Issuu

ISSUE NO. 1588

10 - 16 December 2015

COSTA BLANCA NORTH YOUR PAPER, YOUR VOICE, YOUR OPINION

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DON’T MISS OUR COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS SUPPLEMENT PAGES 53 - 108

No Big Brother! COURT rules Teulada CCTVs illegal

By Linda Hall Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in Teulada streets are illegal. The town hall is not authorised to install them, ruled Spain’s Data Protection Agency. Only the central administration’s security forces can do this, it said. Objections to the CCTVs

came not from the public, but Teulada’s Local Police, who complained that one of the town’s eight cameras was located at their own headquarters. Footage could only be seen by the Local Police chief. Aware that the town hall did not have the necessary authorisation the unions lodged a formal complaint against the town hall. Ironically, it later emerged

that the camera at police headquarters had never functioned. Spain’s Data Protection Agency ruled that the Teulada cameras were illegal, that the town hall did not have a permit to use them but had cited traffic and road safety regulations to justify their presence. Neither had those affected by the cameras given permission for their details to be used.

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LOCAL NEWS

All bottled out ALFAZ DEL PI has set out to recycle 10,800 kilos of glass between December and February 2016. Twenty Valencian Community municipalities are participating in the ‘Pobles envidriables’

scheme promoted by the Generalitat and recyclers Ecovidrio. All have large populations that generate large quantities of glass during the winter months, particularly over Christmas.

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To tree or not to tree DECORATIONS going up By Linda Hall

Turtle recovering A FISHERMAN in Benicarlo (Castellon) followed established procedures by notifying the 112 emergency services after he a found loggerhead turtle. Now recovering at the

ARCA recuperation centre at the Oceanografic aquarium in Valencia, it was suffering from the bends after reaching the surface in a distressed state, but is now recovering.

Reminder WE would just like to remind our advertisers of our upcoming 2015 festive deadlines: Kindly ensure you send us the necessary material for the December 17 (1589), 23 (1590) and 30 (1591) editions by no later than Friday December 11 and for the January 7 edition (1592) no later than Monday December 21.

FINESTRAT began preparing for Christmas with the installation of a four-metre tree in the central Plaza del Pueblo. It has been decorated with more than 100 baubles made by members of the town’s Women’s Association. Amelia Mayor, councillor for Women, invited all families to attend the treedressing “to start enjoying the Christmas spirit with the little ones.” The councillor thanked the Asociacio de Dones for the hard work involved in making the decorations and for providing a traditional afternoon ‘merienda’ with hot chocolate and Christmas sweetmeats, while the tree and decorations were put up. Further along the Costa Blanca, Campello decided to forgo the Christmas tree that usually presides the Plaza de la Constitucion. Fiestas councillor David Alaves explained that this brought a saving of €3,000 which could instead be spent on more decorations for the town’s streets.

FINESTRAT: The tree has been put up in the central square.

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By Buster Smith PHIL from Changing Lives, who has a stall at the Benidorm Indoor Market, has said that although trade has been up and down, business has most definitely improved. “There does not seem to be any pattern to it at the moment, some days we are extremely busy and others quieter. But we are looking forward to Christmas, typically a time expats and Brits like to go out and look for unique and useful Christmas present ideas. We are getting a lot more people coming in, willing to give what we do a try and of course it is an ideal and very unique Christmas present idea.” Changing Lives is a unique company providing a special form of magnetic therapy used in the treat-

Glass recycling drive ALFAZ DEL PI is contributing to the ‘Pobles envidriables’ initiative, set up by the Valencian government and counting on the participation of more than 20 municipalities in the region. The project aims to encourage recycling of glass through-

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Phil from Changing Lives has seen an upturn in trade.

out the winter, from December until February. Towns such as Alfaz and Benidorm, with the large number of fiestas and concentration of bars and restaurants are ideal centres for the initiative. The 20 municipalities have been challenged to surpass the 1,700 tonnes of glass that was recycled during the same period last year, with a target of 1,900 tonnes. In Alfaz the goal is 10,800 additional kilos in three months. The aim of the project is to gain the public’s participation and raise awareness of the importance of recycling glass in times of high consumption, such as Christmas and the popular festivals and events. In addition to Alfaz del Pi, towns including La Nucia Monóver, San Fulgencio, Borriana, Oropesa del Mar, Peñíscola, Segorbe, Vila-real, Vinaròs, Benifaió, Canals, Cullera, Ontinyent, La Pobla de Vallbona, Sagunto, Silla, Torrent, Utiel and Xàtiva have all joined the initiative.

€12k upgrade WORK will be carried on the Ciudad Deportiva Guillermo Amor, the sports facilities in Benidorm, in the coming weeks.

The city will invest in three areas of the municipality more than €12,000 for repairs to improve the activity of athletes and, above all, to ensure that the buildings are in perfect condition. These include repairing and painting the walls of the sports centre. Replacing the water infrastructure in the Palau d’Esports l’Illa de Benidorm will also be carried out. At the Raul Mesa facilities, money will be invested to prevent water from seeping through the walls and to repair leaks. Although the improvements are greatly needed, there are still some outstanding issues including the repair of the athletic tracks, lighting, pavements and fences which also need repair works as many of the sports facilities.

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Davis Cup costs BENIDORM Council has been told to pay €19,882 for court costs over the Davis Cup which was supposed to be organised in 2009, under the leadership of Manuel Perez Fenoll. The superior court in Valencia has added the court costs on top of the €607,700 to be paid to the company responsible for assembling the courts, for wages, etc. The venue was declared unfit as the stands had to be changed just 10 days before the qualifying phase took place, a request from the Tennis Federation, which affected the entire structure of the stadium.

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NEWS Photo Andre A Reding

SEA URCHINS: Are considered a seafood delicacy.

Poachers’ haul returned to sea DIVERS face fines of over €600 By Linda Hall JAVEA’S Local Police caught two divers poaching sea urchins off the Barraca beach. The officers took the details of the divers who had each removed roughly 300 of the urchins, which were confiscated and then returned to the sea.

The divers face fines of more than €600 because the December to March open season has now begun, but the shellfish may be collected using only laborious traditional methods. They are also limited to two dozen per fisherman. Javea police said they are worried by the increase in

poaching as the sea urchins were massively over-fished in the past but are slowly beginning to return to the coast. They are an expensive delicacy and poachers know that not all restaurateurs will turn down the opportunity of acquiring them cut-price instead of from authorised suppliers.

‘20,000-year-old Picasso’ found in Pedreguer cave ARCHAEOLOGISTS continue to unearth the secrets that are hidden in the Cova del Comte in Pedreguer. The third annual campaign of excavations at the cave has just come to an end with a find of a small stone plaque that had been engraved with a horse’s head, approximately during the Solutrean period.

“It is a 20,000-year-old Picasso,” said Enric Martinez, president of the Fundacion Cirne which is helping to fund the project. “It is one of the Valencian region’s oldest pieces of art,” confirmed Josep Casabo, one of the archaeologists involved in the dig. Nor was the horse’s head the only find, as the archae-

ologists have found more wall art after removing sediment from the cave entrance. Again, it depicts a horse that was engraved on cave wall during the same Solutrean period between 22,000 and 18,000 BC. The archaeologists also discovered a carefullyworked flint blade that Josean Lopez, who heads the region’s Heritage Service, described as a ‘textbook’ example. The outer section of the Cova del Comte was always used in the past by local shepherds and goatherds as a shelter for their flocks, but its artistic treasures were not discovered until 2011 in the innermost and practically inaccessible sections of the cave.

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Fewer births for Alicante Province FIGURES follow national trend By Linda Hall THERE were more deaths than births in Alicante Province during the first six months of this year. Despite 7,312 births during this period, 8,286 deaths produced a negative balance of 974 in the rate of natural increase (RNI), the national statistics institute INE announced. It was the first time that this has happened in recent decades although INE predicted a negative RNI for 2014. Instead, the year finished with a positive balance of 1,103. The tendency in Alicante Province and the entire Valencian Community is in line with national statistics. Spain’s population fell by

19,268 between January and July, owing to a 0.8 per cent reduction in the birth rate and a 10.5 per cent rise in mortality. The number of children born in Spain has continued to fall since 2008 with the exception of last year when it rose slightly. Statisticians believe that 2015 could be the first year that deaths will not

be offset by births since 1944 when these records were first kept and when Spain’s population had diminished owing to the Civil War. INE sources nevertheless pointed out that 2015’s balance could change once figures are in for all 12 months as there are deaths in the first months of any year and fewer births.

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NEWS EXTRA

Long service THIS will be his last general election as Secretary General of the Partido Popular in Villajoyosa, announced Geronimo Lloret. After 15 years he wishes to spend more time with his family, he said.

UK visit CALPE Tourism Councillor Jan van Parijs recently visited Leeds. More than 300,000 northern UK tourists visit Alicante annually and Van Parijs aims to have Calpe included in the local tourist offer.

Votes not crib ONDARA will not have its now-traditional Nativity scene with reproductions of local buildings this Christmas. It usual site, the Casa de Cultura, will be a polling station for the December 20 elections.

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Yacht clubs up in arms over privatisation plans LICENCE renewals will not be plain sailing By Linda Hall YACHT clubs in the Valencian Community are fighting for survival, they claim. Generalitat regional government policies leave them no other option but to close their installations, bring all sports activities to a halt and demonstrate in front of Valencia’s regional parliament building in protest. They complain that Generalitat legislation will privatise the region’s yacht clubs although Carlos Domingo, the region’s director general for Public Works, Transport and Mobility, looks at the issue from another viewpoint. The regional government intends to reverse the law that allows automatic renewal of licences to run yacht club installations. These will now be put out to tender to the highest bidder. The Generalitat wants more public marinas without the shopping centres, hotels and discotheques that have nothing to do with water sports, Domingo explained. Neither did the regional government want mega-

ALTEA: Club Nautico licence up for renewal. yachts that are “far removed from the type of boats we have in the community.” Existing yacht clubs, especially those in Altea, Benissa and Alicante City where li-

NEWS

Television and radio station still an expense Photo Monica.

cences are up for renewal, do not share Domingo’s viewpoint. Neither do local town halls which, regardless of political ideology, are backing the clubs.

CLOSED regional broadcaster Canal 9 still costs €1 million a month. This has to be paid out for upkeep and debt repayments, its administrators said, who revealed that each day they face another lawsuit from suppliers or former employees. The administrators claimed that their predecessors appointed by the former regional government have not co-operated or given access to Canal 9 accounts and contracts. They had also detected ‘striking’ anomalies, they announced. “Why was the Burjassot production centre, worth €25 million, entered on the Property Register as a plot of land and not a building?” they wanted to know.

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Record numbers leaving Alicante to live abroad

OBJECTIVE: Was to raise and donate €40,000, which they have beaten.

Giving4Giving surpass their goal €1,000 of toys given to local children’s ward to celebrate By Buster Smith GIVING4GIVING, a charity organisation that runs shops in Altea and La Nucia is extremely happy as they have met and beaten their objective for 2015, which was to raise and donate over €40,000 to charitable organisations in the region. To celebrate their amazing feat Gary James, who runs the charity, went to a local toy store and purchased €1,000 worth of toys and donated them to the red cross. They are then taking them to the local general hospital in the Marina Baja to give to the children who have to spend Christmas at the hospital and to under privileged children in Benidorm. The donation brings the total up to €40,000 in donations since the organisation was founded a little over three years ago, a goal James set himself to beat at the beginning of this year. “We will continue to celebrate

CELEBRATION: Toys were given to the Red Cross. by offering a special sale at our shops which will start on December 12 and run until January 1,” said James. “There will be a 40 per cent discount on selected items at our stores. We hope to raise much more next year and are always looking for donations and volun-

teers to help us out so please contact us. We would also like to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and thank all of our customers and volunteers for their continued support.” To donate to Giving4Giving please email gary@giving4givin g.com.

IF trends continue towards the end of this year, 2015 will become a record year in terms of the number of people leaving Alicante Province to move to destinations abroad. From January to June there were 3,504 Alicante residents who left in search of work, according to data released by the National Statistics Institute (Instituto Nacional de Estadistica - INE). In 2014 there was a major exodus of workers, with 5,647 leaving the province in search of jobs. According to the INE, in the first half of the year the province received more immigrants, a total of 10,141, than people who have gone to live abroad, but there seems to be a new migratory process occurring. The European Union and South America are the main destinations for workers leaving the province of Alicante. The main age group is between 25 and 49 years old, which illustrates the working age people are leaving at in search of potential work. Of those who are entering the province, it is the EU and Africa which are the major places of origin of the migrants who are choosing to settle. Only 482 Alicantinos returned in 2014 from abroad. Nationally, Spaniards are leaving Spain in search of better opportunities in other countries and at a quicker rate. Between January and June this year 50,844 chose to leave, 30 per cent more

Spaniards are leaving Spain in search of better opportunities in other countries

than during the same period in 2014. The rate of departure of Spanish people has increased by 23 per cent over the previous quarter, 65 per cent were born in Spain and the main destinations are the United Kingdom, France and Germany. For those not born in Spain, countries that receive more citizens are Ecuador and Colombia. Between January and June, 23,078 Spaniards returned mainly from Venezuela, France, United Kingdom, Ecuador and the United States, meaning the Spanish net migration was negative by 27,766 people. In total, the Spanish population has decreased by 26,501 people between January and June, up to 46,423,064 due to the negative natural increase of 19,115 people, with 205,796 births against 224,911 deaths, and the negative migration balance of 7,385 people which saw 157,211 new arrivals and 164,606 departures. The data confirms the continuing population decline in Spain that began in 2012.

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NEWS Photo by Gabriel Li, Flickr

MOVING ABROAD: 3,504 people left Alicante Province in first half of year.

Record number are going abroad STILL searching for greener grass By Gemma Quinn DURING the first six months of the year, 3,504 people are reported to have left Alicante Province to go abroad in search of work and a new life. According to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE), 2015 is on track to become a record year in terms of the number of workers who left the province. Throughout 2014, the largest major exodus of workers since 2008, 5,647 left the province. INE figures reveal that in the first half of the year the province received more immigrants (10,141) to people who have gone to live abroad. The EU and South America were the main destinations for workers leaving the province with most aged between 25 and 49

years, giving the INE strong reason to believe that work was the main driving force behind the move. Nationally, Spaniards still leave Spain in search of better opportunities in other countries, with 50,844 going between January and June this year; 30 per cent more than those that left during the same period in 2014. The main destinations for those Spaniards leaving are the UK, France and Germany and for those leaving who were not born in Spain, the most popular destinations were Ecuador and Colombia. The INE figures contrast those released last month, which showed that more than 900 Alicantinos who had emigrated and were living abroad had returned to the province in the past year.

Looking after the children DENIA Youth Council along with the rest of the municipalities in the Marina Alta have released details of forthcoming courses for those who wish to become monitors for childrenâ€™s activities. Courses will be held from January 23 until May 24. Those interested in the schedule, price, payment methods and registration can visit the webpage www.aulasdenia.es, visit the local youth centre or call 966 423 700. Registration is open until the places are filled. The youth centres have also organised a winter camp, which will be held in Sierra de Guadar

Child monitoring courses available. in Teruel from March 4-6. It will include two daysâ€™ skiing, equipment, classes, instructors, accident insurance and transportation. The cost is â‚Ź115 per person

and is aimed at children aged between six and 15 years old. More information is available at the youth centres and registration is open until places are full.

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NEWS EXTRA

Weeding out VILLAJOYOSA’S Environment Department has removed 480 tons of posidonia or Neptune grass washed up on Playa Centro. It took 10 days to remove, the town hall said.

Extra help LA JARA joined the ‘Tapones Solidarios Marina Alta’ project to collect plastic bottletops. Funds raised assist Marina Alta children whose medical care or orthopaedic needs are not covered by the health system.

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Top prizes for Benidorm hotels PERSONALISED service and first-class cuisine praised by travel operator By Linda Hall THE Servigroup hotel chain recently received eight awards from Glasgow-based tour operator David Urquhart Travel. Seven of the David Urquhart Gold Awards went to Benidorm hotels – Venus, Orange, Calypso, Nero, Pueblo Benidorm, Castilla and Rialto. The eighth was awarded to Servigroup as Hotel Chain of the Year. The awards were based on client surveys evaluating the

AWARD: Hotel Nero’s manager with David Watt, Commercial Director at David Urquhart, and the firm’s head representative.

AWARD: David Watt with the head of reception at Hotel Venus.

quality of accommodation, installations and facilities. All consistently praised the hotels’ personalised service and first-class cuisine. Servigroup has worked for several years with David Urquhart Travel, during which time it has scooped a total of 29 awards. The Glasgow-based travel company is now entering its 32nd season and takes more than three million people on holiday each year in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Shine bright

Growing things the old-fashioned way

AFTER an interval of several years, Santa Ana Castle overlooking Oliva has its traditional Christmas star again. A new one was acquired after the previous star was damaged during high winds.

ALFAZ DEL PI, the Generalitat regional government and the La Caixa Social Foundations are collaborating on a project to encourage the cultivation of traditional crops. Alfaz’s Environment Councillor Vicente Soler went to the Sierra Helada national park recently to see how the pro-

ject, begun in 2013, is developing. Abandoned terraced land adjoining the old aljibe or water deposit on the road up to the Albir lighthouse was first cleared to make room for 100 carob, fig and almond trees. Plots were sown with the same cereals that were once grown in the area and drip

irrigation was installed. “This project sets out to recover terracing near the aljibe and leave it as it would have been at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th,” Soler said. There was still important agricultural activity on this part of Sierra Helada at that time, he continued. Agriculture as a way

of earning a living was gradually abandoned in the mid-50s and this, together with reforestation, has given the Sierra its present appearance. The €20,000 project has a double purpose as it also provides work for Alfaz residents who might otherwise be at risk of social exclusion.

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NEWS EXTRA

Reading time TO mark the International Day of Disability, Denia Marina Salud Hospital distributed a collection of specially written books from Atresmedia to the pediatrics ward to entertain the children.

Craft market BENIDORM celebrated international Disability Day with a craft market, involving disability centres across the region. Marina Baixa Hospital also took part.

Tapas for toys UNDER the premise that no child is left without a toy this Christmas the Solidarity Tapas initiative in Sant Joan dâ€™Alacant has been launched. The campaign involves donating toys in good condition during the Christmas fair; in return they will be given a tapa.

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NEWS

Denia Hospital hosts meeting of the Board of CEDMA THE association of businessmen chose the hospital to show solidarity to its management By Buster Smith DENIA Hospital has hosted a regular meeting, which takes place every two months, celebrated by the members of the Board of Cercle dâ€™Entrepreneurs of the Marina Alta (CEDMA). The meeting was preceded by a visit to the main areas of the clinic: Emergency, Radiology, Outpatients, Integralia Foundation Laboratory Warehouse and the wards. Members of the Board of the Association of Businessmen were accompanied by the Director of Org a n is atio n an d In forma tion Technology, Vicent Moncho; Director of Human Resources, Communications and CSR, Carlos Hermoso; Head of Professional Development, Corpus Gomez, and General Supervisor of Nursing, Carmen de la Hoz. Health Department Manager at Denia Hospital, Angel Gimenez,

Members of CEDMA gather with hospital management and staff. welcomed the businessmen and also signed the petition for the extension of the railway between Gandia and Denia. Marina Salud is a member of the Circle of Entrepreneurs of the Marina Alta. The organisation decided to move their meeting to the hospital

in support of the management company and directors that run the hospital as they have received constant criticism through certain areas of the media from socialists parties who want to see the hospital run by the government. This is despite the fact that the hospital, under the di-

rection of Marina Salud, has won numerous international awards for its management systems and is rated as one of the very best in Spain. The directors of CEDMA highlighted the quality of the staff and technical equipment at the hospital as well as the excellent level of services.

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NEWS

Social network course for entrepreneurs COUNCILLOR for Employment and Local Development, Maria Jesus Pinto, has closed the programme ‘Social Net-

works for entrepreneurs’, which started on November 23. The activity is aimed at entrepreneurs and start-ups and has advised on the necessary tools for managing social networks for companies, used to obtain information, and for advertising and business opportunities. Maria Jesus Pinto said: “This training activity was created in response to the demands raised by the entrepreneurs themselves who have participated in previous training programmes,” and that “it will certainly be re-

peated given the interest shown and the good results obtained.” Topics covered in the workshop include business communication strategies using social networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The last scheduled workshop covered topics like privacy and data protection as an element of great importance when using social networks. The course duration was 20 hours and lasted five days. It was attended by 20 people representing micro enterprises and business associations.

COLOUR AND DRAMA: Street art in Benidorm.

Painting the town COMPETITION highlighted the work of street artists By Buster Smith A TOTAL of 28 processing centres located throughout Benidorm now sport a new look, designed and created by the young graffiti artists who participated in the competition which was organised by the Youth Council. Mayor for Youth, Ana Pellicer, stated that the aim of the competition was to give promi-

nence to the urban artists of Benidorm and to fill the streets with colour. The artists were selected by the council from among a number of submissions and began to create their works in areas allocated to the project. After completing the graffiti, a jury will evaluate the works and choose the winners. First prize is €300 and the runner-up will receive €200.

Marine plant reintroduced THE coastal authority has authorised the Department of Environment to plant 30 specimens of marine falaguera in Cala dels Testos and many others in the Cova del Moraig in Poble Nou de Benitachell, and 30 more in the Cova Tallada, a coastal manmade cave between Denia and Javea, underneath the Montgo. This type of falaguera, also known as marine

falzia, is in decline on the coast of the Marina Alta, and cliffs similar to those found in Benitachell are ideal habitats for the specimen. Already of botanical interest, the areas of Moraig, Els Testos and Cova Tallada harbour a great variety of natural flora, which also has a scenic value. The fern does not require much land in order to root and can do so in the fissures of rocks.

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Scarlet Fever SAMPLES for analysis were taken from children and teachers at Alicante City’s Azorin infants’ school after 15 pupils contracted Scarlet Fever. The regional Health department

announced that the highly infectious disease is not serious, advising those who had caught it to remain at home for 48 hours without taking any other measures.

Strategy for sustainable urban development THE city of L’Alfas del Pi has created a microsite for public consultation, a channel of participation that aims to collect input from the public on challenges, assets and opportunities that are presented to the city as well as any suggestions that enriches the Strategy for Sustainable Integrated Urban Development.

Unemployment rises in Benidorm for November UNEMPLOYMENT in Benidorm has risen 11 per cent, registering 665 more unemployed than the previous month of October, amounting to a total of 6,613 people out

of work, concentrated mainly in the services sector. The delay in the implementation of the Imserso programme is said to be key to the bad results.

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NEWS

Sea urchin campaign OFFICERS have intensified their presence and controls around the coast Flickr by Raphaël Rigo

By Buster Smith LOCAL POLICE in Javea, Alicante, have launched a campaign to stop people illegally stealing sea urchins (bogamarins). There is currently a harvesting ban in place, which will remain until February 28 to protect the species. Urchins are only allowed to be taken by traditional methods according to minimum size restrictions and a maximum quota, which is two dozen per person. Officers have intensified their presence and controls around the coast to prevent illegal harvesting of the urchins by divers. For those caught breaking the law there are fines of up to €600, and for repeat offenders police may seize and confiscate fishing gear and equipment. They are asking for cooperation especially from the hospitality industry and remind them urchins must be acquired at legal auctions which are run by professionals. Police are also seeking the collaboration of the general public to prevent illegal practices for personal gain, since it jeopar-

HARVESTING BAN: Urchins to be protected until February 28. dises the survival of the native seafood. As part of the campaign, officers will survey and monitor the extraction of sea urchins along the coast and will investigate fish markets for illegally harvested urchins. The species has undergone severe

poaching over the years, including an incident where divers were found illegally harvesting sea urchins at la Barraca in Portitxol, with over 300 urchins each. They were instructed to return them to the sea, one by one in distinct areas in order for them to survive.

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BIOPARC Valencia offers Xmas Christmas spirit is already here activities and special offers A DOCUMENTARY provides a glimpse into life behind the park By Buster Smith CHRISTMAS has come early for visitors to BIOPARC Valencia this month. Guests can choose from a number of offers including an annual Pass B, to enjoy 365 days of the animal park. For every Pass B sold, €1 will go towards the BIOPARC foundation and for anyone over 65 years old who buys a pass they will receive one child pass free. From December 23 the park opens Expedition Africa, school holiday activities for children, teaching them how to become animal experts. Youngsters can spend a full day in the park from 9am until 5pm as part of the event. Those who sign up for two days receive a €38 annual pass for free. For the adults, BIOPARC offers life cycle exhibits, from 11am until 1pm, where guests can help out feeding chimpanzees, gorillas, elephants and other animals. There will also be educational talks by zoo keepers on animal behaviour, how animals live today in the wild and conservation efforts. To learn more, there is a BIOPARC documentary which provides a glimpse into life behind the animal parks.

THE Christmas spirit is being felt in Alicante, although there is still almost three weeks to the arrival of the holidays. The hype around the attractions installed during

this period was evident, generating more animat i on t han dur i ng any weekend evening in the city with the Montaneta slide gaining a lot of attention.

Intercambio enjoy lunch THE Intercambio group organised by HELP International Benidorm enjoyed its annual end of year lunch at Oasis, La Nucia, on November 28. The group meets regularly. The purpose of the group is to practise and improve conversational skills for those who have a basic knowledge of the languages.

Non-accessible routes which need to be changed

BIOPARC: Guests can help out with feeding the elephants.

THE Department of Mobility, Accessibility and Security have presented an agreement for the elaboration of Accessible Routes Map of Alicante. This is the first phase

“of an ambitious project, t he f i r st nat i onwi de, which aims to locate obstacles encountered daily by t he di sabl ed whi ch need to be corrected,” said the City Council.

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NEWS

Christmas activities for senior citizens in La Nucia WILL be held in Plaza Mayor By Buster Smith LA NUCIA’S Senior Citizens Department and Pensioners Association have scheduled several activities for the month of December, including the presentation of the Christmas charity calendar, a Christmas party and fair, awards ceremony and petanque tournament. These are in addition to the 15 regular scheduled activities that continue through the month of December including gymnastics, yoga, reading, conversation sessions in various languages, musical activi-

ties and chess amongst others, all held at the Seniors’ Centre in La Nucia. The Christmas charity calendar was presented at the youth centre on December 3, with all proceeds going towards Juegaterapia Foundation, a project to aid and contribute towards the construction of a garden at La Fe Hospital in Valencia. The Christmas Fair will be in Plaza Mayor on December 12, 13 and the Christmas party on Tuesday December 15. “We encourage all people in our town to participate in the proposed activities for the

ACTIVITIES: Include the presentation of the Christmas calendar and a party and fair.

month of December, which are varied including the charity calendar and Christmas Fair. Also in December all of the 15 fixed activities for seniors continue, from walking, dance on Sundays to reading, yoga or gymnastics. There is something for everyone to enjoy,” said Beatriz Perez-Hickman, Senior Councillor of La Nucia.

Shortage of meningitis B vaccine in pharmacies THOUSANDS of concerned parents in the province of Alicante have signed up to waiting lists at pharmacies for the vaccine against meningitis B, which is marketed under the name Bexsero. The vaccine was originally exclusively for hospital use until October 1, when the Ministry of Health authorised its sale in pharmacies. Pediatricians recommend it to be administered, especially to younger children and teenagers, where there is a higher incidence of meningitis B. Given this recommendation, parents began to go to pharmacies en masse, which according to the company means the Bexsero has surpassed their estimates. In the province there are 300,000 children within the pediatric age of 0 to 16 years old. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) pharmaceutical is insisting they will work to restore the supply of vaccines as soon as possible. However, the true demand is actually unknown and pharmacies are unsure of how demand will be met. It is typical that two doses of the medicine are required to be effective, however with the current situation the second dose cannot be guaranteed on time, which is understandably

worrying parents, as are the growing waiting lists in pharmacies. The situation is the same at the health centres, where parents are advised to go to the pharmacy since the drug is not funded by the health department and the price exceeds €100. Given the shortage of vaccines, the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) has authorised an exceptional market of 60,000 doses of meningitis vaccine B. AEMPS issued two permits for 30,000 doses each, to release units of the vaccine intended for other countries and the sale of vaccines with less than six months shelf life, which are not normally traded. However, this additional purchase of vaccines seems to have failed to alleviate the shortage. According to the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, meningococcus is a microbe, specifically a bacteria, causing rare but very serious infections such as meningitis and sepsis (blood infection), which may cause infections and in about one in 10 cases leads to death. Meningococcal lives in the nose and throat of healthy adolescents and young children without causing damage, as they are asymptomatic carriers.

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NEWS

Javea Mercatchef coo workshops for young

UNDER the guidance of chef Alberto Farruz, classes will continue every Saturd By Buster Smith A NEW edition of cookery workshops for children in Javea, Mercatchef Junior, has started and will continue every Saturday until Christmas, under the guidance of Alberto Ferruz, holder of a Michelin star. Young chefs, start the day shopping at the the local market for ingredients of the recipes and

Christmas spirit is evident in Benidorm

FESTIVITIES: New attractions show Christmas is in full swing. SANTA CLAUS has come to Benidorm. The Christmas spirit is evident throughout the streets of Benidorm this year, with the addition of the Christmas market and Christmas initiative by local traders. The red and green of Christmas can be seen in the streets and it seems Christmas is in full swing. There are a number of attractions dedicated to children and the Christmas Village in the Parque Elche is also now open to the public. The town hall, local traders from the Independent Association of Traders (AICO), and department for fiestas have come together to create a spectacular few weeks leading up to Christmas, to boost local

trade and bring in visitors during the period. The official lighting of the Christmas square near the town hall, and the opening of the antique toys exhibition located in the Boca Calvari Museum also add to the list of activities in the town. Street performances and parades plus a large nativity scene are on display throughout the coming weeks. An outdoor ice rink, children’s rides and puppet shows are the main attractions at the Christmas square, which also includes a street food market and a snow slide will be opening very shortly, this year’s novelty is the Christmas Village, with a Santa’s Grotto where children can visit the big guy and get their photo taken with Father Christmas.

NEWS

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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oking g children

day until Christmas

then get down to cooking in the kitchen, which has been installed in the centre of the building. The councillor for fairs Tere Bis-

quert and the president of the market, Rosi Caballero, visited the opening day on Saturday December 5 to see the children’s progress.

Local Police increase vigilance after vandals puncture residents’ tyres

COURSE: Aims to improve the employability of participants.

New training for the disabled

MICHELIN STAR: Chef Alberto Farruz.

EWN

A NEW training programme aimed at unemployed disabled people has been launched in Benidorm. The programme currently has 10 participants with different disabilities and is taking place at the training centre for employment. The councillor for employment and local development in Benidorm, Maria Jesus Pinto, says the incentives are aimed at ‘a sector of the population that needs our full support.’ The programme has received a grant from the Valencian Employment Service and Training

(SERVEF) totaling €23,800, which accounts for 100 per cent of the costs of teaching materials and teachers required for the training. The mayor explained that this training as a whole will involve 340 teaching hours, with participants able to obtain a professional certificate upon successful completion. The course will include several training modules focusing on basic operations including work on gardens, parks and green areas, with specific training for the employability of participants.

JAVEA’S Local Police force has upped surveillance following a wave of attacks on the tyres of residents’ vehicles in the streets of the port area and town centre. More than 80 tyres were reportedly punctured during two nights of attacks. Both the Local Police and Guardia Civil are now monitoring and investigating the crimes in an attempt to locate those responsible.

The attacks are considered to be serious crimes of damage to personal property, with the Local Police and Guardia Civil warning that such offences can carry prison terms according to the criminal code of law. Javea has been hit with crime recently, with a series of local bars and establishments being broken into during the night in the old town.

Vital pipe repairs BENIDORM Town Hall made €57,000 repairs to two of the pipelines that bring water into the town. The two pipes take water from the domestic water treatment plant to the town centre along the route of the old Aiguera watercourse, and pass underneath the railway embankment. Torrential downpours in late October and early November did not cause flooding but one of the pipes collapsed in the railway tunnel, when rain washed away the steam’s banks and floor. “Fortunately this occurred during the low season and the domestic water supply was not interrupted,” said Jose Ramon Gonzalez, the councillor responsible for the town’s water.

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NEWS

Celebrations for International Volunteer Day PAYING tribute to their local social volunteers By Buster Smith LA NUCIA celebrated International Volunteer Day 2015 on Friday with a tribute to the 80 social volunteers who work on various charity projects

throughout the year. After the mayor of La Nucia, Bernabe Cano read the manifesto of the International Volunteer Day 2015, 80 balloons were released, one for each volunteer. International Volunteer Day

is celebrated internationally every December 5, so La Nucia performed its small act of appreciation and thanks to the social volunteers of the municipality the day beforehand. The town’s social volun-

LA NUCIA TRIBUTE: Eighty balloons were released, one for each volunteer. teers are anonymous people who collaborate weekly with the departments of Social Welfare and Aging in different projects, activities and events to help others, such as with the Food Bank, the Social Wardrobe, Crafts Workshops, intergenerational activities, the Christmas Fair and in collaboration with the Cancer Association and other associations and charities with organising events.

Volunteers deserve a tribute each and every day of the year. The 80 volunteers are people of different ages, nationalities and origin who share a common objective: to help others in the community without asking for anything in return. “With this small tribute we wanted to publicly thank La

Nucia’s 80 volunteers for their work. They are caring people who perform a little-known service but which is key to helping the most needy people of the municipality. Thanks to your efforts and perseverance, the quality of life for all our neighbours is improved. Rather than just an annual recognition they deserve a tribute each and every day of the year for this great work,” said the mayor.

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NEWS

Maroc Challenge leaves La Nucia heading to Morocco NINETY-THREE teams set off in the ninth edition of the 2,000 km trip By Buster Smith TH E ninth e dition of the

Maroc off-road Challenge s ta rte d from La N uc ia on Saturday December 5, leaving for Morocco. N ine ty-thre e te a ms inc luding Spa in, Portuga l, Italy, Britain, Ukraine, Romania, and even from the USA, departed from the C iuta t Es portiva C a milo Cano, participating in the 2,000 kilometre trip through deserts and Moroccan roads. Participants were greeted by Rui Cabaco, organiser of the event, Bernabé Cano, Mayor of La Nucia and Sergio Villalba, Councillor for Sports. There are three local teams from La Nucia also taking part in the challenge. The Maroc Challenge is an off-road journey where participants can enjoy the adventure and explore inhospitable places with vehicles that are registered before 1999. Motor enthusiasts were able to visit the teams and check out the cars participating before they departed. The y inc lude d SU V s a nd cars such as Fiat Panda, Lada Niva, Mitsubishi Montero, Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Discovery, Audi 100, Suzuki Vitara, Opel Frontera, Seat Ibiza, Ford Sierra,

MAROC CHALLENGE: More participants each year. Toyota Celica, Renault 4, Mercedes 190, BMW 320 among others. The Maroc Challenge has

The Maroc Challenge is an off-road journey where motor enthusiasts can enjoy the adventure and explore inhospitable places with vehicles that were registered before 1999.

become the African race for amateur teams which is seei ng gr eat er par t i ci pat i on each year. Leavi ng t he Ci ut at Espor t i va Cam i l o Cano t he tour heads for Motril to cross to the African continent. Once there, the participants will travel towards Nador and Ifrane, Midelt, Erfoud and Merzouga. This challenge consists of six stages, three linear and three loops, with the finish line in Merzouga, on Friday, December 11, at the ‘Gates of the desert’.

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EWN

Terra Natura welcomes a family of five Bengal tigers MOST remaining populations occur in small pockets isolated from each other By Buster Smith THE nature and animal park Terra Natura in Benidorm, Alicante has received a group of five Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris), from a French zoo. The group is a family consisting of father, mother and three babies seven months old. The arrival of these animals is part of the collaboration agreement of the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria). The male, called Rajiv is a white tiger aged seven years, born in France, and the female named Shana, was also born in France and is aged six years. Both cats lived in the zoo in La Boissiere du Dore from 2013. The French zoo was looking for a new location for the family of tigers in order to meet with the necessary dimensions and conditions required for the tigers, and found the premises of Terra Natura to be ideal. The union of Rajiv and Shana in La Boissiere was not without its ups and downs, as is the norm with a species whose instances are very territorial, so the pairing between individuals who do not know each other is very difficult and delicate. After the initial misunderstandings, both animals established emotional ties that resulted in the birth of three cubs. The group of tigers has been living together for about two months, since it is recommend that the mother is left alone after the birth without maintaining contact with the male. Rajivâ€™s union with his family was a success, as evidenced by the affection with members of his family. After a dayâ€™s road trip, the group of tigers arrived in Benidorm. After overcoming the early days of acclimation to the new facilities, the tigers have started coming to the meadow. Zoo keepers have found that the animals are in perfect condition. The arrival of new animals always involves uncertainty for staff,

BENGAL TIGERS: A family including three babies.

since no one knows how they will react to the new environment.

Over the past 100 years, tigers have lost 93 per cent of their historic range.

Thanks to the efforts of the professional team of Terra Natura, the group of tigers is now properly adjusted to their new home, showing optimal integration. Despite the cold, these big cats have not hesitated to get in the water and enjoy swimming. Tigers are among the few species of felines who like the water. Over the past 100 years, tigers have lost 93 per cent of

their historic range, and have been extirpated from southwest and central Asia, from the islands of Java and Bali, and from large areas of Southeast and Eastern Asia. Today, they range from the Siberian taiga to open grasslands and tropical mangrove swamps. The remaining six tiger subspecies have been classified as endangered by IUCN. The global population in the wild is estimated to number between 3,062 and 3,948 individuals, down from around 100,000 at the start of the 20th century. Most remaining populations occur in small pockets isolated from each other, of which about 2,000 exist on the Indian subcontinent. Major reasons for population decline include habitat destruction, habitat fragmentation and poaching.

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EWN

New incentive to ‘Scratch Christmas’ TEULADA-MORAIRA shops will be awarding €3,000 in prizes over the festive period By Buster Smith SHOPPERS will be treated to €3,000 in prizes when shopping at stores in Teualda-Moraira, as part of a Christmas campaign incentive organised by the Association of Entrepreneurs and Businessmen (AECO) in collaboration with the Department of Promotion in the municipality. The incentive, named Scratch Christmas or Rasca Navidad, was recently unveiled by the Councillor for Development and SMEs Nieves Rodriguez along with the president of AECO, Loli De Gea. It is counting on the participation of 50 shops and establishments in the municipality and is effective from December 4 until January 5, 2016. The aim of the campaign is to highlight the importance of the

town’s business and the benefits in purchasing locally, investing in local trade is investing in the town. “The strategy of the campaign is to encourage a second purchase, therefore, for every purchase made at an associated trader that exceeds €25 the customer will receive a surprise prize, via a scratch card which can be immediately redeemed at the completion of a second purchase at any affiliated AECO merchant store,” said Rodriguez. Over 8,000 leaflets have been distributed promoting the campaign throughout the municipality and neighbouring towns and have decorated the Sinieta building as a giant gift wrapped present, as well as placed massive gift wrap presents on streets around the town. Rodriguez finished the presentation by inviting

all residents to shop locally and hoped that they are lucky with the prizes.

CAMPAIGN AIM: To highlight the importance of purchasing locally.

Benidorm’s festive preparations

FUNDS: Cancer Care Javea donated €20,000.

Cancer donation CANCER CARE volunteers visited La Fe Hospital in Valencia, in particular the children’s cancer research department, and presented a cheque for €20,000. Director General, Jose Vincente Castell Ripoli and Director Adela Canere received the cheque on behalf of the hospital, surrounded by the charity volunteers from Cancer Care Javea, who thanked them all for their outstanding efforts and the wonderful donation. The charity also thanked all of those who have donated and helped in raising funds.

BENIDORM is preparing for Christmas, which this year will have more street party presence. The mayor of Fiestas, Jesus Carrobles, explained that the traditional Christmas square will be joined by the new initiative Christmas Village, which will be installed at Calle Gambo up until December 25. There will be a Santa’s Grotto and many types of attractions including a Christmas market. This new initiative has been undertaken in collaboration with the Independent Traders Association (AICO). AICO President Raul Parra says the Christmas Village seeks to create a Christmas atmosphere in the streets, and to help promote and boost trade during the festive season. Parra is convinced the incentive will be beneficial and prove a success, helping create jobs at the same time, adding that it al-

NEW INITIATIVE: Attractions will include a Santa’s Grotto and a Christmas market. lows local traders to compete with shopping centres, as a major attraction it should also bring in visitors from outside the town. The Christmas square will be open as from December 5, and will include attrac-

tions including rides and daily street performances. There will also be a snow slide plus concerts and performances will be running in the town auditorium from local choirs and music groups.

