The Leader Newspaper 7 April 2026 – Edition 1122

EXPO TORREVIEJA:From Local Vision to Premier Lifestyle Event

Expo Torrevieja was founded in November 2017 by two local entrepreneurs and journalists, Kjetil Hamre and Keith Nicol.

Having collaborated on a number of publications and smaller events across the region, the pair set out to create something more ambitious for the Southern Costa Blanca.

After an extensive search for the right venue, they were introduced to Jose at Salon Bahia Costa in La Mata, where the first Expo Torrevieja was born.

With the support of their first exhibitor and future partner, Alexander of Markisemannen, planning began in earnest for the inaugural event.

To promote the Expo, the founders combined a strong social media campaign with the launch of their own tabloid newspaper, The Local Touch, a fresh and innovative concept for the region.

Crucial to the eventís early success was the support of local expertise and volunteers.

Among them were Steve Hall, known for organising

the successful ìThis Is Spainî expos alongside Christine.

ëArturo from ìLive and Enjoy Torreviejaî led the gastronomy element, while printer Steve Dumbarton ensured production needs were met.

Adedicated team including Brandon, Samu, Noel, Ander and Feran provided essential hands-on support, alongside Neil from Munroeís Rock Pub and the team from Rock Against Cancer.

Their combined efforts helped bring the first Expo to life.

From the outset, Expo Torrevieja offered more than just exhibitor stands. Aclassic car display and a ìClubs and Associationsî weekend became key attractions, giving visitors the chance to discover new hobbies, connect with local groups and build friendships ó all under one roof.

The second edition, held in March 2018, marked a major step forward, moving to Torreviejaís International Auditorium ó widely regarded as the cityís most prestigious venue.

The expansion allowed the event to grow from 55 to around 100 stands, while introducing a cafe, gastronomy zone and enhanced visitor experience, all while retaining its popular core features.

Reflecting on the journey, Keith said: ìThe pandemic in 2020 forced a five-year pause until last November. Sadly, my former partners Kjetil and Alexander, along with many others connected to the event, have since passed away.

Their contribution to making Expo Torrevieja the premier international lifestyle show in Spain will never be forgotten.î

He added: ìI would also like to thank all our exhibitors, past and present, Mayor Eduardo Dolon and his team, the Auditorium management ó especially Lalo, Armando and Walter ó as well as Kevin and Neil, who have been instrumental in shaping the Expoís successful new era.

And of course, our thousands of visitors who support us year after year ó thank you.î

AAN C HAR ITY

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Feeding the needy of La Marina and San Fulgencio

ABC Pool / Jacuzzi / Plaza

STAND(S): OUTSIDE

SECTOR: Home & Garden

Everything for your swimmingpool and jacuzzi on the Costa Blanca South Centro Commemercia, Benimar. www.abcpoolplaza.com

AC Ab ogados Consulting

STAND(S):

A61C,A62A,A62B

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

Law firm specializing in the purchase and sale of homes for non-residents, offering comprehensive legal advice, legal security, and complete management throughout the entire real estate process.

ADAPT Metal Detecting

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

ADAPT MD Club have been here for 16 years on beaches and shallow surf. We help clean the beaches of rubbish metal. And we help save the “Sea Horse” project Mar Menor “. Plus, we do a free Search & Recovery Service for lost items.

ADAPT Theatre Group

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Albayzin Creations

STAND(S):

C14B,C15A,C15B,C16A

SECTOR: Health & Beauty

Alegria Real Estate

STAND(S): A64A,A64B,A64C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Alegria Real Estate is a leading Spanish real estate agency and developer specializing in new builds, resale properties, rentals, and comprehensive services including immigration, insurance, and property management.

ALMA ONG D

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

AM B Z Services

STAND(S): A8B,A8C,A9A

SECTOR: home_improvements

Amigos del Rock de Torrevieja

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Rock music association promoting live events, jam sessions and local artists in Torrevieja. A community for musicians and rock lovers

Apple Hearing & Healthcare

STAND(S): A31AB,A32A

We are a group of English-speaking people who perform a traditional British pantomime every November in both English and Spanish in San Pedro del Pinatar raising money for local charities.

Age Concern (Costa Blanca Sur)

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur exists to provide services and support to people over 50 in our local communities

Age in Spain

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

The national charity to help you navigate life in Spain with confidence. Trusted support for the English-speaking community. Accurate information and personalised guidance for total peace of mind.

AI R SAT Communications

STAND(S): A53B,A54A

SECTOR: Unspecified

Fiber optic internet service, landline, mobile phone, in Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura, Moncayo, La Mata, Orihuela Costa, Villamartin, Campoamor, Mil Palmeras, Pueblo Latino, El Mojon. Point-to-point connections, dedicated internet line.

bining modern aesthetics with traditional sauna experience. We deliver high-quality, custom solutions for homes, hotels, and wellness spaces.

Autos Direct San Miguel A10A,A10B, A10C,A11A, A11B,A11C

SECTOR: cars_vehicles

AutosDirect San Miguel (www.autosdirect.es) – Quality used-cars on the Costa Blanca for 20 + years. Transparent service, full warranties and in-house servicing, all with a personal touch.

Ayuntamiento Torrevieja

STAND(S): ENTRANCE

SECTOR: Local Government

BCob os Expat Advisers

STAND(S): C31A,C31B

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

We are Barbara and Cesar Cobos. We accompany expats who choose to live in Spain, offering them personalized guidance to easily integrate into their new life in the coast

Beneluxury Homes S.L.

STAND(S): C36A,C36B

SECTOR: Art

DESCRIPTION:

SECTOR: health_fitness

DESCRIPTION:

Fully qualified hearing aid dispenser with 4 branches in Costa Blanca/Costa Calida area specialising with Starkey and Sonova (Phonak & Unitron) Hearing Aids. We offer FREE, NO OBLIGATION HEARING TEST.

AS I LA ONG

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

ASOCIACION DONACIONES

TORREVIEJA Y ALREDEDORES

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Asociacion Miauuu Gatos

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Association of Movers and Shakers

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

The Association Movers and Shakers supports people with Neurological diseases, such as Ataxia, Huntington's, Motor Neurone, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's, by raising funds to help improve their quality of life.

Aussauna OU

STAND(S): OUTSIDE

SECTOR: Production and sale of saunas. Aussauna designs and manufactures premium glass saunas, com-

Bueno: Take control of your property finances. A Spanish IBAN account and card to manage bills, direct debits and everyday spending simply and securely.

Car Registrations Spain

STAND(S): A16ABC,A17ABC

SECTOR: vehicle imports, insurance,

Car Registrations Spain helps foreign vehicle owners import, register and legalise their vehicles in Spain, with expert support on paperwork, testing, plates, road tax, insurance and related services

CASANOVAS ORQU E STA STAND(S): ZONE B

Debora Cejas is an Argentinian-BelgianSpanish artist based in Murcia, creating abstract, conceptual canvas works using mixed materials to achieve a variety of textures.

Best Group Spain

STAND(S): A20ABC,A21ABC

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

B EYU NA I NTE R NAC IONAL

STAND(S): A60A

SECTOR: Unspecified

BEYUNA is an international company that offers high-quality food supplements made with natural ingredients. BEYUNA, take control of your future!

B ITE

STAND(S): B28A

SECTOR: Unspecified

BITE is your digital recruitment tool: post your job openings automatically, for free, and without limits across multiple job boards.

BlueKeys

STAND(S): A73A,A73B

SECTOR: Health & Beauty

We represent Scandinavian health and safety, and come from BlueKeys Alarm - Lars Linde, Hospital Quironsalud Torrevieja - Stig Eikedal and Skandinavisk assistanse Costa Blanca - Kristin Rambo

Bueno - Property Simplified STAND(S):

A66A,A66B,A66C

SECTOR: Finance

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit Its aim is to promote the name and work of Maestro Casanovas. Its honorary president is Maestro Zubin Mehta. It includes the Casanovas Orchestra and the Casanovas Flute Orchestra.

Casas Espania STAND(S): A47B,A47C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Family run 5 STAR real estate company- not just here for the sale. Transparent and with over 50 years combined experience in Spanish Real Estate. Registered with the Valencian Authorities.

CasasTorrevieja.com

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Chapapria-Navarro y Asociados S.L.P STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Unspecified

Clean with Barbie STAND(S): B30A

SECTOR: Unspecified

Extreme cleaner helping people in unsafe, unlivable conditions reclaim their homes.

I support those with physical or mental challenges, sharing transformations online to educate, inspire, and fund my free services.

Coachtrips

STAND(S): A1A,A1B

SECTOR: leisure_tourism

We are a travel agency based in Torrevieja, dedicated to organising affordable day trips, overnight tours and cruises

COWOR K I NG & P OD CAST STU DIO

"Galeria Gran Via"

STAND(S): A38B

SECTOR: Coworking and offices for rent

Galeria Gran Via: a coworking space in the center of Torrevieja offering private offices, flexible workstations, meeting rooms, an event area, and a podcast studio.

