costa cálida chronicle december 2011

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Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Cálida ChronicleTo place an advertisement with us please see page 5 or contact Teresa 619 199 407

www.costacalidachronicle.com email: [email protected]

Costa Cálida Chronicle

The Longest Established FREE Magazine

in Murcia

hed

Date: December 2011 Issue: 1 Volume: XIIwww.costacalidachronicle.com

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Benefi t cheats will be caught, UK gov-ernment warns Investigators catch British expat who pleads guilty to £15,000 fraud

The vast majority of people who claim UK benefi ts are honest, law-abiding citizens, but there are those who continue to cheat the system… and who continue to get caught.

One such cheat was James Bowery, 54, from Harrowside, Blackpool. For years he enjoyed life in Spain, living off UK income support, a non-exportable benefi t, without telling the DWP that he had moved to Mal-aga. In total he fraudulently claimed over £15,000. Having been caught, he pleaded guilty to benefi t fraud at Blackpool Magis-trates Court in September and was sen-tenced to a three-month curfew order, re-stricting his freedom to leave home - and of course he has to pay the money back.

Many assume that benefi t fraud only occurs when someone receives a benefi t, such as Job Seekers Allowance or Incapacity Bene-fi t, and fails to tell the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) when they start work-ing, but people who are in receipt of UK ben-efi ts have a responsibility to tell the DWP about any change in their circumstances, such as moving in with a partner, changing address, or going or moving abroad.

The DWP will soon be imposing a civil pen-alty on those who fail to keep them updat-ed. For people who fail to take reasonable care of their claim, perhaps knowingly let-ting a change in circumstances run on and incurring a small overpayment, the DWP will swiftly apply a £50 civil penalty as a punishment to deter them from such ac-tion in future. Deliberately withholding information that affects a benefi t claim is a crime.

Between April 2010 and March 2011, ben-efi t cheats stole £79 million from UK tax-payers by not informing the authorities that they were going abroad. Spain is one of the countries where most UK benefi t fraud is committed, but with UK fraud investiga-tors working with overseas counterparts, benefi t thieves are being caught.

At a time when it is more important than ever that the correct money goes to the correct people, the general public can help stop benefi t cheats. The Department for Work and Pensions for Spain has set up a free and confi dential hotline that operates Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm. By calling 900 554 440 in Spain you can give informa-tion about anyone you suspect of commit-ting UK benefi t fraud.

You can also report this online at https://secure.dwp.gov.uk/benefi tfraud/. The DWP wants benefi ts to go to the people who are entitled to them, not the cheats.

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Here we are, into our 13th year! Who would have thought that despite the present economic climate, the Costa Cálida Chronicle has developed into a fantastic free 116 page colour magazine that covers the whole of the Costa Cálida. We have many people to thank for continuing to support us, including the columnists who send in articles every month and of course the advertisers who enable us to continue producing the Costa Cálida Chronicle each and every month as a free publication for our readers to enjoy and keep up to date with what’s going on in the area.

As you will see below, there are still new businesses starting up in the area and other businesses that have renewed their advertising:New AdvertisersTony the Chimney SweepSallu Plastics (Salglaze) The Condado ClubCelebrations Catering (Joy of Spain)TelepanBar La Manchica

Welcome BackHombres BarbersCalida Beauty AcademyTel’s Bar, CamposolBeauty EssentialsHeather Mobile BeauticianQuicksave, CamposolCrystal DesignsCrystal ConservatoriesThe CAS BandKennelly’s Bar, Camposol

Hair by CarolGalvez ReneroBodega MartinezEl Patio Bar, PliegoThe Spaniard

The Costa Cálida Chronicle 2012 Calendar is now out and all businesses in the area will be given one. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who sent in photos for the calendar and hope that you are happy with the ones chosen. We had a really good response when we asked for photos to be sent in, so have decided that we would continue asking for photos to be emailed in and we will have a special page on the website for readers to view these during the year. These photos can be taken somewhere special in the area – all we ask is that we can have permission to use them in the magazine if we choose. The photos submitted during the year will be voted for by our readers for the 2013 Costa Cálida Chronicle Calendar.

This is the time of year when the Police are out in force, so do not even think about ‘drinking and driving.’ Not only are you a danger to yourself, but you are a danger to others and here in Spain, like the UK, the consequences are severe if you are caught. This should be a time of celebrating and thinking of others, so all of you, have a really good Christmas and Happy New Year.

From all at the

Costa Cálida Chronicle

Contact Us:Camposol Offi ce - 968 970 680Teresa Hicks - Sales & Marketing - 619 199 407Patti Benn - Editor - 646 005 017Jo Wrench - Graphic Design and Publishing - 646 610 080Bob Benn - Finance - 620 582 654Martine Shindler - Customer Services - 968 970 680

To place a business advert please contact Teresa HicksTo discuss editorial content and articles please contact Patti BennTo discuss advert changes please contact Jo Wrench

If you would like to place an advertisement or write an article to be included in the Costa Cálida Chronicle, then please send it to:Costa Cálida Chronicle S.L.28 Calle JaraCentro Commercial Sector BCamposol30875 MurciaEmail: [email protected]: www.costacalidachronicle.comTo our advertisers. Please note we have had some recent issues with email.If you have sent an email to the CCC and NOT received any acknowledgement then you can assume that we have not received it.In line with our customer service policy we always reply to every email even it it is just a short note to say “got it”.

Contents PageSPECIAL PAGESCamposol 65-71Christmas 54-59Mar Menor 27-33Northwest Murcia 89-92What’s On 94-98ADVERTORIALASSSA 62Beauty Palace 72Cat-A-Tonic Cattery 64Lenny Mitchell 99Loyalty Card YLC 8Knight Insurance 42Yogamayga 36CHARITIESADAPT 31Age Concern 14Andrea’s Animal Charity 40Charity Cabaret Night 14Easy Horse Care 26Galgos del Sol 77GO maD 50HELP Mar Menor 33Helping Hands 62Lions 36John Kemp 48MABS Mar Menor 30MABS Mazarrón 80MAMAS 51Noah’s ARC 86PALS 64Pets In Spain 22RAD Rescue 72CHILDRENChatterbox 34EDUCATIONJane Cronin’s Spanish 114

ENTERTAINMENTABBA Night 90Author Review 6Classic Artistes 18Los Canovas Players 48FOOD & DRINKMa Millbank 88GROUPSCálida Country Music 100Darwinian Gardeners 50HAH 32Welcome 46HEALTHAlternative Therapy 20EFT 27INFORMATIONAsk Jennifer 7Business Directory 112/113Camposol A Clean-up 66Camposol A Committee 66Camposol B Clean 65Camposol C Gardening 68Camposol Fiesta 70Camposol Sector D 67Camposol News 65Charities/Groups/Churches 81Christmas Gifts 52/53Christmas Songs/Poems 56-59Christmas Traditions 54/55Classifi ed Adverts 106/107CRA 69Dear Editor 93Distribution Points 110FAST 71In Loving Memory 12Life in Spain 48Northwest Murcia 92

Price List 107Spanish Gift Ideas 52,53Spanish News 10Subscriptions 110Teresa’s Travels 51Winter Soltice 60/61Woman of Fire 80LEISUREAstrology 76Gardening News 16Hiking in Moratalla 89La Bastida 84NEST 82Puzzle Page 44Puzzle Solutions 108The Nutcracker 37TV News 78WARM 91PROPERTYHousing Update 22Property Matters 44RELIGIONMass in English 12Olive Branch 36Puerto Lumbreras Church 12St Nicholas 80Wellspring Victory Church 24SPORTCosta Cálida Golf 102Fuente Old Guard 103Golf Tips 104Los Amigos 102Los Ámigos Charity Day 104SAMM 28

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Norman Colin Dexter, OBE, was born on 29th September 1930 in Stamford, Lincolnshire and is an English crime writer, known for his ever popular Inspector Morse novels. He started writing mysteries in 1972 during a family holiday. Last Bus to Woodstock was published in 1975 and introduced the world to the character of Inspector Morse, the irascible detective whose penchants for cryptic crosswords, English literature, cask ale and Wagner refl ect Dexter’s own enthusiasms. Dexter’s plots are notable for his use of false leads and other red herrings.

There were 33 episodes of the TV series Inspector Morse, produced between 1987 and 2001, which brought further acclaim for Dexter and he makes a cameo appearance in almost all episodes. Latterly, Lewis, who is now an Inspector, features in 12 episodes of the new ITV series Lewis. As with Morse,

Dexter makes a cameo appearance in several episodes.

Dexter has been the recipient of several Crime Writers’ Association awards: two Silver Daggers for Service of All the Dead in 1979 and The Dead of Jericho in 1981; two Gold Daggers for The Wench is Dead in 1989 and The Way Through the Woods in 1992; and a Cartier Diamond Dagger for lifetime achievement in 1997. In 1996 Dexter received a Macavity Award for his short story Evans Tries an O-Level and in 1980 he was elected a member of the by-invitation-only Detection Club. In 2000 Dexter was awarded the Offi cer of the Order of the British Empire for services to literature.

The Wench is Dead (1990)Inspector Morse, recovering from an ulcer in Oxford’s Radcliffe Hospital, comes across an old book recounting a sensational murder case that took place in Oxford 100 years earlier. Convinced that the two men hanged for the crime were innocent, Morse sets out from the confi nes of his bed to prove it.

The Remorseful Day (1999)It says on the cover: The fi nal Inspector Morse Novel. The Remorseful Day is one of the best in the series, with the death of Yvonne Harrison whose murder has baffl ed the police for more than a year. This is the kind of case Morse seems eminently suited for and yet he refuses to get offi cially involved in the case and his co-workers want to know why.

Jewel that was Ours (2011)A wealthy, elderly American tourist has a heart attack in her room at Oxford’s luxurious Randolph Hotel. Missing from the scene is the lady’s handbag, which contained the Wolvercote Tongue, a priceless jewel that her late husband had bequeathed to the Ashmolean Museum just across the street. Morse proceeds to spend a great deal of time thinking--and drinking--in the hotel’s bar, certain the solution is close at hand--until confl icting stories, suspicious doings, and a real murder convince him otherwise.

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Dear Jennifer,My brother and I have a close relationship especially after our parents passed away. As he is four years older than me, I have come to view him as a “father fi gure” and confi dante, so it was natural for me to turn to him for advice when my young son was having trouble at school. I divorced my husband two years ago and my son has taken it badly and it has affected his schooling and behaviour.

However, I was hurt by my brother’s curt words to me snapping that he was “sick and tired” of having to sort my problems out. I was certainly not expecting his rude response and it hurt my feelings. He did phone me back and offered a half-hearted apology, stating that he had his own problems to consider. He has never spoken to me in such a rude tone and I feel that our relationship is irrevocably damaged. Am I right to feel betrayed by him?Simone, Mar Menor

Hi Simone,It’s understandable that you are feeling upset because no-one likes to be snapped at, but ‘betrayal’ and ‘damage’ are very harsh words for such a minor misunderstanding, don’t you think? Obviously, since your parents demise, your brother has played a big part in your life, but your brother will never take the place of your late father and perhaps this was the message your brother was trying to convey to you albeit harshly. He appears to be standing his ground and is no longer willing to be your prop. In asserting himself, he is not so much damaging your relationship, but it is evident that he wants the dynamics to change. He has his own problems and he wants you to take your matters into your own hands. I don’t think this is unreasonable, do you?

Instead of talking about betrayal and a damaged relationship, it may be more appropriate to speak with him and discuss the matter calmly. You need to start living your life in such a way that you don’t need to rely on anyone else but yourself. You also may need to discuss your son’s problems with him. Give him the opportunity and environment to open up to you and discuss his feelings about the divorce. His problems at school could be a manifestation of his frustrations and confusion over the divorce. Open and honest communication is priceless so give it a go.

Dear Jennifer,I have always lived my life for others- my parents, siblings, friends and partners. Needless to say over the years I have been taken for granted and my personal feelings and needs ignored. I am trying to turn my life around especially with 2012 on the horizon, but I am so afraid. I have tried to start new relationships and starting dating again, but I suffer from huge anxiety attacks, so much so that I can’t even bring myself to go on another date. I know I am my worst enemy and if I don’t stop this nonsense, I will end up old and alone. Please help me overcome my anxiety!Sarah, Los Belones

Dear Sarah,Firstly, you should congratulate yourself, rather than be self-critical for wanting to turn your life around. Secondly, leaving one’s “comfort zone” behind can be the cause of anxiety in anyone, so what you are experiencing is only natural. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Change is a constant in everyone’s life and some bear it with a smile while others, with a frown. The difference in mood and wellbeing is how determined you are to confront your fear. If you continue to dwell on your fear and anxiety, then it will only get worse.

Some people face their fears head on and don’t stop to over analyse the situation. For example, musician Moby’s single status for decades was due to his crippling panic attacks and he overcame his demons by going on more dates until the exercise became less

frightening. If you are up for it, this is one method of overcoming your anxiety by facing it head on. This is called “over exposure to fear”. Susan Jeffers’s, renowned motivational guru documents it well in her book,” Feel the fear and do it anyway”.

Another technique is to meditate for a few minutes before leaving the house. This will calm your mind and nerves and tell yourself that no matter how the date turns out, you are fi nally taking control of your life. This is testament to your strong will power and determination to enjoy life by your own rules.

Jennifer Rahman is a life coach and therapist. You can send your questions to her at: [email protected]

Page 7Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Cálida Chronicle

To place an advertisement with us please see page 5 or contact Teresa 619 199 407www.costacalidachronicle.com email: [email protected]

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Yorkshire Linen in Puerto de Mazarrón has just launched a new Customer Loyalty Card.Peter and Karen, who own the business, said “We wanted to reward our customers for shopping with us. Many of our customers shop with us on a regular basis and we wanted to let them know that we appreciate their business and loyalty. We also have many customers who own rental properties and need to replace or update their bedding and soft furnishings each season. This can sometimes mean a signifi cant outlay and we wanted to thank these customers for shopping with us”.

A l r e a d y p r o v i n g e x t r e m e l y p o p u l a r with their c u s t o m e r s , the scheme is very easy to use. Once a customer has spent 100€ they are given a 10€ voucher to spend in the shop. There are no time limits and each amount you spend is recorded until you reach 100€. So whether you buy a roll of dishcloths or new sheets for a rental property, you will be rewarded. Simple! Ask for your Customer Loyalty Card next time you visit Yorkshire Linen. (ONLY AVAILABLE AT THE PUERTO DE MAZARRÓN STORE)

Yorkshire Linen is constantly changing their product range and they offer exceptional quality and value for money. Yorkshire Linen has 36 shops in the UK, 7 in Spain and Portugal and is a successful retailer with an excellent reputation. As franchisees, this allows Peter and Karen to pass on great choice and value to their customers. With regular deliveries from the UK and other suppliers in Spain and Germany, a lot of the collections are unique to the Yorkshire Linen Co and customers know that they can buy something a bit different for their homes. This, alongside their excellent level of service and advice, has seen the business grow into one of the most popular shops in the area.

Yorkshire Linen is open Monday–Friday 10am-6pm & Saturday 10am–2pm. Parking is easy above the Mercadona at the commercial centre in Puerto De Mazarrón, opposite LIDL.

For more information call 968595946 or 650857619.

See the latest collections at www.yorkshirelinen.com

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General ElectionA landslide victory for the PP in the general elections means Mariano Rajoy will become president of Spain. The centre-right outfi t gained 186 seats in constituencies around the country, with an overwhelming majority vot-ing for the PP in all bar two of Spain’s regions, Catalunya and the Basque Country. This is the most overwhelming victory for PP since long before Aznar came into power.

The PSOE, led by Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba, achieved only 110 seats, putting them in the opposition and Izquierda Unida – the United Left – secured enough seats to be able to participate in government once again and be recognised as a representative party of the opposition.

Rajoy, who kept his electoral campaign ideas close to his chest in the run-up to voting day, claims he will be ‘a president for everyone’ and that all of society will be treated equally. However, given the state of Spain’s economy, he has stressed that the public ‘should not ex-pect miracles’.

Survey shows 70% of Spaniards are ‘Not Interested’ in Politics Seven in 10 Spaniards interviewed said they had little or no interest in politics, reveals a recent survey and nearly eight in 10 say they believe the political situation in Spain is ‘bad’.Despite this, almost two-thirds consider that the PP would have done ‘just as badly’ or ‘worse’ if they had been in power instead of the PSOE in the last four years.

The general level of interest in politics has not varied much since the previous survey was carried out in 2008 on the eve of the gen-eral elections. Only 22% say they ‘regularly’ talk with their family and friends about poli-tics, with a third saying they do so ‘now and again’ and 45% confessing that they ‘rarely’ or ‘never’ talked about the subject.

Concerning whether the PP would do better if they won the upcoming elections, a third said they would manage the country ‘equally as badly’ and another third said they would be ‘worse’. About a quarter said they were more inclined towards the PSOE and another quar-ter towards the PP, whilst 22% said they did not identify with either.

Nine in 10 Spaniards consider the economic situation in the country to be ‘extremely bad’ and that urgent changes were necessary.

Spain’s borrowing hits 14-year high Spain’s borrowing costs have risen to their highest rate since 1997. On money borrowed today, payable in 10 years, Spain has to pay an interest rate of 6.975% - dangerously close to the 7% mark at which other eurozone countries have had to seek bailouts. Italian 10-year bond yields passed 7% earlier this month.

In its latest bond auction, the Spanish govern-ment sold 3.56bn euros worth of bonds out of a maximum target of 4bn euros - a very poor result. A similar auction in France saw French short-term borrowing costs - for its two and four-year bonds - also rise by about half a percentage point.

“El Gordo” Christmas lottery prize goes up Spain’s special Christmas lottery draw, known as “El Gordo” will be worth a total of 4 million euros this year.

The main changes to this year’s Christmas draw, the most popular and traditional of all the lottery draws celebrated in Spain, were revealed, with sales in the region of 3.6 billion euros expected, which equates to an average of 71.28 euros per person.

As well as an increase to the main prize “El Gordo”, the second prize has been increased from a million to 1,250,000 per series, and the third prize remains unchanged at 500,000 euros for the series.

Region by region the biggest spenders are the people in La Rioja, who are expected to spend an average of 106.3 euros per inhabitant. Those who spend the least on the Christmas lottery are those in Ceuta (17.10) Of the 3.6 billion euro spend on the Christmas lottery, almost 30% of annual takings for the State Lottery Company, 2.52 billion euros will be distributed in prize money and the rest will go to cover administrative costs and to the Treasury.

The Christmas lottery, which will celebrate its 200th anniversary next year, will again be held in Madrid’s Palacio de CongresosMadrid and will be different from other Christmas draws as two drums will be used: the numbers will be drawn out of one drum and the prizes out of the other. There will be 100,000 numbers in total (15,000 more than last year) in the lottery drum, which is why the top prizes have been increased without increasing the price of a décimo (which remains at 20€).

Two dead after shooting in Maz-arrónA Bolivian man who has not been named died on Sunday night 6th November, after be-ing shot in the chest in Mazarrón and a second man was seriously in-jured by a shot to the head. A man from Tar-ragona was arrested and is said to be suf-fering from mental health problems. The

incident happened in Avenida Constitución at 11pm when several residents heard the shots and called the emergency services. The medi-cal units confi rmed the death of a man who was lying on the ground after being shot. An-other 16 year old man was also found suf-fering from gunshot wounds to the head and he was rushed to the Virgen de la Arrixaca Hospital in Murcia where he has since died.

Police recover paintings by Dalí and Sorolla stolen in 2002 Agents from the Guardia Civil have arrested four people and recovered seven valuable paintings by different artists, including one by Salvador Dalí and another by Joaquín Sorolla, which were stolen in 2002 from a chalet in Adanero (Ávila) and which are thought to be worth four million euros.

According to a statement by the police in Ávi-la, the investigation was opened in 2002 when a member of the public reported a burglary in their home in Adanero.

The stolen paintings, a Dalí entitled “Tran-scendental Human Action”, two portraits by Sorolla and Condé Delgrás, a fl oral painting by Rosen Roses, a 16th century portrait by Hernán Cortés and two charcoal drawings by Gustavo Doré and Nicanor Piñole - were re-covered during a police search of a private property in Valdemoro (Madrid).

Operation “Alejandro” launched by the police nine years ago and which included a thor-ough forensic examination of the scene of the crime, led police to the offenders, all originally from Madrid and living in Valdemoro.

The modus operandi used by the thieves made the investigators focus on the victim’s immediate social circle, and although initially they did not get any conclusive data, a fi nger-print comparison in June fi nally allowed them to confi rm the four people who have been ar-rested as the authors of the crime.

Farmer dies after being attacked by Wild Boar A 60-year-old man has died after being at-tacked by a wild boar on his own farm “La Garrofera” in the town of Tous (Valencia). The farmer, who had suffered a heart attack re-cently, had wounds in the groin and his hands and face were covered in blood “as if he had tried to defend himself against the attack”. The incident occurred in an orange grove belonging to the victim. Local police from nearby Guadasuar and forensic experts were called to the scene.

Like many Spanish towns, 90% of the resi-dents of Tous regularly go hunting, and the locals insist “it is unheard of” and “nothing like this has never happened before” and that it’s a “one in a million chance”.

According to information provided by the po-lice, the farmer had called his son to tell him he’d been injured, but when the son and a neighbour turned up at the property he had already died and they could do nothing for him.



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In Loving Memory of Andrew William Stoneman7th April 1957 – 19th October 2011You suffered much in silence.Your spirit did not bend.You fought for life with courageUntil the very end.

Love you always and foreverChris and families.

Thanks also to everyone who attended the funeral service and made a donation to MABS in Andy’s memory.

Puerto Lumbreras Christian Fellowship now meets every 1st and 3rd Sunday each month at 11.00am in the premises of the Spanish Evangelical Church Puerto Lumbreras Tel 619453283 Paul and Sandra

Mass in English: Is celebrated every Saturday at the Catholic Chapel at Pastrana, approximately 10km from MazarrónSchedule of Masses:Saturday at 4:30pmSchedule of Confession: Saturday from 3:45-4:25pmAlso on requestBible Study: 1st and 3rd Sunday at 4:30pm Fr. Carlos Prats Mobile 628 824 555Fr. Octavio Carpena Mobile 676 219 445 www.pastranaonline.com

MARY, MOTHER OF DIVINE MERCY

Many people have argued that Mary is not the Mother of Jesus, while the New Jerusalem Bible reads: “The birth of Jesus Christ occurred as follows: while Mary, his mother to be, was

engaged to Joseph and before marriage was consummated, she was found to have conceived by the Holy Spirit”. With conception and Mary carrying Jesus in her womb for nine months, there is no way anyone can say that Mary is not the Mother of Jesus Christ.

As the Mother of Jesus, Mary endured much suffering, from the birth pangs to her having to escape to Egypt to avoid the death of Jesus at the hands of Herod and then

to the crucifi xion she proved herself the Mother of Divine Mercy.

Neither did Matthew, Mark, Luke or John record the great anguish of the Mother during Friday, Saturday and early Sunday morning following the Crucifi xion. In her book “the Poem of the Man-God” Maria Valtorta, the great mystic, relates what she was shown when Jesus was taken down from the Cross: Mary wants him and she cradles Jesus, he is now in his Mothers lap. With a trembling she parts his

ruffl ed hair. She tidies it and weeps. Her tears drop on the cold body covered with blood. She begins to clean and dry his body on which endless tears are dropping. And while doing so her hand touches the huge gash in his chest and she utters a cry. A sword seems to pierce her heart.

Now alone as Joseph has died and now that Jesus her son has been murdered, she is the only one left of the Holy Family. Suddenly the closed window is opened with a violent banging of the heavy shutters and Jesus enters. He calls Her, stretching out his hands: Mother, his Mother.

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Age Concern at LargeDecember brings three events:Saturday 3rd December at La Verde on the Via Axia in Puerto de Mazarrón, will be the Age Concern Christmas Fair from 11am-4pm. There will be over forty stalls, Santa Claus, the St Nicholas Choir and our Christmas Draw. If you would like a stall, please ring Pam on 667 449 041. There is a small entrance charge and everyone is welcome.

Monday 12th December sees a Shopping Trip to Murcia. Tickets for this are going like hot cakes! It’s only 10€ for the trip which will take in the main shopping areas and a chance to see the lights.

Wednesday 14th sees our Monthly Social – ‘Talking Shop’, become a Christmas

social. There is no charge for this and we are starting at noon and fi nishing at 3.30pm. There will be a short panto!

In the New Year Age Concern are planning an auction. This will be at Mariano’s, Camposol A on 3rd of February. You will be able to put a maximum of three items in the auction and this will cost you 10€. You will keep whatever the auction makes. You cannot bring items on the day; you must register them before hand. You must bring the items to Mariano’s at 9am on the morning of the sale. At 10am the doors will be open for two hours of viewing, with the auction starting promptly at 1pm. You can register by ringing Pam on 667 449 041 or Maggie on 634 336 484. We must stress that items must be registered before the sale. It is up to you if you want

to put a minimum price you are prepared to accept. Again this must be registered before the sale.

This is a new venture by Age Concern and one they hope to repeat every three months. It’s a serious attempt to attract good quality items along with a free spending audience.Tickets are available any Friday morning outside Bar Salud, Sector B Camposol or the entrance to the underground car park in Puerto de Mazarrón.

Age Concern runs a regular weekly free advice session on a Wednesday morning in the Cultural Centre on Sector B Camposol when you can also get tickets for Age Concern events.

A Charity Cabaret Night was held at the Hotel Playa Grande Puerto de Mazarrón on Thursday 10th of November in aid of the charity, GO maD Mazarrón, Charity No:10.329/1a, and the charity, Palm House Orphanage Cambodia charity no:1079648.

As usual t h e a n n u a l e v e n t was a g r e a t success r a i s i n g 1 ,160€, to be

shared between the two charities. The entertainment was provided by John

Sloman (Mr Cool), Clifford Jay & Julia and an evangelical Spanish family from Puerto de Mazarrón. Many thanks go out to the entertainers and all who helped with the organisation and the many generous donations for the raffl e from businesses and kind hearted supporters. Thank you to all the faithful supporters and friends who attended the evening. A special thank you to William who provided a screening of information for GO maD while Amanda gave a narration of the work that she and her volunteers do in and around the surrounding area for the poorer and less privileged people.

Clifford Jay & Julia, (fundraisers for the Palm House Orphanage) gave an update of the situation at the Orphanage in Siem Riep Cambodia, which has been fl ooded

once again for the second year running with serious consequences.

We once again appreciate the advertising of the event by local newspapers, and Costa Cálida Chronicle as well as the Costa Cálida Radio. We also thank The Hotel Playa Grande and the staff for their support.

T h a n k you and God bless you all.C l i f f o r d Jay & Julia



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G o o d P l a n t i n g W e a t h e r A n d PracticesBy Clodagh and Dick Handscombe

Practical gardeners and authors

A Good Time to PlantAfter recent rains, most readers now have easy-to-dig soil, so making tree and shrub planting holes, digging over new fl ower beds and rotovating vegetable plots, is a practical proposition without breaking one’s back or even tools.If you are in truly frost-free coastal

situations, most things can be planted with the benefi t that roots will have grown by the Spring. However, if you do get frosts, only plant up genuinely frost-resistant plants. If in doubt check the frost-resistant columns in the descriptions of practical plants in ‘Your Garden in Spain’.

Good planting practicesSize of plantsIn general smaller plants and trees establish good root systems faster than larger ones sold root bound in small pots in relation to the size of the plant. So if two sizes of a plant is available we would purchase the smaller one for both our and others gardens.Size of planting holesIn the UK we normally got away with making a planting hole the same size as the compost around a purchased plant, but there the

surrounding soil was not metres of clay that can dry out to create the equivalent of a thick walled terracotta pot that soaks away moisture from the soil around the recently planted and watered new plant like a dry sponge. Make planting holes twice as large and infi ll with a good soil/compost mix with a little added sand and Terra Cottem soil improver – search TerraVida on the internet for information about this useful product.