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NEWS

MAYOR: Toni Perez said the study helps them understand the visitorâ€™s perception of Benidorm.

Benidorm has high rate of tourist loyalty ACCORDING to a study carried out by the Department of Tourism By Buster Smith THIS summer Benidorm has achieved the highest rate of tourist loyalty for the past 18 years, according to the study on travel behaviour, opinions and evaluation of tourism which has been presented to Mayor Toni Perez, and sociologist Jose Antonio Nunez Cela. The study was based on 1,270 surveys conducted between July and September by the Department of Tourism, and is included in the project SICTED for the Ministry of Tourism. Of the participants, 77.6 per cent were repeat visitors to Benidorm, with 91.7 per cent of respondents intending on returning, a point tha t the ma yor says r ef l ect s t he strength of the destination. Perez also stresses that the survey helps them understand the perception that visitors hold of Benidorm, enabling them to promote measures that ensure Benidorm is more competitive, and optimise the performance of the municipal tourism office. It a ls o a llow s the m t o anal yse how tourists arrive to Benidorm, either via air transport or car, whether they share their holidays with a partner or family, how they go about organising their holiday, and the types of accommodation they use.

The municipal sociologist stressed that compared to previous surveys, 2015 reveals substantial differences in the organisation of the holiday, as a growing number of tourists hire autonomously, with many turning to the internet as a source of information. More than half of the respondents (56.4 per cent) used the internet to organise their holiday, especially Spanish tourists. Nunez Cela stressed that overall there was a very positive assessment made by tourists on Benidorm and its offering, with 90.7 per cent indicating a positive outlook. The bestrated elements were the hospitality and treatment received, which was valued as good or ver y good by 98.89 per cent of those surveyed. Accommodation achieved a 97.79 per cent positive rating, and beaches received 97.54 per cent. In addition, 95.72 per cent rated the level of security as positive in the municipality. The only element that was not valued well was the ease of parking, with only 41.31 per cent saying it was positive. Reasons why people travel to Benidorm were recorded as 21.06 per cent for the beaches, 20.01 per cent f or t he over al l touristic offering, 18.78 per cent for the climate, 17.65 per cent for the environment and the remaining 22.5 per cent for other reasons.

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NEWS EXTRA

Third prize THE Alicante company MyTripCar has received third prize in the first edition of the national contest Entrepreneurship Startup Alfaz Elevator Pitch. MyTripCar has developed the world’s first car rental comparison site including any hidden costs.

Violent crash A 67-YEAR-OLD man died recently in Javea, Alicante after losing control of his car and crashing it into a large pine tree on the road Cap de la Nau in Javea.

No decision THE town hall in Benissa has sidestepped the question about whether or not to continue with the controversial Bous al Carrer festival, deciding to wait until after the elections to deal with the issue.

Daesh or ISIS? THERE have been a number of different names used to describe the terrorists who have invaded parts of Iraq and Syria, many of which are unprintable but in order to assist our readers to identify the group in question, we have stuck to the word ISIS. In the opening statement in the House of Commons by David Cameron on December 2, he said: “I feel it is time to join our key ally France, the Arab League, and other members of the international community in using as frequently as possible the terminology Daesh rather than Isil. Because frankly this evil death cult is neither a true representation of Islam nor is it a state.” He added later in the speech: “These women-raping, Muslim-murdering, mediaeval monsters are hijacking the peaceful religion of Islam for their warped ends.” The name Daesh is used by both President Obama and President Hollande of France, although they pronounce it differently and we at Euro Weekly News now feel that the time is right for us to change as well to use the word that everyone will come to

recognise over the coming months. Ironically, the word is an Arabic acronym derived from the phrase ‘al Dawlah al-Islameyah fi Iraq walSham’ or literally, ‘Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham’ (which refers to Syria or the Levant State). It actually means ISIS or Isil but because it is a short word, some parties in the Arab world have taken it to be intended as an insult as it is a shortened form. If by using the word Daesh we insult any of its adherents, then we have no problem with that at all.

David Cameron will use same terminology as Obama and Hollande.

EWN

Photo Credit 360B Shutterstock

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NEWS FROM OUR FIVE OTHER REGIONS

COSTA DEL SOL

Fugitive caught

Planting trees in Calvia Photo Credit anweber shutterstock

PURPOSE is to reforest those areas which were affected by fires

TREE PLANTING: Students and tourists from the Calvia area will take part.

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

STUDENTS and tourists from the Calvia area will take part in reforestation events organised by Calvia Town Hall’s Environmental Department. The purpose is to reforest those areas in Calvia which were affected by fires as well as maintain other areas already planted in recent years. “The purpose is to maintain the attractive landscape in the area and get back the environmental value that we lost in the fires” said a spokesperson from the organisation. The first event will be held today (Thursday 10) and pupils from Son Caliu school will be responsible for the tree planting.

MALLORCA

AXARQUÍA

Bollywood filming

Mace attack

Tram plans

Driver injured

CARTAGENA is being used as a location for the shooting of a Bollywood film. Film crews are using various locations around Cartagena such as the town hall, the Municipal Archives and the Military Museum, as well as points in La Manga, to serve as the backdrop for filming of the Bollywood movie ‘Nannaku Premotho.’

THE Mercat de l’Olivar was the scene of road rage last weekend when a man who couldn’t get out of the car park caused damage to another vehicle by hitting it with a medieval mace. Bystanders tried to restrain the man but he escaped. Local Police were called.

THIS week, the Public Works Agency of the Junta de Andalucia regional government told Velez-Malaga Mayor Antonio Moreno Ferrer the names of the two experts who have been appointed as part of the committee to bring back the town’s tram service.

A MAN, 26, was injured when his vehicle fell from a height of 15 metres on the N-344 in Almeria. Firemen, Local Police, Guardia Civil and paramedics attended the scene and the man was taken to Torrecardenas Hospital.

Death plunge

New speaker

THE fire service of Mallorca reported the death of a man, 52, who suffered an accidental fall in Punta d’es Caló, in Arta earlier this week when he plunged from a height of some eight metres. The man was walking with his wife and daughter when the accident occurred.

PP-A representative and president of the Malaga Provincial Council Elias Bendodo will no longer give the opening speech at Torrox’s las Migas Fair on December 13 following objections from other political factions.

Car thieves FIVE suspected members of an organised group dedicated to the theft of luxury vehicles have been arrested. The gang are believed to be operating from Madrid, but were caught in Alicante Province after attempting to steal a BMW from El Campello.

Close proximity RESIDENTS in Elche have complained about the city’s ‘Christmas Village’ with the proximity of the Christmas booths to some buildings and apartments as they are worried about the risk of theft to their homes with the booths placed close to the balconies of the first floors.

Christmas treats JIJONA manufacturers will sell 60 million tablets of Turron this Christmas, 89 per cent of their annual Spanish production.

Hunting goes wrong MALLORCA fire services managed to rescue a dog who had fallen inside a cave on a property in the Escorca area last weekend. The owner had taken his dog hunting and the animal had fallen more than 10 metres inside a hidden cave. The rescue service from the Soller division had to abseil to the animal who was unhurt.

Pesky bugs BETWEEN January and October this year, 85,000 manhole covers and 26,000 rain collectors were opened and treated against rats, cockroaches or mosquitos.

NEWS

Hate crimes RINCON DE LA VICTORIA has become the third municipality in Spain, after Torremolinos and Marbella, to offer free legal counsel to the victims of hate crimes, thanks to an agreement signed yesterday by the Mayor, Encarnacion Anaya, and the Dean of Malaga College of Lawyers, Javier Lara Pelaez.

New drink AXARQUIA company La Huerta de Carolina is ready to launch a new prickly pear drink, which was presented to the public in Velez-Malaga by PP Representative and Sustainability Councillor Francisco Delgado Bonilla.

For more local news from our five other regions see www.euroweeklynews.com

COSTA DE ALMERÍA

NATIONAL POLICE officers in Malaga have arrested a 37-year-old Moroccan man under an international arrest and extradition order from the authorities in Morocco for alleged domestic violence and cruelty one year ago.

Villas approved MARBELLA’S Town Planning department has announced that two building licences for a total of €1.1 million were approved last week. The licences are for two villas with pools, one on Santa Clara urbanisation and the other in Cerrado de Elviria.

Scenes to visit

Immigrants rescued

TWO nativity scenes have been opened for public visits in Ronda. A municipal scene has been set up at Santo Domingo convent, while the local brotherhood’s association has announced their own is on display at Iglesia de Padre Jesus church.

TWENTY illegal sub-Saharan immigrants were brought to Almeria Port after being rescued by lifeguards south of Almeria. The boat was spotted by a plane and was carrying 27 people.

Work announced

No post SOME 43,000 people in the historical centre of Almeria have been without a post office for five years and plan to launch action to reach the central government in order to demand one.

Water cut RESIDENTS of Vera were without water for seven hours on Saturday December 5 due to a problem at the central tanks in the Camino de Enmedio area at around 7.30am.

Pedestrian friendly WORK has been carried out under the PFEA rural employment scheme to build pavements on the avenue leading to the Centro de Agua y Salud and the Albox health centre.

RONDA Council has announced plans to improve drainage systems on part of Avenida de Malaga, one of its main streets. The area affected will be between Los Angeles and Miguel de Cervantes school and €162,000 will be spent including pavement repairs.

Gas leak TWO people, a 45-year-old woman and a 40-year-old man, had to be taken to hospital for treatment after a gas leak at the home in Puerto de la Torre, Malaga City, in the early hours of Friday morning (December 4), emergency services reported.

EWN top for all the news from Spain.

NEWS

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RUSSIAN P RESS

Proposal for new sanctions RUSSIA may scrap investment projects in Turkey

PRESIDENT PUTIN: New proposals. IN response to Turkey’s downing of a Russian fighter jet near the Syrian border, President Putin proposes to impose sanctions to freeze or possibly scrap investment projects in Turkey. Russia had plans to build a nuclear power plant worth $20 million (€18,368,000).

Anti-terror THE Moscow department of Trade and Services has asked public enterprise owners to hire additional security and pay attention to employees who spend a large amount of time abroad, following threats from international terrorist groups, such as Daesh.

Daesh fight CHAIRMAN of the Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko confirmed Russia will continue free weapon delivery to Afghanistan’s military, and will closely observe the

Tiger befriends goat TIMUR the goat has befriended Amur, a Siberian tiger, in Primorsky Safari Park. He chased Amur around the enclosure and invaded his sleeping shelter. Amur, banished to the roof, appears to have accepted Timur and the two are firm friends.

current situation in Afghanistan. Russia has been supplying weaponry since 2010.

Death penalty rejected RUSSIA’S Presidential Human Rights Council have

FIRM FRIEND: Amur the tiger and Timur the goat. unanimously rejected requests to re-establish the death penalty as punishment for terrorist crimes. They said it would be both inhumane and ineffective, and will issue an official statement later in the week.

Hilton Hotel developments THE Hilton Worldwide Hotel chain has announced plans to construct a new upscale hotel in Moscow. The company will reportedly invest $102 million (€93,676,800) and the hotel will include 220 rooms and 52 suites. The project is set for completion in 2018.

EWN

FINANCE

Costa Blanca North

10 - 16 December 2015

STAT OF WEEK

business & legal LONDON - FTSE 100

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A EURO WEEKLY NEWS 6 PAGE SPECIAL SECTION // WWW.EWNBUSINESS.COM

DOW JONES

+2.12%

NASDAQ

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Big trouble looms for Big Mac owners REGULATORS ready to announce investigation into tax deal FOLLOWING agreements made at the G20 meeting in Turkey in November, where governments agreed to review the use of ‘tax havens’ by huge corporations in order to avoid tax, it is now ru-

is the amount of revenues that McDonald’s have paid into a Luxembourg subsidiary staffed by 13 people, according to unions

HISTORIC: Plaque on the wall of Almack House.

Zara founder looks to buy in London By John Smith AMANCIO Ortega, owner of Zara, is reported to have offered €320 million to purchase Almack House near St James in London. Many reports have erroneously called this a historic building which housed a well-known club in the 18th century, but that building was actually blown up dur-

moured that European Commission competition regulators are getting ready to announce an investigation into a tax deal between fast food chain McDonald’s a n d L u x e m b o u rg , a c c o r d i n g t o Reuters. I n M a y, C o m m i s s i o n e r M a r -

Banks need to be able to go wrong and have the resources to deal with that.’ Sir Jon Cunliffe, deputy governor of the Bank of England on the future of banks

Photo Credit The Liberal Party flickr

Quote of the Week

€4 billion

ing the Second World War and was rebuilt completely. The current building was recently offered for rent at an approximate cost of £750,000 (€1 million) per annum including business rates. This appears to be part of Ortega’s strategy to purchase commercial property in London.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Christmas tree IT is estimated that the global market for Christmas trees is worth $4 billion (€3.75 billion), with Europe alone consuming 60 million trees every year. As the economies of various countries improve, so purchasers are looking to obtain more elaborate and expensive decorations.

Regional deficits THE Spanish Fiscal Authority has announced that the autonomous council’s regional deficit will be more than double the original forecast by the end of 2015 at more than double the amount forecasted. It has therefore advised the Treasury to apply preventative measures in Extremadura, Cataluña, Murcia and Valencia to ensure this deficit does not carry over to the end of 2016.

PP promises income tax cut IN a speech to supporters, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy indicated that if re-elected in the upcoming elections, his party would cut income tax and create two million jobs over the next four years. This follows good news concerning the drop in

$50,000 (€47,000) a day is the daily fine that the Bank of China is due to pay from December 8 until it complies with a US court request to give details of customers accused of selling fake goods.

C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 7

By John Smith

EWN

unemployment but although his People’s Party (PP) is expected to win the largest number of seats on December 20, polls indicate the votes will be fairly evenly split and he may not even be able to form a coalition government.

grethe Vestager started looking into trade union allegations that the restaurant chain avoided paying more than €1billion in corporation taxes between 2009 and 2013. McDonald’s have denied that any impropriety has taken part on their behalf.

IBEX 35

+0.33%

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Pension reserves THE Employment Ministry is to take €7.75 billion from Spanish pension reserves to allow for the extra Christmas payment, according to Tomas Burgos, Secretary of State for Social Security. The reserve is therefore said to be reduced to €31.77 billion which is nearly 50 per cent lower than when the current government came to power.

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 7

PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY 3i Group 488.65 7.35 Aberdeen Asset Management 307.90 3.90 Admiral Group 1,646.00 28.00 Anglo American 375.10 -0.95 Antofagasta 488.40 -3.30 ARM Holdings 1,117.50 1.50 Ashtead Group 1,071.50 19.50 Associated British Foods 3,581.50 96.50 AstraZeneca 4,520.25 78.25 Aviva 511.75 4.25 Babcock International Group 1,045.00 3.00 BAE Systems 513.25 4.75 Barclays 229.60 -0.05 Barratt Developments 613.75 0.25 Berkeley Group Holdings 3,598.00 -4.00 BG Group 1,006.75 -18.25 BHP Billiton 781.70 -6.00 BP 351.98 -7.72 British American Tobacco 3,842.50 61.50 British Land Co 820.75 6.75 BT Group 485.83 6.48 Bunzl 1,930.50 23.50 Burberry Group 1,215.50 13.50 Capita Group (The) 1,254.50 14.50 Carnival 3,520.00 71.00 Centrica 209.95 -1.45 Coca-Cola HBC 1,562.00 15.00 Compass Group 1,175.00 14.00 CRH 1,967.00 12.00 Diageo 1,914.75 23.75 Direct Line Insurance Group 411.35 1.85 Dixons Carphone 481.85 2.25 easyJet 1,707.00 32.00 Experian 1,223.50 16.50 Fresnillo 700.50 -1.50 G4S 232.55 -0.25 GKN 298.50 2.20 GlaxoSmithKline 1,336.25 17.25 Glencore 87.66 0.37 Hammerson 617.75 15.75 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,484.00 4.00 Hikma Pharmaceuticals 2,195.00 38.00 HSBC Holdings 523.80 0.50 Imperial Tobacco Group 3,580.50 29.50 Inmarsat 1,131.00 22.00 InterContinental Hotels Grp 2,609.00 41.00 International Consolidated Air 588.75 4.75 Intertek Group 2,877.00 24.00 Intu Properties 316.15 5.15 ITV 273.75 5.85

% CHG. NET VOL 1.53 4,680.46 1.28 4,028.68 1.73 4,515.97 -0.25 5,271.60 -0.67 4,847.46 0.13 15,708.84 1.85 5,295.18 2.77 27,589.85 1.76 56,130.96 0.84 20,532.17 0.29 5,253.73 0.93 16,088.94 -0.02 38,511.71 0.04 6,107.10 -0.11 4,922.39 -1.78 35,005.69 -0.76 16,636.79 -2.15 65,770.57 1.63 70,484.81 0.83 8,308.35 1.35 39,966.27 1.23 6,389.92 1.12 5,346.90 1.17 8,234.78 2.06 7,455.13 -0.69 10,516.16 0.97 5,637.16 1.21 19,277.66 0.61 16,056.42 1.26 47,549.04 0.45 6,142.50 0.47 5,522.41 1.91 6,653.24 1.37 11,930.31 -0.21 5,172.99 -0.11 3,612.11 0.74 4,883.19 1.31 64,185.28 0.42 12,732.29 2.62 4,721.55 0.27 7,019.92 1.76 4,289.84 0.10 102,112.65 0.83 33,986.30 1.98 4,985.78 1.60 6,063.49 0.81 11,909.71 0.84 4,603.65 1.66 4,114.90 2.18 10,784.07

COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) Johnson Matthey 2,727.00 21.00 Kingfisher 347.70 -5.70 Land Securities Group 1,228.50 22.50 Legal & General Group 270.25 2.95 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 73.01 -0.01 London Stock Exchange Grp 2,661.50 46.50 Marks & Spencer Group 501.75 4.45 Meggitt 378.50 1.50 Merlin Entertainments 435.00 6.30 Mondi 1,500.50 10.50 Morrison (Wm) Supermarkets 146.65 -0.95 National Grid 911.40 10.30 Next 7,897.50 -42.50 Old Mutual 201.70 2.50 Pearson 778.75 -3.25 Persimmon 1,973.50 29.50 Prudential 1,530.50 25.00 Randgold Resources 4,269.50 -19.50 Reckitt Benckiser Group 6,344.50 138.50 Reed Elsevier 1,202.50 19.50 Rio Tinto 2,081.50 0.50 Rolls-Royce Group 614.25 19.75 Royal Bank of Scotland Group 303.15 -0.65 Royal Dutch Shell 1,548.00 -37.50 Royal Dutch Shell 1,556.50 -43.00 Royal Mail 467.30 1.30 RSA Insurance Group 444.35 7.65 SABMiller 4,039.50 4.50 Sage Group (The) 621.75 10.25 Sainsbury (J) 244.35 -0.65 Schroders 2,936.00 52.00 Severn Trent 2,187.00 -3.00 Shire 4,545.50 41.50 Sky 1,115.50 1.50 Smith & Nephew 1,123.50 10.50 Smiths Group 1,004.00 -1.00 Sports Direct International 696.00 -1.50 SSE 1,452.50 10.50 St James's Place 1,006.00 16.50 Standard Chartered 521.90 -2.90 Standard Life 404.00 5.40 Taylor Wimpey 199.55 0.65 Tesco 161.80 -0.80 Travis Perkins 2,029.50 5.50 TUI AG 1,158.00 21.00 Unilever 2,851.50 58.50 United Utilities Group 950.25 0.25 Vodafone Group 218.68 3.13 Whitbread 4,584.00 11.00 Wolseley 3,936.50 55.50 WPP Group 1,524.50 21.50

% CHG. 0.78 -1.61 1.87 1.10 -0.01 1.78 0.89 0.40 1.47 0.70 -0.64 1.14 -0.54 1.26 -0.42 1.52 1.66 -0.45 2.23 1.65 0.02 3.32 -0.21 -2.37 -2.69 0.28 1.75 0.11 1.68 -0.27 1.80 -0.14 0.92 0.13 0.94 -0.10 -0.22 0.73 1.67 -0.55 1.35 0.33 -0.49 0.27 1.85 2.09 0.03 1.45 0.24 1.43 1.43

NET VOL 5,545.07 8,238.78 9,533.95 15,884.55 52,109.96 9,081.39 8,196.81 2,969.28 4,345.93 7,234.75 3,446.59 33,712.09 12,138.16 9,812.90 6,414.65 5,959.18 38,706.19 3,994.34 44,326.77 13,293.81 29,274.00 10,930.44 19,552.74 61,748.64 39,034.37 4,660.00 4,440.18 65,220.97 6,588.29 4,706.26 6,518.49 5,209.12 26,648.00 19,149.85 9,954.58 3,967.51 4,174.29 14,320.01 5,171.12 13,361.18 7,849.18 6,471.14 13,229.95 5,036.36 6,669.68 35,847.02 6,477.94 57,148.13 8,310.93 10,092.81 19,617.67

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US dollar ..................................................................1.08220 Japan yen..................................................................133.521 Switzerland franc ................................................1.08289 Denmark kroner ..................................................7.46052 Norway kroner .....................................................9.34978 currenciesdirect.com/moraira • Tel: +34 966 265 072

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 7

COMPANY MMM 3M AXP American Express AAPL Apple BA Boeing CAT Caterpillar CVX Chevron CSCO Cisco KO Coca-Cola DIS Disney DD E I du Pont de Nemours and Co XOM Exxon Mobil GE General Electric GS Goldman Sachs HD Home Depot IBM IBM INTC Intel JNJ Johnson & Johnson JPM JPMorgan Chase MCD McDonald's MRK Merck MSFT Microsoft NKE Nike PFE Pfizer PG Procter & Gamble TRV Travelers Companies Inc UTX United Technologies UNH UnitedHealth VZ Verizon V Visa WMT Wal-Mart

PRICE CHANGE %CHANGE VOLUME 158.22 +3.84 +2.49% 2.2M 71.10 +0.68 +0.97% 5.0M 119.03 +3.83 +3.32% 57.8M 148.50 +2.94 +2.02% 3.9M 69.98 +0.34 +0.49% 5.3M 89.71 +0.86 +0.97% 13.2M 27.48 +0.53 +1.97% 28.1M 43.29 +0.83 +1.95% 16.5M 114.24 +2.35 +2.10% 8.8M 67.75 +1.52 +2.30% 6.3M 78.86 +0.45 +0.57% 20.2M 30.49 +0.46 +1.53% 58.2M 189.99 +4.79 +2.59% 3.5M 134.53 +3.60 +2.75% 5.4M 140.43 +1.51 +1.09% 4.6M 34.94 +0.90 +2.63% 24.9M 102.95 +2.16 +2.14% 7.8M 67.89 +2.09 +3.18% 17.8M 116.20 +2.81 +2.48% 7.8M 53.64 +1.05 +2.00% 13.7M 55.91 +1.71 +3.15% 44.0M 132.01 +3.21 +2.49% 3.7M 32.80 +0.41 +1.27% 31.6M 77.83 +2.09 +2.76% 12.0M 114.06 +2.77 +2.49% 2.2M 95.73 +1.03 +1.09% 9.2M 117.74 +2.74 +2.38% 3.6M 45.71 +1.15 +2.58% 14.2M 80.40 +2.11 +2.70% 9.9M 59.66 +0.62 +1.05% 10.4M

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 7

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced Relypsa, Inc. Pixelworks, Inc. Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. Presbia PLC Affimed N.V. 3X Long Silver ETN Velocityshares Daily Inverse VIX ST ETN Velocityshares CytomX Therapeutics, Inc. Proshares UltraPro Nasdaq Biotechnology AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Sinovac Biotech, Ltd.

$ 29.14 $ 2.92 $ 184.08 $ 6.47 $ 7.31 $ 11.66 $ 30.34 $ 23.66 $ 55.03 $ 29.17 $ 6.18

6.82 ▲ 30.56% 0.37 ▲ 14.51% 20.89 ▲ 12.80% 0.67 ▲ 11.55% 0.67 ▲ 10.09% 1.03 ▲ 9.69% 2.67 ▲ 9.65% 1.99 ▲ 9.18% 4.47 ▲ 8.84% 2.27 ▲ 8.44% 0.48 ▲ 8.42%

$ 8.05 $ 8.66 $ 4.46 $ 5.5384 $ 3.03 $ 12.25 $ 6.858 $ 11.82 $ 12.15 $ 45.67 $ 6.53

1.7424 ▼ 17.79% 1.87 ▼ 17.76% 0.92 ▼ 17.10% 1.1316 ▼ 16.97% 0.5201 ▼ 14.65% 2 ▼ 14.04% 1.002 ▼ 12.75% 1.65 ▼ 12.25% 1.55 ▼ 11.31% 5.45 ▼ 10.66% 0.77 ▼ 10.55%

Most Declined FuelCell Energy, Inc. InVivo Therapeutics Holdings Corp. Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Daily 2X VIX ST ETN Velocityshares Hercules Offshore, Inc. Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Breitburn Energy Partners LP Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Vanguard Natural Resources LLC GLOBAL BLOOD THERAPEUTICS, INC. ReWalk Robotics Ltd

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

Printing banknotes not making profit

PAPER BANKNOTES: Production will be cut due to falling demand.

NOVEMBER: Unemployment figures show a drop of 27,071.

Spanish unemployment figures drop in November By Marcus Hopkins UNEMPLOYMENT in Spain has fallen in November, reversing a three-month trend. With the general election just three weeks away, the timing couldn’t be better for Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy and his People’s Party. Figures from Spain’s Labour Ministry show a drop of 27,071 in November, reducing the number of unemployed to 4.15 million. Although unemployment has been reduced by 362,818 people in the last year, Spain’s 21.1 per cent unemployment rate is still the second highest in the EU. Quarterly unemployment surveys, preferred as being more accurate by economists, suggest the unemployment rate for the third quarter to be 5 million. In March 2013, the number of jobless reached 6 million. Rajoy is hoping that Spain’s gradual economic recovery over the last couple of years will sway chances of election victory when the country goes to the polls on December 20.

tile takeover from France and has issued a number of profit warnings. It has also announced that some work from the company’s printing plant in Gateshead is to be transferred to Malta, but the Tyneside operation will become one of three global ‘centres of excellence’ for printing currency, so there will be no job losses there. Although 300 jobs will be lost in Malta, where banknote printing will end. The other two centres will be in Kenya and Sri Lanka, which are major purchasers of bank notes from the company. Following the announcement, the value of the companies increased by around 4 per cent.

Facebook founder to gift his shares to charity By John Smith IN an open letter which was posted on his Facebook page on December 2 to his new daughter Max, whose birth has just been announced, Mark Zuckerberg explained that he and his wife Priscilla Chan intended to give away 99 per cent of their shares in the company he founded. The shares currently valued at around $45 billion (€42.5 billion) will be given to the charity Chan Zuckerberg Initiative to make the world a better place for Max to grow up in, according to the letter. The shares will not be donated in one tranche but will be passed over during their lifetime. In his letter Mr Zuckerberg said the aim of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative is ‘to advance human potential and promote equality for all children in the next generation’. “Its initial areas of focus will be personalised learning, curing disease, connecting people and building strong communities.” In a statement to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Facebook said that Mr Zuckerberg ‘plans to sell or gift no more than $1bn of Facebook stock each year for the next three years and that he intends to retain his majority voting position...for the foreseeable future.’ He said more details about the donation will be released once he and Ms

Photo Credit President of Mexico

Photo credit Hdepot, Wikimedia

THE world’s biggest banknote printer, De La Rue, will cut production as demand for paper banknotes falls. The company, which prints some 150 national currencies as well as UK passports, said it would reduce its production lines to four from eight and cut its print capacity from eight billion to six billion banknotes annually, even though it produces British notes through its Debden facility and has recently won a 10-year contract to print polymer £5 and £10 notes for the Bank of England. De La Rue has struggled in the face of greater competition as well as having to fight off a hos-

Photo Credit Suranga SL Shutterstock

By John Smith

INITIATIVE: Zuckerberg plans to give away 99 per cent of shares. Chan return from paternity and maternity leave, but this does appear to be a move away from previous charitable work

through Facebook, which cynics have suggested were as much for business reasons as for altruism.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

EWN

By John Smith BANKS and credit card companies, who have in the past offered attractive schemes to encourage their customers to use their cards regularly, may soon start to rethink their policies as the Payment Systems Regulator set out how the new cap on fees plastic card companies can charge retailers will be policed. The cap was introduced on Wednesday December 9, and while it may not see an increase in charges for consumers yet, many plastic card companies are considering or have already cut back on cashback or reward schemes. Tesco greatly reduced its reward scheme for Clubcard credit card users from December 1 whilst even earlier, RBS dropped its Your Points scheme in July, upsetting up to a million customers, and Capital One reduced cashback on its card in June. The regulator insists that the new

Photo Credit Andresr Shutterstock

New reduced card fees for retailers may hurt club cards

CUTBACKS: Many plastic card companies are considering cutting back on cashback or reward schemes.

fee regulation should appeal to new credit card providers as it could encourage them to enter the market, although this seems to be a strange argument if the revenue to be generated is to drop significantly. Up until now, retailers have been charged a fee by card issuers when a debit or credit card is used as payment and the fee could be as high as 2.5 per cent for some transactions. Now the fee will be capped at 0.3 per cent for credit card transactions and 0.2 per cent for debit card transactions. According to the European Commission, charges were costing retailers across the euro zone up to â‚Ź9 billion a year, although it has been observed that most retailers were prepared to either pay the fee or increase their prices accordingly. One thing can be fairly certain and that is if the card suppliers start to lose money, they will look to the card holder to help replace the loss.

OPINION & COMMENT

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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Only way is to fight for our ideals GIVE our fighting men and women all the support they need to finish the job LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT MAKE you laugh don’t they? Or perhaps crying would be a more appropriate reaction. I’m talking about the politicians who this week voted against bombing Daesh targets in Syria; or more specifically, the main excuse they used to justify themselves. ‘Ah’ they simpered; ‘If we do this we would give them an excuse to bring more acts of terror onto our streets.’ Just how many ‘acts of terror’ do they need before they get some bottle and realise we are in a war? We’ve had a soldier almost beheaded in the street, buses and trains blown up, an unprecedented rise in the number of Islamic terror plots uncovered, and this week a knife attack on innocent victims by an Islamist lunatic in a tube station. What will it take to wake these pacifist pillocks up in the real world? A dirty

POLITICIANS VOTED: Against bombing Daesh targets in Syria. bomb in the middle of Trafalgar Square? Don’t believe that’s beyond the realms of possibility either! If we continue to turn the other cheek, we’ll have ‘em both sliced off.

Please don’t get my attitude wrong. I too believe that peace and love among all human beings is the final harmony that will bring us all together as one. But vast numbers of others don’t! Millions would

like to see all the non-believers of their violent and suppressive religious views, wiped off the face of the Earth. The only way for us to live in a peaceful democracy is to put all our ideals on hold and fight for it. The words of an elite ‘Gunny’ sergeant, who was guarding the American Embassy when I lived in Jeddah comes to mind. I had many long discussions with this remarkable man, who believed fervently in peace and the love of our fellow men. He also firmly believed that some of us are put on this world to fight and preserve it. And that, he said, was the job of him and his fellow servicemen. Give our fighting men and women all the support and weaponry they need to finish the job. Hopefully at least our children will then be able to enjoy a future filled with the peace and love we all so passionately desire. Keep the Faith Love Leapy Leapylee2002@gmail.com

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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Life will reward you, but not always by the route you expect.”

NEWS

Edna Rodriguez

What is needed to become a successful entrepreneur? WHAT sets a successful entrepreneur apart from the crowd? Why do some succeed whereas most end up failing?

THE last study from the UK’s Office of National Statistics (ONS) makes depressing reading, suggesting that 55 per cent of new businesses fail within the first five years. This figure relates to those businesses that are officially registered, and excludes many micro-businesses and one-man-bands. Why do so many fail? How do you improve your chances of success? Many people try to turn a passion or hobby into a business success. This can be fine, but so many potential entrepreneurs fail to understand that running the financial and legal sides of a real-life business is so very different from being in love with cooking, cars, clothes or whatever the passion was that created the inspiration to go it alone. Cash flow, or lack of, is the number one killer of many business dreams. Official figures suggest that around 80-90 per cent of small businesses fail because of poor cash flow. Cash is king and always has been. When cash isn’t there, due to late payments, unexpected costs or insufficient initial investment, business survival is almost impossible. Not understanding the competition is another cause of early failure. You may think you can provide the best food, the best dresses, or best gym, but how do you persuade new customers to come and see you rather than the people they already use? And business is all about people. So many new businesses focus so much on their product that they forget the importance of selling themselves. Small and micro-businesses especially rely on a personal relationship with the customer. International food chain Pret A Manger say the staff teams in their shops are the backbone of what they do. To Pret, people are one of their most impor-

Shutterstock photocritical

By Marcus Hopkins

are able to handle. Some argue that being a maverick can be key to business growth. Mavericks include the likes of Richard Branson and the late Steve Jobs. Risk-takers, philanthropists, innovators, always looking at things from a different angle. If you want to be a business success, whether that means financial success or some other type of lifestyle success, then being an entrepreneur may be the road for you. If you’ve got the guts, the passion, the ability to handle loss, failure and even ridicule, then maybe, just maybe, the next big success story is you. As Steve Jobs once said: “Stay hungry, stay foolish.”

TRIBUTE: The late Steve Jobs. tant ingredients. They look for workers with passion. Where would you go for coffee? A place with someone serving you who quite obviously doesn’t want to be there, or a place where the staff are fun, happy and doing all they can to make you feel good too? So simple to answer, yet so many new business get it so wrong. Once you’ve got the staff right, being an entrepreneur requires an element of risk-taking, something not that well promoted in Europe. In the US, some leading business minds say that in order to succeed in business you may need to first fail in business. Failure to them is part of your education. In Europe a different mindset often prevails, failure being interpreted as proof that

you’re just not cut out to be an entrepreneur. Different places, different mindsets. Neither is better or worse, just different. If you want to succeed in business though, you do usually need to be a risk-taker. The fact that most people aren’t able to face the risk is why so many work for others. If you’re that way inclined, don’t feel jealous of the business owner, feel happy that you aren’t taking the financial and emotional risks that they are. Being an entrepreneur is a lonely road and isn’t one that most people

Richard Branson

Shutterstock Prometheus72

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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EWN

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.”

Paulo Coelho, Brazilian lyricist and novelist

A pioneering spirit and a very proud history

Photo credit: Diego Delso

COSTA BLANCA: A successful expat community flourishing beyond expectations.

By Matthew Elliott THEY said it was all over. Newspapers and media from London to Madrid declared the death of the Spanish business dream, the idea that it was possible to build a successful expatriate community on a rugged coastline and flourish beyond expectations. When the recession hit, crashing against Spain harder than most, there was an unmistakable glee in the undercurrent of media coverage of stricken British expatriates. Success is divisive, bringing both admiration and envy, and the people embarking on a new life on the stretch of white sand from Gandia to Alicante were an easy target. The Costa Blanca North is different from other regions of British influence dotted around Spain, including its

southerly namesake. Here there is a pioneering spirit that persists to this very day and a proud history that should make anyone doubting the thriving spirit of the community think twice. There’s been a productive British presence here since the Victorian times, when skilled engineers and workers came out to build new railways from Alicante to Denia and beyond. Even in the 20th century throughout the past 40 years when the influx of new immigrants from across Europe seeking a better life has never been higher, the Costa Blanca North has etched out a hard-fought identity for itself as a teeming hotbed of industry and innovation. The people who made their homes here brought with them a frontier spirit that had them settling with families, integrating with local

What the world refused to acknowledge was the strength of character that exists in this community communities and considering this their true home. Less transient and fleeting than more touristic and resort based areas, the communities in the Costa Blanca North were much better equipped to cope with the recession, with an identity of graft anchoring them through those volatile times. It is this strength that has allowed us today, in 2015, to pay tribute to the ongoing success

of businesses throughout the Costa Blanca. In this supplement feature, you’ll find stories of success against the odds, from people you may know personally or have done business with, from people you may decide you’d like to meet, from the people who are the backbone of this thriving community. It’s also a testament to belief, to a people who refused to give up in the face of adversity, not because it was their dream, but because it was their life. It’s a counter to the flippant ‘told you so’ attitude that was all the rage in 2008 and beyond when the recession bit and we were lazily told the dream had become a nightmare. That’s not to say it hasn’t been tough; it’s been harder than anyone expected, but what the world refused to acknowledge was

the strength of character that exists in the soul of this community. The businesses included throughout these pages are the enterprises you should support, the charities, garages, shops, services, specialists, and people who have kept this community proud and on its feet. They’ve been here for decades, and are the unsung heroes of the Costa Blanca, and it’s time we recognised them, supported them, and offered our gratitude. It’s their enterprise and dedication that has kept us above water, that has allowed us to continue living in Spain, and that will be the foundation of any future we dare to dream. Support them and support your local community. They have supported you the reader and now we see a glimmer of hope with 2016 looking very promising indeed.

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly? “

Frida Kahlo, Mexican Painter.

EVOLUTION GRASS

The artificial turf company MORE than 2,000 installations speak for themselves

COMPANY AIM: To offer the best service.

EVOLUTION GRASS is an artificial grass manufacturer and installer company based in Alicante that emerged in early 2007 as a result of three generations of experience in the manufacture of carpets and rugs. Motivated by the need to innovate, we decided to diversify products in order to adapt to new requirements demanded by the market, by providing a complete catalogue in which you can find artificial turf that best suits the needs of our customers. Our goal is to leverage our know-how in terms of manufacturing technology to incorporate sustainable and environmentally-friendly turf which conforms to ISO 9001 quality criteria, in order to meet the needs of our customers. We thoroughly investigate and improve the quality of our products to provide our

customers with the best product at competitive prices. We offer products of art filled with curved monofilaments or polyamides, incorporating the latest technology, the nerve centre memory effect; all this together with a wide range of different shades that increase the ease and comfort of artificial turf, achieving a perfect imitation of the natural grass. All our fibres come from European suppliers of high reputation, which can offer product warranties from eight to 12 years. Evolution Grass is specialised in the manufacturing, sale and installation of quality artificial turf for landscape and sports uses, by providing a wide range in which you can find artificial turf that best suits your needs. We believe our more than 2,000 installations are our best advertising and the key to our success. We are the leading company in terms of artificial grass, either for private use in gardens, terraces, a pool area, or for business use, in public parks, walkways, arbors and various garden areas. There is

also a wide range of turfs for sports purposes such as soccer, paddle tennis and golf. Our company offers a personalised service. We consider each project as a new installation, which gives us the opportunity to satisfy the needs of our most demanding clients, and this successful outcome will serve as a precedent for future projects. With the aim of offering the best service in grass evolution we have a professional team with extensive experience and training in the sector. They will be responsible for on-site visits, plans, developing the whole project and installation of artificial turf, advising on everything necessary, adapted to the customer’s needs and fulfilling the agreed time and budget.

If you would like more information and a quote, do not hesitate to contact us via email: info@evolutiongrass.co m or by phone 677 739 530 or visit www.cespedartificialalicante.net

Photo Credit Photograph ee.eu Shutterstock

3C Care and Nursing Agency for daily support MISSION is to enable clients to remain in their own home By John Smith AFTER spending many years involved with the MABS Cancer support group, Sue Ruela who is still one of their directors, realised that there was an absolute need by a number of elderly residents in the area between Alicante to Denia for assistance with their day to day living, so she set up the 3C Care and Nursing Agency. The concept behind the organisation was to act as an extension of voluntary services already provided in the region as it was recognised that a number of elderly people living on the Costa Blanca found the cost of professional and nursing care provided by expensive local businesses to be beyond their means. The Finestrat based local care agency was launched in October 2007 with the initial emphasis of offering Care, Companionship and Cleaning which were the three primary services provided by them initially. There was such a demand for their services, that they had to expand to offer community based home care and private nursing care

Care, Companionship and Cleaning were the three primary services.

INDIVIDUAL NEED S: Will put together a personalised and caring plan.

be it a few hours assistance or a full 24-hour home nursing care. They are able to put together a personalised and caring plan, tailored to an individual’s needs and within a budget. Their services are targeted at the particular needs of British and English speaking residents, senior members of the community, family members arranging distance care from the UK and those requiring nursing or respite care whilst on holiday. Their mission is to enable their clients to remain in their home at times of need or to supply the level of support required to speed up recovery following short or long term illness. Too many people have the additional worry especially in times

of illness as to how they will cope with the basic requirements of living including bathing and cooking and this is just one service that can help to put their clients and their families minds to rest. Today they are able to offer a wide ranging team of professionals which include physiotherapists, chiropodists, nutrition experts, doctors and committed qualified home care staff as well as fully qualified, registered and trained nursing staff. Started by a lady who has devoted so much time to helping others, her philosophy is reflected throughout the entire operation so for more information please see their website www.costablanca careagency.com or call 965 858 610.