C R E Sistemas e Innovacion S.L.

STAND(S): A26ABC,A27ABC,A28A

SECTOR: Unspecified

Creator Construction Group

STAND(S): 79A,A79B,A79C, A80A

SECTOR: Construction & Trades

Creator Company specializes in building and renovating concrete swimming pools, terraces, and outdoor spaces across Costa Blanca. Combining engineering precision with Mediterranean design, we create elegant, durable, and fully customized

Cultura Torrevieja

STAND(S): ENTRANCE

SECTOR: Unspecified

D2dspain

STAND(S): A67B,A67C

SECTOR: Tourism & Travel

We offer travel services and taylor-made trips with door to door service. We are specialists in cruises and have an office in Playa Flamenca. We work by appointments.

Danske Venners Klub

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Davinia Moreno Soriano

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

D O CTOR E N E RGY

TOR R EVI E JA

STAND(S): A24AB

SECTOR: Solar & Renewable Energy

Installation company specializing in solar energy and electric vehicle chargers. Engineering and energy consulting.

Domus Estate Assistants, S.L.

STAND(S): A51A,A51B,A52A

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

DS E RVIC E S AN D

MAI NTE NANC E

STAND(S): A81B

SECTOR: Professional Services Service and maintanence offers exclusive swimming pool and plumbing maintanence services, with experienced professionals who provide real solutions. We work with seriousness, commitment, and human quality for clients seeking trust

eCaddy.eu

STAND(S): A85A,A85B,

A85C, A85D,A85E

SECTOR: Tourism & Travel

Our Company Ecaddy.eu have 2 stores one in Torrevieja and other in Fungirola. We are selling electric golf trollies and electric wheelchairs and have service for them.

ECO SOLAR TEC H N IC S

STAND(S): A72A,A72B,A72C, A72D,A72E

SECTOR: Solar & Renewable Energy

We provide sustainable energy solutions with solar panels and heat pumps, including advice, installation, and maintenance, helping customers save on energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy comfortable, futureproof

Egon van Nuffel

STAND(S): C40A,C40B

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Illuminate your interior with a touch of nature. Our handmade wooden lamps combine craftsmanship with a unique design. Not two are alike. From warm light to a True eyecatcher in the room. Bring character and beauty into your home.

El Limonar International School (E LI S) Villamartin

STAND(S): 34B,A35A,A35B

SECTOR: Education & Training

We are an international school in San Miguel de Salinas (Alicante). Our students graduate with a dual official Spanish and British qualification.

E M U NA CON S U LTI NG Y

F UTU R E P ROP E RTI E S

STAND(S): A65A,A65B,A65C

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

Emunex unlocks high-value opportunities within judicial auctions and distressed assets. We connect global investors with curated opportunities in Spain through technology and local expertise.

Enagic Europe

STAND(S): B29B

SECTOR: Health & Beauty

For over 50 years, Enagic International has been the global leader in manufacturing alkaline water ionizer machines that transform ordinary tap water into hydrogen-rich Kangen Water® right at home.

Epic Studio, S.L.

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Media & Publishing

Estalinox

STAND(S): A55B,A56A

SECTOR: home_improvements

Finland Rocks S.L.

STAND(S): A56B,A57A,A57B

SECTOR: home_improvements

Finland Rocks. Official distributor of Oras and Gustavsberg in Spain. We do all renevations to your house or business with guaranteed quality from Finland.

FitePlus Solutions S.L

STAND(S): A74A,A74B, A74C, A75A, A75B, A75C,A76A,A76B

SECTOR: Technology

FitePlus delivers smart AV and IT integration across Europe — connecting people and spaces through UniFi-based networks, digital signage, wireless audio, and complete meeting room solutions.

Footwork Dance Studios

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

Footwork Dance Studios, based in Los Montesinos, offer various styles of dance classes for children and adults, whether it is just for Fun, Fitness or the Future!

Francisco Javier Alcocer Garcia

STAND(S): A28BC

SECTOR: Unspecified

En vanguard estamos comprometidos en mejorar la eficiencia y sostenibilidad de los sistemas de gestion de agua mediante soluciones innovadoras diseñadas para dos sectores clave: agua no registrada (NRD) y evaluacion del estado de las tuberias acueductos.

Gaelle Jeanne Mallaivre

STAND(S): C12A,C12B

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Genoma

STAND(S): A9BC

SECTOR: Technology

We help growing businesses stop drowning in manual work and operational errors by turning their processes into a simple system, saving hours each week, improving productivity and protecting margins.

Geraldine Ann von Ende STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Unspecified

GetInternet.es

STAND(S): RADIO

Custom stainless steel solutions. Staircases, railings and more—crafted to order with quality materials and a tailored approach to every project. WWW.ESTALINOX.ES

Golden Leaves International STAND(S): A18ABC

SECTOR: Funeral Planning

Golden Leaves is Spain’s most trusted funeral plan provider, with over 10,000 customer reviews. Our UKregulated plans provide secure protection, expert guidance and a dedicated team supporting customers across Spain.

Hamiltons Real Estate

STAND(S): A62C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Start your own real estate agency with Hamiltons. 100% comission, exclusive territory, unlimited earning potential, plus professional setup support and a proven system to launch and grow your agency.

Happy Animales Orihuela STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

Help at Home Costa Blanca STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

H I Z E RO Cleaning Made Easy

STAND(S): A82A,A82B,A82C

SECTOR: Home & Garden

Hizero F500 – an innovative bionic mop that transforms the way hard floors are cleaned.

Holidaysinspain4u

STAND(S): A44A,A44B

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

SECTOR: tv_telephone_internet

Lost in translation with your internet provider? We get it. GetInternet.es has kept Costa Blanca's expats connected since 2008 - with support in 10 languages. Come say hi!

Global&Reform

STAND(S): A23AB

SECTOR: home_improvements

HolidaysinSpain4U is a family company that provides bespoke property management and keyholding services. We specialise in adapting to our clients’ and guests’ needs. We also provide cleaning services for both

HusmanHagberg

STAND(S): A83A,A83B

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Your real estate agent in Torrevieja

I See Culture STAND(S): A54B

SECTOR: Education & Training

Learn Spanish, feel at home. You love being in Spain but communicating with the Spanish isn’t as easy as you thought. ISUP. helps you integrate, speak, understand, participate in Spanish.

Easter celebrations across the Vega Baja drew large crowds again this year, with towns and cities hosting a week of traditional processions, music and religious events.

In Orihuela, one of Spain’s most renowned Holy Week destinations, thousands attended iconic processions such as El Silencio, known for its solemn atmosphere and historic chants.

Torrevieja also saw packed streets as brotherhoods paraded through the town in colourful displays accompanied by music and ritual.

Smaller municipalities including Rojales and Los Montesinos celebrated with more intimate but deeply rooted traditions, blending faith and community spirit.

Across the region, Semana Santa once again highlighted the Vega Baja’s strong cultural and religious identity.

Political Blunder Fuels Segregation Fears in Almoradi

Apolitical decision has sparked fresh controversy in Almoradi’s schools over the teaching of optional Islamic religion, turning what had been a stable arrangement into a divisive issue.

Three public schools already offering the subject since 2019–20 are now demanding a clear “all or nothing” approach: either it is available in every public primary school, or removed from all of them.

The dispute began after the Valencian education department indicated that Islamic religion might not be offered at the town’s new primary school opening in September.

This has caused concern because families would not even be able to request the subject during enrolment, preventing any real assessment of demand.

School councils at Manuel de Torres, Canales y Martinez and Pascual Andreu warn that excluding the subject only from the new school could worsen inequality and encourage segregation.

They fear some families may choose the new centre specifically because it lacks Islamic religion, increasing the concentration of migrant pupils in the older schools and creating educational divisions where none previously existed.

The issue is particularly sensitive in a town with a large Moroccan community, where pupils of Moroccan origin account for at least 30% of enrolment in the affected schools.

Local Muslim leaders are awaiting clarification, while neighbouring Catral is expected to avoid similar controversy by continuing to offer the subject in its new school.

‘Jobs for the Boys’ Row Erupts over e80K Orihuela Waste Post

GIFTS

by John McGilvray

Now I am an old man I can wear woollen socks up to my knees, with sandals and a straw boater. I'll leer at pretty young things in summer dresses unseen by them because I am invisible. Watch me voice an opinion on any subject, receive indulgent smiles, not a punch in the mouth. I often take out rubbish in my dressing gown and am thought pathetic and not a pervert. I have worn my slippers in the supermarket, pretending to be eccentric, not forgetful. When asked how old I am, I shall tell them my age with pride and await admiring comments. The local library shall be my oasis where I doze fitfully in a distant corner till my public flatulence shatters the silence. Unbidden I shall quote T.S. Eliot thus: "These are the gifts reserved for old age"

Orihuela has been plunged into more controversy after Damaso Aparicio, a former PP president, councillor and current municipal adviser, was left as the sole candidate for the e80,000-a-year manager’s post at the municipal waste company, SGM.