Improving the soilIf possible improve the soil of an entire new perennial plant or shrub bed before planting.

Spreading the rootsEntwined roots in a pot-bound pot, or plastic tube in the case of trees, are likely to continue to be entwined as they grow and often start to strangle each other in a growing corkscrew shape. Eventually plants and trees stunt and even die. If the citrus fruit tree planted a few years ago is growing poorly this may well be the cause, so do ensure that roots are spread out downwards and sloping 45 degrees sideways before planting.

Splitting root bound perennialsMany root-bound perennials are best split to create additional plants before planting. We created a dozen separate plants from the last gazania plant we purchased.

Staking and tyingEnsure you stake trees and tall shrubs at the time of planting to ensure that they do not lean and loosen roots in high winds and heavy rain. Likewise, climbing plants need tying onto support frames or screw eyes fi xed to walls and fences.

MulchingPrevent early drying out by mulching the soil around newly planted plants and trees with compost, grit, rocks, chippings or stone slabs. The latter are especially useful for protecting the roots of climbers. If you have had torrential rain, do allow the ground to dry out a little before making new plantings.Happy autumn gardening.

Clodagh and Dick’s books are now available from their website www.gardeninginspain.com as well as high street and internet bookshops. They are essential to new gardeners to Spain and make good presents. On their site there is a special offer involving their latest book Living Well from Our Mediterranean Garden.

(C) Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com November 2011.



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Mary Isobel O’Brien (16 April 1939 – 2 March 1999), known pro-fessionally as Dusty Spring-fi eld and dubbed The White Queen of Soul was a British pop sing-er whose career extended from

the late 1950’s to the 1990’s. With her dis-tinctive sensual sound, she was an important white soul singer and at her peak was one of the most successful British female performers, with 18 singles in the Billboard Hot 100 from 1964 to 1970. She is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame. International polls have named Springfi eld among the best female artists of all time.

Born in West London to an Irish Catholic fam-ily that enjoyed music, Springfi eld learned to sing at home. She joined her fi rst profes-sional group, The Lana Sisters, in 1958, then formed the pop-folk vocal trio The Spring-fi elds in 1960 with her brother Dion

Her solo career began in 1963 with the up-beat pop hit, “I Only Want to Be with You”. Among the hits that followed were “Wishing’ and Hoping’” (1964), “I Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself” (1964), “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” (1966), and “Son of a Preacher Man” (1968). A fan of American pop music, she was the fi rst public fi gure to bring little-known soul sing-ers to a wider British audience, when she cre-ated and hosted the fi rst British performances of the top-selling Motown artists in 1965. By 1966, she was the best-selling female singer in the world, and topped a number of popular-ity polls, including Melody Maker’s Best In-ternational Vocalist. She was the fi rst Brit-ish singer to top the New Musical Express Readers’ Poll for Female Singer. Her image,

supported by a peroxide blonde beehive hair-style, evening gowns, and heavy make-up, made her an icon of the Swinging Sixties. The marked changes in pop music in the mid-1960’s left many female pop singers out of fashion. To boost her credibility as a soul art-ist, Springfi eld went to Memphis, Tennessee, to record an album of pop and soul music with the Atlantic Records main production team. Released in 1969, Dusty in Memphis has been ranked among the greatest albums of all time by Rolling Stone and VH1 artists, New Musical Express Readers, and a Channel 4 Viewers’ Polls. The album was also awarded a spot in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

After many years in the wilderness, not only because of popularity decline, but also be-cause of self imposed retirement in America, Dusty decided to get back into the music scene. She had met Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys who had said what a fan he was of hers and the seed was sown then for a return to making music

In 1987, Dusty accepted an invitation from the Pet Shop Boys to sing on the single “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” and appeared on the promotional video. The re-cord got to number 2 on both the British and American charts. The song appeared on the Pet Shop Boys’ album Actually and both of their greatest hits collections. Springfi eld sang lead vocals on the Richard Carpenter song “Something in Your Eyes”, recorded for Carpenter’s album Time. Released as a single, it became an adult contemporary hit in the United States. Springfi eld also recorded a duet with legendary singer/songwriter B.J. Thomas, “As Long as We Got Each Oth-er”, which was used as the theme song for the American sitcom Growing Pains.

A new compilation of Springfi eld’s great-est hits, The Silver Collection, was issued in 1988. Springfi eld returned to the studio with the Pet Shop Boys, who produced her recording of their song “Nothing Has Been Proved”, commissioned for the soundtrack of the fi lm Scandal. Released as a single in

early 1989, the song gave Springfi eld a UK Top 20 hit, as did its follow-up, the upbeat “In Private”, written and produced again by the Pet Shop Boys. She capitalized on this by re-cording the 1990 album Reputation, another UK Top 20 success. The writing and production credits for half the album, which included the two recent hit singles, went to the Pet Shop Boys; while the album’s other producers in-cluded Dan Hartman. Sometime before re-cording the Reputation album, Springfi eld decided to leave California for good, and by 1988 she had returned to Britain. In 1993, she was invited to record a duet with her former 1960s professional rival and friend, Cilla Black. The song “Heart and Soul” was released as a single and appeared on Black’s Through the Years album. Provisionally titled Dusty in Nashville, Springfi eld started recording the album A Very Fine Love in 1993 with producer Tom Shapiro. Though originally in-tended by Shapiro as a Country music album, the song selection with Springfi eld pushed the album into pop music with an occasional country feel.

While recording the album, A Very Fine Love, in January 1994 in Nashville, Tennes-see, Springfi eld felt ill. When she returned to England a few months later, her physicians diagnosed breast cancer. She received months of radiation treatment, and for a time the can-cer was in remission. In 1995, in apparent good health, Springfi eld set about promoting the album.

Cancer was detected again during the sum-mer of 1996. In spite of vigorous treatments, Dusty Springfi eld died on 2nd March 1999. She died in Henley-on-Thames on the day she had been scheduled to go to Buckingham Pal-ace to receive an OBE for her contribution to music. Before her death, offi cials of Queen Eliz-abeth had given permission for the medal to be collected by Springfi eld’s manager, Vicki Wickham, and it was presented to the singer in the hospital in the company of a small party of friends and relatives. Her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, had been scheduled for 10 days after her death. Her friend Sir Elton John helped induct her into the Hall of Fame, stating “I think she is the greatest white female singer there has ever been.” Springfi eld’s funeral service was attended by hundreds of fans and people from the music business, including Elvis Costello, Lulu and the Pet Shop Boys. It took place in Oxfordshire, at the ancient parish church of St Mary the Virgin, in Henley-on-Thames, the town where Springfi eld had lived during her last years. A marker dedicated to her memory was placed in the Church graveyard. I agree, and who am I, to disagree with Elton John and think she was and always will be the best white female vocalist ever.

I hope you have enjoyed reading the ar-ticles as much as I have enjoyed putting them together and I wish to thank The CCC for publishing the articles over the year. I wish all readers and listeners a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2012.You can listen to Mark Davies on Costa Cál-ida International Radio on Mon, Wed and Fri evenings 7.00-9.00pm and Thursday after-noon 4.15-6.30pm.Mark Davies.



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This article has been written and compiled by Body and Mind Therapist, Drew Ryder BSc. Psychol. Hons, IIHHT, MICHT, ThATThis month’s focus is on how refl exology can alleviate the effects of stress and induce relaxation.

Stress is diffi cult to avoid, and few people escape the consequences of stress. There are many factors that contribute to stress and it is believed that as much as 70% of modern diseases are stress related. These include high blood pressure, coronary thrombosis, heart attack, migraine, ulcers, diabetes mellitus, stomach problems, constant backache, rheumatoid arthritis, skin disorders, anxiety and depression to name but a few.Stress affects people in different ways and because of this it is also exhibited in different ways too. For example, whilst one person may show signs of cardiovascular problems, others may show signs of heavy sweating, palpitations, headaches or stomach problems and there are many more.

Everyone, children, teenagers, adults and the elderly are confronted with stressful or potentially stressful situations on a daily basis. Stressors include such things as traffi c, television, noise, fi nancial problems, family problems, job (or lack of) pressure, peer pressure – the list is seemingly endless. Susceptibility to stress can be affected by life events that cause too much emotional strain, as well as life changing events such as death, birth, marriage and divorce.

What happens is that the body undergoes many physiological changes when under

stress. It basically gears the body for a `fi ght or fl ight response´. The body and internal organs are put under immense pressure resulting in the requirement of a short burst of activity such as fi ghting for your life or running away to safety. In the days of early man it was acceptable to either stay and fi ght for survival or fl ee to safety, however, today these responses would be considered unacceptable. The result is that the tension in the body that stress has created remains in the body. The more stress encountered and the less one is able to release the stress, the more tense the body gets. And so it goes on. Many systems, (especially the nervous system), within the body become tense and are unable to function correctly when under constant stress, resulting in varying degrees of pain and illness.

Where then does refl exology fi t in with this?Refl exology helps to alleviate the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation. This in turn gradually allows the body and especially the nervous system to function normally and allow the body to seek its own balance. It is a powerful antidote to stress.

When tension is relaxed, muscles and blood vessels relax too, which in turn reduces vascular restriction and as a result enables the circulation system to function freely. This in turn circulates the necessary blood and nutrients to all the tissues and organs of

the body which then cleanse the body of toxins and impurities, thus, releasing the body of unnecessary stress.

A relaxed body can heal itself. Refl exology is a guaranteed method of relaxing the body and balancing the biological systems.

Responses to Refl exology vary (as do responses to many other forms of treatments and or medications). The important thing to bear in mind when having Refl exology is that it is a positive step towards releasing the body and the mind from stress. It is about taking responsibility for one’s own state of health. By doing so, a positive attitude is developed towards attaining, achieving and maintaining good health, which can then be encompassed in all areas of life.

Whilst we may not be able to alter the stress situations in life, we can alter how we cope. Refl exology can help control or lessen the response to stress and thereby lessen susceptibility to stress-related diseases. What are you waiting for?

For your Refl exology appointment and road to better health please call 968978876 or 660326194.



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Well, autumn is here and we have seen at least a few days of rain which was sorely needed. As Estate Agents, we are often asked to value a property when someone is thinking of selling. Invariably we give the price that we think it will sell for in this market, taking a number of factors into account. These are generally related to the typical price that this type of property has sold for in the last 6 months.

When you are thinking of selling your property and you ask for a valuation, the result of the valuation does not take into account the amount you paid for it or how much you have spent on improvements, because these have been done to suit your needs and fi nally, defi nitely not what you “need” to sell at to buy something in the UK. As I mentioned before, realistic house prices are generally based on those that are of a similar style or

size that have sold in the last six months.

One of the most frustrating things for Estate Agents are properties that languish on the market for two plus years at an over infl ated price, on the off chance that someone will come along, fall in love with it and spend 40,000€, or more, than is needed.

The second most frustrating thing is when vendors say they are sticking to a price, receive an offer of 20,000€ or 30,000€ below this and then agree to sell. If properties are priced correctly in the fi rst place, and we agents don’t always get it right, there is much more chance of selling when a client views.

I think I have harped on about this in the past, but if you are trying to sell, do not and I stress, DO NOT, go sole agent. The only person who gains from this is the agent.

If you are trying to sell, give it to as many agents as possible, but always advertise at the same price with all agents.

Hopefully those tips will help you sell your property?

Don’t forget that Purchase Tax on new build (key ready) properties remains at 4% until the end of 2011 – the saving of 3% can furnish your new home.

We are always looking for properties on Mazarrón Country Club and Puerto de Mazarrón, so if you have a property to sell, please contact us.For more information on buying or selling property contactJennie or Sue at Best of Spanish Email [email protected] (0034) 635 434 651 or 646 692 471

The Pets In Spain team are here to help abandoned animals in Spain in need of re-hom-ing. If you are looking to adopt a dog or cat, or need to fi nd a home for one, or if you simply want to know more about taking care of your pet in Spain, this is the website for you www.petsinspain.info

Julia was found aban-doned in a small village and had made her way onto the motorway before being rescued. She is approx 1 yr old and vaccinated. Julia is a little nervous around adults but is outstand-ing with children. She loves her tummy tick-

les and will roll around all day long if it means keeping a child happy. Call: 693 100 712.

Bimbo is 6 months old. He is a medium sized dog and very friendly. He is vacci-nated, good with other dogs and cats and is house-trained. Call: 659 274 573.

Candy is a 6 month old cat in need of a

loving new home as she is still living on the streets. She is ginger and white with beau-tiful amber eyes and is very friendly and seems to get on with other cats. She is des-perate for human con-tact and a loving lap to curl up on. Call: 660 832 360.

To view more animals for adoption go to: www.petsinspain.infoIf you would like to advertise an animal email: [email protected]

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I start this month’s article with a poem. In the busy run-up to our Christmas celebrations it is so easy to forget the real reason we are doing what we are doing and this poem is a challenge to us all, to stop for a while and consider the gift to mankind that Jesus is. I never gave the poem a title… perhaps I will call it No Room. You What !No chance mate !You must be kidding !I told you twice….. no room !Look, I don’t care who the father is!!The negatives rang out with a hollow echo,On that glorious day….His day…

His special day…Our very special day.A day of victory for mankind,When God Himself,From Heaven’s Glory came,And breathed forgiveness for rejection;A day when negatives,Hate, hopelessness and fearWere challenged !By the Father’s precious only Son.Jesus… Light of the worldWas here;Offering us His way.A way of hope, of life, of peace;A positive chance to start again,To live fulfi lled,And full of faith,All… through His Grace.

Lord, how can I turn away?I’ll positively turn aroundAnd welcome You,Awesome God,Into my home… into my life. We will be busy choosing Christmas gifts for the people we love and rushing here and there for that extra special gift for those that are really close to us; for many it will mean spending money we don’t have, so lots of credit cards will be overloaded and we will spend the next twelve months, or more, paying off our Christmas spending spree. Why do we do this when so many people today refuse to believe in a God who loves them and gave His Son Jesus to a world that rejected Him, and yet continues to love that world with a passion? Yes, tradition plays a huge part in the reasons we do what we do, even if we do not know why we do it. It’s a good excuse for a party some will say; others will say that they have not a clue what it’s all about, but it’s great fun anyway.

I know some of you are thinking ‘Bah Humbug’, and yet you are wrong. I want you to celebrate the birth of Jesus, I want you to have a great time. I want you to get together with family and friends….. but I want you also to consider the reasons why you do what you do.

This Christmas Time, would you make some room in your celebrations to remember the real reason that we are celebrating? Jesus was the perfect gift for this world, His hands are outstretched to you right now and He is saying I Love You. Make room for Him and receive the gift that He is into your life… you will never receive a better Christmas present ever in your life – no batteries required – just an open heart. Join with us to sing carols on Camposol again this year.December 19th on D, 20th on C, 22nd on A and 23rd on B. We will be performing again, by special request, our version of the ‘Twelve Camposol days of Christmas’.And if you are not ‘Caroled out’ by then, we will be having a very special Christmas Eve carol service at Wellspring Church… please check out our advert.

Have a precious Christmas –God bless you.

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Making a difference is a click away for the Easy Horse Care Rescue CentreLittle did I know that a quick look on the Guardian jobs website would take me in a matter of weeks from the centre of London to the heart of the Easy Horse Care Res-cue Centre in Rojales, Spain working as a volunteer.

My Name is Sarah. I am 39, with a back-ground in national and international politics and communications and no history of riding or working with horses, ponies and donkeys as far as I can recall. I was prepared, there-fore, that my latest attempts to jazz up the CV might be in vain as I clicked the send but-ton.

To my surprise, I received a call back from Sue Weeding, part of the husband and wife team that founded the Easy Care Horse Centre in 2008, in response to the shocking levels of animal cruelty they had witnessed since moving to the region in 2000. Having discretely tucked myself away in a corner at work over lunch, I was excited to hear about Sue and her husband Rod’s, plans for the Centre and how my ‘non-horsey’ skills might be of help to them. Something inside me said I had to go, so I booked a week off work, with no expectations of what was to come.

My fi rst day as a volunteer was on a Sunday – one of two Open Days for the public during the week. People of all ages and nationalities came to visit and hear the tragic stories of cruelty infl icted on all 41 horses, ponies and donkeys at the Centre. It makes you wonder how these animals can still trust us humans.

During the week there were no set hours or expectations, but this was not an excuse to lie in the sun, as I wanted to help in what-ever way I could. I did my best to learn how to handle the horses, in terms of grooming and feeding – simple, but milestones for this city girl. Luckily I was able to bring in my communications skills to help raise the profi le of the Centre which is funded entirely from

charitable donations. Every day there was al-ways lots to do, but it didn’t seem like work to me, because I felt that I had a clear purpose – something perhaps lacking at times in my world back home.

Would I recommend volunteering at the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre?First and foremost, yes. Sue and Rod are lovely people – they have dedicated their lives, sacrifi cing a comfy retirement on the Costa Blanca to set up the Centre from noth-ing. You can’t help but be enthused by their dedication and passion. In fact everyone I came across working with the charity are all generous folk – giving up their time so the Centre can meet the needs of its increasing number of inhabitants.

Any highlights? Too many to mention! Having the privilege of meeting the four-legged residents, along with taking part in pioneering maggot treatment to treat the in-fected hooves of Cookie, the miniature horse, has to be up there!

Will I still be involved? Most defi nitely! I have a background in political lobbying and want to fi nd out what practical steps can be taken to improve animal welfare legislation in the Alicante region, and beyond.

If you are interested in volunteering for the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, all I can say is there are opportunities to suit every-one. Get in touch and make a difference!

Sad Loss of Gypsy LadyThe Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre would like to inform all of the many visitors and sup-porters of the sad loss of Gypsy Lady on Fri-day 21st October. Many of you will remember Gypsy Lady as the horse that was free to roam; meeting and greeting visitors, joining in with the horse tours, and indeed spending her days with the children of the Pony Club.

Strangely enough, Gypsy Lady came to the centre in October 2010, just 2 days after an-

other horse, Star Chance, sadly died. At the time it amazed all those at the Rescue Centre as Gypsy immediately stepped into Chance’s role in every way, even having a similar ap-pearance, making it seem like Chance had never left. Incredibly, Gypsy passed away exactly 2 days after the fi rst anniversary of Chance’s death.

Prior to rescue, Gypsy Lady was in such a horrendous state; owned by gypsies she was kept in a structure made from orange crates where she was unable to even lift her head, and was deprived of food and water. Elche police were so distressed on discovering her that they turned to Easy Horse Care Res-cue Centre in fear she was soon to starve to death. Gypsy Lady had a whole year at the Rescue Centre, knowing the feeling of being cared for and truly loved, and showed affec-tion and gratefulness in return.

There are many horses like Gypsy that are still suffering and need help. The Rescue Centre’s Open Days take place on Wednes-days and Sundays, 1-4pm, where hot food and refreshments are available and visitors can meet the horses and hear their stories on a horse tour.

For further information about the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, call: 652 021 980, email: [email protected] or visit: www.easyhorsecare.net



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Are you ready for 2012?Are you energetically ready for the challenges of 2012? Whether you are a believer or sceptic of the doomsday prophecies, one thing is for sure – 2012 will herald signifi cant changes to your career, love life, fi nances and spiritual conscientiousness. If you continue to do the same things and behave in the same way as you do now, then you will continue to reap the same results. Great if the latter has been the bearer of good health, wealth and luck, but what if it hasn’t? What if 2011 has not been kind to you, your fi nances or health and you can’t wait to see the back of it? Then now is the time to get ready for change - to change your behaviour, attitude, perspectives and thoughts to energetically and cosmically align them to fi nancial growth, good health and personal greatness.

“All over the world, the advent of 2012 is causing either excitement or nervousness, depending on your beliefs. What people fail to realise is that their behaviour is either overloading or depleting their personal energy levels and for many, this anxious and stressful behaviour starts to close their “chakras” as well. If left unattended, this can lead to poor health, high anxiety, depression, fear and debilitating illnesses”

claims Jennifer Rahman, a renowned Emotional Freedom Techniques therapist in Murcia.

“Chakra” is a Sanskrit word meaning “wheel” and a chakra is said to be the focal point of energy reception and transmission in a person. Everyone has 7 chakras in their body and when in harmony, these 7 “chakras” are bearers of good health in mind, body and soul. When closed or weakened by illness or low mood, these “chakras” cannot work effi ciently and the person is often anxious, has low self- esteem, feels lethargic, moody and is consumed by negative emotions and thoughts. “This negativity can lodge deep in a person’s unconscious mind and sometimes even “chakra” cleansing and balancing is not 100% effective, if used on its own” said Jennifer Rahman.

“What I have found in all my many years of experience with “chakra” balancing and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is that both holistic energy practices complement each other very well in terms of restoring and balancing energy levels in a person. EFT removes or neutralises negative emotions while “chakra” balancing reinforces harmony in mind, body and soul. For those not familiar with EFT, it is an energy therapy

that uses tapping actions on specifi c acupressure points on the body that are the seat of negative emotions. These emotions can be the root cause of illness, cravings, addictions, phobias and allergies. When EFT is combined with “chakra” cleansing and balancing, it offers people a quick, effective and effi cient method of bringing wellness, vibrancy and harmony in mind, body and soul within minutes” Jennifer added.

To fi nd out more about EFT and “chakra” cleansing, visit: www.lifemaxxinternational.com or contact Jennifer on her mobile: 63 4358 310. Jennifer is offering all readers a FREE half hour consultation AND 20% discount on her unique EFT with “chakra” cleansing sessions, for a limited period only.

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500€ FOR THE PAUL CUNNINGHAM NURSES CHARITYThe Sailing Association Mar Menor has formed a new group called the BALATON 18 GROUP. This is an enthusiastic group of SAMM members who have taken ownership of a beautiful day sailor. Peter Sharpington, the previous owner of this magnifi cent boat, stipulated in the purchase deal that a dona-tion would be made to the Paul Cunning-ham Nurses Charity, as a thank you for the help they gave his wife during her last illness.The cheque was presented by Mike Phillips the Commodore of SAMM to Georgie May, who has become the face of the Paul Cun-ningham Nurses, at CAR (Centro Alto Ren-dimiento Deportivo del Mar Menor) ´’Infanta Cristina’ in Los Narejos, in the presence of Peter Sharpington, the Balaton 18 Group chairman Julian Pering, members of the Ba-laton 18 Group and members of the SAMM Committee.

The Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity was created in 2008 to provide care in the community for terminally ill patients. Nurses and carers are provided free of charge, sub-ject to an assessment, at the latter stages to patients with a terminal prognosis. This service is not just for cancer patients, but anyone at the end stage of their illness; for example: stroke/heart disease/motor neu-rone disease/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease etc. The Paul Cunningham Nurses also offer a very supportive general nursing service for those who need it and is avail-able 24/7. Their offi ces are open from 9.30-

12.30pm Monday to Friday, telephone num-ber 966 790 363. They offer a combination of support, information and medical experi-ence along with hands-on nurses and carers or as a friendly voice and help with everyday problems that may occur when one becomes ill in Spain. They provide medical advice and liaise with the Costa Blanca Palliative Care team, which consists of Doctors and Nurs-es. At present they cover from Pilar de la Horadada up to Gran Alicant on the coast and inland to Orihuela. For more information contact paulcunninghamnurses.com

There is a high fashion calendar featuring Georgie May on sale in support of the Paul Cunningham Nurses and three other char-ities. If you would like one of these calen-dars you can buy one at a special price of 5€ (retailing at 24.99€), please contact Janice Penning at [email protected].

Sailing Association Mar Menor4th Race Day of the SAMM Autumn Se-ries Sunday 23rd October The 4th Race Day was postponed from 16th October to 23rd October.

The races take place from the CAR Infanta Cristina Sailing Centre at Los Narejos on the Mar Menor and are run under the RYA Ports-mouth Yardstick handicap system.

1st Race The morning race started at 12.00 noon, with a north north easterly wind with a speed of 2 knots increasing during the race, 5 boats competed over two laps. The results on corrected time were:-

1st Miracle, John Clarke - Doreen Squires 2nd Catamaran, Derek English - M. Hard-ing, J. Parker, G. Wharrad, 3rd Laser 2000, John Down – Vernon O´Byrne 4th Gamba, Janice Penning – Cristobal Ju-

rado, Carl Vogt 5th Laser 13, Roger Drew - Anne Marie Tasney 2nd Race By 3.30pm the wind was in a north east-erly direction with an increased speed of 10 knots. Six boats started and fought an excit-ing two lap contest. The results on corrected time were:-

1st Miracle, John Clarke - Doreen Squires2nd Laser 2000, John Down - Vernon O’Byrne 3rd Catamaran, Derek English – Mike Harding, John Parker4th Sea Hopper, Mick Burgess 5th Laser 13, Roger Drew – Annemarie Tasney6th Gamba, Janice Penning - Cris-tobal Jurado, Carl Vogt

5th Race Day (the Penultimate) of the SAMM Autumn Series - Sunday 30th October

1st Race The morning race started at 11.30am, with a north north easterly wind with a speed of 8 knots increasing during the race to 12 knots, 5 boats competed over two laps. The results on the corrected time were:-

1st Miracle, John Clarke - Doreen Squires 2nd Catamaran, Derek English - M. Hard-ing, J. Parker, G. Wharrad, 3rd Laser 13, Peter Cadwell – Janice Pen-ning 4th Laser 2000, Roger Drew - Anne Marie Tasney 5th Sea Hopper, Mick Burgess

2nd Race By 2.00pm the wind was in a east north easterly direction with an increased speed of 12 knots increasing to 14 knots. Five boats started and fought an exciting two lap contest. The results on the corrected time were:-

1st Catamaran, Derek English – M Hard-ing, J Parker, G Wharrad2nd Miracle, John Clarke, Doreen Squires3rd Laser 13, Roger Drew – Annemarie Tasney4th Sea Hopper, Mick Burgess

DNF Gamba, Peter Cadwell - Janice Penning

The 6th (Last) Race Day of the Autumn Series was on Sunday 13th November.

For more information about SAMM and its race programme go to www.sailingmar-menor.com and follow the links or email to [email protected]



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Fourth MABS Race for Life is a Huge HitAs the day dawned for the fourth annual MABS Murcia Race for Life, clouds were very much in evidence, but that didn’t deter more than 250 people from arriving in Los Al-cázares to take part. Before the start, a min-ute’s silence was observed at 11.00am in re-membrance of all those who have fought and died for their country. The clouds lifted, the sun peeped out and the Race for Life partici-pants were sent on their way to walk, run or stroll along the 3 kilometre promenade route.

People arrived from all around the Murcia and Valencia regions, with some making it a family outing and bringing the dog along too. Many arrived in pink attire or fancy dress, including a rather fetching Spanish chicken, who arrived with her team of friends from Dolores de Pacheco. Other teams included MABS Murcia NW volunteers from Cegehin, King’s College of La Torre, Gea y Truyols Slim-

mers from the Valle del Sol, Spangles Ladies’ Chorus from Los Alcázares, and the Running Wild team from La Zenia.

First man over the fi nish line was Marcus Fer-nandez, fi rst lady was Ingrid Patterson, fi rst child was Travis Preston, who has been fi rst for the past three years and the fi rst young lady on rollerblades was Zoe Bond, who has raised

over 150€ in sponsor-ship already. Various pooches accompanied their owners and the fi rst one over the line was Jake, owned by Sue Bengtsson. Ex-ite Radio and various stallholders helped to give the race fi nish area a festive feel and many stayed on to en-joy a social drink and a chat.

“This is one of our main annual fundrais-ing events” said MABS Director, Lyn Baines “and we’re so grateful to all who have turned out to support us to-day. Everyone has made such an effort to arrive on a Sun-day morning, create a great atmosphere and collect sponsorship money for us. Thanks must also go to all the MABS volunteers who have been here since the crack of dawn to organise such a great event.”

Sponsorship money will be coming in over the next 2-3 months, but MABS estimates that they will have

raised around 5,000€ from the day. They would also like to thank the sponsors of the event: DFS Furniture and Time Out Sports Bar in San Javier, Xpress Print & Design of El Trampolin, and Construcciones Gallardo in Cehegin.

