Issuu

ISSUE NO. 1597

11 - 17 February 2016

MALLORCA

YOUR PAPER, YOUR VOICE, YOUR OPINION

Bullfighting has now been banned

By Sandra Galo The Balearic Parliament voted on Tuesday (February 9) to amend the animal protection law to include a ban on all forms of bullfighting in the Balearic Islands. The proposal was presented

by the political parties PSOE, MES of Mallorca and Menorca, Podemos and Gent Per Fomentera. The amendment will also prohibit any event which causes suffering to an animal and pressures the State Government to eliminate public Turn to Page 5

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LOCAL NEWS

Companies move ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY FOUR companies have relocated to the Balearic Islands from Cataluña, Valencia, Madrid, the Canary Islands and Andalucia according

to Spanish credit rating Agency Axesor. The majority came from Cataluña, and reasons given for relocating included increases in income, property and inheritance taxes.

Princess Cristina is to testify later PRINCESS Cristina is back in court and will testify later in the month in the high-profile Noos Court Case. Questioning of witnesses is scheduled to take place

in March and April. Charges against Miguel Tejeiro (ex-secretary of the Instituto Noos) were dropped recently bringing the number on trial down to 17.

Nominated for award ASPIRING Mallorcan filmmakers attended this year ’s Goya Awards with their film ‘I am your father,’ one of four films nominated in the Best Documentary category. The film tells the story of David Prowse, the British actor who gave life to the most famous masked villain in cinematic history: Darth Vader.

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NEWS

Wife of jihadist detained in UK WOMAN was planning to pass through Palma on her way to Syria By Sandra Galo A WALSALL woman planning to pass through Mallorca to join the jihadist father of her children was detained by police in Britain. Lorna Moore was planning to travel with her three young children via Palma to be reunited with their father in Syria. Prosecutor Julian Christopher QC explained her intention to jurors: “The plan was for Miss Moore to take the children via an innocuous destination to be reunited with their father.” Ms Moore was allegedly part of a group planning to travel to Syria to join Daesh. She has been accused of not informing authorities of her husband’s plan to join the Daesh. Jurors were told that Sajid Aslam, who travelled to Syria in August of 2014, had been in contact with Ms Moore via Skype. Ms Moore, a 33-yearold trainee maths teacher from Walsall, denies the terror-related offence.

credit Artesia Wells-Shutterstock.com

HOLIDAY STOPS: May be used to reach onward destinations.

NEWS

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Featured News 3

Finance 21 - 26

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Tourists join ecological initiative in Calvia LAST year participants collected 640 kilos of rubbish

Stocks 22

Leapy Lee 27

Letters 28

Daily TV 30

Vicki McLeod 33

Time Out 34 - 35

Our View 36

BEACH CLEAN-UP: Tourists have been encouraged to help.

By Sandra Galo

Colin Bird 36

Health & Beauty 38 - 39

Social Scene 42 - 43

Property 44 - 45

Legally Speaking 46

Homes & Gardens 47

Classifieds 48 - 49

Pets 50

Boats 51

Motoring 52

Sport 54, 56

CALVIA’S town hall has made an agreement with the hotelier’s association in Paguera and Cala Fornells to raise environmental awareness among tourists visiting the area. The agreement is part of pilot urban ecology initiative and will include ecological activities including beach

cleaning and reforestation. Promoting winter tourism and natural heritage conservation are also part of the plan. The project has started this month with a reforestation effort in Paguera’s Talaia area where 12 hectares of the forest were destroyed by fire in 2011. The effort involved the hotelier ’s association, the Balearic government and

tourists under the European Winter programme. Another objective of the agreement is to maintain the beauty of the landscape in the area. Tourists receive information on acceptable methods for carrying out protective and reforestation work and for the best methods of conserving natural heritage and preventing the erosion of soil. Beach cleaning has been a

way of promoting conservation and environmental awareness of coastal areas among tourists, tour operators, local residents and businesses for more than eight years. Last year, participants collected 640 kilos of rubbish. In total, more than 12,600 kilos have been removed from beaches since the project began in 2007.

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Gambling den discovered in Manacor THE National Police have shut down a gambling den in the town of Manacor. After different investigations made by Local and National Police from the Service for Control of Gambling, sources confirmed an influx of people going to the establishment from various villages in the Llevant area. The establishment which appeared to be a bar, was a front for illegal gambling. Betting for the card games could reach up to €2,000 just at one table. Police identified 32 people including the owner of the property, the organisers, the bank, and the gamblers.

Mallorcan students in Sheffield for a week

No more bullfighting From Front page

funding of bullfighting. The campaign Mallorca Sense Sang (Mallorca Without Blood) has been lobbying for the past two years to stop this practice which they consider to be animal torture and ‘death for fun’. Thirty-three of Mallorca’s 53 municipalities as well as the Council of Mallorca have declared their support for the ban. Campaign spokesperson Guillermo Amengual predicted the decision would be historic and that thanks to the efforts of many people and the support of the governing political parties in the Balearics, in a few weeks bullfighting will just be a bad memory. More than 146,000 people signed the petition against bullfighting which included some well-known names from the worlds of fashion, sport, and culture. Some villages have not declared support for the ban including Muro which supports the practice and Fornalutx which hosts an annual bull-run that is expected to be banned.

Patients should speak in their own language

MALLORCA PORTS: Will receive funding through the 2016 Business Plan.

€52m for the ports PLANS are to extend the boardwalk at Poniente docks By Sandra Galo

A GROUP of secondary students from the first year baccalaureate course (Primero de bachillerato) in Sant Josep Obrer de Palma spent the first week of February visiting Sheffield, England as part of a linguistic exchange programme involving three schools in the Sheffield area. Not only were students able to improve their English, they also attended classes at the three schools and visited places of interest in the surrounding area.

EWN

THE Business Plan for 2016 approved by the Council of Administration of the Balearic Port Authority (APB) anticipates an investment of €52 million for five ports on the islands. Of that amount, €38.3 million corresponds to a direct investment by APB and

€14 million will come from the private sector. An upturn of economic activity is expected for this year which will positively affect sea transport and subsequent revenue. The APB in Palma will invest a total of €13.3 million in 2016 and plans are to extend the north boardwalk of the Poniente docks.

MINISTER of Health Patricia Gomez defended the importance of patients being able to communicate in the language they are most comfortable with. She stated that it is an obligation of the administration to put attention on communication. Her comment was made after IB-Salut’s General Director Juli Fuster remarked that the government wants very good professionals to come that understand Mallorcan agriculture but who can barely speak Spanish. Minister Gomez also expressed concern over the present situation of the hospitals’ overloaded emergency services saying that the government has implemented a contingency plan to help with the increase of work. She assured the parliament that health is a priority for the current administration.

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BA offers new flights to Stansted BRITISH AIRWAYS announced that it will offer a weekly flight service from London Stansted airport to Palma starting in May. The new service will also include weekly flights to Ibiza, Malaga and Faro (Portugal). Flights will be operated by British Airways subsidiary BA CityFlyer with 98-seat Embraer 190 jets. Andrew Harrison, Managing Director of London’s Stansted Airport said that he was delighted to welcome British Airways to the airport and is looking forward to the launch of their new flight service commenting that these new services to Faro, Malaga, Palma and Ibiza are ‘strong additions’ to their route network which covers 170 destinations across Europe and North America.

NEWS

Son Servera fight on caterpillars PRESENT a danger to children and animals

PINE TREES: Nests are being shot down with help from volunteers. By Sandra Galo SON SERVERA’S city council has taken steps against the dangerous pine processionary caterpillar whose numbers have been on the rise due to high temperatures and lack of rainfall. Councillor for the Environment Miquel Espases explained that the pest control effort is being accomplished by shooting down nests in pine trees with help from volunteers from the La Veda

hunting association working together with the municipal gardening service and Local Police. The pine processionary caterpillar can be dangerous to humans and other mammals. When touched or poked, the hairs of the caterpillars cause a nasty rash and dust given off by the creatures can cause respiratory problems. They present a special danger to children and animals whose reactions to the pest can result in death.

Parents complain about freezing classrooms PARENTS of children at Bendinat’s public nursery school issued complaints of inadequate heating systems

in the classrooms. The parents said that although their children were sent to school wearing extra

clothes, many of them have become ill. They have taken their complaints to the Ministry of Education and to the town hall of Calvia which is in charge of the maintenance of the facilities. The IMEB (Municipal Institute for Education and Libraries) said that the only solution is to install an independent heating system in the building. Since it is not considered maintenance work, the job will be given to Ibisec (the Institute of Infrastructures and Educational and Cultural Services). In the meantime, IMEB has bought heaters for the classrooms as a temporary solution. Parents, however, say that the system is inefficient because the building doesn’t have enough power to run the heaters and the electricity goes off when they are turned on.

NEWS

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Schools should introduce English in stages TEACHERS association PLIS is proposing that the only way to effectively teach English as a vehicular language is to introduce it in steps. PLIS insists that implementing a foreign language is neither difficult nor particularly expensive and that the key is to be prudent and use long-term planning. It argues that the English language should be introduced in the first year of a student’s primary school education and then in stages each year after, throughout the primary and secondary school years. PLIS which stands for Profesores Libres de Ingenieria Social (Teachers free of Social Engineering) is an association of teachers advocating for open, pluralistic, trilingual education free from ideological exploitation. PLIS said that excessive legislation should be avoided and that the previous legislature passed laws that were ‘excessive and short-sighted’ and resulted in the collapse of the system. On the other hand, they stated that the current government passes laws by ‘default and with longsightedness’ allowing schools to decide for themselves how to implement laws which will result in another failure of the public education system. The association explained that centres have to rely on their own resources and the Teachers Assembly and unions don’t know how to see beyond immersion in Catalan and the government doesn’t want to take away hours from Catalan.

EWN

Drug related arrest in Palma POLICE spent months investigating the network which was operating on the island By Sandra Galo POLICE have arrested a 33-year-old man in Palma for drug-related offences in their continuing fight against drug

trafficking on the island. The arrest was part of an operation known as Petit in which police have spent months investigating the drug network operating on the island.

The man was carrying 200 grammes of cocaine at the time of the arrest. Police then searched two properties in Llucmajor and one in Can Pastilla where they found two kilograms of cocaine, 30

grammes of ecstasy and one and a half kilograms of a cutting agent used to dilute the drugs. Police also discovered more than €30,000 and two weapons in mint condition along with ammunition.

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NEWS

Association dissolved THERE were more than 55,000 members in their heydey

IMPORTANT AGM: Where some very serious decisions were taken. THE seventh annual general meeting for Europeos Por Espa単a (EPORE) was held on February 5 at the OD Hotel in Portals. This was a particularly important AGM for EPORE which was formed in October 2008 as some very serious decisions were taken during the meeting. President Kate Mentink reflected on the past 25 years of her service to the community, firstly forming The Institute of Foreign

Property Owners, then Ciudadanos Europeos and finally Europeos por Espa単a. Over the years these various organisations, formed with the intention of disseminating and sharing information about living in Spain, have led Kate to attending official dinners and giving presentations to hundreds of people, and making trips to Brussels and Strasbourg to represent association members.

There is more access to information than before, meaning the need for and membership of the organisation has lessened considerably. This has led to the association having expenses but not enough income, which led Mentink and the EPORE Committee to propose the dissolution of the association. There will be an Extraordinary AGM held within the next 30 days where the association will be officially closed.

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Dispute over seniors’ holiday packages THE Costa del Sol Hotelier’s Association criticised the actions of Imserso regarding holiday packages being diverted to the Balearics. The hotel association has filed a written complaint with Imserso, a branch of Spain’s Social Services department dealing with the elderly, for the actions of the travel agency Mundiplan. The agency which had been awarded the holiday packages of the Senior Programme for the Canary and Balearic islands planned on diverting packages that could not be marketed in the Canary Islands to the Balearics. The association said that this would put hotels on the mainland at a disadvantage. The hoteliers advocate that if similar situations arise in the future, packages should be distributed proportionally to the other participating areas.

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NEWS

Full steam ahead for Soller train WORKS included renovation of the track and carpentry maintenance By Sandra Galo THE Soller train and tram service started up again on February 1 after a two-month renovation. The service which connects Palma to Soller and the Port of Soller had been suspended for the last two months due to maintenance and improvement work on the stations and

tracks. Around 600 metres of rail and tram track has been renovated. Work also included carpentry maintenance and a complete electrical and electronic overhaul of all of the existing wiring. The company also completely renovated the traction, braking, wiring, controlling, driving and management systems.

IMPROVEMENT WORKS: To train and tram service.

