Euro Weekly News - Mallorca 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 Issue 1591 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

ISSUE NO. 1591

31 Dec 2015 - 6 Jan 2016

EWN

MALLORCA

YOUR PAPER, YOUR VOICE, YOUR OPINION

The only one, 6 editions, 52 weeks a year

Freedom season

by Matthew Elliott Liberty will be in the air this week across Palma as Mallorcans celebrate the conquest of Islamic Mallorca over seven centuries ago, while Balearic separatists prepare for their annual demonstration for independence from Spain. On Thursday December 31 the Festa de l’Estendard (Banner Festival), one of Europe’s oldest folk festivals dating back to the 13th century, will be held in honour of the Christian Catalan King Jaume I, who liberated Mallorca from the Moors in

1229. Proud Mallorcans of all political persuasions will gather at Cort Square to witness the historic ceremony of the laying of the Royal Standard of the Conquest of Mallorca. There will be a mass held in the cathedral followed by the traditional recitation of the Colcada, a poem written by Pere Alcantara in 1861, while iconic folk figures, music, and dances will accompany the festive parade. This evening, December 30, a traditional pro-separatist rally will descend upon Palma, as demonstrators demand full au-

tonomy for the Balearic Islands under the umbrella of the wider Catalan nation. Platform 31, a diverse coalition of left-wing nationalist groups and unions, will organise the rally which will begin at 6pm from the Passeig des Born and march to Plaça Bisbe Berenguer de Palou. Known as 31D, the political rally began in 1986 and has attracted tens of thousands in the past. Key demands are the recognition of the Balearics as part of the Catalan family, self-determination, and the protection of the Catalan language and culture.

In recent years the rally has attracted more fervour and controversy as the Popular Party (PP) political hegemony across the islands has sparked a wave of protest and anti-austerity sentiment. The PP also cut legal protections for Catalan in 2012 igniting the largest protest to date that year. Recent rallies have seen a sea of Esteladas (Catalan flags) waving in the air and calls to move the official regional holiday (Diada de Mallorca) from September 12 to December 31 in honour of Jaume’s triumph.

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LOCAL NEWS

Two injured in bike madness EX-MAYOR of Palma, Mateu Isern, and his wife were injured last week when a vehicle skipped a stop sign and hit the motorbike Isern was driving with his wife as passenger.

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NEWS

A Christmas Day tragedy YOUNG man was taken to hospital but died from his injuries two days later

The accident occurred on the old Bunyola road and both suffered various fractures. After four days in hospital, they were allowed home last weekend.

Airport activity MALLORCA airport, Son Sant Joan, has seen record numbers of passengers these Christmas holidays. Information shows that from December 24 until January 7, Palma

airport will see 496,372 passengers pass through the doors on 3,415 programmed flights. The busiest days foreseen will be January 2 and 3 with 280 flights programmed.

Mountain refuge SOME 1,300 locals will enjoy a special holiday on the island this Christmas without going too far from home. Numbers released by local government show bookings in one of the 18 mountain hostels available are at 43 per cent. Hostels on the Pedra en Sec route (dry stone walks) will accommodate 1,147 hikers.

GOMILA IN PALMA: Was the scene of a fight where a young Colombian man died. By Glynis German HAVING fun turned to tragedy over Christmas this year in Palma when a young man, 26, died of his injuries after a fight turned bloody on Christmas Day morning. The young Colombian man had been out with his girlfriend in the Gomila area of

Palma on Christmas Eve when, at around 7am the following morning, he got into a fight with someone. As more people inside the club joined in, the two were thrown out of the bar and the attacker, another Colombian, said to be quite drunk, apparently broke a glass bottle and cut the young manâ€™s throat, severing the carotid artery.

The young man was taken to hospital but died from his injuries two days later, on Sunday (December 27). Although his suspected attacker was arrested immediately after the tragedy, the judge released him on Saturday due to insufficient evidence with the man claiming he hadnâ€™t even left home on Christmas Eve. Investigations continue.

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Hospital heroes

Featured News 3

Russian Press 19

Finance 21 - 26

Stocks 22

Leapy Lee 27

Letters 28

Daily TV 30

Our View 33

Colin Bird 33

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Christmas is now a consumer’s paradise SPAIN has experienced the same development of consumerism as Britain By Glynis German T W O d ay s w ith o u t b e ing able to shop proved to be too much for the hundreds of people who took to the shops last Sunday. Both Christmas Day and Boxing Day saw everything closed in Mallorca, causing withdrawal symptoms for those addicted to shopping. Spain has experienced the same development of consumerism as Britain, albeit at a later date. The last two decades have turned what was a traditional religious event into a consumer’s paradise, namely Christmas. The dates for Christmas this year meant that Sunday w as th e firs t d ay w he n

SHOPS CLOSED: On Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

shoppers were able to get t hei r f i x, al t hough when shops opened in the morning, there were more staff than there were shoppers. By the afternoon however, this had changed with families out in force enjoying some special offers to be found. Local busi nesses have had to compete with the giants, such as Carrefour and Al Campo, but all predict that the New Year ’s sales will be good. Some businesses took advantage of the dates and off er ed di scount s on m any items, but the majority of discounts will be found aft er t he Thr ee Ki ngs have been on January 6.

Time Out 36 - 37

Health & Beauty 38

Vicki McLeod 39

Social Scene 40 - 43

Property 44 - 45

Legally Speaking 46

Homes & Gardens 47

Classifieds 48 - 49

Pets 50

Boats 51

Motoring 52

Sport 54, 56

EWN’s 2015 - A year in review AT the risk of extreme understatement, 2015 has been an eventful year. Rather than bring you the usual rundown of global trends and excitements, we thought our readers might appreciate

some of the local highlights that their community has experienced over the past year. The following pages will be devoted to a recap of some of what we considered to be the defining tales that

2015 brought to our papers. Some were of immense local significance, while others have touched all of our hearts, we hope you find time for both reflection and joy in this trip down memory lane.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

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Taking a taxi could cost just €1.50 RY A NU JA CAB RIDES: Cheap rate between November and April.

January 8 Issue 1540 THE Balearic Taxi Association is willing to offer cab rides at €1.50 per passenger in an effort to alleviate the lack of demand during the winter months. The proposal was submitted to Palma Council. The taxis would cover some of the same routes of the EMT public buses

Y AR U BR E F

February 5, Issue 1544. FREE WiFi will soon make lazing on Palma’s beaches all the

in Palma and pick up passengers at the same designated stops until all the seats are taken. Every passenger would be charged €1.50 regardless of where they are going. The taxi drivers had originally asked for a single €3 price, but later accepted cutting it in half. The service, however, would only be provided between November and April.

Three Kings more popular than Santa MOST people on the islands prefer getting gifts from the Three Kings rather than Santa Claus. Four out of five people born on the Balearic Islands – 98 per cent – said they would rather get their gifts on January 6 and not on December 25, and 64 per cent said they planned to go the Three Kings’ Parade, held on January 5 all over Spain, according to a survey conducted by DaWanda.es. The study looked at 2,500 Spaniards between 18 and 60 years of age. More than half of respondents (54 per cent) said they slept like a baby the night before the arrival of the Three Kings.

Beach WiFi extended more enjoyable, thanks to an agreement between the Balearic Port Authorities and Palma’s Tourism Foundation 365. The free internet connection will cover the stretch of coast between the Can Pere Antoni beach and Dique del Oeste, including the docks at Pelaires, the Paseo Maritimo promenade and the Moll Vell area.

CAPITAL CITY: The most expensive in Spain.

Palma life is pricey PALMA has been announced as the most expensive Spanish city to live in by website Numbeo. Numbeo is the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities’ and countries’ cost of living, housing indicators, traffic and crime, amongst other lifestyle

“No other city in the world offers a similar service as far as I know,” said Head of the Balearic Taxi Association Antonio Bauza. For the time being, Palma Council is reluctant to adopt the proposal because it could be a direct competition to EMT buses. “It’s not about competition, but about offering people a better service,” said Bauza.

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conditions. The website has compared data from eight different Spanish cities and concluded that Palma de Mallorca was the most expensive, followed by Alicante and Madrid. The two cheapest cities were Sevilla and Malaga.

The new service, which will be implemented in several phases, will add to the one already operational at Platja de Palma, which was enthusiastically received by the public. The initiative was introduced at a meeting held by the Tourism Foundation Board, which took place in Es Baluard and was

presided over by the mayor, Mateo Isern. In addition, the budget for the organisation was decided, with an increase of 10 per cent, a total of €6.1 million allocated for 2015. The foundation will continue to energise and promote tourism programmes, which have been increased by 32 per cent in 2014.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Photo credit GanMed64 on flickr.

Muro beach voted 7th best in Spain CH R MA

PIONEERING: A new system to predict the arrival of jellyfish.

March 5, Issue 1548. THE Platja de Muro beach has been chosen by TripAdvisor

PLATJA DE MURO: Has a great variety of services. users as the seventh best beach in Spain.

The Platja de Muro is a 5.2kilometre beach, characterised by its fine, white sand and stretches of vegetation. A noteworthy area is Es Comu, a part of the beach included in Sâ€™Albufera Natural Park. The beach has several quality certifications, such as the European Union Blue Flag, which guarantees its perfect conditions in terms of environmental respect and facility maintenance and one of the most advanced safety and rescue services in Spain.

Detecting jellyfish before they arrive A NEW tool in the Balearic Islands, the first of its kind in Europe, is hoped to predict the arrival of jellyfish on the islandsâ€™ beaches, reducing the effect on bathers. Environmental and Agricultural delegate Biel Company announced that the new tool detected the presence of jellyfish in 799 cas-

es from a total of 17,507 inspections carried out since last summer. Results of daily inspections at five marine reserve areas and on 120 beaches are added to a database which the tool will use to create forecasts for particular areas or times of year and even create maps of ar-

eas where the creatures tend to gather. The tool has a double goal: to reduce the effects of jellyfish on bathers and also to help scientists understand the links between environmental conditions and the appearance of jellyfish and allow a prediction system to be put into place.

A REVIEW OF 2015

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TOURIST DRAW: The Galeras Rojas carriages in Palma.

Horse carriage petition gains massive support RIL P A

April 23 Issue 1555.

A PETITION to ban carriages pulled by horses in Palma de Mallorca has already been signed by more than 87,800 people. It was launched on Change.org by Luis Moreira, a Palma resident, after the death of a horse in front of Palma Cathedral. â€œFor the past few years,

numerous incidents have occurred regarding these carriages, for instance, drivers hitting [the horses] due to impatience, the death of animals after suffering heatstroke or excessively long working hours,â€? reads the petition. It has sparked an international response, especially in Germany.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Monsters of the seas set to dock Two of the world’s biggest liners set for Palma Y MA

May 7, Issue 1557. THE two biggest cruise ships in the world, the Allure and Quantum of the Seas, will arrive at Palma’s port this month. The Quantum docks in the city’s port on May 12, while the Allure will arrive in Palma on May 25. The first of the two giant cruise liners features a

LARGE SCALE: View of the Allure of the Seas. moving crane, suspended 90 metres above the ship, which gives a 360-degree view, an ice rink and the

first ever bumper car attraction on a ship. It weighs 188,666 tonnes and is 347 metres in length.

FINANCE

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016/ Mallorca

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EWN

New Year Financial Planning Review The New Year is an excellent time to carry out a “wealth-review” to make sure your money is working as well as it can for you. Spending a little time now will help you preserve your wealth over the long term to meet your financial objectives. Are you up to date with the latest developments in Spain and internationally that affect you? Do you have a considered, strategic tax and wealth management plan in place? Has there been any change in your circumstances since you last reviewed your affairs? Once you have assessed your investments, tax planning, succession planning and pensions, you will then be able to discuss any necessary adjustments with your financial adviser. Savings and investments Are you sure your investments, and the mix of them, is suitable for your life in Spain – and for your circumstances, needs, time horizon and risk tolerance? This is such an

By Simon King, Partner, Blevins Franks important element of protecting and growing your wealth, yet many people do not have an investment plan in place, or have neglected one they set up years ago. You may have built up a portfolio of shares and funds over the years, without really considering how they work together or whether they suit your aims. Consider the principles for successful investing below. • Your appetite for risk

Obtain a clear and objective assessment of your appetite for risk, or your portfolio will not be suitable for you. • Match your risk profile to the optimum portfolio Make sure your investment portfolio matches your attitude to risk. • Diversification It is critical to ensure your investments are suitably diversified, so you are not over-exposed to any given asset type, country, sector or stock. • Yearly review Your portfolio can shift away from the one designed to match your risk profile and objectives, and your circumstances may have changed. Tax planning Get advice to make sure your investments and wealth are arranged in the best, most up-todate way to limit your tax liabilities. Choose someone who is well-versed in the nuances of both Spanish and British taxation. The right tax-efficient arrangement can keep most of

your investments in one place and help you legitimately avoid paying too much tax. Estate planning The first step is to establish your goals: • Who would you like to benefit from your estate? • Do you want them to have control over the money or not? • How quickly would they need to be able to access the money? • What impact will tax have? • Would you like to try and avoid probate on some of your assets? You then need to obtain specialist advice to ensure that your estate planning is specifically set up to achieve your wishes for your heirs. The new EU succession regulation allows you to choose between Spanish or UK succession law to apply to your estate on death. You need to ensure your will is up to date for your wishes,

or your estate may be distributed according to the restrictive Spanish law. The EU succession regulation does not allow you to opt out of Spanish succession tax, which can be costly in certain circumstances. This is due on death if the asset being inherited is located in Spain or if the recipient is resident in Spain. Tax is paid by each recipient, not by the estate, and the rate depends on the relationship between the benefactor and the recipient. Whether it is investments, pensions or tax planning, seek specialist advice to ensure you do what works best for your personal situation. Use an adviser who can guide you on all these aspects and provide holistic solutions so you can enjoy a healthy, wealthy 2016 and beyond. To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

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Leading the way to economic recovery

Controversy over talk of tourist tax LY JU EWN

Contando Estrelas Flickr

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during Operation Neron has now been arrested.

Multiple crash Three cars involved AN accident involving three vehicles at kilometre 40 of the Palma-Alcudia road near sa Pobla resulted in four people being injured. Several ambulances attended the scene to attend to the casualties.

Violent attack Man taken into custody A MAN was arrested in Palma for allegedly hitting his girlfriend in the street and attempting to attack the police when they were taking him into custody. He claimed they had beaten him.

EWN

Sent to prison Negligent manslaughter

the making of this fiesta

San Fermin Running of the bulls

midday sun.

Biker hurt

BABY-JUMPING in Burgos during the feast of Corpus Christi

By Dilip Kuner

Cordon Press

Remains in hospital A 60-YEAR-OLD motorcyclist was badly hurt after being involved in an accident on the BinialiBinissalem road. He was taken to the Son Espases hospital where he remains hospitalised.

gather in the Praza do Obradoiro to

view the traditional fireworks and a di l j t d t th f d f

In total, 20,500 runners took part in the San Fermin running of the bulls this year. In 2014, two out of every th t ki tf

A BUILDER has been sentenced to a year and a half in prison for negligent manslaughter for the death of a worker, 39, following an eight-metre fall in 2008, on Son Rossinyol Industrial Estate in Palma.

July 16, Issue 1567.

Car dumped Dangerous parking GUARDIA CIVIL police officers are searching for the driver of a car that was abandoned in a lane of the Inca motorway. The vehicle was found by ambulance staff that began signalling warnings to other drivers.

