Edition 1132 of the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader Newspaper 15 - 21 June 2026
Paseo del Mar officially opened its doors on the Dique de Levante promenade in Torrevieja, on Thursday evening, marking the arrival of a major new leisure, dining and social destination beside the city’s port area.
The opening ceremony was attended by Enrique Riquelme, President of Empresas del Sol; Eduardo Dolon, Mayor of Torrevieja; and Juan Francisco Perez Llorca, President of the Generalitat Valenciana.
Promoted by Empresas del Sol, with management and commercialisation led by OGS, Optima Global Services, the project represents an investment of more than e60 million and is set to generate over 400 direct jobs.
With 10,500 square metres of gross leasable area and an underground car park offering more than 650 spaces, Paseo del Mar is designed to enhance accessibility while strengthening Torrevieja’s economic, tourism and leisure offering.
MORE ON PAGE 2
FROM PAGE 1 - PASEO DE LA MAR
Created as an open, Mediterranean and experience-led space, Paseo del Mar aims to become part of everyday life in Torrevieja: a place to meet, dine, relax and enjoy the city’s privileged seafront setting. Its concept brings together gastronomy, entertainment and shared experiences in a modern environment connected to the port and local life.
“Paseo del Mar is an area designed for the city — a place to meet, enjoy and stay,” said Enrique Riquelme. “We want to become part of Torrevieja’s daily life and contribute a new meeting place connected with the port and the local community.”
The complex features 27 leisure and restaurant units, bringing together national and international brands across a wide range of segments. It is aimed at families, young people, couples, tourists and visitors alike. Tenants include Neocine, with state-of-the-art cinemas; Ozone; Lateral; McDonald’s; KFC; Ale-Hop; Wave The Wave; 100 Montaditos; Belros; Santa Gloria; Amorino; Mocca del Mar; The Harbour Torrevieja; Brasa y Leña; Sibuya; Saona; La Rollerie; Foster’s Hollywood; and Casa Carmen, among others.
Mayor Eduardo Dolon described the opening as a historic day for Torrevieja.
“With the opening of Paseo del Mar, one of the most important urban transformations our city has experienced in decades reaches completion,” he said. “We are recovering our port for the people, reconnecting Torrevieja with the sea and launching a modern, open and sustainable area designed for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.” Dolon added that the project is the result of years of work, cooperation between public authorities and significant private investment.
“Paseo del Mar is not just a leisure centre; it is a symbol of the new Torrevieja we are building — a more attractive, more dynamic city with a higher quality of life,” he said. He also said that the transformation of Torrevieja’s port will mark a turning point in the city’s tourism and economic development, strengthening its position as one of the Mediterranean’s leading destinations while returning a key part of the city’s identity and history to local residents.
Juan Francisco Perez Llorca, President of the Generalitat Valenciana, praised Torrevieja’s transformation and highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration, noting that more than e100 million has been invested across the wider port redevelopment.
He also underlined the Valencian Community’s leadership in job creation, stating that “for every two young people who find work in Spain, one finds it in the Valencian Community.” He concluded that Paseo del Mar is proof that when public administrations and businesses work together, they can deliver historic results for the future of the region.
The architecture and design of Paseo del Mar have been conceived to maximise the connection with the maritime environment and the Mediterranean lifestyle, prioritising open spaces and the visitor experience. In doing so, the complex aims to establish itself as a reference point for leisure and dining on the Costa Blanca.
Beyond its commercial and gastronomic offer, Paseo del Mar has been created to host activities and experiences for different audiences, reinforcing its role as a social meeting place and a driver of urban vitality.
By combining restaurants, entertainment, open-air spaces and a prime seafront location, Paseo del Mar Torrevieja introduces a distinctive new experience that goes beyond traditional commercial formats.
Connected to the promenade and port activity, the destination is set to become a new landmark for residents and visitors, bringing together dining, leisure and Mediterranean life in one exceptional setting.
Monday 15th - Sunday 21st June 2026
Atax inspector has told Orihuela Criminal Court that the Vega Baja vehicle inspection station spent e1.4 million on promotional diaries in 2005 at a vastly inflated price in an alleged attempt to reduce its taxable profits and avoid almost e500,000 in Corporate Tax and VAT.
The evidence was given during the third session of the trial involving Orihuela mayor Jose Vegara, who was a joint chief executive of the company at the time, three other board members and the representative of Oricofi, the firm that supplied the diaries.
The defendants are facing charges of alleged tax fraud and falsification of commercial documents. According to the prosecution’s preliminary conclusions, each could face a seven-year prison sentence if convicted.
The case centres on the purchase of 100,000 promotional diaries, which the vehicle inspection company said were intended as gifts for customers. The company paid e17 for each diary, although the inspector told the court that their true market value was less than e1.30.
He said the expense was recorded in the company’s 2005 accounts, artificially increasing its costs and reducing its declared profits. According to the prosecution, this reduced the company’s Corporate Tax and VAT liability by approximately e488,000.
The e1.4 million expenditure represented around a quarter of the company’s annual turnover and was greater than its total personnel costs for the year.
The inspector described the price as “artificial”, “completely fictitious” and “exaggerated”. He acknowledged that the diaries
had been supplied, but said the value stated on the invoices did not reflect their real commercial worth.
The court heard that the diaries were initially purchased for about e1.31 each. They then passed through several intermediary companies, increasing first to e1.56 and later to e1.97.
The inspector said those increases could be explained by normal commercial profit margins. However, he said the final jump to e17 per diary was unjustified and represented an increase of several thousand per cent.
The witness appeared in place of the tax official who began the inspection proceedings in 2019 and has since died. He said he had independently reviewed the case file and supported the conclusions of the original offence report.
He also told the court that he had corrected part of the tax calculation, removing items that should not have been included in the company’s 2005 tax liability.
Defence lawyers questioned how the Tax Agency had established that e17 per diary was excessive. The inspector replied that the actual chain of commercial transactions provided clear evidence of their real value.
He also questioned the economic logic of a company with annual turnover of about e6 million spending around a quarter of that amount on promotional diaries.
The court also heard evidence about the movement of money after payment. Some funds were allegedly deposited and quickly withdrawn in cash, while other payments were transferred to a third company.
The inspector said these transactions could suggest that money was returned to people or businesses linked to the inspection station, although this is not the central issue in the trial.
