................. Every Thursday - Quiz night with Open the Box - 10pm Every Friday night - Live music Every Saturday night - Karaoke Every Sunday - Live music with Brian “The Dog” Los Narejos Tel. 696 096 023

Costa Calida Country Music Club ..............................................

La Molata, Cañada de Alhama Friday 19th August Club Closed for Holiday – Re-opens Friday 16th September – Singing a superb mix of traditional & modern Country, Jo Sutherland Every first Friday of the month we have ‘Croonin’ Country’ Disco/Country Karaoke and Dance Tuition… but this is subject to change if a live artist opportunity arises! Admission: Couples 5€, Singles 3€ - all net monies to Community Ambulance Project. For more information contact Mervyn Booth on 968 163 082

Wednesday Quiz Nights...........

with Costa Cálida Radio DJ Ian Adams at Hacienda Clubhouse, Hacienda del Álamo, Fuente Álamo. Start 8 p.m. Fee €1 per person. Teams of max. 4. ‘Platos combinados’ available at a price of €6.

PALS OCTOBER MINI CRUISE.......

Departure 21st October from Mazarron sailing from Malaga. Visiting Algarve, Lisbon and Tangiers Prices 410 euros person double interior cabin. Single suppliment 153euros. ALL INCLUSIVE call Ken Payne 626 460 465. Only a few places left.

Friday Fish ‘n Chips Evenings

at Hacienda Clubhouse, Hacienda del Álamo, Fuente Álamo. Two courses €10. Reservation is recommended – 660 326 194

La Sal Craft Market...........

Every Sun. Taking place between 09:00-14:00 every third Sunday of the month at Parque de los Reyes de Espana and Lo Pagan Explanade....

Using watercolour, pastels or acrylics these are small classes on Monday and Friday afternoons at Playa Paraiso, La Manga. For further information contact Bee Tel: 968 564 416 or 670 353 738

Museum Zamar ..........................

El Algar Open Every day. Displaying carriages from the 17th century to the present day, several harnesses such as Calesera, English and Hungarian variety and one of Spain’s largest collections of vintage motorcycles. There is also a souvenir shop. Open daily 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-21:00. Closed Mondays except festivals. For further details and booking Tel: 968 136 656.

Second Hand Goods Sale

Clothes, bric-a-brac, books and furniture. Brenda’s 2nd hand shop in Estrella, Los Urrutias Details from Brenda: 648 735 540

Fitness Pilates Classes

Every Tuesday. Weekly class being held in the Clubroom, Caravaning La Manga, Autovia de la Manga, Salida 11 from 10:00. For further information and booking contact Paula Tel: 689 672 594 or email: pdtraining@ hotmail.com

Bellydance Fitness Classes

Every Wed. Weekly class being held in the Clubroom, Caravaning La Manga, Autovia de la Manga, Salida 11 from 10:00. For further information and booking contact Paula Tel: 689 672 594 or email: pdtraining@ hotmail.com...

Mar Menor Art Group ............

Portraiture and life drawing in Los Alcazarez. All welcome every Wednesday commencing 15:30. No membership fees. For further information contact Eli Tel: 968 582 186. Or email eli@spainmagic.com. Los Alcazares Digital Camera Club

sunday carvery...................

Freshly carved pork, beef or gammon, choice of starters and dessert. From 8.95€ served 1pm - 6pm. Children under 8 years 1/2 price El Fraile Bar and Restaurant, Los Nietos Telephone for details 968 133 380

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! EMAIL: EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

community news WELCOME GREEK ISLAND AND ISTANBUL cruise........................

MAY 2012 - 8 DAY CRUISE. Price includes transport from Camposol and nearby areas to Madrid, flight to Athens, ALL INCLUSIVE on board and return journey. For more details contact Rosemary 620105179

Happy Birthday

Boat Trip to San javier...........

Maisie

Have a great day Love Aunty, Uncle & Cousins Donna, Peter, Teddy, Barney, Josh, Leah, Chase & Kai XXXXXX

Happy 6th birthday

Gemma

lots of love Mum and Dad xxx

Friday Fish ‘n Chips Evenings......................................

at Hacienda Clubhouse, Hacienda del Álamo, Fuente Álamo. Two courses €10. Reservation is recommended – 660 326 194

PALS OCTOBER MINI CRUISE.......

Wednesday Quiz Nights...........

Every day Running every day from Puerto Tomas Maestre La Manga to Santiago de la Ribera in San Javier. Operates Monday to Saturday at varying times depending on season. Trips take 30 minutes. Bikes can be taken on board. Tel: 649 201 610

Los Alcazares Digital Camera Club...............................

Every Mon On the 1st Monday of each month meeting at 10:30 in the CISSMU Biblioteca. For further information contact Trevor Tel: 968 574 877 or David Tel: 968 170 870

self defence classes..............

Every Tue Taking place at The Arches cafe bar, Urbanisation Oasis from 18:00. Priced at €5 per sesson. For further information Tel: 653 081 341

PILATES

Every Tue Weekly class being held in the Clubroom, Caravaning La Manga, Autovia de la Manga, Salida 11 from 10:00. For further information and booking contact Paula Tel: 689 672 594 or email: pdtraining@hotmail.com

Costa Calida Country Music mar menor art group.............. Club .............................................. Every Wed Portraiture and life drawing. All La Molata, Cañada de Alhama Friday 16th September – Singing a superb mix of traditional & modern Country, Jo Sutherland Every first Friday of the month we have ‘Croonin’ Country’ Disco/Country Karaoke and Dance Tuition…but this is subject to change if a live artist opportunity arises! Admission: Couples 5€, Singles 3€ - all net monies to Community Ambulance Project. For more information contact Mervyn Booth on 968 163 082

WEDNESDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER

welcome every Wednesday commencing 15:30. No membership fees. For further information contact Eli Tel: 968 582 186. Or email eli@ spainmagic.com

Bellydance Fitness Classes.

Every Wed Weekly class being held in the Clubroom, Caravaning La Manga, Autovia de la Manga, Salida 11 from 10:00. For further information and booking contact Paula Tel: 689 672 594 or email: pdtraining@hotmail.com

Bringing back by popular request SUNSET,also Rae Daniels with his Buddy Holly tribute and the lovely Maria O´Hara at Mariano´s Restaurant Camposol. 8€. Food available for 5€. As always a very professional group of people to give us a fantastic show. Tickets available from Rosemary 620105179

Swingtet

TRIP TO BENIDORM ......................

