Issuu

25 - 31 January 2018

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

YOUR PAPER, YOUR VOICE, YOUR OPINION Photo by Benitachell town hall

ISSUE NO. 1699

STARRING ROLE: Jean-Claude Van Damme in crowdfunding video.

Star plea by Linda Hall The ‘muscles from Brussels,’ Belgian actor JeanClaude Van Damme, has leapt into action for the Benitachell film, Rural Cops. Va n D a m m e , s t a r o f

Timecop and Universal Soldier, appears in a video that asks for crowdfunding that will enable filmmaker Paco Soto to finish his latest movie. More than 200 Benitachell residents of all nationalities appeared as extras alongside well-known Spanish actors in the short film shot last September to promote the full-length version. “Anybody can become a backer for €5 but you can’t put a price on being able to count on Van Damme’s support,” Paco Soto said. Rural Cops takes place in the fictional resort of Torretatxell where members of the Local Police are called on to carry out all kinds of services in a screenplay that combines action with humour and features a number of local landmarks.

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NEWS EXTRA Crossing death AN Aspe woman of 34, mother of a four-year-old daughter, was run down by a Euromed express at a level crossing in Novelda. Her car was parked beside the crossing, witnesses said afterwards.

Fly guy A 20-YEAR-OLD who held up a Benidorm gaming machine arcade with a toy pistol and took €11,500 was detained by the National Police at Alicante airport as he prepared to fly to Galicia.

Late justice A 20-YEAR-OLD extradited from Romania received a 13year-sentence for robbing and killing a homeless Denia man in 2014. Two accomplices, also Romanian, received similar sentences from the Alicante High Court in 2016.

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Animal rights activists target Bous a la Mar THE Actyma animal protection association is suing the organisers of last year’s Bous a la mar events in Denia. The town hall official in charge of setting up the bullrunning was included in the complaint that has been formally lodged with the Safety and Emergency Response Agency and a Valencia City court. The group - full name Association against the Torture and Ill-treatment of Animals - also challenged the Denia tradition of organising bull baiting in the port during the town fiestas each July in 2015 and 2016. The would-be bullfighters and the animals inevitably end up in the water but despite the organisers’ protests that the practice is not cruel, bulls have drowned in the past. According to Actyma, the Bous a lar Mar organisers did not comply with animal protection legislation.

Photo credit: Emilio del Prado

SOAKING: ‘Bulls removed without due care’ claim. The bulls were harassed and hit, they were removed from the water without due care and children were allowed in the port precinct. The association also claimed that the event infringed regulations introduced on March 15, 2015 when the Valencian Community approved norms regulating bull running.

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Priest has meltdown over paedophiles UNABLE to keep quiet any longer, Alfaz’s parish priest Miguel Angel Schiller erupted recently about the Church and paedophilia. “I want to go. I want to leave this business of Church corruption,” the priest wrote on his Facebook page. “It is not enough to ask forgiveness and express shame if the structures that allow pederasty remain,” said Fr Schiller who was ordained 27 years ago and has been Alfaz’s parish priest for the last 12. “This has been happening for 27 years but I have never prostituted myself for a post or ecclesiastical honours,” he wrote in response to a comment on one of his posts. “I have only ever known one bishop who was decent, Murgui,” he continued in reference to the current bishop of the Orihuela-Alicante diocese.

“The rest are maricones, emotional cripples and unbalanced.” The priest also complained that his suggestion of psychiatric checkups for the clergy was ignored: “Nobody took a blind bit of notice.” The Facebook posts were soon removed but Fr Schiller told the Spanish media that he regretted the tone but not what he had said. “I’ve been a little brutal, but there are few sweet words to describe such grave deeds,” he added. “Pederasty is abominable and it is up to the bishops and the seminaries to put an end to it.” In a brief statement to the press, the diocesan authorities announced the next day that they had contacted Alfaz’s priest, asking him to arrange a meeting to discuss his Facebook declarations.

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On loan SAN VICENTE Town Hall is ceding the Engineer ’s House at the abandoned Cemex cement works to Atlan, an association for children and young people with autism. They will be able to use the house and extensive gardens until the Cemex multinational reclaims the property.

Prom plan THE coastal authority approved the plans submitted last year for a new €180,000 promenade on La Cala de Villajoyosa seafront that will be prolonged to Casa Modesto. Work on the five-metre wide Paseo should start within two months and will be completed by June.

Safety first THE new Tourist Information office has now opened in Benidorm’s Rincon de Loix although the Foreign Tourist Assistance Service (SATE) with which it shares the building remains closed. This will open once the Interior Ministry certifies that its communications system is secure, municipal sources said.

Time lag HEAVY machinery was moved onto the site formerly occupied by the emblematic Bar Mediterraneo at the bottom of the Calle Marques de Campo. The formerly listed property was controversially razed in 2014 and work has now begun on the foundations of a three-storey restaurant and hotel.

Bullying shame ALICANTE had 215 cases of school bullying that required legal action last ye a r, m o r e t h a n an y o th er province, apart from Madrid (600), Sevilla (260) and Valencia (216 cases). Most of the victims were aged between 11 and 15 and in most cases the bullying was verbal.

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MOTORING ALL THE LATEST CAR NEWS PLUS OUR WEEKLY TEST DRIVE P82

SPANISH FACTS OF LIFE nº47

PLUS THE REGULARS

There are many lazy stereotypes about Spain, but the siesta - and laziness itself - seems particularly unfair in one of Europe’s most hardworking countries. Could the traditional nap really be dying out, asks Harrison Jones.

News

Time out for siestas?

Finance

SUN, sangria and paella: the clichés of Spanish life are numerous and often live up to the hype. Yet one particularly prominent stereotype seems especially tired, since it now barely registers in modern Spain. The famous siesta is a period in the late afternoon when the country shuts down for hours - at least in theory. But the idea that Spaniards are lazy is not supported by their working hours, which are far higher on average than other European nations. And now, it seems their mid-afternoon break is being put to bed. Traditionally, the business siesta would run between roughly 2pm and 5pm, with restaurants closing later. Spaniards would have a big, long lunch, often with alcohol, followed by a nap. The original reason for the siesta was supposedly to avoid the mid-afternoon heat, particularly for manual labourers working in the sun, and to allow rest/travel time between morning and afternoon jobs. But there are also suggestions that the practice has Roman origins, making it Italian - though it is far more widely associated with Spain. In turn, the Spanish influenced other countries in colonial times to take up the practice. Spaniards also stay up notoriously late and tend to sleep less than other nations, meaning an afternoon break helped maintain their latenight lifestyle. But as modern, western culture and - crucially, air conditioning -ar-

Do you have news for us?

1 - 34

Leapy 41

Couch Critic 45

Time Out 58 - 59

Health & Beauty 60 - 63

DROPPING OFF: The siesta’s popularity is declining. rived, the humble siesta took a hit. A 2017 poll found that 58 per cent of Spaniards do not take a daytime nap, with the share of those saying they sometimes indulge consistently dropping. Office-based workers are highly unlikely to go home for lunch and sleep in a globalised, high-pressure country. Meanwhile, calls to realign Spain with its geographical time zone could impact the practice. The fascist dictator Franco changed Spanish clocks to align with Germany, but there is increasing pressure to return - which would mean the sun goes down earlier and people could go to bed earlier, with less need for afternoon sleep. Yet, there are some who value the

Email: newsdesk@euroweeklynews.com or call 951 38 61 61 and ask for the EWN news team.

tradition, particularly the elderly and those living in rural areas. Some towns, including Ador, Valencia, have enshrined the practice into law. There are other small signs of a modern resurgence. The health benefits of ‘power napping’ are widely hailed by health experts. A roughly 25-minute nap boosts memory, alertness, nighttime sleep, heart condition and mental/physical well-being generally. And in cities, ‘siesta hotels’ are a rising trend. The overall outlook for the siesta, though, is ominous. And while it might not be put to bed completely, it is certainly dropping off - just don’t expect the stereotype to fade with it.

186

Social 64 - 69

Property 70 - 71

Pets 74

Services 75 - 78

Classifieds 79 - 81

The total number of news and features which appeared in Issue 1698 of the Euro Weekly News Costa Blanca North edition, including 73 local stories.

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Lynx effect!

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POLL OF THE WEEK Photo credit Richard Campey/Twitter

Do you text more often than call on your mobile phone? LAST WEEK’S POLL: Have you taken up the Dry January challenge?

Yes 81%

No 19%

EWN online this week 126,711 Page views

TOP ON THE PROWL: An Iberian lynx in the Sierra de Andujar where wildlife lovers (bottom left) have been flocking to photograph the elusive cat, of which 31 lost their lives on Spanish roads last year (bottom right). IT is the most endangered wild cat in the world. And this stunning image, captured last month, shows the Iberian lynx in all its predatory beauty. It comes as wildlife lovers and nature photographers descended on the Sierra de Andújar mountain range in Jaén Province, Andalucía, to catch a glimpse of the elusive feline. Normally secretive during sunlight hours, sexually mature adults are active throughout the day in December and January as the females come into heat and males compete to breed with them. And the vast Sierra de Andújar - part of the larger Sierra

Morena chain - is home to the largest and best-preserved population, with around 100 females each commanding a territory of 10-20 square kilometres. Spanish authorities recently announced that wild numbers of the cat have risen to at least 547 from a historic low of 94 in 2002. More than 400 inhabit Andalucía, with the remainder split between Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura and Portugal. Andalucían environment councillor, José Fiscal and director of the European Commission-funded lynx conservation programme LIFE Iberlince, Miguel Ángel Simón revealed

the encouraging figures during a Sevilla press conference. But it is not all good news, after 58 lynx were found dead in 2017, a record. According to reports, 31 of the animals were killed by traffic, leading to widespread criticism from environmental groups, although the main issue continues to be a lack of rabbits, its principal prey. Native to the Iberian Peninsula but introduced around the world, Spanish rabbits have been devastated by the myxamatosis virus and, more recently, a haemorrhagic disease known as RHDVb. See Our View on page 8.

5 stories

BENIDORM: Returning to our TV screens soon.

documentary and series of telly 7,772 New favourite Benidorm coming soon del Sol town showcases itself 5,571 Costa with new tourism video Brits could face second court sum2,579 Five mons over Benidorm balcony death national and regional holidays 2,131 Spain’s for 2018 passenger calls Ryanair crew 2,130 ‘Drunk’ ‘devils’ forcing flight diversion views

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*For week 15 – 22 January

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FOR COMMENTS FROM EWN ONLINE TURN TO LETTERS PAGE CORRECTIONS At the EWN, we pride ourselves that reports are accurate and fair. If we do slip up, we promise to set the record straight in a clear, nononsense manner. To ask for an inaccuracy to be corrected. Email: editorial@euroweeklynews.com

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25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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THE Nationa Police cordoned off Calpe FC football ground as they searched for immigrant players without work permits. Access was restricted and players on the first team who were training at the time were not allowed to leave. The club presided by Luciano Marziano, an Italian, has at least 10 foreign footballers on its books as well as several others who stayed briefly at the club before moving on to other teams. After questioning players from the first team, particularly those from South America, officers from t h e p o l i c e ’s I m m i g r a t i o n a n d Forged Documentation Unit (UCRIF) held nine for immigration irregularities although they were released the following day.

Police swoop on football team Marziano, Calpe C F ’s Paraguayan technical director Gabriel Franco, the treasurer and a club official who are both Spanish, were charged with belonging to a criminal organisation, facilitating irregular immigration and infringing employees’ rights. Police scrutinised paperwork for indications that non-EU players lacked residence permits and work contracts. According to media sources, they found falsifications

Three’s a crowd A CALPE man received a nine-month sentence for attacking his partner after she found him in bed with another woman. The furious girlfriend took her love rival by the arms and ejected her from the apartment, closing the door on her. The other woman rang the doorbell and was let into the home again, resulting in a tussle during which the girlfriend was felled by a punch in the face from her partner. Following an appeal, the Alicante High Court confirmed the sentence imposed by a Benidorm criminal

court, rejecting the man’s argument that his partner claimed he had hit her out of revenge for his infidelity. Neither did the tribunal accept that he was drunk and, preferring not to intervene, went to another room. It was “hardly credible” that a man whose partner had just caught him in bed with another woman would “simply walk away and go to another room,” the judges said. As well as the nine-month prison term, the man must pay €320 compensation while the other woman must pay a €60 fine for battery.

in some signings and police believe the flow of South American players through the club was a cover for illegal immigration. The investigation comes at a bad t i m e f o r t h e C a l p e C F. T h e t o w n hall is breaking off its agreement with the club, the coach Ximo Galiano recently resigned and earlier Marziano issued a communique explaining the difficulties that the club was facing this season.

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HER career continues to go from strength to strength. And ex-Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison showed how high her aspirations run as she recreated Victoria Beckham’s Vogue Spain cover on ITV show This Morning. Slipping into a bright red dress before posing with one leg atop a table, the 30-year-old said of the shoot: “It got me thinking, she’s Vicky B, I’m Vicky P why not give it a go?” To laughs from hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby she added: I’ve got a little bit more cushion for the pushing than Vicky B, but...” It comes after her idol, 43, wowed Spain after appearing on the front of Vogue before stepping out in Madrid to attend a dinner hosted by the fashion magazine. The former Spice Girl sizzled in her own scarlet gown before being snapped leaving her hotel the next morning in a navy roll neck jumper and flowing burgundy-and-white skirt.

She’s got front!

NEWLY SINGLE: Bambi Northwood Blyth and (right) her Glamour Spain cover. Photo by Twi

tter/ You Tub e

LADIES IN RED: Victoria Pattison (right) apes her idol’s Vogue Spain cover.

CORK BLIMEY: Stacey and Joe knock back the sangria.

Photo by Bambi Northwood Blyth/Instagram/Twitter

Bare it like Beckham

Photo by Stacey Solomon/Instagram

SHE recently split from her fashion de s igne r husband. But Australian supermodel Bambi Northwood Blyth, 27, showed she is getting ove r he r bre a k wi t h K subi j eans founder Dan Single, 37, in style after appearing braless on the cover of Glamour Spain. She was reportedly left ‘mortified’ after her spouse of four years set up a Go Fund M e page i n t he wake of a 2017 hotel fall in Paris.

Pair jet to Barça for birthday bash TV presenter Stacey Solomon has been pictured in Barcelona with boyfriend Joe Swash. The Loose Women star and former X Factor finalist, 28, posted a series of snaps to social media as the loved-up pair - who have been dating since January 2016 - took in the delights of the Catalan capital. And she added a personal message to her 36-year-old ex-Eastenders squeeze as she wrote: “Happy birthday baby... a jug of sangria was not a good idea. Hahahaha I’m

a lyrical genius.” The couple later snapped themselves enjoying a giant paella before posing outside the famous Sagrada Familia church. A final shot of the lovers on the beach was captioned: “Bye bye Barcelona!! Had the best weekend with my man... can’t wait to get back and see my babies!!!” Stacey is mother to boys Zacahary, nine, and Leighton, five, from a previous relationship, while Joe has a son Harry, 10.

Celeb focus

Photo by Millie Mackintosh/ Instagram

Beach ready SHE’S the former SIZZLING: Made In Chelsea Mil lie star whose greatMackintosh. grandfather invented Quality Street. And Millie Mackintosh, 28, certainly appeared to be in sweet heaven after slipping into a skimpy grey bikini and posting a racy snap to social media. It comes after the fashion entrepreneur jetted to the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife for a winter break with a group of girlfriends.

Off the record RUMOURS that hotel heiress and socialite Paris Hilton is to quit her oftcriticised five-rear residency at Ibiza mega-club Amnesia have been scotched. Having recently become engaged to actor Chris Zylka, the 36-year-old blonde beauty released a statement announcing her departure, but a source later told UK media that it was false.

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Monumental decision Holiday homes ‘almost certainly’ hide remains CALPE may be hiding an ancient secret. It comes in the wake of the controversial demolition of the beachfront Casas Neptuno apartments, which are due to be replaced with a new development. But the move has outraged archaeologists, who believe that the complex is built on a Roman villa which could contain historical remains ‘of significant value.’ It is located adjacent to the Baños de la Reina site, which contains the remains of several 2,000-year-old ‘luxury villas’ complete with mosaics, fish ponds built in the sea and a thermal bath. And only 25 per cent of the site is thought to have been revealed to date. A number of cultural and ecological groups have voiced their concern over the new development, including

Photo by Ayuntamiento de Calpe/Wikimedia

by Matt Ford

ROMAN EMPIRE: The Baños de la Reina were built with ponds used to keep fresh fish alive (inset). local historian and blogger Andrés Ortolá Tomás. “Part of the mosaic unearthed by botanist Cavanilles in 1792 is located in the villa next door,” he said. “Casas Neptuno is almost

That’s a moray! PUPILS from Villalonga schools in the La Safor area helped Environment officials to release eels into the River Serpis. Owing to pollution, overfishing, the destruction of their habitat and dams that prevent them from reaching their spawning grounds, the river’s eel population is shrinking, the Generalitat’s Environment department explained. The eels released into the Serpis came from the department’s fish farm in Tuejar which receives the quota that authorised fishermen must hand over to the department

as well as those confiscated from poachers. Although eel fishing is permitted, the population is diminishing and attempts to breed and rear them in captivity have not been successful. It is because of this that elverfishers should surrender part of their catches so that the Tuejar centre has a supply of young eels for initiatives like the Villalonga operation. The Serpis, which reaches the sea in Gandia, has one of the largest eel populations in the Valencian Community but this year’s weather conditions have made it difficult for them to return to the sea.

certainly built above a Roman villa.” The other part of the mosaic, found by children in 1965, is on display in the MARQ Archaeological Museum in Alicante City.

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OUR VIEW Are we losing touch with nature? NEWS that the Iberian lynx population is increasing is cause for good cheer. It is an example of what can be achieved if wildlife conservation efforts are properly coordinated. Having increased from 94 individuals to almost 550 in the last 15 years, the world’s rarest wild cat has made a genuine comeback. And in doing so it has avoided the fate of being the first cat species to go extinct since the sabre-toothed tiger 10,000 years ago. But how did it come to this? In just three decades - from the 1960s to the 1990s - the Iberian lynx lost around 80 per cent of its former range, which extended across much of Spain and into southern France. It is a sad indictment of the rapid extension of human development over the last 50 years, and one that is mirrored across the globe. This surging rate of urbanisation now sees more than 50 per cent of the world’s population living in towns and cities, and the majority no longer come into regular contact with nature. As Sir David Attenborough puts it: “So over half is to some degree out of touch with the natural world and don’t even see an animal from one day to the next unless it’s a rat or a pigeon. “That means that people are getting out of touch with the realities of the natural world, of which we are in fact a part.” So have humans now changed the face of the planet to such an extent that many of us are only aware of what we have created, rather than the natural processes that made it all possible? And as alcoholism, gambling and other self-destructive practises continue to rise, we must surely examine whether we are, as a species, losing our place in the world.

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AIR LIFTED: Pensioner was rescued from Penyal d’Ifach.

Hiker rescued by helicopter A 72-YEAR-OLD Norwegian hiker was saved by helicopter from the Penyal d’Ifach, Calpe, earlier this week. According to reports in the Spanish media, the provincial Fire Consortium of Alicante rescued the elderly man, who was suffering a loss of feeling in his legs, on Monday. Having undertaken the route with a companion, the pair called the reception of the hotel where they were

staying to tell them the man required help. The hotel notified 112, who then mobilised the rescue helicopter Alpha 1, which picked the man up, before transferring him to Penyal heliport. From there, the man was transferred to a health centre. The rescue operation reportedly began at 2.30pm and was completed at 4pm. The man did have private health insurance, Spanish media said.

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A MAN was harmed when a fire broke out in a three storey building in TeuladaMoraira, according to the local fire department. The 35-year-old was allegedly on the ground floor when the fire broke out in the building on Avenida del Mediterraneo while his mother, who suffers from reduced mobility, was on the first floor. At first, he reportedly tried to extinguish the flames himself without success - and was injured in the process. The fire department soon put out the fire while the man was transferred to hospital to be treated for his injuries. His mother reportedly escaped the incident unharmed.

Costa del Celebs!

Ainsley Harriott’s host on her ‘great’ experience A RETIRED expatriate has told of her delight at hosting the crew and stars of Channel 5’s Costa Del Celebrity show. “It was great!” Linda Hutt, a retiree from Suffolk, told Euro Weekly News. “I met Ainsley Harriott and Anne Diamond. They are great, absolutely great just like they come across on television.” The crew and various celebrities on the programme used Linda and husband James’ Denia house for 17 days while filming the first series of the show. Joining Ainsley Harriott and Anne Diamond for the four-part series were TV presenter Nick Owen - who used to work with Diamond - ‘Allo Allo’ actress Vicki Michelle and media personality Christine Hamilton. The group are already friends and acquaintances from various television shows. Linda, who used to help with her husband’s building business, says she “only saw them in passing” but enjoyed having the group around. “It was ideal for the crew,” she said of the beautiful seven-bed Costa Blanca house where she has lived for 12 years. “They just thought it was perfect for

FAMOUS FIVE: The celebs on the Channel 5 show. them because the crew could stay in the outer part of the house. “I used to come every day (but) they were filming, they were out and about all over the place. Linda, who has three daughters and has lived in Spain 25 years, does not believe their house will be used again, however, because the show will be based around another location next time. The programme makers paid the Hutts

NEWS EXTRA Just ask a question VILLAJOYOSA’S Tourist Office attended to 32,263 people last year, of whom 57 per cent were Spanish, principally from Madrid, the Basque Region and Cataluña. Most enquiries from foreign visitors came from the British.

STUNNING: The Hutt’s Denia house.

Photo by Linda Hutt

Fire fright

Photo by Twofour

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for the use of their home between September 8 and 24. During the four hour-long episodes, the five celebrities visit Benidorm, Valencia and Madrid. Along the way they sample local culture in the form of winemaking, flamenco dancing, history lessons and cook paella with a local. The final show airs tomorrow (Friday) on Channel 5 at 9pm (Spanish time).

Nearly ready ALCOY City Hall set aside €200,000 to finish the medical centre for mental health patients whose foundation stone was laid in 2010. Once ready, it will be ceded to the regional government.

Fiestas fight THE GUARDIA CIVIL arrested three youths who attacked a member of Gata’s Fiestas Committee last November when he broke up a fight during the celebrations, leaving him with a broken arm and severe bruising.

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Town hall tries again APPROXIMATELY 8,000 square metres of municipal land on the Paradis beach in Villajoyosa is on the market again. The town hall hopes to sell it for €3.185 million, 15 per cent less than the €3.747 million asking price when there were no takers in October 2016. The land was acquired in 2013, following an agreement with the Taylor Wimpey construction company when Jaime Lloret and the Partido

Popular were in charge at the town hall. As well as ceding the Calle Cervantes plot, Taylor Wimpey paid €1.85 million in cash and built a promenade along the Paradis beach. In exchange, the town hall authorised an increase in the permitted construction limit when Taylor Wimpey put up apartments on the site of the former BBVA bank residence. The Calle Cervantes land is classed for hotel-tourism use

and the town hall hopes to attract another hotel to the town. According to local media sources, the money raised would go to the Municipal Land Patrimony (FMS), destined for social projects including building subsidised housing. A new hotel would also provide income via local taxes for the town hall as well as work for the local population, La Vila’s mayor Andreu Verdu has said.

English help in short supply THE region’s Education department has engaged only 170 of a hoped-for 800 English language assistants. Parallel to Education chief Vicent Marza’s plans to teach all school subjects in Valenciano, Spanish and English, the conversation classes with native English-speakers are a Ministry of Education initiative. The post requires a university degree and pays €1,000 a month for a 30-hour week. In 2017 the central government assigned 47 assistants to the Valencia region’s three provinces

and 45 this year. Intending to provide English conversation classes in 1,000 state schools, Marza allocated €8.6 million for an increase in the number of assistants taken on by the Ministry. This was reduced to 800 owing to a lack of applicants and to fill the Valencia region’s quota the Ministry had to look further afield than the UK, Ireland, Canada, the US, Australia or New Zealand. Of the 170 language assistants who eventually signed contracts, approximately 100 are from the Philippines, said Education department sources.

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NEWS EXTRA Pylon risk PLANS to reintroduce 50 ospreys to the Pego-Oliva marsh over the next five years could be thwarted, warned Oliva’s Environment councillor Imma Ibiza, as nearby electricity pylons were a threat to their survival.

Smoke signal THE Maigmo occupational centre in San Vicente was evacuated after the kitchen began to fill with thick smoke, which investigators later traced to an oven where cooking oil had overheated.

Heart scare A FIRE CONSORTIUM helicopter airlifted a 42-yearold man with suspected heart failure from Sierra de Cabeço near Busot, landing him at San Vicente fire station where a waiting ambulance transferred him to hospital.

Not so fast SPAIN’S president Mariano Rajoy and Generalitat president Ximo Puig inaugurated the new MadridCastellon high speed AVE train, which arrived 30 minutes late on its first journey owing to a problem with the points.

Great divide A VILLAJOYOSA Town Hall survey found that although 80 per cent of foreign residents originating from developed countries lived outside the town centre, most of those from Third World nations lived inside it.

In a jam BENIDORM’S town hall intends to set a timetable and a limit for coaches entering the town centre. Much of the daily traffic chaos is caused by unlicensed sales excursions, the Transport Department said.

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BENITACHELL has launched a tourism advertising campaign with a new short film promoting the town. The advert will reportedly be screened in 54 countries on the Eurosport TV channel, reaching over 150 million

A town with a heart homes in Europe. The slogan of the new campaign is ‘Benitachell: a town with a heart,’ and features more

Radio stars AMATEUR radio enthusiasts in Javea have lent their services to help improve the local communications network used by civil protection agencies in the event of emergencies. The radio enthusiasts have expanded the town’s communications network to give the area better coverage within the emergency radio network. According to the area coordinator, Miguel Soriano Benavent, they have achieved this by setting up several VHF antennae which can be connected to the Aitana R-24 repeater that sends signals throughout the whole province. Until now, this repeater was not always enough to cover some of the villages in the Marina Alta, so the new antennae will ensure information is communicated throughout the entire region in case of an emergency.

than a hundred photographs of standout locations in the area. The advert will be uploaded to the town hall’s website:

On the mend PLANS to repair the run down Puente de Triana Bridge in Javea are much closer to becoming a reality, according to an official bulletin released by the Alicante authorities. The total cost of the work is valued at more than €500,000, and involves raising the bridge from its current height of 12 metres to 15. The bridge, located at the mouth of the Gorgos River, suffered structural damage during a flood in 2007 which has since made it unsafe for heavy vehicles to pass over. The work is estimated to take about three months, but traffic will only need to be redirected for a month, since part of the work can be completed while cars pass over. Companies interested in carrying out the work have been informed they have a little over three weeks to present their proposals to the authorities.

www.elpoblenoude benitatxell.com and it will also be shared on Facebook and other social network platforms.