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Life’s challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they’re supposed to help you discover who you are.” Bernice Johnson Reagon, singer, composer, scholar and social activist.

BASE SATELLITE

For all your TV needs SERVICES range from a simple Freesat system up to Sky+ HD sending one of their engineers as soon as possible to fix a problem. Before you make a purchase you will always get a chance to talk with one of their experts whose job it is to make sure you are buying the right thing for you. They don’t want to sell you anything that won’t meet your viewing requirements. Base Satellite caters for everyone’s TV needs, from a simple Freesat system (a dish and Freesat receiver) which requires no monthly payments, up to Sky+ HD systems with Sky viewing cards, Sky Multiroom and can even give access to On Demand, Catch up and Box Sets, etc (with one of their UK TV routers which provides a UK IP address WiFi network for the whole home). As the satellite requirements have shifted over the years, Base Satellite have ensured that they have provided the most up-to-date information, emailing their clients regularly with the latest developments. The aim of Base Satellite is to pro-

Ana Botin: Successful executive chair of Santander bank HISTORY shows that she has earned it By John Smith ALTHOUGH the fourth generation of her family to head Santander Bank, Ana Patricia Botin-Sanz de Sautuola O’Shea to give her full name, has not just inherited the title but her history shows that she has earned it. Born in October 1960 the daughter of Spanish banker Emilio Botin and Paloma O’Shea, she studied economics at Bryn Mawr College and attended Harvard Business School, where she earned an MBA. She then worked for eight years at JP Morgan in the USA and in 1988, she came back to Spain and began working for the Santander Group. In 2002 she was appointed the executive chairman of the Spanish bank, Banesto, a subsidiary of Santander where she served until 2010 when she be-

came CEO of Santander UK. When her father died in 2014, she was immediately appointed chair of the parent company saying at the time: “In these difficult times for me and my family now, I appreciate the confidence of the board and accept with total commitment my new responsibilities. “For years I have worked in the Santander Group in different countries and responsibilities and I have seen the enormous quality and dedication of all our teams. We will continue working with full determination to continue building a better Banco Santander each day for our customers, employees and shareholders.” So impressed was David Cameron with this businesswoman and speaker of five languages, who had successfully navigated the

banks she was in charge of during the recession, that he appointed her in 2014 as an advisor in the Business Advisory Group. In 1983, she married fellow banker Guillermo Morenes Mariategui, son of the Marquis of Borghetto, and they have three children, Felipe, Javier and Pablo. Her sister was married to golfer Severiano Ballesteros, and her great grandmother Maria persuaded her father to follow her to caves in Altamira where she had discovered some of the finest cave paintings in Europe. A family of successful people and she has clearly kept up the family tradition.

vide the same equipment and same access to the full range of TV available in the UK. With their UK TV router they provide a little piece of the UK in your own home abroad. As the demand for online services is ever increasing, their UK TV router is invaluable, enabling you to access services otherwise unavailable in Spain, bingo, UK gambling, National Lottery, everything that needs a UK IP address (TV iPlayers included). Base Satellite now have happy customers in 14 European countries, providing UKTV routers, Sky+ HD boxes, Sky cards and management service, ensuring they maintain the same high level of service which has enabled them to not only stay afloat in these hard financial times, but actually move forward and provide their excellent service further afield.

(See their main advert on page 5 of this supplement).

Photo Credit World Travel and Tourism Council

BASE SATELLITE, a family-run business, established in 2001, is still going strong and is now expanding into the rest of Europe. So, what is it that has allowed Base Satellite to weather the economic storm, when so many other companies on the Costa have folded and gone under? The Base Satellite team know how important TV is to us Brits away from home. From Coronation Street and EastEnders to Football and Sky Sports they know how essential it BUSINESS: is to have easy and uninterFamily-run and in rupted viewing. operation since They are dedicated to providing customer satis2001. faction and pride themselves in providing excellent customer care, whether it is returning calls and emails promptly, offering phone help or

SUCCESS: Ana Botin

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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Believe in yourself, dream big, and trust in the universe.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Martha Leticia Romero & Silvia Romero

PELLICER & HEREDIA

Multi-skilled law experts READY to stand for you, your company and your rights TOGETHER with the development of the economy and industry, the legal position in society becomes more and more relevant. It is undoubtedly important to understand how the legal system works in another country. With this portfolio, we want to let you know about our legal services in case we can help you or your business in any way with personal matters, or anything related with the activities of your company in Spain. Pellicer & Heredia lawyer’s team has gathered a full profile of knowledge in the field of Spanish and international law, and the confidence of our clients is the best proof of that. During many years of working in private and public sectors, Pellicer & Heredia lawyers became well-acquainted with various aspects of the law, and thus our multi-skilled team is ready to stand for you, your company and your rights. The law firm Pellicer & Heredia legal services company was created by two ambi-

tious experts of law, Mr. Ignacio Pellicer Mollá and Mr. Pedro Heredia Ortiz. They both developed their legal knowledge by studying different subjects of law in several universities in Spain and England. International studies and environment gave them a chance to expand their perception of legal issues and to identify possible ways of solving new problems, in new ways. The idea of creating this law firm was focused on the most important thing for the founding partners, to help people by solving their problems in the most convenient and comprehensible way. This is why Pellicer & Heredia founding partners, Mr. Ignacio Pellicer and Mr. Pedro Heredia, gathered a team with knowledge of both national and international law, with extremely wide competence, and strong skills in several languages. Pellicer & Heredia is a law firm based in Alicante municipality, and established in 2008. During these years we have managed to bring the

best lawyers into our team. Our experience and the confidence of our clients has let us expand our working areas, and now Pellicer & Heredia has six offices which are located on the east-south coast of Spain (Alicante, Hondon de las Nieves, Petrer, Teulada Moraira, Ciudad Quesada and Benidorm Indoor Market). The main office is located in the centre of Alicante, although Pellicer & Heredia lawyers from all our offices are working together in order to provide the best result for our clients. What is more, Pellicer & Heredia collaborates with a lot of law firms both national and international as well as independent lawyers, notaries and advisors in other countries, in order to help us provide the best service possible for our clients. Services we provide There is no need for you to travel to us, no waiting time, there is no need for a previous appointment. Because problems do not understand waiting. Pellicer & Heredia is one of

PELLICER & HEREDIA: Legal services. Spain’s most dynamic law firms, consisting of a multi-skilled staff, fluent in English and with many years of experience in dealing with Spanish and International law. We regularly act for foreign companies and private individuals representing their interests in Spain on both transactional and litigation matters. Step by step, Pellicer & Heredia has managed to cover more and more practice areas in the field of law. Pellicer & Heredia has

developed its competence to work in the following areas: civil law, company law, private international law, administrative law, criminal law. Our clients trust us by giving the acceptance to deal with questions of taxes, intellectual property, international commerce, litigation and arbitration. At Pellicer & Heredia, we have many years of experience in defending our clients before the Courts, and that makes our team feel responsible for you in every step.

The rags to riches tale of Spain’s wealthiest man HIS family lived on 300 pesetas a month By Matthew Elliott AMANCIO ORTEGA hit the headlines earlier this year when he briefly surpassed the evergreen Bill Gates to become the world’s richest man for a fleeting moment, courtesy of the rough and tumble nature of the stock exchange. Chiefly known as the founder of Zara, the Spanish multi-billionaire is firmly established as the richest man in Europe with a net worth estimated by Bloomberg at £46 billion (€65 billion). This astronomical figure places him tens of billions ahead of any European rival and at a global third behind Microsoft’s Gates and leg-

endary investor Warren Buffet. Ortega is more distinguished from the European super-rich, however, due to the manner he earned his fortune. Unlike most, he was not born into money and worked his way from modest beginnings to his terrific success. Born in 1936, the youngest of four children, to a father working the emergent railways, Ortega spent his childhood in Busdongo de Arbás, in León Province. The family lived on 300 pesetas a month, modest even by the standards of the time, in a tough period when Spain was still recovering from the ravages of civil war. His mother frequently relied on

goodwill and credit just to buy food and, at 14, Ortega left school to work as a messenger boy. His official biographer noted the impact this had on the young Ortega: “This horrible moment in which he realised the dramatic situation of poverty would never happen again to his family. The consequence of that slap on the face he suffered when still he was a very young boy has been the creation of one of the most important Spanish enterprises... with a global presence in most of the world.”

Au rel iju s

W iki pe dia

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS: Amancio Ortega.

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

One finds limits by pushing them.” Herbert Simon, Nobel laureate, an American political scientist, economist, sociologist, psychologist, and computer scientist.

YORKSHIRE LINEN

Specialists in bedding and soft furnishings PRODUCT selection is constantly updated and renewed so the offer is always fresh YORKSHIRE LINEN has been open for 10 years in Javea and operated by Martin for the past five. The specialist bedding, duvet, curtain and soft furnishings company is a franchise with its roots in the UK. The store boasts over 400 square metres of floor space and is the market leader in the area in its field. Store-owner Martin says the company has performed well throughout the recession and has remained strong. Their second store in Altea, although currently only occupying half the metreage and located in a different area, also performs extremely well. “Maybe one of the reasons for our continued success could be the fall in housing prices, meaning property was cheaper and people had slightly more money to spend on their homes,” says Martin. “But our customer confidence is high, and this is also one of the most important reasons we do so well. “We constantly update and renew our product selection as our customers come into the stores maybe once a month so we keep the displays fresh and adapt to our clients’ needs and market demands by offering a great variety. We offer a middle market product, not too luxurious and not the cheapest,

The franchise operates stores in Javea and Altea.

but a good quality product and at a good price. It is important to understand your clients’ needs and meet them while maintaining an excellent level of service and product. Our staff make all the difference, they know the product, speak many languages between

them and importantly smile and greet customers in a friendly manner. “The recession has helped us to understand what our strengths are and we work on those. We hope to continue to expand our product range to meet our customers’ demands, and

in Altea we will be looking to expand the store to resemble our store in Javea, hopefully doubling the floor space. The company as a whole is expanding and we may be looking at adding further stores to our network in the near future,” Martin explains. “We have increased our market share by serving the mix of nationalities that exist and not just focusing on one. This is important because if one falters, as with the UK market some years ago, you have others that will compensate for the drop. This I think can make you more resilient to recession. It does mean we stock a larger range to suit the varied tastes, but we broaden our appeal.” “This is the positive from a recession, it keeps you on the ball,” he says. Martin believes that for anyone looking to set up a business in Spain, it is critical that they educate themselves on how the market and systems work. “Things work differently in Spain and markets do not react how people necessarily expect them to,” says Martin, adding: “But, above all, we understand our customers, we offer an honest product at the right price and of course provide a great service. These are the keys.”

One step at a time to beat cancer MABS is one of the leading charities in Spain and dedicated to supporting those affected by the illness By John Smith FORMED in 1999 as a self-help group by cancer survivors, MABS Cancer Support Group has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the leading charities in Spain, dedicated to the support of all of those who have been touched by cancer, whether they are the sufferer or supporter of someone who is under treatment. They do not care about a person’s age, nationality, financial situation or past medical history, they just want to help in whatever way they can. The charity owes its early existence to Jacqui Phillips MBE, who like so many other people involved in the charity, suffered from the disease. Having been cured Jacqui de-

SUPPORT: Rhonda Ryan and Jacqui Phillips.

cided to offer help to others, and the charity now covers the area from Valencia to Gibraltar with offices in a number of different locations. There is a most incredible range of assistance that MABS and its dedicated representatives can offer, including one to one support, especially when sufferers first learn the heart rending news of their illness. There are always people to talk to who have experienced the trauma themselves and are happy to explain the procedures and listen. There is a treatment room in Moraira supplied by TELITEC, translators to assist patients in understanding exactly what doctors and nurses are telling them, transport where needed for hospital appointments, respite care to allow full time

carers to have some time to themselves, palliative care and plentiful information on both the illness and the drugs used to treat it. All of this comes at a cost and companies and individuals across the area covered have been ceaseless in assisting with donations and fund raising, and the result is the growth of this fantastic and successful organisation dedicated to relieving the burden of cancer. However, MABS is always looking for future assistance until the day, not quite as far off as it once was, when it can close its doors when cancer has been eradicated. For more information to see if you can help MABS or if you need help from it, visit www.mabscancersuppo rt.org.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

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10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater.”

EWN

William Hazlitt, author

WINNIES BAR & RESTAURANT

Focusing on quality is the key STARTING from scratch was tough but local support made all the difference WINNIES BAR, owned by Kevin Noble, was established during the recession several years ago and they have been building and expanding ever since opening their doors. “We started from scratch. I have a solid background in the food service industry, working for over seven years in the UK as the European brand development manager for an international brewery company, but due to ill health decided to take redundancy and move to Spain. “We opened our doors and within a year the unit next door became available just at the right time, so we took the plunge and took it on, doubling our size virtually overnight and nearly tripling the amount of covers we could serve from 30 to 100, so initially it was a shock. We recruited more staff in order to cope; it was a quick and steep learning curve but made a huge difference. What was outstanding was the support we received from locals and tourists as well as business-owners. Everyone was just so helpful. Coming from a small village in the UK where there was a good community spirit, I was amazed to find that here especially as a foreigner, it is amazing how

University business WHEN 3D printing was in its infancy, tutors at Barcelona University had a need for rapid prototyping equipment to help teach 3D design and CAD courses. A programme named the RepRap Project with its OpenSource machine designs appeared to be the ideal project to allow students to experiment. Professor Roger Uceda (CEO of BCN3D Technologies) says it started with printing a set of RepRap Mendel plastic components using a 3D printer and as interest grew, so did demand. Profits from courses and model making were used to buy all sorts of printing machinery as well as being used for testing. Today, the University has a real business which continues to attract customers from all over Spain.

HOPING TO EXPAND: Owner Kevin Noble. everyone looks out for each other. I really enjoy that,” says Kevin. Kevin has ambitions to continue building his business to include more restaurants. “This is just the beginning. I think a recession always sorts out the weak from the

strong, it is a time to up your game,” he says. “What we did was focus on quality. Everything is fresh, we use the local market to source all of our products and cook it fresh to order. Nothing is frozen or pre-prepared and the customers can tell and I think

are willing to pay for that. I don’t think you have to be greedy to make a living. Our prices are not high, but we pride ourselves on delivering quality and good service to ensure our customers are satisfied; after all, without the customer we would not have a job.” Winnies is named after Kevin’s grandmother, a strong and important character in his life. “This is really a tribute to her. She was the most inspirational woman I have known in my life, without her I do not think I would be where I am today, a truly outstanding woman. So the next restaurant we will open will be dedicated to my grandfather, who just lost his battle with cancer.” Kevin believes that now is a great time to expand. Because Winnies is not focused on any one particular market he feels that has been one of the reasons for his continued success. “We are really excited and looking forward to 2016. We have a lot of ambition but will never stray from our philosophy, which is that we don’t do fast food, we do fresh food as fast as we can,” he says.

Successful Spaniard to take the helm at British Airways ALEX CRUZ is currently the president of Vueling By Eleanor Hawkins

IAG (International Airlines Group) recently announced that Spaniard Alex Cruz, current presid e n t o f Vu e l i n g , w i l l b e t a k i n g over from Keith Williams at the helm of British Airways when he retires in April 2016, following an 18-year spell with BA. Cruz, IAG CEO William Walsh reported, has managed since becoming president of Vueling to turn the airline into a dynamic, innovative and cost-efficient airline and is expected to bring new experience and vision to the British

I hope next year to be working for one of the world’s greatest, most iconic airlines.

operator. “I’m very satisfied with the post and hope next year to be w o r k i n g f o r o n e o f t h e w o r l d ’s greatest, most iconic airlines,” Cruz said after he was named as the future British Airways presi-

dent. His challenge at BA, Cruz said, will be to continue offering an excellent service to the airline’s customers while meeting the financial goals the IAG has set for it. “I would like to thank everyone who is part of Vueling for everything we’ve achieved together and I’m sure the airline will continue growing in strength,” he added. Alex Cruz started his career with American Airlines, where he worked for 10 years before founding Clickair in 2006 and later merging it with Vueling. He took over as president of the airline in 2013.

Mango, not just a fruit... NOT that long ago, when asked about Spanish fashion, many people thought of little old ladies dressed in black, flamenco dresses and children’s confirmation clothes but then there was a complete change around. Nowadays, the name Zara is on everyone’s lips and running a close second is Mango, founded in Barcelona by brothers Isak Andic and Nahman Andic and now one of the world’s biggest fashion firms. With nearly 9,000 staff, shops literally everywhere and turnover of more than €2 billion annually, the company is a perfect example of how successful an organisation with an eye for the right product and a commitment to succeed can be.

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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You are not your resumé, you are your work.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Seth Godin, American author, entrepreneur, marketer, and public speaker

MONROE’S CARVERY

A proven recipe for success GOOD FOOD at good prices and a strong and flexible team of employees MONROE’S CARVERY, Pedreguer, is situated outside the town in a tranquil setting. I visited recently, and was greeted at the door by a smiling member of staff, who introduced me to the owner, Heidi. Heidi showed me the improvements she making to the bar and restaurant. The bar is now larger, giving room for a pool table as well as more room for darts (to keep their darts team happy, no doubt). The changes have meant a slight reduction in the size of the restaurant, but this has been done in such a way that it is still possible to seat in excess of 100 people. Heidi is clearly very ‘hands on’. She wasn’t just managing the building work from afar. She was mucking in with her team in order to get the job done. The sure sign of a team player! Heidi has been in business in Spain for 27 years, and she attributes her success to a very simple recipe – good food at good prices. As a successful businesswoman, her advice to anyone contemplating setting up a new business in Spain was simple. She said in order to succeed it is important to research the area you are

Research the area you are considering setting up in very carefully “

MONROE’S CARVERY: Improvements are under way to this well-established and very successful restaurant in Pedreguer.

considering very carefully. Make sure there is a need for your business. Be patient! It takes several years to establish a good business, and that means it is vital to have cash reserves. Many potentially good businesses have failed because of the lack of financial backing in the early stages. Good solid advice! Of course, having been in business for so long, Monroe’s Carvery has seen recessions. Heidi was keen to point out that her staff have been a key element in their survival. Her strong and flexible team is key to this success story. Looking back over this past year, Heidi confirms that it has been better than the year before. She has seen a gradual improvement, and expects that trend to continue into 2016. “There will be no leap, though” she says, “just steady growth.”

Samaritans spread out from Costa Blanca 24-HOUR service now available By Matthew Elliott THE Samaritans in Spain have made 2015 a tremendous success story that will be of immense benefit to the vulnerable and those in need across the country in times to come. November saw them open a new drop-in centre in the Punta Marina Commercial Centre, Torrevieja, which will complement their charity shop and offer a more private service for those who would like someone to talk to. The Samaritans have forged a greater partnership this year with the Red Cross and general manager Stephen Baker expects to have an office with the Red Cross facility in Alicante soon. The news comes after retired President of the Samaritans in Spain, Chris Sumter, was honoured with a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. She took over what was then the Costa Blanca Samaritans four years ago and dramatically expanded the service from a

Patron Dave Bull cu ts the

Retired

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ribbon for new drop in

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four-hour day to an indispensable 24hour service with more than 60 volunteers involved. With the help of this dedicated group the Samaritans expanded their services beyond the Costa Blanca, becoming a truly national service, even establishing a drop-in centre in Madrid. Open 24/7, 365 days of the year, the Samaritans are now available for expatriates and locals alike with an English-speaking service ready to assist with all manners of issues, from depression, to domestic violence, substance abuse and loneliness, among many others. A true Costa Blanca success story, more than 60 volunteers work tirelessly with the Samaritans in Spain, with 30 helping those in need over the telephone every day. Their free phone number is 900 525 100.

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Waiting for perfect is never as smart as making progress.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Seth Godin, Author

TELITEC

Constantly adding value to what they offer COMPANY is dedicated to Internet and telephone communication systems JAN MCDOWELL-EDMONDSON is the CEO of Telitec communications. Established in 2005 the company is dedicated to Internet and telephone communications systems for residential and business properties throughout Spain. Jan believes that the company has made it through the recession mainly because of their enthusiastic and extremely hard working staff. “I put the success of the company down to the people that work here, they are invested in the business and want to see it succeed,” says Jan. Many of the staff at Telitec have been working at the company since its formation. “They have fought extremely hard to keep clients, bring new ones and ensure those we have are well looked after, putting in the extra time when needed. We call ourselves team Telitec,” she says. The company is also invested in the community, organising events and charity days throughout the year, all of which is coordinated by a member

of the Telitec team, Gemma. “We recently ran a Christmas market at the Marriot Hotel, and even though it was on a weekend a large number of the staff turned up to support Gemma, its fantastic and the day was a huge success.” “We also ensure that if we do get something wrong, which happens to everyone, then we work extra hard to put it right, we don’t just bury our heads in the sand, we just fix it and this is appreciated by the client.” The nature of the industry means Telitec need to be at the forefront and constantly looking at ways to bring new technologies and innovations to the market. “It is a constant battle for us to stay ahead of the game and we need to ensure we can efficiently implement roll out new products and services, and add value to what we offer, for instance right now we are experiencing exciting times with the introduction of 4G, a product that delivers incredibly high internet speeds.

“This is something that served us well through the recession, instead of entering a price war we opted to add value to our products and services, and this was extremely well received by our clients. The recession helped us to take a look at our internal operations and ensure they were efficient, forcing us to overhaul them, meaning our staff were more productive but ensuring we maintained a high standard and level of service.” Telitec have clients throughout Spain and are one of the only telecommunications companies to offer personal service where clients can actually go to the offices and speak with staff face to face. They also have an office in Murcia, and have

plans to extend further south. Jan advises anyone thinking of setting up business in Spain to get a good gestoria and lawyer who can provide expert advice, to make a lot of contacts and involve themselves in the community. “Some ideas work well in other countries but not here, so make sure you really look into it.” Telitec plans to

continue fighting for their market share and keeping Spain connected. “It looks like 2016 will be a positive and exciting year for us.”

COMMUNITY: Company organises events and charity days.

Historical tales of incredible achievements A SELECTION of successful and inspiring stories throughout history By Matthew Elliott • CATHERINE I was Russia’s first female Empress and throughout her short reign won the love and respect of the people with a legacy lasting to this day. It was a far cry from her humble beginnings as an orphaned Latvian peasant who was captured as a house-maid and taken to Moscow. Regardless of being uneducated and illiterate, she charmed her future lover Peter the Great with her will and wit and was by his side as sweeping political and social reforms changed Europe forever. • ANDREW CARNEGIE was born into a family of impoverished labourers in a small Dunfermline home in 1835, before the family emigrated to America where the future magnate worked in a textile mill for $1.20 a week. His enterprise, tenacity and intelligence saw him rise through the railroad and steel industries until, by the turn of the century, he was the world’s richest man. Declaring ‘the man who dies rich dies disgraced,’ Carnegie later donated his fortune to charity. • CHARLES DICKENS is famous for his nov-

CHARLES DICKENS: Upbringing inspired characters. Photo credit by Everett Historical, Shutterstock

els depicting struggles against the odds and his hard knock upbringing was inspiration for characters from Oliver Twist to Pip in Great Expectations.

When his father squandered the family’s money on gambling, 12-year-old Dickens was sent to work in a shoe polish factory for a meagre six shillings a week. Dickens never forgot his labour-

ing days in squalid conditions and became a prominent voice for the Victorian underclass. • BRIDGET ‘BIDDY’ MASON was born a slave and yet became one of America’s first female real estate tycoons. She spent her entire childhood in bondage, toiling the desolate fields of Mississippi under moving with her owner to Utah in 1847. Ten years later she won her freedom, and spent a decade working as a mid-wife in Los Angeles. Buying a small property with her $250 savings she went on to amass a commercial property empire with a fortune reaching $300,000. She became known as ‘Grandma Mason’ for her charitable activities feeding the poor. • GARRINCHA, the Brazilian footballing legend, won the world cup twice, scored 34 goals for the famous Samba teams of the 1950s and 60s and is an icon of the sport. Born in dire poverty in a town in hock to a British trading company, he was worked as a child along with every other boy in the village, in a life marked for poverty stricken anonymity. Despite having bow shaped and unequalled sized legs, he became one the most successful footballers of all time.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Don't let fear stop you from achieving what you want.”

Elizabeth Colon

JENNIFER CUNNINGHAM CONSULTANTS

Honesty and professionalism KEYNOTES of this highly successful insurance company

Jennifer Cunningham

AFTER becoming a widow and losing her son, and after a lot of soul searching, Jennifer Cunningham decided to approach her bank and mortgage her property, and went about setting up her insurance company, Jennifer Cunnigham. “After losing my son, nothing is that scary,” said Jennifer. Since she was alone she could focus 100 per cent of her time on her business, and after setting up in 1992 as a sole trader, selling English health insurance in Javea from her home with nothing more than a telephone, she is now the director of one of the most successful insurance companies on the Spanish Mediterranean, with a total of eight offices located along the coast and 25 employees. Jennifer relocated to her offices in Javea “Be brave, over nine years ago, and in the past five take risks years has taken on seven more offices and a large number of staff, all and be in the face of one of the worst recesconfident in sions in history to hit Spain, and in a yourself” fiercely competitive market. Jennifer said she relied heavily on her knowledge and experience of the industry to guide her through. “I learn from my mistakes and try not to do it again,” she explained, “I’ve been there, done that and worn the t-shirt so I am able to pass on my knowledge and expertise to my staff. I am an excellent salesperson and have learnt how to overcome objections. But most importantly I have a strong code of ethics, I am old-fashioned. When someone sends me an enquiry, I answer immediately. We do not wait one or two days to answer. Our

speed, honesty, professionalism and excellent knowledge of the products we sell is paramount.” One of the most difficult issues to avoid for Jennifer and her business was the price war that emerged as a result of the economic crisis. “We did not enter into that price war,” she said, “although our policies are cheaper now than prior to the crisis we were very careful to maintain a high level of service and avoid the rat race and automated systems that took the place of real people. I think that is something highly valued by customers, and we provide a close personal service all the way through. It is one of our major strengths.” Learning how to run a company in a foreign country was a very daunting task for Jennifer, but she says her lack of ego and focus on the client and commitment to offering a professional service has served her well, adding that her excellent staff make the job that much easier. Jennifer has no more plans to expand at present: “My team have forbidden it,” she joked, “but what we are going to do in the next years is consolidate.” They are proud of the fact that they are able to retain so many clients year after year, and happy that they have so many loyal customers. “Referrals for us are simply staggering. We obtain many new clients through recommendations alone; this form of publicity carries a lot of weight,” she added. Jennifer believes that in order to be successful in Spain you need to be constant, patient and hard-working. “It will take at least two to three years before you start to see any benefits,” adding that before starting a business it is imperative to do a lot of research first and despite what many see from the outside, Spain is a highly competitive place. “You need to be brave, take risks as an entrepreneur and be confident in yourself.”

The largest travel group in Europe was founded by a Spaniard in the year 2000 ONLINE company sells flights, hotels, package holidays, train tickets, car rentals and travel insurance By John Smith THE online travel company eDreams was founded in 2000 by Javier Perez-Tenessa with venture capital firms from Europe and the United States. Now renamed eDreams ODIGEO was formed in 2011 with the merger of online travel agencies eDreams, GO Voyages, Opodo Travellink and the addition of Liligo in 2013. The five brands that make up the group sell flights, hotels, package holidays, train tickets, car rentals, and travel insurance with sites across 38 countries worldwide. The group’s headquarters are in Barcelona with 14 offices and more than 1,200 employees worldwide. eDreams ODIGEO is now the largest group of online travel agencies in Europe as well as being the largest European e-commerce company with more than 15 million served. One innovative addition that they have made is to show

Busy call centre. Photo Credit Wavebreak media Shutterstock

online advertisements to visitors to their site from which they generate additional income. Like many companies involved in the travel business, their income was impacted by the worldwide recession as well as more recently by the fear of terrorist activity in certain countries but in the first half of 2015, they have reported an increase in bookings as well as an increase in their margins. When the company went public in 2014, their shares were valued at €1.5 billion and although their shares have dropped since then, the company has indicated that it expects to meet all of its income forecasts at the end of 2015. The founder Javier Perez-Tenessa has taken a step back from the business and early in 2015 resigned as CEO and became the Honorary Chairman of the group.

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The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Peter Drucker, educator and author.

THE BED CENTRE

Where sweet dreams begin QUALITY products are the mark of a good night’s sleep

Lucy Rowat and Tony Grande.

LONG-TIME residents Lucy Rowat and Tony Grande have operated The Bed Centre located on the Moraira to Calpe coast road since 1992. During that time they have embarked on other projects which have seen them become an integral and outstanding part of the local community. They have worked tirelessly to create the Make a Smile charity project, one that started off when they were asked to provide some secondhand beds for a local children’s home. This subsequently saw them transform the lives of so many children through their hard work and dedication, using their own business as a bridge to help local people connect with the children and raise awareness for the cause. Their good works have certainly contributed to their good name, but is not the sole reason behind their success. Lucy says the success of their business is due to the fact that they are careful about what they sell, only selecting quality products from within Europe that meet certain standards, backed by manufacturers’ guarantees. They go above and beyond by offering clients an extra two days returns policy.

“We will never let someone sleep on a mattress that they are not happy with,” she says. “We are looking to expand in the New Year by introducing our online store, offering clients more flexibility and efficiency when ordering online. We guarantee the product will be ready and waiting for them to collect or be delivered when they need it at a time convenient to them. We do not leave our clients hanging around, we give them a time and stick to it. “We will increase our product offering too and have incorporated some excellent products such as linen from Portugal and hope to expand our reach and let more people know about what we do and what we offer,” Lucy explains. After 35 years living and working in Spain, Lucy has some excellent knowledge and experience. “If you are thinking of coming over here then get a good gestoria and make sure all the legalities are taken care of. Learn the language, it makes life so much easier,” says Lucy. “The recession has taught us many things but importantly while keeping your finances in order it is critical to keep on pro-

viding a good service. Most people value quality and service over price, and we add value to what we do, such as our extra two days return policy. “But I think the biggest aspect for us is to maintain that corner shop mentality, a personal service is invaluable, it means we retain customers and they like to come back. We have a good reputation and word of mouth is the strongest recommendation possible.” Tony remarks:“This helps us with our other project, the Make a Smile charity, which to be honest is just as important, if not more so, and gives us a great deal of satisfaction. “I believe business should get involved with charity wherever possible, but we are not looking for handouts. What we wanted to do was help children learn and understand the importance of becoming self sufficient, to become a stepping stone for a brighter future, to provide opportunity for those who did not necessarily have any.” The project ensures that children from broken homes receive a balanced diet and can live in good conditions.

Golf a big driver for boosting Costa Blanca tourism INTERNATIONAL golf enthusiasts are increasingly seeing the Costa Blanca as an essential destination, leading to predictions of a bumper 2016 for golf tourism. Alicante-Elche airport has already had a record October with the influx of golfers. The success is such that Alicante Chamber of Commerce will conduct a study into the economic windfall the sport is providing. “This report will allow us to see first-hand the economic impact that golf has in our province, a sport that attracts many visitors and that brings in over half a million people a year. This tourist product generates conside r a b l e b u s i n e s s f i g u r e s i n o u r e c o n o m y, which has positive effects on job creation,” commented Provincial President César Sanchez.

BIG BUSINESS: International golf tourism.

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Chase the vision, not the money; the money will end up following you.“

Tony Hsieh, Zappos CEO.

BLU-SO EASY!

Better to offer quality over quantity HIGH-SPEED internet and phone packages with great customer service SHARON is the project manager and commercial director at Blu-So Easy! in Javea, a company offering highspeed internet and phone packages at great prices. She was happy to share the exciting times she and her colleagues at Blu-So Easy! are experiencing. The company was formed by a team of professionals with many years experience in the internet services industry. She attributes their success to the belief that it is imperative to offer a high level of customer service, whilst providing high-speed internet at fantastic prices. They are constantly striving for expansion. They started with one antenna, and now have 14 in Javea. They have also expanded into Moraira, Benissa Town, Gata Residential, Alfaz del Pi and Albir. In addition to this, a new mast is about to be installed in Monte Pego. The company has also acquired the exclu-

Top year for the property market PROPERTY markets in the Costa Blanca enjoyed a flourishing year with rising confidence in the wider Spanish market set to have a markedly positive impact on the coastal region throughout 2016. Median property prices in Alicante showed an annual increase of 19.07 per cent, while the second quarter of 2015 showed a rise in property transactions of 14.73 per cent. The Costa Blanca looks set to benefit as second home buyers from the UK and Scandinavia in particular look to capitalise on its wide appeal and promising market dynamics.

JAVEA TEAM: Committed to a high level of customer service. sive licence for 2.6 4G for the Valencian Community. As if this wasn’t enough, they

have plans for fibre-optic provision as well. Offering advice to anyone contemplating

setting up a new business in Spain, Sharon emphasised the need to work very hard, put in long hours, and have lots of patience. “Do all this and you can achieve your dream,” she declared. Having been working in Spain for some 20 years, Sharon has experienced recessions before. She has seen many companies succumb to the temptation of increasing prices when business levels decrease, in order to maintain profits. She believes, however, that it is better to offer quality over quantity. Blu-So Easy! has been able to grow because it has offered reduced prices compared to its competitors in the marketplace. Offering a fantastic quality of service at a great price is the key to their success. Sharon added: “During a recession people are looking for ways to save money, and we help them to do just that.” Sharon predicts that 2016 will be a better year for companies that are willing to work hard and put their customers first. After all, this is the approach that has made Blu-So Easy! a success story for our region.

A triumph for democracy and the Spanish people NATION has demonstrated strength of character By Matthew Elliott FORTY years after democracy swept Spain following years of dictatorship under Franco, the nation has seen some remarkable success and demonstrated a strength of character that has confounded the expectations of the time. The principal goal in 1975 was simply to prevent Spain from sliding once again into civil strife and instability. With conflicting parties and regions, a systematic imposition of political violence, and the heady atmosphere of revolution throughout the world, such fears were not unfounded. A period of massive economic

Plaza Mayor in Madrid. by Sebastian Dubiel, wikipedia

growth soon followed, bolstered by tourism and emergent businesses, and political and emotional tension tentatively sidelined by the ‘pact of forgetting’ (an unspoken agreement to look forward rather than act against crimes committed). Spain dutifully entered the western European club of prosperous nations and its democracy has strengthened over time. Recent upheavals such as regional independence movements, popular protests, radical parties, and the eroding of the ‘pact of forgetting’, are all critical moments in Spanish history, but are themselves emblematic of the real success achieved since the dark days of dictatorship.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.”

Oprah Winfrey

Success comes with hard work and dedication THE EURO WEEKLY NEWS (EWN) is proud to launch the Costa Blanca Success supplement By John Smith WITH six newspapers and a tremendous website packed full of stories and features backed by the hard work and dedication of its owners, the EWN family is not ashamed to blow its own trumpet. Now 19 years on from what were quite small beginnings, the EWN Media Group has just kept on growing despite the hostile financial environment that hit Spain from 2007, and the owners are proud to have seen their operation become the biggest and best English language news media group in Spain. Guided by dynamic husband and wife team Michel and Steven Euesden, the energetic group is not content to sit back and wait for the business to come to it. Through the long period of recession, investment has been seen as the way forward. Investment in staff. Investment in technology. Investment in increased copies per area. Investment in visibility. Investment in the community. But most importantly, investment in time, the time to study and understand the needs and expectations of both clients and readers alike. Each member of the EWN team, regardless of their duties is fiercely committed, not just to the newspapers and the website, but more importantly to the people that really matter, our clients and readers. This commitment has been reciprocated by all that we work with. No other free English newspaper group in Spain can match the figures that the EWN can boast of. They are figures that speak for themselves: • Six editions: Costa Blanca North, Costa Blanca, South, Costa del Sol, Axarquia, Almeria and Mallorca. • Each edition proves the group’s superiority over free local publications for the number of news stories, making our newspapers the best read out there. • 139,000 copies distributed every week, 52 weeks a year. We never miss an edition.

Our readers by numbers…. Disposable income. 43% of our readers eat out at least once each week and 31% dine out once per month, meaning they have enough money for life’s little luxuries. Internet savvy: 75% of readers are regular internet users. The EWN website and social media sites cater fully to that audience with a selection of Spanish, British and international stories. Our virtual papers are visited by 50,000 people each month. Easy to find: 92% of EWN readers say that the newspapers can be found easily from 4,000 distribution points. Loyal readership: 86% of customers read the paper on a weekly basis. News hungry: 98% of our readers said they enjoy the local news pages. Second favourite section was the Letters page at 83% and our lively columnists especially Leapy Lee who dares to say what many think.

• More than 4,000 distribution points in expatriate hotspots, meaning you never have too far to go to pick up an issue. • 10 offices across the Costas and Mallorca with another office opening soon, and another in Javea on the way, mean we are at the heart of the expatriate community. • The best English language news website in Spain. • The newest, brightest and best business d i re c t o r y in Spain – EWNGetsit.com

EURO WEEKLY NEWS: 19 years of expertise.

This extensive coverage throughout the main expatriate areas of Spain means that the EWN attracts a mix of readers with a wide range of interests. And the EWN takes its readers and clients very seriously indeed. A little while ago, the EWN undertook market research to find out more about our readers (see panel), and the response was both interesting and illuminating. That was not just an exercise in curiosity. It shows the philosophy that has made the EWN so successful over 19 years. It shows our commitment and determination to do whatever is necessary in order to satisfy our readers and clients alike. If we don’t know who our readers are and what they want to read, then they will drift away as will our clients. Armed with the extensive results of our research we know we continue to produce a tremendous product that people do want to read. The EWN is without doubt the most sought-after free English newspaper in Spain, and people actually phone us up to ask where it is, if for some reason delivery to any of our 4,000 collection points is de-

layed, for even as little as one hour. This is also great news for our advertisers as they know that their adverts will receive the maximum exposure to an affluent and intelligent audience. EWN know what it takes to be a success: hard work, a commitment to clients and readers, and knowing your market. We a r e n o t h o w e v e r j u s t i n i t f o r t h e money. The EWN has a social conscience, which is why we are keen to report on as many charitable events as possible, and where appropriate will also sponsor events s u c h a s t h e B e n i d o r m H a s Ta l e n t f o r AECC, MABS Cancer Support Group, EMAUS children’s charity and many more, as well as taking up the causes of several desperately-ill children. We h a v e b e e n h e r e f o r n e a r l y t w o decades and are proud to be recognised as part of not just the expatriate community, but also a solid contributor to our host country Spain. EWN and its management care deeply about the expatriate community in Spain as well as our neighbours and that makes all the difference.

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Ideas are easy. Implementation is hard.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Guy Kawasaki, Alltop Co-Founder and Entrepreneur

SELECT Villas of Moraira

For an unrivalled sales service STRIVING to ensure their buyer clients receive the highest level of personal care and attention ESTABLISHED in 2006, originally as relocation agents/property finders Costa Blanca SELECT - the partners, Chris and Linda Garwood were the first of the new generation of relocation agents to strive to ensure their buyer clients received the highest level of personal care and attention together with a maximum choice of properties. Late in 2009, it was becoming clear we could no longer cope with the growing workload without the help of trained staff and, having become fed up with the casual regard of many established local agents in terms of failing to book viewings in good time for our clients, and rather wayward, inaccurate property descriptions, etc., we decided it was time to take the plunge and establish our own centrally based office in Moraira. Although this might have seemed like risky timing with the housing market close to the bottom of the cycle, it did allow Chris and Linda to choose from a great range of vacant retail

SELECT VILLAS: Our specialist management and staff are trained personally by Linda Garwood, one of the partners.

units. So when the office opened in January 2010, doubling our number to

four people, we wondered how to fill our time and the extra office space! We

needn’t have worried; to this day we are still working to maximum capacity with our staff now numbering seven. How have we succeeded when so many have floundered? We specialise in a clear concise/unambiguous way. We use the rifle, not the shotgun approach to what we do. We specialise in the area of Moraira and the directly surrounding environs, the area we know and love. We specialise in property sales only. We are not involved in rentals, long term lettings, construction, reforms, pool cleaning, property maintenance or management. WE SURVIVE AND PROSPER ON OUR SALES PERFORMANCE ALONE. Our specialist management and staff are trained personally by Linda, not just in their own roles, but to cover a deep understanding of all other staff members’ roles. Our main website is translated into seven languages; within our team we speak six languages. We have estab-

lished co-agencies based in both the UK as well as throughout Europe attracting clients from all over the world. We offer our Vendor Clients the ultimate package: • We deliberately limit the number of properties listed to around 300. • Viewer feedback always provided to vendors, within 24hrs (work days). • 152 properties displayed at our office, eye-catching LED displays. • Dominant town centre location; open throughout the day, Saturday am including siestas and most fiestas. • Each property description includes up to 50 quality images. • Weekly newsletters sent to 2,600 qualified buying clients. • 82 page full colour sales brochure available throughout the year. Coming Soon: New for 2016: Vendor online database tracking (VODT). Click to view the interest/progress of your villa marketing. SELECT Villas of Moraira ‘Simply the Best!’