Opposition parties say the process appears to have been tailor-made for him from the start, reinforcing suspicions that the role was created with a political insider in mind rather than opened as a genuinely competitive appointment.

The accusations intensified after the three other appli-

THE PLAN

World leaders make decisions Whilst the rest of us despair Their safe within their 'castles' Where they find no need to care

They're not upon a battlefield

To look death in the eyes

Their not beneath the missiles

As they drop from stormy skies

Peoples lives mean nothing Greed and power drives them on You wonder if they have a heart When wars have to be won

cants were all eliminated for failing to submit the correct documentation, leaving Aparicio alone to advance to the final interview stage. That interview, scheduled for next Thursday, will assess his leadership, management, communication and suitability, but critics argue the outcome now looks all but predetermined.

Ciudadanos spokesman Jos? Aix accused the PP of hypocrisy and of using municipal companies to reward allies with lucrative posts.

Cambiemos spokesperson Leticia Pertegal said it had long been clear the position

would end up in Aparicio’s hands.

The row is particularly damaging because it comes as Orihuela expands SGM’s role in waste collection and invests heavily in new cleaning vehicles.

Residents, meanwhile, are facing a sharp rise in rubbish tax, from e70 to e202 a year, while the long-promised overhaul of the service remains incomplete.

For critics, the perception is that taxpayers are funding not just reform, but political favouritism.

You see them on the TV screen Their smugness makes you sick

They think that they're above the law But really they're quite 'thick'

The world needs truthful people Who don't bleed the minions dry Who rule to serve humanity Who are not afraid to cry

People with a conscience Who can lead with quiet calm Not dictators who can only bring Oppression and great harm

Nobody rules this world of ours

Though some think that they can Only God holds all the winning cards That's always been the plan.

By David Whitney c 2026

San Fulgencio Mayor’s appeal against ‘No Confidence’ Motion ‘Illogical’ says Prosecutor.

Spain’s public prosecutor has sharply criticised the appeal lodged by San Fulgencio mayor Jose Maria Ballester against the obligation to process a no-confidence motion brought by the PSOE, describing the move as “completely arbitrary” and “devoid of even the slightest legal logic”.

In a new development in the political and legal battle between the PSOE and the PP in San Fulgencio, the Elche prosecutor’s office has reaffirmed its support for the motion of censure signed by Socialist councillors and an independent councillor, aimed at removing the PP from local government.

The motion was halted on 18 June 2025 during the very council session in which it was due to be voted on.

According to the prosecution, the local authority’s appeal before the Alicante provincial court is not based on sound legal arguments but instead serves a delaying purpose.

Prosecutors warn that the tactic is intended to prolong the tenure of a mayor and governing team who, they argue, no longer have the legal majority required to remain in office.

The prosecutor is backing an earlier ruling by the Administrative Court, which found that the opposition’s right to political participation had been violated when the motion was blocked.

That session was suspended by the so-called “age table”, made up of the oldest and youngest councillors, both from the PP, despite the council secretary stating that the legal conditions to

proceed with the vote had been met.

In its submission, the prosecutor says the council’s legal defence is confused and unsupported by current law.

It argues that the municipality relied on outdated reports and court decisions from as far back as 1982 and 1984, predating the current electoral law introduced in 1985.

The prosecution insists there is no provision in law that supports the council’s position or gives the age table the power to prevent the motion from being voted on.

The case is moving unusually quickly through the courts because fundamental rights are at stake. However, even if the provincial court rules in favour of the PSOE, the current term will already be nearing its end and close to the next local election campaign.

Ballester has already made clear that neither he nor his team intend to step down without a final binding judgment.

Following the 2023 municipal elections, the PP won five councillors and formed a government with two councillors from the PIPN.

The PSOE, with six councillors, together with independent councillor Alain Vandenbergen, are behind the no-confidence motion, arguing they hold the majority and accusing the PP-led administration of a lack of transparency.

A DISASTER JUST WAITING TO HAPPEN IN THE PINES

In September last year, Costa Campoamor" Residents' Association were given a clear assurance.

The Councillor for the Environment stated that a contract was being processed for the cleaning of the pine forest and the management of fire risks.

It was presented as a responsible step — a necessary action to protect both the environment and the people who live nearby. Months have now passed and nothing has been done.

The evidence is not hidden. It is visible to anyone who walks through the area or looks at the images now circulating among residents.

Fallen trees lie where they collapsed. Branches have been left to dry where they fell. Undergrowth has been cut in places and abandoned in piles, creating thick layers of combustible material across the forest floor.

This is not maintenance. This is neglect.

And in a Mediterranean environment, neglect of this kind carries consequences.

Dry vegetation is not just unsightly — it is fuel.

Dead wood is not harmless — it is ignition waiting to happen.

Every day that passes without action increases the level of risk.

This is not speculation. It is basic fire prevention.

STRICT PROTOCOLS

Across Spain, and particularly in regions like Alicante, strict protocols exist precisely to prevent these situations. Forest management, clearing of debris, and reduction of fuel loads are not optional extras — they are fundamental safety measures designed to prevent small incidents from becoming uncontrollable wildfires.

Those protocols exist for a reason, because when fire takes hold in unmanaged terrain, it does not negotiate. It spreads - It accelerates - And it destroys.

What makes this situation even more concerning is that the risk has already been identified. It was acknowledged. It was addressed publicly. A solution was promised.

And yet, despite that awareness, despite that commitment, the conditions on the ground remain unchanged.

That is not a failure of knowledge. It is a failure of action.

Residents are not asking for complex policy explanations or long-term strategies. They are asking for something far more basic: If a risk is identified, why is it not being dealt with?

If a contract was “in process” in September, where is it now?

If safety is a priority, why does the situation look exactly the same — or worse — months later?

By Peter Houghton

Because time matters in situations like this.

Vegetation dries - Temperatures rise - Conditions worsen. And the window for safe intervention closes.

This is where administrative delay becomes more than inefficiency.

IT BECOMES DANGEROUS.

Public safety cannot be placed on hold while procedures move slowly through the system. Fire risk does not wait for paperwork to be completed. It builds quietly, day by day, until the conditions are right — and then it moves faster than any response can contain.

That is why prevention is critical.

And that is why inaction is unacceptable.

ORIHUELA FAILURE TO ACT

Orihuela cannot claim to take environmental management and public safety seriously while leaving clearly identified risks unaddressed.

It cannot issue assurances in September and still be facing the same conditions months later without explanation, because at that point, the issue is no longer the forest. It is governance. A responsibility has been acknowledged.

A commitment has been made.

And action has not followed.

That is the definition of failure.

And in this case, it is a failure that carries consequences far beyond paperwork — consequences measured in risk, in damage, and potentially far worse.

Because when it comes to fire, there is one truth that cannot be ignored: IT ONLY TAKES ONE MOMENT. AND BY THEN, IT IS ALREADY TOO LATE.

CORVERA UNVEILS EXPANDED EUROPEAN SUMMER ROUTES

The summer travel season has taken off at the Region of Murcia International Airport, with a wider choice of destinations and fresh routes set to boost connectivity across Europe and North Africa.

The Corvera terminal is now offering it’s high-season schedule, with up to 20 routes spanning seven countries. While some services will roll out later in the season, travellers can already plan a diverse range of getaways through to October.

Among the highlights, Volotea will expand beyond its current Barcelona service in late June, adding flights to Asturias, Bilbao and Marseille, alongside two new destinations for 2026: Lille and Venice—ideal for citybreak enthusiasts seeking culture, cuisine and coastal charm.

Meanwhile, Ryanair has fully launched its summer programme, offering extensive connections to the UK and Ireland, including London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Dublin.

Complementing this, EasyJet strengthens links with key British cities such as London Gatwick, Bristol and Manchester—further underlining the importance of UK visitors to the Murcia region.

Sun-seekers can also head to the Canary Islands with Binter Canarias, which continues to operate routes to Gran Canaria and Tenerife, while Air Arabia maintains its connection to Nador in Morocco, adding a North African flavour to the airport’s network.

Elsewhere, TUI fly Belgium is set to resume flights to BrugesOstend later in April, although it has scaled back its presence this year by dropping its Antwerp service.

The airport is already enjoying strong momentum. Passenger numbers rose by more than 25% in the first two months of the year, reaching over 76,000 travellers, with international arrivals leading the surge. Flight operations also climbed significantly, reflecting growing demand for the region as a year-round destination.

Orihuela boosts street cleaning and waste collection with new vehicles

Orihuela Town Hall has expanded its street cleaning and waste collection service with six new trucks and five support vehicles to improve efficiency and coverage across the city, surrounding districts and Orihuela Costa.

The 3,500-kilo trucks include tipping bodies, electric lifting platforms and GPS systems to optimise routes, monitor services in real time and cut unnecessary trips.

Three vehicles will serve the urban area and three the coast, especially for bulky waste and paper-cardboard collection.

The council says capacity will rise from one vehicle per zone to four. Seven more refuse trucks, worth e1.85 million, are due by the end of April.

e5 million Marina Upgrade Planned for Guardamar

in July.