The 50-second video was directed by the renowned local filmmaker Paco Soto, who included all manner of attrac-

tions the town has to offer, from rural vineyards and Cova dels Arcs cave, to local festivals and cuisine. “The advert was made with a lot of passion because our town is a place full of heart and soul,” said councillor Myra van’t Hoff.

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NEWS

‘Tree-killing’ disease threatens almonds Photo by Pixabay

ALMOND BLOSSOM: A Vall de Pop tourist attraction. NOT only agricultural growers but Marina Alta business-owners are worried about the spread of tree-killer Xylella Fastidiosa. The disease already affecting almond trees in the Marina Baja has been confirmed in practically all Vall de Pop towns as well as Benissa and Gata. Almond-growing is the principal crop in these areas and in the Pop valley the trees are also a tourist attraction when they are in flower. There are local fears that

Xylella will have the same effect as the mildew that has decimated citrus crops or the phylloxera that devastated muscatel vines in the early 20th century, wiping out the area’s flourishing raisin-processing industry. “This could be much worse than the phylloxera and mildew together,” warned the Marina Alta Business Circle (Cedma), whose members have written to the Generalitat’s Agriculture department, declaring support for the Ma-

rina Alta’s agricultural sector. The association also questioned the compensation payments of €28 per tree and €6,000 for every hectare of land when Xylella has been detected and trees within a 100metre radius are felled to contain the disease. These payments do not take into account the growers’ lost profits, said Cedma, which maintained that felling trees and paying compensation was not a solution.

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BENIDORM will be the first overground station on the TRAM network to have automatic ticket barriers. So far only Luceros, Mercado and Marq-Castillo - all underground stations inside Alicante City use this system, said the region’s rail operator FGV. One of the four barriers will be adapted for those with reduced mobility, and all will accept contactless cards as well as printed tickets, FGV said. They will be installed now that work has finished on modernising and renovating the station, which is also the starting point for

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Dogs against drug use BENIDORM Town Hall is widening the activities of the Local Police’s canine unit which was introduced last August. So far the unit has been carrying out nighttime patrols in the resort’s entertainment and leisure area, explained Public Safety councillor Lorenzo Martinez. Now officers and their three dogs will start patrolling areas near Benidorm’s secondary schools to discourage possessing, selling and consuming drugs. Special attention will be paid to the Salto de Agua district where four

of the town’s five state Institutos are located. The initiative was prompted by the canine unit’s good results since it was introduced last summer and has also been requested by the schools, Martinez said. In 2016, the Local Police started legal proceedings against 109 people for possessing or consuming drugs in the street, but by end of 2017 this had risen to 314. The figures spoke for themselves, the councillor added: “Having the dogs at the service of the Local Police is proving to be very positive.”

Connect on the beach BENIDORM’s three beaches - Levante, Poniente and Mal Pas - will have free Wi-Fi by Easter. The connection will be provided by 30 devices installed at traffic lights or on streetlights. The service is free for Benidorm Town Hall and the Visit Benidorm Foundation as well as the public, confirmed local mayor Toni Perez, thanks to an agreement with Wiongo, an internet provider with 18 years’ experience in public Wi-Fi connectivity.

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NEWS EXTRA Lost property PASSENGERS lost 1,489 of their personal belongings - mainly wallets, purses, travel cards, spectacles and keys - while travelling on the Alicante TRAM last year, of which 499 were reclaimed.

Toy donation MEMBERS of Alfaz’s Social Volunteers Association visited the Marina Baja Hospital in Villajoyosa where they presented the toys they collected over Christmas for young patients on the Paediatric floor.

Action taken THIRTY pupils at a Sax high school and their teachers received preventive medication, including antibiotics, after a 14year-old in their class was diagnosed with meningitis. She is now under observation at Alicante General Hospital.

Green fingers APPLICANTS have a month to put in requests for 38 allotments in San Vicente, with 36 split evenly between three age groups and two for charity associations. All produce must be organically grown.

Cash taken CASAL FESTER, the headquarters of Benitachell’s fiestas organisers in the town centre, was broken into and €1,500 in lottery takings stolen by someone who obviously knew where to find it, members said.

A fine haul TEN out of 19 motorists fined on the same day by Alcoy’s Local Police had outof-date ITV testing certificates. Six were driving without seatbelts, two lacked insurance and one had an expired driving licence.

A 15-YEAR legal dispute which has prevented basic services from being provided in Monte Pego has finally been resolved, according to reports. Unable to break the legal deadlock for a decade and a half, residents have reportedly watched local infrastructure fall into neglect and disrepair - despite paying their annual fees. A long campaign - including repre-

Basic services on the table sentations to the European Parliament, Spanish government and various local authorities - has finally resulted in basic services being provided, after seemingly endless negotiations, according to Spanish media. Three local authorities - Rafol, Denia

and Pego - are now said to have restarted their services. Pego - the initiator of the legal dispute, and most reluctant of the local authorities - has now finally agreed, reports say. Roads and pavements are now reportedly being restored as the area’s

much-needed building work begins. The mayor of Pego reportedly visited the area to review its progress, and apologised to residents for the delays to the work. He thanked locals for “their patience and understanding” during negotiations and promised that roads would be maintained into the future as a basic service, Spanish media said.

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Sky scraped THE regional government ordered Calpe Town Hall to rescind the licence for the nowfinished Suitopia hotel. Calpe’s mayor Cesar Sanchez, who is also president of the Diputacion provincial council, was given a month to annul the licence that permitted construction of the 30-storey, four-star hotel. Planning permission was signed off by Ana Sala, at that time Urban Development councillor. The permit came to the Department’s attention after the spokesmen for the PSPV,

Compromis and Si se Puede Calp parties wrote to the regional government. According to the Generalitat’s Department of Housing, Public Works and Territorial Coordination, the permit did not comply with the 20 per cent limit on exemption for common elements and services. The hotel exceeded the permitted volume of construction, the Department said, adding that the building, which was ‘very tall,’ stood out on the skyline, ‘negatively affecting the view of the Peñon de Ifach and the horizon.’

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Russians’ growing concerns POLICE arrested two Russians and dismantled a marihuana plantation at their Altea Hills villa. Officers belonging to the National Police’s criminal investigation unit confiscated almost 1,000 plants which the two men, aged 42 and 36, were tending with an efficient heating and ventilation system. Police also found night-vision binoculars and transmitters amongst other objects connected to the men’s illicit activities. The Altea Hills villa had already been investigated in 2016 although on that occasion the previous tenants removed the marihuana plants before police searched the property. One of the men was remanded while the other has been charged and later released.

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Photo credit: Keith Ellwood

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VALENCIA FALLAS: City hall hopes to eradicate sexism from the fiestas.

All things being equal VALENCIA City Hall’s Equality department is producing a list of non-offensive songs during the Fallas celebrations in March. Department head Isabel Lozano intends to present this at the first meeting of a new committee set up by the municipal Equality and Women’s department. Members will be making recommendations regarding the way that females are represented in the elaborate and satirical Fallas monuments that are burnt each year on March 19. Speaking beforehand, Lozano expressed satisfaction with last year’s Fallas campaign to eliminate songs with sexist and homophobic lyrics, especially from the multitudinous

verbenas (dances) that are an important feature during the fiestas. The initiative was so successful, the councillor said, that the Equality department had decided to compile a list of popular but nonsexist songs that do not treat women as objects, Lozano said. She also stressed that these would be suggestions and in no case obligatory. So too, would be recommendation to artists who create the Fallas. “We want women to be visible during the fiestas because we would like them to have a more visible role,” the councillor said. “But we understand that creativity needs freedom and we respect that.”

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Beach still in time warp Photo credit: Villajoyosa TV

ATRIUM BEACH: Work came to a halt in 2003. THE courts cancelled building permits allowing construction at the Atrium Beach hotel in La Cala de Villajoyosa. The Valencia region’s Upper Court of Justice (TSJ), accepting a private appeal, rescinded licences granted to Hotel Luna SL in 2006 and 2007. The regional court also ordered that an unauthorised section of the hotel complex should be demolished. Work on the Atrium Beach began in 2002 and in March

2003 Villajoyosa Town Hall found that developers had built 88,576 metres more than was permitted. Work was halted six months later after three workers were killed in accidents at the site, but in 2005 Villajoyosa Town Hall took steps to legalise the excess construction. This resulted in the two licences now annulled by the TSJ. The Valencia ruling coincides with another decision from an Alicante court which rejected a similar appeal

lodged by former Villajoyosa councillor, Pedro Lloret, who has been fighting the mammoth Atrium Beach project for years. The TSJ decision is not final and appeals can be lodged with the Supreme court within a month. According to municipal sources, Villajoyosa Town Hall’s legal advisers are preparing to present an appeal. Hotel Luna SL announced that it respected ‘all legal decisions’ but would also be appealing.

Big outlay will save money THE Marina Baja hospital will no longer be the only Social Security hospital in Ali-

cante Province without magnetic resonance imaging. Until now patients needing

an MRI scan have had to go to one of the private clinics where the Generalitat pays for this service. Medical staff and nurses’ unions have made continual calls for an MRI scanner, denouncing its lack as another affront to the generalised shortfall in the area’s Health infrastructure. Now, almost a decade later than other Alicante Province Health districts, the present regional government has found the necessary €1.5 million for an MRI scanner. Despite the initial outlay the scanner will brings savings once it is installed, as the Health department will no longer have to pay the private sector for providing the outsourced service. The tests will also be carried out by Health service employees, confirmed the hospital manager, Rosa Louis Cereceda.

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Photo credit: Alfredo Sanchez Garzon.

NEWS

FONTILLES: Now a long-term specialist centre.

Where to draw the line IFAC FILATELICO, a Calpe stamp collectors’ association, recently detected an internet website selling photographs and medical records from Fontilles. This was once a leper colony and the association’s Jose Ivars Ivars pointed out that although the files and the photos are old, they name the patient and give details of the ravages caused by the disease. The medical records date from the time when the San

Francisco de Borja sanatorium first opened in the Vall de Laguar in 1909 to treat Spain’s leprosy patients. The photos showed in close up their ulcers and ailments, leading Ivars to ask, “What is valid? Is everything collectible?” He also wanted to know how such sensitive material could have been removed from the Fontilles records. “Something as personal and intimate should have been kept safely,” he main-

tained “How would the patients’ relatives feel if they knew that their loved ones’ intimate medical records were on sale and that money was being made out of them?” There are no longer patients suffering from leprosy at Fontilles, although researching ways to eradicate the disease which still carries a social stigma in developing countries, continues there. The building now houses a specialised residence for longstay patients and the elderly.

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Photo credit: Sorigue

NEWS EXTRA Easy access WOODEN walkways on Benidorm’s beaches are being replaced with concrete slabs to make it easier for those using crutches or wheelchairs to access the adapted bathing areas.

Cold comfort FEWER people attended Alcoy’s Sant Antoni fiestas this year, organisers said, owing to the regional government’s ban on bonfires near woodland, which ruled out the traditional outdoor roast.

Recycle ploy JIJONA renewed all of its communal rubbish containers and some of the yellow bins for plastics, while relocating recycling points to more convenient sites to encourage residents to recycle more.

DESALINATION: Solution for water shortage.

Taps still turned off MUCHAMIEL’S desalination plant will remain inoperative until 2019. This is the date set by the central government’s Ministry of Agriculture which announced that the plant needs a 40,000 cubic metre deposit adjoining the main installation before it could function. Answering Carles Mulet, a senator for the Compromis party who represents Alicante Province, the Ministry explained that publicly owned Aguas de las Cuencas Mediterraneas (Acuamed) has now drafted plans for the deposit. The contract to build it will be put out to tender at the end of this year, by which time a budget allocation should be available. Alicante Province growers who depend on wa-

ter from the Tajo Segura called last December for the Muchamiel plant to start production. Transfers of irrigation water via the pipeline were halted last May owing to the drought now affecting regions that are usually water rich. Future crops in some parts of Alicante and Murcia are at risk, warn growers, who need 60 cubic hectometres of water to save 44 million fruit trees in both provinces. Meanwhile, the Muchamiel plant, which cost €93 million to build and could treat 18 cubic hectometres of water annually, has functioned only once since it was built. This was in 2016 when it produced five hectometres of treated water for Benidorm to prevent cuts in the water supply.

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Red faces over parking plans BENIDORM’S Green Zone parking plans will be delayed until Easter or possibly the summer. Municipal insiders revealed that the town hall is still waiting for a report on modifying the town hall’s contract with the concessionary company responsible for parking. Because the Audit department has not yet produced the report the scheme has been put on hold, the same sources said. The Green Zone will eventually replace Blue Zone parking in La Cala, Colonia Madrid and Rincon de Loix, affecting 3,003 parking places. Parking will be free all day, every day, in these three areas for residents on the municipal padron

who are then entitled to a Tarjeta de Residente card. Tourists or residents registered in other municipalities must pay €1.50 an hour, regardless of the day of the week. Blue Zone parking will eventually be introduced to Avenida de Foietes, Calle Orxeta and Calle Roldan while paid parking is to be extended to some of the spaces used for loading and unloading or parking motorycles. The daily charge for towed-away vehicles in the car pound will also increase. The Contracts, Transport and Treasury departments have all delivered their reports, municipal sources said but until the Audit department complies, the scheme cannot be put into practice.

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Welsh you were here A SPANISH low-cost airline has announced almost 200,000 seats on flights between Wales and four major Spanish destinations this summer. It will be Vueling’s sixth summer of flying passengers from Cardiff airport to Malaga, Alicante, Barcelona and Palma Mallorca. From April to October, 188,000 seats are available from Spain’s second-largest airline. The figure represents an increase of 235 per cent more capacity since Vueling started flying from Cardiff in summer 2012. There will be weekly services to Malaga and Alicante, three flights a week to Barcelona, while there will be four flights per week to Palma Majorca. More destinations in southern Spain, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands and Africa are also accessible via Vueling’s connecting flights from its Barcelona’s El Prat Airport hub.

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One dead in border stampede A MAN has died in a stampede a t th e M o ro cc a n a nd Spa nis h land border, according to media reports. Several others were injured in the stampede at the Barrio Chino border post near the Spanish enclave of Melilla. At least three of those were injured on the Spanish side of the border. The man, 39, died of cardiac arrest, according to Moroccan government sources. The stampede reportedly beg an afte r c ro w ds s udde nly rushed the turnstiles from the Moroccan side of the border. The border post, which is used by thousands of people every day to transport goods into Spanish territory, was closed until order was restored. A total of 11 people were injured on the Moroccan side of the border according to the country’s human rights association. The news follows other stam-

STAMPEDE: One man died in the crush at the border post near Melilla. pedes which have taken place on the border in recent months. Two women were killed at the Tarajal II crossing near the Spanish enclave of Ceuta and the Moroccan town of Fnideq last week. Four w ome n porte rs w e re trampled to death in crushes at the s a me borde r c ros s ing la s t

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Teens held on murder charge Credit: Wikimedia Commons

year. The majority of people who use the crossings to transport goods are women. Thousands of female porters travel between C ue ta a nd Mor occo dai l y, according to estimates. Spanish authorities have imposed a limit of 4,000 per day.

TWO 14-year-old boys have been held in connection with the murder of an elderly couple in northern Spain. It comes after the bodies of two 87year-olds were found by their son-in-law at their home in the Otxarkoaga neighbourhood of Bilbao, Basque Country. The well-known pair - who until a decade ago ran a popular home decorating business - had been stabbed and beaten to death in their ground floor flat during what police believe was an attempted robbery. A probe launched in the wake of the find lead to the arrest of the two children, both of who are from Otxarkoaga and have prior criminal records for robbery and violence. They were identified after detectives interviewed neighbours who had seen them ‘hanging around’ the property, police revealed in a statement. One of the boys was arrested in the nearby town of Balmaseda before the second turned himself in at a Bilbao petrol station after realising he was being followed. Residents say that Otxarkoaga has suffered a ‘wave of robberies’ by ‘the usual suspects’ in the past year.

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

Carlos Baos We can help you.

IN this article, we would like to inform you of a new court success that we have obtained against the Bank

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FEATURE

New court success: Activa Tu Casa (Easy Living Plan) from Banco de Valencia declared invalid Client wrongly sold loan in foreign currency and investment of Valencia, (today Caixabank) regarding a foreign or multi-currency loan in

Swiss Francs. The details of this successful court case are that the Moraira branch of the Bank of Valencia persuaded my client, Mrs S, to take a product that they called Activa Tu Casa (Easy Living Plan), for which a loan in foreign currency was offered linked to an investment in Euros. H o w t h e p ro d u c t w a s sold: In this case, our client who wanted €100,000 work on the house was invited by the bank to agree to take: A loan in Swiss francs (not Euros) of a sum considerably in excess of that required and in this case the amount was the equivalent of €450,000. The adviser from the

bank claimed that this was a great opportunity as the interest rate on these loans, was the LIBOR linked to the foreign currency which was lower than the Euribor. And it was offered for 10 years, paying interest only with the entire capital to be paid back at the end of the loan. From this €450,000, just €100,000 was transferred to the client and the balance of €350,000 was compulsorily invested in a fund held by Bank of Valencia, for the same period of 10 years. Our client was told that the bank would manage the investment which would generate significant returns, so that after 10 years, the €350,000 plus interest would allow the

customer to pay the interest on the loan and also pay back the €450,000. So the bank said that with this product the client would receive the €100,000 up front, and as with the investment it would be possible to pay the loan back. The reality was very different, the truth is this product is extremely risky and in fact the Swiss franc revalued approximately 60 per cent against the euro, also the investment was not guaranteed. Consequences: At the end of the loan after 10 years, our client was told that she had to repay the equivalent of €670,000 and the invested €350,000 had lost €80,000. The bank therefore demanded that

our client hand over their property valued at €400,000 in order to clear the debt. Legal action: our firm claimed and achieved, (as per the court order number 307/2017 from the court number 3 of Denia), the nullification of the product. The court decision will be analysed by us in further articles. If you are in this situation, and you have a mortgage in Spain but in a curr e n c y d i ff e r e n t t h a n t h e euro, or if the bank (Banco de Valencia) mis-sold you a p r o d u c t c a l l e d A c t i v a Tu Casa - Easy Living Plan, contact us and we will help you. The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice.

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Trump rage goes on THOUSANDS of Spanish protesters took to the streets to mark the anniversary of last year’s Women’s March. Worldwide, countless people demonstrated in over 30 countries and 300 US cities - a year after an event which saw millions show their opposition to President Donald Trump on the day after he was sworn in. Much of the march’s focus was on women’s rights, while Trump was the subject of ridicule. Many suggested ‘time’s up’ for the US President, while others referenced the sexual harassment scandal, #MeToo movement and the need for more women in public roles. In Madrid and Barcelona, thousands marched through the streets. One social media user wrote: “Everybody is welcome… but today is about women of the world.” There were similar demonstrations in numerous European capitals, including London, Berlin and Paris. Last year, demonstrations were reported on every continent. Figures are difficult to clarify, but it is thought significantly more than 120,000 people came onto the streets in the USA. Trump tweeted, seemingly ironically: ‘a perfect day for all Women to March. Get out there now to celebrate the historic milestones and unprecedented economic success and wealth creation that has taken place over the last 12 months. Lowest female unemployment in 18 years!’ Government has officially ‘shut down’ in the USA, for the fist time in five years, after the two main parties - Democrats and Republicans - failed to agree funding deals for agencies. It is hoped that an agreement will be reached shortly. In London, there were speeches from various women’s rights advocates, including the great-granddaughter of Emmeline Pankhurst, a suffragette leader widely credited with helping women win the vote.

Enough’s enough Ryanair pilots in Spain threaten ‘legal action’ mentation received from RYANAIR pilots in Spain management, which continhave threatened to take ‘leues to link paygal actions’ ment of a 20 per against the Irish cent pay rise to low-cost carrier conditions which over their empilots find unacployment rights ceptable. if they do not Join the Ryanair said it meet with comconversation on does not company representaour Facebook page ment on ‘rumour tives by next or speculation, week. or on discussions SEPLA, the with their people in Spain or Spanish pilots’ union has elsewhere.’ written to Ryanair accusing management of failing to negotiate in good faith since formally recognising unions before Christmas. The union warns that if a meeting has not been held by tomorrow (Friday) they will proceed to initiate ‘All legal actions that Spanish labour law grants us in defence of our legitimate rights.’ SEPLA says it is surprised and disappointed at docuwww.facebook.com/euroweeklynews

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Fair outlook REPRESENTATIVES from several Alfaz businesses and the town hall recently attended the Reiseliv International trade fair in Oslo (Norway) to present the town’s offer as health tourism destination. Scandinavia is the Valencian Community’s third-largest market and the Alfaz party made important contacts and closed interesting collaboration agreements, said councillor Martine Mertens.

Photo by Alfaz town hall

This year’s edition ALFAZ took advanwill be held between tage of Madrid’s Fitur July 6 and 15 and the tourism trade fair to inauguration returns to promote the annual the street with a gala Film Festival. on the terraces surThis year the Festirounding the Casa de val celebrates its 30th Cultura, announced anniversary and the the Festival’s director municipality received Juan Luis Iborra, the good news that the There will also be provincial council, the more parallel activities Diputacion, is increasthan previously, he ing its subsidy by PREPARATIONS: Vicente Arques and said. €5,000 to €30,000. Juan Luis Iborra at Fitur The town’s preparaThe Alfaz stand altions for the Festival include the showing next so received a visit from Ximo Puig, president month of La Estatua, a 1956 film directed by of the Valencian Community, who cited the Luis Gamboa that was shot entirely in Alfaz Festival as a clear example of the variety and with many residents appearing as extras. richness that the region has to offer.

THE €4,000 cost of the decor at the Marina Baja hospital’s new Paediatric Emergencies unit was met by Alfaz Council. This includes a mural by students from Miguel Hernandez University’s Fine Arts School, which Alfaz’s mayor Vicente Arques and Health councillor Marisa Cortes recently inspected when they visited the unit. “We hope this will make the children’s stay in Emergencies more agreeable and help them to feel more at home,” Arques said He and Cortes were accompanied by Villajoyosa mayor Andreu Verdu and hospital manager, Rosa

More at home in A & E Photo by Alfaz town hall

Three decades on film

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PAEDIATRIC EMERGENCIES: Vicente Arques, Andreu Verdu, Marisa Cortes and Rosa Louis Cerecedo. Louis Cereceda, who explained that the hospital had finally achieved its goal of a separate paediatric A & E unit. The children will no longer have to share the

same area as adults and could be treated in surroundings more in keeping with their ages, which also helped to reduce their stress levels, Louis Cereceda said.

Workout out of doors

Makeover for local auditorium

AN outdoor fitness circuit is being installed on Alfaz’s Avenida dels Esports. It will have seven different sets of equipment costing €8,000 that are specifically designed to develop muscular strength, boost the function of heart and lungs, improve flexibility and coordination while toning and activating the joints. “There is an increasing demand for this type of open air exercise,” Alfaz’s Sports councillor, Luis Miguel Morant, said. “Once installation has been completed we shall be organising sessions explaining to users - including the 100 or so elderly residents who follow the Sports and Activities Programme - how to use the equipment,” Morant continued. Eventually the council hopes to install more of the exercise routes throughout the town, adding to the new Avenida del Esports installation and the existing installation in Eucalyptus Park in Albir.

RENOVATIONS began recently at the Casa de Cultura auditorium and are due to continue until March. The backstage area, wings, backdrops and stage curtains are being replaced, together with stage floorboards, which will have a linoleum covering that can be used when required. Flooring in the stalls will also be renewed. The €50,000 project includes improved acoustics and illumination with modern sound and lighting systems so that the auditorium can be used for a wider range of performances. Although the Auditorium has public toilets on the first floor for those with mobility problems, accessibility will be improved with new adapted toilets to be introduced on the ground floor.

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A Hard Day’s Night THE Teulada - Moraira Lions are proud to present the best tribute to the legendary Beatles here in Spain. The ‘Liverpool Band’ will be performing in Espai la Senieta, Moraira on Saturday March 24 starting at 7.30pm. These young Spanish guys present an amazing tribute to the ‘Fab 4’ and regularly perform at the Cavern Club in Liverpool. They have a very polished act and great vocal harmonies and with the addition of a keyboard player this performance promises to be even better than before. Professional sound and lighting will be supplied by Magnum productions of course. For a great evening of ‘Beatlemania’ don’t miss this great show in a lovely theatre. There will be a complimentary bar available and they will be holding a raffle. All proceeds will go to the Teulada - Moraira Lions Charities. For tickets and information please call 966 499 954 or email: peter_john1@hotmail.com. For information on all their events please call: 966 499 954/618 017 201 or visit the website: www.tmlions.com.

PLAYFUL BOY: Lemar loves his walks and being cuddled.

Akira Shelter - Meet Lemar THIS gorgeous boy is Lemar who at 10 months old sadly only knows life in the shelter. He’s a very playful lad who loves his walks and being cuddled. While walking him he sometimes just stops in his tracks and looks at you intently as if asking to be stroked or

played with. He is an amazing dog who truly deserves to know what a forever home is like. He gets on very well with other dogs and would love to be part of your family. To meet Lemar, please ring 657 689 567 or email akirashel ter@gmail.com.

