ISSUE 652 • 14th - 20th September 2018
‘Remarkable’ woman Tributes pour in for Elaine Brown
‘LARGER THAN LIFE’: Elaine (inset) founded the MACS cancer charity.
CREDIT: Brown family (inset), MACS, via Facebook (main)
By Jose Artur ELAINE KAY BROWN, one of the leading charity and community figures in the British expatriate community in Almeria, has died following a decade-long battle with cancer. Elaine passed away at around 2.30am yesterday (Thursday) in Almeria City’s Torrecardenas Hospital. She was 58 years old. Her husband Dave was at her bedside. She leaves behind Dave, along with daughter Paulette and granddaughter Shannon. Elaine founded the Mojacar Area Cancer Support (MACS) charity months after being diagnosed in 2007 with Non-Hodgkin disease, a type of lymphoma cancer that attacks the immune system. The charity was set up to help and care for people with cancer and now has six shops in towns across Almeria Province and hundreds of volunteers. Tracey Ingman, a volunteer at MACS and a close friend of Elaine, spoke to Sol Times on behalf of Elaine’s family. Tracey said Almeria’s expatriate community had lost a “remarkable” and “inspirational” woman. “Elaine was larger than life and lived life to the full. I’m extremely proud to have called her my friend,” Tracey said.
EST 2005
Elaine set up Morleys, a business making badges for school uniforms, in Nottingham while still living in Britain. She went on to become the first female firefighter in the Nottinghamshire region. It was there that she met her husband and the two became the first firefighters to marry. Elaine made friends and helped people across the expatriate community in Almeria through her charity work. She was also well liked by the Spanish community and had dealt extensively with local councils. MACS continues to grow and Tracey said the charity was aiming to achieve Elaine’s goal of setting up a hospice for cancer patients in the area. “Elaine’s family have been inundated with messages from people who knew her and the public. Everybody uses the same words to describe her. Everybody says she was amazing, strong and courageous,”
Tracey said. Tributes from the public have poured in, Tracey said Elaine’s family were grateful for the messages of condolence they had received. “She may have lost her battle but what a difference she made to the lives of many,” one person said. Elaine’s family said they also wanted to thank doctors at Torrecardenas Hospital for everything they had done during her illness. Dave and Shannon have invited people to come to talk about her life and offer their condolences at Miraflores Camping in Los Gallardos this Tuesday from 11am. The event is set to be held in the downstairs function room. Dave and Shannon have asked for people to respect their privacy until then. They have asked for people not to send flowers and instead donate to MACS if they wish.
2 NEWS BITES
Jury to try suspect ANA QUEZADA, the prime suspect in the murder case concerning eight-year-old Gabriel Cruz from the Nijar area, is due to appear before a jury when her trial begins Monday according to court sources.
Fall death A 36-YEAR-OLD woman has died after falling six metres from her third floor balcony while trying to get into her apartment in Roquetas de Mar after leaving her keys inside, emergency services said.
Job boost THE Junta de Andalucia’s Centre for Entrepreneurship (CADE) has helped some 31 businesspeople to start up 29 companies in Vera in the first half of this year with €329,000 in grants, leading to the creation of 31 new jobs.
News
14th - 20th September 2018
Cantoria housing claims THE president of a housing laws campaign group has claimed the Junta de Andalucia’s planning laws are keeping families in irregular houses in the Cantoria area. Maura Hillen, head of the Abusos Urbanisticos Almanzora NO (AUAN), made the remarks in the wake of the controversy surrounding 700 illegal houses in Cantoria. She said the left-leaning Partido Socialista (PSOE), who run the Junta, had much to answer for over the issue. Hillen said: “The PSOE, the governing party in the Junta de Andalucia and in Cantoria, is condemning dozens of families in the parish of El Faz to the non-regularisation of their homes for decades. “Whilst a change in municipal planning is in progress which will allow houses in the areas of Media Legua and Los Garcias to obtain an AFO, that is to say a form of regularisation, this is not the case for numerous houses in the area of El Faz,” Hillen added. The houses would not be al-
CREDIT: AUAN
HOUSING CLAIMS: Hillen (inset) spoke on the situation in El Faz. lowed to benefit from this change and the current planning laws (the LOUA) will not allow these houses to become legalised for several years, Hillen said. The head of AUAN added she did not know why the PSOE were not supporting changes to planning laws backed by the conservative Partido Popular (PP) and the centrist Ciudadanos.
Hillen said: “Someone needs to explain to those affected residents in El Faz why they are condemned in this way. And someone needs to explain to society as a whole in Andalucia t h a t e v e r y o n e i s a ff e c t e d b y this.” The AUAN has been lobbying the provincial authorities in Almeria and the Junta de Andalucia to modify planning rules for several years.
Previous changes to the law meant houses built on rustic rural land and sold to expatriates were deemed illegal. Some, such as those belonging to the Prior and Payne families, were threatened with demolition as a result. The Prior’s house was demolished and the couple later received compensation.
DRUGS BUST: Police said the drugs were bound for overseas.
Drugs bust
GUARDIA CIVIL officers have uncovered more than 50 kilograms of marihuana hidden amongst fruit and vegetables from several vehicles following a probe in four urban areas of Almeria Province. Police said the drugs were bound for countries including Britain where officers suspect they would have been sold on. Officers have arrested four people in connection
News
14th - 20th September 2018
with the find. Police said some of the drivers of the vehicles carrying the shipment did not know drugs were hidden among the cargo. Guardia Civil officers said the 53 kilograms of marihuana were packed in vacuum sealed bags and hidden amongst the fruit and vegetables inside the vehicles. “The drugs were scrupulously packed and
camouflaged in the load of the truck to avoid its location,” police said in a statement. Several of the vehicles were also seized as part of the operation which saw officers make five visits to properties in Viator, Almeria City, Roquetas de Mar and La Mojonera. Proceedings for the case have been sent to a court in Vera.
Corpse mystery A BODY found floating at the Playa de Las Salinas in Roquetas has been confirmed as that of a woman. The lifeless corpse was recovered on Tuesday, and up to now only the sex has been identified. A passer-by called the Guardia Civil shortly after midday to report a body on the surface of the water at the mouth of the ravine, adding that the current was bringing it closer to the shore.
It has been suggested the dec e a s e d c o u l d b e o n e o f t h e h u n dreds of migrants who have disappeared at sea in the last few months. Local and National Police are working with the Public Health Emergency Company (EPES) and the Civil Protection of Roquetas de M a r, t o d e t e r m i n e t h e a g e o f t h e woman, how long she had been dead, and if possible, an identity.
Civil Protection of Roquetas de MarGuardia Civil
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BODY FOUND: Investigation to identify dead woman.
NEWS
14th - 20th September 2018
Cruising into view WINDSTAR CRUISES shipping company’s cruise ship, Windsurf returned to Almeria on Thursday morning and remained moored until 10pm for its second stop this month. This was the fifth of the six visits that the luxury vessel will make this year, and its last scheduled stop of the season will be in November, as indicated by the Port Authority. The Windstar shipping company is renowned for its fleet of small but stylish high-end boats. One of the most prized features of the cruise line is its cabins, with intricate designs based on marine themes and aquatic sports.
Fun filled day
The Windsurf is a large five-mast staysail schooner that is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. It has 154 cabins, a capacity for 310 passengers and a crew of 214. The vessel boasts 31 rooms with sea views and 122 deluxe ocean view staterooms. Built in 1990 and renovated in 2012, it features a swimming pool, jacuzzi, library, restaurant, and several lounges and bars. The ship came from Lisbon, stopping in Cadiz and Malaga. It will head on to Cartagena, Valencia and Palma de Mallorca before ending in Barcelona.
A CHARITY that supports children with serious and terminal illnesses has organised a family fun day in Cantoria to raise money for their cause. The Make A Wish Foundation said the event is set to be held at Cantoria’s Old Train Station from 4pm on Saturday September 22. It will feature live mu-
sic, a hog roast, market stalls, a bouncy castle, fun and games and the chance to ride a unicorn. The event is sponsored by Cantoria Council and the Angels Nursing Group. Anyone who would like more information can visit the Facebook event page: funlovewishesev ent.