Photographers: Robin Bayliss and Alfonso Fernandez

Murder, Mystery and Mirth for MABSA gory fund raising evening, in aid of MABS Murcia was held at Las Claras. With one dead body and 7 suspects, the 70‘detectives’ had their work cut out trying to identify the dastardly murderer, and there could be only one winner of the 50€ shopping voucher which was kindly donated by Iceland Over-seas, San Javier.

MABS volunteers played the suspects: Anthea Prentice as Maddy Lines (Chair-woman of the W.I.), Jack Anderson as Guy Lines (Scoutmaster), Paul Lewis as Ollie Day (Travel Agent), Tricia McGlynn as May Day (First Aid and Lost Children Worker), Graham Cousin as Lee Forsale (Estate Agent), Terry Doyle as Reverend Neil Duprais (Anglican Minister) and Lynne Marshalsay as Winona Cases (Solicitor).The lucky winner, who identifi ed the murder-er, was Karen Young who, before coming to live in Spain, was a Police Detective - she ob-viously hasn’t lost her touch – congratulations Karen! Thanks must also go to Evelyn Camp-bell, who organised the whole event which raised a further 175€ for MABS Murcia.

Pictured are the 7 suspects, preparing them-selves to be interviewed, and the organiser – Left to right: Lynne Marshalsay, Graham Cousin, Anthea Prentice, Terry Doyle, Tricia McGlynn, Jack Anderson and Evelyn Campbell.

MABS Murcia is a registered charity (No. 7261) offering help and support to lo-cal people of all nationalities who have been diagnosed with or are being treated for cancer. If you or someone you know would like some confi dential help or sup-port call our HELPLINE693 275 779 or visit their website: www.mabsmurcia.com



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ADAPT GAMES NIGHT is a very popular club activity run by Janet and Terry Pierce twice monthly at the Lodosol cafe/bar in San Pedro. Nothing too strenuous but good brain training and a lot of fun. Janet and Terry have weaned us in gently with Rummikub, Crib, Mexican Train and Uno Attack. Every once in a while they sneak in another game so that we don´t become too complacent and we are forced to stir up the grey matter. We have a suspicion that the next game to be introduced will be Canasta!

No one takes the games too seriously as is evident from the laughter and chatter around the room and it helps to have liquid refreshment from the bar to ease the vocal chords. (So they say!) ADAPT meet on the fi rst Saturday of the month at The

Pensionista Club, San Pedro. The doors open at 10am and drinks can be purchased from the bar. (There seems to be a theme here). Enid Winskill.

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SOS FOR HAHSOS in Mercadona Square, Los A l c a z a r e s held an open morning and fashion show on behalf of HAH help at Home and along with a raffl e raised a fantastic total of 200€. Almost 100 people sat outside in the glorious a u t u m n s u n s h i n e , whilst staff and friends m o d e l l e d s o m e s t u n n i n g e v e n i n g w e a r , shoes and accessories.

HAH fundraiser, Celia Ryan thanked Julia, Christina and the staff of SOS for their hard work in putting on the show, organising the raffl e, and then she invited everyone into the shop for a glass of Cava, and to enjoy searching through the many rails with such a variety of clothes to choose from. HAH volunteers and friends then went on the Angela’s Pizzeria at the end of Rio Nalon, where they enjoyed a special menu del dia, and another contribution to HAH.

If you are struggling to cope, please call 633 673 034. If you are interested in volunteering a little time to HAH, please call Angela on 603 51 7770, or email [email protected]

HAH volunteer meetings will be held upstairs at The Arches in Los Narejos on the 1st Tuesday each month. There will not be a meeting in December and because of holidays, the New Year meeting will be at 11.45 on Tuesday Jan 10th.

MORE HELP FROM HAHHAH are delighted to announce that their new SOCIAL GROUP, CHATTERS is up and running, and will now be held the 3rd Wednesday of the month. The venue is The Garden Bar (formerly El Jardin) and is situated behind Euromarina in Los Alcazares. Starting at 11am, all will be welcome and our aim is to provide you with the chance to meet and make new friends, to have a bit of fun, a chat over a cup of coffee, or a chance to talk to our Nurse Practitioner

Lynda if you have any medical issues. As the group grows, we hope to arrange trips, talks, lunches out etc., any ideas will be welcome. Please don’t be afraid to come if you are on your own, so are lots of other people, and our volunteers will be on hand to make you welcome.

Mary Westcott who suggested the group said “We have had so much success helping people in their own homes that we thought now was the time to branch out further. This group is not only for HAH clients, but also for anyone wishing to become a volunteer, or who would just like to meet people and have a bit of extra company. You are more than welcome, please just turn up on the day”.Last month alone HAH volunteers gave 203 FREE hours of care to the community, and this fi gure is representative of the amount of people we are currently helping. Over the past year we are delighted to have been able to help over 100 people on the road to recovery.

Dear LesleyRe: Elva FinchamI would like to express on behalf of the whole family our sincerest, heartfelt thanks for the support, care, compassion and friendship the Help at Home Team afforded Elva during her struggle and ultimate passing away due to cancer recently. Though Elva was a brave, positive tower of strength throughout the illness, you gave her invaluable support when she needed it most, both in her home and eventually in hospital in Cartagena.

We would particularly like to thank Lesley, Paul, Mary, Lynda, Brenda, Audrey, Evelyn, Meg and Sue for all their support. Serious illness and death is never easy to cope with, especially away from your native homeland. Through the excellent work carried out by you and your team, Elva and her family were able to continue to keep going and ultimately face the end of her life, safe in the knowledge that your friendship, help, advice, and support were never far away.Love to you all Steve Sutcliffe

If you would like help or advice please tel: 633 673 034 email us on [email protected] or visit our website www helpathome.es to fi nd out more about HAH Help at Home



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December

There is no General Meeting of HELP Murcia Mar Menor in December.

Sunday 4th Navidad Craft Fayre at Las Claras, Los Alcazares - 5pmHELP will have a tombola stall there.

Tuesday 6th Christmas Lunch for members of HELP at the Oasis - 1 pmRestaurant, Los Belones Wednesday 14th Volunteers lunch at Las Claras, Los Alcazares - 1.30pm

The HELP MMM Car Boot is at the Sunday

Market at the Autocine, Los Narejos

Tickets for most events are available from Joan Mitchell on 868 185685 or 678 135457

Details of these events, plus directions, can be found on the website on the Event Calendar helpmurciamarmenor.org

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Hi all, Shannon here. I can’t believe that when you read this it will be December! Where has the year gone? Anyway, last month Mum and Dad had to go to England to visit my brother, Matt. He has just joined the Navy to train as an offi cer and it was his fi rst ‘open’ weekend for family to see what they all get up to. We couldn’t go as Mum and Dad had to stay in a Hotel and the cost of fl ights was high, so Nathan and I went to stay with Ralph and Mags, the pastors from The Olive Branch Church and Connor went to other friends, David and Eileen. It was late when we fi nally settled down, so after a hot drink we both went to bed. In the morning, Ralph suggested we went in the pool for a game of diving for coins. I thought the water would be too cold, but it wasn’t, so

I ended up staying in the water for ages. Eventually, though, it did get chilly, so I got out and Nathan asked if I would go for a walk with him round the area we were staying. We had quite a long walk.

It was very different because where we live it is surrounded by fi elds and trees, but Ralph and Mags live on Camposol, so we walked round all the houses and shops. We had taken some fi lms with us and Ralph thought it was really good, he even sang the last song. It was funny! We went bowling at Totana and I came third! To be honest, that sounds better than it was because there was only three of us playing! So, really, I came last, but third, sounds better. Mum and Dad came back after the weekend and Mum had lots of photographs of Matt and The Brittania Royal Naval College. I must say Matt looked very smart in his uniform and he will be coming here for Christmas. I can’t wait to hear all about his training from him.

Hiya, Connor with another amazing article for you to read. As you already read from Shannon, Mum and Dad had to go to England for a while. I went to stay with David, Eileen and their son Gary. It was good to be with someone my own age, otherwise I would have been quite lonely. David came to collect me early, so I missed some of my school lessons. Mum was not silly though as she gave me a ton of work to take away with me to keep me busy and out of mischief. Gary had to go to school anyway. On the way to collect me David’s car broke down. The radiator had a huge hole in it, I think. Mum said he could borrow our car as we would not need it. That was good because I don’t know how we would have got to David and Eileen house otherwise. Dad said he would fi x it when he got back from the trip and it would be ready for collecting by the following weekend. When we fi nally

reached David’s house, Gary was home from school. He did not know that I was coming to stay, so he had a real surprise. Luckily for me, he was happy I was there! Some other friends were staying s well, so I had to sleep on a sofa bed. It was very comfortable though and was in the sitting room, so I couldn’t go to sleep until everyone else had. During the days when

Gary was at school, I did my own school work. I suspect when Mum reads this she will say that I didn’t, but I did do some! When Gary was at home we played on his Wii, walked the dog and just generally had fun together. We went Go-karting and swimming in a large near-by public swimming pool. It was really good to be able to spend time with Gary on my own because usually Shannon and Nathan are with me. I think we all got on together really well. We had an afternoon on the beach, but could not go into the water as there were hundreds of jelly fi sh around and Eileen said it was not a wise thing to do. We went to Church on the Sunday and I saw Nathan and Shannon there, so we compared our time away. Mum and Dad came back late on the Tuesday and we all went back home. It was a good time, but I caught a cold and I just can’t get rid of it!

Hello there, Nathan here. I know Shannon has mentioned why we were staying with Ralph and Mags, so I don’t need to. Sometimes it is hard to write about different stuff, when we have all done the same things, but, my memory of our stay will be different from Shannons, so here goes. When we got there Mags showed me where I was staying. It looked and felt like a 5 star hotel room! I had my own bathroom with a bath! We only have a shower at home, so it was wonderful to see a bath. There was a passage from my bedroom to the bathroom, but the whole thing was self contained. It was so luxurious I knew I would be so comfortable in there. There was even a television, but it was not working. I told Ralph he was teasing me by having it in there! I was so cosy in that room, it made me look forward to going to bed each evening and I didn’t miss Mum and Dad as much as I thought I would. We went bowling and Ralph said he would show me a few tips

to help my game. We go bowling a lot really, as I am sure you all know by now, so when Ralph mentioned the tips, I thought it would help my game. He missed the shot! Well, if that

was a tip, I wasn’t too impressed really! However, Ralph went on to win and I came second. It was good fun and we all had a laugh. In the morning we went to the beach in Mazarrón and had lunch in ‘Glorias’ along the front. It is good food in there and very friendly. Then it was

Sunday, the week seemed to just fl y by really. We had taken a few fi lms with us in case the weather was not good enough to be in the pool or on the beach. We watched them in the evenings. I had taken the Shakespeare collection. They are all modern versions set in ‘today time’ and as I am doing Shakespeare at school with Mum at the moment I thought they would help me understand them all a bit better. The ‘Taming of the Shrew’ was the funniest. I don’t think they will help me understand the language of the plays any better really, but it was interesting to watch them. We had a good time and when Mum and Dad came back we heard all about their trip. Mum fell over while she was away and hurt her foot. She came back with it all bandaged up and had to have a wheelchair at the airport.



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Mari Carmen Fernández Vera is an English speaking Yoga Teacher of secondary with a degree in English Philology. She was trained as a yoga teacher in the Sivananda School in Canada from 1997 to 1998. She continued her training for four years in the Escuela

Aragonesa de Yoga run by Manuel Morata. Mari met Deepak Chopra MD in 2008 and one year later she became a Primordial Sound Meditation instructor. Recently Mari returned from a 6 month trip to India where she practiced the art of Yoga and Ayurveda. Mari

Carmen now teaches in the School of Yoga Sadhana, Bolnuevo and organizes yoga and meditation workshops.

The practice of yoga is a precise and scientifi c activity which is suitable for everyone whatever their circumstances. It is neither esoteric nor diffi cult to understand.

You can easily improve the control of body and mind through the practise of asanas and pranayama. Yoga is good both for your physical health and for your mental and emotional well-being.

Teachers:Mª Carmen Fernández and Gabriel Cabrera C/ Góndola, 10. Bolnuevo. http://www.yogamayga.com http://www.yogamayga.blogspot.com E-mail: [email protected] Tlf: 968 150 755

The Yoga classes deal with:

\ Proper Relaxation\ Proper Exercise\ Proper Breathing\ Proper Diet\ Positive Thinking and Meditation.:

Mari Carmen has the following qualifi cations:International title of yoga teacher (Yoga Shiromani and Yoga Acharya) by the “Yoga Vedanta Forest Academy”, Val Morin, Canadá.National Diploma Teacher of Yoga awarded by the Asociación Española de Practicantes de Yoga (teacher: Manuel Morata).

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Cultural Experience For The HolidaysBy Tina Tait The Russian State Ballet company, Pushkin, is performing ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Victor Villages Auditorium and Congress Center which is located in downtown Murcia,

ADDRESS: Avda. Primero de Mayo, S/N 30001DATE: 21 December 2011TIME: 20:00 h.COST: 25,00€ , 21,00€ and 18,00 €

WHERE TO BUY TICKETS: Tickets can be

purchased online on their website: www.auditoriomurcia.org (in English) or at the box offi ce

HOW TO GET THERE: Take the A-30 motorway to Mucia city centre, Exit 141/ N340, head around the city centre on this road which changes names several times but is still the same road, at the large roundabout, (Plaza de circular) take Calle Ronda de Levante, and then Avda Travesia de Atalayas, which then becomes Avda. Primero de Mayo.

Audatorium is located next to a large park on the righthand side. There is plenty of parking at the auditorium.

An Evangelical, lively and friendly place to discover the love of Jesus.

What would happen if the world just stopped? I like the Christmas period, not just because it is a good excuse for families to get together, but also because in general everything stops. Even the banks shut, most of the shops and businesses, and we get a chance to catch our breath. It would be good to have this happen more often, although the Spanish are talking about reducing the number of Fiesta days to increase productivity!

Wouldn’t it be great if we could enjoy life without the hassle? Wouldn’t it be great if we could enjoy the world around us, even the space and the unimaginable planets and galaxies so far away? 500 years for light to come to us from some of the planets..500 years! Wouldn’t it be great if there was no more war, or hunger or pain or illness? Wouldn’t it be great if we had no need to work to earn a living to pay the greedy banks and oil companies? Wouldn’t it be great to have no more envy or pride or gossiping or slander or nastiness and violence? No more need for the law or the police or rules and regulations? No more grief or bereavement or heartache or regrets or tears? …..Wouldn’t it be heaven?

“He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.” Revelation 21 v 4

Our Sunday morning service at the Community Centre on Camposol ‘B’ starts at 10.30am each week and offers a variety of music and styles, both traditional and modern. You are invited to join us.

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Well today is 15th November and the last day for copy. Four months ago whilst in our vets Paco’s in Puerto de Mazarrón I met a Spanish farmer who had brought a six day foal in for examination. It was found that poor Chica had a deformed leg, but after an

x-ray the prognosis was good although she would remain crippled throughout her life. The farmer wanted the best life possible for the foal, but did not want her to be destroyed. I immediately offered the girl a home and today she arrived. She is only small, but her hind legs are permanently bent under her, which means that she looks as if she is sitting just like an overgrown dog. Having got her into the stable she remains there whilst our donkeys, lamb and pig introduce themselves, and she will be in the paddock tomorrow, all being well.

It’s Christmas time and our itinerary for the month is:Dec 13th our Christmas Lunch at Bali Hi, Camposol. Tickets are still available at 15€ each - a full Christmas dinner with starter, main course and sweet including a drink, and fi nishing with coffee and mince pie.Dec 19th I will be collecting on the car park of Camposol B sector and will have the mince pies and a little sherry if you would like to partake.Dec 22nd we will have sherry and mince pies in the shop in Fuente Alamo.

Our last rescue was Pumpkin. He was found in the campo on 31st October with a rope around his neck. He is a small lad who is still full of love and really enjoys a cuddle.

I would like to thank my committee for all their hard work over the last year, also all the volunteers who work tirelessly to keep the charity afl oat and a big thank you to each and every one of you for all your kind support. I sincerely look forward to a prosperous New Year, with your help of course!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all from all the animals and me of course until next year…take care.

Andrea.xxx

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Taking care of your car: Pothole damagePotholes are quite common on the roads of southern Spain and now that the rainy season has arrived more are sure to pop up. Although drivers do their best to care-fully avoid them, few realise how damag-ing these holes or, pits in the surface of a road, can actually be. Not only can they cause fl at tyres, they can severely damage the steering control system of a vehicle.

Signs of damageIf your car does go over a rough pothole or bump it is recommended that you check your tyres, as damage to them is not al-ways obvious. Drivers should take the time to carefully inspect both rims and tyres. Potholes could cause bulging in the tyre wall, due to sudden jolts at the time of impact. If you notice a bulge, change the tyre immediately as it is likely to lead to a blow-out which could be disastrous if you’re travelling at a high speed.

Modern cars usually come equipped with aluminum-based rims, which means they cannot withstand as much pothole damage as older steel rims.

Other important car parts to examine for damage are the shock absorbers or struts of the car. Shocks and struts control how

vehicles move and respond. They act as a cushion to reduce the rebound action of the springs of a car. These springs absorb road irregularities. Without them, the ve-hicle would continually bounce down the road, making it extremely diffi cult to man-age. Shocks and struts also control the movement of the springs and suspension to keep the tyres in contact with the road. This affects steering, stability and braking. A broken shock or strut could alter the di-rection of the vehicle and make it diffi cult to handle.

It is important to be aware of the signs that the shock absorbers or struts for your car may need to be replaced. These are a few things to look out for:ï The car tilts or wobbles when turning. ï The front of the vehicle becomes stuck after braking. ï The rear of the car leans backward when accelerating. ï The vehicle bounces or slides sideways on winding roads. ï The car is lower in the front or rear. ï The car leaks or displays signs of physical damage such as rust or dents. ï There is loss of steering control in sud-den stops. If you notice any of the above, do not wait to have your car inspected. Even if your car

passes the check up with fl ying colours, it is good preventive maintenance and can help crucial parts last longer.

Claiming CompensationThe problem many drivers face with pot-hole damage is receiving reimbursement for repairs. Some pothole damages can be claimed to your insurance company as most will recognise an immediate claim, but pothole damage is usually cumula-tive. Claiming compensation from the local council might be a better way of recovering cash for repairs. Some local governments assume responsibility for pothole damage caused on their streets, but many do not. Before making a claim, be sure your local council accepts them.

If you do ma ke an insurance claim and subsequently decided to make a claim from the local council, tell your insurer, as it may be willing to help you through the process.

If you would like expert, independent ad-vice, tailored to your particular circum-stances and to receive competitive car in-surance prices speak to your local Knight Insurance Broker. Contact Knight In-surance Brokers S.A. on 902 28 28 20 or visit www.knight-insurance.com

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2011 AnalysisThis year was the busiest rental season yet for our business, with holiday rentals up 23% so far on 2010 bookings, not including any booking we will take this month. The booking pattern for 2011 was slightly different to previous years. January was once again the busiest month and we took 22% of the year´s bookings in this month alone. But the real surprise was the number of late summer bookings for high season.

Summer proved to be busy for last minute clients, and we took 19% of the total bookings in June, 15% in July and 13% in August. The summer quarter accounted for almost 46% of the year’s bookings, with the trend in 2011 seeming to be to wait until the last minute, book the cheapest

fl ights possible and just get away from it all!

So far, 2012 bookings are coming in slowly, with uncertainty about the eurozone and the continuing economic downturn making folk nervous about committing to larger expenses such as holidays. As the Murcia region continues to grow in popularity, and with large projects such as the new airport fi nally looking like they will be completed in 2012, we are optimistic that 2012 will be as successful as ever for OwnersAway.

Have a wonderful holiday season, Liz

Liz Edmiston runs OwnersAway Property Rentals & Management offering a full range of rental management services

to property owners on the Costa Calída. Contact Liz on 691977107 or [email protected] for more information or visit the website www.ownersaway.com to view the full range of properties and services.

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Hi there from Bob with this month’s report. There’s a lot to get through, so no space for my usual waffl e!

First, we had our annual 3-day Trip to Benidorm, staying at Hotel Helios. Recently refurbished, the hotel was excellent, the food fi rst-class, and even the weather was kind to us. We left home on Monday, and the next day, we visited a bodega, about an hour away, up in the mountains, with lovely views, and of course a wine-tasting after a tour of the winery; an experience not to be missed, and well worth a visit at any time. That night, some went to the Benidorm Palace, and others found local bars to sit and have a drink and listen to the music. We had a free day on Wednesday, leaving late afternoon, with a stop at the chocolate factory in Villajoyosa on the way home. Congratulations to the

winners of the quiz and well done Rosemary, and thanks to Pat Hankinson for looking after the second coach. It has been suggested that next year, we stay for three nights instead of the normal two, so watch out for that.

October 26th saw our Monthly Dance with a welcome return of Ricky Levazza, and also the lovely Laura Elen. We also had a “mystery guest artist,” who has asked to remain a n o n y m o u s , whose rendition of “Delilah” went down a bomb! If you were there, you’ll know who I mean, and if you weren’t, my lips are sealed! Another smashing night, lots of dancing, and let’s hope Ricky and Laura come back soon.

At our Monthly Meeting on 5th November, Rosemary was assisted by Carol, who told us of forthcoming events. It has now been confi rmed that the Mijas Trip will be from February 25th to 27th, with a day at the races on Sunday 26th. We will be staying at the 4star Hotel Triton in Benalmadena on a half board basis @ 145€pp.

The Christmas Party Night on December 14th is sold out.Tickets for New Year’s Eve are still available at €25. Entertainment by The Beagles, everybody’s favourites, and Donna Glass. There will be a buffet, party hats, and grapes and champagne at midnight.Tickets are also on sale for our Games Night on January 11th. Always good fun, lots of laughter, and at just €3, not to be missed.The January Dance on 18th features The Saviours Of Soul; 3 very talented artistes including Shirelle with tickets at just €9, and €5 for pork escalope and chips. Not just Soul Music, but a bit of everything, and the sort we all enjoy.

At our December Meeting on 5th, tickets will go on sale for St Valentine’s Night Dance on February 14th at €10, and €5 for food. Tickets for the Summer Ball at Pinto De Oro near Aledo on 20th June are also available at €29, and if you want to stay over, a room will be €45. Coaches will also be available – price to be announced nearer the time.

The Book/Jigsaw Swap closes on the 6th December and re-opens on 10th January at the ICA clinic on the dual-carriageway on Camposol Sector B. Further details from Jo on 669457985.

Fun Petanca is held at Mariano’s, Camposol on the last Wednesday of the month, starting at 1.00pm, or the following week in the case of bad weather. Call Les on 968131880 for more details.

Welcome is open to everyone. There is no membership – just come along, have fun, and meet friends old and new. For more details and to purchase tickets, phone Rosemary on 620105179, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.welcomegroupspain.com.



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The Season of Fall Now I know if we lived in the States that would mean that the leaves were falling, the trees were a lovely golden hue and the nights would be drawing in. Here in Spain it means something entirely different in our family – my mum has arrived here in Spain, to run her regular check of the medical system and facilities!

Last Christmas, she tripped down a hole in the school playground on the way into the nativity concert, bringing the Cruz Roja running and enjoying a ride to the Medical Centre, where she was declared unhurt, had a graze on her knee dressed and made it back into her seat before you could say “The First Noel”.

This time around, things were a little more serious. Having a problem judging distances, she leaned on a folding chair to get off the

terrace, and the chair performed its job just a little too well, folding immediately to the fl oor, with Mum not far behind.

Alerted from hanging up the ironing by the sound of the boys shouting, we discovered Mum in a heap on the fl oor, this time with an injury to the knee and a surprising amount of blood on the fl oor. Cameron, who harbours ambitions to be a lifeguard, paramedic or “any kind of hero”, was a great help, fetching the bandages and dressings, so we could patch his Nana up for another trip to the ER. Alex simply turned a rather fetching shade of green and “I don´t think I ever want to be an ambulance man now!!”

Once again treatment was rapid and effi cient, and Mum could not praise the staff enough. With her leg patched up and stern warning to be more careful, she was soon back on

her feet. Mum has learnt NEVER to leave home without her EHIC, with good reason, but she does say that if it is any consolation (and it isn´t!!), she is just as clumsy back in Hexham!

Liz Edmiston runs OwnersAway Property Rentals & Management offering a full range of services to property owners on the Costa Calída. Contact Liz on 691977107 or [email protected] for more information or visit the website www.ownersaway.com to view the full range of properties and services.

John Kemp, after years of rescuing and homing dogs in this region of Spain has made videos of all the dogs he has available for re-homing. Rather than seeing just one photo of a dog in a magazine or newspaper, you can now go to youtube.co.uk and just search for johnkempdogs. Most of John’s dogs now are adult, between 1 to 3 years old, so why not visit his page there and check out all the dogs for yourself. Visit John Kemp at his stall every Sunday morning at the car boot sale at Cañadas del Romero near El Pareton. If you see a dog you are interested, please contact John on 646737230. You can also try fostering a dog for a while if you prefer to see how it goes. More great news is that John Kemp’s dogs are all fully inoculated and up to date with all their treatments. They are all housetrained and also will have been spayed or castrated, so the next time you are looking for that special someone to share your life with, look no further than Johnkempdogs at youtube.co.uk

Los Canovas Players Presents………..The next production of The Los Canovas Players will be over the fi rst weekend of February next year (2012). The evening’s entertainment is entitled “Six Aside” and comprises six short comedies, yes SIX, and promises to be a very funny evening.As usual there will be a bar for refreshments before the performance, at the interval and will remain open after the performance.The evening will be held in our fully air-conditioned theatre in Los Canovas (only 10 minutes drive from Camposol) on Friday 3rd February, Saturday 4th February and Sunday 5th February. Curtain up will be at 8pm for the Friday and Saturday performances and 7pm on the Sunday. Tickets, at only 5€ each, will be on sale in the New Year from outlets in the area or bookings can be made at [email protected] or contact Roger on 968 151 149.Further information will be publicized in the local press and on Costa Calida Radio closer to the dates.We look forward to seeing and entertaining you once again.

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Christian Humanitarian Aid Charity in the Mazarron & Surrounding area

OUR mission statement:-We help anyone in need,

irrespective ofrace, creed or status.

Matthew 25 v 35-36 “When I was Hungry you fed me, when I was

Thirsty you gave me a drink, when I needed Clothes you clothed me,

when I was a Stranger you invited me in, when I ………”

Christmas is almost upon us and ‘The Real Reason for the Season is God’s Love’ - John 3 v 16 tells us “for GOD so loved the world He sent His one and only Son”, and because of this great Love ‘Making A Difference’ exists. GO maD is about sharing the Father’s love and not just at this time of year, when hearts are tuned into giving, but throughout the whole year. We now have over 150 registered for Aid; consisting of families, couples and individuals.

We wish to take this opportunity to give warm heartfelt thanks to all our wonderful supporters during 2011 who have made it possible for us to continue to be MAD!! Also to our growing band of volunteers, who give their time so generously. May you come to know the depth of the Father’s Love for each and every one of YOU.

GO maD is now celebrating in treble; our Charity Registration and opening of the Mazarron, Shop shares its fi rst birthday with our Patron’s 2011! We are very excited as to what next year brings and are already seeing God’s vision begin to unfold. We look forward to sharing these wonderful plans with you all soon. Please remember those that are less fortunate at this festive time by purchasing a few extra items when shopping for your Christmas delicacies. You can help further by calling into our ‘Corner Shop of Blessings’; which

funds our work and fi nd yourself some winter goodies! We are overwhelmed at the quantity and quality of donations we receive, including furniture; God’s Provisions and Love is truly overwhelming.

Would you like to be part of God’s exciting plan for Mazarrón in 2012? Don’t delay, call today on 634 357 137 and see how you can be Making A Difference.

