Edition 1114 of The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader Newspaper 9 – 15 February 2026
Plans to expand Torrevieja University Hospital have taken a significant step forward following the proposed transfer of 12,000 square metres of municipal land was recently announced by the Valencian Regional Ministry of Health and Torrevieja City Council.
The move is being welcomed as a long-awaited breakthrough that recognises the reality of rapid population growth across the Vega Baja and the increasing demand placed on one of the region’s busiest hospitals.
Regional Health Minister Marciano Gomez and Mayor Eduardo Dolon confirmed the agreement, which would enable a major enlargement of the hospital complex serving more than 220,000 registered patients from ten coastal and inland municipalities, alongside additional referrals from outside the area.
Health officials acknowledge that rising resident numbers and seasonal population surges have stretched existing facilities, making expansion both timely and essential.
Although the project remains in its early stages, Gomez confirmed that detailed planning is now under way.
A functional plan, expected before the summer, will outline short- and long-term requirements in line with future population projections.
Early proposals include a larger surgical block, improved outpatient consultation areas and an increase in hospital beds — all designed to enhance patient care and reduce pressure on services.
MORE ON PAGE 2
The Costa Blancaís oldest ëFREEíEnglish language newspaper - WITH THE LARGEST LOCALCIRCULATION
CONTINUED FROM PAGE1
MAJOR EXPANSION OF TORREVIEJA
HOSPITAL
Rather than expanding within the current hospital footprint, the extension would be built on land ceded as part of Sector 29, a planned residential development of around 2,000 homes. Under planning regulations, developers are required to provide land for public facilities, with the proposed hospital expansion located between the existing hospital and Torrevieja’s desalination plant.
The land transfer must still pass several administrative stages, including approval by municipal bodies and the full council, but local leaders have described the agreement as a key milestone.
Mayor Dolon also highlighted wider benefits, noting that allocating the land for healthcare strengthens Torrevieja’s position against proposals for a second desalination plant in the Vega Baja, while ensuring space is reserved for essential public infrastructure.
The announcement comes alongside immediate investment, with e3.7 million already allocated by the regional government for modular expansions covering outpatient consultations, rehabilitation services and the haemodialysis unit — a clear sign of commitment to easing current pressures while longer-term plans progress. Sector 29 itself was recently reactivated following court rulings, allowing development to proceed on a revised footprint.
While smaller than originally envisaged, the project supports high-density housing and reflects Torrevieja’s continued growth, reinforcing the need for expanded healthcare provision.
With demand rising and thousands of new homes planned, the hospital expansion is increasingly seen as a vital investment in the area’s future — ensuring Torrevieja and the wider Vega Baja region have the modern, resilient healthcare facilities needed for a rapidly growing community.
POETS CORNER
"No Change"
Nothing's really changed at all
Since days of 'Feudal Law'
The rich still get much richer
The poor still stay as poor
The peasants then had little
They worked the land to eat
They served the lords and gentry
With wooden clogs upon their feet
Sometimes they worked for nothing
To pay their taxes due
Sometimes they suffered floggings
In the square in public view
Today we're not called peasants
Though the name fits many folk
Who work their socks off daily
For a wage that is a joke
Taxed to the hilt and struggling
To keep their families fed
The wealthy have no inkling
Of the cost of milk and bread
Prices ever rising
That wages cannot meet
Fuel bills and food bills
Its a choice of food or heat
No nothing's really changed at all
And nothing ever will
So the 'peasants' just accept their fate
To pay the rich man's bill
by David Whitney - c 2025
The mayor welcoming the Regional Minister of Health Courtesy: Torrevieja On
Angry parents can be found protesting outside the school gates every morning
Years of Orihuela Council incompetence leaves children freezing as e200k Gas Scandal Unravels
What began as a routine heating failure at Playas de Orihuela Primary School has spiralled into a major scandal, exposing years of negligence, poor oversight and administrative chaos at Orihuela City Council.
Children have now endured freezing classrooms for more than four months after it emerged that the council failed, for almost eight years, to regularise the school’s gas supply.
When the school moved into its permanent building in 2017, it was illegally connected to a construction gas line — an arrangement that astonishingly went unnoticed by municipal authorities year after year, with no inspections or corrective action.
The situation came to light only recently, when the gas company detected the anomaly and presented the council with a e200,000 bill for unpaid consumption dating back to 2017.
The discovery triggered an immediate cut-off, leaving the school without heating and exposing the scale of the council’s oversight failure.
Compounding the crisis, the school’s boiler has been broken since March 2024, another issue left unresolved for months.
As winter approached, there was no maintenance contract, no contingency planning and no alternative heating system in place. Classrooms have now gone more than 120 consecutive days without heat.
In response to growing pressure, the council rushed through a temporary diesel heating contract for 16 public schools — but Playas de Orihuela was excluded because its system runs on gas, not diesel.
The very school that first raised the alarm was effectively abandoned because its infrastructure problems were too complex to resolve quickly.
Families and staff were left to fend for themselves. Parents organised daily protests and pooled their own money to buy
portable heaters, an extraordinary step that underlines the depth of institutional failure. The Parents’ Association has also been waiting since early January for authorisation to fund temporary air-conditioning units, but says it has received no response from the Councillor for Education.
The fallout is now widening. The Department of Education has opened an official incident file, while the Sindic de Greuges (Ombudsman) has launched an inquiry and demanded explanations from the authorities involved.
Opposition parties have condemned the situation as gross negligence and a serious abandonment of duty.
Critics stress this was not an unforeseen emergency. The illegal gas connection dates back to 2017, the boiler failure to March 2024, and winter did not arrive unexpectedly.
At no stage did the council act decisively or take responsibility.
A basic public service — heating in a primary school attended by children as young as three — has collapsed through prolonged inaction.
While officials debate debts and deflect blame, pupils continue to shiver in classrooms that should never have been allowed to fall into such neglect.
See Editor’s Comments on Page 10
SIX NATIONS
The victim’s blood-stained body was discovered on the night of December 21
Arrest of Briton made by Guardia
Civil in fatal Orihuela
The Civil Guard has arrested a British man suspected of killing a 29-year-old Englishman who was shot dead at a housing development in Orihuela Costa last December. A judge has ordered the suspect be held in prison without bail, as investigators continue to probe what they believe was a drug-related revenge attack.
The victim’s blood-stained body was discovered on the night of December 21 inside a property in the Lomas de Cabo Roig urbanisation, in Orihuela Costa.
Costa Shooting
Local Police were alerted shortly after 9pm by people who reported that a friend had suffered “something very serious” inside a house. When officers arrived, they found the young man dead from gunshot wounds and immediately called in the Civil Guard.
A full homicide investigation was launched, involving specialists from the Judicial Police and forensic teams. Within just over a month, investigators identified and arrested a British suspect, who appeared before a judge in Orihuela last
Thursday. The court ordered his provisional detention without bail while he is investigated for homicide or murder. His identity has not been made public, and the case has been placed under judicial secrecy as police search for other possible suspects.
Officers are also examining a possible link to another shooting that took place ten days earlier, in which a 32-year-old British man, now known as Peter F., was shot three times in the garage of his home. He survived the attack but later fled to UK.
Peter F., formerly known as Sonny Redmond, had recently been released on bail after being jailed as the alleged leader of a gang accused of extorting cannabis clubs across the Vega Baja. During a previous arrest, Civil Guard officers seized two submachine guns and more than 300 rounds of ammunition from his home, and three officers were injured. Despite being banned from leaving Spain and ordered to report to court every two weeks, Peter F. travelled to the UK and was arrested in January in Merseyside. A judge has since revoked his bail, ordered his imprisonment, and issued an international arrest warrant. If he remains in custody in England, extradition proceedings to Spain will follow.
The case has heightened concerns about organised crime in the area. Police are also investigating the unexplained disappearance of another British man in the Vega Baja following the Orihuela Costa killing. The Civil Guard says all lines of inquiry remain open.