Just one of those things ALL ladies choir Caprice are now well into rehearsals for their first major performance of 2018. This new concert, entitled ‘Just one of those things’ will take place at La Senieta, Moraira on Friday March 2 at 7.30pm. It will feature the music of Gershwin and Cole Porter together with some of the group’s favourite musical theatre and popular songs. As usual the choir will be conducted by their musical director, Aileen Lightfoot, and accompanied on the piano by Kirsty Glen. After a successful first year of concerts in 2017, the choir are hoping to continue entertaining audiences with the blend of female voices which works both for jazzy numbers and slow lyrical ballads. The performance will be helping to raise funds for Asociacion de Familiares de Personas con Alzheimers, TeuladaMoraira, a very worthy cause which provides support for families affected by Alzheimer’s. Tickets cost €10, available from Margaret & Elena’s Card and Bookshop, Galerias Mar Azul, 9 Gabriel Miro, Calpe,

DO NOT MISS: The Caprice all ladies choir. from choir members, or by contacting musical director Aileen on 696 514 613 or by email at:

aileen@capriceladieschoir.com. For further information, visit: www.capriceladieschoir.com.

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Making waves A VALENCIA court will review a Javea woman’s proposal to push forward obligatory mammograms for women from the age of 45 to 40, after she collected 200,000 signatures while fighting the disease herself. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women aged between 35 and 55 in Spain.

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Safe and hound FIREFIGHTERS in Javea succeeded in rescuing Bandit, a dog trapped in an abandoned water tank. The animal had fallen into the huge hole while chasing a rabbit, according to local media sources. The incident occurred while the British couple who owned Bandit were out for a stroll in the Montgo Natural Park, when the hound allegedly spotted a rabbit and gave chase, ignoring the commands of his owners. While in pursuit, the dog then fell into an abandoned water tank which was around five metres deep. The owners were unable to find a way to get him out so alerted the emergency authorities in Javea. The firemen were able to reach the animal using an assortment of equipment, including ropes and a special cage, and, after an hour, the dog was returned to his owners safe and sound.

Taking the stage JAVEA Town Hall presented plans for the town’s new auditorium while attending FITUR (the international tourism trade fair) in Madrid. A designer’s impression of the auditorium, which is already under construction, was presented in a video shown during the fair while the mayor of Javea, Jose Chulvi, and the councillor for

Culture, Quico Moragues, explained how the new 524-seat theatre would be put to good use. “Our problem so far has been one of infrastructure, as we only have council-owned spaces that fit a small number of people, so most events are held outdoors or planned on a small scale,” revealed Chulvi, announcing that “it will allow us to take a leap when it comes to scheduling concerts and large-scale theatre performances.” Meanwhile, Moragues detailed some of the events that could be held in the new cultural space, including theatre, film screenings or opera performances; as well as the current events the town has to offer, such as the Javea Jazz festival, the Montgo Rock festival and the Javea Folk festival.

ON THE WAY: Javea mayor Jose Chulvi and Quico Moragues sh FITUR.

FANCY A WALK: Members of the Javea U3A Walking Group enjoying the countryside.

Javea U3A invites new members JAVEA U3A is holding an open meeting at the Parador Hotel next Wednesday - and is inviting current members a nd a nybody w ho w ould like to join to attend. Doors open at 9.30am and a number of leaders of the 50-plus groups will be there to meet new members and explain what is on offer.

Javea U3A has over 1,500 members, who enjoy numerous activities including walking, dining out, wine appreciation, badminton, birdwatching, Spanish culture and cuisine, history and travel presentations as well as regular trips, and much more! So if you are retired and want to know what the U3A

has to offer, come along to the meeting. You wi l l be m ade ver y wel com e and you m ay be sur pr i sed t o f i nd t her e i s som et hi ng of i nt er est f or you. For full details of the open meeting and more about what the U3A has to offer, visit the website www.u3ajavea.org.

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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Group effort

how plans for the new auditorium at

Photo by Ajuntament de Xabia

A REAL ESTATE crowd-funding campaign has so far managed to raise €100,000 to pay for a new apartment complex in Javea. Around 38 private investors lent their money to fund the build of the 18 homes on Avenida Estrasburgo, and expect to start earning income on their investment later this month.

Beach tragedy TWO 17-year-old girls from Javea tried to save a bottlenose dolphin that had become stranded on the beach. The two teenagers revealed they had been walking along the Arenal beach promenade in Javea, when they spotted ‘a bright flash’ which they initially thought was a shark. The girls reportedly cried out for help and got into the water to help the dolphin swim out to sea. They soon received help from some English youths who were passing and pushed the dolphin out until the water reached shoulder level. More people allegedly joined to help before long and the Javea police brought thermal blankets to warm them up when they came out of the sea. Waiters from nearby bars also apparently came down to the beach with blankets. However, the dolphin - which was a metre and a half long and believed to weigh a hundred kilos - turned around and swam back to shore. When the volunteers tried to put it back in the sea, they saw that the sea creature was bleeding, and knew there was not much more they could do. Dolphins are known to swim to the shore when they are dying.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

Mentor required A MENTOR is required to support single-parent members of Guardian Angels and their families. The aim is to provide a ‘friend,’ who will be available to listen to members’ problems, provide support and refer them to other specialist services if necessary. Each member is assigned to a volunteer mentor, who keeps in touch and whom they can contact whenever they feel the need, either for a chat on the phone, via social media, messaging or a faceto-face meeting over a coffee, to discuss any problems they have on an informal, but completely confidential basis. The mentor’s role is listening, befriending, supporting and referring. If you feel you have the relevant experience, are a good listener and have an hour or two a week to spare, contact Tricia Barr: on 622 795 542 for an informal chat.

www.euroweeklynews.com

COMMUNITY

Work of art bring equal success in our secAFTER the Christmas and New ond year. Year festivities, the Arts Society Their first presentation in Marina Alta is now fully pre2 0 1 8 w i l l b e ‘ A r t Tr e a s u r e s o f pared for their second year of Madrid’ presented by Harry society presentations. Fletcher. The Chairman and committee Harry’s excellent illustrations, are pleased to confirm that the combined with his in-depth first AGM will be held at the knowledge of the Salones Canor, Teutreasures held in lada on February 1. the private homes The registration and museums of of members starts at Madrid, will allow 9.45am and the the group to walk AGM starts at in the ‘barrios’ 10.15am, followed w i t h S o r o l l a , Ve by the first presenLatest news lazquez, Goya, El tation at 11am. and Greco and many Wi t h t h e p r e s e n t more as it happens others. limits on members Drinks will be and guests, and the available after the restrictions to acpresentation to encess of their origiable members, guests and visinal venue by the proposed detors to mix socially. velopment of the promenade Doors open for visitors at between the town and the 10.45am for an 11am start. Parador Hotel, the Arts Society Visitors are welcome by prior has made the decision to move a r r a n g e m e n t a t : s e c re t a r y @ location. marinaaltaarts.com. The move is to Salones Canor, For their full 2018 programme, C a m i d ’ A s s a g a d o r d e C a n o r, go to: marinaaltaarts.com. Te u l a d a , w h i c h t h e y h o p e w i l l www.euroweeklynews.com

EWN online

ALL SMILES: Carole Saunders, Andres Ivars from Caritas and John Bridge.

Helping the community AT the start of the festive period, The Charity Shop of Calpe donated €1,000 to both Caritas and the Calpe Food Bank in the form of food vouchers. The vouchers were distributed to needy families in the town, allowing them to buy fresh food over the Christmas and New Year period. President of the shop, John Bridge, said that he was “delighted to be able to contribute to the work that the local associations do. The Charity Shop of Calpe has been able to donate €20,000 during 2017, all of it supporting local families in the town.” John also thanked all of the volunteers at the shop who give their time so willingly and all of the customers. He wished all of them a very Happy New Year.

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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N ETHERLANDS Credit: Chatupong Lertsilchirada/Facebook

D ENMARK

Aiming high NORWAY is aiming to make all short-haul flights electric by 2040, according to the chief executive of state-owned Avinor airline Dag FalkPetersen who believes that 1.5 hour flights can be flown by entirely electric planes.

Fur away THE Norwegian government has promised to close all fox and mink fur farms by 2025, becoming the 14th European country to phase out fur farming.

Snow fun A 21-YEAR-OLD man in Bergen

EUROPEAN PRESS

was sentenced to 30 days in prison for throwing snowballs at police after they were called to close down an unruly house party.

GREEN FLIERS: Norway has high ambitions for electric flights.

Chief suspect POLICE in Norway have arrested the husband of a woman, who is a m o t h e r- o f - t w o , a n d h a s b e e n

missing from her home since December 29, on suspicion of her murder.

Storm scare FLIGHTS to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport and train s e rvices wer e del ayed whi l e w ind s wi t h speeds of up t o 120kph were recorded across the country, causing the weather bureau to issue a code red weather warning.

On a roll

About abuse

Taking credit

A NEW survey has revealed that nearly one in three Dutch people consider domestic violence to be jus tif i abl e i n som e ci r cum stances, with young people more likely to accept it than the over 55s.

THE use of credit cards in the Netherlands grew by 10.3 per cent in 2017, and the number of contactless payments rose by 49 per cent, but still only 55 per cent of Dutch consumers actually own a credit card.

G ERMANY

S WEDEN

Snail mail

Snowed under

COMPLAINTS against the German postal service increased by 50 per cent in 2017 as over 6,000 complaints were registered according to German media sources, with half of these related to the processing and delivery of letters.

Tree tragedy A 59-YEAR-OLD man was killed by

a falling tree at a camping site in Moers during a storm that battered western Germany and left 100,000 people in the region without electricity.

Sneaky savers ADIDAS have released 500 pairs of limited edition that double as Berlin public transport passes, and at just €180 will save their lucky owners

around €500 on the cheapest annual ticket.

Red-carded MPs have excluded a far-right lawmaker from a parliamentary football team because he was convicted for hooligan violence, with the man in question claiming he had been ostracised by mainstream parties.

F RANCE

B ELGIUM

Top spot

Gas blast

FRANCE has managed to retain its title as the most visited country in the world after 89 million tourists took a trip there last year, an increase of 8 per cent from 2016.

A BLAST believed to be caused by a gas explosion which caused a residential building in Antwerp to collapse has left at least two people dead, with 14 people being injured, one critically.

Cyber charity CHURCHGOERS in an upmarket Parisian neighbourhood don’t have to worry about carrying any loose change any more as the priest at the Saint-Francois de Molitor church has installed contactless bank card terminals for donations.

Grounded A NEW project to build an airport near the city of Nantes has been scrapped after it was opposed by several environmental groups, although local politicians declared it would have bad consequences for the economy.

Milk scare A GOVERNMENT report revealed food safety inspectors failed to detect an outbreak of salmonella at a French factory run by dairy group Lactalis, causing 12 million boxes of powdered baby milk to be recalled.

Helping hand BELGIUM has donated nearly €19 million to a United Nations agency that provides aid to Palestinian refugees after the US slashed their aid to the country as a form of blackmail.

Student ordeal A 19-YEAR-OLD student who claims she was a bduc te d a nd re pe a te dly ra pe d by five me n in B rus s e ls w a s found a fte r s he loc a te d he rs e lf using Google Maps and sent the address to her brother.

Dire straits AROUND one in five Belgians revealed they struggled to make ends meet last year, according to a survey by the Belgian statistics office Statbel, with 5 per cent saying they were severely deprived of material possessions.

PO LICE have conf i r m ed a Swedish skier was killed when an avalanche ravaged an Indian s ki r esor t i n t he Hi m al ayas, but r escuer s m anaged t o f i nd his com pani on al i ve i n t he snow.

Revenge blast POLICE have blamed an explos ion t hat happened out si de a Rosengard police station - which damaged the building and officers’ private cars, though no one was injured - on the pressure authorities are putting on criminals.

DUTCH bike maker Gazelle has produced its 15 millionth bike since it began operations 125 years ago, and 19 years since it rolled out the 10-millionth bike in 1999.

Speaking up THE number of reported rapes in Sweden increased by 10 per cent in 2017, according to figures from the National Council on Crime Prevention, reaching a total of 7,230.

War scare SWEDEN is preparing to send out 4.7 million leaflets that urge citizens to prepare for ‘crisis and catastrophes in peacetime’ to households across the country due to fears of an impending Russian act of war.

N ORWAY

What a find A CORNUCOPIA of 5,000-yearold ‘sun’ stones was dug up by archaeologists during an excavation on the island of Bornholm, which could allegedly give new ins ig ht i nt o l i f e i n t he St one Age.

Crack down DANISH police have charged more than 1,000 teenagers with distribution of child pornography after they shared a video on Fa c ebook m essenger whi ch showed two 15-year-olds having sex.

On the move THE Danish government has announced several of its agencies wi l l be m oved out of Copenhagen to other parts of the country - a relocation of up to 1,800 jobs - in an effort to boost local economies.

Caught on film COPENHAGEN plans to install 100 new security cameras in around 50 new locations which regularly see episodes of violence in an effort to combat gang crime.

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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RUSSIAN PRESS

TOUGH RESPONSE: Putin at a meeting with Viktor Zolotov (right) in 2016.

Election response DISTURBANCES during the Russian presidential election will receive a tough response from the countryâ€™s National Guard, security officials have said. The guard, founded by President Putin in 2016 to perform public order functions, will provide s e c urity a t mor e t han 93,000 pre c inc ts . Putin is e xpe ct ed t o wi n t he vote.

Nuclear deal RUSSIA has refused to join a deal on nuclear disarmament, the countryâ€™s foreign minister has said. Speaking at the UN Security Council, Sergei Lavrov said unilateral disarmament encouraged by the deal should be avoided but added Russia wanted a nuclear weapons-free world.

Epiphany Day PRESIDENT PUTIN took to the icy waters of Lake Seliger near Moscow to mark Epiphany Day on the night of January 1819. The holiday, which commemorates the

baptism of Jesus Christ, is celebrated by thousands of Russian Christians who bathe in rivers across the country.

Axe attack THREE students and a teacher were injured in an axe attack in their school in Buryatia on Friday morning. The attacker, himself a student, slashed t he vi ct i m s i n t he Sosnovy Bor vi l l age school before setting off a Molotov cocktail in an attempted suicide, according to reports.

Buzzfeed accused BUZZFEED has been accused of working with American intelligence services by the Russian Foreign Ministry after publishing an article based on reportedly leaked diplomatic documents. The ministry said Buzzfeed could not have had access to the documents, which allegedly record Russian Embassy bank transfers, with US intelligence knowledge.

Crocodile found A PROBE has been launched by prosecutors in St Petersburg over reports a crocodile was found in the basement of a house in the south west of the city. The reptile was discovered in the Petrodvorets district by police who were investigating illegal arms smuggling in the city.

FOUND: The crocodile was discovered in a house in St Petersburg.

FINANCE

business & legal

Green energy boost MADRID-BASED renewable energy provider Acciona Energy has signed a deal to supply Unilever with electricity. The contract covers all the British-Dutch consumer goods firm’s facilities in Spain. Acciona Green Energy director Santiago Gómez Ramos said: “We are very pleased that such an important company as Unilever has entrusted its electricity supply to Acciona, and we are delighted to work with them to reduce their carbon footprint.”

Quote of the Week

STAT OF WEEK

SPANISH soft drinks consumers are on red alert. It comes after soft drinks brand Coca Cola announced it has chosen Spain as the first European country to feature its new packaging. The new look features more red and clearer nutritional information on the can, and continues a rebranding process which started in 2015. A new, smaller 250 millilitre can has also been introduced to the range. Carolina Aransay, head of marketing in Spain, said that the company

‘

By Matt Ford is “constantly searching for innovations that respond to the needs of customers. “As part of our business strategy, we have innovated in the design of o u r p a c k a g i n g b y o ff e r i n g s i m p l e and clear information so that consumers can make informed and responsible decisions,” she added. “Coca Cola is 131 years old but has remained young and fresh thanks to its adaptation to change, and one of the keys to its 2015 success was a

» BUSINESS EXTRA

Popping the cork

two gigabytes (GB) to €17 for three GB. Rate #6 - Up from €27 for six GB to €30 for eight GB. The 200-minute bonus remains. Rate #10 - Up from €37 for 10 GB to €40 for 15 GB plus unlimited calls. Rate #20 - Up from €47 for 20 GB to €50 for 25 GB with unlimited calls. Movistar is also pushing up the cost of deals which offer an additional line for half price, with similar increases in internet data.

CAVA producer Freixenet has revealed that it will pay €5.87 million-worth of dividends to shareholders after a two-year lull. The sparkling wine firm made €8.4 million net profit in 2017, quadrupling its 2016 figures.

Tokyo drift NISSAN is to pull the plug on production of two unpopular models in Spain. Sales of the compact Pulsar and Evalia van have been so poor that they will no longer be built at the Japanese carmaker’s Barcelona plant from midyear.

Room gloom MELIA HOTELS INTERNATIONAL - based in Mallorca - has lost €3 million due to the Catalan independence crisis, its CEO Gabriel Escarrer has claimed, going on to describe October as “poisonous and disastrous” for the chain.

Toll roads set for privatisation THE Spanish Minstry of Development will ask the central bank for €420 million to rescue bankrupt toll roads. In February it plans to bail out the R-4 Madrid-Ocaña motorway, followed by the R2, R-3, and R-5 (all Madrid), and the M-12 which connects the capital to Barajas Airport, plus stretches connecting Ocaña-La Roda,

A EURO WEEKLY NEWS 6 PAGE SPECIAL SECTION | WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM/3.0.15/FINANCE

Pensioners’ loss of purchasing power is practically irrelevant.” Spain’s Social Security chief, Tomas Burgos, responds to criticism as pensions are to rise by 0.25 per cent in 2018 while inflation remains above 1 per cent.

Mobile giant hikes prices

EWN

amount Spain’s hotel industry earned through online bookings in 2017, up 98 per cent €7.3 billion The from the €3.7 billion spent online in 2012, according to Euromonitor International.

Fizzing with pleasure

MOVISTAR BILLS: Customers forced to fork out.

SPANISH mobile phone operator Movistar has announced its latest price hike. All of the company’s Fusion packages will be affected by the increase, and the new rates will be applied to both new and existing contracts. Although the rise is enforced, customers will however benefit from more internet data on their existing deals. The updated tariffs are as follows: Rate #2 - Up from €15 for

Costa Blanca North

25 - 31 January 2018

Cartagena-Vera and the Alicante ring road. The AP-41 between Madrid and Toledo is also set for a cash boost later in the year. Once the debt has been cleared, the government aims to put management of them out to tender in a privatisation process it claims will rake in between €700 million and €1 billion.

unique brand strategy in which we chose to reinforce iconic elements such as red. “We are pioneers, since we will be the first country in Europe and globally to feature this new packaging, and this revamp looks set to be permanent in Spain,” she concluded. Senior brand manager of Coca Cola Iberica, Cesar Ruiz, confirmed that he expects 3.2 billion cans with the updated branding to be sold by the end of the year, with all production lines to make the switch by February.

Firm just doing it A SPANISH electric utility firm is boosting links with sportswear behemoth Nike. Avangrid, a subsidiary of Iberdrola, has signed a contract with the United States brand to supply electricity generated by wind power. It is the second such deal agreed between the pair and set to be worth around €100 million, according to reports. Long-term supply contracts are swiftly becoming Iberdrola’s main commercial asset stateside, after the company last year signed a €200 million agreement with Google.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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LONDON - FTSE 100

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on opposite page

C LOSING P RICES J ANUARY 22

PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY Anglo American 1,772.10 16.10 Associated British Foods 2,764.50 14.50 Admiral Group 1,872.75 -5.25 Ashtead Group 2,127.00 -9.00 Antofagasta 997.20 3.40 Aviva 533.90 -0.90 AstraZeneca 5,055.00 12.00 BAE Systems 585.90 -1.70 Barclays 203.90 3.40 British American Tobacco 5,070.50 8.50 Barratt Developments 611.60 -3.60 Berkeley Group Holdings 4,192.00 -29.00 British Land Co 679.80 -0.20 BHP Billiton 1,609.40 -4.40 Bunzl 2,015.50 -12.50 BP 514.40 4.50 Burberry Group 1,603.75 7.25 BT Group 266.08 1.98 Coca-Cola HBC 2,432.00 8.00 Carnival 4,913.00 -62.00 Centrica 139.20 0.15 Compass Group 1,535.25 8.25 Croda International 4,513.00 -21.00 CRH 2,696.50 13.50 DCC 7,542.50 -2.50 Diageo 2,616.75 -4.75 Direct Line Insurance Group 374.40 1.00 Evraz 393.35 0.55 Experian 1,666.50 -1.50 easyJet 1,574.50 -10.00 Ferguson 5,604.00 -20.00 Fresnillo 1,398.50 -5.00 G4S 290.70 -0.60 GKN 434.95 -4.45 Glencore 406.28 -0.87 GlaxoSmithKline 1,356.00 -2.00 Hargreaves Lansdown 1,920.00 -8.00 Halma 1,328.50 -1.50 Hammerson 498.25 -0.75 HSBC Holdings 783.85 -4.55 Int Consolidated Airlines 652.60 -5.80 InterContinental Hotels Gr 4,912.00 -16.00 3i Group 926.80 -7.20 Imperial Brands 3,016.50 0.50 Informa 703.00 1.20 Intertek Group 5,261.00 -13.00 ITV 165.45 0.50 Just Eat 794.90 -6.90 Johnson Matthey 3,223.00 -29.00 Kingfisher 337.40 1.30

% CHG. NET VOL 0.92 24,732.43 0.53 21,810.62 -0.28 5,386.70 -0.42 10,622.96 0.34 9,842.79 -0.17 21,355.46 0.24 63,064.17 -0.29 18,677.55 1.70 34,001.37 0.17 113,534.83 -0.59 6,206.59 -0.69 5,618.38 -0.03 6,767.48 -0.27 33,704.44 -0.62 6,809.33 0.88 102,566.67 0.45 6,723.78 0.75 26,491.28 0.33 8,859.71 -1.25 10,345.76 0.11 7,896.40 0.54 23,900.49 -0.46 5,846.98 0.50 22,012.86 -0.03 6,810.49 -0.18 65,073.38 0.27 5,132.88 0.14 5,562.10 -0.09 15,135.38 -0.63 6,009.76 -0.36 13,990.02 -0.36 10,132.29 -0.21 4,468.59 -1.01 7,642.78 -0.21 58,622.58 -0.15 67,090.95 -0.41 9,104.55 -0.11 4,992.28 -0.15 3,975.90 -0.58 157,624.08 -0.88 13,267.26 -0.32 9,127.13 -0.77 9,158.66 0.02 28,779.01 0.17 5,855.38 -0.25 8,431.04 0.30 6,658.03 -0.86 5,405.64 -0.89 6,299.51 0.39 7,435.96

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

Land Securities Group 994.35 Legal & General Group 275.70 Lloyds Banking Group ORD 71.50 London Stock Exchange Gr 3,734.00 Micro Focus International 2,130.00 Mediclinic International 604.00 Marks & Spencer Group 306.10 Mondi 1,955.25 Morrison (Wm) Supermarkets 229.10 National Grid 836.00 NMC Health 3,371.00 Next 4,902.50 Old Mutual Group 237.25 Paddy Power Betfair 8,327.50 Prudential 1,973.00 Persimmon 2,637.00 Pearson 690.50 Reckitt Benckiser Group 6,928.00 Royal Bank of Scotland Gr (The) 295.10 Royal Dutch Shell 2,529.75 Royal Dutch Shell 2,576.50 RELX 1,606.25 Rio Tinto 4,010.50 Rolls-Royce Group 883.60 Randgold Resources 7,142.00 RSA Insurance Gr 624.40 Rentokil Initial 312.60 Sainsbury (J) 257.85 Schroders 3,691.00 Sage Group (The) 817.30 Segro 578.60 Shire 3,562.25 Smurfit Kappa Group 2,590.00 Sky 1,003.75 Standard Life Aberdeen 437.20 Smith (DS) 510.00 Smiths Group 1,669.75 Scottish Mortgage Inv Trst 470.60 Smith & Nephew 1,244.25 SSE 1,297.25 Standard Chartered 818.10 St James's Place 1,263.25 Severn Trent 2,028.50 Tesco 207.55 TUI AG 1,645.50 Taylor Wimpey 198.05 Unilever 4,088.00 United Utilities Group 768.50 Vodafone Group 225.85 WPP Group 1,386.50 Whitbread 3,975.00

CHANGE(P) 4.15 -0.50 0.02 -17.00 -24.00 -3.00 2.10 -16.25 0.10 5.50 91.00 4.50 -0.25 -122.50 -8.00 3.00 2.50 15.00 -2.20 12.75 16.50 -40.25 -6.00 -9.20 -30.00 -1.80 -3.50 -0.15 -32.00 -1.30 -0.60 101.25 -10.00 1.75 -0.50 -0.60 -3.75 0.40 -0.75 6.25 -0.90 -7.25 4.50 -0.25 14.00 0.10 -20.00 0.30 0.05 3.00 -30.00

% CHG.