Every Thu Live music every Thursday at this Britishrun pub on the La Manga Strip, Salida 18. Tel: 679 661 228

The Welcome Group annual trip to Benidorm. Staying at the 3 star HOTEL HELIOS. 2 nights, 3 days half board.Visit Benidorms Huge market on Wednesday. Price includes trip to a fantastic bodega and also the VALOR chocolate factory. MONDAY 17th OCTOBER 120€ per person. Call Rosemary on 620105179 for more details

Every Wed, Thu Live entertainment and dancing every Wednesday and Thursday from 21:00-23:30 at the Hotel Costa Narejos. Swing, jazz, Bossanovas and Latin. Everyones favourite melodies. Free admission. Tel: 968 432 630

Paddywacks

The Toerags

Every Fri Two entertainers previously from an Edinburgh function band called Direction. Performing at Restaurante Bar Bacchus, Centro Commercial Oasis from 21:00-24:00. For further information Tel: 663 339 367

send your messages & events to:editor@soltimes.com & we’ll print them here free of charge!!

Also you can see us at www.soltimes.com

MAR MENOR Wednesd ay

- Back & Bones 4 Good - Pilates suitable for all, especially those with back problems and / or Osteoporosis sufferers at Tara’s Retreat 10am - Home-made Pie Day & Dessert 9.50€ Market Tavern - Fun Quiz Night from 8pm at Saralara’s

Thur sd ay

- Curry Day: Poppadom, Curry & Dessert 10€ Market Tavern, Mazarron Port - Cuevas De Reyllo Casa Cultura: 4.30-6pm: Street Theatre Dance Senior Group - Linedance class, Emerald Isle La Florida, Intermediates 1pm - 3pm Tel 965 319 769

Frid ay

- Fish’n’Chip Friday at Market Tavern, Mazarron Port - Coro Pilar International Choir based in El Pinar de Campoverde rehearses Fridays 7pm. Tel John 966 763 446 - Alcoholics Anonymous Cabo de Palos every Friday between 7.30pm and 8.30pm at Association de Vecinos Contact 968 545 181 / 676 696 185

Saturd ay

- Steak Night at Market Tavern, Mazarron Port Choice of Sirloin or Rump, 3 Sauces & Dessert - 14€

Sund ay

- Sunday Roast with all the trimmings at Meson Las Torres - Booking Essential - Car Boot Sale.El Romero, Cuevas de Reyllo 9am- 2pm - 4 Course Sunday Roast. Hotel Mariposa, Gebas - 3 Course Lunch. Don Ricardo’s, Puerto de Mazarron - Sunday Roasts at Market Tavern from 7.50€ - Linedance social, dancing to requests for all levels of dancer, the 1st & 3rd Sunday of every month. Asturias rte Punta Prima, 8pm-11pm Tel 965 319 769 - Sunday lunch from 1.30p.m, 3 course inc Home made Dessert 10€ at Le Bistro

Mond ay

- Yoga. Tara’s Retreat, La Magdelena 10.30am – 11.45am, & 5pm - Try Market Tavern’s, Daily Specials from 5.50€ Mazarron Port

Tu esd ay

- Daily Breakfast Specials at Market Tavern, Mazarron Port - Linedance class, Emerald Isle La Florida, Beginner / improver 1.30-4pm Tel 965 319 769 NB: Information correct at time of printing, BUT please check with the relevant venues that events are taking place

sol times MAR MENOR sales:

chantTel

677 993 719 Classifieds - Paulette or Niky on 902 750 190 - 950 121 936 Email: sales@soltimes.com

www.soltimes.com

Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent of political parties, private investment and government. Our policy is to provide readers with a news and information service that is fair, accurate and balanced. Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent publications. Published weekly and produced exclusively in Murcia & Blanca. Sol Times News Group cannot be held responsible for claims made by advertisers, nor can it be held responsible for errors in advertisements caused by poor quality text, photographs or layout instructions. Furthermore, no responsibility can be accepted for any loss or damage resulting caused by any error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of an advertisement. Deposito Legal Sol Times Calida AL 851-2010. Sol Times Blanca AL 852-2010

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

SOL CLASSIFIEDS Prices from as little as 349€ supplied and fitted Free no obligation survey and quotation www.allseasons-spain.com email:info@allseasons-spain.com AUTHORISED INSTALLER FOR SIMULSAT TV Call John on 608279075

airport transfers

builders

LEGAL AIRPORT ALL BUILDING WORKS UNDERTAKEN. TRANS F ERS FREE HELP, ADVICE Taxis / Minibuses & QUOTES. /Coaches www. ALL AREAS COVERED c o s t a b l a n c a LEGAL & REGISTERED. transfers.com CALL ADRIAN 0034 966 196 609 696 744 982 0034 610 611 619

awnings

Pool tables, s n o o k e r tables, table tennis tables, darts. Tel:666 933 726 w w w. s p a i n p o o l . com A l u mini u m Gates, Double and Electric Sliding. Guaranteed No Rust.Call Tracy on

AWNINGS DIRECT

Ay UNTIL D OLI BER H ON h SEPTEM 6t Tel: Mick

business opportunities

Business opportunities 10 cold drink/snack vending Machines with sites €44,900 Excellent cash income, no overheads, work from home, work only 1 day a week, €31,000 net yearly. 25 Pringle vending machines with sites €14,900, €250 per week net guarenteed,

Tel: 965 326 442 / 659 696 455

400 square metres workshop and office space available, within working warehouse, aircon, electric, water. ready to operate

647 587 855 / 950 459 010

www.hispavan.com

966 726 891

695016896

Pair of H eadlamp conversion units for a Nissan X-Trail. Hardly used, now returning to UK. Make your X-Trail legal in Spain. Much less than half new price €150 the pair. Camposol area. Tel

P rincess Buggy colour pink, suit child from 1 – 6 yrs of age. 10€ Tel: 966 791 080

chiropodist

Foot Prince

CHIROPODIST Sharon Prince a.c.e.o. Reg For an appointment Call: 699 747 574 or

boats

B O A T I N G LICENSES ARE NOW A LEGAL Retractable Awnings R E QU I R E M E N T IN SPAIN Serenity Toldo Plano (Glorieta) Sailing RYA Balcony Blinds Training Centre, Vertical Blinds Competent Crew to Window Blinds Yachtmaster, VHF New Covers & ICC. Own-boat Repairs tuition on sail and At least 150 power. If you have a Colours To yacht or powerboat Choose From get qualified and certified. Contact Richard +34 638 676 583 246 056 224 Email: enquiries@ call sol times serenitysailing. classified com or visit: www. on 902 750 190 serenitysailing. ext 330 com

By PERSON: Quesada business centre, calle los arcos 7, quesada

Private sale ads are free under 300€ (3 ads per week) email them to: blancasales@soltimes.com

Costa blanca areas christine 966 718 979 Costa calida area paulette 902 750 190

for sale

airconditioning

ALL SEASONS I Fully fitted by R C City & Guilds O Trained Installation team N Fully Legal & Insured S.L. company

to place your advertisment....

