Edition 1148 Monday 5th - Sunday 11th October 2026
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The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English-language newspaper - WITH THE LARGEST LOCAL CIRCULATION
19 alencian president Juanfran Pérez Llorca has announced plans for a new hospital for patients requiring long-term care in the Vega Baja, potentially giving the region a third hospital.
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The proposed centre would have a different role from the general hospitals in Orihuela and Torrevieja. Existing hospitals of this type in the Valencian public health system treat patients with complex conditions who require continued hospital care. However, the Generalitat has not specified which services the Vega Baja hospital would offer or how patients would be referred to it. Nor has it announced a site, a bed capacity, a budget for the individual project or a construction timetable. Those details will determine how much additional care the proposal ultimately provides for Vega Baja residents. The proposal was the most significant announcement for the Vega Baja in Monday’s general policy debate in the Valencian parliament. Pérez Llorca presented it as part of the regional government’s e2.459 billion Pla Avancem Salut healthcare plan, which aims to add more than 2,000 hospital beds across the Valencian Community.
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FROM PAGE 1 New Hospital for Vega Baja Of those, 368 are forecast for Alicante province by the end of 2026. The president also announced plans to renovate Torrevieja University Hospital, where concerns have been raised over investment since 2023, and Doctor Balmis Hospital in Alicante. He pledged to strengthen primary care through work on 32 health centres, including facilities in Cox, Los Montesinos, Redován and Pilar de la Horadada. For Vega Baja residents, however, the new hospital announcement leaves substantial questions unanswered. The regional government has not identified a site or set out what services the proposed longterm care hospital would provide. Nor has it given a construction timetable. Transport also featured in the president’s plans for the region. Pérez Llorca put the estimated cost of widening the CV-95 between Orihuela and Torrevieja at e180 million. The scheme remains at the design stage, with a contract award not expected before 2028. An upgrade to the
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Community President Juanfran Pérez Llorca
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road has been in discussion since the 1990s. Elsewhere in Alicante province, Pérez Llorca said the remaining section of the Elche Southern Ring Road would enter public consultation at the end of October. Elche Council said it was working on land expropriations and that the construction tender would be worth at least e36 million. For now, the Vega Baja hospital remains a pledge rather than a defined building project. The next milestones to watch are the selection of a location, confirmation of its clinical services and capacity, and publication of a funded timetable.
Journalists 600 228 616 office@theleader.info The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.
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AI Impression of the proposed residential development on Las Colinas Golf
rihuela has given conditional environmental approval to plans to replace a proposed hotel with housing in PAU-21, bringing residential development a step closer while leaving hurdles unresolved.
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Mayor Pepe Vegara signed the strategic environmental and territorial report covering plot AUH in La Peña del Águila. Developer Campoamor Sun & Beach proposes four-storey residential blocks in an area dominated by detached homes around Las Colinas Golf. Council environmental technicians concluded that the planning change would not cause significant adverse effects.
However, their favourable assessment carries binding conditions and does not authorise construction. The Segura River Basin Authority has identified technical shortcomings requiring correction before final approval. These include a flood study and detailed protection measures for watercourses, particularly the Cañada del Espartal ravine, which crosses the wider development. Its boundaries and protection zones must be defined. The developer must also forecast water demand for at least nine years, or until completion, and explain wastewater treatment, drainage arrangements and any necessary discharge permits. Switching from hotel to residential use creates an obligation to reserve land for officially protected housing. If this provision is moved elsewhere in Orihuela, the developer must justify its exclusion from PAU21 and precisely identify the alternative location. Any trees removed must be replaced at a rate equivalent to 150% of those felled under municipal planning rules. PAU-21 has a contentious history. Authorised during the construction boom in the Sierra Escalona area, it attracted objections over development near valuable natural land. Water supply and environmental safeguards have previously prompted court proceedings, while protected landscape boundaries were subsequently redrawn to exclude development land. The proposal is separate from the council’s sale of three coastal housing plots. One, also within PAU-21, fetched e11.48 million but is not the hotel-use site affected by this change. Public consultation and further technical and legal reports must now follow. The developer must meet all outstanding conditions before the change of use receives final approval, with flood protection, water provision and affordable housing remaining central requirements in the continuing planning process.
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TWO INVESTIGATED AFTER PARASAILING DEATH
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line Torrevieja’s Fiesta Blanca on Tuesday, 6 October, raising funds for childhood cancer. The celebration takes place at Antonio Soria Park’s market grounds. Gates open at 3pm, with performances starting at 3.30pm. Capacity is limited to 4,000. Five euros from every ticket will support the Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona childhood cancer fund. Organised by the Fiesta Blanca Torrevieja cancer charity association with council support, the event welcomes all nationalities.
Guardia Civil investigators have referred a fatal Benidorm parasailing accident to court, with two people under investigation. A 66-year-old woman died and a 47-yearold man suffered serious injuries after their tow cable snapped on 10 August.
Christoff, a Flemish music star and KLUBBB3 member, brings more than three decades of performing experience to the celebration. PILAR POLICE CELEBRATE 40 YEARS
Protection volunteers received medals for assisting communities affected by Valencia’s October 2024 floods. Their work included rescues, clearing debris, preventing looting and distributing food.
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widening to ease congestion on this busy route. ORIHUELA CELEBRATES BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
The force’s first chief, Pedro Gracia López, was honoured posthumously, with his son accepting the award. The ceremony’s auditorium will bear his name. Mayor José María Pérez Sánchez praised everyone’s commitment to safety. N-332 QUEUE-JUMPING RIDERS FACE €200 FINES
Rules introduced on 1 October allow shoulder use during stationary traffic only on authorised, signposted stretches. Riders must remain below 30 km/h, travel in single file and avoid obstructing others.
The actual skipper was qualified but not formally registered as crew.
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Commendations also recognised public assistance with crime prevention and emergencies, while long-serving officers received merit crosses.
Motorcyclists using the hard shoulder to bypass queues on Torrevieja’s N-332 still risk €200 fines.
Police examined stormy weather, strong gusts and the boat’s operation. They established that an employee was steering after another person initially claimed to be the skipper.
One person faces investigation for suspected negligent homicide and causing injury; another for allegedly concealing the boat operator’s identity from investigating officers.
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Torrevieja’s bypass has neither the required approval nor signage, so Guardia Civil officers will continue issuing penalties.
CHRISTOFF HEADLINES TORREVIEJA’S WHITE FIESTA
Pilar de la Horadada’s Local Police marked their 40th anniversary with awards honouring officers, volunteers and residents.
