Edition 1142 Monday 24th - Sunday 30th Aug 2026
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temporary third lane has been suggested as a possible short-term solution to the serious summer traffic problems on the N-332 through Torrevieja. The idea comes from professionals who regularly use the road. They say a reversible lane could be opened in whichever direction has the heaviest traffic, easing the congestion for vehicles travel towards either Alicante or Cartagena. The proposal has not been formally approved and would require a detailed road safety study. However, supporters believe it could reduce congestion while Torrevieja continues waiting for the long-promised widening of the bypass. Plans to create two lanes in each direction have been delayed for more than 20 years. With construction unlikely to begin soon, pressure is growing for temporary measures to improve traffic flow. During the busiest days of July and August, the N332 can carry as many as 55,000 vehicles. The Torrevieja bypass currently has only one lane in each direction, resulting in long queues and delays. Congestion also spreads onto other important roads, particularly the CV-95 and CV-905, because vehicles struggle to enter or leave the overloaded N-332.
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Monday 24th - Sunday 30th Aug 2026 its restricted roadside space.
N-332 THIRD LANE Safety Study Required Creating a temporary third lane would not be as simple as repainting the road markings. The existing carriageway has two lanes measuring 3.5 metres each, giving a total width of seven metres. There are also shoulders of at least one metre on either side.
There has been NO OVERTAKING along the entire 8km stretch since 2014 Three standard lanes would require at least 10.5 metres. Any temporary arrangement would therefore need to use part of the shoulders and include changes to drainage, roadside safety areas and access points. The shoulders are particularly important for emergency vehicles. Ambulances regularly use the bypass to reach Torrevieja University Hospital, while firefighters also need space to pass stationary traffic. Supporters argue that a temporary lane would still be far cheaper and quicker than the complete widening project. Doubling the 4.47-kilometre section is expected to cost more than e50 million. They also point to the N-332 through Orihuela Costa, where two lanes operate in each direction with very limited shoulders. That section was built during the late 2000s and has continued operating despite
Queues Stretching Eight Kilometres Traffic problems on the Torrevieja bypass have reportedly worsened this summer. Queues heading towards Cartagena normally begin near the entrance from the Ozone shopping and leisure area. On particularly busy days, however, slow-moving traffic has stretched along the entire eightkilometre bypass as far as Quiron Hospital. The experimental AI-controlled traffic lights at the Punta Prima and Rocio del Mar roundabout have also been blamed for contributing to delays after the Ministry of Transport invested approximately e400,000 in the controversial system. Further problems are caused by vehicles parked on the N-332 exit road near San Roque. Residents reportedly use the area because of limited parking close to Acequion and Los Naufragos beaches.
55,000 vehicles use this stretch of the N-332 daily during peak July and August
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motorists suddenly encounter stationary traffic. The Civil Guard already has experience operating temporary and reversible lanes during holiday periods and major traffic operations.
DAILY TRAFFIC JAMS along half of the 8km stretch from Ozone IMF Cinema to the Bridge over the CV-95
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A similar solution was proposed in 2017 by Ciudadanos councillor Pilar Gomez Magan, who called for cones and temporary signs to change the direction of a lane according to traffic demand. Almost a decade later, and with the permanent widening project still delayed, the temporary-lane proposal has returned as a possible way of bringing some relief to one of the area’s worst traffic bottlenecks.
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The bypass has previously required special safety measures following a series of serious accidents. Authorities installed additional signs and flashing warning lights, banned overtaking across double solid lines and declared the section beside San Roque and Villa Amalia an accident blackspot. Serious crashes have since fallen, but rearend collisions remain a concern when
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astewater has again been seen flowing into the sea at Cala La Mosca in Orihuela Costa, renewing pollution concerns at a beach that lost its Blue Flag following previous sewage incidents.
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Water travelled approximately 70 metres along the final section of the normally dry ravine before reaching the Mediterranean. It formed a large green pool beside the promenade and continued across the sand into the sea. Despite the worsening flow, Orihuela City Council did not restrict access to the bathing area. Officials said recent tests by the Valencian Government’s General Directorate of Water had detected no abnormalities and classified the seawater as excellent. The latest results, dated August 16 and displayed on the beach information board, gave the council no grounds to close the beach or introduce further safety measures. Residents said the discharge followed a familiar seasonal pattern. They claimed wastewater flows remained relatively controlled during much of the year but increased regularly in July and August, when the population of Orihuela Costa and pressure on its sewage network rose sharply. A pumping station forming part of the network carrying wastewater to the Orihuela Costa treatment plant stands beside the promenade. Two other pumping facilities are located near the N-332, although it remained unclear which installation was responsible for the latest incident. The dry channel appeared to be filling with water seeping through the sand beneath a large storm drain near Calle Jazmines. Municipal cleaning teams reportedly covered the flooded section of beach each morning, but the water continued to return. Its green colour and the absence of a typical sewage smell meant some visitors appeared unaware of any potential danger. Bathers walked around the affected area, while chil-
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dren were reportedly seen playing in the accumulated water. Cala La Mosca temporarily lost its Blue Flag during the summers of 2023 and 2024 before losing the award completely in 2025. It has not regained the certification. Earlier spills led to temporary closures following recommendations from the regional water authorities. Beaches councillor Manuel Mestre did not publicly identify the source of the latest flow. Veolia, which manages the municipality’s water and sanitation network, had also made no public statement. Earlier in 2026, the Party for the Independence of Orihuela Costa disclosed details of a Civil Guard investigation launched after a complaint to the environmental protection unit Seprona. Investigators reportedly found an overflow pipe connected to a Veolia pumping station in the Horizonte residential area, more than one kilometre from the beach. Veolia was reported to have said it did not know the pipe existed. The immediate issue was initially resolved, although previous council explanations suggested the water could have come from the natural water table, swimming pools or private household drainage. Repeated incidents have intensified concerns that Orihuela Costa’s sanitation network lacks sufficient capacity during the busiest summer months. Although overflows are particularly visible after heavy rain, they have also occurred repeatedly during peak tourist periods. Orihuela Council says part of the more than ˇ20 million expected from selling municipal land on the coast will be invested in drinking-water and sanitation infrastructure. The treatment plant near Castillo de Don Juan has struggled with demand for years, with some wastewater already diverted to neighbouring Torrevieja. Residents say major investment is urgently needed to prevent further pollution, protect bathers and ensure the sewage system can cope with the coast’s rapidly growing population.
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TORREVIEJA AND ORIHUELA LEAD COASTAL SALES Torrevieja and Orihuela recorded more home sales than any other non-capital coastal municipalities in Spain, according to Tinsa’s Housing on the Coast 2026 report. Torrevieja led with 6,913 transactions, despite a 4.8% annual decline, while Orihuela ranked second with 4,992, down 7.5%. Alicante province’s coastal municipalities registered 31,307 sales, comfortably exceeding Malaga’s 22,908. However, strong foreign and holiday-home demand is making properties increasingly unaffordable for local residents. Coastal homes in Alicante averaged e2,201 per square metre, while properties aimed at holiday buyers reached e3,500. Mortgage repayments consume around 50% of average household income in Torrevieja, rising to 59% in Benidorm, 64% in Teulada and 69% in Xabia. Tinsa warned that continued second-home demand could force more local families to seek cheaper housing further inland elsewhere.
Council Moves to Re take La Pedrera Campsite Bigastro City Council can proceed with evicting Gerval 2013 from the municipal La Pedrera campsite after a judge rejected the company’s urgent request to suspend the action. The judge ruled that Gerval had not demonstrated irreversible harm, saying financial losses could be compensated if it eventually won the wider legal dispute. The ruling did not examine the merits of the main
case. The council terminated the concession over an alleged e73,917 electricity debt covering 2024, 2025 and early 2026. It also plans to recover the facilities and seize the company’s performance bond. Gerval denies responsibility, claiming outdated council-owned electrical infrastructure caused the problems. It says it invested about e300,000 upgrading the network
and that the installation later passed official inspections. The company has promised further legal action
and demanded a complete accounting of debts, assets and unamortised investment before eviction.
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90% of Torrevieja Traffic Cameras Out of Action Only around 10% of Torrevieja’s pioneering Vyriato traffic-camera network remains operational, according to Security Councillor Federico Alarcon. Introduced in 2009 at a cost of e1.5 million, the system included more than 100 monitoring points capable of reading number plates and tracking vehicles. Recordings helped police solve serious crimes and investigate major traffic accidents, while separate municipal security cameras reportedly reduced vandalism by 90%. However, salt damage, outdated equipment, privacy restrictions, poor maintenance and insufficient monitoring staff caused the network to deteriorate. Many cameras had already failed by 2015 and visibly damaged units could now be removed. A planned e1 million renovation has been abandoned. The money will instead support 52 cameras for Torrevieja’s Low Emission Zone after a contractual appeal caused the council to miss the deadline for securing European project funding.