966 791 714

Beer Barrel Seat 75€ would suit any bar Tel: 966 791 080 Fold up single bed Free Tel: 966 791 080 Windsurf free to good home. Old but complete, suitable for learner. Tel 966772372 Cross Trainer. 8 Speed, LCD Display - Time, Speed, Calorie Count, VGC, Bought Last Year for 329€. Genuine reason for sale, going back to

computer

Computer fix

The place to call for friendly reliable help

Repairs, Tuition, getting started, Microsoft Office R Certified

Virus Removal, Email setup, 20 years computer experience NO CALL OUT FEES Phone: 966 762 816 Mobile: 634 370 737 Email:alanbel57@gmail.com

car hire

cleaning services

car hire

jewellery accept England. 90€ ono. cover, Tel: 699 413 769. €35. Algorfa/San Aguas Nuevas Fulgencio area. Tel 634303141 Area. table, C ompact Pool double wardrobe slate bed, pub type, surface teak effect vg playing condition 180cm x 113cm x 225cm 80cm x 50cm only with 2 sets of balls 35€ Camposol and cues Old but in Mazarron – Tel: full working order. Buyer collects. 619 952 576 C omp u ter €300 Phone 634 Table on casters 351 602. light wood very Torrevieja area. good value Pine Dresser 20€ Camposol 150cm wide Mazarron – Tel: x 215cm high 619 952 576 3 drawers & 3 White Knight tumble dryer good working condition floor or worktop internal condenser (no external hose)20€ C a m p o s o l Mazarron – Tel: 619 952 576 Mamas & Papas Ziko Frankie pushchair, mushy peas colour, excellent condition with hood, cost £219 new, accept €85. Algorfa/San Fulgencio area. Tel 634303141.

Mamas & Papas Trek buggy, raspberry colour, excellent condition, complete with washable liner, hood and rain

cupboards on bottom, glass doors on top good condition. €120. Cat or small dog transporter used once strong wooden construction. €30. Sony 23inch screen TV (not flat screen) plus pace digi box, good working order. €85 Tel: 968199690 or 669136091 5 sandstone Balustrades with capping, One Pillar and Cap, never paint again, excellent condition 30 €. Phone 966 712 200 (Benijofar). DAEWOO 28” Tv silver,flat screen G.W.O. (not slimline) 50€ Tel. 966 189 284.

employment wanted Mature qualified ex UK Care Home Manager

would like to assist people in their own home with any care needs, travel, cleaning, shopping etc. Husband available for any DIY tasks, gardening etc, Call Jennifer: 965 008 495

from 8€ per day all inclusive 965 419 857

electrician

ELECTRICS & PLUMBING IN THE COSTA BLANCA

furniture

Furniture first

est 2006

no job too small & free estimates! specialists in all electrical & plumbing works

ROJALES SPECIALIST OF PRE - OWNED FURNITURE & AccESSORIES AT SENSIBLE PRICES

call clive: 617 268 346 or frank: 639 988 487

WE BUY, SELL & PART EXCHANGE QUALITY FURNITURE Open Mon - Fri 10 - 18.00, Sat 10 - 14.00 C/Pablo Neruda 2, Local 5, Rojales

new icp’s fitted - swimming pool heaters & air-con electric gates & burglar alarms hot water boilers,gas heaters & solar new bath/shower suites - spanish legal

house clearance specialist FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE

www.electriancostablanca.co.uk

PLEASE CALL JAMIE ON: 966 713 075 OR 680 545 923 www.southcostablancaonline.com

ELECTRICITY,

PLUMBING, AIR-CON

in Torrevieja & surrounding areas. No call out fee

Tel: 622 381 979 Tel: 658 632 056

www.hacerman.webs.com

Electrician

available for all works. Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 562.

financial services

sec u red loans, capital raising mortgages, cash advances whilst you sell, equity release. 652 986 088 or 902 davendonc@aol.com 585 569 asesor@ advisers4.es

Email.

jewellery

Silver & gold wanted Private buyer pays cash for all silver items Large or small, I will buy it.

Tel: 603 633 138

GOLD WANTED

English jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold jewellery, silver and coins

IMMEDIATE CASH PAYMENT Call Peter

664 890 990

Member of the National Association of Goldsmiths

FORGOTTEN GOLD Clive Dunn

Here on the Costa Calida we will buy unwanted or broken gold. We are offering the best rates. Please contact me for a consultation Full discretion guaranteed

TEL: 606 564 840 forgottengold@hotmail.com

limousines We have two chauffeur driven stretch limousines for up to eight people and a Rolls Royce Silver Spirit for up to four people.

634 321 024 ES 618 315 933 UK

not just for special occasions info@tuxedolimousines.es www.tuxedolimousines.es

locksmiths

LOCKSMITH

LOCKED OUT!!! CALL24hr

Tel:

647 151 972

Put this number in your phone. LOCKS CHANGED ALL LOCKS TO WORK OF 1 KEY EXTRA SECURITY WINDOWS & DOORS FREE SECURITY SURVEY MOTURA & DIERRE LOCKS CHANGED FULLY LEGAL IN SPAIN

mosquito blinds

• Roller Shutters & Persianas • Mosquito Roller Blinds • Security locks & Grills • Windows & Doors • Glass