The proceedings, originally expected to last three sessions, will now continue over five.
The final hearing is scheduled for July 16.
No Easy Ride for Taxi Hopefuls
Twenty of the 22 applicants competing for eight new taxi licences in Orihuela have failed a municipal examination, triggering complaints that the test focused on obscure knowledge rather than the demands of taxi work.
Only two candidates passed the second professional competency test, receiving marks of 5.38 and 6.08 out of 10. A minimum score of five was required. All applicants had previously passed a psychometric assessment.
Candidates criticised the marking system, under which each incorrect answer carried a penalty equal to 25 per cent of the value of a correct response.
The 60-question examination covered taxi regulations, vehicle requirements, traffic offences, shared service areas and fare zones. However, much of the paper demanded knowledge of Orihuela’s streets, public buildings, cultural attractions, healthcare facilities and outlying districts.
Applicants were asked to locate streets, museums, municipal offices, foundations and training centres. Other questions covered the Medieval Market, the significance of the July 17 public holiday, Orihuela’s population and the number of health centres and medical offices serving coastal and rural communities. They also had to describe routes
between landmarks, including the railway station and the Miguel Hernandez House Museum, and between the Glorieta and the cathedral.
The Orihuela Costa section required knowledge of the Town Hall, sports centre, post office, emergency centre and Hotel La Zenia. One question asked candidates to identify a hamlet exactly 32 kilometres from the city centre.
One applicant described the test as “ridiculous”, arguing that drivers use GPS navigation to locate health centres, shopping centres and other destinations.
Several candidates are expected to appeal, claiming some questions relied on legislation or information that had recently changed.
Applicants have five working days to submit objections, after which the examination board has another five days to issue its decisions.
Transport councillor Victor Siguenza said the process of awarding the eight licences remained on schedule and could be completed in July.
Orihuela currently has 42 authorised taxis, unchanged since 2005, despite its population rising to around 88,000. The shortage is severe on the coast during summer and has encouraged illegal operators to offer unlicensed journeys to towns and airports.
RYANAIR SEAT CHARGE PROBE
Ryanair is being investigated by the UK Competition and Markets Authority over claims that parents may be unfairly charged to sit beside their children.
The watchdog said the airline’s family seating policy can add about £8 each way to a booking.
Ryanair requires an adult travelling with children aged two to 11 to reserve a “mandatory family seat”, while up to four children are seated beside that adult free of charge.
The CMA will examine whether the policy complies with consumer law, whether parents are paying for the airline to meet child-safety or disability obligations, and whether the charge is
included in the total price at the start of booking.
The regulator stressed that the inquiry is at an early stage and no finding of wrongdoing has been made.
Ryanair dismissed the investigation as “bogus” and insisted its policy complies with relevant legislation. The CMA said it believed Ryanair was the only airline operating from the UK to impose this fee.
Consumer group Which? welcomed the inquiry and urged Ryanair to end the charge. Companies found to have breached consumer law can face fines of up to 10% of global turnover.
PROMOTION FUELS STADIUM CALL
Sueña Torrevieja has congratulated SC Torrevieja CF on its promotion to the Tercera RFEF, describing the achievement as a historic moment for the club and a source of pride for the entire city.
Party spokesperson Pablo Samper praised the players, coaching staff, directors, sponsors and supporters for their commitment throughout the season. He said the success belonged not only to the club, but to everyone who had helped restore Torrevieja’s place on the football map.
Samper said the promotion should now act as the decisive push for long-promised improvements to the city’s football infrastructure, particularly the full refurbishment of the Vicente Garcia Stadium.
Sueña Torrevieja has reminded the City Council that redevelopment of the stadium was included in agreements linked to the 2026 municipal budget. The party is calling for a clear timetable, defined construction phases, firm administrative deadlines and sufficient funding to ensure the project moves beyond promises.
While acknowledging improvements made at the Nelson
Mandela stadium, Samper said Torrevieja could not continue relying on temporary or partial solutions. He argued that the growth of grassroots football, the club’s promotion and the demands of higher-level competition made it essential to accelerate the planning, tendering and construction process.
The party wants Vicente Garcia to return as Torrevieja’s principal football venue, equipped with modern, accessible and practical facilities for the first team, academy players and other local clubs throughout the year.
Samper said football in the city was growing, supporters were responding and Torrevieja now had an opportunity to plan with greater ambition. He urged the council to honour its commitments and use the promotion as a catalyst for wider investment in local sport.
Sueña Torrevieja said the club’s success should mark the beginning of a new era. The city, it added, already has a team, loyal supporters, a strong youth structure and a promising future. What it now needs is a stadium capable of matching those ambitions.
TThe party again congratulated the club and the wider blueand-white community, while reaffirming its commitment to improved sporting facilities and supporting football development across every age group in the municipality for years ahead.
DECOMPOSED BODY WASHED UP ONTO LA MATA BEACH
he Civil Guard has opened an investigation after a decomposed body was found near La Mata beach in Torrevieja last week.
Two paddle surfers spotted the body floating close to the salt canal and the border with Guardamar del Segura on Monday afternoon. Local Police activated protocols before Civil Guard officers took charge of the scene.
Recovering the body proved difficult because of its condition.
Having previously been covered with a thermal blanket it was later removed from the beach as investigators began efforts to identify the deceased and determine the cause and circumstances of death.
Early indications, including clothing, suggest the person may have been a migrant who died during a sea crossing, although this remains unconfirmed.
No missing swimmer alert had been reported in either La Mata or Guardamar.
TuesCaptain’s Table10:30AM 16th JuneCCPunta Marina, Punta Prima
ThursChadwick’s Bar 10:30AM 25th JuneVillamartin, Orihuela Costa
More Homes as another land selloff sparks fury in Orihuela Costa
Orihuela City Council is pressing ahead with the auction of three valuable municipal plots on the Orihuela Costa, a move critics will see as the latest raid on the coast’s public assets in the name of development.
The land, valued at more than e21.6 million including VAT, could deliver 255 new homes across La Ciñuelica, La Cuerda and Peña del Aguila. But in an area already crying out for roads, health services, public facilities, maintenance and basic infrastructure, the decision risks adding yet more pressure to a coastline residents say has been squeezed for years.
The council insists the sale is a golden opportunity. Officials say every euro raised will be reinvested in Orihuela Costa, funding projects such as the renovation of the second health centre, new public facilities, water infrastructure and other long-promised improvements.