NET VOL

0.42 -0.18 0.03 -0.45 -1.11 -0.49 0.69 -0.82 0.04 0.66 2.77 0.09 -0.11 -1.45 -0.40 0.11 0.36 0.22 -0.74 0.51 0.64 -2.44 -0.15 -1.03 -0.42 -0.29 -1.11 -0.06 -0.86 -0.16 -0.10 2.93 -0.38 0.17 -0.11 -0.12 -0.22 0.09 -0.06 0.48 -0.11 -0.57 0.22 -0.12 0.86 0.05 -0.49 0.04 0.02 0.22 -0.75

7,362.60 16,528.71 51,050.41 12,811.92 9,397.79 4,469.17 4,974.96 9,414.89 5,389.87 28,058.17 6,537.48 7,250.62 11,665.87 7,112.70 51,213.14 8,095.13 5,424.79 47,809.45 35,570.65 115,847.83 96,240.28 17,247.98 54,123.79 16,344.78 6,656.86 6,384.54 5,673.68 5,644.20 8,374.13 8,754.55 5,776.86 31,410.25 6,077.59 17,190.17 13,053.70 5,495.43 6,610.79 6,545.76 10,769.57 13,187.93 27,000.03 6,647.86 4,774.98 17,177.81 9,415.81 6,441.11 49,517.04 5,258.72 60,283.99 17,436.18 7,315.07

0,88102

1,13504 Units per €

US dollar ...............................................................1.22510 Japan yen............................................................135.620 Switzerland franc ..............................................1.17654 Denmark kroner ...............................................7.44413 Norway kroner.................................................9.62067 currenciesdirect.com/moraira • Tel: +34 966 265 072 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES J ANUARY 22

COMPANY 3M AMERICAN EXPRESS APPLE BOEING CO CATERPILLAR CHEVRON CISCO SYSTEMS COCA-COLA DOWDUPONT EXXON MOBIL GENERAL ELECTRIC GOLDMAN SACHS HOME DEPOT IBM INTEL CORP J.P.MORGAN CHASE JOHNSON & JOHNSON MC DONALD'S CORP MERCK AND CO. NEW MICROSOFT NIKE PFIZER PROCTER AND GAMBLE TRAVELERS CIES UNITED TECHNOLOGIE UNITEDHEALTH GROUP VERIZON COMMS VISA WAL-MART STORES WALT DISNEY CO

PRICE 248,18 98,03 178,46 337,73 170,41 131,3 41,29 47,16 76,01 87,15 16,26 256,12 201,33 162,37 44,82 113,01 147,36 176,12 61,28 90 67,21 36,94 91,07 137,85 135,9 243,35 51,91 122,7 104,59 110,59

CHANGE% CHANGE VOLUME(M) 0,92% 2,27 147.430,87 -1,83% -1,83 84.699,07 -0,45% -0,8 907.327,31 -0,71% -2,43 201.281,72 0,94% 1,58 101.132,76 -0,22% -0,29 248.628,05 -0,02% -0,01 203.751,38 0,60% 0,28 200.911,77 -0,03% -0,02 177.956,26 -0,32% -0,28 368.289,26 -3,04% -0,51 141.181,54 2,05% 5,15 96.171,29 1,51% 3 234.501,44 -3,99% -6,75 150.413,33 0,76% 0,34 208.749,06 -0,22% -0,25 386.527,98 0,30% 0,44 394.166,22 0,89% 1,55 140.392,35 0,25% 0,15 166.027,18 -0,11% -0,1 693.001,62 4,84% 3,1 87.054,83 -0,14% -0,05 218.698,35 0,99% 0,89 230.660,23 0,37% 0,51 37.608,55 0,96% 1,29 108.078,45 0,08% 0,19 235.153,91 0,70% 0,36 210.150,35 -0,33% -0,41 222.010,57 0,28% 0,29 309.420,74 0,15% 0,17 166.148,02 M - MILLION DOLLARS

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES J ANUARY 22

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced NuCana plc Xcel Brands, Inc Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc. Sientra, Inc. Ocular Therapeutix, Inc. Jounce Therapeutics, Inc. Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc. Fossil Group, Inc. Tocagen Inc. Mitcham Industries, Inc. Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

$ 20.51 $ 2.80 $ 23.38 $ 11.66 $ 6.23 $ 21.76 $ 10.70 $ 10.03 $ 14.12 $ 3.96 $ 6.29

6.02 ▲ 41.55% 0.40 ▲ 16.67% 3.17 ▲ 15.69% 1.33 ▲ 12.88% 0.69 ▲ 12.45% 2.29 ▲ 11.76% 1.075 ▲ 11.17% 0.92 ▲ 10.10% 1.29 ▲ 10.05% 0.36 ▲ 10% 0.57 ▲ 9.97%

$ 5.24 $ 2.80 $3 $ 10.75 $ 6.45 $ 48.85 $ 14.90 $ 5.08 $ 67.81 $ 15.05 $ 22.90

0.90 ▼ 14.66% 0.25 ▼ 8.20% 0.25 ▼ 7.69% 0.65 ▼ 5.70% 0.39 ▼ 5.70% 2.85 ▼ 5.51% 0.80 ▼ 5.10% 0.27 ▼ 5.05% 3.56 ▼ 4.99% 0.78 ▼ 4.93% 1.10 ▼ 4.58%

Most Declined Obalon Therapeutics, Inc. TRACON Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Compugen Ltd. Coherus BioSciences, Inc. Tintri, Inc. Lumentum Holdings Inc. Surgery Partners, Inc. Medallion Financial Corp. Juno Therapeutics, Inc. Zealand Pharma A/S Bel Fuse Inc.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

Fashion forges ahead

Debt grows but leaders SPANISH BRAND ECLIPSES TRADITIONAL LEADER count on 2018 boost

CLOTHING retailer Zara has outstripped telecommunications giant Movistar to become the best-performing Spanish brand. The bombshell comes after global consultancy Interbrand published its latest report. It is the first time that Movistar has failed to top the national ranking in a decade, after the company lost 12 per cent of its brand value as it plummeted to €19.65 billion. And the clothing manufacturer, owned by tycoon Amancio Ortega, is now estimated to be worth €15.45 billion, up 45 per cent from 2015. Bosco Torres, technical director of the report, claims that the drop can be attributed to ‘financial analysts’ forecasts, which project a flatter growth, with revenues set to grow by just 1 per cent due to increased prices driving a potential loss of customers, plus competition from the new wave of platforms including HBO and Netflix.” Banking group Santander - valued at €5.6 billion - was placed third, having grown by 20 per cent in the last two years, thanks to a stable business model with predictable results, since it is working in mature economies including the UK and Germany and in growth regions in Central and South America. Basque country-based bank BBVA and clothing brand Bershka, also owned by Ortega, make up the top five. Supermarket chain Mercadona, in eighth place, is the second-fastest growing brand after Zara, after its value increased by 31 per cent in the last two years, while fashion chain Mango is the biggest loser, with its value having plunged by 39 per cent. New entries in the top 20 include beer brewer Estrella Galicia and private medical firm Sanitas, while British-owned telecommunications com-

ON THE UP: The rise and rise of Zara has put Movistar (inset) under the magnifying glass.

pany Jazztel, and banking group Banco Popular drop out, the latter in the wake of its takeover by Santander. Spain’s two biggest football clubs, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, appear in positions 17 and 20, with respective values of €530 million and €470 million. By sectors, banking is the most-represented with eight entries on the list, whereas fashion is the most valuable despite only appearing five times, with the worth of Zara, Bershka, Massimo Dutti, Mango and Desigual estimated at €18.8 billion, 35 per cent of the overall total.

DEFENCE BUDGET SET TO GROW

Spain’s military spending in 2017

EXPENDITURE UP: Defence Minister María Dolores de Cospedal poses with troops during a visit to Kabul, Afghanistan.

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SPAIN’S annual military spending has risen to €835 million. The figure represents an 8.2 per cent increase on the €771.1 million splashed out in 2016, after the Ministry of Defence took part in 17 missions during 2017. According to official figures, the most expensive operation was conducted in Lebanon, after 618 Spanish soldiers were deployed on a peace-keeping mission, at a cost of €138 million. The forces joined a campaign, started 12 years ago, by the United Nations (UN) in the wake of a violent confrontation between Israel and militants from the Shia Islamist political party. This was followed by a €123.1 million operation in Iraq as 541 troops, including 71 from the Army Engineer Corps, joined the international coalition fighting Muslim fundamentalist group Daesh in the war-torn country. And €84.3 million was spent on the European Union (EU) Operation Sophia, combatting human trafficking and illegal migration in the Mediterranean Sea, an ongoing campaign based mostly in Libyan waters.

Ministerio Defensa/Twitter

Bottom line of fire

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Spain currently deploys 2,469 soldiers on five continents, and national Defence Minister, María Dolores de Cospedal, is due to appear in the Congress of Deputies, the lower house of Spain’s legislative branch, to request an increase in spending for 2018. In particular, the official wants to send an additional 152 troops to Mali, with Spanish General Enrique Millán set to assume command of the EU mission based there.

1. Lebanon (UN): €138 million 2. Iraq (Global Coalition Against Daesh): €123.1 million 3. Mediterranean - Operation Sophia (EU): €84.3 million 4. Atlantic and Mediterranean naval groups (NATO): €84.1 million 5. Indian Ocean - Operation Atalanta (EU): €74.2 million 6. Mali - Training mission (EU): €72.9 million 7. Latvia - Enhanced Forward Presence (NATO): €63.4 million 8. Estonia - Baltic Air Policing (NATO): €48.7 million 9. Turkey - Patriot Missile Battery Support (NATO): €38.3 million 10. Senegal - Air detachment (France support): €36.4 million 11. Mediterranean - Sea Guardian (NATO): €27.1 million 12. Gabon - Air detachment (France support): €22.1 million 13. Central African Republic (EU): €8.3 million 14. Afghanistan - Resolute Support (NATO): €6.7 million 15. Colombia - Observation mission (UN): €3.5 million 16. Somalia - Training mission (EU): €3.4 million 17. Bosnia Herzegovina (UE): €0.4 million

PUBLIC debt in Spain has broken all records. After rising by more than €9 million in November, the total of €1.14 billion is the highest ever registered, according to the Bank of Spain. The figure is equivalent to more than 98.8 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), well above the country’s European Union target of 98.1 per cent by the close of 2017. But the Spanish government said it expects the figure to fall to 96.8 per cent this year. The increase is being blamed on higher indebtedness registered by the State, w h i c h i n c r e a s e d b y € 11 . 1 million to an unparalleled €987.2 million. Spain’s public debt before the global financial crisis hit in 2007 was €384 million, or 35 per cent of GDP.

UK losing out in space race INFRASTRUCTURE for the Galileo satellite system will be moved from the UK to Spain over Brexit fears. It comes after a committee of representatives from European Union member states voted in favour of the move from London to Madrid. The back-up security centre for Galileo - an advanced version of GPS - is not yet fully operational in London, but was expected to employ 30 people. It was originally awarded to London in 2010, and controls access to the system with 24hour monitoring when the main security headquarters near Paris is offline. It is the latest Brexit blow to the UK’s space industry, and follows a November announcement by aerospace companies and the Royal Aeronautical Society, in which they claimed they were being overlooked for contracts.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

GOVERNMENT DEFENDS COST OF EXTRA POLICE

CONTROVERSIAL: Police beat pro-independence protesters and (inset) Minister Zoido, left, appears before the Senate of Spain.

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THE Catalan independence crisis cost the Spanish state €87 million in police spending. Interior Minister Juan Ignacio Zoido was forced to defend the eye-popping figure, after thousands of Guardia Civil and National Police officers were deployed to the troubled region last autumn. They were tasked with preventing an illegal independence referendum on October 1, and many remained in place until after the snap election, called by Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, eventually withdrawing on December 30. Clashes between police and pro-independence supporters, during the referendum saw hundreds injured, as the Spanish forces closed 113 polling stations and stopped a further 100 from opening. Images of the violence - including footage of armed police

Photo credit Juan Ignacio Zoido/Twitter/You Tube

€87m Cataluña spend

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beating elderly people, women and peaceful protesters - were condemned across the globe. But Mr Zoido, who was appearing before the Spanish Senate voluntarily, strongly defended the offensive, which he said took place against “the absolute passivity and minimal collaboration” of the Mossos d’Esquadra

Catalan police. “The operation was legitimate, professional, and proportional,” he said. “I regret as much as anyone that people were hurt, but those responsible generated a climate of disobedience with their reckless and illegal behaviour.” He went on to justify the cost of the exercise, with the money used for accommodation, food, travel and day-to-day living. “It is a high price that all Spaniards have to pay due to the irresponsibility and stubbornness of the pro-independence government,” he said. The official also pointed out that damages to police stations and vehicles cost €135,000. An average of 4,500 officers were based in Cataluña throughout the crisis, with 6,000 in place on the day of the referendum. Opposition groups criticised Mr Zoido, with Xavier Castel-

lana, of the pro-independence Esquerra Republicana party, accusing the government of “applying the political will of Franco to maintain the unity of Spain.” Others quizzed the minister over the use of rubber bullets and pepper spray. Following the referendum, the regional government declared independence, prompting the Spanish government to dissolve Catalan parliament and call snap elections. A number of pro-independence politicians were subsequently arrested, and some - including ousted leader Carles Puidgemont - had warrants issued for their arrest. Puigdemont has since fled to Belgium. December’s snap election failed to provide a decisive result, with separatists retaining a slim majority, but not taking over 50 per cent of the vote.

EWN

Chinese seek to sell hotels A CHINESE conglomerate is seeking to sell its stake in a Spanish hotel chain. HNA Group, which has investments across the globe and ranked number 179 on the Fortune Global 500 list, is reportedly trying to offload its majority stake in the NH Hotel Group. The move comes days after NH - headquartered in Madrid - turned down a takeover bid from Mallorca-based rival Barceló Group. HNA revealed it has hired banking firms JP Morgan and Benedetto, Gartland and Company to find a buyer for its 29.5 per cent stake in NH, valued at around €632 million. Spain’s hotel industry is booming, as the country last year became the second-most visited country in the world after France, having outstripped the United States.

Losing mental capacity whilst living abroad by Stone King Charlotte Macdonald Contact me at international@stoneking.co.uk

MANY UK expatriates living in Spain own properties in the UK and have pensions and investments in the UK. They rely on their UK assets to maintain their lifestyles (and those of their families) in Spain. If they can no longer manage their affairs in the UK due to a loss of mental capacity, it can cause many difficulties.

“

You can choose a person or people, who you trust, to act for you when you are no longer able.

The best way to avoid the legal and practical difficulties that can occur with the loss of mental capacity is to plan for it in advance by drawing up a document called a ‘Lasting Power of Attorney’ (‘LPA’).

An LPA must be made while you have full mental capacity.

What is an LPA? An LPA is a legal document that enables you to appoint one or more attor-

neys to act for you when you are no longer able to act for yourself. Your attorney can be a professional,

such as a solicitor or a family member or friend. There are two types of LPA: ‘Health and Welfare’ or ‘Property and Financial Affairs’ An LPA must be made while you have full mental capacity. It is therefore important to make one while you are in good health. Why should you get an LPA? You can choose a person or people, who you trust, to act for you when you are no longer able. If you lose your mental capacity and do not have an LPA, then your family (or the authorities) will have no choice but to make an application to the Court of Protection to appoint a ‘deputy’ to look after your affairs, which can be time consuming and costly. Will my LPA be recognised in Spain? Unfortunately there is no international type of LPA which is guaranteed to work in both the UK and Spain. The advice we give to our clients at Stone King, is that if you have assets in both Spain and the UK, your only safe option is to appoint attorneys in both jurisdictions.

If you would like to discuss LPAs contact Charlotte Macdonald or Dan Harris at Stone King LLP by email international@stoneking.co.uk or by telephone on +44 (0)1225 337599.

FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

I have nothing against immigration LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT WASN’T too sure how to scribble this week; light or heavy? Do I attract the ‘slings and arrows’ or go for a few laughs? The hell with it, I’m opting for heavy (surprise, surprise)! The main reason is, that I am utterly sick of people reminding me that I am ‘also an immigrant.’ They sneeringly remark ‘Has the irony escaped you?’ after I have written some depreciating piece or commented on Europe and its immigrant problems. Well of course it hasn’t. I’m not a moron. I am an immigrant, and one with no regrets whatsoever. All those years ago, disillusioned and broke, with a career in ruins and a young family to support, in 1975 I left my beloved UK and made tracks for Saudi Arabia. There I worked my proverbials off for some eight years. When I had saved what I considered enough, and with nothing to attract me back to the UK, I looked around and with some encouragement from a good friend, decided to settle in Spain. I brought in some 40K (no small sum in ‘83!) became a resident and invested in a (failed!) busi-

BORDERS: Must be made secure. ness. I’ve had four children here and all have been educated in the Spanish system. I speak the language (could be better!), have always paid my dues, and have integrated pretty well into the Spanish community. What I did not do, was to enter the country ille-

gally, expect to be housed and paid benefits for doing nothing, insist that their schools fly the British flag or change their menu to suit my taste. I did not, create ‘no go’ areas, consider myself to be above local laws, mow down or slaughter innocent civilians while screaming ‘Jesus is great’

or scream racism when decisions didn’t go my way. I have nothing whatsoever against immigration. I truly believe diversity to be both healthy and progressive. I do not however condone millions of ungrateful layabouts and fanatics, hell bent on screwing as much as they can from their host countries and trying to overthrow and change the culture by sheer weight of numbers and social upheaval. I do of course realise that many immigrants are not of this ilk and do contribute invaluable input to the societies they have adopted. But far too many do not. Until we cap the numbers of those wanting to enter the more successful democracies of Europe, vet them all far more carefully, strengthen our borders and insist on much higher standards, I’m afraid Europe is doomed to a future beset with conflict and problems that will result in chaos, misery and ultimate capitulation. Unfortunately I feel it is already far too late. Sorry to select ‘heavy’ again this week. Promise a measure of light next, ok? Thanks for all the mail and encouraging comments ‘on the street.’ Sorry also, that I can’t reply to most missives, but I do read ‘em all - promise. Keep the faith. Love Leapy leapylee@gmail.com columnists@euroweeklynews.com

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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9:30am Frasier 11:05am Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares USA 12:00pm Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 1:00pm Channel 4 News 1:05pm Couples Come Dine with Me 2:05pm Posh Pawn 3:10pm Countdown 4:00pm Village of the Year 5:00pm A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 6:00pm Four in a Bed 6:30pm Extreme Cake Makers 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm George Clarke's Amazing Spaces 10:00pm Hunted 11:00pm Derry Girls 11:30pm The Undateables 12:30am The Super Orgasm 1:30am Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners

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7:25am Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 7:55am Dress to Impress 8:45am Emmerdale 9:20am Coronation Street 9:50am Coronation Street 10:25am The Ellen DeGeneres Show 11:10am Who's Doing the Dishes? 12:10pm Dress to Impress 1:10pm Emmerdale 1:45pm Coronation Street 2:15pm Coronation Street 2:45pm The Ellen DeGeneres Show 3:35pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 4:40pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:50pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 6:50pm Take Me Out 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 8:30pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Superstore 10:00pm Release the Hounds 11:00pm Celebrity Juice 11:50pm Family Guy 12:20am Family Guy

7:00am Classic Coronation Street 7:25am Classic Coronation Street 7:55am Heartbeat 8:55am The Royal 10:00am Judge Judy 10:25am Judge Judy 10:50am Judge Judy 11:20am The Darling Buds of May 12:25pm The Darling Buds of May Part 2 1:35pm The Royal 2:40pm Heartbeat 3:40pm Classic Coronation Street 4:15pm Classic Coronation Street 4:50pm On the Buses 5:20pm On the Buses 5:55pm Rising Damp 6:25pm George and Mildred 7:00pm Heartbeat 8:00pm Murder, She Wrote 9:00pm Agatha Christie's Marple 11:00pm Foyle's War 1:05am Inspector Morse

7:00am 7:50am 8:10am 8:30am 9:30am 10:35am 11:45am 12:50pm 1:50pm 2:50pm 3:55pm 5:00pm 6:05pm 7:05pm 7:35pm 8:05pm 8:35pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:15pm

11:20pm 12:55am

The Chase Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals Ironside Police drama series. Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals The Car Chasers The Car Chasers US reality show. Pawn Stars Reality series. Pawn Stars The Chase: Celebrity Special The Shawshank Redemption FYI Daily Latest news from the world of entertainment. The Shawshank Redemption Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber

9:05am 9:20am 9:35am 9:55am 10:05am 10:15am 12:15pm 1:10pm 1:15pm 2:15pm 2:45pm 3:15pm 4:15pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am

Digby Dragon Rusty Rivets Shimmer and Shine Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom Mofy The Wright Stuff Cowboy Builders 5 News Lunchtime The Hotel Inspector Home and Away Neighbours NCIS Driven Underground 5 News at 5 Neighbours Home and Away 5 News Tonight The Wonderful World of Puppies Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun Celebrity Big Brother Celebrity 100% Hotter Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side

12:35pm The LEGO Batman Movie 2:30pm Assassin's Creed 4:35pm Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief 6:35pm Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 9:00pm The LEGO Batman Movie 11:00pm Assassin's Creed

8:30am All Star Driving School 9:00am Charmed 10:00am Melissa and Joey 10:30am Melissa and Joey 11:00am Baby Daddy 11:30am Baby Daddy 12:00pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 12:30pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 1:00pm The Goldbergs 1:30pm The Goldbergs 2:00pm The Big Bang Theory 3:00pm Melissa and Joey 4:00pm Baby Daddy 5:00pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5:30pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 6:00pm The Goldbergs 6:30pm The Goldbergs 7:00pm The Big Bang Theory 7:30pm The Big Bang Theory 8:00pm Hollyoaks 8:30pm Coach Trip 9:00pm The Big Bang Theory 10:00pm 2 Broke Girls 11:00pm The Inbetweeners 11:30pm The Inbetweeners 12:05am The Big Bang Theory 12:35am The Big Bang Theory

7:00am Live European Tour Golf Day one of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic on the European Tour from the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai. 10:00am My Icon 10:15am Cricket Day two of the third Test between South Africa and India at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. 4:15pm My Icon 4:30pm SKY Sports News All the news from the Premier League and beyond. 5:00pm SKY Sports News All the news from the Premier League and beyond. 6:00pm Live PGA Tour Featured Groups 9:00pm Live PGA Tour Golf

7:00am 8:40am 10:20am 12:05pm 1:45pm 3:30pm

7:30am SPFL Greatest Games 8:00am Football Years 8:30am Football Countdowns 9:00am Carabao Cup Highlights 9:30am Football's Greatest Teams 10:00am Scottish Cup Greatest Games 10:30am La Liga Greatest Games 11:00am Football 2:00pm La Liga Icons 3:00pm Eredivisie 4:00pm Carabao Cup Highlights 5:00pm Scottish Cup Greatest Games 5:30pm La Liga Greatest Games 6:00pm Football Years 6:30pm Football Countdowns 7:00pm Eredivisie 8:00pm EFL Matters 8:30pm Carabao Cup Highlights 9:30pm EFL Matters 10:00pm The Best La Liga Goals 2016/17 11:00pm La Liga Show 11:30pm EFL Matters 12:00am La Liga Icons

5:45pm 7:20pm 9:00pm 6:35am Three Amigos! 8:30am Sadie's Last Days on Earth 10:15am The Nutty Professor 12:00pm The House Bunny 1:45pm Bridesmaids 3:50pm Ride Along 2 5:40pm Airplane II: The Sequel 7:10pm Big 9:00pm Bridesmaids 11:10pm Ride Along 2 1:00am BrÃ¼no 2:30am Don Verdean

THURSDAY TV

11:10pm 1:00am

Kicks The Transfiguration Let Me Go Nina First Kill Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge Swashbuckling highseas adventure pitting Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow Kicks Nina Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge Swashbuckling highseas adventure pitting Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow First Kill A Cure for Wellness

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E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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FRIDAY TV

7:00am Breakfast 10:15am Rip Off Britain 11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Wanted Down Under 12:45pm A1: Britain's Longest Road 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News at One 2:30pm BBC London News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm Father Brown 4:00pm Escape to the Country 4:45pm The Farmers' Country Showdown 5:30pm Antiques Road Trip 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News at Six 7:30pm BBC London News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm Match of the Day Live 11:00pm BBC News at Ten 11:25pm BBC London News 11:35pm The Graham Norton Show 12:25am Witless 12:50am Hailmakers 1:10am Weather for the Week Ahead

7:30am The Farmers' Country Showdown 8:15am Antiques Road Trip 9:00am MasterChef: The Professionals 10:00am Victoria Derbyshire 12:00pm BBC Newsroom Live Stay up to date on the day's top stories with the latest breaking news as it happens. 1:00pm The Daily Politics 2:00pm Bowls 6:00pm Tennis 7:00pm Eggheads 7:30pm Great American 8:00pm Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby 9:00pm Mastermind John Humphrys presents another heat of the classic quiz. 9:30pm A Vicar's Life 10:00pm Monty Don's Paradise Gardens 11:00pm QI 11:30pm Newsnight 12:05am Drive

4:30am This is BBC Four 8:00pm World News Today The latest national and international news, exploring the day's events from a global perspective. 8:30pm Top of the Pops 9:10pm The Good Old Days Leonard Sachs presents the old-time music hall programme, first broadcast on 2 July 1981. 10:00pm Hits, Hype and Hustle: An Insider's Guide to the Music Business 11:00pm Glastonbury Golden Greats 12:00am Guitar Heroes at the BBC 1:00am Top of the Pops 1:40am The Kinks at the BBC 2:40am Hits, Hype and Hustle: An Insider's Guide to the Music Business

7:00am Countdown 7:45am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:30am Frasier 11:05am Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares USA 12:00pm Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 1:00pm Channel 4 News 1:05pm Couples Come Dine with Me 2:05pm Posh Pawn 3:10pm Countdown 4:00pm Village of the Year 5:00pm A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 6:00pm Four in a Bed 6:30pm Extreme Cake Makers 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast 10:00pm 8 Out of 10 Cats 11:00pm The Last Leg 12:05am First Dates Hotel 1:10am Machete

8:05am Paw Patrol 8:20am Noddy: Toyland Detective 8:35am Peppa Pig 8:55am Floogals 9:05am Digby Dragon 9:20am Rusty Rivets 9:35am Shimmer and Shine 9:55am Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 10:05am Mofy 10:15am The Wright Stuff 12:15pm Cowboy Builders 1:10pm 5 News Lunchtime 1:15pm The Hotel Inspector 2:15pm Home and Away 2:45pm Neighbours 3:15pm NCIS 4:15pm Amish Abduction 6:00pm 5 News at 5 6:30pm Neighbours 7:00pm Home and Away 7:30pm 5 News Tonight 8:00pm The Wine Show 9:00pm Costa Del Celebrity 10:00pm Celebrity Big Brother 11:00pm Will and Grace 11:30pm Celebrity Big Brother 12:05am Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side

7:00am Hollyoaks 8:00am Coach Trip 8:30am All Star Driving School 9:00am Charmed 10:00am Melissa and Joey 11:00am Baby Daddy 12:00pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 1:00pm The Goldbergs 2:00pm The Big Bang Theory 2:30pm The Big Bang Theory 3:00pm Melissa and Joey 3:30pm Melissa and Joey 4:00pm Baby Daddy 4:30pm Baby Daddy 5:00pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 5:30pm Brooklyn Nine-Nine 6:00pm The Goldbergs 6:30pm The Goldbergs 7:00pm The Big Bang Theory 7:30pm The Big Bang Theory 8:00pm Hollyoaks 8:30pm Coach Trip 9:00pm The Big Bang Theory 9:30pm The Big Bang Theory 10:00pm Lockout 11:55pm The Big Bang Theory 12:25am The Big Bang Theory 12:55am Gogglebox 2:00am Tattoo Fixers

6:15am Best of Sky Cricket 2017 A look at some of the best moments from the world of England cricket. 6:30am Cricket's Greatest Series profiling some of the greatest cricketers of all time. 7:00am Live Rugby 7s: Sydney 11:00am Cricket 4:15pm Info not available 4:30pm SKY Sports News All the news from the Premier League and beyond. 5:00pm SKY Sports News 6:00pm Live PGA Tour Featured Groups 9:00pm Live PGA Tour Golf 1:00am Live ICC U19 Wc A match from the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in New Zealand.