Traffic councillor Federico Alarcón said authorisation and signage are matters for national authorities because the bypass is state-owned.
Belgian singer Christoff De Bolle will head-
Thirty-one officers and seven Civil
The council continues demanding road
Orihuela’s Chamber of Commerce marked its 125th anniversary with the seventh Economy Night, attended by over 500 guests at Santo Domingo Diocesan College. Grupo Doalco founder Domingo Alcocer received the Juan Cerdán Honorary Award, highlighting skilled worker shortages and calling for more practical vocational training. Awards also honoured Central Hisúmer, Genetic PCR Solutions, Caliente 1986, TM Grupo Inmobiliario and Las Ramblas Golf. Chamber president Mario Martínez urged greater Vega Baja unity and investment in roads, healthcare and education. Regional minister José Antonio Rovira highlighted tax changes and simpler administrative procedures intended to support local business growth.
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Guardia Rescue Trapped Fox in Guardamar Guardia Civil officers rescued a fox trapped in an irrigation reservoir in Guardamar del Segura and released it unharmed into the wild. The rescue followed an alert to the force’s operational control centre. Officers from SEPRONA, its nature The fox was trapped and unable to climb out unaided protection service, steep sides. During a difficult operation, an officer carefully attended the scene, where local police were secured it with a dog-catching pole and lifted it to safety. assisting and directing The incident highlights the value of wildlife escape routes in irrifirefighters. gation reservoirs. Ramps and other climbing aids can help animals escape when slippery surfaces or steep walls leave them The fox was unable to trapped and unable to reach safety without assistance. climb the reservoir’s
US DEA Drug Agents Raid Hondón Homes Guardia Civil officers have searched homes in La Romana and Hondón de las Nieves during an operation targeting an alleged international drug trafficking network. Launched early on Wednesday, the investigation involves Europol and the United States Drug Civil Guard and DEA searching homes in Hondón Enforcement Administration. Officers Several arrests and seizures were expected, but authorities had are carrying out 23 coor- not confirmed any figures at the time of reporting. dinated searches across Investigators have not disclosed how many properties were Spain, including searched in the two Alicante municipalities or the suspected roles of those involved. The type and quantity of drugs allegedly Barcelona, Begues, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, trafficked, and any associated financial sums, also remain undisclosed. Lleida and Madrid.
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SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Dana is a gorgeous 11-year-old, who hasn’t had a good life. She is now waiting for a family to give her a loving home she deserves.
Email: info@satanimalrescue.com WhatsApp 688792515 or 966710047
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PETS IN SPAIN Tiggles is a loveable little girl of approx 15 months who has been around people since she was a kitten as she loves human company. She has been spayed, vaccinated, and had anti-parasite treatment. She is playful and easy to handle.
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Police Conference Raises e2,100
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TORREVIEJA’S HALF MILLION TONNE SALT HARVEST
Orihuela’s Antonio Sequeros Special Education School has received e2,100 raised through a three-day police training conference. Organised by Orihuela Local Police and UNIJEMPOL, the event combined professional development with fundraising. Registration donations and contributions from non-attendees will support the school’s Diverso café and its service users.
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orrevieja’s saltworks forecast a harvest of around 500,000 tonnes this season, with growing Spanish demand helping offset uncertainty in European exports. Harvesting began in September, while operator Nueva Compañía Arrendataria de las Salinas de Torrevieja (NCAST) holds approximately 350,000 tonnes in stock. Managing engineer Joseph Pérez expects domestic sales and exports to each reach about 250,000 tonnes. Overseas demand depends partly on winter conditions across northern and central Europe, where colder weather increases the need for road salt. Exports also supply the fishing industry. Ships loading at Torrevieja typically carry between 6,000 and 13,000 tonnes. Smaller consignments sometimes travel in containers through Alicante. In Spain, the company is attracting new customers across road maintenance, food production and chemical manufacturing. It is also pursuing industrial markets requiring particularly pure salt with low magnesium
content, using equipment to reduce magnesium levels. Harvest forecasts rely on measurements of brine and salt deposited during summer. Machinery extracts salt from the pink lagoon before conveyors transport it for washing, storage and processing. Production centres on the lagoon’s eastern half. The remaining area concentrates and warms brine and could support expansion if demand increased. Operations pause in August for equipment maintenance. NCAST’s 2024 accounts recorded revenue of e10.04 million, up 2.7%, while losses fell from e1.57 million to e420,207. The company employed 76 people. Tourism now contributes around 5% of business. Introduced in 2018, visits attract approximately 50,000 people through tourist trains, walking and cycling tours, and other experiences. The saltworks remain a major industrial landmark, with this season’s performance shaped by Spanish growth and the severity of Europe’s winter weather conditions.
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We are all Teachers T
eaching is a noble profession (well, he would say that, wouldn’t he!) because it is the profession that makes all other professions possible. The influence a good teacher can have on a pupil is very often the making of the adult. I dedicated my book, ‘Just Between Ourselves’, to my schoolteacher, Master Lawlor, ‘who opened my window to the world’. Yes, it is a teacher’s job to teach, and the vast majority of teachers are dedicated to imparting a wide range of knowledge to what are usually receptive young minds. But are we not all teachers, no matter what we work at in life? In fact, most people spend all of their lives being both teachers and pupils. It doesn’t matter what we work at or what we do: we first acquire knowledge from our ‘teachers’ and then, in time, pass that on to our ‘pupils’. Everyone has to learn the ways of the world from fellow life travellers, and then we, in turn, pass on this expertise to those following behind. We all learn from others — bad habits as well as good — so the learning process can always be said to be ‘for better or worse’. An apprentice or a new person on the job starts learning by looking, listening and taking stock of how things get done around here. It is the nature of a young person to ask loads of questions, be curious and want to know what makes things work. The knowledgeable person they look up to becomes their teacher. I recall telling you a story in YCBS many years ago, in a column under the heading ‘The most skilled man in Ireland’. This opinion illustrates that, in the University of Life, a teacher does not need a parchment with a bow or a string of degrees. The column in question claimed that the most skilled man ever in Ireland was the old-style farm labourer back in the day. This man could do everything asked of him, from building, horticulture and veterinary work to carpentry, laying a hedge, painting, pruning and babysitting. The young rural lads learned how to use their heads and their hands from that teacher — a humble farm labourer. Setting an example to others is teaching. Decent men and women going about their everyday lives in an honest fashion are teaching those around them how to behave.