FINANCE

11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

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EWN

Balearics Taxation In 2016 It is important to review your tax planning from time to time, to check that it is up to date and that you are using all the opportunities available in Spain to reduce tax liabilities for yourself and your heirs. While the state did not introduce many tax changes for 2016, the local Islas Baleares government has made changes to income, wealth and succession taxes. Income taxes The general state income tax rates for 2016 are – Income € 0 – 12,450 12,450 – 20,200 20,200 – 35,200 35,200 – 60,000 Over 60,000

Tax rate 19% 24% 30% 37% 45%

However these rates are made up of equal part state rates and regional rates, and each Autonomous Community can amend their local rates. Here in Islas Baleares, the income tax rates

Income € 0 – 6,000 6,000 – 50,000 Over 50,000

By Peter Worthington, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks range over 13 income tax bands from 19% to 47.5%. The top rate is for income over €175,000. The above rates only apply to general income (employment, pension, rental income, etc). Savings income (interest, dividends, income derived from life assurance contracts, purchased annuity income and capital gains on the sale or transfer of assets) is taxed at different rates. The 2016 rates are –

Tax rate 19% 21% 23%

With effect from 2015, all capital gains are taxed at the savings tax rates, even those arising on assets held for less than a year. The depreciation relief was removed, but on assets acquired before 31st December 1994 taxpayers may be entitled to a reduction provided the sales proceeds do not exceed €400,000. For those residents who benefit from the ‘special tax regime’ for inbound assignees (‘Beckham law’), the tax rates for 2016 are 24% for income up to €600,000 and 45% after that. Non-residents who earn Spanish income will pay tax at fixed rates of 19% for EU residents and 24% for everyone else. Wealth tax Wealth tax keeps being extended and remains in place for fiscal year

2016. Spanish residents pay tax on the value of their worldwide assets as at 31st December. Generally, rates rise progressively from 0.2% to 2.5% (from 0.28% to 3.45% in Islas Baleares). There are reductions available, ranging from €700,000 to €2m, depending on whether you own your home and if you are single or a couple. Islas Baleares had increased the individual allowance from €700,000 to €800,000 last year, but from 1st January 2016 it is back down to €700,000. This is a tough tax for wealthy residents, but steps can be taken to limit it. Succession tax The Islas Baleares government has removed the regional allowance for spouses and children over 21 (the 99% reduction for children under 21 remains in place). With effect from January 2016 there are two new sets of tax rates for succession tax purposes in this region. The one for group I and II

beneficiaries (spouses and children) range from 1% to 20%, whereas in the one applicable for everyone else (group III and IV beneficiaries) the rates range from 7.65% to 34%. UK nationals need estate planning to cover both Spanish succession tax and UK inheritance tax. Tax planning With specialist advice you can often use compliant arrangements to reduce tax on your savings, investments, pensions and assets - with the right tax planning Spain can be very tax efficient for retired expatriates. Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice. 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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NEWS

Florists expect St Valentine’s Day sales to be down MOST florists will be open on the Sunday

RED ROSES: Popular with the men. By Sandra Galo FLORISTS are anticipating between a 10 and 20 per cent drop in sales for Valentine’s Day this year due to the fact that it falls on a Sunday, the Federation of Small and Medium Busi-

nesses of Mallorca (Pimem) has said. Pimem explained that w h e n e v e r S t Va l e n t i n e ’s Day coincides with a bank holiday, sales drop around 15 per cent. Cati Capella, spokesperson for the florists, said she

hoped that the drop will not happen. As for the clients, Capella said they are mostly men with 90 per cent of purchases being red roses. Saturday 13 is expected to bring in the most sales, although most florists will be open on Sunday.

Illegal security cameras in use in Son Servera SECURITY cameras have been used without permission in Son Servera since 2008. Permission for the use of surveillance must be obtained by the national government’s delegation to the Balearics as expressed in a law dating back to 1997 which regulates the use of security cameras by security

forces in public areas. The independent opposition party known as On Son Servera (On SS) condemned the use of the cameras and called for the administration to remove them immediately. The party is also demanding to know who the person responsible for having them

installed was. Son Servera’s mayor Natalia Troya said that up until recently she was unaware of the problem. She stressed she has ordered that the use of the cameras be suspended and the town hall is looking into the situation. An additional camera located in Costa de los Pinos has also been removed. Antoni Canovas, spokesperson for On SS, pointed out three cameras installed in 2008 at the Parc Verd and four others put up in the Plaça Mallorca in Cala Millor in 2010. Canovas stressed the seriousness of the matter saying that recordings have been made for the past eight years without authorisation and are, therefore, totally illegal.

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No regulations against open-air drinking LOCAL businesses have taken measures to resolve the situation as the high season is rapidly approaching By Sandra Galo BUSINESSES of the Balearic nightlife are highly concerned about a decision made recently by the Balearic High Court to annul a civil ordi-

El Corte Ingles’ 2-hour delivery service EL CORTE INGLES has expanded its service in Palma to include online shopping with the option of having items delivered in just two hours. The new service is also being offered in seven other cities including Zaragoza, Murcia, Alicante, Valladolid, Vigo, Santander and Marbella. This brings the total number up to 14. Clients in the cities of Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, Bilbao and Malaga were the first to try out the service launched just before Christmas of last year. The online service with two-hour delivery time is linked to a real-time geolocation system so that clients can find out exactly where their orders are. The website offers more than 100,000 items which clients can have conveniently delivered to their door.

Joining forces over funding issue THE Balearic and Valencian goverments have recently joined forces to break the current status quo that both regions receive the worst funding per capita from the State. The bilateral agreement which was signed on Monday (February 8) in Palma by Balearic President Francinca Armengol and Valencian President Ximo Puig proposes a ‘fair and transparent’ model of funding for all autonomous communities in Spain by promoting changes to the State’s allocation of funds.

nance regulating open-air drinking and other related activities. Jesus Sanchez, president of the Balearic association of party halls (ABONE) affirmed that businesses have taken measures to resolve the

situation as they see the high season approaching without any regulations in place. These issues, he explained, have been a concern for years now, especially for businesses in Platja de Palma area. Mayor of Palma Jose Hila and councillor for

Tourism Joana Maria Adrover, have assured the businessmen that they are working to resolve the situation. In the meantime, ABONE has requested an urgent meeting with the Playa de Palma Security Committee and the National Police.

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NEWS

Balearics second for tourist spending REPRESENTS a 6 per cent increase from last year By Sandra Galo TOURISTS spent over €11 billion last year in the Balearic Islands. This number represents a 6 per cent increase from the previous year. According to the latest Egatur report from the national tourism ministry, the Balearics were just below the national average of 6.8 per cent. The islands ranked number two under Andalucia which registered an unusually high increase of 10.7 per cent.

Tourist spending throughout Spain rose to more than €67 billion, a rise from €63 billion in 2014. Topping the list were British tourists who spent over €14 billion representing an increase of more than 10 per cent. Next were the Germans who spent just under €10 billion. French tourists followed in third position spending more than €7 billion. Scandinavian countries spent more than €5.5 billion followed by Italians who spent more than €3 billion. The overall number of tourists visiting the country has also been on the rise.

IB-Salut Health cards free EFFECTIVE this year, users of the public health system will no longer be required to pay the €8.43 fee for their IB-Salut health cards. According to the government, the measure will save the population more than €189,000. Councillor for Health Patricia Gomez expressed that this decision means a citizens’ right that should never have been lost has now been returned. She stressed that the Balearic govern-

ment is committed to offering free quality public health service to all citizens of the Balearic Islands. The health card allows access to health services offered by the national health system and additional benefits guaranteed by the local government. The process to renew the card can be done by making an appointment by phone or registering in person at your local health centre.

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NEWS

Reduction of stands

BEACH STANDS: It is planned to reduce the number and also other activities in protected areas. By Sandra Galo THE Balearic government plans on reducing the number of beach stands and other activities in protected areas of Mallorca. It is not clear yet how this will be accomplished. The stands may be required to oc-

cupy less space or operate for fewer hours each day or for fewer days of the week. The government will study the impact of these small businesses and other activities which include bars and restaurants, jet-ski rentals and sporting events to see how they are impacting the environment and

Lower fare for card holders HOLDERS of Palma’s Tarjeta Ciudadana (Citizens card) bus card will now pay less to use lines 1 and 21 (the airport and Port buses). This means that card holders will now pay €1 instead of €1.50 and those with special discounts (students and pensioners) will only pay 67 cents. This represents a 33 per cent decrease in the rate of these two bus lines. Single tickets, however, will actually increase in price from €3 to €5. A round-trip ticket costing €8 will also be implemented allowing bus users to transfer to any other line.

whether they are in line with the directives outlined by the EU’s Natura 2000 initiative. According to an order signed by Vincenç Vidal, Minister of Environment, both new and established installations will be required to inform the government of their business activity.

Sacrifices in Son Gotleu RESIDENTS in the Son Gotleu area of Palma have reported a sudden increase of satanic rituals and black magic in their area. Neighbours of the streets of Tomas Rullan, Pico Mulhacen and Veleta say they have recently discovered makeshift altars where animal sacrifices have taken place. Beheaded chickens and rabbits were found along with candles and remnants of foreign clothing. Gines Quiñonero, president of the Orson Welles Neighbours’ Association of Son Gotleu, said they are not giving it much importance.

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NEWS

Eternal spring in Mallorca LAST month was the second warmest January on record

SUNNY WEATHER: Mallorca’s unusually warm winter. By Sandra Galo THE weather on the island has taken a very different turn from conditions at this time last year. In February of 2015, snow covered the Tramuntana area causing roads to be closed and rescue missions to be undertaken. This year, the island is experiencing a very different scenario with temperatures in

some parts of the island reaching up to 20ºC (68ºF). Maria Jose Guerrero, director of the Balearic branch of AEMET (the national meteorological agency), explained that the tremendous weather variation is being caused by the influence of high pressure over a period of months. She also pointed out the unusual dry period that Mallorca has been ex-

periencing since October of last year with the highest average temperatures recorded and a rainfall deficit of 77 per cent. Last month was the second warmest January on record, with both maximum and minimum temperatures higher than normal. On January 8, Puerto Pollensa registered temperatures reaching up to 25 degrees Celsius (77ºF).

Two arrested in drugs raid TWO men were arrested in a drug raid in the village of Son Servera last week. Armed officers of the Guardia Civil’s narcotics and serious crime fighting divisions used a battering ram to gain entrance to the property located in Calle Creus. They arrested a man, aged 58, and his 19-yearold son for drug dealing. Guardia Civil officers in Arta had been receiving an increasing number of complaints regarding suspicious activity at the property of people (including minors) visiting to allegedly buy drugs. Officers found €3,000 along with 60 grammes of marihuana and 40 grammes of hashish.

FINANCE

Mallorca

11 - 17 February 2016

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Credit Suisse to cut 4,000 jobs PUBLICATION of the bank’s 2015 figures show a €2.3 billion loss

€800M

By John Smith THE market must be bad when a Swiss bank announces that it is to cut jobs, which is exactly what Credit Suisse has done following the publication of its 2015 figures,

ZICA: To be renamed due to its similarity to the zika virus.

Tata Motors latest car the Zica will be renamed IT must be incredibly frustrating for the teams of experts, who spend weeks trying to decide a name for a new car which will appeal to all and not insult anyone. This is probably best exemplified by the embarrassingly named Mitsubishi Pajero, which was fine in most areas but didn’t appeal to the Spanish market. Now Indian car manufac-

which show a loss of €2.3 billion, its first since 2008. The ba nk bla me s s ubs ta ntia l charges which have arisen, including an enormous write off conne c te d w ith a c ompa ny it took over in 2000. Following the an-

The important thing for the new government is to be realistic about expectations and not to believe in utopia. Francisco Gonzalez president of BBVA on the new Spanish government.

Photo Credit Tata Motors

Quote of the Week

is the amount that Credit Suisse expected to save by losing 4,000 staff and reviewing its London operation.

turer Tata find themselves with a ‘double whammy’, where their Tata ambassador Lionel Messi is to appear in court charged with tax evasion, and their latest car the Zica is going to have to be renamed because of its similarity to the Zika virus. There will be a cost to the renaming, but the company obviously feels that it will be commercially sensible.

BUSINESS EXTRA

Interesting times ahead AS the various parties meet with PSOE leader Pedro Sanchez to thrash out terms for their support, he is going to inherit a difficult financial position if he forms a government. Podemos have already said that they want to see a postponement of debt reduction, whilst he has to remember that the national deficit is almost 100 per cent and the European Commission believes that the deficit is due to get worse.

Yahoo cuts FAILING household name and internet pioneer Yahoo is to lose 1,600 workers around the world. It will close offices in a number of cities including Madrid, in an effort to halt its colossal losses which amounted to just over €4 billion in 2015.

The cost of healthy foods has increased in Spain THE financial crisis has had a rather unexpected effect on the quality of the food that Spanish families have been purchasing. Although some luxury markets are seeing a

€1.5 billion is the profit that Gas Natural Fenosa made in 2015, which is an increase of 2.7 per cent over 2014 profits.

STAT OF WEEK

business & legal

EWN

steady growth, the cost of healthy foods such as fish, oil and milk has generally increased, partly fueled by the fact that consumption has fallen.

nouncement, shares have fallen by 9 pe r c ent t o t hei r l owest l evel since 1992. The b i ggest pr obl em f or t he Swiss bank appears to be in its investment banking business, which it may withdraw from.

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Abengoa update WITH Abengoa debts of more than €5 billion, a number of smaller companies owed money by the company are badly affected as their cash flow is causing short term difficulties. They have banded together to request that payment be made quickly although a positive result is unlikely. In the meantime, the company has requested that their subsidiaries in Argentina be protected against debt claims, whilst they negotiate terms with their bankers.