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Rojales Market Set for e487,000 Upgrade
New Torrevieja Bus Station Delayed Until at least 2028
Rojales Council has launched a e486,955 project to modernise the municipal Mercado de Abastos and finally resolve persistent roof leaks that have damaged the building. The four-month refurbishment will include a new deck-style roof made from galvanised steel, mineral wool insulation and double-layer lighting and hard-wearing porcelain flooring with a woodwaterproofing. Gutters, effect finish. The semi-basement and parking area will gain reinforced concrete flooring, renewed bay markings and downpipes, expansion joints and other vulnera- motorised aluminium doors. ble areas will also be Fire safety improvements include fire-resistant doors, smoke repaired. detectors, signage and a detection control panel. New fans, Inside, the market will ducts and grilles will upgrade ventilation, while electrical systems, cladding and paintwork will also be renewed. receive suspended metal ceilings, LED Companies can submit bids until August 26.
orrevieja’s proposed municipal bus station is unlikely to open before 2028, leaving residents and visitors dependent on the ageing private terminal on Avenida de las Habaneras.
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The new transport hub is planned for 40,000 square metres of land at Enclave 13, close to the CV-905, Avenida Rosa Mazon and Calle Juan Valera, directly across the road from Carrefour. However, the project remains at an early planning stage. The council must amend the General Urban Development Plan, complete a traffic study and resolve the ownership of several privately held plots. The council hopes a private company will finance and build the station under a concession agreement. Plans also include com-
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mercial premises, parking, workshops and garages for bus operator Avanza, and a new Civil Protection headquarters. Avanza would relocate its depot from Avenida Delfina Viudes. Meanwhile, passengers must continue using the existing terminal, built in the late 1980s. It has been criticised for overcrowded platforms, poor signage, limited passenger information and accessibility problems. Cafe furniture partially obstructs the main entrance, while outdated signs from former operator Costa Azul remain displayed. Despite its condition, the station provides essential connections to Alicante-Elche Airport, Murcia, Cartagena, Madrid and destinations across northern Spain. The council also wants to purchase the existing 3,800-square-metre site, valued at more than e4.5 million, demolish the terminal and replace it with a green area. Until the lengthy planning and concession process is completed, Torrevieja’s outdated station will remain in use.
Sole Bidder for Guardamar Castle Project Excavaciones Simon SL is expected to regenerate the hillside around Guardamar Castle after submitting the only bid. The company offered e239,023, including VAT, around e2,325 below the maximum
budget. Its proposal received 70 points and included all three additional improvements listed in the tender. The four-month project, funded through the Vega Renhace Plan, will create terraces supported by five gabion retaining walls. An irrigation system will also be installed and carob trees planted. The scheme will reduce erosion, protect stormwater drains and improve the historic landscape.
When built the new station will be located directly across the road from Carrefour
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ORIHUELA EXPANDS REMOTE DERMATOLOGY DIAGNOSIS SERVICE
Monday 24th - Sunday 30th Aug 2026
New dermatoscopes are being supplied to every health centre
he Orihuela Health Department has expanded its teledermatology service after specialists assessed almost 2,400 consultations during the first six and a half months of the year.
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New dermatoscopes are being supplied to every health centre in the department, allowing family doctors to capture detailed images of skin lesions and send them directly to specialists at Vega Baja University Hospital. Dermatologists can assess patients remotely, recommend treatment or arrange urgent hospital appointments where necessary. Of the cases examined so far, 34.7% were classified as urgent, with priority given to suspected melanomas and other skin cancers. The system helps patients receive faster advice without unnecessary hospital visits, while allowing specialists to concentrate on those needing urgent examinations or surgery.
Primary care doctors are also receiving training in using the equipment and identifying warning signs. The expansion could provide a valuable model for the Torrevieja Health Authority, where dermatology services remain under intense pressure.
BIOMETRIC FAILURES LEAVE ELDERLY BRITONS FACING AIRPORT DELAYS Elderly British travellers are facing lengthy airport delays because biometric kiosks operating under the EU’s Entry/Exit System cannot read their fingerprints. Problems have been reported in Spain, Austria and Italy, with some passengers repeatedly rejected by machines before being sent to understaffed manual passport-control queues. Fingerprint recognition can become more difficult with age as skin loses elasticity and ridges become less distinct. Manual work, medical conditions and chemotherapy can also affect prints. At Palma Airport, an 80-year-old woman could not register her fingerprints despite trying several kiosks. Another couple at Naples missed their transfer after waiting two hours, while passengers remaining in the original queue reportedly faced waits of up to six hours. EU regulations exempt travellers who are physically unable to provide usable fingerprints. However, passengers say no effective procedure exists to prevent serious delays. Airlines warn that unresolved problems could cause major disruption at European airports during busy summer periods.
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Freya is a 4.5- year-old, German Shepherd who is very affectionate but would need an experience owner. For more info on this beautiful girl Email: info@satanimalrescue.com WhatsApp 688792515 or 966710047
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TAXI LICENCE CHAOS - Orihuela’s Socialist Party has blamed poorly drafted rules and unfair exclusions for delaying new taxi licences for more than a year. Councillor Luis Quesada said unclear criteria made it impossible to assess professional experience, language skills and unemployment consistently. The assessment committee refused to recommend successful applicants and requested changes, warning that the existing rules risked arbitrary decisions. Appeals were also lodged by candidates excluded despite providing official Spanish-language qualifications. The PSOE says the delays are harming applicants, residents and visitors already affected by taxi shortages. It is demanding immediate corrections, assessments and swift approval.
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MORE CONCRETE FOR ORIHUELA COSTA AS COUNCIL CHANGES USE OF LAND
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rihuela City Council has backed an environmental assessment that moves two undeveloped coastal plots closer to tourist, commercial or residential development. The 2,188-square-metre sites in Horizonte, near the planned Las Vistas development at Cala Mosca, are currently designated for private healthcare, social and administrative facilities. Developer Costa Mar Torrevieja Internacional argues that the designation no longer reflects Orihuela Costa’s tourist and residential character. Its proposed change could permit hotels, shops, offices, leisure facilities, specialist businesses or more housing. Residents objected, warning that the move would permanently reduce land available for valuable services and place private commercial interests ahead of community needs. Council officials dismissed that argument, saying the privately owned plots were never part of Orihuela’s legally required network of public amenities. The council insists existing healthcare and social uses are not being removed, merely
expanded to include other options. However, the developer’s push for residential permission has deepened suspicions over what will eventually be built. Final approval is still required, but the assessment clears a major hurdle. Critics say it reinforces a familiar pattern: land once intended for coastal services edging closer to concrete.
Torrevieja City Council has launched a e1.94m home-care service supporting elderly residents, people with disabilities and vulnerable families. The two-year contract, awarded to Atende Servicios Integrados, may be extended for another two years. Personalised assistance includes cleaning, washing, dressing, mobility support, medication help, medical appointments and measures to combat loneliness. Eligible residents include people with recognised dependency needs. The service will employ at least 26 home-care assistants and two social workers. It also provides psychology, physiotherapy, podiatry and beauty care, six portable stairlift chairs and 1,350 additional annual care hours for emergencies or increased support.
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‘How old would you be if you didn’t know your age?’ was reading something in a magazine last week when I came across what I consider to be one of the greatest lines ever written.
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between the ages of nine and ninety … or worse still, ‘stop being childish.’ I put it to you, dear reader, that this is the worst advice we have ever been given.
It had little to do with the gist of the story and wasn’t attributed to anyone.
Again, what if you didn’t know your age – and nobody else knew it either, how would you act? Or how would you know that you weren’t supposed to be ‘childish’?
