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Spain remains the world leader in organ donations with a rate of 34.4 donors per million inhabitants and 4,028 solid organ transplants in total, according to figures released by the Transplant Commission of the Council of Europe last week.

The study shows also that Latin America, where Spain is carrying out intense work on the training of transplant coordinators, is the continent with the greatest growth in numbers.

The World Transplant Register, which, in partnership with the World Health Organisation, has managed the Spanish National Transplant Organisation (ONT) for the last 4 years, has recorded 100,528 solid organ transplants around the world, although in many countries in Africa and Asia, particularly where records are difficult to substantiate, these figures are considered to be approximations. They nevertheless, represent an increase of 1.2% on the previous year.

Of these, 69,214 were kidney transplants, 20,280 liver transplants, 5,327 heart transplants, 3,329 lung transplants and 2,378 pancreas transplants.



According to the same figures, Spain, with 34.4 donors per million inhabitants and more than 4,000 transplants performed in 2009, remains the world leader in this field. In fact, 17.5% of all organ donations recorded in the European Union were made in Spain.


For the second year running, Europe has recorded a slight increase in the rate of organ donations, with a total of 18.3 donations per million inhabitants, compared with 18.2 the previous year.

According to the ONT, 9,152 donors were recorded in the EU last year for the 27 member states, representing an increase of 2.2%. This slight increase has enabled the total number of transplants performed to rise to 28,875, an increase of 3.8%.This figure is quite clearly insufficient, especially if the number of European patients on a waiting list to receive a transplant is taken into account. At 31 December 2009, 64,726 people were waiting for a transplant in Europe as compared with 63,107 in 2008.

These figures clearly evidence the urgent need to increase organ donations in Europe: in 2009, these donations only covered 44.6% of the organ needs of European patients.

Transplants in Spain
The transplantation of organs in Spain, which remains the world leader in the field, continues to grow in a sustained fashion, mainly thanks to the donations of families of elderly people who have died. In 2009, there was a total of 1,605 donors, representing an average rate of 34.4 per million inhabitants. This figures resulted in 4,028 transplants being performed, with maximum numbers recorded in kidney transplants (2,328) and lung transplants (219). These figures were complemented by 1,099 liver transplants, 274 heart transplants, 97 pancreas transplants and 11 intestine transplants.

The ONT has implemented its 'Strategic Donation Plan 40', with the objective of reaching 40 donors per million inhabitants, and which includes measures such as promoting live donations, cross donations and non-heart beating donations, as well as increasing donation awareness among that part of the population born overseas.

The Ministry for Health and Social Policy, Trinidad Jiminez, said that she was extremely grateful to all those people who have participated in the donation and transplantation process and to Spanish society in general for their contribution so that Spain can occupy this privileged position in the world rankings and, above all, for the benefit provided by their actions to thousands of patients.

In the first seven months of the year, foreign tourists spent a little over 27,000 million euros, 0.9% more than in the same period of 2009, while average daily spending per tourist grew by 3.5%.

Total expenditure by foreign tourists in July of 2010 amounted to 6,334 million euros. This figure represents growth of 3.7% compared with July 2009 and is the third consecutive month to record an increase in total expenditure and while average spending per person fell slightly in the month by 0.7%, to 911 euros, daily spending rose by 0.9% to 90 euros.

In the first seven months of the year, tourist expenditure totalled 27,106 million euros, representing a positive change of 0.9%. Average spending per tourist in this period rose by 1.4%, to 906 euros, while daily spending grew by 3.5%, to 96 euros.

Emitting markets
Total expenditure by both British and German tourists also showed an improvement in July compared with previous months. In the case of British tourists, a year-on-year decline was recorded of 3.4%, the lowest in recent months, while expenditure by German tourists recorded growth of 6%, making it the main emitting market to contribute most to the general increase for the month.

Spending by French tourists fell by 1.9%, no doubt as a result of the strike by air traffic controllers in France, which greatly affected arrivals by air. This is in contrast to the Nordic countries, which recorded an increase of 11.2%. This increase was enjoyed in each main autonomous region with a tourist tradition.

In respect of other emitting markets, it is worth mentioning the strong performance of certain European markets, such as the Netherlands, as well as many other distant markets.

Main destination autonomous regions
The Balearic Islands was the autonomous region to enjoy the highest tourist expenditure in July, with close on 1,800 million euros, representing a year-on-year increase of 12.5%, thus reversing a negative trend dating back to April 2009.

Catalonia, with revenue of 1,400 million euros, was the autonomous region which enjoyed the largest overall increase, of 16.6%, compared with July 2009. Andalusia also enjoyed increased expenditure, as a result of growth in tourist expenditure from Nordic tourists in the region.

The other main regions: the Canary Islands, the Region of Valencia and Madrid, all recorded declines in tourist expenditure, mainly due to the poor performance of the French market.

Form of accommodation and travel
Expenditure by tourists who chose to stay at a hotel grew by 10.8% year-on-year, while expenditure by tourists who opted for alternative accommodation fell by 6.2%, particularly those tourists who stayed in a second home.

Tourists who travelled as part of a package holiday increased their spending by 13.1%, while spending figures for those who opted for alternative travel remained practically the same.

August is traditionally the busiest month on Spanish roads, but unfortunately also the bloodiest one with 25 people losing their lives in 23 different road accidents throughout the country as the very final weekend of the summer holiday came to an end.

That is nine more than during the corresponding weekend last year.

The weekend saw some 4.3 million vehicles and their passengers returning from their holidays, to make it one of the busiest weekends on Spanish roads all year. Nine people were also reported to be in critical conditions after accidents on the roads during the weekend.

So far this year 1,109 people have been killed in motor accidents in Spain, which is 196 fewer than during the first eight months of 2009, about 15 % less.

Something new's happening for Cat Lovers and their cats!

On Sunday, 19th September at the Palicio de Congresos in Estepona, there will be a Cat Show with a difference! You can enter your best picture of your special cat friend in one or more of 11 fun categories and the entrance is absolutely FREE!

The Picture Cat Show is taking place at ADANA 's fun day Dog Show, so you can enter your dog friend in the ring and your cat friend in picture form and maybe both will be winners!

Enteries need to be submitted not later than 11am on Tuesday, 14th September to either Longman's Bookshop or the ADANA Charity Shop in Estepona or The English Bookshop in Sabinillas. You can also collect your entry forms at these shops. Alternatively you may prefer to go online to get your entry form at swanliggan@hotmail.com ( Swan International College ) where you can also submit your entry on line.

We will also have some of our gorgeous rescue cats and adorable abandoned kittens on show. If you're considering adopting, and you can offer a loving and permanent home, now will be a good time to come and get acquainted!

Come along and enjoy the day! Bring your friends, family and neighbours to admire your fabulous pic of your favourite cat companion!

Awards will be presented at 12 o'clock.

Entrance to the hall is 5€ which includes the Dog Show, and now also the Picture Cat Show, Children accompanied by adults enter free. View www.adana.es

Monday 30 August 2010 is the final day for tenders for the construction of Torrevieja's new Fair and Concert area, located between the Aqua Park and the new Conservatory of Music.

This work is part of the Special Plan to Support Investment Productive Municipalities of the Comunidad Valenciana (Plan Trust) and promoted by the Generalitat. The budget stands at 1,672,682 euros and is designed to transform the city by not only moving the Feria area that presently is located in the Harbour Zone, but also to supply parking, possibly facilitate a park and ride scheme for the city centre, be the new home for the May Fair and the Friday market plus provide a new site for major concert artists in Torrevieja.

The mayor of Torrevieja, Pedro Hernandez Mateo emphasized the appropriateness of this new area for fairs and concerts and said “at present the fairground in Torrevieja and the popular May Sevillanas Fair is performed in the port area, a place that has been totally inadequate because of it's small size and surface area.”

The mayor pointed out that under the Trust Plan of the Government, a large
Markets Precinct, with a substantial budget of 5,328,885 euros is also open to tender. Torrevieja's Friday market, the largest Friday market in Spain is very popular with local residents who can walk to the market with ease but it's location, primarily on side streets has become an activity that Mateo Hernandez states is “incompatible with the development of the city.”

Pedro Hernández Mateo reported that under the Trust Plan that the city of Torrevieja is benefiting from an investment of 20,560,005 euros, primarily because the city is the fifth largest in the Valencian Community, coming behind Valencia, Alicante, Elche and Castellon. It is predicted that the work shall take between 12-18 months to complete. The mayor of emphasized that implementation of these works will give an important boost to employment in the city of Torrevieja, in a time of grave economic crisis, adding that the construction will be able to generate over 1,500 jobs
during their duration.

In Andalusia there are still many large rural areas, which has certainly contributed to the survival of various craft skills that are not found elsewhere. This may not be true for the coastal villages along the Costa del Sol, but just a short drive inland from Malaga, we can discovered a number of traditional crafts.

The majority of villages in Malaga province have maintained craft skills which have remained unchanged and approved through the years, many from the time the Mara were in Spain. The Mara were brilliant craftsmen.

You can often buy crafts directly from the artisas at lower prices. So visits are strongly recommended, especially if there is a chance to see the craftsmen or women at work

In some villages have will find families of potters working with ceramic ovens that seem to come from the 19th century. You can also find many wicker and cane items on most weekly markets along the Costa del Sol and inland villages, where you may even find an old man sitting in the sun and weaving.

In addition, you can see beautifully crafted leather products, including both saddles and riding boots in the city of Ubrique, a small Mountain Village near Ronda, less than two hours drive from Malaga. Ubrique has some great restaurants and the countryside remains unchanged and is therefore great place to visit.

Ronda is well known for its traditional Spanish furniture, apart from the absolutely wonderful view of the deep gorge, and deserves a visit. The mountains of Malaga are also known for delicious local produce such as cheese, wine, typical products of meat (chorizo) and Jamon Serrano ham, and Prime Oil Extra Virgin olive oil. Spend a day discovering the traditional crafts of gastronomy.

With a car you can easily reach many beautiful villages on the western Costa del Sol, Mijas Pueblo, Casares and Ronda in the countryside. Mijas is also famous for traditional food items and hemp, wicker, ceramic or wood. When in Casares remember to visit the famous home of goat milk cheese in the mountains. This cheese has won numerous awards. But if the cheese is not what you want, there are a multitude of fantastic restaurants where you can taste typical dishes.

First it was six half marathons in six weeks, then an eight day challenge climbing the three highest peaks in Britain, next it's cycling to Paris and running up the Eiffel Tower.

This is just one local woman's impressive list of challenges to raise money for a children's hospice back in the UK.

Tracey Williams has spent the last year raising money for Hope House Hospices in Wales, a charity close to her heart and has done so in style. Not to take the task lightly, she devised some serious and challenging ways to bring in the money, starting with running six half marathons in six weeks last year and she has recently just completed her latest enduring fitness feat and the ‘Leader' met with this inspiring 25 year-old Newton College teacher to find out more.

“From 9-17 August I took part in an eight day challenge,” begins Tracey, “which started in Ben Nevis in Scotland. I walked up there and then cycled 286m to Scaffell Pike and walked up there, then cycled the 200m to Snowdonia before hiking to the top.” It's enough to make anyone exhausting just at the thought of such an intense week and would test the fittest athlete, but Tracey completed the event in just 7 days and 4 hours, well within the 8 day limit. She even finished by walking to the hospice that has inspired her fundraising efforts. “It was really emotional to have completed it and to be at the hospice to see where the money goes.” Hope House in Oswestry and Ty Gobaith in Conwy provide emotional support to families facing the pain of losing their precious child.

It costs £3.5 million a year to run both hospices which rely almost entirely upon donations. “It is a charity close to my heart,” explains Tracey, “As a teacher I work daily with fit and healthy children and as I fit and healthy person I feel I should use that and give something back.” £3000 has already been raised and Tracey hopes a final push doing charity bingo nights around urbanisation La Marina will bring the total to the £4000 target; money that will cover the cost of building a new counselling wing.

This dedicated and humble fundraiser trained for the event by cycling from her home to school in Elche every day and even roped in colleague Matt Worth to keep her company along the way. The experience has driven both to continue but they will go their separate ways for the next test. Matt will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for his own charity while Tracey is cycling from London to Paris and then running up the Eiffel Tower. “It's likely to happen next August in the school summer holidays.” That gives her plenty of time to prepare both physically and mentally.

In the meantime, she has taken part in some slightly more sedate fundraising events and has been overseeing some bingo nights to bring more money to the coffers. Organised by her proud Mum Joanne Ward, Tracey wishes to thank all the local businesses and companies who generously offered prizes and to Hillside, La Bodega and The Star who hosted a bingo night. Thanks also go to her stepdad Bernard who accompanied her during the cycling and hiking and spent months mapping out the route and getting the necessary permissions and accommodation arranged.

Andalucia's Government will approve this week a package of powerful initiatives which it is hoped will provide a massive boost to the economy of the region over the next five years.

This was announced last week by Junta President, José Antonio Griñán, after the meeting of the Governing Council, the first to be held at the Palacio de San Telmo in Seville following the building's refurbishment.

The main efforts will focus on the creation of job's which the President said “will always stand at the heart of all our efforts.”

Among the measures to be launched is a new law which will boost quality in the food and fisheries industry. The law is being introduced in order to promote product quality, guarantees for consumers and competition within the business sector, something he described as "fundamental" to improve the opportunities in winning foreign markets.

Another project included in the investment package is the Forest Plan, to which 2,500 million euros will be allocated over the next 5 years. The funding will allow the introduction of measures intended to restore degraded ecosystems, the marketing of forestry products, biodiversity conservation, and the development of protected natural areas for public use.

Griñán said that the Andalusian government 's commitment to future generations will be steadfast, achieved through sustainable growth of employment in both public and private sectors, domestic tourism and environmental industries."

Key infrastructure points for Andalusia

The Andalusian President briefed members on his recent meeting in Madrid with Prime Minister Zapatero, a meeting in which budgets and a necessary plan of action were agreed to ensure the continued growth of the region's infrastructure and the reform of public employment services .

With regard to the infrastructure, priority will be given to "essential projects," said Griñán. These projects will include the second bridge over the Bay of Cadiz, the crossing of San Pedro de Alcántara and the hiperronda of Malaga, the SE- 40 and the third lane of the A-49 between Benacazón Bormujos and Seville, the outer ring of Granada and the A- 7 Mediterranean route along the Costa Tropical, the autovía A-32 (Linares -Albacete ) and the variant of Beas y Trigueros in Jaén.

Coordination of Employment Services

In terms of employment, Griñán recalled his agreement reached with the Government to improve the coordination of public services, combining the efforts of both governments and ensuring their greater harmonization. He said there must be a substantial change in production models, which was not so dependent on the construction industry. For many, this would involve a process of retraining, and to this end the Board and the Government will work for greater coordination between job placement policies and unemployment protection.

He said there would be additional government focus on areas such as recycling where training would be provided to develop awareness of this new emerging sector. Officials from the Ministry of Employment and the Labour Ministry will meet during the month of September to launch this initiative.

The president reiterated his commitment to a new model of economic growth “based on quality, sustainability, innovation and excellence, and expressed his confidence in the potential of Andalucia for recovery, boosting sectors that have already proven their potency, such as tourism, food, culture and rural development.

He then stressed the commitment of the community to the emerging sectors such as aeronautics, engineering, the environment and renewable energy, "where we are at the forefront, again confirming that the government would provide the thrust towards new models based on the quality, Innovation, sustainability and excellence.

The economic reality, he added, also meant increased efforts in the struggle to tackle unemployment, “and that is where the priority must be focused by all economic policies of the Board.” At the moment when there are still some uncertainties Griñán underlined the need to have confidence on the mark of Andalucía and its potential to recover, as the recent data showing positive GDP growth in the tourism industry was continuing to prove.

Credit extraordinary floods

Finally, the President referred to the flooding in the towns of Cordoba Seville and Jaén by the heavy rains last month, which affected the road and rail network across the region.In order to meet the needs of these areas the regional government has created an additional grant of 1.2 million euros.
.

A baby tiger which was being used in a circus in Playa de San Juan has been seized.

The animal was thought to be an endangered species for which the owners were unable to produce any legal documentation. The animal was being used by a photographer who was charging members of the public to have their photo taken with it.

According to the Department of Nature Protection of the Guardia Civil in Alicante (Seprona), the tiger was found almost two weeks ago when the circus facilities were first inspected. Although it was being kept in good condition the owner was unable to provide any documentation either to establish his legal ownership in Spain or to confirm that he had permission to use the animal commercially. All other animals in the circus ownership were properly documented with all necessary invoices, health documentation and animal passports.

The "Panthera Tigris" is one of a handful of wild animals that is included in the ‘CITES' agreement which sets out who may keep endangered species of which marketing is "very restricted."

Seprona charged the owner for an alleged administrative violation which amounted to him smuggling the animal into the country. The tiger was initially transferred to the wildlife rehabilitation centre in El Roal but then it was subsequently returned to the owner "as custodian" for the duration of the time that it will take to process necessary authorisation.

Maybe it was my grandfather's influence upon the family. He didn't believe in modern day technology. The telephone, radio and certainly not the television were considered to be loathsome instruments that were the work of the devil and steadfastly refused to have anything to do with any of them. He was a firm advocate of “The Sabbath is the Lord's Day and to hell with the rest of the world” syndrome and even shaved late on Saturday evenings so that he didn't have to lift a finger and offend the Lord on Sunday morning. I could never work out the logic of this one because surely hair grew at the same pace, even on the Sabbath?

Sunday School was another disturbing influence in my life. There are only so many of those wretched sticker stamps of religious figures that a growing lad can stick in an album without having a breakdown, assisted by the monotonous drone of a half-witted, rapidly balding Sunday School teacher. Even then I knew it was a con because Jesus always appeared as a white-skinned tall figure with long flowing blonde hair. I knew a little geography, thanks to all those books I had to look at on Sundays, and reasoned that he couldn't have that colour skin given where he came from. Fortunately, Scott, one of my best friends, alerted me to the fact that the local sweetshop was open on Sunday afternoons and for many months after this glorious discovery we would meet there, spend the Sunday School collection money on gobstoppers, liquorice, sherbet dips and all manner of sweet junk, stuff ourselves silly and then go home claiming to have been at Sunday School all afternoon.