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PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY Anglo American 367.90 4.55 Associated British Foods 3,092.00 -5.00 Admiral Group 1,712.50 10.50 Aberdeen Asset Management 242.45 -0.05 Ashtead Group 885.00 -11.00 Antofagasta 453.55 7.25 ARM Holdings 955.50 -27.50 Aviva 433.30 1.70 AstraZeneca 4,072.25 -37.25 BAE Systems 477.90 -1.10 Babcock International Group 904.00 1.50 Barclays 174.25 1.10 British American Tobacco 3,739.75 13.25 Barratt Developments 583.50 -5.00 BG Group 1,067.00 7.00 Berkeley Group Holdings 3,347.50 -42.50 British Land Co 715.25 -0.25 BHP Billiton 722.50 13.30 Bunzl 1,836.00 -4.00 BP 349.05 -1.60 Burberry Group 1,229.50 11.50 BT Group 472.65 -3.25 Coca-Cola HBC 1,310.50 -2.50 Carnival 3,104.00 -24.00 Centrica 195.50 -0.80 Compass Group 1,221.50 1.50 Capita Group (The) 1,090.50 -7.50 CRH 1,751.00 -19.00 Dixons Carphone 441.95 1.85 DCC 5,065.00 -20.00 Diageo 1,807.00 10.50 Direct Line Insurance Group 363.55 1.55 Experian 1,156.00 -6.00 easyJet 1,530.50 9.50 Fresnillo 803.25 15.25 GKN 269.55 -0.35 Glencore 105.58 3.43 GlaxoSmithKline 1,404.75 3.75 Hikma Pharmaceuticals 2,105.50 -5.50 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,210.00 -10.00 Hammerson 567.00 0.50 HSBC Holdings 454.68 -3.17 International Consolidated Air 503.75 -2.75 InterContinental Hotels Group 2,279.00 -5.00 3i Group 423.65 1.65 IMPERIAL BRANDS PLC 3,505.50 3,505.50 Intu Properties 288.30 -0.30 Inmarsat 1,019.50 -0.50 Intertek Group 2,785.00 3.00 ITV 253.15 -2.35

% CHG. 1.25 -0.16 0.62 -0.02 -1.23 1.62 -2.80 0.39 -0.91 -0.23 0.17 0.64 0.36 -0.85 0.66 -1.25 -0.03 1.88 -0.22 -0.46 0.94 -0.68 -0.19 -0.77 -0.41 0.12 -0.68 -1.07 0.42 -0.39 0.58 0.43 -0.52 0.62 1.94 -0.13 3.36 0.27 -0.26 -0.82 0.09 -0.69 -0.54 -0.22 0.39 0.14 -0.10 -0.05 0.11 -0.92

NET VOL 5,058.95 24,498.36 4,761.59 3,216.32 4,504.93 4,413.19 13,875.44 17,465.50 51,901.55 15,131.83 4,562.98 28,900.56 69,468.83 5,868.19 36,279.55 4,637.46 7,302.98 14,962.97 6,158.72 64,166.99 5,424.74 39,747.82 4,784.48 6,767.76 9,745.11 20,232.41 7,311.69 14,528.80 5,084.28 4,483.69 45,210.56 5,447.25 11,465.75 6,057.42 5,832.51 4,451.40 14,863.34 68,141.51 4,198.36 5,808.03 4,443.12 89,321.74 10,339.43 5,382.29 4,116.43 N/A 3,821.17 4,592.41 4,482.63 10,323.16

COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) Johnson Matthey 2,330.50 -1.50 Kingfisher 322.45 -1.05 Land Securities Group 1,066.00 0.00 Legal & General Group 213.25 1.35 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 62.20 0.40 London Stock Exchange Grp 2,304.00 -15.00 Merlin Entertainments 401.20 -1.00 Marks & Spencer Group 417.00 1.70 Mondi 1,160.00 -6.00 National Grid 960.80 1.80 Next 6,617.50 -2.50 Old Mutual 161.75 0.45 Provident Financial 2,848.50 -12.50 Prudential 1,233.25 5.25 Persimmon 1,955.00 -10.00 Pearson 784.00 5.50 Reckitt Benckiser Group 6,082.00 14.00 Royal Bank of Scotland Group 242.30 0.40 Royal Dutch Shell 1,546.50 11.50 Royal Dutch Shell 1,547.50 11.00 RELX 1,164.50 -5.50 Rio Tinto 1,871.00 53.00 Royal Mail 432.45 -2.85 Rolls-Royce Group 519.25 -9.75 Randgold Resources 5,465.00 165.00 RSA Insurance Group 394.55 0.05 SABMiller 4,159.00 24.00 Sainsbury (J) 251.95 1.05 Schroders 2,534.50 -9.50 Sage Group (The) 601.50 0.50 Shire 3,626.00 -45.00 Sky 1,021.50 -6.50 Standard Life 358.15 4.65 Smiths Group 931.50 -6.00 Smith & Nephew 1,086.00 -7.00 Sports Direct International 393.15 -0.85 SSE 1,394.50 2.50 Standard Chartered 462.48 9.43 St James's Place 879.00 6.50 Severn Trent 2,129.00 -11.00 Travis Perkins 1,751.50 -0.50 Tesco 176.48 1.88 TUI AG 1,136.50 -7.50 Taylor Wimpey 181.05 -1.75 Unilever 2,972.00 4.50 United Utilities Group 918.50 -4.50 Vodafone Group 208.45 1.45 Wolseley 3,325.50 8.50 Worldpay Group Ord 3p Wi 300.15 -1.65 WPP Group 1,395.50 -21.50 Whitbread 3,757.50 -27.50

% CHG. -0.06 -0.32 0.00 0.64 0.65 -0.65 -0.25 0.41 -0.51 0.19 -0.04 0.28 -0.44 0.43 -0.51 0.71 0.23 0.17 0.75 0.72 -0.47 2.92 -0.65 -1.84 3.11 0.01 0.58 0.42 -0.37 0.08 -1.23 -0.63 1.32 -0.64 -0.64 -0.22 0.18 2.08 0.74 -0.51 -0.03 1.08 -0.66 -0.96 0.15 -0.49 0.70 0.26 -0.55 -1.52 -0.73

NET VOL 4,781.76 7,560.37 8,423.24 12,625.03 44,166.07 8,046.49 4,070.70 6,848.53 5,666.41 35,893.21 10,112.59 7,953.28 4,210.96 31,592.28 6,040.41 6,377.74 43,366.09 15,575.26 59,918.19 37,504.23 13,130.87 25,602.44 4,345.00 9,716.97 4,917.26 4,007.55 66,914.94 4,825.36 5,761.31 6,488.63 21,722.49 17,705.88 6,957.14 3,703.01 9,789.12 2,355.26 13,823.48 11,528.86 4,555.76 5,083.05 4,357.05 14,202.26 6,704.88 5,968.48 38,058.42 6,297.24 54,822.97 8,627.39 6,033.00 18,521.28 6,875.19

Kleinwort Benson Elite PCC Ltd

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US dollar......................................................................1.11528 Japan yen ................................................................130.637 Switzerland franc ..................................................1.10785 Denmark kroner...................................................7.46283 Norway kroner ....................................................9.53304

currenciesdirect.com/mallorca • Tel: +34 687 906 226

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES F EBRUARY 8

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

PRICE CHANGE %CHANGE VOLUME 153.47 +0.03 +0.02% 3.4M 53.98 -0.40 -0.74% 9.2M 94.02 -2.58 -2.67% 46.4M 122.56 -1.05 -0.85% 6.2M 66.12 +0.16 +0.24% 7.5M 82.88 -1.91 -2.25% 15.1M 22.89 -0.65 -2.76% 32.6M 42.44 -0.09 -0.21% 17.3M 93.90 -1.53 -1.60% 8.9M 58.89 -0.21 -0.36% 5.3M 80.08 +0.25 +0.31% 26.7M 28.54 -0.64 -2.19% 52.0M 156.47 -0.02 -0.01% 4.6M 116.43 -4.68 -3.86% 8.1M 128.57 +0.92 +0.72% 7.2M 29.04 -0.73 -2.45% 28.0M 100.54 -3.36 -3.23% 15.5M 57.75 -0.65 -1.11% 22.0M 115.40 -5.26 -4.36% 13.3M 49.38 +0.79 +1.63% 16.9M 50.16 -1.84 -3.54% 62.0M 57.17 -3.00 -4.99% 14.4M 29.03 +0.03 +0.10% 38.9M 81.20 +0.50 +0.62% 10.0M 106.29 -1.20 -1.12% 2.8M 87.84 -0.28 -0.32% 5.2M 111.72 -2.48 -2.17% 3.3M 50.97 +0.54 +1.07% 25.8M 71.54 -2.14 -2.90% 12.9M 67.00 +0.58 +0.87% 14.2M

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES F EBRUARY 8

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced Multi-Fineline Electronix, Inc. TTM Technologies, Inc. Control4 Corporation Immunomedics, Inc. Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. SPI Energy Co., Ltd. Saia, Inc. BeiGene, Ltd. Silver Standard Resources Inc. ProShares UltraPro Short QQQ ProShares UltraPro Short NASDAQ Biotech

$ 22.59 $ 6.55 $ 8.08 $ 2.20 $ 12.13 $ 7.28 $ 25.46 $ 33.91 $ 5.41 $ 26.36 $ 42.50

6.16 ▲ 37.49% 1.21 ▲ 22.66% 1.48 ▲ 22.42% 0.38 ▲ 20.88% 2 ▲ 19.74% 1.0048 ▲ 16.01% 2.93 ▲ 13.00% 3.41 ▲ 11.18% 0.52 ▲ 10.63% 2.48 ▲ 10.39% 3.83 ▲ 9.90%

$ 7.08 $ 7.46 $ 7.48 $ 5.95 $ 10.93 $ 36.23 $ 24.30 $ 7.06 $ 27.04 $ 75.51 $ 8.48

3.12 ▼ 30.59% 3.25 ▼ 30.35% 2.82 ▼ 27.38% 2.07 ▼ 25.81% 3.76 ▼ 25.60% 10.86 ▼ 23.06% 6.93 ▼ 22.19% 1.65 ▼ 18.94% 5.65 ▼ 17.28% 15.64 ▼ 17.16% 1.74 ▼ 17.03%

Most Declined United Development Funding IV YRC Worldwide, Inc. Quotient Limited Elizabeth Arden, Inc. Sierra Wireless, Inc. Splunk Inc. Starz Five9, Inc. Outerwall Inc. ePlus inc. Hortonworks, Inc.

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

DUE to the amount of negative reaction coming from the general public in Spain, the ombudsman has decided to look at the actions being taken by banks to introduce charges for the use of ATM machines by non-customers. According to a royal decree which became law at the start of 2016, banks may pass on charges they receive from the bank holding the account of a noncustomer who uses one of their machines. Due to loose wording in the law, some banks appear to be profiting from the charges and this is what is to be investigated with the possibility of the law being amended.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

Ofgem to investigate Age Uk’s gas and electricity promotions CHARITY appeared to be recommending a deal that was not the cheapest By John Smith A SHOCKING report by The Sun newspaper in the UK suggests that a charity specifically set up to support those who are elderly, has been benefitting by promoting expensive gas and electricity tariffs in return for payment by E.ON, and this is now to be investigated by official body Ofgem. It appears that on its website the charity recommends a particular tariff, but investigators suggest this was not the cheapest tariff offered by the company, and those who followed the charity’s advice could have been £245 (€343) worse off in 2015 than if they had taken E.ON’s cheapest rate. B o th p a rtie s h av e re je c te d the claim although it does appear that Age UK has received about £6 mil-

l i on ( €7.8 m i l l i on) f r om t he arrangement in commission. E.ON, whilst admitting there was a cheaper deal, explained that one was a two-year deal, whilst the other was a one-year deal only. The company also said some people preferred to fix the price for as long as possible and that consumers could always switch deals at no additional cost. The fact remains, however, that the charity did appear to be recomm endi ng a deal t hat was not t he cheapest to pensioners in return for a financial advantage, and this is why Ofgem will undertake an investigation into their activities.

ADVICE: Those who followed Age UK’s advice would have been worse off.

Luxury goods company LVMH announce record sales in 2015 Credit Tupungato Shutterstock

New bank charges will be looked into

www.euroweeklynews.com

LDprod Shutterstock

LVMH: Own prestigious brands including Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior. DESPITE the weakness of the Chinese economy, the world’s largest luxury goods company LVMH announced record sales, which rose by 16 pe r c e nt in 2015 to €35.67 billion.

The c ompa ny, w hic h owns a number of the world’s most prestigious bra nds inc luding Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior, said that trading in France was almost back to normal

after the attacks in November. Despi t e t he i ncr ease i n revenue, net profit at €3.57 billion was just short of expected target, but this did not have an adverse effect

on its shares, which continue to rise. The com pany r epor t ed strong progress in Europe, the United States and Japan, which helped compensate for lower sales in China.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

www.euroweeklynews.com

11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

EWN

Fall in oil prices continues to push economies closer to breaking point THERE is no question that oil is pushing economies almost to breaking point at the moment, with the massive fall in wholesale prices caused by the slowdown of the Chinese economy in particular. Fears that Iran will flood the market has meant that the mega rich economies, such as Saudi Arabia and global oil companies are losing income and shares continue to fall. Even though petrol pump prices in Spain haven’t really reflected the real fall in price, unlike the UK where prices have plummeted, the oil giants such as Repsol are writing off huge amounts on their accounts, and this is also reflected in the number of job losses being experienced within the industry. BP has suffered its worst losses in 20 years and is to cut 3,000 employees directly, plus a further 4,000 people in third party jobs, and with a negative result for 2015 of €6 billion, there is downturn of nearly €10 billion on the previous year. Royal Dutch Shell has confirmed it is cutting 10,000 jobs amid its steepest fall in annual profits

Credit Vytautas Kielaitis Shutterstock

By John Smith

ROYAL DUTCH SHELL: Company has confirmed they will cut 10,000 jobs after a steep fall in profit. for 13 years, although it still managed to make a profit of €3.4 billion down from €17 billion the previous year.

It is still pushing forward with the takeover of the BG exploration group at a cost of €47 billion, which it intends to fund in part by the sale of

assets. However, investors are now questioning whether this is a prudent investment with the alltime low in oil prices.

11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

www.euroweeklynews.com

EWN

How refreshing YOU can’t blame a lack of success on skin colour LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

HOW refreshing it was to tune into Sky news this week and be confronted by the two bubbly black presenters, Philip Butah and Gillian Joseph. These two young people, at the top of their chosen profession, are both articulate and entertaining. What a wonderful example to the hordes of other young blacks, who constantly blame the reason for their lack of success or failures in life on the colour of their skin. Well, I’m sorry, but ‘cause I’m black’ simply doesn’t hack it any more. Even when many black people actually are successful, they still complain about racist bias. Prime examples of this antiquated attitude were the actors involved in the recent Oscars. Whinging and moaning, these extremely wealthy and spoiled divas queued up to complain that there weren’t enough black actors included in the nominations this year. They

blamed the Academy and its members of ostracising black people on purpose. What a load of complete codswallop. For heaven’s sake the president of the Academy is himself black! The true problem this year was there were no black performers or movies that merited an award. You can’t base an award on the colour of someone’s skin. This is the type of reverse racism that stirs up all the trouble in the first place. If, as was suggested, there were not enough scripts available for black performers, for goodness sake get your heads down and write some. There are a whole multitude of talented black script writers and authors out there. It’s up to them to even up the balance, if indeed an unbalance even exists. For God’s sake grow up all of you. Just cast your mind over the black success rate of the past few generations. The finest athletes in the world. The world top racing driver. The highest paid TV personality in history. The finest female tennis players. A golfing number one. The list goes on and on, right up to the president of the USA himself. Talent, perseverance and luck are the differ-

ences between failure and success, not the pathetic excuse of colour. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

BARACK OBAMA: The list goes on, right up to the president of the USA himself.