They affect numerous pupils every day. Unfortunately for society, the drug dealer, the criminal and the abuser are also teachers. It is only the grace of God that saves most young kids from following that sort of ‘teacher’. Meanwhile, back in the classroom, the good teacher needs to possess good communication and listening skills, empathy and patience. Teaching no longer involves corporal punishment, as it did in bygone years. It is far better to have good memories of learning in the classroom, workplace and sports field. We all learn how to act by listening to other people and watching their choices. No one knows everything, and every person has some unique skill or story to share. This is why it is important to show respect as well as patience when explaining something new to a pupil of any age. There are those who, just because they know how to do something, treat those who don’t as a kind of ‘eejit’. I always say that the reason manuals are difficult to understand is that the guy who wrote the manual knows how the thing works, and I don’t! In order to keep on learning, an open mind is the key. Be willing to consider new ideas, perspectives and experiences without immediate judgement. A bit of intellectual humility — as in admitting you might be wrong in your beliefs — will help in a major way. The takeaway from all of this is that, right throughout our
lives, we are both teachers and pupils. By teaching another person how to do something they previously struggled with, you also cultivate self-esteem, self-confidence and self-worth in that person. My eldest grandson, Jack, has just started college in Galway. Jack is a great guy who didn’t have an easy year, but he worked all summer in charge of the kids’ play area at a big hotel. They say he is kind, patient and obliging… but we all know that already! I told Jack he would make a great teacher and that he should go for it. Jack’s reply to me was: ‘Maybe, Grandad, but I have a lot to learn first!’ He’ll be OK… DON’T FORGET Don’t mind criticism. If it’s untrue, disregard it; if it’s unfair, don’t let it irritate you; if it’s ignorant, smile; if it’s justified, learn from it.
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New Faces Bring Fresh Magic to ADAPT’s Aladdin Jolanda
ADAPT Theatre is welcoming three new performers to the stage this year, alongside several new members helping behind the scenes, as preparations continue for its pantomime, Aladdin. Among the newcomers is Jolanda, an experienced actress who began performing aged five. Her training includes ballet, mime, dance and theatre, plus university studies in Physical Theatre. After many years in musical theatre, she has spent the past 15 years working in film. Her favourite roles include Ginny in Outside Edge and the Ghost of Christmas Future in A Christmas Carol. Jolanda’s comic timing has already kept fellow cast members laughing during rehearsals, and audiences can expect an entertaining performance. Aladdin comes to the Geli Albaladejo Theatre, San Pedro del Pinatar, on Friday 27 November at 7pm and Saturday 28 November at noon and 7pm. Tickets: bit.ly/Aladdin2026, ARCO bookshop in San Pedro, Annie’s Bar in Lo Pagán, or Spanish Home Finders in Pinar de Campoverde. For further ticket information, WhatsApp Eric on 656 361 098 or Yolanda on 606 141 034 to arrange your booking.
PAULA CROWNED PILAR FIESTA QUEEN
Fernández Jódar received the restored Senior Queen title, recognising older women’s contribution to local traditions. Selected by a judging panel, Paula received her crown from outgoing queen Laura Vera Albaladejo. Her attendants are Silvia Caballero Sánchez, Valentina Irina Motogna, Irene Pérez Sánchez and Ángela Simarro Hernández.
Paula Martínez Campillo has been crowned Queen of Pilar de la Horadada’s 2026 patron saint festivities during a gala in Plaza de la Iglesia on Saturday, 26 September. Pilar Pérez Lorenzo was named Children’s Queen following a draw among five candidates. Fátima Madrid Campillo became Queen of Absent Residents, while Manuela
Celebrating 40 years of independence from Orihuela, the ceremony also honoured the town’s first queens, María Ángeles Martínez López and Pilar Sáez Hernández, with commemorative sashes. Mayor José María Pérez Sánchez urged everyone to enjoy the Virgen del Pilar celebrations respectfully. The evening featured Unión Musical Horadada, live tv the national anthem and a Julio Iglesias tribute.
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Hole lot better as Villamartín crossing reopens A large hole that left a Villamartín pedestrian crossing unusable for years has finally been repaired by Orihuela Council. The damaged pavement on Avenida de las Brisas had been covered with metal plates and fenced off, restricting safe access for pedestri- The work, coordinated by the Infrastructure and Coast departans. ments, included repainting six pedestrian crossings, refreshing nearby road and parking markings, and installing new signs. Municipal company ECOPLAN repaired the Mayor Pepe Vegara inspected the completed improvements, supporting beams and saying the council was addressing problems neglected for years. installed a 20-squaremetre slab. Two paveHe described such projects as essential to local residents’ ment extensions were quality of life and accessibility, promising further much-needalso added to improve ed improvements across the municipality, particularly in visibility at the crossing. Orihuela Costa.
Santa’s Little Helpers Eye Bauhaus Christmas Opening Torrevieja’s new Bauhaus store could open before Christmas, bringing festive cheer to DIY enthusiasts, although the retailer has yet to confirm a date. Construction at La Hoya is progressing ahead of the original early-2027 timetable. The building is largely complete, but interior work, shop fitting and car park paving remain. The major e39 million development occu-
pies 30,000 square metres beside Avenida José Carreras and the CV-905. It will include a garden centre and vehicle collection area, creating around 250 direct and indirect jobs. Solar panels, rainwater collection and electric vehicle charging points are also planned.