Later, when I went to college, the freedom of doing what I wanted, when I wanted without feeling guilty on this dreaded day was bliss and it took some getting used to. However, for me, there was still one problem. All the shops and anywhere of interest were closed on a day when I had the time to look and enjoy all that was on offer. Why did the government insist that everything was closed on Sundays? It just didn't make any sense.

Later, of course, politicians of all persuasions came to their senses and grudgingly allowed Sunday shopping, albeit within a number artificial constraints. This period of relative freedom was, initially, bliss. I could visit Tesco, B&Q and all manner of stores when I wanted. I had my own home by then and it was perfect for buying the bits and pieces needed to renovate the cottage that we were living in at the time. No, my parents, and certainly my grandfather, would not have approved of my use of a Black and Decker drill late on Sunday mornings.

Moving to Spain and the Canary Islands was a shock to the system in many ways, and certainly the Spanish attitude to Sundays. All the shops, other than those designated for tourists, are closed. The large department stores and commercial centres are closed too. There are few flights to and from the usually busy airport. There are few cars and very few people around until at least midday. It is only at about 2.00pm that I catch a sniff of the gut-wrenching, foul smelling odour of fish being barbecued by the neighbours as the family arrive for Sunday lunch.

Even the usually vociferous dogs seem to know it is a day of rest and cease their barking until at least midday. There are no children to be seen, or heard. Strangely enough, I seem to have come full circle. Maybe it is best if I settle down quietly and read my book after all.

Dear readers; this column wishes to launch an appeal to try and save yet another endangered species in this under-threat country.

Since man became Ireland's dominant species, most of the species that have ever lived in the country are now extinct. Worldwide, scientists claim that at this very minute the number of what can be termed an endangered species and including both flora and fauna is 7,000. We would ask to have another threatened species included and make that figure 7,001. Because, as you know, this column keeps an eye out on your behalf and sadly we have to report that if corrective action is not taken, the good old Irish inheritance, the wink, will go the way of the whistling man and the Dodo.

When did anyone last wink at you? The wink is on its last legs and we should not stand idly by and watch it die a slow death; hounded and persecuted out of existence – another casualty of political correctness.

The sisters are mostly to blame for this loss – although a section of the lads have to shoulder some of the responsibility for not knowing how to do it properly, or more critically, not knowing when a wink is appropriate. But how in the name of all that's good and great, can its detractors have come around to categorising the humble wink as an act of sexual harassment? This is only the blink of an eye away from terming an outstretched hand as enticement to improper bodily contact. Please bear with us for a moment or two as we make the case for the wink to be restored to its rightful place in social intercourse.

Winking is a dying art form, due to the uninformed giving it a bad name. But it is an art and a useful subtle communicator. A well timed wink can give hope to someone hanging on through a difficult ordeal. It can offer support, encouragement and warmth. It can lighten tension, melt a frosty meeting and make people laugh – always assuming that the timing is right. I have a confession to make which, with the way things are going, may very well get me arrested. I sometimes like to wink at children: It gets worse; I wink at children when their parents are not looking. In a waiting room, in church, at the airport, or a few seats in front on a plane, an innocent child will after a while turn to give you a good look – especially if you are writing or reading. Then I do the wink: The head quickly disappears, but pops up again a few minutes later for more. Eventually the little face transforms into a series of contortionist shapes in its attempts to return the wink, before completing the trick with one hand over the eye.

This column will also occasionally wink at women, but unlike the children, we have to be fairly sure beforehand that it is Ok to do so. We will wink at men too … easy lads …easy; we will wink at a male friend to let him know we are winding up his pal or the likes. You see, besides creating a sense of camaraderie, winking can be fun, seductive and has an underlying conspiratorial daring. And dear sisters, don't forget you can wink too: A wink from a woman is even more effective than coming from a man. For both sexes it is such an easy and harmless way to create intimacy.

Let us now give the lads a few tips on how to be a good winker … we said winker! The first thing you need is two eyeballs. Be aware that winking in the dark is useless – or trying to wink with both eyes at once. A mirror – there is your answer; practice in front of the mirror in order to insure that nobody in the office mistakes your wink for a stroke. Now, close one eye quickly …yes, yes, open it again. Work on which eye is easier for you. Your right eye will be your left eye in the mirror, so use the other one: OK, let us start again! As soon as you master one eye, and with enough practice, you will soon be able to wink with both eyes – that is one eye after the other. Next, study the mirror so you can distinguish the difference between winking and squinting; this is very important before you, for example, try it out on the nice lady who is in the process of writing you a parking ticket in town: And this could be a good time to remember that a wink that is followed by a smile has much greater effect than just a plain wink..

Weatherman, Gerald Fleming, should be studied as a perfect exponent of the well delivered wink for timing and panache. He should be proposed as the honoury president of the new wink movement. Record the weather bulletins and practice winking back at Gerald.
So, until we connect again next week … ah, I forgot you cannot see me wink: But ‘sher', as the old people always said; “A nod is as good as a wink to a blind horse.”

Don't Forget.
Rivers hardly ever run in a straight line. Rivers are willing to take ten thousand meanders, enjoy every one and grow from every one. When rivers leave a meander they are always bigger than when they entered it. When rivers meet an obstacle, they do not try to run over it – they merely go around, but they always get to the other side.
Rivers accept things as they are. They conform to the shape they find the world in, yet nothing changes things more than rivers. Rivers move even mountains into the sea.
Rivers hardly ever hurry, yet is there anything more likely to reach the point it sets out for than a river? (James Dillet Freeman)

Published with kind permission of the Westmeath Examiner

25 people have been arrested as part of Operation Arrow (Operación Flecha in Spanish), a joint operation between the Guardia Civil and SOCA (Serious and Organised Crime Agency).

12 houses have been searched and 38,000 ecstasy tablets, 4 kilogrammes of cocaine, 250 grams of ketamine, 4 litres of GHB, 50 grams of crystal MDMA, 1 kg of M.CATS (a mix of various drugs) and 56,000 euros have been seized as part of Operation Arrow (Operación Flecha in Spanish)

The drug ring, led from the UK, had 2 branches in Ibiza, one in charge of establishing contacts on the island and the other responsible for the distribution of the drugs.

The Civil Guard has arrested 24 people (14 men and 11 women), 20 of them of British nationals, 2 Irish national, 1 Czech national, 1 Slovak and 1 Spaniard who belong to the most active organisation on the island involved in the distribution of ecstasy tablets and other drugs near night clubs and other leisure areas.

The investigation began last September following Operation Trafalgar, when the Civil Guard dismantled a British organisation involved in drug trafficking on Ibiza. Following analysis of some seized documents and information obtained as a result of the operation, SOCA were contacted and worked together with the Guardia Civil to identify the criminal organisation operating in Ibiza, which was directed from the UK.

Earlier in the summer, the people now arrested were detected and several surveillance measures were put in place. It was suspected that they were trying to build the necessary infrastructure for drug distribution in Ibiza during the summer months.

The drug ring was led from the UK
The investigation confirmed that a drug trafficking organisation based in the UK had established a 2-branch network in Ibiza. One of the branches was in charge of establishing a network on the island and the other of physical distribution the drugs.

The branches were led from the UK by a group supplying the drugs. Members of the drug ring regularly visited the islands to supervise and collect the proceeds.

The organisation rented several properties on Ibiza, including luxury villas for the ringleaders and flats and apartments in tourist resorts for the dealers. The dealers would keep various quantities of drugs for daily distribution and the bulk of the drugs in secure houses where they did not live.

The ring used young 'public relations' people in nightclubs to distribute drugs amd ensured similar prices were charged at each point of sale, depending on the time and place.

The drugs were brough onto the island using various methods including hiding them in cars from the UK and in the luggage of British tourists coming into Ibiza airport. On 8 August, a young British woman tried to carry 3 kilos of cocaine through Ibiza airport.

Location of houses searched by the Guardia Civil and SOCA on Ibiza
9 in San Antonio de Portmany
2 in Santa Eulalia
1 in San José de Sa Talaia

Seized material
38,000 tablets of ecstasy
4,000 grammes of cocaine
250 grammes of ketamine
50 grammes of crystal MDMA
4 litres of liquid ecstasy
1,000 grammes of a new substance, M.CATS.
One hydraulic tablet press, several precision weighing balances and several substances to cut the drugs with.
40,000 euros
Various documents, currently being analised

José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero presides over 'Spanish Day' at the Shanghai Expo, where Spain is exhibiting its experience in tourism, infrastructures and renewable energies.

The President of the Government, who was received by the Shanghai city authorities and the Universal Exposition Organising Committee, presided over the events held to celebrate 'Spanish Day' with which Spain wishes to convey a modern image of the country and its cities via attractive content for a public that is barely aware of the reality of Spain.

José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero stated that the Government's intention is for "our contribution to this Exposition to be the second knock at the door, following the '2007 Year of Spain', in an effort to show who we are, increase our presence and increase our value in this great country". The President of the Government believes that being present as a country at the Shanghai Expo "enables us to transmit the image of Spain as a plural, modern country that is rich in tradition but also firmly committed to technological innovation". José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero also indicated that Spain is interested in "strengthening cooperation ties with China, a country of great importance in the world".

Besides participating in an event of enormous international importance and visited by millions of people from around the world, the Spanish Government intends for the Shanghai Expo to become yet another opportunity to demonstrate the best of Spain in China.

The Spanish Government believes that Spain must enhance the 'Spain brand', the value of Spanish culture, the drive of Spanish companies, the international presence of the Spanish language, the quality of Spanish research and Spain's leading position in important sectors, such as infrastructures, renewable energies, banking, gastronomy, architecture, art and music, among others.

The Shanghai Expo Organising Committee, which comprises 40 members, is led by the Vice-Premier in charge of Economic, Energy and Financial Affairs, Wang Qishan.

The largest Universal Exposition in history

The 2010 Shanghai Universal Exposition has already become the largest in history, with record participation from 190 countries (42 of them with their own pavilions), 50 international organisations, an expected total of 70 million visitors (approximately 380,000 every day) and more than 20,000 artistic and cultural events scheduled to take place over the course of the six months that it is held for.

The slogan for the event, "Better City, Better Life", represents the desire to improve the quality of life in urban centres and the inherent importance of our social policies, urban planning and sustainable development in the future. While only 2% of the total global population lived in cities during the 19th century, by 2000, almost half the population had moved to cities. The Shanghai Expo asks several questions that the various pavilions try to answer: What type of cities provide for a better life? and What kind of urban development makes the Earth a better place for everyone?

In actual fact, the 2010 Expo is taking place in the very heart of Shanghai - the largest city in the People's Republic of China with 18.5 million inhabitants and one of the most populous cities in the world. Dubbed the "Pearl of the Orient", Shanghai is today home to the headquarters of many multinational companies and is one of the driving engines behind the Chinese economy. It is a cosmopolitan and modern city that recorded double-digit GDP growth for fifteen consecutive years since 1992.

Shanghai was awarded the 2010 Universal Exposition in December 2002 at the General Assembly of the Bureau of International Expositions (BIE) held in Monte Carlo (Monaco) with votes in favour by 54 of the 89 member countries of the organisation. The next Universal Exposition will be held in the Italian city of Milan in 2015.

The Guardia Civil have arrested a man for his alleged relationship with groups associated with Islamic terrorism. The arrest took place at midday on Friday in Poble Nou de Benitachell (Alicante) as part of an operation run by Criminal Investigation Court Number 2 of the Spanish Central Criminal Court.

The individual arrested, Faical Errai, is a 26-year-old Moroccan citizen resident in Spain who is accused of using the Internet to undertake activities in support of Jihadist terrorism.

According to investigations carried out by the Guardia Civil [Spanish Civil Guard], Faical Errai is allegedly the person who registered and paid for the hosting of an Internet website with explicitly Jihadist content which, besides being set up as a platform for the spread of propaganda material, is aimed at attracting, indoctrinating and recruiting sympathisers in order to ultimately promote the most extreme and violent interpretation of the Jihad.

Furthermore, the man in question could have acted as the facilitator on transit routes for possible Jihadists to areas of conflict (Waziristan, Afghanistan, Chechnya, etc.), and as a coordinator for the dispatch of volunteers to those same areas. Similarly, Faical Errai would have performed a supporting role in the collection of funds to help both the volunteers travel and finance the propaganda activity itself, all in favour of the "Global Jihad Movement".

Following the arrest, the Guardia Civil carried out a search of two homes and one rural property, during which several computers and electromagnetic data storage devices were seized. The material seized is now being examined by the officers in charge of the investigation, so the possibility of further action has not been discarded.

Latest technology and international collaboration

In order to undertake this investigation, it was necessary for the Guardia Civil to implement cutting-edge innovative IT tools, which have enabled the successful conclusion of a new challenge consisting of the investigation of someone with advanced IT skills, in-depth knowledge of the possibilities offered by the Internet and who makes use of those possibilities with a certain degree of skill.

Furthermore, during the investigation, the Guardia Civil also collaborated and exchanged information at both police and judicial levels with various police authorities in other countries, including Belgium, the United States, France, Jordan and Morocco.

The individual arrested is expected to be passed over to the judicial authorities at the start of next week.

From this Saturday, weekend mornings are about to take a whole new direction on Exite Radio, as we strive to bring you more of the quality radio shows that you want.

On Saturday morning we will kick start your day with Steve Christy from 9am until 12 noon, brining his own wacky style of humour to your breakfast wakeup call, in a show packed with funny stories, jokes as well as great music, and the Euromillions lottery numbers from www.exitelottery.com. Originally from Liverpool, Steve moved around the UK and spent many a year in Taunton, Somerset, before moving to Spain 6 years ago. He has become a very popular character to radio and is a welcome addition to the team.

Then, from 12 noon on Saturday, Lee “Foxy” Fox takes over the airwaves with The Saturday Show, the show with more bite. Foxy will fill you with all the latest celebrity gossip, the UK newspaper reviews, requests, fun and a whole lot more. Lee starting broadcasting here in Spain in 2005 and has already built up a very loyal following locally, as well as a brand new following on Twitter!

Together, Steve and Lee will really kick start your Saturday on Exite Radio, with the best content on the best station on the Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida and streaming to a loyal, global audience.

On a Sunday, we will take a completely different approach. From Sunday 5th September, George T Moore will be extending his Sweet Sounds on a Sunday show, mixing in music, chat, and features that are sure to start your Sunday morning off on a positive note.

Starting at 8:00, George will start with Classic Breakfast, playing light classical music, just perfect for enjoying over your Sunday breakfast.

He will then take you into the usual Sweet Sounds on a Sunday show, with his praise and worship section, before the Church Notices. Then, George will introduce a new segment to his show called My Favourite Things, in which George will take a studio guest on a trip down memory lane.

The new format Sweet Sounds on a Sunday will still operate in conjunction with the Torrevieja Christian Fellowship, and is both an exciting and key element in the development of programs often considered of a more “specialist” nature and often ignored by other stations.

George himself said “I am very excited by this development. I did a similar show for almost a year on another station some time ago and it became so popular, the show was repeated during the week”.
From 10 in the morning, we will bring you Easy Like a Sunday Morning, 2 hours of easy listening classics and hits from today, back to back to ease you into your Sunday.

Everyone at Exite Radio are excited by the new shows that start this week. It shows a diverse range of shows that proves we are not shy about bringing in new ideas and concepts, if that is what you want. We consider ourselves lucky to have you listening, so if there is anything we can do to satisfy your needs more, then we are always prepared to listen.

You can read more about the new members of the team, as well as the shows, by visiting the website www.exiteradio.com. Then, tune your radio to 89.2 or 93.1fm or listen on line from anywhere, via the website.

Where were you ladies? Once again the Costa Blanca has failed in its attempt to break not one, but two Guinness World Records at the Bikini Bash 2010 held on Saturday.

Organised by Sol Productions and sponsored by Europa Network and the Orihuela Costa Town Hall, the second annual event promised to be bigger and better than last year and it was.

There was a fun party feel the whole afternoon at Campoamor beach and although, sadly, no records were broken this year, that didn't stop the thousands on the beach from soaking up the sun and atmosphere and partying until the sun set.

2000 ladies in bikinis needed to register in order to break the record for the most photographed group of women in one place wearing a bikini. It is currently held by Russia and after last year's attempt it was sincerely hoped that the title could be bought to the Costa Blanca this year.

The official photograph took place at 7pm and at the time of going to press we were still awaiting the exact number of ladies to be clarified and confirmed, “We don't know the official count just yet,” Said Sol Productions Managing Director Gina Marks, “But we have had a fantastic afternoon, there has been thousands here so well done Costa Blanca.”

Organisers also attempted to break the record for the largest parade of women wearing a bikini. 360 bikini babes were needed to walk the specially marked out circuit. Some were slightly disappointed at not getting in the record books and of course, the more who took part, the more money was raised for ten local charities, but saviour on their part came in the form of mystery benefactor Jack London who in the end, donated 500€ to the good causes.

Jack stumbled upon the fun and frolics and dug deep in his pockets, “I like to support charities and it needed a bit of support today.” The chairman of a UK charity himself which dishes out a million pounds each year, his own personal generous donation certainly raised spirits and will be gratefully received by local organisations.

But the fundraising does not stop there. A 2011 calendar is being produced featuring ladies and images from the afternoon and all proceeds from its sale will be divided between the charities.

Record attempts aside, there was plenty of entertainment on the main stage throughout the afternoon with events kicking off with elegant and dynamic performances from Ruth Kingsbury and her dance troupe, salsa moves and Conga got people on their feet while the male model fashion show gave the women something to smile about.

Following the photo shoot there was plenty of live music to keep the crowds entertained including a Rod Stewart tribute and a Queen tribute from rock band Chess. Appearances were also made by the Spanish Quad Bike Champion Tim Mahr and the 2006 Body Builder World Champion Bernat Scorus.

"A big thank you goes to all the entertainers here today,” added Gina, “a special thanks to Evelin Scarpari, Susie G and TKO, to all the volunteers from the charities who helped take the registration details and of course to our main sponsors Europa Network and the Town Hall.”