27 Photo credit: ChameleonsEye / Shutterstock.com

OPINION & COMMENT

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

LETTERS

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OPINION & COMMENT

YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION

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

Leapy, having just read your article I couldn’t agree more GOOD morning Leapy, Having just read your article on immigration I couldn’t agree more. I moved to Benalmadena Pueblo nearly a year ago to escape the constant barrage of immigration horror stories we are inundated with, murder, Daesh, and God knows what. It plays on your mind and is very unsettling. Our government have completely underestimated the huge influx of foreign migration and the breeding they also produce. Anarchy on the streets of the UK is coming, sooner rather than later tensions will break. I am more than happy to now be in my own world in Spain, I feel safe. As a former commuter to London from Brighton I certainly wouldn’t now, it’s terrible to feel that way. In some parts of London ‘sharia law’ signs adorn lamp posts. Why is that allowed??? I ran a Bentley garage in Kensington. We put an advertisement up and were written to and made to remove it by Kensington Council with an enforcement notice. Our idiotic government are too scared to oppose these people. And now it’s way too late to save it. I fear for the UK now, it is already a Muslim state. The only people that don’t see it are the ones in power in their millionaire world. Keep up the good work, more people should say what they think. Russ, Benalmadena.

Referendum information DEAR team, First may I say how much I enjoy your newspaper. It is very well written, with lots of news and views. I always look forward to its arrival here in Arboleas. I have a question. Have you ever written about how an OUT of Europe result from the referendum would affect all of us expats? If not, I would greatly appreciate some information about it. I am particularly concerned about the health aspect. I am sure that this information will be very useful to

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

A horrifying find

of pensioners returning to the UK, with dire consequences for the health service. I do hope that you can give counter arguments if a scare campaign develops. I know you will give a fair and balanced argument. Yours sincerely, Brian Egan, between Orihuela and Torrevieja.

Little Arrows

MY partner and I often walk our dogs along the banks of the Guadalmansa River, a local beauty spot popular with hikers and cyclists near Cancelada, Estepona. On Saturday we were dismayed and horrified to discover that a large pile of rubbish and unwanted household items including a child’s pushchair and a sofa, had been dumped at the popular picnic and barbecue area. I searched the rubbish in vain to find anything that could identify the culprits. Fly-tipping is a problem in many local scenic spots and I hope the public will help identify and track down people who behave in such an anti-social way. There are many ways in which people can dispose of unwanted items within the law, and without spoiling peoples’ enjoyment of the countryside. They can contact their town hall for information. Mary Page, Estepona

many of your readers. If you are not planning any editorial coverage in the near future, can you advise me where I should go to discover this information for myself? Many thanks and keep up the sterling work. With kind regards, Adrienne Winmill, Arboleas. EWN says: Please see this week’s Our View column for our thoughts on this matter. We will continue to investigate and keep our readers informed as and when more information becomes available.

Fear for the future DEAR Leapy, I have read your articles many times and always enjoy them. You talk so much common sense and say what so many people feel. You are really honest and clearly could never become a politician. I reckon you would get a little frustrated if you worked in parliament every day. Like so many others I feel so frus-

trated about the way things are and fear for the future, not for myself but for my children and grandchildren. I am a member of UKIP and believe the expat newspapers and politicians will try to make expats feel they must vote to stay in the EU. There will be a scare campaign to convince pensioners they will lose their healthcare and all will lose their rights to stay here. Surely Spain will not wish to lose their British expats who contribute so much financially. And Britain will not want hundreds of thousands

DEAR Mr Lee, I am sure that I am not the only one who loves (and still do) your song Little Arrows. It has special meaning to me. My Dad would play your song on our record player as he worked on remodelling my sister’s bedroom and mine. My Dad passed away in 1999, and I still hear your song whenever I go into my room. I now live in my parents’ home and the song still rings out. Thank you for a most memorable song and may God continue to bless you. Yours very truly, Bob Kious Mattoon, IL.

Cyclist menace DEAR Sir, I wish to congratulate Mrs Linda Hall for her article last week on the cyclists on the road who are training. It is a real scandal the way they put the traffic in danger. My experience is on the road Moraira-Benitachell. Kind regards, Permeke, Benitachell.

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:

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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.

OPINION & COMMENT

11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

www.euroweeklynews.com

EWN

All the ways to say I love you on Valentine’s Day IT wasn’t until the Middle Ages that the day first became associated with romance and is now the second most celebrated event Nora Johnson

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

DID you know St Valentine’s Day didn’t start off linked with romance? Far from it. It began as a celebration of one or more (the exact number’s vague) early Christian saints named Valentinus. According to one of the most popular stories, Saint Valentine was imprisoned for ministering to Christians persecuted under the Roman Empire. During his imprisonment, he’s said to have healed the daughter of his jailer Asterius and, legend has it, before his execution wrote “from your Valentine” as a farewell to her. It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that the day first became associated with romance. And by the 15th century, it’d developed into a full-blown affair with flowers, chocolates and the exchange of

VALENTINE’S GIFTS: Helps prop up the economy in these challenging times. greetings cards (known as ‘Valentines’). These days it’s the second most celebrated event around the whole world after New Year’s Eve.

Now, apart from keeping florists, confectioners and card makers in business, it also seems to help prop up the economy in these challenging times.

In the USA for instance, Valentine’s Day 2016 is estimated to be worth $20 billion. From a night out on the town to flowers and jewellery, Americans are planning to spoil their loved ones big time this Valentine’s Day. Which reminds me of that old joke: A married couple’s already spent several hours at a shopping centre on the eve of St Valentine’s. Suddenly, the wife realises her husband’s gone AWOL. Angrily she phones him, demanding: “Where are you, eh?” Husband: “Darling, remember that jewellery store where you saw that gorgeous diamond eternity ring but I didn’t have the money that time and said, ‘Darling, it’ll be yours one day, really soon?’” Wife, trying to stop blushing and suddenly contrite, gushes: “Yes, I remember…darling!” Husband: “Well, I’m in the wine bar next to that store.” Romantic, eh? Have a nice day! Nora Johnson’s thrillers ‘Landscape of Lies,’ ‘Retribution,’ ‘Soul Stealer,’ ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora-johnson.com). All profits to Cudeca charity.

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

www.euroweeklynews.com

TV LISTING

THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY

FRIDAY 12 FEBRUARY

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

BBC News at Six BBC London News The One Show EastEnders Dickensian Room 101 Death in Paradise BBC News at Ten BBC London News Question Time This Week

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:25pm 11:35pm

BBC London News The One Show A Question of Sport EastEnders Dickensian Shetland BBC News at Ten BBC London News The Graham Norton Show Would I Lie to You?

7:00pm 7:30pm

BBC News Regional News Weather The Voice UK The National Lottery Casualty BBC News Weather Match of the Day Meet the Parents

7:30pm

12:25am

SATURDAY 13 FEBRUARY

SUNDAY 14 FEBRUARY

MONDAY 15 FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 16 FEBRUARY

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

11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm 11:45pm 12:15am 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm 11:45pm 12:45am

WEDNESDAY 17 FEBRUARY

6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 11:40pm 11:45pm 12:45am

Nature's Miracle Orphans BBC News Regional News Weather Countryfile Call the Midwife BAFTA Film Awards 2016 BBC News Regional News EastEnders Panorama The Not So Secret Life of the Manic Depressive: 10 Years on BBC News Regional News Weather Tracey Ullman's Show Have I Got News for You Regional News The One Show EastEnders Holby City Happy Valley BBC News Regional News Weather My Baby, Psychosis and Me Animals Pointless BBC News Regional News The One Show The Great Sport Relief Bake Off DIY SOS The Big Build BBC News Regional News Weather Life After Suicide Film 2016

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:15am

8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:00am

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6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm

Eggheads Great American Railroad Journeys Sea Cities Cats v Dogs: Which is Best? The Story of China The Clare Balding Show Newsnight James May's Cars of the People

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

Eggheads Great American Railroad Journeys Sea Cities Mastermind What to Buy and Why Earth's Greatest Spectacles QI Newsnight Artsnight

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm

Back in Time for the Weekend Henry VII: The Winter King Dad's Army The Real Marigold Hotel Live at the Apollo Insert Name Here There Will be Blood

11:40pm 12:40am

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Flog It! Ski Sunday Six Nations Rugby Special Greece with Simon Reeve Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration on Earth Match of the Day 2 Tron Legacy

7:15pm

Great American Railroad Journeys Great Interior Design Challenge Chinese New Year: The People v O.J. Simpson - American Crime Story Mock the Week Newsnight Weather

7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm

Great Interior Design Challenge Back in Time for the Weekend Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration on Earth Phone Shop Idol Newsnight Weather

Antiques Road Trip Eggheads Great American Railroad Journeys Great Interior Design Challenge ÂŁ100k House: Tricks of the Trade One Child The Great Chinese Crash? With Robert Peston Newsnight

7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 11:15pm 12:15am

11:45pm 12:50am 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:40pm 12:45am

6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 11:45pm 12:45am

ITV Evening News Emmerdale Tonight Emmerdale Birds of a Feather Jericho ITV News at Ten and Weather Car Crash Britain Caught on Camera Murder, She Wrote ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street The Martin Lewis Money Show Coronation Street Mr Selfridge ITV News at Ten and Weather Birds of a Feather Evil Under the Sun ITV News and Weather You've Been Framed! Ninja Warrior UK Take Me Out The Jonathan Ross Show ITV News and Weather Twins Jackpot 247

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am 12:55am 1:50am

The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast First Dates The Last Leg Virtually Famous Rude Tube Boomerang

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:30pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 1:00am

5:00pm 5:25pm 6:00pm 6:25pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 12:20am

ITV News and Weather Planet's Got Talent Beowulf: Return to the Shieldlands Vera ITV News and Weather Rookie Cops Aviva Premiership Rugby Highlights

3:35pm 5:20pm 5:50pm 6:20pm 6:45pm

ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Griff's Great Britain Coronation Street Benidorm ITV News at Ten and Weather The Jonathan Ross Show Car Crash Britain Caught on Camera

6:00pm

ITV Evening News Emmerdale The Kyle Files It's Not Rocket Science Heroes and Villains: Caught on Camera ITV News at Ten and Weather School Swap Double Decker Driving School

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

The Chase Local News and Weather ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street Midsomer Murders ITV News at Ten and Weather UEFA Champions League Highlights The Kyle Files

The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Location, Location, Location Keeping Up with the Khans Britain's Weirdest Council Houses 24 Hours in A and E

8:30pm 10:00pm 11:45pm 1:45am 2:40am

7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:35pm

10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am 1:05am

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

Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Come Dine with Me Channel 4 News Great Canal Journeys Penelope Keith's Hidden Villages RoboCop Apocalypto

7:55pm 8:00pm

The Harry Hill Movie The Simpsons The Simpsons Channel 4 News Mr. Popper's Penguins The Jump Deutschland 83 Predator Embarrassing Bodies Come Dine with Me

3:00pm

9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:25am

4:30pm 6:15pm 8:25pm 8:30pm 10:00pm 11:55pm 2:10am

Neighbours Home and Away 5 News Tonight Fail Army That's So 1989 Bankrupt and Broke: When Celebs Go Bust Lip Sync Battle UK The Best of Bad TV: The 90s Super Casino 5 News World War II in Colour Nazi Quest for the Holy Grail The Championship Goal Rush Law and Order: Special Victims Unit Law and Order: Special Victims Unit James and the Giant Peach Alvin and the Chipmunks What a Girl Wants 5 News Jumper Homefront Armoured Super Casino

6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm

11:30pm 12:00am 12:30am 2:50pm 6:30pm 6:45pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:30pm 11:15pm 12:15am 4:00pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 12:30am 2:00am 10:30am 12:30pm 3:00pm 5:00pm 7:55pm 8:25pm 10:30pm 11:00pm 12:30am 2:00am

Come Dine Champion of Champions The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Dispatches Supershoppers Royal Navy School Crashing Tattoo Fixers

6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm

The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News The Secret Life of the Zoo The Supervet First Dates Britain's Weirdest Council Houses 16 Kids and Counting

6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm

Deal or No Deal Countdown A Place in the Sun Come Dine Champion of Champions The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Posh Pawn 24 Hours in A and E Bodyshockers Royal Navy School

Home and Away 5 News Tonight Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild Winter Road Rescue Inside the World's Toughest Prisons 10,000 BC: Two Tribes The Great British Benefits Handout

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

10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am 4:15pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

5 News Neighbours Home and Away 5 News FIA World Rally Championship Highlights Ice Road Truckers The X Files Gotham Trespass Neighbours Home and Away 5 News The Dog Rescuers Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun The Great British Benefits Handout Milly's Killer: How Many More? The X Files The J.K. Rowling Story 5 News Neighbours Home and Away 5 News The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door GPs: Behind Closed Doors Violent Child, Desperate Parents The Boy with Giant Hands 10,000 BC

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

Barclays Premier League World BPL Legends BPL Legends Premier League Darts 2016 11.02 Castle The Mavericks La Liga Show 2015 Barclays Premier League World Cricket Football Gold Football Gold Barclays Premier League World The Fantasy Football Club Rugby League A League of Their Own The Fantasy Football Club Ellery Hanley Interviews Frank Bruno Boxing Gold Boxing Gold Ford Saturday Night Football SNF: Game of the Day SNF: Match Choice SNF: Match Choice SNF: Match Choice Goals on Sunday Ford Super Sunday Ford Super Sunday Ford Super Sunday The Gloves are Off Football The Gloves are Off Ford Football Special The Sunday Supplement Goals on Sunday Fantasy Football Club Highlights Soccer A.M. - The Best Bits Football League Goals Football Football League Goals Fantasy Football Club Highlights Football Gold Football Gold Boxing Gold Fantasy Football Club Highlights Football Gold Football Gold ATP 500 MastersRio One2eleven One2eleven Fantasy Football Club Highlights The Premier League Years Boxing Gold Boxing Gold Boxing Gold Boxing Gold The Premier League Years ATP 500 Masters- Rio One2eleven

OPINION & COMMENT

www.euroweeklynews.com

11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

EWN

Getting exercise and staying happy HAVE a chat with a friend, a nice glass of wine or some chocolate and get yourself through February Vicki McLeod

Family Matters WE’VE had Blue Monday back in January, supposedly the saddest day of the year, when we’re all broke and the sun isn’t shining. But now we’ve got to fight our way through February which apparently is the least favourite month of the year. Poor February, it has so many things going for it: Pancake Day, Carnival, Valentines, and every four years an extra day, just to throw you off the scent. But if you are struggling to get through then I have some tips for you to get your happy face back on. Although happiness can be largely dictated by our genes, there are scientifically proven ways to get and stay happy. So try these out: Meditate: focusing on the present helps lessen depression and anxiety. (You could sign up for a meditation class at Bodhana in Portals or check out your local yoga studio, or download ‘Headspace’ on your phone). Go outside: a study was done on a

FEBRUARY: Has so many things going for it including Valentine’s Day. group of students who were separated, some were sent to stay in the forest and some in the city for two nights. The group who spent time in the forest were found to have lower levels of cortisol, a hormone which marks stress.