Traffickers arrested A WOODEN boat carrying 21 illegal migrants was intercepted in the port of Almeria, and two Algerians in charge of the boat, have now been arrested. Police sources claim the suspects, aged 23 and 33, charged each person about 8,000 Moroccan dirhams, just over €700, for the journey from Algeria. The seven-metre long boat, with a 25 horse power engine, was rescued in high seas just south of Punta Sabinar on September 3. Officers from the UCRIF of Almeria, an investigation was launched to identify the
Arrests have been made after boat carrying illegal migrants intercepted.
people in charge of the boat, aware that in most cases they are part of organised networks which make the illegal introduction
of immigrants by the Mediterranean Sea. This led them to confirm the two suspects currently being held. It was also determined that the boat had left on September 2 from the coast of Alhucemas, specifically from the beach of Souani. That the bosses of the boat had acted in collusion with the organisers in origin and that they had apparently ‘given instructions among the passengers, threatening them with death if someone reported the facts to the Spanish police or authorities.’
CRUISE CONTROL: A ride on the luxury ship is a memorable experience.
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News
14th - 20th September 2018
CREDIT: MACS
UNPHASED: MACS said the event was a roaring success.
Raining glory A CANCER charity in Mojacar has said rain did not dampen the spirits of some 200 guests at their annual summer barbecue last Saturday. Mojacar Area Cancer Support’s (MACS) held the event at Miraflores Camping, Los Gallardos. MACS said in a statement that the venue and guests decided the show had to go on, and it did in style. “The whole event was held inside and was a hugely successful afternoon,” they said. MACS said it sought the support of several local artists who generously gave up their time to entertain everyone. The live music kicked off
with Paul Ingman and Tony Justice. They were followed by Jack Law, The Happy Pluckers, Kayleigh Easton and finishing off with Roadrunner. “There was something for everyone,” MACS added. “All the artists were fabulous and got people dancing and clapping from the start, (12.30pm until 6.00pm) and still there were shouts for ‘more!’ Marilyn Shipley was unable to attend due to illness. MACS would like to wish her a speedy recovery. “Stephen Gear stepped in as MC and did a wonderful job keeping everyone entertained with his usual abundance of energy,” MACS said. “There was a raffle, with
wonderful prizes and a game of chance - Squares Board both raising funds for MACS,” the charity added. The cash prize was €200 from the Squares Board. This was won by Mel Bird. Mel is currently in Britain. Tracey, a MACS volunteer, is set to meet a friend of his to hand over his winnings. “MACS would like to say a huge thank you to Miraflores for the fabulous food and to the staff who worked tirelessly all day and to everyone involved in organising this event. Thank you to all who came and supported,” the group said. The final total raised was approximately €1,885.03. This is subject to being rechecked and banked.
Dames meeting A TURRE-BASED group of Dames has called on people in the area to come along to its monthly meetings which begin again this September. The meeting is set to be held on Monday September 24, at the Hostel Rural in Turre at 11am. The group said in a statement: “Calling all Dames in Turre, friends and guests, after a very hot summer we can now look forward to cooler days and the commencement of our monthly meetings once again.
Do come along and meet up with your friends, talk about the things you have been doing during the summer break and find out what we have in-store for the coming year. Trips, fantastic speakers, Christmas away break and our Christmas Market which is always a big hit. We look forward to seeing you all once again.” Anyone who would like more information can contact new President Soo Wallace on 667 362 713 or Membership Secretary Eileen McGill on 652 298 072.
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News
14th - 20th September 2018
PARTICIPANTS in an ‘intergenerational’ gardening scheme in Guadix are now, quite literally, enjoying the fruits of their Labour. The participants in the initiative Una Huerta Atrás planted local varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers from Guadix, Hurneja, Purullena, Los Collados, La Sierra de Segura and Las Menas in the Huerta de la Fundación Pintor Julio Visconti. Now the members have made a return to collect the summer harvest and taste
Enjoying summer’s fruits the produce they grew with their own hands. The seeds were all donated by farmers of the region and since then they have been cared for and cultivated, both in the Huerta Atrás and in other educational gardens in the municipality. In addition, the seedlings have been used in
other municipal activities such as World Environment Day or World Day against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking. The scheme is the result of collaboration between Guadix Town Hall, Fundación Pintor Julio Visconti and Association Asociación Co-Marca Guadix Natural.
It has managed to bring together a group of people of very diverse ages and profiles who help in all aspects of the market garden and also show ‘a commitment to the revitalisation of the historic centre and the enhancement of urban and social gardens.’ Una Huerta Atrás is part of Guadix Town Council’s Environmental Education programme which is funded both by the council, the municipal cleaning company and business Educo Huertos Ecológicos.
CREDIT: wikipedia
SET UPON: The victim was attacked and robbed of €900.
Doorstep assault TWO suspects are being held after a man was attacked on his doorstep and robbed of €900. The victim was leaving his home in La Mojonera, Almeria, when he was set upon by several people, who fled with the rent money he had collected from another
property he owns. According to reports, the homeowner could not initially say how many people had been involved, but investigations suggested three or four suspects were responsible for the violent theft in July. Further inquiries led to the identity of two of
them, and it has been claimed the mother of one accused offered to pay compensation to the victim in exchange for not incriminating her son. The detainees, aged 20 and 25, face charges of robbery with violence. Further arrests have not been ruled out.
NEWS
14th - 20th September 2018
ROCK ON: The Green Bottle Blues band are coming to Cabrera.
Rocking the blues A GIG which was due to take place at a restaurant in Turre later this month has been moved following the closure of the venue, the organisers have said. The Cabrera Music Club, based in the Turre area, was due to host The Green Bottle Blues Band at Los Pastores Restaurant on Friday September 28. The organisers have said the concert will now take place at Fatimas Riad
Restaurante in Cabrera from 8.30pm. “The event is free but we will be limiting the numbers,” Cabrera Music Club said. “The Green Bottle Blues Band is an exceptional group of eight musicians, playing a mix of Blues and Rock. We are sure you will enjoy it,” the group added. Anyone interested in attending should email Fatima at cabreramusicclub @gmail.com to reserve a spot.
Wave of activity
POPULAR: Rising number of visitors recorded. FOUR people, including two children, were taken to hospital after a crash involving two cars and a van in Roquetas de Mar left them injured. Andalucia’s 112 emergency services line said they received several calls from passing drivers alert-
ing them to the accident which happened on the A7. The collision involved two cars and a van and took place at kilometre 431 on the motorway, emergency services added. Guardia Civil traffic personnel and Local Police of-
ficers were despatched to the scene along with medical staff. Paramedics took an 80year-old man and a 72year-old woman to Torrecardenas Hospital in Almeria City. Two children, aged 11 and eight, were taken to Poniente Hospital.
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News
14th - 20th September 2018
Ed. 652
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THE luxury liner Azamara Pursuit, made its first stop in Almeria this week having resumed cruises in March following a thorough renovation. And president of the Port Authority Carmen Ortiz, was there to present captain and crew with a commemorative plaque and framed photograph of the ship to mark the occasion. Part of the Azamara Club Cruises of the Royal Caribbean shipping company, the liner left Southampton on August 30, carrying 700 tourists mainly from the UK and America. After the presentation, the ship and its crew of about 400, prepared for the next phases of its journey to Barcelona. The Azamara Pursuit is
Sailing through CAPTION: creativecommons
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AZAMARA PURSUIT: The liner marked its first stop in Almeria since major facelift the third cruise vessel to stop in Almeria in September, a month which will see six ships with around 7,000 passengers, pass through the port.
Four hurt
FOUR people, including two children, were taken to hospital after a crash involving two cars and a van in Roquetas de Mar left them injured. Andalucia’s 112 emergency services line said they received several calls from passing drivers alerting them to the accident which happened on the A-7. The collision involved two cars and a van and took place at kilometre 431 on the motorway, emergency services added. Guardia Civil traffic personnel and Local Police officers were despatched to the scene along with medical staff. Paramedics took an 80-year-old man and a 72-year-old woman to Torrecardenas Hospital in Almeria City. Two children, aged 11 and eight, were taken to Poniente Hospital.
14th - 20th September 2018
Weekender Jos Biggs’ column Page 12
Property stock sale Page 14
Food & Drink Page 18-19
The Bodyguard
Decking your garden Page 16
Perfect panna cotta
Page 22
Page 19
Guitar rock heroes
Detect skin cancer
Page 26
Page 20
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Feature
14th -20th September 2018
Suicide prevention The sound of strategy planned silence
By Jos Biggs
BACK in March I bought a pleasant oval-shaped radio in a handsome peacock blue for the express purpose of listening to Spanish CDs.