I actually had flicked over it before its significance registered in slow motion and so I reversed and read it again. The ceist was asked; ‘how old would you be if you didn’t know your age.’ Think about that one for a minute … You see … and whether we like it or not; most people behave and conform to behavior that is expected of them at whatever age they are at. How many times have we all heard the remark; ‘that ‘wan’ should act her age, or ‘there he is … going around thinking he’s a young fella!’ Despite all of this, I appreciate that it is only natural to want to be ‘young for our age.’ A few years back I was offered a test to determine my ‘metabolic age’. Modesty prevents me from bragging about the difference in my metabolic age and my chronological age … all I’ll say here is that I threw the hurl in the boot of the car – just in case the lads are ever stuck. By and large, our actions are strongly influenced by the fact that other people know our age. But it shouldn’t be like that, and there are exceptions. My Aunt Betty was close to 100 years old when she died. Most women of her generation dressed in grays and black on reaching their twilight years. Not so Auntie Betty; she tarted herself up in pinks, bright blue and all sorts of glitter until the end. In her mind she ‘didn’t know her age’ and I believe this aided her longevity. ‘Act your age’ we can be warned anytime
How would you know when it was time to ‘act your age’ and concentrate on hobbies like bridge, rug-making, Bingo, pottery and painting? If you didn’t know your age when would you stop playing tennis, jiving, and throwing snow-balls? Another comment that is regularly thrown in someone’s direction is; ‘you don’t look your age.’ If nobody knows your age they wouldn’t know how you should look. If you didn’t know your own age would you continue to be curious in trying new things? Would cynicism be permanently banished from the mind to retain more space for laughter, fun and adventure? Wouldn’t we all be far more willing to start something new and try again? Not everyone conforms to ‘acting their age’ – or more likely forgetting what age they are. As we write this article, 91-years-old Dale Sandes is hiking the 2,000 mile Appalachian Trail, taking in 14 States in America. I’m only 82 next month and I thought I was great to be heading off for the final leg of my Camino in September. So, forget your age, count blessings instead of years. Chase dreams instead of dates and milk the joyous days. Like I told them at this year’s Mullingar Literary Festival; Caroline Ruth Weden published her first book at the age of 102!
Swedish shooter Oscar Swan won an Olympic gold medal at the age of 64 and followed it up with a silver when he was 72years-old. Finally, here is a warning for the Gorls against the perils of complacency. Australian, Lee Colley, became a daddy again at the age of 92. Obviously the bould Lee wasn’t listening when they told him to ‘act his age’. Or more likely, he was just one of the lucky ones who didn’t know his age.
Dorothy Williams is another great example of ‘strutting her sexy stuff’ and seemingly not knowing her age. Ms Williams was a striptease artist (still is – for all we know) and she became famous in 2016 when she performed a burlesque dance routine on ‘America’s Got Talent’ at the age of ninety! Bernie Barker was another stripper who entered the ‘Guinness Book of Records’ as the world’s oldest male stripper, starting his career at the age of 66. All this shows is that age is just a number and we would all be so much better off if we didn’t know that number! DON’T FORGET There are some people who can’t tell a lie, some people who can’t tell the truth - and a few others who can’t tell the difference.
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CAMPOAMOR RESIDENTS RETURN TO THE STREETS
Hundreds of residents, property owners and beachgoers have staged a second demonstration demanding the regeneration of Barranco Rubio beach and safe, accessible shoreline access. Organisers AVA Campoamor acknowledged recent improvements but said current measures remained insufficient. A trench has been created to channel excess water from the ravine, while Posidonia seagrass is being concentrated near the southern end to keep the main bathing area clearer. Campaigners also reported better
cleaning and maintenance. However, two lifts through the pri-
vately owned Miraver building remain closed, preventing step-free access to the beach and causing difficulties for residents. The association hopes discussions with the building’s new community president and Orihuela Council will produce a permanent solution. A temporary council shuttle operates on the steep route, but its e25,198 cost has attracted criticism. Protesters continued gathering petition signatures and pledged to maintain pressure until the beach is regenerated and safe access is finally restored.
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ALICANTE – GIBRALTAR FLIGHTS MOVE CLOSER Direct flights between Alicante and Gibraltar could become possible following Gibraltar’s post-Brexit agreement with the European Union. The deal makes Gibraltar Airport an external Schengen entry point and allows EU airlines to operate services there, removing a major legal obstacle. No carrier has announced an Alicante route, but Gibraltar is seeking additional connections. A direct flight would take just over an hour, compared with five or six hours by road, and could attract tourists, shoppers, wedding parties and business travellers. However, Gibraltar remains a British Overseas Territory. For nonresident British visitors, time spent there will count towards the Schengen 90-day limit.
Torrevieja Demands More Officers as Crime Passes 10,000 offences Torrevieja has renewed its demand for a permanent increase in Guardia Civil and National Police resources after the city recorded more than 10,000 criminal offences in a single year. Ministry of the Interior figures show that 10,089 offences were reported in Torrevieja during 2025, an 8.3% rise from the 9,316 recorded in 2024 and the highest annual total to date. The council described the figures as “completely unacceptable” and said they confirmed repeated warnings that the city’s state security forces were severely understaffed. The statistics included 87 sexual offences, of which 26 were classified as rape. This represented a 44.4% increase compared with the previous year. There were also 1,022 cybercrimes, including 895 cases of online fraud. Mayor Eduardo Dolon said the increase
should come as no surprise because the council had been calling for additional officers for years. “We have made requests in writing, raised the issue in person and demanded action at Local Security Board meetings,” he said. “Torrevieja needs a permanent increase in Guardia Civil personnel.” Dolon argued that staffing levels had failed to keep pace with Torrevieja’s rapid growth. The municipality now has more than 110,000 registered residents, while its actual population rises substantially during the summer and other holiday periods. “The Spanish Government continues to treat Torrevieja as though nothing has changed,” the mayor said. The council pointed to its own efforts to strengthen local policing. The recruitment process has been expanded to 63 positions,
with the authority hoping to begin 2027 with around 180 Local Police officers. Work is also continuing to fill approximately 30 command posts. However, Dolon stressed that the Local Police could not replace the Guardia Civil or National Police. “Local officers can cooperate, reinforce operations and exercise all the powers granted to them by law, but they cannot take over responsibilities that belong directly to the Ministry of the Interior,” he said. The council formally requested more than 100 additional state security officers in 2025. It is now calling on the Ministry of the Interior to urgently review the Guardia Civil staffing structure, permanently expand the workforce and introduce a security plan reflecting Torrevieja’s year-round population and significant seasonal increases.
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CYCLIST KILLED IN TORRE PACHECO CRASH
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the landscape surrounding the protected historic castle. Formal approval of the contract is still required.
destinations across Spain and Europe while strengthening Alicante Airport’s domestic network.
MBE’S FOR TOURISM LEADERS
LOS ALCÁZARES DEMANDS 24-HOUR CARE Los Alcázares residents, doctors, unions and political parties have united to demand a 24-hour health centre for the municipality. Scene of the robbery, Campoamor Bridge
Officers at the scene of the incident A 70-year-old cyclist was killed on Tuesday after a collision involving a car and a lorry on the RM-F38 road near the boundary between Torre Pacheco and San Javier. The crash happened at around 9.24am between Dolores de Pacheco and Pozo Aledo. According to the Civil Guard’s investigation, the cyclist, a man of North African origin, was struck by a car while both were travelling in the same direction. A lorry was also involved. Several witnesses contacted Murcia’s 112 emergency centre, reporting that the rider had suffered serious injuries. A 061 Mobile Emergency Unit was sent to the scene, but paramedics were unable to save him and only able to confirm his death.
GUARDAMAR CASTLE HILLSIDE WORK CLOSER Excavaciones Sim?n SL has been recommended for a e239,000 regeneration project on the hillside surrounding Guardamar Castle after submitting the only bid. Guardamar City Council’s Contracting Committee unanimously approved the company’s offer of e239,023, around e2,325 below the maximum budget. The proposal received 70 points and included all three additional improvements listed in the tender. The four-month project, funded through the Vega Renhace Plan, will regenerate a gully near the castle. Work will include creating terraces, constructing five gabion retaining walls and installing irrigation. Carob trees will also be planted. The scheme aims to reduce erosion, prevent rainwater sediment from blocking the municipal drainage network and improve
Two leading figures in Spain’s tourism industry have received honorary MBEs from King Charles III for helping protect British holidaymakers. Gabriel Escarrer, chairman and chief executive of Meliá Hotels International, was recognised for promoting responsible tourism and improving visitor safety in the Balearic Islands. His support for the British Government’s Stick With Your Mates campaign helped reduce serious incidents involving young tourists. José Luis Benítez, president of Spain Nightlife and an executive at Palladium Hotel Group, was honoured for improving nightlife safety in Ibiza. His work included tackling sexual harassment, assault and drink spiking through staff training and stronger security measures. British Ambassador Alex Ellis praised both men for strengthening cooperation between Spain and Britain and making popular Spanish destinations safer for millions of UK visitors.
TEEN CHOKED AND ROBBED A 16-year-old German tourist says he was choked unconscious, beaten and robbed while walking home from the Cabo Roig Strip. The alleged attack occurred early on Saturday, August 15, near the old stone bridge on Calle Ana Mar?a Matute in Campoamor. The teenager said several people approached from behind before one placed him in a chokehold.
He awoke around two hours later and discovered his wallet, keys and iPhone were missing. An unfamiliar mobile phone found in his pocket was handed to police as possible evidence. The victim later tracked his badly damaged iPhone to a green area near the scene. Guardia Civil officers are investigating and have appealed for witnesses and relevant security-camera footage recorded between 1am and 3am.
