The weekender issue 27 marina alta (north)

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ISSUE 027

Friday 12th January

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Boom Towns

By Jack Troughton

CRANES and scaffolding are again common sights along the Costa Blanca skyline as the coast enjoys a construction boom.

Applications for planning permission for new build and the refurbishment of existing buildings have flooded into town halls over the last 30 months - since the existing government teams were elected into office.

The process has been started ahead in key areas ahead of new general plans being finalised that will lay down a sustainable future for communities and control the availability of new land available to be swallowed up by building.

And while the financial crisis burst the excesses of the last property balloon, there is a confidence returning to the market but local government will seek to ensure growth is both controlled and sustainable in future. ...Continued page 2

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Confidence restored

By Jack Troughton

From front page...

It shows that despite the tensions and uncertainties of Brexit, the Costa Blanca remains a magnet for visitors and people wanting a new life in the sun.

Spanish media reported this week that

the Marina Alta towns of Denia, Calpe and Javea alone had received more than 7,000 requests for building permits over the last 30 months until the end of November.

Denia received more than 2,880 applications, the majority for minor works.

Calpe’s urban planners handled 2,616 requests for building licences and there were 1,447 in Javea.

The Weekender visited Calpe where high rise projects are already under construction and a new multi-story hotel is to be built.

Councillor Carole Saunders explained that like the resort of Javea, the local government was not going to convert more rural land into areas that could be ‘urbanisable’.

She said the town hall was determined that Calpe should enjoy a “sustainable future” but also remain a year-round tourist destination, visitors being vital to the local economy.

As such, Mrs Saunders said many projects were now pressing ahead after being granted planning permission around 20 years ago and However, the councillor stressed that many of the requests for licences were to update and refurbish homes and rental properties.

“They cannot build on the Olta mountain behind Calpe anymore unless it is ‘infilling’ between existing houses,” said Mrs Saunders.

“Obviously if there

are gaps within an urbanisation then it is land which is probably designated as urban and is open to development. However, even urbanisations have to have a certain amount of designated green areas.”

Calpe’s famous salt wetland, home to flamingos and rare wildlife and fauna, has a 100m protection zone. Outside this land was available to exploit by developers – but Mrs Saunders said there also “green belt” areas that were protected at the northern end of Las Salinas.

“There has been a boom in Belgian and Dutch people buying up older property; they have the money and enjoy fantastic pensions,” added Mrs Saunders.

“They buy a house, gut it and refurbish – that counts as a rebuild and the licences work out cheaper than a new build.”

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

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THE final parades of the Three Kings celebrations have disappeared over the horizon and the gift wrapping paper has been picked up and deposited in the bin. The festive season is officially over.

It takes Spain a little longer than most countries to get over Christmas, the design fault in taking the Christmas story to its full Twelve Days. Oh what to do with those leaping lords.

And after decking the halls with holly – or paper chains if you prefer – homes suddenly appear a bit glum; there are still bits of glitter stuck in the carpet but the vacuum cleaner will eventually deal with those.

January may be a dour month even here on the Costa but the freezer has about a gallon of turkey soup to enjoy, a possible antidote to the virulent ‘flu bug busy laying people low.

Happy New Year! Welcome back The Weekender after its own two-issue hibernation and a couple of weeks to take stock and make a couple of changes that the team hopes will be enjoyed out there.

How are those New Year Resolutions going? This is the time of year gyms sell more memberships and tobacco sales

The Weekender (Registered Trademark Pending) Editor-In-Cheif Marco Baiardo - Y1153737-W. Deposito Legal - A375-2017. C/ Castellion 5 Benidorm, 03500. The Weekender Newspaper, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion.

We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written consent of the publishers.

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THE Mill Moraira has arrived, bringing a unique concept to the Costa Blanca, a luxury venue with an affordable price tag where there really is something to enjoy for anyone’s taste or budget.

Writing this editorial asks one question of me. How can I actually describe in words an outstanding restaurant and bar that is complete in every way?

The story starts with Patrick Zeilstra, the owner who

Managing Director

Marco Baiardo

marco@weekender.news

Media Director

Adam King

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drop – good luck to anyone trying to make a change for the better in their lives.

The Catalonia question will now become headlines again.

Carlos Puigdemont remains in self-imposed exile in Belgium, the man who would be president of the region from overseas, not least because he faces arrest back home over the little matter of declaring independence and being accused of rebellion. Crossed fingers the December elections in the region will lead to some sort of resolution.

Brexit negotiations are on ice until March. However, do not expect any fewer headlines as diplomacy goes on and both sides feed on statistics and argue their cause is right, supported by the figures.

And if it gets a tad depressing, the Spanish celebration of San Antonio, the patron saint of animals falls on January 17th; another gleeful photo opportunity as pets and working beasts alike get a day off to be blessed.

Editor

Jack Troughton

editor@weekender.news

Senior Reporter

Simon Russell

simon@weekender.news

has designed and planned the unique concept of the Mill Moraira, which opened 29 December 2017 and part of a family business that also includes The Blue Waterfront in Moraira.

The combined experience of the Zeilstra’s and their flair for creating quality comfort food at a more than affordable price is a real hit with the locals.

The Mill Moraira also has the added experience of local well-known chef Ramon, who runs the outside BBQ. And its trained team of servers and chefs provide a warm welcome followed by a non-stop table service.

In addition to a variety of available menus, guests can also enjoy drinks, tapas, a bar menu as well as the full A La Carte; the BBQ ‘all you can eat’ option is available for only 17.50€ There is also the addition of the outside sports bar that I’m sure will be welcomed by the hundreds of daily shoppers from the nearby Pepe La Sal supermarket, who can drop in for a bite and not miss the weekend big match!

There is no need to wait in the car; just let the whole family relax and take time for the shopping trip combined with lunch, sports and drinks.

The Mill Moraira is highly recommended by the Weekender and it is guaranteed to become a favourite place to visit.

Avenida de san jaime 4 Benissa Tel: 965 74 73 13 Themillmoraira@gmail.com

Jack Troughton Editor - The Weekender

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Marco Baiardo Jr. studio@weekender.news

IT & Online Manager

Samuel Fielder

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Back to the grindstone

By Simon Russell

NOW the Christmas and New Year holiday season is over, Spain is entering what for most will be the year’s longest period without a fiesta.

The next national holiday is Easter which commences on the last weekend of March this year, with Easter Sunday falling on 1 April.

Some towns and

cities will have local fiestas in the interim, with the mid-March Fallas festival being the biggest local event in the first quarter of the year. February sees the traditional Carnestoltes – carnival – which is a major happening for some towns such as Pego. However for most schools and workplaces it will be business as usual for the next three months.

The living dead

By Jack Troughton

MORTUARY staff discovered a real life member of the ‘walking dead’ when they rushed to the aid of a ‘corpse’ after hearing his snores from inside a body bag.

The 29-year-old was helped to his feet at the morgue in northern Spain despite being declared dead by three independent doctors and moments before going under the knife in a ‘Silent Witness’ type post-mortem.

G o n z a l o Montoya Jimenez is currently under observation in hospital in Oviedo.

It is thought he is suffering from catalepsy; a rare condition causing almost imperceptible vital signs, accompanied

Moneybags foreigners

By Matthew Richards

FOREIGN tourists staying in the Alicante area spend on average twice as much as domestic visitors

a recent survey has found.

Foreign holidaymakers spend about €91 a day while Spanish visitors restrict their average spend to €42.

People coming to the area from abroad also stay for

eleven days on average compared to the Spanish average of 5 days.

Across the Costa Blanca 56% of all visitors are Spanish while Benidorm is the busiest resort, accounting

for a quarter of visitors to the region according to the survey which was carried out at the request of the local Tourism Observatory.

The Valencian Community remains the most popular destination

by muscular rigidity and a fixed posture despite any external stimulus.

Jimenez was an inmate at an Asturias jail until Sunday morning when guards discovered him – apparently dead – during their rounds. He was examined by a three medical experts who all signed death certificates before he was taken to the mortuary.

And three hours later and just before a pathologist began surgery to look for a cause of death, he began snoring and staff intervened to rescue the man. His family believe his survival was “a miracle” after “huge” medical negligence.

for domestic holidaymakers, followed by Madrid. Two thirds travel here purely for holidays while a third of visitors have family and friends in the region which they cite as their main reason for visiting.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Cheese wars

By Simon Russell

MANCHEGO cheese is one of Spain’s most traditional products, a hard, salty cheese made from ewe’s milk and often eaten as a tapa or side dish. However in Mexico they also have manchego – but this is made from cow’s milk, has a low melt point and is ideal for Mexican food such as burritos.

However manchego – the Spanish version – is one of the products protected under EU law alongside things such varied items as Parma ham and Melton Mowbray pork pies.

These have to be produced in the country, town or region of origin and

Lift tragedy

manufactured by using the traditional methods. As Mexico doesn’t adhere to these rules, there is a chance it may even endanger the renegotiation of any Free Trade Agreement between the EU and parts of North America.

Nearly all manchego cheese sold in Mexico is the Mexican type which is freely available and the producers there argue no-one could confuse the two – if they can even find Spanish manchego for sale. There are about 30 other European cheeses also affected by the row that are produced under the same name in North America, including parmesan, cheddar and feta - but for the moment the Mexican attitude is very much “hard cheese”.

By Simon Russell

AN investigation has started after a 61-year-old man plunged to his death in a lift shaft on the premises of the firm in Alicante where he worked. The accident happened soon after the builder merchant re-opened following the Christmas break; there were no witnesses to the incident. The man was alive when discovered by coworkers and taken to Alicante General Hospital by emergency ambulance, but sadly died shortly after arrival.

Flu epidemic claims five

By Simon Russell

THE annual flu epidemic is taking hold and health professionals are warning that this year’s strain is particularly virulent. Five people have been confirmed as dying from the

disease in Alicante alone in the last week, all of whom were elderly or had an underlying condition. Three of the deaths occurred in Elda and two in Alicante City.