Friday Security Sweep Across Orihuela Costa
Orihuela Costa saw a major police operation on Friday as Local Police and the Guardia Civil carried out an extensive crackdown on crime and illegal activity across the area.
The operation targeted public safety and the compliance of local businesses, sending a clear message that illegal activity will not be tolerated.
During the sweep, authorities confiscated several dangerous knives, removed illegal drugs posing a threat to public health, and arrested a 40-year-old man found in possession of cocaine.
In addition, local establishments were inspected to ensure all paperwork and operations complied with municipal and national regulations.
Officials stressed that the operation was part of an ongoing effort to make Orihuela Costa a safe place for residents and visitors, with prevention and vigilance at the heart of their strategy in this busy coastal hub.
“WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO ENSURE SECURITY FOR IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS”?
Hard drive and external hard drive failures are unfortunate yet common occurrences. The key to protecting your data is a robust backup strategy.
Here's a breakdown of methods and best practices:
The 3-2-1 Backup Rule (The Gold Standard):
Data professionals widely recommend this rule for maximum protection:
* 3 Copies of Your Data: Have at least three copies of your data. This includes your original working copy.
* 2 Different Types of Media: Store your data on at least two different types of storage media (e.g., your computer's internal drive, an external hard drive, and cloud storage). This protects against a single type of media failure.
* 1 Copy Offsite: Keep at least one copy
of your data in a geographically separate location.
This protects against disasters like fire, flood, or theft at your primary location. Cloud storage is excellent for this.
COMMON BACKUP METHODS:
* External Hard Drives:
* Pros: Relatively inexpensive, fast for large backups, no internet required.
* Cons: Susceptible to physical damage, theft, or local disasters. Requires manual connection and backup unless automated with software.
* Cloud Backup Services (e.g., Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox).
Important – When making a copy of important documents to Cloud Storage, it is important to give the internet connection to your Cloud Storage sufficient time to copy the chosen files to Cloud Storage. If you use Windows File Explorer to copy files from your computer's hard drive to your Cloud Storage, File Explorer may give you the impression that all files have been copied to Cloud Storage as File Explorer shows that
Scan the QR Code above to find out exactly what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group has to offer
the files have been saved. These files are in a queue waiting for your internet connection to copy the files to your selected Cloud Storage.
If you copy a large number of files at the same time this process could take a significant time, possibly several hours.
Turning off your computer will interrupt the process of copying files, and you will need to start again.
Note: You may need to change your computer's Power Settings to stop it from going to “sleep” if there is no keyboard activity during the file backup process.
Go to “Power, Sleep and Battery settings” to ensure that the computer does not go to “Sleep”.
You can manually tell your computer not to sleep until you say so.
Windows: Go toSettings > System > Power & battery.
Meetings at Dilly's Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The The Next meeting is on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026. You are welcome to attend.
Change "When plugged in, put my device to sleep after" toNever.
Mac: Go toSystem Settings > Displays > Advanced. Toggle on"Prevent automatic sleeping on power adapter when the dis play is off."
“I have a problem with my computer. Can you help me”?
Yes, I can. I can visit you or can connect to your computer remotely.
If I connect remotely with your permission, I would need to be in telephone contact to talk you through what I am doing.
Whichever option is chosen, I will send you a full report to fully explain what was done to resolve your issue.
To ask a question or to join the Technology Help group, send an email toBrian Hoile at cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
ORIHUELACLAIM
RECORD FIGURES
DESPITE STRONG WINDS
Orihuela’s 26th Medieval Market drew record crowds, transforming the historic centre into a bustling open-air event despite some Saturday activity disruptions from strong winds.
Public museums welcomed nearly 27,000 visitors, a 33% increase on 2025, while tourist offices reported a 291% rise in visitor assistance. Attendees came from across Spain and internationally, including the UK, Belgium, Germany, Canada, and Japan. Social media engagement topped one million views, boosted by targeted campaigns.
The City Council hailed the event as a major success, cementing it as a key cultural and tourism highlight.
LA PLASA TENDER
LAUNCHED
ORIHUELA BUDGET STANDOFF
Orihuela’s PP–Vox coalition claims the 2026 budget is in its final stages, but opposition parties remain sceptical amid visible disagreements over municipal staffing costs.
Tensions surfaced in December when the Workforce Structure Plan (RPT) passed despite Vox’s warning it would strain finances.
PSOE, Ciudadanos, and Cambiemos criticise the coalition for poor execution of past budgets, weak management, and inflated revenue forecasts.
Previous budgets totalling e140.5 million in 2024 and e116.9 million in 2025 saw less than 50% of planned investments delivered, fuelling doubts that the new accounts will result in meaningful spending or tangible benefits for residents.
Torrevieja Council has launched the tender for La Plasa Market, transforming the historic Mercado de Abastos into a modern social and gastronomic hub. The market will host up to 30 stalls, blending traditional vendors with innovative food concepts.
The 10-year concession requires a minimum e733,582 private investment and a e56,300 annual fee, with provisions protecting existing traders. The project aims to revitalise the town centre, generate jobs, and strengthen Torrevieja’s commercial and gastronomic identity, while supporting affected businesses with e150,000 in grants.
Hooded thieves target Optician
Torrevieja’s Optica 0ptima store was targeted in a third robbery in under a week, following previous break-ins in La Marina and Los Alcazares.
Two hooded thieves smashed a security shutter and display cases around 3 a.m., stealing 250–300 pairs of glasses worth up to e1,000 each. The operation lasted minutes.
The Guardia Civil is investigating possible links between the thefts and has increased patrols, while the chain continues to strengthen security.
Google Flood Map Provides Early Warning
As the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) warns of several days of heavy rain, residents of the Valencian Community and Murcia can use Google’s Flood Risk Map to check if their homes are in vulnerable areas.
High soil saturation increases the risk of flooding, especially in coastal, low-lying, and river basin zones.
The interactive map at sites.research.google/floods allows users to zoom in, view flash-flood risk levels, and access detailed information on expected severity, risk evolution, and data sources, helping residents prepare for potential floods.
IWHAT WOULD MRS GOD DO?
n order to go forward on this one, we first need to go back. Join us on a trip back two thousand years and pretend we are guests at the Wedding Feast of Cana.
It is a jovial and happy wedding; so much so that the guests drank the place out until they ran out of wine. Running out of drink is an extremely embarrassing situation either for a host or a publican.
One of our fellow guests is a young Jesus Christ, accompanied by his mother. I can’t remember if Joseph was there; but anyway, he was such a quiet man you would never know he was in the place.
‘They have no wine’, Mary said to Jesus … holding eye contact thus letting him know that this wasn’t just an idle remark. The son wasn’t too pleased; ‘woman, my hour has not yet come’, he replied … with a hint of sharpness.
Nonplussed by the reply, the mother instructed the waiters; ‘do as he says’. The die was cast and the result being that several pitchers of water were turned into the best wine ever known. Even those with a rake of cheaper wine in them already could tell the difference. No matter what symbolism future theologians might place on this first
miracle performed by Jesus; we ordinary dropouts would have to conclude that it was an awful waste of a good miracle.
It wasn’t to do with sickness (apart from adding to the hangover) life or death.
But this dazzling deed told us something more than the power of God. It showed how much he could be influenced by the woman who held his heart. He couldn’t say no to a good woman.
The fact is that it was the kindness and generosity of spirit shown by Mary; and how much she cared about her friends that was responsible for this miracle.
The kinder streak that women seem to have in them is very often the antidote against the macho man.
I have often noticed how the Gorls can bring out the softer side of the Lads – and the next paragraph shows it is official …
A Swiss study has found beyond doubt that women’s brains show a stronger signal towards kindness, compassion and generosity than does that of men. Hold that thought, please … and actually here is another one you can hold with it.