Yet the question hanging over the coast is blunt: why must Orihuela Costa sacrifice
more public land to receive the services it should already have?
The plots include R-4 in PAU 20 La Ciñuelica, priced at e4.15 million for 66 homes; R-11 in La Cuerda, valued at e6.13 million for 89 homes; and AUR-38 in Peña del Aguila, priced at e11.33 million for 100 homes. Developers will bid through an ascending public auction, meaning the final price could rise higher.
Councillors Matias Ruiz and Manuel Mestre argue the sale represents responsible management and a political commitment to the coast. Mayor Pepe Vegara says the proceeds will stay in Orihuela Costa and help protect its future. But residents have heard promises before. For them, this is not simply an auction. It is another test of whether the authorities are genuinely investing in Orihuela Costa — or plundering its remaining assets while leaving the coast to absorb the inevitable consequences.
Are You ‘Smart for your Age’?
You may have difficulty in crediting this, dear reader, but I was once known as being ‘smart for my age.’ Then obviously and inexplicably something went awry with the head cogs and all changed – but we’ll return to that in a moment.
In Johnstown National School, I was known for being smart for my age. ‘Tell him, Bernie’, the master would invite when a fellow pupil failed to answer a ceist. My parents knew it and my aunts spread the gospel far and wide that I was smart for my age.
I had such an interest in the English readers and history books that I knew everything in them two years ahead of when my class would come to it.
I learned the capital of every country in the world just for fun I received the highest marks in the Primary Cert exam and I even won a £10 a year Westmeath County Council scholarship to attend Castlepollard Vocational School. (I only stayed the one year)
I tell you this, not to brag, but to ask if anyone can shine a light on how all this smartness for my age could go belly-up after walking out those school gates for the last time. At eighteen I would have done well to consult with the ‘smart for his age’ eight years old me! And this is how the story continued. Let me try to explain. I changed from being smart for my age to having the smartness lagging ten years behind my actual age – if you
get my drift like.
Some of you smart readers might term this ‘hindsight’. But if only I had held onto being smart for my age, wouldn’t I have the benefit of that same hindsight right when I needed it most? It makes sense … doesn’t it?
All of my life I could look back and see clearly what I should have done differently a decade earlier. In other words, the smart for my age got stuck in a groove while the speedometer of aging kept ticking away. My smartness just didn’t keep up with my age.
I am curious to know how this was with you, dear reader. I ask the ceist because I had classmates back in school who … how shall we put it … fell a centimeter or two below the water line that said ‘smart for your age.’
But then many of these boys and girls got smart for their age in adult life – as my smartness went into reverse.
This has nothing to do with regrets, I hasten to add, but we have to call it like it is. Had I continued to be smart for my age it would not have taken a decade to decide to dump d’oul demon drink.
And shouldn’t I always have ignored any lies told about me instead of wasting valuable energy defending myself against people that didn’t count?
Sure I might even have continued my golf career and benefited from all the business they tell us can bewon on the golf course –and I would always have known when ‘enough is enough.’
If I was smart for my age as a parent I might not have always been quite as strict on my children and I could have been a more appreciative husband.
I might not have taken some of my great friends for granted and I would have asked more people, ‘what do you think?’ This is what happens when you leave the smartness for your age behind in school.
I would have ignored the battles that aren’t worth fighting; learned to speak Irish and Spanish fluently and I would have told more people how much I cared about them, before it was too late.
But halleluiah … as is often the case, you only have to wait long enough and the wheel
turns again. ‘He is smart for his age’ they said when I was going to school, but lo and behold, we are arriving in that category of smartness again. You see, I am now an octogenarian and a lot of people don’t expect you to know anything after you reach 80.
I can see how they look at me in wonderment when I make what someone considers a smart observation on Gaza or Graftonstown, or the difference between the moon and Mooncoin.
At my age you are sort of expected to be a dithering old fool, forgetful and speaking no sense about anything. ‘Does he take sugar in his coffee?!’
But it is like returning to my childhood these days with how they look at me when I contribute smartly to a conversation. I haven’t heard it yet, but it is only a matter of time until they are all turning to each other and remarking again; ‘he is smart for his age!’
DON’T FORGET
A man who knows his imperfections is just about as perfect as any man can be.
SAME GRID TWO SETS OF CLUES
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1.Roguish (4)
3.Demeanour (8)
8.Small (4)
9.Trachea (8)
11.Binoculars (5-7)
13.Hue (6)
14.Fervour (6)
17.Trenchancy (12)
20.Swap (8)
21.Daybreak (4)
22.Went before (8)
23.Otherwise (4)
DOWN DOWN
1.Stratagem (8)
2.Hide (7)
4.Threefold (6)
5.Rash (10)
6.Fuse (5)
7.Regular (4)
10.Judge (10)
12.Attendance (8)
15.Inclusive (7)
16.Solitary (6)
18.Recess (5)
19.Assist (4)
9. Who are the three daughters of King Lear?
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
HOMEWORK PENCILCASE
CRAYONS
ERASER
CALCULATOR
NOTEBOOK
SCISSORS
LUNCH BOX
SHARPENER
BOOKS
1. Howard Hughes was obsessed with which Rock Hudson film?
2. Who was known as the 'First Lady of Song'?
3. The name of which river or band translated means 'hated'?
4. What is green horseradish called in Japan?
5. Which famous horror film takes place in the sleepy little coastal town Bodega Bay?
6. The following are translations for various Italian pastas. Can you name the pasta? a. Little worms, b. Cooking pot, c. Little tongues, d. Butterflies, e. Little pies
7. The UN has a list of countries with the most land mines. Which European country is in the top ten?
8. Mario and Luigi are brothers in a famous computer game series. What is their surname?
10. The following words are from songs with 'Hill' or 'Hills' in the title. Can you name the song? a. He never shows his feelings. b. Oh there is thunder in our hearts. c. The wind in the willows played love's sweet melody. d. Like the wings of a bird that rise from the lake to the trees. e. To Flanders, Portugal and Spain. f. From father to son the blood runs thin
11. Charles Foster Kane's last word (Citizen Kane) was Rosebud. What was Rosebud?
12. A sound made by an 'Anatidae' and a pejorative name of a fraudulent or ignorant pretender of a certain profession. Five letters, second letter "U".