BABY LINE: ‘Devils’ jump over the infants. By Steve Walsh FROM the early 1600s, every year during the feast of Corpus Christi, the small Spanish town of Castrillo de Murcia in Burgos is where babies lay i th t t d il j th

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place in the Baby Jumping Festival of El Colacho. Mattresses are laid end to end with the babies carefully positioned in a line, (doting mothers close to hand, take note!). Then, local men dressed as devils in red and yellow suits prodt j th b b li

Beer on tap

Child injured

500 users per week

Ran over in Sineu

Regardless of complaints from drivers, residents and caterers, Beer Bikes are proving a great success in Madrid, with an estimated 500 users per week touring Atocha and Cibeles on the multi-tandem vehil f t 18 l ith b

A FIVE-YEAR-OLD boy is in a critical condition after being run over by a car near the sports centre in Sineu. The incident took place at around 6.50pm and the victim was taken to Son Espases hospital.

June 4, Issue 1561. THE Balearic Islands are leading the rest of Spain out of recession with the biggest drop in the jobless rate in the country. Driving the recovery in the jobs market has been the construction sector with 14.9 per cent more people paying into the social security system. The hotel industry workforce grew by 6.2 per cent in terms of new con-

BALEARICS: Top the list for the biggest fall in unemployment. tracts with the industry growing by 4.6 per cent. The Balearics saw the highest month-on-month decrease in the unemployment rate in Spain and was second on the list year-on-year. The total number of outof-work residents registered

at the region’s Employment Service Office (SOIB) decreased in May by 7,924 people, which represents an 11.87 per cent reduction on April, according to the Employment and Social Security Ministry. The number of jobless in

the Balearic Islands totals 58,832 people, the fewest since May 2009. The yearto-year unemployment figures fell by 9,005, or 13.27 per cent. This means that there have now been 31 consecutive months of reductions.

THE Mallorca Hoteliers’ Federation and regional government have begun talks on tourism policies which will be put in place during this term of office. Talk of plans to charge tourists a new tax already has them at odds. Vice-President and Councillor for Innovation, Investigation and Tourism, Biel Barcelo, said the aim is to talk with all sectors so that the so-called ‘ecotasa’ can come into effect. The law which will apply to the tax will soon be drawn up. It aims to minimalise the effect which tourism has on the envi-

ronment and would be charged to all visiting tourists. At a suggested €1 per night’s stay in a hotel or tourist apartment, some €15 billion could be received every year. This, the new government has said, would be to solve problems with rubbish, water and energy, and improve the management of protected natural areas. The plan is for it to be charged in hotels and tourist apartments if there is no way of doing so at airports and ports, or to add it to the price of tickets and package tours. The president of the Hoteliers’ Federation, Inmaculada de Benito, says that this will affect competitiveness and if it does go ahead, has asked for it not to come into effect next year, as prices are already almost agreed with tour operators for 2016. Barcelo has said that so far, no dates had been set to bring the tax into effect and that talks will be held with all affected parties so they can work on it together.

A REVIEW OF 2015

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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Summer sales are looking up

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World’s top destination T US G AU

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stunning beach horse races

No parking Fines will be issued Cordon Press

AUGUST sees this Cadiz coastline become track for ancient event

MANACOR Town Hall has banned parking on the access road to Cala Varques beach. Parking is banned on both sides of the road, and once it is considered everyone knows this, fines of up to €200 will be issued.

Mystery fall Man dies A MAN, 48, died after falling from the old firemen’s tower on Son Castello Industrial Estate in Palma. It is not known why he climbed the tower at just after midnight. Paramedics, Local Police and firemen attended the scene.

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Fire ban No burning refuse

Shock tactics Tasers to be brought in

REMARKABLE RACES: Take place over six days this month.

EWN By Carol Irving

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racing taking root in Madrid, San Sebasti d S ill th t d ll

CATALUÑA’S police force, the Mossos d’Esquadra, will be provided with between 130 and 140 T l ti b th d f

ALL authorisations to burn garden or agricultural refuse were annulled by the Balearic Nature Institute (Ibanat) earlier this week due to the high temperatures expected all over the island, it was announced on Twitter.

August 6, Issue 1570. in the River Sella

THE world’s largest canoeing race is a UNESCO World Heritage Event

Joint cultures Exhibition of works AN exhibition of the works of seven Mallorcan and seven Moroccan artists is being held at Felanitx Casa de la Cultura. It will then travel to Santanyi, Manacor, Vilafranca and Sant Lloren before heading to Fez in Morocco.

Hot days Yellow alert MALLORCA remains on yellow alert for high temperatures according to the State Meteorological Agency, AEMET, which has warned of temperatures of 36ºC and above in the coming days.

€46m profits Highest takings

On the pill ON YOUR MARKS: More than 1,000 canoeists take part in the race.

By Carol Irving

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of river and admiring the beautiful l d th Whil th

Birth control for pigeons

BADIA del Valles in Barcelona has come up with a new way to control the pigeon population. From now til D b th bi d ill b

AIR EUROPA is the Balearic company with the highest business takings, with more than €1.54 billion in 2013, and profits of more than €46 million. The second highest was for Halcon Viajes, with €863 million, and losses of €12 million.

July 23, Issue 1568. FORTY-EIGHT per cent of shop owners in Mallorca say they have sold more in the first two weeks of this year’s summer sales than over the same period last year. Five per cent claims to have sold the same, according to the Union for Small and Medium Businesses (PIMECO). Twenty per cent say they expected the sales to go better, while 40 per cent thought they

SHOP SALES: Many had sold more goods this year compared to last year. would be worse. Sixty per cent said that the sales had met their expectations while 40 per cent said they had

not. Almost 50 per cent blamed this on the lack of customers and 51 per cent blamed it on the lack of desire to buy.

THE world’s most popular tourist destination is Mallorca, according to website HotelBeds. The island is even more popular than destinations like Disney World in Orlando, and is followed in popularity in Spain by Barcelona, Tenerife, Benidorm and the Costa del Sol. Mallorca is full to overflowing with tourists in hotels and apartments. In June, the National Institute of Statistics (INE) confirmed that holiday lets on the island reached the highest occu-

pancy levels in Spain. The island’s favourite destinations are Alcudia and Calvia, and it appears that tourism is due to continue along the same lines at least until the end of September, a month which is seeing figures rise each year. The British, German, French and Italian markets are providing Mallorca with

even more visitors than in other years, and growth within the Spanish market is at around 15 per cent. HotelBeds concludes that the amount of activities available to tourists is also rising to keep up with demand. The site has a database of 75,000 hotels in 180 countries.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Balearic Island sisters are doing it for themselves 34.19 PER CENT of self-employed workers are women

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stunning beach horse races

No parking Fines will be issued

AUGUST sees this Cadiz coastline become track for ancient event Cordon Press

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Mystery fall Man dies

THE economic empowerment of women across the world is one of the most remarkable revolutions of the past 50 years. This is echoed by the latest figures which reveal that almost 34.2 per cent of self-employed workers in the Balearic Islands are women. The national average is 34 per cent of the total

of 1.7 million self-employed workers in Spain, according to a survey. The sector with most self-employed women is healthcare, with 72 per cent of the total. Women account for 63 per cent of hairdressers and 54 per cent in the education sector, but only 7 per cent in transport and 15 per cent in the agricultural sector.

A MAN, 48, died after falling from the old firemen’s tower on Son Castello Industrial Estate in Palma. It is not known why he climbed the tower at just after midnight. Paramedics, Local Police and firemen attended the scene.

Fire ban No burning refuse

Shock tactics Tasers to be brought in

REMARKABLE RACES: Take place over six days this month.

By Carol Irving

74 028

racing taking root in Madrid, San Sebasti d S ill th t d ll

CATALUÑA’S police force, the Mossos d’Esquadra, will be provided with between 130 and 140 T l ti b th d f

Sept 3, Issue 1574.

SELF-EMPLOYED: Women account for 54 per cent in the education sector.

Regional government plan to stop drilling COUNCILLOR said they want any requests which have already been presented to be rejected THE Balearic Government has formally requested the central government and the EU to stop plans to drill for oil around the islands. The regional government wants requests from companies which have already been presented to be rejected and any plans to drill around the Balearic Islands suspended. The councillor for the

Presidency, Marc Pons, made the request, saying that the Balearic Islands want to remain at the head of their game in the tourism industry, meaning that they need to find clean sources of energy and efficient technologies. This occurred during his speech at a conference regarding ‘Blue Growth’ held in Brussels. Blue Growth is the long term strategy to support sustainable

growth in the marine and maritime sectors as a whole. It is the maritime contribution to achieving the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. Pons said that “we can hardly speak of ‘blue growth’ when there is a threat to the environment, to society and to the Balearic economy in the shape of oil drilling.”

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A REVIEW OF 2015

Bullfights will soon be ‘a bad memory’ says group ANIMAL well-being law to cover traditional sport when it is passed ER B TO OC

October 8 Issue 1579. THE three left-wing parties in the Balearic Islands Parliament (PSOE, Mes and Podemos) have committed to ban bullfighting in the region. The animal rights organisations that launched the Mallorca Sin Sangre (Mallorca Without Blood) campaign, announced that the three parties are to put forward a proposition in the Balearic chamber to modify the laws

PROTESTERS: Anti-bullfighting groups have found support from left-wing parties. that allow bullfighting events. “After many months of real effort and being able to make 24 towns declare themselves ‘anti-bullfighting’ and ‘animalfriendly,’ as well as the support of 135,000 people and also figures from culture, fashion, cin-

ema and sport, the Mallorca Sense Sang campaign is about to achieve its goal,” said the association Anima Naturalis. Head of the association, Guillermo Amengual, said this achievement was ‘historic’ and celebrated that, “in a few

days, bullfighting will just be a bad memory for the islands.” However, the parties insisted that there is no specific date for the legal modification which will eradicate bullfighting, which is to be included in the animal well-being law.

LESS WASTE: 120,000 tonnes fewer will be processed.

The last of the rubbish imports MALLORCA Island Council has permanently put an end to importing refuse to be incinerated at the Son Reus plant. This will keep some 120,000 tonnes of rubbish from Italy and Ireland from arriving on the island. She said the final decision is supported by legal and financial reports and is approved by the Balearic Regional Government. Meanwhile, the conservative Partido Popular (PP) councillor, Catalina Soller, argued that the

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November 19, Issue 1585. only reason why fees for processing refuse on the island can

remain the same next year is thanks to the money made from importing rubbish for incineration. Soller was formerly the head of the environmental department and said only 20,000 tonnes of rubbish will be prevented from arriving, not 120,000 as the Consell reported. This is because 100,000 tonnes which were due to arrive from Rome had still not been given the go-ahead by the Italian Government.

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A REVIEW OF 2015

A day to celebrate volunteers worldwide SATURDAY December 5 celebrates International Volunteer Day, a day when volunteering is celebrated in all its glory with special tribute paid to those working tirelessly all over the world. The Balearic Volunteers Platform (Plataforma del Voluntariado de les Illes Balears) will be at the entrance to the Parc de Les Estacions in Palma from 11am till 6pm on Saturday where they shall have an information tent and lots of activi-

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December 3, Issue 1587. ties. The platform recognises some 30 organisations in the

Balearics relying on some 7,000 volunteers. At midday a concert will be performed by Proyecto Hombre and at 1pm there will be a workshop on Nordic walking organised by PREDIF, which is the Spanish organisation representing people with physical disabilities and working to promote equal opportunity whilst improving the quality of life for those with physical restrictions. There will be a talk by the volunteer association, DIME Cuenta con Nosotros, who organise volunteers to visit patients and their families at the two palliative care units in Palma General Hospital and Juan March Hospital near Bunyola. Throughout the event there will be world cafe workshops held where one joins a conversation at one table and certain questions are posed about volunteering resulting in interesting conversations.

COP21 CONFERENCE: Let us hope the future of the planet is secure.

Paris talks hope for a positive outcome CLIMATE change summit is nearly at an end THE Balearic government, represented by the Directors of Environmental Education, Environmental Quality and Waste, Sebastià Sansó, and Energy and Climate Change, Juan Groizard, attended the United Nations climate summit (COP21) in Paris this week. The summit, which ends tomorrow, started on Novem-

ber 30 with negotiators from 195 countries gathering to try to reach a deal aimed at reducing global carbon emissions and limiting global warming to 2C. The Mallorcan government representatives formed part of the Spanish central government delegation and were kept informed on a daily basis about the state of ne-

gotiations taking place in the French capital. They were there to renew the local government’s clear commitment for the islands to be using 100 per cent renewable energy and to be free from greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050. The government also confirmed its duty that the Mediterranean remains free from oil exploration too. The Minister of Planning, Energy and Mobility, Joan Boned said “we must act now to achieve this objective and implement a strategy to combat climate change which is needed immediately.” Tomorrow is the last day of the COP21 conference let us hope that the future of the planet is secure.

NEWS

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

www.euroweeklynews.com

RUSSIAN P RESS

Star in the making DUE to number of votes, came in second place

KAMILLA ISMAILOVA: Stunned the judges. RUSSIAN-BORN Kamilla Ismailova stunned the judges at the Junior Eurovision 2015 singing ‘Mirror’ for San Marino, and receiving the tiny former Soviet Bloc country’s first-ever ‘douze’ points. Due to the strength of the Russian votes, she managed second place.

Oil for India RUSSIA and India are reported to have signed multiple agreements enabling cooperation on matters such as energy, the military, technology and economy. As a part of this, Vladimir Putin has said Russia will supply 10 million tons of oil annually to India for the next decade.

Border bicycle ban THE Finnish border patrol service has banned cyclists from crossing the border with Russia on a bicycle. The border patrol service said that the measure was introduced because ‘riding bicycles in the winter is a threat to cyclists themselves and other participants of road traffic.’

Nuclear New Year TASS have reported that Russia and Iran plan to begin construction of Iranian nuclear

Toughen up on Turkey PRIME MINISTER Dmitry Medvedev, speaking at a cabinet meeting this week said, “Russia will be taking new restrictive measures against Turkey,” in response to the unfriendly actions seen recently. “Although we don’t plan on completely ending cooperation with Turkey, unfriendly actions need an equivalent response,” he said.

power plants within weeks, according to Behrouz Kamalvandi, a spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran. He added, “We wish to start the job as soon as possible after the New Year holidays.”

Big investment TWO months after the law on the Free Port of Vladivostok entered into force, Russia’s Far East Development Corporation has announced it has signed 16 agreements with businesses

wishing to invest to the tune of 164.4 billion roubles (€2.13 billion)

GDP down ACCORDING to Dow Jones & Company, Russia’s economy dropped in November after a brief recovery. Russia’s GDP fell 4 per cent in November, bringing the annual decline for the January-November period to 3.7 per cent, and with falling oil prices is likely to contract further in 2016.

EWN

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

www.euroweeklynews.com

A REVIEW OF 2015

Let our business make your business the best business in town…

YOUR voice is important to us… HERE at the Euro Weekly News (EWN) we are confident we produce an excellent newspaper as well as the best English-language internet news site in Spain, but we also know we should never rest on our laurels. Our dedicated team is always willing to listen to our readers. Your views are important

e knew we could rely on our readers to come up with some ideas, and we were not to be disappointed with a bulging (virtual) postbag. On this page we give just a selection of the comments we received, plus a round up of the (previously announced) winners of the iPad minis. We have read every single one of the comments and taken note of some of the common suggestions as well as taking action. A recurring theme was the need to increase our local news content and be an even bigger part of the community. “It

would be great to see faces from the EWN around more and perhaps have a local office,” said Joan Adams from the Costa Blanca. We have taken such comments to heart and are opening three more local offices now, and a total of six by Easter, showing we are firmly at the heart of the community. From Marbella to Mojacar, Albox to Benissa, Benidorm to Mallorca, Benalmadena to Albir and Benijofar, we will have your local area covered – guaranteed. Moira Bartle from Caleta de Velez (Malaga) raised a subject echoed by several readers when she said: “Ensure that forthcom-

Almeria Murphy Stevens, from Arboleas, was the winning entry for the Almeria region. The 18-year-old Motocross fan said: “I wouldn’t make any changes to the company because it is perfect as it is.” Murphy, who is out and about on his bike constantly, has worked for Almeria Homes for the past 18 months but is thinking about returning to the UK to continue his studies, so his iPad will prove invaluable.