NOW NEEDED: Bedding, Blankets, Towels, Gas/Electric Fires plus Men’s warm clothing and (always) Shoes/Trainers

Drop-off centers; The Cultural/Social Centre on Camposol B; Mon 3-5pm and Fri 12.30-2pm. Camposol Business Centre A & Costa Cálida Radio, Puerto de Mazarrón.

Shop: Open Tues/Weds/Thurs/Sat 10am-2pm & Thurs eve 6-9pm

Tel Shop: 634 321 161Outreach/Other Enquiries: 634 357 137Facebook: madmazarron or email: [email protected]

The Darwinian Gardeners held their fi rst meeting on Saturday Nov 5th.

31 people visited a plant wholesaler’s premises at La Majada. They were given a tour of the greenhouses and the developing visitor facilities, including the donkey-driven well and the barbecue terrace. Many people bought bedding plants, after which we all repaired to the Bar Puente, where a demonstration of olive bottling and the raffl e, were followed by an excellent lunch.

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Can we help you and your petHave you provided a home for an animal from a rescue centre or shelter for a stray dog or cat?Are you worried about the patter of tiny paws in the future (if not at your house maybe at your neighbours?)

We are here to help you; we can provide fi nancial assistance towards the cost of spaying or castrating your new pet and also with those unexpected vet bills, if funds are available.

Please contact us if you need help:-Tel 666 186 037 or call at the shopEmail [email protected] do this we need your donations and would be grateful for any items such as clothes, bric-a-brac, furniture and white goods.

You can donate at the shop, Mon to Sat 10.00-2.00pm. (Take the third left after Barclays Bank on your way into the Port of Mazarrón)Every Tuesday we are on Camposol B Sector car park 10.00-1.00pm, opposite the petrol station. Turn Your Unwanted Furniture Into CashIf you have large items of furniture that are no longer needed, why not try selling them on our 50/50 scheme. We will collect the items from your house (free of charge) and display them in the shop until sold. You will then receive 50% of the selling price with the remainder going to the charity.

My name is Guesito and I was found in March in El Canar-Tallante, very hungry and limping due to malnutrition. A nice family took me in and have given me a lovely home.

I no l o n g e r h a v e a limp and am gradually g a i n i n g weight.

Thanks to MAMA’s I was also spayed and now I am a very happy, gentle and loving dog.Thank you to all the people who helped me and thank you MAMA’s

Helping You Helping AnimalsEmail [email protected]

Whilst we are no longer swimming in our pool at this time of year, I was alarmed to see the water turn a cloudy colour last month so enlisted the help of Dave from Alpha Pools who is our regular pool cleaner. He explained that all that was needed was a simple sand change which he completed quickly. The water is now absolutely sparkling. Shame I will not get to use it for a few more months!

After having nearly set fi re to the kitchen when the whistle on our gas kettle packed up, I set out to fi nd a new one. If you have not been to UK Supplies Direct recently then you really should go. I bought a very good quality new kettle for a very reasonable price, but spend a while in the store browsing their winter offers as there is so much on offer there at the moment. I recently visited Freedom Mobility on Camposol Sector A as I had not been there

for a while.

Graham and Kelly have been working hard on stocking their health and beauty products from fl oor to ceiling. There is now a wonderful selection of make up, anti-ageing products as well as all the lovely bath bombs etc; lots of goodies for Christmas too. Do pay them a visit if you have not been there for a while.

More next monthTeresa



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Have yourself a Spanish little Christmas...Typically Spanish Gift ideas for the HolidaysBy Tina Tait

Give something unique and typically Spanish this year to your friends and family.Here are some great gift ideas:

S e r r a n o Ham:S e r r a n o Ham is one of a number of food d e l i c a c i e s that Spain is famous for and is a unique gift to give for the holidays.

Translated from Spanish, the word ‘serrano’ means sierra or country cured. The process of curing the ham goes back generations, and in some places, is a closely guarded family secret. The cured meat is dense, fl avourful, and a little salty. No refrigeration is required and a whole leg which is usually displayed on its own stand, will last for several months with only a plastic cover or tea towel draped over it. In Spain, giving a ham leg for Christmas is a popular gift because it’s only one gift to buy for a whole family and can be enjoyed for months to come. Generally, the ham is carved into thin slices either by hand or machine slicer and plated with various regional fresh cheeses, or cut up

with green beans, or in stews to give your recipes a bit of a twist.

Which ham should you buy? There are many types and qualities of Serrano ham; the better the quality the higher the price. Some hams can sell for up to €500 or more. Hams are ‘J’ rated. 5 J’s is considered the best and highest quality.

Various types:* Jamón Serrano: (prices range

from: €50 to €200) varies in fl avour and price depending on what region the ham came from, the types of pigs, how that pig is fed, its lifestyle and conditions of curing.

* Jamón Ibérico: (prices range from: €100 to €400) Is considered the best in the world due to the pigs’ diet, way of life and genetic make up. These pigs are specially cared for and are fed only certain foods, to give the meat an exquisite taste. If you want to buy an Iberian Ham, look for the word ‘pata negra’ which means black foot. ‘Pata negra’ earns its name due to their special appearance and only make up around 7% of Serrano Hams.

* Jamón Ibérico de Bellota: the absolute best you can buy, defi nitely 5 J’s (prices range from €200 to €700). It has a distinctive nutty taste due to the pigs’ exclusive diet of acorns. These pigs are also free range and live a life of luxury high in the mountains.

Where to buy your ham:Now that you know what to look for, go to your local Spanish butcher and see their selection. You can purchase ham in the bigger chained super markets as well.

Recommended: For even more convenience, order an excellent ham on-line and have it shipped anywhere in the EU without paying extra duty or taxes. This website: www.ibergour.co.uk offers a nice selection of hams and shipping is free within Spain (min. order is €200 for free shipping).

S p a n i s h Cava:“Champagne S p a n i s h style,” is always a good gift to give and is easily a v a i l a b l e . S p a i n p r o d u c e s many fi ne s p a r k l i n g wines, called ‘ C a v a ’ , named after the cellars in which the

wine was originally produced. In 1991, the EU legalised the specifi cations of ‘Cava’ to make sure that there was a consistent quality and standard, (technically, only wines made in the Champagne region of France can be labelled as such). The most famous ‘Cava’ brand name is ‘Codorníu’



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but there are now literally hundreds of sparkling wine producers. Other popular brands are ‘Freixenet,’ and ‘Segura Viudas,’ (the newcomer of the group). Most ‘Cavas’ are produced in Penedés, an area just south of Barcelona.

Types of Cava:There are six offi cial types, (determined by sugar content): * Extra Brut – 0-6 grams of sugar

per litre, the driest of the Cava * Brut – 0-15 grams of sugar per

litre * Extra Seco – 12-20 grams of sugar

per litre* Seco – 17-35 grams of sugar per

litre * Semi-Seco – 33-50 grams of sugar

per litre * Dulce – More than 50 grams of

sugar per litre, the sweetest of the Cava

A bottle of chilled ‘Cava’ is the traditional beverage served on Christmas Eve, ‘La Noche Buena’ and of course, on New Year’s Eve, ‘La Noche Vieja’

TurrónTurrón is a good accompaniment to go with your ‘Cava’ gift. A centuries old, traditional honey based sweet of Moorish (Arabic) origin which is usually available and purchased only during the Christmas season. It is believed that the Moors invented ‘Turrón’ over 500 years ago in Jijona, a small town located just outside of Alicante. Today, Jijona’s economy is focused mainly on the production and distribution of this sweet and typical Spanish treat. When buying ‘Turrón,’ in order to determine the quality, look for the following description on the label:* Suprema: The best quality

available. It must contain at least 60% almonds (soft version) and 64% almonds (hard version).

* Estándar or Extra: This is the

standard quality and is popular because it costs a little bit less.

Types of Turrón:* Soft Jijona (also called Turrón

Blando): has a smooth consistency similar to peanut butter

* Hard Alicante (also called Turrón Duro): similar to a thick almond nougat candy, or peanut brittle.

* Newer varieties: Turrón has expanded over the years from its original version to include ‘yema’ or egg yolk style, which is a golden yellow colour. Or try the praline style, and least forgotten, chocolate!

Paella pan:Paella dishes are very easy to fi nd, inexpensive and come in many different sizes. Put together a paella pan, a pack of paella rice, ‘caldo’ or broth especially for making paella, and a package of paella

spices (saffron). Throw in a recipe book of typical Spanish dishes, wrap it up in cellophane with a bow, and print out a paella recipe on the tag. This would make a nice gift to give someone who enjoys cooking.

Pottery: Spain is known for its beautiful hand painted pottery. Designs and patterns vary by region. The best place to buy pottery is at a factory outlet where you can fi nd a large selection of designs and styles. Take your Christmas list and buy a little something for everyone on your list all in one place. Some good ideas which will typically only be found in Spain are ‘Tapas’ sets, olive oil/vinegar sets, and natural brown clay baking dishes.

Recommended: There is a large pottery outlet store in Cabo de Palos (La Manga) across from the Mercadona shopping centre or some of the pottery shops in Totana. They have pottery from all over Spain in different patterns, ranging in price. They will pack your purchased items in bubble wrap ready for shipping if you ask them.

Have fun shopping and enjoy the Spanish way of life at home. Feliz Navidad!



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Christmas is a deeply religious holiday in Spain. The country’s patron saint is the Virgin Mary and the Christmas season offi cially begins December 8, the feast of the Immaculate Conception. It is celebrated each year in front of the great Gothic cathedral in Seville with a ceremony called los Seises or the “dance of six.” Oddly, the elaborate ritual dance is now performed by not six but ten elaborately costumed boys. It is a series of precise movements and gestures and is said to be quite moving and beautiful.

Christmas is celebrated all over Spain. Some towns have special rituals or processions, religious plays or people singing Christmas carols and asking for the “aguinaldo” (tip or small gift). During the Christmas celebrations, the streets of cities, towns and villages are decked with colour, lights and fi esta lights, creating a magical atmosphere. At Christmas time, there is a huge variety

of sweets available, although the star product is defi nitely turrón. Another of the most traditional Christmas sweets in Spain is marzipan, which is made with almonds and sugar and can usually be found in the form of “little shapes”.

One tradition not at all common elsewhere are the “Hogueras” (bonfi res). This tradition originated long before Christmas itself. It is the observance of the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year and the beginning of winter. It is characterized by people jumping over fi res as a symbolic protection against

illness. This fi re-jumping can be seen primarily in Granada and Jaen.

Christmas Eve (Nochebuena or “the Good Night”) is more important than Christmas Day to the Spanish and they usually attend Midnight Mass (called the Misa del Gallo or

the “Rooster’s Mass”). Often, as the Christmas Eve stars appear, tiny oil lamps are lit, warming village windows. The crowds at the Christmas markets thin as shoppers return to prepare for the coming meal. The most beautiful of these candlelight services is held at the monastery of Montserrat, high in the mountain near Barcelona, which is highlighted by a boy’s choir describes as performing the Mass in “one pure voice.”

Christmas Dinner is never eaten until after midnight. It is a family feast, and often highlighted with “Pavo Trufado de Navidad” (Christmas turkey with truffl es). After the meal, family members gather around the Christmas tree and sing Christmas carols and hymns of Christendom. The rejoicing continues through the early hours of the morning. An old Spanish verse says...“Esta noche es Noche-Buena, Y no es noche de dormir” (This is the goodnight, therefore it is not meant for sleep.)

Christmas Day is normally spent at Church, at feasts and in more merry-making. A custom peculiar to Spain is that of “swinging.” Swings are set up throughout the courtyards and young people swing to the accompaniment of songs and laughter.

In the past, the traditional day for gifts was Epiphany or King’s Day on Jan 6, but now that is giving way to Christmas, although gifts are normally exchanged on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day. Another difference is that in Spain the



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Christmas tree is not traditional but the traditional symbol is a Nativity scene. These are often very elaborate with scenes from everyday life (chestnut sellers, shopkeepers, blacksmiths etc). If you are in Spain before Christmas, be sure to see the Nativity (usually called “Belen”, Bethlehem in Spanish) at the towns you visit. Some shop windows are decorated with a Belen and you may also fi nd stores selling Nativity fi gures.

New Year (“Nochevieja” ) is celebrated with parties like other places in the world, although it is traditional in Spain to eat twelve grapes on the twelve strokes of midnight to ensure good luck in the New Year. This can be done if you are fast, neat and don’t start laughing at your friends with chipmunk-cheeks full of grapes. It helps to hold your stash of grapes right next to your mouth. Although the chiming of the bells is broadcast on live television throughout Spain, the best thing is to head for the scene of the celebration and take active part in the event. In Spain there is a place that has a special link with this tradition: the clock in Puerta del Sol Square in Madrid. Like London, thousands of people congregate here to see in the year, dressed up with hats, party blowers, horns, masks and jokes. Hotels, pubs, bars and clubs usually hold their own New Year’s Eve parties, where

you can dance until dawn.

Three King’s Day on January 6 signifi es the end of the extended holiday season in Spain. This day is celebrated in a number of towns with King’s Day celebrations with theatre and traditional dancing. In Spain it is Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar who bring Christmas presents to children who have been good during the year. After writing a letter, in which they tell the Kings which presents they would like, the long-awaited day fi nally arrives. The Wise Men parade through the streets of cities, towns and villages all over Spain in traditional cavalcades. Their camels loaded with presents, they go through the streets handing out sweets, accompanied by their royal pages. Little by little the colourful fl oats go by, entertaining all the family. Of all these parades, the one in Alcoi, Alicante, is particularly outstanding - it is Spain’s oldest. When night falls, children go to bed early to wait for Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar to come in through the window and leave presents in their shoes.

On the 7th January, everything returns back to normal and the schools and businesses open again.

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In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice marks the fi rst day of the season of winter on or near 21 December.

The Pagan celebration of Winter Solstice (also known as Yule) is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world. It is a cel-ebration of the shortest day and longest night of the year when the North Pole is at its furthest point away from the sun.

Winter Solstice TraditionsMistletoe and the Mighty OakThe Druids (Celtic priests) would cut the Mistletoe that grew on the oak tree and give it as a blessing. Oaks were seen as sacred and the winter fruit of the mistle-toe was a symbol of life in the dark winter months.

Mistletoe plants grow on a wide range of host trees, including oak and apple and commonly reduce the tree’s growth and can kill them with heavy infestation. All Mistletoes are hemi-parasites, bearing evergreen leaves that use the host mainly for water and mineral nutrients. The Mis-tletoe fi rst sprouts from bird faeces on the trunk of the tree and in its early stages of life it takes nutrients from this source. Most mistletoe seeds are spread by birds such as the Mistle Thrush in Europe. The seeds are coated with a sticky material called viscin which hardens and attaches the seed fi rmly to its future host.

Mistletoe was often considered a pest that kills trees and devalues natural habi-

tats, but it was recently recognized as an ecological organism that has a dispro-portionately pervasive infl uence over its community. A broad array of animals de-pend on Mistletoe for food, consuming the leaves and young shoots, transferring pollen between plants, and dispersing the sticky seeds. Rather than being a pest, Mistletoe can have a positive effect on biodiversity, providing high quality food and habitat for a broad range of animals in forests and woodlands worldwide.

Mistletoe Culture, Folklore, and My-thologyThe word ‘Mistletoe’ is of uncertain ety-mology; but it may be related to the Ger-man word Mist, for dung and Tang for branch, however, Old English Mistel was also used instead of basil.

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European mistletoe fi gured prominently in Greek mythology, and is believed to be The Golden Bough of Aeneas, ancestor of the Romans. In the 13th century Prose Edda, due to the scheming of Loki, the god Bal-dr was killed by his brother, the blind god Höðr, by way of a Mistletoe projectile, de-spite the attempts of Baldr’s mother, the goddess Frigg, to have all living things and inanimate objects swear an oath not to hurt Baldr after Baldr had troubling dreams of his death. Frigg was unable to get an oath from Mistletoe, because “it seemed too young” to demand an oath. In the Gesta Danorum version of the story, Baldr and Höðr are rival suitors, and Höðr kills Baldr with a sword named Mistilte-inn (Old Norse “mistletoe”). In addition, a sword by the same name appears in vari-ous other Norse legends.

In cultures across pre-Christian Europe, Mistletoe was seen as a representation of divine male essence, romance, fertility and vitality. According to Pliny the Elder, the Celts considered Mistletoe a remedy for barrenness in animals and an antidote to poison.

Christmas TraditionsMistletoe is commonly used as a Christ-mas decoration and according to tradition the Mistletoe must not touch the ground between its cutting and its removal as the last of Christmas decorations at Candle-mas. It may remain hanging through the year, often to save the house from light-ning or fi re, until it was replaced the fol-lowing Christmas Eve. The tradition has

spread through-out the English-speaking world but is largely unknown in the rest of Europe. According to an-cient Christmas custom, a man and a woman who meet un-der a hanging of Mistletoe were obliged to kiss.

Medicinal UseMistletoe leaves and young twigs are used by herbalists, and it is popular in Europe for treating circulatory and respiratory sys-tem problems. Use of Mistletoe extract in the treatment of cancer originated with Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Anthroposo-phy. He compared the parasitic nature of the Mistletoe plant to that of cancer, and believed that cancer represents a faltering of the body’s spiritual defenses. Some an-throposophical Mistletoe preparations are diluted homeopathically. Mistletoe extract is sold as Iscador, Helixor, and several oth-er trade names.

The Yule LogThe Celts thought that the sun stood still for twelve days in the middle of winter and during this time a log, known as the Yule Log was lit to conquer the darkness, ban-ish evil spirits and bring luck for the com-ing year. Yule Logs are traditionally lit on the fi rst day of the Solstice and are burned throughout the Solstice night for 12 hours as a symbol of hope and belief that the sun will return.

Nowadays the Yule Log is often eaten at Christmas as an alternative to the tradi-tional Christmas Cake. These are usually made of chocolate Swiss roll decorated to look like a wooden log.

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PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCES – How can I fi nd the right one for me?ASSSA offer fl exible health insurance cover which meets the different needs and requirements of all clients, with all our offi ces along the Coasts you will be allocated a personal contact who will speak to you in English and offer invaluable support and assistance with your day to day needs. Our philosophy is to answer all client queries fully and with complete honesty. Many of our clients join us on recommendation from existing ones, which is a clear indication of our unique service.

ASSSA GUARANTEESWhen you contract a policy with ASSSA, we guarantee the following:* The age you join is the age you stay – premiums will not increase due to

age.* The policy is guaranteed for life! We will

not terminate the policy due to illness or a heavy claims year.

Many other insurance companies make these promises verbally, but if they do not appear in writing in the actual contract, there is no obligation for them to deliver a fi rst rate service.

Current Offers and Discounts:For 2011, ASSSA have fl exible private health options from Social Security top-up insurances starting at 41€ per month to fully comprehensive policies starting from 79€ per month. Furthermore, most health insurance levels will be discounted by a further up to 30% for the entire lifetime of the policy, with fractional payment available for no surcharge. Children joining with parents attract a 50% discount and there are also very favourable terms available if you wish to move to ASSSA from another insurer.

ASSSA Funeral Insurance is now available with a massive 30% discount on the 2011 premium and 15% discount on ALL subsequent years. The funeral insurance gives immediate cover for a small annual premium – no initial lump sum payment. ASSSA´s Extradental Plan is also discounted by 30% and our dental cover is discounted by 20%.

Contact your agent or call in and see us for a personal c o n s u l t a t i o n and premium quotation without obligation. Our lady employees will be pleased to welcome and inform you.Opening times:

Monday to Friday 09.30-13.30. Later appointments or home visits can be made by arrangement.Mrs. Diane NolanASSSA Puerto de MazarrónCentro Comercial la PirámideLocal 9, Avda. Dr. Meca Nº 109, bajo30860 Puerto de MazarrónTel 968 153 396, Fax: 968 154 212Email: [email protected]

FAMILY FUN DAY AND DOG SHOW FRIDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER Following a delay due to time-consuming collection of fees, it now gives us pleasure to announce that the profi t from the Family Fun Day and Dog Show amount to 674.60€.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the following Sponsors for their support for the Show:

Asun Alvarez. Animal Hotel, Aguilas; Centro Veterinario Cervantes, Lorca; Transtejera Building Supplies, Purias; Bar Pizzeria Palpicoteo, Purias; Anubis Veterinario, Aguilas; Guirrete Supermercardo Upper, La Estacion, Centro Hipico, Nr. Pulpi, & Ross Legal Services, Aguilas, Costa Cálida Chronicle.

Whilst more entries for the Dog Show Classes would have been welcomed and would have generated more income, we are pleased that the varied entertainment on the day was well received.

A dedicated Dog Show for all mutts is being planned for the Spring so we hope you will all bring your dogs for a day out and for them to meet new friends!

The profi ts from the FFD will be allocated as previously mentioned in the press: 1. To cover veterinary fees for surgery

and vaccinations totalling 467€ for Pedro, the puppy suffering a broken leg and found in Aguilas by Traudl, & Michael Brueckner, members of San Animal .

2. For an abandoned dog which needed treatment for an infected paw and skin disorder, who, wonderfully, has now been homed. 83.50€.

3. Following a telephone call to us for help, Veterinary fees for euthanasia on a dog found alongside the Pulpi Road suffering many injuries including a broken back. 55€

We appreciate and thank all of our supporters who attended the day and helped us to help these animals!

Following enquiries from various people, we would also like to confi rm that the Abba Night tickets with the brilliant Abbacadabra on 10th December are on sale.THE HELPING HANDS TEAM(Linda, Roger, Jane, Richard, Jean, Tony, Linda, Ana Marie, Anne, Rita, Edwin, Pauline, Richie & Ray)

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Cat-A-Tonic Cattery is a new cattery in the Mazarrón area. The fi rst visitor arrived in September and we have been growing ever since. We offer your little family member a personal touch with individual pens. Each pen has an inside and an outside area, so there is

plenty of space for jumping, climbing, strolling or just chilling in the sun or the shade. The individual rooms are well sheltered and each cat can speak to their neighbour if they wish, without having to touch – just in case the neighbour does not feel like being spoken to!

Cat-A-Tonic Cattery can collect and return your pet if you prefer and we provide dried food and fresh water every day. Radio Lorca keeps them entertained, along with pet toys and visitors during the day.

Cat-A-Tonic Cattery can also offer MOUSE MATS, MUGS or LONG LIFE SHOPPING BAGS, imprinted with a photo of your pet, so you can have them with you at all times! Just give us a call for prices.

Los Almagros and Cat-A-Tonic Cattery is easy to reach from Mazarrón, Alhama,

Totana, Fuente Alamo and Camposol.

For further information, to visit us, or to book yourcat in for a holiday with Cat-A-Tonic Cattery call Ken on 646 705 403 or Carol on 655 141 721 or email us at [email protected]

Another stunning day at the PALS Beach BBQ, on October 12th with boules, swimming, food, drink laughter great fun as usual thanks to everyone.The Mini Cruise to Portugal and Morocco was an undoubted success and thanks to Dragon Tours for all their help.The Dance at the Playa Grande with the Susie G Revue on November 5th was another thoroughly enjoyable evening.Tickets are selling fast for the Christmas Ball at the Hotel Costa Costa, Mazarrón on 11th December. The Beagles are our entertainment and at 27.50€ per head this represents a great evenings value. Coaches from Camposol and Mazarrón Country Club. Book early to ensure that you sit with your friends. Sales venues are now Wednesday afternoon at Saralaras 1-3pm , Thursday Tel’s Bar, Camposol Sector A 11-1.30pm and Saturday at the Trevi Bar, Camposol B from 11am. If in doubt phone 626 460465.

LORCAThe earthquake fund topped out at 6384.77€ and is now closed. We have paid for equipment to this value for use in a new mobile hospital tent and in a centralised emergency centre. What a great effort by you all! There is to be a presentation so we will attempt to let everyone know in time.

CAFÉWe raised some 2499€ at the concert and there are a few outstanding ticket sales to collect. This brings the fund to over 40000€ which is two thirds of the target of 60,000€ - not bad in a recession. We had a huge raffl e and I would like to thank the following business and individuals for their support:Another World Properties, Bar MarMoy, Best Wishes, The Bulgarian Restaurant, CM Constructions, Camposol Business Centre, Carol and Pat Armstrong, Cat’s Bar, CHM, Costa Café, Doreen and John Spark, Dragon Tours, Elliot’s, Glitzy Bitz, Hair and Beauty, Hair by Carol, Happy Pets. Holmes and Pegg, Images, Insignia Graphics, Jardilar 2003, Best of Spanish, Just Fabulous Gift Shop, Kennellys, Ladies’ Circle. Legs and Co. Margaret Green, Mark Stocks, Market Tavern, Bodega Martinez, Mercers, MMB Solicitors, Munroes, Nash Warren, Optica, Our Café Bolnuevo, PALS, Quick Save, Shirley Fisher, Subway, Teapot, Elle and Terry Groom, The Salon, TJ Electronics, To Buy to Let, Trevi Bar, UK Supplies Direct, Val Cooper, Villaquest, and Yorkshire Linen.If I have missed you out, please let me know and I will gratefully acknowledge your donation.

We had two superb fashion shows and a third that wasn’t quite up to the standard set by the professionals. Thanks to all the models,

to all the musical artistes, to Camposol Fiesta Committee who lent us their sound system, and to Costa Cálida Radio, Angloinfo and Costa Cálida Chronicle who were all three again our sponsors and thank you to every one who came. We have already provisionally booked the concert next year at the Playa Grande. It’s always the 1st Saturday in October.

Unclaimed raffl e prizes are:Orange 260Yellow 765Green 457..632..459..443..635Pink 198Blue 261..840..545White 230..953Please call 626 460465 to claim. Any prizes unclaimed by 5th December will be recycled into the next available event.

The full 6 month programme for PALS is now available and the Trip to Valencia arriving on St Valentine’s Day to be specially commended 3b nights, 4 days 145€ per person, includes a trip to Lladro and Albufeira.

The Annual Sponsored Swim will go ahead as usual on New Year’s Day at the Bahia Hotel Beach - either participate, or put up some cash for those that do

Any questions relating to anything call 626 460465



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On Monday 14th November MASA workers appeared on Sector A and have started work on the street lighting and some road repairs and maintenance. The target for completion is just before Christmas which is excellent news. A similar project on sector B is to commence in January.

This real progress is down to a series of weekly meetings held between Pepe Gomez and our Mayor Gines Campillo assisted by Kelly Ensor. This is excellent news for Camposol and what a great Christmas present!

The Train Service has been postponed until at least March next year. The service did prove

extremely popular in the summer months, but lack of use has proved it is not a viable all year round service but it will be back!

The Thursday Market is continuing to be a huge success and a real social event now. Many of the Sector A businesses have seen a real upturn in business on a Thursday.

Working together to make Camposol look great! Now the cooler weather is with us we have been able to resume our efforts in trying to keep B Sector looking great. The heavy gravel laying was completed before the summer. Many people stop by and tell us that we are making a difference. Many thanks to those who show an interest and especially to those who contribute in whatever way they can when we wiggle our buckets!

Unbelievable!Many will have noticed, as they pass Gibellers, that a commemorative seat provided by one of our members, in memory of her late husband, has been smashed and the plaque is now missing. Whilst most who live in this lovely area are respectful and have a high degree of community spirit, sadly we occasionally encounter acts of vandalism carried out by morons who have no sense of decency and we can only hope that they do not live in Camposol. This despicable act is beyond further comment except to say how appalled we all are and we can only offer Coral our support and hope that we can help to make good the damage done as soon as possible.

Commercial CentreThe edges on each side of the approach road to the Commercial Centre have been planted with 300 Oleander shrubs, supplied by our local Garden Centre who prepared the ground and supplied the trees at a very favourable rate. Many thanks to Sector D gardening group for their contribution of 200€. There is still much to be done so we still need all the support we can get.