We Fit, Repair or replace

Tel: 680 845 651 pets

English Bulldog puppies for sale 3 male, 2 female Tel:619 500 555

www.soltimes.com

photography

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

WANTED

removals

BUNK BEDS in mazarron area tel: 673 569 608

dead or aliv e

wanted

plastering English Plasterer internal AFFORDABLE REMOVALS finishing, external rendering, 15 years into a thriving we also have 3 or Local Moves experience, good rates. Call Chris 671 business once 4 other very cheap Spain - UK - Return 444 246 email: c_pettit@hotmail.co.uk again so come and new properties on Good rate door to door see it, call Gary on the site INCLUDING Full or part loads property 670469544 a close A 3 BED HOUSE Motorbikes & Caravans Pets Welcome friend of the family, Nr Quesada for FOR SALE Passports & Papers arranged you really need to 66,000€ yes call Apartment (Top floor / Penthouse) Almoradi, Costa Blanca be into a bit of DIY now Office: 965 326 920 4 Bed, 2 Bath, Large Terrace, Lounge, Sep Kitchen, Utility Room, Communal Solarium, Lift, Furnished inc. White Mobile: 666 847 648 for the house by the There are Goods, UK TV , 90m² Interior Living Space plus, 15m² TerAll areas covered way. I Can also help race / Balcony with Awnings various Vendors Brian - Torrevieja with Finance and in desperate need Spacious apartment overlooks a newly reformed Plaza, email: beechdale@hotmail.co.uk views of the church & mountains, unusually large terrace. Currency exchange to sell so please 2 min walk away from the town’s attractive central square, all other amenities are also within easy walking distance,12 if you need it look here www. mins drive from the resort of Guardamar del Segura. Close 670469544 Also a 5 spanishvisions.com to La Finca Golf course Beds Finca Dolores Beautiful Houses for for 205,000€ on a snip Big Villas with a 10,000m2 plot beautiful Gardens all legal, Also & at 199,999€, 4 Bed 5 Bath House Bed Penthouse inland near Hondon Apartment for 90K. Price (Private Sale) € 85,000 15,000m2 plot Albatera Finca with ONLY 220,000€ Habitation Tel: (0034) 676 534 978 yes very cheap Cert yes WITH. House worth a look its a with pool NOW montebello algorfa huge house and ONLY 90K, Plot to LowCostaMoves 3/4 bed detatched villa fabulous views Build House 50K, UK and Spain FOR AS LITTLE must be seen 2,500m2 Plot with AS : 65,500€ you we shift most things Electric 52K, 5Beds many extras can have the choice 3 Bath 2 Kitchens of ONE OF 2 Very to many to list & Lounges 285K, nice Apartments on Local moves telephone Ground floor with 7 Beds 4 Bath 2 & deliveries private terrace, 2 Kitchens 2 Lounges Playa Flamenca Bedrooms, Lounge Quesada 399K, 5 and Fitted Kitchens, Beds finca 10Km2 Mob: 616820232 Office: 966 188 649 tony-foster@live.co.uk Dolores 205K, 170000€ Terrace to gardens plot and Pool area only Don’t read any just look 1034 Benimar 22 units in total so more at the site www. private Rojales Fully very private. OR a SALE furnished 2 bed 1 2 Bed Apartment s p a n i s h v i s i o n s . bath detached villa ground floor IN com and ring us • Full & Part Loads cortijo communal THE TOWN with 670469544 to view • Local-No jobs too small 20mins from with selling pool, near to all big terrace looking Anyone • Pets Welcome mojacar amenities. Only towards pool area, ring us as we need • Experienced owner/driver ALL properties are more good value 124,950€ (Playa Flamenca) things to promote 463 Benimar fully furnished and Tel: 603 192 957/966 848 607 Rojales Detached 2 SOLD AS SEEN, as getting quality UK: 00 44 790 519 8895 true BARGAINS leads to view new bed 2 bath Villa call now 670469544 properties. we are MEL LANDON built on a 300 plot its cheapest here again getting a new melvyynleo@yahoo.com with private pool, This is a unique spanish list of properties in so dont delay, Easy LWB Sprinter van going to UK and property comes country cortijo with 4 our favorite location access to Towns, back every 2 weeks, based near Murcia beds, 2 bath, Open plan fully furnished and living areas, kitchen & with air-con Offers the Beach and Golf ALDEA DEL MAR Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044 7519 dining room as well as see it here www. so please keep an 186 355. or email: van.man@hotmail. a workshop, courtyard invited 189,950€ front & back and room NEW REDUCTION spanishvisions.com eye on the site co.uk for a pool.Mountain views NOW ONLY recruitment Build 212 m², 165,000€ COME Terrace 65 m², AND SEE a International real estate “Wanted sales staff, car, and BARGAIN Organisation has a vacancy for a part / full Plot 1200 m² real internet necessary all areas in Costa a time native Sweedish speaking individual Blanca and Almeria considered all Telephone OpportunityFabulous for 649 186 107 someone with the with excellent English attributes. Duties training given, good pay and conditions. will include administrative, sales email for more info Apply via email with CV to admin@ thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com GUTS to take it on. & customer service. If you are an buyandsellpropertyinspain.com” its got a 3000m2 ambitious, professional with a flexible bargain 180,000€ plot as well as a approach, want to join our successful 240m2 build house team & this criteria matches your skills ONO with 12 rooms & own set then call now 0034 966 733 079 to 448 Quesada Pool a large garage arrange an immediate interview Golf 3 bed 1 bath and three phase Sales support fully furnished electric if required, “Wanted canvassers, all areas in Costa villa with air-con very suitable for Blanca and Almeria considered, situated across STORAGE OR the road from the CAR WORKSHOP, Good commissions and conditions, driving range Only its all legal and apply via email with CV to admin@ 99,950€ ready to be turned buyandsellpropertyinspain.com”

SPAIN - UK - SPAIN Removals Friendly Reliable Service Fully Legal Special deals from UK - Spain Office: 968 564 298 Mobile: 696 621 884 marmenorremovals@hotmail.com

van hire VANTASTIC 3.5 tonne removals or any man & van service

simply removals Spain ‹ UK › Spain

Experienced mechanic required, orihuela costa telephone 637 090 665

GOLD WANTED

English jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold jewellery, silver and coins

IMMEDIATE CASH PAYMENT Call Peter

Tel: 693 251 562.

E MAIL: davendonc@aol. com

664 890 990

Member of the National Association of Goldsmiths

Wanted Scrap Gold

Cash paid for all gold jewellery or exchange for new

The Treasure Chest: 966 718 100 / 966 765 374

WANTED

Commercial gas or electric

Kitchen Oven

Anthony Foster

645 147 888

don’t ch uck i’ll take it it

Lords Removals UK & European Local Deliveries, Full/Part loads. Pet transportation. Fully Insured

Telephone:

(0044) 7709 557 109 (0034) 608 061 872

satellite tv R ain b ow Satellites for all your TV needs with clients all over the Murcia Region. Contact Matt or Alan 686 358 475 or rainbowsats@ terra.es SKY box

digi

Pace with white sky card bbc1,2,3,4,itv1,2,3

,ch4 & 5. 120€ can deliver. Tel: 667 235 205 or 667 478 771

advertise your business in the soltimes call 902 750 190 ext 330

Must be in good working order Can Collect Telephone 609 199 394 tattooist

TATTOOS BY AWARD WINNING MANCHESTER STEVE

FLAMENCA BEACH C.C. Tel: 634 141 331 672 875 418

translation

Translation Services

Residencias & NIEs 50€ Wills 80€ Doctors, Driving licences & Car Transfers

Call Matt on 650 130 853 wigs

Salon Margarethas, 23 years in Torrevieja Hair/wig specialist for medical illness and hair loss problems. We offer different hair replacements, top fillers, hair prostheses, toupees & wigs. Natural & artificial hair & much more. Also fashion/festival accessories. TV/TS are welcome to our service. Call Margaretha on 966 921 846 or call in salon in Torrevieja

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

swimming pools

personals “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the ads in this section offensive”

established 40 years in the UK

Britannia

jet ski watermaid jet ski 155hp with shuttle craft, spanish papers 647 587 855 / 950 459 europe swimming pool 010 www.hispavan.com maintenance, gearbox repairs heat pumps, saltwater & Gearbox Repairs, Filter system. Automatics & instualtions

