The weekender issue 20 marina baixa (benidorm)

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ISSUE 020 Friday 10th November www.Weekender.News IssueB #153

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Fighters return

By Jack Troughton THE ports of Alicante and Valencia are on high alert for fighters from so-called Islamic State attempting to return to Europe from Syria and Iraq.

Jihadist terrorists are said to be making their way back to the west following a string of defeats on IS in the Middle East by the international coalition.

Security specialists say the Valencia region has the largest Muslim community after Andalusia, Catalonia and Madrid – and believe a radical element that could provide the logistical support for IS returning supporters.

Police have stepped up security at Valencia and Alicante after reports the two ports were on the route to Europe and are believed to have undercover officers on board ferries from Algeria.

Spain like Britain believes the return of radicalised jihadists is the greatest threat to society; both allies have suffered terror attacks this year – and both remain on the second highest level of security alert, indicating a “high risk” of a further incident.

Continued page 2

See Page 6

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

High Terror Alert

By Jack Troughton

Continuation from front page...

And AICS, a private intelligence and security consultancy based in Spain, believes the two ports are on a “natural route” into Europe.

The specialist company reports towns along the coast of Valencia with sympathisers could provide “safe houses” and there were “radical elements” of “significant importance, which allows the provision of a reasonable logistical support for those who make the trip”.

AICS believes the route back from Algeria would grow in importance with a network of ‘mafia’ type gangs

Armed police swoop in Moraira

already in existence and ships relatively easy to board in the North African country and “disembark without major problems”.

It also said the Valencia was particularly “vulnerable” – Alicante has seen security officers reinforced and allowed a route into Europe along the Mediterranean coast and across into France.

Spanish newspaper Las Provincias has highlighted how government intelligence services have already ranked the region of Valencia as the third highest in Spain on a special ‘jihadist radicalisation index’.

And earlier this year an Imam was arrested in Teulada-Moraira and is

being held in custody for offences of radicalisation and for facilitating the return if jihadists from the Middle East – one of 11 people arrested in Valencia over the last two years.

Security forces have investigated 300 alerts in Valencia related to Islamist terrorism in the last 12 months, 10% of all calls to the ‘Stop Radicalisation’ scheme launched by Madrid’s Ministry of the Interior.

Of over 3,000 tip offs across Spain, 65% were seen as non-viable in the fight against terror although the remainder did highlight crimes and 63 were investigated as linked to jihadist terrorism.

The scheme allows the public to relay suspicions to the authorities via a website www.stop-radicalismos.es, by email to stop-radicalismos@interior.es or by phone to 900 822 066.

It has been criticised by the Islamic community in Valencia for promoting the persecution of Muslims and Islamophobia.

However, Minister of the Interior Juan Ignacio Zoido said: “Stop Radicalisation is today a very valid tool in the fight against terrorism, a very important source of information for the security forces.”

Competition WINNER!

On behalf of the team at The Weekender, Congratulations to Steve Hyde who won last weeks Poppies in Swingtime compitition in aid of the Royal British Leigion! You have won two Tickets to Poppies in Swingtime on Thursday 17/11!

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

SEVEN DAY WEEKENDER General Enquiries

Tidings of comfort and joy come in the pages of the Weekender this week; the Christmas season is here, the first festive fairs have arrived, and Santa is going to be a very busy boy fitting them all in ahead of the big day.

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Just to get everyone in the mood there is a cold wind from the north – don’t bother betting on a White Christmas here on the coast but apparently, the weathermen back home in the UK reckon there’s a good chance of snow falling on 25th December.

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Back Bing Crosbie and get a good value bet at British bookies…it’s rather doubtful the strange Spanish betting machines would recognise the concept of a wager on the chance of white crystals falling from the sky in any case.

Meanwhile the Costa’s favourite free and independent newspaper will be carrying a special centre pages feature full of seasonal ideas from the last Friday of November through to Christmas itself.

nines and enjoying the party – Galaxy Radio’s Adam King was in fine voice and Darrell Clayton did a great job as Master of Ceremonies.

The night is very much a celebration but a traditional raffle and some brisk bidding in two auctions also ensured the charity coffers did not lose out.

Darrell was back on duty the following evening, Bonfire Night, and busy hosting a fireworks party, again for charity and The Weekender went along to capture on camera a special seasonal event that too often passes us by on the Costas. Guy Fawkes, fresh from the previous night’s performance in drama ‘Gunpowder’ also made an appearance and earned a few pennies.

And well done to Steve Hyde who won the competition tickets to the Swingtime concert (see page two) in aid of the Poppy Appeal – and a final well done to England and Germany for taking the decision to wear poppies on players’ shirts in the friendly at Wembley tonight (see Sport).

Congratulations to the MABS Cancer Support Group and another super successful Glitter Ball. Good to see everyone dressed up to the

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Fairground worker found dead

By Simon Russell

THE body of a man who disappeared from the Fira de Tots Sants at Cocentaina (Alicante) last Friday was found on Tuesday after a three day police search.

Antonio V., a Valencian man who worked with travelling fairs, had been in the city for the local fiesta.

He left the establishment where he was staying on Friday morning but failed to turn up for work; his family then contacted the police to report his disappearance.

They located the 56-yearolds body in the course of the search, but have not released further information as to the cause of his death at this stage.

Tourist driver

By Jack Troghton

CALPE is to be put on the tourist map as a golf holiday destination and look for a slice of an Alicante sport industry worth €400 million.

The Marina Alta resort is to have its first golf course as part of an environmentally friendly and sustainable income generator.

Mayor of Calpe, Cesar Sanchez announced the move while visiting the World Travel Market in London and said the town was “betting on excellence”.

He said the project would involve the construction of a golf course in the coming years “that generates more jobs, and keep them throughout the year, in hotels, establishments, shops and restaurants.”

And he said Calpe was a unique and different destination in the Mediterranean that stood out for its excellent cuisine and natural resources, as well as its cultural and sports facilities.

“Where there is a golf course there is no brick, it is green and sustainable and the objective of the local government is to promote employment throughout the year. It is the path we are going to follow, looking for the best for our people; which is quality tourism,” the politician stressed.

His announcement was made at the fair during presentation of the Senior Masters Golf tournament to be held in the city of Benidorm at the end of next year.

During the presentation, it

was claimed golf generated more than €400 million in the province of Alicante, representing 1% of Gross Domestic Product, as well as generating 10,000 jobs.

There are around 20 courses scattered around the Costa Blanca and they attract more than 230,000 players each season, 88 percent of them from abroad.

And golf attracts visitors throughout the year, all said to have a high level opf disposable income and a daily expenditure higher than that of other conventional tourists.

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

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Car bomb case reopened

By Simon Russell

THE 18th October 1991 marked a low point in Spain’s struggle with domestic terrorism as three car bombs were exploded in Madrid, all targeting security workers in the capital. In the first explosion army lieutenant Francisco Carballar was killed while in the third another army man, Rafael Viallalobos was badly injured.

However in many ways the second car bomb

shocked people the most as local policewoman Maria Jesus Gonzalez car blew up while she was taking her twelve year old daughter to school. They survived but the girl, Irene, lost both legs and her mother a leg and an arm. The bomb had been placed under the passenger seat and it was a miracle that the girl survived and also no on-lookers were badly hurt – 700 other children attended the same school as Irene.

Though all three attacks

remain unsolved, a judge in Madrid has agreed to re-open the case of Maria Gonzalez and her daughter as new evidence has come to light. At the time Basque terror group ETA claimed responsibility for all three attacks. They tried to garner some public sympathy by saying another police officer was the target which is why the car bomb was placed under little Irene’s seat – but many saw this incident as a turning point for the separatist terror group.

Mobile sale leads to kidnap

By Simon Russell

NATIONAL Police have arrested two men in Alicante accused of holding a third man against his will, apparently so he could sign over his car to them. The incident

took place a few weeks ago when the man went to the home of the pair, a father and son, to sell them a mobile phone he had advertised.

However once in the house they forced him into another room and threatened him

unless he handed over all his belongings. They also wrote out a purchase agreement and forced him to sign his vehicle over to them.

Eventually the man managed to escape after two days by which time his

mother had also reported him missing to the police. The authorities investigated and last Thursday (2 November) arrested the two Spanish men who have been charged with kidnapping, extortion and robbery with violence.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

CAT saving time

By Jack Troughton

WAITING times for CAT scans at Denia Hospital have dramatically fallen thanks to a new state of the art machine arriving in the radiology department.

Patients needing nonemergency scans will now wait an average of 19 days – rather than 90 before the installation of the €200,000 technology, with further reductions likely.

Denia Hospital has also been chosen as a specialist training centre on the Siemens manufactured machine; with technicians scheduled to arrive from across Spain to learn how to use the scanner.

The Masonic Home of Valencia Association paid half the cost of the scanner in partnership with the hospital and on Wednesday representatives of the association and its fund raising team from the Moraira Charity Shop attended its

official unveiling.

The scanner was presented to Denia to help speed up the potentially life-saving diagnosis of tumours by oncologists and to aid cancer patients; but it is on duty 24 hours a day for emergency use and help successfully cut waiting times for non-urgent appointments.

Jenny Hart, President of the Masonic Home of Valencia Association, said she was

“extremely impressed” with the operation of the new technology and how it was helping all patients. “The other machine is nine years old – nine years is a very long time in terms of new technology”.

She said: “Absolutely, this was money well spent. It is unbelievable how waiting times have come

down and when everyone becomes even more proficient, they will be coming down even more.

“I like the way it is available 24 hours a day; this is brilliant, I am so proud and extremely chuffed we have helped to make such a difference.”

Isabel Erades, Chief Nurse in the Radiology Department, explained how the machine could be operated from a tablet and was able to reduce the levels of radiation patients were exposed to, in line with new European Union laws coming into force in the New Year.

“This is already in use every day and we complement the other older scanner if there is a high level of demand,” she said. “We are trying to avoid delays for appointments, especially those from the oncology department.

“There is very different software to the other machine and we are constantly improving our training because it has so many more applications; it was very important to start slowly and we are trying to better our understanding.”

Bank heist drama ends safely

By Simon Russell

An incident where a man entered a bank and took hostages while looking for drug money ended without anyone being hurt. The 51-year-old man entered the branch of IberCaja in Elche on 2 November. He was carrying a large knife and took three hostages.

There were five people in the bank when he entered but he released two female staff members who then contacted the police.

The Guardia Civil arrived at the scene and

started hostage negotiations and after about an hour and a half the man let the hostages go and surrendered. The drama caused a stir on Elche high street due to the heavy police presence and weaponry on show.

The authorities do not think the attack was organised or planned and the man has a number of mental health problems, exacerbated by the recent death of his mother and sister. It appears he was not planning to rob the bank but was looking for some cash to feed his drugs habit.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Better late than never

By Simon Russell

A LT H O U G H originally scheduled to be ready in time for the summer, the dedicated area for caravans and other mobile homes on Alicante seafront is now open.

The delays were caused by complications with the tendering process, but these have now been resolved and the facility by San Juan beach will now be available throughout

the year, 24 hours a day.

The site has room for 40 vehicles, all with electrical outputs. There are also shower and toilet facilities, drinking water and a drain for the disposal of waste water. The area will be staffed from 9am to 1pm and then 4pm to 8pm while a 24 hour helpline is also available. There is a 48 hour limit on the time any vehicle can spend on the new site.

