Edition 1149 Monday 12th - Sunday 18th October 2026
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The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English-language newspaper - WITH THE LARGEST LOCAL CIRCULATION
19 ne of the town’s best-known attractions is returning to the port as the council opens a new pedestrian esplanade following an e11.1 million redevelopment. Fairground rides are being installed on Torrevieja’s waterfront once again, more than three years after the popular attraction was moved to make way for the port redevelopment. The return marks a major step towards bringing activity back to the seafront, where residents have only just begun exploring the newly opened pedestrian space around the former Paseo and Avenida de la Libertad. The funfair left its traditional waterfront site in early 2023 as construction began on the new leisure complex and surrounding public areas. Since then, operators have traded at the Antonio Soria Park market site, more than two kilometres from the town centre. That temporary location proved difficult outside the peak holiday season. During the relocation, the council supported operators by exempting them from municipal fees. Around half of the approximately 80 attractions that operate in Torrevieja during the busiest months are expected to return initially.
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 TORREVIEJA FUNFAIR The renovated venue offers a more open, accessible and safer setting, with infrastructure installed specifically to accommodate the rides. The council has formally accepted part of the completed works, allowing the funfair’s return while improvements continue elsewhere. Municipal investment totals approximately e11.1 million across two contracts covering primary and secondary electrical infrastructure and associated works. Awarded to companies within the Hozono Global Group, the contracts were valued at e3,265,085 and e7,863,401, with subsequent changes to costs and completion schedules. The wider project also involved temporarily relocating the waterfront market stalls to Avenida de la Estación, at a cost exceeding e200,000. Operators returning to the port face higher charges for occupying the site. The council has increased its fees following a substantial rise in the amount charged by the Generalitat, which controls the port land. Those additional costs may influence how many itinerant attractions remain during quieter periods. Although the venue has permanent service infrastructure, approval from the electricity supplier is still outstanding. In the meantime, rides will rely on generators, which the site has also been designed to accommodate.
Monday 12th - Sunday 18th October 2026 Paving and landscaping continue along the former Avenida de la Libertad. This section is becoming the principal planted area of the pedestrian esplanade, with flower beds and palm trees surrounding an existing row of ficus trees. More growing space has been provided around the trees to help prevent roots from lifting the paving, a problem that previously affected Paseo de la Libertad. Reinforced concrete beneath the new surface is also designed to support the weight of fairground attractions. The opening has revealed the new walkthrough fountain, alongside a revised arrangement of benches and tree planters. More than 50 trees have now been planted, although their young size means shade remains limited across the broad esplanade. Pedestrian access from Plaza Castelar, Capdepont and Rambla Juan Mateo has also improved, with small landscaped areas introduced along the approaches. Some sections remain fenced off as work continues. For nearby residents, however, the return brings questions as well as anticipation. With the rides now positioned closer to homes in the town centre, concerns are emerging over noise and potential disturbance. The funfair’s comeback nevertheless restores a familiar attraction to Torrevieja’s seafront, reconnecting it with the waterfront setting that helped make it a favourite with generations of residents and visitors.
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637 227 385 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info 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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Dutch tourist died at La Roqueta beach two days before a Ukrainian couple drowned at Els Vivers, with red flags flying at both locations because of dangerous sea conditions.
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The Dutch national called for help while in the water, prompting an emergency response involving medical services, Local Police and the Guardia Civil. Despite their efforts, his life could not be saved.
Guardamar del Segura has recorded three drowning deaths in just three days, after it emerged that a 51-yearold Dutch tourist died at La Roqueta beach on Thursday, two days before a double tragedy at Els Vivers.
His death has only now become public following Saturday’s double drowning elsewhere along the Guardamar coastline. A red flag, indicating that swimming was prohibited, was flying at both beaches because of rough seas.
The first incident happened at around 5.50pm on Thursday at La Roqueta, south of the town centre.
On Saturday, a Ukrainian couple in their mid-twenties lost their lives at Els Vivers beach, south of the mouth of the River Segura. The pair lived in Poland and were visiting friends in Guardamar while on holiday. According to municipal sources, the beach had been under a red flag for seven or eight days, with strong rip currents affecting the area. The emergency alert was received at 2.11pm. Two SAMU advanced life support ambulances and a Basic Life Support unit were dispatched. Medical teams attempted to resuscitate both swimmers, but neither survived. The tragedy unfolded near the last beach access walkway beside the breakwater, approximately 100 to 200 metres from the river mouth, where strong currents and channels create hazardous conditions. Municipal sources said the victims were among a group of friends when several people got into difficulty in the water. Two companions attempted to help. One brought his partner safely ashore, while the other was swept away during the rescue attempt. Local Police, Guardia Civil officers and lifeguards also attended. Els Vivers, a natural stretch of coastline between the northern edge of Guardamar and the River Segura, does not have permanent lifeguard cover at this time of year. Lifeguard services continue during October at Centro and La Roqueta beaches.
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LOS ARCOS RESEEDING NEARS COMPLETION AS PSOE QUESTIONS STAND DELAYS
repayable loans of up to e50,000 for firsttime buyers, covering up to 20% of a home’s value. It includes e280 million in guarantees for industrialised housing and e400 million for social-housing providers. A separate proposal would extend qualifying rental contracts by up to two years. These measures still require full parliamentary validation.
Orihuela’s Sports Department says reseeding at Los Arcos football ground is nearing completion. Work includes scarifying the pitch, sowing grass seed and adding sand. Councillor Víctor Sigúenza said it is part of the council’s sports maintenance programme. However, the PSOE has criticised plans for new stands, saying the council announced summer progress before the procurement process had begun. It says a contract justification report was not signed until September 29, 2026. Councillor Luis Quesada said supporters had been given expectations without administrative action. The opposition also alleges the council is relying on a technical report prepared by the previous administration in May 2023. Quesada accused the department of poor planning and demanded an explanation of delays, calling on Sigúenza to resign. 314 PAIRS OF COUNTERFEIT TRAINERS SEIZED IN TORREVIEJA Torrevieja Local Police seized 314 pairs of suspected counterfeit trainers during a vehicle checkpoint on the night of October 6. Officers stopped and inspected 13 vehicles on Calle José Samper García. Twelve had no reported issues, but a search of the remain-
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ing car uncovered shoes bearing well-known brand names, including Nike, Adidas, Hoka, Lacoste, On and New Balance.
EMERGENCY ELECTRICAL REPAIRS FOR ORIHUELA COSTA SPORTS CENTRE
aged fuses, inadequate protection and unearthed metal components. The report does not specify defects at the coastal sports centre. Inspectors gave the installations conditional results, requiring repairs within six months. The council warns unresolved faults could cause accidents, short circuits or fires, endangering the public. Contractors have 45 days to finish; quicker completion earns points, while delays incur a e2,000 daily penalty.
Torrevieja Council has earmarked e200,000 for a master plan and preliminary design for a bus station at Enclave 13, beside the CV905. The 73,500-square-metre site includes 44,000 square metres of municipal land.
HOLIDAY LETS FACE PROPOSED 10% VAT
The package also proposes interest-free,
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TORREVIEJA REVIVES BUS STATION PLAN
Police believe the trainers were intended for sale by street vendors. Officers confiscated the merchandise and began proceedings over a suspected offence against industrial property.
Spain’s Government has approved a housing package introducing 10% VAT on qualifying furnished holiday lets from December 1, 2026, subject to parliamentary scrutiny. The tax would cover furnished rentals of up to 30 nights, with an exception for some landlords letting their main home. Owners in Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Guardamar and Benidorm may face added costs; whether visitors pay more depends on operators.