At a press conference in Australia some time back, the Dali Lama said that the world needs more leaders showing compassion. “In that respect, biologically, females have more potential. Females have more sensitivity about others wellbeing”, he said.
The world is in some mess at the moment and this column doesn’t need to comment on the type of powerful leaders who are running the show. Every day it is getting worse by way of atrocities and the wastage of innocent human lives.
More and more we see bad things happening to good people while good things are happening to bad people.
Is it not a legitimate ceist to ask again why God allows such unfairness among those who have no other hope?
Yes, yes. We are taught that God doesn’t interfere in what is said to be man’s free will.
‘Suffering refines faith and fosters spiritual growth’, we were told. Can there be spiritual growth among the children in Gaza, still denied humanitarian
needs; with truck loads of food and medicine still denied entry and charitable establishments being raised to the ground?
Despite the assertion that God isn’t responsible and doesn’t interfere; Donald Trump claims that God intervened to save his life when the bullet [alleged] from the rifle fired by the assassin [alleged] only grazed his ear.
Those who believe Trump’s claim do believe God interferes when he likes.
We are running out of time here, so we shall cut to the chase. What God needs is a wife! A woman like his mother who couldn’t even look at a thirsty drinker without showing compassion.
When that assassin had his target in his sights, Mrs God would likely have advised. ‘Remember what you said about man’s free will!’
In our society girls are brought up encouraging them to share, be gentle and look after people. Boys are told ‘stand up for yourself in order to achieve what you want and don’t allow anyone bully you.’
Again, we can learn from the animal world where it is the females who show the caring and unselfish traits of the breed.
God needs that wife next to him to get the best out of him – like a lot of the rest of us! Then when invading boots are threatened to hit the ground in Canada or Mexico the question will have to be asked; ‘what would Mrs God do …’
DON’T FORGET
Attending a match today I felt gratified by seeing the number of young people who attend our games. This is just great; and with so much talk about online activity, streaming, digital this and digital that, phone-fun and passive pastimes, we don’t give enough credit to the huge numbers who get out in the fresh air and become involved in real life.
Orihuela Council Incompetence Leaves Children to Freeze
It is nothing short of scandalous that children at Playas de Orihuela Primary School have endured over four months of freezing classrooms while the City Council sits on its hands.
A e200,000 gas debt, a broken boiler since March 2024, no maintenance contract, and no contingency plan — these are not minor oversights. They are clear signs of systemic failure. Even as temperatures plummeted, the council hurriedly supplied heating to other schools — yet left Playas de Orihuela out in the cold, the very school that first raised the alarm. Families were forced to buy their own heaters and stage daily protests just to protect their children’s health.
This is more than bureaucratic bungling. It is gross negligence. The Education Councillor, Vicente Pina, has presided over a preventable crisis that continues to put our children at risk. Pina has been in his current post for almost 3 years but even so he still continues to blame previous governments for his inefficiencies. Finally, however, just last week an emergency gas contract was put in place, although it is still to be delivered to schools.
ILLEGAL PIPE CAUSED CALA LAMOSCA BEACH POLLUTION
The mystery behind repeated pollution closures at Cala La Mosca in Playa Flamenca has been officially resolved following an investigation prompted by the Independent Party of Orihuela Costa (PIOC).
Although the Elche–Orihuela Area Prosecutor has closed the case after finding no evidence of an environmental crime, inquiries confirmed the exact source of the contamination that forced several beach closures last summer.
The issue emerged in June and July 2024 when PIOC detected faecal discharges flowing towards the cove and documented the spill on video. After Hidraqua and Orihuela City Council initially denied any leakage, the Guardia Civil confirmed the presence of sewage. With no clear explanation from authorities, PIOC referred the matter to
prosecutors.
Official reports now show the wastewater originated from an overflow pipe irregularly connected to the stormwater network at the Horizonte wastewater pumping station (EBAR), located between Calle Salustiana and Clementina. This unauthorised connection, reportedly unknown to both Hidraqua and the council, allowed untreated sewage to enter a ravine that discharges directly into Cala Mosca.
Technical inspections were launched, and Hidraqua traced the source, alerted the pumping station operator and informed the Segura River Basin Authority. The discharge was stopped shortly afterwards.
A SEPRONA report documented sewage flowing from a stormwater pipe on Calle Niagara into the public watercourse leading to the beach. Water quality tests later revealed elevated levels of intestinal
enterococci and E. coli, coinciding with heavy rainfall — explaining both the contamination and precautionary closures.
While prosecutors ruled out criminal responsibility, they confirmed the cause was identified and corrected, preventing further damage to a cove of high ecological value. PIOC stressed that the dismissal does not diminish the seriousness of the incident, noting the pollution was real and only resolved after formal complaints.
Cala La Mosca and nearby La Glea were closed for several days, with Cala La Mosca also losing its Blue Flag status.
LUXURY ‘SOCIAL HOUSING’ SCANDAL ROCKS ALICANTE POLITICAL ELITE
Residencial Les Naus consists of 140 three- and fourbedroom homes complete with private parking, storage rooms and commercial units — plus a swimming pool, two padel courts, a basketball court, children’s play areas and a private gym.
Hardly what many residents would recognise as traditional social housing.
Its prime location in La Condomina, close to the beach and high-end amenities, has only intensified criticism, with locals questioning how such properties ended up in the hands of senior officials and their relatives.
How were the homes allocated?
The managing company, Fraorgi, insists the project is a private social housing cooperative built on publicly owned land awarded through a tender for ˇ6.6 million.
Fraorgi says anyone could apply by becoming a cooperative member, provided they met the company’s criteria.
The scheme first opened to applicants in 2018. Properties were assigned in 2022, with construction completed last year and residents moving in shortly afterwards.
But with resignations already confirmed and investigations widening, pressure is mounting on Alicante City Hall — and many are now asking whether homes meant to help ordinary people were quietly diverted to those in power.
Former Orihuela Mayor Monica Lorente back in Court over Football Club Fraud
Former Orihuela mayor Monica Lorente should have been in court last Thursday accused of misappropriating more than e800,000 in public funds to benefit Orihuela CF.
Lorente is ue to stand trial alongside two former PP councillors, a municipal employee, an auditor, and three former club officials over alleged irregularities in council subsidies granted during the 2007–08 and 08–09 seasons.
Prosecutors claim the payments caused a public loss of e824,000 and were made to favour club leaders rather than the public interest.
The case is being heard by the Seventh Section of Alicante’s Provincial Court in Elche and is being treated as continuous offences of administrative prevarication, fraud, and prohibited negotiations.
The Public Prosecutor is seeking eight-year prison sentences. On Friday, however, the case was rescheduled by the courts and will now be held in early 2027.
Orihuela Costa Left Out as e1.5m Airport Bus Network Launched
A new public bus network connecting the Vega Baja region with Alicante–Elche Airport began operating on February 1, but Orihuela Costa—one of Alicante province’s busiest tourist areas—has once again been excluded.
The e1.5 million, two-year contract awarded to Bus Siguenza covers 16 municipalities across five routes, providing direct airport links for towns including Almoradi, Rojales, Formentera del Segura and Guardamar del Segura. Despite its large expatriate population and high volume of British and European visitors, Orihuela Costa remains without a direct airport connection.
Residents say the continued lack of public transport has fuelled the growth of illegal “pirate” taxis, leaving travellers with limited and often costly alternatives.
While coastal Orihuela misses out, inland municipalities benefit from improved services, including a dedicated airport route and year-round Sunday and holiday connections between Guardamar del Segura and Orihuela. The network now offers expanded links across Alicante and one municipality in Murcia, with routes serving Orihuela, Almoradi, Rojales, Guardamar, Benferri, La Murada and Hospital Vega Baja.
The contract provides more than 10,600 journeys per year over nearly 393,000 kilometres, using a minimum fleet of six buses plus one spare.
All vehicles are fully accessible and equipped with real-time tracking systems.