Come fly with us

By Simon Russell

RYANAIR is holding a recruitment day in Alicante on 23 November as they search for new cabin crew in an event is organised by the firm’s recruitment agency, Crewlink. The successful candidates will receive a full

three year contract, €1,200 assistance allowance and the role will have good opportunities for advancement.

Ryanair currently employs about 5,000 cabin-crew and, as they continue to expand their fleet and routes, hold regular recruitment days around Spain and the rest of Europe.

For more information on the Alicante event go to the Crewlink website at www.crewlink.ie

Double Tweets Twitter says it’s ending its iconic 140-character limit — and giving nearly everyone 280 characters.

Users tweeting in Chinese, Japanese and Korean will still have the original limit.

That’s because writing in those languages uses fewer characters.

The company says 9 per cent of tweets written in English hit the 140-character limit. People end up spending more time editing tweets or don’t send them out at all.

Twitter hopes that the expanded limit will get more people tweeting more, helping its lackluster user growth.

Twitter has been testing the new limit for weeks and is starting to roll it out today.

The company has been slowly easing restrictions to let people cram more characters into a tweet. It stopped counting polls, photos, videos and other things toward the limit.

Looking after your health

Private Health Insurance for Expats Many British people dream of a peaceful and relaxed life in the sun and decide to move to sunny Spain.

Spain is a beautiful country but the different culture and language barriers could create obstacles. Specially to deal with unexpected illnesses and emergencies in a foreign country can be very difficult.

Those who decide to take out a health insurance need a quality service that suit their needs because, is there anything more important than your health?

To take care of the most precious asset, your health, and in order to avoid any problem with language and cultural barriers, ASSSA offers health insurance policies especially designed for expats.

ASSSA, established in 1935, offers personalized and professional service in

your language at its branch based in Tenerife.

ASSSA provides excellent medical services through its extensive directory of private clinics and doctors, speaking your language or providing a translation service.

Existing ASSSA clients are delighted about its professionalism and caring service.

Many new clients are coming to ASSSA because of their recommendations.

Its excellent service is as unique as its contractual guarantees: no policy cancellation due to age or high policy usage, no premium increase due to age, and all the contractual documentation in your own language.

Furthermore, ASSSA provides flexible levels of health insurance – depending on your requirements, so you can find a tailormade health insurance for you.

ASSSA offers great discounts at the moment. Therefore, now is the ideal time to take an ASSSA Health Insurance: lifetime promotion of up to 30% discount for new clients (valid until the 12th of December 2017).

Call in for a chat, receive information about its products and an individual premium calculation without any obligation. Its area delegate will be pleased to answer all your questions.

ASSSA is looking forward to your visit!

ASSSA Branches: Altea Tel: 966 882 680 Ciudad Quesada Tel: 965 725 421 Denia Tel: 965 786 969 Jávea Tel: 965 795 077 Moraira Tel: 965 744 033, Orihuela Costa Tel: 966 761 794 - www.asssa.es

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Catalonia crisis peace offering

By Jack Troughton

THE Spanish government is considering a change to the country’s constitution to allow independence votes in future – seen as an attempt to defuse the Catalonia crisis.

Foreign minister Alfonso Dastis has offered the olive branch to supporters of the separatist movement in the region after independence was unilaterally declared by the Barcelona parliament.

The move prompted Madrid to take over, depose the regional government, and Spain’s constitutional court to rule the last month’s referendum was “illegal” and the breakaway “unconstitutional and void”.

Eight ex-leader of Catalonia have been detained and Spain has issued international arrest warrants for President Carles Puigdemont and four colleagues who are in Belgium and caught up in an extradition battle over charges of rebellion.

The central government’s response has triggered protests and demonstrations in Catalonia and Madrid is keen to prevent civil unrest.

Mr Dastis has outlined an investigation of the possibility of changes to the constitution. “We have created a committee in parliament to explore the possibility of amending the constitution to be able to accommodate better the aspirations of some of the Catalan people.

“We acknowledge there is a political situation that deserves to be looked at, but, in any case, it’s clear that the decision will be taken; will have to be taken by all Spaniards.”

The minister appeared to underline that changes could mean the possibility of a

legal vote on Catalonian independence in future but it would involve the entire population of Spain.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has called for a big turnout for the snap election in Catalonia on 21st December to allow Spain to move on from the crisis.

Corrupt cops

By Simon Russell

FOUR local policemen are among a group of seven people arrested in Torrevieja this week on suspicion of extortion. The agents were accused of being part of a racket that involved them turning a blind eye when complaints had been made against local commercial establishments. The ruse involved one or two agents inspecting a local business and allegedly finding issues that could lead to heavy penalties or even closure. The business owner would then be contacted by gang members who were not with the police saying that they knew people on the force who could make the complaint disappear for cash.

Payments for this “service” were between €6,000 and €40,000, depending on the seriousness of the offence. If they refused to pay police officers, also from the same gang, would then visit the business to investigate the complaint and impose a sanction.

The four local officers arrested are all Spaniards while a Serb national and a Colombian man have also been arrested; a seventh person is under investigation but has not been charged at this stage.

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Terror suspect arrested

Alicante like a banana republic

By Simon Russell

By Simon Russell

A 47-year-old Moroccan man was arrested in the Valencian town of Sagunt at the weekend, accused of aiding the terror group ISIS. He is suspected of various crimes regarding indoctrinating people into believing the group’s dogma and then arranging their recruitment. Many were then sent to Iraq to fight on the front line for ISIS, including a 26-year-old Moroccan from Sagunto who killed 33 people in a suicide

attack in 2014. He had links to the arrested man and was a regular visitor to his house.

Spain is on a level 4 terror alert and over 200 terrorists or people with links to terror groups have been arrested in the two years since the terror level was raised. In this case the individual had broken all contact with anyone in his community who did not share his radical Islamic views, something that will have alerted authorities, possibly after help from the local Muslim community.

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THE Public Employees Union in Alicante has denounced the poor state of the vehicles and weaponry used by the city’s local police force. Photos have been presented as evidence showing ripped seats, exposed wiring and even worn out tyres.

Many of the vehicles are more than 15 years old

and are still used daily, covering about 300,000 kilometres a year on average, meaning that the officers are being unnecessarily endangered, said a union spokesman.

Regarding the weapons, dozens of agents are carrying pistols that are over 20 years old, meaning they are more likely to not work or even be a

hazard to the operator.

The spokesman said “This and the vehicles situation

is more like something from a banana republic than a city like Alicante.”

Pyromaniac set to feel the heat

By Simon Russell

POLICE believe they have caught the man behind a series of arson attacks in the Alicante town of

Carrus. His principal target had been the green plastic rubbish bins dotted around the town and forty of these had been incinerated in the past

month alone.

A car was also destroyed and the total in damages to the town is estimated to be €60,000.

The man, described

as a Spaniard in his forties, has admitted involvement and has a previous history of arson attacks. He is due to appear in court this week.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Finance Feature

Chorus Financial is a trading style of Tourbillon Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar), Licence Number FSC1118B and registered with the UK FCA as an EEA Authorised firm, reference 539348.

provided by...

By Tracy Storer

Senior Partner Chorus Financial

Getting financial advice can often be a worrying time for some people.

Knowing who you can trust is often the main concern.

As always, I like to provide my readers with information that they can use whether that’s today, tomorrow or in the future. Here are my key questions when it comes to picking the right financial adviser: • How much time are they willing to spend to understand your financial goals? Every relationship should begin with a robust discovery process so they

What questions should I ask my financial adviser? know you and your needs well. There’s no formula for how long it should take — but an adviser should be thoughtful and thorough, asking for more than just basic information about net worth, account values and birth dates.

• How are they compensated? The main thing to look out for here is whether they are paid commission by particular fund providers. This practice (which is now illegal in the UK) can motivate advisers to place you into investments that are in their best interest as opposed to yours. Of course the adviser needs to

make a living, but the rewards to them should be based on providing the best possible service and solution to you.

• How are the company regulated?

When choosing a company or individual to provide financial advice, it is advisable that you check that they are firstly registered by the CMNV, and DGS in Spain and secondly adhere to regulation standards of the country itself which can have more advanced and comprehensive financial regulation.

• Are they willing to customise investment strategies when needed?

Advisory fees are earned, not simply “harvested,” and you should ask for examples of how an adviser has responded to changing conditions for their clients. (How, for example, has the firm responded to persistently low interest rates for clients who need current income?) The traditional default diversification strategy of 60% stocks, 40% bonds often isn’t effective in the current environment. A capable firm will research and innovate new strategies on their clients’ behalf.

• Do they ask hard questions?

Advisors must be willing to have fearless conversations with clients. Planning should address painful contingencies which might include deaths in the family,

divorce, and market downturns. They should be willing to challenge clients: if your spending levels are compromising your ability to maintain financial independence in retirement, for example, the adviser needs to raise the topic.

• Can they help you find specific help you need? Maybe you have moved to Spain and are not yet taking pension benefits and need help weighing the financials or you are concerned about inheritance tax, a good adviser should not hesitate to dig in and help.

• Do you have many clients who are in a similar position to me? Some financial advisers will only deal with people who have a pension pot of a certain size, or a certain amount of money to invest (e.g. £50k or £100k). Other advisers are happy to advise clients no matter what the size of their pension fund is. It’s always worth finding out if an adviser has a lot of experience of advising clients in a similar position to yours.

If you are seeking financial advice make sure you do your homework first. If you’d like to see how Chorus compare, do not hesitate to contact me on 693107044 or email t.storer@chorusfinancial.es

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Bird on a wire and a pup in a pipe

By Simon Russell

FIREFIGHTERS were called out to help a dog who had managed to become

trapped in a pipe after falling down a manhole while out with his owner. The incident happened last weekend in Villena (Alicante) and the fire crews managed to attach a harness to the young dog and haul him out. The creature was shaken but unharmed.

Also in Alicante province

earlier that same day firefighters had to intervene in the rescue of a pigeon that had got entangled in power lines near Elche. This rescue proved quite complicated due to the dangers from the cables, but the bird was eventually untangled and, remarkably, was unhurt.

Pyromaniac set to feel the heat

By Matthew Richards

POLICE believe they have caught the man behind a series of arson attacks in the Alicante town of Carrus.

His principal target

had been the green plastic rubbish bins dotted around the town and forty of these had been incinerated in the past month alone.

A car was also destroyed and the total in damages to

the town is estimated to be €60,000. The man, described as a Spaniard in his forties, has admitted involvement and has a previous history of arson attacks. He is due to appear in court this week.

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Locker larcenist

By Simon Russell

A 31-year-old Spanish male has been arrested by the National Police under suspicion of stealing valuables from gyms around Alicante city. He was taking the items from lockers, gaining entry

to the premises using free passes that many of them offer to new customers.

However, rather than sports gear his gym-bag contained tools which allowed him to break into private lockers. Items taken included cash and mobiles totalling about €8,000 in value, in a crime spree lasting ten days; at least four gyms that police know of were involved.

Police started an operation once a pattern of reported thefts had been established and the suspect was eventually caught red handed with €10 cash, a high end mobile and false documentation.

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Back In

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

GOLDEN OLDIES

By Jack Troughton

FOSSIL remains of the oldest-known ancestors of most modern mammals – including humans – have been found in cliffs along the Dorset coast.

The extinct shrew-like creatures, which used to scamper across the feet of dinosaurs, date back 145 million years.

And scientists say the remains are the earliest undisputed fossils of mammals; belonging to a chain of evolution that extended to man.