So what now for the Bikini Bash? Will it be third time lucky next year? Watch this space...

Attracted by the climate, job opportunities and the peace and tranquility, foreign residents now represent 16.8% of the total population of Malaga.

However within that number there would appear to be very little multiplicity with the large majority of the 268,000 foreigners living in the province being of either British or Moroccan nationality.

These are the main points emerging from the report ‘Málaga 2010', which has been based on a census of municipalities taken in the city last year 2009 and published by the Statistical Institute of Andalusia.

Mijas is the town with the largest number of residents from the UK while in the capital the most representative are Moroccans, with over 7,000 inhabitants from the Alawite kingdom. The British are in the majority of foreign residents in 77 municipalities. Indeed Mijas is the quintessential English town with 13,088 Britons registered in Mijas village, 43.6% of the total of foreign residents.

Benalmádena is the second largest municipality in the Costa del Sol which concentrates a greater number of people from the United Kingdom, 6319, with a representation of all foreigners of 33%, somewhat lower than in Mijas.

The number of Britons in the municipalities of Fuengirola and Estepona, are 5419 and 5310, respectively. In Fuengirola they represent only 21.4% of 25,259 inhabitants from outside of Spain.

However in the capital, contrary to most of the other municipalities in the province, the United Kingdom is not the predominant nationality among foreigners. That falls to Morocco, which is represented with more than 7,000 of its nationals. These represent 16.5% of the non-Spanish population, which numbers 43,253 inhabitants.

In Benahavis, more than half of the foreigners are British accounting for 30% of the total population. Indeed Benahavis is the only municipality that has more resident foreigners than Spanish among its population. Another example is Alcaucín, in which almost 32% of the population is of British origin, a small town that has barely 2,500 residents.

In the small town of Líbar Jimera, where most non-Spanish residents are from the UK, the English prime Minister David Camero, made a recent stopping for a drink in a bar owned by one of his countrymen. "The normality between the English and Spanish when living together is good for all to see," says the Mayor of Líbar Jimera, Mayte Dominguez.

However, he also recognises that the levels of integration vary enormously. "Some are very involved in their town. They have their business here and they participate in village activities, but many others shy away from the local culture and are obviously only here for the sun."

Romania is the largest nationality among foreigners in nine municipalities of Málaga while in Rincon de la Victoria most are and in Antequera the vast majority are from Brazil. In Cuevas del Becerro most are Bolivians. The dominant nationality in Alfarnate is Bulgarian while. Paraguay is the most representative nation in Ardales, with 38% of the foreign population.

The President of the Junta de Andalucía, Jose Antonio Griñán met with Prime Minister Rodriguez Zapatero last week at La Moncloa where the pair discussed the economy with particular regard to the cuts in public investment announced by the Ministry of Development and the joint reform of public employment services.

After the meeting the Andalusian President described the talks as ‘most useful'.

In a joint press conference Griñán said that both had talked in some detail the economic situation in general and in Andalucia in particular, "above all we have spoken about the employment situation and what the governments can to revive the economy and generate more jobs in the region."

He said that “The President must keep a close eye on the fiscal stability measures that will, in time, attain financial consolidation and economic growth which will, in turn, create more jobs. The priority now," continued the President of Andalusia, “is to change the production model and ensure that there is more support as we continue to strengthen the economy and move it into other sectors.”

"We have agreed a commitment to employability which should lead us in September to a joint reform, uniting a number of the active policies which will help people find employment. The reform will be jointly managed by both the Ministry of Labour and Immigration and the Government of Andalusia between which there will be maximum cooperation and collaboration

"Stability should not be at odds with public investment. It was important to unlock some significant investments in Andalusia , "said Jose Antonio Griñán .

As the region is sweltering in another summer heat wave and provinces across Spain remain on yellow alert, weather experts are saying that this month has been the hottest August in 30 years.

The head of the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), Ángel Alcázar says that whilst temperatures above 40 degrees are expected during August, this year, temperatures have regularly topped 42 degrees and been slightly higher than the average. The stifling heat, is being caused by a mass of hot air from North Africa, he said.

The high temperatures are mainly affecting the southern part of Spain, such as the regions of Valencia, Murcia, Almeria and Andalusia, together the central part of the country, the AEMET weather service said.

However, in contrast, reports suggest that this current water year (from 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010) is among the wettest of the last 63 years and there is still five weeks left until the end of this cycle.

There has been 25% more rain this year with a surplus of 150 litres per square meter compared to the average of the last 30 years. The head of the Department of Climatology at AEMET, Antonio Mestre, explained that the year has been “quite humid in general” and “wet.”

He added, “We need very little, then probably this is a very wet year globally in the sense that it is in 20 percent of the wettest years of the time series.”

In particular Mestre has indicated that the year has been “especially wet” in the southern third of peninsular; Andalusia, Extremadura , much of Castilla La Mancha, Murcia, Baleares, most of Castilla y Leon and in some areas of the Community Madrid , especially in the centre and south of the capital.

Furthermore, in some parts of the southern tip of Andalusia, the rains have exceeded twice the normal average values.

The higher rainfall episode corresponded to the months of December, January, February and March. “ A period in which rainfall was nearly double the average values.

Since March, spring litres were dropped around their average values. June was much more humid than usual and there is reduced precipitation in July and August although there have been some very intense but very localised rainfall. Adding all this together results in a fairly wet year overall.”

The results are not evenly spread across the board and Mestre adds that some areas have been drier than normal with rainfall below the average including in Valencia, Cantabria and the Basque Country.
Meteorologists define a heat wave as a period of at least three consecutive days of high temperatures.

This coming week should provide welcome relief, however, as temperatures fall back to the high 20's centigrade or low 80's in real money, much closer to the norm during this time of the year.

Now to this week's game on Wednesday when Thader went to Torrellano and this certainly was a spectators game.

Early in and the home side missed a completely open goal. Then shortly afterwards a cross from Avilles was met by Musta to open the scoring. This was followed by a Thader free kick which was headed home by Marcos 2-0.

Adri then missed two golden opportunities to increase the lead. This was rectified when Avilles had a free header to make it three.This stirred the home side into action and after one good save from Coloma they scored twice in as many mins, but two consecutive crosses and Musta notched up his hat trick to make it5 2.

Torrellano were not finished though, and on the stroke of half time strike back to make it 5-3. A lively start to the second half saw a hat full of chances go begging but the home side took the first one and reduced the lead to one 5 4 but a late goal restored the gap 6-4. Again the ref was on his own and it would be good to know how many of the goals were legal. No complaints from the fans though.

Saturday and off to Albatera but this came over as a game too far. A very disjointed first half with the home side looking sharp whilst Thader looked tired and did not have the spark of earlier games. A lot of long balls and lost passes was the pattern of the game until 10 mins from the end of the half when Musta fired in to take the lead.

Within 2 mins the home side were level but from the restart Thader pushed forward and Ruben scored to make it 2-1 at the halfway stage. The second half got underway with Albatera looking up for it and they soon equalised although the goal was from two players in offside posistions. Again with no help the ref cannot be blamed.

Then Coloma performed one of his old faults as he was caught too far out and easily lobbed. The game then rather lost its way and as I said, maybe a bridge too far for Thader. They started the friendlies with a defeat and ended with one but acquitted themselves well in between.

Sunday the first league game. Home to Polop KO 1130. As last season, all morning starts for home games.

Elche1 Recreativo Huelva 0 ... Only 4,608 turned up on an overcast Saturday evening to the mighty Martinez Valero stadium to watch Elche get off to the best possible start to the new season with a win.

The pre-season games lost, no names of any note joining the club, and two hurried signings of strikers only this week made it a worrying picture for Elche die-hards in the build-up to this new season. But all credit must go to coach Jose Bordelas as he blended his new team together to secure their win, so different to the last two disastrous seasonal beginnings.

Only four players from last season started the game, goalkeeper and firm team captain Willy Caballero, centre back stalwart Samuel, and midfielders Generelo and – Wakaso – I'll come to him later…New boys were fullbacks Albacar and Victor Fernandez, centre back Pelligrino, midfielders Kiki Mateo, Mantecon and Xumeto, with new striker Linares up front. No place in the starting line up for the old war horse Acciari, or accomplished full back Ripa. So nearly two-thirds of the team new, how would Bordelas's boys turnout?

Very well! After only eight fairly even minutes, the crowd were woken up as Linares was fouled down the middle, five yards outside the Huelva box. Mantecon feinted to take the kick, but classy new full back Albacar cleverly bent the ball round the wall low into Bernardo's goal, just inside the post, and Elche were on their way. Albacar himself oozes confidence and ability, and had a great debut.

In addition the goal suddenly engendered confidence which seemed to seep through the Franjiverdes and a swift six man move ended as the ball slid agonizingly past the visitor's post. Elche's new boys began to show they had worked hard in training and they meant business.

Sadly the referee did his best to ruin the game, brandishing yellow cards at (almost) every opportunity, but then also missing some blatant fouls. After two Huelva bookings the home side seemed to come off worst in the yellow card stakes, I counted five from Elche by half-time. By then possession had been mainly controlled by the home team, but Huelva had a couple of half-chances, with Caballero coming smartly off his line when needed to cut out dangerous through balls.

As the most senior player of the team now, he seems to be relishing his role as captain and leader,.this could be a great season for Willy Caballero.

The second half turned out to be similar to the first, with Elche having the better of it, and Huelva the occasional breakaway, but in the main the Illicitanos defence held firm, only Aitor of the visitors looking dangerous. There were several more bookings, but thankfully no-one was sent off. Really the game was never dirty and didn't merit all the bookings, in all six for Elche and five for Huelva.

Bordelas used his subs well, Palanca for Generelo on 69 minutes, Acciari getting a big cheer in the 75th as he replaced Kiki Mateo, and finally in injury time Carpio came on for Xumeto. All well-judged by Bordelas, giving other new boys a run, and sealing the win by the introduction of the seasoned Acciari.
Wakaso – this popular player is not my favourite but kept his discipline, amazingly not booked when plenty of others were, and he won important balls for Elche.

If he can keep his head and regularly play for the team as in this performance, there is hope for him at last. We will see in the coming weeks and months. So! A win, a first game of the season win, that means a lot in the city of palms.

Next week will be a real test as Elche visit near neighbours Cartagena, but Bordelas deserves all the credit for making optimism the order of the day. Great start lads, well done!

Mucho Elche!

Hercules 0 – Athletic Bilbao 1 ...Hercules' long-awaited return to the top flight was not to be marked by a win, as they faced a strong Athletic Bilbao team, containing two World Champions, Llorente and Javi Martíinez and a host of other established stars.

Before a summer-evening crowd of perhaps 20,000, Hercules' new captain Tiago Gomes led out a team which featured newcomers Argentinian midfielder Fritzler and right flanker Cortés.

Abraham Paz was preferred to Rodriguez in the centre of defence, but Frenchman Pamarot kept his place, having been an eye-catcher in the friendly against Real Madrid.

Llorente threatened early, and shot over the bar, as did his wiry team-mate Susaeta soon afterwards. When Sendoa broke forward for Hercules after six minutes, he won a corner, and further attacks by the home side were thwarted by the Basque's efficient offside trap.

Pamarot was judged to have handled the ball after eleven minutes and saw a yellow card. Gabilondo fired the free kick straight at Calatayud.

Pamarot was impressive for the Alicante side, and Peña and Fritzler put in good work, but the lack of finishing power was underlined when Tiago Gomes' weak effort went nowhere.

Abel Aguilar found Tote, who passed brilliantly to Portillo. He should have scored – in fact my Granny might just have, but again – nothing. Cortés did good work in earning a corner, and from this, some 3,000 Bilbao fans went wild as they thought Susaeta had scored, but the ball flew into the side-netting. The dangerous Toquero went off injured, to be replaced by David Lopez as the first half came to an end. Honours (and the other stuff) were about even.

But no sooner had the second half begun, than Hercules were caught napping when a Susaeta free kick curled into the area, and found the unmarked Llorente – not the guy to leave alone in the area! – who glanced the ball neatly home. 0-1.

Cortés won a corner, but nothing came of it, then Kiko replaced Abel Aguilar for Hercules. Tote was coming into his own, passing neatly to Portillo, who again showed his lack of strength in the area. Thomert, the French winger, came on for Sendoa, and showed a few touches, but little real force, and Bilbao were coming through strongly. Kiko made some nice little moves, playing 1-2's with Tote, but spent an awful lot of time on the floor.

Javi Martínez broke away for the visitors and brought a good save from the reliable Calatayud, and the Pamarot made a rare excursion into the Bilbao half, but was unceremoniously hauled down.

Tiago Gomes got in two shots, neither troubling Iraizoz and was substituted by Cristian in the dying minutes of what had been an entertaining match.

On the evidence, Hercules will need to find a goalscorer from somewhere – they will have easier games, but also tougher ones – their next encounter is at the Nou Camp – need I say more?

Photos Mark Welton www.foto23.info

This was probably the hottest day of the summer and two of our players could only play ‘part' rounds due to the affect of the heat and de-hydration.

Before we played we were informed by El Plantio that the greens on the 6th and 16th holes were in poor condition and under repair and this was in fact the case but the tees and fairways were looking good and were very green given the long hot summer we have had but obviously a few of those heavy downpours that we have had recently have helped.

Judging by the scores on the day the weather and the course were very much the ‘master' with the following being the best scores on the day.

1st Mike Probert – 32 points
2nd Duncan Pugh – 31 points
3rd Peter Palmer – 28 points

Nearest Pins: Billy Hunter, Tony Ellis, JJ Bates and Ray Giffen

After the game we returned to Visions Bar in the commercial centre at La Finca (close to the TAD golf shop on the 1st floor) for refreshments provided by the bar and our thanks go to Andy (Bulmer) and his team for their welcome and support of our society.

This new society play every 2 weeks on a Monday and the next meeting is on 6th September 2010 at Alicante and guests and more members are welcome.

Due to a number of administration problems caused by no-shows on the day payment will be required in FULL at the bar or in TAD Golf by Friday 3rd September 2010.

Telephone Chris Bates on 673 202 128 or better still call in and see Andy in the bar.

Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at www.costa-blanca-greenfees.com.

With pre-season training for the new 2010/11 Spanish football season on the horizon, Sheffield United FC (Spain) are actively looking for new players to supplement their current squads. With football available to youngsters of all abilities from 6 to 16-years, now is a good time to join this highly successful football programme.

Training twice weekly at Torrevieja´s wonderful Sports City, every child on the programme receives exactly the same training package as the players back at Sheffield United´s UK academy. The coaching is obviously tailored where necessary to take into account the standard of the child and the team, but several of the teams are receiving the exact same training methods.

To account for the range of abilities, this will see only 3 SUFC (Spain) teams entered into the Spanish Football federation leagues – Cadetes (born 95 & 96), Infantiles (born 97 & 98) and reigning league champions Alevines (born 99 & 00). To supplement these teams, there will be further teams entered into the local Vega Baja (“B” team) league – an Alevin “B” and a Benjamin (born 01 & 02) team.

There will also be an extension to the popular Prebenjamin (born 03 & 04) section where players must master the basics of football before moving into competitive football.

So all in all, 2010/11 promises to be another good season for the Blades who continue to work with a host of local Spanish as well as English league sides. Pre-season training starts in earnest for all the youngsters on Thu 2 Sep 10, with newcomers hoping to play for one of the league teams being put through a 2-week trial prior to being accepted onto the programme. Aside from needing to reach a certain level of technical ability before being accepted, they must also be the right kind of player for the programme.

Whilst squads for all 3 Federation league teams are close to completion, there are still limited spaces available for any new player wishing to join. As well as offering a high level of coaching and league football, SUFC (Spain) teams will once again be playing in some of the very best football tournaments next season, so competition for places is understandable very strong.

That being said, Programme Director, Robbie Burns is always on the lookout for better players and is always happy to give any aspiring youngster the chance to play for the Blades. So, if you fancy the chance of improving as a footballer and would like to play with some of the very best multi-national players, why not contact Robbie for more information. All areas of coaching are delivered in both English and Spanish, so you even get the chance to brush up on your language skills...

For more information, contact Robbie Burns on 692 507 439, e-mail him at robbie.burns@sufcspain.com or visit the website at www.sufcspain.com. There´s never been a better time to join the Blades!!!

Thirty or so San Miguel members and guests arrived in a similar amount of degrees at Alicante Golf to battle it out in the final round of the “Bogeys medal shield.” Several rounds of “proper golf” eventually determine the winner of this handsome shield provided by one of our longest standing sponsors – “Bogeys” restaurant in Villamartin Plaza.

Excellent food and service are the uncomplicated ingredients which have made this venue one of the favourites in the area over nearly twenty years.

The comprehensive menu includes a selection of steaks for which “Bogeys” has become renowned and, not to put too fine a point on it, they're simply unbeatable!
It was good to find that Alicante Golf's rather bland and uninteresting clubhouse has had a makeover which, if nothing else, has somewhat improved the acoustics of the place.

I think the jury's still out on whether the changes can seriously be viewed as improvements especially as most hobbled away from the new seating having to give their numb bums a quick knead!

As always at this course there was little movement of the air at ground level due to the close proximity of local housing which only helped to accentuate the stifling temperature making our day's golf rather resemble an SAS training session….it was hot with a capital H !!

My pretty good round was making a very pleasant change until tiredness, or should I say exhaustion, set in on the back nine. A couple of silly visits to the water on the par 5 16th resulted in a very ugly 9 on the card helping push what should have been a par round up to a net 77.

Meanwhile, guess who was burning it up again – yes, 12 year old Connor Jeffrey, after having his wings seriously clipped as a result of last week's score, was putting on a repeat performance! Another virtually faultless round, which included a chip in from a bunker, gave him an incredible net 61. I heard somebody quite reasonably ask the question, “Are you sure you played all 18 holes?”

My chuckle of the day must go to the wonderful Spanish couple who were following our group. He was a robust, serious-faced character serenely driving himself around in a buggy while his tiny wife who looked about five stone was walking WITH her clubs.