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SAFARI ANIMALS ELEPHANT - LION WILDEBEEST
SAME GRID, TWO SETS OF CLUES
MONKEY - WARTHOG
QUICKIE CROSSWORD ACROSS 6. Prove superior (7) 7. Sweeping implement (5) 9. Used to be (3) 10. Disentangle (9) 12. Goods (11) 15. Teasing (11) 17. Diplomatically (9) 19. Tin (3) 21. Squander (5) 22. Fertiliser (7)
SPRINGBOK
DOWN 1. Inflict (5) 2. Climbing plant (3) 3. Hoodoo (4) 4. Former (9) 5. Competition (7) 8. Fractures (6) 11. Impoverished (9) 13. Hue (6) 14. Mad, commonly (7) 16. Not true (5) 18. Weaving machine (4) 20. Primate (3)
ELAND - BABOON HIPPO - CHEETAH BUFFALO - LEOPARD ZEBRA - CIVET RHINO - KUDU CROCODILE GIRAFFE HYENA - GAZELLE
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
6. Thoughtful writers I have cut down to size (7) 7. Returned dug-up material (5) 9. Consumed most of the pate (3) 10. Not the longest section of an aggressive speech (9) 12. Name for ship in a Gilbert and Sullivan piece? (3,8) 15. Are they no more than moon-starers? (11) 17. A boxing belt could be the end of the joke (9) 19. Draw the match (3) 21. Intends to have the wherewithal (5) 22. Greed for caviare, perhaps (7) DOWN 1. Takes up with a poet (5) 2. Enquire about a small ruler (3) 3. Claim it's a rave-up (4)
WORD WHEEL CHALLENGE
4. Truce changing Eire's face (9) 5. The panto girl left after the fire (7) 8. Ban miners from the circus musical (6) 11. People involved in cameras? (9) 13. They are bolted together to create planes (6) 14. Certain animal getting awfully rude (7) 16. Field a throw (5) 18. Star with former county backing (4) 20. Give weapons to a member (3)
TRIVIA QUIZ 1. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified its first gold album in 1958. The album’s title was the name of a US state. Can you name it? 2. Which unusual device was used in the James Bond film ‘Thunderball’, at Super Bowl I, and at the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics in 1984 and 1996? 3. Which of the following is the name of a traditional Sicilian hat? a. Coppola; b. Scorsese; c. Tarantino; d. Capra. 4. Which famous bridge was ‘built’ between 24 June 48 and 12 May 49? 5. Which towering savant with a great backheel captained the Brazilian national football team in 1982? 6. What is the basis of the Italian bitter aperitif known as Cynar? a. Asparagus; b. Dandelion; c. Pomegranate; d. Artichoke. 7. The name of which fantastic automobile is also the title of a ribald song once sung by Allied soldiers during the First World War? 8. The tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere (standing at 328 metres / 1,080 ft) can be found in which country? 9. What was the name of the world’s first commercial jet airliner? 10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the word ‘cat’ in the title. Name each song? a. ‘I’m a ladies’ cat, a feline Casanova.’ b. ‘Little Boy Blue and the man in the moon.’ c. ‘I hear the click-clack of your feet on the stairs, I know you’re no scare-eyed honey.’ d. ‘On a morning from
a Bogart movie.’ e. ‘It’s like trying to drink whisky from a bottle of wine.’ f. ‘I’ve got flowers and lots of hours to spend with you.’ g. ‘They get a gang of villains in a shed up at Heathrow.’ h. ‘We are from a residence of Siam, there are no finer cats than I am.’ 11. The name of which Mediterranean country stems from the Semitic word for ‘white’? 12. Which film takes place on board the spaceship Auriga, 200 years after the central character’s suicide? 13. ‘Mother’s ruin’, or gin, is called genever in Holland. What does ‘genever’ mean when translated? 14. Which English actor was seriously considered for the role of Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ but was too ill to play the part? 15. The Royal Navy’s midget X-class submarines were first used in an attempt to sink Bismarck’s sister ship. What was her name? 16. From the following list, choose the two that are actually Australian table wines. a. Chateau Chunder; b. Hobart Muddy; c. 7 Good Reasons; d. Dead Arm Shiraz; e. Cote du Rod Laver; f. Cuvee Reserve Chateau Bottled San Wogga Wogga; g. Melbourne Old and Yellow. 17. What are the oldest scriptural texts of Hinduism called? 18. Maleficent is the main antagonist in which Walt Disney classic? 19. What are the first seven words of the song ‘Runaround Sue’? 20. The 2010 Winter Olympics concluded in Vancouver after victory in the men’s ice hockey gave host nation Canada a Winter Olympic record of how many gold medals?
Find answers on page 18
The target is 27 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 CAT NAISASYBIN - SIELBANE ARXETRHCU - NMYALHAIA FFRUMAAGIN - IEBISNRA IANRSGUAP - ETKONSEIN
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Pascual Flores returns to Torrevieja after European tour orrevieja’s historic schooner Pascual Flores is welcoming visitors aboard again following an extensive European tour that attracted more than 52,000 people to its decks.
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The vessel was scheduled to return to its home port on Thursday, 1 October, completing a season in which it visited more than 21 ports across Italy, France, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain. At each stop, visitors had the opportunity to explore Torrevieja’s maritime heritage and discover the craftsmanship behind a vessel that represents the Mediterranean’s last generation of traditional sailing ships. During the tour, Pascual Flores covered thousands of nautical miles and took part in the Tall Ships Races, one of the world’s leading events for large sailing vessels. The schooner also featured at several major European maritime festivals, including the inaugural Escala a La Spezia in
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Italy and the ninth edition of Escala a Castelló in Spain. Further north, it joined gatherings of classic sailing ships at Bremerhaven and the historic Hanse Sail festival in Rostock, Germany.
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The schooner will be open to the public until March
Originally built in Torrevieja in 1917, Pascual Flores served the flourishing salt trade between Mediterranean ports and Africa. Today, collaboration between Torrevieja Council and the Fundación Nao Victoria keeps the vessel sailing as a floating ambassador for the city’s history, culture and seafaring traditions. Public visits begin on Saturday, 3 October, with the schooner moored beside the Paseo del Mar leisure complex. It will open from Thursday to Sunday until March, offering residents and visitors the chance to step aboard and explore its maritime story. Group visits will also be available for schools and associations. Opening hours are 10am–2pm and 4pm–8pm. Admission costs e5, with a reduced price of e3 for residents. Tickets can be purchased aboard the vessel or online at ticket.fundacionnaovictoria.org
Early-Morning Wake-Up Call For Pilar
magnitude 2.9 earthquake shook Pilar de la Horadada and several neighbouring municipalities early on Wednesday morning, although no injuries or damage were reported. Spain’s National Geographic Institute (IGN) recorded the tremor at approximately 6.30am. The movement was felt in Pilar de la Horadada, Orihuela, Callosa de Segura, Rafal, Benejúzar and Bigastro, showing that its effects extended across parts of the Vega Baja. Despite residents in six municipalities noticing the earthquake, the Valencian Community’s 112 emergency service received no related
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calls, regional emergency authorities confirmed. The tremor occurred while many people were still at home, before the start of the working day and the
morning school run. Although a magnitude 2.9 earthquake is considered relatively minor, it can still produce perceptible shaking. Its impact depends on several factors, including depth, distance from the epicentre and local ground conditions. The IGN’s monitoring network records the location and magnitude of seismic events, while accounts submitted by residents help experts determine how widely the shaking was felt. Wednesday’s earthquake appears to have caused only a brief disturbance, with no reported consequences beyond the alarm experienced by residents across the affected towns.