Costa del Sol Eveline Kleyngeld, from Estepona, took home the prize for the Costa del Sol. She likes the puzzles section. “I always turn to them first, so that gave me the idea that the index was very important, so I could find them easily. Then I look at the news, there is always so much to read.”

to us, so early in 2015 we asked our readers what they thought of the EWN. With a winning prize for the best comments of an iPad mini being given away in each of our six regions we asked: “If you were in charge of the EWN for a day, what is the one thing you would do to make it even better than it is?”

ing events be published in advance so readers can participate and enjoy, and not report after the event.” She was annoyed she missed an event that happened at 3.30pm on the day of publication and she read about it that evening, thus missing it. This is a very valid point, which the whole editorial team has taken on board. We pledge to strive to print as many upcoming events as possible, although for reasons of space we cannot always do so. Bill Mullaney, from Alicante Province, would like to see some travel features. He said: “I’d include travel features on

some interesting places in Spain to visit.” This is something that we have thought about and are delighted to have persuaded travel writer Kevin Pilley to start contributing. Although he will be writing about some Spanish destinations, we took it a stage further and he will give witty and informative reports from spots all round the world. Robert Walford from Campoverde (Alicante) came up with an excellent suggestion, shared by several readers. He said: “I would bring in a feature called Parish Pump News bringing input from correspondents

Costa Blanca South

Our winners Costa Blanca North Over in Javea on the Costa Blanca North, Brian Moreland showed his humour when asked what he would do if he was editor for a day. He quipped: “Immediately sack myself as I’d be useless.” Looking forward to checking out the iPad, he said it was the first thing he’d ever won, “apart from a turkey we won once on Christmas Eve!”

Axarquía Marcel Van den Huevel from Nerja’s suggestion was to do with team work, something we all recognise as vital at

of local news and items of interest from their village or town.” We thought it was such a good idea that we are actively recruiting volunteer local correspondents to report on their patch, and are inviting Mr Walford to be one of our first correspondents. If you would like to have a go then email us at newsdesk @euroweeklynews.com. Other ideas included increasing the number of distribution points, something we have done. Should you have any trouble finding a copy of the EWN drop us a line at distribution@ euroweeklynews.com.

EWN: “It’s all about motivating your workforce, you need everyone to go to work with a smile and job satisfaction is incredibly important,” he said. “Building a family atmosphere helps with communication, which is very important for any company, but in particular for a newspaper where it is vital that the readers get what they want – information. “I have always liked working for happy companies and I think that as the Euro Weekly News is the best English-language newspaper available, they need to make sure that everyone who works there is positive, upbeat and happy in their work.”

Joyce Gallagher from Catral would like to see recipes in the paper. “I always read the paper but I am a keen cook and there are no recipes, so I thought that was a shame and would invite people to send in their favourite recipes.”

Mallorca Congratulations to John Griffiths from Mallorca, who was forthright in his answer: “I would not change anything as I think that you have got things right.” Mr Griffiths, 66 years old, had been coming to Mallorca for 38 years, but retired to Son Ferrer 14 years ago. His parents had an apartment in Peguera so he had many opportunities to visit Mallorca over the years while he was working for a foreign royal family.

CONGRATULATIONS! Our winning ‘editors for the day.’

From left to right: Murphy Stevens, Eveline Kleyngeld, Brian Moreland, Marcel Van den Huevel, Joyce Gallagher and John Griffiths.

Marbella

Watch out, watch out, there is an EWN office about in your neighbourhood! Benalmadena

Albox

Mojacar

Benijofar

Benidorm

Albir

Benissa

Mallorca

FINANCE

Mallorca

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

LONDON - FTSE 100

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A temporary reprieve for Abengoa SPANISH banks and HSBC have agreed to lend further funds By John Smith SPANISH Banks and HSBC have agreed in principale to continue to support Abengoa by lending further funds which will allow it to pay December wages. However, they expect the stricken

is the amount of money that a consortium of Spanish banks is prepared to lend to Abengoa to allow it to keep going until mid-January.

PLANS: To reduce price differences between regions.

Prada sales are suffering in Asia By John Smith ALTHOUGH the Devil may wear Prada, people in Asia seem to have turned their backs on the Italian designer brand, and profits for the nine months to October 2015 dropped by an alarming 26.4 per cent to €235 million, compared to €319 million for the same period last year. Whilst the company is not

company to put up shares in its US subsidiary Abengoa Yield by way of collateral. Although this support will only carry it through until the middle of January, it gives the company some breathing space in which to review its situation and to allow the banks to

Npower failed its customers. Not only have its billing and complaint procedures been chaotic, it treated its customers poorly, which is unacceptable.” Dermot Nolan CEO of Ofgem on fine of £26 million

Photo Credit pcruciatti shutterstock

Quote of the Week

€113M

exactly facing hard times, they are clearly worried, especially as for the last quarter profit fell by 38 per cent. In accordance with tradition, the company will be looking to cut costs. Prada also apparently plans to reduce price differences between different regions, to discourage tourists from travelling to countries where some items may be cheaper.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Another Ortega purchase AMANCIO ORTEGA, owner of Inditex, has extended his real estate empire by purchasing the historic and protected Haughwout building in New York, just off Broadway at a cost of €133 million. This increases his holdings in property which includes iconic buildings in London, Madrid and Miami.

Electoral goodies JUST before the country went to the voting stations, the Spanish Government announced that in January, the cost of electricity would fall by 0.7 per cent and natural gas by 3 per cent. Minister Jose Maria Lassalle confirmed that if reelected and the economic climate was right, his government would reduce some IVA rates to 10 per cent.

Starbucks finally pay up IT has been revealed that Starbucks UK, which is an arm of the world’s largest coffee chains, has stuck to its word and has started to pay significant amounts of tax after averaging just over £500,000 (€700,000) per year over a period of 14 years.

$57 million (€52.5 million) is the record value of box office takings on the opening day of Star Wars The Force Awakens in the USA.

STAT OF WEEK

business & legal

EWN

Stung by widespread criticism and possibly suffering from a customer backlash from its lack of payment, it has seen a jump in profits and has paid £8 million (€11 million) in the past 12 months.

consider their positions if, as appears likely, there is no ‘white knight’ on the horizon to rescue the company and protect their investment. It appears the lawyers representing both Abengoa and the rescuing bank will be paid up to €40 million by the company.

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Competitor for Amazon THE Spanish department store El Corte Ingles has launched a new online rapid delivery operation in order to try to combat Amazon, which is seeing a steady rise in its business within Spain. The new service from El Corte Ingles offers two-hour delivery on a series of items in six of the largest Spanish cities, with categories including, computers, and cosmetics.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY Anglo American 328.05 4.70 Associated British Foods 3,339.00 21.00 Admiral Group 1,639.50 -7.00 Aberdeen Asset Management 290.00 -2.30 Ashtead Group 1,112.00 -7.00 Antofagasta 462.60 -0.50 ARM Holdings 1,038.00 -6.00 Aviva 519.25 0.00 AstraZeneca 4,540.00 27.00 BAE Systems 497.30 -1.60 Babcock International Group 1,023.00 -103.00 Barclays 221.65 -0.60 British American Tobacco 3,781.00 35.50 Barratt Developments 616.00 0.00 BG Group 987.75 -1.60 Berkeley Group Holdings 3,626.50 -65.00 British Land Co 793.50 4.00 BHP Billiton 776.50 -1.60 Bunzl 1,864.50 8.00 BP 365.95 5.55 Burberry Group 1,205.00 8.20 BT Group 467.25 -1.45 Coca-Cola HBC 1,470.50 -12.00 Carnival 3,800.00 8.00 Centrica 218.20 1.40 Compass Group 1,162.50 -3.00 Capita Group (The) 1,218.00 11.00 CRH 1,947.50 0.00 Dixons Carphone 497.70 0.00 DCC 5,485.00 -15.00 Diageo 1,855.00 3.50 Direct Line Insurance Group 410.70 1.70 Experian 1,203.50 6.00 easyJet 1,721.00 -3.00 Fresnillo 715.50 3.00 GKN 305.85 -2.70 Glencore 92.48 -0.69 GlaxoSmithKline 1,376.00 6.00 Hikma Pharmaceuticals 2,252.50 7.00 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,482.00 1.00 Hammerson 604.00 3.00 HSBC Holdings 541.30 0.40 International Consolidated Air 602.50 5.50 InterContinental Hotels Group 2,634.50 -11.00 3i Group 478.80 4.50 Imperial Tobacco Group 3,543.50 0.00 Intu Properties 321.05 2.10 Inmarsat 1,125.50 12.00 Intertek Group 2,791.50 12.00 ITV 275.00 0.00

% CHG. NET VOL 1.45 4,532.84 0.63 26,267.75 -0.43 4,594.12 -0.79 3,873.63 -0.62 5,647.52 -0.11 4,565.50 -0.57 14,695.37 0.00 20,997.43 0.60 57,028.15 -0.32 15,785.19 -10.10 5,142.81 -0.27 37,287.25 0.95 69,823.03 0.00 6,131.99 -0.16 33,745.48 -1.77 5,026.25 0.51 8,058.29 -0.21 16,434.03 0.43 6,239.13 1.54 65,898.56 0.68 5,386.93 -0.31 39,428.49 -0.81 5,418.53 0.21 8,196.54 0.65 10,784.79 -0.26 19,310.87 0.91 8,048.84 0.00 15,982.50 0.00 5,730.82 -0.27 4,971.09 0.19 46,593.54 0.42 6,135.00 0.50 11,841.35 -0.17 6,847.87 0.42 5,250.37 -0.88 5,074.36 -0.74 13,578.29 0.44 66,667.05 0.31 4,462.87 0.07 7,024.66 0.50 4,721.55 0.07 105,546.98 0.92 12,185.02 -0.42 6,250.02 0.95 4,622.11 0.00 33,914.52 0.66 4,236.63 1.07 5,026.25 0.43 4,482.63 0.00 11,069.88

COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) Johnson Matthey 2,711.50 -30.00 Kingfisher 328.65 -0.90 Land Securities Group 1,186.00 4.00 Legal & General Group 269.40 1.50 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 73.50 -0.15 London Stock Exchange Grp 2,701.00 -7.00 Merlin Entertainments 450.00 3.00 Marks & Spencer Group 452.25 6.40 Mondi 1,358.00 24.00 National Grid 933.20 -4.50 Next 7,200.00 -40.00 Old Mutual 181.70 2.60 Provident Financial 3,283.00 16.00 Prudential 1,540.00 -0.50 Persimmon 1,974.50 -12.00 Pearson 768.00 0.50 Reckitt Benckiser Group 6,217.00 21.00 Royal Bank of Scotland Group 305.00 0.50 Royal Dutch Shell 1,557.00 6.00 Royal Dutch Shell 1,571.00 6.50 RELX 1,180.00 -2.00 Rio Tinto 2,006.50 -8.00 Royal Mail 448.55 1.10 Rolls-Royce Group 594.75 4.50 Randgold Resources 4,233.50 -13.00 RSA Insurance Group 430.95 -1.20 SABMiller 4,075.00 30.00 Sainsbury (J) 265.95 0.40 Schroders 2,961.00 -7.00 Sage Group (The) 596.25 -4.00 Shire 4,609.00 39.00 Sky 1,099.50 -8.00 Standard Life 394.75 2.80 Smiths Group 958.75 -1.50 Smith & Nephew 1,173.50 2.00 Sports Direct International 563.75 3.50 SSE 1,529.00 17.00 Standard Chartered 589.00 5.40 St James's Place 997.25 3.50 Severn Trent 2,173.00 6.00 Travis Perkins 1,969.50 7.00 Tesco 150.98 -2.00 TUI AG 1,230.50 -4.00 Taylor Wimpey 197.85 -2.10 Unilever 2,891.00 8.00 United Utilities Group 936.75 -0.50 Vodafone Group 216.65 1.05 Wolseley 3,690.00 -281.05 Worldpay Group Ord 3p Wi 300.90 -1.50 WPP Group 1,540.00 -10.00 Whitbread 4,440.00 34.00

% CHG. -1.10 -0.27 0.34 0.56 -0.20 -0.26 0.67 1.43 1.80 -0.48 -0.55 1.45 0.49 -0.03 -0.60 0.07 0.34 0.16 0.39 0.42 -0.17 -0.40 0.25 0.76 -0.31 -0.28 0.74 0.15 -0.24 -0.67 0.85 -0.72 0.71 -0.16 0.17 0.62 1.12 0.93 0.35 0.28 0.36 -1.31 -0.32 -1.05 0.28 -0.05 0.49 -7.60 -0.50 -0.65 0.77

NET VOL 5,600.40 7,707.24 9,344.22 15,914.26 52,566.76 9,407.83 4,531.45 7,367.74 6,482.14 34,920.50 11,037.47 8,822.75 4,824.49 39,606.04 6,084.86 6,295.71 44,319.62 19,584.92 60,405.01 38,180.22 13,282.57 28,338.52 4,489.00 10,856.90 3,956.16 4,393.41 65,382.61 5,109.65 6,708.35 6,464.39 27,038.49 19,029.52 7,727.09 3,789.86 10,473.32 3,357.39 15,054.88 14,858.21 5,186.80 5,159.17 4,897.01 12,440.71 7,238.68 6,484.15 37,002.13 6,389.29 57,161.39 9,611.70 N/A 20,205.03 8,007.43

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US dollar....................................................................1.09713 Japan yen ................................................................132.302 Switzerland franc ................................................1.08428 Denmark kroner ....................................................7.46313 Norway kroner .....................................................9.53425

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COMPANY MM 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 151.19 +0.03 +0.02% 70.16 +0.19 +0.27% 108.03 -0.58 -0.53% 143.53 -0.53 -0.37% 69.38 -0.51 -0.73% 92.05 -1.76 -1.88% 27.38 -0.02 -0.07% 43.54 -0.13 -0.30% 105.86 +0.30 +0.28% 66.40 +0.37 +0.56% 79.33 -0.86 -1.07% 30.83 -0.12 -0.39% 182.47 -0.48 -0.26% 132.90 -0.21 -0.16% 138.25 -0.29 -0.21% 34.98 -0.02 -0.06% 103.72 +0.23 +0.22% 66.60 -0.13 -0.19% 118.57 -0.23 -0.19% 52.85 -0.13 -0.25% 55.67 -0.15 -0.27% 63.18 -1.18 -1.83% 32.62 +0.06 +0.18% 79.79 -0.13 -0.16% 113.27 +0.06 +0.05% 96.30 0.00 0.00% 118.34 -0.35 -0.29% 46.71 -0.24 -0.51% 78.26 -0.30 -0.38% 60.83 -0.26 -0.43%

VOLUME 848.4K 2.0M 13.6M 1.2M 2.3M 5.0M 8.2M 3.0M 4.4M 1.6M 5.8M 13.5M 1.1M 1.5M 1.5M 5.9M 2.5M 4.5M 1.7M 3.0M 9.6M 13.9M 7.9M 2.5M 507.3K 1.4M 900.1K 4.3M 2.2M 2.5M

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced Resource America, Inc. Allied Motion Technologies, Inc. Auris Medical Holding AG Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Hovnanian Enterprises Inc Memorial Production Partners LP Legacy Reserves LP Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Legacy Reserves LP Vanguard Natural Resources LLC Auburn National Bancorporation, Inc.