TALKS: Discussions were held at the Ministry of Health. THE Spanish government is devising a strategy aimed at reducing the country’s suicide death toll. Between 3,500 and 4,000 people a year take their own lives in Spain according to the National Statistics Institute, with another 8,000 people needing hospital treatment after failed suicide attempts. The death toll is more than double that seen on the roads. Just before she quit her post, then Health Minister Carmen Montón, met with health professionals last week in order to collect information about the problem.
The idea is to put in place a plan to deal with the problem which causes so much pain and distress that it dwarfs other causes of death but seems to be little talked about. The Health Ministry points out that there are 65 suicides for every death from gender violence, 11 for each homicide and two for every road death. Samaritans in Spain have a 24-hour helpline for people who need to discuss their problems. Call freephone 900 525 100 or email pat@samaritans.com. More information: www.samaritansinspain.com.
Yesterday I unpacked it, being careful to keep the box and receipt. With eager zeal I plugged it in, inserted a disc, and - nothing! I tried another one - nothing! Different CD - third time lucky no! I stuffed it more or less back into its box, complete with receipt and some CDs to prove my point and returned it from whence it came Electro Curro. I explained the problem, and without preamble the chica unboxed it, plugged it in, inserted one of the CDs that I had thoughtfully provided and - nothing!
She checked its buttons, which were all working except for the resolute silence of the CD. She took out CD#1 and replaced it with CD#2. Silence! She picked it up, turned it upside down and gave it a shake. Silence. She replaced CD#2 with CD#3. Silence. With puzzlement she turned it over in her hands - and dropped it. It hit the floor with a crash, swayed slightly, then settled on its back - and for a few brief seconds the CD burst into life before reverting to stubborn silence. ‘We’ll send it back and ring you when it is working properly.’ She said, handing me my three CDs. B u t m y e ff o r t s t o i m p r o v e m y Spanish are not completely shot, just as soon as I discover what ‘Lee los CDs onientolo en vertical, en horizontal no los lee’ means!
josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk
Feature
14th - 20th September 2018
Weekender 13
Travel
Beautiful, beautiful
San Sebastian
TALK to almost every Spanish national about travelling around Spain, and they will all mention San Sebastian. And if you say that you’ve never been there, it’s greeted with a look of dismay, quickly followed by ‘it’s beautiful... you must go there!’
DOMINATING: The Buen Pastor Cathedral was finally finished in 1962.
San Sebastian - or Donostia as it’s known to the local Basque Country population - is one of the most northerly of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations located on the Bay of Biscay. San Sebastian’s most famous attraction is its great selection of beaches, but for those seeking a little more than a sunbathing holiday there is a wealth of history to be discovered and a chance to learn about a whole different culture - and language - at the same time.
If anything, a trip to San Sebastian feels like you’re visiting two countries for the price of one. Much of the architecture that San Sebastian offers is relatively modern, with one example being the Buen Pastor Cathedral (or Cathedral of the Good Shepherd). Dominating the local skyline at 75 metres high (245 feet), construction began in 1888 with the official documentation being signed by the two-year-old King Alfonso XIII... the present King Felipe VI’s great grandfather. The building was originally just a church and designated as being a cathedral in 1953, nine years before it was completed. Featuring the Gothic Revival style, it’s considered the most important church in San Sebastian and is an even more spectacular sight at night thanks to the light-
ing. One of the most visited places in San Sebastian is the Parte Vieja (Old Town). The quaint buildings famous for their very colourful roofs are protected from the sea by the Monte Urgull. Traditional tourists who are looking for a more relaxed form of nightlife will quickly fall in love with the Parte Vieja when they get to know its trendy bars and cafes, and with the Basque Country being world famous for the quality of its cuisine, there is no problem in finding a quality restaurant or four. To walk off the food and drink, a stroll through the streets to see some of the city’s other famous churches - such as the Basilica of St Mary’s of the Chorus - is recommended, and as you do so try to imagine that until 1863, this historic Parte Vieja was surrounded by a wall.
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Weekender
Rent rates THE price of renting shared flats in Almeria City fell in August to €208 per month on average compared to the same time last year, according to a property website. Figures from Fotocasa show Almeria City was the second cheapest of Andalucia’s provincial capitals. Jaen City was the cheapest at an average of €185, a yearon-year increase of 0.3 per cent. It was followed by Almeria City and then Huelva City at €212, a 13.5 per cent rise. The most expensive rents for rooms in Andalucia were in Malaga City at €279, a 9.1 per cent rise, followed by Sevilla at €255, an increase of 2.9 per cent.
Property
14th - 20th September 2018
Property stock sale By Roger Kendall
ONE of Spain’s largest banks has announced it will sell several properties in Almeria Province as part of a nationwide sale to clear its stocks from foreclosures. A total of 70 houses are up for grabs throughout Almeria Province as part of Bankia’s autumn sale. There are also 20 ‘unique properties’ for sale including industrial buildings, warehouses, shops and other commercial property. The properties carry discounts of up to 40 per cent. Bankia said i t i s a l s o o ff e r i n g c o m p e t i t i v e mortgages and it will not require customers to purchase other products when signing their contracts. The bank is selling more than 4,300 properties across Spain as part of its campaign which is being conducted with the Haya estate agent. Around 2,900 of those are homes and the rest are unique properties. There is a mixture of urban, rural and coastal housing on offer, according to Bankia. There are also properties in villages
SELLING OFF: Several properties are available in Almeria. and small towns available. There are 75 homes available in Cadiz Province as well as 20 industrial and commercial buildings. The bank has put a total of 230 homes up for sale in Andalucia as well as 100 unique properties. In the Murcia region there are more than 180 homes up for grabs as well as 25 unique prop-
erties. There are more than 910 houses available to buy in the Valencia region and more than 760 for sale in Cataluña. Industrial properties for sale in the regions number 590 and 120 respectively. A total of 300 homes and 100 unique properties are available in Castilla-La Mancha. About 190
homes and 55 industrial and commercial buildings are available in Toledo Province and 110 houses and 45 unique properties are on the market in Ciudad Real Province. Bankia said that anyone interested in buying a property could visit their local branch, their webs i t e , o r c a l l 9 0 1 11 7 7 8 8 . T h e sale runs until October 31.
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Weekender
Lifestyle
14th - 20th September 2018
Colours of autumn AUTUMN is coming, bringing with it a new season of ‘in fashion’ colours for the home which have left behind serene blues and quartz pinks and take on a darker, warmer feel. Spanish decorators this season are going for aubergines and blacks combined with white or neutral colours with metallic accessories to create new atmospheres as summer is left behind. Lounges in particular are going to feel warm and l u xu ri o u s th is a u tu m n with d e e p aubergine walls and velvet sofas adorned with cushions in tones of purple. Velvet is making a real comeback with lots in the shops in greens and blues combined with neutral shades. Bedrooms meanwhile are taking two different directions with light coloured walls contrasting with dark bedding to enfold sleepers in their comforting clutches on the one hand, and cheerful blues, greens and mauves keeping the summer feeling going on the other. Metallic tones are also bursting into homes this autumn this special emphasis placed on matte finishes and tableware, in preparation for Christmas, is taking on luxurious golden hues.
Staying on deck
Easy vegetables for your garden HOPING to create a beautiful, plentiful edible garden but have no experience? Believe it or not, you don’t need to have especially green fingers to get started. There are some veggies that are very easy, if not foolproof to grow. Here are our top five suggestions to get you started.
DECKING HAPPY: Bring new life to your garden.
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F YOU want to carve out a space for spending quality time in your garden, for al-fresco dining, reading or just to soak up the sun, some welldesigned decking will do just that. It’s important to think about the layout of your garden when planning your decking, and think how much space you’ll have to use to make the most of it. T h e r e ’s a w i d e r a n g e
of different decking options available to suit your taste. You could go for wood and create imaginative patterns using different shades or opt for an environmentally-friendly option by using plastic or wood-waste blends. Decking is also for levelling out surfaces so it’s a great idea if your garden is on a slope or slightly uneven. Yo u c o u l d l a y o u t t h e decking across two separate levels and have steps linking the two.
Taking your living room outside is very fashionable right now, so adding a bit of statement furniture with some stylish cushions and throws will help to create your own outdoor haven. Use bold colours in complementary colours to really make an impact. If you have any old furniture you’re thinking of getting rid of, you could also give it a new lease of life by bringing it outside, as well as giving it a fresh lick of paint of course.