13. What is the name of the fictional Cumbrian prison where Norman Stanley Fletcher and Lennie Godber serve their time?
14. With the aid of the following pairs of actors who appeared in the movie, name
ACROSS ACROSS
1 Be almost certain it's unfermented wine (4)
3.Playing a joke is quite unimportant (8)
8.Clock-face placed back (4)
9.Addition with batsman not out of his ground (8)
11.The other way round according to poetic arrangement (7,5)
13.Hurry from Athens (6)
14.Blend in with the teeming legion (6)
17.As cold as cold can be (8,4)
20.Loses car in game (8)
21.1000 direct guns to cripple (4)
22.Herb and one or two girls ... (8)
23.... but two in this case find Peterhead has atmosphere (4)
DOWN DOWN
1.Disturbing din in force at 12 (8)
2.Frightens about five in mufflers (7)
4.Park officer has right to get people annoyed (6)
5.Arsonist disrupts air ferries (4-6)
6.Mental conception of one poor game (5)
7.Increased some of the meagre water supplies (4)
10.Keeping faith with class and achieving consistent results? (4,2,4)
12.Concerning one-time worker for improvement (8)
15.Rearrange a garden in the West Indies (7)
16.Hasty and superficial youth leader lost slide from slide-rule (6)
18.Gives support to his defence (5)
19.Curved line is a disgrace (4)
the films about people living in a post apocalyptic world. a. Viggo Mortensen and Robert Duvall. b. Charlton Heston and Anthony Zerbe. c. Denzil Washington and Gary Oldman. d. Kevin Costner and Tom Petty. e. JanMichael Vincent and George Peppard. f. Gregory Peck and Fred Astaire. g. Sean Connery and Charlotte Rampling. h. Kevin Costner and Dennis Hopper
15. Brent Blend, Tapis, Minas and Midway Sunset Heavy are well-known classifications of what expensive commodity?
16. There are 20 regions in Italy. Which region is the 'toe' of Italy?
17. 'Up the river' is an American expression for going to prison. Which prison on the Hudson river gave rise to this expression?
18. What are the five republics of the former Soviet Union that end with 'stan'?
19. Nicknamed 'Connie', what was the most popular commercial airliner in the 1950s?
20. The Academy Award winning song 'When You Wish Upon A Star' was written for which classic 1940 film?
COMPASS
BACKPACK
GLUE STICK
PENCILS PENS
BLACKBOARD
JOURNAL
GLITTER MARKERS
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
WORD WHEEL CHALLENGE
The target is 57 words
My Total
* Answers page 18
Youraim is to create as many words of 4 letters ormore using the letters in the word wheel only once in each word and always including the letterin the centre of the wheel. No propernames are allowed.
Can you also find a 9 letterword:
WORD SCRAMBLE CHALLENGE
Unscramble the letters to reveal the names of 12 International Artists
Scrambled Artists
ELCIMAHOELNG - LAHAEPR
VGIGCROAAA - RERMBDNTA
THRAHOG - EREMVER
NVAGGHO - AECZNEN
LBAENOCST - KDSYKNNAI
NHBGSOIURGOA - ETMAISS
TRIVIA QUIZ
SALT CHURCH STRIKES JUST THE RIGHT NOTE FOR RBL D-DAY CONCERT
The Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa Branch commemorated D-Day with a special concert at The Salt Church in Los Montesinos on Saturday, 6 June, combining music, remembrance and fundraising for the Poppy Appeal.
The evening featured performances by the Costa Blanca International Band, conducted by Jeremy Davies, and the De Costa Singers, directed by Jacques van der Linden.
Organised by branch members Mary and Malcolm Rusbridge, the event raised funds through ticket sales, tombola tickets and a fundraising table.
Malcolm opened the evening by welcoming guests and explaining that proceeds would support the Poppy Appeal.
The date added particular poignancy, marking the anniversary of the Allied landings on the beaches of Normandy.
A moving highlight was the presence of 99year-old D-Day veteran Joe Billet, known locally as “Joe the cat man”.
After guests heard a short account of his life and wartime service, Joe received a standing ovation. He attended with his long-term friend Rose, who continues to support him.
The programme included a selection of well-known favourites, including “White Cliffs of Dover”, “Sailing” and “The Sound of Silence”.
The band also accompanied the mainly Dutch De Costa Singers, whose enthusiastic performance helped create a warm and uplifting atmosphere.
By the close, the audience was singing along, with some dancing in the aisles. The evening ended with “We’ll Meet Again” and “Sweet Caroline”, before Malcolm thanked everyone involved for making the concert a memorable success.
The Shame of San Isidro as Authorities turn their back on Homeless Widow and Sick Son
A 63-year-old widow, Antonia Gutierrez Vicente, and her sick 40-year-old son, Jesus, have been sleeping rough since their eviction in San Isidro on 28 May.
With only a limited widow’s pension, Antonia says they have moved between parks in Cox and Redovan, occasionally paying for a hostel room for her son, while seeking temporary shelter until a rented flat in Orihuela becomes available on 1 July. She says approaches to local institutions, the Church and municipal services brought no immediate help. San Isidro’s mayor told the Spanish Press that such cases are handled by Social Services and that he was unaware of the case.
The situation has escalated after the local Justice of the Peace, who is also the mayor’s father, began legal action over alleged defamation claims.
TARGETTED IN PROTECTION MONEY PROBE
A 21-year-old Russian man has been remanded in custody after allegedly targeting shopkeepers and residents in Torrevieja with violent robberies, threats, extortion and vehicle theft.
The Civil Guard arrested him as part of an investigation linked to its Safe Commerce Plan, aimed at protecting local businesses. Officers say many victims and witnesses were initially too afraid to report the alleged crimes due to fear of reprisals.
Investigators claim the suspect demanded regular “protection” payments from businesses while using threats and alleged links to Eastern European criminal groups.
He is also accused of stealing takings from a premises on April 4 and taking a vehicle on April 19 before demanding money for its return. The investigation remains open, with further arrests not ruled out.
NATION ON THE EDGE
Each day when I switch on the TV to hear the latest news it seems that every story is of yet more violence.
The Northern Ireland atrocity where a Sudanese immigrant pinned his victim on the ground and repeatedly stabbed him causing the loss of an eye and reportedly attempting to decapitate him is the latest abomination. Not surprisingly it led to widespread protests leading to riots, homes and vehicles set alight in a province which has known repeated religious antagonism for generations and which is still simmering in the background.