Municipal Environmental Awareness Day on 17th SeptemberThe Rubbish Collection Day, organized by the Ayuntamiento, launched by the Department of Environment found around 70 people from all of our community sectors turned out to collect 100 bags of rubbish from 3 selected areas. Lunch and refreshment was provided by Sensol Hotel. The Mayor of Mazarrón, Ginés Campillo, accompanied by David Fernandez, mayor of the Environment and Citizenship and Javier Masia, director of the hotel handed out the refreshments and personally thanked the attendees for their participation “which will surely will be repeated next year.” said the

Mayor.

Rubbish‘B Clean’ is not responsible for either the provision of the rubbish bins or their location. Some individuals decided they were not happy with a particular location. Hopefully the situation has now settled down and everyone is satisfi ed with the current bin locations. All we would ask is; if you consider the bins to be incorrectly placed, please have a thought for those who might be inconvenienced if you move them.Please use the bins provided on your own sectors – there are insuffi cient bins on B Sector to contain rubbish from people passing through from other sectors.Please use the bins for bagged up household rubbish only. Garden waste and other items should be taken to the Eco Park.

TreesWe intend to trim all the Palm Trees on the main dual carriageway and roundabouts during the winter months. All volunteers, kitted out with shears, clippers and saws will be very welcome to attend.

Fund RaisingThe very successful Halloween Social

Evening held at the Sensol Hotel on Sunday 30th October raised 601€ towards the gardening fund. Many thanks to all those who donated prizes for the Raffl e and Best Fancy Dress. A great time was had by all, with music being provided by Backwater

Anyone who would like a copy of the pictures taken on the night please email Roger on [email protected]

Christmas Event 9th DecemberThe Christmas Dance with a 4 course carvery at the Golf Club will be 20€. This year we will be limiting the numbers so booking early will be essential.

Monthly MeetingsThe last Tuesday of each month 16.00-17.00 in Trevi’s Function Room.

Weekly Working PartyMeets each Tuesday 9am till 10/11ish. Usually in front of the commercial centre unless otherwise arranged. Please turn up and help.Please contact: Sandy: 968986030 Helen/Glyn: 968199506 Roger: 968199502

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The Remembrance Day Poppy was brought to the attention of the Spanish people by the press this year when the England Football team were told they were not allowed to wear the poppy on their shirts for the game against Spain. Fortunately a compromise was reached. No such confl ict here as the Mayor of Mazarrón proudly wore his poppy alongside the many Brits who attended the Armistice Day Service in the “Parque los Palacios” Remembrance Garden in Camposol.

The park was no more than a dream shared by Rev. David Holley (then Chairman of the Gardening Group) and myself when he held the fi rst service just 3 years ago. The people were asked to present a plant in memory of a loved one to help us start to create what we hoped would become a garden. The fi rst plant was offered by the

Mayor of the previous council. Since then many more plants have been offered, or bought from donations. Thanks to the effort and hard work of the volunteers of the garden group, they have managed to build what is now a beautiful park; a place of peace and tranquillity to be enjoyed throughout the year, although the highlight will always be the Remembrance Service.

On Bonfi re Night, approx 50 volunteers turned up to work in the park to prepare it for this year’s service. After a couple of hours hard graft, the fi re was lit for the fi rst time in the new BBQ area and the volunteers got together to enjoy hot dogs, sandwiches, jacket potatoes, treacle toffee, cakes, and a well earned drink. Thanks to Phil Brady who entertained all whilst they admired the fruits of their labour. Even then, many hours of

work still to be done to clear the mountains of weeds and rubbish bags before the service.

This year the new council showed their support to our group. Continuing the tradition, the Mayor, Gines Campillo, presented the fi rst plant. He was accompanied by Pepe Gomez, David Fernandez, Maria Martinez and Celeste Soria from the local council who were joined by Alicia Jimenez (Diputada Regional) from the main offi ce at Murcia.

More than 200 people attended the ceremony which was led by Rev Len Eaton, Rev Deacon Maureen Kent and the choir from St. Nicholas Church in Camposol. Special thanks to John Barker from the CAS BAND for providing the sound system. This year, small crosses also bearing the poppy emblem were placed in the Memorial Garden after the service by people wanting to remember someone special. A collection at the end of the service raised 339€, all of which will be used to improve the park.

Of course, work continues across the rest of Camposol A. Further funding was raised at the Ladies’ Fashion Show. Thanks to Nyrene, Byron and Nigel, for the support that helped us to raise 610€ at this event, plus all of the wonderful cake makers who managed to make the day so enjoyable.Camposol is a good place to live.David Senior Peake

We have now passed many of the new administrations projected completion dates for works that the council had promised. The most obvious of these is the restoration of the street lighting on our sector. Many streets remain unlit and in one instance the lack of lighting almost

ensured that a medical problem involving a child became a grave emergency. The restoration of the lighting was promised to be completed by the 31st October, yet very little evidence of this work continuing exists. Perhaps the council will clarify this apparent lack of progress at the next open

meeting on the 16th of November. The lighting of the A Sector post room is being restored by our committee chairman in liaison with Senor Gomez – this work should be complete during the week commencing the 14th of November. The post room is an important part of our community and we would like to thank all at Luz del Sol for their care in ensuring it is opened and closed at the appropriate times, also the Cleanup Group for their unstinting efforts at providing a far cleaner and tidier environment for us all. A cleanup of another type is also underway with the involvement of another committee member, resolving the question of the feral cats at the A Sector commercial centre. Beryl is assisting an A Sector resident to establishing a neutering programme for the cats. At an average of 60€ per cat, the problem of a growing feral population will be ended once and for all. Please talk to Beryl about how you can assist. That’s all for now except to mention that all the completed complaints forms will shortly be presented to the council for their attention and course to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

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The D group commenced its volunteer gardening work on the 7th Oct with a gardening and weeding session on the dual carriageway at D20.14th Oct - Gravelling same area.21st Oct - Weeding and Gravelling at D26 area.28th Oct – Weeding at D114th Nov - Rained off.11th Nov - Gravelling at D11 and D26. Our concreting team worked in October repairing broken drain covers, putting tarmac in various holes in the road and tackling a very damaged drain cover that spanned the width of the road on D23. This job took 4 hours to complete and is professional in its fi nish. Thanks and well done to all our volunteers. On 17th October, having obtained our Forestry Commission burning licences, our team commenced burning our 5 pits at 0730 hours. At 0800 hrs the team were confronted by two fi re engines followed by a police car all with fl ashing emergency lights. Chairman Mick Drummond nearly had a fi t when he saw them, seeing himself being led off in handcuffs. Fortunately the team complied with all the regulations and when the police were shown the licences, all shook hands and off they went. This response by the fi re service was a result of a 112 call from someone on Sector D. The 28th October volunteer session was followed by a sausage butty and a glass of wine and in the evening a Fun Quiz Night was held. Thanks to Linda, Les, Maureen and Clive for a very entertaining evening. D Group gave B Clean Group a donation to assist with the purchase of oleanders for the B main road at the commercial centre. Our website continues to provide the residents with the myriad of information regarding matters concerning Sector D, Camposol and the general area. The photograph forum is proving a favourite with residents both here and back in the UK, seeing the work that is being done on D and of course with the pictures of our social events. The other forums continue to be used with members enjoying the information placed by others concerning entertainment, places to go, items for sale, places to eat, interesting walks etc. Members continually praise the way that the site is administered, in accordance with their wishes. Our Neighbourhood Watch Groups continue to operate, but unfortunately quite a few crimes have been committed against property and people. Our website forum gives valuable information regarding these crimes and advice to try and prevent them. Our Yearly Meeting will be held at Trevis Bar on Wednesday 6th Dec at 1500hrs. All residents of Sector D are invited to attend. An agenda will be published on the D website and the notice board.

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Seasons Greetings to you allWe have had a busy time recently starting with the Race Night on 18th October. A good group of supporters turned out to try their luck, and some I believe actually went home a little better off than when they arrived. The Play your Cards Right game however continued to defeat most people with only one winner from six entrants. It can’t be that diffi cult can it??

We continued with another fi rst for us, with a Murder Mystery Night on 14thNovember. This proved very popular and a good number turned out to fi nd out just ‘who dun it’. With the aid of a fi ne group of actors and much head scratching and speculation, we fi nally came up with a super sleuth in Susanna who won the prize. (see photo with Chairman Dickie Davies) A big vote

of thanks to Trevi Bar for our tasty pizza supper and their usual warm welcome.

We now turn our attention to the Christmas period, again a busy time for our committee. We have our Christmas Magic Show, Dance and Buffet, on 15th December at Trevi Bar - again a fi rst for Camposol.

What is not new for Camposol is our third year of Carols for Camposol. These concerts have proved very popular with growing attendances year on year. Each concert features the Wellspring Victory Church Choir and musicians with free mince pies and mulled wine. On the Friday we also feature the fantastic Rondalla de Mazarron who regularly appear at the fi esta in June, so come along for a taste of traditional carols and entertainment.

Finally, on behalf of the Fiestas Camposol Committee may we wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy NewYear.

RegardsDickie DaviesChairman Fiestas Camposol

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The CRA AGM was held on Monday 14th November at the Hotel Sensol and 160 members attended. The Chairman, Bob Owen, gave members a précis of the events as they had occurred during the year since the last AGM. Bob went on to announce that membership had increased during the year from 2299 to 2554. The breakdown by sector was A-342, B-471, C-518 and D-1202.

The list of achievements during the year included:Compiling a list of properties without water meters.Got repaired the road collapse near the sewage pumping station.Insisted the council provide a generator for the sewage pumping station after Iberdrola disconnected the supply.Promoted a meeting held by the Forestry Commission regarding Red Palm Weevil.Instigated a monthly email newsletter.Produced a newsletter for members without internet access.Reported 55 water/sewage leaks reported to the CRA duty phone, plus equally as many directly to the chairman’s phone.Carried out a water pressure monitor over 10 days to identify a pattern, informed Aqualia and rectifi ed the problem.Held an inaugural meeting which resulted in FAST being formed.Obtained permission from the council to erect “no ball games” signs for the B Commercial Centre enforceable by police as it is against the bye-laws.Asked for the taxi bays to be brought back into general use and for disabled bays to be provided. (in process)Obtained confi rmation from the Mayor that there would not be any homes demolished on D sector.Asked for MASA´s old concrete site on C sector to be cleared. (ongoing)The demolition of MASA´s yard on B sector is being progressed through council.Continually kept up pressure on council to resolve the plan parcial, the rambla, escrituras, and plus valia on escrituras.

Replied to over 150 letters and emails from members, the council, the British Consul.Arbitrated in 5 neighbour’s disputes.

Bob went on to say that their priorities for the coming year would include completion of the infrastructure with all legal documents available for members. They would also infl uence the ongoing repairs promised by MASA so that the worst areas would be attended to fi rst. They include unmade and dangerous roads.

In conclusion of his report Bob reminded everyone that they must report all problems to Tatiana at the council offi ce at the Cultural Centre on Sector B. The CRA would still be available to help in cases that are not dealt with satisfactorily by the council offi ce.

Following the treasurer’s report two questions were put to the members:1. Now that residents have direct access to the Councillor for Foreigners through Tatiana at the offi ce in the Cultural Centre, how do you see your residents’ association serving you in the coming year?

3 members spoke on this and all agreed they wished the committee to continue with their current plan of action.

2. It has been suggested by a local fi rm of solicitors that they are able to take MASA to court to enforce the issue of plus valia being paid by MASA. If you are effected, would you be interested in a class action, costs of which would be borne by the individuals concerned?

It was discussed and decided that Members were asked to show their interest by marking the register when leaving the meeting. Bob said that once meetings had been held with the lawyers full details would be circulated.

Several members spoke and praised the committee for their efforts on behalf of all the residents of Camposol.

There being no further business the Chairman closed the meeting, thanking those that had attended.

*********************************After a considerable amount of scepticism, the promised return of Camposol developer MASA has become a reality and at the time of writing it appears work associated with Sector A’s street lighting, landscaping and road marking is underway. Further items due to be undertaken include necessary remedial work to road surfacing, footpaths and kerbing and it is hoped that Sector A will be brought up to a suitably competent standard that will allow council adoption in the New Year. This is of course just the fi rst step of what will be a long and extensive process in bringing the whole urbanization up to scratch. Sector A is much closer to a fi nished product compared with the rest of Camposol and it will be found that conditions will dictate that the degree and complexity of the work will increase as progresses is made across the development. The poor attitude towards MASA in the past is plain for all to see and therefore the CRA will be seeking assurances from the council that our wayward developer is subjected to careful scrutiny. This will be particularly important in relation to the roads which are as well as being one of the most fundamental elements of the infrastructure are undoubtedly the most costly to rectify. As well as having a set of adequate specifi cations in place, it is hoped that our municipality will also have call on competent and conscientious persons who are able to enforce them. As the present conditions on Camposol demonstrate, the previous administration failed to exercise much if any control over Masa and to let that happen again would be a tragedy. On the positive side it is probably fair to say that there is now some light to be seen at the end of the tunnel and owners can now look forward to the end of a sorry saga.website: www.cracamposol.com email: [email protected]



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Hundreds of people supported FAST (First Aid Support Team) on Camposol by vis-iting their very fi rst Christmas Fayre at Mariano´s Bar, Camposol.

One Resident said, ·”We have had personal need to use FAST a little while ago and they were wonderful so we came to sup-port them and have had a lovely day!”

The day started at 11am and soon the hall was packed with eager early-bird Christ-mas shoppers visiting the 35 stalls selling everything from Christmas decorations to hand-made jewellery and cards and a spe-cial early visit from Santa Claus who took a break from his busy schedule to ensure that FAST were up to scratch! Wellspring Church provided carol singing which really gave the true spirit of Christmas to the

whole event.

IBEX presented FAST with high visibility jackets for all their volunteers.

Glen Ford, FAST´s Communications Of-fi cer, said “ We had planned to make it a great and enjoyable day for everyone and it all paid off as over 2000€ was raised on the day. Many thanks to all our support-ers and particularly Antonio and his team at Mariano´s Bar and Restaurant who pro-vided the venue free of charge, all of which will help to maintain the free service to all Camposol Residents. We at FAST have at-tended over 60 call-outs since June and we continue to be overwhelmed by the support we have from the local community and the commitment of our volunteers.”

Glen went on to say that the funds will help our mission to “Make Camposol Safer For All” as we continually work on improv-ing the quality of service we give through the training of our 51 volunteer respond-ers and equipment. We now use oxygen and defi brillators, but Glen underlined the need to call FAST immediately after calling 112, as no time can be lost, especially if there is a major bleed, breathing diffi cul-ties, an unconscious casualty or if there is any suspicion of a stroke or heart attack. He reminded residents not to worry about wasting the time of the Ambulance Service or FAST - if they have any concern about a serious medical emergency, any time lost could reduce the chances of survival.

In a serious medical emergency in Camposol.......First call 112 and then call FAST on 968 970 626

Anyone wanting to know more about FAST or interested in becoming a volunteer then please contact Glen on 634 313 572 be-tween 5pm and 7pm daily or similarly if anyone is interested on how to commence a similar service in your area.

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Green Fingers phone 626513842email [email protected] or visit www.greenfingersgardenandsocial-group.com

All Poligono representatives carry I.D Badges and have new signs outside their villas. Re-ceipts will be given for money received for the community maintenance scheme.

CHRISTMAS PARTY AT TREVI’SFriday 9 December 8pmTickets only 16€, Hot & Cold Buffet, Raffl eEntertainment with BERNIE MAC.

CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE.20th December 6pm same place as last year C-5/C6 C/ Puerto LumbrerasFree drink & Mince pies.

Letter from the President (Chairman)I am pleased to report that now we are legally registered with the town hall, which means we are able to collect monies for the associa-tion to be able to carry out the community maintenance scheme for Sectors C-1 to C7 & C-10. The poligono representatives are calling on all residents asking for your support and contributions to the scheme. I am delighted to say we have pledges from over 100 villas so far with more joining all the time including holiday villas.

The community maintenance scheme will start in January 2012. We are looking for your commitment. The more that join the scheme the better the sector will look. We can now open a bank account in the group’s name with no bank charges and earning interest on the account. We are also having public liability insurance which will be in place very soon, thanks to the council who have an insurance company who give special rates to registered associations. Please join now so we have funds available.

When the council takes over C-Sector we will return monies pro-rata to the month. This is the reason we are asking for all your details, ie name, address, email and phone numbers. If you have already joined, may I take this opportunity to thank you for your support. The full list of residents who have joined will be available for your inspection at our AGM in April 2012.

Merry ChristmasBernard.

Working parties volunteers still needed on Wednesday mornings 9-11pm. Please see our notice boards for information. We are also looking for the following vol-unteers;Editor for website & Facebook webpage.Computer technical wizard to maintain web site.Poligono representatives for C-1/ C-3/ C-6/

Social activities.A group of C-Sector residents go 10 Pin Bowl-ing every Friday 4pm in Totana. Free mem-bership - 1€ per game.

Any complaints about your area including lack of lights, pavements and roads not replaced after repair work, please contact the Cul-tural Centre ofi [email protected]. Make an appointment to speak to Kelly & Pepe who are our local representatives to liaise with the council. We must use them so we don’t lose them. Sector C Website & Facebook Groupwww.greenfingersgardenandsocial-group.com for updated information, events and project news.Facebook Group ‘Camposol C-Sector Group’ is very active so please join and participate.

Phoenix Palms problems, We may be able to help just phone or contact Bernard 626513842 or your poligono repre-sentative.

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The Beauty Palace held an open day to enable people to see the beautiful new premises next to Camposol Computers . The salon would not look out of place in Harley St. or Paris.

The toning room has 6 toning tables, each concentrating on toning different parts of the body. This is fantastic for inch loss, toning after weight loss, or just keeping active and strengthening muscles.

Each of the 3 beauty rooms is very tasteful and relaxing, offering a full range of treatments: Relaxing MassagePedicureEye Lash ExtensionWaxingSpray TanNon-surgical Face LiftBody WrapHopi Ear Candling The latest Non-invasive Lipo

The hair salon offers treatments using its own professional brand products, which are also available to purchase.Other treatments include:Styling, Tinting, Colouring, Hair Extensions, Brazilian Blow DryOr you can sit at the nail bar watching the world go by whilst

spoiling yourself with a Manicure, Shellac, Backscratchers Nail Extension, or try the Personalised Nail Art Machine (any design can be printed onto nails in minutes).

All the staff are professional and fully qualifi ed and attend training courses to keep updated with the latest trends. Yoli, Corinne, Lindsay, Billi, Jan and Triana are able to offer you a relaxing experience or a girl’s day out.Call in to the Beauty Palace for a list of all available treatments, or call 968971828.

RAD Animal Association and Refuge, is made up of a small group of people from all walks of life, people who kept taking in animals they couldn’t just say ‘no’ to, or turn their backs on. We established and registered our charity 2 years ago, so we could ask for donations and fund our work saving the animals.

FACT: Currently, some 77 PERCENT of all animals in public shelters in Spain are likely to be destroyed.

FACT: Statistics taken from the Murcia regional government in 2010, showed that 5,000 dogs and cats were abandoned at the Murcian public animal shelters, and ONLY 672 were adopted! That fi gure does not include the animals abandoned in the streets or thrown out on the motorways.

FACT: One fertile cat will produce an average of three litters per year. In seven years, her offspring could produce up to 420,000 unwanted cats!

Together with the opening of our shop, The GREEN PAWS campaign was launched this year, in hopes that by offering supplemental fi nancial assistance for spaying and neutering, (and other vet care) to pet owners, will focus on prevention and, in the long term, create less strays. Preventative measures are the key to solving this growing problem. The more cats and dogs we pay to have neutered through the sales from our second hand shop, the better!

FACT: The chances of an animal being abandoned goes down signifi cantly if the owner becomes a responsible pet owner.

Thank you for supporting us. Woof Woof!

Rags, a 2 year old G e r m a n S h e p h e r d , showed up at our door step. He was starved and suffering from Leishmania. He has now made a full recovery and is bounding about the garden in his foster home.

From Rags to Riches! (we hope) To see the animals, visit our website at: www.verdemurcia.com

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WordsearchTranslate the English words below into Spanish

FLOWERPOTWOOD

DAYBREAKSUITCASE

MESSSTAINJAW

HOSEBLANKET

TABLECLOTHBUTTERAPPLE

HUSBAND

BUTTERFLYLADYBIRDSEAFOODBROWNCHEEK

MUSSELHONEYSAME

WINDMILLBLACKBERRY

DARKFLY

Answers on page 108

SudukoDo-Able

Diffi cult

November Quiz Questions

Quiz Questions on the November 2011 edition

1. What can you do with 900g of mussels?

2. Who wrote ”You Belong to me”?

3. Where would you fi nd Restaurante Buen Des-canso?

4. Who claims to free your mind and improve your life?

5. What has Curtain Call been doing since 2002?

6. Who fi ts quality Doulton water fi lter systems?

7. What does Mark Davis present?

8. The letter L is the subject of what ?

9. Who claims everything is right?

10. Who would you fi nd on 670847305?

Please tell our customers where you saw their advertisement in the Costa Cálida ChronicleTo place an advertisement with us please see page 98 or contact Brian 628 606 740


Monthly Quiz

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URGENT FUNDS NEEDED TO HELP GALGOS IN NEEDIf you can help Galgos Del Sol with any fundraising, please contact Tina Solera at [email protected] del Sol is an animal charity dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of the Spanish greyhound or “galgo”. The charity also helps re-home other breeds of dogs and works with other dog shelters in Spain. As Galgos del Sol does not receive any offi cial funding, the charity depends fully on generous donations and support from people. All innovative ideas for fundraising considered. Galgos del Sol will be able to support your fund raising events with some publicity material.

STUCK FOR UNIQUE GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS?Why not consider a sponsorship pack from Galgos del Sol. The pack is full of fun stickers, either a wristband or hand- made Christmas card, a gift certifi cate and unique note cards – all for €25. Buy a pack and raise funds for Galgos del Sol.

EDUCATION BOOKLETSGalgos del Sol, in conjunction with Greyhounds in Need UK, is proud to offer local schools and organisations here in Spain the opportunity to obtain educational booklets on pet care of the

galgo. Printed in English and in Spanish, these educational booklets will delight schoolchildren and are fi lled with fun activities and stickers. For copies of this educational booklet, contact Tina Solera at [email protected]

GALGOS FOR ADOPTIONThese beautiful Galgos are waiting for adoption. All potential adoptees are subject to a house check. All dogs featured in this page have been micro-chipped, blood tested, vaccinated, neutered and many are passport ready.

M A R I O . U n f o r t u n a t e l y Mario got his leg caught in a snare trap and it had to be amputated. Despite this, he is lively with a beautiful personality and in

need of some tender loving care.

JORDAN. 3 year old male Galgo with a warm personality and heart.

ABBY. Bitch 18 months old in need of a good home.

This is gorgeous Zoe and her fi ve pups -4 bitches and one male dog. You can place a reservation for either Zoe or one of her pups.

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December! Another year almost gone – where?! It’s been a rewarding year for us at Rainbow Satellites both in our personal and business worlds. Regular readers of this column will be aware that we always start with snippets of our personal life and whilst there have been some downs as well as the ups it’s been a pretty good one. The new addition at Casa Rainbow – Tasi the terrier puppy is settling in well and learning that Rocia the cat is in charge! In our business life it has been a consistent year even with Spain in “crisis” and we must thank all our clients for that – both the ones who have used us again during the year and the new ones using us for the fi rst time – let’s hope 2012 will be good for us all. Before that we have the Christmas period and we at Rainbow wish all of you a happy festive season.

TV NewsChristmas – a time when many of you may consider upgrading your viewing equipment, be it a new fl at screen TV or reception equipment. We are often asked about which new TV to buy and in general our advice is buy something you like the look of and gives a picture you are happy with. We feel in that for the “run of the mill” viewing an LCD/LED (there is a difference but for most of us they are one of the same) will be the best buy. High Defi nition (HD) and Digital Terrestrial (TDT) will be built in – extras like 3D are really in their infancy and probably be a requirement for the buy after this one! Price is obviously important, but don’t let it be your only purchasing criteria. Things do go wrong and consider what after sales service you will get.

To view UK TV down here in Spain, you will need a satellite digibox and this is where many of you are upgrading, be it with SKY paying a monthly contract or with FREESAT there are basically 3 types of digibox - SD, HD or HDPLUS. Most of you who have had your digibox for a while will have a simple SD (standard defi nition) box, so if you are buying a new HD TV, consider buying an HD digibox. Although your old SD box will work with the new TV the picture will not be as good as it could be. The standard HD box will give you the upgraded picture, but the best answer has to be the HDPLUS box, giving not only the upgraded picture, but the ease of recording TV and watching what you want when you want. These PLUS boxes have all sorts of features including pause live TV. Record one channel and watch another is the most signifi cant the boxes are really easy to use – gone are the days of spending 15 minutes setting up your video/DVD to recorder to record a programme only to fi nd out it didn’t work when you sit down to watch the programme!

Contact Rainbow Satellites for all details of all digibox enquiries. We are happy to discuss requirements and suggest options.

Channel transmissions over the satellite system have been in a state of fl ux over the months of 2011. Many of changes are to make room for the HD channels which have to be transmitted separately from the SD channel even though the programme is identical. Down here in southern Spain with the weak satellite signals we have seen channels come and go, but things seem to have settled down. If you are having reception problems contact us and we can probably help. It may be just that your digibox needs reprogramming/scanning, or the LNB on the dish replacing for the new signals. It needn’t cost a fortune to get good UK TV back.

That’s it for this issue and this year – just remember that we, along with all the other installers cannot perform miracles in the week before Christmas. If you are thinking of upgrading for the festivities, get it booked in early and any arriving here just before Christmas, consider booking a system check on arrival rather than being left without TV!

Article sponsored by RAINBOW SATELLITES, the company for all your TV needs in the Murcia region of southern Spain. Contact Alan or Matt for free friendly advice [email protected] or call (0034) 686 358 475

Web site www.rainbowsats.org has good basic information for TV viewing in Spain.Rainbow also sponsors the Trudy Ann show on Costa Calida Radio – 90.0 and 100.0 FM. Matt will be doing a TV Q and A session with Trudy on the evening of 6th December – listen in – online if you are not in the reception area.



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ARE YOU A WOMAN OF FIRE?Women Of Fire are a supportive non-profi t making business and networking group exclusively for women and are now well established since their launch in January 2011 – and what a year it has been for them. The women who are attending their lunches come from diverse fi elds and many are fi nding inspiration from each other especially in such a diffi cult economic climate.

Women Of Fire meet on the last Friday of the month at different venues and at a lunch you will fi nd many things…..new customers, the answer to that business problem or work issue that you have been worrying about, or simply enjoy a great lunch in nice surroundings with like-minded people who could become your friends. You may fi nd that inspiration you are looking for, improve your client base or hear of a fabulous business or job opportunity that is right for you.

Women Of Fire have supported two charities so far -Paul Cunningham Nurses and The Lions Club and from November, HAH (Help at Home) Costa Blanca will be joining them.

Women Of Fire are looking forward to meeting all you ladies who are either working, running her own business, thinking of setting up a business, or even wanting to meet and make new friends over fi ne dining.

Their next lunches will be at Stan & Ollies in El Raso, Guardamar.

They will hold their celebratory Christmas Lunch on Friday 16th December at the same venue. All members will have their Christmas lunch paid for by Women Of Fire and there is still plenty of time to join beforehand to take advantage of this.

If you would like to know more about Women of Fire, please look on their website www.womenoffi re.org or contact Christine on christine@womenoffi re.org or telephone 966 795 103.

MABS MAZ-ARRON RACE FOR LIFESunshine and blue skies greeted par-ticipants as the competi-tors gathered on Campo-sol Sector B, ready for the

5th MABS Mazarrón Race for Life on Sun-day morning. Those who threw off their du-vets and forfeited their Sunday morning lie-in could choose to amble, walk or run the 4km course.For the more energetic ones, there was an 8km circuit. Everyone who took part was rewarded with a t-shirt and a commemo-rative medal. First over the line in the 8km distance were James McCloughlan and Kathy

Horgan from Calle Graena on Camposol D14 and winners of the 4km distance were Helen Boocock and Nic Gilbert.