Lettuce Lettuce grows quickly and is easy to harvest (just snip the tops off the plants or pick leaves as needed), and takes up very little space. It can even be grown in containers, perhaps accompanied by flowers or tucked under taller plants. It can even be grown in partially shady spots. Tomatoes Possibly the most popular vegetable for all gardens, they can be grown in hanging baskets or containers with ties to keep them upright. Tomatoes love sun so ensure a sunny spot which shouldn’t be difficult in Spain. Seedlings are easiest to grow and can be bought from the garden centre. Cucumbers Cucumbers like sunlight and warm temperatures and usually need support for climbing. They need regular watering but once they are established they grow like weeds with plentiful crops. Green Beans All sorts of green beans, from snap beans (or string beans) to shell or whole beans are ideal for home gardens. There are hundreds of varieties to choose from and they grow plentifully given the right spot. Radishes Radishes are great as they only take 20 days to reach their full size. Radishes are great for salads but can also be used in a variety of dishes and are delicious as a snack.
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Weekender
Eat your carrots and greens CARROTS could be an important weapon in the war against prostate cancer, scientists have claimed. A study led by Professor Norman Maitland at the University of York says a diet rich in Vitamin A could be the key to beating the disease as it makes it more treatable. The researchers have discovered that retenoic acid, a chemical made from Vitamin A, can reduce the ability of the cancer to invade surrounding tissue. Vitamin A can be found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes and leafy green vegetables such as kale.
Food & Drink
14th - 20th September 2018
Superfoods to keep you healthy
IN our 20’s we seem to be able to eat as much as we want (within reason) without having to worry too much about our weight. But as we get that bit older it g e t s i n c r e a s i n g l y d i ff i c u l t f o r many people to keep those extra kilos off. The reason is that our bodies burn less energy while resting once we pass 40, which can result in weight gain. But this is not to say it is inevitable - the old adage ‘a little of what you fancy’ holds true today as much as it ever did. There is certainly no problem in treating yourself to a meal out, especially here on the Costa where there is so much choice life would be a lot poorer without sampling the multitude of cuisines available within a short distance. But there are a selection of ‘superfoods’ available, which can help you keep healthy as part of a balanced diet. You could try: Oats - containing beta-glucans, oats are a soluble fibre that can help lower the unwanted form of cholesterol, and contains antioxidants unique to the grain to pro-
BALANCED: A little of what you fancy can be good for you. tect against the build-up of plaque on artery walls. Eating just 3g of oats every day is enough to reduce total cholesterol by 5 to 10 per cent, say researchers. Cherries - the fruit is useful in combating several conditions including gout and arthritis as they
are a rich source of the antioxidant anthocyanin. Introduce a dozen cherries with yoghurt or seeds or drink a glass of unsweetened juice three or four times a week to ensure you receive the beneficial vitamins. Almonds - the benefits range from improved blood-sugar levels
to reducing cholesterol. Make sure you eat plain varieties not sugared or salted versions. Oily fish - Omega 3 fats in salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines and herring can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, and reduce the risk of irregular heartbeat. For optimal benefits, consume at least four times a week. Soy - Isoflavones in soy beans have been linked to lowering cholesterol, increasing bone density in post-menopausal women and improving male fertility. Consume fresh edamame beans or soy beans in cans two to three times week, but be cautious as soy can affect hormone levels and over-consumption is not recommended for pre-menopausal women. Tomatoes - an excellent source of the antioxidant lycopene which protects against the formation and spread of cancer cells as well as protecting arteries. Research has shown that drinking 150ml of tomato juice after 20 minutes of exercise offers protection against prostate, lung and stomach cancers and heart disease. Lycopene in tomatoes is more easily absorbed by the body when it is cooked.
A tomato a day keeps the doctor away…
HEALTHY: Tomatoes are good for you. TOMATOES - they are ubiquitous in Spanish food, tasty and provide a splash of colour - and they are also good for you. Research has proven that eating a tomato-rich diet can cut the risk of heart disease by a quarter, perhaps helping explain why the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in
the fruit has long been known to be particularly healthy. It is believed that the antioxidant lycopene, which gives tomatoes their red colour, holds the answer to a healthy heart, although researchers did say that whilst the powerful antioxidant appeared to shield against heart disease, more studies are
needed to be certain it is the lycopene and not something else that is providing protection. The beneficial effects of tomatoes are boosted in the Spanish diet by being combined with other foods like olive oil and fish - also known to be particularly good for you.
Food & Drink
14th - 20th September 2018
PANNA COTTA: Delicious.
The Perfect Panna Cotta P
ANNA COTTA is something I have often fancied having a go at making, so this week I decided to try it. It looked easy enough, just some cream, sugar, vanilla and gelatine … The kitchen at Olive Tree Farm was smelling great! I decided however to try and get fancy. No simple Panna Cotta for me. Not just one flavour but two. Half of it Nutella and the other half vanilla. I searched out various recipes on line. They were all pretty similar, but had various measurements used in the recipes. There were millilitres, cups, tablespoons, grams, ounces, and that was for the cream and sugar. Then there was the gelatine, this was either sheets or powder. After a bit of working out I was ready to go. The Nutella one was first. After warming everything through I let it cool for a few minutes and ran it through a sieve, I carefully poured it into my glasses, which I had on a tilt. It was tricky to get the exact amount in each, but eventually they looked perfect and went into the fridge to set. Next for the vanilla part. I followed the same routine, it smelled fabulous. This one had to be really cool once done or it would have melted the chocolate one and made a mess. But no it was perfect! Until I checked it the next day! Too much wobble on the vanilla but we ate them! Next day I tried again. The chocolate set beautifully, the vanilla, was still extremely wobbly despite adding extra gelatine. We had to eat them
OLIVE TREE FARM was set up about four years ago with the intention of achieving a level of self sufficiency. We have poultry for meat and eggs, goats for milk, rabbits and small pigs for meat and harvest our 70 olive trees each year for oil. We also grow a variety of fruits and vegetables. again! After a further two attempts, increasing the gelatine each time, it was looking good. Both set. We have all put a few extra pounds on, but we had to test them! So here you go! My recipe for my beautiful Panna Cottas… Tomorrow, the diet!
I filled quite large glasses and used the amounts stated below for two Nutella Panna Cotta 300 ml cream (I used Nata de Montar from Mercadona) 25g granulated white sugar (two tablespoons) Half a cup of Nutella (I used Mercadona’s own) Gelatine - one leafsoaked in cold water for about five mins before using Dissolve the sugar into the cream in a saucepan on medium - low heat stirring continuously Add the chocolate spread and stir until well mixed. Remove the pan from the heat. Squeeze out the water from the soaked gelatine and add it to your mixture stirring until dissolved. Allow to cool slightly and pour through a sieve into a jug, then pour into tilted glasses. Once cooled a little more, set in the fridge (minimum four hours). Vanilla Panna Cotta 300 ml cream 25g granulated white sugar (two tablespoons) One vanilla pod split in half lengthways One and a quarter leaves of soaked gelatine Follow as above dissolving the sugar in the cream,
adding the vanilla pod and scraping the seeds into the pan at the same time. Remove from the heat and dissolve the gelatine. Pour through a fine sieve into a jug and leave to cool completely. Add to your glasses over the chocolate mixture and leave to set. Decorate with a few nuts and grated dark chocolate.
Weekender 19
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Weekender
Health & beauty
14th - 20th September 2018
Skin cancer awareness week MORE than 250 dermatologists evaluated thousands of Spaniards across 49 provinces in a bid to detect and prevent skin cancer. The initiative was part of the 2018 melanoma campaign organised by Spain’s Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV), in which 33 other EU countries also participated. A c c o r d i n g t o A E D V, a r o u n d 4 , 0 0 0 melanomas are diagnosed each year in Spain and believe around 80 per cent of these could have been avoided if adequate sun protection was used. Cases are more common in those aged over 50, particularly as sun protection and the damaging sun’s rays were less known about a few decades ago, but there are more and more cases of young people being diagnosed due to unhealthy habits of sun exposure. However, the good news is that 80 per cent of melanomas are cured with surgery and early diagnosis means it is unlikely to have spread to other parts of the body. During the week-long campaign earlier this year, specialists analysed moles and offered free consultations to check people’s skin. Different activities were also arranged to remind people of the importance of protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays and in checking
moles for any changes. Remember if you have an existing mole that has changed shape, colour or size, you should get it checked. Also, look for new moles, spots or lesions that are red, can bleed and are not healing.