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Orihuela Council has put a e57,439 contract out to tender to repair electrical defects found at transformer installations serving 13 facilities. The tender covers schools, sports centres and other public buildings. The Orihuela Costa municipal sports centre, CDM de la Costa, has been allocated e5,800, the second-largest sum after Teatro Circo’s e8,000. Inspections identified faults including failed emergency lighting, dam-
The plan will set out a terminal, bus depot and workshops, commercial premises and other facilities. The council is preparing to award the design contract, funded by September’s budget amendment. This is the first step; further planning and construction tenders will be needed, with construction possibly continuing into 2028. The station would replace the criticised facility beside Calle Antonio Machado, which has poor amenities and difficult access. The site must also accommodate a depot for operator Avanza, whose buses currently disrupt residential streets.
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Orihuela Parents demand urgent school action Parents’ associations from 13 Orihuela schools are demanding an urgent meeting of the Municipal School Council over safety, overcrowding, hygiene and maintenance problems. They want repairs prioriParents met with members of STEPV Teachers Union tised, saying repeated requests for a council culties without an evacuation route. At Los Dolses, 26 classes meeting have gone unan- are reportedly housed in premises designed for 18. Playas de swered. Orihuela has around 700 pupils in a school built for 400, with families listing 39 problems, including flooding and a faulty fire Families at Antonio suppression system. Sequeros Special Education School say a Other concerns include electrical faults, leaks, inaccessible facililift has been out of serv- ties and delays to replacement buildings. The organisations say ice since 2019, leaving the council must agree priorities and provide commitments on pupils with mobility diffi- safety and repairs.
San Javier Plans Flood Defence Park San Javier has tendered a e1.87 million floodable park to reduce flooding from the Cobatillas Ravine and pollution reaching the Mar Menor, while protecting local residents. The five-month project will store runoff temporarily before pumping it to the wasteNew park to help tackle flooding in the town water treatment plant. In dry conditions, the site Quevedo Street and the N-332, the park will include a collecwill serve as a public tion pond, artificial channel, pumping station and low-water recreational space with connection to a lake. The works will begin after approval of the paths, green areas and site verification report. Companies have until October 29 to visitor facilities. submit bids. Price accounts for 80% of the assessment, with the remainder awarded for possible improvements to the playPlanned for a car park between Jabalina Street, ground, paving, bins and benches.
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T
he 22-month programme will teach traditional skills and support people seeking to build a future in the countryside. A school in the Alicante mountains is training shepherds and dry stone wallers as part of an effort to create jobs and address rural depopulation. Fageca, a village with 101 residents, has launched the 22-month School of Shepherding and Dry Stone Walling in the Alicante Mountains. The programme combines training in extensive livestock farming with landscape restoration, fire prevention and support for people seeking to establish rural projects. Alicante province has around two million residents, yet 32 municipalities have been
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identified by the Provincial Council as at risk of, or already experiencing, depopulation. Most have fewer than 500 inhabitants and ageing populations. Many are in the northern inland districts of El Comtat, La Marina Alta, La Marina Baixa and L’Alcoià. The school will run two editions of livestock farming training, with participants working on farms and learning about mountain grazing. They will also receive guidance. A dry stone walling workshop will be held, and a sheepfold will be restored. Pilot grazing areas will be established to reduce vegetation and lower wildfire risk. Fageca Council will provide administrative, financial, territorial and social guidance to people interested in developing projects and settling in rural areas. The scheme is intended to offer a route into work and rural life,
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Rudi is an 8-month-old puppy who was found wandering the countryside in poor condition. After lots of care, he has gained weight, regained his health, and is thriving. Friendly, intelligent, and affectionate, Rudi is now looking for his forever home.
Email: info@satanimalrescue.com WhatsApp 688792515 or 966710047
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as well as vocational training. “Depopulation cannot be tackled with a single action. We need to generate activity, care for our land and create the conditions for anyone who wants to live and work here to find real opportunities,” said mayor Ismael Vidal. The project has been selected by Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge under its programme supporting innovative responses to
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depopulation. More than 1,200 applications were submitted across Spain, with 189 projects chosen. Vidal said the selection showed that small municipalities could compete nationally. “Now the important work begins: turning it into real results for our village and for the mountains of Alicante,” he said. The council hopes the school will preserve skills and create opportunities for Fageca and the surrounding area.
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Four-Year-Old Missing British Girl Found in San Miguel de Salinas
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SPAIN MOURNS EVICTED PENSIONER, MARICARMEN
A four-year-old British girl with severe autism was found alone and disoriented in heavy rain after wandering away from her family in San Miguel de Salinas. Local Police discovered her wearing a nappy on Saturday afternoon and took her to a health centre for examination after alerting state security forces. Her parents, who had been searching for her, arrived at the centre and were reunited with their daughter. The family were holidaying in the town and were due to return to the United Kingdom the following day, municipal sources said.
María del Carmen Abascal, the 87-year-old Madrid pensioner whose eviction sparked outrage across Spain, has died in hospital without returning to her lifelong home. Known as Maricarmen, she was removed from her flat in Madrid’s Retiro district on 23 September. She died on Wednesday, despite an agreement mediated by Madrid City Council that would have allowed her to move back. Police enforced the eviction on the fourth attempt, with hundreds of protesters gathering outside to prevent it. Maricarmen was carried from the building on a stretcher and taken by ambulance to Gregorio Marañón Hospital, where she remained until her death. Images of her removal brought national attention to her case and strengthened protests over housing security. The Madrid Tenants’ Union said the agreement permitting her return had come “too late”, describing her ordeal as “torturous” and “completely avoidable”. It said her experience had become a turning point for
housing demonstrations, but at an unacceptable personal cost. Campaigners remembered her repeated appeal: “Fight, keep fighting for what is yours.” Maricarmen’s father signed the original rent-controlled tenancy in 1956. Her mother inherited it in 1960, followed by Maricarmen in 2005. Changes to rental legislation and a subsequent property transaction triggered a legal dispute over her right to remain. Although she initially won, the Provincial Court later ruled in favour of the property company and authorised eviction. Following council intervention, Urbagestión agreed to let her return. The arrangement offered hope of resolving the dispute, but her homecoming never happened. Her death has left campaigners mourning a woman whose struggle to remain in her home became a national symbol of Spain’s housing crisis.
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The Billion-Euro Industry That Needs to be Nationalised. e penned a piece here many years ago under the heading; ‘Time to Separate the Drugs from the Thugs’. I remember making a strong case at the time as to why illegal drugs should be made legal - and most importantly, taken out of the hands of ruthless criminal gangs. We made the case that the battle to curtail the distribution and sale of illegal drugs was well and truly lost.