Despite these improvements, pressure is mounting on authorities to explain why Orihuela Costa—home to thousands of residents and visitors— continues to be overlooked in regional transport planning.
WORLD CANCER DAY AT THE BOULEVARD
A World Cancer Day event held at Zenia Boulevard by Maria and the Pink Ladies raised nearly e800, with an additional e500 donation from Zenia Boulevard, in support of the fight against cancer.
Local artistes once again generously donated their time and talent to support the cause. Performers on the day included Cindy Fitzpatrick, Holly Hepburn, the David Bowie Tribute, Marsy Poppa, Valentin & Vitality Sax, with Tre Amici closing the event. The day was hosted by Simon Morton, alongside Sunshine FM, who presented the event throughout. Despite challenging weather conditions, the event was well attended and created a powerful sense of community.
At 3.00pm, a minute’s silence was observed, providing a poignant moment to honour those currently fighting cancer, celebrate those who have survived, and remember those who have sadly lost their lives to the disease.
Speaking after the event, Maria said:
“I would like to sincerely thank all the artists and Simon for donating their time and support. Even though the weather wasn’t kind to us, it was still a wonderful day, and the moment of silence allowed us to reflect on why World Cancer Day is so important to so many people.”
Maria and the Pink Ladies also extended their thanks to Zenia Boulevard for their generous contribution and continued support of cancer awareness and early detection initiatives.
500 euro was donated by La Zenia Boulevard
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFE…
If you are over sixty there is much you can do to improve the quality of life physically, socially and emotionally. Healthy food, clean air and water are important, but many feel that the only exercise needed is a little walking which
can be painful on the muscles and joints. Unfortunately, unexercised muscles waste away. Most don’t know the value of gentle or EASY Exercise. Exercise is as essential as breathing, drinking or eating. However, we don’t need to exhaust yourself with hard exercise, there is an EASY option.
The basic principle behind EASY Exercise is that muscles don’t know how they are being moved, yet they need to be moved. At the Sophia Wellness Centre (La Regia) Cabo Roig we have 3 different motorized exercise circuits that move us, we don’t have to move them. They are scientifically designed to improve our quality of life. The best way to get to know this for yourself is to try it for FREE by calling663 771 345 for an appointment.
Sometimes the only social interactions we have revolve around the pub, but EASY Exercise is a social and emotional experience coupled with physical activity. The atmosphere is warm and friendly; you will be surprised how easy it is to make new friends and have fun as you limber-up.
Main Benefits of EASY Exercise Include:
Better Mobility
Reduced Pain & Breathlessness
Increased Stretch & Flexibility
Improved Blood Circulation
Improved feeling of Wellbeing
Having fun and a better Social Life
At EASY Exercise we have 3 different circuits to choose from, each designed for different levels of mobility and flexibility. So whether you are recovering from a serious operation or just trying to slow down the aging process, we have a circuit suitable for you.
Each comfortable machine is motorized and designed to move different muscle groups to give you a gentle but effective workout. You will be seated or lying down for each exercise so there is no body-weight pressure on any of your joints. EASY Exercise is designed to significantly improve and then maintain your mobility, flexibility, circulation and to reduce pain.
EASY Exercise is open 8:30am to 1pm Monday to Friday. Improve your flexibility and mobility by gently working your whole body in a friendly and fun environment. The flexible payment plan is only 55€ per month but FREE TRIALS are available 10:00 – 12:00 Tuesdays and Thursdays so it will cost you nothing to see if the system works for you.
TRIVIA QUIZ
1. Going Dutch. a. Who wrote the song "You can't Hurry Love"? b. What term is a slang term for Nonsense or incomprehensible talk? c. On which London underground line is Holland Park tube station? d. By what other name are the Pennsylvania Dutch people in America called? e. In the film "Mr. Holland's Opus" who plays Glenn Holland?
2. We give you one line of a song. This week all songs are from the year 1977. You must identify the artist and the title of the song for one point each. In the event of several cover versions being known, we're after the version released in 1977. a: Love soft as an easy chair. b: You can dance, you can jive having the time of your life.
c: You've got a cute way of talking. d: On a dark desert highway cool wind in my hair. e: I just close my eyes and I'm with you
3. What was unusual about the Tyrell P34?
4. In which films were the following Germans bad guys? a. Hans Gruber, b. Karl Stromberg, c. Dr Szell. d. Amon Goeth
5. Angel Falls, the worlds highest waterfall is how many times higher than the Niagara Falls?
6. The victory goddess Victoria and her horse drawn chariot which adorns the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin was kept in which city between 1806 and 1814?
7. In 1969, France, Holland, Spain and the UK all tied for first place in which contest?
8. The majority of the biological and chemical weapons from WWI and WWII were dumped in which sea?
9. Fish and chips, Hamburger & fries. What do the people of Brussels eat with their frites?
10. Which word can one associate with each of the following? train, Chartres, film and tooth?
11. On the outskirts of which modern city would you find the ruins of ancient Carthage?
12. Who won the Eurovision Song Contest with "Making your mind up"?
13. The Watusi or Batutsi tribe comes from Burundi in Central Africa. What is this tribe remarkable for?
14. In which book or film would you find the 'go west' Joad family?
15. According to Guinness the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at an auction was a 1787 what?
16. Which derogatory name was given to greedy US bankers in the depression years? 9 letters
17. Which country unilaterally declared independence in November 1965?
18. Which holy man was the patron saint of English archers?
19. In film, the submarine Proteus explored which body of water?
20. The Man... The Music... The Madness... The Murder... The Motion Picture - which 1984 Oscar winning film about a composer?
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1.Leave (6)
4.Bog (6)
9.Warily (13)
10.Bared (7)
11.Embellish (5)
12.Form (5)
14.Demon (5)
18.Go in (5)
19.Release (7)
21.Imprisonment (13)
22.Holds up (6)
23.If not (6) DOWN DOWN
1.Determine (6)
2.In brackets (13)
3.Circular (5)
5.Daunt (7)
6.Official (13)
7.Dictum (6)
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1.Two pig stealers will get beaten! (3-3)
4.Makes an outline of a game, we hear (6)
9.Thought I'd no reactions when disturbed (13)
10.Serious enough to resent a change (7)
11.Did it flow divinely from the choir? (5)
12.Two prepare to take the strain (5)
14.Diplomatic representative in a maiden voyage (5)
18.Atopless specimen is quite enough (5)
19.The devil of a match (7)
21.Adevice that has some current attraction (13)
22.Insist upon a lock being put back (6)
23.Although he keeps going, he remains where he is (6) DOWN DOWN
1.Diplomacy, we hear, took a devious course (6)
2.Youthful soothsayers, biblically speaking (5,8)
3.Girl involving one in love entanglement (5)
WORDSEARCH
8.Apart (5)
13.Depict (7)
15.Following (6)
16.Odd (5)
17.Gratitude (6)
20.Memorise (5)
5.Make a new adjustment for the back row, by the sound of it (7)
6.An imaginative air-trip? (6,2,5)
7.Dispatched with railway guard (6)
8.Before the end of the day, the trial will make you irritable (5)
13.Somehow trace an
alternative producer ... (7)
15.... indispensable for one who is filming (6)
16.This craft will upset the lotteries (5)
17.As a culinary device, it causes some friction (6) 20.Land-line shown on the map (5)
FAMOUS SINGERS WITH ONE NAME
YOUR HOROSCOPE 9th to 15th February 2026
This week brings a gentle shift from reflection to forward momentum. Clear communication and practical planning help set the tone, while emotional awareness strengthens relationships. It’s an ideal time to reset priorities and move confidently ahead.
Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)
A burst of motivation helps you tackle unfinished tasks. Midweek supports career discussions and future planning. Avoid impulsive spending. The weekend brings uplifting social moments.
Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20)
Patience leads to progress. Work matters slowly fall into place, and intuition guides personal choices. A sincere conversation strengthens a close bond.
Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20)
Your words carry extra influence. Networking and negotiations go well, but don’t stretch yourself too thin. Quiet time late in the week helps restore balance.
Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22)
Emotional clarity arrives as you reassess goals and boundaries. Review finances carefully. Family time or familiar comforts bring peace over the weekend.
Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22)
Relationships are highlighted. Honest communication clears lingering issues. Creative energy rises midweek, while a surprise opportunity may change your plans.
Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22)
Focus on routines, health, and productivity. Small changes bring lasting results. Stay organised at work and prioritise rest to avoid burnout.
Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)
Creativity and romance are favoured. Collaborative efforts shine midweek. By the weekend, self-care restores your sense of balance. Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)
Home and emotional security take centre stage. You may resolve family matters or reorganise your space. Professional efforts quietly gain traction.
Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Conversations, short trips, or learning experiences energise you. Optimism attracts helpful allies. Double-check details in agreements.
Find answers and solutions on page 18
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Financial planning strengthens your stability. Persistence at work brings recognition. Allow yourself a well-deserved treat.
Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
With the Sun in your sign, confidence grows. Personal goals move forward, and leadership qualities stand out. This is a powerful week for fresh starts.
Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
A reflective mood encourages rest and closure. Tie up loose ends before your birthday season begins. Creative or spiritual activities soothe the soul.
Overall, this week supports steady progress, thoughtful choices, and emotional insight. Stay grounded, trust your instincts, and welcome the subtle shifts guiding you toward positive change.
BLIND SPOTS: WHAT YOU CAN’T SEE CAN’T HURT YOU
Most drivers are confident in their ability to see what is happening around them.
Mirrors are adjusted, seats are set, and the road ahead feels clear.
Yet blind spots remain one of the most persistent and underestimated causes of collisions, particularly involving cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians.
The danger lies not in what we see, but in what we assume we would see if it were there.
Blind Spots Exist in Every Vehicle
No vehicle offers perfect visibility. Pillars, headrests, mirrors, door frames, and the vehicle’s own structure all create areas that are not visible from the driver’s seat.
Even with modern technology, blind spots have not disappeared.
Larger vehicles naturally have larger blind spots, but smaller cars are not exempt. Cyclists can disappear alongside the vehicle, pedestrians can be hidden by door pillars, and motorcyclists can vanish between mirror checks.
Why Familiarity Increases Risk
Drivers who use the same vehicle every day often become complacent. Familiar routes and routines encourage assumptions: “If something were there, I would have seen it.”
This mindset is particularly risky at junctions, roundabouts, and when changing lanes, where brief glances may miss someone entirely. Blind spots do not announce themselves. They only reveal their presence when it is too late.
Mirror Checks Are Not Enough on Their Own
Mirrors are essential, but they are not a complete solution. Effective observation requires a sequence: check mirrors, indicate intention early, perform a shoulder check, then manoeuvre smoothly.
Skipping the shoulder check is one of the most common errors, especially during lane changes or when opening a car door into traffic.
Vulnerable Road Users Are Most at Risk Cyclists and motorcyclists often travel in positions that place them directly in blind spots.
Pedestrians, particularly children and older people, may approach from unexpected angles and disappear behind vehicle pillars.
These road users rely heavily on drivers anticipating their presence rather than reacting to them at the last moment.
Small Habits That Reduce Big Risks
Blind spot awareness does not require advanced technology. It requires consistency: adjust mirrors correctly before every journey, slow down before changing direction, physically turn your head when necessary, never assume the space beside your vehicle is clear.
These habits take seconds but can prevent lifechanging consequences.
Seeing Is a Responsibility
Driving is not just about controlling a vehicle. It is about managing information, expectations, and uncertainty. Blind spots are a reminder that we never have complete awareness, only varying degrees of it.
Recognising what we cannot see — and acting accordingly — is one of the most responsible things any driver can do.
Check your blind spotsCyclists can be closer than you think
With a background in family and matrimonial mediation, life coach Sara Bell supports The Leader’s readers in navigating everyday concerns.
If you are experiencing challenges in your relationships, family life, work, or any other area of life, help is available. Email your question to office@theleader.info.
Dear Sara,
Three years down the line, after mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer's my former life is now unrecognizable.
I went from working at a job l loved in middle management, to giving it up to care for her. My biggest gripe is that my selfish brother and sister hardly help. They turn up for a weekly visit bringing flowers that mum doesn't even glance at, and only spend one hour with her.
The relationship with my siblings was never close, but just lately I am resenting all the work I do, when they don't lift a finger to help.
Last month I had a screaming
match with my brother about them helping me more. He said it was unfair of me to dictate to him, when we had all had a conversation months earlier about mum needing more care, and that he and my sister felt she should receive professional help, rather than me care for her.
My sister said much the same; that it was my decision to give up work and care for mum, and that for me then to bleat to them about them helping more with the load, was unfair.
The arguments became more heated with me being accused of having an ulterior motive and wanting to justify more inheritance at the end of the
day. I admit I should receive remuneration for what I do. My brother said, it was my choice to do that, and that they still feel mum should get professional help, either in the home, or go in to specialist residential care.
Iam not sure what you are asking me here. It is commendable that you gave up your life to care for your mother.
I of course, do not know how your particular situation is, but you admit that your siblings have suggested bringing in professionals, or placing your mum in a facility where she can get good care.
It sounds like you are overwhelmed and suffering burn-out, and that in itself will affect your emotional health and decision making.
You tell me that your father left your mother well provided for, with plenty of means to care for her in her old age. It may now
be time for you to hand this huge load of caring, over to professionals. If you are able to bring care into the home, this might be better for your mum so that she can stay in her own surroundings.
Otherwise, there are some very good Alzheimer's and Dementia specific care homes you should consider. As for you considering that you should receive a larger share of inheritance.... I can perhaps see why your siblings became angry; your mother has not yet passed away, and you may have made things seem as though you are only acting for financial gain.
1. a. Holland Dozier and Holland. b. Double Dutch. c. Central. d. Amish. e. Richard Dreyfus. 2. a: Evergreen (Love Theme From A Star Is Born) - Barbra Streisand. b: Dancing Queen –Abba. c: You Make Me Feel Like Dancing - Leo Sayer. d: Hotel California - The Eagles. e: When I Need You - Leo Sayer. 3. It was a 6 wheel Formula 1 race car. 4. a. Die Hard. b. The Spy Who Loved Me. c. Marathon Man. d. Schindlers List. 5. 15 X higher. 6. Paris. 7. The Eurovision Song Contest. 8. Baltic Sea. 9. Mussels. 10. Blue. 11. Tunis. 12. Bucks Fizz. 13. Their Height (The worlds tallest people). 14. The Grapes of Wrath. 15. A 1945 Roman?e-Conti from Domaine de la Roman?e-Conti, which sold for $558,000 USD in 2018. 16. Banksters. 17. Southern Rhodesia (Now Zimbabwe). 18. St Sebastian. 19. The human body. From the film Fantastic Voyage. 20. Amadeus (Mozart)
SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION
RECORD TRAFFIC FOR CARTAGENA PORT
The Port of Cartagena ranked fourth in Spain for cargo in 2025, handling 34.39 million tonnes, slightly above forecasts despite a 4.3% drop. Liquid bulk led, topping 26 million tonnes, while solid bulk fell sharply. Container traffic remained minimal. Nationally, Spain’s ports moved 556.6 million tonnes, with record TEU container traffic of 18.6 million. Passenger movements rose 4%, highlighting the growing role of ports in both trade and national connectivity.
ORIHUELACITY CARNIVALON
FRIDAY
Orihuela’s 2026 Carnival Parade will take place on Friday, February 13, starting at Alfonso XIII and Calle Ballesteros Villanueva and ending at Glorieta Gabriel Miro from 6:30pm. Organised by the Tourism Department, the family-friendly parade features local dance schools, musical entertainment, children’s characters, and traditional Carnival festivities.