SUN DAMAGE: Get your moles checked out.
Try yoga to beat cancer YOGA could help those with breast cancer particularly as it helps patients to be more relaxed and better able to cope with side-effects. Two studies were presented at the US cancer conference
held in Chicago as researchers claimed the activity of yoga had numerous benefits. As well as lowering the cortisol stress hormone, they reported that those who practised yoga found they
YOGA: Helps patients to be more relaxed.
slept better and were not so exhausted, which is often a problem with cancer patients going through treatment and reduced pain levels. The first study was carried out in New York with 321 patients, the
Health & beauty
14th - 20th September 2018
Avoid sleeping beauty diet EXPERTS are warning against the so-called ‘sleeping beauty’ diet. The ‘diet’ advocates sleeping as long as possible so there are less hours in the day to eat. Many women are also relying on sedatives and sleeping pills to enable them to sleep up to 20 hours a day and are at risk of overdosing and becoming addictive. The diet could also have an impact on the mental health of followers unable to interact or socialise, spending most of the day in bed leading to social isolation and potentially depression. It can also affect a person’s body clock and dieters are more likely to binge eat when awake. Experts warn sleeping pills should always be used with caution.
r effects majority of whom had breast cancer. The second study was in Mumbai, India and looked at whether yoga can improve survival rates of breast cancer patients.
FAKE TAN: For a truly healthy look.
Top tips for an even glow EVERYONE loves that healthy summer glow but for a truly healthy look you need to fake it! Forget lazing in the sun for hours on end and all the associated health risks involved. There are literally hundreds of fake tan and self-tanning creams, lotions and sprays available to give the natural bronzed look you are looking for. However, whether it’s a deep tan or lighter colour you want, there are some top tips to follow to ensure an even look: Exfoliate. Ideally up to seven hours before you want to apply self-tan. This will help remove dead skin cells and help
prevent uneven, blotchy patches with the product. When doing your legs, shave or wax at least 24 hours before. Apply the product after showering. Ensure the skin is completely dry and moisturise beforehand, particularly on dry spots such as knees and elbows to help with an overall even result. We a r g l o v e s . P r o t e c t your hands from the product. Nothing gives the game away that you are faking it like brown stained palms. Wait to get dressed. To prevent the self tan staining your clothes or smudging, wait at least 15 minutes after applying before getting dressed.
Get help. Enlist the help of someone to apply tan to the back and to those hard to reach areas for an even glow. Stay protected. Despite t h e h e a l t h y g l o w, y o u must still protect your skin from the sun and wear adequate UVA and UVB protection.
Weekender 21
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Weekender
Leisure
14th - 20th September 2018
Bodyguard creator Jed Mercurio still hasn't spoken to BBC about series 2 said at the time. “I think it’s very hard to do that, particularly because there are no guarantees that something will get recommissioned.” H e a d d e d : “ Yo u j u s t d o n ’ t k n o w, s o i t e n d s u p b e i n g something that is best d o n e , i n m y v i e w, r e t r o spectively. “I think the problem with putting things in a first season that have no relevance to the first season is that you can end up making something quite difficult to follow.”
Richard Shanley
Dishing the Dirt OF EUROPA DIGITAL
B
ODYGUARD has become a massive smash hit for the BBC but its creator has confirmed that there are still no firm plans for a second series. Despite the critical acclaim and record-breaking audience numbers, writer Jed Mercurio has said that he’s not had that all-important conversation with the channel about a follow-up. “I really don't know,” he told Metro about the possibility of a second series. “The approach to it was definitely that we would just focus on this series and if we’re fortunate enough it’s successful and the BBC wants to do more, and we can find a way of setting up production, then yes definitely I’d be open
NO WORD: The second series has not been commissioned. to the idea. “But there’s been absolutely no discussion about a second series yet, there’s certainly no plan to do a second series yet until we’ve had that conversation with the BBC.” That mirrors what Jed told DS after the broadcast of that storming first episode. “I’m not projecting that far in the future,” he
DRAMA: The Bodyguard stars Keeley Hawkes. (left)
If you would like me to answer any questions you may have on satellite TV or to expand on anything I have written about please call me on 678 332 815 or email richard@europa-digital.com. I look forward to your comments and questions. Don’t forget to listen to my radio show every weekday from 10am on Spectrum 96.1 and 106.8FM, now covering almost 3,000sq kms of Costa Almeria and Calida or listen online at costaalmeria.spectrumfm.net for the latest news and views from the world of satellite television.
PETS
14th - 20th September 2018
Weekender 23
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Does your dog need a lot of exercise? KEEPING energetic pets well exercised is important for their health and well-being. If you’ve ever owned a fit and agile dog you will know that they are happy when they can run around and exercise on a regular basis. This is particularly important for breeds that need to be active like Alsatians, Boxers, Greyhounds, Labradors, Retrievers, Rottweilers, Weimaraners; the list goes on. When you go away for a trip it is vital to maintain routines. A resident house-sitter can ensure that your dogs are cared for in the way you want with an exercise routine shared ahead of time. How we work HouseSitMatch is a house-sitting network where new members register online. We ID check everyone to ensure we know who you are, and in addition sitters are police checked. We charge for membership to ensure that there is a commitment from both parties and that we can afford to manage our network online professionally. Our latest review on Trustpilot I’ve used the services of Hous esitMatch seven times now. I’m delighted to have found this agency. After a couple of disappointing experiences with other agencies I have nothing but praise for the HouseSitMatch team. Their sitters are selected responsibly and with care, their backup/help for home-owners is immediate and second to none and the
ENERGETIC PETS: Some dog breeds need regular exercise. Even when you’re away. company’s indisputably high standards no doubt account for the explosion in their growth in recent years. I simply can’t fault any aspect of the service offered by Hous eSitMatch and am so grateful to Lamia and her team for all the help they have given me over the past couple of years Review by Ann, Mijas Costa, Spain How you benefit as a home and pet owner Our membership offers access to a secure network helping you find suitable sitters. We hide your contact details and address. You post
an advert ahead of your travel dates, we publish the advert then house-sitters apply. You can view their profiles and chat with them before you accept an applicant. If you join as a Premium member we can also help you at each stage of the process to get you started and manage your account. How you do join? Please register online via our website www.Housesitmatch.com - Choose a membership plan * Standard (DIY option) = £49 pa * Premium (with support at each step) = £79 pa
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 with a 20 per cent discount using coupon code P2020 – an exclusive offer for readers. To find a house pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com 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
Paw prints A ROUND up of pet chatter from the Almeria cybersphere. Brought to you by Rex Charles. BRITT, from Los Gallardos, asks if anyone is available to help walk a dog in the Huerta Nueva area of the town. There is also an offer of payment for giving it a go. In a reply to someone asking how often, Britt says the volunteer walker should be available a couple of times a week at times to suit them. MALANDRAJO, from Vera, says that two ‘wonderful’ puppies have been staying at the centre after being left in the door. They are looking for a new home. Petra and Pepe are a type of mastiff, are brother and sister and are aged around four months. Malandrajo adds they have received one jab and are due for another one soon. They are also house trained. Malandrajo says anyone interested can contact them on the link below or Paws Pata. Visit: https://www.costadealmeriaforum.com/area/ all/animals-pets-in-costa-de-almer%C3%ADa-230/.