But now there is the other dimension –unwanted immigration.
In my view we are seeing some very worrying parallels between what is happening now in the UK, France and perhaps to a lesser extent in Spain, to what happened in 1930s Germany, which led to the persecution of Jews.
As in 1930’s Germany, society now is being hit by falling living standards, the lack of jobs and opportunities.
Politicians then fuelled hatred of Jews, and we all know where that led. Now we have politicians using illegal immigration to fuel hatred.
The longer this goes on and the more immigrants trying to flee violence, starvation and loss of life in their home countries pouring into Europe the more the troubles will escalate.
What’s needed is an end to politicians trying to score points and instead come up with plans to put an end to illegal immigration –plans which will work and have real impetus in resolving the tensions.
But it must go hand in hand with giving
young people more chances in life – and one obvious way would be for governments to cut taxes on businesses who employ apprentices.
A country which has about a million young people not working and thousands of graduates unable to find meaningful work is in my book a failed country and both Tories and Labour which has allowed this to happen in the UK need a good kick up the backsides.
And Britain’s finances are very worrying.
According to official projections, for the first time, the UK’s national debt will have risen above £3tn by September. That means higher interest repayments, higher inflation and possibly a bale-out from the International Monetary Fund.
Come on Britain, get more people working, get the super rich to pay more and stop the fortune being splashed on keeping illegals in the country – either in hotels, houses or in prison, where, it seems more and more are ending up.
THE YOLK IS ON SAINSBURY’S
Wow, I’m glad I’ve got that off my chest –and now for a subject which is dividing Britain ...which is best, brown or white. No, not the colour of people’s skin for a change, but the colour of egg shells.
Sainsbury’s has decided to switch selling brown eggs for white and shoppers are up in arms over it. No, not rioting yet, but going bonkers on social media.
The reason is that chicken which lay white eggs are smaller than their brown counterparts and, being smaller, eat less food which makes it more profitable but of course producers are using the environmental card saying that it means farmers don’t have to produce as much food to give to the birds.
Shoppers insist that white eggs don’t taste so good, are less nutritious and are smaller, but all this has been discounted by scientists who have been testing both.
One thing which brings tears to my eyes is thinking about a smaller hen which has to lay a large egg!
RUBBER REVOLUTION
This takes me conveniently on to the subject of teenage girls getting pregnant, and I must
Tony Mayes Rant
give Spain a pat on the back for agreeing to provide free condoms for 16-22 year-olds in pharmacies, with the aim of encouraging young people to use protection.
Finally common sense has ruled over religious nonsense especially in Spain which for years had to endure Franco’s religious no contraception doctrine.
Ex PMZapatero Faces
Jewellery Probe
Former prime minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero is under investigation after jewellery valued at more than e1.3 million was reportedly seized from his Madrid office. National Court Judge Jose Luis Calama opened an inquiry linked to the Plus Ultra case following a May 19 search. Around 100 pieces were recovered, with a valuation of e1,323,915, although investigators have not established their origin.
The court is examining tax fraud, arguing that high-value assets without supporting records could amount to an unexplained capital gain. Depending on how the jewellery was acquired, VAT, income tax, inheritance tax or other liabilities may apply.
Investigators are considering smuggling offences because no customs declarations, import invoices or clearance documents have been produced.
Family of murdered John George targetted by Trolls
The family of murdered Belfast father-of-two John George say they have been subjected to further online abuse, including disturbing messages about his body and remains.
John, 37, travelled to the Costa Blanca in December 2024 and last spoke to relatives on December 14 while in the Torrevieja area. When he failed to board his flight home, his family launched a desperate search with volunteers and authorities.
His body was found weeks later in January 2025 in countryside near Rojales, south of Alicante. A murder investigation began after post-mortem findings indicated that he had been stabbed and shot. Relatives say anonymous trolls have since sent cruel messages referring to exhuming his body and concealing his remains. The family believes the abuse
was intended to deepen their distress as they continue campaigning for answers.
John’s father, Billy George, has helped keep the case in the public eye, while hundreds attended his son’s funeral in Belfast after his remains were returned to Ireland.
Johnny Smyth, also known as Jonathan Alan Smyth, is awaiting trial in connection with the killing and is understood to be held near Alicante. He denies murdering John.
Smyth was detained in Portugal in March 2025 and extradited to Spain. After being granted bail in December, he was returned
to custody in April 2026 while the preliminary investigation continued.
The family has vowed that online threats and intimidation will not silence its campaign. Despite enduring disappearance, murder and abuse, relatives remain determined to see those responsible brought before the courts.
Brother of PMSanchez Awaits Court Verdict
The trial of David Sanchez, brother of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, has concluded in Badajoz, with judges now considering their verdict after weeks of hearings.
Sanchez and 10 other defendants have been on trial since May 28 over allegations of influence peddling and abuse of office. Prosecutors claim a public-sector role in the Badajoz provincial council was created to suit his professional profile. All defendants deny wrongdoing.
On the final day, prosecutors said the evidence had failed to establish any criminal offence and called for Sanchez’s acquittal. He declined to address the court before proceedings ended. The disputed position was created in 2016, before Pedro Sanchez became prime minister, and was linked to music conservatories and the provincial performing arts office.
The case has intensified political pressure on Spain’s socialist-led government amid separate investigations involving people close to the prime minister.
Forty-two volunteers joined an environmental clean-up at La Caleta beach in Orihuela Costa, removing 38 kilos of waste from the shoreline and seabed.
Supported by Orihuela Town Hall’s Coastal Department, the initiative
brought together 19 divers, 23 land-based volunteers and seven children, who helped collect and sort rubbish.
Organisers said the seabed was generally in good condition, with only limited waste found underwater.
Coastal Councillor Manuel Mestre praised the results, saying the low level of marine litter reflected growing public awareness and deserved gratitude.
A highlight came when divers discovered a small octopus among debris, carefully rescuing it and returning it to its habitat.
The event also raised awareness of protected Posidonia oceanica deposits, which help retain sand, reduce storm erosion and support Mediterranean ecosystems. Mestre thanked volunteers, associations and residents, stressing that cooperation is vital to protecting Orihuela Costa’s natural heritage.
Missing Pensioner found in Torre de la Horadada
An 81-year-old man with Alzheimer’s was found alive on Sunday night after a 24-hour search in Torre de la Horadada.