The event boosts social life and tourism in the city.
While a lively spectacle is expected, no official budget for the parade has been publicly released.
Los Montesinos Waste goes Door to Door
Los Montesinos is set to launch its largestever municipal contract, a 10-year, ˇ5.38 million door-to-door waste collection system covering household waste, street cleaning, and urban maintenance.
The town has invested in an electric collection truck and over 10,000 bins and compostable bags, partly funded by EU grants. Residents will separate waste at home, reducing disposal costs and helping control fees.
While apartment blocks may face space challenges, public info sessions aim to ensure smooth implementation, making Los Montesinos a regional pioneer in sustainable waste management.
FREE COURSES AT CAMARA ORIHUELA COSTA
The Orihuela Chamber of Commerce has launched its 2026 training programs under Talento Joven (16–29) and Talento 45+ (45–60) to boost employability.
Courses combine digital skills with traditional trades, including floristry, clothing design, and tailoring.
Talento Joven offerings include social media, lifeguard, leisure monitor, and intensive English courses starting February–June. Talento 45+ begins with floristry and digital skills courses, followed by design, aesthetics, and employability programs later in the year.
Classes are held in Orihuela city and Orihuela Costa, with registration via the Chamber website or contact details provided.
PILAR BUDGET APPROVED
The Pilar de la Horadada Town Council has approved its 2026 budget of e39.2 million, despite opposition from PSOE and VOX. No tax increases are planned, and municipal debt will fall by around 10%.
Key spending includes staff (e17m) and goods/services (e18m), while e11m from surpluses funds ongoing investment projects.
The budget allocates funds to culture, education, health, sport, social services, and public safety, supporting vulnerable residents and local commerce.
CHURCH SERVICES
Church of JESUS CHRIST of LATTER-DAY SAINTS
We meet at 10am each Sunday in the chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. Torrevieja
Phone or whatsapp 659 016 733
SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. A friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship.
Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain
Pilar Christian Community Pentecostal/Evangelical Church
Sunday Service 11.00am
C/Escultor Ribera Girona 67
Pilar de la Horadada
Join us for a multitude of activities, coffee mornings, excercise, bereavement group pastor@pilarchurch.com
HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
English speaking interdenominational church in La Marina welcoming all nationalities and church backgrounds.
Sunday Worship 11am with Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month.
Calle Justo Antonio Quesada 19A. +34 966 184 728
CARS FOR SALE
AUTOMOVILES CRESPO
Car of the Month 2023 FORD PUMATITANIUMHYBRID- 21,500€
Visit our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars. For a small selection of our latest offers see ad on page 5.
We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars for price, choice and quality.
ENGLISH SPOKEN Tel 96 666 22 60.
CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS
AGE CONCERN COSTA BLANCA SUR
We are here to help with well being forthe over50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre in La Siesta, ring 966 786 887 or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es
TRANSLATIONS/ EFFICIENT RATES
ROYAL BRITISH LEGIO N
DOCTORS,HOSPITALS, EMPADRON'S.
Any documents or medical reports translated. Dates available for NIE's.
TIE Application dates : March &April Residencia Renewals. Driving licence UK - Spanish also available. Contact Jason : Mobile/WhatsApp 603 86 87 56
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE
Candy-cane is an energetic one-year-old who enjoys playtime with his toys and thrives on walks and new adventures.
For more info contact: info@satanimalrescue.com or WhatsApp 688 792 515
ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, TORREVIEJA BRANCH
Afriendly and engaging group of people who embrace their ethos of Comradeship, Loyalty, Patriotism & Unity while enjoying a variety of social events, meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 1700 hrs at Silverstoneís 2023 (Bar/Restaurant). Av. Romero, 03176 Montebello, Contact: Membership Secretary, Carl Louden; email: carllouden@msn.com or Phone +34 678 518 202
ALMORADI
SCRABBLE CLUB
Why not give SCRABBLE a try. We are a new club that meets on the first Wednesday of every month at Cafe Almoradi, opposite the health centre. From 3:00 - 5:30 For further info, contact Christine on 694 437 698
ERECTILE DISFUNCTION
DO YOU HAVE ED PROBLEMS ?
We have the solution! Jells, cialis, sidenafil. Over 7 products for both men and for ladies! Mixed trial packs. Free delivery throughout Costa del Sol, or via post to all the other costas WhatsApp or call 603117394.
COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA)
Orihuela Costa residents over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open twice a week for a programme of English speaking activities and Spanish lessons. Activities include Games & Quiz on Mondays. Art sessions and Easy Conversation on Wednesdays. Information and advice regards living in Spain. Anyone wanting to join CCA social activities can pop along between 1-2pm Mondays and Wednesdays for more info from Eva or Norah in the Cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com
AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Tel: 96 678 6887.
HELP MAR MENOR
Coffee & Company events are back on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at Bar / Rest Las Claras del Mar Menor, C/ Helena, Los Alcazares from 10am - Open to all nationalities who may be feeling isolated, lonely or hoping to meet new friends. Our volunteers will be on hand on the day.
HELP is a non profit organisation, we raise money from donations to give to local charities within Murcia.
The next meeting of the OrihuelaCostaand District Branch 3600 will take place at the Havana LoungeBar, 11A Calle Mar, Cabo Roig, situatedat the back of the Cabo Roig
Strip on Friday 6 February, starting at 3pm. Members, ex members, and non-members are welcome. For further information call 616 917 675 or 711 082 090
Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa Branch
The Inbetweeners at El Plantio
Last week, members of the Inbetweeners Golf Society were back on home turf at El Plantio. The day began with familiar British weather, with miserable, foggy, damp and cold conditions as members set off for the course.Fortunately, anyone worrying about their waterproofs needn’t have — on arrival, we were greeted by calm, clear blue skies and much more pleasant conditions.
The course was once again presented in excellent condition, serving up its usual stern test. Tight fairways and lightning-fast greens kept everyone on their toes and ensured there was no room for switching off.
Following the round, members retired to the clubhouse for some well-earned refreshments, where the day’s winners were congratulated and prizes handed
out — along with the usual post-round analysis and selective memory.
All in all, it was another thoroughly enjoyable day for the Society, featuring plenty of good golf, a few questionable shots, and, as always, excellent company.
The Day’s Winners were: 1st Place:Sam Williamson (37 points), 2nd Place:Bertrand La Font (35 points), 3rd Place:Ruud van Meggelen (31 points)
A bigwell doneto everyone who took part, and special congratulations to all our winners!
Looking for a golf society where thebanter is as good as the birdies?
Visitwww.inbetweenersgolfsociety.comto view upcoming events and find out how to become a member. All skill levels and nationalities welcome — because at The Inbetweeners, everyone’s part of the game
BLOWN AWAY AT LA SIESTA CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Club Championship is, for obvious reasons, the main event in the La Siesta calendar. On Saturday 44golfers prepared to do battle to be crowned king or queen.
Unfortunately it seemed from the off as the major challenge was not going to be one’s personal golfing abilities - more how to cope with the wind. Sunny ? Check. Dry ? Check. Wind ? Oh, my goodness. Check. Check. Check.
Standing on the first tee at Campoamor group one were faced with 70 km/hr gusts.I don’t think we have seen so many bobble hats in one place since the BBC stopped broadcasting Ski Sunday. Anyway, back to the golf ….. as golfers laden down by the weight of extra clothing made their way around the course. “In the breeze, swing with ease” is the saying - but most completely forgot that in their frustrations to beat the conditions. The
scores weren’t all that bad at the halfway stage for many so there was hope of a reasonable competition for first place.
By the time the first group got to that point the wind was gusting at 87 km/hr and showing no sign of abating, so part two was going to be a bigger challenge. Although play was slow, all flights came home so well done to all competitors.