The municipality’s public company, which has managed the marina for 30 years, has submitted its proposal to the Generalitat Valenciana, backed by an investment plan funded through marina revenues. Planned works include expanding the dry dock, upgrading facilities, modernising the nautical school, improving parking, and adding new hospitality venues such as a restaurant and chill-out bar.

The marina will also be adapted for larger boats, reducing moorings from 485 to 460, with berth fees likely to rise. Further improvements will benefit the Fishermen’s Guild, including refurbishment of its auction hall. Annual concession payments are expected to increase from e15,000 to around e40,000. Meanwhile, sediment build-up at the Segura River mouth continues to create depth and access problems, despite recent dredging works aimed at easing conditions.

CANNABIS CLUB CRACKDOWN: Six Held as ‘Fake’ Associations Busted on Orihuela Costa

A major Guardia Civil operation has dismantled two cannabis associations on the Costa Blanca that were allegedly operating as frontline drug distribution hubs under the cover of legality.

The coordinated crackdown, led by the ROCA unit in Torrevieja, resulted in six arrests, five additional individuals placed under investigation, and two minors being probed for document fraud.

The investigation began in January, targeting cannabis clubs in Orihuela Costa.

Although such associations often present themselves as non-profit organisations, officers identified two suspected of running structured, profitdriven operations.

According to investigators, both premises functioned as organised drug supply points rather than private member clubs.

During simultaneous dawn raids on March 17, officers seized e1,000 in cash, 2.1kg

of marijuana, 2.2kg of hashish, 113 hashish pellets, and more than 1,100 prerolled marijuana cigarettes. They also discovered cannabis-infused sweets and chocolates, CBD products, and equipment used for weighing and packaging drugs—evidence police say points to commercial-scale activity.

In a further development, two teenagers aged 16 and 17 are under investigation after allegedly using forged identity documents, including a Belgian ID card and altered Spanish documentation, to gain entry to one of the clubs.

The six suspects, three men and three women aged between 37 and 66, have been released on bail pending trial on charges of drug trafficking and membership of a criminal organisation.

Both premises have been sealed, with authorities considering their permanent closure

Los Montesinos arrest for theft of nine ATM’s

Prosecutors are seeking a total of 55 years in prison for 8 defendants accused of carrying out a series of ATM robberies across six provinces. The group allegedly stole e341,000 and caused more than e334,000 in damage by using stolen crane trucks to rip cash machines from bank branches.

The highly organised gang is said to have committed nine robberies between April and November 2024, targeting locations including Alicante, Murcia and Barcelona. One alleged ringleader reportedly took part in every raid.

The suspects face charges including burglary, vehicle theft and criminal organisation. The case, led by the Civil Guard, is due for trial in Cartagena.

The Guardia were taking no chances

Jt Op intercepts Interpol drugs suspect in Pilar

Police stopped the suspect in Pilar

On Sunday afternoon, officers from the Guardia Civil requested assistance from the Policia Local de Pilar de la Horadada in the arrest of a woman wanted by Interpol on suspicion of drug trafficking.

The joint operation was carried out on a coastal road in the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada, after officers located the suspect travelling in a high-end vehicle.

Local police units provided key support in securing the area and assisting with the interception, ensuring the arrest was executed swiftly and without incident.

Authorities confirmed that the woman was taken into custody at the scene and is now being held pending judicial proceedings. In the coming days, she will be transferred to the Audiencia Nacional in Madrid, which specialises in international cases and extraditions.

From there, legal procedures will begin for her extradition to the Czech Republic, the country that issued the international warrant.

CONSENT OVER COURTESY

Press headlines, not just in Spain but in many other countries too, highlighted an incredible story, that in Spain kissing the hand of a woman without her consent can constitute sexual assault.

At first I thought it was an April Fools joke, but sadly it’s a fact – Spain’s Supreme Court has made this ruling, fining the “culprit” e1,620.

Reading the entire story it seems there was more to it, in that he made gestures to suggest she follow him and that he would pay her.

But sadly it seems that men must from now on be on guard not to do anything which may be misconstrued.

When we first came to live in Spain it took me some time to get used to the custom of people kissing each other on the cheeks as a form of greeting.

I was amazed how many women kissed me on the cheek. Just think – if it happened now I could have them arrested for sexual assault!

What a sad and barmy world we now seem to be living in. What will it be next – blowing someone a kiss will be deemed a sexual act?

Tony Mayes Rant

BRITAIN’S BROKEN CLASSROOMS

Bullying and fights in school is nothing new, I had it for a time at an all boys school because I was the youngest and smallest in the class and an easy target. But it seems in Britain it’s got far, far worse, as an investigation by the BBC has found.

Teachers say they are now traumatised, fearing

for their safely and scared to go back to work because of spiralling pupil violence.

One teacher said she had recurring nightmares after being attacked, with another describing her school as "completely lawless".

A survey of nearly 800 teachers in one city found almost half reported violent pupil behaviour in school every day, and more than a third said they had been physically assaulted.

A secondary school teacher said the situation at her school was the worst she had seen in her 20-year career.

"There are pupils that just refuse point blank to do what you're asking," she said.

"They'll swear at you, often they will square up to you."

She believes it is only a "matter of time" before something even worse happens, because she fears that one of the pupils has a knife.

She has seen probation teachers entering a classroom deciding after only a few days to quit and seek a different career.

When I was in school – and that’s a long time ago now – misbehaving pupils got the cane in assembly, or a rap with a ruler across the palm of the hand. Corporal punishment worked.

Sadly society has just got soft on punishment and it’s suffering big time as a result. Do some kids care whether they are excluded from school – they probably think it makes them look like a hero.

Discipline starts at school, and if it’s not drilled into kids at an early age then its a recipe for increasing trouble as they get older as we are seeing throughout British society – and teenagers rioting in Clapham town centre last week is an example.

WAR TURNS TRUMP VOTERS AWAY

Donald Trump’s approval rating in the US has now sunk to a major low at -20, eight percentage points below where it was at this time in his first term and lower than it has been at any point in his second.

The Iran war is probably responsible. Not only do Americans dislike it— only 28% of them support the war, while 59% oppose it.

The price of oil has spiralled, making manufacturing and transport more expensive, and there is nothing that Americans dislike more than being hit in their pockets. The average price for petrol is more than $4 a gallon.

Trump wants out of the mess he has got into and is hitting out at everyone, including Spain, the UK and NATO. He’s now paying the price of doing Israel’s bidding in supporting their religious war of hate.

Well done Pedro Sanchez for hitting out against the war and Trump. Shame Trump wasn’t put in the rocket to the moon – and left there!

Orihuela has intensified mosquito control efforts after a recent surge in activity, caused by rainfall and mild temperatures.

The DoE has increased both the frequency and scope of treatments, targeting larvae and adult mosquitoes in stagnant water areas, drainage channels and street drains.

The Councillor urged residents to help by removing standing water from private properties, including buckets, plant trays and unused pools, which can quickly become breeding grounds, particularly for tiger mosquitoes.

Residents are also encouraged to report problem areas.

Orihuela responds to Surge in Mosquitoes

Freemasons donate to Alimentos Solidarios

Norwegian-speaking Dovre Lodge No. 184 has donated e1,000 to Asociacion Alimentos Solidarios, a Torrevieja charity that provides daily food support to people and families in hardship. The donation was presented by Worshipful Master Morten Holm Gundersen to charity representative Maria Angeles, in recognition of the organisation’s essential work in the community.

Based in council-provided premises with storage facilities and a fully equipped kitchen, Alimentos Solidarios keeps administrative costs low so that donations go directly to those in need. Food is supplied through the local food bank, Mercadona, local farmers and

other contributors, while the charity also covers transport costs and buys extra essential items when necessary.

The organisation offers a wide variety of support, including baby food, fresh produce, hot meals, canned goods and dry foods. Volunteer chefs help prepare meals, and more than 200 are served every day. The charity also holds an annual Paella Day outside Torrevieja town hall on December 6.

With an annual budget of around e80,000, the charity depends heavily on council funding, local donations and volunteers to continue its work.

NEW FLORAL DISPLAYS BRIGHTEN UP TORREVIEJA

Torrevieja Town Hall has launched a spring floral planting campaign across several green spaces in the city ahead of Easter, a period when visitor numbers and activity increase.

The Department of Parks and Gardens has been planting seasonal flowers in key locations including Plaza de la Constitucion, Avenida Cortes Valencianas, Calle Caballero de Rodas, Rocio del Mar, Plaza Miguel Hernandez and other prominent areas. The initiative forms part of the municipal plan to maintain and improve green spaces, helping make the city more attractive and welcoming for residents and tourists during

one of the busiest times of the year. The council has also urged the public to respect the new planting.

San Fulgencio has been unsettled by an unusually forceful wave of business inspections that followed a dispute involving a senior regional police officer.

In early March, officers from a National Police unit based in Elche, attached to the regional police under the Generalitat, inspected more than 20 businesses in the municipality.