Tips to help run your own successful business BEING passionate is the best way to start, but make sure what you’re offering is what people want to buy By Gemma Quinn Follow your heart If you are setting up a business, something you will be doing day in, day out, relying on it to make a living, then make sure its something you enjoy doing. Having passion for what you are selling or the service you are offering, is the best way to start. That passion will be your driving force and will be seen in your product that is offered to customers. Do your research Whilst passion is great for your business idea, you need to make sure that what you are offering is what people want to buy, not just what you want to sell. Taking some time out to do market research to see if there are similar businesses out there could pay off in the long run. If you find there is nothing like what you are offering, you may have found the perfect niche market, or there may be a reason no other businesses or companies are doing it. Start small You need to get the cash flow going as soon as possible, but do not overstretch yourself to start

BEEN inspired by our Success Stories of some of the local businesses here on the Costa Blanca? Want to work for yourself and be the next big thing in the world of business. Here are some top tips for setting up your own business and being a success:

BENEFIT: Ask businesses for help and advice.

with. Focus on getting your product right and treat those first customers as if they were kings and queens, their first hand experience of your company could make or break you. A good product and service and they are more likely to return to you and recommend you. But once established, be prepared to work and make sacrifices to get your business to where you want it to be. Ask for help There is nothing wrong with admitting you may be new to the business game and could benefit from some help and advice. Speak with other businesses who you look up to or have inspired you. Any good business, rather than seeing you as competition, will be honoured you have asked for advice. Try also getting a business coach or mentor who can guide you in your planning and operation. Be Consistent Consistency is the key component to being a success and making money in business. You have to consistently keep doing the things necessary to be successful day in and day out. This will create long-term positive habits that will help you make money over the long term.

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It is our duty and responsibility to become the best person we are intended to be.”

Luz Marie Caro

EXPATS SPAIN

UK products at the right price for all NO membership is required for this cash and carry style business A FAMILY-RUN business, Expats Spain is a cash and carry style outlet but with a major difference in that they sell both in bulk to the trade and to the public in individual units, with no membership required. Established for more than 10 years, the company experienced rapid expansion over the first five years of their opening, going from a 300square-metre warehouse to 2,000 square metres, stocking over 10,000 product lines. “We are at our optimum size now, so aside from our continuous updates and introduction of new product lines, we do not plan on expanding the actual facility any more. We stock frozen, chilled and dry goods, mostly all UK branded products. I think one of the main reasons we have been successful is because we buy and sell at the right price. We are flexible in that we open to the public and the trade and we simply have more choice and better value than anyone else,” says owner and hands-on operator Gary. “Another major factor is that we

Owner Gary Clayton, wife Debbie and son Kieren do not take, nor do we give credit. Everything in stock is purchased by Expats Spain, so we never have an issue with buying in stock or exceeding credit limits. If the product is at the right price, we will buy it and sell it; we move volume, it’s that simple. “Products such as over-production runs are always good for us and our customers, because we can buy it in,

re-label it and sell it on at a fraction of the price, so our customers benefit from high quality products but much cheaper prices.” As Gary says, the company are not looking to expand any further into 2016. He says he does not really expect the market to make any drastic improvement until about 2019 in Spain. “I saw the recession coming

early on, with the escalation in property prices and the collapse of companies like Northern Rock, I could see what was going to happen. “That is one of the main reasons we stay away from credit, we don’t have any debts, so that pro-

tected us to a certain extent, although since we deal predominantly with the UK we are greatly affected by the exchange rate, so with the improvement of the pound against the euro we have to be careful. We have a system built in to enable us to keep prices stable where possible since it is difficult for us to increase prices so we have to be wary of that. “We will be introducing a contact webpage, but apart from that we will continue to focus on what we are doing here,” Gary explains. He would advise anyone thinking of coming to Spain to work in business to “not look at it with rose-tinted glasses. To be well-funded, motivated and skilled at what you do.” He also stresses that it is critical to start up modestly and wait to make money before investing in capital. “Finance and skill are critical. You need to learn or know your business inside out and do not try to be something you are not, but for us providing value for money is the key,” Gary believes.

Stunning restaurant reaches highest standards in Denia QUIQUE DACOSTA has gained three Michelin stars By John Smith THERE are only eight Michelin threestar restaurants in Spain and one of them, Quique Dacosta, which won the third star in 2012, is situated in Denia. One of the Michelin inspectors describes it as: “A Mediterranean villa with a glass-enclosed pavilion. The chef offers two constantly changing tasting menus, showcasing sophisticated culinary techniques and an evident imaginative flair.” Born in 1972, Chef Quique Dacosta, after whom the restaurant is named, started working in a bistro at the age of 14 washing dishes during the summer for ‘pocket money’. He enjoyed the work so much that he started working at weekends whilst

A Mediterranean villa with a glassenclosed pavilion. The chef offers two constantly changing tasting menus, showcasing sophisticated culinary techniques and an evident imaginative flair”

he completed his studies. At the age of 16, he began working at El Poblet restaurant on the site of his current restaurant and started to teach himself about food and the art of cooking. His influence grew within the restaurant and he started to introduce new and exciting dishes, the first to catch culinary attention was perhaps a Cubalibre foie gras. By 2009, the restaurant was transformed and renamed Quique Dacosta and within three years had earned the magical three stars. The style is eclectic, fusing elements of Alicante, Valencian and Spanish cuisine to create

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UNIQUE STYLE: Quique Dacosta. Dacosta_13_by_MikelPonce

EXPATS C&C OPEN TO PUBLIC AND TRADE

Over 10,000 British Products Dry, Frozen, Drinks, Toiletries, Household.

Over 20,000 sq ft Warehouse

All our Christmas Stock

Now In Opening hours Monday to Friday Saturday Sunday

09.00 to 18.00 10.00 to 17.00 10.00 to 14.00

Benidorm CASINO

Hospital

965 895 323 路 expatsspain@aol.com

N332

Villajoyosa EXPATS

Partida Torres,38 03570 Villajoyosa Alicante

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All things are difficult before they are easy.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

John Norley

TOLDOS AITANA

Seeing clearly GLASS curtain system specialists

FORWARD-LOOKING: Mark decided to open his showroom in Albir in the midst of the recession.

MARK and Yolanda, a husband and wife team and owners of Toldos Aitana, have been working together since 2010 at their showroom in Albir. Specialists in sales and installation of glass curtain systems, awnings and mosquito netting their business is going from strength to strength. Mark has been working in the industry in Spain for over 11 years, and six years ago, in the midst of the recession decided to open his showroom store in Albir. “The client is the focal point of our business,” says Mark. “We ensure that we give them exactly what they want and when they want it, and if we do not have it then we work hard to find options and this has always been a major part of our success.” The couple also speak five languages between them, including Spanish. “This is important. It becomes very complicated if you don’t,” adds Mark. The company pride themselves on being at the forefront of the market, aware of new innovations and technologies in their sector. “Once we introduce a new product line we work hard to ensure that it sells well and is well received by our clients. We make sure that it works before we even think of introducing it. Our installation teams are highly

qualified and trusted by the brands we carry, so much so that we can actually offer up to five years guarantee on our products, an extension provided by our brands because they trust the quality of our work.” This year has been a great one for the company, with the introduction of the new glass curtain product lines and sales of their awnings increasing. Mark believes that it is due to their quality and high standard of customer care and service. “I believe if you buy cheap, you actually buy expensive, quality survives,” he says. They understand their customers and know that keeping them content is the key. Having the cheapest price does not necessarily guarantee a happy customer; in fact. it could be have the opposite effect. “I think that after the recession people are more conscious of what they are buying, and having a good reputation is critical. We are happy because we are achieving exactly what we want.” With regard to expanding in the New Year, Toldos Aitana aim to work as they always have done. They have their eye on new and innovative products, and as always listen to their customers to see which prod-

Mark foresees 2016 as positive.

ucts may work well. Mark foresees 2016 as a positive year ahead. The recession has in fact helped Todos Aitana. Mark explains: “If before the recession there were 100 customers and 50 companies, then after the recession there were only 70 customers but just 20 companies; there are in fact more customers for everyone.” He says it is important to be able to adapt to the market, to be innovative and creative. “I would advise anyone thinking of starting their own business in Spain to learn the language and not to be one of a crowd. Instead to look for a niche and become a specialist in that, you create your own market.”

Six strategies to help you become organised and super-efficient SIMPLE steps you can apply not just to business but also to your personal life By Sam Croft Look for dead time. Take a few moments in the morning to look at the day ahead. There will always be periods when you’re not doing anything, even if it’s just five minutes waiting for a bus or an appointment. Plan your day in advance in order to maximise this ‘dead time’.

In order to be successful, it’s necessary to be efficient. Here are six strategies for maximising efficiency, and thus maximising success. Take careful note of them and apply them to your business strategy, or even your life, to reap the rewards.

Make lists. Lists are a way of establishing goals. Even if you only have a spare hour in your day, make a list of all the things you can do in this time. This will help you to prioritise tasks and also adds a sense of urgency that will help you to avoid procrastination. Reward yourself. If you make a list of eight tasks, after you complete four of them give yourself a reward. These types of rewards help you to move forward even when you’re not in the mood.

Prepare yourself. Make sure you have the resources you need on hand to efficiently complete tasks. Consider the cost of saying yes. Before you accept a commitment, take a minute to think about what you’re agreeing to. Is it worth it? You should make sure that you are giving your time to things that are important and not wasting it by saying yes every time

someone asks you to do something.

DEAD TIME: Plan your day.

Delegate. You may prefer being in complete control, but it’s important to train your employees to take on more and more responsibilities. You can’t do everything yourself.

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The ability to ask the right question is more than half the battle of finding the answer.” Thomas Watson, founder and president of IBM Corporation

HEPBURNS SPARADISE

Facilities offer customers hair, beauty and Sparadise SUPERB staff offer a great quality service at a reasonable price VIKKI CATON is the owner and operator of Hepburns, a company which runs a hair and beauty salon in the Benidorm Indoor Market as well as the recently inaugurated Sparadise, a brand new facility fully equipped with a spa, Jacuzzi, treatment rooms and

VIKKI CATON: Company owner.

of course offering hair and beauty services. Vikki has been running her business for nine and a half years. Originally starting up in the popu-

lar Benidorm Indoor Market, she has recently expanded to the Ciudad Patricia with the new facility which is open not just to residents but the public too. “We have been successful because we offer a great quality service at a reasonable price, and to be honest I think luck always plays a part.” Vikki explains that she also relies on her team of superb staff, which is a critical element to the success. “We do not plan on expanding right now because we have just taken a huge step this year with the addition of the Sparadise and we are extremely busy, but then again I did not envisage that we would be taking on the Sparadise, so you never know.” Hepburns have built an excellent reputation for themselves, they cater to many entertainers and performers from Benidorm and won the contract for the actors appearing on hit TV show ‘Benidorm’. “We are well connected with the community and have regular, loyal customers, both residents and

How to look after your own money SUCCESS comes in many forms, from sheer force of will, to incredible talent, innovation or the odd bit of luck. How successful people deal with their finances, though, is a trait that can be easily learnt. Live on less than you earn, look for practical ways to save money. Understand the importance of value, not just price, buy high quality products that last. Manage banking, don’t waste money on unnecessary fees and transactions. Never be satisfied with a stagnant income, always look for ways to increase it. Don’t take foolish risks, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Mind the small expenses, a minor leakage can sink a massive ship.

tourists who visit us each year, many of them waiting until they are on holiday to get their hair done, while some of our loyal customers have been with us since the very start.” “For anyone looking to come over and start a business I recommend they speak to people already working in that area, do the research and get a good gestoria. Laws are a lot different and it is more expensive to start and run a business here than in the UK, so it is important not to make assumptions. It is hard but the quality of life in Spain is worth it.” Vikki says she has got where she is today by sheer dedication and hard work, but adds her background in tax accountancy has helped her along the way. “I learnt from the crisis that it is imperative to focus on what you are doing, give value for money but importantly not be afraid to charge a reasonable price. It is difficult not to get involved in a price war, but you must value what you do.” Vikki says the recession has in fact made her stronger as a company, it has removed competition to some extent but she has in the process gained a good reputation for quality of service.

The life of the man behind Twitter METICULOUSLY planned By Sam Croft IF a recent biography is to be believed, Jack Dorsey, cofounder and CEO of Twitter, is a creature of habit. In the book, written by journalist Nick Bilton, it is claimed that Dorsey meticulously maps out his entire week in advance. On Monday he focuses on leadership and business strategy. Tuesday is for product development. Wednesday is set aside for marketing, communi-

JACK DORSEY: Strategically plans his week. by LGEPR wikipedia.

cation and growth strategy. If you want to meet with him your best bet would be a Thursday: it’s the day he dedicates to meeting with people outside of his company. On Friday, he takes a bit of time to analyse the internal state of the company. On Saturday he rests. And Sunday? Well, it’s a day to think about who he might be interested in contracting in his company for new positions related to leadership, business, growth, marketing, product development…

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That which does not kill us makes us stronger.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Friedrich Nietzsche, Philosopher.

WHIRLPOOLS WORLD SPAIN

Whirlpools World Spain is number one in Europe

Company director Sue Sievert.

SUE SIEVERT is the director of Whirlpools World in Spain. The company, based in Moraira, is located on the coast road between Moraira and Calpe but is an international business, one of the world’s largest and the market leader in its sector in Europe. The branch in Moraira was opened eight years ago after the owners identified a gap in the market. With a lack of specialists in the field, they decided that they were ideally placed to take advantage of it. Sue recalls: “Our managing director was obsessed with ensuring that all of the staff were professionally trained by the manufacturers and that they spoke a number of languages, so that they could provide a top level of service.

For us it is not the sale but rather the client satisfaction that is the most important thing” “This is extremely important for building customer confidence and trust, and that the staff believe in the product they are selling. As a company we make sure that we provide a top level service right the way through the process. It is not so important to sell rather than to have a good standard of product and service, because inevitably this will help achieve sales.

“For us it is not the sale but rather the client satisfaction that is the most important thing. We want to retain our customers and I think you can only do this through knowhow and quality.” The company is building on its network of dealers across Spain and regularly takes part in trade shows, including the recent Piscina show in Barcelona. “These shows are a way for us to network and meet new dealers. There are a lot of international visitors too so it is ideal for us, but we make sure we only take on reputable dealers and know who we are working with. We want to keep the good reputation we have built for ourselves and this means providing quality

in every step of the process, from the sales, installation, maintenance and repairs.” Although the recession meant there was less money to be spent on luxury products, the company stayed away from offering cheaper end products. “We did not want to take this line, we wanted to maintain client confidence in us, our products and services; this has made us stronger coming out of the recession.” Sue’s advice to those seeking a new life and new business in Spain is to ensure you have a good background in the field in which you intend to set up, to work hard to establish your reputation and to convince customers of your quality and high standards.

Spanish Women’s Secrets of success THE brand have received plaudits for their new range By John Smith WHEN you think of sexy lingerie, the company that often comes to mind is Victoria’s Secret, founded in San Francisco by a husband and wife team in 1977, which has been the inspiration of many young women and the dream of many young men. There is, however, a Spanish contender which is looking to take over as the most erotic on the block, and that is Women’s Secret. The brand was actually founded in 1993, and it thrilled the audience with a spectacular catwalk show at Sala La Riviera in Madrid on November 11. Hos t e d b y Sp a n i sh ac tre s s E ls a Pataky, who was wearing a daring dress and has just released a version of ‘I’m

so excited’ her first single, the video of w h ic h s h o w s he r a ls o mode lling Women’s Secret lingerie.

The brand was actually founded in 1993, and it recently thrilled the audience with a spectacular catwalk show at Sala La Riviera in Madrid on November 11 U s in g a te a m of s upe rmode ls , the Spanish brand received many plaudits for their exciting range, and actor Chris

Hemsworth’s wife Elsa was the ideal presenter. With 412 stores in 12 c ountrie s a round the w orld, inc luding the United Arab Emirates, and a long established web site to allow internet purchases, the brand is now ow ne d by the Cortefiel group establis he d in M a drid in 1880, w hic h inc lude s three other fashion brands. A s w e ll a s da ring linge rie , Wome n’s Se c re t is w e ll know n for its swimwear, maternity wear, bridal range and men’s underwear as well.

Elsa Pataky. Photo Credit Jaguar PS

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Success is not a destination; it is a journey we must constantly pursue.”

Gabriela Reyna.

JAVEA ALARMS

In the business of delivering peace of mind AS WELL as installing alarm systems, the company provides maintenance plans and repairs STEPHEN from Javea Alarms has been running his specialist security and alarm business for over nine years on the Costa Blanca. Operating out of Javea, Stephen says that one of the major reasons they have achieved success is due to the fact that they have been able to maintain their prices for nine years. “We have kept our prices the same since 2007. We have just increased our client base and added value to the product. So not only do we install the alarm system, we provide annual maintenance plans and repairs. We have built ourselves an excellent reputation and although we are starting to advertise now we have mainly gained new business through referrals. That is probably because we do a good job, offer the right product at the right price and provide a good after-sales service too, so our clients are always happy with us.” The company is looking to expand in 2016 with the opening of a store where they can display and demon-

Owner Stephen Dooley with engineer Toby. strate many of their products including CCTV. “A walk-in store would be good so the clients can actually see how the systems operate, look at the products we have on offer and talk to someone about the services we provide. But as with most businesses the location is critical so we are still looking for the right place.”

In Spain you need to build a good reputation for yourself and know your job”

Stephen says that to succeed in Spain, you must know your field of work and be good at it. “It’s no good if you do not have a solid background in your field; over here you need to build a good reputation for yourself and that means knowing your job and performing well.” He adds that although the recession has

not affected his business too drastically he has learnt that it is important to keep the prices stable, not to offer too expensive a product nor too cheap but to value the product and service you offer and ask a fair and honest price. In this way, you will win more business at the right price. Stephen comments:“I think in some ways it has actually made us stronger because we created packages to include installation and maintenance. So by offering added value, we have retained all of our customers and receive excellent referrals. The improved exchange rate has made our UK suppliers’ products slightly more expensive, which has made us look for alternatives in Europe. So now we are able to offer more choice and have a stronger supplier base. “Ultimately we offer installation, maintenance and repairs at a reasonable price and an excellent, reliable service, and deliver peace of mind to our clients.”

Success puts Alicante firmly on the film critic map FILM Festival promoting active leisure for senior citizens THE Alicante Film Festival has gone from strength to strength, with the week long summer festival securing its place among the best. The glitzy ceremony celebrated its 12th year in 2015, welcoming films from around the world as film-goers across Spain flocked to the coastal city to catch a glimpse of the action. Featuring workshops, street theatre, and a tapas route, the festival has played its part in bringing international attention to the cultural side of the Costa Blanca. The festival is also working with the city’s Department of Social Ac-

Photo by Superchilum, Wikipedia

By Matthew Elliott

FESTIVAL: Promotes seniors’ creativity.

tion to launch its second edition of Major Film shorts, designed to promote active leisure for senior citizens. Last year saw 12 short films produced by eight senior centres in the city, helping local residents explore their creative side. F e s t i v a l d i r e c t o r Vi c e n t e S e v a said the contest allowed ‘people over 65 years to express their concerns through film and then viewed on a big screen.’ A l i c a n t e ’s s u c c e s s h a s h a d a s n o w b a l l i n g e ff e c t a s t h e Vo l n a Russian Film Festival chose Alicante as its destination for 2015 to highlight the cultural exchange between Russia and Spain.

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Keep looking forward because that is where you'll find opportunity.”

Karina Garcia

AMASVISTA GLASS

Shading and sheltering you WHERE the client is always number one

Husband and wife team, Pedro and Melanie

BASED in the Poligono Industrial Estate in Pedreguer, Amasvista Glass was set up by husband and wife team Melanie and Pedro in 2011. The company specialises in glazing systems and awnings from two major brands, Sunflex which manufacture glazing systems for residential and commercial properties, and Markilux, a German manufacturer of quality awnings. “Our success I think is down to our transparency with the client,” says Melanie. “We are clear, concise and honest with them and they know that they can trust and rely on us to deliver a quality product and service.” Clients are welcomed to the Amasvista showroom and warehouse where they manufacture many of the products “so they can see for themselves the product and the quality material and workmanship that is the standard we work to.” The company pride themselves on their workmanship and obtaining the highest possible level in this regard. “The difference is in the details,” says Melanie. “Although sometimes you may not see it, clients notice it in the end as they are above all happy with their choice of product and

Referrals and word of mouth are very powerful, especially in smaller communities that it works for them and is durable. Our workmanship is perfect and our service complements our quality product.” Amasvista keep their eye on the market to ensure they identify and introduce products that can make their clients’ lives more comfortable. One of the major reasons they introduced their glazing systems range including the sliding glass door systems was to react to client demand and offer a new system that worked for their needs. “We are always looking at new innovations to bring to our client, but we focus on the area in which we work, we are specialists.” Pedro, who is half Spanish and half German, believes that one major downfall for people coming to Spain, especially for busi-

nesses is their neglect in learning the language. “You close off a huge potential and narrow the market for yourself,” he explains, while Melanie adds that many people fail to realise that Spain does already have well established businesses operating and it is a highly competitive country. She stresses that it is critical to maintain a consistent quality, no matter what size or type of client you deal with. “Referrals and word of mouth are very powerful, especially in smaller communities. The client should always be number one and you must obtain a good reputation to survive, which means upholding standards,” she remarks. The recession has made it difficult for Amasvista, but Melanie says: “We believed it was important to stay loyal to our excellent workforce and so if that meant decreasing our margins to ensure we gained contracts then we did it, without compromising quality and service. “We were looking at the long term and although people are still a little wary after the crisis we are now starting to see an improvement in the market, but it still may take a while longer to recover fully.”

Sales and employment register an increase in small-scale commerce LATEST figures reveal 14 consecutive months of growth monthly increase in a row. In October the increase was one decimal point higher than that noted in September.

By John Smith THE small-scale commerce sector in Spain registered a 4.8 per cent increase in sales in October compared to the same month in 2014, resulting in 14 consecutive months of growth, according to figures released on November 30 by the National Statistics Institute (INE). This year-on-year result, the highest since December 2014, is one decimal point higher than that registered in September, when sales went up by 4.7 per cent. Employment in the small-scale commerce sector also increased by 1.3 per cent in October compared to the same month in 2014, and registers the 18th

4.8% increase in sales in October compared to the same month in 2014

Small business in a market MV Photography Shutterstock

Overall sales for the small-scale commerce sector increased by 0.4 per cent when comparing October to September, and in comparison, large shops increased their sales by 9.6 per cent overall when compared to October 2014.

Costa Blanca’s wild side YORKSHIREMAN Terry Fletcher has published his very own homage to the mountainous wilderness of the Costa Blanca. Released in November, his guide ‘Walking on the Costa Blanca’ details 50 walks and routes around the mountains, Alicante, Benidorm and Calpe, ranging from easy-going country jaunts to arduous climbs and adventures. Fletcher has been exploring the Costa Blanca for over 30 years and has compiled an impressive knowledge of its history, geology and wildlife. The rugged landscape is a popular destination for ramblers and travellers alike.

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Nothing in life just happens. You have to have the stamina to meet the obstacles and overcome them.” Golda Meir, Prime Minister of Israel

OASIS PARKS

Offering budget homes in the sun ESTABLISHED for 35 years, they opened their first site when Albir was just a small, coastal village OASIS PARKS in Albir has been established for 35 years. A family-run business, which began in 1980 when Albir was just a small coastal village. Owned and operated by husband and wife, Shaun and Christine, the park is a small, quiet, ideally located residential mobile home park. It is in walking distance to the local beaches, shops and has easy access to public transport. Set in a residential area, it is safe, secure and tranquil. Popular with British early-retired couples it enjoys a friendly, close-knit community. “These qualities are what we aim for and are some of the main reasons for the parks success and popularity, it is comfortable for people and provides them with an opportunity to own their own property in Spain without the cost. It is not a touristic site, we now have other locations that are specifically geared for that, this is a residential park,” says Christine. “Location, security and the atmosphere play a large part, but so do the activities we organise, which helps in

OASIS PARKS: The residential home park in Albir is small, quiet, and in an ideal location.

bringing the communities together,” she continues. “We organise regular trips for the residents, to places like Granada and Ibiza, and we’ve just come back

from a Mediterranean cruise.” She added: “The recession has made it more difficult, but we came up with alternative purchasing options such as the home share option,

so people can afford to buy their holiday retreat for a fraction of the cost. “While we had to think of alternative plans for this park we also had to reduce costs for our other park inland

from Gandia, to remain competitive. The recent improvement in the exchange rate for the pound and euro has made a difference, there are more tourists and our residents have more disposable income so are more willing to participate in other activities.” The company is still undergoing their expansion at another park they now own, and this is the project for the coming year, to consolidate on the three parks they now run. “We were lucky because we were well established before the crisis even hit, I think it is a lot more difficult these days to start a business, but the recession can make you take a hard look at your business, streamline it and cut back on unnecessary spending, which ensures you are more efficient and cost effective, and can make you stronger long term.” Christine highly recommends that anyone thinking of starting a business in Spain takes a good look at the sector they intend on entering before doing so, but she is positive things are improving in the country.

Why you need a business plan A VALUABLE tool whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had a business for years A BUSINESS plan is a written description of your business, detailing what you plan to do and how. They are inherently strategic, and focus upon the resources you have. It is a valuable tool for every business owner, whether you are just starting, have been in business for years, or are preparing to grow. Although many businesses deviate from the original plan and become something entirely different, it is still useful to create one for both short term and long term future goals. Establishing a plan at the beginning ensures you define all your initial objectives and map out strategies. It forces you to review every aspect of your business at once, and you will notice connections that you may have missed otherwise. A plan is how you drive the future, as when you write down targets it becomes a personal performance goal.

If you are seeking finance, a thorough and well-researched business plan will show predicted profits and income streams. Banks and lenders will not risk investing time and money unless they are convinced you will be successful. Well-written plans are beneficial when attracting talent, a complete overview demonstrates you understand your business and can deliver the results you promise. By reviewing it, potential business buyers will be able to grasp what you have, how much it is worth, and could convince them to purchase. It is important to keep your business plan up to date by revising and developing it in accordance to business growth and other changes. Why not make a detailed plan for yourself, and see the real results they can bring.

Characteristics of a Successful Entrepreneur

ALTHOUGH there are many factors that contribute to the success of a business, certain traits are common within thriving business owners

• Be tenacious: Be prepared to fail, but don’t crumble under pressure and keep trying when you don’t succeed. Be determined from the outset, and capable of pushing through countless obstacles. • Have passion: Being passionate about your mission creates the intrinsic drive that provides an internal reward. If you are not passionate about your product, how can you instill enthusiasm in others? • Be patient: Success may not happen overnight. Be willing to devote weeks, months, and even years, to hard, committed, effort. • Believe: There will always be people

who deride your product. Be sure that you have created something the world needs, and have confidence in yourself. • Be fearless: Hone the ability to manage fear, and withstand the anxieties of potential failure. Be bold, take risks, and seize opportunities.

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You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Wayne Gretzky, former Canadian professional hockey player.

CLINICA VETERINARIA EL PORT

Clients have confidence in clinic’s service PHILOSOPHY is to maintain a personal and direct contact with all of his clients ANTONIO is the owner of Clinica Veterinaria El Port. His practice was opened in 1999 and as with most companies faced difficult times with the crisis. “I have a natural empathy with the client,” says Antonio. “When the crisis hit, it hit Spanish families very hard and in turn that hit my business. Unfortunately when families had no money available and their pet needed a vaccination or treatment, they simply did not have the money to pay for it. Although I could not turn people away, I knew something had to be done in order to save my business,” admits Antonio. “I was fortunate my brother helped me out with some sound business advice. I came to understand if I was to keep my clinic open I was going to need to invest and open new markets. So I took the decision to invest in my practice, in marketing and advertising and particularly focused on a new market for me which was the Scandinavian market, the Norwegians, Swedish and Danish in particular, a

VET PRACTICE: A premium service is offered. population that is quite large in the surrounding areas of Altea, Albir, Alfaz and Benidorm.” Antonio said he heavily marketed to this sector, learning their customs and even some of the language. He went as far as to fly out to Norway to spread publicity about his clinic. “I invested heavily in obtaining a share of this market and it has paid off. I became known as the Norwegian Vet in Altea. “I ensured I offered a premium service, which is what

their market required. I also invested heavily in the clinic to ensure we had the most up-todate technology and offered a complete service, geared to that particular segment.” Antonio has not forgotten his loyal Spanish customers and ensures he can still offer them a service.

Partners and Yodas VITAL to success, says investor and professor By Eleanor Hawkins ALTHOUGH youngsters are often encouraged to start their own businesses, making them work is far from easy and finding a mentor is a great help in finding the path to success. “You need lots of Yodas in life and in your career,” explained investor and professor Chris Haroun for an article published on LinkedIn. It is very hard, Haroun said, to find anyone who has achieved professional success without guidance from a mentor: “Hewlett was Steve Jobs’s mentor and Jobs in turn was Marc Benioff’s mentor.” No less important, according to Haroun, is having a supporting partner: “Almost everyone who has found success has a great partner behind them. “Our partner is the one person in the world that can tell MENTOR: Great help in finding the path to success.

us that what we’re wearing went out of fashion 80 years ago or that the speech we’re preparing sounds arrogant,” Haroud said.

“We offer a premium service without the premium price. I could not turn my back on those who needed

me, but I still needed to look for alternative markets to sustain my business. I did not want to lay off any staff, so I work long hours and invest more in order to generate the same type of income as before the crisis.” Antonio speaks a number of languages including English and has a strong British customer base. “I think it is critical for those who come to Spain to integrate into their communities, to learn the language and have an open mind. We live in a multi-cultural society, especially here on the coast and it is very beneficial to be part of that.” Antonio says his philosophy is to maintain a personal and direct contact with his clients. Not only does he enjoy this, it gives him satisfaction to know his clients are happy, as they feel they can trust him and have confidence in the service offered by his clinic.

Continued rise of the Salvador Dali of shoes SPANISH born Manolo Blahnik came from a family of pharmaceuticals and banana growing and was originally earmarked by his parents as a future diplomat but this didn’t sit happily with the flamboyant young man who studied literature and architecture before moving to art in Paris. In 1968, he moved to London as a fashion buyer and then presented some of his own designs to the editor of Vogue who liked his shoe concepts and advised him to stick to designing shoes. This was to be his future and starting with sales to fashion designers for runway shoes and then supplying major stores, he eventually found an opening in the US through high end department stores. Whilst he built a very successful business amongst the wealthy and trendy, he became a household name when Carrie Bradshaw, style icon in the highly rated Sex and the City TV series regularly promoted the fact that she loved his shoes and in one episode she was even mugged for her Manolo Blahniks!

Photo Credit Featureflash Shutterstock

MANOLO BLAHNIK: A household name.

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Done is better than perfect.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook

TABAIRA REAL ESTATE

Focusing on our strengths COMMITTED solely to buying and selling TABAIRA REAL ESTATE opened its doors 10 years ago. Originally located in Tabaira, they relocated to a more prominent location in the town of Moraira. They have been working extremely well throughout the recession and have seen significant improvements in recent years in terms of house sales and movement in the market. Stuart Peters has been with the company for eight of its 10 years. “Really it is our commitment to the client and sheer hard work that has proven to be our strength and one of the major reasons we have been able to continue selling properties throughout the recession. We are dedicated to our clients and they see that; it is something they appreciate and respect. We gain a lot of referrals because of this which is undoubtedly a good thing, especially in our industry which is extremely competitive.” The company focuses solely on the buying and selling of houses: “We do not get involved in rentals or other services, we focus on what we do, and focus on Moraira and the surrounding areas. When someone walks through our door it is realistic to assume that they

Success is counted sweetest Success is counted sweetest By those who ne’er succeed. To comprehend a nectar Requires sorest need. Not one of all the purple Host Who took the Flag today Can tell the definition So clear of Victory As he defeated - dying On whose forbidden ear The distant strains of triumph Burst agonized and clear!

are really looking for a property in this area, so that is why we are highly focused on providing them with as many options as possible in this area. We understand our clients and ensure we have a strong local presence.” Stuart is realistic and says that although the recession did slow the market down, Moraira was not so greatly affected: “New builds almost completely stopped but resales continued, so we adapted to the market and focused on each individual client and we did a good job for each and every one. Now we see new builds returning but it is more on a bespoke basis. “We are committed to maintaining the same great level of service we have always given and will create more clients through expanding our reach through increased marketing in 2016. This is something that will go to ensure we serve our clients even better.” Stuart says they have noticed an almost immediate improvement with the better exchange rate for the pound with their UK clients: “There is more confidence from our UK clients and more incentive to invest. The reality is when it

comes to property investments these changes can make a huge difference. There has certainly been more movement and prices are recovering slightly. We have certainly sold more properties in 2015 compared to 2014 and we hope to see this trend continue into 2016.” Stuart says it can be difficult to find a job in Spain especially for those new to the area, so learning the language and having some funds available is critical to start out with, but above all concentrate on your strengths and focus on that.

Jose Antonio Grimalt and Stuart Peters.

Dragons’ Den but without the humiliation DISRUPT events are intended to help young entrepreneurs find advice and support By John Smith ONE of the things that many young entrepreneurs most complain about is how to be taken seriously and how to get to meet potential investors who will understand their concepts and treat them with some understanding and respect, unlike those portrayed in the BBC series Dragons Den. In keeping with the concept of youth and modern technology, a very interesting group known as TechCrunch, which describes itself as “a leading technology media property, dedicated to obsessively profiling startups, reviewing new Internet products, and breaking tech news,” stages ‘Disrupt’ events which are intended to help these young people find advice and support for their new concepts. Startup Battlefield brings the world’s top early stage startups together on one stage to compete for the coveted Disrupt Cup, a $50,000

TechCrunch Disrupt. Photo Credit kawanet wikimedia.

(€47,000) prize, and the attention of media and investors. Those who have been helped in the past include companies like Mint, Dropbox, Yammer, Tripit, Redbeacon, and Qwiki. Of 508 startups that have participated since the first competi-

tion, in 2007, by the beginning of 2015 they had raised $4.4 billion (€4.15 billion), while 65 have been sold and two have gone public. TechCrunch stages the Battlefield four times a year, once at each of their three Disrupt conferences - in New

York City, San Francisco, and London - and also at a special Hardware Battlefield at CES in Las Vegas. To be eligible, startups must be launching to the public for the first time and have little to no prior press exposure. Selection is highly competitive; the acceptance rate ranges from 3 to 6 per cent for each event. The competition at Disrupt events takes place over three days. Each company has six minutes to pitch to top investors, entrepreneurs, and technologists. The judges then have six minutes to ask questions. Between four and six companies are selected from the competitors to present to a fresh group of finalists’ judges on the final day of the show and a winner is chosen. The latest event took place in London between December 5 and 8 and a number of participants had approaches from investors and venture capitalists looking for their next big investment.

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If you are going through hell, keep going.”

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Winston Churchill, Former British Prime Minister..

TOTAL CARE CARE

Honesty is always the best policy NOTHING is hidden from clients, the price quoted is the price they will pay TOTAL CAR CARE has been open for more than 12 years but was taken over by Jackie and James four years ago, although James has been working as a qualified mechanic in Spain for eight years. “We know what we are doing. We are all qualified and pride ourselves on providing an honest, reliable service. For me honesty is always the best policy when it comes to this business. Clients appreciate that and it is the main reason why we are so successful at retaining our customers,” says James. “There are no hidden costs or fees; we do not hide anything from our clients. We provide them with a quotation and the price they pay is the price on the quote. Our clients trust us.” The company has big expansion plans for 2016, which are already under way. “We are adding a body shop offering car body repairs, resprays and other services such as electronic installations. We hope the new shop, which is the unit next door, will be

DEDICATED TO GOOD SERVICE: Jackie and James.

Tupungato Shutterstock

people know you are there, but word open by the end of Febriary or of mouth also plays a vital role. “A March. It will effectively double our lot of our business comes from referfloor space.” rals, from our happy cusJames says that in We will tomers. While at the order to become suctake same time the recession cessful in Spain it is has cleared out a lot of vital that you play to care of your the less professional opyour strengths. “Don’t try car as if it erators so in fact it has to reinvent yourself,” he were our actually been good for us. warns, “stick to what you own, that’s Our policy of being honknow and do it well. est and upfront works Make sure you are fully the key for well with our customers. legal and registered and us” We tell them that it is above all provide a propreferable to have ongoing preventafessional service because that is what tive maintenance rather than face big people will talk about. bills when it comes to caring for your “I am a firm believer that you vehicle, and they listen to us as it should never try to run before you makes sense and saves them money can walk, which is the downfall of so in the long run.” many who come to Spain. If you get The company is successful with known for doing something well, British expats but with many nationyou will get busy, and that in itself is alities too. “As our slogan goes, attractive to those looking in, as they whatever your car, old or new, petrol see a busy place and it gives them or diesel, Spanish or English, we will confidence.” take care of it as if it were our own, James believes that advertising is that’s the key for us,” says James. important to raise awareness and let

Spanish tourism is an ongoing success SET to break the record for the second year in a row By John Smith

RECORD: Spain is well on its way to reaching 68 million international visitors by the end of 2015, which would be three million more than last year.

SPAIN has been visited by 60.83 million tourists from countries all over the world during the first 10 months of the year, which is 4.4 per cent more than during the same period in 2014, according to the National Statistics Institute’s Frontur tourism survey for October. The largest group of tourists at 14.32 million came from the UK, 4 per cent more than last year and in keeping with overall increases. Next on the list was France with 10.23 million visitors, 8 per cent more than last year, and

60.83 million tourists visited Spain in the first 10 months of this year

Germany with 9.3 million visitors, 0.66 per cent less than last year. Italy was the fourth country in terms of volume of visitors coming into Spain with 3.45 million, 5.7 per cent more than the same period last year.

In October alone, more than 6.5 million international tourists visited Spain, a 9.69 per cent increase on the figure for October 2014. Again the UK, with more than 1.6 million visitors, was the top country tourists travelled from, making up 25.3 per cent of the total, followed by Germany at 16.2 per cent of the total and France at 15 per cent of the total. Spain is therefore well on its way to reaching 68 million international visitors by the end of the year. This would be three million more than in 2014, which itself was a record year.

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Success is not a destination; it is a journey we must constantly pursue.”

Gabriela Reyna

NOVA BUSSOLA

Decades of passion for real Italian cuisine A RESTAURANT that puts its money where its mouth is ALL too often Italian restaurants talk a good game, hoping that the worldwide appreciation for quality Italian cuisine will attract new diners and guests no matter what they do. Nova Bussola, on the other hand, puts its money where its mouth is and is a truly distinctive restaurant bringing decades of passion and love of authentic Italian food to Altea. Owners Vita and Mariano combine the revered traditions of fine Italian cooking with a dynamic modern philosophy dedicated to intensifying the richness of their produce and flavours. The husband and wife team sincerely enjoy the art of hospitality with close personal attention to diners a hallmark of their success. Mariano estimates that around 80 per cent of the customers at Nova Bussola are local residents, expatriates and natives alike, who keep on coming back. The strength of return business is the highest indicator of quality and character, and in this respect Nova

after tourist trade, Mariano simply observed that it is his regular customers who make Nova Bussola what it is, both in terms of its success, but also its character. Nova Bussola isn’t one for chasing the fleeting tourists but rather prefers to build on its long-standing place in the local community. Mariano’s buzzwords are service and cordiality. The interior of Nova Bussola speaks volume about the continuing passion Vita and Mariano have for the old country, while the food eschews complicated attention-seeking dishes in favour of rich, flavoursome and apparently simple meals. Their top dish is spaghetti with parmesan but this seemingly basic combination becomes gloriously intense and aromatic when mixed with their special ‘Ossobuco alla Milanese’. Other specialities are seasonal dishes that have been passionately passed down throughout the generations and, luckily for us, have found their way to Altea.