7:00am Good Morning Britain 9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 2:55pm ITV News London The latest news and weather from London and the South East. 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm Dickinson's Real Deal 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm ITV News London 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm River Monsters 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Lethal Weapon 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:30pm ITV News London 11:45pm Through the Keyhole 12:45am Take Me Out

7:00am Totally Bonkers 7:25am Totally Bonkers 7:55am Dress to Impress Fashion-themed dating series 8:45am Emmerdale 9:20am Emmerdale 9:50am You've Been Framed! 10:25am The Ellen DeGeneres Show 11:10am Who's Doing the Dishes? 12:10pm Dress to Impress 1:10pm Emmerdale 1:45pm Emmerdale 2:15pm You've Been Framed! 2:45pm The Ellen DeGeneres Show 3:35pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 6:50pm Take Me Out 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Superstore 10:00pm American Pie 2 11:30pm FYI Daily 11:35pm American Pie 2 12:05am Family Guy 12:35am Family Guy

7:00am Classic Coronation Street 7:55am Heartbeat 8:55am The Royal 10:00am Judge Judy 11:20am The Darling Buds of May (Part 2). 12:25pm The Darling Buds of May 1:35pm The Royal 2:40pm Heartbeat 3:40pm Classic Coronation Street 4:15pm Classic Coronation Street 4:50pm On the Buses 5:20pm On the Buses 5:55pm Rising Damp 6:20pm George and Mildred 6:55pm Heartbeat 8:00pm Paul O'Grady: For The Love of Dogs 8:25pm Rosemary and Thyme 9:25pm Rosemary and Thyme 11:00pm Foyle's War 1:05am Inspector Morse Detective drama series.

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7:30am X-Men Origins: Wolverine 9:30am X-Men: Apocalypse 12:10pm Deadpool 2:10pm Logan 4:30pm X-Men Origins: Wolverine 6:30pm X-Men: Apocalypse 9:00pm Deadpool 11:00pm Logan 1:30am Wanted 3:30am Ghost Rider

7:00am Let Me Go 9:00am Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge 11:20am First Kill Cat-and-mouse action thriller starring Hayden Christensen 1:10pm Ghost in the Shell 3:20pm Kicks 5:00pm Nina 6:45pm Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge Swashbuckling highseas adventure pitting Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow 9:00pm Ghost in the Shell 11:00pm A Cure for Wellness Psychological horror starring Dane DeHaan. 1:30am First Kill 3:15am Kicks

10:00am Scottish Cup Greatest Games 10:30am La Liga Greatest Games 11:00am La Liga Show 11:30am EFL Matters 12:00pm One2eleven 12:15pm One2eleven 12:30pm SPFL Greatest Games 12:45pm SPFL Greatest Games 1:00pm La Liga Show 1:30pm EFL Matters 2:00pm La Liga Icons 3:00pm La Liga Show 3:30pm EFL Matters 4:00pm Football's Greatest Teams 5:00pm Scottish Cup Greatest Games 5:30pm La Liga Greatest Games 6:00pm La Liga Preview 2017/18 7:00pm SPFL Matters 7:30pm EFL Matters 8:00pm La Liga Preview 8:55pm Football 11:00pm SPFL Matters 11:30pm EFL Matters 12:00am La Liga Icons

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1:10am

The Protectors Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Jeff and Meg take a trip to California to check out a pristine 1931 Chevrolet Victoria. Darts: The Masters The Blues Brothers FYI Daily Latest news from the world of entertainment. The Blues Brothers

7:30am The Naked Gun 2 1/2: The Smell of Fear 9:00am The Cable Guy 10:40am Nutty Professor II: The Klumps 12:30pm This is Spinal Tap 2:00pm Bridget Jones's Baby 4:10pm In and Out 5:45pm Bowfinger 7:30pm This is Spinal Tap 9:00pm Bridget Jones's Baby 11:10pm 48 Hrs 12:55am Another 48 Hrs

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FEATURE

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

TV COUCH CRITIC THOUGHT I would give Vera a try on Sunday ITV. Sorry to say it doesn’t work for me. Brenda Blethin dressed as a cast-off from the old lady in the long gone Heartbeat series in a dodgy hat, blue scarf and coat that’s seen better days. Her P reg Land Rover tops it off. It’s an easy watch but I just didn’t feel it somehow. Just one last thing, do they address people as ‘love’ in Northumberland? Sometimes having a zap round the channels away from the mainstream brings up some watchable or repeated TV, and Dave on Demand’s American Pickers is always worth a half hour of your time. Two clued-up buyers scour the country searching for antiques or collectables to buy and sell. These guys don’t settle just for small items, they will buy anything that looks like there’s a profit in it. In one programme set in upstate New York they met up with First Officer John Skiles, famed for manning the aeroplane that landed in the Hudson River, who had barns full of flying memorabilia. They went away from there laden with an aeroplane engine, rare air show posters and magazines, and wheels, allowing them to make a sizeable profit. Take a look, no thinking required. Hard Sun, a BBC six-part drama for Saturday

Nick Horne - writer of The Rich Pick - travelled widely with his expat parents in his youth but has based himself in London limpet like - for most of the last four decades despite working in global media. For the past 20 years with a high end quarterly magazine read by the commercial and political elite of the Middle East. Travelling extensively and learning who is supplying the exclusive needs and exquisite wants of a minute fraction of planet Earth’s population.

Vera plods, Mellor triumphs and repeats appeal nights kicked off last week and went straight in to the action. Agyness Deyn the ex-model turned actress, made an unusual but creditable cop who can verbally and physically mix it with her peers. There’s skulduggery everywhere you turn in this pre-apocalyptic thriller, which starts after a computer document saying the world has five years to doomsday is leaked. The intelligence services are on her trail and they have all her hangout covered. Looks like a hit from the Beeb, but it’s still early days. Homes Under the Hammer (BBC 1) should be axed immediately as this tired old format has reached its end point. Buy cheap, renovate cheap, make money, and move on. As if two presenters aren’t enough they have now roped in a third! Come on Beeb, don’t waste licence payers’ money any longer, put us out of our misery, get shut, it’s had its day. Girlfriends (ITV) is another Kay Mellor hit (she can do no wrong in my book) that focuses on three lifelong friends played by Miranda Richardson, Zoe Wanamaker and Phyllis Logan. All have some form of crisis and they together solve them as only girlfriends do. The storyline

HIT: From left, Zoë Wanamaker, Phyllis Logan and Miranda Richardson in Girlfriends. is quite simple as most of Mellor’s tales are, but the script is crisp, understandable and most of all plausible. Still going strong on Sundays is Dragons’ Den (BBC 2). The series has gone through its fair share of multi-millionaires over the years but it’s still a really good watch. There’s something more than a bit satisfying watching suc-

A Picasso portrait, an E1 Million watch and a high-tech chair. ‘The Rich Pick’ of Nick Horne in a new weekly column. THE impulse for the unique or to personalise is irresistible, the cost can be great, rather than just own a Rolls Royce it must be bespoke, a unique expression of their taste. Such a person and family will frequently travel; often in their own aircraft, which naturally has a shower en suite to the bedrooms. Three near unique objects; a Picasso portrait, a chair and a watch, irresistible objects to a person with the wealth to buy anything. Consider a chair that is near perfect, and improve it. David Hugh Limited launched its latest creation the Elysium-R chair at Rolls Royce Motor Cars London. Displaying it in the dealer’s window next to the latest Phantom

MISS: Brenda Blethin in Vera. cessful candidates sealing a deal with these astute business giants. Death in Paradise (BBC1) has finally bagged the man for the part at the third time of asking as British cop Jack Mooney is now played by Ardal O’Hanlon. He has the right amount of clumsiness mixed with a thorough detective’s brain to nail the villain. Critique: P M San Fulgencio, Costa Blanca

Million Euro wristwatch! Credit: Sotheby’s

Nick Horne The Rich Pick

PABLO PICASSO: Femme au béret et à la robe quadrillée (Marie-Thérèse Walter), December 1937. model. One of just 18 on offer worldwide. The Elysium-R neutralises

gravity ‘by implementing flotation theory’ to take comfort to a whole new level. Presented in

near black pure aniline leather made from Swedish cattle with a black chrome plated stainless steel base and an almond gold frame. Black anodised aluminium arm rests, gel filled, are swept back to follow the chair ’s contours and motion. D a v i d Wicket c o founder of David Hugh observed, “this is without question the most elegant version of Elysium we have ELYSIUM-R: ever made.” The near Price £38,000 perfect chair. (€39, 378). For the serious watch collector; very serious wealth is an obligation. The RM 50-03 Tourbillon McLaren F1 a Richard Mille at £964,000 (€1.08m) makes a statement on the wrist, though on-

ly to those who recognise the wristwatch for what it is. A rare wristwatch one of a kind or created to order. Finally; a unique portrait painted by Picasso in 1937 has emerged from a distinguished private collection and depicts his golden muse Marie-Thérèse Walter. Painted just months after his masterpieces Guernica and Weeping Women. Picasso at the very peak of his creative energy. Described as ‘One of the greatest portraits by Picasso to appear on the market in recent years’ by Thomas Bompard; Head of Sotheby’s London Impressionist & Modern Art ‘Of all the artist’s styles and decades this is the one that most epitomises the legacy of Picasso as a portraitist of women.’ Soon to be offered at auction in London. If you ask, you possibly cannot afford it though Sotheby’s will share an estimate auction bid upon a serious enquiry. Those with the ability will be there among the bidders or sending their agent.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

7:00am Breakfast 11:00am Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30pm Mary Berry Everyday 1:00pm Football Focus 2:00pm BBC News 2:10pm Weather The latest weather information. 2:15pm Tennis 3:30pm Bowls 5:30pm Final Score 6:20pm BBC News The latest national and international news stories, followed by Weather. 6:30pm Regional News 6:35pm Weather 6:40pm And They're Off...For Sport Relief 7:25pm Pointless 8:15pm All Together Now 9:20pm Casualty 10:10pm BBC News 10:25pm Weather 10:30pm Hard Sun 11:30pm Match of the Day: FA Cup Highlights 12:50am The NFL Show

8:30am Matilda and the Ramsay Bunch 9:00am The Dengineers 9:30am Deadly Top 10 10:00am Robot Wars 12:00pm Snow Wolf Family and Me 1:00pm Hairy Bikers 2:00pm A Vicar's Life 2:30pm Diary of Anne Frank 5:15pm Italy's Invisible Cities 6:15pm Trust Me, I'm a Doctor 6:45pm Tom Kerridge's Lose Weight for Good 7:15pm Hugh's Wild West 8:15pm A House Through Time 9:15pm Dad's Army 9:45pm Grand Tours of Scotland's Lochs 10:15pm QI XL 11:00pm Darcey Bussell: Dance Beyond Boundaries 11:30pm Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) 1:20am Bowls Coverage of the latest bowls.

4:40am This is BBC Four BBC Four is the BBC channel for people who want more. 8:00pm Children of the Holocaust 9:00pm Holocaust: Freddie Knoller's War 10:00pm Spiral 11:00pm Spiral Crime drama following criminal investigations in Paris from all the different points of view. 11:55pm Top of the Pops 12:25am Top of the Pops Richard Skinner and Gary Davies present the pop chart programme. 1:05am The Easybeats to AC/DC: The Sound of Aussie Rock 2:05am New York Rock at the BBC 3:05am Joy of the Guitar Riff

7:15am 3rd Rock from the Sun 7:40am 3rd Rock from the Sun 8:05am King of Queens 8:35am King of Queens 9:00am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:25am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:55am Frasier 10:30am Frasier 11:00am Frasier 11:30am The Big Bang Theory 12:55pm The Simpsons 2:25pm Come Dine with Me 3:25pm Coast v Country 4:25pm A Place in the Sun 5:30pm A Place in the Sun 6:30pm The Secret Life of the Zoo 7:30pm Channel 4 News 8:00pm Great Canal Journeys 9:00pm Village of the Year 10:00pm Holocaust: Night Will Fall 11:00pm The Monuments Men 1:20am Snake Eyes

6:10am Wildlife SOS 6:35am Divine Designs 7:00am Milkshake! Programming aimed at children aged two to seven years old. 11:10am Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 11:45am Fail Army 12:10pm Police Interceptors 2:10pm The A-Team 4:05pm Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords 5:05pm Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords 6:05pm Rich House, Poor House 7:05pm The Wonderful World of Puppies 8:00pm Greatest Ever Celebrity Wind Ups 9:00pm Blind Date 9:55pm 5 News 10:00pm Football on 5 11:00pm Celebrity Big Brother 12:00am The X Files 12:55am Will and Grace

7:00am CITV 10:25am ITV News 10:30am Saturday Morning with James Martin 12:25pm The Hungry Sailors 1:25pm Countrywise 1:55pm ITV News and Weather 2:00pm Dancing on Ice 4:15pm Catchphrase 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:05pm ITV News and Weather 7:20pm You've Been Framed! 7:45pm Take Me Out 9:00pm The Voice UK 10:30pm Through the Keyhole 11:30pm ITV News and Weather 11:45pm Jaws 4: The Revenge Fourth in the series of action adventures about a malevolent great white shark. 1:15am Jackpot247

7:00am Emmerdale Omnibus More drama and turmoil from the residents of Emmerdale. 9:35am Coronation Street Omnibus 12:30pm Take Me Out 1:45pm You've Been Framed! 2:10pm St. Trinian's 2: The Legend of Fritton's Gold 3:10pm FYI Daily 3:15pm St. Trinian's 2: The Legend of Fritton's Gold 4:25pm The Flintstones 5:25pm FYI Daily 5:30pm The Flintstones 6:10pm The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King 7:15pm FYI Daily 7:20pm The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King 10:00pm Fast Five 11:00pm FYI Daily 11:05pm Fast Five 12:35am Family Guy

7:00am Murder, She Wrote Drama series about a sleuthing writer who solves murder mysteries. 8:40am Lewis 10:40am Foyle's War 12:50pm Foyle's War 2:50pm Rosemary and Thyme Light-hearted drama series about a pair of gardening enthusiasts turned amateur sleuths. 3:55pm Columbo 5:55pm Midsomer Murders 8:00pm Midsomer Murders An international cycling competition comes to the Midsomer village of Burwood Mantle. 10:00pm Midsomer Murders 12:00am Foyle's War October 1944: the dying days of the war.

7:00am World Cup Rivalries: England v Argentina 7:20am The Professionals 8:20am The Professionals 9:25am The Professionals 10:30am ITV Racing: The Opening Show 11:30am Snooker v Darts 11:40am Pawn Stars 2:30pm ITV Racing: Live from Cheltenham 5:00pm Ferris Bueller's Day Off 6:00pm FYI Daily 6:05pm Ferris Bueller's Day Off 7:05pm Storage Wars 7:30pm Storage Wars 8:00pm Darts: The Masters 12:00am Assault on Precinct 13 1:05am FYI Daily 1:10am Assault on Precinct 13

1:50pm Avengers Confidential: Black Widow and Punisher 3:15pm G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra 5:25pm Captain America: Civil War 8:00pm Doctor Strange 10:00pm Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 12:20am Ghost Rider

8:45am Calendar Girls 10:45am Date Night 12:20pm Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates 2:05pm Why Him? 4:05pm Hot Tub Time Machine 5:50pm Date Night 7:25pm Liar Liar 9:00pm Why Him? 11:00pm Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates 12:45am Hot Tub Time Machine

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Charmed Rude(Ish) Tube Rude(Ish) Tube Couples Come Dine with Me Couples Come Dine with Me Don't Tell the Bride Melissa and Joey Alvin and the Chipmunks Rude(Ish) Tube Shorts The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Karate Kid Gogglebox Britain's favourite opinionated TV viewers share more of their sharp wit. Gogglebox Rude Tube Gogglebox First Dates Headstrong Mancunian make-up artist Regan returns to the First Dates restaurant.

7:00am First Kill 8:50am Top Ten Show, the 2018 9:10am Kicks 10:50am Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge 1:05pm Ghost in the Shell 3:10pm Wakefield 5:10pm Nina 6:50pm Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge Swashbuckling highseas adventure pitting Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow. 9:00pm Ghost in the Shell 11:00pm Wakefield 1:00am First Kill Cat-and-mouse action thriller starring Hayden Christensen. 2:45am A Cure for Wellness

SATURDAY TV

6:15am Ashes Shorts Relive one of the greatest moments in Ashes history. 6:30am Cricket's Greatest Series profiling some of the greatest cricketers of all time. 7:00am SKY Sports News 8:00am Live Women's Rugby 7s 9:30am Live European Tour Golf 2:00pm Cricket 4:15pm Gillette Soccer Saturday 6:15pm Gillette Soccer Saturday 6:30pm Football A big clash from La Liga as Valencia host Real Madrid at the Mestalla. 8:30pm Live PGA Tour Golf Day three of the Farmers Insurance Open, hosted at Torrey Pines Golf Course. 1:00am Live Rugby 7s: Sydney

7:00am 7:30am 8:00am 8:30am 9:00am 9:15am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 12:30pm 12:55pm 3:00pm 6:30pm 8:30pm 8:40pm 10:45pm 11:15pm 11:30pm 11:45pm 12:00am 12:30am 1:00am

SPFL Matters EFL Greatest Games Football Countdowns SPFL Matters La Liga Greatest Games EFL Greatest Games Ronaldo EFL Greatest Games SPFL Matters Soccer A.M. SPFL Matters Football Gillette Soccer Saturday Football La Liga Greatest Games Football EFL Goals: Championship EFL Greatest Games EFL Greatest Games EFL Greatest Games Ronaldo EFL Goals: Championship La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid

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FEATURE

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

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

CATALUÑA still lacks a government but now has a Parliament plus a Speaker and Mesa to regulate its day-to-day running. Unsurprisingly the Speaker, Roger Torrent, and the majority of the Mesa are pro-independence. Ciudanos was the most-voted party last December but is outnumbered in parliament by ex-president Carles Puigdemont’s JxC, ERC and CUP. Despite missing votes from Puigdemont who is self-exiled in Brussels with members of his former government, the secessionists pulled it off thanks to the Cataluña en Comun-Podemos tandem. Like the girl in the song, they never say yes and never say no to independence and this time did just that by casting blank ballots. Torrent, an MP for ERC, declared that despite his pro-independence convictions he respected the cross-

sections in Catalan society and would do his best to defuse conflict. Meanwhile pro-independence MPs are clamouring to vote on allowing Puigdemont to be installed as regional president via videolink. Torrent and the Mesa have the nice job of deciding whether this can be done, which should not be too difficult as the Parliament’s regulatory committee have already pronounced it unfeasible. Far from defusing conflict Torrent will be plunged into it, with a lot of it coming from his own side.

Payback time for kickbacks CARLES PUIGDEMONT’S old party PDeCat was once Artur Mas’s old party and before that it was Jordi Pujol’s. The last two politicians were on the make with kickbacks, commissions and padded invoices that were nice little earners for them and for party funds. Unfortunately for Puigdemont & Co the courts have ordered PDeCat to pay back €6.6

million ‘earned’ through government contracts. As though this hole in their finances weren’t enough, the stench of corruption could sour relations with ERC, the other pro-secession party which proudly claims never to have dipped into the cashbox in its 87 years of existence. Nevertheless, such admirable probity did not extend to using public money to fund the October 1 referendum, which is one reason why ERC leader Oriol Junqueras is currently remanded. Junqueras describes himself a regular churchgoer and presumably is at home with the Jesuitical maxim that the end justifies the means.

Time to swim IF there were a general election tomorrow, Ciudadanos would win it. More than half the people who voted for Mariano Rajoy and the Partido Popular would not do so again, they told a Metroscopia poll. Rajoy failed to get an overall majority in December 2015 or June 2016 because PP voters alone have

CHALLENGE ON: Roger Torrent, the new Speaker of the Catalan Parliament.

Dividing line THE Partido Popular and the PSOE are reluctant to comply with the European Council’s call to de-politicise the General Judiciary Council (CGPJ). This body controls and regulates Spain’s judges and both parties want to continue choosing 12 of the CGPJ’s members. Meanwhile the European Council reminded Spain that its Constitution requires the Lower House to name four CGPJ members, the Senate another four and the judges the rest. It might not be ideal and could make the legal system a closed shop. But is it democratically healthy if the lawmakers appoint the men and women who judge the judges? never won him an election, as March 2004 and 2008 demonstrated. He only pulled it off in 2011 because voters with no strong party allegiance believed he could reverse the economic crisis.

Corruption and Cataluña have taken their toll since then, and those floating voters have decided to swim instead and they’re heading off to Ciudadanos. columnists@euroweeklynews.com

Advertising Feature

Christina Sharp GLOBELINK INTERNATIONAL christina@globelink.co.uk.

CHRISTMAS and New Year celebrations seem a lifetime ago, so how better to shake off winter blues than planning your next break? Kick start your journey with our travel savvy tips on why now is the best time to buy your essential annual travel insurance cover. If you love travelling more than twice a year, and don’t want the hassle of buying travel insurance each time you go, or worse still, the risk of forgetting to buy it, then Annual Multi Trip insurance is your best option. Buying now means you can sit back and book as many holidays as you like, with the peace of mind that your travel insurance is sorted for the entire calendar year. As a regular traveller you’ll save a fortune by avoiding shelling out on single trip insurance each time you go gallivanting. January and February, are traditionally the busiest months for advanced holiday bookings as we get

Why winter is the best time to buy annual travel insurance lured by the blitz of holiday promotions. Buying your Annual policy now and opting for an immediate ‘start date’ means you are covered straightaway for holidays you book, or have already booked. Buying now ensures that any winter sun or winter sports breaks are covered under one policy. But check before you buy, as most annual policies won’t offer Cruise, or Winter Sports as standard. Globelink include cruise cover on all policies and Winter Sports on our Annual Multi Trip policies with a 45+ trip duration. Don’t leave purchasing your travel insurance to the last minute, and don’t opt for a future ‘start date’ on your Annual policy under the misapprehension that you’re not travelling for a while. Otherwise you won’t benefit from your policy pre-departure elements. For example, if the policy in-

PEACE OF MIND: Put your feet up and think of travel insurance. cludes Cancellation, this protection kicks-in instantly as long as you opt for an immediate start date. Did you know that holiday Cancellation is one of the most common reasons for making a travel insurance claim? So do yourself a favour and start your policy immediately.

A good Annual Multi Trip policy lets you take as many trips as you like abroad, under the one policy. However, some companies place limits, so look out for restrictions on trips, and the ‘individual trip duration.’ Be sure to buy a policy that covers the longest trip you’ll take.