Complications patients are suffering from include bronchial and

breathing problems, often lasting for around two weeks, although many people are recovering within a week.

Alicante province has one of the oldest populations in Europe and this causes additional problems for hospitals and health workers. There are at least

40 patients on Alicante’s San Joan Hospital currently with influenza, most of whom need to be isolated and staff admittedthat the service is under pressure. Alicante’s General Hospital has about 85 patients, although they still have capacity for around 40 more.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Lifestyle Feature

Mary’s mission is to help you “find happiness “and not for you to be or feel “alone”

provided by Dinner Dates Spain

Loneliness is an increasing problem in modern life So why are we getting lonelier? Changes in modern society are considered to be the cause. We live in nuclear family units, often living large distances away from our extended family and friends, and our growing reliance on social technology rather than face to face interaction is thought to be making us feel more isolated. It means we feel less connected to others and our relationships are becoming more superficial and less rewarding.

We are social animals and need to feel that we “belong” to others and feel connected to one another. Social pain is as real a sensation for us as physical pain; researchers have shown that loneliness and rejection activates the same parts of the brain as physical pain.

Loneliness affects all of

us at some point in our lives.

Relocating to a new area, losing a loved one, all key times when people feel lonely. Research suggests that this experience of loneliness is useful to us as it motivates us to reconnect with others and to seek out new friendships to reduce the “social pain” that we feel. But for some, when reconnection is not easy or not possible, if a person is socially isolated, people can remain in this uncomfortable loneliness state for a number of years.

There are a number of myths regarding who experiences loneliness. Certainly all of us feel it from time to time, but it is commonly known that loneliness particularly affects the elderly who may be socially isolated due to decreased mobility and loss of friends

and partners. But it is not often acknowledged that loneliness also effects people at all ages, and is particularly prevalent in the younger years. Studies have shown that between 20 and 80 per cent of young adults report feeling lonely often, which is compared to 40 to 50 per cent in an elderly population.

Another myth is that loneliness is typically associated with being alone, but it also affects people when they are surrounded by others and well-connected socially. This is because loneliness is about the quality rather than the quantity of relationships that we have, so a person may have a lot of friends but still find that their needs for social contact are not met.

So please do not be alone, pick up the phone and act now,

Dinner/Luncheon dates based in Spain founded by Mary Spetch meet new friends by arranging a dinner or luncheon date, with no strings attached. Who knows what’s around the corner, at least you will meet new people and make a new friends. Telephone: 634 315 177 or email dinnerdates2017@ @DinnerDatesSpain gmail.com or on Facebook.

www.facebook.com/dinnerdatesspain

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Lotto lightning strikes twice

By Simon Russell

A family in the Alicante province scooped €750,000 on the “El Nino” New Year lottery, following on from their €60,000 prize in the Christmas “El Gordo” draw.

The winning ticket, number

18442, claimed second prize in last Friday’s draw with twenty members of the Pomares family holding the ticket.

The large Roma family are well known in the small town of Formentera del Segura where many of them reside while other family members live in Alicante city. Once

the news spread many of the winners took to the streets in their pyjamas, toasting their win with champagne while dancing to flamenco music.

The first prize in the draw, ticket number 05685, saw €2 million go to a syndicate in Bilbao while a total of €100 million was handed out overall in prize money in the massive lottery, one of the biggest in the world.

Prison on fire

By Simon Russell

FIRE broke out in a Valencian prison over the New Year period in what has been described as a deliberate act. There were actually two fires, both in the separate cells of two inmates and started at the same time in what authorities say was a planned incident.

The prisoners were in the section of Picassent Jail reserved for the most dangerous offenders and have both been involved in fights, death threats, self-harming and even another arson attack. In this latest incident they set fire to their mattresses and two floors of the prison had to be evacuated.

The men responsible suffered severe

smoke inhalation and burns while several prison officers also suffered less serious injuries, mainly from breathing in the thick smoke. Prison officials were praised by their union and management team alike for managing to control what had the potential to be an extremely serious incident.

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

End of an era Matthew Richards

IN what many Spanish see as one of the last links to the Franco era, the dictator’s daughter died just two days before the end of 2017. Maria Carmen Franco y Polo, aged 91, had been diagnosed with incurable cancer last summer and passed away peacefully at her home in Madrid said a family spokesman.

She was the only daughter

of Francisco Franco who staged a military coup in 1936 and, after the fascists were finally victorious in the ensuing civil war, ruled as a dictator until his death in 1975. Controversially Maria Carmen never condemned her father or his bloody legacy, although most Spanish now look back on the Franco period as a dark time in their countries history. Maria Carmen leaves behind a fortune estimated at â‚Ź500 million and an honorary title, Duchess of Franco.

The future of both the family money and titles has yet to be decided.

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Spanish snow chaos

By Simon Russell

AS the Costa Blanca basked in un-seasonally warm winter weather last week, thousands of people found themselves trapped in their cars as heavy snow fell across the centre of Spain. The unfortunate motorists were stranded on the AP-6 motorway near Madrid for up to 18 hours although emergency services were in attendance throughout, primarily monitoring for more vulnerable passengers such as the young and elderly.

The Spanish Public Works Department has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the incident, with many blaming the toll road operator Iberpistas for the chaos.

Some people have commented that the toll road should have been closed earlier and that there was also a lack of information for drivers involved.

Iberpistas in turn said that many drivers ignored advice such as fitting chains to their car tyres and also that the snowfall was heavier than forecast.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Finance Feature

provided by...

By Tracy Storer

Senior Partner Chorus Financial

The world of investing can be very complex and confusing.

Making the right investment choices however is absolutely paramount to ensuring your long term financial goals can be met. Most people seek a professional Financial Adviser or a Discretionary fund manager to select and manage their investments, but it is always good (and sometimes interesting) to getting a better understanding of the main areas of investing.

Three main possibilities when investing are: • making deposits; • buying fixed interest

securities; and • buying equities.

Each must bear a relatively stable rate of return relationship to the other for the economy to function. Let’s look at how they compare.

Cash Deposits Deposits generally yield less than fixed interest securities for a similar degree of risk, and rarely achieve much real growth over time once tax is taken into account, but funds can be accessed more easily.

Fixed interest securities Fixed interest securities generally yield lower overall returns than equity investments, but have higher returns than deposits; however, they will rarely beat inflation by a significant amount. They tend to be lower risk than equities.

Equities Equity investments will generally achieve returns that are higher than both fixed interest securities and cash deposits over the longer term.

The dividend yield on equities is, however, usually low compared to the yield on fixed interest securities, but both

Chorus Financial are a trading style of Tourbillon Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar), licence Number FSC1118B & registered with the UK FCA, ref. 539348.

dividends and share prices have the potential to grow over time to compensate. There may be a higher level of risk.

There is, therefore, a fixed hierarchy of returns that is unlikely to be breached for any substantial period.

In assessing the choices that are available, the following points should also be considered: Investors’ money tends to move to those areas where it will achieve the best results, in relation to both the risk that is involved and how long investors are prepared to tie up their funds.

There are separate financial markets in each of the main types of investments (cash deposits, fixed interest securities and equities). However, a change in one market, such as an interest

rate change, is almost certain to have repercussions in the others, i.e. a reduction in interest rates could encourage a rise in both fixed interest and equity values, but lower returns from deposits.

Different Roles (See Image) As an adviser, I have a wide range of investment products from which to choose when making a recommendation to a client. Each category of asset has a potential role to play within a client’s overall investment portfolio; however, each has a different risk/return profile.

If you are considering investing or if would like a review of your current investments pop into the office or give me a call on 693 1070 44 or email t.storer@chorusfinancial.es

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Welcoming the Red Cross THE mayor of l’Alfas del Pi has signed an agreement with the Red Cross so that the municipality can take advantage of the many services that they offer. This is their first formal collaboration and has been made with the Benidorm branch of the Red Cross.

Mayor Arques was accompanied at

the signing by fellow councillors and Red Cross Benidorm President Mara Martinez. A budget of €5,000 has been allocated to help the organisation carry out their various duties such as helping local disadvantaged people, medical assistance and providing lifeguards at pools and beaches.

Growing chain ELCHE based supermarket chain Hiperber started the year by continuing its expansion plans and opened a new store in Catral. This is the fourth new store in the last twelve months, following the openings in Onil, Elche and Benejuzar. The Catral market is the chains

67th and their second in the Vega Baja town.

18 new staff will be employed at the store, while a number of indirect jobs are certain to come about. There is parking for 36 vehicles in the 1,150 square meter building which is located on Calle La Pursima.

Centenary celebrations

THE final part of the series of events to mark the 400 years since Altea gained its town charter are being held this weekend.

Yesterday (11 January) saw a presentation of a new book about food and drink down the years in the area.

Friday 12 January sees a presentation by the authors of a second book about Altea and its local materials over the centuries and how

they have influenced the growth of the town. There is also an exhibition of historic papers concerning the towns founding back in 1617; both events start in the Casa de Cultura at 8pm. On Saturday the celebrations come to a musical climax with a Gala Concert premiering the composition “La Casa de la Mar” at 8pm in the Altea Palau auditorium.

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PRINCESS CHARLOT TE FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL Princess Charlotte reportedly marked her first day at London’s Willcocks Nursery School last week, but Prince William and Kate Middleton didn’t treat us to her adorable pictures until today. Kensington Palace shared two priceless photos of the royal two-year-old on her first day, sporting the cutest outfit: a red coat, pink scarf, gray tights, red Mary Janes, a pink backpack, and a little red bow in her hair.

She’s already nailed the poses. This princess knows how to work a camera.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge first announced Charlotte’s plans to attend nursery in December, when they

unveiled their family Christmas card photo. In a statement shared by the royals, Willcocks said it’s “delighted” to have the princess as a student. “We look forward to welcoming Charlotte to our nursery in January,” it said. Similarly, Charlotte’s older brother Prince George had his first day of elementary school in September, at Thomas’s Battersea in London. The four-year-old was also too cute for words when he made his appearance on the school lot, dressed in his uniform and holding his father’s hand.