Those targeted included hairdressers, mechanics, bakeries and butchers, with

some owners now facing heavy fines.

The inspections came only weeks after the unit’s commander, Fernando Gomez, had been fined e120 by San Fulgencio’s local police in December.

The penalty was issued for allegedly dumping construction rubble and household waste in a public container while helping with renovation work at a private property.

A Civil Guard patrol reportedly observed the incident and alerted local police officers,

who confirmed the breach of municipal sanitation rules.

Gomez is said not to have identified himself as a police officer at the time.

After later receiving formal notice of the fine through SUMA, the regional tax collection body, Gomez reportedly went to the Town Hall to challenge it.

He consulted officials and met Mayor Jose Maria Ballester, accompanied by another senior officer, but the appeal failed. Soon afterwards, the inspection campaign

began.

Residents described it as unprecedented in scale, with no prior coordination with Local Police.

Although such checks usually focus on hospitality venues, this operation extended to many other sectors and has since spread into residential urbanisations.

Local authorities support enforcement in principle, but say it should be coordinated, while avoiding comment on any direct connection between the fine and the inspections.

“CAN I CONNECT MY PHONE TO MY COMPUTER”?

Link to Windows is a bridge between your smartphone and your PC. It’s a Microsoft service that lets you access your phone’s content—like texts, photos, and notifications. Think ofit as "Remote Control-lite" for your phone.

HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS

The service is actually split into two parts that talk to each other over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth:

On your Phone: The app is called Link to Windows. On many Android phones (like Samsung or Surface Duo), it is built into the system settings.

On your PC: The app is called Phone Link. It comes pre-installed on Windows 10 and 11.

HOW TO GET CONNECTED

On your PC: Open the Start menu, search for Phone Link, and open it. Select your device type (Android or iPhone).

On your Phone:Android: Swipe down your Quick Settings panel; look for the Link

to Windows icon. If it’s not there, download the app from the Play Store.

iPhone: Download the Link to Windows app from the App Store.

The Pair: Follow the on-screen prompts to scan the QR code displayed on your PC with your phone.

Permissions: Grant the requested permissions.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Once you're synced, you can usually leave your phone in your pocket or across the room.

Texting & Calls

Send/Receive SMS: Type out texts using your full keyboard.

Make Calls: Use your PC’s mic and speakers to handle phone calls (it requires Bluetooth).

Photos Instant Access: Your most recent 2,000 photos appear instantly on your PC.

Drag & Drop: You can drag a photo directly from the app into a Word doc, an email, or your desktop.

Notifications

Sync: See your phone's notifications in the

Scan the QR Code above to find out exactly what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group has to offer

Windows Action Centre.

Control: You can dismiss them from your PC, and they’ll disappear from your phone too.

“FACEBOOK SEEMS FULL OF AI-GENERATED CONTENT. CAN I REMOVE THE AI CONTENT”?

No, there is no single "Off" switchfor AIgenerated content. Meta has deeply integrated AI into Facebook’s core, but you can certainly make it a lot less prominent. Here is a practical guide to reclaiming your feed:

1. Change Your Feed View (The Quickest Fix)

Facebook's default "Home" feed is curated by an AI algorithm that prioritises engagement, which is why you see so many viral AI images.

Switch to "Feeds":On the mobile app or desktop sidebar, look for theFeedstab. Select All or Friends. This shows posts in chronological order from people you actually

Meetings at Dilly's Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The The Next meeting is on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026. You are welcome to attend.

know, bypassing the AI-suggested "slop."

2. Mute the Meta AI Assistant If the blue "Ask Meta AI" circle in the search bar is what’s bothering you: Tap the Search bar.

Tap the Meta AI icon (the blue/purple circle).

Tap the "i" (info) icon in the top right of the chat.

Select Mute and choose "Until I change it." While the icon may remain, it will stop proactively suggesting things to you.

3. Turn Off AI Comment Summaries Tired of seeing AI-generated summaries at the top of comment sections?

Go to Settings & Privacy>Settings.

Scroll to Audience and Visibility and tap Posts.

Toggle off "Allow comment summaries on your posts." (Note: This may only affect your own posts depending on your region).?

To ask a question or to join the Technolgy Help Group send an email to Brian Hoile at: cbtechnology.help@gmail.com

INFRASTRUCTURE CONCERNS GROW IN OR IHUELA COSTA AS COUNCIL PLAN ANOTHER NEW DEVELOPMENT

Plans to urbanise Sector E3 El Barranco in Orihuela Costa are facing mounting scrutiny after the Independent Party of Orihuela Costa (PIOC) lodged formal objections during the public consultation phase.

The proposed commercial development, located off the Villamartin road towards Los Dolses, has reignited concerns about whether the area can cope with further expansion. In a detailed technical submission, PIOC questions the capacity of essential infrastructure, warning that existing systems may already be under strain.

A key issue raised is the availability of water resources, with doubts over whether the current supply network can meet increased demand without further investment. The document also highlights potential flood risks, arguing that additional construction could significantly increase impermeable surfaces and disrupt natural drainage patterns during heavy rainfall.

Traffic is another major concern. Access to the site is planned via the Villamartin road, a route

If the matter were not so serious, the municipality’s apparent determination to strip Orihuela Costa of all buildable land in order to bankroll a decaying city would almost be laughable

already known for congestion.

The objections call for a reassessment of traffic studies to ensure that any future development does not compromise road safety or worsen existing bottlenecks.

The impact on nearby residential areas has also been questioned, particularly in relation to noise levels. PIOC suggests that existing studies may be outdated and fail to reflect the likely rise in activity associated with a new commercial hub.

Beyond infrastructure, the submission points to the potential strain on municipal services, including

street cleaning, maintenance, policing and public transport, warning that the town hall must ensure it has the capacity to manage further growth.

It also raises legal and financial concerns, calling for updated economic data and greater clarity around the development agreement and infrastructure responsibilities.

Questions have additionally been raised about the transparency of the consultation process, with calls for broader public participation to ensure all viewpoints are properly considered.

The El Barranco project remains under review, with the local authority now tasked with analysing the objections before reaching a final decision.

The controversy has once again brought the issue of urban growth in Orihuela Costa into sharp focus, highlighting the ongoing tension between municipal development ambitions and the limits of local infrastructure.

The full transcript of the PIOC objections can be found at www.PIOC.info

IIt’s how you play your cards…

t only costs a couple of Euro, but surely must rate as the greatest pleasure-giving value for money in the entire world. We refer to your ordinary, simple deck of cards. The range of card games played with similar packs is truly astonishing; and the more you think about it; isn’t the ingenious make up of the four suits and 52 cards truly mind-boggling?

Playing cards goes back a bit, as you might well imagine; but in fact the game of cards goes back as far as 9thcentury China. The suits were probably developed in Egypt before making an appearance in Europe in the 14thcentury.

It was the French who introduced the familiar black and red colours and modern suits of hearts, diamonds, clubs and spades. This was sometime in the 15thcentury.

The oldest surviving pack was made in the Netherlands in 1475 and is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. (This may be changed to The Trump Museum of Art before you get there!)

We could go on about the four suits symbolising the four seasons and numerous variations of card games all over the world; but it is far more interesting to stay local for the rest of this one.

The game of ‘twenty-five’ is proba-

bly Ireland’s national card game.

Back in the day, when people got together to amuse themselves in simpler fashion, there would be at least one house in every locality where neighbours gathered regular-

ly to play cards.

Here we take back the word ‘simple’ … because there was nothing simple about how seriously good card players took the game! Over

the long nights of the winter months, men and women would deal the deck for hours – and then the ‘postmortems’ would go on for nearly as long!

The most important thing in twenty-five was ‘holding the game in’ and therefore the greatest crime was ‘taking your own trick’ and ‘letting someone out.’ The stakes might just be for a few coppers, but coming up to Christmas they would play for ‘feathers’ – a goose or turkey.

‘Three fifteens’ is a variation of twenty-five and was favoured for most organized community card drives, especially across the Midlands.

A card-drive was a regular means of raising funds at sports clubs, churches and so on. ‘Whist’ was, and still is, another popular community game, as is also ‘Bridge’ and of course ‘Poker.’ Games such as ‘Solitare’ and ‘Rummy’ would also be popular in parts.

There is no age gap when it comes to playing cards. Children usually start their card career with games of ‘Snap’, ‘Old Maid’, and ‘Beggar my Neighbour.’ This is the pass into the wonderful world of cards.

Poker is popular all over the world; with different variations of the game. ‘5-card draw’ is the most common around where I come from and is my favourite.

I played ‘3-card Brag’ in the bus depot in England and had I not indulged is serious games of ‘Seven Card Stud Poker’ in Canadian mining camps, I could have been a snug man today!

Again, it is just so amazing the value that can be had and all the different uses that a deck of cards can be put to.

Think of all the magicians who use playing cards to display their magic and fortune tellers who claim to see

your future from how you ‘boxed’ the cards.

Indeed, there was very often a local person you might be told was ‘good at reading the cards!’