At the evening presentation dinner, new captain Steve Mott presented the prizes. In 5th place with 35 points was Steve Lugger, beaten on handicap by Gerry Gibson. 3rd was Ken Meredith with 36, who, was beaten by Brian Taylor on the same score.
The Queen of the Ball, was Bette Trotter with a magnificent 40points who followed up her hole in one earlier this month and picking up the Irish Cup last march. Bette is on the right road to picking up more silver ware in 2026.
Scotland and N Ireland Under-17 at Pinatar Arena
Around half a dozen under-17 national teams will descend on the Costa Calida later this month, with Pinatar Arena confirming it will host an international youth training camp from February 15 to 23.
Football federations from Norway, Sweden, Scotland, Poland and Northern Ireland have once again chosen the Murcia region to prepare for upcoming international commitments, while Estonia will make its debut appearance in the Region of Murcia.
All matches will be played at the Pinatar Arena complex in San Pedro del Pinatar, offering fans the chance to follow the progress of some of the most promising young talents in European football. Several fixtures will also be broadcast live, further promoting both the Region of Murcia and Pinatar Arena as leading football destinations.
The six participating teams are expected to generate more than 1,000 overnight stays across the Mar Menor and San Pedro del Pinatar during the nine-day event, reinforcing Pinatar Arena’s status as a hub for international football and highlighting its growing role in boosting off-season tourism along the Costa Calida.
Plaza Golf Society Tournament raises e6223 for Cancer Support
A huge thank you goes to everyone involved in thePlaza Golf Society tournament, held onFriday 12th December, and the presentation that followed atthe Hub in Villamartín Plaza.
The event was a tremendous success, with all golfers proudly wearingpink to raise cancer awareness, and each hole generously sponsored bylocal businesses, demonstrating outstanding community support.
The day was superbly organised by Mick and Tammy, with Mick also hosting the post-presentationauction and raffle, which helped raise vital funds for theAACC.
ThePink Ladieswere represented by Sandra, Natalie, Vanessa, and
Geraldine, who were selling AACC merchandise throughout the day.
Speaking after the event, the organisers said: “We are absolutely delighted with the support shown on the day. Everyone got behind the cause, and raising e6,223 for the AACC makes all the hard work worthwhile. We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout or a better atmosphere.”
The celebrations continued into the evening withkaraoke hosted by Russ, keeping spirits high well into the night. Once again, sincere thanks go to Mick and Tammy, along withSimon, Cam, and Sheryl from The Hub, plus Andre and all the hardworking staff, for helping to make the event such a fantastic success.
Past Lady Champs with winner Bette Trotter (centre)
180'S: John Rodford, Che Liam, Paul Moody, Emiel Schulling, Brain Abby, Nigel Justice, Tim Goodacre
HIGH FINISH: Craig Miller 138, Tim Goodacre 106, Olly Walker100
DIVISION 1
Tipsy Toad Toppers v Mind the Gap
What a battle, 72 three figure scores, including 3x180’s across both teams! Toppers took the first of the triples, including 180 from Rodford, Gap taking the following two games.The visitors battled on winning all the pairs outright, Liam scoring 180, despite plenty of high scores from the Toppers.Score 1-5.
Battle
Spence won the first for Toppers against Paul Moody scoring the third 180 of the
LEAGUE TABLES
DIVISION 1 PPtsF/A
Tipsy Toad Toppers3421:15
Mind the Gap2417:07
Fire Station B2216:08
Hub Hyenas2209:15
Illy's Oldies3009:27
DIVISION 2
Fire Station All Stars2417:07
CC Eagles2416:08
Meeting Point Dartagnan's3216:20
Leeson Street Trotters2211:13
Milo's3012:24
DIVISION 3
Leeson Street Nomads2417:07
Domino Desperado's2415:09
CK1 Chuggers2213:11
CC's Bee's3114:22
Tipsy Cow3113:23
DIVISION 4
Tipsy Tigers3627:09
Tipsy Cow Archers3523:13
Illy's Idols3317:19
CK1 Tornado's3212:24
Hub Hellraiser's3116:20
Queens & Jesters3113:23
CC Eagles v Milos
Yet another battle, Milos still looking for their first win.It was neck and neck after the first half Eagles, winning 2 of the 3 triples, Paul Christopher scoring 100,140 and Milos Samuel James 140 out D1 to take the 3rd.There was a flurry of 3 figure scores in the pairs, Milos Antonio Lara and Javi De Gea both 134 taking the first, Eagles taking the 2nd with James and Cain Garcia the last.Score 3-3.
Eagles Christopher won the 1st of the singles with a 16 darts finish 140,100,134 out D11 and 3x100 out D30.Teammates Carlos Escanaciano and Marijn Noordermeer won their games.Score 6-3.Visitors De Gea took the 4th only for Eagles Manu Collard and Harry Belga to take the final 2 games, and the win. POTM:Christopher - De Gea DIVISION 3
Leeson St Nomads v Tipsy Cow
Schuilling the 2nd for Bees.
Teammates Colin Kernanhan and Steve Wilson won their singles for Desperados, score 7-3.Bees Mark Timothy won the 5th but the “homies”finished on a high, Tansey winning the final game.
POTM:C Kernahan - Schuilling
DIVISION 4
Illy’s Idols v CK1 Tornados Idols Maria Ross recording 84 out D9, opened the scoring in the triples, with teammates Carol Webb out D16 and Sharon Williams out D1.Tornados Bill Leaves won first of the pairs Ross taking the 2nd out on 95 for Idols and Kirsty Green scoring 83 took the third.Score 4-2. Leaves opened the scoring in the singles for Tornados and teammate Sharon O’Roarke won the 2nd.Idols Williams scoring 85,80 took the 3rd and Sue Wade took the 4th for Tornados.Score 5-5.In the 5th Paul Ladlow scored 92 but Winnie MacKay 82,98 out D8 took the game.Tornados Green scored 85 out D8 to draw.
POTM:Webb - Green
Queens & Jesters v Tipsy Tigers Tigers came out fighting to maintain pole position in this division winning the 1st of the triples Lee Maiden scoring 140, 81,78. The Queens fought back taking the rest of the triples.Tigers Simon de Lacy, Sharon Crane and Maiden took all the pairs.Score 2-4. The hosts fought back teammates and partners Marie and Matt Cummins taking the first two singles (score 4-4), only for De Lacy to take the 3rd.Debbie Wright equalised taking the 4th for the hosts, but the Tigers were fearless, teammates Maiden and Pat Schofield winning the last 2 singles and the game.
POTM:M Cummins - Damery
night.Brown took the 2nd for the Gap against Campbell.Toppers Bobenas took the 3rd against Wright only for Gap’s Carret to take the 4th against Moran.Score 3-7.Toppers finished on a high with team mates Rodford and Rutter both winning their singles.
100, 180, all winning their singles.
POTM:Goodacre - Abby DIVISION 2
Dartagnans v Fire Station All Stars
POTM:Rodford - Sanderson
Fire Station B v Illy’s Oldies
Both teams out for their first win and the Station weren’t taking any prisoners winning the first 6 games.The hosts Tim Goodacre out on 106 in the final of the triples and they had numerous three figure scores.Oldies didn’t score well in this half but Brian Abby managed a 180 and out on D16 in his pairs but to no avail.Score 6-0
Oldies Craig Miller won the first of the singles out on 138, despite Station’s Nigel Justice scoring 180, but this was the visitors only win of the night! Teammates Farmer 140, 2x100, Moran 117,125.Walker 100,134 out on 100, Oscar Lopez 2x100, 140 and Goodacre
All Stars won all triples, all close games. In the pairs Maria Garcia and Suso 140 took the first against Tim Clarke 133, 140.Bryan Livsey and Ernie Willis 121 took the second and despite a 98 finish in the 3rd from Dartagnans Annette Dobson, Sean Monks and Simon Briant took the game.Score 2-4
Nomads out to gain pole position in the division taking 4 of the first 6 games with scores of 100,140 from Graham White and John Eyre 125, despite 2x140 from Cow’s Wayne Leivars.