“This is a big fundraiser for us” said Zue Burgess, MABS Mazarrón Co-ordinator. “We’re delighted to see so many people turn out to support the event today, and it is par-ticularly pleasing to see some of our cancer patients taking part.” Sponsorship is still coming in and MABS estimates that the fi nal total could reach around 4,000€ and would

like to thank all the volunteers and stall-holders for helping to make the Race for Life a success.

MABS Mazarrón is a registered char-ity (No. 7261) of-fering help and support to local people of all na-tionalities who have been diag-nosed with or are being treated for cancer. If you or some-one you know would like some confi den-tial help or support call our HELPLINE620 422 410 or visit their website: www.mabsmurcia.comPhotographer: Stan Laird

Calle Sobrija 2248Sector D20 Camposolby Rev Len Eaton MBE As I write this it is mid November and Remembrance tide is just behind us. Christ the King, a celebration of Jesus’ reign is still ahead and immediately after that is Advent Sunday when we start to look forward to Christmas and the arrival of the baby Jesus. Just how much can we cram into one month?

Of course Remembrance is not just for the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month and this year almost uniquely the 11th year, but it is something we should practise every day of our lives in our prayers. However at the signing of the Armistice the King decreed that there would be two minutes silence in memory of the fallen every year at 11am on11th day of the 11th month - November

and that decree has been followed ever since. At Camposol a service was held in the Memorial Garden, Parque Los Palicios, Sector A, with over 200 people, including the Mayor of Mazarrón and other Town Hall dignitaries in attendence. For once the weather was kind to us and the service was very well received by all, refl ecting in many respects the upsurge and interest in Remembrance in UK and worldwide as seen on TV. On Remembrance Sunday we held our normal Remembrance service for our own congregation at 10.30am followed at 1pm by a service for the Ex-Service Association, Mazarrón. Despite having moved to our new Church this year, we fi nd that we still do not have room to accomodate everyone of these two groups together at one time as we would wish.

I would take this opportunity to wish you all a Holy, Peaceful and Joyous Christmas from all at St Nicholas Ecumenical Church at Camposol. Services for December 2011Sunday 4th Songs of Praise 10.30amSunday 11th Holy Communion 10.30amSunday 18th Carol Service 6.30pmSaturday 24th Midnight Mass 11.30pm All services are in English and take place at Calle Sobrija 2248, D20, Camposol, where a warm welcome awaits you. We have a very active ministry in the German language led by Rev Bro Konrad, who holds services in San José Church, Puerto de Mazarrón on the 2nd and 4th Sunday at 4pm. Services offered by the Church are Wedding Blessings, Holy Baptism, Confi rmation and Funerals. We have a Pastoral Service throughout the year, people who listen, talk and are there to help anyone who is sick or in need. The Pastoral care is absolutely confi dential.

For any of the Church Services offered or other information, please call Rev Len Eaton on 968 138 952 or Rev Deacon Maureen Kent on 636 099 679



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Animal Organisations:Andrea’s Animal RescueFuente Alamo690 906 565Easy Horse CareRojales652 021 980Galgos del [email protected] [email protected]’s Puppy Rescue OrganisationMazarrón618 034 921John Kemp’s PuppiesLa Pinilla, Fuente Alamo646 737 230K9 Pet RescueSan Fulgencio/La Marina611 606 001MARA Dog RescueMula685 311 599Noah’s ARCMazarrón699 352 818(Charity Shop)968 154 507PAPS966 769 137

Charities:Age Concern SpainMazarrón634 316 213Alcoholics AnonymousMazarrón, Cuevas de Reyllo646 290 420Cabo De Palos968 545 181Costa Cálida Samaritanswww.costablancasamaritans.comGO MaDMazarrón678 598 677Help Murcia Mar MenorSantiago de la Ribera, San Javier968 181 623Lions Club of Mazarrón BahíaMazarrón636 746 959MABS Mar MenorMar Menor693 275 779MABS Mazarrón Mazarrón620 422 410MABS NE Murcia634 362 826MABS NW Murcia693 275 779Mazarrón Bahía LionsMazarrón636 746 959PALS (Protection and Life Saving)Mazarrón968 437 837

Churches:Mass in English Pastrana, Mazarrón628 824 555Olive Branch Christian FellowshipCultural Centre, Camposol B618 720 181/968 199 622

Pilar Christian Community ChurchPilar de la Horidada966 769 300 or 650 509 606 Puerto Lumbreras Church619 945 283 St Nicholas ChurchCamposol, Mazarrón968 138 952Wellspring Victory ChurchBolnuevo, Mazarrón620 599 270

Groups:ADAPTSan Pedro966 189 402Cloud Nine DramaMula644 400 123Ex-Servicemen’s AssociationMazarrón

968 965 058Friends & BuddiesCamposol, Mazarrón968 163 758Greenfi ngers Sector C GardeningGroupCamposol, Mazarrón626 513 842Help at HomeSan Javier633 673 034Homeowners Sector ACamposol, Mazarrón608 029 112Welcome GroupCamposol, Mazarrón620 105 179If you would like details of your club or organization included on this page, please send an email to [email protected]

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NEST specialises in NON-sporty, easy, so-cial walks. If you’d like to discover areas of outstanding natural beauty without the stress of keeping up with sporty walkers, then NEST is for you! We are not sporty walkers and we admire our surroundings and chat as we go along, without getting puffed out or racing ahead. We are often in the beautiful mountains where we might see wild boar and other wildlife. We eat in authentic Spanish restaurants or have picnics. The meal is optional, though most people couldn’t be dragged away! NEST is about meeting new people, making friends and enjoying the scenery with no rush and no stress. Bring cameras, binocu-lars, something to sip, decent footwear for walking, and a smile - and dogs are also made very welcome on leads! There are al-ways new people to meet on NEST walks, they are very sociable occasions!

Friday 30th December 2011 – Spec-tacular Views Over Alhama Followed by Meal in Mountains Meet 10.30 in the Car Park opposite Camp-ing Sierra Espuña in El Berro.

This is one of the easiest and shortest walks on the NEST agenda and really an excuse for a celebratory get-together between Christmas and New Year festivities! It’s a great opportunity to get some fresh air and a teeny bit of exercise out of the house in very good company and have some fun, reminding ourselves of the beauty of na-ture whilst meeting friendly new people! A wonderfully easy walk if you’ve got family of all ages to bring along, since we don´t go in for sporty walks at the best of times and this one is truly the shortest and easi-est of them all - just a short amble to see a truly breathtaking view, followed by a lovely meal in the mountains. Just the

ticket between Christmas and New Year! If you need an excuse to get out of the house away from all the conventional festivities then this is it! The walk is 5€ and the op-tional delicious meal is 9€ for 4 courses including salad, starter, main course, des-sert, a drink and coffee. Most people love the meal - the food is excellent and the chance of seeing wild boar in their natural environment there is a real feature!

Be sure to book your places early, as plac-es are limited. Phone or text 679002147 with all your names and Spanish contact phone numbers or email [email protected]

People can’t be accepted without a proper booking in advance, and having received a confi rmation that they’re booked in.

Keep your eyes peeled for new outings on the website at http://www.nestwalks.info and join the mailing list to stay informed of the newest opportunities – then you’ll get fi rst choice on events - just fi ll in the ‘sub-scribe to my site’ box on the walks page of the website.

THERE IS ALSO A NEW NEST FACEBOOK PAGE - FEEL FREE TO FRIEND UP THERE TOO AT Natureespunatrails NestLooking forward to meeting you all!



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www.costacalidachronicle.com email: [email protected] gegegee 8888444444

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Prehistoric Town of La Bastida near Totana (continued)An abundance of remains have been found at La Bastida. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most numerous have been pieces of pottery such as vessels used for storage, cooking, eating and drinking. The ceramic vessels would be made in small ovens outside the houses. Particularly striking were large “orzas”, some 90cms high and 60cms across in which cereals were kept. Then, there are typical cups from the Argaric Era with their careful fi nish and occasional metallic lustre which have proved frequent fi nds at La Bastida. The Argaric People found a new process for creating such a metallic sheen on pots. Half way through fi ring them, the pots were rubbed in one direction along the clay material to give this sheen at the end of the process. Argaric Pots are, in fact, of a very distinct nature and 8 typical designs have been identifi ed. Their “cups”, for example, had a strangely unique and uneven pattern at their base and were particularly large, perhaps used as communal drinking vessels.

Many stone tools have also been found, including crushers, mortars, hammers and knife grinders. Bone needles and clay loom weights are among other fi nds. These loom weights show that fl ax was an important material in the community. Remnants have been found next to copper objects (which changed the fl ax composition and helped preserve it) which show some of the material was remarkably fi ne. Wool and other natural materials were also worked. More exotic objects have also been uncovered such as metal ingots, ready for working into weapons or tools. There was a rich source of copper, for example, in one of the Sierras adjacent to La Bastida. While we were being shown the archaeological laboratory at La Bastida, on display was a pair of superb silver earrings which had been turned up on the site.

But, to us, one of the most striking features is the large number of burials found under the fl oors of houses, though in some cases, tombs have been robbed in the past. Apparently, as many as one in fi ve of burials actually took place inside the houses. A majority of these

were of infants under the age of fi ve, buried in small ceramic vessels with just a few grave goods to accompany them.

It seems that, especially toward the end of the Argaric Period, infant mortality was high, due to infectious diseases and defi ciencies in diet. However, some have even questioned whether infanticide was practiced on account of the very large number of such burials. Other tombs housed two individuals, but very few were of old people. Analysis of skeletons suggests that arthritis was quite common in women in the elbows and knees, perhaps associated with milling, while, in men, spinal column problems probably resulted from carrying heavy objects.Burial, in a pot or urn, became the norm at the time of La Bastida’s peak and thereafter. Previous to this, most burials appear rather to have been in stone “coffi ns” about a metre long and 0.8 metres wide placed in a ditch and covered. For adults, the urns used in this later period could be of considerable size. The burial procedure would be to dig a ditch along part of the house fl oor, often at the foot of or close to a wall. The urn was put in a horizontal position in the ditch with stones carefully placed around it. The body with its grave goods would be placed inside the urn and its top closed with a large stone and other material before other stones were put in front of it. Earth and stones were then used to replace the house fl oor! Other interesting tombs have been found, including that of a high caste woman toward the top of the hill, whose grave goods included a necklace with fossilised shark’s teeth in it. Also, there was a warrior’s tomb with one of the largest halberd heads (a combined lance and axe like weapon) of this era ever found, made of well preserved copper. There was also evidence of the shaft. A superb dagger was among the other remarkable fi nds. It is perhaps a pity that the tombs cannot be left in situ in the house fl oors to be seen by visitors today, but they would clearly fi ll with water and degenerate. However, replicas may be possible in the future.

Perhaps, therefore, we can now understand why La Bastida, near Totana, is regarded as one of Western Europe’s most important Argaric Sites. At the

time of its greatest splendour some 3600-3700 years ago, La Bastida had a population of around 1200 people and would have been one of Western Europe’s largest settlements! It would have been a true city with the area surrounding it, also well settled, under its control.

What happened to La Bastida and why did it suddenly disappear towards the end of the second millennium BC, being abandoned by its inhabitants? The short answer is that we do not know, but La Bastida was not alone. About 3600 years ago the Argaric Civilisation seems to have begun to mysteriously disappear from the archaeological record. One suggestion is that it may have sown the seeds of its own downfall. According to one study, about 4200 years ago, signifi cant amounts of charcoal began to appear, perhaps because the Bronze Age Argaric People were setting fi re to forests in an attempt to clear them for grazing and other uses. What seems clear is that, within 300 years, the diverse forest eco-system previously visible in the pollen records had been replaced in many cases by fi re-prone Mediterranean scrub. The resultant degradation of soils and vegetation may well have caused major problems for the Argaric Agricultural Economy, especially as populations increased. Climate change may also have played a part as it was becoming more arid.

La Bastida is, therefore, a real treasure, well meriting the emphasis which is now being given to it. If you are interested in visiting it, then you should call in (or ring – 968 42 39 02) the Totana Tourist Offi ce in the Town Hall in Totana and they will be able to tell you what may be possible, but go if you have the opportunity to see a real settlement from prehistory!

Part taken from “Exploring Murcia – A Guide to Totana, Alhama de Murcia, Aledo, Pliego and the Sierra Espuña”, by Clive and Rosie Palmer which is available from www.lulu.com or contact [email protected] and Rosie Palmer have written several guide books on towns and regions in Murcia. Copies of some of the books may also be available from Cosas y Cosas, Cehegin and Best Wishes, Camposol Urbanización.



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It’s December again and Christmas time in the kitchen for all us cooks! Time to bring out the stuffi ng recipes, make the mince pies and cover everything in alcohol! While my family really enjoys the traditional Tur-key with all its trimmings, I look for a bit of a twist here and there. One year I did all sugar-free desserts for my diabetic hus-band, while another year I looked at what to do with the leftover Turkey. This year I decided to try and fi nd some recipes to liv-en up my vegetables on Christmas Day, but of course they can be used all year round. The lemon carrot recipe is a fi rm favourite with our Sunday roast and gives the carrots a lovely glaze (not to mention another use for my endless supply of lemons)! Buen Apetito

Honey Roasted Parsnips125ml warm water 175g honey Tablespoon melted butter 5 parsnips, peeled and cubed

Preheat oven to 190 C / Gas 5. Stir to-gether water, butter and honey in a large bowl until the honey has dissolved. Add the parsnips and toss to coat. Transfer the parsnips and honey sauce into a 23x30cm or similar sized baking dish.Bake uncovered in preheated oven until the parsnips are very soft, about 30 minutes.

Brussel Sprouts with Pine Nuts and Blue Cheese90g Brussels sprouts (ends trimmed and yellow leaves removed) 115g butter, cut into pieces 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 4 tablespoons pine nuts 70g blue cheese, crumbled

Preheat the oven to 180 C / Gas 4.

Place the Brussels sprouts into a casserole dish. Arrange pieces of butter on top of the sprouts. Season with salt, pepper and lem-on juice. Cover with the lid. Bake for 25 minutes in the pre-heated oven or until sprouts are just barely tender. Stir now and then to keep them from sticking. During the last 10 minutes, sprinkle the pine nuts over the sprouts and remove the lid. When the sprouts are done, sprinkle blue cheese over them before serving.

Gnocchi and Asparagus in Sage and Lemon Butter80g salted butter2 cloves of garlic1 bunch of fresh sage1 lemonSalt and pepper500g gnocchiAsparagus 50g Parmesan gratedBoil a large pan of salted water. Meanwhile heat a frying pan and add the butter. Add garlic and sage and cook for 1 minute. Add lemon juice and zest and seasoning. Remove from heat. Place gnocchi and as-paragus into boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes until the gnocchi rises to the top of the water. Strain well and gently tip into frying pan and gently toss together without reheating. Serve with sprinkled Parmesan.

Leek and Parsnip Bake350g parsnips (cubed)350g leeks (chopped)1tbsp olive oil3 eggs separated2tbsp plain fl our225g low-fat soft cheeseSalt and pepperBoil parsnips in water until tender and drain and mash. Heat the oil and cook leeks until tender. Add half the leeks to the parsnips, stir in the fl our and then the egg yolks. Beat egg whites until stiff and then add to the

mixture. Spread the mixture in a tin and bake on 190 degrees for 25 minutes. Stir the remaining leeks into the soft cheese and heat up. Add seasoning to taste. When the bake is cooked remove from the oven and spread the leek/cheese mixture over the top. Serve either hot or cold.

Crisp Roast Potatoes1kg (2 1/4 lb) potatoes, peeled and cut into thick chunks 3 tablespoons beef dripping (or vegetable oil if preferred) 2 tablespoons fl our 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon turmeric Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Preheat oven to 200 C / Gas mark 6. Cook potatoes for 8 to 10 minutes in a large pot of boiling water. Place dripping or oil in a preheated roasting tin until almost smoking. Drain potatoes and return to pot. Sprinkle with the fl our, turmeric, oregano, salt and pepper. Place a lid on the pot and shake vigorously so that potatoes are covered in the fl our and spice mixture. Place in the roasting tin and toss to coat in the hot fat. Roast for about 40 minutes.

Celeriac and Potato Mash250g potatoes 400g celeriac 250ml single cream Salt and pepper to taste

Bring salted water in a large saucepan or pot to the boil. Peel and dice the potatoes and celeriac. Add the potatoes and celeriac to the boil-ing water and cook for about 30 minutes or until tender. Drain well, mash, then stir in the cream. Season and serve!

Red Cabbage and Apple2 tablespoons vegetable oil 550g shredded red cabbage 1 onion, chopped 2 tart apples - peeled, cored and sliced 2 tablespoons water 1 1/2 teaspoons salt Ground black pepper to taste 3 tablespoons sugar 3 tablespoons vinegar Heat oil in a medium-sized saucepan. Stir in cabbage and onion; fry until wilted. Stir in apple and water, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer about 25 minutes. Pour vinegar and sugar into the mixture while tasting for desired sweet and sour taste. Cook another 5 to 6 minutes.

Lemon Carrots4 Carrots, peeled and chopped20g butterJuice of 2 lemons

Steam carrots until just cooked and still fi rm. Melt butter and add the lemon juice. Toss the carrots in the butter mix and serve immediately.



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Excursion Cantalar - Sierra Villafuerte on 23rd October.On our fourth excursion, at long last autumn has arrived and the temperature is good. We went in our cars in search of the group waiting for us in San Juan. There were a few shreds of clouds that seemed to cling to the slopes and accompanying us appearing and disappearing in the landscape before our eyes. We started the ascent of the Cantalar Ravine, where as expected, the spectacular scenery of the Dolomitic Needles are of lunar appearance, looking like warriors of sleepy rock giants guarding the mass of limestone that makes up the Sierra de Villafuerte.

The fountainhead of the Cantalar was our starting point. We began our ascent enjoying high mountain vegetation and observing the maples that at this time of year are very evident among the pines. The air was so fresh that despite the rise, it remained warm. Honeysuckles, wild roses and pines trees were evident on our way up the Hill of Las Cabellas, from where the ascent was as if it were a stone stairway. The last of the group had an aromatherapy session rubbing thyme and other plants which emit their scent. Well perfumed, we arrived at the village. We have noticed dry maple leaves on the edge of the village. The tree has a multiple and twisted trunk embedded in the rock and covered with moss. Once at the summit, we enjoyed lunch and the views of 1749 metres in which we fi nd ourselves. From this vantage point we can see the massif of Sierra Seca (Revolcadores), La Sagra, Mingarnao…from the Empanadas in the sierra de Cazorla and a good part of the

Serrania Moratallera.

After taking a group photo, we went to the Tardoromano-Visigoth town, crossing the stony ground when we found a curious arthropod on a stone. We fi nally found the challenges of the wall that surrounded the village which made us wonder why a group of humans would want to take refuge in a place so inhospitable. We descend by a small barranquera and on our way we discovered the remains of a banquet left by the vultures. Our journey took us to the area overlooking the Cantalar with views over the countryside of San Juan to the neighbouring province of Albacete where you can spend hours sitting listening to the wind in the pines cups and black junipers. A menacing black cloud approached from the west so we started to descend.

We abandoned the old Laricio and returned looking for another access to the village. We noticed a few droppings of a fox, several of which we found during the excursion. We also discovered the presence of a polecat

and a spring of large frogs in the water that the wild boar use for their hygienic mud baths.

On arriving back at the cars, thunder warned us that we were about to get the long awaited rain in these dry mountains. We climbed into the car and headed for Bar Luís where we enjoyed a wonderful meal. (The photo of Ramona demonstrates this). We look forward to the next walk around Moratalla. Check the Costa Cálida Chronicle blog for up to date information or go to www.ayuntamientomoratalla.net

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Wednesday 9th November saw ABBA Elite and DJ Helen come to entertain 278 people from Calasparra and local towns, Cehegin, Moratella, Caravaca, Bullas and Mula.

The meal of Chicken, Pork and Potatoes served at La Daya was excellent with the smiling staff serving 27 tables quickly and effi ciently. More was to come, once the table platters were emptied by the hungry party goers, the staff then came round with 2nd’s and in some cases 3rd’s but we are not telling which person or table that was!

Then it was onto the main event – ABBA Elite. They started their fi rst set with r e l a t i v e l y s l o w numbers, but everyone was soon waving their arms in the air or clapping along as the music got quicker - a good start to let the meal

settle down. During this set Rog and Rick had asked ABBA to present a printed T Sweatshirt

to the biggest fan in the room - Tom. The room were overwhelming in their support for this present given to Tom and both Rog and Rick were grateful to the whole crowd for their response.

The fi rst set fi nished, it was down to Helen to get the dancers in the crowd up on the fl oor and she didn’t have to wait long. A total mixture of Rock ‘n roll, Motown and Twisting music brought out the best (or worse) in those on the dance fl oor.

The second ABBA set was bit more up-tempo, which kept a lot of the crowd on the dance fl oor, enjoying live music to an exceptional performance in the likeness of the real group itself.

DJ Helen came back on to wind down the evening, but it did not seem to deter the hardened “boppers” and we continued until

around 12.45am when ‘Time to say Goodbye’ by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman brought the evening to a close.

La Daya was an excellent venue. The Management and Staff were determined to look after us and they did. It was the fi rst ‘all English Party’ they had put on and with the service, value for money and ambience, it won’t be the last. This event was so successful that excess funds after all outgoings will go to local Calasparra organisations and schools.

Thank you to everyone who supported this event and whilst a lot of people want to know when the next one is, MABS Christmas Party is on the 9th December at the Sanctuary in Calasparra – so polish up your dancing shoes for that party.As for Rog and Rick, they are looking at next April for their event.

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On 15th October 21 people gathered near the campsite in Moratalla to start a beautiful 15 km walk on what was yet another hot and sunny day. We walked upwards for almost two hours, but we took lots of stops to look at the views and to catch our breath. After some 25 minutes walking on the level with glorious views out over the mountains of Murcia, we cut downwards to an old ruined cortijo to have lunch. There were three large fi g trees as well as a couple of almond trees here so everybody was able to have fresh fruit and nuts with their lunch! After the break we continued on an undulating forest track until we fi nally reached the campsite again.

The next walk of the season was to have been a 24 kilometre walk led by Rick in the Valentín area. Unfortunately, on the day heavy rain forced Rick to postpone. Hopefully this will be re-scheduled for the New Year.

The third walk of the month was on the coast when twelve of us met at a beach-side cafe in Puerto

de Mazarrón for a pre-walk aperitif. As we set off the sun was shining, which was a relief after a couple of days of showers. After a short stretch along the beach we turned away from the sea into a rambla. The fi rst part was nice and easy with a dirt track through an area which used to contain tomato greenhouses, but they are now demolished and the area cleared of plastic remains. Very soon the track became more and more overgrown and we had to pick our way carefully through the undergrowth, at times scrambling out of the rambla due to pools of water impeding our way. We were very lucky to have with us Chelo who has studied wild plants and trees of the area and she was able to point out various interesting species. The track eventually came out at Las Balsicas where we followed the road as far as Los Lorentes and then turned into the Rambla de Los Lorentes to make our way back. This rambla was much less demanding and we passed some caves where the wild pigeons roost and we were lucky enough to see a Little Owl perching on a post watching us pass. Just before we came out of the rambla Chelo we spotted some wild

asparagus which had just one small shoot showing, so we will be back in a couple of weeks when we should be able to pick enough for tea! Our circular route came out near the restaurant we had chosen for our lunch, which we really enjoyed, sitting outside overlooking the sea. Thanks to everyone for the excellent company and very enjoyable walk. If you are interested in joining a group of people who enjoy a variety a walks in the Murcia region please contact [email protected] for a copy of our programme.

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The winter months in Spain are when the hunters are out in force, especially up in the mountains around towns such as Mo-ratalla. During a huge forest fi re in 1994, much of the fl ora and fauna of the moun-tains of Moratalla were destroyed. This area has been part of the reforestation project of restoring the pine trees and na-tive bushes which has been carried out over the past few years. To encourage the wildlife to return to these mountains, the project is halted during the breeding and nesting season. This has meant that many birds and animals such as rabbits and wild boar have returned to the area. There are now 45 species of birds, including birds of prey identifi ed in the area. There has even been a pair of golden eagles spotted on the Sierra del Cerezo Mountain and the moun-tains of Moratalla have been classifi ed as a ZEPA bird protection area.

Having seen an advert for Lorraine’s Face and Body mobile Beauty Treat-ment in the October edition of the Costa Cálida Chronicle, a group of us thought that with all the social activities going on at the moment, we could do with a ‘Pam-per Day’ when we could get together and have our nails and other treatments such as massages and facials done. One of us had previously had Shellac put on her nails and she was so impressed that three of us had that treatment and others had ei-ther a full massage or just neck and head massages. It was the fi rst time Lorraine had been to Northwest Murcia and as she comes from Fuente Alamo and it was quite a long way to travel, we made sure that it was worth her while by booking eight treat-ments. Lorraine was extremely profes-sional and was with us from 10.30-5.30pm so we kept her well supplied with cups of tea and refreshments during the day and she has agreed to return at the beginning of December to get us all looking good for the run up to Christmas. If you would like

to host a ‘Pamper Day’, give Lorraine a call on 676545436 and go to www.fabbe-autywithlorraine.moofruit.com to see the range of treatments available.There will be the fi nal showing of Classic Cars on December 7 in Benizar, during the morning and there will be trophies present-ed by the Mayor of Moratalla and organizers as well as a popular lunch. The event is being organised by MTV the local television company of Moratalla, La Maestra Alimen-taria and the Mayordomía 2011 de Benizar. Yecla, Murcia - Fiestas Patronales de la Virgen del Castillo - Virgen del Castillo pa-tron saint’s day fi esta - December 1 to 16

The fi esta dates from the 17th century, and the highlight is the procession with the statue of the Virgin on the 8th where the noise of harquebuses (an old fi rearm shot by lighting a fuse with gunpowder) can be heard throughout the parade, and also dur-ing a large part of the celebrations, which date back to 1642. The event begins with the Blessing on 5 December. In the evening, squads of sol-diers taking part in the fi esta invite local residents to join in the celebrations. There are various cultural acts from the fl oral of-fering, to participants wearing a regula-tion uniform of a black hat with corners.

Tel.: +34 [email protected]://www.yecla.es

Cehegin SceneOn the last Sunday of every month from October to June in the “Plaza del Castillo” the highest point in the old town of Cehe-gin (Casco Antiguo) there is a craft market known as “El Mesoncico”. There you will fi nd more than 50 craftsmen of the area with stalls displaying such products as cured meats, hams, pottery, cakes, wines, cheeses, etc. Each of the monthly markets has a different theme showing traditional

and local crafts. You will be able to taste and enjoy the foods and products most typical to this area.

This month there will be no market “El Mesoncico”, however we have organized activities for you to enjoy in Cehegín. In the old town we are celebrating open door in the principal monuments and Churches such as Museo Arqueológico, Palacio de los Fajardo, Iglesia Mayor de Santa María Mag-dalena, Ermita de la Concepción, Iglesia de la Soledad, Santuario de la Virgen de las Maravillas, etc. Furthermore, you can en-joy the taste of typical Christmas sweets and music performed by “Cuadrilla de An-imeros”.

Free parking is available at the Marble Technology Centre situated in Carretera Murcia, approached from the West. A free bus service is operated to the market place every 20 minutes

From the 8th to the 11th we celebrate the long weekend for the special Spanish food where many pubs will prepare typi-cal dishes with a drink at a special price of 2.5€. There are many special recipes to taste like porridge, rice with tripe, Castil-ian garlic soup, Murcian stew, olla bullera, potatatoes with garlic, lentils, mushrooms, etc.