It is no surprise that superstition and the dark arts were also associated with cards. The Jack, or Knave of Spades is, I think, the card usually advanced as symbolising Satan. This same story has been attributed to some place just in about every county in Ireland. The neighbours have gathered in their usual ‘ceili house’ for the regular game of cards.

A stranger calls in and asks if he can have a ‘hand’. The game has progressed nicely along the usual lines until a player drops a card on the floor and stoops to retrieve his card; which is the Knave of Spades, but as he stretches to pick up the card, he is stunned to observe that the stranger has cloven feet … the devil himself!

That being said; the deck of cards was also used as a prayer book in the song of that name. ‘The Deck of Cards’ was written and first recorded by American country singer T Texas Ryder, while the most popular version was a later recording by Tex Ritter.

It is a very clever narrative of the various playing cards depicting passages or teachings from the Bible. I have several packs of cards in my house but nobody to play with. Mrs Youcantbeserious comes from a family of great card players, but by some strange twist, I got the one with no interest in card-playing.

Shortly after we got married, I sat down one night to teach her how to play ‘twenty-five’. Allegedly, at some point I muttered; ‘Ah for Jazus’ sake’ … and the cards finished up on the floor! And that, my friends, was that!

DON’T FORGET

People take heart when you give them yours

Public Consultation launched in Orihuela on Low Emmission Zone

With an urban population of just 30k,the LEZ in

Orihuela City Council is preparing to open a public consultation on its proposed Low Emission Zone (LEZ), giving residents, associations and other stakeholders one month to submit feedback after the draft is published in the Official Gazette of the Valencian Community.

The measure is required under Spain’s Climate Change and Energy Transition Law, which obliges cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants to introduce sustainable mobility policies to reduce pollution and improve air quality.

Stunning New Look as Levante Breakwater Reopens to the Public

Torreviejaís Levante Breakwater reopened in full on Saturday, March 28, after the completion of a major renovation covering 1,247 metres of the seafront promenade. Mayor Eduardo Dolon and Urban Services Councillor Sandra Sanchez visited the site as the City Council formally accepted the finished works, which have modernised one of the cityís most iconic coastal spaces.

The e6.54 million project included new continuous paving, improvements to the pedestrian route, upgraded safety and protective features, and a high-efficiency public lighting system designed to boost visibility, safety and the overall appearance of the promenade at night.

Aspecially designed prefabricated concrete bench was also installed, combining seating with a wave-break function.

Among the standout additions is an RGB lighting system, giving the breakwater a distinctive night-time look. Access points and transition areas were also widened to create more open viewpoints over the sea. Part of the lighting scheme was funded through Spainís Next Generation recovery programme supporting sustainable tourism projects.

The preliminary draft, prepared by a specialist firm and submitted on March 23, is the first phase of a wider process that will later define the zone’s boundaries and regulations.

The council says the LEZ is designed not only to cut emissions and noise but also to reduce car dependency, promote cleaner transport, improve accessibility and road safety, and help reshape Orihuela’s urban mobility model.

ALICANTE LES NAUS PROBE HIT BY COVER UP CLAIMS

A political row has erupted in Alicante after opposition parties accused Luis Barcala’s city council of withholding crucial internal investigations from the special commission examining the Les Naus subsidised housing scandal. They say the documents were delivered late, in a restricted digital format, and without key inquiries into two municipal architects and the head of contracting.

At the centre of the dispute are probes into the allocation of protected housing to senior officials and their relatives, the involvement of architects who own flats in the development, and possible leaks linked to council tax payments.

Opposition groups claim the most sensitive findings remain hidden and that access has been tightly controlled.

The council says delays were due to data protection rules. Meanwhile, the head of contracting remains in post, while two architects have faced limited disciplinary restrictions.

Easter Roads: Planning Ahead for Safer Travel

Easter is one of the first major travel periods of the year in Spain. As people take advantage of the holidays to visit family, head to the coast, or explore the countryside, traffic levels increase significantly across the road network. While the journey itself may be part of the enjoyment, the conditions on the road change. Planning ahead is not just convenient — it is a key part of staying safe.

CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Before setting off, it is important to review both traffic and weather conditions. Official sources such as the DGT provide real-time traffic updates, incident reports, and recommended routes. Weather forecasts from AEMET help identify conditions that may affect visibility or road grip.

A few minutes of preparation can prevent hours of delay or unexpected hazards.

AVOID PEAK TRAVEL TIMES

Easter traffic often builds at predictable times, particularly at the start and end of the holiday period. Travelling early in the morning or later in the evening can help reduce congestion.

Heavy traffic not only increases journey time but also raises the risk of collisions due to stop-start conditions and driver frustration.

ALLOW MORE TIME THAN YOU THINK YOU NEED

Rushing to meet a schedule is one of the most common causes of risky driving behaviour. Allowing extra time for the journey reduces pres-

sure and makes it easier to adapt to delays, diversions, or changing conditions.

Time should be treated as a safety margin, not something to be minimised.

TAKE REGULAR BREAKS

Longer journeys require sustained concentration. Fatigue builds gradually and often goes unnoticed until it begins to affect reaction time and decisionmaking.

A well-prepared vehicle supports a safer journey. OUR NEW WEBSITE IS

Stopping every two hours, even for a short break, helps maintain alertness and reduces the likelihood of errors.

EXPECT CHANGING ROAD DYNAMICS

Easter marks the beginning of seasonal change on the roads. Traffic includes a wider mix of drivers — some unfamiliar with routes, others adjusting to longer journeys after quieter winter months. This variation in behaviour can lead to hesitation, sudden braking, or unexpected manoeuvres. Anticipation and patience become increasingly important.

PREPARE THE VEHICLE

A basic vehicle check before departure can pre vent problems on the road: tyre pressure and condition, fluid levels, lights and indicators, windscreen cleanliness.

A well-prepared vehicle supports a safer journey.

A SAFER START TO THE SEASON

Easter is often the first indication of the busier months ahead. By planning carefully, allowing time, and adapting to changing road conditions, drivers can reduce stress and risk.

A successful journey is not measured by speed, but by arriving safely.

TRANSLATIONS/ EFFICIENT RATES

ROYAL BRITISH LEGIO N

DOCTORS,HOSPITALS, EMPADRON'S.

Any documents or medical reports translated.

Dates available for NIE's.

TIE Application dates : May and June Residencia Renewals.

Driving licence UKSpanish also available.

Contact Jason :

Mobile/WhatsApp 603 86 87 56

CHURCH SERVICES

Church of JESUS CHRIST of LATTER-DAY SAINTS

We meet at 10am each Sunday in the chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. Torrevieja

Phone or whatsapp 659 016 733

SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. A friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship.

Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain

Ss Peter andSt Paul Church of England

C/Granados, La Siesta SERVICES

1st/3rd Sunday 1130am

2nd/4th/5th Saturday 5pm c-of-e-torrevieja.com

ERECTILE DISFUNCTION

DO YOU HAVE ED PROBLEMS ?

We have the solution! Jells, cialis, sidenafil. Over 7 products for both men and for ladies!

Mixed trial packs. Free delivery throughout Costa del Sol, or via post to all the other costas

WhatsApp or call 603 117 394.

HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

English speaking interdenominational church in La Marina welcoming all nationalities and church backgrounds.

Sunday Worship 11am with Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month.

Calle Justo Antonio Quesada 19A. +34 966 184 728

CARS FOR SALE

CAR OF THE MONTH 2023 FORD PUMATITANIUMHYBRID- 21,500€

Visit our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars. For a small selection of our latest offers see ad on page 5.

We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars for price, choice and quality.

ENGLISH SPOKEN Tel 96 666 22 60.

Int Christian Assembly Evangelical Church

Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja, Sunday Service 10.30 a.m

Tel: 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. www.icatorrevieja.es

CORNERSTONE PENTECOSTALEVANGELICAL CHURCH

Sunday Service 11.00am

C/Escultor Ribera Girona 67 Pilar de la Horadada

Join us for a multitude of activities, coffee mornings, excercise, bereavement group https://pilarchurch.com philm.cornerstone@gmail.com

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, TORREVIEJA BRANCH

Afriendly and engaging group of people who embrace their ethos of Comradeship, Loyalty, Patriotism & Unity while enjoying a variety of social events, meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 1700 hrs at Silverstoneís 2023 (Bar/Restaurant). Av. Romero, 03176 Montebello, Contact: Membership Secretary, Carl Louden; email: carllouden@msn.com or Phone +34 678 518 202

COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA)

Orihuela Costa residents over 60 years of age.

Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar.

Open twice a week for a programme of English speaking activities and Spanish lessons. Activities include Games & Quiz on Mondays. Art sessions and Easy Conversation on Wednesdays. Information and advice regards living in Spain. Anyone wanting to join CCA social activities can pop along between 1-2pm Mondays and Wednesdays for more info from Eva or Norah in the Cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT

GROUP

Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement?

Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Tel: 96 678 6887.