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That point is ten times stronger today than it was at that time. May I once again fall back on one of my favourite aphorisms: ‘The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and expecting a different result!’ The certain fact is that when people want to take drugs, they will find them and they will use them. It isn’t just the unfortunate street addicts we are talking about but taking cocaine under the ill-chosen term ‘recreational drug use’ has become an acceptable leisure habit in ‘respectable’ society. A publican friend of mine remarked to me recently: ‘what can I do; I would have to bar half the customers in the pub.’ This is a successful, upper-end of the market respected businessman. I remember when he, like me at the time, would ‘smell’ an individual up to that sort of ‘no good’, before they found themselves outside the door on the street. Criminal drug cartels have become more powerful than some governments. Take the drug business away from them and they will be easily managed. Prohibition of drugs is a dead duck; it has failed – just as it failed with alcohol in the 1930s in America. Not only that, but drugs have become easier to find in every town and village in Ireland. They are cheaper, stronger and most often more dangerous. Criminalisation does not stop use and it makes the habit more dangerous. Only this morning I listened to Dr Brendan Fennessy, a consultant from Tallaght University Hospital, give a startling update on the consequences of cocaine use; and in particular the dangers posed by added substances. When I lived in Canada I found that in Manitoba all liquor sales are controlled by ‘Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries’ and that includes all importation, wholesale, retail sales and distribution. There’s your blueprint for dealing with drugs. Think of all the hours of police time taken up by the illegal drugs trade all over the world. What a safer planet we
would live on if we brought in legislation to allow regulation. Think of all the suffering drug addicts who, for a start, would be better off with a regulated market, known doses, clean supply, strict labelling and follow-up help for those who can be persuaded to quit. When drug use is a criminal offence, people hide their use and are more likely to avoid seeking help. I know a thing or two about addiction. My drugs were alcohol and nicotine. My point here is that there are no pushers on the streets selling poisoned alcohol because alcohol is regulated. The same thing needs to be applied to eating the stuff as well as drinking it. It may surprise some of you to learn that drug taking is far from being a modern phenomenon. Researchers have found that ancient humans chewed on betel nuts as a stimulant and painkiller 10,000 to 20,000 years ago. So drugs were always with us. Nature developed alcohol from fermented fallen fruits and animals likely got drunk before humans did! The oldest chemical evidence of alcohol being humanly dished out goes back to China around 7,000 BC. We will take it that there were no ’bootleggers’ or pushers controlling the trade in those days. So back to the present … Our primary concern should be for the vast numbers of people addicted to drugs. Apart from individual health of the user, entire families are destroyed through the problem. Homelessness, housing, vandalism, crime and multiple deaths can all lead back to the one problem of illegal drugs. The millions of Euro that would be brought into the
exchequer could have an enormous impact if this money were to be channeled to where it should be. First and foremost, clinics, specialised hospital units and rehabilitation centres would be accessible in all areas to aid the recovery of suffering addicts. More money could be spent on education and enlightenment with regard to the dangers of taking the drug in the first place. Greater emphasis on providing sporting facilities in every town and village would go a long way towards providing a healthier people. Let us take back the lost tennis players, champion athletes, boxers and footballers currently lost to our society because of the misuse of drugs. Think of all the necessary police work that the gardai could concentrate on if the drug gangs were no longer the great threat to society that they are now. Separating the drugs from the thugs might not solve every problem … but it would make things an awful lot better than they are now. DON’T FORGET Prejudice is being down on something you’re not up on.
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Torrevieja Sea and Salt Museum Torrevieja’s Contracting Committee has unanimously proposed ABALA Infraestructuras to build the new Sea and Salt Museum, regenerate its surroundings and restore the Saltworks Administration House and Caballete. ABALA scored 96.97 out of 100, the highest of five bidders. Its e16.67 million offer, including VAT, is e1.44 million below the original tender budget of e18.11 million. The project has a maximum completion period of 20 months. The museum and surrounding area are scheduled for completion within that time, while restoration of the Administration House and Caballete must be finished within 12 months. ABALA has also offered a 57-month works guarantee, including a 45-month extension. Designed by Paredes Pedrosa Arquitectos, the scheme aims to preserve and promote Torrevieja’s maritime and salt-making heritage. Approved by the Local Government Board in June 2026, it forms part of the city’s integrated development strategy and receives European Regional Development Fund support. The proposal will now pass through the remaining administrative stages before the contract is formally awarded.
New Health Centre for Redován Redován’s long-awaited new health centre has moved closer after the Valencian regional government awarded a e308,550 contract for its design and construction supervision to Jesús Céspedes + Vahos Arquitectura. The practice was selected ahead of five other bidders with an offer 17.8% below the initial budget. The two-storey centre will be built on council-owned land in Plaza de la Comunitat Valenciana, occupying about half of the existing green space and children’s traffic park. It will include consulting rooms for family medicine, paediatrics and nursing, as well as urgent care, midwifery, breastfeeding support, social work and sample collection.
Designed for near-zero energy consumption, the facility will serve a population of more than 8,000. Project preparation is expected to take eight months. Construction, estimated at e4.1 million, will be tendered separately and is expected to last two years. Work is unlikely to begin before May 2027, with the centre expected to open in 2029. The current clinic has been criticised for inadequate space, lighting and ventilation.
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Orihuela 5km Cancer Run Marks Ten Years Orihuela’s “Corre por mí, Orihuela” charity run and walk returns on Sunday, 18 October, marking its tenth edition in support of the fight against cancer. Starting at 10am on Avenida de España, participants can choose a competitive 5km race or a walk, finishing beside 2,800 participants. Glorieta Gabriel Miró. Registration costs e10. The event has raised almost e150,000 since Club Tragamillas joined its organisation. The race is limited to 600 runners, while the Online registration closes at midday on Friday, 16 October. Inwalk welcomes all ages person entries are available at the cancer association’s Ociopía without a participation office, with race numbers collected at La Lonja on Saturday. limit. Organisers expect The initiative recently won the Fortius Award for Sporting Event of the Year for its achievements. between 2,500 and
New Four-Star Hotel for Los Alcázares Sercotel plans to open an 85-room, 4-star hotel in Los Alcázares in mid-2027, adding to the town’s holiday accommodation. Located on Avenida Príncipe Felipe, opposite Serena Golf, the development will include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a restaurant, meeting rooms and event spaces. An adjoining plot will provide padel courts and facilities for CrossFit, HYROX and boxing. A children’s club and poolside bar are also planned. The property will become Sercotel’s sixth
hotel in the Region of Murcia, joining establishments in Murcia city, Cartagena and Puerto Lumbreras. It will also bring Los Alcázares’ four-star hotel total to six. The project forms part of Sercotel’s Mediterranean expansion, alongside a planned four-star aparthotel in Santa Pola and a three-star hotel in Benidorm, strengthening the chain’s presence in Spain’s holiday accommodation market.