Look out for special deals such as children go free, or couples discounts. This could save you a packet. Beware however, the cheapest policy may not provide the cover you need; and the most expensive may not be the best! Read the small print and choose based on your circumstances. Take account of your holiday costs; value of luggage; and always declare pre-existing medical conditions. Sidestep this at your peril, as it could invalidate your policy and cost you dearly in both cash and anguish. Wherever you travel, visit the Foreign & Commonwealth (FCO) Travel Aware website for travel safety and security advice and happy holidays! Globelink Travel Insurance for Spanish and EU residents. Get an instant quote and cover with www.globelink.co.uk, or call (UK) +44 1353 699 082 or our Spanish link line 966 265 000.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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BBC News Breakfast Match of the Day: FA Cup Highlights The Andrew Marr Show The Big Questions Sunday Politics Bargain Hunt BBC News Weather for the Week Ahead Money for Nothing Songs of Praise Big Cats Match of the Day Live BBC News Regional News Weather Countryfile Still Open All Hours Call the Midwife Mcmafia BBC News Regional News Weather Match of the Day: FA Cup Highlights The Women's Football Show

ITV Nightscreen CITV ITV News River Monsters Peston on Sunday The Martin Lewis Money Show The Voice UK ITV News and Weather Britain's Brightest Family The Cruise You've Got Mail Local News and Weather ITV News and Weather The Chase Dancing on Ice Vera ITV News and Weather Peston on Sunday Next of Kin Great Art Jackpot247 Sunday Night at the Palladium ITV Nightscreen

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The Instant Gardener Gardeners' World Monty Don's Paradise Gardens Countryfile Saturday Kitchen Best Bites Food and Drink Homes Under the Hammer Nature's Perfect Partners: Natural World Tennis Bowls Ski Sunday Britain's Cycling Superheroes - The Price of Success? Yellowstone Dragons' Den Chris Packham: In Search of the Lost Girl The Mash Report Insert Name Here Cleverman Norfolk Question Time Holby City

8:00pm Only Connect A show in which connections must be made between seemingly unconnected things. 8:30pm University Challenge Cult student quiz show where two rival university teams battle it out to see who has the most superior intellects. 9:00pm The Coffee Trail with Simon Reeve Documentary uncovering the stories behind, and roots of coffee. 10:00pm The Men Who Built the Liners 11:00pm Machines 12:05am BBC Proms 2017 1:35am Classic Soul at the BBC 2:35am Art, Passion and Power: The Story of the Royal Collection 3:35am The Men Who Built the Liners

8:10am Everybody Loves Raymond 8:35am Everybody Loves Raymond 9:00am Frasier 9:30am Frasier 10:00am Frasier 10:30am Sunday Brunch 1:30pm Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast 2:30pm Jamie's Quick and Easy Food 3:00pm The Simpsons 3:30pm The Simpsons 3:55pm The Simpsons 4:25pm Garfield 2: A Tail of Two Kitties 5:55pm How to Train Your Dragon 7:40pm Channel 4 News 8:00pm Posh Pawn 9:00pm The Biggest Little Railway in the World 10:00pm SAS: Who Dares Wins 11:00pm 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown 12:00am Shutter Island 2:25am Holocaust: Night Will Fall 3:25am The Supervet

Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Emmerdale Omnibus Coronation Street Omnibus Take Me Out The Voice UK Yogi Bear FYI Daily Yogi Bear Looney Tunes: Back in Action FYI Daily Looney Tunes: Back in Action The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey FYI Daily The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Ibiza Weekender Family Guy Family Guy Family Guy American Dad! American Dad! The Cleveland Show The Cleveland Show

3:30am 7:00am 7:50am 8:50am 9:50am 10:55am 12:55pm 2:55pm 4:55pm 7:00pm

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

9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:05am 2:20am 3:40am

4:55am 5:45am

Teleshopping Murder, She Wrote Murder, She Wrote Heartbeat Heartbeat Columbo Lewis Foyle's War Foyle's War Agatha Christie's Marple Paul O'Grady: For The Love of Dogs Paul O'Grady: For The Love of Dogs Tonight at the London Palladium Birds of a Feather Birds of a Feather Evil Under the Sun Blue Murder Rosemary and Thyme Light-hearted drama series about a pair of gardening enthusiasts turned amateur sleuths. Road to Avonlea Road to Avonlea

2:40am 3:35am 3:40am 4:00am

Teleshopping Goals of the 90's The Sweeney The Sweeney The Sweeney The Car Chasers The Car Chasers The Car Chasers The Car Chasers The Car Chasers The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Darts: The Masters Storage Wars Storage Wars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Darts: The Masters Harry Brown FYI Daily Harry Brown Minder Modern-day reimagineering on the classic comedydrama. Minder Football's Greatest ITV4 Nightscreen Teleshopping

5:45am

6:10am 6:35am 7:00am 11:05am 11:40am 12:30pm 1:30pm 2:30pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 9:00pm 9:55pm 10:00pm 11:05pm 12:40am 2:55am 4:10am 5:00am 5:45am

House Doctor Home improvement series that works its magic on neglected homes. Wildlife SOS HouseBusters Milkshake! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Football on 5 The Championship. Police Interceptors Police Interceptors Open Season 2 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Bulletproof Monk Billionaire Kids 5 News Celebrity Big Brother The Boy Next Door The Town Super Casino Celebrity 100% Hotter Britain's Greatest Bridges House Doctor

6:30am

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: Special 7:00am Aeon Flux 8:35am Dick Tracy 10:25am Spider-Man 12:35pm Spider-Man 2 2:50pm Spider-Man 3 5:15pm Power Rangers 6:55pm Spider-Man 9:00pm Spider-Man 2 11:10pm Spider-Man 3

6:00am 7:30am 8:00am 10:00am 11:50am 1:40pm 3:20pm 5:00pm 7:15pm 9:00pm 10:40pm 12:20am

Police Academy 6: City Under Siege Pitch Perfect 3: Special 27 Dresses Zoolander 2 Ghost Town Bad Neighbours 2 Table 19 The Blues Brothers Police Academy Bad Neighbours 2 Table 19 Death at a Funeral

5:45am 6:10am 7:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 11:35am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:30pm 6:30pm 7:30pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 11:15pm 11:45pm 12:15am 1:15am 2:20am 3:20am 4:15am

How I Met Your Mother Rude(Ish) Tube Hollyoaks Omnibus Coach Trip Coach Trip Coach Trip Coach Trip Coach Trip Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Info not available The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Gogglebox Gogglebox Rude Tube First Dates First Dates Abroad

6:30am Moana: Special Sky Movies takes a special look at the animated Disney adventure featuring the voices of Dwayne Johnson and Jemaine Clement. 7:00am Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge 9:10am Nina Troubled soul icon Nina Simone rediscovers the meaning of her life and work thanks to the support of loyal assistant Clifton Henderson. 10:50am Ghost in the Shell 12:55pm Christine 3:05pm Wakefield 5:00pm Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge 7:15pm First Kill 9:00pm Ghost in the Shell 11:00pm Christine

SUNDAY TV

4:25am

Live Rugby 7s: Sydney 7:00am Live Rugby 7s: Sydney 9:30am Live European Tour Golf 2:00pm Info not available 2:15pm Info not available 2:30pm Football 5:30pm Sports Sunday 6:30pm Football 8:30pm La Liga Greatest Games 8:40pm Football 10:45pm Live PGA Tour Golf Day four of the Farmers Insurance Open, hosted at Torrey Pines Golf Course. 12:30am EFL Goals: Championship A round-up of all the goals and action from the weekend's games in the Sky Bet Championship. 1:00am Live NFL: Pro Bowl 4:30am My Icon 4:45am My Icon 5:00am SKY Sports News

9:15am 9:30am 10:00am 10:30am 12:00pm 2:00pm 2:15pm 2:30pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:15pm 6:25pm 8:30pm 8:40pm 10:45pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:00am

La Liga Greatest Games EFL Goals: Championship EFL Goals: League 1 and 2 Sunday Supplement Football La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid SPFL Greatest Games Football Ronaldo La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid La Liga Greatest Games Football La Liga Greatest Games Football La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid EFL Goals: Championship EFL Goals: League 1 and 2 The Best La Liga Goals 2016/17

The schedules for the television programme pages are provided by an external company: we regret that any changes or errors are not the responsibility of Euro Weekly News.

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

11:00am Homes Under the Hammer 12:00pm Wanted Down Under 12:45pm A1: Britain's Longest Road 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News 2:30pm Regional News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm Father Brown 4:00pm Escape to the Country 4:45pm The Farmers' Country Showdown 5:30pm Antiques Road Trip 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm Regional News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm Inside Out 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm Panorama 10:00pm Silent Witness 11:00pm BBC News 11:30pm Regional News 11:40pm Weather 11:45pm Have I Got Old News for You 12:15am Miriam's Big American Adventure

9:30am Lorraine 10:25am The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30am This Morning 1:30pm Loose Women 2:30pm ITV Lunchtime News 3:00pm Judge Rinder 4:00pm Dickinson's Real Deal 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV Evening News 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm The Martin Lewis Money Show 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm Next of Kin 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:45pm Killer Women with Piers Morgan 12:45am An Hour to Catch a Killer with Trevor Mcdonald 1:35am Jackpot247 4:00am The Jeremy Kyle Show

4:15am 7:00am 7:30am 8:15am 9:00am 10:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 4:50pm 5:20pm 6:20pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:10am 12:15am

8:45am 9:20am 9:50am 10:25am 11:10am 12:10pm 1:10pm 1:45pm 2:15pm 2:45pm 3:35pm 4:45pm 5:55pm 7:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:00am

This is BBC Two Flog it! Trade Secrets The Farmers' Country Showdown Antiques Road Trip Antiques Roadshow Victoria Derbyshire BBC Newsroom Live The Daily Politics Michael Palin's New Europe Sahara with Michael Palin A Place to Call Home This Wild Life The Hunt Flog It! Eggheads Great American Railroad Journeys Big Dreams, Small Spaces Only Connect University Challenge Winterwatch Two Doors Down Newsnight Weather Odyssey

8:00pm 8:30pm

Beyond 100 Days Egyptian Journeys with Dan Cruickshank 9:00pm Highlands Scotland's Wild Heart Documentary looking at the wildlife of the Scottish Highlands. 10:00pm Trophy - Storyville 11:30pm Hidden Killers of the Edwardian Home 12:30am The Victorians 1:30am Rule Britannia! Music, Mischief and Morals in the 18th Century 2:30am Top of the Pops: 1981 3:05am Top of the Pops: 1981 3:40am Highlands Scotland's Wild Heart Documentary looking at the wildlife of the Scottish Highlands.

Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Who's Doing the Dishes? Dress to Impress Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Take Me Out You've Been Framed! Two and a Half Men Superstore Family Guy Family Guy American Dad! American Dad! Family Guy

5:45am 6:35am 7:00am 7:25am 7:50am 8:55am 9:55am 10:25am 10:50am 11:15am 12:20pm 1:35pm 2:35pm 3:40pm 4:15pm 4:45pm 5:15pm 5:50pm 6:20pm 6:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 11:00pm 1:10am

Road to Avonlea ITV3 Nightscreen Classic Coronation Street Classic Coronation Street Heartbeat The Royal Judge Judy Judge Judy Judge Judy The Darling Buds of May The Darling Buds of May The Royal Heartbeat Classic Coronation Street Classic Coronation Street On the Buses On the Buses Rising Damp George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Lewis Foyle's War Inspector Morse

www.euroweeklynews.com

9:00am 9:30am 10:00am 10:35am 11:05am 12:00pm 1:00pm 1:05pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am 12:40am 1:35am

4:00am 7:00am 7:50am 8:10am 8:35am 9:35am 10:35am 11:40am 12:50pm 1:50pm 2:55pm 3:55pm 4:55pm 6:00pm 7:05pm 7:35pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am 12:10am 1:10am 2:10am 3:05am 3:55am 4:00am

Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Frasier Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares USA Undercover Boss USA Channel 4 News Couples Come Dine with Me Posh Pawn Countdown Village of the Year A Place in the Sun Four in a Bed Extreme Cakemakers The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News How to Lose Weight Well The Undateables First Dates Hotel Derry Girls Hunted SAS: Who Dares Wins

Teleshopping The Chase The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Pawn Stars Pawn Stars River Monsters River Monsters River Monsters Death Race FYI Daily Death Race Car Crash Global Fifth Gear Minder ITV4 Nightscreen Teleshopping

5:45am 6:10am 6:35am 7:00am 10:15am 12:15pm 1:10pm 1:15pm 2:05pm 2:15pm 2:45pm 3:20pm 4:20pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:05am

1:05am 2:00am 4:10am

House Doctor The Great Artists HouseBusters Milkshake! The Wright Stuff Cowboy Builders 5 News The Hotel Inspector Access Home and Away Neighbours NCIS Fatal FiancÃ© 5 News Neighbours Home and Away 5 News Anglo Welsh Cup Highlights Police Interceptors Celebrity Big Brother Extraordinary People Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side Celebrity Botched Up Bodies Super Casino GPs: Behind Closed Doors

1:35pm

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen 4:15pm Conan the Barbarian 6:30pm The Huntsman: Winter's War 8:30pm Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen 11:00pm Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

10:20am Dragnet 12:15pm The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy 2:10pm Sausage Party 3:45pm Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping 5:20pm Click 7:15pm Dad's Army 9:00pm Sausage Party 10:35pm Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping 12:10am Road Trip: Beer Pong

9:00am 10:00am 10:30am 11:00am 11:30am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 11:55pm 12:55am 1:25am 1:55am 2:55am 3:55am 4:25am

Charmed Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy Baby Daddy Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy Baby Daddy Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Coach Trip Info not available Gogglebox The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Tattoo Fixers First Dates First Dates Abroad Celebs Go Dating

4:35am Gueros Award-winning comedy-drama following three restless teens as they hit the streets of Mexico City in search of an ailing folksinger. 6:30am Pitch Perfect 3: Special 7:00am Let Me Go 8:55am The Greatest Showman: Special 9:25am Nina Troubled soul icon Nina Simone rediscovers the meaning of her life and work thanks to the support of loyal assistant Clifton Henderson. 11:10am Christine 1:20pm Cardboard Boxer 3:05pm Ghost in the Shell 5:15pm Nina 7:00pm Wakefield 9:00pm Ghost in the Shell 11:00pm Cardboard Boxer

MONDAY TV

6:00am 7:00am

8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 8:40pm 10:45pm 11:00pm 12:00am

SKY Sports News Transfer Centre Get a comprehensive round-up of the latest transfer news, with live analysis of all the major moves. Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre La Liga Greatest Games Football PL Greatest Games The Debate - Live Live ICC U19 Wc A match from the ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand.

11:00am Football 3:10pm La Liga Icons 4:00pm La Liga Highlights: Barcelona 4:15pm La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid 4:30pm Football's Greatest Teams 5:00pm Scottish Cup Greatest Games 5:30pm La Liga Greatest Games 6:00pm La Liga Highlights: Barcelona 6:15pm La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid 6:30pm Football Countdowns 7:00pm The Best La Liga Goals 2016/17 8:00pm Soccer A.M. 8:30pm La Liga Greatest Games 8:40pm Football 10:45pm La Liga Icons 11:00pm SPFL Round Up 2017/18 11:15pm SPFL Greatest Games 11:30pm Soccer A.M. 12:00am La Liga Icons 1:00am SPFL Round Up 2017/18

The schedules for the television programme pages are provided by an external company: we regret that any changes or errors are not the responsibility of Euro Weekly News.

FEATURE

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

www.euroweeklynews.com

LEGALLY SPEAKING How to avoid road rage 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.

KEEP CALM: It is not worth getting angry while driving. FOR this week’s driving tips, Guardia Civil offers spoke to the head of driving standards at the UK’s Institute of Advanced Motorists Peter Rodger, who talked about how to avoid becoming a road rage victim, and what to do if it does escalate. The first point is that with any conflict between two parties, both are likely to have played a part. So try to take yourself away from the problem - let the other driver go on ahead. You might feel wronged, but letting the other party go will make no difference to the rest of your day. If someone is being confrontational or aggressive, don’t make eye contact and don’t react visibly. If the conflict is more serious, call the police, especially if you feel there is a threat or possibility of violence against you. If the other party approaches you in your car, can you drive away safely? If you can, consider doing so. But don’t accelerate dan-

gerously, or drive off if you think the other driver is going to chase you. If you or better, your passengers, can film any behaviour on your mobile phone it will help in terms of evidence, including the registration number of the other vehicle involved. Don’t open your door, don’t open your windows fully and don’t start or get provoked into an argument. If you were at fault, admit it and apologise. It may be enough to diffuse the situation quickly. And do not do anything that can be interpreted as retaliation. Hopefully by now the matter is over and you are driving away. If you feel upset or emotional pull over and get some fresh air or walk around if you need to before resuming your journey. Peter said: “Road rage does not affect everyone every day. If you’re finding it is happening very often, you might want to think about how you engage with other road users.”

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

Can they sell UK home? WE want to sell our main home in the UK. We have owned it for 24 years and have lived in it for 95 per cent of the time. However, for the past year it has been rented out to tenants. In the UK, if a person sells their ‘main residence,’ they do not pay Capital Gains tax (CGT). Even if we are non-resident in the UK, we can still pay almost no capital gains tax if we comply with certain conditions. There is a system called ‘Private Residence Relief’ that reduces the CGT down to very little. We want to sell our UK home, but we do not know what the tax position is if we are Spanish (Canarian) resident. P H (Canary Islands) I doubt that you are a tax resident of the Canary Islands. Do you pay Spanish income tax? Have you filed Form 720 declaring your assets held outside Spain? Per-

David Searl You and the Law in Spain

haps you are simply away from your UK home for a

time. The Private Residence Relief provisions that I consulted mention three years of absence without penalty, for example. Get professional help in the UK.

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

A birthday party at 11am? Mike Senker

In my opinion Views of a Grumpy Old Man WHEN I came back from the UK at Christmas I got the flu. Not my normal, sniffy, man cold stuff. I got THE FLU. I don’t know whether it’s my age but I was out for the count for five days. I couldn’t get out of bed. Mrs S went to the pharmacy and got me all the medications but nothing worked. So I got to thinking - has anyone had the flu jab? If so, does it work? I finally felt well enough to venture out and in fact I had booked to go back to England for my mate’s 70th birthday party. We have been friends since we were five years old so there was no way I was going to miss it. I’d booked my flights and hotel and car and they were all paid for or so I thought. A few days before I went I got an email from Ryanair telling me that if I wanted to take hand luggage, with wheels, into the cabin I’d have to pay extra. Now when I booked I thought it was included so I went on to their live chat and told them it was a liberty. Of course, they were not interested and I paid the extra but

lots of people didn’t and it was fun watching people trying to smuggle hand luggage on to the plane. The staff were not having any of it. I have a favourite deli I go to when I’m in the UK and I decided to go there for a late breakfast on Saturday before I left for the airport to come home. As I was on my own I couldn’t sit in one of the lovely booths that I like by the window and I was given a seat round the other side where I was the only one sitting for five minutes. Then it happened. The door opened and I realised that the reason I was the only one round there was that the 20-odd five-year-olds hadn’t arrived yet, but they had now! Who has a birthday party at 11am for five-year-olds in a deli? And who sits a grumpy old man on his own next to them? There has to be some sort of rule about that. The noise was horrendous, but they did seem to be enjoying themselves. But come on people, use yer loaf - at least warn me and let me decide whether to stay or go. Sorry to hear the man who invented predictive text died this week. His funfair will be next monkey. columnists@euroweeklynews.com

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

12:00pm Wanted Down Under 12:45pm A1: Britain's Longest Road 1:15pm Bargain Hunt 2:00pm BBC News 2:30pm Regional News 2:45pm Doctors 3:15pm Father Brown 4:00pm Escape to the Country 4:45pm The Farmers' Country Showdown 5:30pm Antiques Road Trip 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm Regional News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm EastEnders 9:00pm Holby City 10:00pm Silent Witness 11:00pm BBC News 11:30pm Regional News 11:40pm Weather 11:45pm Love and Hate Crime 12:45am Stacey Dooley Investigates 1:45am Weather for the Week Ahead

4:45pm 5:15pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm

9:30am

7:25am

10:25am 11:30am

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

Lorraine Join Lorraine Kelly and her celebrity friends for all the latest showbiz, news, style on ITV. The Jeremy Kyle Show This Morning The popular morning lifestyle magazine show with advice, chat and competitions. Loose Women ITV Lunchtime News Judge Rinder Dickinson's Real Deal Tipping Point The Chase Local News and Weather ITV Evening News Emmerdale Best 100 Walks in Britain ITV News at Ten and Weather Girlfriends Transformation Street Jackpot247

8:15am 9:00am 10:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm

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

7:55am 8:45am 9:20am 9:50am 10:25am 11:10am 12:10pm 1:10pm 1:45pm 2:15pm 2:45pm 3:35pm 4:45pm 5:55pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:30pm 11:35pm

Food: Truth or Scare Celebrity Antiques Road Trip Victoria Derbyshire BBC Newsroom Live The Daily Politics Michael Palin's New Europe Sahara with Michael Palin A Place to Call Home This Wild Life The Hunt Flog It! Eggheads Great American Railroad Journeys Big Dreams, Small Spaces Winterwatch Murdered for Love? Samia Shahid Inside No 9 Newsnight Weather Chris Packham: In Search of the Lost Girl

8:00pm 8:30pm

Beyond 100 Days Egyptian Journeys with Dan Cruickshank Documentary series in which Dan Cruickshank explores some of the most intriguing stories from Ancient Egypt. 9:00pm Andrew Marr's The Making of Modern Britain The fifth film in Andrew Marr's epic six-part series charting the events that shaped Britain. 10:00pm Art, Passion and Power: The Story of the Royal Collection 11:00pm The Stuarts 12:00am Info not available 1:00am Info not available 2:00am Top of the Pops: 1981 2:45am Top of the Pops: 1981

Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Dress to Impress Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Who's Doing the Dishes? Dress to Impress Emmerdale Coronation Street Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show The Jeremy Kyle Show Take Me Out You've Been Framed! You've Been Framed! Two and a Half Men Superstore American Pie 2 FYI Daily American Pie 2

3:30am 7:00am 7:25am 7:50am 8:55am 9:55am 10:25am 10:50am 11:15am 12:20pm 1:35pm 2:35pm 3:40pm 4:15pm 4:50pm 5:20pm 5:55pm 6:20pm 6:55pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 11:05pm 1:10am 3:05am

3:30am

Teleshopping Classic Coronation Street Classic Coronation Street Heartbeat The Royal Judge Judy Judge Judy Judge Judy The Darling Buds of May The Darling Buds of May The Royal Heartbeat Classic Coronation Street Classic Coronation Street On the Buses On the Buses Rising Damp George and Mildred Heartbeat Murder, She Wrote Midsomer Murders Foyle's War Inspector Morse ITV3 Nightscreen Text-based information service. Teleshopping

www.euroweeklynews.com

9:30am 10:00am 10:35am 11:05am 12:00pm 1:00pm 1:05pm 2:05pm 3:10pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am 1:15am

4:00am 7:00am 7:50am 8:10am 8:30am 9:30am 10:35am 11:45am 12:50pm 1:50pm 2:55pm 3:55pm 5:00pm 6:05pm 7:05pm 7:35pm 8:05pm 8:35pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:05pm 12:05am 12:10am 1:10am 2:10am 2:15am 3:20am 3:45am 4:00am

Baby Daddy Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa and Joey Melissa and Joey Baby Daddy Baby Daddy Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Goldbergs The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Coach Trip The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Tattoo Fixers 8 Out of 10 Cats The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Gogglebox Tattoo Fixers 8 Out of 10 Cats Body Fixers

6:30am

Kicks A misfit teen from a tough California neighbourhood embarks on a perilous journey to retrieve a pair of stolen sneakers. 6:30am The Greatest Showman: Special 7:00am Pitch Perfect 3: Special 7:30am Cardboard Boxer 9:15am Christine 11:30am Nina Troubled soul icon Nina Simone rediscovers the meaning of her life and work thanks to the support of loyal assistant Clifton Henderson. 1:15pm Top Ten Show, the 2018 1:30pm Ghost in the Shell 3:40pm Fear Inc 5:25pm Wakefield 7:20pm Cardboard Boxer 9:00pm Ghost in the Shell 11:00pm Fear Inc 12:40am Kicks 2:20am Christine

1:15pm

Frasier Frasier Frasier Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares USA Undercover Boss USA Channel 4 News Couples Come Dine with Me Posh Pawn Countdown A Place in the Sun A Place in the Sun Four in a Bed Extreme Cakemakers The Simpsons Hollyoaks Channel 4 News Secret Life of the Zoo 24 Hours in A and E Make Me a Better Brain Before We Die Britain's Weirdest Council Houses

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

The Wright Stuff Cowboy Builders 5 News The Hotel Inspector Access Home and Away Neighbours NCIS A Sister's Nightmare 5 News Neighbours Home and Away 5 News FIA World Rally Caught in the Act Celebrity Big Brother 11:00pm One Night with My Ex 12:05am Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side 1:05am Celebrity Big Brother 2:00am Super Casino 4:10am Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords 5:00am Britain's Greatest Bridges

11:30am 12:00pm 12:30pm 1:00pm 1:30pm 2:00pm 2:30pm 3:00pm 3:30pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:50pm 12:20am 12:50am 1:50am 2:50am 3:40am

Teleshopping The Chase Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals Ironside Quincy, M.E. Minder The Sweeney The Professionals The Car Chasers The Car Chasers Pawn Stars Pawn Stars The Chase: Celebrity Special Britain's Busiest Airport - Heathrow Harry Brown FYI Daily Harry Brown Green Street FYI Daily Green Street The Protectors ITV4 Nightscreen Teleshopping

11:45am Captain America: Civil War 2:15pm Troy 5:00pm 300 7:00pm Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice 9:35pm Xxx: Return of Xander Cage 11:35pm Captain America: Civil War

4:45am

7:05am 8:45am 10:30am 12:10pm

1:40pm 3:25pm 5:15pm 7:15pm 9:00pm 10:45pm 12:40am

Planes, Trains and Automobiles Scottish Mussel The Money Pit Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan The Boss Zoolander 2 Nine to Five Brewster's Millions The Boss Nine to Five Little Man

TUESDAY TV

7:00am

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

Cricket's Greatest Series profiling some of the greatest cricketers of all time. Transfer Centre Get a comprehensive round-up of the latest transfer news, with live analysis of all the major moves. Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Transfer Centre Gillette Soccer Special Live ICC U19 Wc

SPFL Greatest Games 1:30pm Soccer A.M. 2:00pm La Liga Icons 3:00pm SPFL Round Up 2017/18 3:15pm SPFL Greatest Games 3:30pm Soccer A.M. 4:00pm Football's Greatest 4:30pm Football's Greatest Teams 5:00pm Scottish Cup Greatest Games 5:30pm La Liga Greatest Games 6:00pm Football Years 6:30pm Football Countdowns 7:00pm SPFL Round Up 2017/18 7:15pm SPFL Greatest Games 7:30pm Soccer A.M. 8:00pm Championship Season Review 9:00pm SPFL Round Up 2017/18 9:15pm SPFL Greatest Games 9:30pm Soccer A.M. 10:00pm Championship Season Review

The schedules for the television programme pages are provided by an external company: we regret that any changes or errors are not the responsibility of Euro Weekly News.

FEATURE

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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TECH FOR THE TIMID BEYONCÉ is said to have dozens and to change them every week. I have four and haven’t changed them for years. We’re talking e-mail addresses, which some people change the way others change their socks. Or should. Not mentioning any names. It’s a surprising half-century since e-mail first emerged, and now we send 50 billion a day, many aimed at augmenting the male anatomy or congratulating you on winning a lottery you didn’t enter. E-mail has decimated the world’s traditional postal services, and has reached even the middle of the middle of nowhere. Experts say it’s under threat from social media and texts, yet today the world has nearly five billion e-mail addresses, at 2.1 per online user. But if you’re over 50 and typical, you’ve got just one. Which is a really, really bad idea. Far from simplifying your life, having just one actually complicates it. Let me give you a for in-

Wham spam thank you ma’am If the internet really is 90 per cent porn and spam, Terence Kennedy reveals one way of staying sane online.