More than 14,000 people have signed a petition supporting the campaign, which is backed by the Murcia Regional Assembly and every party on the local council. Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera said the service was a fundamental right, not a luxury. More than 14,000 signed the petition
NEW ALICANTE AIR LINK New Spanish airline Fly2Galicia will launch year-round flights between Santiago de Compostela and Alicante-Elche Airport from December 3. The carrier will operate three services in each direction every week, flying on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Oneway fares will start at ˇ20.
Los Alcázares has 22,000 permanent residents, rising to around 100,000 during summer, but its health centre reportedly opens only from 8am to 3pm on weekdays.
Departures from Santiago are scheduled for 10.50am on Mondays and Thursdays and 7am on Saturdays. Return flights will leave Alicante at 1.15pm and 9.25am respectively.
Protesters said residents should not be forced to travel elsewhere for urgent treatment.
The route will provide an alternative to the limited seasonal service currently offered by Ryanair and help restore connections affected by the airline’s withdrawal from Santiago Airport. Fly2Galicia also plans routes to Granada, Zaragoza, Venice, Milan, Prague, Munich and Brussels, connecting Galicia with
The rally ended with a manifesto demanding year-round, round-the-clock medical care without further delay.
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EasyJet will withdraw all services from Leeds Bradford Airport after its final flights on January 5, following a review of its network.
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EasyJet pulls out of Leeds
The airline currently links the Yorkshire airport with Palma, Málaga, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Barcelona and Belfast. Passengers booked beyond the closure date will be offered a free transfer from another easyJet airport or a full refund. Flights will operate normally until January 5, while eight other airlines will continue serving the airport.
First books donated to Help at Home Costa Blanca
A specialist team of 132 Guardia Civil officers will protect riders, support crews and spectators during the 2026 Vuelta a España, which got underway in Monaco on Saturday
Local author Peter Houghton will donate the first three copies of his new book, Living in Silence, to Help at Home Costa Blanca at 11am on Friday, September 4, at the charity’s Playa Flamenca Community Hub. The books will be auctioned, with all proceeds supporting the charity. Exploring loneliness and isolation among older people, the book highlights the importance of companionship, community support and simply asking someone, “Are you OK?” Members of public are welcome.
The 21-stage race will cover 3,275 kilometres through Monaco, France, Andorra and Spain. Supported by 59 motorcycles, 28 off-road vehicles and a helicopter, officers will manage traffic, secure start and finish areas and respond to emergencies. They will also coordinate with police forces in Monaco, France and Andorra to maintain safety as the international race crosses national borders safely.
Orihuela city is to get a new 40-place residential centre for people with disabilities at the former asylum on Avenida Duque de Tamames. The Valencian Government has allocated e5.9m to the project, which is currently out to tender. Another e350,000 will fund improvements at an existing local care facility. The plans form part of a e132m regional programme creating 1,800 public care places. However, construction cannot begin until the contract is awarded, while other improvements remain dependent on administrative approval and renewed management contracts for existing care services and facilities.
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Suspect Tasered after Police Car Rammed in Punta Prima A suspected car thief has been arrested after a dangerous police pursuit through Orihuela Costa ended with a patrol vehicle being rammed and two officers injured. Local Police spotted a vehicle matching one recently reported stolen on the N-332 near Punta Prima. When ordered to stop, the driver allegedly accelerated away, driving recklessly through heavy summer traffic. Police said the suspect deliberately struck a patrol car travelling ahead, forcing it off the road and causing extensive damage. Despite suffering minor injuries, the officers continued the pursuit on foot as the man fled into a
residential area, crossed private properties and climbed villa fences. Officers eventually caught him, but he allegedly resisted arrest. A Taser was used to subdue him before he was taken into custody. Both officers were treated at Torrevieja Hospital. The Guardia Civil Traffic Unit managed vehicles on the stateowned N-332, while the incident alarmed pedestrians and customers at nearby businesses. Orihuela Local Police praised the injured officers for continuing the chase and preventing the suspect from escaping despite the violent collision during the busy coastal pursuit scene.
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EARLY EASTENDERS ANGIE - QUEEN VIC MARKET - WALFORD
SAME GRID TWO SETS OF CLUES
ALBERT - DOT
QUICKIE CROSSWORD ACROSS 3. Heedlessly rash (9) 8. Military force (4) 9. Unequalled (9) 10. Paradise (6) 11. Show contempt for (5) 14. Merger (5) 15. Old form of you (4) 16. Teams (5) 18. Period before Easter (4) 20. Dried plum (5) 21. Vagrant (5) 24. Sibling (6) 25. Giving (9) 26. Peruvian Indian (4) 27. Leave office (5,4)
DOWN 1. In a shy way (9) 2. Easily irritated at delay (9) 4. Gulf state (4) 5. Regional (5) 6. Using maximum effort (3-3) 7. Record (4) 9. Wherewithal (5) 11. Annoyed (3,2) 12. Forcing (9) 13. Practice (9) 17. Small shoot (5) 19. Satellite of Neptune (6) 22. Miaowed (5) 23. Qualifying race (4) 24. Wintry precipitation (4)
LAUNDERETTE - PHILL BROTHERS - GRANT GARAGE - STALL DIRTY DEN - CAFE FOWLER - PAULINE ALLOTMENT - IAN BOOKIE - PEGGY SQUARE - BEALE
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS 3. Deserted, showing lack of self-control (9) 8 & 15Ac. Note the moment to move on the spot (4,4) 9. Making some stipulation when supplying stock (9) 10. Strive for inordinate praise (6) 11. Ask quietly to go in front (5) 14. Flock of geese hide round the top of the elm (5) 15. See 8 Ac. 16. Vehicle not returning to Georgia (5) 18. Conceited one in the forefront of battle (4) 20. Fall back in a bit of a flap, seemingly (5) 21. Kind of grass providing a comfortable place to lie (5) 24. The sort of organ through which a bullet passes (6) 25. A girl more confused by rambling account (9) 26. Almost a gimmick to cause stupefaction (4) 27. Remove any roughness from this arboreal feature (5-4) DOWN 1. Being stoical, I'm not resisting (9) 2. Clairvoyant hit copper in disorder (9) 4. Produced a tidal wave (4) 5. Original piece of literature (5) 6. Aged bowler is out-of-date (3,3) 7. She reveals part of her married name (4) 9. Computer information gets out after this (5) 11. Belabour Toby's master (5) 12. Lack of balance could put pairs in a tidy mess (9) 13. Removing any inclination for flatfish! (9) 17. Seaweed dispersed by a gale (5) 19. The standard linked with an early invader (6) 22. It shows something is missing from a broken crate (5) 23. Instrument with an unpleasant sound? (4) 24. Squander money, feeling depressed (4)
TRIVIA QUIZ 1. What is the reverse of a cosmic black hole called? 2. Which mouth-watering sweet little confection means 'small oven' when translated? 3. Which amnesic and very well trained fictional character didn't know his real name was David Webb? 4. Each of the following played the President of the United States in films where the world was facing extinction. Can you name the film? a. Morgan Freeman, b. Perry King, c. Peter Sellers, d. Danny Glover, e. Bill Pulman, f. Henry Fonda 5. What did Fred Astaire, Heidi Klum, Michael Flatley and Betty Grable all do to their legs? 6. Until the mid 1970s Smarties were called Smarties chocolate what? 7. In Venice, what is a vaporetti? 8. Which extremely light chemical element is named after the sun? 9. What kind of weapon was a medieval destrier? 10. The two volcanic eruptions in the last century that caused the most deaths were Mount Pelee (May 8, 1902) and Nevado de Ruiz (Nov 13, 1985). In which country is each volcano located? 11. The following kiss related lyrics are found in which songs? a. So kiss me and smile for me, tell me that you'll wait for me, b. A kiss is still a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh, c. Excuse me while I kiss the sky, d. War, children, It's just a kiss away, kiss away, kiss away, e. If you want to know if he loves you so, It's in his kiss, that's where it is, f. For a golden girl
knows when he's kissed her, it's the kiss of death 12. According to a survey by the Halifax Bank, what are the two most common street names in the United Kingdom? 13. The Victoria Cross for gallantry was instituted by Queen Victoria during which war? 14. According to the UN Food & Agriculture Organisation, which country produces the most potatoes, a staggering 90 million metric tonnes a year, 22.2% of the world's potato production? 15. Which visible aid was first introduced for the 1933 F.A. Cup final between Everton and Manchester City? 16. Which occupation has for centuries made the Adriatic island Murano world famous? 17. One of the rarest and most expensive stamps in the world depicts a very popular Belgian born actress smoking a cigarette with a very long cigarette holder. Can you name the actress? 18. What was: a. the name of a critically acclaimed album from the Kinks which ended with the word Hillbillies and b. the name of a band founded by Mark Knopfler which ended with the word Hillbillies? 19. Capybaras are the largest living examples of what in the world? 20. What 'plays' an Aeolian harp? 21. In pantomime, who is Aladdins Mother? 22. Which Disney film contains the song Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo? 23. Who slept in the teapot at the mad hatters tea party?