Every weekend you can visit the Ecologi-cal Park opened to visitors from 10am un-til 6.00pm at weekends, everybody is wel-come. For visits during the week however, a reservation is required by telephone to 696 775 783. If there are any further enquiries please contact the Cehegin Tourist Offi ce at 968 723 550 or visit our tourist website www.turismocehegin.es Santiago Leo Cehegin Tourist Offi ce



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Dear EditorI am writing this letter to tell readers about the palliative care that is available for cancer patients in Spain.It has been a few weeks since my lovely husband David died of cancer and I now feel able to talk about my experience.

David came home from hospital for what was only to be a few weeks. When we left hospital we were told that David would receive some palliative radiotherapy. We were given a list of medication he needed, but were not provided with any other means of help, even though we asked. David’s health at the point of discharge was poor – he was unable to walk or feed himself and was clearly going to need full time care at home. During this time, I cared for David with everything that I had.

In David’s fi nal weeks, I found it so very hard with his general care – lifting and washing and feeding him. I knew of no help available and none was offered. Everyone I had spoken to at the hospital was in the same position. They did not know of any home care available.

The day before David died, my GP told me about the palliative care team available. They are a cancer specialist doctor and nurse who will come to your home and help you care for your loved one. All you have to do is ask your doctor, because IT IS AVAILABLE to you.

David was provided wi th medical assistance that he needed whilst in hospital and all the drugs that he needed to help his condition. However, in the UK we are well informed about the availability of qualifi ed palliative home-care. I do not believe that it is common knowledge in Spain that this care is there for you if you need it. It will make you and your loved ones’ lives easier, calmer and more dignifi ed. Please do not struggle on without it. I wish no-one to go through what I did. I just wish I was told about this help earlier.

David died on 9th September in the arms of the two people he loved so very much, but it would have made his passing so much easier if I had had the help available.

Our love for him will never [email protected]

Dear EditorI´m writing with regard to one of your advertisers, Viajes Dragontours.

I normally don´t use the services of a Travel Agent, preferring to organise holidays independently. However, I recently decided to take a cruise for the fi rst time and saw one being advertised that seemed to meet all our criteria. I contacted Eileen who was a wealth of knowledge and expertise and gave fantastic help and advice, even checking us in on online, to save time upon arrival at the Port.

The cruise was even better than expected and I´d like to thank Eileen for her help and patience and will certainly be calling on her again.

Yours faithfullyMartin, Camposol

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Every Mon Wellbeing Clinic/Calida Caring Agency Jane’s Salon, Bolnuevo Watch Your Weight Club, 2€ to MABS Jane’s Salon, Bolnuevo, 10.30am Yoga with Marí Carmen Bolnuevo, 10am Slimming Club Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 11am Bingo Market Tavern, Pto de Mazarrón, 11am-3pm Andrea’s Animal Rescue, Shop Collection Car Park, Camposol B, 11.30-1.30pm GO maD Available for Donations Cultural Centre, Camposol B Costa Calida Radio (Pto), 3-5pm Zumba with Louise Sensol Hotel, Camposol C, 7.30pm 4 course pre Christmas Dinner The Market Tavern, Pto de Mazarrón,

16.95€ Music Quiz with John Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9pm Entertainment Quiz Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, 9pm Yoga/dance classes 10am and 11.30am Condado Club, Condado de Alhama Every Tue Pensionista Day 1€ discount Cat’s Bar, Camposol A Weekly “B” Clean Working Party Camposol B, 9am MAMAS Collection /Book Stall 10am-1pm Camposol B Car Park, opp garage “Pick/Try/Choose/Buy/Donate” MABS Murcia NE Apts Maruja, Baños de Fortuna, 10.30-12pm Dance Fitness to Music with Annette Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 11am Fish and Chips The Arches, Los Alcázares, from 6pm

Fun Quiz Night with Eddie B Market Tavern, Pto de Mazarrón, 7.30pm General Knowledge Quiz Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, 9pm Karaoke @ The Arches, Los Alcázares Every Wed Gardening Group Clean Up Camposol C, 9.00am Bridge, New Players Welcome Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9.45am Yoga with Marí Carmen Bolnuevo, 10.00am Age Concern booking events etc Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 10am-12pm Zumba with Louise Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 11.30am PALS for booking events etc Saralara’s, Pto de Mazarron, 1-3pm Creative Writing Group/Annette Camposol, 2-3.30pm Book/DVD Club with HAH La Zona Bar, Los Narejos. 2.30-4.30pm Zumba with Louise Tara’s Casa, 5pm Fish and Chip Night, Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 6.50€ Quiz Night with Costa Cálida Radio DJ Mark the Spark Hacienda del Alamo Clubhouse, 8pm Steak Night (3 courses) Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 15€ Quiz with Nigel Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 8.30pm Dominoes, 5’s and 3’s Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, 8.30pm Mens’ Darts In the Evening Cat’s Bar, Camposol A Karaoke/Disco with Lisa B @ Alley Palais, Camposol B, 9pm

Every Thu Camposol Market Camposol A Wellbeing Clinic with Calida Caring Agency Dental Care, Camposol B, 10am-4pm Alternative Thursdays “Pick/Try/Choose/Buy/Donate” MABS Murcia NE 10.30-12pm Apts Maruja, Baños de Fortuna

Slimming Club Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 11am PALS for booking events etc Tel’s Bar, Camposol B, from 11am-1.30pm Zumba with Louise Hotel Sensol, Camposol C, 11.30am “Latin Beats”/Annette Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 11.30-12.30pm Andrea’s Animal Rescue Collection Point Mazarrón Country Club Bar, 11.30-1pm Mini Movers/Dance/Drama with Louise Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 3pm Modern Movers Dance with Louise Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 4pm Street Dance with Louise Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 5pm Adult Beginner Salsa with Louise Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 7.30pm “Turkey and Tinsel” Menu Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón General Knowledge Quiz Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, 9pm Karaoke with Bernie Mac @

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Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 9pm Ladies’ Darts in the evening Cat’s Bar, Camposol A Evening Special Menu 8pm Buen Descanso, Tallante, 20€ Fun Quiz Night Bar La Manchica, La Manchica Fresh Fish Night, 3 courses Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 10€ Curry Night Market Tavern, Pto de Mazarrón, 10€

Every Fri Bridge, New Players Welcome Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9.45am Book Sale/Bric-a-Brac. Noah’s ARC Camposol B, 10am-2pm Book Stall. Camposol A Gardening Group Car Park Camposol A. 10.30-12.30pm Lions Bahia Mazarrón booking events etc Kennelly’s, Camposol B 11am-1pm Age Concern booking events etc Trevi Bar, Camposol B 11am-1pm GoMad Available for Donations Cultural Centre, Camposol B Costa Calida Radio (Pto), 12.30-2pm 10 Pin Bowling, Camposol C Garden Group Totana, 4pm Mark Phoenix Hypnotheraphy @ Dental Care, Camposol B Fish and Chips The Arches, Los Alcazares, from 6pm Fish & Chips 5€ The New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón Fish & Chips & Live Music @ Hacienda del Álamo Clubhouse, 12€ Evening Special Menu Buen Descanso, Tallante, 20€ Fresh Fish Night, 3 courses Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 10€ Bingo Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 7.30pm Karaoke with Eddy B @ The Steak Out, Camposol B Steak Night, 19.95€ for 2 The Spaniard, Hacienda del Alamo Karaoke and Disco @ Tel’s Bar, Camposol A Disco @ Alley Palais, Camposol B, 9pm-3am Every Sat Book Sale with MABS Murcia Mar Menor The Arches Bar, 10am-1pm PALS for booking events etc Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 11am-1.30pm Dance and Drama with Louise Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 11.30am Karaoke/Disco with Bernie Mac @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B. 9pm–late 3 Course Saturday Special Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 15€ Evening Special Menu 8pm Buen Descanso, Tallante, 20€ Karaoke with Eddy B @ The Steak Out, Camposol B

Every Sun Car Boot Sale, 8.30am Cañadas del Romero Social Centre Car Boot Sale, 9am-2pm El Romero, Cuevas de Reyllo HELP MMM Car Boot Autocine, Los Narejos Sunday Lunch Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, from 4.50€ Sunday lunch & Music @ Hacienda del Alamo Clubhouse Sunday Lunch from 6.95€ The Spaniard, Hacienda del Alamo Sunday Roast Trevi Bar, Camposol B 3 course Sunday Roast (lunch & evening) Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 10€ 4 course Sunday Roast Hotel Mariposa, Gebas, 15€ Classic Sunday Dinner Market Tavern, Pto de Mazarrón Sunday roast from 7.95€ La Vista, Los Alcázares Karaoke/Disco with Bernie Mac @ Trevi Bar, Camposol B, From 7pm Fun Bingo Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 8.30pm Quiz and Games Night The Arches, Los AlcazaresDECEMBERFriday 2 Davis Cup Spain v Argentina, Sevilla Outdoor Market Stall/MABS Calle Segura, Calasparra, 9am-1pm Christmas Fair and Book Club El Patio Bar, Pliego Steve & Rhionne @ The Arches, Los Alcázares Rusty Brass & Fish ‘n Chips 5€ @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón Lenny Mitchell @ Cafeteria 525, Los Alcázares

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Cálida Country Music Club Night La Molata, Cañadas de Alhama, 8pm Saturday 3 Santa Bárbara Caravaca de la Cruz (until 8th) San Francisco Javier San Javier Welcome Meeting Mariano’s, Camposol A, 2pm Christmas Fayre/Age Concern 1€ Lagarto Verde, Via Axial, Pto de Mazarrón Navidad - HAH, stalls/fashion show etc Las Claras Barrington @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón Lenny Mitchell @ Country Bowls Bar & Restaurant, Valle del

Sol Obsession Duo @ Hotel Mariposa, Gebas Disco @ Las Torres, Pto de Mazarrón, 9.30pm Full Circle @ Sensol Golf Club, Camposol C Sunday 4 Santa Bárbara Mazarrón Navidad Craft Fayre/Help MMM Las Claras, Los Alcázares, 5pm Lenny Mitchell @ The Snug, Torre de la Horadada

Monday 5 Christmas Dinner/HAH Campbell’s Restaurant, 15€

Tuesday 6 National Holiday Fiestas de la Virgen Yecla Book & Jigsaw Swap/“Welcome” ICA Medical Centre, Camposol B, 10am,

50c Christmas Lunch/HELP MMM, Oasis Restaurant, Los Belones, 22.50€,

1pm Auction/ MABS Murcia North East Bob’s Bar, Carretera Pinoso, Fortuna, 2pm Annual Meeting of “D” Gardening Group Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 3pm Crib Night/”Welcome”

Mariano’s, Camposol A, 7.30pm, 1€ Friends & Buddies Evening Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 8pm Spanish singing/Karaoke/bingo 7.30pm

Condado Club, Condado de Alhama

Wednesday 7 Ladies’ Fair, Handbags/shoes etc Jane’s Salon, Bolnuevo, 11am-3pm Ladies’ Day Trip to Benidorm/“Welcome” 17€ (market only 12€) Lions Meeting Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 5pm Samantha Curtis @ The Arches, Los Alcázares Free Golf Lessions with David Gay @ Roda Gold & Beach Resort 10am-3.30pm Thursday 8 National Holiday La Purísima Mazarrón Santa Eulalia Totana Christmas Fayre/Market/Pony Rides/BBQ Meta Riding Centre, 11am-3pm “Long Weekend of the Stew” (until 11th) Cehegin ‘Best of Spain Day’ from 12pm Tapas/sangria. Paella & traditional food

2.30pm Flamenco 5pm. Evening traditional music /singing. 3€ Condado Club, Condado de Alhama

Friday 9 Indoor Market with fashion/bling/dvd’s etc

Alley Palais, Camposol B Christine & Fish ‘n Chips 5€ @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón Christmas Party/MABS NW inc food &

drinks Rest. Santuario de la Esperanza, 7.30pm,

25€ Christmas Party /Sector C Garden Group Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 8pm, 16€ inc

buffet/music Christmas Dance/Camposol “B” Clean Camposol Golf Club, 4 course carvery, 20€

Saturday 10 Christmas Market Las Torres, Pto de Mazarrón, 11am-3pm Teddy Bear Auction/Calida Caring/GOmaD In aid of Children in Poverty, Mazarrón Monroes, Bolnuevo, 12pm-4pm Shaky Ground @ Las Torres, Pto de Mazarrón, 9.30pm Smoove Groove @ The Arches, Los Alcázares The CAS Band @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón 3 Course Pre Christmas Meal & Live Music

@ El Patio Bar, Pliego, 12€, Bookings Only Race Night with HAH Henry’s Bar, Los Alcázares, Beef Casserole

Supper Abba-Cadabra and buffet with Helping

Hands Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel, Aguilas, 8pm,

20€ Demonstration and workshop of bamboo

fencing @ Cortijo Raja, Morata Darwinian Gardeners Tel: 669 338 885 Sunday 11 Benidorm Market with Viajes Dragontours 19€ (optional visit to Guadalest, 24€) Christmas Show/BBQ/Raffl e/Pony Rides

etc Meta Riding Centre, 11am, 1€ Lenny Mitchell @ The Priory, El Galan Christmas Ball with PALS

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Costa Costa Hotel, Mazarrón, 27.50€

Monday 12 Guided Walk & 4 course meal/drinks Hotel Mariposa, Gebas, 12€ Sew´n´Sos Sewing Group/MABS Murcia

NE Urb Las Kalendas, Fortuna, 2pm

Tuesday 13 Christmas Lunch/Andrea´s Animal Rescue Bali Hi, Camposol B, 15€ Sunfl ower Valley @ meal/show 18€ Sensol Golf Club, Camposol C Lenny Mitchell @ La Rustica Line Dance Club, Torrevieja Wednesday 14 3 x 1 Super Christmas Shopping Dragontours 16€ Benidorm Trip/Lions Mazarrón 15€ December “Social”/Age Concern Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 1.30-3.30pm Offi ce Volunteers’ Lunch/HELP MMM Las Claras, Los Alcázares, 1.30pm Party Night/“Welcome” Mariano´s, Camposol B, 12€, food

optional, 7.45pm Suzy G’s Christmas Show @ The Arches, Los Alcázares

Thursday 15 Christmas Magic Show/Dance/Fiestas Camposol

Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 15€

Friday 16 Outdoor Market Stall/MABS NW Calle Segura, Calasparra, 9am-1pm “Bobby Dazzler” range of jewellery,bags

etc New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón,12-4pm Candlelight Carol Service/Mince Pies/Soft

Drinks Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 6pm Christmas Quiz & Fish ‘n Chips 5€ @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón Calida Country Music Club Night Feat. Stetsons & Petticoats La Molata, Cañadas de Alhama, 8pm Christmas Lunch/Women of Fire Stan & Ollies in El Raso, Guardamar

Saturday 17 Christmas Quiz El Patio Bar, Pliego, 9pm Suzie G Diva Show @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón Martin Ross @ Las Torres, Pto de Mazarrón, 9.30pm Pre-Christmas Party Evening Hacienda del Alamo Clubhouse Benidorm Palace Trip/Lions Mazarrón Show/Evening Meal/Half Board Hotel/

Coach, 129€ Sunday 18 Christmas Market & Dog Show/MARA Cabezo de la Plata, Nr Murcia Centre,

11am-3.30pm Lenny Mitchell @ The Priory, El Galan

Monday 19 Andrea’s Animal Rescue, Shop Collection Car Park, Camposol B, 11.30-1.30pm,

mince pies/sherry Christmas Carols/Wellspring Church & Fiestas Camposol, Mince Pies/Mulled Wine Triangle Roundabout, Sector D, Camposol,

6pm Lynden B’s Christmas Show @ The Arches, Los Alcázares

Tuesday 20 Christmas Carols/Wellspring Church & Fiestas Camposol, Mince Pies/Mulled Wine Central Roundabout, C5, Camposol, 6pm Friends & Buddies Evening Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 8pm

Wednesday 21 “Chatters”/HAH 11am The Garden, behind Euromarina Alcazares, Debbie Slater @ The Arches, Los Alcázares Steve the Spit @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón

Thursday 22 Christmas Market/fashion/bling/DVD’s etc

Alley Palais, Camposol B Mince Pies & Sherry Andrea´s Animal Rescue Charity Shop,

Fuente Alamo Christmas Carols/Wellspring Church & Fiestas Camposol, Mince Pies/Mulled Wine Car Park, Camposol A, 6pm

Friday 23 Christmas Market/fashion/bling/DVD’s etc

Alley Palais, Camposol B Christmas Carols/Wellspring Church & Fiestas Camposol, Mince Pies/Mulled Wine Commercial Centre, Camposol B, 6pm Shakey Ground & Fish ‘n Chips 5€ @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón

Saturday 24 Christmas Eve Christmas Eve Lunch Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 15€ Mulled wine, nibbles, Santa, Christmas

Carols The Steak Out, Camposol B, from 6.30pm Lenny Mitchell @ Mariposa Hotel, Gebas CJ Karaoke/Disco/Christmas Draw @ El Patio Bar, Pliego, 9pm Protocol @ Sensol Golf Hotel, Camposol C, 5€ inc

mince pies Party Night/free buffet/party bag/

prizes @ Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, FREE ENTRY Disco/Karaoke with Lisa B @ Kennelly’s, Camposol B Karaoke with Kevin @ Alley Palais, Camposol B 8pm Carol Service/Wellspring Victory Church Calle Madrid,Camposol A,7.30pm,mince

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pies/hot drinks Sunday 25 Christmas Day 4 course Lunch Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, 32€ 5 course Lunch The Steak Out, Camposol B, 39.99€ 3 course Lunch @ El Patio Bar, Pliego, 17.50€, 3.00pm 5 Course Lunch The Market Tavern, Pto de Mazarrón, 45€ Traditional Christmas Day Dinner Amapola Restaurant, Bolnuevo, 38€ Lenny Mitchell @ Meson el Saladillo, Salida 17, RM3 Christmas Lunch Menu The New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón

Monday 26 Boxing Day Kennelly’s Annual Football Match v Camposol Kids & Parents El Pareton, 11am, All Welcome Boxing Day Lunch 15€ Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón “Queen” Tribute & “Bryan Adams” @ Sensol Golf Hotel, Camposol C, 12€ Karaoke & Disco with Bernie Mac @ Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, FREE ENTRY Tuesday 27 Guided Walk & 4 course meal/drinks Hotel Mariposa, Gebas, 12€ MABS Mazarrón Meeting Outside Trevi, Camposol B, 11.30am Monthly “B” Clean Meeting Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 4pm Friends & Buddies Evening Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 8pm

Wednesday 28 MABS Murcia NE Meeting La Carcelera, Urb Las Kalendas, Fortuna,

11.30am

Friday 30 Indoor Market/fashion/bling/dvd’s etc Alley Palais, Camposol B Walk with NEST with optional meal Meet 10.30am El Berro Car Park, Sierra

Espuña Table Top Sale with Go maD Camposol B, 10am-2pm

Booksale/MABS Mazarrón Trevi Bar, Camposol B, 9am-1pm Lenny Mitchell @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón

Saturday 31 New Year’s Eve New Year’s Eve Dance/“Welcome” Mariano’s, Camposol B, 25€ inc food, 8pm Clifford Jay & Julia & disco @ Las Torres, Pto de Mazarrón, 9.30pm Lenny Mitchell @ La Sierra Golf Resort, Balsicas Tony Lincoln’s Party Night @ The Arches, Los Alcázares, free buffet 4 Course Dinner/Disco @ New Royal, Pto de Mazarrón, 25€ Party/Disco with CJ @ El Patio Bar, Pliego, 6€ inc buffet Party Night & free buffet @ Tel’s Bar, Camposol A, FREE ENTRY Live Cabaret Singers & Eddie B @ The Steak Out, Camposol B, Ticket Only Free Entry/Free Buffet/Free Wine (3 Course Meal 19.95€) 4 Course New Year’s Evening Menu Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón, 30€ Live Music and Meal @ Hacienda del Alamo Clubhouse Music and Karaoke with Lisa B @ Alley Palais, Camposol B 8pm Disco/free fi nger buffet @ Kennelly’s, Camposol B, Free EntryJANUARYSunday 1 New Year’s Day New Year’s Day Lunch @ Chez Zoe, Pto de Mazarrón Sponsored Swim with PALS Bahia Beach

Tuesday 3 Friends & Buddies Evening Cat’s Bar, Camposol A, 8pm

Wednesday 4 January “Social”/Age Concern Cultural Centre, Camposol B, 1.30-3.30pm

Friday 6 National Holiday Día de Reyes Spain Special Lunch & Evening Menu Don Ricardo’s, Pto de Mazarrón

Saturday 7 Romería del 7 de Enero Totana “Welcome” Meeting Mariano’s, Camposol A, 2pm

Colour coding guide:Entertainment and special menu nights are RedMarkets,exhibitions,leisure,activities and meetings arepurpleCharity and non profi t making organisations are greenNational events are orangeFiestas are pinkImportant dates are blue

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L e n n y has been working as a professional l e a d -g u i t a r i s t -singer for over 35 years. He has worked with many well known bands and

his history can be reviewed on www.myspace.com/lennymitchell and youtube.

For the past 3 years Lenny has been working successfully, as a solo musician, in the Costa Cálida/

Blanca area. He is popular with all audiences and has an excellent reputation for the

supe rb qua l i ty a n d

variety of his work.

He plays stunning live guitar solos

and sings great songs, mainly from the 60’s and 70’s, including pop, rock &

roll, ballads, country and blues, using high quality backing tracks.

For a great night of lively dance music with many journeys down memory lane, invite Lenny & his Musical Time Machine for the evening.

Available for restaurants, hotels, bars, private parties, sports clubs, societies,dinner-dances, celebrations or fund raising events, etc.

December gigs:Saturday 3rd: Country Bowls Bar y Restaurante, Puerto Del Garruchal, Valle de SolSunday 4th: The Snug, Torre de la HoradadaFriday 9th: Camposol Golf Society, Playasol Hotel, BolnuevoSunday 11th: The Priory, El GalanTuesday 13th: La Rustica, Line Dancing Club, TorreviejaFriday 16th: Camposol, Sector D party, Sensol Golf ClubSunday 18th: The Priory, El GalanChristmas Eve: La Mariposa Hotel, Sierra de EspunaChristmas Day: Meson el Saladillo, salida 17 ( Mazarrón – Totana)Friday 30th: The New Royal, Puerto de MazarrónNew Year’s Eve: La Sierra Golf Resort, Balsicas

For more information and bookings, please telephone Di on 658321891,email us at [email protected] or facebook Lenny Mitchell, Cartagena.

For the pastLenny haworking s ucccas a sssolooin the Costtt

Blancaaaaaa ais popoppppularrr audienee ceshas anreputatioo

vvhis

He playssslive guit

and singggsongs, maithethe 6060’ss aaaaa

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Still Keeping It Country!(with an added bonus)!What a difference a few new doors & windows can make! The new repairs to the La Molata Social Centre have drastically improved the degree of comfort in the main hall. No more freezing temperatures or un-comfortable draughts! Who knows – there could even be some air conditioning in there before next summer?

Joking aside, ‘Cálida Country’ CMC is still one of the more popular evening venues in the Costa Cálida area and have just released their programme for the next few months. The club is held twice each month – on the fi rst and third Fridays – from 8.00pm, at the Social Club in La Molata, Los Muñoces – near Ca-ñadas de Alhama, located just off the RM23/MU 603 and only around 10km from Campo-sol. Boasting a large dance fl oor, it’s also a li-censed premises, with drinks at Spanish pric-es and their hosts, Antonio & Cheryl, maintain a superb kitchen. The ‘fi sh and chips’ are, reportedly, ‘to die for!’ Advance bookings for meals should be made to Cheryl on 619 003 022 to avoid disappointment.

The club is a non-profi t making organisation, but having said that, they charge a small entrance fee of €5per couple (or €3 per sin-gle) together with a raffl e, held on each club night, to pay for any Live Artistes and club running costs. Net profi ts from all income are donated, via the Lions Club of Mazarrón

Bahía, to the joint Lions/PALS C.A.F.E. ap-peal. The total that they have donated to this deserving cause currently stands at an aston-ishing €2,000.

The club’s live act for December is a fabu-lous CM Songsters Tribute show entitled ‘Stetsons & Petticoats’ presented by Red Strokes and Christine King. It promises to be a lot of fun & shouldn’t be missed!

Moving on to next year, appearing in January is the fabulous ‘Prospectors’ duo. If you’re a ‘fi ddle’ or ‘mandolin’ afi -cionado, these guys are a de-light to both

see and hear! Don’t miss them!

A new face at the club in February – and all the way from Liverpool – is the multi-talent-ed, award winning, ‘JP Vincent’.

With the fantastic, and ever-popular, ‘Cactus Jack’ coming over from the UK for March, and the superb Cherry K lined up for April, Calida Country continues to offer fi rst class entertainment!

Following last month’s fabulous Country Mu-sic Festival in Pulpi, and bearing in mind the forthcoming ‘4th Camping Marjal Country Music & Linedancing Festival’ at Catral, nr Guardamar, next March (10/11), there’s plen-ty happening for Country Music enthusiasts!

In outline, their programme for the next few months is...Fri 16 Dec STETSONS & PETTI COATS SHOW Fri 06 Jan Country Disco/Karaoke Fri 20 Jan THE PROSPECTORS CM DUO Fri 04 Feb Country Disco/Karaoke Fri 18 Feb JP (Jimmy) VINCENT Fri 03 Mar Country Disco/Karaoke Fri 17 Mar CACTUS JACK Fri 07 Apr Country Disco/Karaoke Fri 21 Apr CHERRY K

Just remember to... KEEP IT COUNTRY!For further information on what’s

happening, contact… Mervyn Booth on 968 163 082

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At the time of writing there are only a handful of tickets left for the 3rd Annual Gala Evening and Dinner organised by Los Amigos de Mazarrón FC, in support of Mazarrón Football Club.

It will be held at the Hotel La Cumbre, Puerto de Mazarrón on Wednesday 8 February 2012 and is being jointly sponsored by New Images, the No. 1 Unisex Hair & Beauty Salon and Nail Bar of Centro Comercial, Sector B, Camposol, and Ibex Insurance of C.C. Upper Local 2, Avda Doctor Mesa S/N, Puerto de Mazarrón.

The guest speaker is the former Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, Everton, Chelsea and Blackburn Rovers striker, Duncan McKenzie and former Sheffi eld United, Leeds, Queens Park Rangers and England international, Tony Currie will also be in attendance. Tickets are €40 and include a four course meal with coffee and local beer, house wine and soft drinks during the serving of dinner, and can be reserved by telephoning Andy on 634 040 990.

On the fi eld, Mazarrón have really struggled so far this season. The loss of captain and central defender Juan Andres through work commitments has been a big blow, so it is hoped that new signings, Guillermo and Pepe, will help to improve both results and

performances.

Mazarrón games are normally played on Sundays with varying kick off times. Full details of all games, both home and away, are announced on the Tuesday before the weekend on which the game is to be played and are displayed on the Costa Calida Chronicle blogspot, our website www.losamigosdemazarron.es and on posters at various points throughout Camposol and Mazarrón.

Provisional fi xtures for December are:-Sunday 4th FC Puente Tocinos (HOME) Sunday 11th UD Los Garres (AWAY)Sunday 18th Thader Murcia CF (AWAY)

Admission to home games is just €5. Los Amigos de Mazarrón FC organise coaches to all away games and the cost of a coach ticket is €7. Coach tickets can be purchased

at our weekly meetings which are held at the Trevi Bar, Camposol every Thursday at 4 pm.

At the home game on Sunday 4th December, the last home game before Christmas, Los Amigos members will again be distributing their traditional Christmas gift of sausage rolls, mince pies and cider to our fellow Spanish supporters.

We are delighted that our football liaison offi cer, Steve Spencer, is now back with us in Spain. Steve suffered a heart attack whilst on a visit to his family in San Francisco at the end of September and needed a triple heart by-pass operation. Amazingly, Steve and his wife Jan, were back in Mazarrón in mid-November and Steve is making excellent progress and once again keeping Jan on her toes.