The pensioner disappeared from a local care home on Saturday afternoon, prompting an urgent response after Pilar Local Police were alerted by the Guardia Civil at 3.15pm.
A coordinated operation involving Local Police, Guardia Civil, Civil Protection and neighbouring police forces searched the area throughout Saturday and into Sunday.
The effort was later strengthened by local company Abejorros Horadada, which volunteered a drone to help scan parts of the municipality from the air.
The man was eventually located after a member of the public reported someone had fallen down an embankment beside the N-332. Emergency teams found him conscious, rescued him with the support of medical services and transferred him to hospital.
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.
My father got to a ripe of age, outliving his eight siblings; and he wasn't even the youngest.
Three of his brothers fought in the second world war, were decorated, had wonderful military careers but never married or had children.
At the age of 90, my father was informed he was due to inherit a substantial sum of money, hous-
es and other assets.
By the time Dad had died, probate was finally sorted out after none of his brothers had made a Will.
As the last one standingmy father would have inherited the lot.
I remember the day he found out about his fortunate circumstances; amazingly he was com-
pletely non-plussed about the windfall, saying 'what use is money to me now, at my time of life'.
We'd lost my mum by then, and Dad simply meant that he had little time and joy left in his life, and that not even hundreds of thousands of pounds of inheritance could make him feel better.
Mum and Dad had retired to Spain and enjoyed their retirement.
Dad lived for only two years more after that conversation with me, and perished during Covid times; I am certain he would have gone on if it hadn't been for the pandemic. This year he would have been 100 years old. He never got to enjoy his windfall.
You tell me that your father was chasing financial success for all of his life, and though he worked hard and long, he never felt satisfied or fulfilled. Something for us all to consider, is another way to live our lives and enjoy success, and be happy with our lot in life, feel fortunate for the things we have and count our blessings.
Recently I lost a dear friend who was given a shock diagnosis and died suddenly. Whilst wealth is lovely, if we are alive and well we are rich indeed.
1. Ice Station Zebra, 2. Ella Fitzgerald, 3. Styx, 4. Wasabi, 5. The Birds, 6. a. Vermicelli, b. Lasagne, c. Linguine, d. Farfalle, e. Tortellini. 7. Bosnia Herzegovina The Balkan wars of the 1990s left vast areas contaminated. Thousands of mines remain in forests, fields, and near villages. 8. Mario. (Mario Mario and Luigi Mario - the super Mario Brothers). 9. Goneril, Regan and Cordelia. 10. Six answers. a. The Fool On The Hill (Beatles), b. Running Up That Hill (Kate Bush), c. Blueberry Hill (Fats Domino), d. The Hills Are Alive (Julie Andrews), e. Over The Hills And Far Away (Trad), f. Red Hill Mining Town (U2). 11. His childhood sledge (sled, sleigh). 12. Quack (Anatidae = Duck. In the medical sense, from the Dutch kwakzalver, charlatan). 13. HMP Slade. 14. a. The Road. b. The Omega Man. c. The Book Of Eli. d. The Postman. e. Damnation Alley. f. On The Beach. g. Zardoz. h. Waterworld. 15. Crude Oil (Brent Blend from the North Sea, Tapis from Malaysia, Minas from Indonesia and Midway Sunset Heavy from California). 16. Calabria. 17. Sing Sing. 18. Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. 19. The Lockheed 'Constellation' or 'Super Constellation'. 20. Pinocchio
SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION
“How to Create a Shortcut to a Website on a Laptop, Chromebook and Mobile Phone”?
Creating a shortcut on your computer's home screen (Desktop) or on any page of a Smartphone is a great way to get to your favourite apps, files, or websites faster.
Laptop (Windows) - Open your preferred web browser (such as Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).
Navigate to the website you want to create a shortcut for.
Click and drag the padlock icon (or the website’s icon) from the address bar onto your desktop. This creates a shortcut. Alternatively, right-click on your desktop, select ‘New’ > ‘Shortcut’, enter the website’s URL, and follow the prompts to name and create the shortcut.
Laptop (Mac) - Open Safari or your chosen browser and go to the website.
Click and hold the website’s URL in the address bar, then drag it onto your desktop to create a shortcut.
How to Create a Shortcut to a Website on a Chromebook
Creating a shortcut to your favourite website on a Chromebook is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to add a website shortcut to your shelf or desktop: Open the Chrome browser on your Chromebook.
Navigate to the website you want to create a shortcut for.
Click the three dots menu (?) in the top-right corner of the browser window.
Select More tools, then choose Create shortcut... In the pop-up window, you can rename the shortcut if you wish. To open the website in a separate window, tick the box labelled ‘Open
Scan the QR Code right to find out exactly what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group has to offer
as window’.
Click Create. The shortcut will appear in your app launcher, and you can also pin it to your shelf for quick access by right-clicking the shortcut in the launcher and selecting Pin to shelf.
This method allows you to access your chosen website quickly, just like an app, directly from your Chromebook’s desktop or shelf.
Chromebook - Creating Website Shortcuts
Open the website in Chrome – navigate to the specific website you want,
Open the Chrome menu – Click the 3 vertical dots in the top right corner of the window. Select “Save and share”
Name and configure your shortcut – type the name of your shortcut. Check the box Open as window. Click Create.
Where did it go? The new shortcut will automatically appear in your App Launcher (the circle icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen). To put it on your taskbar, just right-click (or two-finger tap) the icon in your launcher and selectPin to shelf.
Pinning Files or Folders to Your Shelf If you have a specific Google Doc, PDF, or
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, July 8th, 2026. You are welcome to attend.
folder that you need to access constantly, you can pin it directly to the bottom right of your screen (called the "Holding Space").
Open the files App - Press the Search/Launcher key on your keyboard, type Files, and open the app.
Locate your target item - Browse to the file or folder you want to pin (this works for items in your local Downloads, Google Drive, or even Linux files).
Pin to Shelf - Right-click the file or folder (or tap with two fingers on the touchpad) and select Pin to shelf from the context menu.
Mobile Phone (Android) - Open Chrome and visit the website.
Tap the three dots menu in the top-right corner. Select ‘Add to Home screen’ and confirm. The shortcut will appear on your home screen. Mobile Phone (iPhone) - Open Safari and go to the desired website.