(Check out Walk and Talk who organise country walks. Get in touch with Chris Bate at walk-and-talk@hot mail.com). Get involved in cultural activities: out of 5,000 adults examined in Nor-

way, those involved in cultural activities reported lower levels of anxiety and depression, and a higher satisfaction for quality of life. (Check out your local associations and see what they are doing, get out and about and join a

social group, or come along to next week’s Supper Club on Thursday February 18 at Mood Beach at 7pm and make some new friends. Reserve on info@moodbeach.com). Spend money on others: 46 volunteers were given envelopes of money. Half of the group were told to spend it on themselves, and the other half were told to spend it on a gift or make a donation. Those that spent their money on others had a higher level of happiness. (Make a small monthly donation to a charity and make a difference: Mediterranea or Castra y Donar for example both ask for a small regular donation which will not break the bank). Volunteer: 40 studies over 20 years show that volunteering lowers the risk of depression and increases overall satisfaction. (Or get out there and physically help out, I know the Cancer Support Group are looking for volunteers for ad hoc visits and translation. So contact Krista Hyer on 659 887 455). Failing that, an exercise session, a chat with a friend, a nice glass of wine, or some chocolate will do it, in my experience! Okay February, let’s be having you! www.mallorcamatters.com

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

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EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREA

Word Ladder

MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE

TIPS BACK

YOUR STARS

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. Learning a new language would also be satisfying.

Average: 12 Good: 16 Very good: 23 Excellent: 30

LLUCMAJOR MAGALLUF

TOMORROW

CALA d’OR

PALMA ANDRATX

LLUCMAJOR MAGALLUF

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, but the facts may be less alarming than you suspect.

(January 21 - February 19)

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 might be avoided at first but would be to your advantage.

Alicante

Madrid

TODAY: SHOWERS MAX 21C, MIN 12C

TODAY:

Fri Sat Sun -

21 14 C 22 13 C 21 9 C

Mon - 16 8 C Tues - 16 8 C Wed - 16 9 Sh

Almeria Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 16 8 Cl Tues - 16 9 C Wed - 17 10 Sh

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) 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 at the same time by indulging in a garage or car boot sale. Doing something entirely different can boost your mind and activity levels, which can’t be bad. Working with others is a giggle and spills over into your social life.

19 13 C 21 14 C 18 9 C

21 13 C 21 12 C 20 8 C

S Sun,

Cl Clear,

Sh Showers,

10-Star Quiz

IRISH LOTTO

EURO MILLIONS

LA PRIMITIVA

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA

Saturday February 6

Friday February 5

Saturday February 6

Sunday February 7

12 21

18 31

BONUS BALL

THUNDERBALL

BONUS BALL

27 41

32 46

LUCKY STARS

REINTEGRO

SHOWERS MAX 17C, MIN 8C MAX MIN

18 11 C 20 11 C 18 8 Sh

Mon - 14 6 C Tues - 15 6 C Wed - 16 7 Sh

14 49

40 51

REINTEGRO

SHOWERS MAX 23C, MIN 12C

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 16 7 C Tues - 15 8 C Wed - 16 9 Sh

UK THUNDERBALL

Fri Sat Sun -

MAX MIN

UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

MAX MIN

Mon - 16 8 C Tues - 17 8 S Wed - 19 9 Cl

Murcia

SHOWERS MAX 19C, 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.

SHOWERS MAX 20C, MIN 13C 20 14 C 20 14 C 19 9 C

MAX MIN

Mon - 16 9 Cl Tues - 15 9 S Wed - 16 9 C

Sudoku

Fri Sat Sun TODAY:

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 10 1 C Tues - 12 2 C Wed - 13 3 S

Mallorca

CLOUDY MAX 17C, MIN 11C

Benidorm TODAY:

MAX MIN

13 9 Sh 15 8 C 12 3 Sh

MAX MIN

20 13 C 22 13 C 20 11 C

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Fri Sat Sun TODAY:

Barcelona TODAY:

SHOWERS MAX 15C, MIN 7C MAX MIN

Malaga

SHOWERS MAX 19C, MIN 12C MAX MIN

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 of late finally realise that you will not rise to the bait.

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 and avoid boring or moaning folk.

MAX MIN

TODAY:

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.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) This is a week when progress is fast and plans run ahead. Try new ideas and seek

into iron nett noir note oven rein rent tent tern tine tint tone torn vein vent vine vino envoi inert inter intro niter nitre nitro noter ovine riven tenor toner trine invert ironer orient rotten tinter tonier triton torrent tritone INTROVERT

CALA MILLOR

INCA

CALVIA

‘MUST GO MOTHER - IT’S MISTER RIGHT MY VALENTINE ARRIVING!’

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) There may be some opposition to your ideas as Pluto turns this week. Perhaps your natural 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 co-operation. It is not through lack of will that some people do not offer help.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

ALCUDIA

POLLENÇA

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 are going to take anyway.

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.

CALA d’OR

PALMA ANDRATX

Certainly, food for the brain and soul are what you should be seeking now.

Nonagram

CALA MILLOR

INCA

CALVIA

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

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. You have been dashing around and maybe not enough thought has gone into how you spend your leisure time.

ALCUDIA

POLLENÇA

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.

AQUARIUS

for next 7 days

weather

TODAY

LOTTERY

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, however, that a change is not required so much as a different approach. It is not essential to put all your eggs in one basket.

TARGET:

Mallorca

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

JUDO LUDO LIDO LIDS LIPS TIPS

JUDO

TIME

www.euroweeklynews.com

Fri Sat Sun -

F Fog, Sn Snow,

MAX MIN

24 14 C 26 13 C 23 11 C

Mon - 16 9 C Tues - 18 8 C Wed - 19 8 Sh

C Cloudy, Th Thunder

ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES 1. Because of its metallic lustre and pale brass-yellow hue, by what other name is the mineral pyrite or iron pyrite also known? 2. Fool Us is the title of a British-American television programme in which magicians perform tricks in front of which American magician-comedian duo? 3. In the novel Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes, what is the name of the title character’s horse? 4. In the television Western series The Lone Ranger, what was the name of the title character’s companion, Tonto’s horse? 5. The famous saying: “You may fool all the people some of the time; you can even fool some of the people all the time; but you can’t fool all of the people all the time” is often attributed to which 19th century US president? 6. The names of British racehorses are limited to how many characters, including signs or spaces? 7. What is the name of the fool in Twelfth Night who claims ‘fools are as like husbands as pilchards are to herrings, the husband is the bigger’? 8. Which American family music group reached number two in the UK singles chart in 1972 with Crazy Horses? 9. Which children’s novel by Michael Morpurgo, first published in 1982, recounts the experiences of Joey, a horse purchased by the Army for service in World War I France and the attempts of young Albert, his previous owner, to bring him safely home? 10. Which group topped the UK singles chart in 1973 with You Won’t Find Another Fool Like Me? 1. FOOL’S GOLD, 2. PENN & TELLER, 3. ROCINANTE (ROSINANTE, ROZINANTE), 4. SCOUT, 5. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, 6. 18, 7. FESTE, 8. OSMONDS, 9. WAR HORSE, 10. NEW SEEKERS

OUT

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11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

page

AK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

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

Quick Across 1 Strange (8) 4 Very light coloured (4) 7 Looks at a book (5) 9 Spiral shelled mollusc (5) 11 Encounters (5) 12 Sailing vessels (5) 13 Delicate (6) 15 Selected (6) 19 Discovers (5) 21 Very large marine mammal (5) 23 Dependable (5) 24 Cause fear in (5) 25 Fifty per cent (4) 26 Protects (8) Down 1 Maybe (7) 2 Attraction (5) 3 Help (6) 5 Departures (5) 6 Young sheep (4) 8 Make off with (5)

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Crossword

EWN

Code Breaker Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 14 represents Q and 20 represents L, so fill in Q every time the figure 14 appears and L every time the figure 20 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 Sea dog, 4 Aspens, 9 Groat, 10 Alabama, 11 Estrange, 12 Dame, 14 System, 16 Deters, 19 Deal, 20 Lacrosse, 23 Dragons, 24 Exact, 25 Eyelet, 26 Better.

Down: 1 Signets, 2 About, 3 Outdated, 5 Scat, 6 Emanate, 7 Shame, 8 Barge, 13 Retrieve, 15 Swanage, 17 Shelter, 18 Balsa, 19 Dodge, 21 Scant, 22 Robe

QUICK Across:

10 Jumps over (5) 14 Additional payment (5) 16 Cures (5) 17 Central mass (7)

English - Spanish

18 Exchange (6) 19 Recently made (5) 20 Shortly (4) 22 Rub out (5)

Down: 1 Straight, 2 Beat, 3 Stamps, 4 Labels, 5 Disgrace, 6 Beer, 8 Distinguish, 13 Insulted, 15 Trembled, 17 Income, 18 Punish, 19 Side, 20 Thin.

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

Across 1 Consejos (6) 3 Celery (4) 7 Labio (anatómico) (3) 9 Banana (7) 10 Fig (4) 11 Artículo (4) 14 Ill (7) 15 Grape (3) 16 Búhos (4) 17 Playing cards (6)

ENGLISH-SPANISH Across:

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

1 Calles, 3 Arms, 7 Toe, 9 Channel, 10 Apple-tree, 13 Londres, 14 Sea, 15 Team, 16 Casado.

Down: 1 Cita, 2 Escalera, 4 Runners, 5 Silk, 6 Fantasma, 8 Esponja, 11 Flat, 12 Sano.

Down 1 Classroom (4) 2 Armario (de cocina) (8) 4 Meseta (geografía) (7) 5 Smell (odour) (4) 6 Butterfly (8) 8 Doloroso (7) 12 Kiss (4) 13 Sombreros (4)

Hexagram

7 Treated, 9 Alike, 10 Apt, 11 Messenger, 12 Gains, 14 Instant, 16 Testing, 18 Piece, 19 Selection, 20 Tub, 21 Dream, 22 Hostile.

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

ASSERT BEACON (10) BUTANE CASEIN CHEERY CONFER FECUND INBRED INFIRM

INSIDE MARROW MENTOR MORBID NETTLE PRESTO RECALL TEASEL THEISM THENCE

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 1 Saloon 2 Senior 3 Loaves 4 Auntie 5 Linden 6 Sortie 7 Render 8 Raisin 9 Uproar 10 Enable 11 Intone 12 Laurel 13 Bridle 14 Sparky 15 Bullet 16 Depute 17 Lumber 18 Beetle 19 Member

Across 1 Capital in the bank a raffle provides (6) 4 Figures lacking energy but standing (6) 7 Describing elegant dressers or liars at a reunion? (9) 9 Prefers new style post (4) 10 Bunk and a roll (4) 11 Seaside feature is a cover for illegal activities (5) 13 Metal fastener for pleats, perhaps (6) 14 Intelligent leader embraces a tender nature (6) 15 A psychotic motel owner lets up (6) 17 So, ‘Cars’ gets film awards (6) 19 Georgia, for example, in poor taste (5) 20 Meet back at stream (4) 22 Part of the Burma-Siam landmass (4) 23 People going to Silver Lake to find animal collection (9) 24 They are cold-blooded and calculating! (6) 25 Naughty kids find saints around tents (6) Down 1 Rearranging cast or parts for players (6)

2 Expression of regret for a girl not finishing (4) 3 Put on treat I arranged (6) 4 Well before summer (6) 5 A container that’s slightly open (4) 6 Composed - composed at each part (6) 7 Plan game anew after false start (9) 8 Make sauce, lots, or it’s a pointless endeavour (4,5) 11 Escapes from parasites, one hears (5)

12 Anxious for aimless teens (5) 15 He attacked the Romans but turned tail at first (6) 16 Purloins duck between beginning and end of shifts (6) 17 Animals prepared to rest (6) 18 He’s sad, possibly, in sunglasses (6) 21 Nothing but a lake (4) 22 Help with a Verdi opera (4)

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

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OPINION & COMMENT

Is there anybody out there?

OUR VIEW Photo Credit Cory Doctorow flickr

LOADS of witnesses and grainy pictures, but nothing that leaves you convinced Colin Bird A weekly look Each week, Colin brings his slightly off-thewall view of the world to the pages of EWN in his own irreverent style.