$ 4.61 $ 27.27 $ 4.17 $ 10.82 $ 5.3458 $ 3.08 $ 6.36 $ 10.12 $ 6.20 $ 10.84 $ 30.3899

1.01 ▲ 28.06% 5.76 ▲ 26.78% 0.8012 ▲ 23.78% 1.7301 ▲ 19.03% 0.5959 ▲ 12.55% 0.34 ▲ 12.41% 0.70 ▲ 12.37% 1.0501 ▲ 11.58% 0.63 ▲ 11.31% 1.04 ▲ 10.61% 2.8876 ▲ 10.50%

$ 3.01 $ 6.93 $ 16.39 $ 3.80 $ 43.08 $ 3.47 $ 13.65 $ 23.65 $ 12.63 $ 2.60 $ 13.35

0.3693 ▼ 10.93% 0.56 ▼ 7.48% 1.30 ▼ 7.35% 0.27 ▼ 6.63% 2.98 ▼ 6.47% 0.24 ▼ 6.47% 0.88 ▼ 6.06% 1.44 ▼ 5.74% 0.73 ▼ 5.46% 0.15 ▼ 5.45% 0.75 ▼ 5.32%

Most Declined Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. Northeast Community Bancorp, Inc. WAVE Life Sciences Ltd. Dawson Geophysical Company BioSpecifics Technologies Corp Ocera Therapeutics, Inc. Central Garden & Pet Company Bassett Furniture Industries, Incorporated Amaya Inc. Intersections, Inc. Central Garden & Pet Company

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016/Mallorca

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

BA considers taking off to Spain Photo Credit NATS Press Office flickr

By John Smith ALTHOUGH the Davies Commission concluded in July of this year that a third runway at Heathrow was probably the best option for expansion of flights in and out of London, the government announced in December that a decision had been postponed until the summer of 2016 whilst further analysis is to be undertaken. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said that there was a ‘clear’ case for airport expansion “but it’s vitally important we get the decision right so that it will benefit generations to come.” This lack of decision has angered a number of British industry leaders, none more so than Willie Walsh, the chief executive of IAG, which owns British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, and has its registered office in Madrid. He has now warned the government that if it does not make a decision about a third runway at Heathrow soon, then he will look to

AS widely forecast, the US Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 0.25 percentage points on December 16, which was its first increase since 2006. This move takes the range of rates banks offer to lend to each other overnight known as the Federal Funds rate to between 0.25 and 0.5 per cent, although this still allows the banks to charge much higher rates to business and consumer customers whilst only paying very small amounts of interest on funds invested. The move is likely to affect economies throughout the world, such as Brazil which has been benefiting from the fact that although its economy is risky, investors were receiving better rates of interest than offered in the US, and can now expect to see a flood of funds leaving the country.

expand his business in either Ireland or Spain where the other airlines are based. Any decision to expand the business in that manner will be to the obvious detriment of the British economy and to the benefit of the Irish and/or Spanish economies. Writing in the Daily Mail he did not mince his words, saying: “We’re a small island, and this Government looks set to make us even smaller on the world stage. Our leaders bestride the world saying the UK is open for business, but their actions do not match the rhetoric. “If the Government continues to dither over a new runway, then I’ll move my business elsewhere. We now have airlines in Dublin and Madrid, and can expand our business there, supporting the strengthening Irish and Spanish economies.”

Takeovers continue in the pharmaceuticals sector By John Smith Photo Credit Maxwell Hamilton flickr

US raises interest rate

AIRLINE BOSS: Willie Walsh at the controls of a flight simulator.

IT h as b e e n a n inc re dibly bus y year for takeovers in the drug sector, with the latest announced being GlaxoSmithKline taking over HIV drug development assets from Bristol-Myers Squibb for $1.4 billion (€1.3 billion).

GlaxoSmithKline to take over HIV drug development assets from Bristol-Myers Squibb for $1.4 bn According to financial software company Dealogic, which assists in many of these takeovers, global deals in the pharmaceutical industry have reached $677.5 billion

DRUG GIANT: GlaxoSmithKline headquarters UK.

(€625 billion) which is an increase of 64 per cent over 2014 and is much greater than the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of many countries around the world. At the same time, 32-year-old Martin Shkreli, former hedge fund manager turned CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals and said to be the most hated man in America, was arrested on securities fraud charges. Shkreli, described by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as being responsible for a ‘trifecta of lies, deceit and greed,’ is accused of running a Ponzi scheme. He is, however, perhaps best known for increasing the price of Daraprim, the HIV drug marketed by the company he took over by more than 5,000 per cent. Shkreli did reduce the price of t he dr ug sl i ght l y af t er m ass protests but then complained that he should have actually charged more than his original price.

OPINION & COMMENT

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

EWN

What the hell have we done? WE’VE brought people into our society who are totally alien to the Christian celebration LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

AND so this is Christmas and what the hell have we done? What we’ve done, is to bring hundreds of thousands of individuals into our society who not only couldn’t give a damn, but are totally alien to the whole Christian celebration. Instead of the normal warm feelings of unity and goodwill, we have now managed to introduce into our midst a bunch of aliens, most of whom would prefer to see the whole event banned altogether. And you can feel it. Something is missing. Great chunks of our towns and cities are not only ignoring the whole joyous occasion, but are no doubt decrying it. And still they arrive in droves. Yet another section of our western culture and lifestyle is being eroded by immigrants, many of whom are at best cowardly deserters and at worst Islamic terrorists

TRAVELLING EXPERIENCE: The whole thing is now a security-blighted nightmare. infiltering our society with a view to spreading death and destruction among us. Slowly but surely the Islamic extremists are bringing more and more gloom into our existence. Flying used to be great fun.

How many can remember when the plane reached cruising height the pilots would open the door and invite all and sundry into the cockpit for a magical treat? The whole travelling experience is now

a security-blighted nightmare. Tubes, buses, even music concerts and sporting occasions, are overshadowed by the possibility that some of its attendees may never see their loved ones again. Is this what our forefathers gave life and limb for? We’ve insulted their memories. In our complacency, we have wasted the precious sacrifices they gave to ensure we would live in a democracy, not afraid to speak out, free and safe from danger in the sanctuary of our homelands. Our leaders have betrayed them all. And for those of you who still feel we should let all these people in regardless, I’ve just read a report of 52 tonnes of arms and ammunition, found by the Greek border control in imported containers meant to be holding furniture to ‘make life bearable’ and ‘ease the discomfort’ of the ‘refugees’. Well I hope this ‘offends’ all of them. Happy Christmas Keep the faith Love Leapy. Leapylee2002@gmail.com.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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Thirty minutes in his company is a memory I’ll never forget

Robert & Marie Barnes. Campoverde, Costa Blanca.

We need to look no further than our own doorstep I DON’T expect you to agree with m e 100 pe r c e nt but the re is no avoiding the fact that by definition we are immigrants. While I agree many are coming in to take advantage of our benefit system, there are also those escaping war, famine and other hardships in their own country. When it comes to sponging we need to look no further than our own doorstep in the UK. Not only working class layabouts but politicians, people fiddling expenses and people with more money they can spend in several lifetimes avoiding tax. We all use Amazon, Starbucks and McDonald’s etc, all of whom reputedly avoid paying tax in UK. By doing so we encourage the practice because it suits our needs. Ian via the website on Enoch Powell by Leapy Lee

would collect them before Christmas, which will now mean I can navigate through my living room without tripping over the boxes or bags. This has certainly encouraged me to k e e p o n colle c ting, but hopefully I can pass them on to the charity every month or so. Anne Lee, Coin, Malaga

Bottle tops Failure to find new home comply I JUST can’t believe how influential the Euro Weekly News must be. Wh e n I c o n t a c t e d y o u la s t week about what to do with the bottle tops and ring pulls that had been c o l l e c t e d , I d i d n ’t e x p e c t such a fantastic response. Within just five hours of the latest Costa del Sol edition appearing, I h a d r e c e i v e d a ca ll fro m your head office saying somebody wanted to contact me and when we spoke she confirmed that she

Decimation of Asturias

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

Photo Credit Allan Warren Wikimedia.

SHOULD these jottings reach your home internet base, before Christmas Day, then sincere good wishes f o r t h e d a y, t o y o u a n d yours. If received later, very best wishes for 2016! I enjoyed your splendid article on Enoch Powell MBE. In 1968, prior to my attending a speech to be giv e n b y E n o c h P o w ell, a t Birmingham’s Rag Market building, long now demolished, I decided to visit the Burlington Hotel, just off New Street, to firstly make use of the rather excellent toilets (too much information, I know) and the n t o t a k e a d r in k at th e Burlington lounge. Takin g m y b e e r t o a w in d o w seat, it was something of a shock to find that my companion on the couch was the great man himself. There appeared to be no security personnel in attendance, or perhaps it was their professionalism at work! Mr Powell at once stood and introduced himself. I explained that I would be meeting him again in about two hours, and was looking forward to his speech. We talked of his upbringing in Stetchford, and shared thoughts of how we saw the United Kingdom in the future. I felt privileged to spend just over 30 minutes in his company, a memory I will never forget. Very best regards sir.

DEAR Sir, In 2013 the PP Government in Madrid passed the Law of Transparency, Access to Information and Good Governance, perhaps in response to the wave of corruption scandals involving both main parties. This law required that local authorities at all levels publish on their website all information relating to their financial affairs, such as the levels of debt, full budget

Enoch Powell MBE.

information, cost of public services, details of public works, contracts and also full disclosure of councillor’s assets and salaries paid to elected members of the council. Most local authorities, whatever their political complexion, have voted for this... So why not Estepona? Over the past year opposition PSOE councillors have asked in vain for this information to be made public. Frustrated by the lack of response, the PSOE opposition group, he a de d by C ounc illor Manuela Benitez, has formally denounced the Estepona local government for its failure to comply with this law. Since coming into office in May 2011 the PP has undoubtedly made improvements to the town. So why the failure to provide the citizens of Estepona with information as to exactly what is being done with their tax money? It just doesn’t make sense, especially as this law was a measure

which was passed by their own government. Yours Mary Page Cancelada, Estepona

Expatriate voting rights FOR sure, we as expats, having no more property in our homeland, who live all year round and pay taxes in Spain, would need to be able to vote in the national elections, especially if we don’t vote anymore in our homeland. It’s here in Spain that we will endure the decisions not only of the politics of our town, but as well the general decisions taken by the main government. Let us vote please! Thank you! Micheline Via the website

IF they ever find the people who started these fires (I understand there were about 150), they should be tried for manslaughter. I am surprised there haven’t been more reports on the decimation of Asturias by arson - it’s a national disgrace. Annie Via the website

La Siesta worries DEAR Sir, It is now 10 years since work in an area of La Siesta was left in a terrible state with rubbish just all owed t o r ot . Mysel f and m y nei ghbour s have wr i t t en t o t he town hall but without any positive response. This is particularly upsetting when you consider that the local council has been promoting the fact that it is spending millions of eur os on bui l di ng a par k at La Siesta, yet does nothing to remove this eyesore. There were workers in the area earlier this year but they disappeared as the funds ran out, and we are still left with an area that not only looks bad but could attract vermin and fly tippers. Hopefully, when I return to Spain from my annual holiday in Holland, I can start to work with Euro Weekly News to try to apply pressure for this issue to be resolved. Fred de Jong, La Siesta

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.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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OPINION & COMMENT

www.euroweeklynews.com

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

EWN

The best of Cassandra Nash chamber usually looks empty so how do they manage to spend that much getting there? Editon 1572

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

SEPTEMBER CHURCHILL said that ‘to jawjaw is always better than to warwar.’ Sixty-one years later Spain’s president, Mariano Rajoy and Artur Mas could give that a try. Edition 1577

JANUARY JIHADISTS claim that Spain was originally theirs, conveniently forgetting that the Romans were here first. Thankfully Italy has so far refrained from claiming territorial rights. Edition 1542

OCTOBER CIUDADANOS are creeping up on the PP and PSOE in the opinion polls. Appropriately the general election is set for December 20 and the pantomime season with its cry of ‘He’s behind you!’ Edition 1582

FEBRUARY THE Partido Popular (PP) should examine its unswerving loyalty to its high-ranking politicians linked to scandals. Double standards are self-indulgence in an election year. Edition 1548 MARCH “I’M here to give explanations, not affection,” Finance minister Cristobal Montoro said. It’s an oxymoron, but that’s one sincere politician. Edition 1553 APRIL PODEMOS regional election candidates were democraticallychosen by party members, yet only two are women. Is gender equality

CRISTOBAL MONTORO: One sincere politician. less important to voters than political leaders believe? Edition 1556 MAY ARTUR MAS, who wants to guide Cataluña towards independence, routinely forgets that Catalan nationalism does not automatically entail separatism. Edition 1561

JUNE VOTERS demand exemplary behaviour from those they elect. Once politicians are in office they must be Caesar’s wife, not Cleopatra. Edition 1564 JULY PODEMOS second-in-charge Iñigo Erejon called Greece’s ‘no to

austerity’ vote a triumph for democracy in the birthplace of democracy. Fitting, then, that this will be only a Pyrrhic victory. Edition 1567 AUGUST NATIONAL MPs claimed €2.6 million in travel expenses between January and July. The parliament

NOVEMBER DOES being a paid-up PP or PSOE member impair a judge’s impartiality? Opinions and prejudices are a mindset, not a standing order at the bank. Edition 1586 DECEMBER SIXTY-FOUR per cent of Catalans prefer EU membership to independence. And Artur Mas, who wants to be president of an independent Cataluña, gets no for an answer time after time but won’t listen. Edition 1587

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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What to write about? 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.

DURING the winter months, there is nothing I like more than a good long soak in a hot bath. Well that’s not strictly true, there are other things that I like much more, but space and modesty prevents me from enlarging on that. I regard it as pure luxury to lie back with a nice glass of Sauvignon Blanc, up to my neck in soap suds, listening to the honeyed tones of Nat King Cole or Deep Purple on my iPod. I have eclectic musical tastes. It’s a place where I can formulate new world shattering wheezes, compose brilliant pieces for my column, and reminisce about times gone by and people I have known. I can also play submarines with a half empty shampoo

MARINA: I pondered writing about the expensive boats you see in the Costa Blanca. bottle and a water pistol I purchased from our local Bazaar Chino, as I did yesterday before the Princess came in and

took them off me. She can be so childish at times. The rug would have dried out eventually.

Anyway there I was wondering what to write about next week. I pondered about the

amount of expensive boats you see in any marina along the Costa Blanca, and the fact that some of them never seem to move from one month to the next. I also thought that maybe I should do one more piece about Christmas, but then decided that the subject was about done to death. The Syrian crisis, mass immigration, the latest Strictly Come Dancing series, and the HM Revenue and Customs self assessment website that makes Einstein’s theory of relativity look like Play School , all paraded through my Sauvignon Blanc-ed mind as possibilities. But then I must have fallen asleep. I woke up in water that was so cold, I would not have been surprised to see icebergs bobbing around my extremities. Then resembling a giant raisin on legs, I hopped from the tub and realised that I was no closer to any firm ideas for next week’s EWN.