Described as “shrew-like things” by scientists, they were tiny, furry creatures and “unequivocally” the earliest ancestors of humans.

The teeth of the little rodent-type creatures were said to be very advanced and capable of piercing, cutting and crushing food; possibly a diet of insects and plants; they were likely to have been nocturnal.

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth made the discovery

TOYAH WILLCOX: STILL A REBEL WITH A CAUSE

By Jack Troughton

ACTOR and rock star Toyah Willcox admits to still being a punk 40 years after playing ‘Mad’; a member of an anarchic and murderous girl gang in the cult 1979 film Jubilee.

Toyah got her break in Derek Jarman’s film and went on to star in Quadrophenia and The tempest – again a Jarman creation – as well as having a string of hits.

She is now appearing in a stage version of Jubilee in Manchester and later in London; 40 years on, Toyah plays Queen Elizabeth I, transported into the future to see her beloved England disintegrating.

And Toyah says she is still a rebel. “I can’t live in a world of dullards. So I think on that level, I’m definitely punk.

“For me, it’s about being nonconformist. I’m just not interested in the norm. The only example I can give you is I can’t go to a hairdresser and talk

about holidays. I just don’t live in that world.

It’s not me.”

Being punk means something different in 2017 compared with 1977. But the world’s a different place now, and Toyah is almost 60.

In the 70s, Toyah was pushing against being “gender specific, which I certainly wasn’t back then.

“I had no interest in people telling me to be feminine, to be ladylike, to wear dresses - it just made me rebel completely.

“But in comparison to today, it was quite an innocent rebellion.

Punk 40 years ago was rebelling against conservatism - well, wham, bam, here we are again.”

During rehearsals, Toyah says she’s been given a steep lesson by her fellow cast members in what it’s like to be young today. She’s decided things are more difficult and complicated in many ways.

“If I was given the choice to be 20 now, I would say, no, I’m happy with where I am.

And having experienced that incredible revolution, it felt like a really successful participating revolution,” she said.

“People today are fighting for their space on social media all the time. I just find social media such a robotic experience, whereas punk was right in your face.”

Britain

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

BRADY BURIED AT SEA

By Jack Troughton

THE ashes of Moors Murderer Ian Brady have been secretly disposed of at sea under the cover of darkness at a secret location.

Families of victims were informed of the plan, after a top judge ruled the disposal of Brady’s remains should take place without causing further “offence and distress”.

The child killer died in May aged 79 and his remains were cremated without ceremony on 26th October at Southport Crematorium; the body from the mortuary of the Royal collect ed Liverpool Hospital earlier in the day.

The ashes were placed in a biodegradable urn, taken to a marina in the city and “dispatched at sea”.

Brady, with accomplice and lover Myra Hindley, tortured and murdered five children in the 1960s. She died in prison in 2002.

It was reported that Brady wished his have to remains burnt and ashes scattered in Glasgow, where he

grew up but the city council said it would refuse such a request.

There were also concerns his remains would be scattered on Saddleworth Moor in Greater Manchester - where the pair buried at least three of their victims after luring them to the isolated area.

Brady’s executor and solicitor Robin Makin had said there was “no likelihood” of this happening, but the High Court ruled in October that the disposal of the body should be taken out of his hands.

The killer died at Ashworth High Security Hospital in Maghull, Merseyside, having been held there since 1985. He was jailed in 1966 for murdering John Kilbride, aged 12, Lesley Ann Downey, 10, and Edward Evans, 17.

In 1985, he also admitted killing Pauline Reade, 16, and 12-year-old Keith Bennett, whose body is believed to be on the moor but has never been found.

John Kilbride’s brother Terry said the victims’ families knew the plans for Brady’s remains in advance.

“The urn was made of salt and it disintegrated after about 10 or 15 minutes of being in the water,” he said. “I was originally under the impression he was just going to be burnt and put in the grounds of a prison but being put in the sea is the next best thing.”

He said Brady was “clever and manipulative” and had “tormented” families from prison. “This was the only way to really put the families at ease and the public as well.”

SUPERMODEL DOUBLE

By Edward Graham

MUM-OF-TWO Denise Ohnona put on the glitz with a new wardrobe after repeatedly mistaken for supermodel Kate Moss.

The 37-year-old decided to undergo a complete makeover as people think she is a double of the rock chick model.

After going

through a divorce Denise, of Ormskirk, Lancashire, spent her days at home, put on weight and did not care about her appearance – until she was linked to her famous doppelganger.

She said: “When I split up with my husband six years ago, I went a bit ‘mumsy’; I lost my fashion sense and gave up on the gym.

“I would look after the kids day and night and it was more important to run around after them than look after myself.

“Then I started getting people mistaking me for Kate Moss when I went anywhere; being told that I could look like Kate picked me back up and I started myself on focussing again – I got back into the gym and looking after my appearance and the comments started all over again.” the said She helped transformation her get over the divorce.

“I have never met Kate Moss but I would love to know if she thinks we look similar too.”

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia

Cultural festival a big success

By Matthew Richards

THE Xabia Negra festival of literature, film and photography has been judged a winner, despite its status as a newcomer on the Javea

calendar. The second edition saw well known authors attending and giving talks on their works and literature in general. There were several book readings and round tables to discuss the works.

A number of short films were premiered in the cinema section of the festival, with the Riurau School of cinema judging a competition to find the best. On the photographic side of the event, there was a

display of 250 images from around the world and the best pictures can still be seen on display in the Municipal Market.

Quico Moragues, Councillor for Culture, said

that the Xabia Negra was already positioning itself as one of the premium such festivals across Spain and everyone involved was already looking forward to next year.

Early Costa Christmas

By Edward Graham

EARLY Christmas shoppers enjoyed one of the first festive fairs on the Costa Blanca but Santa Claus was unable to make the trip from Lapland.

More than 600 people visited the Salones Carrasco in Javea for the Grand Christmas Fair on Sunday; each paying €1 to enter; the money will go to support HELP of Denia and the Marina Alta.

Father Christmas was scheduled to officially open the event but was unfortunately taken ill the previous night and disappointed children hoping to meet the special guest were asked to write a letter containing their wish list instead.

Organiser Lesley Clark said she had only heard of Santa’s

predicament the night before saying he could not be present to meet the children.

A second fair is being held at

Salones Carrasco from 11am until 5pm on Sunday 26th November; entrance is again €1 which will also be donated to HELP.

Lesley (left) with HELP president Candy Wright

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

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Javea-Xabia

Javea Players strike gold

By Jack Troughton

JAVEA Players dug deep to present a rich vein of entertainment with a colourful version of On Golden Pond, a play investigating the complex nature of family relationships.

The story revolves around pensioners Norman and Ethel Thayer and their traditional summer at a lakeside holiday home in Maine in the United States, an annual getaway they have enjoyed for decades.

But the arrival of daughter Chelsea, her fiancé and his teenage son cause ripples that have a lasting effect on all their lives – giving the play its wonderful comic and moving moments.

Many people will be familiar with Hollywood’s version of the story, starring Henry Fonda as

Norman, Katharine Hepburn as Ethel, and Jane Fonda as Chelsea.

However, On Golden Pond started life as a play and director Ron Skinner and his team did a splendid job at the Union Musical de Gata.

And with a story looking at the passing of time and generations, there was a remarkably mature debut from XIC student Luke Holmes, the 12-year-old making an outstanding performance as Billy Ray, the bored youngster ‘dumped’ by Chelsea and his father as they go on a trip to Europe.

Mike Martin was a wonderful Norman, who hates growing old but beneath the barbed wire protected cranky exterior beats a heart of gold and as well as bringing much of the humour to the play, the bond he forms with

Billy is truly uplifting.

Bug-fearing big-hearted Ethel was played by Rosemary Brown as a true optimist with a feisty side and Leigh Patterson was Chelsea – the daughter who bounces from half-full optimism to chip-onshoulder anger...her breeding very much to the fore.

On Chelsea’s team was dentist lover Bill Ray, Nigel Poole, who has been ‘warned’ about Norman’s idiosyncrasies; and chuckling postman Charlie (Michael O’Neill) just enjoyed being with the entire family.

First night nerves did cause an early hiccough but once the cast were in a groove, the performances were natural and well-timed; keeping On Golden Pond alive and all eyes on the stage – the scenery excellent, especially the ever-changing light on the lake.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm Benidorm to hit the stage

By Simon Russell

AFTER months of rumours surrounding the project, the writer of TV comedy “Benidorm” has confirmed that there will be a stage show of the programme touring the UK in 2018.

The shows website now has the message “See your favourite stars from the Solana Hotel live on stage for the very first time.” The Solana

Hotel is actually the Sol Pelicanos in Benidorm’s Rincon area where much of the show is filmed.

Darren Litten, the show’s creator, confirmed that the first show will be in Newcastle next September before going on a major tour of the UK and Ireland. He has promised it will be as bright and brash as the popular sitcom which has recently completed filming its tenth series at the Costa Blanca’s favourite resort.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm

Feathered invasion

By Simon Russell

THERE has been a rise in the local seagull population in Benidorm in recent years, and there is now an estimated two gulls for every resident in the city. The Department of the Environment is looking at ways to address this issue, as there have been an increasing number of complaints regarding the mess caused by the bird’s droppings as well as the noise their cries make.

Among the proposals on the table is the removal of nests from all public buildings or pricking the eggs to kill the embryonic chicks.

However, both measures have their critics, and more humane methods suggested include the use of noise and lighting to keep the gulls away.

Part of the reason for the rise in numbers is believed to be due to the decrease in the feral cat population following a programme of sterilisation.

Neighbours are also warned that rubbish, particularly foodstuff,

Lighting the way BENIDORM’S Sports Department have completed the first stage of improvements at the Rincon de Loix football fields. This has seen the creation of an area for gymnastics practice next to the athletics track and the building of a petanque court. There has also been extra pedestrian access added as well as the installation of new lighting.

Mayor Toni Perez and Sports Councillor Arturo Cabrillo visited the site this week to see the changes for themselves.

There is further work planned on lighting at the facility as well as the larger project of building new changing rooms. These works are planned for 2018 and once completed will bring the facility completely up to date.

will attract the gulls, who are not exactly renowned for their fussy eating habits.

It’s fiesta time!

THE November Benidorm Fiesta, which culminates with the famous dressing up parade, is ready to go ahead as planned the town hall has confirmed. Up to 40,000 people are expected to take part in the main parade on 16 November, most of

them British. There will be increased security over the entire event which runs from 11 to 16 November. The security planning has been co-ordinated

by Local and National Police, local Civil Protection, the Red Cross and the Town Hall.

Over 50 establishments are taking part to some degree

during the five days. On the 16th the costume parade is scheduled to leave from Calle Lepanto at 2pm before crossing Avenida Derramador then Calle Gerona.

Look out for the special photo spread which will be featured in the next edition of “The Weekender”.



By Simon Russell

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm

Drop in visitors causing concern

By Simon Russell

HOSBEC, the hoteliers association for Benidorm, admitted that tourism figures for the second half of October were disappointing.

The occupancy rate stood at

83.3%, a drop of over 5% on the corresponding period for 2016; the fall for October as a whole was 3.1%.

The decline was mainly due to the decrease in visitors from Spain and the UK, Benidorm’s principal

Magic formula

By Simon Russell

markets. The recovery of winter sun regions such as North Africa, the political uncertainty regarding Catalonia and the folding of Monarch Airlines have all been seen as factors contributing to the fall.