If you are interested in football and would like to take part in Los Amigos de Mazarron FC activities, please join us for our weekly meetings, every Thursday at the Trevi Bar, Sector B Camposol at 4 pm. Membership of Los Amigos is just €10 and all funds raised are in support of Mazarrón Football Club.

We would like to take this opportunity of wishing all our members, sponsors and fellow Mazarrón FC supporters a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Monday 31st October saw round 10 of the Costa Calida Golf Challenge. 36 players lined up at Roda Golf on a sunny and very warm day to enjoy the fantastic fa-cilities and conditions on offer. Many thanks to Ramon and his team for ensuring the day ran smoothly.

Results:Winner Ray Waite - 39 pointsBest Lady Dee Garvin - 28 pointsLongest Drive Men Ritchie Hea-tonLongest Drive La-dies Julie PurdyNP in one

shot Frank BurkeNP in two shots Keith MorrisonNP in three shots Peter Davies The 2’s Pot - €75 each Ritchie Heaton & Phil Trower

All the green fees and buggies were ar-ranged by Costa Cal-ida Golf Tours (www.ccgt.co.uk), and thanks again to the main sponsors of the series of events, The Great Golf Company & Caja Rural. Also a special thanks to Mick “the grip” Reeves for his sponsorship of the three NP’s

This event was also used for the 2011 Char-ity Day, and this year is was the Poppy Ap-peal – a total of €59 was collected

The 11th and fi nal event of 2011 was on Mon-day 28th November at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club. Andy Walsh 650 718 172 or email [email protected] – Winners Photograph



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The weather forecast for Aguilon in Almeria sounded bad and the day began with black clouds and pouring rain. Mercifully, before the competition got started the rain eased off and the sun broke through. The rest of the day was perfect and some good scores were recorded on this very tricky course.

Golf Manager Jose offered a €40 green fee including buggy, barbeque, beer and golf vouchers as prizes. How can you refuse? This man has got his pricing strategy spot on. He wants you to play at his golf course. He and his staff put themselves out to make you welcome and you want to return. Managers of other golf courses in the region should take a leaf out of his book.

The greens had been hollow tined a few

weeks earlier, but they had recovered well. They were a little slow but running true. Aguilon is a beautiful course and even if your golf game is not going well, you can always stand back and just admire the stunning scenery. Every hole is very different and offers a new challenge. High handicappers will fi nd it diffi cult playing off the yellow tees. The white tees seem impossible to lesser golfi ng mortals.

The Overall Winner and Division One Trophy Winner was Gerry McRobert with a Stapleford score of 31 points. His consistent golf game has been rewarded again because he won the trophy last year.New member Dave Simpson was the Overall Runner-Up with 29 points.Scoring 22 points and Winner of Division Two was Keith Dyball.Sue Greenham took the Division Three engraved tankard on 29 points.Nearest the Pin Winners at holes 8 and

17 were Sue Greenham and Ian Murphy respectively.That new member again Dave Simpson won Nearest the Pin 2nd Shot at hole 11 and he also won the ‘twos money’.The society’s oldest member Jim Kinniburgh proved the strongest player by holding up the rest of the fi eld to claim the ‘Plonker Trophy’.Best Guest was Allan Sullivan.

Well done to all the winners and thanks again to Jose and his staff.

The beer and barbeque food afterwards were plentiful and rounded off another great golfi ng day out at Aguilon.

If anyone is interested in joining the society (lady members are always welcome) or just wants to fi nd out more about us please contact the Secretary Bob Daffon tel: 968598540 or email [email protected].

Gavin Elbourne poses before contemplating his next shot on the tenth fairway.

Gerry McRobert collecting his Winner’s trophy from

acting Captain Barry Martin.

Division Two Winner Keith Dyball receiving his

trophy.

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How to play d i f f i c u l t holes by D a v i d Gay PGA ProfessionalHaving played a lot of golf recently with a m a t e u r /club players I have noticed that more often than not players talk t h emse l ve s out of playing

a good shot; this is especially true when it comes to playing long par 3’s or shots over water. The secret to playing long par 3’s and shots over water is to focus and commit on the shot you want to play.

Focus Being able to focus on the correct shot is a simple process. We need to see the shot before we play it. If you ever watch the pros on TV, the last thing they do before taking their set up is to stand behind the ball and picture the ball fl ying towards the target.

Above is a long par 3 over water with trouble to the right. The fi rst thing we need to do is picture the type of shot you feel the hole requires. The hole pictured is around 170 metres, with water short and right and bunkers long and left. For me, I would be aiming towards the back of the green, but for higher handicappers the bunkers back left would be a good target, as quite often they miss-hit the ball and the shot comes up short and right of the intended target. The bunkers back left are a far better option, as higher handicappers are likely to receive at least one shot on the hole, so now the target is to complete the hole in 4 shots to score a net par.

Commit Once you have what type of shot you are comfortable with, then it’s time to choose the correct club. As stated, we know we have 175 metres to the middle of the green, so take a club that you can easily hit 175 to 185 metres, then take aim where you want the ball to start.

Now is time to commit to the shot you have chosen. Don’t start second guessing the club or line you have taken, just try and swing well within yourself and try to make solid contact. This is usually when I see amateurs trying to hit the ball too hard or not trusting the line. The end result is usually a miss-hit strike with an unbalanced fi nish with very little control. If you swing well within yourself, you will be surprised how often you will make solid contact with much better results.

For more information on lessons you can fi nd David at Roda Golf Academy or contact on 6700 83939 email [email protected]

Los Amigos de Mazarrón FC Golfi ng Society held their second open charity day at Hacienda del Alamo on 30th September.

Last year we were able to donate 1,000€ to the youth and infantile teams at Mazarrón FC. This year with the help of our main sponsors, Lee and Wendy Cohen of Luz del Sol estate agents, we have been able to donate 1,000€ to Mazarrón FC, 1,000€ to Aspadem School for Disabled Children in Mazarrón and 500€ to the Base Youth Teams in Mazarrón.

Los Amigos de Mazarrón FC Golfi ng Society (LAGS) are a unique society in that not only do we provide friendly affordable golf for our members, but we put something back into the community we live in. So thank you once again to Lee and Wendy Cohen, and also Decklid Autos of Mazarrón, TJs Bar Camposol, and 2Let2Buy2Sell of Camposol, for their sponsorship, plus Raja Electrics, Don Ricardo’s Restaurant, Da Fu Hau Restaurant, Costa Restaurant, Trevi Bar Camposol, Camposol Ferreteria, Bodega Martinez, Pedro Mendez, Antony Joyerous, Golf Lessons from Adrian Rudge at the Hacienda Academy, Glitzy Bitz, Camposol, and Direct Sports, Camposol who all donated raffl e prizes; and also La Roda, Aguilon, Altorreal, Hacienda del Alamo and Valle del Este Golf Clubs for donating golf vouchers. These supporters of our day all made it possible for us to raise and donate 2,500€

Special thanks to the Hacienda caddy marshal Lee Harrington for helping the day run smoothly and to Drew Ryder and the catering staff at Hacienda for the brilliant BBQ served on the terrace.

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FOR SALE

LINE 6 SPIDER 50w Amp. programmable, Dist, FX rev, delay etc. exc cond.v.loud 90€Tel: 600233456 Cehegin

4 UK Drakes Pride Woods, Melbourn, size OH as new, BO5, tartan Taylow bowls bag. Henselock bowls measure. Jack & Tulcan L white ribbed

pullover €80. Tel 968154083 Puerto de Mazarrón

80cm square Roca ceramic shower base/shower door frame with hinged glass door & 40cm Roca ceramic sink. 85€Tel 636665958/968429054 Mazarrón

Legmaster Power. Only used twice. Paid £89.99 Asking €50. Ideal Christmas gift.Tel 671948475

Blue cane dining table & 4 chairs. New cond €75 Raleigh Mountain bike 18 speed twist grip gear change. New cond €95 Stainless steel sink/mixer taps. New €30Tel 699 261 663 Mazarrón

Sanyo 21” TV with Teletext/remote Gd working order €30 OSIM U Squeeze lite calf massager. Increases circulation 1-3 auto programmes €80Tel 648 078 051

Standard Sky remote control, brand new, €15Tel 634341958 Mazarrón

2 man dinghy/2 oars 70€ Aiwa stereo system/2 speakers 40€ Porta Potti toilet 30€ Electric typewriter 40€ Electric convector heater 20€Tel 968199006

Satellite dish 1.45cm wall mount with LNB and fi ttings.€200 ono buyer collectsTel 630 342 408 Amberjack 90% Tungsten darts/case 10€Various Boardgames Scrabble/Battleships/Ratrace/Yahtzee/Bagammon/Draughts 20€ 39 new boxed golf balls 39 25€ Tel 635885062 Camposol 2 glass chandeliers, bowl shaped with gold trim. Drop from ceiling 42cm max dia 45cm. Cost 100€+ each, bargain at 40€ eachTel 649291659 Camposol

Sky Digiboxes, 1 x Pace 15€ 1 x Thomson DS14212C 25€ Both in gd working order with instruction manuals.Tel 649296658 Camposol

Apple magic mouse original mod.:A12963Vdc as

new. 45€Tel 616 737 592 NW Murcia

White porcelain basin/pedestal/chrome mixer taps. Exc Cond 40€. Matching bidet/chrome mixer taps. Exc Cond 10€Tel 966260700/680588377.Sony Playstation 2 with 2 remote controls and 10 games 95€. Diving wet suit no 4, diving wet vest no 4 &2 Seastar Swift travel dive equipment bags 95€, proceeds to Noahs ARCTel 634369012 Camposol

COMPUTER, Windows XP professional, all accessories, call for full details €80 Electronic TREADMILL, cost £500 new, only €30Tel 666445192

White ceramic counter top basin/tap/2 door base unit. 35€Bathroom mirror/light above/separate glass shelf 30€D shaped shelf unit/2 glass shelves/2 towel rails 12€Tel 664527322 Camposol

WANTEDHigh back winged chair or recliner for elderly patient.Tel 650256928 NW Murcia

Any digger/dumper + other plant/ machinery no dealersTel 628505733

ANIMALSFree to Good Home. Beautiful female Alsation puppy, aprox 5 months old. Lovely friendly nature, excellent with people & animals.Tel 690 208 438

Homes wanted for a herd of Black Pot Bellied Pigs (approximately 13). Please call Linda on 968 989 632 GROUP INFORMATION

CLASSIFIED ARE AVAILABLE FREE FOR ITEMS UNDER 500€ OR FOR WANTED/LOST ITEMS, FOR NON-COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES ONLY AND EXCLUDING VEHICLES AND BOATS. Maximum 20 words and 3 classifi eds per customer.

How to Place a Classifi ed AdvertPlease go to www.costacalidachronicle.com and click on classifi ed or email [email protected] or call 968 970 680 between 10.2pm Mon-Fri

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DISCLAIMERWhilst the CCC are happy to accept monthly reports from the various organizations in the area, the articles printed are not necessarily the opinions of the editor or publisher and the contents should be viewed as a guideline only. Professional advice should be sought to cover any information printed therein. Advertisements and reports are not formally endorsed by the CCC. We cannot accept responsibility for advertisers’ works, service or goods. The publishers endeavour to ensure the contents are correct, but cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions.

Please limit all reports to 300 words. We reserve the right to amend all articles for publication.

CLASSIFIEDS ARE AVAILABLE FREE FOR ITEMS UP TO THE VALUE OF 500€ OR FOR WANTED/LOST ITEMS, FOR NON-COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES ONLY. CARS AND BOATS ARE NOT INCLUDED FOR FREE. Max 20 words. Max 3 classifi edsHow to Place a Classifi ed AdPlease go to www.costacalidachronicle.com and click on classifi ed, or email [email protected] or phone 968 970 680 between 10-2pm

We will include inserts and fl yers provided by you at a cost of 10 cents per fl yer, max size A5.

All adverts must be paid for before 15th of the month prior to publication. Please make cheques payable to Costa Calída Chronicle S.L. (Minimum amount for cheques is 50€). The closing date for adverts is the 15th of the month prior to publication. If you would like to meet someone to discuss your advert then please contact Teresa on 619 199 407 to arrange an appointment, or visit Teresa in the mornings in CHM / Costa Cálida Chronicle Offi ce (inside Nicky G Translation Services), Camposol Sector B.

If you wish to design your own advert, please send through a hard copy and a copy on disk (please label the disk with your name and telephone number), if possible. Please use Microsoft Word or save advert as JPEG fi le (300 dpi). Please do NOT send in adverts in Powerpoint as they are not good enough quality for printing.

DUE TO PROBLEMS OPENING FILES ON FLOPPY DISK, WE WOULD ASK THAT ALL ADVERTS ARE EITHER EMAILED OR SENT IN ON CDS. WE ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ADVERTS THAT HAVE TO BE SCANNED IN.

November 2011 quiz answers1. Who wrote “In the dark”?Mark Billingham2. Who claims to have the best roast

on the coast?La Vista Café Bar3. What trade does Lopez Milan do to

earn a living?Mechanic4. Who sponsors the weather on

Costa Cálida Radio?C.H.M.5. What does Mick Scott offer you?Interior and exterior decorating6. What is made stronger to last lon-

ger?Daisy Pool covers7. Who offers a great venue for par-

ties with special room rates¿Hotel La Mariposa8. If you called Vivian on 630939626

what would she want to do?Let’s Speak Spanish9. Where would you fi nd a 19th Cen-

tury café/bistro?Café Teatro10. Who had to delay their forthcoming

production from November to January February 2012?

Los Canovas Players

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All our advertisers have current copies of Costa Cálida Chronicle,and other outlets are planned.

If you have any problems obtaining a copy, please call Patti on 646 005 017.

If you would like to buy a subscription for the Costa Cálida Chron-icle to guarantee your monthly copy of the magazine, please fi ll in the form below and hand it in to the Costa Cálida Chronicle of-fi ce on Camposol or Cosas y Cosas in Cehegin, or send it to Costa Cálida Chronicle SL, 28 Calle Jara, Centro Commercial Sector B, Camposol, 30875, Murcia, or go to the website www.costacalida-chronicle.com

Name: ............................................................

Address: ............................................................

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Email: ............................................................

Telephone: ............................................................

Price for 6 months to UK: €36Price for 6 months in Spain: €18Other countries: POAReserved copies (per month) €1In Costa Cálida Offi ce, Camposol or Cosas y Cosas, Cehegin Method of PaymentPaypal (€3 extra) - [email protected] Transfer: 3058 0206 91 2720017764

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Accommodation:Hotel La Mariposa - 968 631 008

Accountants:Silvente - 968 332 058

Airport Parking:Seguro Parking - 622 062 115

BarbersHombres - 699 152 969

Bars, Cafés & Restaurants:Alley Palais - 968 978 869Restaurante Amapola -660 328 092Restaurante Buen Descanso – 968 163 642Bar La Manchica - 685 869 324The Condado Club - 634 358 468Cafeteria Plaza - 968 705 406Cat’s Bar - 666 188 353Chez Zoe - 676 691 324Don Ricardo’s - 968 155 887El Patio Bar - 638 289 035Hacienda del Alamo Golf ResortClubhouse - 968 070 066Hombres - 699 152 969Hotel La Mariposa - 968 631 008Kennellys - 686 341 749La Vista Café Bar - 868 186 727Las Torres - 607 013 423Leonardo’s - 628 682 303Liz’s Cafe - 696 724 123Tels Bar - 699 518 535The Arches - 653 081 341The Market Tavern - 968 154 588The New Royal - 968 595 864The Spaniard - 608 963 052The Steak-Out - 968 970 619Trevi Bar & Restaurant - 669 026 544

Builders:Amigos - 619 025 160CM Constructions - 659 159 948Fuente Building Services - 696 744 982 JD Construction - 630 269 994

Tony’s Building Services - 647 119 952

Building Services:Crystal Design - 680 386 142Kano Building Design - 963 141 082P&P Services - 659 732 962Sallu Plastics (Salglaze) - 968 978 836Woodworks Direct - 649 540 016

Butchers:Big Breakfast Butchers - 968 170 553English Butcher Camposol - 619 579 823Cards and GiftsBest Wishes - 968 199 295Vistas De Murcia - 653 251 541

Carpentry:Philip Carpenter / Joiner - 680 443 219

Car Hire:Bolnuevo Cars - 968 150 979F&C Rent a Car - 968 199 156

Cars & Transport:P&P Services - 659 732 962Specialist Vehicles SL - 968 146 158

Chiropodists:Chiropody - Philip Dawe - 968 150 244

Cleaning Services:Limpieza Rosa - 619 199 407

Clothes Shops:Legs & Co. - 660 792 513

Computer Accessories:Beep - 968 155 710Dot Com World - 968 199 154Shop at Camposol Computers - 968 154 477T J Electricals - 868 181 121

Computer Repairs & Sales:Beep - 968 155 710

Camposol Computers - 968 199 191Dot Com World - 968 199 154LocoPC - 968 971 893Shop at Camposol Computers - 968 154 477Dentist:British Dental Clinic - 628 115 554Dental Care - 968 199 111Olivier Houdusse - 968 153 645

Education:Creative Writing - 649 647 467Let’s Talk Spanish - 630 939 626

Electricians:Amigos - 619 025 160CHM Meters - 646 965 082Louis Harris - 619 712 821Sparks Electrical Services - 626 693 440

Entertainment:The CAS Band - 630 443 273Lenny Mitchell - 658 321 891Retro Disco Services - 608 893 944Sensol Golf Club - 699 203 136

Funeral Plans:ASSSA - 968 153 396The Funeral Director – 650 631 719

Furniture:Cosas y Cosas - 968 742 712DFS - 968 334 194Furniture Plus - Purias - 968 482 456D&G Garden Leisure - 968 334 773

Garden CentresJardilar 2003 - 669 565 402The Tree Surgeon - 650 911 755

Hairdressing:Cálida Hair and Beauty Academy - 968 971 828Hair by Carol - 968 974 989Jane’s Salon - 968 158 433The Beauty Palace -968 971 828The Salon – Melissa & Tanya - 691 916 717The Salon 2 - 686 354 232

Health & Beauty:Anti-Ageing Clinic - 691 916 717Avon with Jan - 672 880 353Beauty Essentials - 663 176 233Calida Care Agency - 968 150 658Cálida Hair and Beauty Academy - 968 971 828Drew Ryder Therapist - 660 326 194EFT Therapist Jennifer - 634 358 310 Face and Body - 676 545 436Freedom Mobility - 638 893 357Fuschia Beauty Clinic - 630 439 480Heather Mobile Beauty - 636 657 481Jane’s Salon - 968 158 433Mark Phoenix - 654 202 996Rosies Toesies - 639 171 835The Beauty Palace – 968 971 828

Heating and Aircon:Camposol Heating & Maintenance - 968 199 184Calida Gas & Oil - 659 761 771

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LLamas Chimeneas - 968 591 030Louis Harris - 619 712 821

Home Furnishings:Curtain Call - 616 240 171Yorkshire Linen - 968 595 946

Insurance:ASSSA - 968 153 396Ibex Insurance - 968 595 945Knight Insurance - 902 282 820MSC Insure - 968 429 129Nash Warren - 968 156 583

Internet CafésAlley Palais - 968 978 869Camposol Computers - 968 199 191Dot Com World - 968 199 154

Kennels and Catteries:Catatonic - 646 705 403Colina Kennels - 639 012 342El Carro Kennels - 620 582 654Wish You Were Here - 606 692 473

Legal Services:Nicky G Translation Services - 968 199 245P&P Services - 659 732 962Professional and Legal Solutions - 968 595 826Silvente - 968 332 058

Locksmiths:ADS Locksmith - 600 255 250

Mechanics:Colair - 626 726 149Decklid Auto Services - 626 678 840English Garage Services - 968 743 350Eurotyres - 968 424 605Ford Marcosta - 968 424 636López Milan - 968 429 216Ken Sherwood-Mechanic - 679 646 859Mobile Car Mechanic - 666 161 129Neumáticos El Ceña - 968 422 015

Metalwork:Eriks - 636 050 008

Mobility Products:Freedom Mobility - 638 893 357

Outdoor Catering:The Roving Diner - 699 223 112Celebrations Catering - 616 352 206

Outdoor Living:D&G Garden Leisure Products - 968 334 773Furniture Plus - Purias - 968 482 456Pergola Covers - 667 879 399

Painting and Decorating:Interior Elegance - 968 482 456RJB Décor Painting - 699 044 742Trevor Smith - 968 163 298

Plumbers:Apache 24/7 Plumbing Services - 968 970 614Camposol Heating & Maintenance

- 968 199 184Calida Gas & Oil - 659 761 771

Printing & Design:Insignia Graphics - 618 615 903Mister Print - 638 893 357

Property Maintenance:Trevor Smith - 968 163 298

Property Management:Harris Property Management - 619 726 014La Manga 4 U - 0044 7921 351298Owners Away - 691 977 107Sensol Golf Villa Rentals - 968 970 614

Property Sales:ADS Property Services - 646 969 455Another World Properties - 968 592 679Best of Spanish - 635 434 651Fuente Alamo Real Estate - 968 598 173Old Farmhouses - 968 159 264Sensol Golf Sales - 968 970 614

Removals:Advance Moves - 968 654 667Dainton Removals and Storage - 653 529 243Go Direct - 634 347 914Lord’s Removals and Storage - 608 061 872Mar Menor Removals - 968 564 298

Retail Outlets: Best Wishes - 968 199 295Bodega Martinez - 968 199 126Cosas y Cosas - 968 742 712Direct Sports.es - 686 341 749Kitchens Plus 1 - 968 184 235TJ Electricals - 868 181 121UK Supplies Direct - 661 173 269

Services:B P Oil - 626 091 885Compusurf - 968 970 666Four Legs Dog Grooming Service

- 968 974 056Healthy H20 - 968 437 270Home from Home Chimney Sweep - 660 478 881Kennedy Financial Services - 678 035 992No More Mould - 672 795 574Petroalhama Oil - 968 632 320Rainbow Laundrette - 634 309 603Telepan Lorca - 968 076 051Tony Chimney Sweep - 646 438 694The Laundry Shop - 670 847 305

Solar Power:Freesol - 659 232 507Solar Directa - 659 315 130

Spas & Hottubs:Eurospas - 650 722 905

Sport & leisure:Alley Palais - 968 978 869Camping La Fuente - 968 685 125Costa Cálida Radio - 902 903 783Dance Zone - 649 647 467Direct Sports.es - 686 341 749Horseriding META - 636 172 198Hotel La Mariposa - 968 631 008Murcia Dance - Zumba Classes - 655 421 120Yogamayga - 968 150 755

Swimming Pool Cleaning &Maintenance:Alpha Pools - 968 971 824Aquasmarter - 677 221 159Daisy Pool Covers - 968 638 583Jorge Pools - 674 168 000Köhn Pool Service - 968 138 638Watermaid - 646 705 088

Translation:Carlos’ Interpreting Services - 630 187 041Nicky G Translation Services - 968 199 245P&P Services - 659 732 962

Travel Agents:Dragontours - 968 199 021 TV & Satellite:CTV Aerial & Satellite Systems - 600 218 046Internet TV for Christmas - 968 978 878ISS - 655 480 543LocoSat - 968 971 893 Rainbow Satellites - 686 358 475T J Electricals - 868 181 121YPM Satellites - 628 234 045

Veterinary Clinics:Veterinary Clinic Maskota - 968 597 929 Emerg - 619 378 473Vet in the Port - 968 153 931 Emerg - 608 466 553

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The good news this month about the pronunciation of the letter M, is that it is exactly the same as in English and I should now say that there isn’t anything else to say about it, but

if you read my articles regularly you will know that cannot possibly be true!

An interesting fact is that Spanish words never end in the letter M, and I have noticed that the Spanish have great diffi culty closing their mouths on a consonant at the ends of words. The common consonant ends in Spanish are N, S, R, L, Z, and D, none of which require the closing of lips. That is why names that end in M in English, end in N in Spanish – for example Abraham is Abrahan and Miriam is Mirian. This affects the way Spanish people pronounce English, which has a lot of lip-closing at the ends of words. I’m teaching some beginners English classes to Spanish people at the moment, and I can tell you it’s a devil of a job to get them to say “I’m from …”, as they tend to say “I’ng frong …”

Let’s get straight on with our usual abundance of similar words in Spanish and English beginning with the letter M. Our fi rst one is maduro (mature). This word also means “ripe” as in fruit, so is a useful one to use at the market. Mágico (magic); notice that the emphasis on the word falls on the fi rst syllable or beat, as indicated by the accent. Malicia (malice); this also rhymes with the name Alicia (Alice), but I really don’t think there’s any connection!

Mecánico (mechanic).; this is the chap you need to mend your car, although the word also means “mechanical” and the place we call the “garage” is the taller mecánico, literally the “mechanical workshop”. Medicina (medicine); we also often hear the word medicamento for medication. Memoria (memory); there is a controversial new law in Spain called La ley de Memoria Histórica, which is intended to honour of those who suffered in the Civil War on the losing side.

There are plenty more similar words like these, for example: micrófono (microphone), mineral (mineral), moderno (modern), moderar (moderate), mental (mental) monumento (monument).

Here are three composite words starting with “multi” meaning “many” - multinacional, (multinational), multicultural (multicultural), and multimedia (multimedia).

An “estranged cousin” beginning with the letter M is the Spanish word miserable, which means wretched or mean and does not mean “miserable” in the English sense of unhappy. Unhappy in Spanish is triste or infeliz. Another false friend is the Spanish word motorist, which means “motorbike rider” and not “car motorist”, which is conductor. Also there is the word mascota which means “pet” in the sense of a domestic animal. The other way of saying mascota is simply animal doméstico. This means that if a Spanish person makes the mistake of asking you “Have you got any mascots?” he or she does not think you look like a member of the boy scouts or that you walk round with a goat on a chain.

An everyday word in Spanish beginning the

M is mano, and this leads me to a favourite subject of mine which is the making up of word families. Mano means “hand” and we will hear it in a multitude (another similar word – multitud!) of familiar contexts. For example a parent saying to a child before crossing the road Dame la mano, “Give me your hand”. However, that base word mano is used to build up many other related words. We have manual meaning “manual” as in manual labour – work done with the hands. Then there is maniobra meaning “manoeuvre”, again referring to manual dexterity and not primarily car manoeuvres! Similarly the verb manipular translates literally as “manipulate”, but whereas in English we tend to use this in a more psychological context, in Spanish is primarily refers to working with the hands. Another verb manejar means “to handle”, but is related to our English word “manage” which generally is not a manual process! In fact it is an interest question in itself to ask why so many root words about hands have taken on so many non-manual meanings in English!

There is another interesting family word beginning with M, based on the Spanish verb mover meaning “to move”. This brings into play a sound relationship in Spanish which is the connection between the vowel “o” and the dual vowel sound “ue”. Those of you who have studied verb changes will have learnt about this relationship already, but it exists in many more cases that just verbs. For example muebles meaning “furniture” has the same root, so we could translate it as “movables” – things that can be moved. Therefore the fi xtures and fi ttings in a house are called inmuebles things that cannot be moved. From this we get the word for a furniture shop mobiliaria, and therefore the word for an estate agent, which is the rather forbidding inmobiliaria, often unpronounceable even to those non-Spaniards who exercise the profession! Word families are most revealing about meanings of words and also they give us a great way of extending our vocabulary. Spanish is a most logical language in this respect. We can very often guess at the meanings of words by looking at their roots and we might even dare to have a go at inventing a related word. Even when we’re wrong we have a good chance of being understood!

Finally to our saying containing an M word: Al que madruga, Dios le ayuda, which literally means “God helps him who gets up early”, or as we would say: “The early bird catches the worm.” I say this to my teenage children on a regular basis but it has no effect whatsoever!

Try learning more M words by going to the Wordsearch on page 74 and translating the English words into Spanish.

Jane Cronin, Spanish classes and talks. www.janecronin.eu Tel: 968 18 32 58

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costa cálida chronicle december 2011

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