We often looked back at this comical couple and I pointed out at one stage as they were putting out on the previous hole, “Look, he's so determined to beat her – he's even making her play left-handed!”

The six NTP prizes went to: Captain Keith (3), two to T. Beolhouwer (6 & 17), R. Stenhouse (8), R. Battiste (12) & B. Roehrig (15). The ultimate victor of the Bogey's shield will be announced at the Captain's dinner on 2nd Oct., but winners of today's competition in ascending order were: BRONZE – D. Marshall (76), Captain Keith (71) & M. Kennedy (70). SILVER – Please note, scousers at 1, 2 & 3 - K. Flaherty (77), P. Birtwistle (77 C/B) & M. Birtwistle (70). GOLD – S. Cunningham (74), C. Fitzpatrick (74 C/B) & B. Roehrig with a tremendous 67.

Oh yes, I nearly forgot – the visitor's prize was again awarded to young Connor Jeffrey for a magnificent net 61……..Well played again! Anyone know when he's going home?

Our thanks to everyone at the course for helping make it a successful, but very hot, day and for providing the very welcome breakfasts. The first two September games are at Villamartin then Peraleja, both Stableford, then it's our away day to Albacete in the middle of the month, details of which are on the website.

Anyone is more than welcome to join us for a game any Wednesday whether you wish to become a member or not. We're a friendly bunch so even if you're just here on holiday and you want to squeeze a game in, give us a call and we'll do our best to oblige.

More society info is available by emailing info@smgs.org, visiting www.smgs.org or calling the match sec. on 966719604.

Caption for pic……………………………….The ‘appy scousers - winners in the silver category

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For our away day this month 18 members went to this new and beautiful course nestled in the hills at the back of the Alenda course. With rolling fairways and greens, which were in pristine condition, it is equal to a links course in the UK.

Thanks to all the staff who made our visit memorable, with buggies with our 2 names on and also tee off times. The nicest touch was the photo of members of our society that accompanied the names. Thanks Vanessa. As most of the members had never played this course before we played a Stableford off full handicap with slope.

For a new course which is pretty tough for Society golfers the scoring was pretty good. We had a Semi-Final of the club Pairs KO competition between Merve & Arthur Williams and Robert Turner and Pete Nicholls which was won by the former by 3 and 2. This was a very commendable defeat considering the Williams both scored 37 points. We had Two categories today plus nearest the pins.

Results
Category One.
1st Merve Williams 37 points on Back nine C/ back.
2ndArthur Williams 37 pints
3rd Rodney Smith 35 points
4th Robert Turner 31 points

Category Two.
1st Ron Nicholson 35 points
2nd Pete Nicholls 29 points
3rd Geoff Wild 26 points
4th Ken Hopkins 24 points

Nearest the pins: Hole 3 C Johnson, Hole 8 A Williams, Hole 12 R Smith, Hole 16 G Wild, Hole 17 R Smith
Best Score Par 5s: R Turner Best Score Par 3s A Williams
Longest Drive: C Johnson, Best Visitor C Johnson 31 points
Best Dressed Golfer: C Williams

Thanks to Pat and the girls in the gate for looking after us with refreshments.
The next game on Tuesday 14th September is back at our home course Vistabella

When the other Semi- Final will be played of the pairs KO. The 28th for our away day we are going to the recently completed 18 hols at Mar Menor golf club. A course not to be missed.

Anyone who would like to join our friendly society pop in and see Kevin at the pub or ring 678-849-142. For your information we play the second and fourth Tuesday in the month.

If you are on holiday and would like to join us for a game you would be made very welcome. If you do not have clubs that is not a problem as we have Clubs, Trolley's and even shoes for hire. Also we will give you balls!!

Photo :- Category One Winners Rod, Arthur, Merve Robert

Another very sunny day (hottest this year, so far – that's not a complaint, just an observation) welcomed 34 society members and 5 guests to Oliva Nova, with buggies being at a premium and not available to all, resulting in both Peter Brown and Trinnie Sutherland making premature exits from the course, but I'm confident they re-hydrated in short order when they got to the bar.

Our guests today were Dean Cooper, Steve Fraser, Mike Holloway's little boy Simon, Bill Pike's kid brother Richard and Chris Brookes' guest (this is about the only way Chris can get a mention!) Jean Taylor who won the Guest Prize with an excellent 40 Stableford points off a handicap of 29 – well done Jean!

I had the pleasure this week of playing with the rather garrulous ‘there's lovely' Lyn Rees , one of the society's more deliberate players Trevor Nash and Immediate Past Captain Dan Gibbs, whose ball control was excellent (he didn't lose any!), whose club control was even better (he didn't throw any!) and whose normal Terry Leary inspired outbursts were severely curtailed by Lyn's presence; all in all a very companionable and enjoyable four ball.

Our Captain, Brian West, called on Ronnie Webb (whose wife Rose recently celebrated her birthday – I'm reliably informed that she's unbelievably in her very late fifties) – to present the 2's and Balls in the Water Competition prizes. Ron informed us that there were six 2's this week with the pot being shared by five players – no, one of them didn't get two 2's, Peter Cornes chose not to risk a euro so his 2 was ineligible.

The pot sharers were Dave Collins, Ian Robertson, Russ Peters, Pat Lynch and Danny Herron, the latter also winning the Nearest the Pin prize on the 16th. The other NIP prize was won by Danny's main squeeze Donna Green, whose putting is obviously not as good as her tee shots as she failed to convert for a 2!

There were 86 BIW's this week and, it being a quadruple rollover, a veritable king's ransom was up for grabs with Donna Green taking the princess's share, Chris Brookes (this is the other way he can get a mention – no skill involved!) taking the prince's – or should I say Sunday Club's – share and IPC Dan Gibbs, who is no longer a member of the Sunday Club (much gnashing of teeth from its members!), taking the king's share all to himself – well, until he gets back to the palace!

Captain West then presented the prizes to the winners in the main competition:

Division 1 (Handicaps up to 18.4)
Winner – Mike Rees with an outstanding score of 42 points off 16.4 with an ensuing cut which will surely see him in the prizes wasteland for some time to come!
Runner-up – Dave Collins with an excellent 39 points off 12.8
Third – Russ Peters with a very good 38 points off 9.9

Division 2 (Handicaps over 18.4)
Winner – Trevor Nash with a handicap protecting 36 points off 19.5
Runner-up – Bill Pike also with 36 points but off a higher handicap of 20.5
Third – Dan Gibbs with 34 points off 24.4
You more observant readers will have noticed that two members of my fourball were in the prizes – coincidence?!

In closing I must mention the one match played in our Summer Knockout Competition, the completion of which has been an event of marathon proportions. Some four weeks ago I refereed a match between Colin Foster and John Lamont which ended all square so a re-match was required. This couldn't be re-scheduled for the following week as we were playing a Texas Scramble, which format precluding the possibility of the match being played concurrently so it was decided they'd play the following week.

As it transpired, Colin had arranged to bring a guest, much to the chagrin of our Hon. Sec. whose finely tuned organisational skills were sorely tested by John refusing to accept the match by default, so it was finally played this week. It was a finely balanced match with Colin being one up on the 16th tee.

As I promised not to name names, all I can say is that one of the protagonists hit a ‘Lucy' (Locket – rhymes with socket) into the baranco running alongside the hole. As his opponent had missed the green he deemed it worthwhile to hit a second ball into this par 3 – and hit another Lucy into the same place!! Anyway, Colin ran out the winner by 3 & 1 and the shanker's name has not been revealed!

Next week's competition will again be at Oliva Nova, on August 31st, with registration by 8:15. Please check the web site (pegogolfsociety.net) on Friday to make sure you are entered.

It was another scorching day at Marquesa Golf course, but it didn`t stop some great golf being played on a well kept course. The members were a little depleted but this is only to be expected in August. The prizes were as follows:-

NTP Hole 5 A Venables, NTP Hole 11 That would be me Dave Johnston
NTP Hole 15 John Punt, NTP Hole 17 Roger Marshall
Longest Drive Hole 7 Roger Marshall, Best Guest Hcp 16 Score 23 John Punt
Prize for most golf played Hcp 35 Score 25 P Venables
3rd Place Hcp 28 Score 30 K Armstrong ( good days golf Keith )
2nd Place Hcp 19 Score 33 F Stanhope well done Frank
1st Place Hcp 24 Score 37 A Venables One for you Mr Hcp Secretary

If anyone wishes to join or just play with our very friendly society, then please call Mr Ian Henderson on 966716616, or go to the Olde 9th bar above Super Valu in Rojales and put your name and contact number on the sheet on the notice board. Thanks yet again to all involved with the society and all who attended.

Dave Johnston

Wasn't it hot Tuesday I thought I was going to melt? However, this did not stop the low scoring which is beginning to deplete my pension as I never got a sniff of the places.

I'll start with nearest the pin; at hole 3, Alf Huntley got inside my best effort and Trevor Brown did exactly the same at the 13th, don't you just hate that when it happens. Well done guys.

Now to the scoring, in 3rd place after his great win last week was Dave Moore with 35 points. In second place was my protégé Graham Day with 38 points, who lost on countback having scored a 4 under 22 points on the back 9.

But the winner this week with a magnificent 6 under 24 points on the back 9 was the Robinson Crusoe look-a-like Jeff Giggs (pictured), he turned up with a straw Crusoe hat that would have made man Friday think twice about befriending him. Well it's not all good news for Jeff, he's Welsh.

Well done Jeff it's good to see you in the shedding circle again and don't forget you're my partner on Friday's Awayday at Roda keep playing well.

That's the trials and tribulations for another week over. Denis Nevin

High summer weather did not deter members or guests from taking part in what was an excellent day's golf. There was enough light breeze to temper the heat, and the super value for money of Villataina's summer deal contributed to a thoroughly excellent day.

There were few obvious signs of the recent torrential rains – indeed golf carts were allowed on the fairways. The course looked and played well, although the bunkers needed more sand.

Three pairs did battle in the quarter-finals of the Syd Smith match play knock out, and the remainder played a drawn pairs under the European Nations Cup Valencian Rules, otherwise known as the Chapman System.

It is like a Greensome except that the decision about which ball to select is made after the second shot on par 4s, and the third shot on par 5s, meanwhile, until that decision time arrives, each player plays their partner's previous ball for each additional shot. Simples, isn't it! Players were divided over the merits of the format, but generally it was considered a worthwhile experiment as a ‘fun' competition.

Prize winners from left to right: Martyn Philipson, Alan Turpin, Keith Price, Terry Collins, Roger Mallaburn, Rob Westlands Brian Clark-Sutton and Malcolm Nash.

Arriving in the quarter-final of the Syd Smith Trophy having not yet played because of two opponents conceding, and with the benefit of 5 shots, Graham Hutson beat Mike Harding 2 & 1. In the Plate, Dick Temperton beat Fred Betteridge 3 & 2 despite having given Fred 7 shots, and Dave Geeson beat Jim Thomas 4 & 2 also having given 7 shots.

The Pairs competition produced some excellent scores and the first place had to be decided on handicap, which was the average for the two players. In 1st place Alan Turpin and Terry Collins had a gross 82 and net 64; 2nd were Roger Mallaburn and Keith Price with a gross 83 and net 64 and 3rd were Anne Edwards and Rob Westlands with a gross 84 and net 68.5.

Nearest the pin on the 3rd was Martyn Philipson and on the 14th was Brian Clark-Sutton. No fortunes were won from the twos, with four sharing the pot, being Mike Harding, Peter Hunt, Roger Mallaburn and Malcolm Nash.

The next competition will be on Friday 3rd September at Oliva Nova meeting at 8.15. Non-members wanting to play at our events may do so either by telephoning on 669 351 043 or by making contact via the website at www.levantegolfsociety.com.

Firstly the Society would like to thank KAMEELEON for rising to the enormous challenge set to source our red shirts and to carry out all the necessary work and to deliver within 7 days, ready for today.

Didn't we look the part – well done.

Having all arrived at El Plantio on a very hot Friday morning, everybody made sure they had plenty of water on the buggies for what looked like a very hard days golf. Photocall at 9.50 on the first tee saw 40 members and guests in their new livery and at 10.00 Captain John Harvey took to the tee first for the new Society and the competition was underway.

The course was in good condition even though some of the greens were scorched. In the end some very good scores were set and as the last players finished after 5 and a half hours everybody agreed it was a long hard day but enjoyable. After all the buggies were returned and cards checked we made our way back to Claptons for the prizegiving.

Winners are as follows:
1st Place Chris Gridley 39 points
2nd Place Phil Pettican 34 points
3rd Place Graham Lawrence 32 points
Best guest Simon Smith 32 points
Nearest the pin:
7th Roger Willett
9th Fran Cummins
14th Merve Williams
18th Simon Smith
Most potential player Glen Williams

Big thankyou to John and Ian for all the hard work getting the Society together in record time and to all the sponsors on the day – Lets Eat, Benijofar; Doctor Digital; Estrella Damm; Dyna Drain and John Sanchez. Our thanks to Chris and his team at Claptons for the hospitality.

Next competition will be on Friday 17th venue to be announced, more information on Society Notice Board in Claptons or on our Web Page www.societygolfing.co.uk user name Claptons password Guitar.

We had only 31 players, including 4 guests, for our latest visit to Roda Golf, so only two divisions for prizes. Once again conditions were ideal, although a little hot for some – thank goodness for the complimentary buggies!

Surprisingly nobody managed to beat par on the day and I suspect this may have been partly due to the difficulty of the shot if you strayed from the fairway. I seem to recall a similar situation at the same time last year, very woolly grass just off the edge of the fairway where your ball can almost get buried.

Your roving reporter managed to grab 1st place with 34pts, thanks to a ‘purple patch' on the back 9. Manuel Gomez continued his streak of form to take the 2nd slot with 32pts, beating Dave Cook on c/b. Mike Taylor took the honours in Div. 2 with 32pts. and also scooped the 2's pot. The runner-up in this division was Steve Thorpe, also on 29pts. In 3rd place with 28pts was David Lock.

Today's game was also the last in our ‘Campoverde Open Championship' played over the last four games at Roda, with the best 3 out of 4 to count. I think it is fair to say that the favourite for this competition, Dave ‘Mr Consistent' Cook, played true to form to win with 102pts.

Unfortunately, the runner-up with 97pts, Wayne Williams, could not play in the last round and had to rely on his first three scores, so well done Wayne! Yours truly managed to replace a 22pts score with 33pts in the last game to take 3rd place. Alan Boulger and Clive Sillence were in 4th & 5th places respectively. Congratulations to all the prize winners.

Details of all the prize winners are as follows -

Division 1
1st Don Stuart (34pts), 2nd Manuel Gomez (32pts), 3rd Dave Cook(32pts)
Front 9 Paul Wightman (13pts), Back 9 Paul Butterworth (16pts)

Division 2
1st 1st Mike Taylor (29pts), 2nd Steve Thorpe (29pts), 3rd Dave Lock (28pts)
Front 9 Steve Rogers (17pts), Back 9 Graham Jones (17pts)

Nearest the Pins Hole 2 – Ken Carpenter, Hole 7 – Kevin Woodley, Hole 11 – Don Stuart, Hole 13 – Paul Butterworth

Two's Hole 13 Mike Taylor

Best Guest - David Begg (35pts)

Please note that details about the Campoverde Golf Society can be found at our website http://sites.google.com/site/campoverdegolfsociety/. For further information email don@donstuart.com

By Don Stuart

21 Society Members and 3 guests travelled three miles from Alfies in La Ronda in La Cuerda, to Las Colinas de Campoamor GC for the August Monthly Meeting.

Amazingly this month none of us got lost or misplaced, well done Tony and Ben. The course was in perfect condition but the sun made it a very long endurance test although the welcoming breeze kept the sweat down to rivulet levels.

Hole 7 was chosen as the nearest to the pin hole and our Captain, Ian Connell, took the prize, nearly holing in one. The longest drive was a very close call. After "Stormin Norman" Howes had boomed one down the par 5 11th, it took a sneaky roll of the ball from Tony Hall, to grab the prize.

The main prizes were a little easier to allocate as 3rd placed Mike Smith came in with 32 points, he was headed by Shaun Staplehurst in 2nd place, with 37 points, who in turn was a few points short of Mike Bennett, this month's winner, who came home with 43 points.

Thanks to David and Georgina from Alfies, for laying on their now legendary buffets.

Congratulations to all for an enjoyable day out. Please make note that it is Captain's Day on Saturday, 25th September, when we will be playing Campoamor GC, and this will be followed by our Annual General Meeting. If you have any agenda points you wish raised, or you wish to play, please ring Sandie on 603 120 441 or email - alfiesgolfsociety@gmail.com.

Details and entry form are on the board at Alfies Bar, the list will close on Saturday, 18th September.

Finally a big thank you to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Greenfee Services for arranging our matches and the arrangement of our engraved bag tags, pitch repairers and course guides from Las Colinas, and once again a big thank you to Las Colinas - this club is the "real deal".

They will be found in large rivers and lakes living in holes in the bottom, or around sunken tree roots etc. They will also live in river estuaries as they can tolerate brackish water easily.

They can live to well over 30 years and are caught regularly weighing over 100 kilos in the Ebro and other systems in France, Italy, Greece and Russia.

This is mainly due to a mild climate, lack of competition and a good food supply for them to eat. The largest accurate registered weight of a Wels Catfish [not rod caught] was from the Po Delta in Italy weighing in at 144 kilos or 320lbs and 2.78 metres or 9 foot and 1 inch in length.

They will eat almost any thing that they can find including frogs, birds,fish,mammals, carrion, pellets,eels, crayfish plus a lot more.

The Wels has supported a growing tourist industry with hundreds of guiding firms popping up all over Europe. With thousands of people fishing for these monsters, has come the introduction of tons and tons of fish food in all form. This is causing the fish to grow even larger.

As a food fish the Wels has very mixed reviews. Only fish up to 15 kilos are wanted by chefs, as this size is highly rated as being very palatable and exceptional eating quality. Wrap fillets in smoked streaky bacon, then roast and serve with a tomato, paprika and cream sauce, accompanied by wild rice- a tasty treat.