Driver Hospitalised After Car Demolishes Orihuela Costa Lamppost A 61-year-old driver was taken to Torrevieja University Hospital after his car mounted the central reservation and demolished a lamppost in Orihuela Costa on Friday evening. The crash occurred at around 7pm on Avenida Cabo de Gata, near Calle Cantábrico, shortly after a storm had passed through the area. Firefighters cut the fallen metal column into sections to clear the carriageway, while Orihuela Local Police officers controlled traffic. The vehicle suffered extensive frontal damage. The cause remains under investigation, and no details about the driver’s condition have been released.
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shielded until retirement. There are almost one million young people in the UK who are not in work, education or training, all receiving money through the spiralling benefits bill.
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Tony Mayes Rant
The laziness of some young people is not just a UK problem. Spain has historically grappled with a significant challenge involving NEETs, referred to as ninis (I do love that name). In Spain, ninis do not receive automatic, unconditional cash handouts or a dedicated allowance. Spain’s social security and welfare systems are largely tied to prior work contributions. TIME TO EARN YOUR KEEP There are two major issues in Britain that are really getting up people’s noses. One is the non-stop arrival of illegal immigrants, who have to be supported at great expense while committing an array of offences; the other is the huge welfare bill, which costs another fortune. Now the Tories have come up with a plan to persuade some NEETs (people not in education, employment or training), who have become used to living the life of Riley on benefits, to get off their bums and look for work. They want many of the long-term unemployed to be blocked from spending their handouts on alcohol, cigarettes and gambling. Instead of cash, they would receive prepaid “back-to-work cards” to spend on food and bills, mirroring the food stamp system used in the United States. Young people who refused to take up work would see their welfare payments cut by 30 per cent, while older people who lost their jobs after years of paying tax would be
What a shame the UK does not follow the Spanish example. WHEN VULTURES COME CALLING One of the most disturbing and shameful stories to hit the headlines not only in Spain but across many other countries too has been the appalling forcible eviction of 87year-old Maricarmen Abascal from her apartment where she had lived for decades.
huge protests, not only from people outside her apartment but also from tens of thousands of people marching through Madrid streets.
It was bought by what has been described as a vulture company which greatly increased her rent from e500 (£430) to e2,650 (£2,278).
I applaud Spain's coalition government for trying to secure approval for two royal decrees to combat soaring housing costs and curb market speculation.
It then lowered the rent to e1,650 (£1,419), which she still could not afford on her pension.
They wanted protections against evictions for vulnerable tenants until 2030, and prohibiting vulture companies from buying residential properties until 2028, but what a shame the plans failed to get through Spain’s parliament on Friday.
She was given just 30 minutes to leave with only essential belongings, forcibly removed on a stretcher accompanied by social service personnel. She was living in an affluent neighbourhood in Madrid now commanding sky-high rents and her apartment was sold from under her to an investment fund. The eviction has understandably sparked
It would have been a good start. Perhaps someday Spain could implement some, if not all of the ideas coming from UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham at the Labour conference. He says the government will increase public control of housing to ensure it serves and
supports those who need it most. It will back councils with the powers and resources necessary to call time on rogue landlords and compulsorily purchase properties that fall below acceptable standards, including where landlords have refused to make improvements. The plan is to improve the condition of long-neglected properties, and bring more homes into council ownership, with councils having more powers to take over empty homes and rent them out cheaply to families. Personally I would like to see an end to private landlords, or severely restrict the rents they can charge, with far more properties to let under council control and ownership, plus an end to leaseholds and covenants so that when someone buys a property they own it lock, stock and barrel without greedy b******s using everything in the legal book to get rich at others’ expense.
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Torrevieja budgets e74k for Nativity Scene Torrevieja Council has allocated a maximum of e73,844, including VAT, for its Municipal Nativity Scene, combining installation, a protective tent and security under one contract. The display will open in Plaza de la Constitución on 28 November 2026 and continue until 7 January 2027. Around 500 municipal figures and pieces will form at least ten biblical scenes across approximately 90 square metres, housed inside a 200-squaremetre tent.
The contract covers scenery, transport, assembly, dismantling, cleaning and restoration. Security provision includes at least 417 hours, with access limited to 100 visitors at a time. The council says the display preserves Christmas traditions and supports town-centre businesses. Previously contracted separately, the services are being combined to improve coordination, maintenance and visitor safety throughout the festive exhibition period.
ACTS Turns Stage Laughs into e500 for Benijófar Charity Fund ACTS Community Theatre has donated e500 to Benijófar’s charity fund following its success of the comedy “Drinking Habits”. President Julie Irvine, secretary Sheila Cowley and media representative Patrick O’Dea presented the donation to Mayor Luis Rodriguez Perez and Deputy Mayor Pilar Yagues Illescas at the council offices. The company thanked audiences whose support helped raise funds for initiatives assisting local residents in need. Preparations are now under way for its next
production, “Death by Fatal Murder”, scheduled for April 2027. The comedy mystery promises suspicious characters, outrageous twists and plenty of laughs as the hapless “Defective Inspector Pratt” attempts to unravel the crime. With everyone harbouring a motive, audiences will be challenged to identify the culprit before Pratt does.
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trolling. He is currently 5 ft 9" and 20 stone. He is struggling to walk and climb the stairs. I'm really concerned about his health and I don't want to become a single parent because he's eaten himself to death.
M
y husband has started to become addicted to food.
He shows no interest in anything else in his life other than eating and drinking. He wasn't obese when I met him - he was slim and he exercised, but he has started to develop a beer belly and become really lazy. He isn't depressed, he really lights up when he eats and expresses his happiness when he does. If anything, he seems to be happy and content with his life,
but he is just so unenthusiastic about everything else that matters. Nothing significant has happened to cause this change in him, so it's beyond me why he's doing it. I've made an effort to remedy the situation - cooking healthy meals, but when I do he'll eat them and then go to the fridge or cupboard for more food because he isn't satiated. Trying to get him to take exercise or go the gym is ineffective. When I complain he just turns to me and says he can eat what he wants and that I am being con-
Y
ou might be right in thinking that it's not to do with depression but contentment. When people are happy, they tend to go down that road of not making an effort any more "cos everything is great". You have tried nagging but it hasn't worked. Time to have a serious conversation with him.