The world comes to Benidorm

By Simon Russell

THE fifth annual Nationalities Day was held in Benidorm’s L’Aiguera Park last weekend. Twenty

countries from around the globe were represented at the event, attracting hundreds of visitors.

The stalls sold various products and crafts

typical of their country and two representatives from Latin America, Ecuador and Argentina, performed a special dance of local folklore. The

day intends to highlight the great diversity that makes Benidorm what it is, a place for everyone regardless of age or culture.

THE Magic Hotel Group, which has its headquarters in Valencia, has been rated top by Trip Adviser at each resort where they have a hotel.

The Villa Venecia in Benidorm came out top of 192 hotels rated in the city while the Magic Robin Hood (Albir), Tropical Splash (Finestrat) and Villa Luz (Gandia) all gained better ratings than their competitors in the same resorts.

Customers praised the aquatic and outside areas as well as their clever theming and value for money. Trip Adviser analysed over a thousand comments from visitors to Benidorm before placing the Villa Venecia at the top of the pile.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Local lookout

Alfas, Albir & Altea,

Music from Macedonia Lighting the way

By Simon Russell

RENOWNED trombonist Kiril Ribarski, described by critics as “the Paganini of the trombone”, is appearing at the Case de Cultura in l’Alfas del Pi this Saturday (11 November).

He will be accompanied by his pianist wife Milicia Sperovik, also a hugely accomplished musician. The pair are from Macedonia and now perform all over Europe and the rest of

the world. Their performance will consist of interpretations of classical works by the likes of Debussy, Ravel and Chopin.

For those with slightly different musical tastes, there will be a jazz concert at the same venue the following Saturday (18 November).

“Poppies in Swingtime” stars the Rommy Baker

Big Band and Swingtet. For tickets or information about either event visit the Casa de la Cultura box office.

Music and food

By Simon Russell

THE Altea la Vella area has arranged a number of cultural events for November, mainly revolving around food and music although lectures,

workshops, films and theatre all feature.

“Novembre Cultural” has its main event from 17 to 19 November focusing on gastronomy and music with musical soloists, bands and orchestras plus the

By Simon Russell

AS the nights start to draw in, Alfas del Pi have started measures to improve safety for road users and pedestrians in particular. The work has started on installing new traffic lights, with the first two new sets going up

at Avenue de L’Albir and Calle Ferrerias.

They are vertically lit to improve visibility on the pavements and the crossing itself, said Safety Councillor Genoveva Tent. The work is being carried out by the towns own technical services department.

involvement of various local bars and restaurants with the culinary side of things.

Other events are planned throughout the month; for further information go to the tourist information office or visit www.alteadigital.es

Get in the Swing

By Jack Troughton

THE big band formed by talented Rommy Baker performs “Poppies in Swingtime” in aid of the annual Royal British Legion appeal on Friday 17th November.

Tickets for the show at the

Casa de Cultura in Alfaz del Pi are €10 – and the audience will enjoy the added bonus of ‘Swingtet’ and a film tribute to the late Eric Delaney.

The fun starts at 7.30pm; tickets will be available at the door or can be reserved in advance by

calling Pam on 96 686 0735 or by email to pdawson802t@cv.gva.es – a confirmation will be sent in return.

And food will be available before or after the party at the Casa de Cultura or L’Alfassina Café, opposite the town hall.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

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Property

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www.spanishpropertyinsight.com

Off-plan home sales dominate Spanish property exhibition in Madrid Off-plan property sales at the the SIMA autumn property fair in Madrid last weekend show the business roaring back to life. Of the more than 10,000 properties for sale at the show, some 9,000 were for sale off plan. This figure is higher than 2016, when 75% of the 6,500 properties available were off plan.

These figures clearly show a homebuilding sector in recovery, though still a long way from the activity reached in the years before the crash. “The significant increase in off-plan property supply shows the gradual normalisation of the property market, the recovery of activity within the sector, and that stock accumulated before the boom years is running out,” says Eloy Bohúa, manager of SIMA Autumn. He

adds that “supply [from the boom years] is still available, but it isn’t what the new buyers are looking for”.

Tailor-made homes Buyers of newly built homes today are more demanding, and have more requirements, which was unthinkable during the last property boom, when buyers were given the option of take it or leave it.

“The properties available at shows over the last two years are practically identical.

But if we compare them to those available during the boom years, they’ve changed in terms of energy efficiency, communal areas for adults and children, and building design, and most projects are now personalised.

Whereas previously there was hardly any difference between projects, now there is,”

explains Daniel Cuervo, secretary of the Spanish Developers Association (APCE).

“The increase in off-plan property supply is the result of recovery in the economy and property sector, improvements in mortgage loans, and interest from international investment funds who see Spain as a good option,” says Bohúa. He points out that, although sales and building licence approvals for new projects have gone up, they are still low by Spanish standards.

Madrid, new build hot-spot Madrid, the area with least new-build supply, is playing a decisive role in the property market recovery. Over 60% of the properties on sale at the show are in the region, of Madrid and just under half of these are in the city of Madrid itself. “The biggest offplan availability is in Madrid in new projects such as Valdebebas, El

Cañaveral, Arroyofresno and Villaverde,” says Cuervo. “Outside the city centre, the districts of Rivas Vaciamadrid, Boadilla del Monte, Getafe and Pozuelo also have availability.”

According to SIMA data, the average budget for those visiting the property show ranges between €150,000 and €300,000.

“Purchasing power has gone up,” says Bohúa. “In 2013, 37% of visitors had a budget €150,000. This year’s it’s gone down to 17%. And those who plan to spend more than €300,000 have gone up from 13% in 2013 to 24% this year.”

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Business & Finance

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Jack talks

PARADISE: NO LONGER QUITE AS NICE

By Jack Troughton

By Jack Troughton

HEALTH service chiefs are calling for extra cash ahead of the budget, starting with the infamous £350 million a week promised during the Brexit campaign.

The ‘Leave’ campaign had the figure plastered over its battle bus touring the country ahead of last June’s referendum... now the NHS is demanding the longawaited cash injection.

Ironically, new statistics show the ‘wellbeing’ of the UK population showed a small but significant rise following the Brexit vote – although it has been tempered by ongoing uncertainty. Not just the negotiations with Brussels but also a new prime minister, the snap general election, and terror attacks.

Head of the NHS in England, Simon Stevens is about to address the NHS Providers’ annual conference of health managers in a highly charged atmosphere ahead of Chancellor Philip Hammond’s Budget.

His speech will underline growing waiting lists, missed targets, and forecasts of a winter crisis in surgeries and hospitals.

And Mr Stevens will return to the controversial ‘Vote Leave’ red bus to put his case for more money; claiming trust in politics and politicians will be dented unless the NHS gets more cash.

The £350 million a week has always been controversial, it was hotly contested at the time; but the mathematics used said the money heading to the EU would be better spent on the NHS – and it was a figure said to be highly influential on voting last June.

Three highly-influential health think-

tanks appear to agree with Mr Stevens; the King’s Fund, the Nuffield Trust and the Health Foundation, have published a joint report calling for an additional £4 million to be spent easing the NHS crisis next year. It is a figure eight times greater than government promises.

In his leaked speech, Mr Stevens is not expected to say exactly how much cash injection is needed but argue a significant boost is vital for the well-being of the NHS. And he is predicted to tell delegates: “The NHS was not on the ballot paper but it was on the Battle bus. Vote leave for a better funded health service, £350 million a week.

“Rather than our criticising these clear Brexit commitments to NHS patients – promises entered into by cabinet ministers and by MPs – the public wants to see them honoured.

“Trust in democratic politics will not be strengthened if anyone now tries to argue: ‘You voted for Brexit, partly for a better funded health service, but precisely because of Brexit, you cannot have one’.

“A modern NHS is itself a part of the practical answer to the deep social concerns that gave rise to Brexit.”

And he will also remind the world that at a time of social division it was an institution that helped unite the country and at the top of the list that made people “makes them proudest to be British” – at the top of the league ahead of the monarchy or the BBC – because it united young and old, those living in towns or the country, and those with money or financially struggling.

The stand will be strongly supported

by Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers, who maintains that key targets for Accident and Emergency, routine operations and cancer care are being missed almost routinely.

“The Budget is an opportunity, at the beginning of this Parliament, to protect care quality for patients and service users and help the NHS break out of the downward spiral in which it is currently trapped...there isn’t enough funding to cope.”

Spending on the health service is scheduled to rise; the frontline budget should be £8 billion higher by 2022 – after taking inflation into account – than it currently stands; but that would not factor in such things as training and promoting lifestyle changes.

The government likes to assure folk it is committed to continued investment in the NHS. However, a spoonful of Battle Bus promises might help the medicine go down.

THE leaked Paradise Papers are another financial expose of offshore banking and tax avoidance; the resulting investigation netting a series of high-profile names, including the Queen’s private estate.

Celebrities, politicians, entrepreneurs and multinationals – many household names – have been revealed with more to follow; showing how complex structures are legally used to protect earnings from the taxman.

The name Paradise Papers was chosen to reflect the idyllic profiles of some offshore jurisdictions, including Bermuda where the main company involved, Appleby, is based.

The label also fits rather nicely with ‘paradis fiscal’; the French term for a tax haven and like the Panama Papers leak, millions of documents were obtained by a German newspaper and shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.

The papers throws light on a global industry, the legal and accountancy firms, financial

institutions and jurisdictions that adopt a beneficial tax regime that attracts money.

Headlines so far have included: the Queen’s private estate investing around £10 million abroad; Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton an tax savings on a $16.5 million luxury jet; a Lithuanian shopping mall partly owned by U2 singer Bono; and Apple using Jersey to protect its low-tax regime.

Leaked data covers the years 1950 to 2016 and there are about 13.4 million documents contained within 1,400GB of data. Some 6.8 million papers come from Appleby, an offshore legal service provider, one of the largest and best known of 10 major companies in the specialised field.

It is understood the United States dominates the client register, with some 31,000 addresses; there are more than 14,000 UK addresses.

SLAVE LABOUR CLAIMS AT RETAIL GIANT

By Simon Russell

SOME shoppers who have purchased clothing from Zara stores have found notes hidden in them from workers who claim they are being treated like slaves.

Zara is part of the Spanish owned Inditex group, and one of the biggest retail businesses in the world. The workers in question are believed to have worked for a third party manufacturer, Bravo Textil, which recently closed leaving their already low paid staff unemployed

and owed wages.

Inditex has been accused in the past of hiring third world workers who are little more than slave labour and sometimes also as young as 15. They released a press statement recently saying “they are dedicated to improving labour conditions” and are working with the International Labour Organisation to this end. Inditex also said that they had carried out their contractual obligations with regard to Bravo Textil and their workforce.

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

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Business & Finance

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Tax Avoidance V Evasion

By Christina Brady

BLACKTOWER Financial Management

There is a very fine line between tax avoidance and tax evasion, tax avoidance is a practice of using legal means to pay the least amount of tax possible. This is different to tax evasion which is the practice of using illegal methods to avoid paying tax.

Tax avoidance often involves contrived, artificial transactions that serve little or no purpose other than to produce a tax advantage. It involves operating within the letter - but not the

spirit - of the law. So even though tax avoidance is normally legal, it can quite easily turn into tax evasion.

We are continually told time and time again that because of the World´s economic state we all have to pay as much tax to the governments as humanly possible and that if we try to hide any money we will be heavily penalised.