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Weekender
Puzzles
14th - 20th September 2018
Wordsearch Herbs & Spices
Boggled How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules? The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms. No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice. No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
TARGET:
THYME
BAY LEAF
STAR ANISE
ALLSPICE
NUTMEG
CUMIN
FENNEL
SALT
BASIL
PEPPER
CINNAMON
PAPRIKA
TURMERIC
OREGANO
ROSEMARY
CLOVES
TARRAGON
GINGER
DILL
SAGE
Quick
Across 1 Obstreperous (7) 5 Fragment (5) 8 Lawful (5) 9 Afro-Caribbean music (7) 10 Illumination (5) 11 Informed (5) 12 Become larger (6) 14 Thrust or throw into (6) 18 Lizard (5) 20 Precise (5) 22 Do away with (7) 23 Enthusiastic (5) 24 Wear away (5) 25 Italian rice dish (7)
Down 1 Raising of sunken or wrecked ships (7) 2 Royal (5) 3 Closed plane figure bounded by straight sides (7) 4 Sailing boats (6) 5 Bohemian folk dance (5) 6 Make plain and comprehensible (7) 7 Call out (5) 13 Small flute (7) 15 Heads (7) 16 Government order imposing a trade barrier (7) 17 Tie an animal with a rope or chain so as to restrict its movement: (6) 18 Glower (5) 19 Like a sheep (5) 21 Closely constrained (5)
• Average: 18
• Very good: 37
• Good: 26
• Excellent: 47
SCORING: • 4 letters: 1 point • 5 letters: 2 points • 6 letters: 3 points • 7 letters: 4 points • 8 or more letters: 11 points
ness nest nets nett sestina sets sett knelt knit knits snit stem stink stint etna lent lean leant leans lank lane lain laic nans nits nine tens tinkle tint tinct tine tinea tins mess elan ankle ants ante antes anti antic inkle inns inset inst inane item items vine vial vicinal cine cite cites ciao
Cryptic
Across 1 Client has some EU services (4) 4 Tried SAS manoeuvre, but it was a catastrophe (8) 8 Roman emperor took vehicle around wild sea (6) 9 Song birds with no ribs broken (6) 10 French sea with English pond (4) 11 Tory with impenetrable contract (8) 13 Sailor convert at sea is doubtful (13) 16 Met green characters coming out (8) 19 Judge accepting Ecstasy and rocks (4) 20 Dogs one missed in French resort (6) 22 Plumbing fixture for a baby party (6) 23 Kitchen items made at stores (8) 24 Hardy character in United States Secret Service (4)
Down 2 Arrange more toast for the guest cabin (9) 3 Honour pastor in cult after religious education (7) 4 In Colorado, rich men give the order (5) 5 Queer Street has scope (7) 6 Sale includes British fur (5) 7 A long time sheltering in Sierra Leone (3) 12 Cooking meals, she's audacious (9) 14 Keep an eye on past, understand? (7) 15 Arrange to tour school building (4,3) 17 Places stinking Stilton first (5) 18 Team leader requests jobs (5) 21 A bit of publicity that leads to nothing but trouble (3)
Puzzles
14th - 20th September 2018
IRREGULAR SUDOKU
SOLTIMES STAR QUIZ : EUROPE EUROPE DAY is an annual celebration of peace and unity in Europe. There are two separate designations of Europe Day: May 5 for the Council of Europe and May 9 for the European Union (EU) 1. At 646 metres above sea level, which is the highest capital city in the European Union? 2. Grossglockner is the highest mountain in which European country? 3. In which country is the European Court of Justice (ECJ), officially just the Court of Justice, the highest court in the EU in matters of EU law, situated? 4. Piedmont, Abruzzo and Umbria all are regions of which European country? 5. Released in 1986, what was the title of the Swedish rock band Europe’s only UK number one hit single? 6. The Flag of Europe (or European Flag) consists of a circle of how many golden (yellow) stars on an azure background?
7. The Last Man in Europe was an early title for which dystopian novel first published in 1949? 8. Because it has been the site of more European battles than any other country, which nation is sometimes referred to as the Cockpit of Europe? 9. Which famous English footballer was the inaugural winner of European Footballer of the Year award (Ballon d’Or), in 1956? 10. Which is Europe’s tallest active volcano? Not a lot of people know that... the Spaniards have a completely different life rhythm from other Europeans. They typically have lunch between 1 and 3 pm, dinner around 10 pm, and rarely sleep before the early hours of the night. Prime time TV in Spain starts at 10 pm and lasts until 1 am. Likewise the peak for radio listening in the morning is around 10 am
Kakuro
Answers 1. MADRID, 2. AUSTRIA, 3. LUXEMBOURG, 4. ITALY, 5. THE FINAL COUNTDOWN, 6. 12, 7. George Orwell’s NINETEEN EIGHTY-FOUR (1984), 8. BELGIUM, 9. STANLEY MATTHEWS, 10. MOUNT ETNA
SUDOKU
Weekender 25
Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
CrosswordSolutions from last week Quick
Cryptic
Sudoku
Irregular Sudoku
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Weekender
Feature
14th - 20th September 2018
Giving up smoking is easy by Sandy Shore
I
DO it every week; so goes the comedian’s jest. One supposes my generation can be forgiven for having taken up smoking. After all, lighting up for our post-war generation was the coolest thing imaginable. When we went to the movies our silver screen heroine had a cigarette drooping from her scarlet lips. We cinema goers watched spellbound as gazing seductively into her fawn-like eyes her hunk put a match to it. The coffin nails expression had not come into being then. It was an easy enough seduction, by which I mean the falling in love with the ciggie. Cigarettes were affordable too, especially for 335,000 Merchant Navy sailors. A 10-pack carton of Lucky Strike or Camels cost just 10 shillings, or €0.70 in today’s money. I just checked, a pack of 20 Marlboro today will set you back an eye-watering €0.81 in
UP IN SMOKE: Sandy kicked the habit after many failed attempts. Britain; the tax on that is €7.55. Had I not kicked the habit I would have been out of pocket to the tune of about €112 per week. As this is roughly the equivalent of my state pension it isn’t hard to work out that those who couldn’t give up are paying my pension;
thank you very much. When records began in the 1940’s over half the adult population smoked. The figure has since dropped to about 20 per cent so the tobacco industry’s propaganda has gone up in smoke.
An ally of the tobacco industry was urban myth. The ladies lips sucked harder on reading fake news that the price of abstinence was weight gain. The hard-sell was that the damage having already been done it was pointlessly a burden to give up on one of
life’s few pleasures. Such myths kept the wheezers wheezing. When 35 years ago I stubbed out my last cigarette my weight was 88kg; it is now 92kg. Years after I crumpled my last cigarette packet I was examined by my cardiologist, who asked me if I had ever smoked. I told him truthfully that for 37 years I had smoked 40 a day. He astonished me by saying there was no trace of smoking history on my heart or respiratory system. The last secret: How had I finally succeeded in kicking the habit when on many earlier occasions I had failed, sometimes within hours? When my approach had been, ‘let’s see how long I can last’ I had capitulated before battle commenced by conceding the probability of defeat. I succeeded on the day when I said to myself, “whatever, I will never again place a cigarette in my mouth.” For some strange reason the demons left me alone and it was the easiest abdication imaginable.
Behind THE MUSIC
Guitar Heroes V L James vljcomms@gmail.com Facebook: @vljamesinfo I REMEMBER a strange phenomenon at school, between about 1978 through to the early 80’s. Arguing about who was the best guitarist was common place. People had their favourites and were prepared to argue vehemently about the merits of their favourite axeman. My first guitar hero was Ritchie Blackmore. The first double album I owned was Deep Purple in Concert. I remember listening to Ritchie’s gui-
tar playing in wonderment and thinking to myself I must get a guitar. Although the album was released in 1980, it featured concert performances from 1970 and 1972. By this time Ritchie was long gone from Purple and was riding high with Rainbow. Ritchie first learnt classical guitar at the age of 11 and you could hear some classical influence in a lot of his playing that set him apart from his blues influenced contemporaries.
ROCK ON: Blackmore strummed with Deep Purple. Starting off in the 60’s as a session musician with Screaming Lord Sutch and other Joe Meek produced bands he joined Deep Purple in 1968. By 1970 the classic mark two line up of Purple were making waves. Ritchie’s long running feud with singer Ian Gillan is now a legendary rock soap opera, but what a player!
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Weekender
Feature
14th - 20th September 2018
Scots Ospreys repopulate Spain TAKING heart from the success of the re-establishment of Ospreys in Scotland the bird, which had been extinct on the Spanish mainland, has been reintroduced. And it is Scottish birds which led the way in the reintroduction process. Twelve young Scottish ospreys were released on the north Spanish coast in 2013 near Bilbao, as the first stage of a fiveyear project to restore
OSPREYS: Last year 12 chicks were born in the Basque Country. breeding ospreys to the Basque Country. Ospreys were persecuted to extinction in Britain by the early 20th century. They slowly began to recolonise in the 1950’s, and since then, ospreys have spread slowly
but steadily in Scotland, where over 200 pairs now nest. The Biscay Regional Council and the Urdaibai Bird Centre asked Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) for permission for the project. SNH issued a special licence in 2013 to
Roy Dennis of the Highland Foundation for Wildlife to collect 12 young ospreys from nests with more than one young in the Scottish Highlands and Moray. Twelve ospreys were released in the Basque Country and seven of those still return - although more are expected to turn up every few years. Last year 12 chicks were born, meaning the region now has a total of 60 ospreys having started with none just five years ago. Once released, the young birds were able to come back to nest platforms containing a daily supply of fresh fish which they would take away and eat, as if a parent had provided food for them. The birds were released at Urdaibai estuary to the north of Bilbao. This estuary is regularly used by migrating Scottish ospreys, travelling to and from West Africa in spring and autumn. But no pair has nested there since the 1960’s. This project follows the successful reintroduction of sspreys to Andalucia which involved birds from Germany, Finland and Scotland. Five Scottish chicks were flown to Malaga before being taken to a new home in Cadiz Province.