QUINTESSENTIALLY ITALIAN: Nova Bussola. Bussola has exceeded all expectations. Some things cannot be taught in school and Mariano has honed his craft the honest way, with 37 years of practical experience preparing and serving the best of Italian food and culture. Nova Bussola has been in the family for over 20 years and

Mariano has recently taken the helm, with his signature combination of creativity and tradition attracting customers internationally. Perhaps the feature which ultimately distinguishes Nova Bussola from other successful restaurants is its quintessential modesty, humbly stated in true Italian style. Nova Bus-

sola isn’t trying to aggressively expand on their success, franchising and making higher profits isn’t even on the agenda. Mariano believes that his sole calling is to continue providing the terrific food and service that has allowed him to build a home in Spain, and live the life he loves. Asked about attracting the sought-

Pirelli calendar recognises women for their achievements rather than their bodies CHANGE of direction for the sometimes controversial publication Photo Credit Jaguar PS Shutterstock.

By John Smith SINCE the first Pirelli calendar was published in the UK in 1964, it has received criticism for the fact that it used beautiful models and actresses often in provocativ e p o s es or na ke d. B ut over the years each of the limited edition calendars has bec ome a c olle c tor’s piece. The origina l c onc e pt w a s to supply the calend a r to the tyre Singer Patti Smith, one of the models for companies’ best the 2016 calendar. c us tome rs for them to hang in

their workshops as part of what can be described nowadays as a piece of blatant sexism to please the boys. Publication was discontinued afte r the 1974 is s ue a s pa rt of a n economy drive by the company, but it was resurrected 10 years later and has been produced annually ever since. This caused a great deal of complaint from those who don’t approve of the objectifying of w ome n’s bodie s for me n’s amusement. Regular lobbying of the publishers has however brought success to the calls for a change and the famed Pirelli calendar is taking 2016’s issue in a whole new direction by fe a turing s ome of the world’s most inspiring women in-

cluding artists, athletes, actresses and bloggers.

Some of the world’s most inspiring women will feature in the new edition Legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz, who had produced the 2000 Pirelli calendar in the ‘old’ style, was given a free hand for the 2016 edition and persuaded a range of well-known and perhaps not s o f am ous wom en t o pose, mainly dressed for her. Speaking about her latest piece of work, she said: “The 2000 Cal-

endar was an exer ci se i n photographing nudes. It was a simple concept. For 2016, we did something completely different, but it is still simple. It is a classic set of black-and-white portraits made in the studio.” Model s i ncl ude Ser ena Wi l l i am s, Yoko Ono, Pat t i Smith, Iranian film director Shirin Neshat and t op com edi an Am y Schumer. No-one knows how the guys in the workshops will react but the press coverage this radical change has received will certainly give the Pirelli board a good feeling. They wi l l have achi eved t hei r marketing aim whilst attracting positive feedback from previous female critics.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

It's important to keep moving forward, towards our goals.”

Marie De Leanos

INSURANCE ALTEA

That personal touch CLIENTS can speak to a person not a machine

FAMILIAR FACE: Elaine

ELAINE has worked in the insurance industry for many years. A resident of Altea for over 30 years, she opened her own insurance business, which is an exclusive agent for Ultra Insurance, in 2007. “I think I am successful because people know the name. “I have worked in insurance in Altea for many years, with different companies, which were then bought out, and continued with them until 2007 when I was awarded my own agency and exclusivity for Ultra Insurance. So people know me for insurance,” says Elaine. Consistency and a familiar face are some of the major reasons Elaine believes she has managed to retain and grow her client base over the years. “I actually have clients across Spain, not just in Altea, because with me clients

are ensured a personal service. Word of mouth, strong recommendations and that all-important personal touch have meant I have a lot of faithful, loyal clients.”

I have worked in insurance in Altea for many years, so people know me for insurance”

The company covers all types of insurance policies, and despite the severe economic crisis and tough, highly competitive insurance market, Elaine has managed to keep her business at the

same level throughout. “We win a contract one day but then lose one the next, that’s just how it is, but we maintain our focus on the client and our business has remained stable throughout. We avoided the large scale automated approach to the business, this could be one of the reasons we are still here while so many others have gone under,” explains Elaine. She has noticed that many people value the fact they can come into the office and sit down and speak to her face to face. While it has been very difficult if not impossible to avoid the price war, she stood firm and ensured she continued to offer a high level of personal service. “For those who are looking to come over and set up a business of their own, I would highly recommend

they do something different, that they look for a niche market because it is very complicated and competitive. Get a good gestoria and above all ensure you are fully legal in whatever you decide to do. “The paperwork can be extremely frustrating so seeking good help is crucial,” Elaine advises. She believes Spain is an excellent country for those who are retired, but for the younger generations it still has a way to go yet before it improves significantly.

“I think that the recession has been incredibly damaging for so many people, and although 2016 may be slightly better, I think it is going to be a while yet before we see signs of significant improvement. “We still have a difficult road to travel,” says Elaine. Even though the exchange rate improvement between the pound and euro has helped, its effects have not been quite so apparent yet for Elaine.

At the centre of success for peace building throughout the world By Marcus Hopkins

FOUNDED in 1974 at the top of the Dublin mountains in Ireland, the Glencree Centre for Reconciliation has for many been years been an unsung hero in helping to build peace in conflict zones throughout the world. Creating ongoing dialogue between the most unlikely of people, such as IRA bomber Pat Magee and Jo Berry, the daughter of Sir Anthony Berry who was killed by the bomb planted by Magee at the Grand Hotel in Brighton in 1984, Glencree’s success at international peace building can be challenging, provocative yet therapeutic as well. Two former employees, Ian White and Colin Murphy, both from Northern Ireland, received MBEs for their work at the centre. Both would stress the key role that honest dialogue and engaging people from different

Glencree Centre for Reconciliation

traditions and religions plays in building long-term reconciliation. Staff and volunteers at the centre have, over the years, come from a wide variety of countries throughout the EU, as well as further afield from places that include Israel, Palestine and South Ph ot oc Africa. red its All have come to experience diaGl en cre logue, the trust building, the eC en honesty of opinion that Glentre fo rR cree, a non-profit-making ec on organisation, provides. cil iat ion With the Paris bombings still deeply etched on our minds, and the attacks in Tunisia, Mali, Beirut, Egypt and elsewhere, the successes of organisations such as Glencree, providing leadership skills for use in reducing conflict, are needed more than ever.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Setting stepping stones will help us to walk and work towards our personal and career goals.â€?

Nora Renteria

NO NEED TO PAINT

Regular exterior property painting and maintenance can become a thing of the past SPECIAL Andura coating has been proven to last in excess of 30 years LIVING on the Costas, thousands and thousands of expats have the responsibility and expensive chore of having to regularly maintain and paint the exterior of their properties. Now the recession is over and house prices are on the climb, itâ€™s important to keep exteriors in tip-top condition. Many Spanish paints are not durable enough to withstand the very high summer temperatures and then the wet, humid conditions in the autumn/winter months. They can crack and peel after one year of application and the heavy rains can wash these paints off the walls and cause vulnerable, damp conditions to the interior. Also, after sand deposits from the Sahara rain, many home-owners find the paint coming off the walls after cleaning with the hosepipe or power-washer. Why not save yourself the regular and expensive maintenance and painting chores with No Need to Paint Andura Abroad? They have been operating their long-life coating systems in Spain since 1991, and have satellite offices covering the Almeria area and the Costa del Sol. Andura, a well-known English specialist coating manufacturer, has been making specialist protective coatings for the harsh UK weather for over 40 years. The company teamed up with No Need to Paint many years ago to offer their products exclusively in Spain. Their products are ISO9002 & BBA approved and proven to last in

some cases in excess of 30 years. No Need to Paint Andura Abroad have hundreds of references available and are always looking for display properties to promote the product in your area. Generous subsidies are offered if properties can hold an open day for one day only so members of the public can see the product being applied and have any questions answered. Though the product costs more than a normal professional paint job, the little extra is well worth the investment bearing in mind that many people have to paint their house every two to three years. If you would like a no obligation survey and quote, please feel free to call 966 423 751 or 637 536 663 or our UK Freephone number is 0800 508 8102, email contact@noneedtopaint.com and visit www.noneedtopaint.com

Well worth the investment.

Guardian Angels are really changing lives HELPING single parent families cope and thrive in Spain By Matthew Elliott SINGLE parents in the Costa Blanca North have their very own Guardian Angels, a local charity dedicated to helping single-parent families throughout the region. The organisation has devoted itself to providing a comprehensive support network over the past six years from Denia to Benidorm, as well as across Spain and abroad. November saw the Guardian Angels launch their second fundraiser with a lavish ball at Denia Marriott La Sella Golf Resort, with 200 Turn to page 104

HARDEST JOB: Raising a family on your own.

Address: Calle Cristo del Mar 29 Javea Port 03730 Alicante Tel: 00 34 659 692 540

Quique Dacosta From Page 78 his own very special style. Working with a well-established team, the restaurant closes for the winter whilst new dishes are created and will not reopen until February 2, with what will most likely be a mixture of new dishes sitting alongside established and well-loved food using wherever possible locally sourced ingredients from within 75 kilometres of his restaurant. With the closing of the adventurous elBulli restaurant, Quique Dacosta is considered by many to have taken over the mantle of Chef Ferran Adria as an innovator and creator of spectacular Spanish food. He has written a number of books and the age of 43 has become a genuine example to restaurateurs around Spain that hard work and a sincere love for cooking can lead to spectacular success. His list of achievements and awards is incredible and the restaurant regularly appears in the best restaurants in the world guides.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

Success doesn't come without education and hard work.”

Sandy Martinez

AES INTERNATIONAL IN SPAIN

Straight down the line SPECIALISTS in investments and pensions, and nothing else

INDEPENDENT ADVISOR: Paul Clark.

PAUL CLARK is an independent financial advisor working under the umbrella of AES International in Spain, with extensive experience and a solid background in the industry. At the age of 40, Paul decided to leave the stress of living and working in the UK and set up in Spain. He established an office in Marbella for AES before deciding to settle in Javea and continue his role within the company as an independent financial advisor. Operating for over seven years, Paul says that although the recession hit many businesses and people hard it was a busy time for him. “As people lost confidence in the banks they were looking for alternatives and others who could advise them on where to in-

Our clients only pay us when they are happy that they have been provided with the service they want and have made money from their investments.

vest their money. AES have a solid background and excellent reputation; run by ex-military they are straight down the line so this worked well in my favour. Ultimately I live in an area with the perfect demographic for my business. People

are looking to secure their money and protect their investments to be able to live off them and secure them for their beneficiaries in the future. “The level of trust with AES is excellent; they have won numerous awards for their products and services over the years and so I have regular clientele who come to me to manage their portfolios and spread their investments wisely,” Paul explains. “We are specialists in what we do. We only work on investments and pensions, nothing else. The company ensures that they are compliant with current regulations so I can focus on working for the client. I do not need to expand my business, I am happy as I am and with the client-base

I have. Of course, I always welcome new business but I am working at a level that is ideal for me.” Paul says that for those who want to move to Spain and run a business of their own, it is imperative to have some funds behind you and a coherent and sensible business plan. He also says that it is critical to carry out a risk analysis and have a backup plan or fallback position just in case, to play to your strengths and importantly offer a good service. “One of our points of difference is that we give the commissions we charge back to our clients. Many advisers will charge up to 12 per cent while at AES we only charge 1 per cent and return this. We work from a different model, which is performance basis, as op-

posed to fee based, so our clients only pay us when they are happy that they have been provided with the service they want and have made money from their investments. “This helps to enforce that level of trust and represents a commitment to our clients.” Paul sees that many people are still wary of the euro currency after the recession and many prefer to keep their savings and investments in sterling where possible, since the diversification of risk is currently less than that with the euro. “We offer sound, honest advice, that is why my clients have joined over 10,000 other international investors who trust AES international to deliver better results,” Paul concludes.

Cost Blanca single families need never feel they are alone SOCIAL network helps prevent loneliness or isolation From Page 102 supporters in attendance and raising an impressive €3,345. Sunday December 6 saw the annual Christmas party take place, capping off a year of family and adult friendly events ranging from pool parties and a safari trip, to quiz nights and wine-tasting. The charity focuses on essential support features for single parents designed to bring them assistance in times of need and create a social network to prevent loneliness or isolation. Medical help, legal advice, translation services and counselling are among the mechanisms available to help single parents cope and thrive while in Spain. Founded in 2010 by Tricia Barr, who has experienced the trials and tribulations of single par-

Focusing on essential support features. ent life in Spain, the charity has four key committee members, all with a helpful array of real world experience and the tools to help others. Tricia said: “Raising a family on your own can be one of the hardest jobs in the world, especially in a foreign country. Guardian Angels have a strong team of wonderful, dedicated people who are focused on helping our members.” The charity also has five official mentors who

come from different walks of life, uniquely placed to offer guidance and solidarity with single parents. Dedicated service providers have volunteered their expertise for free or reduced rates. These include medical and legal services, beauty and wellbeing treatments and classes, counselling, translation and home maintenance. Guardian Angels have had a hugely positive impact on the local community. The following

are some testimonials: “I was a very early member of GA and am so lucky that Tricia was there with her support with Guardian Angels five years ago. Without Tricia and GA, myself and my family would not have survived in Spain. We now have a new life thanks to GA and their support.” “I have found GA to be a great source of support and information. I have made friends through it and also found some work (indirectly) by knowing someone from GA. I rediscovered Reiki through GA and numerous other positives in my life. Good job everyone.” “A big thank you to Tricia and all the helpers for providing such a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where I really feel able to relate to everyone and speak freely about the ups and downs of our situations!”

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Success is a decision.”

www.euroweeklynews.com

COSTA BLANCA NORTH SUCCESS

David Fischman, writer, columnist and international speaker

HAMILTONS OF LONDON

Getting you moving REAL estate agency with a strong market presence

PRIME LOCATIONS: Offices in Moraira, Javea and Denia.

HAMILTON’S of London are a real estate agency that have been operating in Moraira, Javea and Denia for over 10 years. Nick Coleman took charge of the operations in Moraira and Javea in 2007 and the company has been growing steadily ever since, incorporating rentals and new build constructions into the services they offer. Employing 16 staff between the two offices, in a highly competitive market, they have managed to create a reputable name for themselves and have a very strong market presence.

“This is something that we are well known for, what we excel at and what has worked in our favour throughout the recession,” says Helen, the marketing director at Hamiltons. “We invest a lot in our marketing and are highly successful because of it. It puts us at the forefront of the marketplace and provides high client satisfaction. We attract many buyers, sellers and renters due to our advertising. Not only do we have prime locations for our offices in Moraira and Javea, but we are active in the community, both with advertising and events and charitable causes. We have become part of the community.” The company have under-

gone expansion despite the recession. “We just continued to do what we do best throughout the recession. We did not make cuts, and did not stop advertising; in fact, we did even more which has made us highly competitive. We are customer orientated and focus our energies on meeting their needs, we strive to provide the best level of service for our clients,” said Helen. Hamiltons have noticed an almost immediate response from the British with the improvement of the pound sterling against the euro, as investors gain more confidence and the pound goes further for British investors in Spain. “We have incorporated

new builds into our portfolio of products and services that we offer and this has seen an excellent response so far. We hope to continue to consolidate our position in 2016 in this area,” Helen explained. She says that those looking at coming to Spain and wanting to start their own business should not hesitate. “It is different here, but if you have the right product, are good at what you do and are customer orientated, then why not? You need to be confident in your abilities and do your own research rather than rely on other people, and seek professional, reliable advice from the right people.But there are great opportunities.”

BUGBUSTERS

Bugbusters – no flies on us IN business for over 21 years, the company is loyal to its clients and gets the same loyalty in return BUGBUSTERS deals with infestations and pests in both residential and commercial properties. Owned and operated by Lois, they have been in operation for over 21 years. “One of the major improvements in service is that now establishments do not need to close when we visit. All of our products we use are biofriendly, unlike before when we used lackers and the establishment would have to close, now they can function as normal,” says Lois. “We have seen a lot of bars opening and closing throughout the recession, and although our business is linked to the industry, we have managed to ride the crisis out by adapting to the market, dropping prices where needed, but we have always ensured we have maintained a high level of service and made sure the client feels they can trust us. “We are loyal to our clients and we receive the same kind of loyalty in return. We are pre-occupied with solv-

One of the major improvements in service is that now establishments do not need to close when we visit”

CRISIS: Company adapted to the market.

ing our clients’ issues and problems with regards to what we do, that concern for the clients business is important and I think they appreciate that.” Although the company is not as profitable as before, she sees signs of improvement for 2016. “The improved exchange rate has a lot to do with that, things are on the move, we are seeing more people coming back and new bars opening, but it has been a hard task keeping afloat, hotter temperatures this year meant we were busier as well.” Lois says to make it in Spain it is imperative give it a decent period of time, at least 12 to 24 months and to get sound advice from a gestoria and do your research before jumping in with both feet. “I am happy to keep my client base at the level it is at, but as tourism improves so will my business, it has been improving each year for a few years now so it looks like it will continue that way,” she added.

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Creating harmony for Christmas and beyond A REASONABLE time to look for similarities rather than differences between peoples and faiths By Marcus Hopkins CHRISTMAS is intended to be a time of peace and harmony. Perhaps a reasonable time to look for similarities rather than differences between peoples and faiths. Four hundred and eighty Muslim soldiers currently serve in the British army. The Ministry of Defence want to increase the percentage of Muslims in the military. To achieve this, it is essential for British Muslims to feel that they will be accepted within the army, as they are. Muslim Lance Corporal Jabron Hashmi, born in Pakistan and who moved to Britain when he was 12, paid the ultimate price for Queen and country, being killed in action in Afghanistan. Sheffield born boxer Naseem Hamed, one of Britain’s greatest boxing talents is another Muslim so many British are proud of. In the business world there is Sir Anwar Pervez, Britain’s richest Muslim. According to the Sunday Times rich list,

LONDON BUSES: Adverts are being placed on them with the slogan ‘United against extremism.’

Sir Anwar and his family “would be even richer if they did not give large sums to charity.” Then helping to protect the streets of London was Ugandan born Tarique Ghaffur, formerly one of Britain’s most senior police officers, whose parents came from modern day Pakistan. The actions of terrorist groups such as Daesh is

giving Muslims a terrible name in the UK. But that is exactly what Daesh are trying to do, but only if we allow it. Remember that in the last few weeks, along with attacks in Paris, Daesh have bombed Muslim targets too. At this time of year, and at this present moment, creating harmony demands that peaceful

Christians and Muslims stand together. Jesus, who Christians celebrate at this festive time, is also one of the most revered figures of Islam, as is Mary, facts often forgotten in the West. A UK Muslim charity, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK is continuing its campaign to counter extremist rhetoric, with advertisements being placed on 100 London buses with the slogan ‘United against extremism.’ Holding out a hand of friendship to people from a different tradition, a different culture, even a different mind-set, can be a catalyst to building a more harmonious future. Politics and religion whether in Spain, the UK, Ireland or elsewhere, can only be managed when people work together to end distrust and suspicion. Peace happened in Northern Ireland, even though it took years to achieve, and even though difficulties persist. It took people from all sides, all backgrounds to become brave enough to grasp the pain of getting to know the other side again.

The times they are a - changin’... But where’s it all going to end? THESE days in Britain there are far too many politically-correct, but ineffectual appointees by domdeen shutterstock

Nora Johnson

Breaking Views Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/3.0.15/nora-johnson

RECENTLY I wrote about the state of Britain which seems to have struck a chord amongst many of you judging by the comments on this paper’s Letters page and also my website. Some authorities - and the individuals employed by them - seem hopelessly confused, utterly lost. And hugely detached from the mindsets of the taxpayers who pay their salaries. Things seem to have taken a major turn for the worse over the past few years. First off, take the way the allegations of historic sexual abuse have been handled by UK police. Broadcaster Paul Gambaccini has accused

STATE OF BRITAIN: Some authorities seem hopelessly confused. the Metropolitan Police of relying on “rumour and accusation” rather than evidence during its investigations into his past. Having spent a year on bail after being falsely accused of sex

abuse in the 1970s, he said the centuries-old British legal principles of objective, evidence-based investigations had “mutated” under post-Savile ‘Operation Yewtree.’

Despite successful prosecutions (including Gary Glitter, Rolf Harris and Max Clifford), it’s also had its failures (Freddie Starr and Jim Davidson, both publicly arrested but never charged). Yet according to a major study, 450,000 children suffered sexual abuse in the two years to March 2014, the police and the authorities reportedly aware of only a fraction of the cases, having investigated just 50,000 incidents. Wouldn’t police time and money be better spent on these more recent crimes? Secondly, take the example of a former deputy children’s commissioner who failed to warn the Charity Commission or the government (which was giving the charity millions of pounds annually) about Kids Company because she was intimidated by the celebrity friends of the charity’s ‘charismatic’ founder. Sue Berelowitz (severance pay: £134,000; rehired, ini-

tially, on £1,000/day) admitted she became concerned that money was being wasted and few children were using the services. So, the overseer was too timid to oversee and the auditors appointed overlooked key problems! What a terrible admission from someone in a (well-remunerated) position of authority to allow herself to be ‘intimidated.’ These days there are far too many of these politically-correct, but ineffectual, appointees. What a sad indictment - the times are indeed a-changing in the UK at least. As I wrote last time, where’s it all going to end? Nora Johnson’s thrillers ‘Landscape of Lies,’ ‘Retribution,’ ‘Soul Stealer,’ ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora-johnson.com) available from Amazon in paperback/eBook (€0.89;£0.79) and iBookstore. All profits to Cudeca charity.

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3:20am

Movies Now George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Where the Heart is Judge Judy Judge Judy Judge Judy A Touch of Frost Heartbeat Wycliffe Where the Heart is On the Buses On the Buses George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Murder mystery series about the sleuthing writer. Lewis Law and Order: UK Cold Blood A Touch of Frost A vital witness to a gangland killing goes missing before she can give evidence in court. ITV3 Nightscreen

7:00am 7:55am 8:50am 9:55am 11:00am 12:05pm 1:10pm 2:15pm 3:20pm 3:50pm 4:55pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm

11:00pm 1:20am 3:30am 3:55am

Gunsmoke The Professionals Minder Alias Smith and Jones Gunsmoke The Professionals Kojak Minder Pawn Stars Gunsmoke Alias Smith and Jones The Professionals Kojak Pawn Stars Pawn Stars The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Fifth Gear Tiff Needell and Vicki ButlerHenderson present the motor magazine show. The Chronicles of Riddick Daylight Pawn Stars ITV4 Nightscreen

7:00am 9:00am 11:20am 1:20pm 3:40pm 5:40pm 8:00pm 10:00pm 12:15am

X-Men X2 X-Men: The Last Stand The Equalizer X-Men X2 X-Men: The Last Stand The Equalizer Die Hard with a Vengeance 2:30am Con Air 4:40am Maverick

7:20am 9:00am 10:50am 12:30pm 2:30pm 4:15pm 5:50pm 7:30pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:45am 2:15am

Son of the Mask Young Frankenstein Analyze That The 40 Year Old Virgin Boat Trip Three Night Stand Analyze That Lovesick The 40 Year Old Virgin About Last Night Revenge for Jolly! American Pie

8:45am The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special 9:15am Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 11:00am Extraterrestrial 1:00pm Shelby 2:45pm Cake 4:45pm Taken 3 6:45pm Bridge of Spies: Sky Movies Special 7:15pm Ghosthunters: On Icy pTrails 9:00pm Taken 3 11:00pm Cake 12:45am Extraterrestrial 2:30am 13 Sins A down-on-his luck salesman agrees to complete 13 increasingly sinister challenges for financial reward 4:10am Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails A fearful young boy forms an unlikely bond with a loveable green ghost and tries to help him reclaim his haunted house.

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

10:30pm 12:30am

Football Gold Football Gold WWE SmackDown! Boxing:Straight Outta Brixton Fight Night Anthony Joshua-the Knockouts Intl Premier Tennis League Barclays Premier League World Premier League 100 Club Premier League Boxing Mosconi Cup Pool Boxing Barclays Premier League World Fantasy Football Club Highlights Boxing Premier League 100 Club Premier League Premier League 100 Club Bpl Legends Premier League 100 Club Boxing

Cricket Cricket Pace Like Fire NFL Highlights Cricket's Greatest Cricket Cricket Watersports World 2015 Cricket Cricket Watersports World 2015 Cricket's Greatest Cricket's Greatest Cricket Cricket Cricket's Greatest Cricket Cricket Day one of the first Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at University Oval, Dunedin. Boxing Cricket

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10:15am Sister Rita to the Rescue 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Oxford Street Revealed 12:45pm Family Finders 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News at One 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm The Doctor Blake Mysteries 4:10pm Escape to the Country 4:40pm Home Comforts at Christmas 5:25pm Flog It! 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm A Question of Sport 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm Citizen Khan 10:00pm Have I Got News for You 10:30pm Peter Kay's Car Share 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News 11:35pm The Graham Norton Show

8:00am Oxford Street Revealed 8:45am Flog it! Trade Secrets 9:15am An Island Parish: Falklands 9:45am Great British Menu 10:15am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC News 1:00pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm Cash in the Attic 2:45pm Pressure Pad 3:30pm The Great British Bake Off 4:30pm The Great Antiques Map of Britain 5:00pm The World's Most Photographed 5:30pm Wogan: The Best of 6:15pm Bargain Hunt 7:00pm Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 8:00pm Celebrity Antiques Road Trip 9:00pm Mastermind 9:30pm An Island Parish: Falklands 10:00pm Alex Polizzi: Hire Our Heroes 11:00pm QI 11:30pm Newsnight 12:00am Artsnight

7:00am Good Morning Britain 9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm 1000 Heartbeats 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm Gino's Italian Escape: Islands in the Sun 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Piers Morgan's Life Stories 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:40pm 300 1:45am Jackpot247 4:00am The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 4:40am ITV Nightscreen

7:00am 7:10am 7:35am 8:20am 8:55am 9:25am 9:35am 10:40am 11:35am 1:25pm 1:55pm 2:30pm 2:55pm 3:40pm 4:50pm 5:55pm 7:00pm

8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 1:00am 3:10am

The Hot Desk You've Been Framed! Psych Emmerdale Emmerdale The Hot Desk The Cube Psych Holiday Engagement Emmerdale Emmerdale You've Been Framed! Catchphrase The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder Studio courtroom show in which criminal barrister Robert Rinder rules on real life cases. You've Been Framed! Two and a Half Men The Dark Knight Pitch Black Teleshopping

8:00pm World's Craziest Fools 8:30pm Don't Tell the Bride 9:30pm Sherlock 11:00pm EastEnders 11:30pm Russell Howard's Good News Extra 12:15am American Dad! 12:40am American Dad! 1:00am Family Guy 1:25am Family Guy 1:45am Rent a Cop 2:15am Josh 2:45am Russell Howard's Good News Extra 3:30am Asian Provocateur

8:00pm 8:30pm 9:20pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

World News Today The Good Old Days Pop Go the Sixties Sounds of the 70s TOTP 2 Rollermania: Britain's Biggest Boy Band 12:00am I'm in a Boy Band 1:00am TOTP 2 2:00am Rollermania: Britain's Biggest Boy Band

7:00am Movies Now 7:10am George and Mildred 7:35am Heartbeat 8:40am Murder, She Wrote 9:35am Where the Heart is 10:35am Judge Judy 11:00am Judge Judy 11:30am Judge Judy 11:55am A Touch of Frost 2:00pm Heartbeat 3:05pm Wycliffe 4:10pm Where the Heart is 5:15pm On the Buses 5:50pm On the Buses 6:20pm George and Mildred 6:55pm Heartbeat 7:55pm Murder, She Wrote Murder mystery series about a sleuthing writer. 9:00pm Midsomer Murders 11:00pm Law and Order: UK 12:05am Cold Blood 1:35am The Constant Gardener 3:50am Judge Judy 4:10am ITV3 Nightscreen 4:40am Emmerdale Omnibus

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7:00am Countdown 7:45am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00am Frasier 11:00am Undercover Boss USA 12:00pm Jamie at Home Christmas Special 1:00pm Channel 4 News Summary 1:05pm Couples Come Dine with Me 1:45pm Channel 4 Racing 4:10pm Countdown 5:00pm Posh Pawnbrokers 6:00pm Couples Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm TFI Friday 10:00pm Gogglebox 11:00pm Alan Carr: Chatty Man 12:05am First Dates 1:10am That's So Last Century 2:10am The Host 4:15am Four Rooms

7:00am 7:50am 8:45am 9:50am 10:50am 11:55am 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:05pm 3:35pm 4:40pm 5:45pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:55pm 1:50am

3:45am

4:00am

Gunsmoke The Professionals Minder Alias Smith and Jones Gunsmoke The Professionals Kojak Minder Pawn Stars Alias Smith and Jones The Professionals The Secret War of Harry Frigg Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Storage Wars Texas Storage Wars Texas Red Sonja Kull the Conqueror Texas Killing Fields American crime drama based on real events. ITV4 Nightscreen Text-based information service. Teleshopping Shopping from home.

8:10am 8:20am 8:35am 8:50am 9:00am 9:15am 9:25am 9:35am 9:50am 10:00am 10:15am 12:45pm 2:30pm 2:35pm 3:05pm 4:45pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:55pm

7:00am 9:50am 12:00pm 2:40pm 3:00pm 5:20pm 7:20pm 10:00pm 12:30am 2:15am 4:00am

8:00am 9:45am 11:45am 1:45pm 3:30pm 5:15pm 7:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:40am 2:15am 3:45am

Little Princess Bob the Builder Thomas and Friends Noddy in Toyland Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom Peppa Pig Peppa Pig Paw Patrol Bananas in Pajamas Toot the Tiny Tugboat The Wright Stuff Hats Off to Christmas 5 News Lunchtime Neighbours Mr. St. Nick Twelve Trees of Christmas 5 News at 5 Neighbours 5 News Tonight World's Ultimate Strongest Team 2015 Ice Road Truckers The Definitive History of Star Wars How Star Wars Changed the World Greatest Sci-Fi Movies

The Patriot The 6th Day Gladiator The Top Ten Show 2015 The Matrix Chain Reaction Gladiator The Matrix Commando 2047: Sights of Death Road House

Alien Autopsy The Interview Get Smart My Man is a Loser Austin Powers in Goldmember The Waterboy Last Vegas The Interview My Man is a Loser Better Living Through Chemistry The Monster Squad A Shot in the Dark

7:00am 7:45am 9:30am 10:00am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:50pm 12:20am 12:50am 1:55am 2:30am

Revenge Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory Melissa and Joey Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks A to Z The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Rush Hour 3 The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Bodyshockers Drifters Drifters

8:45am The Top Ten Show 2015 9:00am Extraterrestrial 10:45am Kill the Messenger 12:45pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 2:30pm The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special 3:00pm Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 4:45pm Focus 6:45pm Transformers: Age of Extinction Special 7:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 9:00pm Focus 11:00pm Kill the Messenger 1:00am Bad Asses on the Bayou 2:30am Extraterrestrial 4:15am Bad Asses on the Bayou Two ageing vigilantes team up and head to Louisiana to track down a kidnapped friend. 5:45am The Visit

FRIDAY TV

7:00am 7:15am 7:30am 7:45am 8:00am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 11:15am 11:30am 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:30am 12:45am 1:15am 1:45am 2:00am 3:00am 3:30am

7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm 11:15pm 11:45pm 12:15am

Football Gold Football Gold Football Gold Football Gold WWE Main Event Boxing Boxing:Straight Outta Brixton Barclays Premier League World Boxing Football Gold Football Gold Intl Premier Tennis League La Liga Show 2015 The Fantasy Football Club Boxing Football Boxing The Fantasy Football Club Football Gold Barclays Premier League Review Boxing Football Gold The Fantasy Football Club Boxing Boxing

Cricket Cricket Pace Like Fire Cricket's Greatest Cricket's Greatest Cricket's Greatest Cricket Cricket Sporting Greats Sporting Greats Cricket Cricket Cricket's Greatest Cricket's Greatest NFL Highlights Cricket Cricket Fight Night-Chris Eubank Jnr Boxing Anthony Joshua:the Knockouts Sky Sports Boxing Gold 2013 Barclays Premier League Preview Boxing:Straight Outta Brixton Sky Sports Boxing Gold 2013

FEATURE

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

Currencies Direct have opened an office in Javea ONE of the leading foreign exchange providers, the new premises will help keep pace with continuing demand

OPENING: New office in Javea, the fifth in the region.

By Linda Hall CURRENCIES DIRECT opened its first office in Spain in 1999. Since then, the company has grown across the country to become one of its leading foreign exchange providers. To keep pace with the continuing demand for its friendly, expert service and bankbeating exchange rates, Currencies Direct officially opened a new office in Javea on November 23 this year. Andrew Brown, Head of Eastern Spain at Currencies Direct, leads the new Javea office in addition to the five other offices in the region. “Javea was a sensible choice for us,” said Andrew. “There’s a large number of expats in the area, and they all have currency needs. The Javea office will complement our existing office in Moraira and allow local residents in Javea to have a currency exchange alternative to their banks, which charge unneces-

sary fees and offer poor exchange rates. “We can offer them more for their money, a straightforward service, and they can deal face-to-face with our friendly staff.” The office in Javea brings the total number of Currencies Direct offices in Spain to 10. “We’re always looking to open new branches in Spain, because we know that our customers value being able to come and see us in person, even if they’re also using our online service to make their own transfers,” says Peter

Loveday, Director of Currencies Direct Southern Europe. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get great exchange rates and move their money without paying fees. The new office in Javea is part of achieving that aim. We’re really looking forward to serving Javea’s expat community using the experience we’ve gained over our many years in other parts of Spain.” For more information pop into our local offices, call 966 265 072, email javea@currenci esdirect.com, or visit www.curr enciesdirect.com.

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7:00am Breakfast 11:00am Saturday Kitchen 12:30pm Simply Nigella 1:00pm BBC News 1:10pm Football Focus 1:50pm Saturday Sportsday 2:00pm Lewis Hamilton: Making History - F1 2015 Review 3:00pm Bargain Hunt 4:00pm Toy Story 5:15pm Final Score 6:15pm Celebrity Mastermind 6:45pm BBC News 6:55pm BBC London News 7:00pm Pointless 7:50pm Strictly Come Dancing 9:30pm Casualty 10:20pm The National Lottery Live 10:30pm Mrs. Brown's Boys 11:00pm BBC News 11:20pm Match of the Day 12:40am The Apprentice 1:40am Weather for the Week Ahead 1:45am BBC News

7:55am Anything But Christmas 9:25am Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan 11:00am Animal Park 11:30am Kangaroo Dundee 12:00pm Ronnie's Animal Crackers 12:30pm Ronnie's Animal Crackers 1:00pm Home Comforts at Christmas 3:15pm Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure 4:00pm Terry and Mason's Great Food Trip 4:30pm Escape to the Country 5:15pm Flog It! 6:15pm Football: Euro 2016 Draw 7:30pm The Great Pottery Throw Down 8:30pm Japan: Earth's Enchanted Island 9:30pm Dad's Army 10:00pm QI XL 10:45pm Top of the Pops 2 11:45pm The Prestige 1:50am The Winslow Boy 3:30am This is BBC Two

8:00am 8:05am 8:10am 8:25am 8:40am 9:00am

7:00am Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 7:25am Emmerdale Omnibus 10:10am Coronation Street Omnibus 12:35pm The Xtra Factor 1:35pm I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! Coming Out 2:40pm Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas 3:40pm Scorpion 4:35pm You've Been Framed! 5:35pm Take Me Out 6:45pm Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium 8:40pm Back to the Future Part III 11:05pm The Xtra Factor 12:05am Celebrity Juice 1:05am Release the Hounds 2:05am Viral Tap 2:40am Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 3:05am Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 3:30am Animal Practice

9:30am 10:00am 10:25am 11:20am 1:30pm 1:35pm 2:40pm 3:40pm 5:30pm 6:35pm 6:45pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 11:05pm 12:10am

Share a Story Oddbods Sooty Super 4 Mr. Bean The Aquabats! Super Show! Thunderbirds are Go Jessie Murder, She Wrote The Jeremy Kyle Show ITV News and Weather The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder The Polar Express Doc Martin ITV News London Catchphrase ITV News and Weather The Chase: Celebrity Special The X Factor The Jonathan Ross Show ITV News and Weather

8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 12:15am 12:40am 1:00am 1:25am 1:45am 2:05am 2:25am 2:50am 3:20am 3:50am

Don't Tell the Bride Top Gear Live at the Apollo 8 Mile Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy Josh Asian Provocateur Great Movie Mistakes 4:00am Together

8:00pm Empire of the Seas: How the Navy Forged the Modern World 9:00pm Britain's Outlaws: Highwaymen, Pirates and Rogues 10:00pm The Bridge 11:00pm The Bridge 12:00am Jeff Lynne's ELO in Concert 1:00am Mr Blue Sky

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8:00pm 9:00pm

11:00pm 1:05am

3:10am

Judge Judy On the Buses Where the Heart is Where the Heart is Clash of the Santas Wycliffe Rosemary and Thyme Agatha Christie's Marple A Touch of Frost Columbo Detective drama with the shambling sleuth. Rosemary and Thyme Midsomer Murders Barnaby and Scott investigate a death in Midsomer Mere. Lewis A Touch of Frost Set in the town of Denton, this police drama series focuses on Detective Inspector Frost and his long-suffering Superintendent Harry Mullett. ITV3 Nightscreen

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7:15am 7:40am 8:05am 8:30am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 5:00pm 5:25pm 6:00pm 6:35pm 7:05pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 12:15am 1:20am

7:00am 7:40am 8:20am 9:15am 10:15am 10:50am 11:20am 11:45am 12:10pm 12:35pm 1:05pm 1:35pm 3:35pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 12:05am 2:00am 3:55am

4:00am

King of Queens King of Queens King of Queens Anglesey Sandman Triathlon Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond The Morning Line Frasier Frasier The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Simpsons The Simpsons Channel 4 Racing Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Channel 4 News The World's Weirdest Weather Grand Designs Red 2 TFI Friday Adam Hills: Happyism Live

8:20am Little Princess 8:30am Pip Ahoy! 8:50am Blaze and the Monster Machines 9:15am Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 9:30am Wanda and the Alien 9:45am Toby's Travelling Circus 9:55am Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 10:30am The Saturday Show 12:30pm Santa Who? 2:20pm The Perfect Holiday 4:10pm The Nine Lives of Christmas 5:55pm Once Upon a Christmas 7:35pm 5 News Weekend 7:40pm Fail Army 8:05pm Police Interceptors 9:00pm Can't Pay? We'll Take it Away! 10:00pm Football League Tonight 11:25pm The Definitive History of Star Wars 12:25am How Star Wars Changed the World 1:25am The Gadget Show 2:15am Super Casino

Ax Men Ax Men Motorsport UK Bundesliga World Rugby 7s Series Highlights Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Storage Wars Texas Storage Wars Texas The 'Burbs Blues Brothers 2000 The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Fifth Gear Storage Wars New York Storage Wars New York River Monsters Hard to Kill The Quest The Sentinel ITV4 Nightscreen Text-based information service. Teleshopping Shopping from home.

7:00am 9:00am 11:10am 2:00pm 4:20pm 6:20pm 8:00pm 11:00pm 1:30am 2:00am 4:05am

Eragon Air Force One Saving Private Ryan Fury Eragon I, Frankenstein Saving Private Ryan Fury Spectre: Special Con Air Tora! Tora! Tora!

7:25am Brewster's Millions 9:15am The Good Dinosaur: Special 9:45am Father of the Bride 11:40am Dumb and Dumber To 1:45pm Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles 3:30pm American Pie 5:15pm Daddy Day Care 7:00pm Father of the Bride 9:00pm Dumb and Dumber To 11:00pm Pretty Woman 1:10am American Pie 2:55am Grudge Match

7:00am 7:25am 7:45am 8:10am 8:40am 9:05am 9:35am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:05pm 3:35pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 12:05am

Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother Baby Daddy Baby Daddy The Goldbergs The Goldbergs Made in Chelsea Couples Come Dine with Me Couples Come Dine with Me Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey The Goldbergs The Goldbergs City of Ember The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Paul Gogglebox

8:45am The Top Ten Show 2015 9:00am Extraterrestrial 10:45am The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 12:30pm Kill the Messenger 2:30pm Avengers: Age of Ultron Special 3:00pm Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 4:45pm The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special 5:15pm Focus 7:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 9:00pm Focus 11:00pm Kill the Messenger 1:00am Bad Asses on the Bayou 2:30am Extraterrestrial 4:15am Bad Asses on the Bayou Two ageing vigilantes team up and head to Louisiana to track down a kidnapped friend.