Well yet again it has been proved that there is one rule for us and another rule for them, by them I mean the world’s biggest businesses, heads of state and global figures in politics, entertainment and sport who have sheltered their wealth in secretive tax havens. Some very high profile names have been revealed this week in a major new investigation into Britain’s

offshore empires called the “Paradise Papers”.

The news is expected to make uncomfortable reading for those who have been arguing that new regulations and disclosure laws have been at last putting an end to the use of so-called tax havens by wealthy people and companies keen to hide their assets from authorities.

But at last it would appear that questions are being asked about the role, responsibilities and liability of professionals in the creation and facilitation of tax avoidance schemes. There are multiple measures in place already to prevent lawyers and accountants establishing and marketing such schemes. Yet it happens time and time again.

I feel its time questions should be asked about the way

the global tax system works, or should I say why it doesn’t work, it would appear no one from the top to the bottom feels it is fair or just. It is just too complicated.

When will governments come to the realisation that a complete rethink on taxation and how it is levied is needed?

Having said all this until someone acts or something happens to change the current tax system , we have to take advantage of the many legitimate ways to mitigate our tax liabilities, that don’t involve companies in far flung places you have never heard of or been to.

If you want to know what your options are, I am here to help you find the right solution to make your money work for YOU, in the most tax efficient

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower

way possible.

To arrange an independent, professional and impartial consultation please contact me by email christina.brady@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330 .

Blacktower Financial Management has been established for over 30 years and have worked with clients through the good and the bad times, offering sound independent advice, we will be by your side both now and in the future.

The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.

Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Penny for the Guy Guy Fawkes meets (from left) Bernice Van Zutphen, Mason Leyshon and his sister Maalia.

By Jack Troughton

Guests at a traditional 5th November fireworks party had the opportunity to throw in ‘a penny for the Guy’ or any other currency or denomination for charity.

Guy Fawkes, the historic villain of the plot to blow up the House of Parliament and King James I, was given pride of place at the Gata de Gorgos celebration.

Hosts Darrell and Sally Clayton and a team of volunteers welcomed around 150 people to their home and garden, a natural amphitheatre for the annual treat.

The event raised more than €1,500 for the freemasons of the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge 154. The money will go towards the lodge’s chosen charities, the Children’s Oncology Unit at the Santa Fe Hospital in Valencia and the youngsters cared for at the Preventorio de Gandia.

Guests were handed a warming glass of mulled wine as they arrived at the candle lit venue and enjoyed a hog roast with baked potatoes, salads, and tempting desserts.

Music was provided by the Fluxtones and the evening ended with fireworks lighting up the sky.

Darrell said: “It was another great party and a sell out; a traditional Fireworks Night party has become really popular and we don’t even need to publicise it to sell all the tickets.

“We have made about €750 on the raffle and I think overall we will have collected around €1,500 for the lodge.

“Proceeds from all the events I have organised this year will go to the Children’s Oncology Unit at the Santa Fe and to the Preventorio in Gandia; we decided children are the main focus of fund raising this year.”

Dinner is served!

Sally Clayton (right) with helpers Grahame and Linzi Woods

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

MABS ball sparkles

By Jack Troughton

THE annual MABS ‘Glitter Ball’ was toasted a sparkling success by guests told the cancer charity had moved to coveted foundation status.

Guest of honour, British Consul Sarah-Jane Morris congratulated the MABS Cancer Support Group on its work within the international community in Spain and said it was a pleasure to be at the celebration.

“Your association is now a foundation, it’s a huge thing in Spain,” said the consul at the Salon Canor in Teulada. “I am not surprised because I know of all the hard work that goes on in MABS; it is hugely warming to hear about all the work that does go on.

“You hear about British people getting together and pulling off something like MABS here in Spain and turning into a foundation is a huge achievement; it is not easy here, especially with all the bureaucracy.”

Mrs Morris added: “And the people who benefit are not just Brits but all nationalities; the charity work that goes on here is just amazing.

“I love to hear about it and love to feel that as Brits here in Spain, it is what we do; it’s what we do best.

“It is part of the foundations of the community in Spain – we don’t do languages particularly well but when you have a charity shop making more money than local businesses, it’s not bad going.”

During the evening MABS President Jacqui Phillips MBE accepted a €500 donation from the Benitachell Charity Shop.

The shop’s treasurer Carol Thorn said her team wanted to give the money “because of the help and support MABS has given to two of our ladies recently”.

The evening is traditionally a celebration but the raffle raised €1,050 and the auction of a signed Chelsea added €185, while bidding for the Female Focus donated television contribute another €150.

And MABS President Jacqui Phillips MBE believes with contributions from sponsorship, the night would raise nearly €3,000 for the charity coffers, all earmarked to helping people with cancer and supporting their families.

“People are very generous every year. The ball was another huge success for everyone who attended – and we have collected more money to help our work,” she said.

The Weekender Management Team

The Weekender’s Marco Baiardo with Jacqui Phillips

Carol Thorn (left) with Jacqui Phillips

(From left) Jacqui Phillips, Sarah-Jane Morris, and MABS Treasurer Lesley Thompson

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing

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Do Dogs Dream?

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviors in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT in America, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001, have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain moni-

toring while the rats were sleeping.

Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences

while dreaming.

In people it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep.

Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviors thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming.

Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenact-

ing their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbor’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Sunday roast from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

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Are you diabetic and taking Metformin?

By Family Medical Centre

Are you aware that long term use of Metformin causes vitamin B12 deficiency in 30 % of patients?

Metformin is a very valuable first line drug used in the treatment of diabetes but as with all medications, it can cause side effects, one of those being vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 plays an essential role in the production of red blood cells. Red blood cells provide the body tissues with oxygen. Every cell of your body requires B12 to function properly including

the nervous system.

It is this effect on the nervous system that can leave B12 deficiency undiagnosed in diabetic patients as the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and B12 deficiency are the same.

Both cause tingling and numbness in the limbs hands and feet. It is very important for health care professionals to know if these symptoms are caused by nerve damage due to high glucose levels or lack of B12.

As well as numbness and tingling, sufferers may experience some of the following symptoms:

Whether you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or not, if you are taking Metformin it is suggested that you should be tested yearly to make sure that your B12 levels are adequate. It is important that B12 deficiency is caught early as damage to the nervous system can be halted but existing damage cannot be reversed unless it is identified early.

Treatment if required is quite simple and comes in the form of injections or tablets.

Metformin (called Metformina in Spain) comes under several trade names and is sometimes combined with other antidiabetic medicines. If you are unsure what you are taking, read the small print on the packet.

Common names for Metformin and mixtures containing it include: -Dianben -Janumet -Jentadueto -Icandra

-Efficib -Glubrava -Eucreas -Comboglyze

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Diarrhoea or constipation Fatigue, lack of energy, or light-headedness when standing up or with exertion Loss of appetite Pale skin Problems concentrating Shortness of breath Swollen, red tongue or bleeding gums Confusion or change in mental status Depression Loss of balance Muscle weakness You are also at risk of a deficiency (regardless of Metformin use), if you have: Crohn’s disease.

Coeliac disease.

Fish tapeworm infection.

A vegetarian or vegan diet Any condition that makes it difficult for your body to digest foods Any surgery that involves removing certain parts of the stomach or small intestine.

If you are concerned about vitamin B12 deficiency or management of your diabetes, speak to your Family Doctor.

During November, the Family Medical Centre, Albir are offering Vitamin B12 blood tests at 20% off normal price.

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Ask the Optician:– What are the most common problems with eyesight?

Saher Shrief, Store Director from Specsavers Opticas Torrevieja The most common vision problems are refractive errors, more commonly known as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Most people have one or more of these conditions. In this column we wanted to explain what they mean and how can they be corrected Q. What is myopia/short sight and how can it be corrected?

A. A person with myopia or short sight can see clearly objects close to them clearly, but not far away. Myopia is caused by the shape of the eye; either the eyeball is slightly too long or the cornea is too steeply curved.

Myopia is corrected by spectacles or contact lenses with lenses which are ‘minus’ or concave in shape.

Q. What is hyperopia/ hypermetropia/long sight and how can it be corrected?

A. A person with long sight can see objects far away from them clearly, but not those close by. This is caused by the shape of the eye - the eyeball is slightly too short. It is corrected by spectacles or contact lenses with lenses which are ‘plus’ or convex in shape.

Q. What is astigmatism and how can it be corrected?

A. People with astigmatism have an unevenly curved cornea or an unevenly curved lens inside their eye,

Read Online Weekender.News

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shaped more like a rugby ball than a football. It is corrected by spectacles with a cylinder shape built into the lenses at a certain angle. Contact lenses can also correct astigmatism - mild astigmatism can be corrected by an ordinary gas-permeable lens. Those who prefer a soft lens or have higher amounts of astigmatism can use specially designed, ‘toric’ soft lenses.

Q. What is presbyopia?

A. As a person ages, so do their eyes. The crystalline lenses become thicker and less flexible, resulting in a condition called presbyopia. People often begin to notice its effects during their forties - as a result of these changes, objects closer to them become blurred and the point of closest focus gradually moves further away from the eyes.

You should seek professional advice if you are concerned about your eye health and have regular eye tests. Specsavers Opticas in Javea, Calpe, Benidorm, Guardamar and Torrevieja offer comprehensive eye tests, visit www.specsavers.es for more eye health advice and to find your nearest store.

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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> All editions of “Gardening on the Costa Blanca” can be found at www.weekender.news/CBGC or visit www.costablancagardeners.weebly.com for more information.

GARDENING ON THE COSTA BLANCA - Part 15 Insufficient light is the most common reason for your orchids to fail to flower again.

Leaf colour indicates if the amount of light is adequate.

The lush, rich, dark green of most houseplants is not desirable in orchid leaves. A grassy green colour (light or medium green with yellowish tones) means the plant is receiving sufficient light to bloom. The orchid on the left shows the correct leaf colour and is producing abundant buds; the plant on the right has dark green leaves and no flowers. A good rule is to give your plants as much light as possible without scorching. While too much light may damage the plants, too little light will prevent flowering or cause weak growth. Too much sunlight is indicated by scorched spots on the foliage where the sun hits directly.

Rarely does sunburn discolour an entire plant, only the portion of the green parts that is hit by direct sun for too long a period. Increased light should be given gradually.

Morning sun is more beneficial to plants than afternoon sun. Therefore your growing area should be located to get maximum sun and light early in the day.

Phalaenopsis (the moth orchid) is the only one of the commonly grown Orchids that will re-bloom from its old spike. You can leave the spike (stem) on or cut off the stem

entirely at the base where it comes out of the leaves, and it will bloom again in several months but perhaps the neatest way is to cut off the stem leaving two nodes (those little brown lines on the stem below where the flowers were) on the stem. One of these nodes will generally produce flowers within eight to 12 weeks. Younger or weaker plants may not re-bloom and some Phalaenopsis are genetically incapable of re-blooming from the old spike. These are usually those that flower with branched spikes but it costs nothing to try! Orchids, like animals, are susceptible to viruses, so if you are keen, whenever cutting an orchid plant, use a sterile tool to prevent the spread of virus. A straight edged razor blade is a good tool to use for cutting flower spikes.