Find answers on page 18
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
WORD WHEEL CHALLENGE
The target is 47 words My Total ______________ * Answers page 18.
Your aim is to create as many words of 4 letters or more using the letters in the word wheel only once in each word and always including the letter in the centre of the wheel. No proper names are allowed.
WORD SCRAMBLE CHALLENGE Unscramble the letters to reveal TYPES OF CLOUD UOMSTUALUCL - UMSLUUC LTUSTTASOAR - TOARSTUCRRSI UAISSTOTRMNB - SMBIUN CUMSIULRRCUO - EALCLUINTR
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in five years. Locals know about it but it catches out visitors big time and it has prompted a TV company to organise a poll which has shown that while the majority know what a bus lane is and avoid them, only 15% knew what a bus gate is. It’s only for buses, so avoid them when next in the UK. Now you know – you save money by reading my column!!
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Tony Mayes Rant
TRUMP’S SICK LOGIC It’s well documented how absurd and unpredictable Trump can be, but his latest edict takes the biscuit.
DON’T FUEL THE FLAMES ildfires across Europe this summer has caused many millions of euros and pounds in damage. But there’s one thing to be learned from them, and that is to ensure you don’t surround your home with bushes, trees and other flammable things.
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People in the UK, especially in posher areas, love to surround their homes in greenery - on the altar of getting more privacy. But what it does when everything is tinder dry is catch fire easily and allow flames to spread like wildfire and involve the home. So, let’s establish a basic fact – that the best place to have trees is in a wood or forest with plenty of space between them and homes. It’s the same argument when it comes to roads and railways. Don’t grow them alongside because they can cause death and destruction in heatwaves and in storms when they can be blown down or struck by lightning and don’t forget, leaves on the railway tracks cause mayhem! A van caught fire by the edge of the road in the New Forest last week. At the road edge was a row of bushes which caught fire and then spread. I rest my case! And isn’t about time councils resumed collecting discarded bottles, etc. from road edges? These can cause fires.
GATE EXPECTATIONS One council in the UK has come up with a very annoying way of making piles of money. All you do is paint a section of road a different colour, paint the words bus gate on it and put a sign of a bus and cycle in a circle and cash in. One council has made huge amounts from its bus gate network, with one single highprofile camera generating over £2.5 million
He has signed an order calling for fewer childhood vaccines and recommending splitting the mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) shots. He told a press conference: "Decades ago, children received only a small fraction of the vaccines required today. In those times, people were much healthier and of course the high rates of autism now observed did not exist." The president suggested the MMR vaccine could be "quite lethal" if given all at once. He compared it to pouring a bottle of soda into a child's body. Doctors say this is nonsense as a single dose of MMR is only 0.5ml. If a child has to get an injection every time he or she goes to the surgery it will frighten the child against going. Trump’s remarks and executive order has infuriated the medical world. They are worried that fewer parents will take children to get immunised and diseases will spread more readily in the US and if infected children travel around the world from the US diseases will spread further. They add there is no evidence of a link between vaccines and autism. The most telling point of all this is when a reporter asked for evidence of the "lethal" claim, Trump said: "What I've heard is that there are some people that say it is that way." And here’s the problem – Trump believes the last thing he is told. It’s about time America moved away from a presidential system which gives one person, deranged or not, absolute power, and there should be an upper age limit, of say 65.
THE COST OF EXTREMISM A news story which broke just before Europe went into overdrive because of the eclipse, and then got buried, concerned yet another example of would-be Jewish settlers in Israel attempting to seize the homes and land of Palestinians against international law.
The army was called in to try to stop the violence but when reporters arrived they witnessed soldiers praying with the settlers. Meanwhile some members of Israel’s right wing government are openly backing the settlers, and of course it is all wrapped up in the pure religious hatred between Jews and
Muslims in the area. What all this does in other parts of the world is put Jews in danger of reprisals – sad when violence in and around Israel, the West Bank and Gaza is not their fault. The fault is ever putting extremists into power.
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BY TOMÁS MORENO ast Friday the Mayor of Orihuela appeared on the Radio Station Onda Cera where he defended the performance of his government during their current term of office.
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Local pundit Tomás Moreno now comments on the responses that he considers to be of greatest interest to the residents of Orihuela Costa. His assessments are italicised in red text. STRUCTURAL CHANGES WITHIN THE COUNCIL
areas, seaweed, green spaces, children's play areas, street lighting, potholes and road signage, etc. LOW BUDGET IMPLEMENTATION The mayor acknowledges that many of the pending investments will not be carried out before the end of this term of office, in May 2027. But he says that the projects that have already got underway (the Sports Complex, the Business Park) are now unstoppable. And he concludes by remarking that “the administration is a behemoth that moves at one kilometer per hour.”
The mayor is pleased with the changes made to the council's organizational and staffing structure, and with the consequences of those changes, which “are not immediately apparent.”
At present, the projects actually carried out amount to less than e2.5 million, which is 20 per cent of the e12.3 million approved for Orihuela Costa in the 2024 Budget.
It is now beginning to bear fruit and will yield much more in the next term of office.
Incidentally, the mayor makes no mention of any structural projects for the coast. Is this an oversight, or is it simply that there aren't any?
THE CHANGE IN THE WASTE MANAGEMENT MODEL The mayor says that the decision to bring waste management in-house was a mistake, so they have been working from the outset to change the model, to provide the service through a municipal company, in which they have already invested over 6 million euros. He suggests this will be a more efficient system by taking it out of the council's direct management, which will allow for a more flexible response to staff absences. Torrevieja spends over e26 million a year on the waste collection and street cleaning contract. This gives us an idea of how far the municipal company still has to go, given that, so far, only e6 million has been invested in it. I'm not entirely sure that the change in management model so highly praised by the mayor is very different from the current municipalized system, apart from the appointment of a manager costing e80,000 a year. The mayor says he is satisfied with the work carried out, but he is not satisfied with what Orihuela receives. “I will never be satisfied as long as there is a resident who is not content and happy.” On the coast, I would go so far as to say that there are thousands of residents who are unhappy with the total breakdown of basic services: rubbish collection, bins, street cleaning, clearing of overgrown
WILL PEPE VEGARA STAND FOR RE-ELECTION IN THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS? The mayor says, “It would be a shame to leave without seeing these projects completed,” and the interviewer replies, “Does that mean Pepe Vegara won't be standing in the upcoming elections?” The mayor answers: "I meant leaving this term of office. Let's leave it at that." For my part, I must add that the verdict in the pending court case against the mayor could be a decisive factor in this matter. INVESTMENTS IN ORIHUELA COSTA The mayor says that, during this term of office, they have made more investments in the coast than in the last twenty years. “We are the local government team that has invested the most in Orihuela Costa ever.” “Orihuela Costa is being looked after by this local government team as it has never been before.” Regarding the cycle and pedestrian footbridge over the AP7 bridge, he says, “It is a promise from my election campaign that we will, at last, soon see coming to fruition.” It is true that this council has invested more in the coast than in the last 20 years. But it is equally true that during those years there was practically no investment in the coast, so I would not be inclined to boast about it. And it is equally true that basic services are in a worse state than ever. You only need to take a walk through our streets to see what I mean. The draft plans for the construction of the cycle and pedestrian bridge over the AP7 (Lomas de Cabo Roig) have already been reviewed by the Ministry of Public Works, and the necessary amendments have been incorporated by the project designer. The works will then have to be put out to tender. THE SERIOUS SITUATION ALONG THE COAST REGARDING WASTE COLLECTION AND STREET CLEANING The mayor says this is one of the things he is not satisfied with. He notes that Orihuela Costa's population almost quadruples in summer and that the current inefficiency must be addressed. But “he doesn't have a magic wand to do so.” This council has achieved what previous ones have not: reaching a consensus on complaints regarding basic services among residents of the town centre, the coast and the surrounding districts. MUNICIPAL BUDGETS The mayor says they have approved two budgets during this term of office and are currently working on the 2027 budget. “We will end the term with an approved budget.” I understand that the 2027 budgets will serve as a 'showcase' exercise, with no current investment, as there will be virtually no time to implement them. THE SEPARATION OF THE COASTAL AREA IS IMPOSSIBLE The mayor says that “Orihuela Costa does not meet the legal, physical or certain other conditions required by law.” He believes that the requirement for the metropolitan area to have abandoned the zone seeking independence has not been met. He maintains that “Orihuela Costa is a priority for the City Council and Orihuela Costa will never be able to separate from our city's municipal boundaries”. The argument put forward by the mayor to claim that separation is impossible because the mainland has not 'abandoned' the coast is, in my opinion, easily refutable with technical reports that confirm the deplorable current state of our basic services: refuse collection, recycling bins, street cleaning, green spaces, tree pruning, roads, street lighting, etc. My final assessment is that the management of Orihuela City Council, led by Mayor Pepe Vegara, has been erratic—probably well-intentioned, but lacking the vision and strategy needed to ensure that, after more than three years in office, residents can see tangible improvements on the streets. I believe this is also a consequence of the mayor’s limited contact with the everyday realities of life on the coast.