E-MAIL ACCOUNTS: The more the merrier.

stance. Buy just about anything these days, from a left-handed screwdriver, to a pack of Meccano-set furniture, and the vendor wants your e-mail address. Officially, for his sales records. Unofficially, so he can swamp you the way Amazon pioneered: ‘If you liked this

item, you may like these other seven hundred…’ Buying online is even worse. Even e-mail providers want an email address to be able to give you an e-mail address. What it all means is the tedious daily click and zap, deleting the average eight spam messages sent a day for every person on the planet. So here’s this week’s priceless tip. Sign-up for at least one extra, free e-mail address. Dish it out happily to everyone who asks, and keep your ‘real’ address for just friends, family and work. The biggest advantage is not actually having to download all the junk mail which hits this backup account. That’s because you’re not

going to access it with your normal e-mail ‘client’ (programs like Microsoft’s Outlook or Mail, Thunderbird, Apple Mail etc). Instead, go to its website. Under your name will be a list, still without downloading anything. You can simply go tick, tick, tick against all the junk in the list, skipping any you might actually want to read, and then hit the delete button just once. Voila - they are consigned to email oblivion. Nothing is downloaded, including viruses. There is no futile, irritating beeping coming from your smartphone. No waiting for spam to creep in at its petty pace, before you can get to that vitally important family or work message.

Mailing it FREE e-mail accounts cert ai nl y cost l ess t han t he proverbial ‘dime-a-dozen’, letting you use the service in ret urn f or showi ng you some advertising or harvesting your personal data. Most provi ders wi l l i ndeed let you have more than one address, so in principle if you want multiple Gmail or Yahoo mailboxes, yes you can. Or how about the freebie addresses from your Int ernet Servi ce Provi der, which most of us don’t actually use because we already had an est abl i shed and portable one? For an account wi t h an address entirely different to your ‘ real ’ one, t here are pl ent y of ot her provi ders who di sh t hem out l i ke sweets: Yandex, Zoho, Proton, Mail.com…. Sadly, there is some bad news (for me at least) and that is that the best address has already been claimed: hotmale@hotmail.com.

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

THERE are so many daft ‘fake’ stories doing the rounds now. But surely all are topped by the one about the man who created a fake restaurant in his garden, purely to hoax TripAdvisor. ‘The Shed’ in Dulwich, England, became an internet hit, ranked number one on TripAdvisor, even though nobody had ever eaten there! Eventually it became so popular that Oobah Butler had to let people in, serving them ready meals from Iceland. Apparently he got the idea from a previous job of

writing fake reviews on TripAdvisor at £10 a post, praising restaurants in which he had never eaten, to boost businesses up the rankings. Then he said he had a revelation: “Within the current climate of misinformation and society’s willingness to believe absolute bullshit, maybe a fake restaurant is possible? It became my mission. With the help of fake reviews, mystique and nonsense, I was going to do it: turn my own shed into London’s top-rated restaurant on TripAdvisor.” He produced a website, a concept to attract attention (dishes named after moods), got a photographer to ‘immortalise’ the ‘food’ (closeups of shaving foam, bleach tablets and, at one point, his own foot) and friends to

Photo by Oobah Butler/Twitter

How a fake restaurant became London’s hottest reservation

THE ‘BREXIT SHED’: A place of milk and honey…

write reviews like: “The earthy taste and freshness of the food was something else.” Now, TripAdvisor’s a useful tool but you have to read between the lines and use

your own ‘idiot filters.’ If there are only five star reviews, be suspicious; similarly, if only bad ones. You come across silly comments as well as the ‘Emperor ’s New Clothes’ attitude to ‘be-

ing there’. This was a harmless prank, but the guy was correct about our era of fake news. (Incidentally, any chance he could cook up a Brexit deal that’ll stand scrutiny for more than a few

minutes?) PS, I’ll certainly be recommending this unbiased article! Five stars! Plus a warning: this column may not be written by a real person. Finally, still need a bit of last-minute encouragement to embrace ‘Dry January’? Well, there’s always dry cider, dry white wine and dry martinis. Always glad to help! Nora Johnson’s psychological crime thrillers - The Girl in the Red Dress, No Way Back, Landscape of Lies, Retribution, Soul Stealer, The De Clerambault Code(www.norajohnson. net) available from Amazon in paperback/eBook (€0.99; £0.99) and iBookstore. All profits to Costa del Sol Cudeca cancer charity. columnists@euroweeklynews.com

E W N 25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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OPINION & COMMENT

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Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

Geography lesson for the less experienced

Bang free THE festivities in Canillas de Albaida to ‘celebrate’ the San Antonio animal holiday happened last weekend (January 13/14) and are most definitely not animal friendly. As is customary at any festival in Spain, there was the constant noise of bangs going off all day and evening and many dogs, including mine, were so frightened inside that they certainly wouldn’t dare venture going outside for a walk. So I think that it would be nice just for once to have a

HAVE YOUR SAY

La Cala should retain charm

Photo Credit: Tyk Wikimedia

MIKE SENKER refers to ‘countries like El Salvador, Africa and Haiti.’ In order that your less experienced readers are not misinformed, Africa is not in fact a country - either Central American or Caribbean. It is a continent comprising approximately 54 countries. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Britain transferred three million Africans from their homeland to a life of slavery on the Caribbean islands. The indigenous Caribbeans were not African - nor were those of Central America. David R Worboys, Nerja

A defining moment? HAVING lived in La Cala de Mijas for more than a decade, I am one of an increasing number of people who identify how the Costa del Sol village has improved in recent years. Though ongoing expansion with new builds slightly inland concern many, a coastal boardwalk, more quality shops and restaurants and other improvements go some way to balancing some of the possible negatives of its growth from its once small fishing village identity. However, in recent days I note that extensive infrastructure improvements in Calle Antequera (new footpaths, road resurfacing,

ICONIC DONKEY: Outside the picturesque town hall. lighting and drainage) has resulted in a shaded public seating area and two old trees - a muchloved characteristic of the residential street locally referred to as Coronation Street by many in being removed.

This is sad, for although allimportant extra public street parking has been provided by the infrastructure project, La Cala should also retain characteristics of its local charm. JS, name and address supplied

Readers who have missed correspondence can see all letters - which can be edited before publication - posted on: www.euroweeklynews.com.

Spain set for winter sun Perhaps cleaning the municipal bins with sea water instead of drinking water may help with the shortages! Katrina Barratt

Comments from EWN online

Ryanair still top despite Spanish hotels fear Tunisian turbulence Jet 2 are doing extremely well, better planes and flight. competition Jim Fennessey Tunisia after the shootings - wide berth, no matter if it’s free, same with Turkey and Egypt - they don’t have what I’d say a safe haven as yet. Marie Ross Main

Tunisia is the only holiday I ever went on that I did not like and felt threatened and I have been on over 30 foreign holidays all over the world. Gill Reynolds The Spanish government needs to invest more in tourism if they want to keep tourism moving forward. Due to the climate it’s ideally suited to theme parks like Disney, Universal Studios and MGM aimed at families. These can be located out of towns. The Spanish economy needs more all year round jobs, not just seasonal work. This would also benefit local business and jobs in general. It’s been needed for a long time in the south. Pps, Estepona

Boaring news TO all the people in Benidorm, Calpe and Pego suffering from wild boar problems. You must remember the recipe created by a famous Spanish chef for a succulent pork roast which begins ‘First remove wild boar from your radiator.’ Ian Royle, Calpe

Postal delays

All letters by email or post should carry the writer’s address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published.

As much as I love this weather we do need some rain desperately. Joanne Booth

bang free festival that would be not only pet friendly but people friendly too. Delphine Penfold, Competa

Yes Jim but they don’t necessarily go to where I want to go! Ryanair go Alicante-Newquay, no choice. Jenny Dodd Much of Ryanair’s problems were towards the end of last year. It will be interesting to see if that has affected their customer loyalty this year. Geoff Kerr

Brit faces jail over starting forest fire Absolutely fair! He would have been well aware of the risks and must be held accountable. Stephen Richards This is spot on fair, risks taken by anyone means accountabilty must be taken too. Debbie Harrison

I hope he gets traditional Spanish hospitality amongst the inmates. Rodolfo Losada

‘Drunk’ passenger forces flight diversion Why allow on flight if drunk?? I wouldn’t want anyone sitting with or near me if they are drunk!!!!!! Mandy Garside Chatwood Bloody disgrace, well done crew, poor passengers... She mustn’t be allowed to fly again! Sian Foster OMG what an idiot, well done Ryanair, hope the woman got prosecuted!!! Sandra Dunn Bratton

Dangerous driver caught on video He wasn’t thinking, they rarely do, especially on the roads. Carl Glover This happens too often, time to remove the offending driver’s privileges of driving licence. David George Mitchell The driver has been caught, according to N332. Hope the courts nail this one. Russell Bushby

REGARDING problems in Orihuela with non-delivery of post over the Christmas period. We in Nucia Park have also suffered in a similar way with post taking days to arrive or the postman having to make his delivery at 8.30pm. Complaints to our post office fall on deaf ears. They blame the Benidorm office or suggest the problem is with the UK (even when the letters are from the local bank). Several times we have had bills arrive to be paid on the day of delivery. My question is, is there somewhere to make an official complaint or is this common for all parts of Spain and we have to put up with it? Dennis Jackson, La Nucia

Nerja nasty whilst Torrox keeps clean NEW YEAR, same old optimistic nonsense from the town hall. I own up to actually living in Torrox and honestly don’t know what they do with our sewage, but there never seems to be anything nasty floating off our beaches. Nerja promotes itself as a world beater resort but surely pumping raw sewage into the sea should disqualify any town. One of your fellow English language papers had an interesting article about blockages caused by wet wipes etc yet Nerja’s answer, when/if it is completed, is to pump waste three kilometres distance and 50 metres or so uphill to the new facility. How long before it blocks up and overflows? I will give you your headline for that week - Crapistrano! Oh dear, there goes my cheerful, positive start to 2018. Glad to see Mr Lee hasn’t made any resolutions and is keeping up his Britain First membership for another year. When in doubt blame the immigrants but remember you are one as well! Peter Thompson, Torrox

FEATURE

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Advertising Feature

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V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E W W W. E U R O W E E K LY N E W S . C O M

TO READ MORE

HEALTH BEAUTY

No more sneezing IF you suffer from a runny nose and itchy eyes just by looking at a plant you may be relieved to hear a hay fever vaccination is in the works. The jab, which could be available in three years, has been shown to reduce medication use for hay fever symptoms by 25 per cent. Scientists say three rounds of injections a year could leave sufferers symptom-free. Dr Rudolf Valenta, the study’s lead scientist, explained, “My expectation is that the vaccine will lead to an almost complete relief of symptoms two or three years after injections.” He added, “People will be able to defend themselves from grass pollen using

their own immune system, without having to take expensive anti-inflammatory drugs which may weaken their immune system and make them tired during the day,” concluding, “they may still have hay fever but they will feel no different to someone who is hay fever-free.” The study’s lead author at the Medical University of Vienna’s Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Verena Niederberger-Leppin, explained the effects would d i ff e r f r o m p e r s o n t o p e r s o n , s a y i n g , “The more severely the allergy sufferer is affected by grass pollen, the greater the beneficial effect following vaccination.” The news has been welcomed by other

BLESS YOU: Hay fever may soon be a thing of the past. health organisations, with head of clinical services at Allergy UK, Amena Wa r n e r, e x p l a i n i n g , “ Tr a d i t i o n a l i m munotherapy has been used for many years, although it comes with a high level of risk, such as anaphylaxis. That is because it uses natural allergen ex-

tracts such as grass or tree pollens.” She added, “So this is an exciting development if subsequent trials show success because recombinant technology, such as this, uses synthetic allergens and therefore potentially reduces the risk of severe side effects.”

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Advertising Feature

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

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MICRO PAIN: Microwaves could be damaging the environment.

How safe are microwaves FOR years there has been conflicting advice about the use of microwaves with some scientists telling us the machines could be damaging to health. But now researchers have found microwaves may not just be harmful for us but also for the environment. Researchers from the University of Manchester found the number of microwaves in Europe could be as toxic for the environment as seven million cars due to the amount of CO2 they release into the atmosphere. The study also found the British were the worst offenders with the UK responsible for almost half of all microwave ready-meal use over all Europe. The study’s lead author, Dr Alejandro Gallego-Schmid, from the School of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Science, explained, “consumers now tend to buy new appliances before the existing ones reach the

end of their useful life as electronic goods have become fashionable and ‘status’ items.” He added, “as a result, discarded electrical equipment, such as microwaves, is one of the fastest growing waste streams worldwide.” The scientist concluded, “given that microwaves account for the largest percentage of sales of all type of ovens in the EU, it is increasingly important to start addressing their impact on resource use and end-of-life waste.” The rise in ready-meal use is being blamed for the phenomenon with many families now turning to cheap and easy pre-prepared meals for dinner. Britons now spend €3.4 billion (£3 billion) on ready meals a year, some which have been found to contain as much sugar as a can of coke, cheaper cuts of meat and additives made from human hair. Chef Gordon Ramsay once described them as “food hell.”

WE all know humans are now more sedentary than we used to be. With the rise of office-based jobs, working from home and television and social-media use, we are constantly being told by the news how we exercise and move less than previous generations. And now a new study has confirmed the problem could be worse than previously feared as we are walking 20 per cent less than we even did 10 years ago. Researchers found the amount we use our feet rather than other transport to get around has decreased dramatically with the average person making 4.7 trips on foot a week in 2005 compared to only 3.8 in 2015. The news released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT), revealed, “personal business, business, shopping, and leisure walking trips have declined more than other types over the last 10 years.” Experts are also blaming the increase in takeaway delivery services and ready meals for the decline with people now less likely to pop out to the supermarket to buy food for their dinner. The study also revealed the average person made 243 walking trips in 216, walking for a total of 198 miles and spending an average of 16 minutes - or 0.7 miles per trip. It was revealed this

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It’s good to walk

amounted to around 66 hours a year spent walking, about 75 minutes a week, and represented around 25 per cent of all trips made in a year.

WALK THIS WAY: People are walking 20 per cent less now than 10 years ago.

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Update on food, drink, entertainments, what’s on and weekly happenings

Classics of pop and rock THERE is a fascinating double bill at the Benidorm Palace on Sunday April 1 with two great names from pop history appearing on stage. Gary Puckett & the Union Gap will be remembered as an American pop rock group who had a string of hits in the late 1960s. Their most successful releases were Woman, Woman;

Over You; Young Girl; and Lady Willpower. Now aged 75, Gary is still active, touring on a regular basis and performing to many new as well as old fans. See more on http://www.garypuck ettmusic.com. On the same bill, Paul da Vinci is a British singer and musician best known for his vocals on the 1974 hit recording by The Rubettes, Sugar Baby

Love, although he did not perform live with the group at the time. He reportedly had a threeand-a-half octave vocal range, and worked as a demo and session singer before and after his own moderately successful solo career, which included the UK hit Your Baby Ain’t Your Baby Anymore, which peaked at number 20 in the UK charts. For a number of years he was a backing singer for major artists such as Ringo

Starr, Gary Moore, Elton John and many others. He then went on to appear as the narrator in The Who’s Rock Opera Tommy at the Shaftesbury Theatre in the West End as well as That’ll be the Day. Now 66, he recently formed a new band The Paul da Vinci Explosion and has been working steadily for his entire career. Tickets for the show which starts at 8.30pm cost from €25 to €33 if food is included.

Archive picture of Paul da Vinci and his band. Photo Credit: www.pauldavinci.net

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OCIAL

New gastronomic delights for February THE town of Villajoyosa is adding a new gastronomic event to its calendar as the council promotes what it calls the ‘perolet days.’ Committed to gastronomy for the enjoyment of local residents and as one of its main tourist assets and economic drivers, it has added this new event which will take place from February 5 to 11. The departments of commerce and tourism in the town are working together to promote the most traditional local cuisine, hot dishes made in cooking pots known as perolets. Nine local restaurants have agreed to offer guests a special €20 menu consisting of two starters, a hot dish and a dessert. “Gastronomy is one of our main values and for this reason we have made an important commitment to enhance our main gastronomic events such as the Mostra de Cuina Marinera or the Rice Week and to create new events that not only promote our dishes. “They give visibility to our restaurants and bars to boost the local economy and the flow of visitors to our town. With this initiative we began the culinary year that will continue in April with Rice Week,” commented local councillor, Marta Sellés. Restaurants participating in the promotion are Tres 14 by Pinet, El Nàutic, La Voreta, La Marina, Hogar del Pescador, Ca Marta, Los Serrano, Nautical Club and Casa Elordi.

LOS SECRETOS: Still recording and touring.

Madrid rock visits the Costa Blanca THREE brothers Álvaro, Enrique and Javier formed a band in 1978 and became part of the Madrid Indie scene although they kept a touch of American country rock in their repertoire. Sadly, the death of their drummer José Cano on New Year’s Eve 1979 signalled a time for change and after recruiting a new drummer, they changed their name to Los Secretos in 1980 and

have been playing under that name ever since. Once again they were hit with the loss of not just a member, but one of their brothers, Enrique who passed away the day before the release of a new album in 1999. With 13 studio and four live albums, the group has been recording and playing regularly around Spain and having

celebrated 40 years in the business, they still attract large audiences with two sold out concerts (one acoustic) in Murcia. On Saturday March 10, Los Secretos will play at the Auditori TeuladaMoraira with tickets selling fast and only those costing €25 still available from the auditorium box office or from the band’s website www.los-secretos.net.

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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Photo Credit: Diego Delso

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UNIQUE ORGAN: In the Church of Sant Jaume and Santa Anna.

International organ festival THE church of Sant Jaume and Santa Anna in Benidorm boasts the only organ with three keyboards in the entire province of Alicante. Recognising the existence of this unique instrument, an annual free organ festival was established several years ago and now in its sixth year, it has stepped up to be recognised as an International Festival. There will be special presentations in the church after Friday mass at 8pm on the last Friday of each of the months of

January, February, April, May, November and December. The early performances will concentrate on organ recitals only but in May, November and December the repertoire will be expanded to include additional instruments as well as two sopranos and a baritone with the appearance in May of local oboe player José Antonio Gonzaga. The line-up for the year sees Alessandro Bianchi play tommorrow (Friday), Daniel Oyarzábal on February 23 and

Mateo Imbruno on April 27, Then on May 25, Jose Benantzi will be at the organ with José Antonio Gonzaga, November 30 sees the appearance of Francisco Amaya with soprano Blanca Goméz and baritone Miguel Ángel Viñé and finally, Miguel Bernall with soprano Julia Ruiz on December 28. The November concert will coincide with the feast of St Cecilia, patron saint of music and naturally, Christmas will be the theme for the December event.

Innovation in tradition BACCHUS CELLAR

CAVA CODORNIU: World’s secondoldest producer.

by Lorenzo Barbareschi CODORNIU is the world’s oldest and second-largest producer of bottle-fermented sparkling wine - cava - made by the méthode traditionelle (same as Champagne). Founded in Cataluña in 1551 by Jaume Codorniu, just over 100 years later Codorniu heiress Anna married Miguel Raventós merging two families with a long wine tradition. Cava was first made in 1872 by José Raventós who established a new industry with Codorniu cellars established at Sant Sadurní d’Anoia between 1895 and 1915. They were designed by renowned Catalán architect Josep Puig i Cadalfach. Tragically in 1930 the Phylloxera plague infested the vineyards, but the family fought back with innovative viticultural techniques and ensured survival, with Codorniu producing more than 100,000 bottles of cava annually by the end of the 20th century. Nowadays, Codorniu with modern instal-

lations and the latest equipment continues to control the production process of its cavas from vineyard planting to finished product. Wines produced with different blends of Chardonnay, Macabeo, Xarel.lo, Parellada, Pinot Noir and reserve wines are: Anna de Codorniu Brut, Codorniu 1551 Brut Natural, Codorniu Mediterranea Brut Natural, Cuvée Raventós Brut Natural, Codorniu Rosé Brut, Cuvée Reina Maria Cristina Brut, Delapierre ‘D’ Brut, Delapierre Glaçé Prestige Brut, Gran Codorniu Brut, Jaume de Codorniu Brut and Non Plus Ultra Reserva Vintage Brut. Codorniu has been one of the innovators of Wine Tourism in Spain, providing the infrastructure necessary for an interesting visit to their cellars at Sant Sadurní d’Anoia which in 1976 were declared a National Monument of Historical and Artistic Interest by King Juan Carlos. Happy tasting.

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CONCERT TOUR: Funds will help the Centro Día Betania.

Chamber Choir from UK on tour THE Cantores Sanctis Diebus Salisbury-based Chamber Choir with 17 voices is about to undertake its 14th tour of the Costa Blanca. Founded 41 years ago it specialises in the music of the Renaissance, particularly by English and Spanish composers such as Tallis and Byrd, Victoria and Guerrero, a time that is often described as the Golden Age, el Siglo de Oro. The choir is directed by Nicholas Hale and in this tour each concert will contain about an hour’s music and take place in beautiful buildings which are not always readily accessible to the public. Entry is free for each performance, but there will be a retiring collection for local charities. The programme for the concerts will be similar but not identical and at the Sunday Mass it is possible to hear the music in the context for which it was written. Friday February 9 sees the performance commence at 6.30pm in the Ermita Las Rotas/Les Rotes, which is situated approximately three kilometres south east of Denia town centre just off the CV 736 to Javea. Light refreshments will be served afterwards in the cloisters and the collection will be in aid of the Costa Blanca Angli-

can Chaplaincy. Saturday February 10 the choir will start singing at 5pm in Convent de la Placeta, Javea pueblo. Funds raised at this event will go towards helping the nuns in their work, particularly for Alzheimer’s sufferers, at the Day Centre there in the Centro Día Betania. Finally on Sunday February 11, there will be a sung mass at 9.45am in the Ermita del Pop-

ul, Carretera Jesús Pobre km4 with the donations assisting the Costa Blanca Anglican Chaplaincy. Further details on the choir may be obtained by emailing thenicholashale@gmail.com or by calling Nicholas on (+34) 689 549 266 whilst information on the good works being supported by this tour can be viewed at www.costablancaanglicanchaplaincy.org and www.centrodiabetania.com.

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Photo Credit: Ayuntamiento de Teulada Moraira

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FITUR EXHIBITION: Announcing the 11th Fotosub Geas.

Fantastic underwater photography competition A GROUP including the Teulada-Moraira mayor announced at the recent FITUR tourism exhibition held in Madrid, that the 11th Fotosub Geas will be held in September. This underwater photography contest will take place on the coast of Teulada-Moraira and Benissa from September 21 to 23 and is supported by the world champion in underwater photography Rafael Fernรกndez, the vice-president of Alicante Council, Eduardo Dolรณn, the mayor of Teulada-Moraira, Carlos Linares, and the councillor for Tourism of Benissa, Fernando Lรณpez. Organised by the diving club Geas Valencia, the contest started in 2008 and has since become a most prestigious event.

Rafael Fernรกndez explained at FITUR, that the sea bed of Teulada-Moraira is one of the most beautiful and unique in Spain, offering the opportunity to take great pictures of a unique and powerful type. The response from potential contestants was almost instantaneous and with the number of expected participants, the organisers consider that this is now one of the most important events of its kind on the Spanish Peninsula. The organisers of the event are also offering lectures at schools in both municipalities so students will not only be able to enjoy photographs and videos taken during the contest, but will also be able to get to know the equipment divers use.

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Fit for the stars Credit: Twitter

New film reveals designer’s dream home

NEW TEAM, NEW HOME: Coutinho and his mansion. HALLS OF FAME: Bookings are possible at a price. THE extravagant mansion where Gianni Versace lived features in the new film The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, which premiered this week. Viewers will get a look inside the luxurious estate where the designer was tragically murdered by Andrew Cunanan in 1997. Today, the house is known as the Villa Casa Casuarina, a 19,000 square-foot exclusive boutique hotel. It features 10 custom guest suites with marble bathrooms, separate living areas, and balconies. Other amenities include a pool, a spa, two private lounges and a rooftop bar. Those thinking of treating themselves to a

stay at the mansion will have to brace themselves for some serious pricing. Suites start at $899 (€734) and $1,199 (€979) on weekends, but the excitement from the film could drive those rates up quickly. Casa Casuarina was originally built in 1930 by Alden Freeman, heir to an oil fortune. In 1992, Versace was on a walk with his family and was drawn to the grand Spanish Architecture and the ‘Kneeling Aphrodite’ statue outside. The designer splashed out €32 million to completely reconstruct the building, adding a new wing, tiled pool and thousands of 24karat gold mosaics.

A Philipping nice house EX-LIVERPOOL forward Philipe Coutinho has moved into a stunning Barcelona mansion previously owned by Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas. The Brazilian star will be living in Bellamar, Casteldefells, and will count on Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez as neighbours. And Suarez was so keen for Coutinho to complete

his move that he actually bought the house before the deal between the two clubs was confirmed. Builders are currently working on the property before Coutinho and his young family move in. The mansion, which features a swimming pool in the spacious back garden, has also been the home of new team-mates

Thomas Vermaelen and Andre Gomes. It is part of a 750-metre square plot that boasts a gym and lift amongst its perks. Coutinho’s €160 million transfer is the second most expensive of all-time following fellow Brazilian Neymar ’s €222 million move from Barcelona to Paris St Germain.

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25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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Government to monitor rental sites THE Spanish government has announced plans to monitor accommodation sites much more closely. The move comes in the wake of the Cataluña terrorist attack last August. The Interior Ministry has revealed new measures in the fight against jihadist cells, as part of the Antiterrorism Pact. Records will be kept of people’s bookings on hotel and short-term rental sites across Spain such as Airbnb and Booking.com. The same action will be taking on vehicle rental companies and websites, given that the Catalonian

NIPPING THE PROBLEM IN THE BED: Airbnb will receive increased surveillance.

terrorist attack involved three hired vans to kill 16 and injure 152. The Interior Ministry also plans to tighten loopholes relating to immigration, where extremists and expensive court cases are involved. “The measures will be put in action throughout the next year and most of them are already prepared or in the final stages of completion,” said Interior Minister Juan Ignacio Zoido. Airbnb bought background check start-up Trooly Inc last June in an attempt to protect users and restore its reputation.

DESPITE the upturn in its economy of late, Spain continues to feel the lasting effects of the financial crisis of 2014. Defaulted assets in real estate and construction in the country remain above 20 per cent. Moreover, the economy has rates of unemployment, inequality and at-risk poverty rates unparalleled in the North Atlantic. In light of this climate Brussels has presented a first review of default assets in Europe. While non-performing

Credit: Wikimedia

EU deconstructs Spain’s economy

CONSTRUCTIVE ADVICE: Spain’s economy reviewed. loans have fallen by one third since the peak of the crisis, Spain has delinquent

assets of 5.3 per cent. But Spain is not the worst performing country in Eu-

rope in this area. Rates exceed up to 10 per cent in nine countries, led by Greece (46 per cent) and Cyprus (33 per cent). Despite the bail out of Spain’s banks to the tune of €40 billion, the EU’s report on its banking health expresses concerns. Brussels therefore suggests a package of measures; banks to clean up their balance sheets by strictly complying to state aid rules, the acceleration of extrajudicial agreements, the creation of firewalls and an improvement in transparency.