Orchids need to be fed regularly using a “balanced” fertilizer such as 20-20-20 that includes all necessary trace elements (as explained in Article 12). If you are unsure of what fertilizer to use, you can generally use any fertilizer that you would use for your other container plants. Orchids will do far better with too little fertilizer than with too much, known as the “weakly, weekly” approach, applying a dilute (1/4 strength) fertilizer each time you water, is probably better than applying a full dose once a month.

Actually, this applies to most house plants.

There are several other species of Orchids which you may find for sale (generally more expensively) but these need somewhat different care to Phalaenopsis so are probably beyond the scope of this series - so more on a different topic next week. Other Popular Orchids:

Vanda

Miltonia

Epidendrum

Cattleya

We are a friendly group who enjoy gardening and gardens.

Our meetings are normally held on the 1st Wednesday in each month from October to June in Meeting Room (Aula) 1 on the 1st floor of La Senieta in Moraira next to the free car park used for the Market on Fridays. Meetings commence at 2:30 pm and finish at about 4:30pm.

Visitors including holiday makers are always welcome – admission is by a donation of 3€ per person.

Our attempts at a regular meeting date are sometimes interrupted by Fiestas etc and it is for this reason that our next meeting is on Wednesday, 13th December at 2.30 in La Senieta.

Google “Costa Blanca Gardeners Circle” will provide you with our website.

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FRIDAY 7TH NOV 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles | TV

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What’s ON TV

Live International Football

England v Germany (Kick-off 9pm).

Mark Pougatch presents all the action from the friendly at Wembley Stadium, as the hosts begin preparations for the World Cup against the holders. The sides last met seven months ago in a friendly in Dortmund, when Lukas Podolski’s goal in his final international gave Germany a 1-0 win despite an encouraging performance by Gareth

Live International Rugby Union

England v Argentina (Kick-off 4pm) England will face Argentina at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday 11th November during the Old Mutual Wealth Series. This will be the first of three autumn internationals to be played by England in 2017.

Sky Sports 3:00pm Sat 11 Nov

Southgate’s men.

Live International Rugby Union

ITV London 8:30pm Fri 10 Nov

Wales v Australia (Kick-off 6.15pm)

Travel Man NEW SERIES - 48 Hours in Stockholm - Richard Ayoade and

actress Sally Phillips head to the Swedish capital for a fulsome two days of fun. Despite having no head for heights, the duo fearlessly sample the city’s only rooftop tour, before wrestling with the concept of fika coffee and cake.

Channel 4 9:30pm Fri 10 Nov

Knocked Up (2007)

Ambitious journalist Alison’s one-night stand with directionless layabout Ben has unexpected consequences when she discovers she is pregnant. However, the unlikely parents decide to give the relationship a try for their baby’s sake, forcing Ben to face the challenge of accepting responsibility for the first time in his life. Romantic comedy, starring Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl and Paul Rudd.

ITV2 9:00pm Fri 10 Oct

John Inverdale introduces coverage from the Principality Stadium, as the hosts begin their autumn international campaign. Wales have struggled in recent years to defeat the leading nations from the southern hemisphere, and this year’s schedule sees them also welcome Georgia, New Zealand and South Africa. With commentary by Eddie Butler and Jonathan Davies, and analysis by Martyn Williams and Paul O’Connell

BBC2 London 5:45pm Sat 11 Nov

Festival of Remembrance

Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance 2017 Huw Edwards hosts the annual Festival of Remembrance at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Emeli Sande, Tom Odell, Melanie Chisholm, Alfie Boe and Lesley Garrett are among the performers joining the Queen’s Colour Squadron and the Royal Marines Band in paying tribute to the men and women who have died in combat since the First World War.

BBC1 10:00pm Sat 11 Nov

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FRIDAY 7TH NOV 2017 TV | Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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V This Week

All T i Show mes n Ar e Span ish

Blue Planet II Season 1 Episode 3 of 7

reatures that live on coral reefs, including groupers, small predators that scientists believe are as intelligent as chimpanzees. These creatures have a remarkable aptitude for communication to the point where they can interact with other species including octopi and work together to catch prey.

BBC1 8:00pm Sun 12 Nov

Royal Recipes

Exotic Flavours New series

Michael Buerk celebrates more food served to monarchs, beginning by helping chef Paul Ainsworth to prepare an exotic dessert. Mich Turner recreates a birthday cake

BBC1 4:45pm Mon 13 Nov

Gone to Pot: American Road Trip NEW SERIES

Six more teams compete in the fourth heat, as robots Iron-Awe 6, the Kegs, Tauron, Nuts 2, Concussion and Androne 4000 battle through a series of group battles and knock-out rounds.

Among the contestants controlling the machines is a veteran of the series, returning to defend his legacy.

Presented by Dara O Briain and Angela Scanlon

Birds of a Feather’s Linda Robson, ex-EastEnders star Pam St Clement, actor Christopher Biggins, retired footballer John Fashanu and darts pundit Bobby George go on a road trip across America to explore the pros and cons of legalising marijuana.

They examine its the use for both medical and recreational purposes in US states where it is legal and meet people who have experienced the benefits and the downsides.

Continues on Wednesday at 9pm

BBC2 9:00pm Sun 12 Nov

ITV 10:00pm Mon 13 Nov

Quantum of Solace (2008)

Live International Football

ITV2 9:00pm Sun 12 Nov

ITV London 8:30pm Tue 14 Nov

Robot Wars Mid Season - Ep 4 of 6

James Bond sets out on a personal mission of vengeance as he pursues the secret criminal organisation Quantum.

His search leads him to the head of an ecological corporation, who is plotting to orchestrate a coup in a Latin American country to get his hands on a precious natural resource. Spy thriller sequel, starring Daniel Craig, Olga Kurylenko, Judi Dench, Gemma Arterton and Mathieu Amalric

England v Brazil (Kick-off 9.00pm).

Mark Pougatch presents coverage of the friendly encounter, which takes place at Wembley Stadium, as Gareth Southgate’s men continue their preparations for next summer’s World Cup in Russia.

These sides last met back in June 2013 when an entertaining match the first to be held at the renovated Maracana in Rio de Janeiro finished 2-2.

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Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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QUICK CROSSWORD

Across 1 Smart (6) 4 Large prawns (6) 8 Eject (5) 9 Moved (7) 10 Emblem of royalty (7) 11 Glowed (5) 12 Abbreviated (9) 17 Head of a community of monks (5) 19 Lean cut of beef (7) 21 Wine seller (7) 22 Nimble, spry (5) 23 Evaluate (6) 24 Tight-fitting undergarment (6)

Down 1 Mark made by folding (6) 2 Female ruler (7) 3 Splendid success (5) 5 Deep red (7) 6 Paris underground (5) 7 In fact, truly (6) 9 Onlooker (9) 13 Excursions (7) 14 Gods and goddesses (7) 15 Baltic country (6) 16 Become less severe (6) 18 Financial institutions (5) 20 Instrument with 88 keys (5)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1 OK, there’s nothing left (3,5) 6 A month, we hear, for Miss West (3) 9 Where to put flowers when you have retired? (2,3) 10 Decent sort of piano (7) 11 Sovereign getting on within a month (7) 13 Racecourse for one north of the border (5) 14 Nine compositions? (6) 15 Small shelf for vehicle mounted on runners (6) 18 A lieutenant meeting the queen has to change (5) 20 Mother can turn the French fetter (7) 21 Pressing metal in the capital of Greece (7) 22 Precise old law? (5) 23 Pinch a little drink (3) 24 Delicate material found when sorting some rags (8)

Down

2 Country noble with an alteration (7) 3 Freed from pride (3) 4 Left in France? That’s awkward! (6) 5 Saint boarding moving train to get cover (9) 6 Conjuring soldier in coat (5) 7 One has a right to them in settlement, perhaps (12) 8 Colour given by me to painting (12) 12 Grand rite, perhaps, slowing down (9) 16 After last month real reform for state (7) 17 I’m a long time providing pictures (6) 19 Pot or potty for a group of soldiers (5) 22 The name of a woman always in the van (3)

For Crossword & Sudoku answers - See Page 38

Sudoku

Easy

Medium

Hard

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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Blue Planet in the pink LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd) ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) You’re entering a time of You’re pushing forward mental pressure, but probably progressively which is great, but only because you have so many heed some words of warning potential choices to make. with regard to your finances.

Try not to dwell too much on You’re not immune to a little specific issues and allow your bad luck when it comes to any ARIES LIBRA intuition to guide you more. sort of speculation, ad you could lose money if you fail to think before you This is because your usual common sense may act. Life should be positive and happy in all not be enough to get you the answers you need. other areas.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd)

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st)

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th)

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th)

VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd)

PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th)

Certain matters come to a head It’s a great day to be smack now so be prepared. If you were bang in the middle of the a salesperson my advice would social mainstream, as you’ll be to close deals carefully. get a wonderful response There’s nothing wrong with from almost anyone you come TAURUS across. You’re leaving nothing SCORPIO your mental faculties but you may have to think carefully to chance at the moment and you’re filled with a desire to check and double before taking specific steps. Keep up the social check all details. Great for you, annoying for integration and listen to what others have to say. others.

You’ll probably go to great People seem determined to lengths to please others today do you favours today. It could and there’s nothing wrong with be because you’re smiling so that, except for the fact that much and putting yourself out you’re likely to be disappointed on their behalf without realising GEMINI the fact. It could be something SAGITTARIUS with the response you get.

The self sacrificing quality you you cant put your finger on.

Either way, some simple good luck could help presently show isn’t something you can alter, you in meetings and discussions and could it’s just the way you are. potentially lead to significant achievment.

There’s a fairly sluggish day on You can now make the most the cards and a time where it of any career opportunities may be difficult to get what that are coming your way. Its you want from situations. To important to pay attention as a great extent you can blame many benefits today will come CANCER like a bolt from the blue. it’s the CAPRICORN the arrival of the lunar low, but what wont help is to try and time of the month when you realise that life is not a rehearsal and that what push against the odds. Its far better to take a you get out of it is directly related to what you rest and come back fighting in a few days. have first put in.

You now have an all consuming A socially motivated period powerful drive to get things continues though of course done, so make sure restrictions that isn’t at all strange for your are out of the way and don’t sign, so you may not even take allow anything to hold you much notice of it. Whispering back when you’re certain of words of love into the right ear LEO the direction you want to take. AQUARIUS could prove interesting today Pay attention to what your partner or a good and will show your partner how you really feel friend is saying as if you do, you could save during a busy period. yourself a lot of time and effort.

Although practical matters can You’re in a go ahead frame prove to be tiresome today, you of mind but you manifest do realise that they have to be this slightly differently from dealt with and nobody is better your usual now. If someone at addressing them than you is needed to cheer up the are. Imagination is called for PISCES grumpiest person in the room VIRGO later in the day when you’ll have that person is definitely you. to be very flexible in your dealings with errant Your sense of humour is infectious and you family members. have a natural wisdom that hardly anyone could fail to recognise.

THE first episode of Blue Planet II had the highest viewing figures of any programme broadcast in the UK so far this year, as a total of 14.1 million viewers watched the edition aired on 29 October.

With its stunning camerawork and narration by legendary broadcaster Sir David

Attenborough, the BBC always expected the programme to do well, but admitted this surpassed their expectations.

In contrast viewing figures for Strictly Come Dancing and, in particular, the X-Factor both appear to be dropping off, something which may signal a change of direction for programme makers.

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Motoring

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Infiniti Q60 (2016)

If you want a sleek looking premium coupe, but fancy something a bit different, then how about this? The Infiniti Q60 is the more leftfield choice in a market that’s dominated by the likes of the BMW 4 Series and the Audi A5.