(Kate Middleton was home suffering from acute morning sickness.)

Back In

DENNIS LOSES MENACE

By Jack Troughton

THE adventures of lovable scamp Dennis the Menace are being calmed down in a ‘PC makeover’ ahead of a new television show.

Loved by generations of readers of the Beano, the schoolboy was known for his mischievous nature, iconic black and red striped jumper and a dog named Gnasher.

However, the spiky-haired youngster is now plain ‘Dennis’ after losing his ‘menacing ways’ on a rebrand by television bosses and is now described as an independent 10-year-old “flawed hero” who fears nothing and makes mistakes in new series Dennis and Gnasher Unleashed.

Dennis first appeared in the Beano in 1951 but in modern times his trademark scowl was replaced

with a cheery grin and readers have also seen him lose some of the tools of the Menace trade – gone are the catapult, peashooter and water pistol – and he no longer torments arch-enemy, the bespectacled Walter Softy.

There is already a backlash against the POC meddling. Comic historian Paul Gravett has warned fans would be “disappointed” by the change and said if characters became politically “too they correct” risked losing their “anarchic appeal”.

Britain LUMLEY TO HOSTS BAFTAS 2018

Joanna Lumley has been revealed as the new host of this year’s Bafta Film Awards.

The Absolutely Fabulous actress, 71, described the opportunity as “unbelievably thrilling” as she prepares to take over from Stephen Fry as the first female host since the ceremony was co-hosted by Mariella Frostrup in 2001.

“Honestly, how exciting is this?”, Lumley said.

“It’s just so unbelievably thrilling. Who thought I’d turn into Stephen Fry? I want to thank Bafta so much for asking me to do this. I said yes indecently quickly.”

Lumley’s involvement in the ceremony comes after Fry confirmed last week that he wouldn’t be returning after a ten year tenure as host.

In a statement, the comedian thanked BAFTA for helping to ‘make every year so enjoyable’. the of one “Every 12 BAFTA Film Award ceremonies that I had the privilege of hosting has a place in my memory,” Fry said.

“The mixture of glamour, glory, drama and – occasionally – embarrassment and hiccup holds a unique place in the British film calendar.

“Over the last two decades I have especially loved watching the emergence of new young film talent behind and in front of the camera.”

Earlier today, the nominations Bafta were revealed for this year’s ceremony with The Shape Of Water leading the charge bagging after 12 nominations Best including Actress for Sally and Hawkins Best Director for Guillermo Del Toro.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

PINT HAS SHORT MEASURES

By Jack Troughton

BREWERS have been urged to ‘reconsider’ the name of their beer, ‘Pint’, because the version sold in cans is less than the traditional measure.

Marble Beers in Manchester received a letter from Trading Standards after it began to sell 500ml cans of the beer early last year; which

is 68ml less than a full pint.

It was told the name of the beer could be “misleading” and has agreed to change the name to satisfy “bureaucratic needs” – having made the beer for a number of years it wanted to avoid a costly legal battle and will also seek advice about selling smaller quantities on draught.

But Manchester ‘beer blogger’ Jim Cullen said the situation was “ludicrous” as the 500ml can was an industry standard and repackaging the can would be costly – all for a single complaint.

It was accepted by the city council that the brewer did not intend to deceive but it could lead to a “small misunderstanding” and advice was offered after a complaint.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia In the swim

By Jack Troughton

RECORD numbers celebrated a 30-year long New Year’s Day tradition with a plunge into the Mediterranean at Javea.

A crowd cheered on over 200 people taking a dip at the Arenal Beach in an event that has become front page news for the Spanish newspapers.

It is now part of the resort’s annual festive calendar and raised more than €2,567 to be shared between local charities including Make a Smile – which supports youngsters in children’s homes – and Javea Youth Rugby.

Nigel and Karen Rushton, of the Advertising Feature For Advertising enquiries please email sales@theweekender.es Lancashire Bruja Bar, have organised the charity event for the 21st year and numbers heading into the Mediterranean were boosted by swimmers Magali Fradet has been practising yoga in a meditation class, but i couldn’t focus taking part on a whim. since 1991 and teaching since 1999. She has on my breath due to a pain in the muscles The swim is supported studied with some of Europe’s best teachers around my right shoulder blade. The wise and has developed her own teaching style, meditation teacher suggested i just leave my by a number of Javea with a focus on mindfulness and wellness for things there and go upstairs to the yoga class. businesses, a beach bucket body & mind.

And there began a long love affair with yoga. collection, sponsorship The more you practice yoga, the more It is undoubtedly the best of my loves as it is relaxation, calm & wellbeing you will consistently satisfying. of swimmers...and the feel. Your body will feel more comfortable, The pain in my upper back soon contents of the bar’s supple and soft. You will also notice better dissolved and yoga has kept my back and balance. other muscles feeling strong & supple ever swear box.

Botanico Wellness Center

Yoga classes with Magali Fradet teacher

Emotionally-speaking your self-esteem will increase as you achieve postures you thought were difficult. You will thus feel more content.

A regular yoga practice allows us to create a connection between movement, our breathing rythm & our awareness. This connection brings a sense of wholeness which is deeply fulfilling and satisfying.

I first went to yoga class because i was

since. And no matter what storms life sends my way, yoga is something i’ve always come back to. It soothes and calms me through the difficult times, and empowers me when times are easier.

But hey, don’t take my word for it! Come & find out for yourself.

New yoga classes daily at Botanico Beauty 9€.

Botánico Beauty Wellness Center, Villa del Mar Javea, Av. del Mediterráneo, 60, 03738 Jávea, Alicante Tel: +34.965059994 info@botanicobeauty.com www.botanicobeauty.com

Nigel, who leads the race into the water each year armed with a reviving hip flask, emerged from the water to report on conditions and said: “It was absolutely freezing! Quite a lot of people went in and came straight out.

“But it was great to see so many people taking part and a huge crowd on the beach supporting the swimmers.”

Cocaine stash found search the man’s residence. During their search the police found just AFTER arresting a man in Javea under 700 grams of cocaine, most who was carrying a relatively small wrapped and ready for sale. They amount of cocaine authorities raided also confiscated cash and a mobile his home and found a much larger phone; the man has been detained quantity of the drug. The 29-year- awaiting charges. old Spaniard was originally stopped by the Guardia Civil after acting suspiciously and they found he was carrying 25 grams of cocaine.

However they believed this was for sale rather than personal use as it was wrapped and the judicial authority granted permission to

By Simon Russell

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia

Della heads home

By Jack Troughton

DELLA the Turtle has returned to the Mediterranean five months after being rescued from a tangle of plastic and fishing lines two miles off the Javea coast.

Scores gathered on the beach at Granadella to watch the aquatic reptile head home after recovering from serious injuries suffered during her ordeal.

However, the adventure did cost the turtle a front fin, which needed to be amputated during her stay at the ‘hospital’ ARCA de Mar, part of the Oceanografic Foundation in Valencia, a specialist service for the recovery of cetaceans and turtles – although her prognosis is good and it should not hamper her chances of survival.

Della was brought ashore in August when a group of youngsters sailing

off Cabo de la Nao came across the trapped turtle; the rescuers used the 112 emergency number to alert the local police and officers helped them pull her from the water before putting an established protocol into practice.

And Della’s release was the first – and popular – act of the ‘Xabia 2017’ project developed by the Oceanografic for the town aimed at giving value to marine biodiversity in the area with a programme of research and education.

It meant the return of the turtle to her natural habitat with one of the people who found her and a policeman who took part in the rescue joined by Mayor Jose Chulvi and councillors for safety Pepa Gisbert and the environment Doris Courcelles – as well as dozens of

curious children and adults.

Della took her name from Granadella and the cove was chosen for her release because of its environmental value and ‘good practice’ initiated over the years to protect it from human pressures – as well as being an area of outstanding natural beauty.

More than just window dressing

By Simon Ruseell

MANY of Javea’s Old Town shops took part in the competition for the best window display over the festive period organised by the towns Merchants Association.

The participating designs were on display from 6 December to 6 January and the winners were announced last Monday, the first day of post-Christmas trading.

The €200 first prize went to La Faltriqeura costumiers, the runner-up, which received €125, was Azul Marino and third place was awarded to Insieme which won €75.

Consolation prizes of €50 also went to FarmaciaEspinos and La Tallarina.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Local lookout

Benidorm Benidorm in the flesh

By SImon Russell

THE stage version of the hit comedy show “Benidorm” has announced its dates and venues for the second half of 2018. Many of the cast familiar from the show will be reprising their TV roles including Sherrie Hewson (Solana manageress Joyce), Jake Canuso (barman Mateo) and Tony Maudsley (hairdresser Ian). Derren

Little, who has been the show’s head writer from its inception in 2007, is the man behind the live shows script.

The first show is in Newcastle from 7 September and the other destinations so far confirmed are Edinburgh, Stoke on Trent, Dublin, Hull, Milton Keynes, Plymouth, Bradford, Southampton, Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester and Birmingham. For further details see http://www.benidormonstage.com/

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Local lookout

Benidorm

Bus Lane U-Turn But for how long?

More Work For Avenue Mediterraneo BENIDORM’S central Avenida Mediterraneo has been a major talking point

since its redevlopment started last year. Whilst there were a number of improvements, including a dedicated cycle path and

roundabout, the council department in charge decided that it would be more efficient to dedicate one of the two main lanes to

buses and bicycles - despite bicycles having a seperate path - forcing traffic to merge along the Rincon end of the avenue into one lane.

After much contreversy,with residents complaining about more congestion and the bus lane being empty most of the time, it was also pointed out that many road uses were ignoring the road markings with no police enforcing the change.

Over the festive period eagle-eyed residents have seen that the road markings are no more and have been scrubbed off and painted over, returning the Mediterraneo back to its dual lane format.