ER B O CT 7O
Pick a time when your son is out of the house for a few hours, and sit him down. Instead of having a go at him, just explain very calmly why you're so worried, and that you're concerned you'll lose him if he carries on the way he is. You tell me in your email that you cry about it; tell him that. It is clear his health is suffering; he is obese and he struggles to do normal things. At the moment he is in denial. Tell him that if he won't address the issue it may be a 'deal breaker' in your relationship; you don't
ED OK O B LY FUL
want to see him eat himself to death. Hopefully, if you speak to him in the right way serious but calm - what you've said will sink in at some point.
The Hidden Story Behind Cabo Roig’s Roundabout Pyramid
M
ost drivers on the N-332 at Cabo Roig are concentrating on the traffic. Yet in the middle of the roundabout serving the Cabo Roig and La Regia exits stands a curious landmark: a small pyramid. Why is it there, and what is it made of? The answer is on a plaque attached to the monument. It explains that the pyramid was built using material from a roadside building demolished at that spot in April 1988. The building was a casilla—a cottage associated with Spain’s peones camineros, the road workers who maintained the country’s highways. Long before maintenance vehicles could cover miles in a morning, a peón caminero looked after an assigned stretch of road on foot. The work was practical and constant: checking the route, removing obstructions and making repairs where needed. Roads were vulnerable to rain, erosion and everyday wear, and a worker living nearby could respond before a small problem became a serious obstacle. That is why casillas were built beside the roads. They gave
workers a home close to the stretch in their care and space for the tools of their trade. Some could also offer shelter or assistance to travellers. The tradition dates back to the 18th century, while the network of cottages expanded during the development of Spain’s roads in the 19th century. By the late 20th century, the cottage at Cabo Roig had outlived its original purpose. It was demolished in April 1988, but its materials were used to build the pyramid that now occupies the roundabout. According to its plaque, the monument was dedicated to the road workers whose labour helped keep Spain moving. It is a modest memorial to a job that was easy to overlook. Today, drivers can pass through the junction in seconds. The workers it honours would once have covered their stretch of road step by step, in all weathers. The next time you pass the pyramid, it is worth remembering that it is more than roundabout decoration. It is made from the remains of a building that stood beside the N332—and preserves a small part of the history of the people who cared for it.
WORD SCRAMBLE T Y P E S O F C AT
WORDWHEEL
ABYSSINIAN - BALINESE CHARTREUX - HIMALAYAN
CROSSWORD ANSWERS Monday 5 Oct (Week 1148) QUICK - ACROSS: 6 Prevail; 7 Broom; 9 Was; 10 Extricate; 12 Merchandise; 15 Tantalising; 17 Tactfully; 19 Can; 21 Waste; 22 Compost. DOWN: 1 Wreak; 2 Ivy; 3 Jinx; 4 Preceding; 5 Contest; 8 Breaks; 11 Destitute; 13 Colour; 14 Bananas; 16 False; 18 Loom; 20 Ape.
QUIZ FROM P12
CRYPTIC CRYPTIC - ACROSS: 6 Pensive; 7 Denim; 9 Ate; 10
RAGAMUFFIN - SIBERIAN
Broadside; 12 HMS Pinafore; 15 Astronomers; 17 Punchline; 19 Tie; 21 Means; 22 Avarice. DOWN: 1 Keats; 2 Ask; 3 Aver; 4 Ceasefire; 5 Cinders; 8 Barnum; 11 Americans; 13 Panels; 14 Assured; 16 Pitch; 18 Nova; 20 Arm. g. 'Cool for Cats' (Squeeze).
1. 'Oklahoma!' 2. The Bell Rocket Belt (a one-per-
h. 'The Siamese Cat Song' (Peggy Lee).
son jet-propulsion device). 3. a. Coppola. 4.
11. Lebanon. 12. 'Alien Resurrection' (Alien 4).
The Berlin Air Bridge. 5. Socrates. 6. d. Artichoke.
13. Juniper. 14. Laurence Olivier. 15. Tirpitz.
7. 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. 8. New Zealand;
16. c. 7 Good Reasons and d. Dead Arm Shiraz are
Auckland (the Sky Tower). 9. The de Havilland
actual Australian wines. The rest, of course, appear
Comet. 10. a. 'Stray Cat Strut' (Stray Cats).
in the famous Monty Python sketch: 'Some people
b. 'Cat's in the Cradle' (Harry Chapin). c. 'Stray Cat
in this country pooh-pooh Australian table wines.'
Blues' (The Rolling Stones). d. 'Year of the Cat' (Al
17. The Vedas. 18. 'Sleeping Beauty'.
Stewart). e. 'Honky Cat' (Elton John).
19. 'Here's my story, it's sad but true.'
f. 'What's New Pussycat?' (Tom Jones).
20. 14
SINGAPURA - TONKINESE
SUDOKU SOLUTION
W ORDSEARCH SOLUTION
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New specialist flooring brings Orihuela dance studio back to life ew specialist flooring provides a safer teaching space for the Municipal Dance School.
N
Orihuela City Council has completed improvements to the Municipal Dance School’s studio at the Professional Conservatory of Music, restoring the space for pupils and teachers. The project involved replacing the studio’s flooring after the previous wooden floor deteriorated and had to be removed because it posed a safety risk. Its removal had left a rough, uneven concrete surface that prevented normal teaching and dance activities. Contractors levelled the base using self-levelling mortar before installing a seamless specialist floor suitable for dance. The work also included associated safety measures and waste disposal. The refurbishment covered approximately 80.5 square metres and cost e8,530.78, including VAT. Work was organised to minimise disruption to the
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Mayte Valero will lead Pilar PSOE into the next Election Mayte Valero has been confirmed as the Socialist Party’s candidate for mayor of Pilar de la Horadada in the municipal election on 23 May 2027.
Socialist group’s deputy spokesperson, Valero previously held responsibility for education, health, equality and animal welfare during the 2015–19 council term.
Valero was the only candidate in the PSOE’s selection process and secured the backing of more than 70% of local party members. The party says it is the first in the municipality to name its lead candidate for the election.
In her acceptance speech, she pointed to projects from that period, including new school facilities and health centre improvements.
A councillor since 2011 and currently the
She set out four priorities for her campaign: older
Valero said Pilar de la Horadada needed services to keep pace with its growing population.
residents, young people, the municipality’s neighbourhoods and its future development. Her proposals included better support for older people and more opportunities for young residents to study, work and find housing locally.
Patients to Receive Prescription Expiry Alerts school’s usual activities.
high standard,” he said.
Pina visited the studio to inspect the completed project, which has been welcomed by students and those responsible for the centre.
The councillor added that the department would continue working to keep municipal teaching facilities in the best possible condition, particularly those supporting Orihuela’s artistic and cultural activities.