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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 Next meeting is on Wednesday, September 9th, 2026. All are welcome. Online meetings take place on the 2nd Thursday of every month.
“HOW TO OPEN GOOGLE CHROME WITH SPECIFIC PAGES”?
Then click the 3 dots at the the screen
Set Your Default Startup Pages (Every Time Chrome Opens) ?If you have a set of core websites you want open every single time you launch the browser, you can lock them into Chrome's startup settings. Open the pages you want to appear each time you open Google Chrome. Open the first page you want to access e.g. http://google.co.uk for Google searches. To add another page select the + (Add Tab) symbol. e.g. add a page to access your emails. Add all the required pages you want to open each time you open Chrome. 4 or 5 pages maximum to fit the page.
Click the 3 dots at the top right of the screen
2.
Open Settings
3.
Select “Start, home, and new tab page”
4.
Select “Use all open tabs”
top right of
Open Chrome Settings Opening Google Chrome automatically with a specific set of pages is a great way to jump straight into your workflow.
1.
Click the three vertical dots (menu icon) in the top-right corner of your browser window and select Settings. Navigate to On Startup In the left-hand sidebar, click on On startup. Choose Specific Pages Select the radio button next to Open a specific page or set of pages. Select "Use current pages" Close Chrome. The next time you open Google Chrome, those pages will be opened. Note: – If you use Edge as your Internet browser, the process is the same with the following differences. After the required pages have been opened:
“DO INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS (ISP) ACTIVELY BLOCK ILLEGAL IPTV”? In Spain, the legal pressure on Internet Service Providers (ISPs) is among the most aggressive and strict in all of Europe. Major Spanish providers—like Telefónica (Movistar), Orange, Vodafone, MásMóvil, and DIGI — are not just banned from allowing illegal IPTV; they have been forced into a highly coordinated, real-time war against it. The anti-piracy landscape enforced by Spanish courts dictates exactly how ISPs operate, resulting in notable real-world impacts for internet users across the country. Spanish courts have granted LaLiga (the professional football league) and broadcasters like Movistar sweeping, unprecedented judicial powers.
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Scan the QR Code right to find out exactly what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group has to offer
Instead of requiring a judge to approve every single block, the court gave LaLiga the authority to compile a weekly list of server IP addresses and domains hosting illegal streams. Spanish ISPs are legally mandated to block these IPs automatically, often within minutes of kickoff. Spain has taken major legal steps toward penalising the people watching the streams, not just the ones selling them. Commercial courts (specifically Court No. 8 in Barcelona) ordered major Spanish ISPs to hand over the identification data of users connecting to illegal IPTV networks or peer-to-peer streaming apps. ISPs have been forced to give rightsholders user names, national ID numbers (NIE/DNI), billing addresses, and the exact timestamps of when their IP addresses connected to a pirate server. The Spanish judiciary later clarified that these identification orders are primarily aimed at "cardsharers" and individuals rebroadcasting or profiting from the signal, rather than casual viewers. To ask a question or to join the Technology Help group, send an email to Brian Hoile at cbtechnology.help@gmail.com Brian Hoile, Technology Help Group
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tered, but I would have to give it some thought. That was two weeks ago, and I still have not given him my answer. I did not take the ring, even at his insistence, as I didn't feel it was right.
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.
M
y gentleman friend shocked me recently by proposing marriage. Whilst we have been seeing each other for a number of years now, his proposition was out of the blue. It is true that we have occasionally co-habited for extended holidays and trips abroad, and we do get along very well. Both of us have been married before and were widowed. We never thought we'd meet anyone again, nor consider a more permanent arrangement. He knew how I felt about taking the plunge again, and at our ages (66 and 68), I said many times that I did not think we needed to move in together or get married. He bought a beautiful and expensive ring and whipped it out one night while we were walking along the beach. I was and am still stunned, and I am afraid that I disappointed him saying that I was extremely flat-
Another thing is that I don't like his friends. His friends are NOT my friends and although I have tolerated them, I have kept well out of gatherings since he and I have got together; I just think that if I take the plunge and make our relationship permanent, it will open up a can of worms.
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ne of my mottos is, 'If it's not broken, then don't fix it'. You tell me that you were perfectly happy with your arrangement, however, your man seems not to be. He wants to take a more serious step. I always counsel a meeting of the waves in all situations and, if a compromise can be reached that's all that can be expected if two people are not on the same page. Perhaps you could merely have an engagement and propose a regular but not entirely, living arrangement? Of course you will have to have a sit down with your man and explain how you feel, if you have not done so already. I would suggest that you don't do anything that you really do not want to do. You are in your 60s and knowing your own mind when we are older, is too important to do something for someone else, when you have feelings otherwise.
A Week of Entertainment across the Southern Costa Blanca Residents and visitors have a week of entertainment to enjoy across Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa and Guardamar from Monday, August 24, to Sunday, August 30. The programme begins on Monday when the Alicante Provincial Youth Orchestra performs at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club from 8.30pm. The concert will include works by Rimsky-Korsakov and Tchaikovsky. Free Summer Sports sessions will take place on the Playa Flamenca esplanade on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7pm until 8.30pm. Activities are free, but advance registration is required. Guardamar offers music, theatre and dancing on Thursday. Latin group Doña Manteca performs in Placa dels Pescadors at 7.30pm, while the comedy La Balada de los Tres Inocentes opens at the Casa de Cultura at
8pm. Performances continue on Friday and Saturday, with tickets costing ˇ8. The free Summer Dance takes place at Reina Sofia Park on Thursday from 9.30pm until 11.30pm. A guided Spanish-language tour from Guardamar Castle to the San Antonio Mill will depart at 10am on Saturday. Torrevieja’s principal attraction is the eighth Torrevieja Costa Blanca Carnival Festival at the Municipal Theatre on Saturday. The show will feature costumes, music and dance, with doors opening at 7.30pm. Beyond the official programme, many bars are likely to offer live singers, tribute acts, karaoke, quizzes and other entertainment. In Torrevieja, venues worth checking include Bar Carlos, Murphy’s on the Park, Stoney’s Bar and Los Angeles Restaurant.
Orihuela Costa has an entertainment circuit. Paddy’s Point in La Zenia, Bushwacka and Tipsy Toad 2 in Cabo Roig, and The Lansdowne and The Fire Station regularly advertise music and social events. In Guardamar and El Raso, readers can check The Shamrock, Bodega Ella Bella and The Bar at Guardamar Park. Around La Marina Urbanisation, Bar Stop, Hillside Snooker & Bar, The Lounge Bar and Rock
WORD SCRAMBLE
on the Beach are among the venues known for entertainment. Schedules at bars frequently change and additional acts are often announced only a few days beforehand. Readers should check each venue’s Facebook page before travelling for confirmed artists, starting times, booking requirements and possible lastminute changes.