Leivars went on to win the only Cow’s single of the night, Nomads taking the other 5, team mates Callum Ramm scoring 2x100, 119 and White 140.Score 9-3
POTM:White - Cummins
Dominoes Desperados v CC Bees
Dominoes won all 3 triples, Kevin Tansey scoring 117 and Akash Panchal 121.Bees took the 1st two pairs Emiel Schuilling scoring 180, Cameron Nesbitt 116 and Paula Howman 111, Desperados taking the last.Score 4-2
Tipsy Cow Archers v Hub Hellraisers Another duel in this one, Archers Steve Collins opening the score in the triples only for Sue Spiers scoring 112 and out on 80 to equalise.Collins took the 3rd triple out D1.Carol Peace equalised in the pairs only for Archers Steve Fallen 96 D1 taking the 5th and teammate Paul Raffell 92,101 D9 to take the 6th.Score 4-2.
Suso and Livsey maintained their clear sheet winning both their singles score 4-4. All Stars Sean took the 3rd and Luke took the fourth 2x100, 131 out D10 for a 19 dart finish.Briant took the fifth.Score 4-7. Dartagnans Sharon Frain put up a good fight in the final game finding form on her 19’s against Tim Clarke, taking the 1st, but Clarke took the final two, all games down to the wire.
Desperados Panchal won the first single,
POTM:Garcia - Monks
The duel continued, Archers winning the first 3 singles Karen Collins scoring 125, out 42, Steve Faldon out 24 and Jan Norbury out D2.Score 7-2. Hellraisers refused to yield and took the final 3 singles, Spiers scoring 2x89 out D2 in the final game. POTM:K Collins - Spiers
recommenced in the singles all games coming down to the wire.Pete
Schuilling - Kernahan
Rodford - Sanderson
Collins - Spiers
Christopher - De Gea
White - Leivars
HOME DELIGHT AS THADER MAKE LIGHT WORK OF PROMOTION CHASING ALICANTE
Raul Mora´s blue & white striped warriors continued their excellent run of home results in Rojales, as they eased past CFI Alicante.This comprehensive victory evened out the score from when they narrowly lost at Alicante last October.
Not having played a competitive match for 2 weeks (last weekends match at Alberic was postponed due to inclement weather), they must have been apprehensive at the arrival of promotion seeking CFI.
New signings Pablo & Juan Canals made their squad debuts, in a side that desperately needed to continue the positive ´fortress Moi Gomez Stadium´ mentality.
Livewire,marauding full back Mathis, struck a beauty on 5 mins, which was desperately saved by visiting keeper Molina at the foot of his near post.
Six mins later, a fierce drive by Serhiy was fumbled by Molina into the path of Guille, who clinically lobbed the stranded keeper, putting the hosts ahead.
Less than a minute had elapsed, before their advantage was doubled.Following a quick break out from defence, the ball was played to Serhiy, who then proceeded to slide the ball under a hapless keeper from an acute angle.
Serhiy should have helped himself to a brace on 18 mins, but when faced with a clear run at goal, his indecisiveness resulted in the danger being averted.
Midway through the half, Luis was called upon to twice makes saves in quick succession, as Thader´s keeper was stirred from his slumber.
Not surprisingly, the game was all but put to bed on 39 mins, following a well worked move.
An inch perfect 20 yard cross from Guille, found Mathis lurking at the far post, who then coolly fired home from close range.
Luis was called upon on 47 mins, saving well from a goal bound CFI effort.
Nasty looking injuries to Thader men Berni & Guille, took a bit off the shine of a hard days work, but hopefully they are not as bad as initially appeared.
Having maintained a low profile in the first
AFTER A TEMPORARY relocation in 2025 due to wildfires, the Genesis Invitational returns to Riviera 19-22nd February.The club will also host the 2026 U.S. Womens Open.
Reckoned a difficult course, notable exceptions to the list of winners at Riviera are Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. Riviera opened in the Santa Monica Canyon, California, in 1926. It cost over $200,000 to build, making it one of the most expensive courses in America. The 1952 film Pat and Mike, starring Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy was filmed at
Riviera, as was The Caddy, starring Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin, and Follow the Sun, about Ben Hogan, starring Glen Ford. Riviera’s many famous members included Humphrey Bogart, Peter Falk, Dean Martin, Gregory Peck, Howard Hughes, Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks. The actor Conrad Veidt died of a heart attack at the club in 1943, probably after being presented wth his bar bill.
PEDRENA, A NORTHERN SPANISH town near Santander, was where Seve Ballesteros was born on April 9th, 1957 and passed away on May 7th 2011.
half, ref Aaron Garcia certainly showed his other side in the new half, when he proceeded to caution no less than 7 players.He also brandished a red card in the direction of Thader´s dugout, to their performance coach, for derogatory comments made.All in all, the 2nd half proved to be a damp squid, as Thader appeared content to sit back and defend their lead.
CFI did manage a consolation goal inside stoppage time, courtesy of a headed goal at
In between, he won The Masters twice and The Open three times while also leading Team Europe to four Ryder Cup victories and a retaining tie during eight appearances as a player and one as captain. The Spanish legend also achieved 45 European Tour titles, two World Cup wins with Spain and 6 European Tour Order of Merit victories. Pedrena commissioned a life-size bronze statue to be placed in the heart of the town, showing Seve’s famous fist-pumping pose after winning the 1984 Open at St Andrews. His dramatic birdie on the 18th gave him a 12 under par victory, defeating Tom Watson by two strokes.
Unbelievably, the statue was recently stolen, and a man was arrested after it was found chopped up in his yard for scrap. The council said: "If anyone has observed suspicious movements please let the local police know.” I should think the culprit suspiciously staggering away with a life size bronze statue probably gave them a hint.
IN THE 1987 RYDER CUP at Muirfield Village Ben Crenshawgot off to a poor start in the singles, and his frustration got the better of him as he went two-down. Walking off the green he slammed his Wilson 8802 putter into the ground, and It snapped.
Whether intentionally or not, Ben had broken his putter in anger, so according to the Rules he wasn’t allowed a replacement. For the rest of the round he had to putt with his long-irons, and he did so very effectively until Eamonn Darcy holed a heroic putt on the 18th to win one-up. Under the new
An early blitz set Thader on course for an emphatic home victory
the far post by Bemjillos, following a sweet assist from the left wing.
This encouraging result lifts Thader up to 9th place in the Community division on 23 points.
Next weekend they make the trip up the AP7 towards Calpe, hoping to improve on the 1-1 draw,from the last time the 2 sides met. Checkout CD Thader facebook page for details on this match and much, much more information related to Thader.
2025 Rules players may now replace a damaged club like for like during a round as long as the damage was not caused by abuse.
Good news for players with short fuses, although the Ben Crenshaws of this world could probably putt effectively with a broom handle if they had to.
KEVIN NA’s FOUR-YEAR stint at LIV Golf League ended in January. The 42-year-old five-time PGA Tour winner had previously collected $38 million in prize money and his LIV earnings have considerably increased his pile of noodles. However, he does not qualify for the PGA Tour's Returning Member Program and will probably be banned from all their associated tournaments until at least September.
His short-term options are either play on the Asian Tour or obtain sponsor's invites to DP World Tour events, eventually ending up back on the PGA Tour. There will probaby be groans at his reappearance, arguably the slowest player on Tour he reportedly has to wake his opponent to tell him it’s his turn to putt.
IN 1965 LEE TREVINO was mowing the lawn in front of his Dallas home when an expensive car pulled up. Do you speak English? the lady driver enquired. “Yes Ma’am, can I help you?” he answered, “How much do you charge for your work?” she wanted to know. Trevino scratched his head. “The lady in this house lets me sleep with her,” he smiled. The expensive car promptly accelerated away.