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BEATLES SONGS SHE LOVES YOU SUN KING
SAME GRID, TWO SETS OF CLUES
LOVE ME DO
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
TELL ME WHY
ACROSS 1. Isolation (10) 7. Uplift (5) 8. Whet (7) 10. Angelic (8) 11. Lean (4) 13. Cunning (6) 15. Mature (6) 17. Wild party (4) 18. Music writer (8) 21. Prominent (7) 22. Rubbish (5) 23. Amity (10)
DOWN 1. Wholly (5) 2. Sufficient (8) 3. Attack (6) 4. Melt (4) 5. Matrimonial (7) 6. Forward (10) 9. Remarkable (10) 12. Send (8) 14. Cornered (7) 16. Reorganised (6) 19. Rascal (5) 20. Gala (4)
IM ONLY SLEEPING NORWEGIAN WOOD BIRTHDAY PIGGIES GIRL WORDS OF LOVE SOMETHING THIS BOY THE WORD NOWHERE MAN
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Possibly a silhouette of rooms for guests (5,5)
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
7. Calculating creature (5) 8. Churchmen from different circles (7) 10. Dogs having painless operations (8) 11. Short satirical piece concerning small equipment (4) 13. A negative reply upset Daniel (6) 15. Say the officer should be shelled? (6) 17. The star gave out (4) 18. Fantasise about dead army? (8) 21. Complaining to the fence? (7) 22. Substance to rinse out (5) 23. Bargain a lot (1,5,4) DOWN 1. Awfully hardy Greek monster (5) 2. The end of the tramline (8) 3. Place to get a cello repaired? (6)
WORD WHEEL CHALLENGE
4. Drug addict's employer (4) 5. Possibly add flour in the kitchen? (7) 6. Eavesdrops, somehow, when disregarded (6,4) 9. Paying for a colony (10) 12. Information about armed French policeman (8) 14. Ganging up and scolding (7) 16. Apprehended for the tribunal, say (6) 19. Stand for painting of headless animal (5) 20. Monetary penalty that's perfectly acceptable (4)
TRIVIA QUIZ 1. In the films, Indiana Jones often breaks the sound barrier. How does he accomplish this? 2. Which popular band formed in the late 1970s took its name from a gang mentioned in Woody Guthrie’s autobiography, Bound for Glory? 3. On 2 July 1937, which globetrotting woman reportedly uttered the final words, “…gas is running low”? 4. Which word describes the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger? 5. What do dairy farmers in Norway provide their cows with to help them produce more milk? a. Slippers, b. A stereo music system, c. A comfortable mattress, d. A television 6. The 17th-century French philosopher, physicist and mathematician Blaise Pascal is credited with inventing which addictive game? 7. Starting with the most populous, name the three most populous island countries in the world. 8. Since the introduction of the Open Era in 1968, which woman with a two-handed backhand won a record seven French Open singles titles? 9. Which famous artists were portrayed by the following actors in films? a. Anthony Hopkins b. Kirk Douglas, c. Charlton Heston, d. Jose Ferrer, e. Ed Harris, f. Tim Roth 10. The following lyrics all mention cars. Can you name the songs? a. “Here in my car, I feel safest of all.” b. “He blew his mind out in a car.” c. “She wrecked the car and she was sad and so afraid that I’d be mad.” d. “He shoulda looked left and he shoulda looked right, he
didn’t see the station wagon car.” 11. Which Arabic word meaning “place of sunset” refers to the five North African countries of Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya? 12. Millions of people around the world witnessed Black Jack’s sad but majestic presence on 24 November 1963. Who was Black Jack? 13. Who is the only player to have scored in a Manchester derby, a Merseyside derby and a Glasgow derby? 14. What is the side of a coin bearing the principal stamp or design called? 15, Where were the following musicians born? a. Freddie Mercury b. Jackson Browne, c. Joe Strummer, d. Engelbert Humperdinck e. Chris de Burgh 16. Until 1918, the Pour le Merite, a medal bearing a Maltese cross, was Prussia’s highest military honour. By what name was it better known in English? 17. Which popular West Coast group was the only act to appear at all four of these rock festivals: Monterey (1967), the first Isle of Wight Festival (1968), Woodstock (1969) and Altamont (1969)? 18. What is za’atar? a. An aromatic spice mixture, b. The largest known supernova, c. Alexander the Great’s legendary sword 19. In which famous fortress would you find the largest-calibre cannon ever made and the heaviest bell in the world? 20. When is a creamy dessert a costly jaunt?
Find answers on page 18
The target is 18 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 10 GEOGRAPHICAL FEATURES IRACELOHGPA - TERUSYA AUIPNLSNE - NTONUAMI LETRALWFA - SIROTAFNRE ADNLSGARS - OAILSETCN EDHLDNAA - WLTANDES
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Pupils take Centre Stage in Aladdin
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the school library. The school also provides an enthusiastic audience for ADAPT’s final dress rehearsal, giving performers valuable feedback while treating pupils to a theatrical outing. Central to the partnership is a children’s dance group featuring between eight and twelve pupils aged ten and eleven. Teachers select the young performers and coach their dance routines. The children also participate in the stage action and deliver lines in English. ADAPT’s director and producer visit the school during morning breaks to rehearse their contributions.
ADAPT Theatre Group is bringing local schoolchildren into the spotlight for its production of Aladdin, continuing a partnership with Las Esperanzas primary school in San Pedro del Pinatar. For more than a decade, the group has supported pupils from families in need by helping fund essential school materials. This year, its contribution will purchase reading materials for
The collaboration offers an enriching experience for everyone involved and strengthens the theatre group’s connections with the town. Aladdin will be staged at the Geli Albaladejo Theatre on Friday 27 November at 7pm and Saturday 28 November at noon and 7pm. Tickets are available at bit.ly/Aladdin2026, Papelería Librería ARCO in San Pedro del Pinatar, Annie’s Bar in Lo Pagán and Spanish Home Finders in Pinar de Campoverde.
Hooked on Panto - Peter Pan brings Festive Fun The Rojales Pantomime Group is preparing to whisk audiences away to Neverland with its Christmas production of Peter Pan at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio. Performances take place on 3, 4 and 5 December, promising swashbuckling adventure, comedy, songs and dancing for audiences of all ages. The dastardly Captain Hook and his hapless pirates will plot to capture Peter Pan, but standing in their way are the Lost Boys, fiery fairy Tinkerbell and their allies, led by Big Chief Burp like Buffalo. As the goodies battle the baddies, audiences can expect plenty of opportunities to cheer, boo and join in the traditional pantomime fun. Tickets cost e10 for adults and e5 for children, with proceeds from ticket sales donated to local charities. Tickets are available now from The Post Box and Treasure Chest in Quesada; The Post Room in Benijófar; The Card
Place in Benimar and Punta Prima; Cards and More in La Marina; and The Post Shop in Villamartín.
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Frozen Duo Set to Shine wo talented performers will bring the magic of Frozen to Studio 32’s production of Now That’s What We Call Musicals at Teatro Cardenal Belluga in San Fulgencio.
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Fourteen-year-old Vlinder Zorn, the cast’s youngest member, plays Elsa, taking on the demanding vocals of the show-stopping “Let It Go” with confidence.
Sharing the spotlight are Vlinder and Alice
Alternatively, email: rojalespantomime123@gmail.com to arrange tickets.
Alongside her, Alice Wakeford portrays Anna, bringing warmth and theatrical experience developed through early dance training and studies at the London College of Performing Arts.
With laughter, adventure and festive spirit on the programme, the group invites residents and visitors to enjoy a family outing while supporting good causes in the local community.
Their contrasting characters promise an engaging partnership, combining Elsa’s icy grandeur with Anna’s infectious optimism. Performances run from 29–31 October, offering audiences a celebration of musical theatre featuring emerging talent and professionally trained performers. Tickets are available from the usual local outlets and online through Costa Blanca Events. Follow Studio 32’s Facebook page for regular updates, or request further information by sending a WhatsApp message to 745 068 938. Book early to secure your seats.
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adverts to appear on TV and gaming companies even sponsoring shows? Why are charities able to promote their own lotteries on TV and why on earth aren’t there proper controls on the internet to ban on line gambling appearing in people’s emails?
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Tony Mayes’ Rant
More and more people being drawn heavily into debt try one more time to gamble in the hope of a big win to get them out of debt, only to dig a deeper hole. It leads to mental problems and increasingly to suicide.