Infiniti - if you didn’t know - is the premium brand from Nissan, in a similar way that Toyota and Lexus co-exist. But unlike Lexus, Infiniti has struggled to make an impact in the UK as yet, making any Infiniti a pretty rare sight on our roads. On the plus side, that does at least make it more exclusive...

The Q60 is one of Infiniti’s better looking models, although compared to the angular Lexus RC, it does seem

a little bland. However, sadly the inside doesn’t live up the outside. While Infiniti has attempted to improve things, the interior feels dated and a generation behind the competition. The switches and steering column stalks that are shared with cheaper Nissan models don’t help. the plus side, the Q60 does come well equipped for the money. It starts at around £34,000 and for that you get plenty of kit like LED headlights, a rearview camera, heated and electric seats and navigation.

What you don’t get with a Q60 is a diesel. Nor a hybrid. Instead there are just two petrol engines - a 2.0-litre with 211PS and a 3.0-litre V6 with an impressive 405PS, both of which have a seven-speed automatic as standard.

Neither is great on fuel, the 2.0-litre averages a claimed 41.5mpg but you’ll be looking at the low 30s in reality.

Despite the power from the big V6 engine, the Q60 is no sports car. It handles well enough, despite steering that feels very artificial, but the gearbox can be slow to respond and there’s little in the way of character. There’s also minimal involvement from behind the wheel.

Overall, the Q60 isn’t a bad car. Indeed on paper it looks good value given the standard equipment available.

Plus being built by Nissan, it’s likely to prove reliable and robust. But there really is nothing compelling about it - and judged against the competition it feels behind the times.

Ultimately, it’s hard to make a case for the Infiniti.

FRIDAY 7TH NOV 2017

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Motoring

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Benissa - La Nucia

GRUPO

Auto Mart Benissa Ctra Nacional N-332 Partida Bonaire 60 Opposite Benissa Motorway Entrance

BENISSA

CHRYSLER PT CRUISER CABRIO Year 2005, 2400cc, 145 hp, Manual, Petrol 13,000 km 7,995€

PEUGEOT 207 VTI 16v Sport Year 2010, 1400cc, 95 hp Manual, Petrol 141,000 km 6,395€

(+34) 965 733 311 WhatsApp 609 234 847 info@automartbenissa.com 9

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Monday to Friday 09.30-19.00 Saturday 10.00-14.00

90+ vehicles to choose from!

VOLVO XC90 2.4D Auto

Year 2005, 2400cc, 165 hp, Automatic, Diesel 180,000 km 9,995€

NISSAN Qashqai+2 Tekna Sport Year 2010, 2000cc, 140 hp, Manual, Petrol 135,000 km 12,995€

NISSAN Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 4x2 Year 2009, 1600cc, 115 hp, Manual, Petrol 119,000 km 9,995€

NEW ARRIVAL!

CITROEN C4 VTI Year 2010 1600cc, 120 hp Manual, Petrol 123,000 km 6,995€

CHEVROLET Matiz SE Year 2007 1000cc, 65 hp Manual, Petrol 80,000 km 3,995€

RENAULT KANGOO DCI Year 2011, 1500cc, 85 hp, Manual, Diesel 138,000 km 6,495€

CITROEN C3 SENSODRIVE AUTO Year 2007, 1400cc, 90 hp, Automatic, Petrol 118,000 km 6,295€

SEAT Cordoba 1.4 16v Reference Year 2005, 1400cc, 75 hp, Manual, Petrol 104,000 km 3,995€

PEUGEOT 207 1.6 16v XS Year 2007, 1600cc, 110 hp, Manual, Petrol 56,000 km 6,395€

KIA SPORTAGE 4WD 2.0 CRD Year 2006 2000cc, 140 hp Manual, Diesel 69,000 km 8,995€

BUYING a Car includes: 1 year’s warranty ITV and full check Road tax paid for the year Name and transfer plus paperwork Part-exchange welcome

SELLING a Car

PEUGEOT 208 VTI ACTIVE TOUCHSCREEN

Year 2013, 1200cc, 80 hp, Manual, Petrol 62,000 km 9,395€

BMW Serie 3 320d 165 Year 2007 2000cc, 165 hp Manual, Diesel 125,000 km 10,695€

SEAT Ibiza Sport Tourer COPA Year 2012, 1400cc, 85 hp, Manual, Petrol 30,000 km 9,495€

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Car transfers processed within 7 days Proof of ownership transfer provided

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Monday to Friday 10.00 - 19.00 Saturday 10.00 -14.00

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PEUGEOT 308 CC Roland Garros Year 2012, 2000cc, 165 hp, Manual, Diesel 130,000 km 19,995€

NISSAN Pixo Acenta Year 2010 1000cc, 70 hp Manual, Petrol 43,000 km 6,395€

MINI One 1.6 90 Year 2003 1600cc, 90 hp Manual, Petrol 90,000 km 6,995€

FORD Focus Xenon Auto Year 2005 1600cc, 100 hp Automatic, Petrol 124,000 km

5,995€

Benissa - La Nucia

Auto Mart La Nucia Calle Callosa de Ensarria 32 Poligono Industrial La Alberca La Nucia BUYING a Car includes: 1 year’s warranty ITV and full check Road tax paid for the year Name and transfer plus paperwork Part-exchange welcome SELLING a Car

TOYOTA Aygo Auto 1.0 Year 2008 1000cc, 70 hp Automatic, Petrol 83,000 km

5,995€

FIAT Doblo Multijet 90 Year 2013 1300cc, 90 hp Manual, Diesel 98,000 km 7,695€

SMART Fortwo Coupe Pulse Year 2008, 1000cc, 60 hp Automatic, Petrol 49,000 km 6,295€

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90+ vehicles to choose from and 200€ off any car (over 5,000€) with this advert until 30 November 2017.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

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Brakes put on road race

By Matthew Richards

Puzzle Solutions

AROUND a hundred cars gathered near Valencia’s main cemetery last weekend to watch or participate in an illegal night-time road race.

Social media was used to

get people together for the event, but the police got wind of the plans and turned up in force on the night.

They embargoed 25 vehicles and were able to identify 33 people at the event. A check on some of the cars also found six

QUICK CROSSWORD

that did not have an ITV, three drivers who could not produce a driving licence and a vehicle that was deemed un-roadworthy.

They also penalised a number of people for careless driving and one person who had a driving licence that did not permit him to drive the vehicle he was in charge of.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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Out & About

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Boats & The Coast

Green ferry

By Matthew Richards

FERRY Company Balearia has launched the latest edition to its fleet, an “eco-ferry” that will run between the islands of Ibiza and Formentera. The boat can carry up to 350 passengers and is the first of four planned which are currently being built in Asturia. The vessels have

several eco-friendly attributes, including solar panels that power much of the on-board electrics. The hull is also made from special fibreglass which does not need painting and the engines are low in emissions.

Balearia has routes in many of Spain and North Africa’s major ports including Denia and Valencia.

Work finally starts on troubled hotel

By Simon Russell

CONSTRUCTION work has now begun on a new 24 floor hotel that has been over ten years in the pipeline.

The 5 star building is on a

site at La Fossa beach, just up from the well-known Esmerelda hotel complex.

Although original plans were put forward in 2006, the economic crisis and then various legal issues mean the

works were heavily delayed with some people doubting they would actually start at all. However the bulldozers have now moved in and work is underway on the 300 room building.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Out & About

Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Himalaya Tandoori Altea has been a favourite of mine since I moved to Spain in 2010. Owner Anju Poon and head chef Keshar Bahadur Thapa have become friends; not just with me but also most of the locals around Altea and Albir who have met by eating at the restaurant.

The Himalaya is more than just about great Indian and Nepalese food, it’s about the whole experience and it has become the most popular restaurant by building a strong reputation for serving the best quality food in the region.

Also, as the first Nepalese restaurant to open on the Costa Blanca, it explains why people travel from all surrounding areas to visit the Himalaya.

Founded in 2004, the original restaurant has also been training chefs who want to specialise in the cooking of Nepalese food.

My recent visit at the restaurant was again incredible and it is always such a pleasure walking into the luxurious dining room.

The menu offers a wide variety of both meat and vegetarian dishes, cooked with the traditional mix of herbs and spices. The choice on offer is simply mouth-watering. It includes the Tandoori Special Dinner Menu, costing

only €17.50 and gives a selection of any starter, main course, and includes a desert.

The dishes are all beautifully presented and provide a taste of authentic delicacies. What most impresses me are the real Indian selection, as well as the chef specials, which included a variety of Nepalese cuisine.

I found a genuine curry menu at the Himalaya; a selection of Bhuna curries - fish, lamb, chicken and king prawn - with either tikka style or plain meat, cooked with onion, garlic and ginger in a thick sauce; served medium spicy, it is one of my favourites.

The other traditional Indian curries served here are Dhansak, Vindaloo, Madras, Biriyani and for the milder palate, the very popular Korma. Again, each of these individual cooking styles is available with lamb, chicken, king prawn and fish, and each of these curries includes pilau rice.

I could see that other customers’ choices included the famous sizzling

tandoori iron dishes; the extensive variety offered on the tandoori menu itself is amazing.

So what were we going to choose for our meal? It is so hard, as we love our favourites; as well as wanting to take a culinary adventure from the exciting menu. For me it was a new experience of Kadai Special Chicken dish. Cooked with ginger, green and red capsicums, tomatoes, onions, Himalayan herbs and spices served in a traditional “Kadai”.

The other main dish we had to share was Lamb Nilgiri, it was a well sized portion of tender lamb pieces cooked with fresh tomato cream, Nepali spices with a slight spinach flavour. Both dishes were accompanied with pilau

rice and my choice of a garlic naan.

The incredible meal was started with a Nepalese style dumpling called “Momo”, it is minced pork filling steamed dumpling; four pieces served with a hot dip.

The food was a rainbow of colours and the flavours were outstanding. It

was served by owner Anju Poon who grew up in the mountainous city of Pokara, in Nepal. Anju has previously managed a traditional Nepali Restaurant in Poon Hill, one of the most famous view point of Annanapurna Mountain Range in Nepal and brings over 9 years of professional restaurant experience with her to Himalaya Tandoori.

The delicious food was created by head chef and owner Keshar Bahadur Thapa, who has more than 28 years of experience. His working history includes high-end restaurants such as Moti Mahal Delux Kitchen in India; Mugal Mahal Kitchen of Kuwait; Taj Mugal Mahal Kitchen in Lebanon; and La Porte des Indes in Brussels.

So with this experience ‘Thapa’ has combined his skills with the traditional tastes of authentic dishes to create and refine his own recipes with new innovative Nepalese and Indian dishes that are simply delectable.

Find Himalaya Tandoori on Facebook and also visit the TripAdvisor page for up to date information and specials. Call 965 840 968 for reservations or email himalayatandoorialtea@gmail.com; the restaurant can be found at Carrer Sant Pere No. 37, 03590 Altea, Alicante, Spain.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

Out & About

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Thumbs up from major guide

By Matthew Richards

INFLUENTIAL publication Lonely Planet has just published its guide to the areas two main cities, Alicante and Valencia. The guide can often be critical, particularly when it comes to more “discovered” places but the write up was positive and certainly nothing was said that would deter potential visitors.