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

CANDLES ARE A GIRLS BEST FRIENDS Each flickering candle flame contains ‘millions of tiny diamonds that are created and disappear in the blink of an eye’ As if a candlelit dinner wasn’t romantic enough, scientists have shown that a flickering flame is studded with millions of tiny diamonds. R o u g h l y 1.5million of the twinkling gems are created every second. Sadly, for those whose eyes are lighting up the thought of making a fortune, the jewels are so small that up to 300,000 would fit on the head of a pin. And they disappear in the blink of an eye. But if scientists come up with a way of harnessing the technology, people could use little more than a candle and a match to ‘grow’ diamonds from scratch. As well as costing a fraction of the price of ‘real’ diamonds, they would be an ethically sound alternative to the blood diamonds mined in African war zones. An alternative source of diamonds would also be a boon to industry, which uses the fantastically hard stones in everything from saw blades to prosthetic hips. The idea comes from a St Andrews University scientist challenged to find out just what is inside a flame. Wuzong Zhou, a professor of chemistry, said: ‘A colleague from another university said to me: “Of course, no one knows what a candle flame is actually made of.” ‘I told him I believed science could explain everything eventually, so I decided to find out.’ The professor invented a filter that allowed him to successfully extract particles from the centre of the flame, where temperatures top 1,400C, and then examined them.’ To his surprise, he discovered that the carbon in the candle wax had formed all four types of

pure carbon, including diamonds and graphite, or pencil lead. Pure carbon can make very different structures depending on how the atoms are arranged and how they bond to each other. Professor Zhou said: ‘This was a surprise because each form is usually created under different conditions. Unfortunately, the diamond particles are burned away in the process and converted into carbon dioxide, but this will change the way we view a candle flame forever.’ The professor now plans to examine barbecue flames, to determine if they also contain fledgling diamonds - and if they gild the burgers and sausages that are eaten afterwards. Rosey Barnet, artistic director of Shearer Candles, one of Scotland’s biggest candle firms, said: ‘We always knew that candles added sparkle to a room, now scientific research has provided us with more insight into why.’ The discovery was foreseen more than 150 years ago by Michael Faraday, the father of electricity. In a lecture on the chemical history of the candle, delivered in London in 1860 at the prestigious Royal Society about the marvels of science, he told his audience that candlelight ‘has the glittering beauty of gold and silver, and the still higher lustre of jewels like the ruby and diamond; but none of these rival the brilliancy and beauty of flame’. Burning gas has been used to make diamonds before but Professor Zhou is the first to show that the gems form deep inside something as simple as a candle flame.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

sport

CD Montesinos get off to a CLAPTON’S GOLF SOCIETY.......... UNiKE G.S. (Members of Las VILLA MARTIN 19TH AUGUST 2011 winning start........................... Colinas G & CC).......................... CD MONTESINOS 1 – 0 CD COX Montesinos Team: Cubano, Dimitri, Fernando, Becker, Sanchez, Baiano, Andres (1), Robert, Ruben, Andres (2), Chulo. Subs: Carlos, Javi, Gallas, Yony, Manuel and Carmelo Goal: 1 – 0 Chulo in the 65th minute In their first pre season friendly, Club Deportivo Montesinos took on CD Cox from the 1st Regional division, one division above Montesinos. Cox were champions of the 2nd Regional last season, and were by far the best team in the league, but they came up against a CD Montesinos side which, despite being without 6 first team regulars, surprised their higher division rivals with their commitment, hard work and a decent amount of skill and flair. Although the first half ended goalless, it was the local side that had the better chances, and they could have gone into the half time break in front. The 100 or so in the crowd at the Municipal Los Miras, in Montesinos, was an increase in numbers which included members from their new International (CB) Football Supporters’ Club, known as “The Full Monte”. The supporters’ club will follow the club home and away all season. Certainly new and old fans alike were impressed with the team manager Juan

Texas Scramble Thursday 18th August 2011

Pedro Lopez Olmedilla, better known as “Juanpe”, has put together. The only goal of the game came in the 65th minute, when a long pass by Gallas found Chulo, who lobbed the ball over the oncoming visiting goalkeeper and into the open net, much to the delight of the home supporters. The final 15 minutes saw Montesinos tire, as Cox pushed forward looking for the equaliser which, thanks to some good defending and even better goalkeeping, did not materialise. The Montesinos manager, Juanpe, said after the game that he was satisfied with the Effort and hard work his players had put into the game. He was also very confident that once the missing players returned, CD Montesinos could well be challenging for a place at or near the top of the division this season. It is still very early days, but Juanpe, who was a player at FC Torrevieja when British fans started their own supporters club, can see similar signs of increasing support at Montesinos. “The northern Europeans live football in a very different way to the Spanish fans, and I am sure that the enthusiasm, hard work and commitment of our supporters club, “The Full Monte”, will rub off onto the local fans this season”.

29 members and guests assembled at the course after the short ride from the Club House. Already the sun was high in the sky which meant once again it was going to be a hot and sticky day. The format for this month was stableford and because of the shortage of numbers, due to visiting families, we had to play with a three ball and a two ball, but nevertheless this didn’t lead to any real problems in slow play. The course was in excellent condition but the greens did seem to be a little too wet, as at times the divot on the green was big enough for the ball to plug. Therefore we needed a garden fork rather than the normal pitch mark repairer. So with the sun shining and a light breeze blowing the new Captain Chris started the match. Despite the hot sun the ball flew well in the light airs which enabled the players to come back with some excellent scores. Our thanks to the Villa Martin green staff for keeping the course in good condition enabling us all to have a good day. Prize winners and scores as follows:

Best Overall:

Captain Chris Gridley 39 points Gold Winner: Dave Smith 36 points Gold Runner Up: Merv

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Silver Winner:

Bob Hague 34 points

Silver Runner Up:

Phyllis Venables 32 points

Well today we were playing a Texas Scramble - the group enjoy this format as there is always a lot of friendly rivalry. It was strange to be playing in the afternoon though instead of our usual early morning tee off slot - although I think most of our golfers today were actually awake. We had the Birthday Boy Mike Box playing he is now an official pensioner - gets paid for doing nothing!!!! He’s the one with the funny hat on in the photo!!! We had a guest from England - Keith Wood - we met Keith when he first started coming on holiday a few years ago

and he used to join us when we played at our last course and was more than eager to play at Las Colinas - we think he was impressed.