Another Spanish election probable WILL take place if no stable government is formed to take power DESPITE the fact the election results have only been out for a few days, there is little doubt that Christmas won’t be a time of peace and goodwill for all men as politicians try to review all of the combinations which could allow for a stable government to take power. The options however are very limited and in theory, although the PP will have the first opportunity to form a government, even with the support of Ciudadanos, the two parties would have to pick up another 13 supporters in order to have a one-seat majority. The left is in a slightly stronger position and could command a strong majority, if the PSOE combined with Podemos and all of the nationalist members, but even that doesn’t seem very likely or if attempted, very workable. In times of war, true coalitions have been seen to work and work well, but in times of peace, they tend to be unworkable with individual parties unable to agree to a common theme, and withdrawing if they disagree with any law that the party with the largest number of seats tries to put through. When you consider the number of seats that Podemos won and the fact they won on an anti-austerity manifesto, it seems highly unlikely that they would be able or prepared to agree to any government which does not espouse their basic policy. Apart from policies, there are also personal differences between the leaders of the various parties, most appearing to consider Mariano Rajoy a stumbling

Photo Credit European Union flickr

By John Smith

PP GOVERNMENT: Mariano Rajoy and Jose Manuel Garcia Margallo. block to power-sharing for various reasons including his personality, and support of various members of his government who have been caught up in a range of scandals. The surprise emergence of previous PP leader Jose Maria Aznar soon after the election where he called for an immediate meeting of the party, suggests that he has a plan. Although he has indicated he won’t stand as leader, it is possible he may be about to suggest that Mr

OUR VIEW

A FEW subjects paraded through my Sauvignon Blanc-ed mind, then I fell asleep Colin Bird

EWN

Photo Shutterstock by Brian A. Jackson

OPINION & COMMENT

WISH: A prosperous 2016.

What about the future? FIRST of all, the publishers and staff at the Euro Weekly News would like to wish all of our readers a very happy and prosperous 2016. Most of us want to have a peaceful and stress-free life where we are healthy, don’t have to worry about our financial position, can enjoy a pleasant life here in Spain and where appropriate watch our children and grandchildren grow into well-rounded and happy adults themselves. Life isn’t always kind and sometimes it deals us fairly unpleasant surprises, but generally people are able to cope with difficulty and move forward. Even illness is being conquered, with cancer less likely to be the guaranteed killer it was just 20 years ago. What we can’t prepare for are the totally unexpected. We know that there has been an increase in natural disasters over the past few years, but who expected the Tsunami of 2004, or some of the devastating attacks by nature that have claimed so many lives over the years? There is now, not a new worry, but a much extended one with the reappearance of terrorism undertaken by Daesh in the so-called name of religion. Nowhere is safe but equally, we have to live our lives as normally as possible and not be afraid of being caught up in what would be an ill chance in millions by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Life doesn’t come with any guarantees so we need to enjoy it the best we can, try to protect those close to us and do no deliberate harm to those who aren’t.

Rajoy steps down in favour of his deputy Soraya Saenz de Santamaria, who is likely to be a more acceptable Now we partner to the other leaders. want to Whatever happens, some decision has to be made by hear your views. January 13 when the king is due to nominate the head of government. If there is a minority PP YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE government or a fragile coalition, then odds are - YOUR OPINION that it will not last for long and new elections will www.euroweeklynews.com need to be held.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

www.euroweeklynews.com

OPINION & COMMENT

What is the key to keeping your New Year’s resolutions? Ignore them! A LIST of ideas that should be smashed to smithereens and avoided at all costs Nora Johnson

5. Product placement on TV, in books. (Oops. In one novel in my own thriller series, one cigarette brand is named, I don’t smoke. Honestly!) 6. Slebs. All those sanctimonious ‘celebrities’, who tell us how to run our lives whilst failing to realise just how dysfunctional their own are. 7. Spam. Got spammed by a message purporting to be anti-spam but which came from a site advertising, yes you guessed it, Viagra, fake Rolexes. So please, anti-spam software that works. Just get it done. 8. Wish lists that are never, ahem, fulfilled. Ah, well, there’s always next year’s … it’s being so cheerful that keeps me going! Happy New Year!

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

I LOVE lists. Especially lists in alphabetical order. In fact, I love them so much I’ll share with you my latest for 2016. About New Year’s resolutions that should be smashed to smithereens, and what you should avoid at all costs. 1. Cookery shows on TV. Cook a gourmet meal in 30 minutes? Well, with superb knife skills, zillions of exotic ingredients and a professional kitchen/chef at your disposal. Simples! 2. Kids’ carol concerts. Maybe I’m in a minority but I can’t stand carol concerts with five-year-olds singing tunelessly and one little brat taking over as if auditioning for the X Factor. 3. Loudmouths. Who immediately comes to mind? Trumpeting his own

LISTS: I love them, especially in alphabetical order. loudmouth? Well, Donald Trump, naturally. Not to mention his ego, enough of that to make topless calendar boy Vladimir Putin look self-effacing. Talk about dumping Trump from the UK, how about some others, too? Like

Jean-Claude Juncker, who’s forever pontificating to Brits how they should run their country, when he’s made such a shambles of running the EU. Who would you ban? Feel free to add your own names either online un-

der this piece, or in the newspaper. 4. Piped muzak in stores, especially Christmas jingles. Stores spend millions on what customers see but zilch on what they hear. Poor assistants have to endure it all year long.

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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UK and EU citizens recover money from Spanish taxman PUNITIVE inheritance tax charges can be reclaimed THE Spanish government has started to repay millions of euros to British holiday homeowners who were hit with punitive inheritance tax charges. The tax charge - which in many cases was as much as a third of the property’s value - has been levied on up to 30,000 Britons inheriting a holiday home in Spain, according to research by the Spanish solicitors Spanish Legal Reclaims. The Spanish government has now hastily changed its inheritance tax law after the European Court of Justice ruled the legislation, which exempted residents from the charge, was discriminatory. Under the law, Spanish residents were exempted from up to 99 per cent of the tax charge, while homeowners living abroad had to pay the full amount within six months of inheriting. With more Britons owning holiday homes in Spain than any other nationality, UK citizens were disproportionately affected. The average repayment is €25,000, according to Spanish Legal Reclaims, a Barcelona-based law firm which specialises in helping non-residents to reclaim overpaid tax. Luis Cuervo, CEO of Spanish Legal Reclaims,

About Spanish Legal Reclaims Spanish Legal Reclaims S.L. is a law firm specialising in legal reclaims from the Spanish tax authorities. Founded in 2011, its legal team are experts in Spanish and European tax law, and act on behalf of clients from across the EU. It offers its services on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis to non-residents of Spain who have paid Inheritance Tax on a Spanish property. It currently has a 100 per cent success rate, with all clients receiving a tax refund (plus interest) within six to eight months of making a claim.

Spain. Spain’s authorities have agreed that nonresidents who inherited a Spanish property during the past five years can claim back the tax they paid - but doing so is a complex and daunting task, as there is no single form to fill in. “Inheritors can only claim once and there are time limits for claiming, so it’s essential they seek expert legal advice to ensure they get it right first time.”

TAX REFUND: Consult an EU tax expert to find out if you have a claim. comments: “Losing a loved one is hard enough, but to then receive an unfair tax bill rubs salt in

the wound. Yet for years this is what happened to thousands of Britons inheriting holiday homes in

For more information about claiming back your inheritance tax contact: Donna Knight Spanish Legal Reclaims Tel Spain: (0034) 936 804 563 UK: 0845 680 3849 Email: info@spanishlegalreclaims.com www.spanishlegalreclaims.com

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREA

Word Ladder

MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE

Mallorca

FISH BACK

for next 7 days

weather

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

TODAY ALCUDIA

POLLENÇA

CALA MILLOR

INCA

CALVIA

CALA d’OR

PALMA ANDRATX

LLUCMAJOR MAGALLUF

WORM WORE WIRE WISE WISH FISH

WORM

TIME

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TOMORROW ALCUDIA

POLLENÇA

‘MUM, WOULD YOU BE ANGRY IF I STOPPED BEING A LESBIAN OVER CHRISTMAS AND THE NEW YEAR’

CALA MILLOR

INCA

CALVIA

CALA d’OR

PALMA ANDRATX

LLUCMAJOR MAGALLUF

ARIES (March 21 - April 20) A conversation with a colleague brings insights into how others live and it is quite an eye-opener.

Friendships are particularly important this week. TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) There is something in you that needs a creative outlet. Perhaps you would like to write a book: memoirs, for instance, take up a craft or paint.

Average: 7 Good: 9 Very good: 13 Excellent: 16

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 G) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION echt etch hens hues hunt huts shun shut such tech then thus tush chess chest chute hunts shuns shunt shuts tench tenth thens chests chutes shunts stench tenths tushes chestnut CHESTNUTS

Madrid

CLEAR

MAX 21C, MIN 11C

Fri Sat Sun -

17 10 C 19 8 C 18 11 Cl

Mon - 19 13 C Tues - 19 12 Cl Wed - 19 11 C

Almeria MAX 18C, MIN 11C Mon - 21 12 C Tues - 20 13 Cl Wed - 20 12 Cl

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) A strong and exciting romantic feeling flows through the week, which is fitting as Valentine's Day comes round again next month. Someone returning from a trip makes you smile and boosts your spirit. People who have been a little bossy finally realise that you will not rise to the bait.

15 11 C 15 9 Sh 15 11 C

17 11 C 17 9 C 18 12 C

S Sun,

Cl Clear,

Sh Showers,

EURO MILLIONS

LA PRIMITIVA

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA

Saturday December 26

Friday December 25

Saturday December 26

Sunday December 27

28 35

BONUS BALL

THUNDERBALL

BONUS BALL

10 27

25 40

LUCKY STARS

MAX MIN

18 9 C 18 7 Sh 18 9 C

Mon - 19 11 C Tues - 18 9 C Wed - 19 8 C

CLEAR MAX 21C, MIN 9C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

F Fog, Sn Snow,

MAX MIN

19 9 Cl 19 7 C 19 10 Cl

Mon - 22 12 C Tues - 22 11 Cl Wed - 23 9 C

C Cloudy, Th Thunder

10-Star Quiz NEW YEAR’S DAY

IRISH LOTTO

CLOUDY MAX 18C, MIN 8C

TODAY:

Mon - 19 13 C Tues - 19 12 Cl Wed - 19 12 C

UK THUNDERBALL

Fri Sat Sun -

MAX MIN

UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

MAX MIN

Mon - 19 13 C Tues - 19 13 C Wed - 19 11 C

Murcia

CLEAR MAX 18C, MIN 11C

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.

CLEAR MAX 20C, MIN 11C 18 12 Cl 18 10 Sh 19 12 C

MAX MIN

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

Sudoku

Fri Sat Sun TODAY:

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 14 8 Sh Tues - 14 6 C Wed - 13 5 Sh

Mallorca

SHOWERS MAX 16C, MIN 9C

Benidorm TODAY:

MAX MIN

10 4 C 11 3 C 12 7 C

MAX MIN

18 11 C 19 11 Cl 19 11 C

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Fri Sat Sun TODAY:

Barcelona TODAY:

MAX MIN

Malaga

SUNNY MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

SHOWERS MAX 10C, MIN 3C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Thoughts come to you, perhaps in dreams, that are creative and energy boosting. Someone who recently moved out of your sphere is sadly missed but is in some ways still a part of you. A person at work who has been causing you concern needs investigation.

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Although you have perhaps been looking to money-making ideas to progress finances, think also of alternatives. Perhaps there are areas of your lifestyle where money could be saved. Items that are not used could be sold for a profit and rid you of clutter.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) There may be some opposition to your ideas as Pluto turns this week. Perhaps your natural

Alicante TODAY:

TODAY:

LEO (July 24 - August 23) This is a week when progress is fast and plans run ahead. Try new ideas and seek information to hone your knowledge. An organisation that is new to you offers insight and social involvement. An offer that thrusts you into the limelight would be to your advantage.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Being very much in demand for your talents this week means less time to spend socially, so it’s important to make time for loved ones at the weekend. Someone seeking your advice may simply be seeking your approval for an action they will take anyway.

Nonagram

TARGET:

charm just doesn’t seem to be working. As you have helped others in the past, make it clear that you expect a bit of cooperation.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Satisfaction with your love life is paramount this week, and the opinion of others seems important to you. Perhaps you are looking for an excuse to make a change. It is possible that a change is not required so much as a different approach. It is not essential to put all your eggs in one basket.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Having suffered a bit of a setback last week, you may be feeling less confident. Revving up your social life will certainly help to bring spirits up again. Be with people who liven or inspire you in some way.

(December 22 - January 20)

LOTTERY

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) Spirituality seeps right through the week. As you are feeling particularly sensuous, invite someone special to dinner or on a trip. Visit garden centres and plan ahead. The colours and perfumes will be particularly pleasing.

It’s a better week for travel with less likelihood of delays. Should you be feeling a little lethargic and sorry about recent events, just count your blessings. Consider raising some money and having fun by indulging in a garage or car boot sale.

CAPRICORN

REINTEGRO

26 41

1. Born in Washington DC on January 1,1895, which famous US lawyer was appointed the first Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in March 1935? 2. David Dinkins was sworn in as which US city’s first black mayor on January 1, 1990? 3. Entertaining Mr Sloane (1964), Loot (1965) and What the Butler Saw (1969) are all plays written by which English playwright and author, who was born in Leicester on January 1, 1933? 4. Euro banknotes and coins became legal tender in 12 of the European Union’s member states on January 1 in which year? 5. Riga is the capital of which Baltic republic that became the 18th member of the Eurozone on January 1, 2014? 6. Singer-songwriter and guitarist Joseph Allen McDonald, who was born in Washington DC on January 1, 1942, was the lead singer of which 1960s psychedelic rock group? 7. Which British cricket journalist and a past President of the MCC, who died on January 1, 2013, was known as CMJ? 8. Which central midfield player, born in Stevenage on January 1, 1992, made his Arsenal first team debut in 2008, becoming the club’s youngest ever league debutant at the age of 16 years, 256 days? 9. Which French actor, cabaret singer and entertainer, best known for his signature songs, including Louise, Mimi, Valentine and Thank Heaven for Little Girls, died on January 1, 1972, aged 63? 10. With what type of music would you principally associate Milt Jackson, who was born in Detroit on January 1, 1923? Not a lot of people know that… in Italy, people wear red underwear on New Year’s Day to bring good luck all year long

REINTEGRO

1. J EDGAR HOOVER, 2. NEW YORK, 3. JOE ORTON, 4. 2002, 5. LATVIA, 6. COUNTRY JOE AND THE FISH, 7. CHRISTOPHER MARTIN-JENKINS, 8. JACK WILSHERE, 9. MAURICE CHEVALIER, 10. JAZZ

YOUR STARS

OUT

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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page

AK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

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

Quick

Code Breaker

Across 1 2 3 1 Influences (7) 5 Farm buildings (5) 8 8 Proceeding in small stages (7) 9 Loans (5) 10 Additional (5) 10 11 Projectile (7) 12 Not open or public (6) 14 Implored (6) 12 13 17 Item (7) 19 Somewhat fat and rounded (5) 22 Reaches the highest points (5) 17 18 23 At a previous time (7) 24 Is compliant (5) 22 25 Decreases in size, range or extent (7) Down 24 1 Discuss with reasoning (5) 2 Ceremonial dinner party for many people (5) 7 Hang freely (7) 3 Bravery (7) 12 Hair cleansing agent (7) 4 Serious (6) 5 Written accounts of money owed (5) 13 Small house with a single story (7) 15 Male ruler of an empire (7) 6 Sprinting (7)

English - Spanish

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 4 represents H and 7 represents Q, so fill in H every time the figure 4 appears and Q every time the figure 7 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.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS CRYPTIC Across: 1 Custard, 5 Bards, 8 Elation, 9 Ladle, 10 Scrub, 11 Elegant, 12 Sacred, 14 Master, 17 Avocado, 19 Stall, 22 Loads, 23 Narrate, 24 Scent, 25 Clarets.