Despite the recent work the town hall has been presented with a complete remoddling of the road and pedistrian area by the UTE Esteyco-GuĂ­a Consultores .

The renovation of the road, which covers 1.8 kilometers, from Puente Street to Ametlla de Mar, will cost 23 million euros.

Scheduled for 2018 the plan includes improvements for summer visitors with wider pavements, canopys, improved street furniture, lighting and lots of trees.

However the plans do not say that the traffic will be reduced back to one lane in both directions.



By Simon Russell

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Local lookout

Tree trouble

By Matthew Richards

GALE force wind knocked over several trees in Benidorm this week and caused the closure of one of the city’s main tourist areas. Elche Park - Dove Park as many locals call it – took the brunt of the damage and was closed to visitors for safety reasons.

Councillor Lorenzo Martinez said that thankfully no one was hurt and the council needed to ensure there was no further danger of falling branches which necessitated the closure. As well as the trees, some Benidorm

buildings suffered damage while beach furniture in the Elche Park stretch of sand was also broken. Roads across the city were also blocked, and had to be closed or partially closed as debris was removed.

Benidorm Shoe-in for a good deed

By Simon Russell

THE Benidorm Club de Leones (Lions Club) have donated 168 pairs of sports shoes to the local branch of the Caritas charity, which are to be distributed a m o n g s t disadvantaged children in the area by staff.

The cities Social Welfare Councillor, Angela Llorca, attended the ceremony when

the donation was made by the Club de Leones current President Vicent Savall. The club have been making similar donations each festive season in collaboration with local charities and other associations.

An ending and a new start

By Simon Russell

BENIDORM’S fifth Employment Workshop ended in the first week in January with Mayor Perez and other councillors attending an event to mark the conclusion. Ten previously unemployed residents completed the year long course, receiving a basic salary funded by the SERVEF employment office. They each obtained certificates confirming their skills in

administration and general customer services. All of the 10 did on the job training throughout the course and were posted through Benidorm in workplaces such as the local police station, employment offices and Town Hall.

Following on from this the sixth workshop has now started, this time hiring and training 40 people from the city. There are actually two courses this year, one on gardening (nurseries and garden centres) and the other focusing on local tourism. The gardening students will be receiving hands on training by working on the Sequia Mare landscaping project. The tourism students will be based in the Tourist Information Offices and Town Hall Tourism Department.

Going Dutch

By Matthew Richards

BENIDORM’S Tourism Foundation will have a stall at the Vakentiebeurs Tourism Fair at Utrecht in the Netherlands from 9 to 14 January. This is the fifth year in a row they have been at the important fair and it is the Foundations first overseas trip this year.

The Benidorm promotion forms part of the larger area at the fair promoting Valencia as a whole. Benidorm will continue its policy of promoting the city as a destination for sports as well as beaches and gastronomy. Last year about 120,000 people attended the fair which caters for tourism professionals on the first two days and opens its door to the general public for the last three.

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Local lookout

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Alfas, Albir & Altea

Costly storm damage Generous pensioners

By Simon Russell

THE estimated cost of the damage caused by the severe storms at the beginning of last year and end of 2015 in Alfaz is €100,000. The Valencian Generalitat has agreed to pay about

a quarter of this sum in a grant of €24,272, which Town Hall spokesman Toni Such described as very welcome.

The two main areas where the money will need to be spent are Albir beach and Parque de los Eucaliptos.

The park, which houses the municipal sports centre, sustained damage to walls, trees and the café. At the beach, boulders washed in by the heavy seas caused damage to walkways, ramps and foot-baths.

By Simon Russell

THE association of retired Pensioner Householders in l’Alfas del Pi has donated €500 to local parents group that caters for special needs children.

The Marina Baixa Parents Association helps children and families affected by autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and pervasive development disorders (PDD) in the region.

The money was collected in various special events held throughout 2017 and the cheque was presented at a ceremony attended by Mayor Vicente Arques as well as representatives

from both the pensioners and parents associations. The money will be used to help implement various programmes and activities this year.

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Business & Finance

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By Jack Troughton

TWO of Theresa May’s big guns, the dreadnoughts Philip Hammond and David Davies, are in Germany to make the case for a tailor-made Brexit deal for the vital financial services sector.

Chancellor Hammond and Mr Davis, the Brexit Secretary, were men on a mission as they went to meet business leaders and bankers in Berlin. Their target is the “most ambitious” economic partnership in the world.

The European Union has continually warned that the UK cannot cherry-pick the kind of arrangement it wants after leaving the bloc in March next year but the two government envoys are to stress the importance of supporting financial supervision across borders and preventing banking fragmentation.

The second phase of Brexit negotiations covering the transitional arrangements after the UK leaves and future economic and security cooperation do not officially start until March.

However, Mrs May’s two battleships are on a mission. They may be on opposing sides of the Brexit argument within government but are close allies and are united in their determination to lay down a marker for forthcoming talks when they addressed the Die Welt Economic Summit.

Messrs Davis and Hammond are aiming to highlight the important economic relationship with Germany and its future.

They are also likely to get a sympathetic ear as they are preaching to the converted.

Germany’s business community – especially its mighty car manufacturing industry – is extremely worried about the implications of Brexit for its own exports.

The Chancellor and Brexit Secretary set out their position ahead of the summit as they penned an article for a powerful German newspaper and accepting things could not be the same after the UK cease to be a member of the EU club.

Instead, they insist the EU’s stated desire to protect the integrity of the single market for the remaining 27 states was “not inconsistent” with the UK’s own desire to insure the most comprehensive agreement possible.

The pair wrote: “It makes no sense to either Germany or Britain to put in place

By Jack Troughton

unnecessary barriers to trade in goods and services that would only damage businesses and economic growth on both sides of the channel.

“So as Brexit talks now turn to trade, the UK will look to negotiate a new economic partnership with the EU – the most ambitious in the world – that recognises the extraordinary levels of interconnectedness and cooperation that already exist between us.

“When we leave the EU, we will leave the Customs Union and Single Market, but in agreeing a new model of cooperation, we should not restrict us to models and deals that already exist between us.”

They argued that using “imagination and ingenuity” it was possible to “craft a bespoke solution” to find a deal that maximised economic cooperation while minimising any addition friction.

Mr Davis has already looked at Canada’s low-tariff free trade deal with the EU but his model is described as ‘Canada plus, plus, plus’ – and he wants services in the package as well as goods.

Both Mr Davis and Mr Hammond are adamant that unrestricted trade in services; making up 80% of the UK economy, must be a central part of any successful deal forged at the negotiating table.

And they argued the case of the 2008 banking crisis where cooperation halted financial contagion across Europe – saying continued financial and regulatory cooperation was essential after Brexit to ensure Europe continued to “lead the world” in banking supervision.

“That work should not end because the UK is leaving the EU,” they added. “On the contrary; we must re-double our efforts to ensure that we do not put hard-earned financial stability at risk – by getting a deal that supports collaboration within the European banking sector rather than forcing it to fragment.”

The EU has warned the City of London cannot be a special case. UK-based banks are worried they will lose ‘passporting’ rights to trade freely in the EU...it may lead to offices being opened in Europe but European banks are already eying office space in the Square Mile.

By Jack Troughton

COMPUTER giant apple has admitted all iPhones, iPads and Mac computers are affected by two major flaws in microchips; the essential processing unit.

The chips are infected with two bugs; and tech companies have been racing to fix the ‘Meltdown’ and ‘Spectre’ infections that could allow hackers to steal data.

B i l l i o n s of computers, smartphones and tablets around the world are affected – Apple has now confirmed its products are too; the manufacturer has already released patches to deal with the Meltdown flaw and a fix for Spectre is imminent.

Apple has said there was no evidence the problem had led hackers exploiting the issue but has advised customers to only download software from trusted sources to avoid malicious apps.

The Meltdown and Spectre flaws are found in many modern microchips

made by Intel and ARM, the two firms supplying almost the entire global computer market – Mac users often believed their machines were less vulnerable to security issues than people with gadgets such as Android ‘phones or Microsoft systems.

In a blog, Apple said all MAC and iOS devices were affected but no known “exploits” had “impacted” on customers. “These issues apply to all modern processors and affect nearly all computing devices and operating systems.”

The Apple Watch was said to be unaffected. Meanwhile Google and Microsoft have already issued statements to customers underlining which products are affected by the bugs.

Google said its Android phones – which are more than 80% of the global market – were protected if users had the latest security updates and Microsoft has already released fixes for many of its services.

Current guidance from CERT, the United States cybersecurity unit and funded by the federal government, is for users to “apply patches” to protect against attacks.

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

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Business & Finance

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TIPS FOR INVESTING Here are some tips to take on-board when you are investing.

By Christina Brady

BLACKTOWER Financial Management

There is no doubt that when it comes to the world of investing, there are three words that come to mind: overwhelming, intimidating and scary. The terminology used can be confusing and it’s difficult to know who you can trust.

At the moment placing money that you need to generate income or growth in a savings account, is quite frankly just not an option.

Just look at interest rates being offered in the UK and Europe on savings accounts, they are at an all-time low, and inflation is rising.

• Diversification is key, never put all your eggs in one basket, for investing this means never put all your money into just one fund or investment opportunity. Make sure your investments are spread over different sectors and regions, this helps manage your risk.

• Never invest in anything that you are told is a sure bet, with no risk and high returns. You risk losing everything as in the world of investing there is no such thing as a sure bet. If it sounds too good to be true then IT IS. • Take care if you invest with a company that cold calls you, or sends you unsolicited emails or brochures via the post. Ask yourself why are they resorting to

methods that all regulatory bodies frown on and in the case of cold calling are looking to ban.

• Liquidity is key so that you can react to market changes.

• Unless you are an experienced investor don’t invest in Structured Notes, as with 99% of them a large percentage or all of your capital is at risk. You could end up with nothing when they mature.