I HAVE just been reading about England’s most haunted houses, but I can never really make up my mind about ghoulies and ghosties and all that hobgobliny stuff. The only thing that goes bump in the night at my house is me trying to get to the bathroom and walking into the door. You hear of spooky accounts and watch TV documentaries, and it’s certainly enough to get you thinking, but it’s like UFOs - loads of respectable witnesses and grainy pictures, but nothing that quite leaves you convinced. Surely there should have been at least one professional photographer armed with

HAUNTED HOUSES: Surely someone should have taken a decent photo of the ghosts by now? the latest Pentax who had managed to whirr off a load of world class snaps by now. This would leave nobody in any doubt whatsoever that there are spectral figures whooo-hoooing up dark

corridors or little grey men (they used to be green) whizzing around up there, but doing a darn good job of avoiding us. There are always excuses for those iffy pics - ghosts

have no substance so cannot be photographed; UFO’s are powered electromagnetically and so interfere with . . . stuff. Well whatever. Nevertheless a school

friend and I did actually see a genuine UFO many years ago. It wasn’t so much a flying saucer than a flying ellipsoid, and an ellipse as we all know is a closed symmetric curve that seems to cut the surface of a cone by an oblique plane to the symmetry axis angle, greater than the curve with respect to the axis of revolution. Wikipedia’s great isn’t it. But okay it was cigarshaped. The thing is we both got a good look at the object, although our parents did not believe a word of it because we were only 11 at the time. “Mum, Dad, we’ve just seen a space ship!” “That’s nice dear, now clean your teeth and get to bed, it’s school tomorrow.” “But Muuum...” “Bed!” Perhaps they have walked among us for years disguised as our mothers? It would explain the curlers.

Women’s pensions are in the news Photo Credit David Adamson Shutterstock

ONE often used argument for moving pension ages is that women live longer than men John Smith Random thoughts... JANUARY has been a particularly important month for women and the debate concerning the transition of payment of pensions so that women qualify at the same age as men. In theory, with the call for overall equality this does not appear to be totally unreasonable and with the government desperate to save as much money as possible, the £30 billion due to be saved is certainly not to be ignored. The difficulty, however, as has been highlighted in two debates in the House of Commons and in a public meeting, is that of fairness. It was as early as 1995 that the then Labour government decided to look to bring retirement ages for men and women in line but - and this is a very important but - it was explained that there should be a transition period of 15 years in order to allow women to make provisions so they were aware that they

IAIN DUNCAN SMITH: Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. would not receive a pension at 60, but would either have to work longer or make additional private arrangements. This also seems perfectly reasonable, except that critics have argued the 1995 decision was not properly explained to the women affected and it was only as recently as 2010 that some (but not all)

women were written to and advised that their retirement age had increased. Thus, they may only have had a few years notice which would be insufficient to allow them to buy additional pensions, even if they could afford them and even by working longer, they may not have paid sufficient national insurance

EU: Leaving will not be the end of the world.

What will the result be? IT’S all rather a lot to take in, especially as any thoughts about what would happen if Britain leaves the EU can only be speculation. Football teams don’t generally turn up for a match assuming they are going to lose (unless perhaps they are David Cameron’s team Aston Villa), and the same is true for politicians. We don’t even know if the concepts agreed between the prime minister and Donald Tusk will be accepted by the other members of the Union, which means in turn there is no guarantee that he or the conservative party will be recommending a ‘yes’ vote. The latest opinion polls state that 45 per cent of those asked are in favour of leaving, but it has to be remembered that they got the forecast completely wrong at the last elections, and have recently revealed the reason for this was that they had asked the wrong people. In the infamous words of Homer Simpson, ‘Doh!’ The reality is that whilst we may all have opinions on what could happen, no one can definitively state what the result will be. One thing which is fairly certain, however, is that it’s not going to be the end of the world and is likely to occur more with a whimper than a bang. There may be 28 members of the EU at the moment, but countries such as Norway and Switzerland seem to get along relatively well outside of the Union, without having to queue up at borders as third world citizens.

contributions to qualify for the full amount in any case. This particularly affects women born between October 6, 1953 and April 5, 1955 who have seen their retirement ages shoot up. I speak with some bias as my wife was born on October 10 1953 and therefore won’t be able to claim a pension until she is 64 and eight months, but to add to her problem, she worked for a number of years for the government in Gibraltar where their pension age is 60. However because she worked for more years in the UK than Gibraltar, they are withholding her pension until she reaches retirement age in Britain. One of the often used arguments for moving pension ages is that women live longer than men, but recent figures have shown the opposite with the average age for men catching up with women. This is a very complicated yet important matter which the British governNow we ment appears disinclined to doing anywant to thing about, but for those who are hear your views. interested on how it may affect you, then there is a very strong presYOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE sure group, Women Against State - YOUR OPINION Pension Inequality (WASPI) which www.euroweeklynews.com has its own Facebook page.

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HEALTH BEAUTY

Snackers now choosing popcorn BUT is it really a healthier choice as companies make it more commercially attractive? By Gemma Quinn SALES of crisps are falling as snackers are choosing the

healthier option of popcorn which has seen sales rise 169 per cent in the last five years. However, the nutrition pan-

els on the packets suggest there is little difference between popcorn and crisps. For example, looking at a

packet of Tyrells brand of lightly sea salted crisps, there are 501 calories per 100g compared to the 487 in its lightly sea salted popcorn. The popcorn also had slightly more fat and saturated fat than the crisps. It also has more than double the salt per 100g at 1.3g versus 0.5g. Some 7 per cent of snack products launched in the UK last year were popcorn products, up from just 3 per cent in 2010. Retail analysts Mintel said popcorn’s perceived health credentials and ‘flavour innova-

tions have helped boost the segment, along with its popularity among younger consumers, who are more likely to snack.’ Health experts still say popcorn is healthy, but now many companies are making it more commercially attractive and are adding flavours and preservatives. To fully benefit from the low fat snack you need to eat it in its original natural form as soon as it has popped, with no oils, fats or sugars added to it. In this form it is shown to hold numerous antioxidants and vitamins.

POPCORN: Now with added flavours and preservatives.

Early rising can make you slimmer A STUDY has found that people who went to bed earlier and got up earlier in the morning, tended to be thinner than those who go to bed later. The results came from a study that analysed the DNA of self-professed ‘night owls’ and ‘morning larks’. It also discovered that those who woke earlier were less prone to depression and less likely to suffer from insomnia. Almost 90,000 people were asked if they were naturally a morning or a night person, and had their DNA analysed, which revealed 15 genes that were linked to a person being a ‘lark’ or an ‘owl’. A preference for mornings increased the older someone was.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Ask The Doctor

Brought to you by Helicopteros Sanitarios.

Information about antibiotics

Sizing up your partner… Is honesty the best policy? FitFoxy

Looking Good, Staying Trim

SPECIALIST: Doctor Luis Perez Belmonte. This week we have asked the GP for more information about antibiotics, prescriptions and the possible side effects.

- I’ve been prescribed antibiotics for a throat infection but am a bit worried about taking them. It seems in Spain antibiotics are prescribed for just about everything, and I have heard that this is not good as excessive use causes immunity meaning they’re no good when really needed. Is this true? - Most infections of this type are caused by viruses, meaning antibiotics are not required and treatment consists of targeting the symptoms with medication for pain, fever, etc. Occasionally doctors will prescribe antibiotics to prevent a bacterial infection or because we believe the initial infection was caused by bacteria, which need antibiotic treatment. It is true that sometimes doctors prescribe more than are necessary. This can lead to bacteria devel-

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oping resistance to certain antibiotics, but this occurs through repeated use over long periods of time, rather than occasional use. - I’m also worried about side effects. Last time I took them they upset my stomach. - Stomach upsets and nausea are the most common side effects. Generally symptoms are bearable and patients are advised to adapt their diet to avoid aggravating stomach problems. More serious side effects can sometimes lead to the medication having to be suspended. - Do I have to take them all or can I stop once the pain and fever go? - Once you start a course of antibiotics, unless you suffer very severe side effects you should complete it, even if symptoms disappear within 24 hours.

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.

WHAT happens when you have been in a relationship for a long time, and the person that stole your heart 15 or 20 years ago no longer looks like the package you married? Sound harsh? Well not really, it just happens to be another one of those subjects that people don’t like to discuss. How do you feel when the person you married is no longer the slim, healthy fit person that you fell in love with all of those years ago? Whilst you on the other hand are consistently taking the effort and care to maintain your early 20’s weight. You could say that I am being shallow and that love is not just about appearance, after all who cares about the love handles and few extra fat rolls right? However, the way I see it is this. When I met my partner, he was handsome, fit, strong, healthy and generally in great shape. This of course was important to me on many levels, yes of course I loved him for many reasons, but being with someone that took care of their health was of great importance. Some 15 years later, not much has changed. He likes to go out on his mountain bike and attend the gym regularly. He enjoys big meals, as do I. At weekends he often likes to try a few of the different beers that the supermarkets have to offer. He knows when he has overindulged or packed on a few kilos, as do I. However, we have an unwritten agreement to maintain a healthy, attractive body for ourselves and for each other. So my question is, if your partner asked you one day, does my stomach look big in this? What would you say? Would you lie to them to avoid hurting their feelings, or would you be honest and

tell it like it is? My next question to you is, how do you feel? Do you feel conned that your goods no longer match the description on the package that you once signed up to? Sometimes honesty really is the best policy, tact of course is very important, but I have found that often people need to hear the harsh stuff, and this in turn, shunts them into action. There has been many a story about the woman that saw a pretty awful photograph or video footage of herself and decided to make a drastic life style change, or the man that lost 30kgs after being too fat to fit into his seat on the aircraft, That is great news for these people, however how much better it would have been if someone had cared about them enough to help them make a decision earlier.

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OPINION & COMMENT

Waving, not drowning StockPhotoAstur / Shutterstock.com

PEDRO SANCHEZ has accepted the king’s challenge of forming a new government Cassandra Nash A weekly look - and not entirely impartial reaction to the Spanish political scene

PEDRO SANCHEZ accepted the king’s challenge of forming a government, and looks increasingly like a survivor. Not of the political situation but the PSOE hierarchy, which still resents that party members chose Sanchez, not the grandees. If he can survive that, he might even survive an investiture.

Setting a royal example THE Infanta Cristina, daughter of King Juan Carlos, sister of King Felipe and wife of the no-longer Duke of Palma de Mallorca, might

PSOE LEADER: Has the task of forming a new government.

Workers’ satisfaction IT came as no surprise that unemployment rose in January, because it always does once the December feeding and shopping frenzy subsides. If the worst comes to the worst, and there is another election because Pedro Sanchez can’t form a government, Mariano Rajoy will still bang on about the employment his government created, seasonal setbacks notwithstanding. But as workers on temporary contracts or those working full-time on ostensibly part-time contracts know, those jobs look good on paper, but amount to precious little in their pockets. or might not have known about her husband’s business interests. She might or might not have known that he was siphoning off public money to Aizoon, the company which she co-owned with him. But Cristina and her defence team are 100 per cent correct about one thing: she is in her current situation because of who she is.

Even staunch republicans appreciate that there are many public, political and sporting figures, heaven forbid we should mention Messi or Neymar, alleged to have committed worse fiscal crimes. Spain’s judicial system might be demonstrating that it is impartial in pursuing Cristina, but it has also revealed itself as selective.

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Blessing of the throat SANT BLAI (Saint Blaise) patron saint and protector against throat diseases was celebrated in the village of Campos on February 3, 6 and 7. The tradition is to walk from the village to the chapel of Saint Blaise for Mass where the necks of the faithful are anointed with blessed oil for protection against throat problems. ‘Panetets de Sant Blai,’ typical bread rolls of the celebration, are sold afterwards in stalls in the garden.

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SCENE

OCIAL

Calanova Cancer Care shop sale and upcoming 60s and 70s charity event SHOP has both men and womens fashions, shoes, bags, costume jewellery and accessories for sale By Sandra Galo CALANOVA Cancer Care charity shop in Palma is having a half-price sale. The shop offers items for both men and women including coats, jackets, ski wear, shoes, bags, lingerie with some new and nearly new

pieces. There are many gorgeous pieces of costume jewellery and accessories to help you celebrate Valentine’s Day in style. The shop is open from 10am to 6pm weekdays and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays. It is situated in front of the Calanova Sailing School, Joan Miro 358, San Agustin. Palma, 07015. In March, Calanova Cancer Care will be celebrating the decades of the 60s and 70s in a special evening charity event at Mood Beach. If anyone would like to help out by sharing their talents with songs of the era or imitations related to those two decades, please get in touch with Angela on 609 848 622.

CHARITY EVENT: In March there will be a special evening celebrating the 60s and 70s.

SOCIAL SCENE

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The Sound of Nomads NOMADS theatre group in Alcudia is putting on a twoday-only production entitled The S o u n d o f No m a d s which is sure to delight audiences. After the great success of Over T h e R a i n b o w las t year, the group is now taking on a n o t h e r m u s ica l favourite in The Sound Of Nomads. The sh o w, p a c k e d w ith mus ic a n d a t o u c h o f h u mour, is sure to delight audiences of all ages. The So u n d o f No ma d s

will be held at the Casa de C u ltu ra in A lc u d ia (O ld Town) in Calle Hostal 9 on F rid ay F e b ru a ry 1 9 a t 7.30pm and again on Saturday February 20 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are available at H o rn b lo w e r E mb ro id e ry and Little Britain in Pto Alc u d ia , P o lle n s a C are a nd ESRA Thursday Club at Vecinoâ€™s in Puerto Pollensa. F o r mo re in fo rma tion, call 627 293 273. All profits will go to local or national charities.

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44 E W N Mallorca 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

A secondhand home can be a steal THE National Institute of Statistics calculates that the average yearly salary in Spain is €22,697. Having this data as a point of reference, the property website pisos.com claims that a second-hand home can be bought for less than that amount. That means that even though a recent study has indicated that it is currently necessary to devote six years worth of salary to the purchase of a residence, it can in fact be done in less than a year. If one isn’t too picky, that is. Of course in reality, flats this cheap are few and far between. Only 0.39 per cent of the offers on pisos.com are featured for less than this price, although the percentage is slightly higher in some provinces, with a hefty 2 per cent of the properties in Teruel falling into this range. It goes without saying that flats or residences on the market might require more than their fair share of fixing up. But for DIY lovers looking for a project or a bit of peace and quiet, some of these places could be just what the doctor ordered.

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PROPERTY

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More good news for buyers STATISTICS released this week confirm that mortgages have increased for the 18th consecutive month

THIS YEAR: Is the ideal time to buy for those who have been saving.