Carp-R-Us News

This weeks heat of the Carp-R-Us knock out trophy was won by Nigel Mourant with Roy Buttress in 2nd place. The match had been postponed for a day because of the heavy rain and thunderstorms. So the final will be contested by-

Bob Rafferty—Paul Baxter---Austin Vieth---Ian Dalzell---Nigel Mourant and Roy Buttress.

The Clubs next quiz night will be on Tuesday the 31st of August from 7.30 pm. The cost is 1 Euro each and a finger buffet is provided.

The next Club meeting will be on Sunday the 5th of September with the committee meeting at 10.00 am and the general meeting at 11.00.

All these Club activities take place at the Clubs home at the Bar El Alto La Dolores just off the new roundabout on the N332 between La Mata and Guardamar.

Any person interested in the Club should contact the Secretary on 966717820 or visit the Clubs web site www.carprus.net

But the scheme also gives officers the opportunity to chase down offenders with foreign registered vehicles and immobilise their vehicle unless they pay fines of up to £500 on the spot.

The devices have been fitted on existing speed cameras in four locations where holidaymakers account for up to half of the speeding drivers.
Two of the cameras are on motorways in the provinces of Alicante and Murcia, both popular with British tourists.

Thousands of expats in these areas who live in Spain but drive UK-plated cars not registered on the national police computer also face new controls under the system.

The extension of the system to other areas favoured by the British like the Costa del Sol has not been ruled out.

A spokesman for the Direccion General de Trafico, Spain's equivalent of the DVLA, said: 'Up to half the speeding motorists in some of the areas where this new system is operating drive foreign-plated vehicles.

'Excess speed is a contributing factor in a third of all fatal accidents so lives may be saved with these new measures.

'This is not a witchhunt against British or foreign drivers. Nor are we targeting specific nationalities.'
'Negotiations are taking place at EU level to try to introduce a system whereby people who drink-drive or speed are punished wherever in Europe they commit their offence.

'But at the moment, except in rare circumstances, non-residents caught speeding on fixed speed cameras never receive their fines because we've nowhere to send them.

'It's a problem across the EU, not just in Spain.'
Tailgating motorists and those whose cars have cracked or broken number plates are also identified through the newly-adopted scheme.

Fines range from 100 euros (£83) to 600 euros (£500).

Civil Guard traffic officer Ricardo Laoz said: 'If non-resident offenders can't pay the fine, we immobilise their car until the fine is paid although that doesn't preclude an appeal.'

Colleague Samuel Santana added: 'Foreigners pay without any problem once they've seen the photo that's been taken and realise it's them.'

www.costadelcrime.blogspot.com

4 year-old Samuel is due to start school and wants to integrate with able bodied children, something which sounds so simple, but comes at a price, the price of a new specialised wheelchair.

Costing £8000, it is a substantial amount of money, but will give Samuel much more independence and a brighter future. His devoted parents Lisa and Paul have set up ‘Samuel's Fund' and have tirelessly worked to raise the cash for the new wheelchair in their home town of Portsmouth. Lisa has also had to give up work as a hairdresser and now cares for her son full time.

In response to their plight, family friend Natasha Moon, owner of Hair OTT in Torrevieja has organised a fundraising event at Los Arcos on 29th September. Natasha said, “We as hairdressers like to stick together and with help from clients, families and friends, want to help give Samuel the freedom our children enjoy.”

£2000 is still needed and Natasha hopes that the Costa Blanca can do their bit and she can make a serious dent in the final amount from her ‘Girls Night Out.' There will be hair makeovers, a fashion show by Kameleon modelled by girls from El Limonar school and entertainment from Sparkle.

For a great night out and to help a worthy cause, purchase your tickets now. Tickets cost just 5€ and all proceeds and donations go directly to Samuel's Fund. For more information call 966 927 036. Tickets can be purchased directly from Hair OTT.

This exclusive show will be on Sunday 19th September 2010 Doors open from 8.00pm. Tickets are €5.00 each and can be purchased from The Lounge Bar.

Uniforms are optional. Raffle tickets on the night.

For more information please visit their website:
www.globalgiving.co.uk

We aim to make this a fun family evening with a tombola and raffle, please let me know if you can donate a prize for the raffle that will be drawn at the end of the evening. The event will be advertised locally with flyers and in various publications along the coast.

If you wish to book a stall let me know by replying to this email as soon as possible as you know my events get booked up quickly.

Many thanks, love & light to all,
Beverley Heys, The Book Angel at Viva La Diva! Avd. Mar del Sur, Torreguadiaro, Cadiz

Our aim is to help registered charities, who are doing brilliant work in helping our four-legged friends, who through no fault of their own, find themselves abandoned, starving and unloved mostly at the cruel hands of their owners.

These unfortunate animals have no voice and rely totally on us. With your help we can give them hope - the greatest gift in life.

Donations urgently needed before opening date. So that chair, never sat on, lamp, never turned on, garment, never recently worn - anything to help us be their voice - we would be most grateful of.

We are fully aware that humans suffer too - stricken by the cruel hands of fate to horrendous illnesses such as Alzheimer's and Cancer to name just two. In an ideal world we would help every charity and we will try, with your help.

Further info - Phone Laura: 634361808 or Thomas: 634336450

The Dow is down 2.23% on the week and just over 6% on the month, slipping below the critical 10,000 level (closing yesterday at 9,985). S&P and Nasdaq have followed suit heading into the end of the month 6.7% and 6% down on the month.

In the UK the FTSE clawed back from the 6 week low of 5070 seen on Wednesday but is still 3.50% down on the month. In Asia, the Nikkei and Hang Seng haven't bucked the global trend also down 5.5% and 2% on the month.

Yesterday the Labor Department in the States reported a reduction in new U.S claims for unemployment benefits. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits fell 31,000 to a seasonally adjusted 473,000, below market expectations for a drop to 490,000.

However this figure did little to support the dollar as firstly the claimant's number still remains high and there is still a real concern about the recovery of the States after the horrendous week it has had. Many economists also look at the four week average price of initial claims which is viewed as a better gauge of employment trends; this figure was up slightly by 3,250 from 486,750.

Despite the onslaught of poor data Germany continues to shine as German consumer morale increased for the third month running, hitting its highest level since last October.

German CPI data is also due out this morning and if it follows the positive trend we may seen the reading come out ahead of expectations however seasonal trends suggest August CPI readings are usually low.
Euro Zone money supply growth held steady in July as loans to the private sector steepened.

The Conference Board's leading economic index for the Eurozone (which is used to identify turning points in the business cycle of the Euro Zone) rose by 1% to 112.5 in July. The European Central bank reported loans to the private sector grew at an annual rate of 0.9% up from 0.5% rise in June.

Today should be an interesting day with GDP readings from the UK and US. UK GDP Q2 2nd release is expected to be unchanged at 1.1% and US GDP Q2 2nd release is expected to be revised down slightly to 1.3%.

The recent flow of disappointing data from the States has fuelled fears of a double dip recession. Gold has edged higher this week to current levels of 1236 per ounce (Gold has surged this month as investors seek safe havens and is up 4.80% on the month).
Information provided by Currencies Direct, leading providers of foreign exchange.

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I'll leave taxes for the moment and look at some of the issues of funerals for ex pats

In Spain, the death of a loved one is treated differently than in the UK. Many funerals occur within 24 hours so if family and friends wish to be at the ceremony it is impossible if they have to travel from as far away as the UK.

Certain protocol has to be followed after a death. The proper authorities have to be informed and are automatically dealt with if in hospital or a care facility. If not then the local police and a forensic Judge will be called to remove the body.

Usually bank accounts are frozen making it very difficult to obtain the funds to pay for the funeral.

Obviously this is a very stressful time for anyone involved and not speaking the language or understanding procedure can only make matters worse.

There are two options to consider when planning for this eventuality, one is a pre paid funeral plan the other is to look at funeral insurance.

Pre Paid Funeral Plans

These are bought at a fixed price and the cost is not influenced by age or medical conditions. Most companies offer several different levels of plan. They will nominate funeral directors of your choice or otherwise the nearest one to your home and they usually cover both the UK and Spain. On death, one telephone needs to be made to the 24 hour helpline for everything to be taken care of.

Payment can usually be made by a lump sum or monthly instalments up to 5 years.

It is very important check where the money is banked and invested; also ensure that the funds are ring fenced for each person. Check to see who manages the fund and where the funds are held.

Below are some of the benefits of having a pre paid funeral plan.

• For peace of mind, only one telephone call required
• The funeral you want is 100% guaranteed
• No hidden future costs for your relatives to deal with
• Experience in Spanish Funerals for expats
• No age or health restrictions
• 24 Hour help line
• Automatic acceptance: no health or credit checks
• Range of pre-paid plans to suit all pockets
• Dual country plan

Funeral Insurance

Funeral insurance offers similar benefits of a pre paid plan. The main difference being is that payments are based on age and health consideration. Unfortunately, none of us know when we are going to die. This is where the insurance company take the risk, if we die early into the plan it costs them, if we live longer then the insurance company benefit.

The main difference between the two is that with Pre Paid the cost is known and with insurance total outlay is unknown.

Each option has its own merits and both should be considered when looking for a funeral plan.

Many people keep funds in savings to cover the eventuality. Unfortunately in these times of low interest rates will the fund keep up with inflation? Since 2006 funeral plans have been rising on average by 10% a year.

For a free confidential consultation on this or other financial matters call Graham Dixon on 965 791 222 or email graham@beneficialspain.com.

Come along and meet K9 Dogs and talk to their fosterers and other K9 Club volunteers. Pick up a leaflet and browse through our manuals. If you are looking to adopt or foster a dog the K9 Club will have one suitable for you.

The Pasty Shack will donate 5% of all takings on the day to the K9 Club. www.petsinspain.info

Across the country the number of tourists to arrive in Spain during July was up 4.5% on the same month last year, thanks to visitors from the United States, up 32.1% at 146,980, Switzerland was up 24.7% and the Scandinavian countries, up 16.7%.

The month saw 6.97 million arrivals, the largest increase seen for 26 months and represented the third consecutive month to show an improvement.

While the number of British tourists recovered slightly, being up 1% compared to 2009, there was a decline in the number of French which is being blamed on the strike action by French air traffic controllers. Falls were also seen in the number of Irish, Portuguese and Belgian visitors.

From January 2010, the country has welcomed more than 30 million international tourists, down 0.4% on the first seven months in 2009, which in turn was 10.3% down on 2008.

Meanwhile the number of overnight stays in hotel rooms by international tourists grew by 11.1% in July, while national travellers were also up by 1.8%.

These figures already exceed those achieved last year when there were a total of 159 shoots which generated income of 170,000 euros. The Granada Film Office say that the figures show that the city with its charm, culture and history is one of the most popular locations in the world to carry out such an activity.

Among the latest works that have been carried out was a two week shoot of a new video for the singer Sharon Corr, a member of the Irish band ‘The Corrs' who had record breaking sales worldwide the late nineties.

The singer chose to film the city landmarks such as the ‘Paseo de los Tristes' in the historical centre as well as general city life and monuments around the Alhambra Palace.

Another highlight was the shooting of the short film 'Attahaddi' (The Challenge), which has already appeared in several film festivals, both domestic and international, and recordings for at least two TV celebrity chefs, Jamie Oliver and Chef Wan of one of the gastronomic international channels.

Chef Wan is the official ambassador for the cuisine of Malaysia and has cooked for famous personalities like the Sultan of Brunei, known internationally for his considerable fortune, and for the former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

According to the Councillor for Tourism in the city of Granada, Carazo Marifrán, the fact that more and more film companies want to use the city as a setting also has a positive impact on the local economy, both for the money that the filming directly brings in and by the promotion of additional tourism that is brought about amongst those who see the finished films.

Church with a twist - The New Calahonda Baptist Church is holding a church service quite unlike the traditional kind, with live music, both secular and sacred, tales and rhymes, a special guest from the USA, tea, coffee and desserts. It is a family event with free admission. For more information emailsecretaria4cbc@gmail.com or call 952 850 133.

Gavin Turk - The latest exhibition to be unveiled in the CAC in Malaga is a collection of clay busts by Gavin Turk entitled ‘En face' which focuses on authenticity and originality. The exhibition runs until 5th September.

English Romantic painters - An art exhibition of work by English Romantic painters in Spain in the 19th century will be held in the Centro de Exposiciones de Benalmádena until 26th September.

Magic show - Top illusionists Oscar, Renzo and Mara have returned to the Hotel Casino Torrequebrada, to perform show every Wednesday in September, 8 p.m. Magic Unlimited show tickets range from 22-45€, call 677 245 588 for reservations.

The numbers will hit some families hard during these difficult economic times and accounts for the cost of uniforms, compulsory text books and general school equipment.

Prices vary between primary and secondary schools with the association of housewives and consumers advising parents to access closely what they need, re-use as much as possible from last year and carefully compare prices before buying.

The 41 year old man and the boy aged 13, who was thought to be his son, hit the horse which had escaped from its field.

The horse was loose on the road when it was struck by the motorcycle throwing the two passengers to the ground. A passerby who witnessed the accident was first on the scene and called the Management Centre Traffic and Emergency 112 system in Andalusia.

The accident took place just before 2am at kilometre 7 on an unlit section of the A -355. It is thought that the animal bolted when it heard the motorcycle approach. Sources told the press that the two victims both died at the scene shortly after the initial impact.

While the horse was quite badly injured it is currently being treated by a vet and is expected to make a full recovery from its wounds.

337 cannabis plants weighing 1,160g were found in his home in Coín, Málaga, grown by an advanced drip watering system. The 23-year old is accused of crimes against public health and is due to appear in court.

The arrest is part of a new initiative by police to clamp down on small distributors of the drug.

Described as the birdwatcher's Glastonbury, Birdfair encompasses the whole spectrum of the birdwatching industry whilst at the same time supporting global bird conservation. Undoubtedly the event of the year if you're into birds and wildlife.

The authority was keen to show off many of the 380 species of birds that can regularly be found in the region. It distributed posters describing Cadiz as ‘a privileged place for bird watching, a hobby that moves thousands of people every year in search of better dreams.'

The Authority was also promoting a birdfair of its own. Being held from 24 to 26 September, the Second International Exhibition of Birds will be held in the town of Tarifa, in the Straits of Gibraltar, 75 kms south of Cadiz.

Literature described the Straits of Gibraltar as the best place in the whole of Europe to see the passage of migratory birds in western Europe. With the passage of these migratory birds across the Straits and the immense variety of species that visit the Parque Nacional de Doñana, the province of Cadiz is one of the most important destinations for birdwatchers in the entire world..

It is thought that Tim Appleton, the director of the British Birdwatching Association, will be on hand to provide technical advice with regard to the organisation of the Cadiz exhibition.

Police launched an investigation after parents of children who attended his football camp claimed he had been abusing their children. The man had been involved in a popular childrens' football camp nearby.

So far, it is believed that three male English children aged between 11 and 14 have come forward to accuse the man, whose initials are N.B., of inappropriate behaviour towards them.

The Guardia Civil station has refused to comment on the case, saying only that an investigation was underway into allegation laid against a foreign man after complaints from parents.

They added that any evidence uncovered from the investigation would be presented to a Judge to decide whether a prosecution could be launched.

It is believed that N.B. is a full time resident, along with his wife and children, who all live in the resort town of Garrucha.

It was found at 8pm last Monday evening by two people who were searching for firewood. As neither was carrying a telephone the find was reported at the home of a Local Police Officer who lived in the area.

The matter was passed on to the Guardia Civil who found that the victim's stomach had been cut along its entire length and then sewn up crudely with a fishing line. The autopsy indicated that e man had been transporting cocaine inside his stomach, which had somehow leaked, into his system causing his death.

It would appear that accomplices had cut open the stomach in order to recover the remaining drugs before disposing of the body into a nearby ravine.

To date the authorities have been unable to identify the body.

The gang were arrested by agents from the Guardia Civil when they tried to offload almost four tonnes of hashish on the beach at El Perdigal Almeria in the neighborhood of El Alquián in June 2008.

The ruling saw two of the accused receive sentences of four years and six months while the rest, were jailed for three years and one day in prison. The five accused must also pay fines of 50 million euros.

The operation was concluded with the arrests on 22 June 2008, after police were able to tap the phone of one of the defendants. In the discussion it became apparent that the conversation revolved around the illegal arrival of a shipment of hashish onto El Perdigal beach from Morocco.

With the information they had gathered the police were able to monitor the offloading operation. A spokesman said that at 5am they saw a fast RIB boat approached the shore without lights and engine. A number of individuals came out of the bushes while others drove up in a truck.

The Civil Guard, supported by agents from the Customs Surveillance Service, were able to intercept the operation resulting in the arrest of two suspects offloading the boat, the person responsible for loading the vehicle and two others who were located, with wet clothes, hidden in the vicinity.

Although the boat managed to flee with two crewmembers still on board the police were able to recover 57 bales of hashish with a value on the open market of over 18 million euros.

The competition provided us with a first, that is a visitor proved to be the winner in what was his first ever round of golf at aguilon and that is no mean feat (and yes we did check his handicap) proving that sometimes “ignorance is bliss”

RESULT
1st John Peace (visitor) 38pts,2nd Graham Tabberer 37pts,3rd Bill Gibb 36pts on a card play off
Twos: John Peace(our visitor again) at 10th hole

Guests and visitors are welcome to join us on a Mon,Wed and Friday for information contact 650203712 or 634641199

Christine's idea for a Night of Entertainment quickly took shape and thanks to performers Gill & Pete, Linda & Keith, Pauline & Roger, Yvonne & Morris, Jane & Steve, Mick and the children from the Ghost Academy of Performing Arts, a wonderful evening was had by all those that attended.

When the money raised was added up, to everyone's surprise and pleasure it totalled €1,400, a truly wonderful donation to a very worthwhile charity. AECC Campoverde Branch would like to thank Christine, Jason and Vicki and all the performers who gave so willingly of their time and talent.

A series of aerial photographs will be overlapped to create a 3D image to give detailed and accurate maps. The Councillor for Town Planning said it would allow the emergency services and Civil Defence agencies to obtain specific information more quickly in an emergency.