• Use funds that match your own requirements and needs, for example if you need income look at income funds, if you primarily want growth look at accumulation funds. A good investment manager will pick funds to match your requirements.

• If possible use an investment adviser/firm that has a good track record. Longevity , experience and

independence = peace of mind. New companies appear all the time but ask yourself how long are they likely to be around.

• Always have an annual financial health check. At least once a year you should receive a valuation of your investment from the Bond/ Policy provider either directly or via your Financial Adviser - do NOT accept an email confirming a value.

• Make sure that all investment recommendations are given to you in writing and that you understand them, if you don’t ask for clarification, if you still are unsure just walk away.

• Don’t be talked into doing something by a smooth salesperson when your gut instinct says it isn’t for you. You deserve good advice.

At Blacktower Financial Management we believe in

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

simplifying the complicated, we will make sure you understand exactly what we are recommending and why, we will be by your side both now and in the future.

If you have any questions regarding investing, or would like to arrange an independent, professional and impartial consultation please contact me by email christina.brady@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330 .

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

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

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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Out & About

FRIDAY 24TH NOV 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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Out & About

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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Majestic star turn

By Jack Troughton

SPAIN welcomed the Three Kings on the ‘MAGIcal’ night of January 5th when excited children – and adults – welcome the mysterious visitors from the Orient and the gifts they bring.

Cities, towns, and villages stage traditional celebrations to mark the Biblical story of the visit of the Wise Men to the Bethlehem stable and the presentation of their gifts to Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus.

Crowds of excited youngsters grip carrier bags at the side of streets, ready to pounce on the sweets being thrown from those participating in the parades; many knowing they will later have the opportunity to meet the kings themselves – Melchior, Gaspar or Balthazar – later in the evening to receive a token present and safe in the knowledge there will be a regal visit to their homes on the Twelfth Night of Christmas...leaving more gifts.

Traditionally, Three Kings is bigger than Christmas Day and the northern interloper Santa Claus; Spaniards – backed by many people celebrating around the globe – believe the night, the eve of the Christian festival of Epiphany, is closer to the true Bible story.

The parades mark the official

end of the festive period ahead of the final ‘fiesta’ day of the Christmas holidays, still a huge family occasion.

There are photo opportunities at every stage for families as kids’ modern heroes – from film blockbusters like the Minions of the Despicable Me franchise, and characters from Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, and other Disney favourites – mix with the kings and their royal entourages.

And there is always a certain charm too; who can resist flocks of geese, donkeys, goats, sheep and ponies.

Jalon

La Nucia Jalon

Javea

Jalon

Javea

Javea

Javea

Carol Thorn (left) with Jacqui Phillips

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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The artist and the royal

By Jack Troughton

ART lovers are invited to investigate the brilliance of 17th Century Spanish painter Diego Velazquez and the royal who became his patron at a special Costa Blanca lecture.

Fine art historian Karla Darocas presents Velazquez and the Decline of the Habsburg Empire on Wednesday 24th January at the Javea International Baptist Church Centre.

She aims to explore the time through the artist and the “rotting royal” who backed his talent – Karla is the principal teacher at Spain Lifestyle, which offers adult education to lifelong learners.

Diego Velázquez an admired painter and possessed a miraculous gift for conveying a sense of truth and humanity in his realistic works. His patron was Philip IV of Spain and Portugal.

And as well as being Philip’s royal court painter, Diego served his King through a range of responsibilities from wardrobe assistant to superintendent of palace works.

Philip IV was a Habsburg and his family-based empire dominated Europe politically and militarily for much of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. But by the time Philip was crowned in 1621, the Habsburg Empire was in recession fuelled by bad debts due to poor economic advice and judgement as well as being rocked by illnesses and deaths.

The royal added to the decline by overspending on luxury items and racking up debt on excessive displays of decadence. He further contributed to the degeneration through an inability to achieve successful domestic and military reform.

On the eve of his death in 1665, the Spanish Empire had reached approximately 12.2 million square kilometres

- 4.7 million square miles - in area but it was in shambles, emotionally decayed and socially rotten.

The presentation is on Wednesday 24th January. Doors open at 10am for coffee and the lecture starts at 10.30am at the JIBC Church Centre in Carrer Favara in Javea Old Town. Entrance is €10, to cook call 648 156 066 or visit SpainLifestyle.com – take a friend for free in a special two for one offer.

Wealth distribution - Careline Theatre

By Jack Troughton

Steal from the rich and give to the poor is the motto of a merry band of outlaws led by the one and only Robin Hood and it’s time to enjoy the story.

Careline Theatre’s ‘Robin Hood – The Panto’ opens next week has all the ingredients of a traditional pantomime and is sure to be another seasonal hit with audiences at the group’s Alcalali theatre.

Directed by Marian Carter, opening night next Thursday evening marks a more recent tradition; Careline’s ‘Party at the Panto’, raising money for Costa Blanca charities.

Javea Players Neighbourhood watch

By Jack Troughton

ACTRESS Alison Skilbeck uses all her professional talent and a sprinkling of comic magic dust to bring four characters to life in a one-woman show coming to the Costa Blanca this month.

There is a common thread – beyond the fact the quartet all live in London’s SW11, the trendy Battersea are of the capital.

Comedy actress Miranda Hart has recommended the show; simply saying: “Go see how character comedy acting is done!”

And, presented by

Javea Players, Alison will introduce audiences to: Claire, a diplomat’s former wife struggling to come to terms with her husband’s desertion for a younger woman; Sofia an Italian café owner trying to move up in the world but somewhat hampered by ‘Mama’; Sara, a new-Age therapist who needs to try some of her own ‘medicine’; and finally Sam, a hard-nosed business woman, who always goes home alone.

‘Are There More of You’ is performed at Javea Players’ Studio Theatre from January 22nd to 27th at 8pm each evening and is the work of an

actress who has worked with Ayckbourn, teaches at RADA and has a finely-tuned eye; casting a spell with her perfectly ‘alive’ characters.

Tickets are €12 and available via www.javeaplayers.com.

Alternatively, email boxoffice@ javeaplayers.com, or call 86 552 8551.

Javea restaurant La Cocina offers a special pre-theatre dinner from 6pm each night. A two-course menu is €16 or €19 for three courses including a half bottle of wine. The menu can be seen at www.lacocinajavea. com – click on Javea Players for details – bookings taken on 96 579 5140.

Donations from the production will give a helping hand to Help of Denia and the Marina Alta, the MABS Cancer support group, and Jalon Valley Help. Careline is proud to have supported local charity to the tune of €57,000 since 2006.

The show opens on Thursday 18th January until Sunday 21st January at 8pm, with matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday, the 20th and 21st of January, at 3pm.

Tickets are €12, children under 10-years-old €8, and pre-paid groups of 10 or more adults are €11. To reserve seats call the Box Office on 605 181 726 or email carelineboxoffice@gmail.com.

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Refresh

Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing

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Processionary Caterpillars On The Move With such a warm winter it is not surprising that these critters are already being spotted around the Costa Blanca.

These caterpillars represent a public health hazard because they have thousands of hairs which contain an irritating protein called thaumetopoein. These hairs can be blown by the wind into contact with people and animals, resulting in painful skin irritations and rashes and, in some cases, allergic reactions in some people and animals.

They are native to, and until recently were only found in the Mediterranean region, North Africa, and some areas of the Middle East and southern Europe. In Spain especially, they are a huge problem. They feed off the needles of pine trees and it is very easy to spot their nests. Looking at a pine tree, if you see a white ball, which resembles cotton wool or candy floss, that is them.

More commonly referred to as the pine processionary caterpillar as its name implies, they are a kind of caterpillar that lives on the tree tops of Pine Trees. The word processionary comes from the fact that they lineup forming long caterpillar lines that can reach several meters long, although generally they only measure around a centimeter in length. If you come

across them, do not touch them! Warn your children that they are not like the friendly English caterpillars. The very fine hairs on these creatures are poisonous and most dangerous.

They are most noticeable from January to mid-April and are at their most dangerous in mid/late February.

The caterpillars are often seen in the evenings, walking in procession from tree to tree. If they drop onto you or your pet, don’t brush them off with your hands because the effect is most unpleasant, causing great irritation, rash and pain.

Dogs, cats and people can suffer from shock. The hairs of the caterpillars are still very harmful even when the creatures are dead. Do not hit them with sticks because hairs flying in the air are just as dangerous.

Burn them, but be careful of floating hairs.

Most council’s in Spain take this problem very seriously and they will be trimming the pine trees and treating them so that they are not infested. So when you are out with your dogs, keep a look-out for the nests in the trees or a line of caterpillars following each other. If you spot them, get your dog away from them instantly or it could prove to be an extremely painful lesson for our four legged friends as well as for us.

Style it out with specs If your New Year’s Resolution was to change your look or make a statement, then your glasses are a great place to start.

Red or Dead demonstrate how to style your look with quirky, fashion-forward frames and challenge the norm with eyewear.

Give classic tortoiseshell specs a colourful twist. When it comes to mixing textures and colours - the sky’s the limit.

Don’t be afraid to be bold when it comes to mixing prints. These eye-catching hot pink frames are the perfect accessory.

Round eye frames are a key trend this season. These vintage-inspired glasses are a great finish for any party look.

Team these dark red frames with a sports-luxe look to stand out from the crowd.

Block colours make a real statement.

These oversized blue frames will ensure all eyes are on you.

Red or Dead is a unique, daring and accessible brand with a healthy attitude.

Its cutting-edge design and innovative approach set a standard which others can only follow. The range explores three different themes: Cloud Cuckoo Land, Outspoken Youth and No Era for a selection of quirky and fashion-forward frames.

Red or Dead glasses are available at Specsavers Opticas with 2 for 1 from 129€.

Find Specsavers Opticas in Javea, Calpe, Benidorm, Guardamar and Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca.