Tap the share icon (a square with an arrow pointing up).
Select ‘Add to Home Screen’, name the shortcut, and tap ‘Add’. The icon will be placed on your home screen.
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 : July and August Residencia Renewals.
Driving licence UKSpanish also available.
Contact Jason :
Mobile/WhatsApp 603 86 87 56
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
Join us for a multitude of activities, coffee mornings, excercise, bereavement group https://pilarchurch.com philm.cornerstone@gmail.com
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
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.
PERSONALSERVICES
TORREVIEJA. BRAZILIAN MATURE LADY Offers relaxing therapeutic massage and holistic therapy. Silky hands and waxing. Hotel/home or outings. I use natural products to improve health. 674 674 932
INBETWEENERS @ EL PLANTIO
The Inbetweeners Golf Society returned to El Plantio for another enjoyable day on their home course, where the playing surfaces were once again in excellent shape. Wellmaintained fairways and smooth greens provided the perfect setting for a memorable round.
Cloudy skies and a refreshing breeze at the start of the day greeted the players.After the intense temperatures of recent weeks, the cooler conditions were warmly welcomed and made for comfortable golfing throughout the morning. As the day progressed, the clouds gradually gave way to sunshine, bringing a noticeable rise in temperature and prompting increasing discussion of refreshments awaiting in the clubhouse.
The competition itself was played in great spirit. Laughter echoed around the course, accompanied by the usual mix of encouragement, friendly banter, and the occasional groan as putts slipped past the hole.
There were plenty of quality shots on display, and several members produced rounds to be proud of despite the challenges posed by the course.
By the time the final groups completed their rounds, everyone agreed it had been another successful outing, combining good golf, good company, and excellent course conditions.
Hole 7: Caroline Reidy, Hole 14: James Gamble Looking for a fun and friendly golf society to join, where all nationalities and abilities are welcome, check out our website: www.inbetweenersgolfsociety.com
Hot Golf, Cold Drinks and One Missing Golfer
Smiling Jacks Golf Society enjoyed a wonderful day at the beautifully prepared New Sierra Golf Resort. A huge thankyou goes to the staff for looking after us and arranging an excellent deal for the round.
Although numbers were slightly lower than usual, the quality of the laughs made up for it. Special thanks to Lisa for keeping us supplied with much-needed liquid refreshments after a hot day. We also appreciate Ger and Emma stepping in to provide the food while our Julie was absent. Now to the results. Bernard claimed the only nearest-the-pin prize with a cracking shot. Robbie Connelly secured second place with an excellent 35 points. Today’s winner was Tony Power, who scored 37 points and earned a shiny new Smiling Jacks handicap of 21.
The prestigious Dino Dick award went to James Robertson, who failed to make it back to Jacks—possibly still searching for his golf ball, dignity, or both.
Thank you again for your continued support. Our next event takes place at the excellent Altaona Golf Resort on Thursday, 2 July........Fore! El Presidente
ANOTHER LEAGUE TITLE FOR GREENLANDS
VCL Summer League - Country bowls Foxes v Giants
Not an easy place to win but our Giants did us proud winning 10pts - 2pts (86pts to 81pts). Winning our VCL summer league title again, well done Giants.
Good wins for Mens singles: Pete Bonsor 21-7, Ladies singles: Lisa Bonsor 21-16, Triples: Allen Bowen, Mark Jukes & Dave Morrison 22-11 plus Rinks: Lyn Hamersley, John O'Brien, Darren Reynolds +Martin Foulcer 15-12.
Greenland's Titans v San Miguel Sheriff's
Last game of league great result 10pts to 2pts scores 98pts to 70pts. Well done Titans, good finish.
2 Woods Summer League - Quesada v Greenland's Goanna's Tough game away with some very close finishes. But Quesada took the points this time. 8pts-4pts, 79pts to 71pts.
Good wins for Janet Jukes, Lisa Bonsor +Martin Foulcer 16-15, Stuart Wilson, Mark Jukes+ Dave Palmer 18-16. Well done Quesada unlucky Goanna's.
Greenland's Dragons v San Luis Pythons
Great win again for our Dragons, very close fought match winning 7pts to 5pts scores 89pts to 84pts. Good wins for Brian
San Miguel Bowls Club
w/e 12 June 2026 - Jenny Harvey
What a superb end to SMBC VCL season, three great wins across all three teams...
SM Sheriffs away to Greenlands Titans 10-2, points 70-98... wins for Steve Parr 21-9 (men's singles), Janet Parr 21-15 (ladies' singles), Allan Patterson, David Homer and Eddie Cowan 26-9 (trips) and Margaret Patterson, Mary Whitelock, Rab Harvey and Ron Nairey 21-14 (rinks)
SM Marshalls at home against Phoenix 10-2, points 99-61, Ron Peters 21-10 (men's singles), Gail Willshire 21-16 (ladies' singles), Dave Askew and Phil Broadhurst 20-9 (pairs) and
Tomlin, Peter King + David Blackie 21-17, Pauline Lidstone, Dee Charter-Byrne + Alex Morrise 23-12, John King, Brian Jones + Kerry Charter-Byrne 15-15 good draw. Well done Dragons. Richard Willey (Freddie)
Angela Broadhurst, Dave Sceal, John Jenner and Fred Willshire 26-12 (rinks)
... and finally, SM Deputies with a fantastic 0-12 win away to La Marina, points 73-104!!... Don Darby 21-16 (men's singles), Linda Douglas 21-12 (ladies' singles), Sue King and John Grant 15-13 (pairs), Ann Taylor, Stan North and Jim Taylor 24-15 (trips) and Jack Jackson, Mark PJ, Phil Ginger and Bob Donnelly 23-17 (rinks)
Well done to all players in the VCL leagues, and a big thank you to any reserves playing in those high temperatures... phew San Miguel Bowls Club welcomes all bowlers looking to join as, being a unique club, we only pay owners fees and a club fee - NO LEAGUE RINK FEES. For further information please contact our club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905.
SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB
The heat goes on but fortunately for our teams there are only two more Friday matches to survive.
South Alicante summer league, Spitfire Div. Monday 1st, the Wellingtons had a tough morning, for their last match, away v Emerald Isle Vulcans, but claimed 4 useful points-8, 73 shots135. Well done winners: Cath Morrisroe, Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis 18-11, Ken Stringfellow, Ngaio Baldwin, Pete Baldwin 24-10.