Down: 1 Chess, 2 Stair, 3 Amiable, 4 Dancer, 5 Belle, 6 Radiant, 7 Shelter, 12 Stables, 13 Chorale, 15 Austria, 16 Cognac, 18 Asset, 20 Awake, 21 Leeks.

16 21

QUICK Across:

7 Parade, 8 Images, 9 Here, 10 Creation, 11 Whisker, 13 Treat, 15 Smile, 17 Reaches, 20 Organise, 21 Snow, 23 Funnel, 24 Skates.

16 Precious stones (6) 18 Court matters (5) 20 Marriage (5) 21 Components (5)

Down: 1 Bake, 2 Camels, 3 Peaches, 4 Given, 5 Fatter, 6 Lemonade, 12 Humorous, 14 Release, 16 Learns, 18 Casual, 19 Bills, 22 Oxen.

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

Across 1 Chantaje (9) 7 Good-looking (5) 8 Sleeve (5) 9 Train (railway) (4) 10 Tazas (4) 13 Pala (para cavar) (5) 14 Derecha (5) 16 Motorway (9)

ENGLISH-SPANISH Across: 1 Sled, 2 Pesebre, 6 Fir, 7 Pan, 8 Zorra, 9 Poinsettia, 13 Gift, 14 New.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

Down: 1 Sleep, 2 Prizes, 3 Spirit, 4 Baya, 5 Early, 6 Fun, 10 Oro, 11 Elf, 12 Inn.

Down 1 See 15 2 Housewife (3,2,4) 3 Nudo (en hilo, cuerda) (4) 4 Soul (of a person) (4) 5 Lenguajes (9) 6 Latón (metal) (5) 9 Gusto (sentido) (5) 11 Ordenado (habitación, escritorio) (4) 12 Goteo (de líquido, grifo) (4) 15/1 Bolsita de té (3,3)

Hexagram

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Crossword

EWN

Cryptic The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 sixletter 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 (RESENT) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.

ALLELE ASTUTE ATTEND BEETLE BILLET CAREEN CHALET CREAKY EVENTS INGEST

LETTER QUAVER RELIEF RESENT (10) RUSSET SLATER STRAIN STRICT SULFUR

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 1 Retina 2 Pander 3 Attest 4 Vortex 5 Distal 6 Effort 7 Eldest 8 Banter 9 Serene 10 Dancer 11 Gambol 12 Cheery 13 Camera 14 Heater 15 Earthy 16 Yearly 17 Cheese 18 Scurry 19 Return

Across 1 Christmas visitors can include one conjuror (8) 5 Fiasco deep in computer instruction (4) 8 Roman emperor confined in one room (4) 9 End a hotel employee strike (8) 10 Got better after the morning was over (7) 12 A novice gets a large amount of grant (5) 13 British capital held by vigilant prince (6) 15 Discovers escapism in poetry (6) 17 Calls the conditions (5) 18 Land transformed into sea (7) 22 Actress Gloria comes to German capital for final appearance (4,4) 23 Depressed plumage (4) 24 The last word in a team entry (4) 25 Words of condolence may be expensive, darling (4,4) Down 1 The state of a man not getting upset (7) 2 Wolf in ravine (5)

3 Is little Susan having children? (5) 4 None can alter this element (4) 6 Wise words they utter could be so clear (7) 7 Maintain former monarch’s car (5) 11 Female resident of island or isthmus? (5) 12 Proficient in a small department (5) 14 It obstructs gunners in a boat (7)

16 You’ll turn nuts if you use it (7) 17 A Scot translating one of Puccini’s operas (5) 19 A letter for Socrates (5) 20 Putting one’s head in this may make one so wretched (5) 21 Brave, we hear he’s out in cricket (4)

E W N Mallorca

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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FitFoxy

Looking Good, Staying Trim

MY role as a personal trainer goes above and beyond count-

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Could your trainer be your best friend? ing out reps for clients. I am often personal trainer/best friend.

Client relationships become close, as a fitness coach I teach them to recognise their physical appearance is much more a counter product of their mental state than they realise. When a client who leads an extremely busy life, juggling career and family, visits me twice a week for their hourly session, this becomes THEIR time. A good personal trainer genuinely cares. It does not take long to see exactly what makes

my clients tick. I am in a sense the invaluable best friend that tells them when they need to change their habits or attitude. I recognise if they are feeling low or having personal issues and I adapt the session to incorporate the mental focus needed. Most personal trainers would agree that even though a business transaction takes place, it does not change the level of care and fondness that develops for clients.

HEALTH BEAUTY

Ask The Doctor

Brought to you by Helicopteros Sanitarios.

Rise in allergies

SPECIALIST: Doctor Luis Perez Belmonte. THIS week we have asked Dr Perez Belmonte a few questions about allergies. In the old days not many people seemed to be allergic to things yet nowadays almost everyone claims to be allergic to something. Why is this? Over recent years allergies have started to appear a lot more often and can cause discomfort. This may be due to modern lifestyles, exposure to contamination and various substances. We now have allergy specialists who can diagnose them whereas in the past this wasn’t possible and anyone with signs of a possible allergy should see their doctor. How can I tell if I have an allergy? Allergies can cause all sorts of symptoms and even seem like other illnesses. Common symptoms include sneezing, an itchy nose and sore throat but can also cause breathing difficulties. The eyes and skin can be affected. These are the most common symptoms although others can affect the digestive system and in serious cases general allergic reac-

tions can cause collapse. Are there effective ways to control allergies? The first thing to do is get a diagnosis from a specialist. Then there are many different treatments ranging from tablets to vaccinations depending on the type of allergy which can help control symptoms and in some cases cure them. Can children with food allergies be gradually cured? Sometimes children can develop allergies to certain foods which stop them from leading a normal life. Although cases vary, they are usually unable to ‘get used’ to these foods. These allergies are important and require attention from a specialist in paediatric allergies. How should I react to a severe allergic reaction? At the first sign of a possible allergy, from a simple itchy nose or sneezing fit to a general feeling of being unwell or a reaction of any type, you should see a medical professional who will take any necessary measures. Once the crisis passes patients should see a specialist for tests and diagnosis.

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.

OPINION & COMMENT

www.euroweeklynews.com

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

EWN

Life’s lessons learnt for 2015 I HOPE for a healthy and happy new year for you all and a continued belief in ourselves Vicki McLeod

Family Matters I CAME across this list of ‘Lessons learned in 2015’ written by nathalies ejean.com. (Please visit her website, it’s full of ideas for inspiring creativity). I liked her list so much I thought you might enjoy reading it as well. 1) It’s okay to say no 2) Your creative voice lies where you feel vulnerable 3) If you stay fluid bruises will become lessons 4) Find your own habits and stick to them 5) Always be in motion 6) Creativity is a muscle, not a gift 7) Quantity matters 8) Be kind to yourself 9) Know the intention behind your decisions 10) Virtual connections can be life changing, IRL (in-real-life) connections are vital. What have I learnt this year? It’s been a big year for me and my family

in terms of growth, we’ve all done things which we’ve not done before, and we’ve all struggled and eventually succeeded in the goals we set out to achieve. For La Gidg it was the improvement in her Catalan and Castellano grades at school. She’s gone up two grades in Spanish and one grade in Catalan. When we went to get her end of term marks two days before Christmas it was quite the proudest moment for us all to see how she has improved. For me it has been to find an achievable work life balance where I get to do things which I need to do for my health, and in particular my back (I have sittingdownitis which is apparently as bad for you as smoking used to be), whilst still also earning a living and keeping most of my clients happy most of the time. My other goal was for this to be the year when we would finally earn enough money to get our kitchen sorted out. We didn’t quite get that in this year, but we have put the plan in progress for it to be done by next March, so ‘Good enough for rock and roll’ as a friend of mine used to say.

WELL DONE: La Gidg with her results, smiles all round.

But the thing that I think we have all learnt collectively is to believe and have confidence in ourselves and our dreams, they are achievable, we can do it, we are in the right place. This year has been one of movement and change in the Mallorcan expat community, quite a few people have moved back to the UK or on to somewhere else, making room for new faces and new ideas. I’ve seen increased confidence in businesses in Mallorca to invest in themselves but not necessarily in the traditional tourism areas, we’re seeing more interest in cycling and other sport tourism, more interest in Mallorca’s natural treasures, as well as the continuing appeal our island has for the more ‘upmarket’ visitor, and a boom in the nautical industry and services. What will 2016 hold for us all? I hope continued recovery from our various financial dips, a healthy and happy new year for you all, and a continued belief in ourselves that we are truly living our dreams, and if you aren't then make steps to change. Happy New Year. See you in 2016 xxx www.mallorcamatters.com

E W N Mallorca

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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Bistro 49 for creative cooking WHATEVER your choice, you are guaranteed freshness, originality and service with a smile! CAROLYN SILES-LOPEZ and her husband Michel are the owners of Bistro 49, a restaurant specialising in home-grown, locally sourced, creative cooking. “We grow our own vegetables in our allotment beside the restaurant,” says Carolyn. “It’s great to see customers arriving and after parking their cars, they like to take a wander and see what’s in season.” Husband Michel, originally from Belgium, has grown up in Mallorca and is the green fingers of the two, spending mornings in the allotment before opening up the kitchen in the afternoons. “We like to source locally and all our meat is from a free range farm here in Mallorca,” explains Carolyn. “This way we guarantee that the meat is not only free from any additives, but it tastes delicious too”!

SPECIALITIES: Include imported Belgian mussels and traditional Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. Specialities include imported Belgian mussels and traditional Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. Carolyn and Michel speak four languages between them so you won’t be lost for words in their care. Carolyn is originally from the UK, and at Bistro 49 you’ll be

served in English or Spanish, German or French if you prefer. Michel has created some tasty winter dishes and you’ll find it hard to choose between the lobster caldereta (stew) or the steak haché served with chips, a vegetable spring roll and raspberry mustard.

Whatever your choice, you are guaranteed freshness, originality and service with a smile! Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 5pm till 11pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 1pm till 11pm

Reservations: Sunday lunch and group reservations essential! Bistro 49 Gran Via El Toro 49 El Toro Tel: 971 234 168 www.bistro-49.com Like them on Facebook: Bistro 49

SOCIAL SCENE

www.euroweeklynews.com

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

Operation Kilo wraps up Christmas campaign DONATIONS of food from individuals and businesses helped those in poverty By Glynis German CAPUTXINS Convent in Palma has celebrated the Christmas holidays in style thanks to the unwavering support from one of their volunteers. Jennifer Sykes launched Operation Kilo at the beginning of December and, along with colleagues and bosses alike from Palma Pictures, not only collected an impressive 1,400 kilos of food, but also raised €1,296 to continue buying much needed items for Palma’s homeless and poor. On Christmas Day, Jenny saw first hand how her support paid off as she volunteered to spend eight hours at the convent preparing a Christmas lunch to feed some 400 regular users of this food kitchen.

COLLECTING FOOD: Maria Dolores and helper. “It was an amazing experience and I felt humbled by it,” said Jenny. “The other volunteers showed kindness and

goodwill towards everyone and whilst I can appreciate how difficult it must be for the many families to have to come

An original gift for Three Kings could be to sponsor a beehive IF Three Kings is the time when you give presents, then perhaps this original idea for a gift is the bee’s knees. At La Colmena Feliz (the happy beehive), founders Mayoli and Rafael offer people the chance to sponsor one of their hives in Sant Joan.

For a small amount, anyone can support the project which is to care, respect and work for the preservation of the bee. A small jar of honey is also part of the reward for being a sponsor. The association also visits schools to raise awareness on the importance of the bee.

New Year’s Eve in Palma IF you want to welcome the New Year with fun, live music and lots of people, then Palma’s Plaza Cort is the place for you on Thursday evening. At midnight there will be the traditional bells counting

down to 2016 and bring your own grapes to accompany the chimes. Music will be provided by La Movida Band and The Watermelons who will entertain everyone until the early hours of New Year’s Day.

Awake - a film for yogis ON Saturday, January 2, there will be a chance to see the film, ‘Awake: The Life of Yogananda’ at Earth Yoga in Palma. Yogananda was one of the first, true Indian Masters to travel to the West and he brought a revolutionary perspective on inclusive spirituality, beyond all religion, to the West-

ern mind. He also went through many challe n g e s in his time a nd the film ta ke s us th ro u g h his ups a nd dow ns a nd re ve a ls many beautiful pieces of our modern day Yogic explosion that can be traced back to him. The film will be screened at 6.45pm.

there, relying on hand-outs, it was at least an occasion they can remember and a chance to forget their reality for a day.” Maria Dolores Merino Santillan, the organiser behind the Caputxins project, relies on a team of volunteers to help feed some 500 families on all the other days of the year. Donations of food from individuals and businesses across the island help line the cupboards of many families living in poverty and Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays the queues around the building are long with people waiting to receive their weekly groceries. If you would like to volunteer your time or tithe some of your salary, Caputxins Convent in Palma would love to hear from you.

EWN

A vegan start for new year IF your New Year’s resolution is to take better care of your health, the earth or even other creatures, then perhaps becoming a vegan is the way to go. A plant based diet which avoids all animal foods and their by-products, otherwise known as veganism, is a way of living in which animals are not exploited in any way, either for their meat, their fur or skin or any other reason. Becoming a vegan can be an exciting, life changi ng m om ent as i t i s not j ust one’s di et t hat changes but al so one’s habits too. Activities like shopping and entertaining change and a sustainable and conscientious approach is applied. Visits to zoos and ci r cuses ar e seen wi t h new eyes and looking at

labels is never more important when one is a vegan. Here in Mallorca, the Sabor Vegan Cul i nar y Academy offers courses on how t o m ake vegan cuisine a part of your life. Thr oughout t he year, participants come from all over the world for handson training, learning to use fresh, local products to create and enjoy new ways of eating. The results can be astounding, from more energy, to illnesses either cured or under better control. Whatever your reasons f or r esol vi ng t o l i ve a pr osper ous and happy 2016, incorporating a vegan lifestyle might just give you more get up and go to enjoy a future which might guarantee peace on earth for all.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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SOCIAL SCENE

Special concert for end of year PIECES by Handel, Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart will be sung

SOPRANO: Concert will feature Marcela Inguanzo, centre. By Glynis German TO prepare for the New Year, FĂ brica Ramis in Inca will host a special concert at

8.30pm on Wednesday, December 30. Soprano, Marcela Inguanzo along with mezzo soprano, Yolanda Riera will sing pieces by Handel, Bach,

Vivaldi, Mozart and Gounod. They will be accompanied by a string quartet and special guest will be Andreas Beskow playing piano.