John Graham The property expert

THE Spanish banks have released the latest official figures on the number of mortgages granted, and the statistics confirm that mortgages have increased for the 18th consecutive month, matching the increase in property sales throughout Spain. These figures are also good news for those of you selling your property this year. The figures show that more and more banks are offering mortgages again after many years of non-availability, and this will help drive more property sales in Spain this year. Actually, foreign buyers looking for a mortgage have the additional option of taking out an extra mortgage on their property in their own country, for their new home in Spain. It is also good news for buyers that interest rates will continue at a historic low in 2016, and this will keep mortgage costs very low indeed, which again will help to drive property sales in Spain. Developers selling their new properties usually have an agreement with their bank and can offer a mortgage with each property, which makes it easier for the developer to sell their properties and is convenient for the buyer.

MORTGAGES: Readily available. Properties owned and sold by the banks always include the option of a mortgage, which can be a high percentage of the property’s costs, which is proving to be attractive to buyers who only need to pay a small deposit. On resale properties the seller can arrange for the owners existing mortgage to be taken over by the buyer, but normally the buyer finds their own new bank mortgage, which will base the mortgage amount on a bank valuation of the property. What is important is that mortgages in Spain are again readily available at very low interest rates, making 2016 the ideal time to buy, especially for buyers who have been saving their deposits. If you are buying or selling your property please contact me for further professional information and advice. John Graham Fellow of The Architecture & Surveyors Institute. Email gk.ipad@me.com

PROPERTY

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Advertising feature

Coastal Properties offer their clients the best possible service COMPANY offers a full spectrum of properties, from frontline villas to country houses WITH unique properties sold all across Mallorca, Coastal Properties Mallorca is one of the leading and most experienced real estate agents on the island. Aiming to offer the best possible service, they offer deep market insight and customer care from collection of clients at the airport, to properly arranged viewings and complete after-sales service. Naturally they have the privilege of serving a myriad of local and international clients, who know the value of a good realtor. A constantly updated property database has the full spectrum of Mallorca properties available including luxury apartments for sale, prime frontline villas with spectacular sea views, and country properties. The property services include selling your property, complete property project management of your new home in Mallorca, and property reform services from a studio apartment to prestigious frontline villa. Whether you are looking for a permanent villa for sale in Mal-

PROFESSIONALS: Will negotiate excellent deals on your behalf. lorca or a holiday apartment to spend your holiday, they have properties suitable for all kinds of stay, long and short-term and all types of property investments. Their knowledge and expertise of the local area, culture and local laws and language will save you both time and money to make your property purchase an enjoyable experience. A multilingual and highly professional team of real estate executives is equipped with excellent

communication skills, enabling them to negotiate excellent deals on your behalf. Coastal Properties Mallorca guarantee their customers a hassle free property buying or selling experience courtesy of an excellent network of both prospective buyers and property owners throughout the island. Buying your dream frontline villa in Mallorca is a once in a life time opportunity, and Coastal Properties would like to share the

FRONTLINE VILLAS: With spectacular sea views. experience to ensure their expertise provides maximum benefits to you, by securing you a great property deal in Mallorca. Not only great value for your money, but also making your dreams come true. Accompanied viewing of properties for sale in Mallorca, architectural consultation advice and services, advice on property, land valuations, finance and mortgage, property registration, cancellation of mortgages and legal advice, li-

aison with advisers, property bands, lawyers, notaries, tax advisers, insurance companies, etc, execution of standing orders for your new property, marketing of your Mallorca property and property management of your home, are just some of the crucial services at your disposal. So donâ€™t hesitate, make your dreams come true and call now to buy or sell on 971 681 930 or email info@coastalpropertiesmall orca.com

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I begrudge paying for a carrier bag Mike Senker

In my opinion Views of a Grumpy Old Man SAD news this week, my carrier bag for life has passed on after a very short but happy existence. It was partly my fault because I continually overloaded it. That’s because for some odd reason, I, like hundreds of others I have observed, totally begrudge paying for a carrier bag at the supermarket checkout. I have often witnessed people coming out like they are competing in that old TV show from the 50s/60s called Crackerjack. Did you know that not all shops have to charge for the carrier bags? For instance, all the little supermarkets don’t have to charge. It’s only places with 250 employees or more so there’s a few that are nicking a bit of profit. Here’s a good one. I decided to buy a new TV so I went and had a look at one in one of the very big electrical stores here. I found one I liked and did the deal and had to buy some extra cables and some other bits. I get to the checkout and pay for the TV and arrange de-

livery. Now this was a 55 inch curved screen, so it was a nice few quid, well euros actually. The girl on the checkout asks if I want a bag for the other items. Of course I do. How else am I going to get the stuff to the car as I explain that my juggling skills aren’t that good? She says, “That will be 5 cents.” “What?” I’ve just spent all this money on this TV and the cables and they want to charge me for a carrier bag! Surely it’s not only me. Well I know it’s not, because I observe nearly every person at the different tills are going out with unbagged goods. Just give me a bag, hide the cost any way you like but don’t tell me it’s an extra. I know it’s all about saving the planet and the money is meant to go to charities, but on both counts I’ve checked and neither is entirely true. There are some peculiar rules too. Did you know, for example, they are not required to charge for a bag containing an unwrapped blade and unwrapped loose seeds? But if you add a box of cornflakes then they would have to charge. Uncooked fish and fish products, uncooked meat, poultry and their products don’t get charged for. So next time I go shopping I’m going to buy a flick knife, a fish and some animal body parts… and get a free carrier bag!!

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OPINION & COMMENT

LEGALLY SPEAKING

GPS while driving RULES and laws aim to make the roads a safer place 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.

DRIVERS: Are not allowed to touch GPS while driving. Offence: Failing to maintain the proper position in the vehicle. This can refer to passengers with their feet on the dashboard, drivers with their arms out the window, or any other situation where proper posture is not maintained. This is because in the event of impact, the injuries sustained are considerably worse. Fine: €80. Offence: Using radar detectors. Some GPS devices have information which tells you where fixed radars and cameras are located, as this information is provided freely by the DGT with the intention of slowing traffic in these areas, and therefore devices which give this sort of fixed data information are permitted. Fine: €200 and the loss of three points.

ALL traffic rules and laws are aimed at making the roads a safer place. The penalties associated with infractions are mostly intended to be a deterrent, which is why repeat offenders may face harsher penalties. Here are a few of the most common traffic offences, and the fines and sanctions for committing them. Offence: Programming your GPS when driving. It is perfectly legal to use GPS navigation devices in your vehicle, but you are not allowed to touch them when you are driving because it distracts you. Set your journey before you leave. If you go wrong, most devices will recalculate the route, so leave it alone until you are stopped safely. Fine: €200 plus the loss of three points.

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

Can properties pay the same? OUR urbanisation was formed 12 years ago. At our first community meeting we agreed that every house or apartment would pay the same urbanisation fee regardless of the size of the property. For 10 years every dwelling continued to pay the same amount. Some have a basement garage with a separate entrance for cars. Let’s define our terms. Properly, when a community of property owners is constituted, each property is assigned a ‘cuota de participación’ according to its size. If they are not all the same size, some will pay

A year ago we appointed new administrators, and they have informed the AGM that it is illegal for those with a garage to pay the same rate as those who do not. This extra cost will be €75 each year. Is it correct that Spanish law requires any dwelling with a garage to pay separately? PB (Costa Blanca)

David Searl You and the Law in Spain

more than others. It sounds like the garages ought to pay more because

they have more. Now, it is not really ‘illegal’ for a community to vote that all units pay the same. However, if even one owner protests, then the community will be ordered to pay by ‘cuotas’.

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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Our good life gardens WHAT can a garden contribute to your enjoyment of your life in Spain? Dick Handscombe

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

SO far the early winter weather has been ideal, except for a couple of chilly hours some mornings, for not only progressing speedily with the annual winter cutback, but also to sit out in the garden for breakfast and lunch, to take an occasional rest with a refreshing beverage. So what can a good garden contribute to your enjoyment of your life in Spain? In view of the limits on size of article, I do this as a checklist. 1. All round interest from plants and features, and the presence of birdlife. 2. Sensible exercise, if you delegate the heaviest jobs to a gardener or odd-job man as you age. 3. Gets you outdoors to reestablish contact with nature after, in many cases, an office or car driven lifestyle. 4. Summer shade and shelter from scorching winds. 5. Winter sun and shelter from chilly winds. Recently it has been possible to strip

OUTDOORS: Re-establish contact with nature. off and sunbathe in the garden to build up vitamin D reserves. 6. Natural aromatherapy from the leaves and flowers of a variety of plants. 7. Attractive colour all the year round, a kaleidoscope of greens being the predominant year-round colour effect. 8. Comfortable seats with good views, where it be-

comes natural to rest and switch off from the rush of modern lives. 9. Productive offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers and leaves throughout the year. Each being ecologically grown and providing a range of beneficial natural vitamins, minerals and fibres. With respect to this, my book ‘Living well from the

garden Mediterranean Style’, will help you decide what is best to plant, harvest and eat or drink, as healthy alternatives to imported tea or coffee and some so-called energy drinks. When I checked this morning it was £4.99 from Amazon Books UK, and €6.59 from The Book Depository. 10. To maximise the benefit of eating and drinking

anything that you grow in the garden, do ensure that you use no chemical products. Use either nothing or just natural sprays and dustings to solve any insecticide or fungal problems that occur. If you still have problems locally in obtaining eco products, have a look at the websites of Trabe or Neudorf and buy by mail order. 11. By going or staying eco, educating neighbours if necessary, and having thick hedges one can enjoy clean unpolluted air, one of the important ingredients of a traditional pre-expat Mediterranean diet. 12. A garden that gives you a sense of wellness when out in it for work or leisure. Happy and healthy gardening to all readers. If any gardening or social club would like a talk along these lines during the next year, do get in contact early to discuss possible locations and dates. Contact is best via yourga rdeninspain@hotmail.com. © Dick Handscombe www.gardenspain.com Facebook –‘Gardening in spain – Handscombe’ February 2016.

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Keeping cats indoors IDEAS to make it easier for you and your pet

PETS PAGE www.euroweeklynews.com

Stella the friendly giant

STELLA: Is very a friendly dog despite her size.

WINDOW SEAT: Make sure your cat has a view of the outdoors and a sunny place to lie.

David THE Dogman Listen to David on TRE every Saturday 10am to 11am Costa del Sol (Gibraltar/Sotogrande) 98.7fm (San Roque to Calahonda) 91.9fm (Calahonda to Motril) 88.9, Costa Calida 92.7fm Costa Blanca (Torrevieja to Elche) 105.1fm (Elche to Calpe) 88.2fm, (Calpe to Gandia & Ibiza) 104.6fm, (Denia to Valencia) 95.3fm Mallorca 103.9fm

IF your cat was previously an outdoor cat and you plan to keep her inside, then good for you! Here are some suggestions to help make the transition easier for both of you.

- Spay or neuter: Spaying or neutering will rid your cat of those hormonal urges to go out and seek a mate. This will result in a calmer, friendlier cat. - Play schedule: Schedule play times during the times your cat would normally be outside. This will distract her from her normal routine and establish another safer routine. - Window seat: Make sure your cat has a view of the outdoors and a sunny place to lie. Cats like to watch birds, so putting a bird feeder outside this window is likely to make it a favourite spot for your cat. - Scavenger hunt: Give your cat a game to play by hiding bits of dry food around the house. Hide the

food in paper bags, boxes and behind open doors. This will give her exercise and keep her busy so she doesn’t think of going outside. This is especially good to do right before the family leaves the house for the day. - Attention: Try to give your cat extra love and attention during this difficult transition. - Aversive: If your cat still won’t give up meowing by the door, try an aversive. Leave strong citrus scents by the door or hide behind a wall and shake a pop can filled with coins to interrupt the behaviour. When she is quiet, walk out and give her a food treat and encourage her to play or cuddle.

Stella – by Florian Schumann

Having a housesitter can be a win win for pet owners and the sitters. To find a pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com or call Lamia on +44 (0)1865521508 IT can be a problem for large dogs and their owners when people assume that the bigger the dog the more ferocious they are. Any large dog owner will tell you that while some breeds are developed for their protective and fighting instincts, not all carry this trait. Stella was born in the mountains of Wales, and lived next to open countryside. She’s used to roaming the fields with her owner Simon, taking in a lot of wild terrain. Since moving to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, their walks are still expansive. But when in town the people are rather more fearful of Stella,

and she doesn’t understand. When house-sitters come to care for Stella, Simon always reassures them she is gentle and hardly even barks. In order to help the sitters get used to being with a dog of her size Simon always arranges for the sitters to come a couple of days early for an extended ‘meet and greet’ with Stella. After two days in her company the pet-sitters realise that when she gets close and even leaps up she just wants affection. Although it can still be a surprise to new sitters that 50kg of dog might run up to you, or lean heavily against your leg, they really only want a hug!

Can you tell how intelligent your pet is? ANIMAL intelligence is a notoriously tricky concept for humans to get their heads around, it’s difficult enough sometimes putting yourself in the shoes of your next door neighbour, nev-

ermind a creature from another species. There are, however, basic indicators which make for some interesting reading. While there is of course a

huge variety within a species, and across breeds and personalities, scientists now consider the average dog to have a roughly similar level of intelligence to a human toddler.

With the capacity to deceive other dogs and understand more than 150 words, dogs can easily solve basic spatial awareness problems, and can be trained to a very high level. When it comes to cat versus dog intelligence, the science is about as settled as the opinions across pet owners. Dogs have larger brains but cats have more neurons and a higher information processing capacity. Throughout thousands of years of human interaction, dogs are clearly the more social animal and their brain evolution reflects this, while cat

brains have hardly changed in millennia. However, some point towards a ‘dumbing down’ of dogs, as they come to

Cats versus dogs.

rely too much on humans, while cats have retained a more primal intelligence based on independence and caution.

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51 Photo Credit Ein Dahmer Wikimedia

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Photo Credit Oman Sail

BOATS

Spanish competitor in 2015 race in Oman.