Summer 2 bowl league: on Friday 5th the Pythons were home v Country Bowls Eagles. It was another close fought match, finishing 6 points-6, 86 shots-89. Winners: Cath Morrisroe, Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis 20-15, Fran Cox, Brian Gardiner, Jean Cooper 17-16, June Jones, Neil Cox, Derek Biggs 26-11. Friday 12th the Pythons were away at Greenlands v the Dragons and once more fought hard for a close finish, with 2 wins & a draw, for 5 points-7, 84 shots-89. Winners: Cath Morrisroe, Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis 21-16, Ken Stringfellow, Neil Cox, Derek Biggs 19-14, Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Bob Bromley 15-15.
Sheila Cammack
Quesada Bowls Club By Steve Hibberd
Lions played their final VCL div 1 fixture match, away, against Emerald Isles Dukes.Unfortunately, only the rinks side of George Kershaw, Harald Olsen, Ann Linley & Mark France (15-10) were victorious, as the team went down by 10 points to 2.
Also in Wednesday's VCL, this time in div 2, Tigers were at home to Emerald Isles Earls.Wins for Andy Reid (21-20) mens singles, Kim Bowles (21-4) ladies singles, plus Chris Bowles & Steve Hibberd (aka Smashie & Nicey) (28-2) pairs, contributed to a very pleasing 8-4 victory.Alas, when the final table was released, they were 1 point shy of eventual champions San Miguel.
A top of the table clash greeted our 2 wood Friday league team, when Greenlands Goannas were the visitors.An 8-4 victory for the hosts, also meant a local derby double for QBC. Well done:Ray Phillipson, Steve Hibberd, Mike Inns (15-14). George Carnell, Jacqui Denman, Scott Malden (19-13). Brian Trinder, Mel Ward, Paul Kern (24-10).So, with only 3 games remaining, it has now developed into a 2 horse race for the title.
Everyone is welcome to attend organised roll ups at QBC, on both Tuesday & Saturday mornings (0945 start).For further information, contact Andy Reid on 611300021 or Steve Hibberd on 656579423.
Country Bowls Club by Peter
Dix
On Wednesday in the VCL the Foxes entertained Greenland Giants, a tough ask against the top of the league. Despite a spirited effort by the Foxes they were crushed by the giants, only managing one winning rink. But what a great win it was in the pairs by Tom Macdonald and Kevin Storey 35 shots to 7. That was the final match on a Wednesday just leaving the Friday games in the summer leagues.
Friday with the Eagles no game, the Kestrels had to fly up the hill to play Vistabella on a lovely sunny day. It was a very competitive game with one of our rinks collecting a hot shot, Emma Chin, Bob Gardiner and Nikki Gover winning 21 shots to 13. Also winning was Carol Lloyd, Simon Chin and Alan Gover 21 shots to 12. With 2 winning rinks the result was an overall loss 4 points to 8, shots 75 to 89.
Emerald Isle Bowls Club
Dukes played against Quesada Lions in VCL and they got a fine 10=2 Aggregate of 88=74 win. D Jones 21=13 M Dyer 21=17, M Oakley M Ellis 18=17, S Marks D Mooney R Maks18=12
Earls played QuesadaTigers and they slipped to a 4=8 Aggregate of 59=9 defeat. A Westwater, R White Gracie 15=12, P Parkes, B Eldred, D ChisholmB, Kavanagh18=14
SAPS is on Saturdaysat 13=15
Elwyn Morris
Golf, Generosity and Good Company Mark Memorable Week for San Miguel
It was a memorable week for local golf, with two very different but equally enjoyable events bringing together competition, camaraderie and a strong sense of community spirit.
The sixth Gary Beck Memorial Day took place at La Finca Golf on 7 June 2026, with 56 golfers gathering under cloudy skies and a lively breeze.
Once again, Darren Bone, Mick Pryke and their team did a superb job organising the event from start to finish, ensuring the day ran smoothly and successfully. After the golf, Danny Cook and his team provided excellent hospitality back at the bar, with Danny also managing to take part in the competition himself.
The event was about far more than golf. Thanks to generous donations, auctions and two football
cards, an impressive e2,000 was raised, double last year’s total.
All proceeds will go to The Veteran Hotel on the Isle of Wight, which supports veterans, particularly those from naval backgrounds.
A touching moment came when heartfelt words were shared in memory of Gary Beck, reminding everyone how deeply he is still missed. Dunc Roberts gave a moving speech about the years he and Gary served together and the friendship they built.
On the course, Billy McMillan led the way with an excellent 39 points. Danny Benson finished second on 38 points, taking the place on countback from Phil Duane, who also scored 38.
The top team score of 116 was recorded by Jack Webster, Brian Reid, Phil Duane and Billy McMillan. Nearest-the-pin winners were Martin Sutch, Brian Reid and Stuart Black, while twos were recorded by Harvey Pollitt, Michael Gacon and Dave Rowe. A number of other individual prizes were also presented, with Karl Beck handing out the awards and Mick Pryke providing his usual entertaining commentary.
Just three days later, attention turned to Mar Menor for the San Miguel GS event on 10 June 2026.
Under brilliant sunshine and the ever-present Murcian breeze, 31 players, including one guest, enjoyed a course that looked welcoming but proved more challenging than expected.
There was the usual mix of fine golf, misjudged shots and humorous moments, including a few SatNav mishaps before play began.
The scoring was impressive, with Kenny Winton taking Gold on 37 points, Phil de Lacy claiming Silver with 41, and Allan Graham producing the best round of the day with 44 points.
Twos were recorded by John Simmons, Kenny Winton and Phil de Lacy, while nearest-the-pin prizes went to John Simmons, Allan Graham and Drew Niblock. Will Hammond also enjoyed success, winning a football card and the “McBride Bottle” for the day’s lowest score.
Afterwards, players gathered at the Shamrock Lounge to round off another successful outing.
Together, the two events perfectly captured the spirit of the game: competition, laughter, friendship and generosity in equal measure.
SUNNY CORNER GOLF SOCIETY
Our latest outing was at Vistabella with twent eight playing, our winner was Barry Gough (pictured) with 39 pts. Par 3 winners were, Terry Birks, Tony Hudd and Dave Scott. Blind Pairs winners were Kevin Maunders and Dave Edge. Our next outing is on 16th June at Lo Romero