SATURDAY TV

7:00am 7:30am 8:00am 8:30am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 11:00am 1:00pm 3:45pm 4:15pm 4:45pm 5:15pm 5:45pm 6:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:30am 3:30am 3:45am 4:00am 4:15am 4:30am

7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 3:45pm 4:45pm 5:45pm 6:15pm 8:15pm 8:25pm 10:30pm 10:45pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:00am

12:30am

Boxing Boxing Boxing Boxing Game Changers Barclays Premier League Review The Fantasy Football Club Soccer A.M. Football Boxing Boxing Boxing Boxing Boxing Ford Saturday Night Football SNF: Game of the Day SNF: Match Choice SNF: Match Choice Sky Sports Boxing Gold Sky Sports Boxing Gold Sky Sports Boxing Gold Sky Sports Boxing Gold Sky Sports Boxing Gold

Cricket Cricket WWE SmackDown! Cricket Cricket Football Cricket Cricket Cricket's Greatest Football Spanish Football Gold Football La Liga Spanish Gold Football's Greatest Football's Greatest Football's Greatest A look back on the decorated career of Luis Figo. Cricket Day four of the first Test between Australia and the West Indies at the Bellerive Oval, Hobart.

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7:00am Breakfast 8:35am Match of the Day 10:00am The Andrew Marr Show 11:00am Fern Britton Meets... 12:00pm Sunday Politics 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News 2:15pm Saving the Forgotten Jews 2:45pm Lifeline 2:55pm Flog It! 3:45pm Toy Story 2 5:15pm Songs of Praise 5:50pm The Hunt 6:50pm BBC News 7:10pm BBC London News 7:20pm Countryfile 8:20pm Strictly Come Dancing 9:00pm Antiques Roadshow 10:00pm The Hunt 11:00pm BBC News 11:20pm BBC London News 11:30pm Match of the Day 2 12:40am Citizen Khan 1:10am Weather for the Week Ahead 1:15am BBC News

8:25am 8:40am 8:50am 9:00am 9:25am 9:30am

10:00am 10:25am 11:25am 12:30pm 1:30pm 1:40pm 4:00pm 6:00pm 7:35pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

Super 4 Mr. Bean Mr. Bean The Aquabats! Super Show! Oddbods Marvel Super Heroes: Maximum Overload Jessie Murder, She Wrote The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show ITV News and Weather Evil Under the Sun The X Factor The Scorpion King ITV News London ITV News and Weather Jekyll and Hyde The X Factor Results Show The World According to Kenny Everett ITV News and Weather

7:45am Big Dreams Small Spaces 8:45am Countryfile 9:45am An Island Parish: Falklands 10:15am Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 11:45am Home Comforts at Christmas 1:15pm MOTD2 Extra 2:00pm Jason and the Argonauts 3:45pm Family Finders 4:15pm Escape to the Continent 5:15pm Athletics 6:20pm Nativity! 8:00pm Celebrity Antiques Road Trip 9:00pm Horizon 10:00pm Monty Don's Secret History of the British Garden 11:00pm Professor Green: Suicide and Me 12:00am Seven Years in Tibet 2:10am Countryfile 3:05am Holby City 4:05am Home Comforts at Christmas

3:50am 6:50am 7:00am 7:10am 9:45am 12:15pm 2:20pm 3:20pm 3:55pm 5:50pm 6:50pm 9:00pm 11:00pm

12:00am 1:50am 2:30am

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Teleshopping ITV2 Nightscreen The Hot Desk Emmerdale Omnibus Coronation Street Omnibus The X Factor The Xtra Factor Merry Christmas Mr Bean Ella Enchanted Catchphrase Peter Pan The Nutty Professor The Xtra Factor Melvin Odoom and Rochelle Humes present the last in the series of the companion show. Keith Lemon: The Film Viral Tap Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Animal Practice Teleshopping Shopping from home.

8:00pm Don't Tell the Bride 9:00pm Top Gear 10:00pm Enemy of the State 12:05am Family Guy 12:50am American Dad! 1:10am Family Guy 1:30am Josh 2:00am Rent a Cop 2:30am Siblings 3:00am Siblings 3:30am Siblings 4:00am Together 4:30am Together 5:00am This is BBC Three

8:00pm Blood and Gold: The Making of Spain with Simon Sebag Montefiore 9:00pm Ballrooms and Ballerinas: Dance at the BBC 10:00pm Dance Rebels: A Story of Modern Dance 11:30pm Easy Money II: Hard to Kill

7:00am 7:25am 7:50am 9:50am 10:50am 11:55am 1:55pm 3:55pm 5:55pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 1:05am

3:25am 4:20am 4:40am

On the Buses On the Buses Clash of the Santas Heartbeat Heartbeat A Touch of Frost Columbo Agatha Christie's Marple Midsomer Murders Paul O'Grady: For The Love of Dogs Paul O'Grady: For The Love of Dogs Lewis Midsomer Murders Poirot: Murder on the Orient Express All-star adaptation of Agatha Christie's novel set on the Orient Express. Wycliffe ITV3 Nightscreen Emmerdale Omnibus Paddy is under pressure. David gets a lead on the stolen ring. Megan says her goodbyes.

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7:15am King of Queens 7:40am Asics Beat the Sun 2015 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:00am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:30am Frasier 10:00am Frasier 10:30am Sunday Brunch 1:30pm The Big Bang Theory 2:00pm The Big Bang Theory 2:30pm The Big Bang Theory 3:00pm The Simpsons 3:30pm The Simpsons 4:00pm Marley and Me 6:20pm Aladdin 8:00pm Channel 4 News 8:30pm Britain's Wildest Weather 2015 10:00pm Homeland 11:00pm Gogglebox 12:05am Mama 1:55am Grand Designs 2:45am Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners 3:40am Four in a Bed 4:10am Four in a Bed 4:35am Four in a Bed 5:05am Four in a Bed 5:35am Four in a Bed

7:00am Ax Men 7:45am Ax Men 8:20am Alias Smith and Jones 9:25am The Professionals 10:30am Fifth Gear 11:30am Shed and Buried 12:35pm Shed and Buried 1:35pm Pawn Stars 2:05pm Pawn Stars 2:35pm Pawn Stars 3:00pm Pawn Stars 3:30pm Pawn Stars 4:05pm No Name on the Bullet 5:45pm Jeremiah Johnson 8:00pm The Chase: Celebrity Special 9:00pm Football Dream Debuts 10:00pm The Day of the Jackal 12:55am Quadrophenia 3:20am Pawn Stars 3:40am ITV4 Nightscreen Text-based information service. 4:00am Teleshopping Shopping from home.

8:15am 8:25am 8:40am 9:00am 9:10am 9:35am 9:50am 10:05am 10:20am 10:40am 11:00am 11:35am 1:00pm 1:35pm 3:20pm 5:05pm 7:00pm 8:35pm 10:55pm 11:00pm 1:25am 1:55am

9:00am 11:15am 1:00pm 3:00pm 5:45pm 8:15pm 10:00pm 12:00am 2:10am 3:55am 5:40am

6:30am 8:05am 10:00am 11:50am 1:40pm 3:30pm 5:15pm 7:10pm 9:00pm 10:45pm 12:40am 2:25am

SUNDAY TV

Make Way for Noddy Paw Patrol Little Princess Pip Ahoy! Blaze and the Monster Machines Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom Wanda and the Alien Toby's Travelling Circus Jelly Jamm LazyTown Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Football League Tonight Fail Army The Christmas Shepherd Meet the Santas Mrs Miracle 2: Miracle in Manhattan A Country Christmas Story Scrooge 5 News Weekend The Blind Side True Crimes: The First 72 Hours Super Casino

7:00am Rules of Engagement 7:20am How I Met Your Mother 7:40am How I Met Your Mother 8:00am Baby Daddy 8:30am Baby Daddy 9:00am Melissa and Joey 9:30am Melissa and Joey 10:00am Made in Chelsea 11:00am Hollyoaks Omnibus 1:30pm Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events 3:35pm Rude(Ish) Tube 4:00pm Couples Come Dine with Me 5:00pm The Big Bang Theory 5:30pm The Big Bang Theory 6:00pm The Big Bang Theory 6:30pm The Big Bang Theory 7:00pm The Big Bang Theory 7:30pm Twilight 10:00pm The Big Bang Theory 10:30pm The Big Bang Theory 11:00pm The Big Bang Theory 11:30pm The Inbetweeners 12:00am The Inbetweeners 12:35am The IT Crowd 1:40am First Dates 2:40am Gogglebox

7:00am SNF: Match Choice 8:30am SNF: Match Choice 10:00am The Sunday Supplement 11:30am Goals on Sunday 1:30pm Ford Super Sunday 4:30pm Ford Super Sunday 7:30pm Football League Goals 8:25pm Football Villareal meet Real Madrid in La Liga. 10:30pm Football's Greatest II A profile of Real Madrid and Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo. 11:00pm Ford Football Special Aston Villa take on Arsenal at Villa Park and Tottenham Hotspur play Newcastle United at White Hart Lane 12:30am Cricket Day five of the first Test between Australia and the West Indies at the Bellerive Oval, Hobart.

xXx xXx2: The Next Level Taken 3 The Guns of Navarone Zulu Drive Hard Taken 3 xXx xXx2: The Next Level Turbulence Volcano: Fire on the Mountain

8:45am Extraterrestrial 10:30am The Top Ten Show 2015 10:45am Kill the Messenger 12:45pm The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special 1:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 3:00pm Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 4:45pm Focus 6:45pm Transformers: Age of Extinction Special 7:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 9:00pm Focus 11:00pm Kill the Messenger 1:00am Bad Asses on the Bayou 2:30am Extraterrestrial 4:15am Bad Asses on the Bayou 5:45am The Visit Sky Movies takes a special look at M Night Shyamalan's psychological horrorcomedy.

7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 12:00pm 12:55pm 3:00pm

Coneheads Almost Christmas Caddyshack Be Kind Rewind Horrible Bosses 2 Big Daddy The Jewel of the Nile Click Shaun of the Dead Horrible Bosses 2 Mean Machine Dead Man on Campus

3:30pm 4:30pm 5:30pm 6:30pm 10:00pm 2:00am 5:30am

5:45am

Cricket Cricket Pace Like Fire Cricket's Greatest Cricket's Greatest Cricket's Greatest Cricket Cricket Football NFL:Dwight Freeney Interview NFL NFL NFL NFL NFL NFL Football Gold A chance to relive some classic football matches. Here is Rangers against Celtic at Ibrox Football Gold A chance to relive some classic matches from English football's top flight.

FEATURE

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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Mindfulness technique Beyond My Ken, Wikimedia

NEXT time your child is stressed out, try a mindfulness exercise with them as it can help reduce their agitation By Marcus Hopkins MINDFULNESS is a technique derived from Buddhist meditation around 2,500 years ago. It is a very simple technique for reducing anxiety, worry and stress. It is also known to help build self-esteem. Recent studies suggest that mindfulness meditation practice has a substantial positive effect on improving how a person feels. Mindfulness has been used in settings as diverse as schools, hospitals and military training centres. A study at the University of Massachusetts in the USA found that 90 per cent of those involved experienced a significant reduction in anxiety. Other research has shown that mindfulness has helped to reduce anxieties associated with cancer, eating disorders and business related stress. Mindfulness can be very easy to do. It helps to reduce anxiety by taking your thoughts away from your problems and onto something you can really focus on in a very simple way. You are simply making yourself aware of the moment. It helps you to reconnect your body with your mind. It helps you to really connect with the present moment. As an example, instead of gulping down your next coffee as usual, take time out to use the cof-

MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUE: It helps to reduce anxiety. fee as a mindfulness exercise. Try to focus solely on the drink in front of you, preferably with nobody around. Pick up the cup. Feel its weight. Smell the aroma. Be aware of how hot or how warm the cup is. Take a good

look at the colour of the coffee. What type of brown is it? How many bubbles are floating on the surface? Then take a sip, just a small sip, and keep that sip on your tongue for a while. Savour the taste. Is it bitter? Is it sweet? How hot is it?

How does it affect your taste buds? When you swallow, become aware of the feel as the coffee slips down your throat, down into your stomach. Done correctly, you can make this exercise with the coffee last for quite a long while, even an entire lunch break if you donâ€™t mind it going cold. Just a few minutes of this type of focus often helps reduce stress though. Mindfulness can be such a simple way of reducing anxiety that it has been used by military personnel in some countries. You can create mindfulness in virtually any situation. Pick up a pebble on a beach as another example. How heavy is it? How does it feel in your hand? Is it smooth or rough? Look closely at all of its colours. Just focus on the pebble, nothing else, just you and the pebble. The effect of this focus is to calm the mind. Next time your child is stressed out, try a mindfulness exercise with them. It works with people of all ages, and has been used to help children reduce agitation. Mindfulness comes in many forms, some religious, some like the two exercises above are simply therapeutic. Itâ€™s also a technique recommended by the NHS in the UK. Give mindfulness meditation a try if you feel stressed out this Christmas.

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10:15am Operation Meet the Street 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Oxford Street Revealed 12:45pm Family Finders 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News at One 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm The Doctor Blake Mysteries 4:10pm Escape to the Country 4:40pm Home Comforts at Christmas 5:25pm Flog It! 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm Fake Britain 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm The Taliban Hunters 10:00pm Crimewatch 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News 11:35pm Crimewatch 11:45pm Have I Got a Bit More News for You

7:00am Oxford Street Revealed 7:45am Family Finders 8:15am Flog it! Trade Secrets 9:15am Caught Red Handed 9:45am Thief Trackers 10:15am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC News 1:00pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm Cash in the Attic 2:45pm Pressure Pad 3:30pm The Great British Bake Off 4:30pm The Great Antiques Map of Britain 5:00pm The World's Most Photographed 5:30pm Wogan: The Best of 6:15pm Bargain Hunt 7:00pm Eggheads 7:30pm Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 8:00pm Mary Berry's Absolute Christmas Favourites 8:30pm Only Connect 9:00pm Simply Nigella 10:00pm Back in Time for Christmas 11:00pm Live at the Apollo 11:30pm Newsnight 12:15am Horizon

7:00am Good Morning Britain 9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm 1000 Heartbeats 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm The Martin Lewis Money Show 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Las Vegas with Trevor Mcdonald 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:40pm The Nation's Favourite Beatles Number One 1:30am Jackpot247 4:00am The Jeremy Kyle Show 4:55am ITV Nightscreen

7:00am Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 7:25am Psych 8:10am Emmerdale 8:40am Coronation Street 9:10am Coronation Street 9:40am The Cube 10:40am Psych 11:30am Catchphrase 12:30pm Best of You've Been Framed! 1:30pm Emmerdale 2:00pm Coronation Street 2:30pm Coronation Street 3:00pm Catchphrase 3:40pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 4:50pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:55pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 7:00pm Judge Rinder 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 8:30pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm American Pie: The Wedding 12:00am Pitch Black

8:00pm Top Gear 9:00pm Don't Tell the Bride 10:00pm Reggie Yates' Extreme UK 11:00pm EastEnders 11:30pm Bad Education 12:00am American Dad! 12:25am American Dad! 12:45am Family Guy 1:10am Family Guy 1:30am Reggie Yates' Extreme UK 2:25am Siblings 2:55am Siblings 3:55am Reggie Yates' Extreme UK

8:30pm The Boats That Built Britain 9:00pm The Boats That Built Britain 9:30pm The Quizeum 10:00pm Inside Einstein's Mind: The Enigma of Space and Time 11:00pm Atlantis: The Evidence 12:00am Cleopatra: A Timewatch Guide

7:00am 7:20am 7:45am 8:50am 9:40am 10:40am 11:05am 11:35am 12:00pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:15pm 5:20pm 5:50pm 6:20pm 6:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

Judge Judy George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Where the Heart is Judge Judy Judge Judy Judge Judy A Touch of Frost Heartbeat Wild at Heart Where the Heart is On the Buses On the Buses George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Foyle's War Law and Order: UK The Kindness of Strangers 1:35am Wild at Heart Last in the series of the drama set on a South African nature reserve. 2:35am Wycliffe 3:30am Teleshopping Shopping from home.

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7:45am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:10am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00am Frasier 11:00am Undercover Boss USA 12:00pm Jamie's Cracking Christmas 1:00pm Channel 4 News Summary 1:05pm Kirstie's Handmade Christmas 2:05pm Come Dine with Me 3:10pm Deal or No Deal 4:10pm Countdown 5:00pm Posh Pawnbrokers 6:00pm Couples Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Dispatches 9:30pm Supershoppers Do Christmas 10:00pm Our Guy in Latvia 11:00pm Fargo 12:05am 24 Hours in A and E 1:05am Ramsay's Hotel Hell

8:10am 8:20am 8:35am 8:50am 9:00am

7:00am The Big Match Revisited 7:50am The Professionals 8:50am Minder 9:55am Alias Smith and Jones 11:00am I Want That Car 12:00pm The Professionals 1:00pm Kojak 2:00pm Minder 3:00pm Pawn Stars 3:30pm Pawn Stars 4:00pm Pawn Stars 4:30pm Pawn Stars 4:55pm Alias Smith and Jones 6:00pm The Professionals 7:00pm Kojak 8:00pm Pawn Stars 8:30pm Pawn Stars 9:00pm Storage Wars New York 9:30pm Storage Wars New York 10:00pm The Game of Death 12:05am Bundesliga 1:05am Motorsport UK 2:05am Ax Men 2:50am Minder 3:45am ITV4 Nightscreen

7:15am Charlie's Angels 9:00am Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle 11:00am The Comancheros 1:00pm Edge of Tomorrow 3:00pm True Lies 5:25pm Charlie's Angels 7:10pm Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle 9:00pm Edge of Tomorrow 11:00pm True Lies 1:30am Bloodsport

9:15am 9:25am 9:35am 9:50am 10:00am 10:15am 12:45pm 2:30pm 2:35pm 3:05pm 4:45pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 1:50am

Little Princess Bob the Builder Thomas and Friends Noddy in Toyland Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom Peppa Pig Peppa Pig Paw Patrol Bananas in Pajamas Toot the Tiny Tugboat The Wright Stuff A Perfect Christmas 5 News Lunchtime Neighbours Angels and Ornaments The Christmas Switch 5 News at 5 Neighbours 5 News Tonight Police Interceptors Impractical Jokers Impractical Jokers Benefits Britain: Life on the Dole The Best of Bad TV: The 70s Super Casino

7:45am Curse of the Pink Panther 9:45am The Good Dinosaur: Special 10:15am Son of the Mask 12:00pm Good Luck Chuck 1:45pm Grudge Match 3:40pm The Waterboy 5:15pm Analyze This 7:05pm Never Been Kissed 9:00pm Good Luck Chuck 10:45pm Grudge Match 12:40am The Longest Week 2:10am The Lost Boys

7:00am 7:45am 8:35am 9:30am 10:00am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am 1:05am 2:10am

Revenge Charmed Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks A to Z The Big Bang Theory Made in Chelsea Scream Queens Gogglebox Gogglebox Rude Tube

7:00am Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 8:45am The Top Ten Show 2015 9:00am Extraterrestrial 10:45am The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 12:30pm Kill the Messenger 2:30pm Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 4:15pm The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special Sky Movies takes a special look at Pixar's animated prehistoric adventure. 4:45pm Focus 6:45pm Avengers: Age of Ultron Special 7:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 9:00pm Kill the Messenger 11:00pm Focus 1:00am Bad Asses on the Bayou 2:30am Extraterrestrial

MONDAY TV

7:00am 8:30am 9:00am 10:00am 11:30am 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:15pm 1:30pm 1:45pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 12:00am 12:30am 1:00am 2:00am 5:00am

Cricket Cricket's Greatest Goals on Sunday Ford Football Special FL72 Goals Premier League Football Gold Football Gold Football Gold Football Gold Football League Goals Goals on Sunday Ford Football Special Fantasy Football Club Highlights Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits Football League Goals Ford Monday Night Football Premier League SPFL Round Up Football League Goals NFL: Giants @ Miami NFL A tribute to NFL hallof-famer Don Shula.

7:00am Sir Clive Woodward Interviews Roy Hodgson 8:00am Sporting Rivalries 8:30am Cricket 9:30am Cricket's Greatest 10:00am Cricket's Greatest 10:30am Cricket's Greatest 11:00am Cricket 12:00pm Cricket 1:00pm Cricket's Greatest 1:30pm Cricket's Greatest 2:00pm Cricket 3:00pm Cricket 4:00pm Crickets Greatest 4:30pm Crickets Greatest 5:00pm Crickets Greatest 5:30pm Crickets Greatest 6:00pm Cricket 7:00pm Cricket 8:00pm Football's Greatest Teams 8:30pm Football 11:00pm Football's Greatest Teams 11:30pm Crickets Greatest 12:00am Cricket 1:00am Premier League 100 Club 1:30am MNF Highlights

OPINION & COMMENT

www.euroweeklynews.com

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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Catch 22 for Mariano Rajoy The messenger boys

Cassandra Nash A weekly look - and not entirely impartial reaction to the Spanish political scene

THE televised debate arranged by El Pais put Spain’s president Mariano Rajoy in a Catch 22 situation. If he went he might not have put up a good show against Pedro Sanchez, Albert Rivera and Pablo Iglesias. Gravitas, a salt and pepper beard and four years in the Moncloa were not what this particular occasion demanded, and that just about sums up what Rajoy has to offer in any debate. But by not going he laid himself open to cries of ‘Chicken!’ Either way Rajoy was going to lay an egg not long before Spain goes to the polls and he practically incubated it by declaring beforehand that he participates only in one-to-one ‘serious’ debates. What did he think? That the El Pais production was going to be a laugh a minute?

DEMOCRACY: The right to debate, complain, disagree and suggest.

BEFORE the televised threeway debate, the PSOE presidential candidate Pedro Sanchez declared that there is no democracy without debate. No one could argue with that: The right to debate, disagree, suggest and complain are at the heart of democracy. But these television debates? As Marshall McLuhan said in 1964, long before the digital age of instant communication, the medium is the message. And, deserved or not, how much better the message becomes when it is delivered by three personable young politicos like Sanchez, Rivera and Iglesias.

Seen from afar ONLY 21 per cent of the fiercely nationalistic Basques are in favour of independence from Spain. The remainder have had time to observe the antics, retractions, machinations and cajoling of the former and would-be Catalan president Artur Mas, in his desire to guide the region to independence. He must have persuaded them that remaining inside Spain is preferable to ignoring the wishes of half the population.

Give it a rest AHORA MADRID, which controls city hall postponed a debate to change remaining street names linked to the Franco regime. Mayor Manuela Carmena is clearly aware that an alley named after General Mola is no more offensive to 21st century Madrileños than Cromwell Road to Londoners.

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10:15am Operation Meet the Street 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 11:30am Blast Off Live: A Stargazing Special 12:15pm Oxford Street Revealed 1:00pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News at One 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm The Doctor Blake Mysteries 4:10pm Escape to the Country 4:40pm Home Comforts at Christmas 5:25pm Flog It! 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm EastEnders 9:00pm Holby City 10:00pm Luther 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News

9:15am Ireland with Simon Reeve 10:15am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC News 1:00pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm The Super League Show 2015 Review 2:45pm Pressure Pad 3:30pm The Great British Bake Off 4:30pm The Great Antiques Map of Britain 5:00pm The World's Most Photographed 5:30pm Wogan: The Best of 6:15pm Bargain Hunt 7:00pm Eggheads 7:30pm Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 8:00pm Stargazing Live: Brit in Space 9:00pm MasterChef: The Professionals 10:00pm Back in Time for Christmas 11:00pm Mock the Week 11:30pm Newsnight

7:00am Good Morning Britain 9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm 1000 Heartbeats 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Countrywise Series celebrating rural Britain. 9:00pm Midsomer Murders 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:40pm The Jonathan Ross Show 12:45am Freeze Out

8:10am 8:40am 9:10am 9:40am 10:40am 11:35am 1:30pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:40pm 4:50pm 5:55pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 12:40am 1:15am 1:45am

Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street The Cube Psych Secret Santa Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street Catchphrase The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder You've Been Framed! You've Been Framed! Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men The Holiday Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men The Vampire Diaries

9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:15am 1:00am 1:25am 1:45am 2:45am 3:45am

Don't Tell the Bride Don't Tell the Bride EastEnders Russell Howard's Good News Extra Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy Don't Tell the Bride Reggie Yates' Extreme UK Great Movie Mistakes V

8:30pm The Boats That Built Britain 9:00pm Swarm: Nature's Incredible Invasions 10:00pm Blood and Gold: The Making of Spain with Simon Sebag Montefiore 11:00pm Ian Hislop Goes off the Rails 12:00am Life of a Mountain: A Year on Scafell Pike

7:35am 8:40am 9:30am 10:30am 11:00am 11:25am 11:55am 2:00pm 3:05pm 4:15pm 5:20pm 5:50pm 6:20pm 6:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Where the Heart is Judge Judy Judge Judy Judge Judy A Touch of Frost Heartbeat Wild at Heart Where the Heart is On the Buses On the Buses George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Love Your Garden Love Your Garden Meet the Penguins Law and Order: UK The Kindness of Strangers 1:30am Where the Heart is 2:30am Wycliffe Detective drama series.

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TUESDAY TV

7:00am Countdown 7:45am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00am Frasier 11:00am Undercover Boss USA 12:00pm Jamie's Festive Feast 1:00pm Channel 4 News Summary 1:05pm Kirstie's Crafty Christmas 2:05pm Come Dine with Me 3:10pm Deal or No Deal 4:10pm Countdown 5:00pm Posh Pawnbrokers 6:00pm Couples Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Kirstie's Handmade Christmas 10:00pm The World's Most Expensive Christmas 11:00pm That's So Last Century

9:00am Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 9:15am Peppa Pig 9:35am Paw Patrol 9:50am Bananas in Pajamas 10:00am Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15am The Wright Stuff 12:45pm Christmas at Cartwright's 2:30pm 5 News Lunchtime 2:35pm Neighbours 3:05pm Mr Miracle 4:50pm A Grandpa for Christmas 6:30pm 5 News at 5 7:00pm Neighbours 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm Britain's Craziest Christmas Lights 9:00pm The Dog Rescuers at Christmas with Alan Davies 10:00pm Meet the Psychopaths 11:00pm CSI: Cyber 11:55pm CSI: Cyber 12:50am Benefits Britain: Life on the Dole

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

Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey The Big Bang Theory How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks A to Z The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Troy Tripped The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Gogglebox

8:00am WWE SmackDown! 9:00am Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits 10:00am Fantasy Football Club Highlights 10:30am Ford Monday Night Football 1:00pm Football Gold 1:15pm Football Gold 1:30pm SPFL Round Up 2:00pm Ford Monday Night Football 4:30pm Fantasy Football Club Highlights 5:00pm Barclays Premier League Review 6:00pm Fantasy Football Club Highlights 6:30pm SPFL Round Up 7:00pm Fantasy Football Club Highlights 7:30pm Barclays Premier League Review 8:30pm Football 11:00pm Football Gold 11:15pm Barclays Premier League Review 12:15am La Liga World 2015 12:45am Football Gold

7:00am The Big Match Revisited 7:50am The Professionals 8:50am Minder 9:55am Alias Smith and Jones 10:55am Pawn Stars 11:25am Pawn Stars 11:50am The Professionals 12:55pm Kojak 1:55pm Minder 3:00pm Pawn Stars 3:30pm Pawn Stars 3:55pm Pawn Stars 4:25pm Pawn Stars 4:55pm Alias Smith and Jones 6:00pm The Professionals 7:00pm Kojak 8:00pm Pawn Stars 8:30pm Pawn Stars 9:00pm The Chase: Celebrity Special 10:00pm 6 Bullets 12:20am The Quest

2:30pm Guardians of the Galaxy 4:45pm The Top Ten Show 2015 5:00pm Die Hard with a Vengeance 7:15pm Superman Returns 10:00pm Guardians of the Galaxy 12:15am The Amazing SpiderMan 2

8:45am The Top Ten Show 2015 9:00am Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 10:45am Focus 12:45pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 2:30pm The Muppets Sky Movies Special 3:00pm Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 4:45pm Kill the Messenger 6:45pm The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special 7:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 9:00pm Focus 11:00pm Kill the Messenger 1:00am Bad Asses on the Bayou 2:30am Extraterrestrial 4:15am Bad Asses on the Bayou

6:30am Premier League 100 Club 7:00am Sporting Heroes 8:00am Sporting Rivalries 8:30am Time of Our Lives 9:30am Sporting Rivalries 10:00am NFL Highlights 11:00am NFL 12:00pm NFL 1:00pm NFL Highlights 2:00pm How the 2015 ICC World Cup Was Won 4:00pm Cricket Specials 4:30pm Cricket Specials 5:00pm Sporting Heroes 6:00pm Sporting Rivalries 6:30pm How the 2015 ICC World Cup Was Won 8:30pm Cricket's Greatest 9:00pm Cricket Specials 9:30pm Cricket Specials 10:00pm NFL Highlights 11:00pm How the 2015 ICC World Cup Was Won 1:00am Cricket's Greatest

9:25am Brewster's Millions 11:15am The Intern: Sky Movies Special 11:30am Get Smart 1:30pm Blended 3:35pm Austin Powers in Goldmember 5:20pm Analyze That 7:05pm Get Smart 9:00pm Blended 11:00pm Superfast

2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:50pm 12:25am 12:50am

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10:15am Operation Meet the Street 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Oxford Street Revealed 12:45pm Family Finders 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News at One 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm The Doctor Blake Mysteries 4:10pm Escape to the Country 4:40pm Home Comforts at Christmas 5:25pm Flog It! 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 9:00pm Cuffs 10:00pm The Apprentice 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News 11:35pm The Apprentice: Why I Fired Them 12:35am Film 2015 1:05am Weather for the Week Ahead

8:45am Flog it! Trade Secrets 9:15am Simply Nigella 9:45am Terry and Mason's Great Food Trip 10:15am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC News 12:30pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm Lifeline 2:10pm Coast 2:15pm Britain's First Photo Album 2:45pm Pressure Pad 3:30pm The Great British Bake Off 4:30pm The Great Antiques Map of Britain 5:00pm The World's Most Photographed 5:30pm Wogan: The Best of 6:15pm Bargain Hunt 7:00pm Eggheads 7:30pm Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 8:00pm Journey Down the Yukon - A Soldier's Challenge 9:00pm MasterChef: The Professionals 10:00pm Love You to Death: A Year of Domestic Violence

7:00am Good Morning Britain 9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm 1000 Heartbeats 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm You Saw Them Here First A new collection of TV appearances made by stars before they became household names. 10:00pm Prey 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:40pm Being Kevin Pietersen 12:40am Tipping Point 1:40am Jackpot247

7:25am 8:10am 8:40am 9:40am 10:40am 11:35am 1:30pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 3:40pm 4:50pm 5:55pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 12:45am 1:40am 2:05am 2:30am

3:00am 3:20am

Psych Emmerdale You've Been Framed! The Cube Psych Merry in-Laws Emmerdale You've Been Framed! Catchphrase The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Judge Rinder You've Been Framed! You've Been Framed! Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Love Actually The Vampire Diaries Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Animal Practice Teleshopping

8:00pm Top Gear 9:00pm Don't Tell the Bride 10:00pm Stacey Dooley Investigates 11:00pm Russell Howard's Good News 11:30pm Josh 12:00am Family Guy 12:45am American Dad! 1:05am Family Guy 1:30am Josh 2:00am Russell Howard's Good News 2:30am Don't Tell the Bride 3:25am Cuckoo 3:55am Cuckoo

8:00pm World News Today 8:30pm The Boats That Built Britain 9:00pm Time Shift 10:00pm Horizon Special 11:00pm Horizon 12:00am 2001: A Space Odyssey 2:15am Horizon Special 3:15am Botany

7:00am 7:10am 7:35am 8:40am 9:35am 10:35am 11:00am 11:30am 11:55am 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:10pm 5:15pm 5:50pm 6:20pm 6:55pm 7:55pm

9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

1:10am 3:05am 3:30am

Movies Now George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Where the Heart is Judge Judy Judge Judy Judge Judy A Touch of Frost Heartbeat Wycliffe Where the Heart is On the Buses On the Buses George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Murder mystery series about a sleuthing writer. Long Lost Family Christmas Epic Fails Law and Order: UK Crime drama series. Wycliffe Detective drama series. The Rebel ITV3 Nightscreen Teleshopping

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7:45am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:10am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00am Frasier 10:30am Frasier 11:00am Undercover Boss USA 12:00pm Jamie's Christmas with Bells On 1:00pm Channel 4 News Summary 1:05pm Kirstie's Homemade Christmas 2:05pm Come Dine with Me 3:10pm Deal or No Deal 4:10pm Countdown 5:00pm Posh Pawnbrokers 6:00pm Couples Come Dine with Me 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm The Supervet 10:00pm 24 Hours in A and E 11:00pm Peep Show 11:30pm Toast of London 12:05am 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown

8:05am 8:10am 8:20am 8:35am 8:50am 9:00am

7:00am The Big Match Revisited 7:50am The Professionals 8:45am Minder 9:50am Alias Smith and Jones 10:50am Pawn Stars 11:25am Pawn Stars 11:50am The Professionals 12:50pm Kojak 1:55pm Minder 3:00pm Pawn Stars 3:30pm Pawn Stars 3:55pm Pawn Stars 4:25pm Pawn Stars 4:55pm Alias Smith and Jones 6:00pm The Professionals 7:00pm Kojak 8:00pm Pawn Stars 8:30pm Pawn Stars 9:00pm Fifth Gear 10:00pm River Monsters 11:00pm First Blood 1:05am The Day of the Jackal 3:45am ITV4 Nightscreen 4:00am Teleshopping Shopping from home.

10:00am 11:40am 1:30pm 3:50pm

9:15am 9:25am 9:35am 9:50am 10:00am 10:15am 12:45pm 2:30pm 2:35pm 3:05pm 4:45pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:55am

5:50pm 8:00pm 10:00pm 12:15am 2:15am 4:30am

8:55am 10:40am 12:30pm 1:55pm 3:20pm 5:15pm 7:10pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:45am

Milkshake Monkey Little Princess Bob the Builder Thomas and Friends Noddy in Toyland Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom Peppa Pig Peppa Pig Paw Patrol Bananas in Pajamas Toot the Tiny Tugboat The Wright Stuff The Nine Lives of Christmas 5 News Lunchtime Neighbours Once Upon a Christmas A Star for Christmas 5 News at 5 Neighbours 5 News Tonight My Crazy Christmas Obsession GPs: Behind Closed Doors Can't Pay? Benefits Special Suspects Law and Order

Into the Storm Clash of the Titans American Sniper 300: Rise of an Empire Air Force One Clash of the Titans American Sniper 300: Rise of an Empire Starship Troopers Uncommon Valor

St. Vincent Think Like a Man Too The Man South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut Shanghai Noon Shanghai Knights Who Framed Roger Rabbit? Think Like a Man Too St. Vincent One Night in Istanbul

7:00am 7:45am 8:30am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm

WEDNESDAY TV

Revenge Charmed Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks The Twilight Saga: New Moon Supernatural The Big Bang Theory

10:00am Premier League 10:30am Fantasy Football Club Highlights 11:00am Football Gold 12:00pm Premier League 100 Club 12:30pm Premier League 1:00pm La Liga World 2015 1:30pm Fantasy Football Club Highlights 2:00pm Premier League 100 Club 2:30pm Premier League 3:00pm Football Gold 4:00pm Premier League 100 Club 4:30pm La Liga World 2015 5:00pm Premier League 100 Club 5:30pm Premier League 6:00pm Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits 7:00pm Premier League 100 Club 7:30pm Premier League 8:00pm Football Gold 8:30pm Football 11:00pm One2eleven 11:15pm Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits 12:15am One2eleven

8:45am Extraterrestrial 10:30am The Top Ten Show 2015 10:45am Kill the Messenger 12:45pm Transformers: Age of Extinction Special 1:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 3:00pm Ghosthunters: On Icy Trails 4:45pm The Good Dinosaur: Sky Movies Special 5:15pm Focus 7:15pm The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 9:00pm Focus 11:00pm Kill the Messenger 1:00am Bad Asses on the Bayou 2:30am Extraterrestrial 4:15am Bad Asses on the Bayou Two ageing vigilantes team up and head to Louisiana to track down a kidnapped friend.

7:00am Gary Newbon Interviews Carl Lewis 8:00am Sporting Rivalries 8:30am Time of Our Lives 9:30am The Ashes: 1st Test Review 11:30am Cricket: Pace Like Fire 12:00pm The Ashes: 2nd Test Review 2:00pm Cricket: Pace Like Fire 2:30pm The Ashes: 3rd Test Review 4:30pm Cricket: Pace Like Fire 5:00pm The Ashes: 4th Test Review 7:00pm Cricket: Pace Like Fire 7:30pm How the 2015 Ashes Was Won 9:30pm Crickets Greatest 10:00pm Crickets Greatest 11:30pm Premier League 100 Club 12:00am La Liga World 2015 12:30am How the 2015 Ashes Was Won 2:30am Crickets Greatest

2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 11:05pm 12:05am

TIME OUT

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EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREAK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

Famous quote

This week

MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE

‘

Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” John Keating/Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society.

in history 1431, Hundred Years´War: Henry VI is crowned King of France at Notre Dame in Paris. 1508, The League of Cambrai is formed by Pope Julius II, Louis XII of France, Maximillian I, Holy Roman Emperor and Ferdinand II of Aragon as an alliance against Venice. 1520, Martin Luther burns his copy of the papal bull written in response to his teachings, in front of Wittenberg’s Elster Gate. 1541, Thomas Culpeper and Francis Deregam are executed for having affairs with Catherine Howard, Queen of England and wife of Henry VIII. 1542, Princess Mary Stuart becomes Mary, Queen of Scots. 1653, Parliamentarian general Oliver Cromwell becomes ´lord protector´ of England, Scotland, and Wales. 1830, Emily Dickinson, American poet, was born December 10. 1869, Governor John Campbell signs bill granting women in Wyoming, USA, the right to vote and hold public office. 1901, The first Nobel Prizes awarded 1909, Selma Lagerlöf becomes the first female writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. 1936, Edward VIII signs his abdication to be free to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson. 1941, Adolf Hitler declares war on the United States. They retaliate by declaring war on Italy and Germany. 1948. The United Nations General Assembly adopts the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 1964, Kenya becomes a republic. 1968, Japan´s biggest, still unsolved, heist carried out in Tokyo. 1982, Spain opens up borders with the British territory of Gibraltar after 13 years. 1991, The Russian Federation gains independence from the USSR.

Women’s wit

‘

If you retain nothing else, always remember the most important rule of beauty, which is: who cares?” Tina Fey

World of English

‘

Our language is funny – a ‘fat chance’ and a ‘slim chance’ are the same thing.” J Gustav White

‘ I’M PERFECTLY SAFE, MOTHER - I’VE GOT THIS BIG GERMAN SHEPHERD!’

Costa Blanca

weather

Kakuro

for next 7 days

TODAY

Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.

TOMORROW

JAVEA

DENIA JAVEA

DENIA

CALPE CALPE ALTEA ALTEA BENIDORM BENIDORM

ALICANTE

TORREVIEJA

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION ORIHUELA

ORIHUELA

Fri Sat Sun -

Benidorm

SHOWERS MAX 17C, MIN 11C MAX MIN

18 11 C 17 9 C 18 8 S

Mon - 18 9 S Tues - 19 10 C Wed - 19 10 S

SUNNY MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

19 11 C 18 10 C 18 10 S

MAX 19C, MIN 12C Mon - 19 10 S Tues - 20 11 S Wed - 21 11 C

Fri Sat Sun -

16 8 S 17 8 S 16 8 C S Sun,

17 7 C 17 7 S 18 8 S

MAX MIN

Mon - 17 10 C Tues - 17 11 C Wed - 18 9 C

Madrid

CLOUDY MAX 16C, MIN 9C MAX MIN

MAX MIN

Mon - 16 9 C Tues - 16 9 C Wed - 16 9 C Cl Clear,

TODAY:

Fog,

19 9 S 18 9 C 18 9 C

TODAY:

CLOUDY MAX 18C, MIN 8C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

18 7 S 18 6 C 18 8 S

CLOUDY MAX 14C, MIN 6C

15 4 C 15 3 S 14 4 S C Cloudy,

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 14 4 C Tues - 14 5 C Wed - 15 4 C

MAX MIN

Mon - 18 9 C Tues - 18 8 C Wed - 19 8 C

Sh Showers,

SHOWERS MAX 18C, MIN 12C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

18 10 C 18 9 C 19 7 C Sn Snow,

UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

UK THUNDERBALL

IRISH LOTTO

Saturday December 5

EURO MILLIONS

LA PRIMITIVA

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA

MAX MIN

Mon - 17 11 C Tues - 18 10 S Wed - 20 12 C

Murcia

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mallorca

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

CLOUDY MAX 19C, MIN 9C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 18 11 S Tues - 18 12 S Wed - 19 12 S

CLOUDY MAX 17C, MIN 7C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Barcelona TODAY:

18 11 C 17 11 C 17 11 S

Bilbao

Almeria TODAY:

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Malaga

SHOWERS MAX 18C, MIN 12C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 20 8 S Tues - 21 9 C Wed - 22 9 S Th Thunder

LOTTERY

Alicante TODAY:

E W N 123

Friday December 4

6 15

Saturday December 5

Sunday December 6

17 17

BONUS BALL

THUNDERBALL

BONUS BALL

LUCKY STARS

REINTEGRO

124

E W N 10 - 16 December 2015/ Costa Blanca North

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Director: Jake Schreier Stars: Cara Delevingne, Nat Wolff

Just Joking

Unscramble the name of a popular type of fairground attraction (two words): TOUCHY CONS

• Why did Adele cross the road? - To say hello from the other side. • The definition of psychological is a man and a woman. - One is psycho and the other is logical. • Why did the tofu cross the road? - To prove it wasn’t chicken.