Results 1st Mike Box - Mik Harris David Stewart - Alan Wright Gross 68 Nett 61.9 2nd Jac Longhurst - Sidsel Stuve - Robert Johnson - Bill Mackay Gross 73 Nett 63.6 Well done to the winners. Next week is the Las Colinas Monthly League Competition. UNiKE G.S. Next Match is Thursday 1st September Bernie Newnes

Best Front Nine:

Tony Wilson 20 points

Best Back Nine:

Dave Gray 16 points on c/b Best Guest: Sue Lowe 38 points

Nearest the Pin:

6th - Mick O’Grady 9th - Dave Pretty 13th - Merv Williams 17th - Tony Lowe Members went back to Claptons for the prize giving and the usual feast supplied by Chris and his staff. Many thanks for their hospitality. Next meeting 16th September at Roda.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

sport

TORRE GOLF SOCIETY...DOUG MADDISON MEMORIAL TROPHY........ LO CRISPIN GOLF SOCIETY.......... Donated by Barratt Homes in Spain ALICANTE GOLF - 15th AUGUST 2011 It was a welcome return to Alicante Golf for this annual event and the weather was hot, hot, hot, last year it rained and we politely asked Doug if he could have a word up there for better weather, he did but slightly over did it! It was great to see a good turnout for this competition and there were some great prizes to compete for, mainly rescue woods as they seemed appropriate for our golf. Alicante Golf, laid on breakfast Spanish style to equip us for the golf ahead,

but I wish they had supplied some big fans on the front nine, to keep us cool as well as strong. From the score board the heat affected a majority of the players; with the few hardy ones scoring well (must have been drinking the water dry from the water fountains around the course). Tony Chandler was last year’s winner, and only missed out by a solitary point from Paul Hardiman. The results were: 1st: Paul Hardiman 37 points 2nd: Tony Chandler 36 points 3rd: Ron Nicholson 34 points There were four Nearest The Pins but only two were won,

in fact only three players got onto the greens of Hole 3 and 17. So the prizes were shared around the one other that got on the green and other winners. Nearest The Pins; Hole 3. Ron Perkins (David Swann) Hole 6: Non Hole 12: Non Hole 17. Derek Phillips VFM (Paul Smith Award): David Swann David received a Seve Ballesteros Foundation bracelet – seemed appropriate as we had played a course designed by him. Thank you to the Marife and the Caddy Masters for their assistance when the buggies

were not returning as quick as they should. Our next game is 5th September at El Plantio. If you wish to play, guests are always welcome or require more information on The Torre Golf Society then contact the Secretary Ivie Davies either by email golfdavies@gmail.com or telephone 669 211 410

Doug Maddison Trophy winner Paul Hardiman

MAGGOTS END.............................. Nancy’s on the dead arm of the River Segura, it was on this stretch of water were the fish kill occurred the other week. I fished between the two irrigation channels at the top of the tee junction. Before the beginning of the match a young lady from the Enviroment Agency came along and was checking these two outlets for dead fish. The chain across the left hand channel had collected bottles, carrier bags, along with other sorts of debris including four dead fish, but ten minutes later someone up stream must have opened the sluice gate and all hell was let loose when all the rubbish including the four dead fish and a cat was washed out down the river. Although a lot of fish have been killed recently, good weights were recorded above and below the pollution point. 1st Dave (Yours Truly) Hoare with 14.600kg fishing the pole and pellet 2nd Ian (The Irish Wizard) Dalzell with 12.380kg fishing pole and paste 3rd Stan (The Man) Roberts with 12.260kg fishing the pole pellet and paste Anyone with broken poles or rods in need of repair, I have now obtained a substantial

amount of broken pole and rod pieces and if you need any repairs please contact me at the telephone number below. All details are available on our website www. abbeyangling.com or from the match secretary Terry Screen on 965328368 A personal note, from myself, is that I would like to thank Pete Kerr who turned up at the end of the match and weighed all anglers in. This certainly helped, as it allowed all of us to get away quick and back home for a nice dip. Thanks Pete. ANGLERS TOGETHER We have been having a lot of enquiries about licenses from anglers who are passing the ‘magic age of 65’ and therefore pensioners! Licenses are still required and are free providing you have a Spanish Pensionista card, otherwise you will have to pay the normal fees. Licenses are available from either Town Halls, or the Caja Rural Bank if in Valencia region. In Murcia you will also require insurance. Make sure you take photocopies of all relevant documents to obtain your license. ie passport photopage, NIE and insurance. 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 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 meetings are: Friday 9th September at 12 o’clock at Mary’s Bar, Campoverde (near Pilar de la Horadada). Saturday 10th September at 12 o’clock at The New Royal Bar and Restaurant at El Alamillo, opposite the seafront between Isla Plana and Puerto de Mazarron. There will be some secondhand tackle and magazines available. For further details ring Alan Roscoe 968 570 876 email: anglerstogether@ hotmail.co.uk No meetings are held in August TIGHT LINES DAVE HOARE

Limebar Golf Society.......................................................................... the following: The Christine Taylor Memorial Trophy

LimeBar and El Balcon Golf Societies, met for the Annual Christine Taylor Memorial Trophy, of which the first leg was played at La Tercia, the conditions of the course, were very good, although some of the more vertically challenged, would have liked some of the Bamboo reeds to have been

trimmed to allow them to see some of the fairways. The second leg of the Christine Taylor Memorial Trophy will take place at La Tercia in two weeks on the 31st of August for the singles. The scores for the first leg goes to The Limebar, which stands at 4 –2 for the doubles. The prizes were awarded to

Andrew Cox 32pts and 3rd Eddy Downing 30pts Bronze Division: 1st Graham Mackenna 29pts, 2nd Ken Dale 23pts and 3rd Scott Blair 23pts Best guest was Norman Potter with 25pts. Nearest the pins: Gail Coultate hole 9, John Henderson hole 14 and Bill Mackay hole 18. The 2s club was won by Tony Rowley who scooped the pot of €33. Our popular free game raffle was won by Dennis Martin Our next outing is to Villa Martin on the 31st of August, where we will play a team game, 6 x 6 x 6. Anyone is welcome to play. We play many different courses throughout the year and host four major trophies with some good prizes. If you would like a game go to our website https://sites.google. com/site/locrispingolf or email LCGSinfo@gmail.com. Best Regards Gail Coultate

TRAINING STARTS IN ONE WEEKS TIME AT ITV ORIHUELA RFC

Winners at Alicante

RODS and REELS Due to the heat, and family visits, in the month of August, we have no matches. It is our self imposed close season. The new season 2011/2012 begins on the 1st September. A reminder to the club that there will be the usual Club meeting at Cagnie & Lacey’s on Sunday 28th August commencing at 10.30 a.m. The Match Secretary will be circulating the match list for September and members can pay their Subscriptions that were due on 1st August” PLEASE NOTE The clubs AGM and prize giving presentation will be held on the 25th September at Cagney & Lacy´s bar at La Marina, commencing at 10.00am. This will be followed by a buffet supplied by the club. Numbers are needed, so anyone interested in coming, please contact Sue Swann on 966729293 by Sunday 18th September. Subscriptions are also due from 1st August and to be paid prior to commencement of the AGM. Subs to be paid to Derek Swann and they are 25 euros. ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS supplied by TERRY SCREEN This weeks 8th round of the Summer Series on the 16th August was fished at