WORDWHEEL - 54 WORDS
ALTOCUMULUS - CUMULUS ALTOSTRATUS - CIRROSTRATUS NIMBOSTRATUS - NIMBUS
CROSSWORD ANSWERS Monday 24 Aug (Week 1142) QUICK - ACROSS: 3 Foolhardy; 8 Army; 9 Matchless; 10 Heaven; 11 Flout; 14 Union; 15 Thee; 16 Sides; 18 Lent; 20 Prune; 21 Tramp; 24 Sister; 25 Bestowing; 26 Inca; 27 Stand down. DOWN: 1 Bashfully; 2 Impatient; 4 Oman; 5 Local; 6 All-out; 7 Disc; 9 Means; 11 Fed up; 12 Thrusting; 13
QUIZ FROM P12 1. A white hole, 2. Petit four, 3. Jason Bourne, 4. a. Deep Impact, b. The Day After Tomorrow, c. Dr. Strangelove, d. 2012, e. Independence Day, f. Fail Safe. 5. They all had their legs insured. 6. Smarties chocolate beans. 7. Public water bus. 8. Helium (After Helios, Greek for "Sun" and also "the god of Sun on mythology". 9. War horse. 10. Mt. Pelee is in Martinque and Nevado del Ruiz is in Colombia. 11. a. Leaving on a jet plane (John Denver). b. As time goes by. c. Purple Haze (Jimi Hendrix). d. Gimme
Rehearsal; 17 Sprig; 19 Triton; 22 Mewed; 23 Heat; 24 Snow. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC - ACROSS: 3 Abandoned; 8 Mark; 9 Providing; 10 Aspire; 11 Plead; 14 Skein; 15 Time; 16 Tonga; 18 Vain; 20 Lapse; 21 Couch; 24 Barrel; 25 Rigmarole; 26 Stun; 27 Plane-tree. DOWN: 1 Impassive; 2 Prophetic; 4 Bore; 5 Novel; 6 Old hat; 7 Edna; 9 Print; 11 Punch; 12 Disparity; 13 Levelling; 17 Algae; 19 Norman; 22 Caret; 23 Viol; 24 Blue. Shelter (Rolling Stones). e. The Shoop Shoop Song (Cher). f. Goldfinger (Shirley Bassey). 12. High Street (there are 5,410 High Streets, compared to 3,811 Station Roads, and 2,702 Main Streets). 13. The Crimean War. 14. China. 15. A number on the back of each players shirt. 16. Glass making. 17. Audrey Hepburn. (The photo was from the film "Breakfast at Tiffany's"). 18. a. Muswell Hillbillies, b. Notting Hillbillies. 19. Rodents. 20. The wind. 21. Widow Twankey. 22. Cinderella. 23. Doormouse.
CIRROCUMULUS - LENTICULAR
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SPICE GIRL GERI HALLIWELL’S GREAT GRANDFATHER EXECUTED BY FRANCO pice Girls star Geri Halliwell-Horner has a tragic chapter in her Spanish family history: her great-grandfather was a Republican mayor executed by the Franco regime after the Civil War.
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Emiliano Hidalgo Fernández served as mayor of Dos Torres in Córdoba during Spain’s Second Republic. He was arrested in May 1939, shortly after the war ended, and prosecuted before a Francoist court martial. His 116-page military file described him as the founder of the Socialist Party in Dos Torres and a local leader who opposed the military uprising of July 1936. Authorities branded him a “Marxist leader” involved in supposedly subversive and revolutionary activity. Although the records reportedly acknowledged that some allegations failed to establish his direct responsibility for particular events, Hidalgo was convicted of “adhering to the military rebellion” and sentenced to death. Such
DIESEL DISCOUNT INCREASED TO 20 CENTS ON 1 SEPTEMBER
Fernández served as mayor of Dos Torres during Spain’s Second Republic. He was killed by firing squad on December 27, 1940, aged 61.
Spain will increase its diesel discount to 20 cents per litre in September after sharply rising prices activated an emergency safeguard in the government’s energysupport programme.
Diesel prices rose 15.7% year-on-year in July, exceeding the 15% threshold that automatically triggers additional assistance. The discount had been scheduled to fall from 10 cents in
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August to five cents in September, but will instead double to 20 cents. A driver filling a 50-litre tank will save ˇ10, compared with ˇ2.50 under the original plan. Petrol drivers will not receive the increase because petrol prices rose only 7.3% year-on-year. Their discount will fall to five cents in September as planned. The measure comes as renewed energy costs squeeze households and businesses. Spain’s July inflation rate was revised upwards to 3.6%, while electricity prices increased 8.4% over the year.
Torrevieja Police Recruitment for 63 officers charges were commonly used by Francoist courts to reverse responsibility and punish supporters of Spain’s elected Republican government. Hidalgo was executed by firing squad against the walls of Córdoba’s La Salud Cemetery on December 27, 1940, aged 61. His son Máximo was also arrested and given a 20-
year prison sentence. While imprisoned, he reportedly met a woman employed as a prison officer; their relationship created the ancestral link to Geri. His story, shared with thousands persecuted in postwar Córdoba, later returned to attention through Ginger Spice, an international pop star of the 1990s and beyond.
Torrevieja City Council has expanded its Local Police recruitment campaign from 44 to 63 positions as it seeks to strengthen the force and improve year-round public safety. The vacancies, drawn from municipal employment offers covering 2023 to 2026, include 45 positions available through open competition and 18 reserved for officers transferring from other forces. Candidates have completed the final practical examination and must now undergo medical assessments. Successful applicants will then be appointed as trainee officers.
The council expects the process to conclude within months, increasing Torrevieja’s force to approximately 180 officers by early 2027. Separate selection procedures are also under way to fill up to 30 senior posts across the ranks of officer, inspector, superintendent and commissioner. The expansion is intended to ease pressure created by Torrevieja’s rapidly growing population, particularly during summer and holiday periods. Officers face increased demands involving traffic, public safety, nightlife and beaches throughout the city.
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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 Ss Peter and St Paul
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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 CORNERSTONE PENTECOSTALEVANGELICAL CHURCH Sunday Service 11.00am C/Escultor Ribera Girona 67 Pilar de la Horadada Join us for a multitude of activities, coffee mornings, exercise, bereavement group https://pilarchurch.com philm.cornerstone@gmail.com
Int Christian Assembly Evangelical Church Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja, Sunday Service 10.30 a.m Tel: 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. www.icatorrevieja.es COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Orihuela Costa Residents over 60 years 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
PERSONAL SERVICES 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
ROYAL NAVAL ASSN, TORREVIEJA BRANCH A friendly 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 Silverstone’s 2023 (Bar/Restaurant). Av. Romero, 03176 Montebello, Contact: For Membership Carl Louden; email: carllouden@msn.com or Phone +34 678 518 202
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WHY DOES SPAIN REMAIN SO IN LOVE WITH FIREWORKS? Tradition deserves respect but it cannot become an excuse
After 27 spectators were injured at Altea’s Castell de O’lla, the spectacle’s cultural and economic power must no longer obscure the risks. Why Does Spain Remain so in Love with Fireworks? The firework accident in Altea at the weekend should force Spain to confront an uncomfortable question: how many injuries must occur before tradition is reconsidered? Twenty-seven spectators were injured during the 40th Castell de l’Olla after a pyrotechnic shell reportedly veered towards the crowded beach. Eleven people required treatment at Alicante General Hospital’s burns unit, although fortunately none was reported to be in a life-threatening condition. The display attracted an estimated 100,000 spectators and used a record 1,600 kilograms of pyrotechnic material. An investigation is now under way.
The moment the display turned on the large crowd injuring 27 spectators
It is only the latest entry in Spain’s disturbing history of pyrotechnic accidents. Spectators have been killed or seriously injured, factories have exploded, homes and businesses have been damaged, and councils spend millions of euros every year staging displays and managing the resulting security, emergency and cleaning operations.
Yet fireworks remain extraordinarily popular because, particularly in the Valencian Community, they are much more than entertainment. Gunpowder, noise and fire have become entwined with regional identity. They accompany Fallas, Moors and Christians celebrations, patron saint festivals and countless summer fiestas. UNESCO itself recognises fireworks as part of the Fallas tradition and its contribution to community identity and social cohesion. There are also powerful economic interests. Displays attract enormous crowds, fill hotels and restaurants, generate publicity and support a specialist pyrotechnics industry. During the 2026 Fallas alone, the sector expected turnover of e8.75 million and employment for more than 1,000 people. For politicians and festival organisers, cancelling fireworks can therefore appear more dangerous electorally than continuing them. The spectacle is immediate and popular; the cost of accidents is less visible and is frequently carried afterwards by hospitals, emergency services, insurers and taxpayers.
Spain does have extensive pyrotechnic regulations covering professional qualifications, authorisation, safety plans and exclusion distances. But regulations cannot eliminate defective equipment, unexpected trajectories, human error or the dangers created when tens of thousands of people are packed into confined spaces. The answer need not be a complete ban. However, the Altea accident demands more than expressions of regret. There should be an independent investigation, publication of its findings and a fresh assessment of safety distances, crowd density, shell sizes and firing locations. Organisers should also be required to demonstrate adequate insurance and consider quieter fireworks, reduced explosive loads, laser productions or drone displays. Tradition deserves respect—but it cannot be allowed to become an excuse. When innocent spectators are burned while attending a council-supported celebration, preserving the spectacle must come second to protecting the public.