Unscramble the name of a famous American golfer: MILK HELPS ICON

Hexagram

The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 six-letter words into the 19 cells. The letters at the edges of interlocking cells MUST BE THE SAME. The letters in the words must be written CLOCKWISE. The word in cell 10 (FRIEND) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.

Based on the bestselling novel of the same name, by John Green (The Fault in Our Stars), this unforgettable film follows Quentin and his neighbour Margo, with whom he has been in love since childhood. When Margo invites him to a prank-filled evening, Quentin jumps at the chance, but the next day Margo disappears leaving cryptic clues for him to follow.

Santi Cazorla, December 13, Footballer. Spanish footballer who joined Arsenal in 2012 and has been a fixture in the team ever since having spent four seasons with Villarreal and one season with Malaga as well as playing regularly for the Spanish national team.

Kenneth Branagh, December 10, Actor and Director, 55 Born in Northern Ireland, he adopted a British accent in school to stop bullying which paid off as he was made a knight for his contribution to cinema and theatre. John Kerry, December 11, Politician, 72 Democrat nominee for President who stood against George W Bush and is now Secretary of State in the Barack Obama regime. Daniel O'Donnell, December 12, Singer, 54 Irish singer whose easy listening record sales have exceeded ten million. He recently appeared in the latest Strictly Come Dancing series on BBC TV. Miranda Hart, December 14, Actress, 43 Although she had appeared in a number of TV programmes previously, she shot to fame for playing her quirky self in the show Miranda. Since then she has undertaken a tour as a standup comedienne and has appeared with Melissa McCarthy in the film Spy. Perri Kiely, December 15, Dancer, 20 Curly haired, glasses wearing youngster who won the audiences hearts when his street dance troupe, Diversity, won the Britain's Got Talent talent competition in 2009. Quentin Blake, December 16, Cartoonist, 83 Artist who illustrated the children's books of Roald Dahl as well as other authors including Dr Seuss. He became the first British Children's Laureate serving from 1999 until 2001 and his designs have appeared on British stamps.

ADORES AROUND CRINGE DERAIL FEEBLE FRENZY FRIEND (10) GORGON HERALD LAMBDA

MORTAL PRISON REASON REDIAL SCREEN THIRST VERSUS VIOLIN WALRUS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 1 Goblet 2 Coyote 3 Faulty 4 Hither 5 Gloomy 6 Aerate 7 Rhombi 8 Devour 9 Assert 10 Bovine 11 Redden 12 Auntie 13 Bodied 14 Shanty 15 Random 16 Rabbet 17 Suture 18 Bamboo 19 Member

YOUR STARS CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) The need to plan ahead is frustrating when you know exactly what ought to be going on. Patience is something that you need to cultivate, or you risk upsetting someone close. Spending time with a colleague makes you realise how good things could be, but a lot of effort is involved. Pushing ahead does not guarantee results. AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) It is difficult to avoid repeating mistakes made in the past. Your approach to certain situations has not changed and therein lies the problem. Someone who blames you for a mistake shows ignorance but that does not make it less upsetting. PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Who is trying to push you into a corner? Maybe it is being done so subtly that you have not even noticed. Who wants a decision from you? Appear to take pressure lightly and not give in to an irritation. ARIES (March 21 - April 20) A rather slow start to the week leads you to feel bored but be assured that the weekend will be far from dull. A recent conversation or correspondence with an old friend leads to unexpected contact.

SAGITTARIUS

(November 23 - December 21)

Travel arrangements may have to be changed at the last minute. Do not fret, however, because success is more likely later in the month. During a dream, or when reading a book, an idea comes to you. Can this really make a difference to your future? You may need to act quickly to start a new project but progress will require patience. TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) Everything on the home front is emphasised and there will be a flurry of activity. Get others involved in any changes. Work in the garden or painting is much more enjoyable and half the work if you enlist the help of someone you get on well with. GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) When discussing a holiday with others, be aware that agreement is not always easily met. Although you are not inclined to compromise, it is necessary to go with the majority decision. CANCER (June 22 - July 23) After the 2nd it is much easier to see the path ahead. This is particularly true of a financial situation, so there's no sense in fussing until you understand what needs to be done. LEO (July 24 - August 23) Your attention is needed on more than one front, and some decisions are at

TIME

EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREA

8-Star Quiz NOTED PEOPLE Answers are all names of famous people who have appeared on Bank of England banknotes 1. Born in Norwich in 1780, which English Quaker prison reformer was a leading figure in the early 19th-century campaign for penal reform? 2. Following the 1666 Fire of London, which English architect was responsible for the design of the new St Paul’s Cathedral (1675–1711) and many of the city’s churches? 3. Miss Havisham, Sam Weller, Sarah Gamp and Uriah Heep were all famous fictional characters created by which 19th century English writer? 4. What was the name of the English engineer, who, with his son Robert, built the famous Rocket (1829), the prototype for all future steam locomotives? 5. What was the name of the English nurse and medical reformer who, in 1854 during the Crimean War, improved sanitation and medical procedures at the army hospital at Scutari, achieving a dramatic reduction in the mortality rate? 6. What was the name of the naturalist on HMS Beagle for her voyage around the southern hemisphere (1831–6), during which he collected the material that became the basis for his ideas on natural selection? 7. Which British soldier/statesman served as commander of the British forces in the Peninsular War (1808–14) and in 1815 defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo? 8. Which English composer is best known for the Enigma Variations (1899), the oratorio The Dream of Gerontius (1900) and for patriotic pieces such as the five Pomp and Circumstance marches (1901–30)? Not a lot of people know that… a new 10 shilling note was planned that featured Sir Walter Raleigh, but, given the estimated lifespan of the note, it was decided to replace it with the 50p coin. 1. ELIZBETH FRY (£5 from 2002 to present), 2. SIR CHRISTOPHER WREN (£50 1981-1996), 3. CHARLES DICKENS (£10 1992-2003), 4. GEORGE STEPHENSON (£5 1990-2003), 5. FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE (£10 19751994), 6. CHARLES DARWIN (£10 2000-present), 7. DUKE OF WELLINGTON (£5 1971-1991), 8. SIR EDWARD ELGAR (£20 1999-2010).

Paper Towns

Funagram

FUNAGRAM SOLUTION: COCONUT SHY, PHIL MICKELSON.

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odds with your personal thoughts and attitudes. Being reminded that 'business is business' does nothing to relieve your conscience. You may have to upset someone by telling the truth, which may affect your longer-term finances. VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Are you willing to take a risk on someone who has let you down before? Looking into their recent past is likely to tip the balance. What you find shows clearly if there has been a change of heart on their part or if they are trying to pull the wool over your eyes. LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) A disagreement with a friend upsets you but is short-lived. To avoid such a situation in the future, look at how you should have dealt with it. There is always something to know that guides us to a better position. It will make you smile someone has taken you for a fool as you have the last laugh. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) A great feeling of joy comes over you more than once in the week ahead. Your inner child has been set free, and this is likely to be because of recent restrictions, which are now lifted. Do not feel guilty about this because it is a choice that will serve you well in the future. Right now, things may seem like a bit of an effort for small reward.

Nonagram How many English words of four letters or more can you make from the nine letters in our Nonagram puzzle? Each letter may be used only once (unless the letter appears twice). Each word MUST CONTAIN THE CENTRE LETTER (in this case B) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

TARGET: Average: 10 Good: 13 Very good: 19 Excellent: 23

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION aced aged chad cued dace dang dean duce dune dung egad gaud hand head hued nude ached cadge caged caned dance dunce nudge augend canned duenna gunned hanged unaged unhand changed dunnage handgun nuanced UNCHANGED

SOUND OF THE WEEK Another Country By Rod Stewart Record Label: Capitol Records THE twenty-ninth studio album by British singersongwriter was released in October 2015. The lyrics consider life in the armed forces, being separated from loved ones as well as Stewart´s own past. He offers a strong and engaging vocal performance.

AK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

Crossword

Enjoy filling in the following puzzles and check the answers in next week’s edition

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

CRYPTIC

Quick

Cryptic

Across: 1 Shaken, 4 Estate, 9 Cadre, 10 Swanage, 11 Butchery, 12 Gift, 14 Tokens, 16 Valets, 19 Acre, 20 Barracks, 23 Outcome, 24 Stale, 25 Tenner, 26 Reject.

Across 1 Church, if not then, a football team (7) 5 Look happy as a result of chewing limes (5) 8 Fake endless call (5) 9 Vendors, we hear are profiting from the sale of salt containers (7) 10 Drunk missed tea cup (9) 12 Governed artist’s quarter (3) 13 Mean attempt to follow friend (6) 14 Possibly faster than a machine gun attack (6) 17 Stick to this measurement (3) 18 Stop protecting Capone, it’s very common (9) 20 A number walk wearily around, it’s hard work (7) 21 Country lover was in some trouble (5) 23 Climb up a series of notes (5) 24 Streets are arranged for dogs (7)

Down: 1 Sackbut, 2 Audit, 3 Elephant, 5 Stay, 6 Avarice, 7 Elect, 8 Usurp, 13 Lacrosse, 15 Keratin, 17 Suspect, 18 Cameo, 19 About, 21 Cease, 22 Code.

QUICK Across:

Down 1 Dealt with policeman and journalist (5) 2 End of June leave for oneself (3) 3 We stare around at jumper (7) 4 Fools, second rate (6) 5 Only about five find the answer (5) 6 Irene gets a bit giddy when drunk (9) 7 It’s free to enter five points for flavouring (7)

Code Breaker

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OUT

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11 Sensational play made moral blunder (9) 13 Swashbucklers traipse around (7) 15 On the way in, start building (7) 16 States on about handouts (6) 18 Start pulling string for venue (5) 19 Crackpot, going back, is getting capital in Africa (5) 22 Indeed, it’s in middle of prayers (3)

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 7 represents F and 19 represents P, so fill in F every time the figure 7 appears and P every time the figure 19 appears. Now, using your knowledge of the English language, work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid.

Across 1 Plans (7) 5 Stories (5) 8 Inspect (7) 9 Celestial bodies (5) 10 Sharply inclined (5) 11 Aversion (7) 12 Tried out (6) 14 Frayed (6) 17 Lay out (7) 19 Armoured vehicles (5) 22 Taunt (5) 23 Disperse (7) 24 Takes a break (5) 25 Gratify (7) Down 1 Put on clothes (5)

2 Reserve (5) 3 Brief look (7) 4 Stable (6) 5 Jobs (5)

1 Suppress, 7 Stays, 8 Aeroplane, 9 Tea, 10 Song, 11 Access, 13 Sorted, 14 Passes, 17 Scared, 18 Have, 20 Pit, 22 Repeating, 23 Shoes, 24 Restless.

6 Departing (7) 7 Hang freely (7)

Down:

12 Farm vehicle (7)

1 Seals, 2 Partner, 3 Ripe, 4 Scarce, 5 Lasts, 6 Escapes, 7 Several, 12 Repairs, 13 Suppose, 15 Seaside, 16 Temple, 17 Stood, 19 Edges, 21 Bait.

13 Cries of distress (7) 15 Allure (7) 16 Untidy states (6) 18 Requires (5) 20 Jottings (5) 21 Apologetic (5)

ENGLISHSPANISH Across:

English - Spanish The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English.

1 Casar, 3 Cabra, 5 Mil, 7 Alambre, 9 Rana, 10 Belt, 13 Rescate, 14 Son, 15 Sacro, 16 Twins. Down: 1 Camareros, 2 Real, 3 Cual, 4 Aceitunas, 6 Lunes, 8 Beers, 11 Caro, 12 Rent.

CODE BREAKER

Across 1 Tiburones (zoológico) (6) 4 Weapon (4) 8 Enemigo (5) 9 Enjuagar (5) 10 Abeja (3) 11 Deal (agreement) (5) 12 Sacos (5) 15 As (naipes) (3) 16 To bring (news, luck etc) (5) 18 Enfermera (5) 19 Celery (4) 20 Mirror (6)

Down 1 Sábana (de cama) (5) 2 Sand (5) 3 Teclado (8) 5 Rum (3) 6 Hacha (herramienta) (3) 7 Regalos (obsequios) (8) 13 Meat (5) 14 Floor (of room) (5) 16 Aunt (3) 17 There (near you) (3)

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Festive films

With Christmas approaching, and the evenings getting colder, there is no better time to cuddle up with a hot chocolate and a great feel-good Christmas film. We are counting down some of the most popular films to watch during the festive period. 1. Miracle on 34th Street (1994). An astoundingly heartening film starring the late Sir Richard Attenborough in which a young girl discovers dreams really do come true when you believe. After a sceptical little girl meets a department store Santa, she finds her defences melting and becomes familiar with the power of faith.

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6. The Santa Clause (1994). In this festive comedy, Tim Allen stars as an ordinary man who must step into Santa’s shoes after an accident. The film features comical scenarios, following an impromptu trip to the North Pole he begins to morph

Sudoku

HEALLAP

Boggled How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules? The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms. No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice. No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.

HEART-WARMING: A story of faith. into Santa before his, and his ex-wife’s, eyes.

misogyny, this film will certainly raise a smile.

7. The Holiday (2006). Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz) impulsively swap houses, and countries, in this feelgood rom-com. Their respective tales are charming, amusing, and eventually culminate in two heartwarming romances.

9. A Christmas Story (1983). A hilarious tale depicting young Ralphie’s quest of ensuring his presents include a much-coveted BB air-rifle. This entertaining narration will conjure an air of nostalgia and is sure to keep the adults smirking.

8. White Christmas (1954). This humourous musical romantic comedy follows two World War II soldiers who team up to become a successful song-and-dance act. With a series of romantic mix-ups, Bing Crosby’s baritone, and a hint of harmless

10. The Polar Express (2004). In this animated, hallucinogenic, adventure, Tom Hanks stars as the train conductor who whisks a group of kids off to the North Pole. The story follows a young boy embarking on a journey of self-discovery and recognising the wonder of life.

TARGET: Average: 26 Good: 34 Very good: 49 Excellent: 60

SCORING: 4 letters: 1 point • 5 letters: 2 points 6 letters: 3 points • 7 letters: 4 points 8 or more letters: 11 points

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION tort torte torn tore tote gore goat goer greet green fort forte fore frog fret free tenet trot tree twin twine twiner twill entree vote voter ogre often rote rent renew reel newt went wine wile will auto tern tent tell teen teeny lent letup lint line liner lien leer leap info inert inlet payee yell neuter gene glint glee glen

Word Ladder WORE

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3X3 box contains the digits 1-9. There’s no maths involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

Pedometer ++ For the iPhone 5s and later generations, this app takes advantage of the step counting capabilities in your phone. Without draining battery, keep track of your daily and weekly step counts and improve your health. This application updates automatically throughout the day. You can also set the current step count as the application’s badge on your home page.

FOOT FOOT

3. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). George (James Stewart) is the boy-nextdoor whose dreams are constantly postponed in this poignant favourite. An enthralling mélange of personal and social impulses, and the questionable charms of home, that is both compelling and touching.

5. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001). The accident-prone protagonist Bridget (Renee Zellweger), who has a penchant for smoking and binge drinking, falls for both a dashing lothario and a modern-day Mr Darcy in this adaptation of Helen Fielding’s witty novel.

App of the Week

Play on Words

2. Love Actually (2003). Number two on the list is this festive film in which love certainly is all around. A far cry from a cheesy romance, nine intertwined stories explore an assortment of both new and long-standing relationships with undertones of heartbreak and sorrow woven within. An examination of the intricacies of the one emotion that connects us all: love.

4. Scrooged (1988). After visits from three ghosts Frank (Bill Murray) realises he must change, and learns the true meaning of Christmas. A modern adaptation of the classic Dickens’ novel A Christmas Carol offering humour that doesn’t overshadow the message.

EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREAK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

Answers: One foot in front of the other, All in a heap

THE highly acclaimed author of American Rust returns with The Son, an epic multi-generation saga of power, blood, and land, following the rise of one Texas family in the American West. Following the colonel’s life and legacy, the tale echoes through time and crosses cultures to describe the Comanche raids of the 1800s through to the oil booms in the 20th century. The Son was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and is on the New York Times Best Sellers List.

TIME OUT

THIN BACK

Move from the start word (WORE) to the end word (THIN) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.

WORE WORN CORN COIN CHIN THIN

126

OPINION & COMMENT

LETTERS

www.euroweeklynews.com

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca North

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YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION

Letters for Your Say should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments straight on our website: www.euroweeklynews.com

Keep on telling it as it is and perhaps the penny will drop DEAR Leapy Lee, In response to both your latest articles, I’m in full agreement. Yes, you would think everyone has got-it by now but if you dare talk as you do, there are still many who will scream Islamophobic, racist and the like. We didn’t wake up to reality after 9/11 or the subsequent attacks in London, Madrid plus so many more - in fact hardly a day goes by, when there isn’t a report of a Muslim atrocity somewhere in the world. Deal with the problem at source is a popular political comment and I agree - just close down the Mosques and deport the preachers of hatred, because contrary to the established view, terrorism has everything to do with Islam. Keep on telling it as it is Leapy and perhaps eventually, the penny will drop. Terry O via Website

Not so caring RE: Local hospitals in top 20 for patient care I cannot speak for all hospitals but knowing the top hospital in Torrevieja I wonder how is the patient care in the last 20. I had my wrist broken, but not dislocated. So I got a so-called ‘cast.’ This cast consisted of several layers of plaster on the upper part of my wrist and arm. The rest consisted of bandage. As every orthopaedic nurse knows this is no cast and cannot fix broken bones. I tried to mention this to no avail. I got the next appointment with a specialist after five days. Inevitably in these five days a dislocation developed. I told the specialist, but he made a cast over the dislocation anyway. He sent me away for three weeks. After one week my wrist suddenly hurt like hell. I went to the hospital. They did X-rays and, what a surprise, the wrist was dislocated. They gave me an appointment for the operation, all proceedings went quick and well. I had a drip and was transferred to my room. My room was excellent, no qualms here. The nurses were nice

Photographs for possible publication should be sent by email with a full caption to: photonews@euroweeklynews.com

Highway Code Just read this week’s copy of Euro Weekly News (issue 1587). In particular Gemma Quinn’s article on page 25, titled The Rules of the Road. How ironic, I had gone into various book shops in Torrevieja to see if there was a Spanish highway code but written in English! To which it seems there is not despite an apparent large call one available. So, do you know, is this booklet a Spanish version of a highway code? If it is, or as near as damn it, I would recommend the local British in this area to purchase, download and read it! And make money for the children’s cause. I welcome your thoughts. John Bryant.

and friendly. I waited with the drip. Thursday evening came and went, Friday evening came and went. Saturday morning i told the nurses in the department, I would wait until midday. If no operation I would the take the drip out and leave the hospital. And so it went. I left the hospital with a displaced joint. There are some lessons to be learned. They cannot make a proper cast in the emergency department, there is no proper organisation in scheduling the operations… You cannot leave a patient for so long on a drip if you do not know when the patient is due, you can make the venous access some minutes before the operation. In Spain I have never seen a nurse

or doctor wash her/his hands. The same is true for the health centres. On the other hand the specialists are usually first class. Arnold Dietz

Would France show solidarity? I HAVEN’T always agreed with Leapy or his view on other subjects, but I most definitely agree with his comment on ‘solidarity from France.’ No I do not think they would be so quick to assist us if the

how long it took the ambulance to arrive. I had the same thing happen to me. My friend was out here on holiday and we had been out for the evening. She went into the bedroom to change her shoes and had a heart attack. We called the ambulance straight away and one of the neighbours gave her mouth to mouth and CPR but couldn’t keep it up for the 45 minutes it took for the ambulance to get to the flat. By the time the ambulance eventually got to her she was dead. Then the ambulance men tried to revive her, but after she was dead that long it was all done in vain. All my neighbours were really worried because it could have been any one of us. You don’t expect to wait 45 minutes when it is an emergency. It just isn’t good enough. Irene Shepherd

The better person

boot was on the other foot. Think about the comments with the Calais situation when France had an influx of immigrants, “if the illegal immigrants want to go to the UK, who are we to stop them. If that’s where they want to go why should we stop them?” !!! LD, Los Alcazares

It’s not good enough DEAR Sir, I read in the paper the other day about the man who died at the sports centre on Orihuela Costa and

WELL I feel England as always has been the better person... Again a syndrome we seem destined to promote... But it is genuine and these atrocities I feel are not over. Yes Belgium has finally awoken from something akin to complacency, yes England should do the same. Whether this will happen remains to be seen!!!!!! I do feel closed gates and bolting horses springs to mind!!! Well in all this disaster I do feel for Muslims who are against this extremist behaviour, murder in my book... But they need to be seen condemning this extremism... And I feel they are not... Yours sincerely Carolyn

WHEN YOU WRITE All letters, whether by email or post, should carry the writer’s postal address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published. Letters may also be edited. Readers who have missed earlier correspondence can see all letters posted on:

www.euroweeklynews.com

The views expressed and opinions given in Letters are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. They accept no responsibility for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements, and reject claims arising out of any action that a company or individual may take on the basis of information contained therein.

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HEALTH BEAUTY

Advertising feature

Medcare: Offering half-price New Year health checks ENSURE you and your loved ones have the best chance of a healthy 2016 AT the beginning of the year Medcare British GP clinics in Benijofar and Alfaz del Pi offered half price New Year health checks. The demand was so great the practice is running the offer again in January 2016, and is launching the campaign early so everyone can get booked in. Book your half-price health check now and ensure you and your loved ones have the best chance of a healthy 2016. Why are health checks needed? Many thousands of people have died unnecessarily this year because they didn’t go for simple routine tests. Don’t be among them, start the year with some essential routine health checks. That is the message from Medcare: “Tragically, too many people continue to die unnecessarily because disease is detected far too late for want of a few simple tests” said Medcare’s Dr Hussain. “Many British expats seem to be particularly vulnerable because language barriers or not knowing what health screening is available means they are less likely to attend a screening.”

HALF-PRICE: Book now with Medcare. Routine health checks and early diagnosis can stop some of the biggest killers from claiming lives. Anyone who is not registered on the Spanish system or prefers to see a private British GP can go to Medcare for screening and take advantage of the half price offer throughout January. The Medcare health check includes screening for cervical, breast, bowel and prostate cancer. Comprehensive blood tests will be performed

and patients will be screened for many conditions, including diabetes, liver and kidney disease, high blood pressure and thyroid problems. Patients will also receive a nutrition and

lifestyle review including an ECG, BMI check, skin and mole check and a dental examination. “Even if you feel well, you don’t know what is going on inside your body so health screening is essential for everyone,” stressed Dr Hussain. “Over the years our health checks have saved many lives as patients have discovered they have the early stages of diseases. It is not easy finding out you have a life-threatening illness, but not finding out will almost certainly be a lot worse.” Getting a health check could be the most important thing you do in 2016. Visit your own GP or book your half-price Medcare health check for January on the details below.

Medcare Benijofar and Alfaz del Pi Call 966 860 258 Email: doctors@medcarespain.com Visit www.medcarespain.com

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Blog My treatment journey update! in the wake of being told I have breast cancer

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Ask The Doctor

Brought to you by Helicopteros Sanitarios.

Heart attack signs

2014 was a whirlwind of operations and tests Erica Russell Watson: My journey – and I’m driving IT is hard to believe that I started chemotherapy over a year ago. So much has happened since then. Having got through chemo I had radiotherapy and then spent the summer trying to regain my strength and take stock. I was very tired, both physically and mentally. The long term side effects reared their ugly heads. The worst one being lymphedema. As I had my lymph nodes removed I developed painful swelling in my right arm as a result of my body’s inability to drain away lymph fluid. I now have regular physio and lymphatic draining massages, wear a compression sleeve and do exercises to control the swelling. I have to be careful not to lift with my right arm so I have adjusted the way I do things. The pins and needles come and go in my feet and you can get ‘chemo brain!’

Chemotherapy can affect your memory and I often find myself grappling for words or wracking my brain to remember things. This will improve with time. My scars are pretty good but I still have quite a lot of pain and I am constantly reminded of the post-operative trauma in my body. The veins in my arms have been seriously compromised

I am determined to get better and stronger each day as I have too much to live for by the chemotherapy and finding a workable vein for a test is a trial and I often faint because it is such an ordeal. My eyebrows haven’t grown back very well but my hair is nice and thick. My eyelashes are like a scattering of spider legs! Not the most serious issue I know but nonetheless annoying! All these issues are expected and you learn to live with them. The important thing was my revision in November. I went for blood tests to check tumour markers etc, a CAT scan, and a

mammogram on the remaining breast. After the tests I went to see my oncologist. It was good news, no cancer in the other breast, good blood results and the tumours in my lungs had disappeared. The only thing my oncologist didn’t like was that the fact the tumours had vanished in response to chemo and as a result was more likely to be metastatic cancer. So, not a new tumour but one derived from the original breast cancer. The next step is to keep an eye on my lungs. I am having a bone scan to rule out any spreading as I have had some pain. They are checking my hormone levels to ensure I am not producing too much oestrogen which is the enemy! I also need an abdominal scan. If all is well I will then meet the plastic surgeon to discuss reconstruction. I feel optimistic and as always would not be feeling so positive without the love and support from my family, friends and nearest and dearest. It is a long haul recovering from cancer and then keeping it at bay! But I am determined to get better and stronger each day as I have too much to live for. So here’s wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, health and happiness!

SPECIALIST: Doctor Luis Perez Belmonte. DEAR Doctor, A relative had a nasty scare one night recently, which luckily was nothing more than that. In the early hours of the morning he thought he was having a heart attack, and talking later we realised we really didn’t know what the signs are or how to act in this sort of situation. Could you please give us some tips on how to recognise the signs and what to do? Dr Perez Belmonte replied: Heart attacks are currently the most common cause of death amongst human beings, so it is very important to recognise the signs and know what to do. Although initial signs can vary a lot from one person to another depending on factors including age, gender or medical conditions, they usually come with a feeling of oppression in the centre or left-hand side of the chest, which can sometimes spread down the left arm or up the neck. Heart pain is usually identified by patients as the worst pain they have ever felt, although some

people have heart attacks without any chest pain at all. Other common symptoms include sweating, difficulty breathing, a general feeling of not being well or sudden extreme fatigue. For people with diabetes the first sign is usually breathing problems rather than chest pains and this can sometime cause fainting. Anyone with any of these symptoms, especially if they are elderly or at risk (diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smokers, etc), or has a history of heart problems, should call a doctor or get to a health centre as quickly as possible. The person making the call to a doctor or ambulance team needs to stay as calm as possible and give as many details as they can. The patient meanwhile should be lying down, taking deep breaths and trying to stay as calm as possible. As always, prevention is the best remedy so anyone with heart problems or risk factors should see a cardiologist and a Specialist in Internal Medicine.

The Coast’s Home GP service - wherever you are - at home - in the office - in the car - on the golf course your GP will get to see you any time, anywhere. A priceless service at an affordable price.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

10 - 16 December 2015 / Costa Blanca

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FitFoxy

Looking Good, Staying Trim

I BELIEVE more women engage in postpregnancy exercise, than pre or during pregnancy exercise, purely to lose the excess weight accumulated during the pregnancy. However the danger of post pregnancy exercise must not be underestimated. The hormone relaxin, which is responsible for allowing all connective tissue in the body (muscles, ligaments) to stretch, is still very much present in your body after giving birth, and can be present for up to six months. Overstretching or overexerting yourself at this stage could leave you with a permanent injury, however the benefits are vast. I recommend you consult with your doctor and speak to an exercise professional before embarking on a post preg-

nancy programme. Remember your body has just been put through a lot of trauma… Be kind to yourself. Here are a few tips: • No physical stress for first two weeks after birth. • Don’t resume full daily activities for six weeks after delivery. • If you have had a c-section, no exercise for eight to12 weeks. • Keep correct posture at all times. • Avoid hyperextending of joints. • Wear a sports bra, two if required. • Exercises from a stable base (sitting down, holding on with one hand etc.) • Pay attention to your lower back. • A slow gradual 10 minute warm up and cool down. • Avoid lying on your front in early stages of post pregnancy. • Avoid impact training (running etc.). • Avoid sudden changes in direction. • Avoid severe bouncing movements. • Drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise .

EXERCISE: Remember your body has been through a lot of trauma.

• Stop exercising if your breasts become hot, swollen or hard. Core & Abdominals As important as it is for you to return your mid section to where it was prepregnancy, be sensible with the abdominal exercises you do in the first few months. In the meantime, you could make a start on safely strengthening your core by following some of the tips below. • Exercise the pelvic floor every day. • Start abdominal and pelvic floor exercises as soon as possible after delivery. • Pelvic floor exercises before and after main exercise session. • Avoid doming (dropping stomach when on hands & knees)

Suffering from chronic pain can lead to depression THIRTY per cent of people who suffer chronic pain also have depression, according to various experts at a mental health conference in Barcelona. They stressed the importance of providing treatment that takes into account the psychological and emotional changes that most patients suffer. Chronic pain is defined as pain suffered from more than three months or lasting beyond the period of healing of injury. Currently, it is the leading cause of long-term sick leave in Spain. Recent studies show one in five people suffer from mod-

erate to severe pain. One clinical psychologist at the hospital said: “We need to consider pain as a global, multidimensional experience when

By Nara Prusakova, Shutterstock

Getting into shape post-pregnancy

evaluating and seeking intervention strategies. It is essential to consider the psychological dimension and provide tools to help the management of pain.”

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Early exposure to a language helps in the future RESEARCHERS in Canada say being exposed to a language early in life influences how an individual’s brain deals with another language and dialect many years later; even in people who have not spoken their first language for most of their lives. Researchers from the McGill University and the Montreal Neurological Institute carried out an experiment on three groups of children aged between 10 and 17 with varying linguistic backgrounds. One group was made up of born-and-raised monolingual French-speakers, the other group were bilingual in French and Chinese, while the third group comprised of Chinese children who had been adopted by French families before they had turned three, and had not spoken Chinese since. All groups had to identify French-sounding words that did not actually mean anything, such as ‘vapagne’. During the test, the researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to monitor which areas of their brains were involved and found different parts of the brain were activated during the test in the groups. The researchers are also planning to do further research in order to see if the same results are witnessed if the experiment was based on two similar languages such as French and Spanish. It is believed the experiment could form the basis for tailored language classes by understanding more how the brain works when dealing with the different languages.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Christmas stress: Will you choose to be a survivor or a victim? HOPEFULLY the festive period will be a happy time, but for some it can lead to worries and despair

CHRISTMAS time. A time of festivities, love, joy and stress stress stress! Hopefully Christmas will create lots of happiness for you and your family. For many though, this is a time of financial hardship, loneliness and worry. It’s also a time of stress, and at times lots of it. What are the best ways of surviving yuletide stress? What are the best ways of ensuring you don’t become a victim? Planning ahead is always a great idea. If you’re worried about paying for presents, suggest to family and friends a maximum price for each present. It’s important to make giving fun, but it’s impossible to create fun if you’re spending cash you simply don’t have. If you happen to have plenty of

Photo credit: Janko Hoener, Wikimedia.

By Marcus Hopkins

PLAN AHEAD: Have a stress-free Christmas. cash, think of the others in your circle of friends who may be struggling. Your suggestion may be of real help to them.

Think Finance, a loan provider, suggested 45 per cent of people in the USA would prefer to skip Christmas due to financial worries.

Recent research suggests that given the choice, children would choose to have more of their parents’ time over any expensive present. The gift of time is the supreme form of giving, yet how many of us forget this? Consider having a Kris Kringle with family and friends, where everyone draws a name out of a hat and buys a present only for that person or suggest making an agreement to buy presents just for the children. Unless you’re financially secure, don’t blow next month’s money on just one day. The thought of debt can easily increase stress and depression. Christmas is a time for spirituality and friendships. Family and friends want to be with you, rather than with a present that will be soon forgotten. Hopefully your Christmas dinner will be wonderful, a creation any

masterchef would be proud to call their own. But if the turkey burns and the roast potatoes get cremated, don’t worry. You still have the veg, pudding, mince pies and cheese. Plenty of people don’t have any of these. Many won’t have any food at all this Christmas, so your disaster with the meat isn’t really much of an issue. When it comes to relationships, stress, anxiety and feelings of depression are common during the festive season. Create real festivity and happiness by avoiding known triggers. Avoid chatting about topics you know are contentious in your family and don’t make anyone feel unheard. Christmas gives choices. Choose to cherish the time wisely. Gift the gift of happiness and a time that will be treasured, however your Christmas time goes.

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Teulada-Moraira Lions Club donations THEY are also committed to continue with the food voucher scheme for as long as the need for it subsists By Buster Smith WHEN, over eight years ago, Teulada Moraira Lions first had the idea of a food voucher scheme to go some way towards alleviating the very real hardship which the onset of the economic crisis inflicted on a good number of families living within the TeuladaMoraira area, Supermercados Pepe La Sal were quick to offer their assistance and support, without whose support it is unlikely the scheme would ever have got off the ground. That initial commitment from PLS has continued over the years and helped underpin the decision by TM Lions, taken in the early part of 2014, to expand their food voucher scheme to include Benitachell. Lion Mike Dunn is the Club’s Welfare Officer for Benitachell and his liaison with the local Social Work Dept. which administers the

TEULADA-MORAIRA LIONS: Donated a further €1,500 to Benitachell Social Work Department. issue of the food vouchers on behalf of TM Lions, has proven very successful in getting the scheme established -

so much so that the Social Work Dept. recently asked Mike if it would be possible for Teulada Moraira Lions to

Jacaranda restaurant to give to charities

AUCTION TIME: The Jacaranda restaurant will be making a special presentation. THE well-known bi-weekly auctions at the Jacaranda restaurant which run every other Saturday at 1.30pm under the well-used hammer of Mr Bob Gingell ensures that part of the proceeds are always put to a deserving cause. This year and in the run up to Christmas, the time of giving, they will be making a special presentation at 6.30pm on December 14 to two of their chosen charities, Akira dog Sanctuary http://www.akira-animals.com/ and Make a Smile EMAUS

http://www.makeasmile.es/ All are welcome to the event where there will be free tapas, live entertainment from sensational singers Mick Lee and Becky BB and a mini auction containing items collected by Jill and Becky. It’s going to be a very heartwarming evening at Jacaranda restaurant, Camino Viejo, El Portet, Moraira 03724, Alicante 965 743 292 https://www.facebook.com/jacaranda.moraira/ so don’t miss the evening.

provide additional funding for the scheme so food vouchers could continue to be issued to those in need in the village.

In response to this request, TM Lions have donated a further €1,500 to Benitachell Social Work Department and are

committed to continue with the food voucher scheme for as long as the need for it subsists. On a different front, Teulada Moraira Lions are one of a number of charitable organisations which continue their long-standing support of CAM Vergel, the Emaus Children’s Home at El Vergel and, since the summer, TM Lions have spent €661.50 on new schoolbooks for the children there; donated a further €400 to cover the cost of winter clothes and shoes; and delivered supplies of food to CAM Vergel as and when required. The Club also makes sure that every child in the Home receives a card and a gift of €20 on his/her birthday and they will all be given a card with €25 at Christmas/Three Kings so that, in addition to any presents which may be handed in to CAM Vergel, the children all have a little spending money of their own.

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Church of England in Spain - special events VISITORS and residents alike will be made most welcome IN addition to their regular Church services, the Costa Blanca Anglican Chaplaincy (the Church of England in Spain) has organised a number of special events leading up to Christmas. Visitors and residents alike will be made most welcome! December 11 in Denia at 5.30pm Carols and Christingle Service at Les Rotes, Denia. Information from Father Steve Foster 965 734 029. December 14 in Albir at 3pm Carols on the Beach. The beach near Albir Anchor. Information from Father Ray Andrews 602 504 136.

December 17 in Calpe at 8pm Carol Service with Sparkle at La Merced Church. With Calpe U3A Choir. Information from Father Marcus Ronchetti 965 874 166. December 19 in El Campello at 4.30pm. Carol Service at Coveta Fuma Church. Information Father Ray Andrews 602 504 136. December 21 in Albir at 4pm. Carol Service at Albir Church. Meal at 13.00 if you wish. Information Elaine 966 864 962. Details of these events and the work of the Chaplaincy in general at www.costablanca-anglicanchaplaincy.org

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The World at a Crossroads BRITISH writer, Peter Fieldman, who spends most of the year in Madrid has been visiting Costa Blanca to promote his new book. Since the outset of the financial crisis he has been a strong critic of the financial and corporate sectors, which have not only caused misery to millions of people but profited from it. Political leaders have stood by while ordinary people saw their jobs and homes go. In May 2011 he was in Madrid when the group known as Los Indignados took control of the Puerta del Sol. The same year he read Stephane Hesselâ€™s book Time for Outrage. This was the catalyst for Peter to begin researching and writing his own views. His book attempts to analyse the issues facing Europe and the World. The World at a Crossroads is available through Amazon and major bookstores.

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Turron and Lindy Hop time THERE will also be demonstrations of swing dancing TURRON, Spain’s favourite Christmas sweetmeat, was once made at home from almonds, sugar, cinnamon and lemon peel. This Saturday watch how this was done at the weekly craft fair held every Saturday morning in the square in the old town (Plaza Marina Alta).

Members of La Marina’s Lindy Hop Project ‘Spirit of St. Louis’ will also be there with a demonstration of swing dancing, inviting everybody to join them. On Sundays the craft fair sets up on the sea front near the port.

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Join in the spirit with carol singing at Jave JAVEA PORT will be alive to the sound of music once again By Buster Smith MEMBERS of Javea International Baptist Church (JIBC) will be singing carols in the square opposite the Miramar Hotel on Tuesday, December 22 at noon. The event has become a popular fixture in the festive calendar and you are invited to bring your family, friends and neighbours, to enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate at one of the nearby cafes and join with us singing carols old and new to get into the real spirit of Christmas. JIBC will also be holding a carol service at the Church Centre - its home in the Pueblo just up from the main underground car park - on December 20, as well as a Christmas Day service on December 25, both starting at 10.30am. As well as a service every Sunday morning, the English-speaking church offers a variety of activities during the week, including a popular walking group, a strolling group for the less energetic and a â€˜Place For Friendshipâ€™ cafe which is open every Thursday (market day) where everyone can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with cake and biscuits. An Alpha course for those wishing to find out

CAROL SINGING: The event has become a pop more about Christianity begins in January. Please access our website www.javeabaptist.com for directions to the Church Centre and for more detailed information on all activities and events available, or

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h open air ea port this Christmas

CHRISTMAS TIME: Take your children along to collect a special present.

pular fixture in the festive calendar. telephone 965 795 847. We look forward to seeing you all at the open air carol service at 12 noon on Tuesday December 22. Do wear something red to add to the Christmas atmosphere.

Santa’s Grotto is here ON Saturday December 19, from 11am until 2pm Santa will be visiting the MABS centre in Finestrat, where they have a Santa’s Grotto set up. The group invites you to bring your children along

to see Santa and collect a special present, visit the children’s Christmas sweet shop, play with the clowns and listen to Christmas carols. Drinks and tapas are also available on the day.

Help make it a happy Christmas for the Children of EMAUS and fill a stocking EMAUS are urgently seeking help to fill Christmas stockings for the children being cared for in the Emaus Homes. The children range in ages from three to 17 years. Currently they are filling stockings for three boys and two girls

aged three and four; six boys and eight girls aged five to eight; 12 boys and six girls in the nine to12 age group; 10 boys and six girls of 13 and 14 and finally 17 boys and 12 girls aged between 15 and 17.