Specsavers Locations Xàbia 966 46 34 20 Open until 5:30 PM

Torrevieja 966 92 72 49 Open until 8:00 PM

Guardamar del Segura 965 08 32 73 Open until 8:00 PM

Calpe 965 83 53 67 Open until 8:00 PM

Benidorm 965 85 95 77 Open until 8:30 PM

More details at www.specsavers.es

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing

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YOUR CONCERN IS MY CONCERN

Vanessa Sexual Health Advisor Family Medical Centre - Albir

Discussing sexual problems with a health professional you may find this embarrassing? However, it is important not to suffer in silence.

Sexual problems can badly affect your quality of life. All you need to do is take the initiative and contact Vanessa, discuss this and give her your information so she is able to come to a diagnosis and recommend treatment. All information you give will be strictly confidential and not given to anyone else, even a spouse or parent without your permission.

You need to explain exactly what the problem is rather than making your own diagnosis.

You may find it embarrassing to talk to someone about health problems? Sometimes even a good friend, partner, or family, you cannot bring yourself to mention your health concerns so it is important that you have a professional, kind person to help you, who is trained in this subject. Yes Vanessa at the Family Health Centre is waiting to hear from you. Many think that if it is not spoken

about and the subject forgotten, it will go away but it won’t. We all think we will deal with that tomorrow but tomorrow never comes and just to speak to Vanessa she will guide you in the right direction to keep you healthy. After all it is your body you need to look after.

It is important that you discuss this with Vanessa Harvey, the Sexual Health Advisor at the Family Medical Centre, Albir. Give her a call, you will find her so helpful and you are taking an important step in the right direction.

A sexual problem, or sexual dysfunction, refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle and at any age.

Sometimes work-related stress and anxiety can cause marital or relationship problems, depression, feelings of guilt, and the effects of a past sexual trauma.

Both men and women are affected by sexual problems. Sexual problems occur in adults of all ages. Among those commonly affected are those in the geriatric population, which may be related to a decline in health associated with aging. It is always advisable to get in touch about your sexual health problem whatever it maybe to get these problems treated.

No one is unique it can happen to us all. Do something about it, Call Vanessa you know it makes sense!!

Taking this opportunity could change your world.

Throughout January the Family Medical Centre, Albir are offering 15% discount of all S.T.I. testing Appointments essential 966 865 072

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing

BAGS FOR LIFE

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APROP ANIMAL SHELTER Meet Sultan, who came to the shelter with his daughter Dulce.

They were always inseparable until Dulce got adopted.

It was heart wrenching to see Sultan left behind and so sad.

Sultan is approx 5yrs old, castrated, sociable and gentle dog.

He needs a home of his own ASAP - Contact 605 575 883.

THE Jalon Valley A.R.C. animal charity raised a fantastic €1,060 on two special bag packing days at the Benissa branch of Iceland in the run up to Christmas. The money was raised by shoppers donations as a “thank you” to the team of packers and the cash will go a long way to helping the animals currently in the care of ARC. The ARC team would like to thank Penny, the Benissa Iceland manager, and all her staff for allowing their volounteers to carry out their work. They would also like to thank the volounteers themselves, all supporters of the charity and finally the members of the public who donated over the two days.

Residencia canina y felina Boarding kennel & Cattery

Since nce 11977 97 desde/si

7

RESIDENCIA CANINA Y FELINA BOARDING KENNEL & CATTERY Habitaciones individuales Ozono Hilo musical Calefacción Parques ajardinados Servicio a domicilio Admitimos todas las razas

Individual rooms Ozono Music Heated floor system Landscaped playgrounds Free home delivery service All types of dogs & cats allowed

31

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 Family | Garden | Health | Home | Style | Wellbeing

Refresh

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> All editions of “Gardening on the Costa Blanca” can be found at www.weekender.news/CBGC or visit

GARDENING ON THE COSTA BLANCA - Part 22 Here are the answers to Part 21’s cryptic quiz:1. Rosemary.

2. Thrift.

3. Daisy.

4. Mint.

5. Phlox.

6. Hyacinth.

7. Daisy.

8. Deadly nightshade.

9. Daffodil.

10. Sage.

11. Wallflower.

12. Hollyhock.

13. Bluebell.

14. Violet.

15. Tulips.

16. Sweet William.

17. Parsnip.

18. Dandelion.

19. Leek.

20. Broom.

21. Carnation.

22. Cornflower.

23. Rose.

24. Foxglove.

25. Primrose.

26. Forget-me-not.

27. Stocks.

28. Iris.

29. Lupin.

30. Pimpernel.

Some, admittedly, are rather corny.

The answers to the other quiz are :1. Wales.

2. Part of Chile, California, southwest Australia, parts of South Africa.

3. Autumn.

4. Plentiful water applied at infrequent intervals.

5. Bignonia.

6. Oleander.

7. Going dormant in summer as opposed to hibernation.

8. Freesia.

9. Pelargoniums are tender perennials and occur naturally almost entirely within South Africa whereas Geraniums are mostly hardy perennials from more northern climes.

10. Geranium Bronze Butterfly.

11. 7 (seven).

12. Airplants.

13. Pale Green.

14. Water shoots are juvenile adventurous branches that shoot straight up and out of the canopy. They often have huge thorns and big leaves and originate from above the graft.

15. Thunbergia alata and Rudbeckia hirta.

www.costablancagardeners.weebly.com

for more information.

the India rubber plant) which is slightly toxic. A persistent urban legend claims that it is highly poisonous (based on the alleged death of an infant who ate a leaf in 1919) but all investigations (and it is perhaps the most highly tested plant of all) say that this is untrue and that you would have to eat a considerable number of leaves to have any effect. As the leaves taste extremely bitter, it is unlikely that you would ever get that far!

Poinsettias (See Images Below) Poinsettias come principally from the central area of Mexico and are named after Joel Poinsett who was the American ambassador to Mexico in the 1820s. Although the plant was originally named after him, it was subsequently decided that it was a Euphorbia and specifically named ‘pulcherrima’ which We are a friendly group who enjoy means most beautiful (the gardening and gardens. Our meetings are old name seems to have normally held on the 1st Wednesday of each stuck though, doesn’t it). month from October to June in Meeting Like most Euphorbias it Room (Aula) 1 on the 1st floor of La exudes a milky sap (rubber Senieta in Moraira next to the free car park is commercially extracted used for the Market on Fridays. Meetings from a Euphorbia, not from commence at 2:30 pm and finish at about the Ficus commonly called 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 Please contact Joan Birch on 697 320 169 for details.

32

Relax

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles | TV

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

What’s ON TV

The Wine Show

NEW SERIES Actors Matthew Goode and James Purefoy travel to the south of France to find wines to accompany a six-course lunch chosen by Michelinstarred chef Stephane Reynaud. Under the guidance of wine critic Jancis Robinson, their first task is to find a wine to accompany the pre-lunch snacks. In the charming, picturesque village of Cotignac in Provence, they sample some excellent rose wine.

Meanwhile, wine expert Joe Fattorini and comedian Gina Yashere are in Santa Barbara, California, learning how a cup of coffee can predict what kind of wine a person might like

Channel 5 8:00pm Fri 12 Jan

A Vicar’s Life

NEW SERIES Documentary following the day-to-day lives of vicars in the diocese of Hereford, detailing the challenges they face in their work.

In the first edition Matthew Stafford persuades a local hairdresser and her fiance to get married in church, who works in a small Shropshire market town, Ruth cares for a terminally ill churchwarden, while Nicholas Lowton has to deal with a break-in and theft of priceless church records

ITV2 11:00pm Fri 15th Dec

Room 101

NEW SERIES Frank Skinner returns

with the light-hearted panel show in which three celebrities argue the case for having their pet hates banished for ever to the fictional room.

ITV 11:00pm Fri 15th Dec

Take Me Out

Dan, a gymnast from London, Sean, a bird-watcher from Manchester, Yorkshire-based pig-farmer Jimmy, and Worcester vintage car enthusiast Karim all seek a turn in Paddy McGuinness’s `love lift’.

ITV London 7:45pm Sat 13 Jan

Hugh’s Wild West Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall continues his wildlife expedition in the West Country, turning his attention to the curious creatures of the Jurassic Coast, and the local conservationists dedicated to their care. Resident fishermen help Hugh devise a plan to witness the odd behaviour of cuttlefish up-close, and on the shingle expanse of Chesil Beach, a team of volunteers works to ensure nesting terns are able to raise their young in safety

BBC2 7:00pm Sat 13 Jan

Queen Victoria’s Last Love: Abdul Karim

The monarch’s relationship with Indian servant Abdul Karim. He was initially employed as a waiter but soon rose to become Victoria’s confidant and teacher, giving her daily lessons in Hindustani.

His position violated racial and class taboos of the period, and the presence of a Muslim at the heart of the royal household caused problems for the politics of Empire, leading to a dramatic confrontation between the Queen and her family in 1897, which threatened to disrupt her Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Narrated by Geoffrey Palmer

Channel 4 9:00pm Sat 13 Jan

33

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 TV | Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

Relax

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

V This Week

All T i Show mes n Ar e Span ish

Man Like Mobeen

Next of Kin

about a reformed drug dealer trying to look after his younger sister Aks, despite his murky past constantly catching up with him.

Mobeen receives an unexpected visit from the armed police, who arrest his friend Eight for dealing drugs to children. Mobeen refuses to reveal who the real culprit is a stance he has cause to regret when Aks follows his example

ITV London 10:00pm Mon 15 Jan

BAGPUSS NEW SERIES Sitcom

BBC1 00:30pm Sunday Night (Mon 15 Jan)

Still Open All Hours

Mr Newbold shuts himself in his house to avoid Mrs Featherstone.

Granville decides that his terrified neighbour might be more open to the widow’s advances if he thought she had an exciting past - so decides to invent one. Eric and Cyril take up tandem cycling, Mavis shows an interest in Victorian cheese slicers, and Leroy’s latest task involves dressing up as a banana.