FROM BETS TO BLACKOUT I have written before about the spiralling number of people in Britain who owe money on their electricity and gas bills. Energy debt has now reached £5.5 billion to £6 billion, with projections indicating it could climb to £7 billion. Two million households now owe money to energy companies with the average debt exceeding £2,200. Everyone else not in debt is having to pay an extra £50 yearly on their bills to cover bad debt costs, and if it rises to £7 billion it will add another £15 to everyone’s bills – and that simply is unfair. So what is going wrong in Britain? In my book one of the main causes is a gambling fever which has overrun the nation. This is going to shock many people – 38.5% of people play bingo in person, while 36.5% gamble on line and 25% do both. People playing bingo lose a total of £17.5 billion, literally pouring money down the drain. Individual gamblers lose an average of £41.34 a month while for hardened gamblers it can reach £745. It’s no wonder that a growing number of people have no money to pay their basic bills and sensible government intervention is long overdue. Why on earth is Britain allowing gaming
It's estimated that up to 496 people die by suicide associated with problem gambling in England each year, according to official figures. Official figures known to government – so why the hell doesn’t the government do something about it. Perhaps shock treatment cutting off electricity and gas to people known to have a gambling addiction maybe an answer but first I would like to ban all gambling advertisements and while we're at it also get rid of vape shops where millions waste another fortune. Think the problem is worst in the UK? Well it’s bad in Spain too. Gambling is a recognised public health and social problem in Spain, particularly affecting young adults and adolescents. Studies show that more than 20% of Spanish teenagers aged 14–19 have gambled for money, with gambling disorder rates rising among younger people. Government reports highlight a sharp surge in online betting among teenagers and 20 somethings, with young adults accounting for over 34% of the online market, with many suffering heavy financial losses. BULLY FOR SPANISH TRADITIONS Every year we hear of deaths and serious injuries as a result of bullfights and bull runs in Spain, the most recent being in Bilbao where a 25-year-old woman was killed when a bull got into the spectator area.
In Pamplona 57 people were injured during the eight-day bullrun festival. The Spanish love to maintain their traditions – but in view of the death and injury caused isn’t it time for a halt? I know the bulls would be grateful - thousands of bulls are still killed in bullrings across the country every year. For once people’s lives should be put before making money. HOUSING CRISIS, POLITICAL GAMES I was saddened that Spain’s parliament played politics last week and failed to act on the country’s acute housing crisis, prompting Sanchez to call a general election. If Spain moves to the right, as is the case in other European countries, it might bring about more controls over immigration. The EU recently gave final approval to 'Return Regulations', designed to accelerate the expulsions of those who do not have the
right to remain in the European Union and allow the creation of return centres in third countries. Spain was the only member state to vote against it, while 26 voted for. I doubt whether a PP-VOX government, as many are predicting, will decisively act to help people find an affordable home by bringing down rents. However it might act to put an end to foreigners buying homes and leaving them empty for years. I personally know of a house on an urbanisation that was bought by a Russian owner and has remained locked and empty for years. Is it right that expats can buy a property just to use it for a fortnight or two a year? That’s been happening for years in popular holiday spots in the UK, resulting in the ‘death’ of villages in the winter. Councils are now acting to step up tax on the owners.
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Driver Held After Five Cyclists Struck 42-year-old man was arrested after a car struck five female cyclists near Cañada de San Pedro, Murcia, on Sunday, 4 October.
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Investigators say he turned around and returned, allegedly attempting to run them over again. The women scrambled towards a roadside ditch, helping injured companions escape. Three cyclists required hospital treatment, two with serious injuries. The suspect allegedly abandoned his car and
A Guardia Civil Officer examining the wreckage
fled on foot before Guardia Civil officers arrested him. Police said he tested positive in a preliminary drug screening and was on authorised prison leave while serving a sentence for an intentional homicide committed in 2013. He is being investigated for attempted homicide, causing injury, leaving the scene of a collision and driving under the influence of drugs following the Sunday incident.
Corvera Hits Six Million Passenger Milestone Corvera Airport has welcomed more than six million passengers since opening in January 2019, as demand grows and new European routes prepare to launch.
ITREM Director welcomes passengers
Between January and August, Murcia’s airport handled 709,319 passengers, up 8.4% on last year and more than double the growth across Aena’s network. International flights accounted for most commercial traffic.
The expansion comes as Murcia welcomed 949,861 international tourists during the first eight months of 2026, an increase of 14.2%.
Transavia will launch flights to Amsterdam Schiphol on 30 March 2027, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. EasyJet’s Liverpool service begins on 29 March, with flights on Mondays and Fridays.
Britain remains the region’s largest overseas tourism market, while Dutch visitor numbers rose 24.2%, strengthening the case for improved connections with both countries from next spring.
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She never phones, and when I phone or send a message; she won't answer for days. And then I am made to sit through how wonderful my brothers’ children are, and how clever they are, and what, in her opinion, they will amount to. My daughter is now starting to notice how well her cousins are being treated compared with her and I want to protect her from that.
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’m a 35-year-old woman, married with a seven-year-old daughter. My mother is completely indifferent towards me and my family. I suppose I’ve always been independent, leaving home as soon as I could due to my parents' dysfunctional relationship; we all walked around on eggshells at home. I have two younger brothers, who are still very dependent on my mother even though they have left home and have partners; she frequently babysits for them.
She forgets, or is not interested in, the things that happen in my life. I recently went into hospital for a procedure for a long-standing health issue, it was a fairly big deal requiring me to undergo anaesthetic and a day in a hospital bed, and she completely forgot about it. What made it worse was that she remembered weeks later, just like it was an afterthought. She was late sending a card and gift for our daughter's birthday; the gift was cheap rubbish and I know what she gives to her other grandchildren because she boasts about it on social media.
I came off the family group chat the other week, and no one noticed, or thought to follow it up and ask whether we were all ok.
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hey all sound very wrapped up in themselves. Because you’ve always been so independent, it’s possible they’ve got used to you not needing them, or never needing them, and they have got used to not giving you any consideration - so much so, that they forget you exist at times and forget your special days. Your suggestion of laying low, and not being the one to chase or make contact with them is a good one as this treatment could be purposeful and deliberate and used as a weapon against you and you wouldn't be wrong in wanting to protect your daughter from that world.
If your mother and brothers contact you and ask where you’ve been and why you haven’t been in touch, you can simply say: ‘well it’s a two-way street’. Concentrate on your husband and daughter and leave the others to stew in their own juices. Limit contact rather than disappear altogether; send cards; however, you don't have to be in their lives.
LET’S ROCK ENDS SUMMER ON A HIGH Let’s Rock brought the summer to a rousing close, drawing packed crowds to its lively disco & soul concerts last week. Audiences enjoyed classics from the Bee Gees, The Jacksons, The Stylistics, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gloria Gaynor, Rose Royce, KC & The Sunshine Band, Kool & the Gang, Chic, ABBA, Ottawan and Boney M, among many others. With barely time to catch their breath, choir members are already back in rehearsals for their popular Rock Christmas concerts. This year’s message is simple: expect the unexpected! December concert dates will be announced shortly in the press and on the choir’s Facebook page, LET’S ROCK – ROCK CHOIR. Interested in joining the fun? Contact musical director Sarah at singinggroup@outlook.com or via WhatsApp on 650 054 467 for further information.