It will also help control traffic flow through the town and will be able to “detect any buildings outside the law.”

When you see the name “Etihad Airlines” you immediately conjure up a vision of those brilliant red “Ferraris” speeding around a Formula One racing circuit or the famous light blue shirts emblazoned with their name at “Manchester City FC”, well now they have added the name of the “Orba Warblers Golf Society” to this illustrious list of teams they sponsor, we must also thank the “Rotana Group” as together both of these organisations provided a great array of prizes.

The golf course was playing long today and I think that and of course the extreme heat through the middle of the day may account for the scores not being remarkable.

We had prizes in two categories this week and a raft of other prizes and of course an overall winner for the day, that honour went to John Daniels, despite his best efforts to not win by adding up his score up incorrectly a final check showed him to have 33 points off his handicap of 18.8, he took away a voucher for a brand new golf bag and a golf lesson with Noel Eastwell and a bottle of something nice.

On top of category one was Bob Edwards with 32 off 9.4, second was David Corcoran with 31 off 5.7, third place went to Sheila Dindar with 31 off 18.1, 4th was Michael Taylor with 29 off 12.3, 5th was Roger Vicars 29 off 15.4 and in sixth place was Stafford Pemberton with 28 off 13.2.

Leading category two was Arthur Sullivan scoring 32 points off 22.1, in second was Malcolm Robinson with the same 32 but off 23.8, 3rd was Brooke Williamson scoring 29 off 22.4, followed by Ron Steele with the same score but off a higher handicap, in 5th was Peter Gibson and in 6th David Rogers. Our top scoring guest today was Mike Badain with 33 off 13 and this was without slope, well done Mike.

There were four prizes for nearest the pin in two and these went to Bob Edwards on the 1st, John Nicholson on the 3rd, John again on the 13th and David Corcoran on the 16th. Our normal nearest the pin prizes were won by the obviously accurate John Nicholson on the seventh, Mike Boyle on the 9th, Stafford Pemberton on the 14th and John Daniels on the 18th. There was a rash of two's all on the 9th and the coveted Warbler balls went to Len Bailey, Pat Henry, Mike Boyle and Steve Robinson.

The player of the month went to Michael Taylor and the football card money was rustled away by one of our guests Mike Walters courtesy of Manchester City, how appropriate.

There was a singles knock-out game played today and David Knight won an unspectacular match over Graham Bennington 4 and 2 but their individual scores cannot be repeated.
Next week, Wednesday the 8th August, it is our annual “Away Day” and we travel to “El Saler” the coach will leave the “Portal la Marina” shopping centre at 07.30 and full details of the event will be published soon.

Sponsored by “Etihad Airlines” and “Rotana Group”

Summer's over, vacations have been taken and it's time to go back to work. The construction industry may never return to the levels of five years ago but starting in September, over 14-million euros is due to spent on a number of projects financed by the Valencian Community's Trust Plan.

The major projects will aid different areas of the community and include the start of work on the municipal swimming pools, the opening of Calle Valaro Rosa, resurfacing many of the city's roads, the construction of a new Residence for the Mentally handicapped and work on the Semana Santa Museum.

Once again, Torrevieja leads to way in Valencia by becoming the Vega Baja's first city to offer residential facilities for both the mentally and physically disabled, offering much need amenities for families to allow them some additional resources to help with the care of the disabled. The Mayor of Torrevieja Pedro Hernandez Mateo announced that the budget for the New Home for Physically and Mentally Disabled is 4,630,712 euros with a build time of just 12 months.

The new residence will be located at Avenida Delfina Viudes, next to Public School number. 10 Habaneras, on a plot of 11,152 meters square, funded under the FEIL funding, set up by the Valencian Community to boost the construction industry in the region. The new residence will cater to 100 residents and includes an ‘adapted' gym, kitchen, physiotherapy clinic, swimming pool and gardens.

The mayor also announced that over two and half million euros has been awarded for resurfacing much of the municipality over the next six months. Staying on the area of roads, 897,844 euros has been awarded to link the main Crevillente Road into the Torrettas, with an offshoot from the roundabout at the Habaneras Centre plus the building of a new Municipal Animal centre, at this junction, for 233,089 euros. New street lighting to the value 99,000 euros is planned for the Molino Blanco area.

Recreation is also included in the plan with construction of outdoor municipal pools opposite the Palace de los Deportes "Infanta Cristina", for an investment of 469 850 euros. The plan features a 25 meter pool plus a children's play pool, as well as changing rooms, showers and landscaping.

Under this Trust Plan, the final investment of six-million euros is set aside for the construction of the new Semana Santa Museum on Avda de las Habaneras and is designed by the prestigious architect Javier Alicante
García Solera.

Last Sunday, the prizegiving took place at Torrevieja tennis Club of the awards and trophies from the tennis tournament ‘XV Ciudad de Torrevieja'.

This tournament was organised from 14 August and had a turnout of more than 240 players from many different clubs and regions.

The awards and trophies were presented by sports councillor and former Olympic Gold Medallist, Daniel Plaza, together with Jose Manuel Pizana, Youth and Education Officer in the Municipality of Torrevieja.

They were accompanied by Jose Ramon Fabregat, Director of Caja Rural Central area , Facundo Danduch, Tengo Tennis and Antonio Tafalla, acting President of Tennis Club Torrevieja.

This Tournament is one of the most prestigious in the whole of the Valencian community. This fifteenth edition has been put together particularly well by everyone, the board, partners, sponsors and the City Council of Torrevieja.

Players from the club were represented in eight finals in the thirteen categories. The photo shows Carlos B. Rosique with Daniel Plaza

XVIII Denia RFC Beach 7's Competition held on "Playa Abaranas" opposite the Oasis Hotel last Saturday was a great success, providing some skillful rugby played by seniors, Feminino and Juveniles (U19).

The Feminino competition was played between Denia, Tatami and Universidad Catolica. Universidad Catolica was the worthy winner of the close fought three way competition.

The seniors competition was contested by eight teams, Denia, Javea, Universidad Alicante, Tatami, Akra Barbara, Valencia, Alcobendas (Madrid) and M.A.G.O.S.The M.A.G.O.S. team was a select team of veteran rugby players from the Marina Alta area, each player had to be over 35 years of age. The final was contested between Alcobendas and Valencia which was 1 v 1 at full time. In extra time Alcobendas got the "Golden Try" to win the competition.

Denia beat Universidad Alicante to take third place. The competition was a huge success and attracted a large crowd of spectators throughout the day. "Player of the Tournament" was awarded to Juan Silva from Denia who had strong opposition from the Alcobendas team which included two Spanish 7's Internationals and the Spanish coach.

The M.A.G.O.S team was challenged by Denia's young players to play off for the wooden spoon trophy following a teams retirement, after an open enjoyable game of rugby M.A.G.O.S retained the trophy. After the presentation of awards to both players and referees everyone was served chicken and chips supplied from the Oasis Hotel who supported Denia RFC throughout the day.

La Vila Rugby Club is looking forward to an exciting season of rugby ahead. The league promises to be even more competitive than before, with more clubs signing international players and more money being invested in the sport.

Last season was an undeniable success for La Vila. Not only did the club finish second overall, with 49 league points, but it broke club records by catapulting itself into the final of the prestigious King's Cup Tournament, which was played in Segovia, near Madrid.

The line-up of teams included in the Division of Honour has altered slightly this season, with Les Abelles relegated and CAU Valencia a recent inclusion. The top ten teams are: MBE Alcobendas (Madrid) VRAC Q. Entrepinares (Valladolid), Pegamo Bera Bera RT, C.R. La Vila, AMPO Ordizia R.E., Bizkaia Gernika R.T., Cetransa El Salvador (Valladolid), Cajasol R. Ciencias (Seville), CAU Valencia, U.E. Santboiana (Barcelona).

Last season, league giants El Salvador won with a whopping 64 points. La Vila took second place and Cajasol Seville came in at third with 47 points. It remains to be seen which teams will dominate this season, although speculations favour El Salvador, Ordizia, VRAC, and of course La Vila. La Vila for its own part has secured the services of a number of international players, including a mix of old and new players from England, New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina and France.

The official premiership team will be presented on Friday 27th August at 8:45pm, followed by the club's warm up friendly game against Alcobendas Madrid at 10pm. Next Sunday 5th September, La Vila will play their first premiership game away versus Bera Bera.

For more information, please contact Jo le Roux at the Rugby La Vila offices 965 890 376 or email publicrelations@rugbylavila.net.

La Vila Rugby Club is situated at Carratera Pantano, Villajoyosa. Take AP-7 exit N 66 (Villajoyosa). At the first roundabout head for the mountain. The club is about 1km from Motorway exit N 66. Or take the Villajoyosa by-pass, and take the middle exit. At the first roundabout, bare right towards the motorway entrance and at the second roundabout bare left towards the mountain.

English player JOE HUTCHINSON has returned to once again wear the La Vila Rugby jersey, after a successful sojourn playing for Gernika in the Basque Country.

Joe began his Spanish career playing contracted rugby for La Vila in the 2008-2009 season. This was the club's first season in the premiership league. Last season he signed as a starting player for Gernika, proving his mettle before deciding to return to his friends on the Costa Blanca.

Joe has been welcomed back by his former colleagues and is eager to get started with the season ahead. “It's really good to be back in La Vila,” he said. “I'm looking forward to playing for the club again this season. There is some tough competition, but I think we are going to hold our own on the field.”

Hutchinson plays loose head, weighs 125 kg and measures 1.83m. He started out with England's Sale Sharks and went on to play for England U19's, before starting his professional career in Spain. Joe replaces former player Mark George, who has returned to England.

More than 40 players from the European rugby powerhouse spent a week at the five-star resort along with coaches, fitness and medical staff before returning to Ireland to face Leicester Tigers in their first pre-season friendly.

The week-long break will give the team the perfect start to the campaign, allowing them to undergo some warm-weather training on first-class facilities and to focus on preparation for the season ahead.

It will also give the ideal opportunity for some team bonding with three championship golf courses and one of Europe's leading tennis centres among the facilities the players had on hand.

Munster coach Tony McGahan said: "The La Manga Club complex and facilities were top class and equalled only by the service provided by a thoroughly professional and efficient staff.

"The resort provided us with the ideal environment in which to prepare for the season ahead and I would have no hesitation in recommending it to other sports groups."

La Manga Club boasts the best facilities in southern Europe for professional sports teams, with eight international-standard grass pitches and a host of other amenities including the five-star Hotel La Manga Club Principe Felipe.

More than 30 professional and international football teams visited the resort in the first three months of this year alone, and Liverpool, West Bromich Albion, Middlesbrough, Sheffield United and Celtic are among the clubs to have staged training camps in the last year.

For more information on La Manga Club or to book a stay, visit: lamangaclub.co

Whilst you are all enjoying the summer heat, sit back with your Sangria and have a think about this. What about a self navigation system for hands free driving, biotechnology entry system and anti-impact crash sensors to avoid collisions with other cars?

The Black Box Technology found in aeroplanes has been invaluable for many years with its ability to get detail records of trips and logs of what happens to a plane in flight or when accidents occur. It's still being debated like most things that come to personal privacy and many people will no doubt object to the idea of the black box being implemented into their personal vehicles.

The fact is that both Ford and General Motors already are using black Box technology in around two-thirds of the models built, but they are referred to as "recorders". Drivers can expect the advancement of these “recorders” to be able to tell police officers and insurance companies about car accidents, how fast you were driving, where you had driven that day and much more.

It's no longer just a dream, with the advancement of GPS and robotic technology, set your car on Auto Pilot and the navigation system guides the car to its destination while the driver sits back and relaxes, is to become a reality sooner than many people could imagine.

Experimentation and planning is already underway with the use of magnets and GPS.
Crash detection is already a reality with the Honda Acura RL. Called the “Collision Mitigation System”, soon all cars will include a similar safety feature. The car's monitoring system decides all on its own through a series of sensors and hi-tech computers, that a crash is unavoidable and will warn the driver to brace for impacts as it automatically takes action for the driver by deploying the airbags hitting the brakes and tightens up seatbelts.

With the new idea and innovation of the “Economy Mode” the cars computer will be able to determine what systems in your car are non-essential at the time and turn them off to save on fuel, for example it could turn down the AC, or activate the Cruise Controls to conserve fuel consumption. The car would begin making these adjustments for the driver automatically.

This is not just an idea; in fact some Hybrid vehicles feature an economy mode that limits A/C use on several models right now.

Nissan are due to release within the next three years, paint that can automatically resist and repair minor scratches as well as withstand marks from things like greasy fingers and tree sap. They have already developed a topcoat made from an elastic resin that prevents scratches, but at the moment it only has a life span of three years.

One for the ladies is the self-parking system. Imagine a system that parks a car with either minimal or no help from the driver. Toyota introduced such a system in Japan where the driver keeps his foot on the brake while the car parallel parks it self. BMW recently created a version the driver can remotely operate from outside the car for squeezing into those tight garage spots.

Rumour has it about four years until we see it appearing on showroom models.
Electric window tinting could take windows or a sunroof from clear to tint to even opaque with the push of a button. Maybach, a German luxury car manufacturer already offers a panoramic glass roof that can be switched from opaque to transparent, expect to wait around five years for it to hit the market.

A number of cars already offer keyless entry and ignition, but this is limited to only a few manufactures. Biotechnology access like the fingerprint scanners and iris recognition is on its way, Volvo are in development and we should be seeing it within the next two years. The good ol' key and ring is on its way to extinction.

Adaptive brake lights get brighter depending on how hard the brake pedal is depressed, telling the driver behind you how quickly you are stopping. Mercedes-Benz has already experimented with adaptive braking on a limited number of U.S. models, but safety regulations are slowing the progress of this one. Time frame? Expect it soon.

Available now is the hi-tech “back-up” camera. It has a display unit that looks like an ordinary car interior mirror. Cameras mounted front and rear display the images on its 2.5 inch LCD screen. The camera can shows the movement front and behind of your vehicle. It also has an option of saving the video so that in case of an accident you can prove your rights.
Honda is putting in the Ecological Drive Assist System into their new hybrid Insight cars, which works as a kind of colour coded eco fairy.

Whilst environmentally friendly driving will keep the speedometer green, over use of the gears and naughty engine revving will result in it turning blue. How long before it is fitted to all cars, great idea nice one Honda.

So is all this technology actually beneficial or could it be seen as a hindrance? In-car DVDs, GPS navigators and iPods have joined mobile phones as modern conveniences which could take drivers' attention off the road, sometimes with fatal results. Research has proved that a person using just a mobile phone is four times more likely to have an accident.

So what are your chances if you are setting your route plan on your Tom-sat-navigator whilst watching Space Odyssey on your in-car DVD player and backing up the Mp3 tracks from your iPhone4 to your iPod via your car's Bluetooth USB, not forgetting to have a cigarette and a quick drink from one of your cars 10 drinks holders. Is it all necessary? Bring back points and condensers that's what I say.

Until next week, please send any questions to thecarclinic@hotmail.com and remember the best way to predict the future is to invent it.
Drive safe.
Tony.

There are few pop groups that can boast having 14-members on stage at anyone time; and no it's not Madonna with 13 or more dancers prancing around, we are taking musicians and singers.

Although they may not have had a hit for almost 30-years, eminent musical forces such as Miles Davis, Quincy Jones and Dionne Warwick, named them as their favourite band. If you remember such songs as ‘Shining Star', ‘Got to get you into my life', ‘September' ‘After the love has gone', ‘Let's Grove' and ‘Boogie Wonderland' then you'll know we are talking about the one and only Earth, Wind and Fire.

If you're a fan of EWF, then you'll be pleased to hear that it looks like Torrevieja has a treat for you next summer, as chances are they shall be here to play alongside 80's disco diva's Sister Sledge, who had the massive dance floor hit with ‘We are family'. David Giles, CEO of Awesome Global Events of Miami and Marbella recently visited Torrevieja with a view to presenting a number of shows in the city, including the possible use of the new Conservatory and Concert zone, for which construction should be starting in October, 2010.

Earth, Wind and Fire were formed by Verdine and Maurice White in Chicago, back in 1969 and over the last four decades have notched up an impressive six Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards and been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. Not bad results by anyone's standards.

Earth, Wind and Fire's ‘support act', if you would dare call them that, is none other than four Philadelphian sisters, Kim, Debbie, Joni and Kathy, better known as Sisters Sledge, who cracked the UK Top Twenty charts ten times between 1973 and 1993 and whose hits included included the disco anthem ‘We are Family' plus their number one hit record ‘Frankie'. They may not have had chart success for a number of years but they have not stopped working for over thirty years!

Torrevieja will probably be their final stop on a short Portuguese and Spanish tour next summer for EWF and Sister Sledge although the venue is still to be decided upon due to availability and production values. Awesome Global Events have a number of other attractions and major artists interested in playing Torrevieja, depending upon tour schedules and commitments, so fingers crossed that some major artists shall be coming this way in 12-months time.

In May 2008, Awesome Global Events promoted Rod Stewart in Almeria and over the past year have worked with such household names as Elton John, Santana, Deep Purple and Simply Red who were very close to performing in Torrevieja in 2009. More information can be found at www.AwesomeGlobalEvents.com.

David said: “We want Awesome Events to be synonymous with top acts, good music, great sound and a fantastic atmosphere.” This seems to be great, quality start to their relationship with Torrevieja.

Monday Summer League 2010 ... With almost everyone fighting for places on the last night of the Summer League, the Final results are as follows:

Coopers Bar 4 – 5 Bar Santana
Evos 4 – 5 Hot Dogs
Alan's Tigers 5 – 4 Black Dog
Bye/Descanso 0 – 0 T.W.'s

Congratulations go to Bar Santana who win the League this summer and we look forward to seeing them again in the forthcoming Winter League.