HELP MAR MENOR

Coffee & Company events are back on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at Bar / Rest Las Claras del Mar Menor, C/ Helena, Los Alcazares from 10am - Open to all nationalities who may be feeling isolated, lonely or hoping to meet new friends. Our volunteers will be on hand on the day.

HELP is a non profit organisation, we raise money from donations to give to local charities within Murcia.

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

The next meeting of the OrihuelaCostaand District Branch will be held at the CAPTAIN’S TABLE, situatedatthe back of the Upper Floor of the Punta Prima Centre on Friday 1 May, starting at 4pm. Members, ex members, and non-members are welcome. For further information call 616 917 675 or 711 082 090

Very young at heart Orihuela Costa male,age 81, WLTM a lively lady who values her own space,for friendshipand fun times

Please message me on 641 536 969 WhatsApp or email: gtbainspain2025@gmail.com

With a background in family and matrimonial mediation, life coach Sara Bell supports The Leader’s readers in navigating everyday concerns.

If you are experiencing challenges in your relationships, family life, work, or any other area of life, help is available. Email your question to office@theleader.info.

Dear Sara,

My daughter says she no longer wants to pursue the career choice she had alwaysset her heart on and says she no longer wants to carry on to further education after she leaves school. My son has stated he doesn't want 'normal job', and wants to be in a band, having no experience of playing a musical instrument, nor singing. My husband and I haven't reacted to any of this as yet, but we don't want them hanging around the house doing nothing once they leave school; my daughter plans to 'take a year off', although she hasn't said what she is going to do, nor how she is going to pay for it. Neither of them seems keen on getting a part time job, nor

have any focus of any kind.

Their Dad and I have demonstrated the work ethic and I hoped that seeing us striving and working hard to achieve things would have rubbed off onto them.

Perhaps it was a different time, but I saw my mother doing all of the household chores; and everyone else in the family, let her do it without even offering to wash-up. I watched someone bring up entitled, bratty kids who had money thrown at them, laying down the law and now are adults who haven't achieved very much at all in life. They are quite happy to see their aging parents working themselves to the bone to provide

WORD SCRAMBLE

WARWICK - TOWER OF LONDON

ALNWICK - STIRLING

EILEAN DONAN - URQUHART

BALMORAL- CAERNARFON

HARLECH - CARRICKFERGUS

DUNLUCE - ENNISKILLEN

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Tuesday 7 Apr (Week 1122)

QUICK - QUICK - ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Squeal; 4 Bazaar; 9 Independently; 10 Correct; 11 Teeth; 12 Magic; 14 Ideal; 18 Purge; 19 Harvest; 21 Qualification; 22 Eleven; 23 Cheeky. DOWN: DOWN: 1 Stitch; 2 Undercarriage; 3 Ample; 5 Alerted; 6 At the same time; 7 Rhythm; 8 Unity; 13 Itemise; 15 Opaque; 16 Chain; 17 Stingy; 20 Reach.

QUIZ FROM P16

1. a. French Guyana, b. Mexico, c. USA, d. Australia. 2. London. 3. Marcus. 4. They were all named after people; Cecil Rhodes (N+S Rhodesia), Philip II of Spain (Philippines), "The Saviour", Jesus (El Salvador), Maurice of Nassau (Mauritius), Orme, a Viking chief (Ormskirk, UK), Thomas Cochrane, 10th Earl of Dundonald (Cochrane, Chile). 5. The Tricolour of the Netherlands. 6. 'Fair Trade' 7. a. Addams Family, b. Miss Marple, c. Sponge Bob Square Pants, d. The Dursley Family, e. Hercule Poirot. 8. Skull Island. 9. November. 10. William the

for them; complaining that their generation cannot get on the housing ladder and that there is no future.

I am hoping it is not too late for you and your husband to put measures in place. If you routinely give your teenagers pocket money; they must now earn it by doing chores. Focus on tasks like laundry, lawn mowing, car cleaning and general house-work. Be clear that part-time jobs teach responsibility and that you expect them to get one, and save a portion of their earnings. They may not yet have decided on a chosen career; and it can be difficult to know what path we want to take at that age; however, you must insist that they must go on to further education, and there will be no laying around the house doing nothing. You tell me that they are

Write to Sara

SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

glued to their phones, and devices. Make sure you have family meals together most days and sit up at a table, with absolutely no phones. Put rules in place about how much screen time they have. Get them out of the house and encourage hobbies like sport. If your boy enjoys music, fine, but he must save for his own guitar, or cost of taking singing lessons. Teenage is a transitional time and you can get through it; however, what you do, or don't do now, will define and shape their future in a positive way.

CR CR YPTIC - YPTIC - ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Stoned; 4 Cliche; 9 Unfashionable; 10 Van Dyke; 11 Ernie; 12 Aster; 14 Unite; 18 Wrong; 19 Acetate; 21 Take liberties; 22 Enrapt; 23 Brogue. DOWN: DOWN: 1 Scurvy; 2 Off one’s rocker; 3 Essay; 5 Lantern; 6 Cabinet-making; 7 Eleven; 8 Aides; 13 Egg flip; 15 Swathe; 16 Maybe; 17 Lessee; 20 Error.

Conqueror (William I of England / Guillaume II de Normandie). 11. Esmeralda. 12. Turtle soup. Calipee is found beneath the lower shell of the Green Turtle. 13. Escape from a prisoner of war camp in WWII. 'The one that got away'. 14. Uranus. 15. c: 1926. 16. Christopher Robin Milne. 17. a. Men without hats, b. Genesis, c. Eddy Grant, d. Billy Idol, e. Bee Gees. 18. Spicy heat (or piquance) of a chili pepper. (Scoville Heat Units). 19. C3PO, Star Wars. 20. Caviar (In fact it was often added to the beer to create an 'Albany beer')

AL AL CO CO Y MO Y MO OR OR S S & C & C H H R R II STIAN STIAN S S

With Easter behind us we can now look forward to one of the very best historic celebrations in Spain, the festival in Alcoy, which stands out as one of the finest and most authentic across the whole of the Iberian Peninsula.

Held from 25 – 27 April, Alcoy’s festival commemorates the battles between Moors and Christians during Spain’s medieval period. The event is renowned for its scale, precision, and theatrical flair.

Participants, dressed in elaborate and richly detailed costumes, parade through the streets in grand processions accompanied by music, fireworks, and dramatic reenactments.

The highlight for many visitors is the “Entradas,” where both Moorish and Christian armies make their ceremonial entrances into the city, showcasing stunning pageantry and choreography. Equally impressive are the mock battles and the final symbolic victory of the Christian side, rooted in local tradition and legend.

What makes Alcoy unique is not just the spectacle, but the deep sense of community involvement. Entire families take part, and preparations often last all year. For visitors and residents alike, it offers a vivid insight into Spanish culture, history, and celebration.

As spring unfolds, this festival provides the perfect opportunity to experience one of Spain’s most colourful and unforgettable traditions.

Solution - Cars Across the Desert

We need 4 cars (including the car with the important person). All 4 cars start full.

At 1/6th of the way, all cars are 2/3rds full. One car sacrifices itself and fills up two of the other cars. Two cars are now full, one is 2/3rds full. (An empty car is left behind.)

At 2/6th of the way, two cars are 2/3rds full. One car is one third full, and sacrifices itself to fill up one of the other cars. One car is now full, one is 2/3rds full. (An empty car is left behind.)

At half way, one car is 2/3rds full. One car is one third full, and sacrifices itself to fill the other car, which is now full and can make the other half of the journey.

GREENLANDS WEEKLYROUNDUP

SOUTH ALICANTE SUMMER LEAGUE

Spitfire Division(Monday)

Gladiators v San Miguel Moors

Another good win for our Gladiators 8pts to 4pts( scores 89pts to 64pts).

Good wins for Freddie Willey, John O'Brien & Pete Bonsor 28-9, Allen Bowen, Stuart Wilson & Lisa Bonsor 24-15 plus Anne Stone,Doug Gray & Martin Foulcer 15-7.

Harrier Division

Phoenix Flames v Warriors

Warriors starting to show fighting spirit just beaten by the Flames8pts to 4pts ( scores 93pts to 90pts very close!). Good wins for Ian Peggy, Pearl Houghton & Gordon Patton 2116 plus Brian Tomlin, Luke Birmingham & Steve Penfold 19-14.

VCL SUMMER LEAGUE (Wednesday)

Emerald Isle Drakes v Giants

Another good performance from our

Giants against a top team. Winning 8pts to 4pts (scores 91pts to 85pts).

Singles : Mens - Pete Bonsor 21- 11, Ladies -Lisa Bonsor 21-19. Triples: Freddie Willey, Darren Reynolds & Dave Morrison 21-9.

Great come back performance from Lisa Bonsor in ladies singles,well done. Titans v Country Bowls Foxes

A tough game at home for our Titans. Did themselves some justice narrowly beaten by the Foxes 8pts to 4 pts ( 90 pts to 76pts).