Alicante was described as “an up for it city” (in a good way) and the old quarter, Cathedral San Nicholas area and Paseo del Puerto with its range of clubs and casinos all gained a special mention. The city had something for the “culture hounds, foodies, beachgoers and

party people” they concluded.

Valencia was described as a dynamic city with a rich history and exceptional food and nightlife.

The cathedral area, Barrio Carmen, City of Arts and Sciences and beach areas were all highlighted, while again the combination of the old and new (plus great shopping) should have something for everyone.

Lonely Planet is predominantly aimed at the younger, more adventurous traveller (not tourist!), often on a budget. Any endorsement bodes well for 2018 bookings, which many holidaymakers from the north of Europe will be thinking about making soon.

Charity Wins on race night

By Simon Russell

AN amazing €1,567 was raised at the Jalon Valley A.R.C.’s race night which was held at El Cid’s restaurant last week. The cash was raised by those who purchased tickets to have a punt on the night, as well as race sponsorship by local businesses and a raffle.

A.R.C would like to thank to race sponsors La Solana Kennels, David Kent Removals, Renderking Builders, El Cid and Jalon Valley Real Estate. Special thanks also go to Matt, Sally and Jayne who organised the event and to El Cid’s for laying on

a great meal. The money raised will go to help with the cost of food and vets fees for rescued animals that are being cared for by the A.R.C. Just a reminder that the next event is the groups Christmas Fair on 3 December; this will be held at the Jalon Pensionistas Social Centre from 10am to 2pm.

Santana show cancelled

By Simon Russell

THE performance of “The Magic of Santana” that was scheduled for 18 November at the Auditori de la Mediterrania in La Nucia has unfortunately been cancelled. This is due to family reasons concerning lead guitarist Ger Schluter, who is too key a

member of the band to be replaced at short notice.

Anyone who has purchased a ticket with a debit or credit card will have the money credited back to their account. If you paid cash, just return your ticket to the box office at the Auditori for a refund (open from 9am to 2pm on weekdays).

Present Santa with a wish list Dont forget! Youngsters can visit Santa’s grotto this Saturday noon-6pm and Sunday 11am-4pm (11th-12th) at the Casa Santonja Christmas fayre.

– Plenty for the whole family at the historic Beniarbeig mansion- 1€ entry donation to Make A Smile charities and others.

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FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

Sport

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Rugby La Vila make hay in the sunshine winning 52-19

By Tony Fox

On a beautiful afternoon La Vila cheered their supporters with a performance reminiscent of last seasons triumphs. After just 1minute 31 seconds they scored a converted try courtesy of Franco Sálice.

Thereafter it was one way traffic in the first half with tries by Andrés Pacheco, Nacho Müller and Gonzalo Pérez before the break. For Getxo, yet another Basque team (from Bilbao), two tries by Julio Speziali were not enough to get them on terms. The second half was much of the same the team captained by Javier Carrión stepped up the pace, with tries by Pajaujis, Rivero and De

la Arena. Getxo Artea tried to gain the offensive bonus with four tries, but they only managed three after the try of Ander Arrate in the last minute.

The 5 points that La Vila gained from this encounter saw them climb out of the relegation zone to ninth position of the twelve teams.Their next match is away against Sanitas Alcobendas currently third in the league. A tough task and with team belief from this result they could spring a surprise.

After the break of November 18/19, their next home game is on 26th of November against Cisneros the day after the Vilajoyosa Stadium hosts the Spanish international test against Brazil .The stadium is well sign posted from exit 66 of the autopista.

FRIDAY 10TH NOV 2017

43

Sport

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By Eric Malpus

The one Monday Night game and a full Premier League programme at the weekend supplied the Alfaz Fantasy Football with 25 goals,7 clean sheets,34 yellow cards and one red one which was Huddersfield’s tough Guy Schindler who finished up on Referee’s Roger East’s list after receiving 2 yellow cards.There was also 3 penalties awarded in which,2 were scored one

by Manchester City’s record breaker Sergio Aguero and the other by Everton’s Leighton Baines, the 3rd one was missed

by Watford’s Tom Cleverley which gave the Toffee Men a lifeline in their fight against relegation.

We have a Lady Manager at the top of the Alfaz Fantasy Football League for the 1st time this season.Isabel’s team The Bluebells replaced Darren’s team Daz XI at the Summit to become the 6th side to reach the number one spot.They have a slender 4 point lead over Daz XI then comes Ryan’s My Gilfi Pleasure. Two teams who are in great form are Tommy’s Loose Connections and Dominic’s Barnsley Braves who are lying in 4th & 5th place nicely tucked in behind the pacesetters. Tommy’s team Quantrill’s Raiders have ridden away from the bottom spot and left Laura’s Legends trailing them by 6 points mainly because of Liverpool’s impressive 4-1victory at West Ham which resulted in Slavin Bilic being sacked.(whose next, definitely not one of our Fantasy Managers!)

In our Mark Carter Ladies Section Isabel’s Bluebells have had their lead reduced to 34 points by Pauline’s Vodka Army who had a good week clocking up 47 points with a little help from Liverpool’s Mo Salah who was this week’s top Fantasy League Player with 12 points.Marilyn’s Super Saints 2nd and Heather’s I Love George have both moved to within striking distance of the leaders and are in 3rd & 4th

position.At the other end of the table, things are looking bleak for Laura’s Legends as they have fallen 11 points behind Reggie’s Rejects.

Robbie’s team Tea & Busquets have been top of our U.K.T.V.SPAIN Junior League for the last 6 weeks but they have had their advantage slashed to only 8 points by former frontrunners Harrison’s Boden’s Boys who this week came back in contention for the title after leaping up 2 places to 2nd.Harley’s Ginger Ninjar swapped places with Leo’s 6 in a Row at the bottom and now have the task of holding up the rest of our Junior Managers.

Wayne’s team Two Years Running, Maybe are showing no signs of giving up the top spot of our Golden Boot League at the moment they are 35 points in front Graham’s team, the fast rising Laurel and Vardy who this week climbed up 10 places to 2nd.Dominic’s Barnsley Braves & Steven’s Krokadil F.C. are in joint 3rd place one point ahead of Joe’s Keith Lard F.C. Down in the basement bottom placed Laura’s Legends and Reggie’s Rejects are fighting another duel for the bottom spot with only 2 points separating them.

Two teams will be the 1st in the hat for our Monthly Wyndhams Wine Draw and they are Graham’s team, Laurel & Vardy who top scored with a tally of 54 points and Sue’s London F.W.9 who got the lowest score of only 3 points.Last Month’s Winner was Reggie’s Rejects(about time they won something) Manager of the month for November is being kindly sponsored by Wayne at Wayne’s World Restuarant in Albir who provide freshly prepared home cooked meals at reasonable prices. With only one week gone Graham’s Laurel & Vardy are in pole position with a narrow 4 point advantage over 2 teams, Andrew’s Bariloche Upstarts and Luca’s Already Won It. Triple Trouble & Charlie’s Chicos

are also in contention for this fine meal for 2 at this very popular Restuarant in Albir.

Luca’s team Already Won It has won our Breakfast for 2 sponsored by the Bar Code in Alfaz after leaping up 77 places to number 109th spot in the main League.

At the time of going to press I have not had time to collate all the scores for our Weekender K.O.Cup 1st round but I’m sure by the time you read this all the results will be up on our website and next week I will report on all the results.

The one Monday Night game and a full Premier League programme at the weekend supplied the Alfaz Fantasy Football with 25 goals,7 clean sheets,34 yellow cards and one red one which was Huddersfield’s tough Guy Schindler who finished up on Referee’s Roger East’s list after receiving 2 yellow cards.There was also 3 penalties awarded in which,2 were scored one

by Manchester City’s record breaker Sergio Aguero and the other by Everton’s Leighton Baines, the 3rd one was missed

by Watford’s Tom Cleverley which gave the Toffee Men a lifeline in their fight against relegation.

We have a Lady Manager at the top of the Alfaz Fantasy Football League for the 1st time this season.Isabel’s team The Bluebells replaced Darren’s team Daz XI at the Summit to become the 6th side to reach the number one spot.They have a slender 4 point lead over Daz XI then comes Ryan’s My Gilfi Pleasure. Two teams who are in great form are Tommy’s Loose Connections and Dominic’s Barnsley Braves who are lying in 4th & 5th place nicely tucked in behind the pacesetters. Tommy’s team Quantrill’s Raiders have ridden away from the bottom spot and left Laura’s Legends trailing them by 6 points mainly because of Liverpool’s impressive 4-1victory at West Ham which resulted in Slavin Bilic being sacked.(whose next, definitely not one of our Fantasy Managers!) Read more Online.

Read the Full report and past AFFL Reports at www.Weekender.News/AFFL

Jukebox Football Predictions League

ALFAZ FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

44

Sport

FRIDAY 27TH OCT 2017

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SPORT Week Friday 10th November 18:00 19:45 20:00 20:45

FIFA World Cup - South Africa v Senegal BT Sport 2 FIFA World Cup - Sweden v Italy Sky Sports Football Friendly International - England v Germany ITV1 Friendly International - France v Wales BBC 1 Wales

Saturday 11th November

20:45 FIFA World Cup - Denmark v Rep of Ireland Sky Sports

Sunday 12th Novemeber

18:45 FIFA World Cup - Switzerland v N.Ireland Sky Sports 2045 FIFA World Cup - Greece v Croatia Sky Sports Football

Monday 13th November

20:45 FIFA World Cup - Italy v Sweden Sky Sports Football

Tuesday 14th November 20:45 20:45 20:45 21:00

FIFA World Cup - Rep of Ireland v Denmark Sky Sports Friendly International - Germany v France BT Sport 2 Friendly International - Wales v Panama BBC 2 Wales Friendly International - England v Brazil ITV 1

Saturday 13th November

16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:15 16:15

Crystal Palace v Everton EPL Leicester v Man City EPL West Brom v Chelsea EPL Bournemouth v Hudderfield EPL Burnley FC v Swansea City EPL Leganes v Barcelona La Liga Athletico Madrid v Real Madrid La Liga

Fixtures

Sunday 19th November 17:00 Watford v West Ham EPL

Monday 20th November 21:00 Brighton v Stoke City EPL

RUGBY UNION SATURDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2017

SATURDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2017

Italy v Fiji 15:00 Italy v Argentina 15:00 Scotland v Samoa 15:30 Wales v Georgia 15:30 England v Argentina 16:00 England v Australia 16:00 Wales v Australia 18:15 Scotland v New Zealand 18:15 Ireland v South Africa 18:30 Ireland v Fiji 18:30 France v New Zealand 20:45 France v South Africa 20:45

E ULA erO-BN FORM razil 12th Novemb

Sunday u Dhabi Sunday 26th November- Ab

48

FRIDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 2017

Weekender Sport Your Weekend Starts Here!

Sport

GET FIT AJ TELLS FAT FURY Anthony Joshua has given the first indication that he may be getting sick of all the talk surrounding his next fight by sending out a warning to Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury.

Heavyweight boxing sensation Anthony Joshua delivered a huge dig to British rival and former champion Tyson Fury this week.

Showing a more spiteful side that stands in stark contrast to his ‘stay humble’ mantra, ‘AJ’ hit back with a series of tweets

aimed at Parker and a video response to Wilder, before finishing with a foul-mouthed response to Fury, tweeting “& Tyson Fury get fit you fat f***.”

On his future ambitions, Joshua added: “I’m serious

about becoming undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. We’re just making sure that a lot of these guys who are making noise will back up what they’re saying.”