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There were Plantio of points for Sam In the frame are Hans, Sam and David
T
he Inbetweeners Golf Society returned to the superb El Plantio for another enjoyable day of golf at one of the Costa Blanca's popular courses. Members were greeted by immaculate fairways and wellmaintained greens, with the course once again providing an excellent setting for the day's competition. The day began in glorious Spanish sunshine, with temperatures climbing steadily through the morning. A welcome breeze arrived across the closing holes, taking
the edge off the afternoon heat and providing some welcome comfort for the players as they tackled the final stretch. The competition produced plenty of entertaining golf, with several members making strong starts while others found their form as the round progressed.
DAY’S WINNERS 1st Place: Sam Williamson — 39 points 2nd Place: Hans Mikaelsson 36 points 3rd Place: David Perkins — 34 points NEAREST THE PIN
El Plantio demanded accuracy, patience and thoughtful course management, with every hole presenting its own challenge.
Hole 7: Jimmy Scott
There were excellent shots, a few costly mistakes and, as always, plenty of good-natured banter that added to the enjoyment of the day.
Looking for a fun and friendly golf society to join. All abilities are very welcome; check out our website:
Hole 9: Han Mikaelsson Hole 18: Sam Williamson
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LO ROMERO - FORE DEGREES TOO HOT FOR SAN MIGUEL GS perfectly: painful for the player, hugely entertaining for everyone else. By the final putts, clubs were being swung more for the cooling breeze they generated than for distance, cementing this scorching day at one of the Society’s favourite courses. Some very good scores were returned despite the heat: Gold: Dave Rowe (41 pts and joint best score of the day) Silver: Charlie Jackson (40 pts) There was also double matchplay semi-final drama in the sunshine with John Osborne and Dave Rowe beating Peter Turbefield and Denis Ryan 4&3. They go on to the final against Phil de Lacy and Robin Eastman. Messrs Osborne and Rowe were obviously on fire in the heat as they split the rollover “Twos” pot and Nearest the Pins from Drew Niblock on the 5th, Will Hammond on the 7th, John Osborne on the 12th, and Barry “BTB” Roehrig on the 16th. The “McBride Bottle” was going home with Lee Eastman (not his favourite wine..) and Denis Ryan took the football card winnings with Coventry. Two Best Guests with a late entry from Mark Dooley with a great score of 41 (“he hasn’t played in a while..”) and Dean Kavanagh with 35 points. 31 brave souls turned the fairways of Lo Romero into an arena of survival today, battling blistering Costa Blanca heat that turned a pleasant midweek round into an absolute scorcher. With temperatures nudging 40c, golf carts felt like rolling saunas, ice-cold towels were in constant use, and the fairways seemed to shimmer underfoot.
ed at Lo Romero’s iconic island green 18th, where heat delirium officially took hold of the field.
Next week we go to Roda, a course we don’t play at very often so that will be a treat and we hope it’s a little cooler.
By then, concentration was beginning to melt almost as quickly as the players, and every shot carried the added challenge of keeping both eyes open through the glare.
Keep up to date with all things SMGS via our website at www.smgs.org, where fixtures, results and society news continue to keep everyone in the loop. S
By the turn, a few brains were clearly fried, but the camaraderie somehow stayed intact.
One severely dehydrated member, blinded by sweat and possibly optimism, mistook the shimmering moat for a mirage and confidently launched two balls directly into the water, initially swearing he was on the green for two (on a par 5!)…. but actually resembled a stone skimming contest across the water.
The comedic climax of the day undoubtedly unfold-
It was the sort of moment that sums up society golf
Any early talk of course management soon gave way to the more urgent business of finding shade, pacing the swing, and making sure the next cold drink was never too far away.
ponsorship opportunities are available for upcoming games, and anyone interested is invited to contact smgs91info@gmail.com. We are also proud to be supported by Michaela Schmidt at www.golf-hotspots.com for all your golf travel requirements. Pictured L-R: Mark Dooley (Best Guest 1st), Mick Pryke (Captain), Charlie Jackson (Silver 1st), Lee Eastman (President & McBride Bottle), Barry “BTB” Roehrig (Silver 2nd & NTP), Dave “On Fire” Rowe (1st Gold & 2s), Trevor Mackay (Gold 2nd), John Osborne (Gold 3rd) and Dean Kavanagh (Best Guest 2nd). Well done all.
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Cable Thieves Leave Thursday Darts League La Murada in the Dark Reloads for October Return The Tipsy Toad once again hosted the Thursday League's AGM and for consecutive terms "In the Sun Holidays" along with "Rewind Spain" will be sponsoring the hundreds of local darts enthusiasts, within the league.
Renewing her league sponsorship is Casey Shaddock
The sponsors Managing Director, Casey Shaddock readily agreed to a second term after last season’s resounding success, promoting her holiday and entertainment companies. Misinformed Financial issues were addressed by the treasurer, who explained participating teams received numerous benefits culminating in the annual presentation in June.
La Murada football stadium has been left without floodlighting after thieves stole copper cabling from all four lighting towers, causing damage estimated at approximately e11k Orihuela Council has begun replacing the stolen wiring and repairing additional damage caused during the raid at the municipal sports complex.
Rising costs necessitated an approximate 12.5% increase in fees. An addition to rules regarding "ties" for final placings, will ensure the 2026 1st division championship tie is unlikely to reoccur.
The theft disabled the artificial lighting serving the football pitch, disrupting evening training sessions and matches. Damage was also reported to the water supply serving the canteen and the centre’s propane gas installation. The Department of Sport said restoring the four floodlight towers was its immediate priority, with teams and players currently unable to use the pitch normally after dark.
An amalgamation and / or demise of last season’s teams, plus the inclusion of El Clan Dartsabers from Torremendo means nineteen teams will contest prizes in the coming months title race. Yet to be confirmed is the start date of this year’s contest, most likely to be October 1st. As per last term, the campaign for notoriety will begin with preliminary rounds of the KO Cup, ties and dates will be published mid-
Sports councillor Víctor Sigúenza expressed regret over the incident and said municipal staff were working to minimise the disruption.
September. League matches to follow thereafter. Any amendments to competition playing formats will be published at the time entry forms are required.
Disappointingly a request for an additional committee member at the AGM once again fell on deaf ears. The requirements, "a few hours time per month and preferably a brain,” too much to endure.
END OF A DREAM FOR YOUNG PLAYERS Thousands of euros paid raising false hopes in Alicante
Sigúenza also criticised the financial impact on local taxpayers. The estimated e11,000 repair bill will have to be paid from public funds that could otherwise have financed improvements to sporting facilities or other community projects. The Sports Department is coordinating the replacement of the copper wiring, repairs to the damaged water and gas installations and the restoration of normal activities at the complex. The theft has been reported to the Guardia Civil, which will investigate the incident. For the time being, however, La Murada’s footballers have been forced to accept an unwanted tactical change: everyone behind the ball—and home before dark.
Young Venezuelan footballers and their families allegedly paid thousands of euros for the chance to travel to Alicante and pursue dreams of playing professionally in Spain. Instead, the journey ended at a Benidorm hotel and became the focus of a National Police investigation into a suspected criminal organisation linked to an alleged football tournament. Investigators from Alicante’s unit against illegal immigration networks and document fraud, UCRIF, are examining bank transfers and cash payments. Some players said they were told the package would cost e3,000. One claimed he transferred two payments of e1,500 to an account belonging to a Venezuelan football league. Another said he transferred e1,500 and handed the same amount in cash to the suspected organiser. Despite these payments, both players paid separately for their flights and hotel accommodation. Police have not identified a standard price for everyone involved. One suspect said players were offered a e2,500 travel and accommodation package, while another woman claimed she was quoted e2,500, paid through her daughter in the United States. The financial sacrifices made by families were substantial. One footballer told investigators that his mother sold cows to fund his journey. Another said his family sold a food stall and used money from his stepfather’s pension. Both reportedly felt cheated after investing limited family resources in what they believed could be a life-changing opportunity. The young men travelled from Venezuela as part of a sporting expedition and stayed at a Benidorm hotel. They
expected to compete in a football tournament and attract interest from Spanish clubs. However, investigators allege their arrival was followed by applications for international protection, presented as a method of obtaining temporary documentation while their cases were processed. Police identified a second group of intermediaries suspected of helping participants obtain appointments to submit those applications. Eight people were arrested during the operation. Investigators divided them into two groups: those allegedly involved in organising the football expedition and those believed to have arranged immigration-related appoint-
ments. Seven suspects were released but must appear before judicial authorities when required. The alleged ringleader appeared before a judge and exercised his right to remain silent. The investigation remains open, and none of the allegations has yet been proven in court. For the players and their families, however, the experience has already brought financial loss and disappointment. What began as a hopeful journey towards a football career in Europe ended with police interviews, accusations of deception and the collapse of a dream for which some families had sacrificed almost everything.
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