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Weekender
By Migel Jayasinghe COMMUNITY counselling is a major part of the interventions at community level that has at its basis the discipline of Community Psychology. Research in psychology at the level of the community in contrast to the prevailing ethos of working at the level of the individual brought many benefits. Not the least of such benefits has been the impetus it provided for urban renewal efforts in the United States. The very first use of the term community psychology is attributed to SB Sarason. In 1974 he wrote the seminal book, Psychological Sense of Community: Prospects for a Community Psychology, published by Josey Bass. Since then, community psychology and community counselling has spread worldwide. Its fundamental thesis is that individuals as psychological subjects cannot be separated from their setting of families and communities (environment), and studied in isolation in any meaningful way. Professionals, psychologists and counselors among them, have to understand the social world within which individuals live and work, to enable them to engage people in intervening, affecting, and improving the lives of their clients and counselees. The urban environment, espe-
Feature
14th - 20th September 2018
Counselling at the heart of the community
THE BRONX: Multicultural inner city populations are helped by psychologists. cially the inner city has been targeted as an area of concern, and much positive work has been undertaken there. In writing about the needs of inner-city refugees, mention must be made of Orford (1992) who outlined a ‘set of principles’ for community counselling. These encompass the ideas that
problems have social and interactional causes, should be analysed at the macro level, that service planning should be proactive and community-based, and that practice should focus on prevention within everyday contexts and involve the sharing of psychological skills and knowledge with non-psychologists.
An even more basic rationale for community counselling is provided by the epistemological stance held by social constructionists. Qualitative and action-based research, are the methods normally adopted by community psychologists seeking multiple outcomes using diverse strategies and initiatives. A good example of a successful
community-based intervention is ‘School in the Park (SITP)’ where in San Diego, California, 800 public school students from the inner city are attending a programme for approximately one-fourth of their 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade education. This unique programme blends rigorous academic standards (formal learning) with hands-on, experiential curricula (informal learning) using community resources at 10 institutions within San Diego’s famous Balboa Park. Since this programme began some years ago the scores on standardised tests of participants have improved steadily. To summarise, the main concerns of community counselling is with an ecological approach with specific regard to cultural diversity and empowerment. Mutual help and support is at the very heart of interventions with particular concerns over prevention and the utilisation of community structures and resources. The values of social justice and equality are at the very heart of community counselling and support. Readers might like to know that any English speaker in emotional distress can contact Samaritans in Spain on Freephone 900 525 100 or email pat@samaritansin spain.com and more information can be found on the website www.samar itansinspain.com the Samaritans in Spain Facebook page and Twitter.
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CHARITIES/CHURCHES GIRASOL COMMUNITY CENTRE. Mosaic Classes, Art Classes, Karate, Yoga, Thai Chi, Pilates, Health Screening every 6 weeks. For Hire 5.00€ per hour. Tel 639 089 170
COSTA Almeria and Costa Calida. Mojacar Eucharist Sunday 11am, at San Pascual. Aljambra Chapel, Albox, Eucharist, second and last Thursday of each month, 11am. Evensong, second Sunday of each month 6pm. Llanos Del Peral, Cucador, Eucharist or morning worship, Sunday 11am. Church Wardens: Pam Carter 667 947 573. Janet Smith 671 451 838.
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The Spiritualist Centre, Benijofar meets at Hamilton´s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178. We hold a Sunday Service at 11.30 a.m., a Tuesday Evening of Mediumship at 7 p.m. Spiritual healing is available every Sunday and Tuesday after the service. Our Open Circle is every Thursday at 6.30pm. The Divine Service, with Mediumship on Sunday 16th September will be taken by Linda Sheppard (UK Medium). The Evening of Mediumship on Tuesday 18th September, will also be taken by Linda Sheppard. The Divine Service on Sunday, 23rd September will be taken by George Lawson (UK Medium). Contact Wendy on 965323028. www.spiritualistcentr e-benijofar.com New email is phoenixchurch23@g mail.com or info@spiritualistcentr e-benijofar.com Identificacion Fiscal G54713789. ZURGENA branch of the Royal British Legion hold Branch Meetings on the 1st Thursday of the
month. Coffee morning 3rd Wednesday of the month. Quiz night with a hot and cold buffet last Friday of the month. We also arrange outings to places of interest and have regular lunches together.
properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information.
COMPUTERS HEALTH & BEAUTY
DAMP PROOFING DAMP proofing. www.electroos.com. info@electroos.com. 958 656 560 – 619 666 363 (278378)
GIRASOL HEALTH FOOD SHOP, Calle Malaga, Albox. For all your dietary needs, health foods, organic foods, supplements, super food powders, organic eggs and veggie box scheme. Est 2006. Tel 639 089 170
HOME FURNISHING
DRAINAGE
INSURANCE
ELECTRICS ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691 (260685)
ESTATE AGENTS VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting
ALBOX/MOJACAR INSURANCE, Award winning Agent for ALL your insurance needs. ALBOX OFFICE: 950 121 943. Mojacar office: 634 323 399 MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 902 123 309, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 902 123 309 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)
Classifieds INTERNET GET YOUR business noticed online! Make sure that expats in Spain can find your product, service, restaurant, bar or shop. Contact Spain’s newest and brightest online directory TODAY. Call 951 386 161 or email mark.w@euroweeklyn ews.com for more details.
LANGUAGE LESSONS
MOTORING
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14th - 20th September 2018
PERSONAL
REMOVALS/STORAGE
SECOND HAND
SWIMMING POOLS GENECO Pool construction. Tel 950 478 086 for no obligation quote (93401)
TILING FLOOR AND WALL TILING SPECIALIST Not a jack of all trades, just a master of one! Call Steve Holman on 697 678 708 (255340)
PETS SITUATIONS VACANT
THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs 6.25 euros, medium dogs 7.00 euros, big dogs (over 20kg) 7.75 euros, cats from 5.50-7.00 euros a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotelturre@ gmail.com New opening hours MonSat 9.30-12.30 and 18.00-19.00 Sundays 9.30-10.30 (256834)
ARE YOU selfmotivated and hard working? We are looking for administration/telesal es candidates. Experience not essential as full training is given. Applications by email with full CV should be sent to recruitment@eurowee klynews.com.
TRANSPORT
SOLAR ENERGY /POWER SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@sunergyalmeria.c om (276001)
FULLY Insured UK/Spain Removals & Storage, UK Trading Standards Approved www.indalotransport .com 634 336 468 or Freephone UK 0800 999 33 68 (279773)
PLUMBING SERVICES SECOND HAND
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)
PERSONAL
KNOWLES PLUMBING. No 1 for plumbing! Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 950 137 197 or 606 807 797 (278824)
FULLY Insured UK/Spain Removals & Storage, UK Trading Standards Approved www.indalotransport .com 634 33 64 68 or Freephone UK 0800 999 33 68 (276002) www.ukspainuk.com We’ve 18+ years’ experience. New Clean Vehicles running 2/3 times monthly. ONLINE QUOTES. Insured with RSA. ANY size move. Worried who to use? We’ll look after you. Call BMC European free on Spain 900 984 960 or UK 0800 612 4677 (WhatsApp +34 622 588 222) (279154) LARGE 18 CBM van returning to the UK mid-September. Fully secure. Anywhere UK. Call +44 7380 554422 (276625)
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If you are reading this it is because we get your attention, try it with your business
TELEPHONE ALBOX OFFICE 950 633 217 or MOBILE 642 454 311 or sales@soltimes.com BUILDING SERVICES
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Services REMOVALS & STORAGE
14th - 20th September 2018
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36 A senior level of fitness SENIOR Group fitness classes will be taking place in Mojacar’s Assembly Hall from next Monday. The sessions will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 11am. They are a great way to meet new people while also keeping yourself fit, nimble and full of energy. All senior citizens are welcome to join, regardless of physical condition, and you’ll be glad you did. For more information please call 950 888 877.