17.08.11 at El Plantio For the third time this year 33 members and guests journeyed to El Plantio to play our usual Stableford. Most people were there early to have a coffee and a practice before starting off. The course was in good condition as a whole, but as always with this course it is sometimes hard to put a good score together. Nevertheless, as always there are some people who can manage to over come the conditions and post good scores. We were looked after well by Santiago who made sure we had enough buggies and cards for the range. The gold division was keenly contested with all winners having the same score and plenty of players close behind one off the mark. Here are the winners: Gold Division: 1st Colin Ranson 31pts, 2nd Bill Mackay 31pts and 3rd Gail Coultate 31pts Silver Division: 1st Barny Barningham 36pts,

The twos on the 13th goes to D Gill and P O´Connor. Nearest the pin on the 2nd: P O’Connor: Nearest the pin on the 4th: D Gregson: Nearest the pin on the 7th: N Dobson: Nearest the pin on the 11th: N Dobson Nearest the pin on the 13th:P O’Connor and the Nearest pin on the

16th was D Railton. We would like to mention an outstanding performance by our own Stewart Coleman with 46 points. Our sincere thanks go to Sue and Pete at the Limebar for the wonderful buffet, and if anyone would like to join the Limebar Golf Society just ring George on 693 789 082.

Training starts back next week at Orihuela RFC on 30 August in preparation for what is looking like a hard, but good season ahead with a lot more games as it looks like we will be playing in the Murcia league with 10 teams in it, so plenty of local rugby for everybody. Will keep everyone updated on it as and when I get the news. Also even more good news for the club, with the help of the visitors to the Moncayo Market and the traders we have been able to raise 39.10€ over the summer. The So Bar in Benimar and their customers in one month raised 22.08€, mainly in copper coins from the bar all in aid of the Butterfly Children, so a big thank to everyone for helping this very worthy cause. Still there has not been any response with regards to the signed rugby shirts from Leicester Tigers and London Irish from this season’s squad, and the Wigan rugby league ball signed as well, with all of the money raised going to the Butterfly Children. Previous items that raised money were a Northampton Saints and Baa Baas v Spain shirts, which raised 1,000€ and 1,500€respectively. So contact me, Garry, with regards to the above shirts and ball if you know anybody who would want them. If you want to know any more details of what rugby is on in the area, and for your rugby gear club shirts etc, you can always come and see me at the Moncayo Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays or call me on 692 767 242. Or come along to the Rojales Steak House on

Friday 26 August between 12.00 and 16.00 where I will be with all of the Canterbury shirts and rugby clothing, so come along and have a drink and find out what is happening in the area about rugby. REMEMBER the World Cup starts in just a few weeks time down in New Zealand. The club trains on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s at the Miguel Hernandez University, and training will start back again on Tuesday 30 August. So if you are interested, dig out those rugby boots and come along and see for yourself what it is like. New players are always welcome no matter of what age or skill level you are. If you would like more information about what is going on in the club, you can contact the club by phoning myself, Garry on 692 767 242, and for the juniors contact Oscar on 600 871 606 (Spanish) So come along and join in the fun and great friendly atmosphere at the club.

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SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

sport

Club 25 Golf Visit The Mazarron FC Mazarron’s pre-season continued with Alhama Signature Course.... preparations a resounding 8-4 victory over With Ronnie Roser

Sucina Golf Society – Charity Golf Day Tuesday 16 August 2011, La Serena Golf Club Sucina Golf Society traditionally nominates its August golf game as a “Charity Day” and this year the Society’s chosen charity is “Help at Home”. HAH is a group of local voluntary community members whose aim is to help people of all ages - much as a District Nurse would do in the UK. They offer help to people within the home who are finding it difficult to manage. Sucina Golf Society is delighted to support this very worthy cause. The day was well attended with 32 Members, Guests and Sponsors enjoying a great days golf in beautiful warm and sunny conditions. The course was well presented and offered the usual set of challenges with 16 of the 18 holes involving water. Luckily we had reminded players to bring a good supply of spare balls with them! Although this month’s normal “prize fund” monies were being given to HAH, a number of Members, Guests and Sponsors kindly donated individual prizes for various achievements. The Society would like to express its grateful thanks to all those who donated prizes – with a particular mention for Mick Reeves (aka “Mick The Grip”) who joined us for the golf and generously put up several

vouchers as prizes. The 3rd and 17th holes (both Par 3’s) were designated as “Captains & Vice Captains Challenge” holes – meaning any player whose ball went in the water was “invited” to pay a €1 fine, with the money of course going to the charity. Despite the relatively light winds these 2 holes still proved to be difficult for some and €24 in fines was collected! We also held a Sweepstake for the total number of wet balls throughout the day – the result of which was a staggering 124!! One of our Guests for the day, Rob Moore, picked up a bottle of Brandy for the closest guess. Prizes were presented immediately after the game in La Serena’s great Clubhouse and individual winners were: Bill Nagle, Marion Dobbins & Doreen Crowhurst (nearest the pins), John Storey (best points on Par 5’s), Bill Nagle (best points on Par 3’s) and Judith Owen (best points on holes 10 & 13). In the Team competition the winners from the groups starting on the 10th tee were: Brian Kay, Gary Smith, Mick Reeves and Bill Nagle with a score of 89 points on the “Dusty Bin” format. The winners starting from the 1st tee – and the overall winners of The August Charity Cup - were: Colin Comber, Matt Simmonds, Marion Dobbins and Roger Major with a great score of 91

points. (The attached photo shows the Society’s Captain, Andy Harvey, presenting The August Charity Cup to the winning team) All those who took part agreed that it had been a really enjoyable day, added to the fact that it was all supporting a good cause. As a result of the Prize Fund, Sweepstake, Sponsorships & Donations, etc. a total of €465 was collected. The Society will round this up to €500 and a cheque for this sum will be presented to a representative of Help at Home during the evening of our “Captains Dinner” on 30th September. Once again, The Committee would like to thank all those who took part and supported the day in such a fantastic way. The Society’s next game is our annual “Captain vs Vice Captain Team Challenge”, taking place at Roda Golf on 27th September. Anyone interested in learning more about our Society – or wising to become a Member – can visit our Website (www. sucinagolfsociety.com) or contact our Secretary, Pam Redgers (pamredgers.sucina@ gmail.com). Photo showing the Captain, Andy Harvey, presenting “ The August Charity Cup” to the winning team.