WORD SCRAMBLE
WORDWHEEL
GEOGRAPHICAL FEATURES
ARCHIPELAGO - ESTUARY PENINSULA - MOUNTAIN
CROSSWORD ANSWERS Monday 12 Oct (Week 1149) QUICK - ACROSS: 1 Quarantine; 7 Raise; 8 Sharpen; 10 Cherubic; 11 Tilt; 13 Crafty; 15 Mellow; 17 Orgy; 18 Composer; 21 Salient; 22 Trash; 23 Friendship. DOWN: 1 Quite; 2 Adequate; 3 Assail; 4 Thaw; 5 Nuptial; 6 Precocious; 9 Noteworthy; 12 Despatch; 14
Angular; 16 Sorted; 19 Scamp; 20 Fete. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Hotel suite; 7 Adder; 8 Clerics; 10 Spaniels; 11 Skit; 13 Denial; 15 Kernel; 17 Vega; 18 Daydream; 21 Railing; 22 Resin; 23 A great deal. DOWN: 1 Hydra; 2 Terminal; 3 Locale; 4 User; 5 Thicken; 6 Passed over; 9 Settlement; 12 Gendarme; 14 Nagging; 16 Caught; 19 Easel; 20 Fine.
QUIZ FROM P12
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (Moulin Rouge) 10. a. “Cars” — Gary Numan, b. “A Day in the Life” —
1. When he cracks his whip. 2. The Boomtown
The Beatles, c. “Honey” — Bobby Goldsboro, d.
Rats. 3. Amelia Earhart. 4. A cubit, from the Latin
“Dead Skunk” — Loudon Wainwright III, 11.
cubitum. 5. c. A comfortable mattress. 6. Roulette.
Maghreb. 12. The riderless horse at John F.
7. Indonesia, Japan and the Philippines. 8. Chris
Kennedy’s state funeral. 13. Andrei Kanchelskis.
Evert, who won in 1974, 1975, 1979, 1980, 1983,
14. The obverse. 15. a. Zanzibar, b. Germany, c.
1985 and 1986. 9. a. Pablo Picasso (Surviving
Turkey, d. India, e. Argentina. 16. The Blue Max.
Picasso) b. Vincent van Gogh (Lust for Life) c.
17. Jefferson Airplane. 18. a. An aromatic spice
Michelangelo (The Agony and the Ecstasy) d.
mixture. 19. The Kremlin. 20. When it’s a “junket”.
WATERFALL - RAINFOREST GRASSLAND - COASTLINE HEADLAND - WETLANDS
SUDOKU SOLUTION
W ORDSEARCH SOLUTION
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Gold for Oxford Star Alicante Loses Ocean Race Start to Porto European and her Torrevieja Teammate
licante will lose its role as The Ocean Race’s starting port after organisers confirmed that Porto will host departures from 2031.
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The Portuguese city’s agreement runs until 2040, covering the 2031, 2035 and 2039 editions. Alicante’s final scheduled start will take place on 17 January 2027, ending almost two decades of hosting the roundthe-world event. It will be the sixth consecutive edition to leave Alicante, which first staged the departure in 2008. The loss represents a significant blow to the city’s sporting profile and waterfront appeal. Organisers say they are discussing continued collaboration with Alicante City Council and the
Valencian regional government beyond 2027, although no details have been announced. Ten days of activities at Ocean Live Park will precede January’s depar-
ture. Authorities and organisers hope to deliver Alicante’s best send-off yet, before the fleet heads towards Auckland on the opening leg of its demanding journey around the world.
Torrevieja Mayor Eduardo Dolón and Sports Councillor Diana Box welcomed Ánder Martín and Esther Briz after their gold medal victories at the European Beach Sprint Championships in Cádiz. The Real Club Náutico Torrevieja athletes represented Spain, with Martín winning the men’s individual title and Briz claiming the women’s crown. Both boast impressive international records. Briz, a multiple world Briz rowed for Oxford in the champion and Paris 2024 Olympic 2026 Women’s Boat Race diploma recipient, also became the first Spanish woman to win the women’s Boat Race with Oxford earlier this year. They will next compete at the Beach Sprint World Championships in Qingdao, China, from 18–20 October, ahead of the discipline’s Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028. Dolón praised their achievements and contribution to Torrevieja’s growing international sporting reputation.
Fewer Crashes but More Deaths on Alicante’s Roads Alicante province recorded 34 deaths on interurban roads between 1 January and 7 October 2026, one more than during the same period last year, according to provisional DGT figures. The province ranks fourth nationally for road fatalities, behind Madrid, Barcelona and Málaga, but third for fatal crashes, with 32. Despite recording one fewer fatal crash than last year, its death toll increased.
Alicante accounts for approximately 41% of the Valencian Community’s 82 road deaths and almost 43% of its 75 fatal crashes. Its toll exceeds Valencia’s 28 deaths and Castellón’s 20. The figures contrast with a 6% reduction in fatalities across Spain. Deaths in the Valencian Community increased from 79 to 82. However, Alicante recorded a substantial improvement in serious injuries requiring hospital
treatment. Hospitalised casualties fell from 152 to 122, a reduction of approximately 20%, outperforming the regional decline of 14%. The statistics cover interurban roads only and count deaths and hospital admissions within 24 hours of a crash. They remain provisional and exclude incidents on urban roads, meaning they do not reflect Alicante province’s complete road casualty toll.
Road deaths: Alicante 34 Valencia 28 Castellón 20
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Moulin Rouge Magic in Hondón ontinuing on from the fact stranger than fiction stories, this first one almost seems more suitable for the end of this month and Halloween!:
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Members of DIVAS (Drama in the Hondón Valley) Theatre Group recently took part in the Fiesta Parade in Hondón de los Frailes. Lady Dai was about 52 years old when she died
Xin Zhui, also known as Lady Dai, was a noblewoman from the Han Dynasty in China. She died in China in 163 BCE.
With Parisian Nights’ as their theme, members excelled with Cancan dancing, singing, music and a fantastic float which brought Paris to the Hondón Valley. With colourful costumes DIVAS made a real statement. There was a handmade windmill (Moulin Rouge style) which looked impressive with working sails and lights. Alongside was a model of an illuminated Eiffel Tower.
Her tomb was discovered in 1971 in a hill, completely sealed. Upon opening it, archaeologists were stunned to find her body was still perfectly preserved. Her skin was soft and moist, her limbs could still bend, her veins still contained Type A blood, and her internal organs were still completely intact! Needless to say this defied medical science. She was found floating in 80 litres of mysterious, slightly acidic, magnesium-rich greenish-yellow liquid. As soon as her body was exposed to oxygen it quickly began to deteriorate. To this day scientists are baffled as to what this liquid could have been and despite several attempts to replicate the chemical composition, all attempts have failed. Truly a remarkable story, I’m sure you’ll agree. In 1990 a geologist by the name of Angelo Pitoni was conducting some archaeological research in Sierra Leone, West Africa. It was during this time that he unearthed a strange vibrant blue stone with pale white veins buried in soil layers dating back to around 12,000 BC. The stone resembled a solidified chunk of the sky. He sent this weird-looking object to laboratories around the world. The analysis showed that this object was artificially manufactured. Even stranger was the fact that its chemical composition was found to be over 77% pure oxygen! The remainder was made up of carbon, calcium, silicon and sodium. How weird this is when you consider that this was found buried deep inside a 14,000-year-old African archaeological site. Couple this with the fact that this synthetic stone-like material was made up almost entirely of oxygen. To this day, none of this has ever been explained. Finally, here is one that is both quirky and quite astonishing:
In 1931 on a farm in the Isle of Man, the Irving family began to hear strange noises behind the wooden panel walls in their farmhouse. The noises ranged from gurgles, blowing, scratching, barking and eventually human speech! He called himself Jef and said he was a talking mongoose! As bizarre and childish as all of this sounds, it did get the attention of some leading experts at the time who were renowned for debunking hoaxes. The final analysis was that although it could not be proven to be factual, it could also not be proven to be a hoax. All initial theories were disproved including the suggestion that the youngest daughter was an accomplished ventriloquist. In fact one evening her mouth was firmly closed with tape, and yet the sounds kept coming. Other theories were all put forward but to this day it has not been proven as a hoax. In my next article I will be presenting you with some more fact-isstranger-than-fiction stories, but in keeping with the time of the year, they will all have a spooky element attached to them.