180: Terry Haggenars (Santana), Des Cooper (Tigers), 140's: x3 Mick McGivern (Black Dog), x2 Mark Farmer (Black Dog), Frank Robinson (Coopers), Wayne Moore (Hot Dogs), Brian Burr (Evos), Terry Haggenars (Santana), Maurice Houghton (Black Dog), Hot Shots: 125 Steve Rhodes (Coopers), 125 Jose Santana (Santana), 123 Roger Spelkens (Santana), 123 Pedro Martinex (Santana), 123 Paul Yates (Evos), 121 John Boden (Hot Dogs)
121 Brian Burr (Evos), 121 Suso Madrid (Santana)

Ladies: 100x2 Carole Evans (Tigers)

Young Talent
Evos have been struggling to find players for the last couple of games, and their Captain went around asking everyone, holidaymakers alike, if they would like a game of darts that night.

Unfortunately, none of the regular winter players was interested, but a young lad volunteered to play for them and came in to immediately start practicing on the board.

Well he could play, and knew what he was doing. No stray darts, no hitting the wood etc. So for once, we all turned a blind eye, our Summer League is a Fun League after all, and unfortunately, the lad did not win in either pairs or the singles game. BUT, his parents watched, along with other family

supporters and everyone was cheering him on, they even booed the Spanish man he played, matching each other's scores doown to the double. Above all, everyone took it, all in good faith.

The young lad's name is Joe Baker, and he will be 12 in March, starting at the local Secondary school in September. When asked where he learnt to play darts, he said in my bedroom at home. As yet, he doesn't play for anyone, but all that is about to change, because he has now been offered a place with the Hertfordshire County Youth Team.

In Bar Alan, on Friday, the League presented him with a Special Medal, being a Promising Young Player Award. Joe was delighted and he wore the Medal everywhere, over the last few days of his holiday. So, Joe please let us know how you get on when you start playing in England.

Presentation Evening and Mixed Pairs
The Mixed Pairs and Presentation night will be held at Evos Bar, Toretta II, tonight Monday 30th August. As usual, as there are not enough Ladies to go round, Gentlemen may invite a non-league lady to play.

If you are a lady looking for a game of Darts, please come along and we will find you a partner. Check-in by 20.45 hrs please and we look forward to seeing everyone then.

Another good week everyone, enjoy your darts.

Pam Horton, Secretarial Coordinator, 96 571 0066.Email: darts@arrakis.es

Big Brother, in the shape of Torrevieja's Policia Local, is about to start watching your behaviour around the city. Over the last few months, local and national companies have tendered for 10-different projects under the VYRIATO (Intelligent Video and Radar Assertive Torrevieja) scheme, which involves an investment amounting to 1.7 million euros.

The overall idea is to allow video surveillance of Public areas and buildings, have the ability to control traffic lights at specific locations and look for suspicious activity in and around the city centre.

Although radar points are also part of the installation, these are not, allegedly, looking for speeding drivers to hand out tickets, but to monitor driving habits, primarily as research. However, those who run red lights, could find themselves in trouble! With the implementation of these projects, Torrevieja will become the forefront in Spain in terms of traffic and road safety.

Last week, members of the council and local security forces and representatives of the installation companies met to discus the implementation of VYRIATO, which is due to start installations in September The meeting was attended by the mayor of Torrevieja, Pedro Hernandez Mateo the director general of the local police, Javier Minguez, the Chief of Police Mayor, Vicente Gutierrez and Representatives of the eight companies who have been awarded the tender for the project. There are two projects remaining to be awared, which shall be completed in September.

Mateo Hernandez announced that this new project should be fully operational by 31 December 2010, The plan will place Torrevieja as the number one Spanish City, in terms of traffic and road safety, turning the city into one of the best protected cities in all of Spain.

The police will have the ability to control and access number plate reading of all traffic that enters and exits the city, surveillance of the municipality, the monitoring and control of forest fires and spaces, traffic light remote control to aid the flow of traffic and surveillance of public areas, to deter thieves, graffiti artists and criminal activities.

You've been warned; like it or not, Big Brother is going to be watching you, so misbehave at your own risk in Torrevieja!

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Euro Millions Lottery Results | Euromilliones Loteria Resultados

1, 6, 13, 30, 49, 1*, 9*

MILLIONAIRE RAFFLE: tbc

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Euro Millions Lottery Results | Euro Millions Lottery Numbers | Euro Millions Results
Euro Millions Numbers | Euro Millions Winning Results | Euro Millions Winning Numbers

The results and winning numbers for the Euro Millions lottery, (Euromillones) draw 342, held on 27 August 2010 were:

1, 6, 13, 30, 49, 1*, 9*

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During the first six months of the year Almeria's Local Police have collected 4650 euros in fines from members of the public caught urinating in the street. This amounts to 3 times the amount collected during the same period last year.

The vast majority of offenders were caught in the area around la plaza del Educador, Puerta Purchena and las 'Cuatro Calles' where residents say the constant smell of urine is disgusting.

One individual told us that he is fed up of members of the public using the area as a latrine. A police spokesman said said they relieve themselves anywhere that takes their fancy with no regard whatsoever of those people who live locally. It can be up against somebody's house, in doorways, arcades, plaza's, anywhere in fact that is convenient to them.

Neither do they seem to have any regard for other people who might be passing, often not even having the common decency to turn away.

The spokesman said that anyone now caught in the act is liable to a fine of 150 euros. Indeed a number of offenders who have appeared before magistrates have recently been ordered to return to the area with buckets of bleach and water to clean up the mess they have caused.

A dive centre in the picturesque holiday and fishing village of Moraira in the Alicante region has become headline news in Spain this month - thanks to a new area of business - Underwater Weddings!

The first event arranged by Jacob (Cobi) and Edna Shekrel, owners of Mermaid Diving Moraira, took place on 11 July. It hit the Spanish headlines - with both provincial and national TV and Radio - and led to more offers of broadcast coverage.

So a second event swiftly followed, with a couple from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Rozena & Tim Pedley who are long term friends of Cobi and Edna, and who ‘tied the knot' in an underwater ceremony on 05 August.

The couple dived into the sea in full wedding attire, accompanied by their three diving bridesmaids Isobel, Eleanor and Natasha. Honorary dry land bridesmaid Agam (Cobi & Edna's 21 month old!) and Maid of Honor Edna led the celebrations on-land in the blazing sunshine, as crowds of locals and tourists gathered around the party and sung the Wedding March as the couple descended into the 26 degree water, followed by 3 instructors, swimmers & snorkelers who watched the 3 meter depth wedding from above, as well as 10 other helpers and underwater assistants.

The bridesmaids sat on chairs and one of them presented the rings in a huge shell. At the end of the ceremony, champagne was opened underwater and served to the participants.

Valencia's TV Channel 9 filmed and broadcasted the event to the region the next day . Cobi and Edna use their own video from their underwater wedding (5 years ago) to promote what couples can expect from their underwater nuptials, you can find the videos on their Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/mermaidiving.

Mermaid Diving Moraira are also working in collaboration with the local Town Hall - to make Moraira's underwater weddings ‘official' in every sense of the word. So watch this space for more underwater weddings - Spanish style!

You may have heard of the phenomenon that is Twitter, or maybe you haven´t. But either way, we thought we would take the opportunity to introduce you to the joys of “tweeting”, or at least explain a little bit about what it´s all about.

Twitter is a social networking, micro blogging website, used by people to connect with friends, family and a lot of strangers. That´s the technical explanation, but it is probably more useful if we explain it to you in real life terms.

The easiest way to describe Twitter to you is to give you 2 analogies. The first one is for you to imagine your mobile phone. When you send a text to somebody you have a limited number of characters you can write.

That in itself brought in a change of language with words like “gr8”, “ru ok” and “c u l8r”, thus reducing the amount of characters needed, well Twitter is the same. You have a maximum of 140 characters per message, or Tweet, as they are known.

Now, imagine when you send that single text, that all of your friends can read it too. In fact, the whole world could potentially read it. That might sound scary at first, but if you want to tell all your friends in one go that you are looking at buying a new coat, or that you are thinking of a holiday etc, then it suddenly becomes more useful.

So you tweet “In the shop might buy a new coat. What do you think?” You can also add a picture if you like, but we will talk about that another time. All of your friends can read it, possibly comment and send you their opinions.

The second image I want to conjure up is one of Oxford Street in London. Picture a person holding a large sign on a pole saying “Golf Sale”, usually with an arrow pointing in the direction of the sale. Can you picture it? Well, if you can picture it, I want you to replace the person holding the sign with yourself and the words on that sign with the message you just tweeted about the coat.

Not everybody in the world is going to see the sign, but quite a lot of people will. Most will choose to ignore it, most will not even notice, but a stranger may well come up to you and say something like “I bought a new coat last week from that shop over there” and so, the conversation starts.

So, not only is Twitter a great way to keep in touch with people you know, it is also a great way to meet new friends. You have “followers” (people who can read your messages) and you “follow” people you find of interest.

Both The Leader Newspaper and Exite Radio are on Twitter, but the first thing you need to do is sign up for your free account. To do that, visit www.twitter.com and choose a user name and password. Fill in your email address and that´s it, you are ready to Tweet. Get all your friends to join too and build your very own social network site.

Once you are comfortable, you will even be able to use Twitter to contact businesses, celebrities, find out about local events, news and information, and even make money! But, one step at a time. Sign up and follow The Leader and Exite Radio.

We will put a list of Twitter accounts to follow on our website www.theleader.info, we look forward to Tweeting you.

<<<<<<< >>>>>>>

http://twitter.com/leadernewspaper - The Leader Newspaper.
http://twitter.com/ExiteRadio - Exite Radio.
http://twitter.com/Mark_A_Nolan - Exite Radio´s Mark Nolan.
http://twitter.com/ukinspain - British Consulate in Alicante.
http://twitter.com/britishabroad - The Foreign Office.
http://twitter.com/foreignoffice - The UK Foreign Office.
http://twitter.com/valenciaregion - Valencia tourist board.
http://twitter.com/BenidormTweets - Updates from the set of ITV´s Benidorm.
http://twitter.com/JakeCanuso - Actor who plays barman Mateo in Benidorm.
http://twitter.com/tuitrafico_feed - Traffic reports in Spanish.
http://twitter.com/AccuWx - Weather reports.
http://twitter.com/holidayinnalc - Alicante Holiday Inn.
http://twitter.com/lashabaneras - Habaneras shopping centre, Torrevieja.
http://twitter.com/Rowetta_X - Rowetta, singer who was interviewed on Exite Radio.
http://twitter.com/benstockbiz - Ben Stock, actor who appeared on Exite Radio.
http://twitter.com/BboySwagger - Street dancer who was interviewed on Exite Radio.

You can find many more by using the search box on Twitter, or just look at who these people are “following”.

A twinning ceremony was carried out last Monday evening in the auditorium of the Los Alcazares Park as part of the celebrations of the International Week of Huerta and the Sea.

Every year an evening is devoted to a neighboring town and this year, to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of the event, the leading role was given to Murcia.

The mayor of Los Alcazares, Encarna Gil, described Murcia as an beautiful city which her townsfolk were proud to have at neighbours. She said it was an excellent example of Spanish agriculture with its orchards and its many vegetable farms.

She made mention of its culinary delights, traditional artisans and the craftsmanship of its many people. She said that all these aspects make Murcia a suburb example to us all.

A couple of months ago we published an article about Simon Perry from Madrid who is cycling 19,000km from Fairbanks, Alaska to Ushuaia, Argentina.

He is doing the trip for the British charity Help 4 Heroes, which is currently getting plenty of support within the expat community here on the Costa's. Simon hopes to raise €3000.

Although H4H is the main focus of the trip Simon said that he would like to use the opportunity to try and build links between the UK and various places along his route. He will be visiting orphanages and other institutions that work to build a better future for local children along the route.

A quick update his progress from Simon.

“I have arrived in Edmonton, Alberta five weeks after setting out from Fairbanks, Alaska. I have cycled over 3000 km's already and completed the fabled Alaska highway! The trip has been fantastic so far although very difficult and tiring.

I'm enjoying the challenge however and looking forward to what lies ahead.

I regularly update my website with photos, a blog and video messages so take a look when you can and feel free to use anything on there. I've attached a few photos you can use in your updates. Thanks for your support and keep in touch!”

Should you wish to do so you can still contribute to Simon's fundraiser through his website www.simonintheamericas.kk5.org

Their most recent public denunciation is in respect of an accumulation of waste and debris close to Almoradi. It is an illegal tip which has suddenly appeared in the last six months or so on which members of the public have dumped dirty mattresses, planks of wood, household waste, building waste and a great deal of old furniture.

The denuncia requires that 'The Almoradi Town Council take steps to have the illegal rubbish tip closed immediately and further more that the rubbish deposited on this site be removed, the damage caused to be rectified, and the environment of the zone to be re-instated to a natural condition.'

You will find this haven of waste, one of quite a few in the town, along la calle Sol Naciente It is spread over a hundred metres along the CV91 which connects Guardamar with Orihuela.

Unfortunately, despite the frequent calls to the authorities asking that they tackle the problems, illegal rubbish dumps continue to leave a blot on the landscape and more importantly, present a very real health hazard to members of the local community in which they are sited.

Ricky Valance shot to fame with his recording of Tell Laura I love her which hit the No 1 spot in the UK charts on September 29th 1960. This great recording hit the charts and stayed there for sixteen weeks. Following this, Ricky recorded a number of songs that hit the top 50 charts of the time and has been recording ever since.

Over the last fifty years, Ricky has had huge success in many Countries around the world and in particular, with his Country music in the USA including appearing on the US Country show "Nashville Now" in front of 70 million viewers and getting into the top 30 air play charts in Nashville in 2002 with the album track “Mother loves another man". Ricky was also the first Welshman to have a Number one recording in the UK.

At the beginning of the year, Ricky had a sell out tour of the Costa Blanca region with four gigs that were a huge success and tickets were snapped up very quickly. Over the summer Ricky has been in the UK to complete a tour there and once again, he has successfully filled venues and thrilled audiences over there. In September, Ricky returns to Spain and is quickly in action with the final gigs of his 50th anniversary in music Costa Blanca tour with Jukebox Legends.

There has been a great deal of interest in Ricky from the media, TV and venues in the UK for his special celebration year and he has featured on a number of programmes and in magazines. Now, his return to Spain will enable ex pats to see his fantastic new show as this special year in his life comes towards it's end.

Jukebox Legends has arranged a six gig tour for this end of year celebration. As always, Ricky is very aware of the current economic climate and has insisted that ticket prices for these events are kept very low so that people can come along and see him without hurting their pockets. Along with Jukebox Legends, he has carefully chosen the venues so that the costs can be kept as low as possible as well and the events are also raising funds for PUMA22.

They are:
The Rendezvous, Campoamor on Sunday 26th September at 8-30pm
Casa Nicolas Restaurant, Altos del Limonar (near the big Carrefour) on Monday 27th September at 8-30pm
Los Arcos, Torrevieja on Sunday 17th October at 8-30pm
Rocajuna, Punta Prima on Friday 22nd October at 8-30pm
The Club, Quesada on Wednesday 27th October at 8-30pm
The Lounge Bar, Torrevieja on Sunday 31st October at 8-30pm

The shows will be three hours long and feature Ricky who will be supported by Jukebox Legends and the Elvis 2000 show. This whole event will be solid live music from the 60s and 70s at a simply amazing value for money ticket cost!

Tickets for all performances are just 6 Euros each (except The Rendezvous which is 8 Euros and includes a FREE Buffet). Tickets are available now at each venue or by calling 695135134. Tickets may be available on the day of performances if available but this will depend on demand so it is highly recommended to book in advance.

An exhibition of their work commences this summer in the capital of the Netherlands. Artists Rubio & Dubois, composed of Marie-Hélène Dubois and David Rubio, who have their workshop in Murcia, have commenced an exhibition of their work in Amsterdam which will last 3 months.

The gallery is called the Storm Gallery and it is 250m2 of space in a 100 year old building in the centre of Amsterdam and the artists are personally selected by Martine Mulder, the owner of the gallery and an artist herself.

Rubio & Dubois create unique works of art carved in wood. David cuts, prepares and carves the wood whilst Marie-Hélène creates the designs and hand paints the finished carving.

Rubio & Dubois are the first artists from Spain selected by the gallery and their exhibition composed of 12 pieces is from their Mandala collection. A Mandala is a geometric design composed around a unifying circle which inspires harmony.
For more information at info@rubioydubois.eu

The Regional Secretary for Health, Luis Rosado, together with the Orihuela Councillor for Health, Antonio Ortiz, visited the Vega Baja Hospital on Wednesday to check the status of the MRI equipment that is currently being fitted into the hospital

Once complete the facility will be used to assist the nearly 200,000 patients who are currently receiving treatment elsewhere.

The new facility, equipped with the latest diagnostic technology, is being accommodated in an area of 270 square meters. When complete it will be able to provide an average of 35 daily diagnostic tests. The hospital will then be able to fulfill a need, which has long been demanded by the citizens of Orihuela City and the rest of the Vega Baja.

This new technology will allow for much better patient care, as it will ensure that users no longer have to travel long distances to other centres to use similar equipment.

The MRI service will run every day of the year, and will employ a staff of five specialists in radiology. The new equipment has a viewing facility that allows patients to watch videos, movies and music, allowing the more nervous types to relax with in house entertainment, thereby reducing technical rejections and the potential problems of claustrophobia.

The investment in the new facility amounts to €1,500,000 and, according to the Regional Secretary for Health, Luis Rosado, it will be launched early next year.

San Javier's Local Police have started an intensive campaign on Wednesday targetting noise control for motorcycles and mopeds. The campaign will run until September 2 with spot checks being undertaken throughout the municipality.

The measures are being implemented to respond to complaints from members of the public of excessive noise that are often caused by this type of vehicle.

Motorcycles and mopeds emitting a noise in excess of 90 decibels will be ftaken off the road and will only be released if subjected to the appropriate tests certified by a technical inspection after going through the ITV.

The vehicle owner may recover his bike or moped only by submitting the technical documentation at the City Hall.

In the case of more serous offences, where the noise exceeds 10 decibels over the maximum allowed, violations of the noise limit are punishable with a fine of up to 1,500 euros. For those offences considered less serious, where the excess is less than 10 decibels the owner will receive a fine of up to 750 euros.