SOCIAL SCENE

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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Charity begins at home, where the heart belongs MALLORCAN charities grateful for support from local residents in 2015 By Glynis German MANY a foreigner has come to Mallorca, fallen in love with the island and decided to stay. Not that many have done all that and set up a charity whilst here, but this week’s issue of the Euro Weekly News wants to pay homage to some of those great individuals who have selflessly and tirelessly worked for an even better Mallorca! BALDEA is the Balearic platform for animal protection and has projects from controlling the stray cat population with a sterilisation programme to visiting schools and educating children on caring for pets. In 2015 Baldea spayed 1,400 cats in about 10 cat colonies across Mallorca. “We are obliged to have a contract with local councils,” explained Petra Steiner, Baldea founder member. “We talk to mayors, convince them that sterilising them is better than poisoning cats and generally help keep the cat colonies under control. “Our relationship with animal associations is important too and as long as we have the funding, our programmes will continue in 2016.” Krista Hyer is founder and president of the Cancer Support Group here in Mallorca. The group offers emotional support, one to one counselling and a buddy service, plus practical help with paperwork, translation and hospital visits. Developments in 2015 included office space in Son Espases and every Thursday a regular drop-in service is provided there. “Just like any non-profit organisation, we rely on dona-

Dr Sylvia Earle with Brad Robertson, founder of Ondine tions,” said Krista. “However, we have recently started giving our membership scheme a major boost and with our wonderful collaborators offering discounts and special offers to members, we hope to attract many more and for a subscription fee of just €20 a year, they can benefit some great services too.” ONDINE Association, founded by Australian, Brad Robertson, combines science, local communities and conservation to protect and improve local marine ecosystems around the Balearics. Supported by funding from private individuals - Stefan and Irina Hearst deserve special mention - and local businesses, Ondine was proud to bring Mission Blue and the Sylvia Earle Alliance together this year. This year also saw the creation of a Marine Protected Area (MPA) around Sa Dragonera and the project Dos Manos which cleans up beaches on a regular basis whilst cataloguing the rubbish

for further investigation and analysis with local government, went from strength to strength. “The year 2016 will be very busy for us,” said Brad. “We have some new initiatives on plastic pollution and projects we want to take to schools as well as more MPAs to secure.” These are just a few of the very many non-profit associations and charities on the island, many with the input of foreign residents and some even started and founded by foreigners. From children in care (Allen Graham Charity for Kidz), poverty and homelessness (Mediterranea), helping the aged (Age Concern Mallorca) and people at risk from social exclusion (Shambhala Foundation), one thing is clear - charities play an important role and they are here to stay. If you wish to donate to any of these charities, don’t forget, aside from money and materials, most of the charities can

Dip in the sea for charity SOME 200 people took part in the 6th Copa de Nadal last Sunday in Palma and braved the cold water for the 200 metre swim in the port of Palma. The event raised money for local charity, Mallorca Sense Fam and was organised by El Corte Inglés.

Due to the number of participants, the race had to be divided into two groups and young children, alongside much older adults raced to the finish line. Hot chocolate and soup were available after the swim and were very much appreciated!

benefit from your time too. Happy 2016 to the special people who are proud to call themselves volunteers.

EWN

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E W N Mallorca

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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

Sales rise on the Spanish market MARK these words because they’re unusual around these parts. The year 2015 has been an excellent year for the Spanish property market. A stable conclusion to a fairly standard year with decent growth levels doesn’t scream success, but marks a welcome turnabout from the last seven years which have been characterised by doom and gloom. Average prices are around 4.5 per cent higher, sales have risen by just over 11 per cent, banks are regaining confidence

and lowering interest rates, and international investors are starting to take notice. It all represents a far cry from the dark days of 2013 when homes were seeing their values slashed in half. However, it’s important to remember that much of the improvements are localised, with some areas performing much better than others, while it will be impossible to maintain the current interest rate, and demographic concerns lurk in the near future.

TO READ MORE

PROPERTY www.euroweeklynews.com

The year 2015 was a good one for property BANK mortgages have become more available and interest rates remained at a record low John Graham The property expert

CELEBRATING New Year’s Eve in Spain is a wonderful experience for English-speaking homeowners. We dress up for the occasion, join in the Spanish tradition of eating 12 grapes while the Puerta del Sol clock in Madrid counts down to 2016, and enjoy Spanish cava while watching the spectacular fireworks’ display. We sing the traditional Robert Burns ‘Auld Lang Syne’ and some of us will stay up to watch the Vienna Philharmonic New Year Concert or party on into the first day of 2016, enjoying some of Spain’s excellent wines. This is also the time of the year when you look back and reflect on what happened in 2015 and start to make plans for 2016 and hope for a good year. Some of you will be planning to buy a new home, and some of you will be planning to sell your property and move into a smaller or bigger home in Spain in 2016. These are big decisions and you will need the best qualified help available to ensure that your plans go as smoothly and efficiently as possible, and as a qualified senior surveyor and property expert, I’m here to help you in 2016. I have the advantage of being qualified with many years of practical experience in buying and selling property in Spain on behalf of my customers.

FUTURE: Now is when you start to make plans for 2016. Let’s be honest there are enough problems in the world without creating any more, so my job is to make sure that you avoid having problems when buying or selling your home. If you do happen to have a problem it’s my job to advise you on how best to solve the problem. The year 2015 was a very good one for non-Spanish property buyers and sellers on the Costas and Balearics, where demand has been growing over the past two or three years. Bank mortgages have now started to become more available to buyers and not surprisingly readily available on all properties owned by the banks. Interest rates in 2015 have remained at a record low so mortgage costs are

a real bargain, which is good news for buyers and will help you in selling your home in 2016. In 2016, I will continue to write articles which I hope will be helpful when buying your dream home, selling your property and maintaining your property, plus I will give you regular updates on the Spanish property market throughout the year. I’m here to help, so if you are planning to sell or buy a property in Spain please contact me. I would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year. John Graham Fellow of The Architecture & Surveyors Institute. Property Advisor. Email. Gk.ipad@me.com

Noise within the home is a very Spanish problem SPAIN is officially one of the noisiest countries in the developed world when it comes to decibel levels within the home. Around 80 per cent of

Spanish homes have inadequate sound insulation, according to a survey by building company Danosa. Typical decibel levels in Spain are at 65 or above,

while the World Health Organisation recommends a healthy background level maximum of 55 during the day and 45 in the evening. Part of the problem lies

in the fact that Spain has built so few homes since 2009, when EU regulations came into force demanding safe levels of sound insulation.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

It’s time for my last grump of the year Mike Senker

In my opinion Views of a Grumpy Old Man WELL that’s Christmas out the way and you already know my feelings about that so obviously my last grump of the year has to be about New Year’s Eve. When I was younger, much younger, it was OK to go out with the wife and a few friends to celebrate. (Yeah I know, smart ass, I do have some!) To be honest it used to be fun but as I’ve got older it’s just another day. If you actually want to go out to a restaurant you have to be prepared to get a second mortgage, because for some reason most places find it necessary to charge ludicrously high prices for extremely average food. I remember a couple of years ago we went to a local four-star hotel for New Year’s Eve and, as is usual these days, we had to pay up front and choose our menu in full in advance. Now, when you are a bit grumpy like me

this gives you nowhere to go when, after ordering what you want, you find that they have changed the menu and the dish you ordered was no longer being served! Of course, I was just about to have a ruck but Mrs S said to leave it so as it was New Year’s Eve I just had a mini moan to the waiter who just said sorry but couldn’t offer a reason for the change. At the end of the meal we were meant to have a plate of cheese and biscuits which turned out to be a slice of sweaty cheddar and three Ritz crackers. By this time my red knickers were really chaffing and I’d had enough. The 12 grapes were all spotty brown with pips in. The flashing fairy lights all around the room were giving me a migraine. Midnight came and everyone ran around kissing each other which, at any other time of the year, would be seriously frowned upon and would finish up in a mega punch up. Everyone then sat there on their mobile phones shouting, “I can’t hear you, you’re breaking up. Happy New ... what? You’re breaking up …. Year.” And that was it, another New Year’s Eve out the way. Happy New Year everyone – I’m staying at home this year.

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OPINION & COMMENT

LEGALLY SPEAKING

N332 team alert of potential scam 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.

ADVICE: Check around your vehicle before you enter it. A WARNING has been issued regarding a new scam warning that is being spread through social networks around the globe. The instigator of the scam places a cash note on the windscreen of the car, affixed by the windscreen wipers. The idea is that once inside the vehicle, the driver will see the note and, thinking that their luck has just come in, exit the car in order to retrieve the money. At this point, with the engine still running, the scammer would rush into the vehicle and drive off, leaving the victim holding a note, which is actually a fake. Although there are currently no reported cases of this happening in Spain, it is only a matter of time before somebody attempts it, and succeeds. The advice is always to check around the

vehicle before you enter it, not only looking for things placed on your windscreen or back window, but also checking for obvious damage and that your tyres are inflated. It is highly unlikely that anybody would leave money for you in this way, so if you do see such an occurrence, don’t build your hopes up and stay alert. E-Book Don’t forget the E-book ‘The New Rules of the Road’ is still available which details some of the changes to traffic laws in Spain, some already implemented and some due in the near future. It can be downloaded via www.n332.es/ebook/ with all proceeds going to the Elche Children’s Home based on the Costa Blanca.

For more news and articles visit www.n332.es or search N332 on Facebook.

Can the President act alone? At our AGM in January an item on the Agenda was eventually withdrawn by the President after a debate with every speaker opposed to what he wanted to do. Coming forward to August, the very same Agenda item has been imIf the action included the spending of substantial Community funds or if it altered elements of the Community property, the President should have called an extraordinary general meeting to seek authorisation. However, there are many minor actions that lie within

plemented. Other than a health or safety issue, is this in order, or should there have been a special general meeting to discuss the merit of the issue again?

David Searl You and the Law in Spain

the President’s power to act on his own accord, even if they are not immediate issues of health or safety.

R.D. (Mallorca) We observe that the item was never put to a vote, so the members cannot say they denied it officially, even though they spoke against it. An opponent with his wits about him should have called for a vote on the Agenda item at the time. That would have made it official.

Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana & Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

HOMES GARDENS

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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End of year gardening thoughts A FEW general observations... from Cox’s Orange Pippins to ecological weedkiller Dick Handscombe

Gardening Corner By Spain’s best known expatriate gardening author living in Spain for 25 years.

1. I HAVE a bowl of very juicy and tasty eco-grown tangerines from the garden on the sideboard but miss the box of Cox’s Orange Pippin apples that were less tough and tastier to eat than the packing station apples that are mostly available in Spain. Has any reader been able to grow good Cox’s in Spain? If so I would love to have a photo via yourgardenin spain@hotmail.com. 2. Early this year I obtained a carton of the then new Neudorff’s ecological citrus fertilizer, Fertilizante Citricos, to trial. My Christmas oranges, tangerines and lemons have been of an exceptionally excellent size. The micro-organisms in the product have worked well and should continue to do so. They do not exist in organic chemical fertilizers; yes, those often referred to as those little blue granules. 3. More and more Spanish magazines are including arti-

MISSED FAVOURITE: Cox’s Orange Pippins are less tough and tastier than packing-station apples in Spain. cles about the steady increase in the number of people growing vegetables in urban areas in containers, on growing tables and in gravity watered hydroponic units as well as in small vegetable plots. This is probably not so in the British community. At a recent talk on the Costa Blanca I discovered that just 3 per cent did so. It was significantly higher at a talk the following week in Andalucia.

Incidentally, I had a last tomato, aubergine and several peppers at Christmas-time from plantlets planted last spring. 4. The researchers developing the early lie detector machines in the US found that plants had feelings. When they connected the machines to plants and then took out secateurs to prune them, even before actual cuts were made, an off-scale response could be de-

tected. So do ensure you use sharp secateurs during the winter cutback to reduce the pain. 5. How can some supermarket lettuces stay crisp in the fridge for a month when freshly-harvested ones from the garden never exposed to chemicals of any sort wilt in a couple of days? A search of the internet makes for interesting reading! 6. An international study of birdlife in urban areas includ-

ing Valencia City concluded that the noisy urban environment favours birds that sing shrill and highly pitched with tenor versus baritone tones. My observation is that the same applies to country gardens for there are more of those types of birds. How do such studies get funded? 7. Remember that ecological home-made garlic, thyme and soapy water insect sprays are

easily prepared if your local horticultural shop or agricultural co-operative refuses from January to serve you with your traditional chemical sprays if you do not have a new EU stimulated certificate to prove that you have been on and passed a spraying course. I wonder if the UK is introducing this new requirement as enthusiastically as the Spanish authorities? 8. Some years ago I managed to obtain a bottle of Neudorf’s ecological weedkiller from outside Spain to trial. It was very effective except on well-established perennial weeds which need to be dug out. Unfortunately, it is still not available in Spain although it is now in the UK. However, I have been informed that it may be authorised during 2016. When I hear anything more I will let you know in my weekly column. As tomorrow is the first day of 2016, may I wish you all a happy and productive gardening next year. © Dick Handscombe www.gardenspain.com December 2015

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31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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Chocolate danger to dogs IT is made for human consumption and dogs are sensitive to the chemicals

David THE Dogman

Caring for a furry family in a rural idyll To find a pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com or call Lamia on +44 (0)1865 521508

PHILIPPA left the UK some years ago and now lives in a beautiful rural part of Andalucia. She lives alone but for the company of her family of donkeys, dogs and cats. She is so happy in her rural idyll that she rarely leaves, in fact by her own admission it is hard to pull herself away. However, once in a while she is tempted to return home to see family and friends and then she needs to find someone to care for her beloved pets. The dogs and cats usually go to kennels and the donkeys are fed and cared for by a neighbour who lives 20 minutes away. This is far from ideal. The dogs pine for home, and lose weight in her absence, and the cats actively ignore her for extended periods on her return. Recently she discovered an

online house-sitting platform that found suitable house-sitters to come and live in her home and care for her furry family. The most recent is a software engineer from Palo Alto in California, who having sold his business at a young age is cycling his way around the world! He has already cycled around much of Beijing and Shanghai, now he is peddling his way through Southern Europe. House-sitting helps him manage his budget. He lives rent free in exchange for caring for Philippa’s home and pets. Carl grew up on a farm in California so he has plenty of experience with all manner of pets, including donkeys. Housesitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting and the sitters get free accommodation!

CHOCOLATE made for human consumption can cause death in dogs. Dogs are sensitive to a class of chemicals called methylxanthines. Caffeine and theobtomine are members of that family. Dogs simply cannot metabolise and excrete methylxanthines as efficiently as humans. The half life of those compounds in the human body is in the order of two to three hours, in the dog it is more like 18 hours. In a dog the compounds are taken up by the liver and transmitted via the bile into the intestine. They are then converted back into the original methylxanthines for another circuit through the animal. This repeats itself a number of times and instead of getting rid of the substances the dog keeps repoisoning itself. There are many formulations of chocolate with varying amounts of caffeine and theobromine. The lethal dose of sweet milk chocolate for a dog is

MISTAKE: It would be tragic to encourage a dog to develop a taste for chocolate. 2oz per kilogram of bodyweight. For a five kilogram dog this would be about 280 grams. A lethal dose of milk chocolate for a 25 kilogram dog would be about 1.4 kilograms. Dark chocolate is at least 10 times as lethal. A 25 kilogram dog could die from the methylxanthines in five ounces. Symptoms include vomiting, hyperactivity, restlessness, hypersensitivity

to touch, a dog will jump when touched, very rapid heartbeat and rapid breathing rate. A loss of control of leg muscles, muscle tremor seizures, general weakness, coma and finally death. It would be a tragic mistake to encourage a dog to develop a taste for chocolate. A small dog left alone in a house with a box of chocolates might well follow his nose to the goodies and commit suicide by poisoning.

Tips from the vets REGULAR exams are vital to keeping your pet healthy in the long run by catching any serious problems early. Neutering your pet not only cuts down on unwanted pregnancies, but also helps reduce their tendency to roam around, whilst also offering numerous health benefits. Provide mental and physical stimulation with a rich environment of free movement and curiosities to keep them active. ID microchip your pet to allow them to be reunited with you should they wind up lost or in trouble, roughly 86 per cent of pets who become lost stay lost without a microchip. Never give your pet human medication and ensure they can’t

Lindsay Turner, via Flickr

DONKEYS: Are friendly and great company.

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

REGULAR CHECKS: Vital to your pet’s health in the long run. access it. Ibuprofen may seem harmless but is actually one of the biggest culprits

out there when it comes to pet poisoning, so keep it out of reach.