The parade made its way around the village and there was much support from the audience along the streets. And to top off the evening, DIVAS has been awarded a prize! There is now talk of a theme for next year’s parade! Information about DIVAS productions is available by emailing: hondondivas1@gmail.com or visiting the group’s Facebook Page.
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BY SHARON FRAIN The final legs of the preliminary round served up plenty of drama, big scores! Some teams are celebrating, others are licking their wounds. El Clan Dartsabers 5-7 Leeson St Nomads Nomads picked up where they left off last week, claiming the first two triples. However, the Sabers weren’t about to surrender without a fight! Nicky Dick fired a 140 teammate Mario Godoy finishing on D14 to take the third. The pairs saw the teams share the spoils, with Godoy adding a 116 before Benito Gomez checked out on D16. Tony Spiers managed a ton for the Nomads, but it wasn’t quite enough to stop Sabers keeping things level at 3–3. Gomez took the opening singles for Dartsabers, despite Alan Kirrage responding with a 115 for Nomads. The visitors found another gear, taking the next three games. Joe Cuyt hit a 121, Les Adams checked out on 80 after scoring a ton, and captain Graham White calmly finished on D16. Suddenly, the Nomads were 6–4 ahead, and the Sabers were staring down the barrel! Godoy hit a ton checking out on D8 to keep the home side’s hopes alive, but Mike Tierney had the final say, adding another ton finishing on D9 to take the game and Nomads place in the next round.
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POM: Mario Godoy & Mike Tierney Meeting Pt Dartagnans 5 – 7 Tipsy Toad Dartagnans started strong in the triples, Bryan Livsey and Jan De Buyer both firing in tons to claim the opening game. Toads responded in the second with Kian McGill unleashing a 140. Homies took the third, with newcomer Gino Gunnlaugsson adding a ton. The visitors equalised in the first pairs, despite De Buyer throwing a 140. Dartagnans fought back Jem Gledhill chipped in with a ton, while Livsey produced 135, the home side taking the remaining pairs. Score 4–2. Toads came hopping back, winning five of the six singles and turning the evening on its head. Yvonne Rouffignac bagged her second 121 of the night, while teammate Garry Clayton helped the visitors tighten their grip. Annette Dobson battled to win the final game and draw, scoring a 125, but unable to get the double, Toads’ took the match and secured their place in the next round. POM: Gino Gunnlaugsson & Yvonne Rouffignac Domino’s Desperados 4 – 8 Hub Hyenas Hyenas picked-up where they left off last week, taking five of the opening six games. Pete Spence clearly hungry for more, firing in two 140s and a 121. Desperados did their best to fight back with a flurry of 100-plus scores but to no avail.
The singles brought another flurry of big scores, with an impressive 13 three figure scores across the teams. Spence added yet another 140, teammate Dario Sierra adding to the big-scores, and Desperados Damian Lambert a 138. Whilst scores were equal in
the singles Hyenas took the match 4-8 securing their place in the next round. POM: Chris Logan & Pete Spence QUALIFYING TEAMS HUB HYENAS - TIPSY TOAD - NOMADS
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SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB With Jenny Harvey A great start to the 2026/27 season for SMBC in the Winter League on Wednesday 7 Oct... an 8-2 win/109-60 pts against Marina Mar, best winning rink from Alan Bannister, Gary Ponsford and Dori Svanbergsson 367... Well done everyone! Friday saw the start of the league games and a win for SMBC Navajos against SMBC Cherokees 10-2/94-78 pts, best winning rink Anne Young, Phil Ginger and Steve Cantley 21-10 (Navajos) and Angela Broadhurst, John King and John Grant 21-14 (Cherokees)... a very close game. Sadly, the Apaches lost away to Quesada Swallows 8-4/89-82 pts... a very close game with the best winning rink from Linda Ponsford, Steve Parr and Gary Ponsford 21-10. Unfortunately, no results received for SMBC Commanches. San Miguel Bowls Club welcomes all bowlers looking to join as, being a unique club, we only pay owners fees and a club fee - NO LEAGUE RINK FEES. For further information please contact our club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905.
COUNTRY BOWLS CLUB WEEKLY REPORT By Peter Dix The winter season is upon us, and all 7 of our teams are ready to compete in their respective leagues over the winter period. On Wednesday the Cobras were at home in the winter league against the BBC Bandits out to stop them robbing any points from us. That we almost did, only losing on one rink by a small margin, result a win 8 points to 2, shots 94 to 46. Top winning rink was Alan Gover, Mick Nickleson, Nikki Gover and Graham Richardson 33 shots to 5. On Friday in the Southern League Division A our
Greenlands Elms Make Winning Start By Richard Willey South Alicante Enterprise Division Maples 9–3 Chestnuts (90–71) Both teams fought hard to secure their first victory, but the Maples gradually took control. Despite several close games, they emerged with a 9–3 win and a 90–71 shots advantage. Victories for the Maples came from Carol Stobbart and Dave Morrison, 24–14; Stuart Wilson, Rosie France and Martin Foulcer, 15–12; and Allen Bowen, John O’Brien and Keith Stobbart, 21–12. Mandy Tompkins, Freddie Willey and Tony Hodges earned a 14–14 draw. The Chestnuts claimed one victory through Serena Curd, Pearl Houghton and Noel Morrisroe, who won 19–16. Anne Stone, Dave Louie and Mike Stone also secured a 14–14 draw. Winter League - Greenlands Gladiators bye. Southern League Division A Cedars 4–8 Oaks (81–97) The Cedars faced a strong Oaks team in their first match in the division, with the Oaks eventually winning 8–4 and recording a 97–81 shots advantage. However, the contest was much closer than the final score might suggest. Oaks victories came from Carol Stobbart, Keith Stobbart and Dave Morrison, 27–9; Stuart Wilson, Russell Harper and Martin Foulcer, 21–10; and Mandy Tompkins, Lyn Hamersley and Dave
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2 teams Panthers and Geckos played each other, both ready to claim the spoils. It was the Geckos that came out on top after some great bowling by both teams, the result was in question until the later stages. The Geckos winning on 4 rinks, drawing on the other, a great result 11 points to 1, shots 112 to 78. Top rink for Geckos Delle Wailes, Trish Dix, Steve Wailes, shots 32 to 15. The Cubs had the short trip to San Miguel in division B playing the Comanches, mastering the slower surface quickly keeping the Comanches at bay. Coming away with an excellent 8 points to 4 win, shots 131 to 75. An outstanding performance on the top rink, winning shots 62 to 8 were Emma Chin, Pat Gough and Dean Webb.