BBC1 8:30pm Sun 14 Jan

McMafia

Benny uncovers information about a shipment of heroin being smuggled from Pakistan into India.

He does not realise that Dilly is spying on him, and after a robbery, gains all the information he needs to pull off a heist - however Semiyon warns that it is Alex’s decision whether the operation goes ahead.

BBC1 10:00pm Sun 14 Jan

Having secretly got in touch with Danny in Lahore, Mona is approached by police counterterrorism chief Vivien Barnes to travel to Pakistan and identify Kareem’s body. Despite her husband Guy’s resistance, Mona immediately flies out and tries to make contact with her nephew, but when she absconds from a Lahore mortuary to attend a rendezvous with Danny, the GP’s search leads her to a remote part of the city and grave danger.

The Undateables

Trainee accountant and Bollywood fanatic Nisar has a stammer, but feels the time is right to face his fear of talking to girls so he can find a partner, while PhD art student Daniel has Asperger’s and is determined to be in a relationship. Fashionista Fatima was born with achondroplasia, a common form of dwarfism, and dreams of meeting a man who will be proud to be seen with her.

Channel 4 10:00pm Mon 15 Jan

School for Stammerers

Documentary following the emotional journeys of six people as they attempt to gain control of their stammers. A lorry driver, a teacher, a pharmacist, a professional photographer and two schoolboys have all agreed to undergo a course that claims it can transform a stammerer’s speech in just four days. The McGuire Programme is an intensive and emotionally-charged residential course run by former stammerers, using physical and psychological techniques, which can lead to life-changing results - but is not for the faint-hearted

ITV 10:30pm Mon 15 Jan

34

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Relax

Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

QUICK CROSSWORD

Across 1 Flaws (7) 5 Jeer (5) 8 Conductor’s stick (5) 9 Paint solvent (7) 10 Frankness (7) 11 Terminated (5) 12 Antagonism (6) 14 Capsicum (6) 18 Latin American dance (5) 20 Hampered (7) 22 Zealot (7) 23 Move furtively (5) 24 Jeremy --, film star (5) 25 Sorrow (7)

Down 1 Fiasco (7) 2 Belong (3,2) 3 Cease functioning (4,3) 4 Giant planet (6) 5 River of Paris (5) 6 Confessed (5,2) 7 Sacked (5) 13 Keepsake (7) 15 Uncovered (7) 16 Satisfaction for wrong or injury (7) 17 Olympic throwing event (6) 18 Civilian dress (5) 19 Vows (5) 21 Evade (5)

For Puzzle Answers - See Page 42

Sudoku

Easy

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1 Insect observed coming back quietly (4) 3 Question when coming round? We hear about Military Intelligence (5,2,1) 9 Four or six in rehearsal? That’s not important (7) 10 Forge item in Victorian village (5) 11 Stick at home for French sculptor (5) 12 Haunt bad bosses? (6) 14 Wandering tribe rehoused in islands (5,8) 17 Being short of money, it can be difficult to get out of bed (4,2) 19 Left one million? It is the maximum amount (5) 22 One who does no work may be riled (5) 23 Attribute first letter to old writer (7) 24 Playful kids here made a loud noise (8) 25 Worker entertaining Durham’s first venerable historian (4)

Medium

Down

1 Battle station (8) 2 Cast one kept in outbuilding (5) 4 Don’t speak — otherwise do speech alone (4,4,5) 5 Gathers spare change (5) 6 Recommended arrangement for Dave and Sid (7) 7 Man, for example, in Paisley (4) 8 Victor gets western part of target (6) 13 Weariest sort, so to speak (2,2,4) 15 Film preview in caravan? (7) 16 Slicer that’s chopped up remains (6) 18 Giggles start to interrupt dreadful sad song (5) 20 Corn I found in labyrinth (5) 21 Worst possible sources of coal (4)

Hard

35

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

Relax

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Horoscopes LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd) ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) The moon remains in your There’s no point in taking sign so you’ll be dynamic anything on today that you and determined today in know will be a rough ride for everything you do. Extra a few days, even if it means responsibility could come your someone is disappointed. Make way but it’s likely the sort that your excuses and stick by your ARIES LIBRA you accept without question. instincts. You can be more gung ho tomorrow when reserves disappear and Don’t be backward at coming forward when you meet new people as they could become your optimism regains full strength. new friends.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd)

The material side of life and Single bulls out there should all its little luxuries puts a find present planetary positions smile on your face today. Work very helpful when it comes to matters have more than a few love, and settled unions find advantages so you’ll probably it to be a day of plain sailing.

TAURUS Your spirits are high and it’s a SCORPIO be feeling optimistic for most of the day. Take time to look day where you’ll sail through anything. Make the most of love and romance carefully at expenditure to see if there’s some way you can cut down a bit. as you’re charming everyone around you.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st)

You’re beginning to move into Your thought processes work a much more optimistic frame like lightening, and events of mind, which is the way you today offers you the chance to generally tend to be. Your view put all this mental energy to of the future is probably clearer good use. What you need most now and you can expand your is fun, and with friends around SAGITTARIUS GEMINI understanding into areas that it wont be too hard to achieve.

Even the cold weather won’t dampen your have always been a mystery to you in the past.

Good work. spirits right now.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th)

It’s always important to you to What you feel like inside and go about things the right way, how you come across to the so you sometimes get upset world can be two very different when people cut corners or things under present tends. cheat. Today sees you being a Even when you’re shaking CANCER in your boots it will look to CAPRICORN role model to everyone around you. You’re feeling more everyone that you’re confident and calm. Its now possible to move towards energetic and positive so others will relish situations that have been blocked to you in the having you around. past.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th)

VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd)

PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th)

Game Of Thrones Fans of the hit show starring Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage and Gwendoline Christie - will have to wait a whole year to find out the fate of their favourite characters when the final six episodes will be screened.

Emilia Clarke, who plays Mother of Dragons Daenerys Targaryen, recently revealed that she and the rest of the cast have been banned from posting any sneak peeks from the set on social media.

She admitted: “We have a very strict social media ban this

year because people need to stop spoiling it for everyone. It’s really frustrating.”

And even the stars of the show don’t know how the final series will play out as producers have taken drastic measures to stop the ending being leaked.

Emilia said: “They’ve written a number of different endings. So none of the cast know what the actual ending is. If there’s ever a leak of any kind, don’t believe it because it’s probably not true.”

The first six seasons of ‘Game of Thrones’ had 10 episodes, but in 2017 the seventh season had only seven, and now fans have been left waiting for a final season of just six instalments.

The Weekender 9 Letter Word Challange!

Find as many other words as you can. There are 329 possibilities (English Oxford Dictionary) but only one 9 letter word!

A S I R V E Y TD

MASTERMIND! 60 or more

GENIUS! 50 or more

FAIR PLAY! 20 or more

FOR KIDS! 10 or more

Scribble Pad

The pursuit of pleasure brings There’s no denying that you’re you the greatest happiness on fire when it comes to your today and you’ll be at your very ambitions and you’re showing best when you’re socialising everyone you’ve got what it and having a good time. It takes to get what you want might take a while to achieve from life and love. That’s not to LEO AQUARIUS some of your objectives, but say you should bulldoze others life is not a race so there should be plenty of with your ideas. Explain them carefully and time for you to take it slowly and steadily. listen to others points of view as they may be very different to yours.

Today could turn out to be the You possess the will to win, very time you’re able to please but have you got everything yourself. Don’t get too tied up in place to do so? Look at life with domestic issues as most of again and make sure you’ve them will sort themselves out dealt with every eventuality before you proceed. As long as PISCES given time. Do something that VIRGO you find really interesting and you know you’ve covered your back around people you don’t trust, you can be with people whose presence always makes move forward into an entirely different and you happy. potentially successful zone.

Are you a 9 letter word Genius?

Like our facebook page & share your results for your chance to be in The Weekender Newspaper! @TheWeekenderSpain

www.facebook.com/theweekenderspain

36

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Motoring

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> afterwards another woman was intentionally run over in Favara, near Gandia.

The second victim was hit by the car several times and is badly injured.

Both victims are believed to be prostitutes and it seems that the 25-year-old accused Spanish man had carried out the attacks after an

By Matthew Richargument with his partner when he had A man is due to appear in Gandia’s Court talked about attacking women.

The man has been accused of attempted of Gender Violence after two separate attacks on women in the Valencian province. Both murder, violent robbery and assault. He is occurred last Friday when one woman was currently remanded in prison awaiting a robbed and assaulted in Catarroja; shortly court date.

Car used as weapon

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FRIDAY 12TH JANUARY 2018

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FRIDAY 12TH JANUARY 2017

Sport

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Fortunate ‘unfortunate’ in Rugby La Vila win

By Tony Fox

In his first home game for his new club the Zimbabwean International Fortunate Chipendu made a ferocious tackle to stop a Barcelona attack and suffered a fractured jaw for his efforts. This was to be the tone of the game for both sides as La Vila ran out

eventual winners 22-21. The first half saw a rejuvenated home side as they thrust forward at every opportunity which gave them two tries by Paco Martínez and Patricio Orduña. Both were converted and they went in at half time 14-0. If La Vila had the better of the first period it was a different story in the second. They managed to open

the scoring with an unconverted try by scrum half Franco Sálice 19-0. The Barcelona side regrouped and came back fighting with converted tries

by Juan Cruz and Martín García 1914. By now La Vila had lost 3 men to injuries but the replacements showed the strength in depth that La Vila have and a well taken penalty gave them a 22-14 lead. The great effort the home side put in was telling and players went down with cramp, however their spirit endured and only a runaway try in the dying seconds of the game which was converted with the last kick

of the game, brought the Barcelona side closer. 22-21 was a great result in beating the sixth placed team and lifts them just out of the relegation zone on points scored average. Their next game is away to fifth placed UE Santaboina, another Barcelona team who have lost their last three games, albeit to higher placed teams. Injuries permitting, I would expect with the confidence gained from this match La Vila could pull off another surprise. A great start to the New Year for La Vila fans whose next chance to see their side at home is against Hernani from the Basque country, currently level on points with La Vila but one place lower on points difference, on Sunday January 21st.