“This work reflects the need to continue improving municipal facilities for arts education and to provide pupils with a suitable space where classes can take place safely and to a
According to the council, pupils have expressed their satisfaction with the refurbishment and are already using the renovated studio.
Patients in the Valencian Community will receive advance alerts when long-term prescriptions are due to expire under a new system designed to cut unscheduled primary care appointments for medication renewals by 25%. From 1 October, the system will identify treatments lasting 180 days or more that are due to end within 45 days. Patients will be notified by SMS or through the GVA-Salut app. If a doctor has already authorised an extension, the patient will receive a message confirming that the prescription has been renewed. If a medical review is needed, the alert will give them time to
arrange an appointment before their medication runs out. The system will also flag treatments nearing expiry to doctors during consultations. Health centres will be able to identify them in advance, while pharmacies will see relevant information through the electronic prescription system and can advise patients on what to do next. The regional Health Department says the measure could affect around 2.5 million people with chronic conditions. An information campaign will accompany the launch to explain how patients will receive the alerts.
PAGE 20
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Meetings at Dilly's Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The next meeting is on Wednesday, October 14th, 2026. All are welcome. Online meetings take place on the second Thursday of every month. The code sent by text is valid for 14 days. In Comunidad Valenciana, your Digital certificate is valid for 3 years. You should receive an email when you need to renew your Digital Signature.
“WHAT IS A DIGITAL SIGNATURE”?
To get a Digital Signature, you need to make an appointment (cita) with your local town hall (Ayuntamiento).
The Digital Signature is an electronic ID enabling you to manage a wide range of administrative processes from your computer.
At the appointment, you will need to take your NIE or TIE at the appointment and provide your email address and mobile telephone number.
A digital signature is an electronically encrypted document that allows public entities to identify people and companies when accessing a government website. It allows you to carry out various administrative procedures remotely without having to go in person. It can be used for: Taxes report Fines payment to the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) Grants application Empadronamiento (inscription on the municipal register) Electronically sign official documents Consult social security
At the appointment, in my case, the following happened: 1. SMS was received, giving a code to generate your digital signature and telling me an email has been sent. 2. Signed a contract for the Digital Signature. Getting the Digital certificate MUST be carried out on a computer. At home on my Computer: 1. Email received – instructions and link to get your certificate. Enter the code sent in SMS. 2. Second Email – confirmation that the Digital Signature has been generated and an attached file showing the contract I signed.
As this is a Spanish system, all communication will be in Spanish. Therefore, depending on your proficiency, you may need to translate each communication. When installed on your computer, the Digital Signature is encrypted, so you can't open or read it. To install the Digital Signature on your mobile phone, open the same emails you used on your computer and use the same password to install it. Using the Digital Signature.
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Scan the QR Code right to find out exactly what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group has to offer
It will contain your name and ACCVCA in its name. In a digital signature or certificate file name, ACCVCA stands for Agencia de Tecnología y Certificación Electrónica Certification Authority. It indicates that the file is from a Certification Authority for the Valencian Community in Spain.
How to check that a Digital Signature has been installed Windows Certificate Manager (SystemWide) Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
When you access a Spanish website that needs proof of your identity, you will be asked for your Digital Signature.
Type certmgr.msc and press Enter.
Select the correct option depending on which Spanish system you are trying to access e.g. “eidentifier” or “Clave” or “Certificado electronico”
Look for your name or the issuing authority (e.g., FNMT, Sectigo, DigiCert) in the centre pane.
You will then need to choose your Digital Signature. As you may already have other Digital Signatures (e.g. Microsoft) on your computer, you need to choose the correct one.
In the left panel, expand Personal and click on the Certificates folder.
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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The opening night of the season saw the first round of the KO Cup. Leeson Street Nomads 8–4 El Clan Dartsabers Newcomers Dartsabers started well, with Benito Gomez finishing on D20. Callum Ramm answered with a 120, while Tony Spiers checked out on D6. Nomads hit back through Alan Kirrage on D20. The first pairs game saw John Eyre finish on D20 for Nomads, before Dartsabers took the next two games through Nicky Dick, who hit 101 and finished on D20, and Lee Earl on D10. At 3–3, Nomads turned up the heat in the singles, taking five of the six games. Ramm, Les Adams and Jimmy McKay all hit 100, while Gomez, Paul Gibson and Dick also joined the century club. Adams added a 101 and finished on D14. The newcomers may have lost 8–4, but they certainly showed they will be a welcome addition to the league. Players of the Match: Les Adams and Nicky Dick Tipsy Toad 6–6 Meeting Point Dartagnans This was a real nip-and-tuck affair. Yvonne Rouffignac opened the scoring for the
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Toads, with Jose Cunad replying for Dartagnans before Lee Maiden took the final triples game. Newcomer Kian McGill hit a 100 in his first pairs game, while Suso Madrid replied with an impressive 18, D18, D18 finish. Cunad and Sharon Frain edged the second pairs game, before Maiden and Phil De-Lacy levelled things at 3–3. The singles were just as close. McGill hit his second 100 and won his game, while DeLacy produced a cracking 121. With the score at 6–5, the final game saw Maiden and Frain go head-to-head. Frain kept her nerve to finish on D20 and secure a draw. Players of the Match: Kian McGill and Suso Madrid Hub Hyenas 10–2 Domino’s Desperados Desperados started strongly, with Akash Panchai checking out on 87. The Hyenas took the next four games, including 140s from Doug Allen and Mark Ellis. Ben Kernahan produced the first 180 of the season in the doubles, while Olly Walker claimed the final pairs game. Despite plenty of 140s and 100s, plus a 133 after the break, Desperados struggled to find the doubles, allowing the Hyenas to take all six singles and secure a 10–2 win. Wayne Houson contributed two 100s and a
superb 155 checkout!
to throw!
Players of the Match: Wayne Houson and Colin Kernahan
The first legs are complete, but the opening round of the KO Cup is far from over. Next week brings the return fixtures, so everything is still to play for — and hopefully, by then, everyone will have remembered how to hit those doubles!
So, opening night gave us rusty arms, plenty of doubles, stacks of ton-plus scores, the first 180 of the season — and one or two players finally remembering which end of the dart
PAGE 22
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Altaona’s signature hole, “Tall Lady”, inspired a mixture of admiration and colourful commentary. Some golfers clearly appreciated her charms more than others! Several familiar faces returned after their summer break, while Mick Pryke completed his final outing as captain. Members thanked him warmly for his excellent leadership over the past year. Paul Lambert takes over next week. Barry “BTB” Roehrig delivered the day’s best score, winning Silver with 41 points. Richard McCann claimed Gold with 40, while Dave Blinston topped Bronze with 35.