THERE are always innovations and development in marine sports and the RS:X class has only been in existence for a few years, yet has attracted a steady f o l l o wi n g si n ce NeilPryde Windsurfing won the award to supply one design of windsurfing equipme n t f o r t h e 2 0 0 8 Olympic Games in China. The RS:X design features a high technology rig, with carbon mast and boom, a ‘ wi d e - st y le’ board that merges modern windsurf board design with a centreboard, thus enabling competitions to

b e h eld in v irtu a lly an y condition from three to 30 knots. The 2016 RS:X World Ch amp io n s h ip s w ill b e h e ld in E ila t, Is ra e l, o n F eb ru a ry 2 2 to 2 7 a n d with five days of racing for both men and women from around the world, it promises to be an exciting and interesting champio n s h ip . T h e Rio 2 0 1 6 Olympic Games are just aro u n d th e c o rn e r a n d there are still opportunities for athletes from some of the 23 competing countries to be picked for their national teams.

New Legends of the Sea award THE Club de Mar, organiser of the Illes Balears Classic regatta, has created a new award called ‘Legends of the Sea’ which will be awarded to ‘the participating ship that most embodies the spirit of classic sailing’ according to Manuel Nadal, commodore of the club. The trophy will be awarded by a jury of experts and will be incorporated into the 2016 regatta which is due to take place in the Bay of Palma from August 10 to 13.

Spanish editor judges boat show in Dusseldorf ONE of the interesting events of the Dusseldorf Boat Show which closed on January 31 was the competition for best motorboat. Judges from eight of Europe’s top magazines including the editor of Spanish publication Nautica y Yates chose winners in five categories based on boat size which took into account space, value for money, performance and innovation.

Damage on board the vessel. ANTHEM OF THE SEAS: One of the world’s newest and biggest cruise ships.

Not quite the Titanic, but cruise had to be stopped DISAPPOINTED passengers are due to receive a full refund By John Smith ONE of the world’s newest and biggest cruise ships was caught in a such a powerful storm on February 7 that the captain had to order passengers to stay in their cabins for safety reasons, although some passengers reported that there was so much broken glass in the bathrooms that it was more dangerous than the public areas.

According to Royal Caribbean, owners of Anthem of the Seas, the weather was so wild with extreme wind and powerful seas that because of the damage, it had no option other than to terminate the cruise and have the vessel return to port in New Jersey for repairs. Costing $940 million (€835 million) and weighing 167,800 tons, the vessel is the third largest cruise ship to be built but the owners never envisaged the sort of weather it encountered during the voyage.

Despite the fact that there was a great deal of damage done to the vessel internally, only a very few of the 4,529 passengers or 1,616 members of the crew received anything other than minor injuries although one member of the US Senate has called for an investigation as to why the vessel was allowed to leave port in the first place. Disappointed passengers are due to receive a full refund as well as discounts for any future booking.

The ultimate yacht accessory FORGET helicopters, on board cars, motor bikes and speed boats, the ultimate gift for the owner of a superyacht has just been unveiled at the Consumer electronics Show in Las Vegas, the world’s first passenger-carrying drone which can deliver a passenger from ship to shore without a pilot. The Chinese developed Ehang 184 drone is 1.4 metres high, and uses eight propellers on four arms that can be folded into the vehicle’s body for storage and although there is no pilot, instructions can be entered into a touch screen on board so that the drone’s computer can calculate the quickest and safest route to the destination. Supposedly fail safe, it does have some limitations as the 100 kilometre per hour drone which can fly at over 3,000 metres if required only has a 23

Photo Credit Alex flickr

2016 RS:X class World Championships

EHANG 184 DRONE: Will calculate the quickest and safest route to your destination. minute window before a fully charged battery will run down. Whilst you won’t be able to fly across the Atlantic, it could well be an ideal addition to your superyacht to allow you a

safe and comfortable journey from ship to shore and back, provided that you don’t mind paying the expected price of between £140,000 (€180,000) and £200,000 (€257,000) and

can find somewhere which doesn’t have laws prohibiting drones. On the plus side, the battery recharges within four hours and you won’t need a chauffeur.

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016

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Movistar team SPAIN’S Movistar Team Yamaha assembled to kick off the new season. The race saw teammates Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi make their intentions clear, whilst testing their YZR-M1s at the Sepan g Intern a t i o n a l C i r c u it during the first official MotoGP test of the year, taking first and second place respectively.

FIVA 2016 FIVA, the international federation of historic vehicles, has named 2016 as World Motoring Heritage Year, both in recognition of motoring history, and to celebrate a new dawn for the historic vehicle movement throughout the world. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of FIVA, the Federation Internationale des Vehicules Anciens. “This is the perfect time to launch World Motoring Heritage Year, as we’re moving towards a bright new age of classic motoring,” says Patrick Rollet, President of FIVA, which is a non-profit-making enterprise.

Clarkson Quote of theWeek

MOTORING www.euroweeklynews.com

... and although the W came along in the 10th century, modern Germans still seem to manage perfectly well by using a V instead. Except when the German managing director of Aston Martin tries to say ‘vanquish’.” Some might say...

Renault Captur: Not just another crossover ITS non-pretentiousness is its appeal THE smart-looking Renault Captur, albeit built on the underpinnings of the popular Clio, has been given a macho makeover so it stands taller in the urban jungle. Its striking styling has gone down well with the suburban dweller, who needs a practical run-around but craves a touch of the wide outdoors, and yet, is far too sensible for a crazy looking Cactus. Is the Captur then not just another of the so-called ‘crossovers’ I hear you ask? Well apparently not. Cars like the Nissan Qashqai, which started the current craze of crossovers, meaning cars that have the looks and beefy stature of a 4x4 with the more economical running gear of a family hatch, (a pretend off-roader in other words) do just that, pretend. However the Captur makes no such claims, nor does it want to go off road.

THE RENAULT CAPTUR: Its striking styling has gone down well with the suburban dweller, who needs a practical run-around.

Its non-pretentiousness is its appeal, and it appears to have created a market for this type of car, where the sales are racing ahead. The Captur won’t venture far off the tarmac but it looks as though it might, and it has a practical spin-off in a higher than normal driving position,

and easier entry for those of more mature years. Maybe that is a clue to its popularity? Couple this with the car's potential for a muddy family life with seat covers that can be unzipped and popped in the washing machine, not to mention lots of space in the rear, makes it an

ideal choice for... well everyone really! As if that wasn’t reason enough for Granny, Mr Mom or the local Rugby team to rush out and buy one; it comes with a choice of two petrol or two diesel engines including some with the option of automatic gearboxes.

Prices start at around £14,000 in the UK and €12,800 in Spain, but can nearly double if you want all the bells and whistles. However, with four trim levels that all include cruise control, air conditioning, electric windows all round and a trip computer, you won't have to spend a fortune to stand out in your urban jungle.

The Jaguar F-type SVR JAGUAR’S new flagship F-type SVR has been confirmed to make its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show on March 1, and will go on sale in the summer. Both coupe and convertible versions will be up for grabs with both versions benefitting from more power than a standard Ftype, as well as SVR-specific suspension, a titanium exhaust system, and an aggressive aero kit. The SVR’s supercharged 5.0litre V8 will produce 567bhp and 516lb, which will propel either of these big cats from 0-62mph in 3.7sec, and in coupe form, the F-type SVR will hit

200mph. The convertible won’t be far behind, though, topping out at 194mph. John Edwards, MD of Jaguar Special Vehicle Operations centre, said: “The new F-TYPE SVR is the first series production Jaguar to be developed by Special Vehicle Operations. The result is a 200mph, all-weather supercar.” Full details, including pricing and technical specification, will be available on February 17. Previously, pictures and details of the SVR had been leaked to the public reputedly by the publishing of an embargoed brochure by a German importer, bless him!

DEBUT: At the Geneva Motor Show on March 1.

E W N 11 - 17 February 2016 / Mallorca

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SPORT

Six Nations is underway as the Foxes head for glory ENGLAND and France both won, while Ireland and Wales drew 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

RUGBY UNION • England and France began the 2016 Six Nations Tournament with respective victories over Scotland 15-9 and Italy 23-21, while Ireland and Wales drew 16-16. The second series of matches this weekend feature France-Ireland and WalesScotland on Saturday, followed by Italy-England on Sunday. • Saracens, Exeter, Leicester, Harlequins and Wasps are the top five clubs in that order in the Aviva Premiership, while Ulster, Scarlets, Connacht, Leinster and Edinburgh stand 1-2-3-4-5 in the Pro12 League. The big Aviva PL game this weekend is Saracens v Wasps. FOOTBALL • Leicester City are now firm favourites to win the Premiership after beating Manchester City 3-1 before a record 54,000 crowd at the Etihad last weekend. Chasing the Foxes are Tottenham (second, 1-0 victors over Watford), Arsenal (third, 2-0 winners at Bournemouth) and of course Manchester City, who next season will be managed by Spaniard Pep Guardiola. • At the foot of the PL, there were wins for basement club Aston Villa (3-0

OWEN FARRELL: Played in England’s 15-9 win over Scotland. over Norwich) and Newcastle (1-0 v WBA), while Sunderland came back from two down to share four goals at Liverpool, Everton whipped out-of-sorts Stoke 3-0, and 10-man Southampton edged past West Ham 1-0. The games between Chelsea and Manchester United, and Swansea and Crystal Palace both ended in 1-1 draws. • Six points cover the top six teams in the Championship. Hull City lead Middlesbrough on goal-difference with Burnley 3rd, Brighton 4th, Derby 5th and

in-form Sheffield Wednesday 6th. • Burton Albion (56 points to 50) lead Walsall in FL1. Northampton (61-56) head Plymouth in FL2 and Barcelona (recent 2-0 winners at Levante), Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid (who won 21 at Granada) lie first, second and third in La Liga. Gary Neville’s Valencia, after crashing 7-0 to Barcelona in the first leg of their Copa Del Rey semi-final, lost again, 10 at Real Betis. • Celtic (who k’od parttimers East Kilbride 2-0), Dundee United, Inverness, Morton and Ross County are through to the fifth round of the Scottish Cup. RangersKilmarnock and Hearts-Hibs face replays. • There have been two fourth round FA Cup replays this week (PeterboroughWBA and West Ham-Liverpool) while this weekend, the top PL matches are Arsenal-Leicester, Aston VillaLiverpool, Chelsea-Newcas-

tle, Manchester City-Spurs and Sunderland-Manchester United. • Jose Mourinho has stated he wants to return to the PL as manager as soon as possible. • Former Tottenham right back Peter Baker, who starred in the club’s 1960-61 double-winning team has died, aged 84. GOLF • A record crowd in golfing history of 201,003 attended the third day’s play at the Phoenix Open in Arizona. The four-day tournament, watched by over 700,000 spectators overall, was eventually won by Hideki Matsuyama, who defeated Rickie Fowler at the fourth extra hole in a playoff. • A few thousand miles away, Sheffield’s Danny Willett won the Omega Dubai Desert Classic by one stroke from fellow Brit Andy Sullivan and Spain’s Rafa

Bello-Cabrera. • Jordan Speith, Rory McIlroy and Jason Day are 1-2-3 in the current World rankings. CRICKET • England won the first two One Day Internationals against South Africa in Bloemfontein by 39 runs (via the D/L rule), and by five wickets in Port Elizabeth. Wicket-keeper Joss Buttler hit a quick-fire century in the first game and Alex Hales struck 99 in the second. The third ODI of five took place yesterday in Centurion, the fourth is in Johannesburg on Friday and the last in Cape Town on Valentine’s Day. • England’s women started

their ODI series also with a victory over South Africa. TENNIS • Katie Swan, GB’s youngest Federation Cup pl ayer at t he age of 16, hel ped her t eam t o a 3- 0 victory over South Africa in Israel. The Bristol-born teenager, ranked 524th in t he wor l d, def eat ed I l ze Hattingh 6-3 6-0 before Heat her Wat son and t he doubles duo of Jocelyn Rae and Anna Smith wrapped things up for Judy Murray’s team. AMERICAN FOOTBALL • Denver Broncos caused an upset by beating Carolina Panthers 24-10 in Super Bowl 50.

DID YOU KNOW? Leicester City’s boss Claudio Ranieri has been in football for 28 years and has managed eight top-line clubs but has never won a League title anywhere.

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11 - 17 February 2016

SUPER BOWL 50: The Denver Broncos’ victory was overshadowed by a provocative performance from Beyonce.

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Baleares U18 and U16 teams are crowned the champions THE Balearic Rugby Federation, thanks to the efforts of their U16 and U18 representative teams were crowned champions this weekend in Merida. The finals saw the U16 pitted against Asturias, while Navarra were tasked with trying to stop the high flying Balearic U18s. Asturias put up the best challenge in a fitting final. With the final whistle came a hard fought but well deserved 20-13 victory, with the expected celebrations both a mixture of joy and relief. In the U18 final it was all one way traffic. The Balearic selection scored their first try after just 50 seconds and never took their foot off the throttle, finishing the campaign with a resounding and all encompassing 49 - 0 points difference. All eyes will be on the promotion matches to see if the Balearics can break into the big time. Win for El Toro RC against Ibiza

series of passes that freed the ball for a try to be scored. Three tries were put past the Ibiza RC players who became increasingly annoyed and eventually lost one player to a yellow card penalty and another who left the pitch. This gave El Toro RC an advantage which they took in the form of a final series of passes resulting in a try in the last minutes taking their winning score to 32 points to three.

SENIOR LEAGUE: El Toro RC win over Ibiza RC with a final score of 32 points to three. RC in the Baleares Senior League A hesitant start and silly penalty by the home team gave Ibiza RC the

chance to score early points in the match against El Toro RC. Throughout the first half of the match neither team

was able to gain the upper hand. Towards the last few minutes of the first half El Toro RC was able to initiate a

El Toro RC Girls win in the next leg of the Baleares Seven’s League In an effort to catch up with League leaders Bahia RC, El Toro RC girls needed to win all of their matches in the next leg of the seven’s league. They managed to beat Bahia RC by 19 points to five and then had a tough match against the Shamrock girls, finally winning by 15 points to five. They still need to win their remaining matches to emulate last year’s success.