Mijas Town Hall has installed signs in four strategic points of historic Mijas Pueblo containing information about a hundred stores, points of interest and municipal buildings in the area.

The scheme is a joint initiative between the Department of Tourism, the Traders Association and the Industry of Mijas Pueblo.

"The intention is that the new signboards provide tourists and residents with useful information on the broad commercial fabric of this historic town," said the Councillor for Tourism, Fuensanta Lima.

Under the slogan 'All you need ... is here in Mijas Pueblo', the panels offer information on hundreds of establishments divided into many different categories: restaurants, bars, cafes and brasseries, gift and craft shops, souvenir shops; health shops and fitness establishment; jewellers, hotels, natural beauty treatments and various other services.

In addition, the panels also contain a large map of Mijas Pueblo which specifies the location of each establishment as well as information on the main municipal offices and the Tourist Office, City Hall, the municipal library, the Municipal Auditorium and Casa Museo as well as a number of other tourist attractions like the museum of miniatures 'Max Wagon', the bullring and the donkey-taxi stop.

The information panels are located in the Mijas Tourist Office, the bus stop opposite the Town Hall and the Plaza Virgen de la Peña and San Sebastian.

The General Secretary of the PSOE of Málaga and deputy in the Congress, Miguel Angel Heredia, highlighted the progress made by the Government in protection the retired in times of crisis. Referring to the latest data released by the Social Security Offices he said that the average pension in Malaga during the month of August stood at 734.87 euros, representing an increase of 3.1 % over the same month last year.

He said that the annual average pension has gained 3.7 points of purchasing power under the PP while, during the eight years of Aznar's government, it only increased by 0.5%. Now the average pension in Malaga is 734 euros and rising.

According to official information the province began the month of August with 225,527 state pensioners, representing 2.6% of the national total. The latest monthly figures show an expenditure of 165.74 million euros from the welfare budget an increase of 30% since Zapatero came to power.

The commitment to those with the lowest pensions has been particularly evident with minimum pensions increasing by 49 %, representing an increase of 24 % in purchasing power.

Of the 225,527 pensioners recorded in Malaga, the largest group is that of retirees, with 118 767. Next are 59,884 people collecting widows' pensions. The number drawing disability pensions is 36,596), Orphans 9,211 and for families 1,069.

The highest payments are in respect of disability pensions, 862.96 euros, followed by retirement 824.33 euros.

The excavation of the subway tunnel along Avda Velasquez has now been virtually completed with new works turning this week to the installation of underground tracks on line 2. This will see the start of preparatory work which will bring this segment of the metro into service in November 2011.

The placement of the first sleepers is a major step forward in the construction of Line 2 which will run for a length of 3.6 kilometers. This is the second phase of the development, however, with phase one originally starting in March 2009 along the path that runs through the university campus area.

In the coming months, works on line 2 will focus on the installation of track, pipelines and the electrical systems. However, before this work can start, Metro Málaga will have to pump water from the tunnel, diverting it to a network of wells, so that it can be utilised for street cleaning, sanitation and garden irrigation.

The pipework through which electrical and ventilation systems will be run is at an advance stage in El Torcal and La Luz-La Paz stations particularly. The stations will have a series of platform doors, a system that eliminates the risk of the public falling into the tracks, where glass partitions will separate the tracks from the platform with doors aligned and synchronized with the trains.

The contract for the supply and installation of underground systems has a budget of 153 million euros, and will see the participation of 20 companies, providing elevators, escalators, ventilation systems and traffic signals to control the train and platform doors.

The acquisition of material includes automatic ticket machines which will control access both to and from the station platforms thereby achieving higher movement of passenger flows within the Metropolitan Transport Consortium.

In Andalusia there are still many large rural areas, which has certainly contributed to the survival of various craft skills that are not found elsewhere. This may not be true for the coastal villages along the Costa del Sol, but just a short drive inland from Malaga, we can discovered a number of traditional crafts.

The majority of villages in Malaga province have maintained craft skills which have remained unchanged and approved through the years, many from the time the Mara were in Spain. The Mara were brilliant craftsmen.

You can often buy crafts directly from the artisas at lower prices. So visits are strongly recommended, especially if there is a chance to see the craftsmen or women at work

In some villages have will find families of potters working with ceramic ovens that seem to come from the 19th century. You can also find many wicker and cane items on most weekly markets along the Costa del Sol and inland villages, where you may even find an old man sitting in the sun and weaving.

In addition, you can see beautifully crafted leather products, including both saddles and riding boots in the city of Ubrique, a small Mountain Village near Ronda, less than two hours drive from Malaga. Ubrique has some great restaurants and the countryside remains unchanged and is therefore great place to visit.

Ronda is well known for its traditional Spanish furniture, apart from the absolutely wonderful view of the deep gorge, and deserves a visit. The mountains of Malaga are also known for delicious local produce such as cheese, wine, typical products of meat (chorizo) and Jamon Serrano ham, and Prime Oil Extra Virgin olive oil. Spend a day discovering the traditional crafts of gastronomy.

With a car you can easily reach many beautiful villages on the western Costa del Sol, Mijas Pueblo, Casares and Ronda in the countryside. Mijas is also famous for traditional food items and hemp, wicker, ceramic or wood.

When in Casares remember to visit the famous home of goat milk cheese in the mountains. This cheese has won numerous awards. But if the cheese is not what you want, there are a multitude of fantastic restaurants where you can taste typical dishes.

www.merleharmon.com/

TheMalaga council has told residents that the Cathedral bells will no longer be sounded every 15 minutes following complaints from members of the public who said that their peace and quiet is forever being disturbed.

As a result it was decided at a recent meeting that the bell would now only chime on the hour. It was also decided that the chimes would only last for one minute instead of the previous three. They will still be used, however, to call people to mass on Saturdays and Sundays

In a sign of the times the council have accepted that many residents work at night and sleep during the day but despite the fact that the sound of the Cathedral bells are a charming part of the city's culture they feel that it is unfair to disturb those residents who need to sleep.

Dating from the days when the public couldn't afford to keep a clock in their homes it is though that the bells were originally used so that local townsfolk could tell the time.

MABS Race for Life is coming to town. For the third successful year, MABS Murcia/Mar Menor will be holding their Race for Life in Los Alcázares on Sunday, 14 November. This popular event gets bigger every year, attracting runners from as far afield as Madrid.

Whether you're running in memory of someone lost to cancer, celebrating because you've beaten it, or just want to help raise money for MABS Murcia/Mar Menor, start training for it now.

MABS is delighted to welcome the Tren Habanero team this year. Owners, Dawn and Jeff Binns-Willis are kindly donating this popular, colourful train to take runners back to the start line when they have finished the race, free of charge. “We are pleased to be able to help MABS, who do so much in our local community and it promises to be an exciting event”.

Entry and sponsorship forms will be available from 1 September at the following outlets: Centro Las Claras (Los Narejos), The Arches (Urb El Oasis), Legs & Co (opposite K2), Shape & Tone (Av Mariano Ballester), New Salsa Bar, (Urb El Oasis), The Post Room (Av Rio Nalón), Time Out (San Javier) or you can register online: www.mabsmurcia.com or phone: 689 897 866 for full details.

The race starts at the Club Nautico and ends at the Playa Los Narejos, just 3 kms away. You don't have to be a serious runner and everyone is welcome: joggers, strollers, running teams and dog-walkers alike. It's a fun day for everyone and fancy dress is actively encouraged too. So, put those Jimmy Choos in the cupboard, start training and join MABS on Sunday, 14 November for a great day out, raising money to help all those affected by cancer in the Murcia region.

MABS Murcia/Mar Menor helps all people in the Murcia/Mar Menor area who are affected by cancer, providing drivers, translators, information leaflets, equipment, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. If you want to volunteer, donate or you need help, you can contact MABS on 693 275 779 or visit our website: www.mabsmurcia.com

The Civil Protection Services of San Javier and Cartagena, together with the Municipal Emergency Service of San Javier, and 061 emergency staff, took part in a joint training exercise last week together with officers from the La Manga Fire Station and local paramedics.

The aim was the improvement of the coordination between the different agencies, as well as providing training and the exchange of experiences between the different areas of emergency support staff involved in the La Manga and Mar Menor regions.

The operation took place in the La Manga Fire Station last Wednesday. Part one of the day's events saw the three emergency services each providing briefs on their individual procedures with practical workshops and an exchange of techniques.

Part two saw a coordinated simulation of a water rescue exercise on a local beach with the participation of surveillance and rescue responders from Cartagena who took charge of rescuing a body from the sea alongside the San Javier lifeguards who attended to the first aid of a swimmer until the arrival of VIR (Rapid Intervention Vehicle) which then continued with the medical assistance while transfering the victim to hospital.

After hosting the qualifying events, La Cala Resort, the biggest golf complex in Spain, was the venue for the National Final of the World Golfers Championship, played on Campo America on Sunday August 22nd.

The winners of this national final will make up the Spanish team to compete at the upcoming World Final in Cha-Am (Hua Hin) Thailand from 30th October to 6th November.

Over 30 countries will compete in the World Final in a competition designed to allow amateur players to experience the prestige of participating in a world class event.

Two world golf legends lend their support directly to this event:
Arnold Palmer, patron of the tournament said “Golf is becoming a global sport and the World Golfers Championship is a great example. It is a privilege for me to be working with this great event and to welcome players of all nationalities to this fantastic tournament."

Severiano Ballesteros is the Honorary President: "The concept behind the World Golfers Championship is unique and very important for amateur golfers worldwide. They have contributed much to professional golfers for decades. We owe them a lot”

Over 300 players competed in the 2010 Spanish qualifying stages for a place in the National Final in what is considered, at all levels, as the World Golf Championship for amateurs.

Jose E. Navas, Leisure Director of La Cala Resort made the following comments. "Being officially recognized by the Royal Spanish Golf Federation as the biggest golf complex in Spain, with 60 holes of golf, we feel proud to be involved in promoting the sport throughout the country.

We believe that one of the best ways to show our commitment to amateur Spanish golf is to host this great event which provides five golfers with an opportunity to represent their country in a world class event that has all the attributes of a tournament on the professional circuit. La Cala Resort will continue to support this event in the coming years. "

The winners in the National Final to represent Spain in Thailand are as follows:
1st Category (hcp 0—5,4) Sara Navarro (Club de Golf La Siesta)
2nd Category (hcp 5.5—10.4) Adam Ford (La Cala Resort)
3rd Category (hcp 10.5—15.4) Pedro Antonio Corral (Club de Campo de Madrid)
4th Category (hcp 15.5—20.4) Eduardo Casasola Rueda (Añoreta Golf)
5th Category (hcp 20.5—25.4) Carlos Ruiz Castilla (Club de Golf El Chaparral)

The awards ceremony for the National Final was attended by Nils Nordh, chairman and CEO of World Golfers Championship. He was delighted with the organization of the event and thanked all the players for participating and congratulated the winners.

Visit www.worldgolfers.com for more information about the World Golfers Championship.

Two Spanish civil guards and their Afghan interpreter were shot dead by an Afghan policeman with suspected links to the Taliban as they were giving a training course in the Afghan province of Badghis on Wednesday morning.

It would seem that an argument ended in gunfire, with an Afghan trainee apparently shooting the two Spanish to death before he was shot and killed himself, according to Afghan and NATO authorities.

The incident set off an angry demonstration by several hundred villagers who tried to storm the Spanish-run Provincial Reconstruction Team training center in Badghis Province, Afghan police officials said.

It was the latest in a series of such attacks by Afghan security forces on their NATO allies. On July 13, an Afghan soldier killed three British soldiers and wounded six others during a joint patrol in the Nad Ali District of Helmand Province.

The two ministers, Rubalcalba and Chacon met on Wednesday afternoon at the headquarters of the Ministry of Defence to discuss the situation. The meeting was attended by Secretary of State for Security Antonio Camacho, the director of National Intelligence Centre (CNI ), Felix Sanz Roldan, and the Commander of Operations Command of the Defence Staff, General Jaime Domínguez Buj together with commanders from the Civil Guard.

The investigation shows that the reaction of the Spanish security staff was prompt and adequate and that their actions undoubtedly prevented further casualties.

The dead are Captain José María Córdoba Galera, 33 from Albacete and Lieutenant Leoncio Bravo Picallo Abraham, also aged 33 and born in Vimianzo (A Coruña). The Afghan translator was Ataollah Taefik Alili .

Spain currently has some 1,500 troops serving in NATO's International Security Assistance Force. The death of two civil guards brings the total of Spanish military personnel killed in Afghanistan up to 92 since their mission began in 2002.

Eight of those died in armed attacks, 79 in aircraft accidents (62 in the Yak- 42 and 17 in the Cougar helicopter), two were killed in traffic accidents and one died from a heart condition.

Spanish Interior Minister Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba said the bodies were brought back into Madrid by the Spanish Air Force on Thursday.

"Experience tells me that what families want in moments such as this is to have the body of their loved ones close to them and so our main priority is for them to return to Spain as quickly as possible," Rubalcaba said.

There are currently 40 students participating in the Azahar municipal summer school, and initiative, which provides an alternative entertainment and learning opportunities for children while allowing parents to combine work with their family life

Last Wednesday the Mayor of Fuengirola, Esperanza Oña, accompanied by the Councillor for Education, Carmen Diaz, visited the Azahar school, where she was able to speak with students and teachers.

The main theme last week was "Know your city" during which the children were taught about their town as well as being taken to sites of interest, a day on the beach and the studios of Fuengirola TV.

About 600 children have participated in the Fuengirola Municipal Summer School this year at El Tejar, Picasso, Azahar, María Auxiliadora y Valdelecrín.. Classes are held Monday to Friday during the months of July and August from 9am to 2pm and have a very full schedule with many different activities taking place throughout the week.

Having previously been told to stop hunting, skiing and racing his yacht, all of which are his favourite pastimes, His Majesty King Juan Carlos has now been told by his doctors that he must follow a strict health regime, and worst of all for him he has also been told to quit smoking

As such sources say that he is increasingly feeling depressed and he is also going deaf.

The operation he underwent in Barcelona to remove a growth from his lung has left him despondent so, as a result, preparations are now being made to offload many of his diary engagements to his son, Prince Felipe de Borbon, this despite the unhappy relationship the pair are alleged to now share since his marriage to the former Letizia Ortiz.

According to Royal insiders, therein lies the problem, as she appears not to have reached an understanding with the King, or her sisters-in-law.

Their relationship this summer is allegedly one of the worst the King has ever known with the Princess Letizia not allowing her daughters Leonor and Sofia to see their cousins.

The legendary British heavy metal band, Iron Maiden, played to more than 25,000 devotees of rock, in the final gig of their world tour last weekend, at the South Auditorium Marina in Valencia. The show produced over150,000 watts of sound and 350,000 watts of light .

After more than seven years since their last visit, Iron Maiden returned triumphant, for their only date in Spain.

Their repertoire included songs from their new album "The Final Frontier", the fifteenth album of their rock career. To an ovation that was beyond even their expectation they also sang their most recent single “El Dorado”, released a little over a week ago, on August 16.

Almost as soon as it was released ‘The Final Frontier' album took the number one spot in the UK knocking Eminem off the top of the album charts.

With an electrifying stage design, the concert, which began around 9pm, began with "The Wicker Man, "the first single from their album "Brave New World " (2000). It concluded some two hours later with "Dance of Death "from their album released in 2003.

According sources from the Civil Protection the total number attending the concert reached 26,000 although band spokesman, Bruce Dickinson, who flew into Valencia on a private plane piloted by himself indicated that 22,000 tickets had been sold.

Those attending the concert came not only from Spain, but also from Portugal, France, England and even Argentina.

The Valencia date was the final 2010 concert in the "The Final Frontier World Tour ", which has played 36 concerts in the United States, Canada, Norway, Italy, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Ireland, United Kingdom, Hungary and Romania. According to the groups website it returns to the stage on February 23, 2011 with a concert in Melbourne (Australia).

Three British holidaymakers were injured on Monday, one seriously, following the explosion of a hot water pipe in a Marbella hotel.

Office worker Carol Gardener, 53, from Weston Super Mare, suffered a broken skull and severe burns when the hot water pipe exploded next to her.

She is currently being treated in the specialist neurosurgical unit of the Carlos Haya hospital where she was transferred by helicopter. She was said to be breathing with the aid of a ventilator in the hospital intensive care unit.

The two other Britons injured in the explosion were only slightly hurt and both were discharged following treatment at the Costa del Sol Hospital in Marbella. One of those injured was friend Julie Loud, 45, who was standing with Mrs Gardener and their two husbands when the explosion occurred.

The force of the explosion knocked them off their feet, rendering Mrs Gardener unconscious with Julie Loud suffering a leg injury, but both husbands managed to escape from being hurt.

The steam pipe was on the street-side wall of the Hotel Cortijo Blanco, where the group was staying, and is thought to be carrying steam to heat up the water tanks. The blast sent bricks and mortar flying across the street at about 9.30am in the morning.

Julie's husband said it was a frightening experience which he first thought could only be a bomb. He described a huge bang which was quickly followed by clouds of dust and debris blocking out everybody's vision.

Julie, discharged from hospital after having nearly 15 stitches to her leg wound, added: "I'm still numb from the shock of it all. "I just can't believe this has happened to us. "We're all praying Carol pulls through this OK. She's in a bad way.”

Early investigations focused on the possible poor condition of the water pipes in the hotel. The Councillor for Citizens Security, Francisca Caracuel said that the enquiry is now in the hands of the Scientific Police.

It seems that Alicante builder Hansa Urbana has a project on the books in Baja California that has everyone up in arms with a project known as Cabo Cortes that is to be set in 3,800 hectares of the bay pictured, and will feature a pleasure port, two golf courses and at least thirty thousand homes -- or a project that would have the size of the residential part of Cancun.

The problem apparently is that the area was named as a Natural Heritage site by UNESCO five years ago, and international organisations have been continuous and universal in their condemnation of the project.

Hansa Urbana is already in trouble in Spain over a project in Murcia province called New Carthage, and director Rafael Galea has already apeared in court after a judge found that there were indications of tax evasion and alteration of documents involving six million Euros

www.valencialife.net