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GRAEME TYRRELL IF you like to grow your own plants to save cost, add interest from the huge range of plants available from seed, or just want to grow your plants in the way you like, now is the time to start planting. Seeds are relatively cheap for many garden varieties in comparison to buying seedlings. A packet can provide seed for a series of plantings, to allow a continuous harvest of vegetables or a sequence of flowers over spring and summer. I use special trays to grow a batch of seedlings, and when they are ready to plant out into the garden, I plant another batch from the same packet. It works well with vegetables like lettuce or flowers, including petunia, that have a long growing season, which permits planting through all of spring and summer. There is a huge range of different plants that can be grown from seed, that cannot usually be found as seedlings or small plants in the nurseries. This makes it much more interesting

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Time to start planting seeds for spring

SOWING SEEDS: A fun job. to garden with many unusual and exotic plants. This year I am growing a variety of passion fruit, sent over from Australia, that is not generally available here in Spain. Growing your own can also be a great way to coordinate

with other gardeners and neighbours, to have something to exchange if you grow more than you need. Probably half my garden is planted with varieties obtained in this way. This also allows you to enjoy watching the seeds emerge with

your care and flourish into a full grown plant, whether it is a vegetable to eat, a flower to decorate, or a tree to stand as a long term memory of your work to grow it. A visiting friend showed me pictures of a table she had made

GARDENS

from an oak tree planted by her grandparents, that had been struck by lightning and fallen. If you are concerned about the way plants are grown, and want to be sure that the soil is of good quality and without chemicals, to gain the maxi-

mum benefit from what you eat, as well as caring for the environment you live in, it also makes seedlings a good option to ensure you have the very best. Any small container can be used to grow seeds, as long as it holds the soil and has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. You can recycle yoghurt containers, egg cartons, shallow cardboard boxes and many other items that may normally just be disposed of. The soil mix needs to be finer than general potting mix, but you can use a coarse sieve to remove the larger pieces of a general mix to obtain a finer material, or do the same with your compost if you have some. As a rule of thumb, seeds are planted about double the depth of the size of the seed. Fine seed is best just placed on the surface, with a little more soil mix sprinkled on top. Keep the soil moist, but not wet, and you will soon have new plants emerging to enhance your garden and share with friends.

HOMES & GARDENS MANY of us are increasingly working from home. With the rise of the internet and the subsequent increase in home businesses, many people now have an office in their house. And while this may be quicker and more convenient than a long commute, it can also sometimes be difficult to switch off after a long day’s work. But idealhome.co.uk has come up with a few ways you can declutter your home office, making it a more peaceful place to work, and in turn making it easier to wind down when you’ve finished for the day. The website recommends investing in a shredder, saying, “a clear space is a clear mind and it gives you the excuse to shop for savvy stationery and pretty pieces, now that you can see your

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How’s your home office? desk beneath the paper again.” It also advises dusting behind and under your office furniture more often, to decrease dust levels - which could help anyone with allergies - and adding some plants, which will brighten the area and increase oxygen levels. In a similar vein, the site also recommends washing curtains which have been hanging up for years, as these also accrue dust surprisingly

quickly. Declutter anything you haven’t used for a while to create a more minimalist office space, and also make room for anything new you might need. Idealhome.co.uk says, “if you haven’t touched it all year then it’s going to the charity shop.”

Finally, the site recommends getting into the habit of clearing up as you go. It suggests, “pop used cups and glasses in the dish-

HOUSE WORK: Make it peaceful.

washer every night before bed,” and “plump those cushions daily,” promising, “once you get into a routine, having a neat home that’s the envy of friends, will become second nature.”

PERMACULTURE EDUCATION SUSTAINABLE DESIGN Telephone: 666 33 33 35 info@permamed.org http://permamed.org/

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Unwanted sexual behaviour do any harm. Dogs that are spayed are able to have sex, but are unable to breed. Quite often, behaviourists and vets decide to spay the animal since testosterone is running high, which causes excitement and makes the animal high. To say the least, it is unhealthy to allow a dog - male or female - to mount you. In fact I have known large breeds that love it so much they will not let go, and often it takes two or three people to remove the dog. This is very confusing for the dog and it can turn aggressive. The other danger is that this can happen to a child or elderly person. Many owners are unaware that dogs will leave sperm on the leg, and often on its body, which leaves a smell. Some dogs like cushions; these should be removed. When a dog is mounting a leg he/she is very comfortable so how do we make this uncomfortable? Simply flick them off your body like you would a fly or just get up and walk away with a ‘no’ then say ‘good dog’ but keep walking. If you have a dog that likes to do this it is advisable to speak to your vet.

David THE Dogman LISTEN to David on TRE on Saturdays 10am to 11am Costa del Sol (Gibraltar/Sotogrande) 98.7fm (San Roque to Calahonda) 91.9fm (Calahonda to Motril) 88.9fm, 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 columnists@ewnmediagroup.com

OVER-EXCITED: Don’t allow your dog to mount you.

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Brave new world CYBER PUP: Is your dog computer savvy?

PET owners can now keep their pet up to date on all their next social media exploits with BEPUPPY, the first pet social network. The revolutionary social network now allows owners to tag their pets in posts, through the use of dedicated usernames. When you register a pet, BEPUPPY assigns them with their own web address, for example ‘Bepuppy.com/+fluffy’, allowing owners to then tag their pets in their online activities. This will allegedly allow pet owners to communicate with each other at a distance, and could prove useful when owners find themselves separated from their furry friends. For example, pet-sitters will be able to reassure nervous owners while they’re away by tagging their dogs in a photo taken during a walk in the park, or during dinner time. It will also allow the pet-sitters to keep check on the animals once they’ve said goodbye, just by searching for the animal in the network so they don’t have to bother their owners. In this way it could also be a useful tool for friends and family members to keep updated of any potential updates in the pet’s life.

Keeping pets happy at home while you’re on holiday MOST of us like to go away on holiday at least once a year, and January seems to be the time to plan our seasonal escapes. But what to do with the pets? If like me you worry about intelligent pets becoming bored, stressed or agitated if left at home for long periods, or even in unfamiliar surroundings while you are away then think about finding housesitters to stay in your home and care for your pets. Many people are finding that house-sitters are a good solution - they stay in your home to care for your pets, to play with them and make sure they are comfortable and safe in their own environment. What do you need to do? - If you have pets and need house-sitters - Register on our site as a ‘homeowner’ and provide photos and general information about your location and

Photo by Brittany Sharman

OVER the years, hundreds of you have informed me that your male and female dogs like to mount you sexually by rubbing on your leg, a cushion or a toy. This is called masturbation which should not be encouraged. Some owners stand their rights and say the dog has been spayed/neutered and it cannot

KEEP YOUR PETS HAPPY AT HOME WITH PETSITTERS: Intelligent pets need entertainment.

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Peter, Pet owner in Spain We found this to be a well run website with a personal touch. Well worth trying. (See more reviews in Trustpilot)

your assignment. If you register as a Premium Homeowner for £75 per year we help you at every step.

- If you have experience with home and pet care and want to house-sit in Spain or abroad Register as a ‘house-sitter,’ build a profile with photos and describe how you think you can help homeowners with pets. Choose a Premium plan for £75 per year, you can build a large profile with more prominence online. Save Hurry! Join now to secure 2017 prices being held through January 2018. Who are the pet-sitters and why will they want to housesit for free? Most of the pet-sitters and house-sitters who join HouseSitMatch are looking to spend time in a new location and exchange their service for free accommodation. It’s a working holiday with agreed requirements on both sides.

Do you need a house or pet-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner now with a 20 per cent off introductory offer using coupon code PERFECT20. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.HouseSitMatch.com call Lamia on 00 44 (0) 777 214 2742 or email admin@housesitmatch.com

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MARCELO GESTIONES JAVEA. We can import your Cars, RD Vans and Pickups with or without import taxes. Call: 609 600 993/965 795 846. We provide a professional and fast service in approx 5 days. (246811)

INTERNET

PURELY MAINTENANCE For all your maintenance needs - big or small, contact Carl on 965 878 866 or 669 218 928 email purelymaintenance@hotmail. com (233351)

HEALTH & BEAUTY CHIROPODIST/PODIATRIST, Philip Mann, clinics in Benissa, Moraira, Javea, Calpe and Albir. 686 912 307 (250345)

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ITEMS WANTED WANTED – Washers, fridges, freezers, dishwashers, ovens. Cash Waiting. Tel: 965 874 838 Benidorm to Denia (258704)

HOME INSULATION LOCKSMITH

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ELECTRICIANS

INSULATE YOUR HOME and save on your energy bills. Keep your home warm in winter, cooler in the summer Approx 90% of properties built in the last 40 years have cavity walls that are ideal to insulate. We also do floors & ceilings. To arrange a survey and no obligation quote call 626 997 748 www.ecoconfort.es (260091)

LOCKSMITH/ELECTRICIAN/CA RPENTER for emergency safe opening. Altea area, call Michael Rice: 686 513 510 or Calpe area Sean Gannon: 667 507 630 (248131)

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25 - 31 January 2018

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MOBILE MECHANIC MOBILE MECHANIC, region Denia - Javea. Call Autobastian. Tel 608 860 725 / email autobastian@gmail.com (254273)

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PET TRANSPORT

WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 902 123 309. (200726)

PROPERTY TO LET

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CLASSIFIEDS

EXPERIENCED COUPLE wanted to run bar/cafeteria near Gandia. Must speak English with knowledge of Spanish. Accommodation, basic pay and commission. Please email oasisparks@yahoo.co.uk (248462)

BLANKET Factory Tours; Due to Expansion and our new factory in Alicante we need part time inviters/tour guides for Benidorm. Sales presenter and office assistant Alicante Based. Part time contract provided. Call Martin 629 293 042. (246880)

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FIELD SALES positions available. Must have own transport, English and Spanish preferred, but not essential, must have local knowledge of the area and be smart and presentable. Applications by email with full CV should be sent to recruitment@euroweek lynews.com

REMOVALS & STORAGE PAINTER/DECORATOR WE WILL MOVE IT Full roof rack for long loads Full & part loads We will take pets Based in Javea & Denia Spain UK Spain Weekly 0034 634 360 846 0044 7783 222 251 wewillmoveit@hotmail.co.uk (248746)

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PEST CONTROL BUGBUSTERS BENIDORM: Fully Legal Costa Blanca Pest Control Company. EST 1994. For all pest problems, commercial and domestic. Call Lois Clark 619 054 939/96 686 5204. bugbusterslois@hotmail. com. ROESB 05552 CV

PETS

PET TRAVEL UK Family pet transporters Spain/UK. Travel with your pets for free. All air conditioned vehicles (no vans) www.pettraveluk.co.uk. Removals also arranged in other vehicles. Tel UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960 130 537. (247185)

PLUMBING www.100percentplumbing. com Call for a free quotation 965 835 939 (87006) RIGHT PLUMBER - plumbing & drainage for a honest, affordable, professional service call 656 303 236 (254473) www.dragonreforms.com Tel 966 807 098. Free quotes given. (246715)

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NEED YOUR PETS TAKEN CARE OF? Not kennels, just a friendly home. Large fenced area. 699 790 080 Altea

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REPAIR or replace pumps, filters, sand changes, leaks & re-piping, Calpe to Moraira, Tel 671 202 985 www.morairapoolcleaning.com (246884) www.euroweeklynews.com

BENIDORM and surrounding areas. Two man removal. 678 067 163 (246867) MAN with a van. Furniture removals local areas. Tel: 627 703 521 Ian. (246882) SPANISH MOVES Small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK Budget prices. Last minute jobs undertaken. www.spanishmoves.net. Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/ people carriers. Telephone UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960 130 537. (247185) LOW COST TRANSPORT and REMOVALS FREE QUOTATION ON +34 679 888 791 or www.100percentremoval.com (257141) UK-SPAIN-UK 18 years Experience. New Clean Vehicles running weekly. ONLINE QUOTES. Insured with RSA. 1cbm to ANY size move. Worried who to use? We’ll look after you. www.bmceu ropean.com +44 8456 443 784 or 951 242 430. (257152) UK-SPAIN-IRELAND. Removals with the personal touch. Pets carried with care 965 696 750 / 0044 (0) 7447 918 589 e-mail chrisy ounge73979@aol.com (249024)

ROLLER SHUTTERS ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy.com

FREE accommodation in Spain in return for handyman work. Email oasisparks@yahoo.co.uk. Telephone: 696 090 776

For daily news visit www.euroweeklynews.com

SITUATIONS VACANT

TELESALES positions available for our Benissa office. English and Spanish preferred, but not essential, must have local knowledge of the area and be smart and presentable. Applications by email with full CV should be sent to recruitment@euroweek lynews.com. (256645)

SOFT FURNISHINGS LOOSE COVERS, CURTAINS ETC. Made to Measure. Choose from a wide range of beautiful fabrics in your own home. Tel: 965 771 397 or 686 453 827 (240952)

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS MARK PADDON BSc Hons. Building surveying. MCIOB, CAAT. From 245 EUROS + IVA. Insured and legally registered in Spain. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablancasurveyors. com (256759)

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CLASSIFIEDS TELECOMS FED UP PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR MOBILE PHONE CALLS? THEN CONTACT TELITEC TODAY. CALLS TO SPAIN 7C PER MINUTE INCLUDING MOBILES. CALLS TO UK 5.3C PER MINUTE. NO MONTHLY FEES, NO CONTRACT. WWW.TELITEC.COM TEL: 902 889 070 (0)

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TV REPAIRS

25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

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Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the advertisements in this section offensive.

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Costa Blanca North

FOR BEST RATES IN MOTOR INSURANCE CALL: 952 89 33 80

Clarkson Quote of the Week

“

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On the BMW Z3: And if you are clinically insane, by which I mean you wake up in the morning and think you are an onion, here’s your car.”

Some might say...

Unbe-leaf-able Nissan’s newest LEAF selling fast JUST three months after the new Nissan LEAF was announced, the car giants have revealed that they have sold more than 12,000 of the cars already; before even hitting showrooms. Three hundred thousand customers have purchased the original Nissan Leaf since it went on sale in 2010 and the car giants have revealed the staggering numbers of people to already purchase the new model. The New 2018 LEAF made its European bow at the Nissan Futures 3.0 event in October and on the company’s newest release, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Nissan Europe, Philippe Saillard, said: “The new Nissan LEAF is the most advanced and accessible 100 per cent electric vehicle. “It is also the icon of Nissan Intelli-

gent Mobility, our blueprint for a future in redefining the way customers drive and how vehicles are powered and integrated into society. “This is a car that is more enjoyable, more connected and more exciting to drive than any other mainstream electric vehicle in history. It is simply amazing.” When it comes to specifications, the new LEAF will have overhauled the old model and will now have improved acceleration, capable of reaching 0-100kmh in just 7.9 seconds. Its electrical range will allow drivers to travel 415km on a single charge, while charging time from alert to 80 per cent takes just 40 to 60 minutes. A completely redesigned interior focuses on the driver and combines

SELLING FAST: Nissan’s brand new LEAF. space with functionality, while a number of new futuristic features have also been added. The Leaf is packed with Intelligent Mobility innovative technologies, including ProPILOT Park, which is an automatic parking function capable of both parallel and bay parking after the driver selects a spot proposed by the system.

Another innovative feature is the car’s e-pedal. By releasing the accelerator, the car will decelerate and eventually come to a complete stop, without the need to press the brake. This allegedly helps reduce fatigue and stress in city driving. The new Leaf will officially hit European showrooms at the beginning of next month.

X-Class glamping! MERCEDES’ brand new X Class pickup has a camper van conversion option. The German car giants turned a few heads when they announced their first ever pickup late last year, announcing the X220d and the upscale X250d. Prices are thought to begin at approximately €30,932 for the X220d while the X250d range starts at €34,148. And now brand new images have been released of the XClass to show that it can be more than just the average pickup. In the new images, the XClass has been given a makeover by specialist firm Tischer, turning it into a car perfect for camping. The firm have added a cabin, which can be taken on and off, that sits directly on the load bed of the truck, with plenty of room inside for the perfect getaway.

MOTORING

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25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

ROAD TEST by Nick Fletcher

Lexus CT200h F Sport THE luxury hybrid hatchback class is a significant niche market, with models aimed at those seeking premium quality and sporty styling in a compact package. Add eco-credentials to the mix and one contender moves to the head of the list, the Lexus CT200h, just revised and enhanced for 2018. It is a hybrid, mating a 1.8 litre petrol engine, with an electric motor and CVT auto transmission, and the result is smooth refined driving, from a car with visual charisma and a luxurious interior. Prices start at €26,414 (£23,495) for a well-kitted entry version, though the mid-range F Sport I tested features revised body styling for a more muscular image, and extra equipment. For €30,343 (£26,995) you get special F Sport front grille, bumpers and rear spoiler, F Sport steering wheel, aluminium pedals, special 17 inch alloy

wheels and sports suspension. You also get leather upholstery, large display screen with satnav, dual-zone climate control and a raft of safety features, including a pre-collision system and lane-keep assist. The petrol engine and electric motor combine to give 134 hp, with a 0-100 kph time of 10.3 seconds and a top speed of 180 kph (112 mph). Fuel economy is 24.3 kpl (68.9 mpg).

STATS PANEL

The road stance of the Lexus CT200h F Sport is head-turning, and it stands out in a sector which includes rivals such as, the SEAT Leon, Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. The Lexus is smooth and quiet, the gearshifts seamless. The sports suspension is quite firm, as you discover on rough surfaces, but is well-set for assured and composed handling and still gives decent ride quality on the

tarmac. The cabin has a premium look and while the dashboard is unusually styled and appears complex, it has a logical layout. Seating is comfortable, there is ample room for four occupants and a big boot - 385 litres, expandable to 985 litres. This Lexus offers distinctive styling, luxury features, and strong residual values which hallmark the brand.

Model: Lexus CT200h F Sport Engine: 1.8 litre petrol with electric motor Transmission: Auto electric CVT Performance: 0-100 kph 10.3 seconds, top speed 180 kph (112 mph) Economy: 24.3 kpl (68.9 mpg) Emissions: 94 g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets.

Going to Ibiza ALL-NEW IBIZA: Picked up Best Supermini award.

SEAT’s all-new Ibiza has been awarded the Best Supermini title at the UK Car of the Year Awards 2018. The fifth-generation of the Spanish giant’s iconic model beat off competition from several big names, to win the prize at the coveted awards. It was put through a number of thorough road-test programmes before a panel of judges, who expressed nothing but admiration for the car’s advancements. Several features were noted that put the Ibiza ‘a cut above,’ but the new MQB A0 platform played a significant role in the

Ibiza’s triumph, earning praise from a number of judges. The all-new Ibiza will now be considered for the Car of the Year title, which is expected to be announced in a few weeks.

Richard Harrison, SEAT UK Director, told British media: “The new generation Ibiza marks a watershed in the car’s history of achievement, as our most successful model.

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FERRARI has finally revealed that it will build an SUV while claiming that it will be the fastest in the world The Italian car giants have previously said that a Ferrari SUV would be “ridiculous,” but seem to have changed their mind as they are reportedly now saying that a car could be ready as early as 2019. Speaking at the Detroit Motor Show, Fiat Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne told Auto Express that the aptly named FUV (Ferrari Utility Vehicle) will have to “drive like a Ferrari” while also targeting the top speed in the division. That title is currently held by the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, capable of speeds over 176mph and going

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Ferrari finally announce SUV from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds. The British website later released images and sketches of what a future FUV may look like. But that is unlikely to be the real target for Ferrari, after Lamborghini unveiled their first super SUV, the Urus, last year which will become the world’s fastest.

Once it is eventually released, the FUV will have to surpass the Urus’ expected top-speed of a staggering 189mph if it is to receive the title of the fastest SUV in the world. Fiat Chrysler chief Marchionne also revealed to Auto Express that Ferrari is planning an electric supercar, capable of rivalling the Tesla Roadster. Tesla’s Roadster will reportedly be capable of hitting speed of 250mph and is set to be released in 2020. He said: “Ferrari has looked at this forever and if there is an electric supercar to be built Ferrari will build it first.”

FUV: An artist’s impression of what the new Ferrari SUV may look like.

Photo by Twitter

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A handsome fee A RARE Ferrari supercar built for the Sultan of Brunei is set to be sell for a staggering €2.2 million (£2 million) The F40 was reportedly the first production vehicle capable of 200mph when it was originally released in 1987. The model up for sale is reportedly just one of seven models ever made in right hand drive by Pininfarina, the Italian car design firm. The Sultan, who reportedly has a collection of over 5,000 motors, has spent more than €113,000 on the car in its lifetime. It is fitted with a 2.9 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that can hit 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 201 mph. John Collins, who runs Talacrest Ferrari dealership, managed to bring two of the rare Ferraris to the UK in the 1990’s. Mr Collins told British media: “The F40 is one of the most sought-after Ferraris and the definitive supercar. “It was the first production car capable of 200mph and is an automotive icon. “The F40 was a landmark not just on account of its crushing performance and stunning looks, but it was fittingly the last ever car presented by Enzo Ferrari. “Everyone wants an F40 in right-hand drive but Pininfarina only made seven. “This will be the third time I’ve sold this model and it has always commanded a premium.”

SPORT

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25 - 31 January 2018 / Costa Blanca North

Ex-Brazil striker Ronaldo reveals plans to buy lower league club ‘in Spain or England’ FORMER Brazil striker Ronaldo has announced that he is thinking about buying a lower league football club in either Spain or England. The ex-striker, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers to ever grace the game, hung up his boots in 2011 after a career stretching 18 years. The 41-year-old’s name has been regularly talked about as the future Brazilian Football Federation’s President. But, for the time being, the twotime World Cup winner has ruled himself out of the running for the presidency, but has revealed that SPAIN ON HIS MIND: Ronaldo has said he is he would be interested in owning a club in either the Spanish or Engthinking about buying a club in either Spain of lish second division. England. “It would be a great honour, but I’m prepared for the challenge.” before that I want to experience running a big Former Real Madrid, Barcelona, AC Milan club,” he told Folha de S Paulo. and Inter Milan striker Ronaldo scored 300 “I’m thinking about buying a club in the goals across his career and won many of the second division in Spain or England. top trophies all over the world. “I want to do something innovative. I think

Javea Green Bowls Winter League carry on their winning ways JAVEA GREEN’S Winter League team began the second half of the season with an away win against La Marina. Crucial to maintain their top of the table status, Javea Green’s team travelled to La Marina knowing they faced a tough team on their own green. With several key members missing, two teams were revamped and it proved a successful format for Javea, as they won on three rinks and secured the overall shot difference to come away with an 8-4 win. Always a pleasure to play against La Marina, who provided a delicious threecourse lunch with wine before a happy Javea team boarded the coach for the long journey home. In the Northern League Javea’s Onyx team unfortunately lost 8-2 away to Finca

Guila, Opals had a great 9-1 result away to El Cid and Quartz secured a 6-4 result at

home to BBC Tigers to maintain their second spot in the table.

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REAL MADRID are currently as close to the relegation zone as they are to current La Liga leaders Barcelona. Last year’s Champions currently sit on 35 points, 19 points behind Barcelona and 19 points ahead of 18th placed Deportivo La Coruña.

TO READ MORE

Costa Blanca’s best guide to local sport

Age just a number FIFTY-FIVE-YEAR-OLD Carlos Sainz has won the Dakar rally for the second time . The Spaniard held an hour and 45 seconds lead going into Saturday’s final stretch in Cordoba and finished 43 minutes ahead of Toyota’s Nasser AlAttiyah in second-place. He finished in 49 hours, 16 minutes and 18 seconds overall and celebrated by climbing on top of his car at the end of the South American rally. Following the celebrations, the rally driver thanked fans and his team for support on social media. He said: “Finally we win the Dakar thanks for the incredible support during these days!!

Fantastic job from Lucas Cruz (co-driver) and Peugeot Sport.” Sainz’s second Dakar trophy comes eight years after his first in 2010, when he drove for Volkswagen in the second edition of the famous rally. He finished ninth in Saturday’s finale, but was under less pressure after 13-time winner and closest rival Stephane Peterhansel, known as ‘Mr Dakar,’ crashed on Friday. His son, F1 Driver Carlos Sainz Jr, was one of many to congratulate the 55-year-old in the aftermath of the victory. Sainz Jr, 23, wrote on Twitter: “Today I am probably the proudest son of his father in the whole world.”

SPORT www.euroweeklynews.com

Ron gone Former Barcelona star Ronaldinho retires

FORMER Barcelona forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football at the age of 37 according to his agent Roberto Assis. The superstar, who is considered one of the best players to ever play the game, has been without a club since he left Brazilian side Fluminese in 2015. Assis wrote in a column

for Brazilian newspaper O Globo, “He has stopped, it is ended. “Let’s do something pretty big and nice after the Russia World Cup, probably in August. We will do various events in Brazil, Europe and Asia and, of course, we are arranging something with the Brazilian team as well.” The Brazilian enjoyed an illustrious career in which he won the World Cup in 2002, the Champions League in 2006 and the Ballon d’Or in 2005. He began his career in Brazil with Gremio, before joining PSG in 2001 where he impressed ahead of a

move to the Nou Camp in 2003. Many would say that it was there where he defined his career, winning two La Liga titles, a Champions League trophy and the 2005 Ballon d’Or during his five-year stay with the Catalan club. Ronaldinho then formed part of the 2010/11 Serie A winning side alongside the likes of David Beckham, Andrea Pirlo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic before a return to Brazil with Atletico Mineiro in 2011, followed by spells with Mexican side Queretaro and finally Fluminese.

THE BEST EVER?: The Brazilian enjoyed a fantastic spell at Barcelona before moving to AC Milan in 2008.