Sport
14th - 20th September 2018
Making the rules THE referees and assistant referees of Almeria are certainly in shape for the new 2018-2019 season. All the officials of the Almeria Arbitration College have passed a range of physical, technical and theoretical tests in order to take charge of games in their respective divisions. They were summoned to Cartama in Malaga for a full technical conference, an in-depth examination of the rules of the game, and several demanding fitness tests. The group consists of 14 firstrate referees of Almeria that through hard work have reached a highly professional level in the sport. Sanchez Villalobos, the Ejidense referee, is one of the leading officials in the province and is in his fifth season in the Second Division B. Despite the steady increase
Credit: @fran4mat/Twitter
LAW MAKERS: The referees have worked hard to progress their sporting careers. in his stature, Villalobos said: “I am not obsessed with promotion and I prefer to go match by match, step by step.” Over the years Almeria has
proved a fertile breeding ground for referees of local, national and even international standard. The stellar results that the
Almeria oust Malaga
referees at the Almeria Arbitration College have achieved this year, with a 100 per cent pass rate, shows that the future is bright for them.
Wheel drama ALMERIA’S Classic Cycling Masters event will take place on Sunday and will depart from Benahadux. The race will end at Los Baños de Sierra Alhamilla in Pechina, and is expected to repeat the success of the inaugural event last year. A presentation was made at the regional government’s headquarters in Almeria, led by Culture Delegate Alfredo Valdivia, and Maria del Carmen Soriano, mayor of Benahadux. Mr Valdivia said: “Hundreds of cyclists ride the roads of this region every week, which makes the trails themselves the training grounds of this event.”
Credit: U_D Almeria/Twitter
GOING THROUGH: Almeria showed spirit to turn the game around. THE Andalucian derby between Malaga and Almeria in the second round of the Copa del Rey ended in a 2-1 victory for the Almerians. They were the better side throughout but a controversial penalty for Malaga on the stroke of halftime, converted by
H e c t o r, p u t t h e m o n the back foot. Half-time changes seemed to give Almeria new impetus, with Rioja providing width on the left, Chema taking charge of midfield and Sekou offering a focal point in attack. The pressure eventually told with Abqar fouling Sekou in the
box, giving Almeria a penalty of their own. Striker Sekou took the spot-kick and while his initial shot rebounded off the post, his follow-up effort made sure. Momentum was now all with Almeria with Rioja wreaking havoc down the flanks. It was no surprise when he latched on to
a loose ball in the area and squared it to Montoro, who calmly stroked it home for the winner. Almeria will progress to the third round of the Copa del R e y, w h i l e M a l a g a ’ s elimination will allow them to focus on trying to return to La Liga after relegation last season.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benahadux
RIDING HIGH: The event has the support of the Junta de Andalucia.
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Motoring
14th - 20th September 2018
Petrol meets technology during 2019 EFFICIENCY meets supremacy: the drive portfolio of the new BMW X5 is to be extended in the course of 2019 with the addition of a plug-in hybrid system. The new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance combines a model-specific in-line six-cylinder petrol engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with the very latest BMW eDrive technology. Consistent progress in the area of plug-hybrid drive has produced a system output now increased to 290 kW/394 hp, a tangible enhancement in terms of electrically powered range and a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 levels as compared to the predecessor model. More impressively than ever, the second generation of the plug-in hybrid model combines the purely electrically powered driving pleasure of a BMW iPerformance automobile
with the versatility that is typical of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). In doing so, the new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance offers optimised qualities in terms of both driving dynamics and efficiency. It does the sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, which is more than one second less than the predecessor model. The top speed when
driving on electric power alone is increased from 120 to 140 km/h. Its electrically powered range is now approximately 80 kilometres, almost three times that of its
p r e d e c e s s o r, a n d t h e c o m bined fuel consumption of the new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance drops to 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres. Its fuel
tank has a capacity for 69 litres, and so long-distance driving is no issue either for this new kid on the BMW block.
Photo credit: BMW Press Room
VERSATILE: The new BMW X5, faster by the second.
‘ Fastest SU WITH 670 bhp on tap, an estimated 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.5 seconds, and a 200 mph top speed, The Lister Motor Company’s new LFP is set to become the fastest SUV in the world, beating the performance of recently-launched SUVs from other well-known prestige car brands, with monster killer performance, faster than most supercars, never mind SUVs. Set for full release in the coming weeks, Lister’s new LFP will follow the overwhelming success of the devilish LFT-666 coupe, launched earlier this year, and already becoming the fastest-selling model in the all-British specialist sports car maker’s 65-years of continuous history, with first customer deliveries due to commence in October. Early prospective customer interest in the Lister LFP is already considerable, prompting the company to open its order book now, ahead of the official reveal of the model,
Motoring
14th - 20th September 2018
Ford Focus Titanium X By Arthur Ornstein FORD’s latest Focus, the Titanium X, is the top-spec chrome grilled version. Its recent facelift has given it a fiercer look than F o r d ’s p r e v i o u s a t tempt. The Titanium X rides on stylish 17inch alloys which complement its aggressive redesign. Inside, the Titanium X offers part leather seats with electric heating and manoeuvrability technology and a dashboard crammed with the latest digital gadgets. Parking sensors, automatic wipers and climate control are include d i n t h e Ti t a n i u m X package which also includes danger and pedestrian sensors for safety.
CREDIT: Ford
IN FOCUS: Ford’s new offering is a family hatchback
Driving the Titanium X is a thrilling experience, the small 1.0-litre petrol engine version pumps
UV’ launched by Lister
Photo credit: Lister Press Room
CHALLENGING: Lister LFP promises ‘monster’ speed. with pricing set to begin at around £140,000, and extensive carbon fibre modifications to help improve weight reduction and road holding. Final specifications will be confirmed shortly. Commenting on the muchanticipated release of the bespoke new LFP model, Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of the Lister Motor Company, said: “I am delighted, overwhelmed and gratified by the huge level of interest, excitement and orders our LFT-666 supercar has already generated in just a few months. Based on early indications,
our new LFP promises to repeat the success of the LFT666, and I really can’t wait to reveal the world’s fastest SUV quite soon.” He adds “We kicked-off 2018 were we left 2017, as the UK’s fastest-growing company in the competitive motor industry business sector, according to leading independent financial analysis specialists, Plimsoll. Over the past six months the Lister Motor Company has been working very hard, developing our Tuning Division, starting with modifying the Jaguar F-Type.”
out 123bhp and a manual gearbox. Reaching 0-62mph in exactly 10 seconds, the car is a family hatchback with the ability to reach 124mph if pushed to the limit. The titanium X is incredibly quiet whilst idling and Ford claim the car is most noisy upon reaching 1,400rpm. Criticisms can be found in the Focus Titanium X’s gearbox, the 1.0-litre version feels sluggish and
underpowered upon lifto ff e s p e c i a l l y w h i l e merging onto motorways with short sliproad entrances can prove to be a hair-raising experience. However, what the Titanium X lacks in acceleration it more than makes up for in its frugalness, the 1.0 litre engine records 57.6mpg which is very impressive. T h e Ti t a n i u m X 1 . 0 costs €25,400 as standard, although the op-
tional extras could push this price up considera b l y. T h i s p r i c e t a g puts the Titanium X in direct market competition with the equally good Volkswagen Golf GTI and Seat Leon Type R. All in all, the Titanium X is an excellent hatchback and Ford have arguably produced here the most agile and playful Focus since the original hit the streets 20 years ago.
39 Techheavy GLE unveiled THE hotly anticipated Mercedes-Benz GLE will offer a sleeker and more compact design than its predecessors and is expected to feature all the latest technology gizmos one would expect from the techsavvy, trend-setting team over at Mercedes-Benz. The most startling difference with the latest GLE is that the upcoming model is set to offer a mild hybrid power train as an available option. Current trends in the automotive world see scores of car buyers turning their backs on smaller luxury cars and opting instead to purchase luxury SUVs, with this in mind it is imperative Mercedes pull out all the stops with this exciting new model. The redesigned GLE will offer much more than just an enlarged version of the Mercedes’s GLC. A host of additional extras like massaging seats and gesture control technology (the ability to operate functions touch-free) will be amongst the long list of gadgets available.