San Miguel GS rounded off September at Altaona with impressive scores, birthday cake and a fond farewell to outgoing captain Mick Pryke. Despite cloudy skies, temperatures reached a toasty 30°C, making the clubhouse break-
There was also recognition for Darren Strugnell’s outstanding performance in the previous week’s Club Championship, where he secured both the net title with 69 and gross honours with 77.
fast and driving range warm-up welcome preparations for a challenging day. The course was in excellent condition, however, the front nine greens were slightly fluffy and slow, giving players a few holes to adjust their putting touch.
Payne Gains as Christie’s reign goes down the drain
Helen Kelly produced the day’s only two, sinking a superb putt to scoop the Twos Pot. Nearest-the-pin prizes went to Kenny Winton on the third, Lee Eastman on the
Although a few greens were patchy, the society thanked the venue’s staff, who were working hard on the course throughout the round. After a hot day on the fairways, Karen and Emma earned special thanks for supplying much-needed drinks. With Julie unavailable because of work commitments, Emma also stepped in to provide the feast, keeping the golfers well fed. Des Farrell claimed nearest the pin on the sixth, while Andy Lane took the honours on the 13th. Des Baldwin secured second place - a fine performance, but sadly no cigar. The day belonged to Andy Payne, whose custom-fitted clubs helped him collect the winner’s prize with 34 points. The Cockney champion now has a new Smiling Jack’s handicap of 22. There was a dramatic change of fortunes for last month’s winner, Les Christie, who collected the society’s famous “Dino Dick” award. Thankfully, consolation arrived through the raffle, where Les won a free round with Smiling Jack’s, courtesy of Ger. El Presidente thanked everyone for their continued support, with details of the next event to be announced shortly. An enjoyable outing ended with refreshed golfers, full stomachs and plenty of smiles to round off the day.
Denis Ryan won the football card with Barnsley, while returning member Mike Seymore collected the McBride Bottle. Eddie Frahill and Sean Troy were the two leading guests. Birthday celebrations continued after Alan Macdonald’s 80th the previous week, with Lee Eastman and incoming captain Paul Lambert both marking their 60ths. Cakes disappeared, glasses were raised and, mercifully for the surrounding wildlife, nobody attempted “Happy Birthday”. The society also welcomed Michaela Schmidt from golf-hotspots.com, who enjoyed her first round at Altaona. With Christmas selection boxes already appearing in shopping baskets, September’s finale offered a timely reminder to enjoy the golfing season before festive preparations take over. For now, there were plenty of reasons to celebrate on the fairways.
First of all, we would like to thank Plane Parking for sponsoring our golf day for the last 12 years. Plane Parking is a large company in the region that takes care of your vehicles whilst you are out of the country. It has secure parking at both Alicante-Elche and Corvera-Murcia airports.
The doubles semi-final match play knockout winners were Ray Muttock & Paul Owen beating Brian Court & Steve Day 4 & 2.
The format for the day was singles full handicap Stableford played in two groups.
The football card was won by Ray Muttock with Stoke City winning e40 and raising e40 for our 2026 charities.
This was another close competition and the overall winner of the Plane Parking Trophy on countback eventually came from group “B”. It was “Have A Go Plumber” Nick Chambers, who came home with a very creditable score of 37 points.
Thank you to Plane Parking Directors Nick and Marianne Baker for providing all the prizes, also thank you to Kellie, Katie and staff at Sheerin’s for the great hospitality.
The photo below shows Brian Court presenting the trophy to winner Nick Chambers on behalf of Plane Parking www.sheerinsgolfsociety.com sheerinsgolfsociety@gmail.com
Runner-up was “The Oldiest Swinger” Bill Howie while third place went to “Magic Mike” Mike Sharlot with 34 points. Winner of group A, also with 37 points was “Twelve Trees” Steve Ayre, runner-up on count back was Peter Weastwood with 34 points and third place was Ray Muttock also with 34 points. Nearest-the-pin winners were group A holes 1 and 16 Ray Muttock, hole 9 no winner, group B hole 4 John Clarke, hole 10 “Tom Tom” Brian Court and hole 18 Guest Tony Farrell, best front nine with 18 points was “Mighty Quinn” Kevin Quinn and best back nine also with 18 points was Alan Doyle, the twos pot was not won so e45 will be carried over to the next game.
The Inbetweeners at El Plantío
glorious sunshine and a gentle breeze, leaving us with near-perfect conditions for the rest of the round.
This week, members of the Inbetweeners Golf Society once again gathered at their home course, El Plantío, for another competitive day of golf, plenty of good humour, and, as usual, a healthy dose of optimism and selective memory.
The course was looking in excellent shape, although the notoriously tricky greens provided plenty of frustration. Their subtle breaks had even the most confident putters second-guessing themselves, turning seemingly straightforward putts into a collection of memorable three-putts.
The morning started surprisingly humid, making the first few holes feel a little more demanding than expected. Thankfully, the clouds soon gave way to
eighth, Paul Guest on the 11th and Richard Whitely on the 17th.
Sheerin’s Golf Society Contests Plane Parking Trophy at Altorreal
On arriving at Altorreal with twenty-four players we received a friendly and organised greeting from Romana and her staff; the course was in excellent condition and the weather was a sunny and pleasant 36 degrees.
Smiling Jack’s Golf Society enjoyed another friendly day at New Sierra, where sunshine, good company and some impressive scores ensured there was plenty to smile about.
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As always, the round delivered its usual mixture of golfing brilliance and shots
that were quickly erased from memory. There were some moments of genuine quality, proving that there is still plenty of good golf within the group, while other shots were best left unexplained. But with plenty of laughs, good company, and the all-important bragging rights at stake, it was another thoroughly enjoyable day out for the Inbetweeners Golf Society. The Day’s Winners were: 1st Place: Bertrand La Font (37 pts), 2nd Place: Lesley Cullen (34 pts) on count-
back. 3rd Place: Mark Edwards (34 pts) Nearest the Pin Winners: Hole 7: Lesley Cullen, Hole 9: Joel Mortiers, Hole 14: Lesley Cullen Well done to everyone who took part, and special congratulations to all our winners! Looking for a golf society where the banter is as good as the birdies? Visit www.inbetweenersgolfsociety.com to see upcoming events and find out how to become a member. All skill levels and nationalities are welcome .
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