EMERALD ISLE BOWLS CLUB - Elwyn Morris Emerald isle started the new season off playing away in Winter League at Bonalba. And they got a fine 8-2. Aggregate 64_58. P Coffey M Oakley. C Thorpe M Ellis 18_11, J Parkes N Prior P Parkes C Lindgren 18_17, S Kavanagh S Marks M Dyer R Marks 18_16 Cavaliers were at home to San Luis Lions and got a good win 8-4 Aggregate 102-73. D Jones S Ellis M Harley 30-10, S Kavanagh A M Gerrard D Mooney 23-12, M Oakley C Thorpe M Ellis 24-12 Palmer, 19–17. Winning for the Cedars were Anne Stone, Pearl Houghton and John O’Brien, 29–15, and Rosie France, Steve Penfold and Noel Morrisroe, 16–15. It was an excellent display of bowling from everyone involved. Southern League Division C Greenlands Elms 10–2 Outlaws (100–84) The Elms made an excellent start to their campaign with a comfortable 10–2 victory and a 100–84 shots advantage over Emerald Isle Outlaws. Winning rinks came from Hazel Nuttall, Kerry Charter Byrne and Brian Tomlin, 27–10; Serena Curd, Kevin Curtis and Veronica Richards, 19–17; Valerie Duchard, Christine Gray and Harold Charleston, 20–16; and Michael Kirby, Peter King and John King, 24–19. Well done to the Elms on an impressive opening victory.
QUESADA BOWLS CLUB ROUNDUP BY STEVE HIBBERD With the start of the new winter leagues upon us, QBC's first game was at home to El Cid in the Wednesday rinks league. Unfortunately, only T Morgan, C Dye, A Linley & P Kern (20-17), were the only rink to score, as the side went down 2-8. Onto Friday, when Swallows hosted San Miguel Apache's in the Southern league A div. Three wins and a superior overall shots difference, resulted in Swallows gaining an 8-4 victory. Well done: B Webb, I Laws, P Kern 30-15, T Morgan, C Dye, H Olsen 21-17, plus G Carnell, V Campbell, S Malden 18-9. Then, when Swallows left the green, twas the turn of Swans v Swifts to do battle in the all QBC encounter (B div). As all 5 Swans rinks won, the end result was 12-0 to those elegant white birds, whom T Rex once sang about. Get in there: J Hughes, E Kern, P Turner 21-10. B Trinder. A Jackson, M Ward 29-16. D & A Benson, P Farrell 17-13. D Jackson, J Denman, W McCool 21-14. C & K Bowles, D Gould 18-12.
Macklins and Wolfies Pack Set Early Pace Season Two of the OCP Premier League is under way, with Macklins and Wolfies Pack taking the early leads after the opening round. Football, friendship and sportsmanship took centre stage at Algorfa’s Polideportivo Juan Carlos I as the Algorfa Lions hosted Bournemouth touring team the Boys of 66 in an international veterans’ friendly. The Lions combined players from Lo Crispin Men’s Walking Football Club with members of the local veterans’ side, including Capi, who played for Almoradí during the 80s & 90s. Bournemouth’s squad was generally 10 to 15 years younger and used its advantage in pace to build an 8-2 lead after three of the four planned 20minute quarters. However, the scoreline did not fully reflect Algorfa’s composed football and impressive passing
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moves. In a fine display of sportsmanship, the players were mixed into two evenly matched teams for the final quarter. The reshuffled sides produced an entertaining 2-2 draw, ensuring the afternoon ended in the friendly spirit intended. Tony H., Dave D. and Ged were among Algorfa’s goalscorers. Afterwards, both squads continued the celebrations at the Corner Flag bar in La Finca, sharing food, refreshments and conversation following a memorable occasion that showcased amateur football at its welcoming and inclusive best for everyone involved locally.
Macklins started strongly to move top of Division One, while Wolfies Pack claimed first place in Division Two. Under the league’s scoring system, every frame matters. Teams receive one point for each frame won, plus two bonus points for an overall match victory, ensuring fixtures remain competitive until the final ball is potted. All 16 teams were in action across the venues as the campaign began. Organisers thanked the players, venues and Premier League sponsor The Irish Pub Group for helping launch Season Two successfully. Results and tables are available on the OCP Premier League Facebook
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San Miguel GS at Alamo - Santa Elena Captain Paul Lambert teeing off
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after a couple of years does have its advantages, though: troublesome holes can be approached with renewed optimism and previous disasters conveniently forgotten – until someone in your group helpfully reminds you exactly where you put your ball last time. Golfers have such good memories when it suits them! It was also our new Captain, Paul Lambert’s first game at the helm. A return to Alamo and a new Captain – plenty of reasons to make it a good day! Welcome, Paul, and here’s to a successful year ahead. We’ll try to behave ourselves… but no promises! Forty golfers, 36 members and four guests, made the long-awaited return trip, with the usual mixture of high hopes, good golf and scores best discussed quietly over a drink. The main scores today were as follows:
It’s been a couple of years since we last played Alamo, now known as Santa Elena, so it was time to renew acquaintances. Would we remember the course? Would the course remember us?
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and Pete Baldwin (15th). Ken West won the football card with Peterborough while the “McBride Bottle” went to our new President, Mick Pryke! Our best guest was Pat Cunningham with 30 points. Well done to everyone today. After a demanding day on the course, we enjoyed a lovely presentation on the terrace – the perfect setting to relax, compare tales of triumph and trouble, and round off the day in style. The staff were excellent throughout, with special thanks to Daniel and Johanna in the Pro Shop for looking after us so well. The black clouds came over pretty quickly with thunder rumbling and a quick downpour caught the last couple of groups on their finishing holes.
There had been a lot of rain, but the course didn’t show many signs of it.
Gold: Graeme Millington (37 pts and best score of the day), Silver: Denis Ryan (32 pts), Bronze: Dave Blinston (35 pts)
Keep up to date with SMGS on our website www.smgs.org. We are proud to be supported by Michaela Schmidt at www.golfhotspots.com for all your golf travel requirements.
It was generally a longer and tougher course than we are used to, and most of the returned scores told the story. Returning
Two “Twos” by Steve Packer and Guy Wade Palmer and Nearest the Pins were Dave Rowe (5th and 8th), Steve Packer (12th)
Next week we have our much-awaited Trophy Presentation after our game at La Serena.
INBETWEENERS DAY AT EL PLANTIO Sponsored by The Grill House, La Marina The Inbetweeners Golf Society returned to El Plantio, where it all began, to celebrate its eighth year at this fantastic venue. The day got off to a bright and early start with nine holes on the Par three Course, giving everyone a chance to warm up their swings. Afterwards, it was time for a well-deserved coffee and a snack before the serious business began! The Main Event – 18-Hole Stableford Competition Next up was the main course: our traditional 18-hole Stableford competition. As always, the course was immaculate, with beautifully maintained fairways and excellent greens providing a superb setting for the day's golf.
El Plantio demands accuracy, patience, and thoughtful course management, with every hole presenting its own challenges. But, as the Inbetweeners motto reminds us: “Play well, play badly… just make sure you enjoy it!” The Day's Winners - Par 3 Course - 1st Place: Jimmy Scott 2nd Place: Bertrand La Font - 3rd Place: Victoria Rolston. Main Course – Stableford - 1st Place: Vic Smith – 40 points, 2nd Place: Tim Ruse – 39 points, 3rd Place: Malcolm Thomas – 33 points An Evening of Great Food and Good Company. In the evening, everyone gathered at The Grill House in La Marina, our generous sponsor, for a superb meal, plenty of banter and the presentation of the day's prizes. A huge thank you to Rebecca and her team and to The
Vic, Rebecca and Jimmy Grill House for supporting the Inbetweeners Golf Society. Whether you're playing for glory or simply trying to avoid the wooden spoon, the Inbetweeners Day remains one of the highlights of our golfing calendar. It's all about good golf, great company and, above all, enjoying every minute.
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Monday 12th - Sunday 18th October 2026
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