BOATS

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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Christmas thanks for gift of life BECKY HARRIS recovers after being critically injured in a boat accident earlier this year EARLIER this year a boat crash on Geist Reservoir in Indianapolis critically injured 52-year-old Becky Harris, who has now recovered sufficiently to allow her to personally thank all those who were responsible for saving her life and to allow her to spend this Christmas with her family. On May 17, Becky was critically injured after a boat broadsided her pontoon at 50 miles an hour on the Geist and talking about the accident, she said “Knocked our steering wheel off, knocked the console all down on top of me, knocked my husband into the water who miraculously

Valeriy Lebadev Shutterstock

By John Smith

ACCIDENT: A boat broadsided her pontoon at 50 miles an hour on the Geist. made it back into the boat.” An emergency call went out

whilst Becky’s husband Boyd administered cardiopulmonary resus-

citation which he had luckily learned for his job.

Lieutenant Mike Janes who was one of the first on the scene said: “We were able to locate the victim, get her onto a backboard and move her over to our boat and transport her to the shore, where she was able to be taken care of by EMS.” Becky had a serious head injury and broken bones. Her outlook was grim, but she pulled through, thanks to the mutual aid of first responders who helped her that day. “Because of these men and of course because of my husband, I’m able to be here today,” said Harris. “I feel blessed and I feel thankful, thankful that people did their best on our behalf,” said her husband Boyd Harris.

Bugatti design concept enters the water BACK in 2011, Ben Walsh, a graduate of the Royal College of Art in London and an established car designer came up with the concept of a super sleek, super-fast speedboat to be named after the Bugatti company, which did actually produce speed boats in the 1920s and 30s. Although his concept never took to the water, a new super Bugatti is to be produced. Palmer Johnson, American manufacturers of superyachts, has entered into partnership with the historic Bugatti company and will produce a range of super speedboats marketed under the name Bugatti Niniette, who was the daughter of Ettore Bugatti, the founder of the company. It is expected that the range will include a starter boat measuring 42ft costing just €2 million, running up to an 88ft super yacht at a price yet to be revealed. What is certain is that the finish and performance of both the interior and exterior will be superb with a choice of blue and brown pinstriping, a distinctive EB emblem and some very serious speed. Dr Stefan Brungs, sales and marketing director at Bugatti is quoted as saying: “This very special project brings together two brands with more than 100 years of experience in high-end handcrafting in their respective fields. “Palmer Johnson has created not only an incredibly elegant and beautiful yacht, but also a masterpiece of craftsmanship featuring carbon fibre, titanium and precious wood. This collector’s item will thrill maritime aficionados.” Each carbon hulled Niniette is likely to take up to a year to produce, but owners will have the chance to agree a range of decorative options, and can look forward to being the envy of local day skippers when they drive up to the marina in their Bugatti Veyron and then transfer to their Niniette.

Talisker Atlantic race

VESSEL: ‘Mein Schiff 2’ promises a mixture of live music, comedy and cabaret.

First German-speaking Rainbow cruise to set sail FOR the first time, there will be a Germanspeaking cruise for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender better known as the LGBT community, which will sail from Palma de Mallorca in April, calling in at Barcelona followed by ports in France, Italy and Malta before terminating in Barcelona. The cruise which will be operated by TUI

Cruises using their vessel ‘Mein Schiff 2’ promises a mixture of music, live and with DJs, comedy, cabaret and drag over the eight day period at sea. The cost including all meals based on a double cabin on the inside of the vessel will be in the region of €1,200 per person, and for those who wish to travel from Germany, flights will cost an additional €350.

ON December 22, no less than 25 boats set off to row more than 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean. Rowers headed west from San Sebastian in La Gomera in the Canaries to Nelson’s Dockyard English Harbour, Antigua. Once they had left the safety of the harbour they were on their own on the vast ocean and at the mercy of the elements, until the race comes into its final stretch. There are eight crews of four men, 11 crews of two men and six single handed rowers taking part in this annual competition.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

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Motoring shorts

PIVE extends helping hand EVEN though the financial crisis has been consigned to the car industry’s ‘Book of bad memories’, the Spanish government has decided to extend subsidies via the PIVE scheme. Despite November’s car sales figures indicating a 20 per cent rise year on year, the powers that be have prolonged the ‘pay for scrappage system’ again to PIVE 9. Regardless of the fact that the government held manufacturers’ hands through the scary times while announcing that PIVE 7, and subsequently 8 would be ‘the last one’, the latest promised injection of €225 million came just before the General Election on December 20. However, the government has also said that once the funds – that theoretically won’t be available until July 2016 – run out, this will mark the end of the scheme. Again!

Clarkson Quote of theWeek

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This [Ferrari F60 Enzo] isn’t just uncool, it’s seriously uncool. Think of it this way, if you walk into the bathroom and see a man standing suspiciously close to the urinal, he probably owns one of them.”

Some might say...

Zero hour THE engine is dead… Long live the motor! By Steve Walsh THE jury is out and the future of motoring has been decided; the internal combustion engine has been found guilty of pollution and has been given its execution date… 2050. Following the COP21 conference this month, the UK, as well as many other countries, has reaffirmed its commitment to an agreement that all new cars sold by 2050 will be zero emissions vehicles, and it’s likely only a matter of time until everyone else follows suit. The ZEV Alliance has already received the signatures of five countries including Germany, the Netherlands and Norway, as well as eight US states, who have pledged to kill off the

car as we know it and continue to support zero emissions’ technology while promoting the clean-up of vehicle-produced pollutants. By signing the agreement, the government has effectively signed the death warrant for petrol and diesel driven cars, and agreed to strive for all passenger vehicle sales in the UK to be zero emissions vehicles as soon as possible, with the 2050 date being the final deadline. ZEV Alliance members also have to provide incentives to purchase zero emissions vehicles, and use policies such as tax breaks and government grants to promote cars producing no emissions. That means cheaper vehicles! Like with any transition,

moving from cars with engines to transport with motors will be in stages. Today’s hybrids will be seen in the future as our first steps to that end. Although hydrogen power-plants are coming to the fore with Toyota and Honda investing heavily in development, battery electric hybrids look imminent to be taking over the roads. So with that in mind, which are the best hybrid cars you can buy today? Toyota Yaris Hybrid: Boasting 60mpg and 75g/km of CO2 emissions, the super-

mini has running costs to match its diminutive size, and a price to match. At around €17,000 new, a two-year-old Yaris can be bought for as little as €11,000. Toyota Auris Hybrid: Big brother of the Yaris, the 1.8-litre petrol hybrid achieves 78.5mpg and emits only 79g/km of CO2. Approximately €22,000 new, a two-year-old might be found for €16,000 Lexus IS300h: The near-silent electric-only is ideal for zipping around

A classic investment BUYING a classic car can make you money WHILE some invest their time and money in the financial markets, and others in bricks and mortar, there are those amongst us that would like to see our money put to a more practical and enjoyable use. Buying a classic car can be a sound long-term investment, and if common sense is used and a few key rules are adhered to, collectible vehicles can provide a better yield than art, wine, coins or jewellery. In addition, there is the fun factor. I can’t ever remember anybody telling me they’d been stopped in the street and told: “Wow! That’s a beautiful bottle of wine,” or they had just had a wonderful experience, racing through the country lanes, wind in their hair, listening to the burble of their V8 oil painting. However, an investment is exactly that, an investment, and great care should be taken in buying the right car. If you let your heart rule

your head when choosing, you could well lose money in repairs and restoration. To avoid the ‘money pit motors’, and to ensure you have the best chance of a return on your investment, it’s best to stick to the popular marks, and even then only the best spec and condition on of-

€5,000 is the amount you could make from the sale of a classic Convertible in the future fer. For example: the market (and people with money to buy) for a pristine top spec Jaguar XJS Convertible in 10 years’ time will be far greater than the many tempting cheap rusty old ‘do’er up-ers’ that will be available. If you were to pay €15,000 for that pristine Convertible now, you’re likely to have 10

years of happy classic motoring every weekend and probably make €5,000 when you sell it with a smile on your face. Alternatively, buying an average Coupe with cloth seats and no history that needs ‘a little catching up’ for a bargain €8,000, then spending €4,000 repairing bits as they break, and getting everything perfect and running right (meaning you can’t use it a lot of the time). Then in 10 years when you sell, you would be selling a pristine average spec Coupe without history in a market of hundreds the same… You would be lucky to get your €12,000 back. In essence, the cream always rises to the top. Given the option of driving around in a beautiful and perfect XJS Convertible for 10 years and being paid €5,000 to do so, for me, is a far better option to 10 years of car trouble for no reward.

CLASS ACT: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Hybrid. town, and its 67.3mpg at a mere 97g/km of CO2 doesn’t break the bank to run. The IS300h SE being the best edition starts at £29,000 in the UK (€40,000) Mercedes-Benz C-Class Hybrid: The rain-sensing wipers, reversing camera, climate and cruise control, plus a plethora of other toys as standard makes the Mercedes a class act and always a quality choice. Starting at £36,765 (€50,000) in UK.

Over 50s insurance renewals rip-off A PROBLEM regarding older drivers being taken advantage of by insurers, that was brought to light by the TV star Sheila Hancock earlier in the year, appears not only to be true but more serious than first believed. An investigation by thisis money.co.uk has discovered older drivers and homeowners are being fooled into paying hundreds of pounds every year in premiums, by the same specialist insurers who claim to be offering them ‘bargain deals for senior drivers’. It would appear these companies bump up premiums when the over-50s’ annual policies end, banking on the premise that older customers are less likely to shop around for a new deal.

E W N 31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016 / Mallorca

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Saints ‘alive’ as Leicester stay top of the league HARRY KANE beats Teddy Sheringham’s Tottenham record 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

AS all sports-minded people know the annual Christmas/New Year period is packed full of action with events all over the country. This recent one has been no different to any other, and we haven’t finished yet… In fact who knows what happened earlier this week – we could have seen more managers lose their jobs, some sensational results, a few personal achievements and without doubt, many disappointments. FOOTBALL – On Boxing Day, leaders Leicester City lost away for the first time this season, beaten 1-0 at Liverpool, Arsenal missed the chance to go top when they crashed 4-0 at Southampton, Manchester United lost 2-0 at Stoke, their fourth defeat in a row (the first time this has happened since 1961). Everton netted a dramatic late winner at Newcastle (1-0), Manchester City eased past struggling Sunderland 4-1, Swansea got back to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over inconsistent WBA, Spurs defeated Norwich 3-0 with Harry Kane striking his 26th and 27th goals of 2015, thus beating Teddy Sheringham’s previous club record by one, Watford battled hard and long to earn a point at Chelsea (2-2), bottom of the table Aston Villa were held 1-1 by West Ham and Bournemouth played out a 0-0 home draw with Crystal Palace. In the Championship, leaders Derby County accounted for Fulham 2-0, Hull City comfortably beat Burnley 3-0, and Brighton drew 0-0 at Brentford. Ipswich and Sheffield Wednesday kept in touch with the top six by beating QPR 2-1 and Birmingham 3-0 respectively. Bottom club Bolton lost again, this time 4-0 at Rotherham In League One, with Burton’s game postponed, Walsall (1-0 at Millwall) and Coventry City (1-0 vs Port Vale) continue to lead the way while in League Two there were wins for the top two, Oxford 3-0 v Exeter and Plymouth 1-0 v Yeovil. North of the border, Aberdeen could have gone top of the SPL but were held 2-2 at home by Inverness CT. Over the New Year, all 20 PL clubs are in action, the fixtures being LeicesterBournemouth, Arsenal-Newcastle, WatfordManchester City, West Ham-Liverpool, Crystal Palace-Chelsea, Manchester United-

Swansea, Everton-Spurs, NorwichSouthampton, WBA-Stoke and a real sixpointer at the bottom between Sunderland and Aston Villa. It’s Burnley-Ipswich, Middlesbrough-Derby and QPR-Hull in the Championship, while Coventry visit Crewe and Plymouth have to go 385 miles north to play Carlisle (somewhere). GENERAL ROUND-UP • My tip Cue Card (9-2) won the King George V Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day. • England, 303 all out with Nick Compton 85, James Taylor 70 and Jonny Bairstow 41 top-scoring, had South Africa on 137-4 in the early stages of the first Test in Durban. • Exeter Chiefs beat Sale 33-17 to go top of Rugby’s Aviva PL and Ospreys scored late to win the Welsh derby 27-26 against Scarlets. SAD NEWS Former 1950s Wolves centre-forward Roy Swinbourne died on December 27 in a Kidderminster nursing home, aged 86. The scorer of 114 goals in 230 appearances, he gained a League championship winner’s medal with the Molineux club in 1954. MY NEW YEAR’S ALMANAC FOR 2016 (tongue in cheek but you never know) • Jamie Vardy to leave Leicester City for Manchester City or even United! • Van Gaal to be replaced as manager at Old Trafford by Jose Mourinho – or will Pep Guardiola or even Ryan Giggs take charge! • Alan Pardew to become England’s head coach, despite Roy Hodgson and his team having an excellent Euro 2016 Championship in France. • Aston Villa to register the lowest ever PL seasonal points tally which currently stands at 11, achieved by Derby County in 2007-08. • Arsenal and Manchester City to reach the Champions League final. • GB to collect 50 medals at the Rio Olympics. • Lewis Hamilton/Mercedes to become F1 world driving champion again. • Rank outsiders to win three of golf’s majors. • Another ‘unknown’ wins the World snooker crown. • A teenage Filipino rides to glory in the Tour de France. • The Aintree Grand National goes to a 100-1 shot – the first since Foinavon in 1967. • Andy Murray to win three Grand Slam

tennis titles, Djorkovic claims just one. • And England’s cricketers win three Test series against South Africa, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. And with all that, I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous 2016.

HARRY KANE: Scored his 26th and 27th goals of 2015 to set new club record. CRICKET: Nick Compton out for 85 in the early stages of the first test in Durban. England were all out for 303.

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Mallorca

31 December 2015 - 6 January 2016

ENGLAND CRICKET: All out for 303 against South Africa in the first test in Durban. Mallorca’s best guide to local sport

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Successful weekend for El Toro RC Baleares Senior League. THE El Toro RC Senior men’s team made a second half comeback in their match against Shamrock RC late on Saturday December 19. The home team, missing many regular players through injury or holidays, had a slow, disorganised start and gave away an early penalty kick to put points on the board for Shamrock RC who later scored their only try. El Toro RC was lucky to come back with a try after attempting to win several scrums near to the try line. The visitors defended well as El Toro RC spent a lot of time on their try line but came away with only one more try before half time and a score of 14 points to 8. El Toro RC came out for the second half with renewed intent which gave them the advantage over their opponents. Shamrock RC had a player sent off for 10 minutes which also gave the home team a brief advantage. El Toro RC continued to score tries with the last close to the final whistle and from an op-

portune catch as Shamrock RC attempted to move the ball away from their line. The final score was 41 points to 8 which gave El Toro RC a bonus point for scoring more than four tries. Baleares Girls League The fourth leg of the Baleares Girls League was held in Puerto Pollença on Saturday with teams from El Toro RC, Shamrock RC, Corsaris RFC and Bahia RC taking part. El Toro RC showed their superiority once more and won all of their matches, although the other teams continue to improve with every tournament. Final scores for the matches were: Shamrock RC vs El Toro RC, 12 to 32. Bahia RC vs Corsaris RFC, 24 to 17. Bahia RC vs Shamrock RC, 17 to 24. El Toro RC vs Corsaris RFC, 24 to 0. Shamrock RC vs Corsaris RFC, 12 to 10, El Toro RC vs Bahia RC, 19 to 5. The host team, Corsaris RFC, even though they could only muster six players, never gave up.

GIRLS LEAGUE: Match between El Toro RC and Corsaris RFC.