LAS SALINAS PETANCA LEAGUE............................... With just under a month to go before the deadline on joining the Winter league, this is how the new look divisions with 8 teams now shape upDIVISION ONE : 1 LAKESIDE 2 BUCCANEERS .3 CASTILLO. 4 XPS. 5 LOS BALCONES. 6 BLUE LAGOON. 7 CASTILLO 8 CORSAIRS Both Promoted. DIVISION TWO : 1 DOMINOS . 2 DANMARK VIKINGS. 3 MUTINEERS. 4 SAN MIGUEL . 5 LAKESIDE . 6 CASTILLO 7. DOMINOS 2. 8 ROCAJUNA DIVISION THREE: 1 CASTILLO. 2 EL PRESIDENTE . 3 FREEBOOTERS 4 DANMARK 5 PEACOCKS 6 BUDDIES BAR 7 PEACOCKS 2. 8 T B D New applications are

Rocajuna,Lakeside, Florentilles Amigos, Florentilles Dominos, Danmark 3, several more have shown interest, and still have time to make the final three places . NEW CLUBS Florentilles this is in the camp site, just off the Torrevieja to San Miguel road. They now play on Monday and Wednesday, at 6-30. New players are very welcome to join in. Bob Hornsey is busy forming a team in time for the start of the Winter league, for further information please call Bob on 966 191 198. ROCAJUNA OPEN PAIRS The next competition for the Rocajuna club will be an Open

doubles on Sunday September 11th, report time 9-30. This venue is now attracting a good mix from Spain, France, Belgium, Sweden, and Britain. Entries to LAS SALINAS LEAGUE PAIRS This will be held at Rocajuna on Sunday September 25th. All entries to Pat Roberts the league secretary on 966 774 565. This is a mixed pairs . start time 9 for 9-30. For on

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966785642 Roger Seymour

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An early start at 08.00am for breakfast at Mojo´s Sports Bar and then it was on to Condado De Alhama Golf Resort for a 10.00am Tee Time. The course was in supreme condition with perfect fairways that had three cuts of rough and believe me you did not want to be in the third cut. The greens were some of the best that we have played on this year and the pin positions were very tight. We had a good turn out with 20 players including 8 guests, the youngest being 16 yr old Jamie Ruddy who plays who plays off a handicap of 5. The light breeze was welcomed by the golfers as it was a hot cloudless day. We started on the 10th Tee and a few highlights of the day were: - on the 11th par 3 Peter Thompson was seen chipping through the green and then falling back into the bunker, it was all hands to the rakes. On the 7th Mike Veahan played out of the rough on to the green he also managed to lift a rabbit out of his place of rest, the rabbit never made the green. And finally Peter Hutton played out of the water and managed to cover

himself in mud, “take a drop young man” The winner was Brian Baker with a score of 41 points, the best front nine was Andy McCreath with 24 points and the best back nine was Brian Gough with 22 points. The guest’s winner was Bill Hodgson with 38 points on count back from David Hussey who also had 38 points. Nearest the pins went to Peter Rastall on the 3rd and 11th holes, David Hussey on the 7th hole and Pat Jones on the 17th hole. Nearest the pins in two went to Jamie Ruddy on the 5th Hole and Roy Baker on the 15th hole, Roy also managed to win the prize for getting the best value from his green fee. We all met up with non playing partners and friends at Mojos for the presentation and dinner late in the afternoon which just happened to coincide with a football match on TV, how good can a day be? Once again our thanks go to Martin & Tracy Ackers, Brian Baker and Andy and Lynn at Mojos Music Bar in Roldan.

LA MARINA GOLF SOCIETY

El Plantio G,C, August 18th, 2011 The second competition in August was held at Plantio G.C. in very hot and breezy conditions. El Plantio is usually a favourite course for our members but unfortunately there were many complaints about the general condition of the course and the greens in particular. No doubt these problems will be remedied after the course maintenance which, we understand, is due very shortly and then the course will return to its usual high standard. Scoring in the heat seemed rather difficult for our members but a few managed respectable scores. Also a commendable 19 points was returned by our 10 year old guest. Great to see the next generation getting involved with the game. Results Gold Division

Aiden Byrne 23 points Silver Division Martin Reidy 26 points Bronze Division Carol Marriner 30 points Nearest the pin winners Hole 9 – Aidan Byrne, Hole 14 – Martin Reidy With the promise of diminishing temperatures, we hope to see an increase in the numbers participating in the monthly competitions as members return from their summer breaks in the U.K. Our next competition is on Thursday September 1st, 2011 at Lo Romero GC, first tee time 10.00a.m. Anyone wishing to play, join the Society or obtain further information, please contact Bill McGrandle on 679 007 756

Thader Murcia at the Estadio Muncipal on Saturday. This followed a 2-1 victory against FC Cartagena, of the Tercera Divison, the previous week and promises well for the new season which starts this weekend. For the first time in a number of year’s Mazarron has been able to retain the majority of players from the previous season, most notable being striker Robert who celebrated by scoring four of the eight goals against Thader. He is forming a promising partnership with Rollon, who spent much of last season on the treatment table. Rollon opened the scoring after 12 minutes when the referee waved play on despite a foul on Poyatos. Although Mazarron continued to dominate play, Thader equalized somewhat fortuitously when new signing Santi appeared to deflect a corner into his own net. However, Santi soon redeemed himself with a through ball to Robert and he made no mistake. Robert’s second and Mazarron’s third soon followed after good work by Poyatos. Poyatos’s involvement in the game ended when he was substituted after being involved in a fracas but Mazarron extended the lead in the 40th minute when Abdel Kadir was brought down in the penalty area and Juan scored from the spot. A 4-1 half time scoreline didn’t flatter Mazarron who had suffered their heaviest defeat of the season away at Thader last season and the lead was increased, firstly by Robert who completed his hat trick after a neat interchange of passes with Rollon, and then by Diego who made it 6-1 with a header from a suspiciously offside position. Abdel Kadir then made his second significant contribution to the game by bringing down one of his opponents in the Mazarron penalty area and goalkeeper Jose was sent the wrong way from the resulting spot kick. Thader further reduced the arrears shortly afterwards but Robert then sent Eloy through to make it 7-3 to Mazarron. The goal feast was still not over and, after Thader had pulled another goal back, Robert had the final word to give the score a very respectable 8-4 ring to it. Despite conceding four goals the back four of Santi, Borja, Juan and Diego played well throughout and the experience gained by the younger players last season will stand them in good stead for the forthcoming season which begins this weekend away to CD Beniel. Coach tickets for the Beniel game will be available at the weekly Los Amigos de Mazarron FC meeting at the Trevi Bar this Thursday at 4pm. For full details of all games and kick off times see www. losamigosdemazarron.es

40 SOLTIMES AUGUST 2011

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