Donations such as small new items including toys, CDs, sweets, bathroom products or anything children would enjoy receiving please contact the lady who is coordinating this initiative by email: lesleyclarkjavea@gmail.com.

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OPINION & COMMENT

Christmas past and presents, has all the excitement gone?

OUR VIEW David Muscroft Shutterstock

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BY MARTIN BALZERAK SHUTTERSTOCK

SANTA’S days are surely numbered as Operation Yule Tree closes in Colin Bird A weekly look Each week, Colin brings his slightly off-thewall view of the world to the pages of EWN in his own irreverent style.

IT’S that time of year again when the fat man with the flowin g wh i t e b e a r d a n d rosy cheeks is greasing up the blades of his sleigh and putting his production staff on maximum overtime in readiness for another hectic Christmas Eve delivery. But wi t h t h e a d v e nt o f Xboxes, iPads and Smart Phones , a l l t h e r o m an ce and ex c i t e m e n t wi t h th e traditio n a l o p e n i n g o f prezzie s like M &S sweaters, smelly bath stuff and Black Magic under the tree on Christmas morning has almost disappeared. Who actually puts out a pillow case any more? And

PRESENTS: With the advent of new technologies, traditional gifts have disappeared. in these times of political correctness, it’s only a matter of time before someone s ta rts a s k in g q u es tio n s about a bloke who shacks up with a regiment of male dwarves for 12 months a year.

Santa’s days are surely numbe re d a s O pe ra tion Yule Tree closes in. Presents are an increasing problem. The lessening choice of what to buy each other becomes commensurate with the advancement

of years, and at the risk of us ing a w e ll w orn a phorism, just what do you buy someone who has everything? The proble m is c ompounded when I am also told, ‘don’t buy me choco-

l at e, I need t o l ose som e weight.’ This limits things considerably, but I’m sorry, Princess, you gave away your real intentions when you t ol d m e t o hi de m y own stash of chocolate so t hat you woul d not be tempted, then proceeded to tell me exactly where that hiding place should be. One thing that is noticeable in Spain is the laidback atmosphere in the supermarkets at this time of year. Visit a Sainsbury’s, Tesco’s or any of the other big stores in the UK right now, and it will be a madhouse of spending. Even on Christmas Eve, when occasionally I have needed to drop in to Dialprix for some last minute cooking sherry, it has never been anything other than business as usual.

I think I know what to do HOPEFULLY no-one will bring up the history of straight bananas or curved cucumbers By John Smith THAT just about sums up the situation with regards to David Cameron’s wish to renegotiate the terms of Britain’s membership of the European Union. Having initially said that he did not want to reveal full details of his negotiating hand before serious discussions get under way, the EU indicated that it was a bit pointless to have a negotiation without knowing what was wanted so he wrote to them with a wish list. Economic governance which should recognise that there are more currencies in the EU than just the Euro and by extension the pound should not be disadvantaged. Competitiveness which would ensure that EU regulations are reduced made less onerous on business and red tape is cut. Immigration would be reviewed and far less generous benefits would be paid to those from the EU states who settle in the UK until they have been there for a number of years. Sovereignty should remain in the

David Cameron and Martin Schulz President of European Parliament.

RAF Tornado

Britain now takes action AFTER a huge amount of rhetoric and very conflicting opinions, a decision has been reached by Parliament to allow the RAF to take action against terrorist targets in Syria and within an hour of the Commons vote, tornado aircraft were in the air and attacking a Daesh controlled oil field in that country. The recent shooting down of a Russian aircraft by Turkey has added to the tension and confusion, with both sides claiming the moral high ground, whilst Russia has accused Turkey of being the major customer for Daesh controlled oil. The general situation with air strikes has divided public opinion with many in favour of taking the war directly to Daesh, whilst many others object to the concept of any form of warfare in which there is always the possibility of mistake and loss of innocent lives. Many politicians in Spain who may favour direct action against Daesh are keeping a low profile until after the election, whilst those on the broad left are clear in their worry about becoming involved and have indicated that they would look to call a referendum to gauge public opinion. France clearly wants to punish those who were responsible for the attacks on Paris but the main question is whether air strikes will be enough or whether the next step will require NATO and possibly Russian troops to enter the fray and if so will the split over the future of Syrian president al-Asad be yet another major problem?

hands of national parliaments which should be able to block EU legislation. Good general points admittedly, but not many people go into an important negotiation without anticipating disagreement and most sensible people and even politicians would expect to ask for far more than they expect and then settle for what they want. As they are pretty vague demands, it does seem that the negotiations could be quite complicated, so much so that the Prime Minister has, not surprisingly, said that he now doesn’t expect a response during December. There is a commitment to hold a referendum on whether Britain should remain in the European Union no later than 2017 and he has indicated that if he gets the bulk of his requests approved then he will recommend to the electorate that Britain Now we should remain within the Union. want to There is about 18 months to go for hear your views. him to negotiate with the other 27 member states and hopefully, YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE no-one will bring up the history - YOUR OPINION of straight bananas or curved cuwww.euroweeklynews.com cumbers.

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Use Polytunnels for vegetable productivity and frost protection by Gordon Jolly via Flickr

THEY are becoming more and more popular each gardening year in the UK Dick Handscombe

Gardening Corner By Spain’s best known expatriate gardening author living in Spain for 25 years.

POLYTUNNELS first appeared in the 1960s once the plastics industry managed to produce reliable wide-width polythene sheeting. They become more popular each gardening year in the UK and can also be useful in Spain, especially the large walk-in frame tunnels covered in plastic sheeting for growing a wide variety of crops, from lettuces to tomatoes and raspberries and protecting potted plants during the frost-risk months. The size is in theory whatever you like, but typical sizes for plots are widths of two to five metres and lengths of two to 20 metres. A minimum workable height at the centre of the tunnel is two to two and a half metres. There are two basic designs available to buy, semicircular arc and high tent shape. Well designed, constructed and maintained, they can last for years. By the

POLYTUNNELS: First appeared in the 1960s after the plastics industry began producing wide-width polythene sheeting. way, we have found two common spellings Polytunnel and Poly Tunnel. Use the one you are most comfortable with. The benefits are: • Crops grow quicker, earlier and possibly larger. The latter depending on your harvesting strategy, small is tender or giant could be a silver cup. • They are per square metre less expensive than glass or

polycarbonate greenhouses. • There is a wide range of sizes available. • They absorb the sun and achieve the most productive germination and Spring growing temperatures two to six weeks ahead of the open garden according to your location. • They protect growing plants from rain, frost, snow, hail and gales and therefore en-

able more autumn, winter and early spring crops to be grown. • Using irrigation tubing with drip holes, built-in close planting in rows can be achieved. Splitting the growing area into zones, a multi-zone irrigation system will allow you to give blocks of small and large vegetables, soft fruits and tender fruit trees the water they need. Kits to allow liquid fertilisers

to be metered into the irrigation water system are also available. What to look out for when buying a polytunnel: • Strength and tear-ability of plastic sheeting cover. • Ultraviolet resistance and quoted lifespan of the sheeting. • Quality of galvanised or protective painted metal framework. • Ease of construction.

• Seal-ability of doors. • Possibility of fitting a temperature controlled fan so you can use it through the hottest months. You will be surprised how hot the inside of a polytunnel can become on a sunny day from June to August. • Ability to partly roll the sides up in the summer if you don’t want the cost of a fan. Risks to your investment: • Planning laws need to be checked before construction. • Poor fixing and air seal at soil level to stop strong winds getting under the plastic and ballooning it. • If you don’t use ecological insecticides and fungicides you may build up an environment that is a health risk. The way ahead: Prices vary so check out several suppliers. If you are a handyman metalworker and have a supplier of wide plastic sheeting you could rig up a serviceable DIY Polytunnel. (c) Dick Handscombe www.gardenspain.com December 2015

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Advertising feature

It’s Neater Heater time of year again PRODUCTS are now available online throughout Iberia and beyond AFTER a glorious long Indian summer, a few weeks ago the temperature finally plummeted into winter faster than a roller coaster. In fact, one of the only things that have gone down as fast as the temperature is the stack of heaters in the Neater Heater warehouse. “What a difference a day makes, one day I was jet washing the terrace in shorts and flip-flops, and the next day getting inundated with heater orders,” said Tony. He and his business partner, Richard, started Neater Heater when they were looking for the best value electric heating system for their own homes. Discovering Norwegian convector heaters by accident, they liked them so much that, to paraphrase Victor Kiam, they started a company. That was over six years ago. Since then, they have increased the range of heaters thereby giving the customer a choice of price, style and colour, while still maintaining the product standard that has given them such a good name. With their new and improved website, and their ability to take phone payments, Neater Heater can now offer their product to

NEATER HEATER DISTRIBUTORS: COSTA BLANCA NORTH MORAIRA: S&W, The Tool Bar. JAVEA : Connect 2 Spain, Javea Port. CALPE: K & M’s Electro Domesticos ALTEA: Leo’s Superstore.

Tel. 965 745 805 Tel. 966 460 133 Tel 965 874 838 Tel. 965 844 848

Heaters also available for purchase at our online shop with free home delivery. WWW.NEATERHEATER.ES OR Tel. 634 312 171 PRODUCT RANGE: A variety or styles, prices and colours.

anyone in Iberia. “If the heater you want is in stock, we can have it delivered to you pretty much the day after the payment clears,” explains Richard. “The only exception being Portugal, where delivery might take 48 hours, and the Balearics, where it might take up to a week.” Neater Heater also has agents from Javea,

all the way down the Costas to Malaga, for those who would like a more personal service. The heaters can be bought individually on a room-by-room basis, or as a complete system. They are a quality product for people who want a cost-effective, reliable, heating

solution for the short, sharp, Spanish (or Portugese) winters, but don’t want the expense of installing a complete boiler and radiator system. Look on the website, or call one of their agents. Stocks are constantly being replenished, but don’t leave it too late. Remember, winter is coming!

A few post party clear up tips PARTY season is upon us and although hosting a party at home is a joy for many, cleaning up afterwards tends to be a different matter altogether. This guide should help the morning-after (sadly we can’t do much about the hangover!). - Wrap leftovers you want to keep in clingfilm as soon as possible (before you head to bed). - Open the windows, even if it’s a bit chilly, to get rid of the stale smell. - Clear bottles and glasses first. Put the bottles straight into a recycling bin or bag, emptying dregs as you go, before putting glasses on a tray lined with a damp cloth to stop them toppling over. - Put one bin bag inside another (to avoid leaks) and go round the house collecting all non-recyclable waste. One final tip. - Put plates and cutlery in to soak to soften anything that has dried on.

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Unrivalled service: Silverfox Removals of Moraira SILVERFOX Removals of Moraira cover the whole of Spain and beyond. Although local and national removals within Spain are our speciality, we do cover France and Portugal, and we also have contacts for worldwide shipping. We are happy to do small, local removals or large relocations. All our staff are uniformed, trained and happy to be working in removals. We like to work in a relaxed environment so our approach is professional but friendly. We have a truck doing the UK run every two weeks, always with guaranteed fixed collection dates to suit the client. All materials used in our removals, for example boxes, tape and bubble wrap are free. Packing of fragile goods is also free, and we will export wrap all furniture, mirrors and pictures that need extra protection when bound for the UK or abroad. We have storage facilities here in Spain or at various places throughout the UK. We do not charge extra for insurance. We are insured, you do not need to be but of course prevention is better than cure, and we have only made one

REMOVAL SERVICE: Covering the whole of Spain and beyond. small claim in the last 10 years. At least we know it works! Silverfox Removals have been operating on the Costa Blanca for 10 years and are committed to building the business on referrals and recommendations. Most small removal companies

come and go, try to do it on the cheap, cut corners and end up only looking at today’s profit. We are looking at the long term and are now the number one company on the Costa Blanca. We are reliable and we are here for you if you are looking for a competent and proper service.

Swiss chard - a tasty garden treat SWISS CHARD is healthy, delicious, and one of the easiest vegetables to grow. It is a member of the same vegetable family as spinach. It has green leaves and the stem can vary from white, yellow and pink to red. Swiss chard is full of important nutrients. One cup contains over half of the daily requirement of Vitamin C. It is also rich in magnesium, iron and Vitamins K, A, and E. Swiss chard can flourish in various garden environments. It can grow in either sun or shade, although it is more likely to thrive with some degree of shade. It can also be harvested over and over again throughout the entire growing season. So if you’re looking for a tasty garden treat that’s easy to grow then Swiss chard is the vegetable for you!

NUTRIENTS: Swiss chard is jam-packed with Vitamins A, K, C and E.

For a quote, advice, or anything to do with removals please contact Andrew anytime by calling +34 636 609 555 or +34 966 495 097 or email andrew@silverfoxremovals.com. For more information please visit our website www.silverfoxremovals.com.

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Put a bat box at the top of your Christmas wish list IF you’re prone to mosquito bites, they could be just what the doctor ordered By Sam Croft NOT sure what to ask for this Christmas? What about a bat box? Sure, bats are small, furry, and kind of ugly, but they can actually be a valuable asset to your garden. Perhaps you’re afraid of them. Well first let’s clear a few things up. Although bats can be a carrier of rabies, statistically you are more likely to get rabies from a cow. On average, only one person a year dies after contracting rabies from a bat. Many more die from dog bites or bee stings. And although they may swoop at people s o m e t i m e s , i t ’s o n l y b e c a u s e they’re going after the tasty mosquitoes swarming around their heads. Bats love mosquitoes. In fact, one bat can consume up to 600 mosquitoes per hour. Just think what 10 could do overnight! If you’re prone to nasty mosquito bites, a bat box could be just what

BAT BOX: Ensures all the bats in the neighbourhood will be out of your house.

the doctor ordered. A typical bat box can hold a colony of 30-50 bats. Don’t like t h e s o u n d o f i t ? We l l l o o k a t i t this way, they typically hang out in crevices, caves, or tight spaces. So in theory you could already have some living in your basement or attic. Putting up a bat box only ensures that all the bats in the neighbourhood will be out of your house and living in a place where you can keep a closer eye on them. If you get a bat box, hang it 15 18 feet high on the side of a building. Don’t put it in a tree as it needs lots of sunlight as well as easy access for the bat. Ideally they should be warm, facing the sun, and relatively near a source of fresh water. So if you haven’t finished your Christmas list yet, think about adding a bat box as a last minute addition. After all, a bird house or a bench is a bit boring at the end of the day!

Contemporary living rooms at Christmas CHRISTMAS living room decorations don’t have to be traditional. If you have a modern scheme you can have lots of fun jazzing it up by using simple trendy updates that will brighten up the place during the holidays. Pick decorations that echo (not blend with) their surroundings. For example, you could team a bold geometric striped rug and a bronze coffee table with gold ribbon streamers, and dot around plenty of sphered candles in complementing metallic colours to achieve your fashionable Christmas living room look. In a teal, pale green or turquoise modern living room scheme, opt for shiny blue baubles on the Christmas tree and lay down a teal and gold tartan rug. Just one or two carefully chosen decorations are enough to make a minimalist setting feel Christmassy.

TIPS: Simple trendy updates. DECORATIONS: Brighten up your home during the holidays. Ivory roses and white church candles make great companions in small strategically placed locations. And when it comes down to choosing a Christmas tree, don’t be shy. Go

for something unusual, maybe a golden tree, or tabletop paper trees. Even escaping from trees and using household items to represent a tree. Draping ivy vines over a glass mir-

ror or stuffing an alcove with firewood has a more dramatic affect than you would believe. Don’t be afraid to try different rug and cushion combinations that ordinarily wouldn’t enter your mind. An all-white room to which you

can add colour is the decorator’s perfect gift at Christmas, a blank canvas as they say. Remember less is more, if you want to avoid turning your living room into a greenhouse, add festive ambience with a scented candle rather than more flowers. Points to ponder: Keep things simple. The more complicated you make things the less effective it will be. Coordinate pieces. Shapes and colours should enhance each other, not blend in. Mood lighting. Lower the lights and place lamps to best effect. Groups of tea lights are a godsend. Position. In a large open room, the tree is bound to be focal, placing it well might not necessarily mean placing it in the obvious spot.

OPINION & COMMENT

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LEGALLY SPEAKING

10,000 drug test kits for Local Police AS part of a new series, we answer some common driving questions, kindly provided by members of the Guardia Civil based in Torrevieja, Costa Blanca, who set up the N332 website and Facebook page to help break down barriers. Flickr thanks to Andrew Sutherland

THE Direccion General de Trafico, (DGT) has invested in the provision of 10,000 drug testing kits which it will give to Local Police around Spain, in order for them to better monitor local roads for drivers under the influence of drugs. The kits will be shared with 100 municipalities across 15 provinces where 450 officers have also been trained in their use. The overall goal is to reduce the consumption of drugs and narcotics at the wheel, and thus improve road safety on urban roads. Under the agreement with local authorities, the police will be required to

carry out at least 20,000 drugs tests in 2016. The latest statistics for urban and local roads, collated from data in 2014, show that 61 per cent of all incidents causing injuries and 26 per cent of all deaths on the roads occurred in the areas policed by the local authorities. In addition, 4,740 people were hospitalised. These figures show that incidents with victims in urban areas still account for a significant percentage of road incidents in Spain, and so the DGT is widening its overall enforcement campaign to take in these roads and thus reduce the number of incidents.

For more news and articles visit www.n332.es or search N332 on Facebook.

What income must I declare? I am a pensioner resident in Spain. I receive a Spanish pension of around €9,000 a year. I also receive two pensions from the UK, which total €8,000 euros a year. I have no other income. I fail to see how you could make this deduction from my article of November 26. If you are tax resident in Spain, you are subject to Spanish income tax on your worldwide income, including, of course, your Spanish income.

From your article of November 26, would I be correct to assume that my liability for tax in Spain would be for the UK pensions only? If so, what percentage would that be? D.S. (Costa Blanca)

David Searl You and the Law in Spain

Your Spanish pension is less than €22,000, but no tax has been deducted from it, so it is subject to

income tax. From here, and after deductions, it looks like around €2,000 in tax. I urge you to see a Spanish tax consultant and make a proper declaration. The consultant may be able to find more deductions for you, as well.

Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana & Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

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I’m a grumpy old git, get me out of here! Mike Senker

In my opinion Views of a Grumpy Old Man

NEW KITS: Local Police will be able to better monitor the roads.

EWN

‘I’M A CELEBRITY, Get Me Out of Here,’ Celebrity Big Brother - I watch both. Plus others like Celebrity Master Chef, because Mrs S loves them, (not sure why she watches this as there is only so much you can do with a takeaway menu), along with The Only Way is Essex. But it has got me thinking about what constitutes being a celebrity these days. There are people taking part that are only famous for being on TV in other reality TV shows. Now, in the case of some of them, that means them just getting drunk and making absolute idiots of themselves. Others come from being ex- soap stars, some are imported from American reality TV shows that I’ve never seen or heard of. I saw one from a show called ‘16 and Pregnant’… this foul mouthed woman was a celebrity for being 16 and pregnant, so technically it could be said she was an overnight success.

It’s what I call train crash TV. You know you shouldn’t be watching it but somehow you can’t look away. It must be hard to find any older UK celebrities because quite a few of them are in prison and most others either can’t cook or have nothing in the attic, don’t like coach trips and don’t want to have to wash their bits on national TV. When I was younger a celebrity was someone famous, someone everyone knew. Sure there are still plenty of real celebs but they would never be seen in any of the above mentioned ‘shows.’ I mean I’m not sure how many Baldwin brothers there are but I don’t recall the real famous one doing it, only all the others! Celebrities have to be talented. They have to have given something to achieve that status. Not just to have dropped their drawers on national TV and finished the night by vomiting into their handbag. I do have a couple of exceptions to the annoyance of reality TV and that’s the now defunct Dancing on Ice and Strictly Come Dancing. At least the participants of these two shows are learning a new skill and seem to be chosen a little more carefully. Ok enough of this, “I’M A GRUMPY OLD GIT, GET ME OUT OF HERE!!!!”

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V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E W W W . E U R O W E E K LY N E W S . C O M

TO READ MORE

PROPERTY www.euroweeklynews.com

Advertising feature

Bridgemark Estate Group – Bringing buyers and sellers together THEIR aim is to get the best possible result for all of their clients BRIDGEMARK Estate Group is run by husband and wife team Bridget and Mark; originally from Ontario in Canada they bring with them a refreshing approach to real estate. “Our focus is on the client,” says Mark. “I think we have a slightly different philosophy when it comes to selling homes, more of a North American approach whereby we really pay attention and listen to our clients, find out exactly what they are looking for, what their requirements are, and make sure we find the right person to buy the property at the right price. Our job is to bring buyer and seller together to a mutual understanding and to make the deal happen.” They have over 300 properties on their books and speak to every one of

REFRESHING APPROACH: Bridget and Mark really pay attention to what their clients are looking for.

their clients, to let them know they are working to get them the best possible result. The pair have an extensive background when it comes to finance, real estate and sales. Bridget passed her exams in Canada as a real estate agent while Mark has worked for important insurance and financial advisory companies in North America. “We have properties in and around Moraira, Calpe, Javea, Denia and as far north as Oliva and inland to the Jalon Valley,” says Bridget. “We can walk the client from A-Z when it comes to buying a property. We have done it ourselves as foreigners coming to a new country so we understand the process. We also like to ensure that the seller is involved in the

process. Who better than them to know the ideal target buyer, while it is our job to assess the property, offer advice and work as a mediator to bring the buyer and seller together.” What is also different about the company is the lower than usual commission rate of 3.5 per cent. “This is something that fits in with our business philosophy,” says Mark, “it is beneficial for everyone involved. It means a big saving for the seller and allows more room for negotiation as less fees are incurred with the sale of the property, allowing for a happy medium for the buyer and seller.” Bridget and Mark are available on 603 685 159 or email info@bridge markestategroup.com www.bridgemarkestategroup.com

€1.2bn for Marina d’Or CHINESE investment in Spain’s biggest resort development could see €1.2 billion poured in to ensure a massive expansion, with three golf courses, several hotels, a new theme park, indoor skiing, and over 30,000 homes, part of an original plan shelved in 2010. The Wand Group, led by China’s richest man, Wang Jianlin, would take a 75 per cent stake in the resort, selfstyled as ‘Vacation City’. The move would follow several other high-profile investments from the Chinese consortium including a €50 million payment for a 20 per cent stake in Atletico Madrid FC in 2014. The property development section of Marina d’Or, located in Oropesa del Mar in Castellon Province, has been in court administration since May of last year as it sought protection from creditors.

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Spain’s first artificial crystal lagoon complex NOW to go ahead after years of set-backs ONE of Spain’s greatest development projects of recent years, Alcazaba Hills Lagoon, is to go ahead after years of set-backs. International company Crystal Lagoons intends to invest €121 million in the residential complex which is located on the Costa del Sol. It includes 450 flats placed around the lagoon, with beaches and capacity for both swimmers and nautical sports. The council in nearby village Casares said: “The company has all the necessary permits to make the lagoon a reality.” “One of its ideas is to take beaches to places that don’t have them,” said Sebastian Pillado, regional director of Crystal Lagoons, which has offices in Barcelona and has built in more than 60 countries including complexes in the US, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Indonesia, Jordan, Mexico and Brazil. The Costa del Sol complex,

which was halted in 2009 and will now be relaunched thanks to the lagoon, will be built on a

30 hectare plot and aims to provide holiday homes for middleclass European buyers.

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A slight drop for resale prices A MONTHLY report by pisos.com online property site has revealed that resale property prices in Spain registered an average price of €1,522 per square metre in November. Compared to the same month in 2014 this means the price has dropped 3.01 per cent, whereas compared to October 2015 it increased 0.82 per cent. Pisos.com director Miguel Angel Alemany stated that the market has managed to recover from a heavy blow during the recession and prices are unlikely to enter freefall again. “Now is the start of a new cycle during which developers will be planning properties aimed at particular potential buyers with nothing left to luck as the crisis taught us all to be careful, study locations and make sure our projects won’t be left in the air,” Alemany said. The most expensive resale properties can be found in the Basque Country (€2,808 per m2), Balearic Islands (€2,070 per m2) and Madrid (€2,042 per m2) and

PRICE FALL: Resale property prices decreased by 3.01 per cent. the cheapest in Castilla-La Mancha (€945 per m2), Extremadura (€1,138 per m2)

and Murcia (€1,180 per m2), according to the November report.

PROPERTY

Mortgage holders get good news THE 12- m ont h Eur i bor rate, used as a reference for the majority of variable interest mortgages in Spai n, cont i nues on i t s downwar d t r end, t hus bringing families a little r el i ef i n t he r un- up t o Christmas. Mortgage payers due for revision of payments are likely to save an average amount of €18 per month as the Euribor closed November at 0.0079 per cent, well under the 0.335 per cent registered in November 2014. For an aver age m or t gage of €120,000 t o be paid in 20 years at a rate

of Eur i bor + 1 per cent , Spani sh newspaper El Mundo reported, monthly payments will drop from €570 to €552. December, XTB analyst Jaime Diez reported, will be a month of uncertainty for the Euribor as Central European Bank measures may force it to fall further. The consequences of further drops, the analyst said, will be beneficial to families and businesses, which will be able to take out or r ef i nance l oans. However, i t wi l l be bad for the banking sector as it wi l l f ur t her r educe i t s benefits.

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Harnessing full potential of canine equipment USING a harness is growing in popularity among many pet owners

David THE Dogman Listen to David on TRE every Saturday 10am to 11am Costa del Sol (Gibraltar/Sotogrande) 98.7fm (San Roque to Calahonda) 91.9fm (Calahonda to Motril) 88.9, Costa Calida 92.7fm Costa Blanca (Torrevieja to Elche) 105.1fm (Elche to Calpe) 88.2fm, (Calpe to Gandia & Ibiza) 104.6fm, (Denia to Valencia) 95.3fm Mallorca 103.9fm

A DOG harness is a piece of equipment similar to harness tack for horses. There are various designs, depending on the type of use. Harnesses can be used on Seeing Eye dogs in the assistance of a disabled person, on working dogs that haul a cart or sled, or even in sporting events, such as in the Scandinavian practice of skijoring and pulka. Harnesses are also worn by

non-working dogs for training purposes. A harness is often worn in conjunction with a dog collar and used as an alternative for a dog leash attachment. While a collar only encircles the neck, harnesses have a loop that surrounds the torso as well, with connecting straps between them for added reinforcement and control. The design allows for distribution of force which may prevent choking; a dog will also not be able to slip free from a harness as they may easily do from a standard collar. Harness usage is growing in popularity among many pet owners, especially for those with smaller breed dogs. Assistance dogs will sometimes wear a harness if part of their job requires guiding or providing physical mobility for a disabled person. Generally, the harness design includes a built-in handle for the person to grip; this type also offers reinforcement to the handler as well as a padded breastplate for the dog’s comfort.

Sled dog harnesses vary depending on the purpose of the animal; the two basic duties of a sled dog are hauling freight or some sort or racing. Harnesses come in three main types: the freight harness, the H-back harness, and the X-back harness. Dog sports are growing and more types of harnesses are being developed, including the Y-back style and guard or distance harness. The freight harness is often an H-back harness that forms a ladder-like effect across the back with a wide chest band and sometimes extra padding. Racing harnesses are often lighter and shorter than freight harnesses. The X-back harness gets its name from the straps that form an ‘X’ across the back of the dog. The Y-back is a hybrid that is somewhat similar in appearance to the H-back. The tug line attaches to the harness on top of the dog’s back and stretches parallel to the ground or upwards to what is being hauled.

MORE CONTROL: Dog harness.

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These newer supercars are much kinder to the environment as well. For example, this one here: the only thing coming out of its tailpipes are baby foxes.

Some might say...

Porsche to unveil new 911 Turbo AVAILABLE in both coupe and convertible versions DETROIT will see Porsche present the new 911 turbo models at the North American International Auto Show in January, while the cars themselves go on sale in Germany the same month. Available in both coupe and convertible versions, the 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S will boast an additional 20hp power, a sharper design and enhanced features. Turbochargers with larger compressors in the S and modified inlet ports and higher fuel pressure in the 911 Turbo will enable power outputs of 580 hp and 540 hp respectively. A dynamic boost function has been added to the engines to improve response by maintaining the charge pressure during load changes. Fuel con-

sumption is further reduced whilst driving performance continues to excel. The 911 Turbo S Coupe can reach 100kph in 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 330kmh (205mph) and yet consumes only 9.1l/100km due to advanced transmission management and gear change mappings. The Porsche Stability Management (PSM) now also has a sport mode which makes it possible to approach performance limits more closely, and comes replete with an advanced communications system involving active messaging and warning lights. New design features include three-dimensional rear lights, 20-inch wheels, new door handles and a reworked rear body.

The new generation Turbo possess similar characteristics to the successful Carrera model and offers a wider look for the front end with double fillets for the narrow LED front lights. The newly minted Porsche Communication Management system features a highly devel-

oped infotainment system with UNVEILING: North American online navigation and a multi- International Auto Show. touch monitor integrated into imaging. Smartphones can be the centre console. integrated more easily via WiLatest traffic information can Fi, and a quality Bose sound be accessed and routes visusystem comes as standard. alised with 360-degree satellite

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MOTORING

Technology lovers will appreciate Audi’s new hybrid SUV COMBINES the ample size with the efficiency of a diesel electric plug-in By Matthew Elliott

TECHNOLOGY lovers and families alike will appreciate Audi’s latest model, the Q7 etron which combines the ample size of an SUV with the efficiency of a diesel electric plugin. The powerful hybrid features Audi’s most advanced technology, with an anticipatory sat-

nav system that knows when a built-up area is approaching and adapts its power sources in advance, whilst factoring in traffic conditions and switching seamlessly between its diesel, electric and hybrid modes. It’s a heavy vehicle at almost 2.5 tonnes but with a total of 369bhp, 516lb of torque, 3.0 litre VG diesel engine, and a 34 mile EV range, driving is a smooth affair with a settled, light steering making the weight easy to forget. A vibrating engine nullifies typical diesel vibes and keeps outside noise to an absolute minimum, while an efficient heating system uses the car’s own electrical activity to save power and increase the EV range. Coming in at a relatively steep £65,000 (€92,000) the e-

Photo by Thomas Doerfer, wikipedia

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LATEST MODEL: The Q7 e-tron. tron will be available this month in the UK, and also features a top speed of 135mph,

eight speed automatic gearbox, and a combined economy of 166.2mpg, it represents decent

value for money with all the quality you’d expect from an Audi.

Youngsters given chance to roar across Jerez DTM Young Driver Test took place on December 2 in Jerez de la Frontera, Cadiz, Andalucia. Two BMW Motorsport Juniors, Jesse Krohn of Finland and Louis Delétraz of Chile, participated along with talented British pair Alexander Sims and George Russell. The three-day test gave the youngsters the chance to compete under great conditions and prepare themselves for an exciting future.

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SPORT

Top dogs Leicester and Cherries’ know ‘Howe’ but Chelsea and Liverpool don’t! THE Foxes top the Premier League after win at Swansea Tony Matthews International Sports A former player and now the world’s most prolific author of football books with almost 150 published since 1975, Tony is also the sports correspondent for Spectrum Radio and lives on La Pilica in the Sierra Cabrera Mountains overlooking Turre. Costa de Almeria

FOOTBALL • Last weekend, by winning 3-0 at Swansea, Leicester City (with a Riyad Mahrez hat-trick) leapt to the top of the Premiership. Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth stunned Chelsea 1-0 at the ‘Bridge’ (the biggest win in the Cherries’ history). Stoke City beat Manchester City 20. Arsenal defeated Sunderland 3-1. Watford clipped Norwich 2-0 and Newcastle shocked Liverpool 2-0. The games between Manchester United and West Ham, Southampton and bottom club Aston Villa and WBA and Spurs ended level. Crystal Palace met Everton on Monday. • Brighton & Hove Albion (3-2 winners over Charlton), Middlesbrough (2-0 victors at Ipswich) and Derby County (0-0 at Sheffield Wednesday) stand one-twothree in the Championship. • In the Champions League on Tuesday, Manchester United required a good result in Wolfsburg as neighbours Manchester City took on Borussia Monchengladbach and last night, Arsenal needed to beat Olympiakos by two goals in Cyprus. • This evening Fenerbahce play Celtic in Turkey, Liverpool visit FC Sion in Switzerland and Tottenham

meet Monaco, all in the Europa League. • The draw for the 3rd round of the FA Cup, made on Monday, includes: Arsenal-Sunderland, Birmingham-Bournemouth, Chelsea-Leyton Orient or Scunthorpe, EvertonDagenham & Redbridge or Whitehawk, ExeterLiverpool, Manchester United-Sheffield United, Norwich-Manchester City, Oxford-Swansea, Salford City or Hartlepool-Derby County, SouthamptonCrystal Palace, SpursLeicester (a re-run of the 1961 final), WatfordNewcastle, West HamWolves and Wycombe-Aston Villa. • The 32 ties will be played between the January 8 - 11. • On Saturday, the draw takes place for the Euro 2016 Championships in France. Next month’s League Cup semi-finals will feature Liverpool-Stoke City and Manchester CityEverton. For Liverpool it will be their 16th last four appearance. • Despite fielding six reserves, Barcelona whipped Villanovese 6-1 before 68,000 fans at the Nou Camp to reach the last 16 of the Copa Del Rey. Soon after the La Liga leaders drew 1-1 at Valencia, managed now of course by Gary Neville. • Real Madrid have been thrown out of the Spanish Cup for fielding an illegible player, Russian Denis Cheryshev, in a first leg tie in Cadiz. • This weekend the top PL games are (on Saturday) Manchester City v Swansea

DID YOU KNOW? Since August 1992, Liverpool have won more penalties in the Premiership than any other club, 120 in total, of which 103 have been converted, 18 by Steven Gerrard. Arsenal have had 117 spot kicks, Manchester United 111, Newcastle 110, Chelsea 107 and Manchester City 68. In all PL and Cup games, 1992-2015, and not including shoot-outs, Liverpool have had 135 penalties, scoring 117.

City (early kick-off) and Bournemouth v Manchester United, followed on Sunday by Aston Villa v Arsenal, Liverpool v WBA and Spurs v Newcastle United. • Police have arrested several more high-ranking FIFA officials in relation to the bribery scandal. At least 16 members could now face charges of corruption and money-laundering. Last Monday’s BBC Panorama programme revealed that President Sepp Blatter and his cronies may well have been involved in a one billion US dollar organised crime syndicate. • FIFA will announce a £67 million loss on the last financial year. Where has all the money gone, we ask? • And there is now a strong possibility that the number of countries who will compete in the World Cup finals, could rise to 40. Round and about • Twenty-six Italian athletes face bans following an investigation by the country’s drug authorities. • Aussie Neil Robertson (with a brilliant maximum 147 break) beat Liang Wenbo (China) in the UK snooker final in York. • And Marc Leishman made it a double for Australia by pipping Swede Henrik Stenson to win the Sun City golf EDDIE HOWE: The Cherries’ biggest win.

LEICESTER CITY: League leaders. challenge. Elsewhere, the American Bubba Watson and Spain’s Sergio Garcia (with his first triumph in two years) also registered tournament victories last weekend. • Former top golfer and world champion Tiger Woods is now ranked 400th in the world rankings… and three tournaments this month are the Ladies Masters in Dubai, 9-12 December, the USPGA in Florida, 10-12 and the USPGA in Orlando, 12-13. • Fiji beat England 28-17 in the final of the Rugby Sevens in Dubai. • In F1, Toro Rosso will switch to Ferrari next year, Renault have confirmed the Lotus takeover and Red Bull have secured a Renault deal. • My choice for BBC Sports Personality of the Year is Andy Murray with Lewis Hamilton a close second.

British boxing champions By Tony Matthews SINCE the introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry Rules in 1895, only eight British boxers, Tyson Fury being the latest, have officially been recognised as a World heavyweight champion at an approved and professional level. And here they are, listed in order of their triumphs: • Bob Fitzsimmons (undisputed, 1897-99) • Lennox Lewis (WBC, 1992-94) • Michael Bentt (WBO, 1993-94) • Herbie Hide (WBO, 1994-95) • Frank Bruno (WBC, 1995-96) • Henry Akinwande (WBO, 1996-97) • Herbie Hide (WBO, 1997-99) • Lennox Lewis (WBC, 1997-99) • Lennox Lewis (IBF, WBA, WBO, 1999-2000) • Lennox Lewis (IBF, WBC, 2000-01) • Lennox Lewis (WBC, 2002-04) • David Haye (WBA, 2009-11) • Tyson Fury (WBA, WBO and IBF, 2015-16) Fact File • Bob Fitzsimmons who was born in Helston, Cornwall, held the world title for a little over two years, from March 1897 until June 1899. • Fitzsimmons was also the first boxer to win a world title at three different levels. Having claimed the middleweight crown in 1891, he then added the light-heavyweight belt to his tally in 1903. • It was then another 93 years before the next British boxer was crowned world champion, Lennox Lewis won the WBC belt in December 1992. • Lewis, regarded as one of Britain’s finest boxers, held a world title for 2,346 days, only 17 short of Muhammad Ali’s total but a long way adrift of Wladimir Klitschko’s record of 4,382 which, of course, came to end on November 28 at the hands of Tyson Fury. • Lewis was involved in a total of 14 title defences. The record is held by American superstar Joe Louis with 25. Klitschko had 23.

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PARTICIPANTS: A total of 22 players took part and there was a great atmosphere.

Orba Warblers golf report STABLEFORD competition in La Galiana A TOTAL of 22 players travelled to the picturesque La Galiana for a Stableford competition. The course was in good condition with the greens probably the quickest we have played this year. Compliments to the staff on a job well done. There were two guests today, Steve and Susan Harrison, who have played the last three weeks. A good score of 36 pts saw John Daniels win Division one off 17.5 (well done John). Second was Steve Smith with 34 pts off 4.9 and third with 33 pts was David Knight off 8.5. Division two saw our most respected Warbler Derek Gray win with 33 pts off 20.1. Much lower down the points score and in second place with 26 pts was Deryck Williams off 19.6, losing out on countback also with 26 pts was Roy Booth off 19.8. Two nearest the pins went to Michael Morley on hole five and Chris Williamson on the 14th. There were two two’s this week, our guest Susan Harrison and Glynn Braidley on holes three and 14 repectively. One doubles semi-final was won by Michael Morley and Peter Gibson beating last

years winners Fred Cooley and Paddy Kenmore. The football card was won by Fred Cooley with Crewe and he kindly donated his winnings to the Captain’s Charity (thank you Fred). It was a great atmosphere in the clubhouse at presentation with the Vice Captain making numerous mistakes and in so doing came up with his classic quote ‘and now or a re-run,’

(come back Captain Bob was heard throughout the members). Thank you to Sheila Dindar for her efforts after the golf. On Wednesday December 16 we are at Oliva Nova. It’s a 10.40am start so please arrive by 10am for registration. As always guests are welcome subject to a handicap certificate, booking can be made calling 639 242 896.

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ANDY MURRAY: One of the favourites to win the BBC’S Sports Personality of the Year.

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Costa Blanca’s best guide to local sport

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Benitachell Bowls Club Winter League squad BENITACHELL BOWLS CLUB Winter League squad was away at Monte Mar, who as always were gracious hosts. Monte Mar was holding a 100 per cent home record so far this season, and BBC with 10 of their squad members unavailable for selection, things were tense. Dudley Davies, Clive Lan-

gan, Carol Davies and John Avey put in a great performance winning their game quite comfortably in the end 22-9. John Coates, Bob Cockell, Bert McLean (Winter League Captain) and Christine Mawson taking a 17 shot lead at the half way point, although Monte Mar fought back they had a superb victory 27-8. Iris Gardiner, Derek Mawson, Bob Tranter and Steve Griffin were trailing by seven shots after the first two ends, however, they knuckled down and were worthy winners with a final score of 19-13. Maggie Lawley skipped her rink with Jacquie Roberts, Mary Cockell and Tim Wood-

BRILLIANT RESULT: Team maintained second place in the league table. cock, and were 6 – 0 after five ends but took the next 10 ends,

picking up 14 shots between the 11th and 14th ends. An

overall win of 21-11. Jeff Richards, Tony Lawley,

Mike Smith and Linda Richards put up a good fight only to lose 11-17. The Berleen team with Richard Gardiner, Carole Nicholas, Lynne Avey and Linda Smith fought hard against a very strong and experienced Monte Mar team, and although they won three of the last four ends the final score was 11-17. A brilliant result was achieved with 10 points out of 12 and a 42 shot difference. Well done BBC for maintaining 2nd place in the league table. For a full update and further information about forthcoming games and results, please visit our website: www.benitac hellbowlsclub.com.