9 LETTER WORD: Adversity

Puzzle Solutions

Franco Sálice scores his try

QUICK CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

43

Sport

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Christmas present to our German member Hermes Woerdemann it was his first competition with us since last Almost 50 members and guests only to be greeted with strong winds condition and what your saw as green spring and he was the only player to turned up for our usual early start very similar to last week’s visit to was actually grass and not paint! The make a 2, well done Hermes! Today’s Alenda which had to greens were extremely fast causing results: N.T.P.’s Hole 4 C. Kinnerfeldt, be abandoned for that a few putting problems for some but hole 6 T. Norris, Hole 10 J. Dean, hole very reason. However all-in-all provided a good challenge. 15 NADA, hole 17 B. Gillies. Best Campoamor being Note; we had one complaint, a certain Visitors; 2nd P. Lars 28 pts. 1st Mrs. closer to the coast member complained that he could not C. Kinnerfeldt 30 pts. Bronze cat: 3rd the golf course was reach the greens on the long par 3’s it A. Goslan 28 pts, 2nd Mrs. K.Alm 28 playable.

Members was pointed out to him that this is the pts. L/H, 1st J. Hillier 32 pts. Silver found that the course reason that he receives 2 strokes on his cat: 3rd A. Rickers 26 pts, 2nd J. was playing almost its handicap, not that he needs to be on in Hettrick 31 pts. 1st A. Kilnes 36 pts. full length and that at two (which he can) but three + 2 putts Gold cat: 3rd K. Winton 28 pts, 2nd C. long last the 6th green =5 nett 3, some people are hard to Landaas 33 pts. 1st B. Gillies 34 pts. was now back in play. please. The 2’s pot has been rolled and Checkout our new calendar for 2018 at The course was in good now contained €175 this was a belated www.tmgs.org

Campoamor Welcomes T.M.G.S

Pego Golf Society Captain’s Drive In January For the first game of 2018 we were welcomed at Oliva Nova Golf Club by thick frost and a wait of an hour before we could start.

Once we could play our new Captain for 2018, Dave Phillips, made a very creditable shot down the fairway to his and everyone else’s great relief.

Normally there is a prize for guessing correctly the length of the Captain’s New Year Drive but as Roger Brown had forgotten to bring the markers and paperwork, no winning prize today!

The format today was a team accumulator and the results were as follows: First team with 110 points was Simon Fox, Keith Price, Elizabeth Grin and a mysterious Ghost.

Second team with 109 points was Colin Foster, Graham Borley, Ken Millar and Celia Cronin.

Third team with 103 points was

Andrew Harrison, our new Captain Dave Phillips, Martin Gates and John Nicol.

Nearest the pin on hole 3 was Simon Fox, 1m20cm and on hole 16 was Andrew Harrison with 1m.32cm, both unfortunately missing their 2’’s.

There were two 2’s today, Stella Fox who is on a roll at the moment and

Graham Haslam. As Graham did not enter the 2’s competition all the prize money went to Stella.

There were 105 balls in the water and Mick Connolly correct guessed the number and walked off with the money.

Peter and Tricia Chapman were celebrating their 52nd Wedding Anniversary and generously put up a

bottle of Champagne for a prize draw, the winner being Malcolm Wise, lucky man.

Our next game, a Texas Scramble is on Tuesday January 16th and guests are welcome subject to proof of handicap.

Contact pegohandicapsec@gmail.com

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

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THURSDAY 12TH JAN 2018

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Schalke FC players travel to Benidorm for training camp At 19:30 CET on New Year’s Day, Schalke FC landed in Alicante before heading to the team hotel via bus. Naldo, Weston McKennie, Franco Di Santo and Pablo Insua did not travel with the rest of the squad and will fly individually. The same goes for Bernard Tekpetey, whose loan spell with SCR Altach came to a close on New Year’s Day, which allows him to rejoin his Schalke teammates with immediate effect.

Also taking part in the training camp are four talents from the academy. Patryk Dragon has been called up from the U23s, while Lennart Czyborra, Jannis Kübler

and Florian Krüger have come up from the U19s.

Just like last year, Schalke can look forward to perfect conditions on the Costa Blanca, with the training pitches situated directly on the grounds of the team hotel. The weather forecast is also predicting pleasant temperatures of around 20 degrees. The first session is due to take place on Tuesday (2nd January) morning.

The training camp will draw to a close after a friendly against Belgian first division side KRC Genk on 7th January. The kickoff in the Estadio Municipal Guillermo Amor in Benidorm is at 14:30 CET.

Kvyat given Ferrari lifeline Amir Khan targets ring return Daniil Kvyat has been handed a surprise Formula 1 lifeline by Ferrari after being confirmed as the team’s new development driver.

The announcement comes just three months after the Russian was axed by Toro Rosso and rules out the prospect of Kvyat, who has two podiums and 133 points in his 72 career starts, taking the 2018 Williams seat.

Ferrari have not yet specified what they expect of Kvyat this season, but he joins Charles Leclerc and Antonio Giovinazzi

in the Scuderia’s reserve ranks.

Leclerc, however, now has a fulltime seat with Sauber, while Giovinazzi is the Swiss team’s third driver. Kvyat’s fellow Toro Rosso exile, Jean Eric Vergne, was previously a development driver at Ferrari. Kvyat’s new role comes after a rollercoaster season with Toro Rosso.

First, Kvyat was benched for Pierre Gasly in Malaysia, before making a oneoff return at the United States GP. After that race, he lost his seat and was dropped from the Red Bull stable entirely.

AMIR KHAN has announced he is in talks with other promoters before signing a surprise three-fight deal with Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn that “may well open the door” for a showdown with Kell Brook. But the returning star also admitted that his troublesome hands could yet scupper the showdown.

Khan, 31, will return to the ring for the first time in almost two years when he headlines an April 21 event at Liverpool’s Echo Arena that will mark his first fight in Britain since 2013. The comeback opponent – “no knockover,” claimed Hearn – will be announced next week. Khan had stated for a long time – and as recently as August 2017 – that he wouldn’t work with Hearn again, particularly during negotiations for that elusive Brook showdown. Before that, they had a brief partnership for Amir’s 2011 victory over Paul McCloskey in Manchester which ended with both parties washing their hands of the other.

According to the 2004 Olympic silver medallist, new talks with Hearn and Matchroom have been taking place for several months, beginning before the fighter achieved new levels of

fame – or notoriety, depending on your viewpoint – while finishing fourth on popular celebrity reality show, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here, at the end of last year.

“Eddie is the best promoter in the UK, and he can get me the world title shot I crave,” Khan continued. “I can be a world champion again, I know this will happen.

Saturday 13th January

16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16.15 18:30 18.30 18.30

Crystal Palace v Burnley FC EPL Huddersfield v West Ham EPL Newcastle v Swansea EPL West Brom v Brighton EPL Watford v Southampton EPL Chelsea v Leicester City EPL Real Madrid v Villaral La Liga Tottenham v Everton EPL Eibar v Athletico Madrid Deportivo v Valencia

Sunday 14th January

14:30 Bournemouth v Arsenal EPL 17:00 Liverpool v Man City EPL 20.45 Real Sociadad v Barcelona

Monday 15th January

20:45 Bournemouth v Arsenal EPL 20:45 Man Utd v Stoke EPL

Tuesday 16th January 20:45 20:45 20:45 20:45 21:00

West Ham v Shrewsbury FA CUP Mansfield v Cardiff City FA CUP Sheffield Wed. v Carlisle FA CUP Leicester City v Fleetwood FA CUP Reading v Stevenage FA CUP

Wednesday 17th January

20:45 Chelsea v Norwich City FA CUP 20:45 Wigan Athletc v Bournemouth FA CUP 20:45 Swansea v Wolves FA CUP

Formula One Calendar 2018 5 March - Melbourne - Australia 8 April - Sakhir - Bahrain 15 April - Shanghai - China 29 April - Baku - Azerbaijan 13 May - Barcelona - Spain 27 May - Monaco - Monaco 10 June - Montreal - Canada 24 June - Le Castellet - France 1 July - Spielberg - Austria 8 July - Silverstone - Great Britain 22 July - Hockenheim - Germany 29 July - Budapest Hungary 26 August - Spa - Belgium 2 September - Monza - Italy 16 September - Singapore - Singapore 30 September - Sochi Russia 7 October - Suzuka - Japan 21 October - Austin - USA 28 October - Mexico City -Mexico 11 November - Sao Paulo - Brazil 25 November - Yas Marina - Abu Dhabi

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FRIDAY 12TH JAN 2018

Your Weekend Starts Here!

Sport

FA CUP DRAW 4TH ROUND FA CUP 4th Round To be Played -27th

The fourth-round draw was made on Monday, January 8 before Brighton’s televised third-round tie against bitter rivals Crystal Palace.

Yeovil Town - the lowest ranked team left in the draw at the time - were drawn to face off against Premier League giants Manchester United while Tottenham will travel to another League Two outfit, Newport County.

Liverpool, meanwhile, will host fellow Premier League side West Brom.

Liverpool vs West Brom Huddersfield Town vs Birmingham City Notts County vs Wolves/Swansea City Yeovil Town vs Manchester United MK Dons vs Coventry City Millwall vs Rochdale Southampton vs Watford Middlesbrough vs Brighton Hull City vs Nottingham Forest Newport County vs Tottenham Sheffield United vs Preston North End

To Be Decided / 3rd Round Replays

Jan

Peterborough United vs Fleetwood Town /Leicester City Bournemouth/Wigan Athletic vs Shre wsbury Town/West Ham Carlisle United/Sheffield Wednesday vs Stevenage/Reading Cardiff City/Mansfield Town vs Man chester City Norwich City/Chelsea vs Newcastle

United