Although good wins for Triples: Stuart Wilson, Steve Penfold & John Palmer 20-16

Plus Christine Gray, Dee CharterByrne & Doug Gray 20-11.Good effort Titans!

NORTH /SOUTH PLAY OFF FINAL

VENUE :Bonalba bowls club

Greenland'sOaks v El Cid.

COUNTRY BOWLS CLUB

By Peter Dix

It was the turn of the Bluebirds to take the flight up to Bonalba on Monday, a close match on a chilly morning with 4 rinks very close, but alas only one rink winning the points, Jayne and Kevin Storey, Peter Dix winning 22 to 10, points 2 to 10, shots for 69 to 78 against.

At home the Red Kites settled quickly on the home surface against Quesada Falcons and secured an 8 points to 4 win, best rink was Emma Chin, Alan Gover and Ian Chapman 24 to 4, overall 97 to 71 shots

On the Wednesday in the VCL Division A the Foxes travelled to Greenlands to play the Titans, in the singles the husbandand-wife team of Jayne and Kevin Storey secured the 4 points. This left us only needing to win on one more team event to win the overall points and take an 8 points to 4 win, which we managed to do in the pairs.

Friday, in the 2 bowls Triples league, Eagles travelled to play Greenlands Goannas and found them on good form managing to take 4 points only against 8, best rink was Della Wailes, Trish Dix and Steve Wailes 22 shots to 13.

Kestrels at home to Quesada who found our home green to their liking with the home side only managing one winning rink, Gitta Sinclair, Craig Dyson and Alan Glover 20-19.

WITH FREDDIE WILLEY

4 rinks played today in beautiful weather at Bonalba bowls club.

Great bowling from everyone.A very tight game with Greenland's Oaks just managing the win 3rinks to 1 rink. All rink scores were very close, so well done to all the bowlers,great day of bowls. Congratulations on Greenland's Oaks on winning the final.

Also thanks go to our hosts Bonalba bowls for setting up the game and feeding us breakfast and lunch,so spoilt!! Cheers guys.

2 WOODS SUMMER LEAGUE(Friday)

Greenland's Goanna's v Country Bowls Eagles.

Tough game at home but successfully pulling through with a 8pts to 4pts win(124pts to 57pts). Good wins for Stuart Wilson, Mike Stone & Pete Bonsor 40-4,Anne Stone,Carol Stobbart & Darren Reynolds 23-8 plus Dave Donovan, Mandy Tompkins & Dave Palmer 35-7.

Monte Mar Bowls & Social Club

Sponsored by Gran Alacant Insurances, The Belfry, Skippers, La Piedra, Evoca Living, The Reiki Room, Gran Alacant Properties, Chill Out, James.

SOUTH ALICANTE SOUTHERN LEAGUE

Wednesday 25th March

MONTE MAR MATADORS v VISTABELLA

Away at Vistabella we had a tough game, only managing to win on two rinks. Well done to Sheila Roberts, Tony Kershaw skip Joan Harding 15 – 11, Ian Crawford, Steve Hindle skip Phil Goble 23 – 13.

Shots Matadors 70 – 86 Vistabella.

Points Matadors 4 – 8 Vistabella.

Monday 30th March

MONTE MAR MOTADORS v EMERALD ISLE VICTORS

At home to Emerald Isle Victors there were a few close games which could have gone either way. The result was a draw, Emerald Isle won on three rinks and we won the shots. Well done to our two winning rinks, Julia Hamilton, Ian Crawford skip Ian Hamilton 28 – 9 . Gina Hindle, Steve Leatherland skip David Eades 21 – 12. Shots Matadors 85 –74 Victors. Points Matadors 6 – 6 Victors.

Quesada

Bowls Club with Steve Hibberd Away at Country Bowls, our Falcons faced a hard test against the Red Kites, in the Monday SABA trips league.Although G Carnell, M Lewin & A Linley (21-11) plus D Ford, R Lewin & A Reid (20-18) were victorious, the team went down 4 points to 8. Then in the Wednesday VCL, the Lions were at home to San Miguel Sheriffs.S Burrows (21-9) ladies singles, D Collings, M France & T Voisey (24-9) trips, plus G Kershaw, B Webb, C Highland & A Linley (24-17) rinks, all contributed to a fine 8-4 victory.Also at home, our Tigers team reversed their feline friends' scoreline, courtesy of this little lot:K Bowles (21-17) ladies singles plus E Kern, J Preston, P Bradbury (15-14) trips, were the points scorers.

Finally onto Friday, where our 2 wood trips team secured a superb 10-2 victory away at Country Bowls.Well done:J Hughes, R Philipson, S Malden (20-11), B Trinder, M Ward, P Kern (32-13), N Burrows, B Webb, S Burrows (25-10), K Gordon, D Collings, T Voisey (21-14).

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS CLUB

Been a very busy week or so at the club as we hadour Annual visit from Monifieth B C whom we played twice also Kilwinning Ladies and The Gate from Dublin. As per usual greatgames and fun. Strangely all games were draws

Victors played at Monte Mar on Monday and came away with a very good draw 6-6 Aggregate of 76-85. R WhiteM OdellV Dalton21-10, G Dyer K John B Kavanagh17-12M Riley P MooreG Odell 15-14

Dukes were playingin VCLon ed against Greenlands Giants and they slipped to a 4-8 Aggregate 85-91 defeat M OakleyM Ellis 24-17, S BoswortN Davis R Clive C Lindgren 22-11

Earls travelled to San Miguel Marshalls ad they had a disappointingday losing 2-10 Aggregate of 76-98. M RileyD Chisholm T DaltonB Kavanagh20-9

SAPS is on Sat at 13-15. BYELWYN MORRIS

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB

Our teams had some good results this week, gaining some useful points, thanks to their hard work.

South Alicante summer league (3 bowl triples), Spitfire Div. Monday 30th the Wellingtons were at home v La Marina and although the shots were close; 86-77, the Wellingtons had a good win, points 8-4.

The Winners were: Cath Morrisroe, Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis 23-14, Ken Stringfellow, Ngaio Baldwin, Peter Baldwin, 2017, Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Bob Bromley 20-12.

Summer 2 bowl (triples) league: Friday 3rd the Pythons had another good win at home v Vistabella; 8 points-4, 83 shots-66. Winners: Jan Pocock/Carol Thorpe, John Skipper, Neil Cox 22-14, Fran Cox, Brian Gardiner, Jean Cooper 21-9, Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Bob Bromley 16-13. By Sheila Cammack

San Miguel BC by Mary Whitelock

On Monday the Moors were away to Greenlands losing 4-8, highest win came from Stan North, Allan Patterson and Steve Cantley 17-11.

The Vikings were at home to Vistabella also losing 4-8, best win came from Eileen Askew, Kevin Ireland and John Grant 16-12. Wednesday in the VCL the Sheriffs were away to Quesada Lions losing 4-8, only 2 wins came from Steve Parr in the gents singles winning 21-8 and the pair of David Homer and Eddie Cowan winning the pairs 19-15.

The Deputies were at home against Quesada Tigers losing 4-8, with Linda Douglas winning the ladies singles 21-18 and Ann Taylor, Sandi Hannan and Jim Taylor winning the triples 20-14.

The Marshalls were at home in the afternoon to Emerald Isle where they won 10-2. The singles won by Gail Willshire for the ladies21-19, Ron Peters for the gents, 21-12, John Jenner and Dave Askew in the pairs 16-15, and Eileen Askew, Dave Sceal and Trish Blades in the triples 26-10.

Please note that the WASPS sessions which normally take place on a Wednesday afternoon will change to a THURSDAY afternoon starting on THURSDAY 2 6th March from 2pm to 4pm.

GOLFERS ARE USUALLY quite happy with the basic halfway hut. But things have come a long way since the halfway cart at St. Andrews with it’s ginger beer.

At the Carrick Course on Loch Lomond the halfway house is a retired Thames riverboat. Stocked with Scottish pies, soup and drinks, the ‘Highland Laddie’ originally ferried golfers from the hotel to the course via Loch Lomond but it’s limited top speed caused problems with the tee time schedule, so after being christened with a bottle of fine malt whisky it opened for service on the course. At Ardfin Golf, on the Isle of Jura, guests enjoy world-class hospitality, golf, clay shooting, and a halfway house that feels like a private Highland lodge. You must stay at the resort to play the course and rooms start at £1,500 a night. A barmy band from the 1980s, KLF, once famously burned £1,000,000 in the fire here. They have regretted it since, and their children were not too pleased either.

The lighthouse on the Ailsa Course at the Trump Turnberry Resort was converted to a halfway house beside the 9th green, with a luxury hotel suite above. A hot pasty goes down well half way round, with views of the lighthouse, Ailsa Course and Ailsa Craig in the distance.

The Nairn Club’s ‘bothie’ stone cottage was originally built to store freshly caught salmon.

It is ideally situated on the way to the 10th on this renowned links.

Possibly the most famous halfway hut is Sunningdale. Placed after the 10th hole on both the Old and New courses it’s a great spot to catch up with fellow golfers. There is a warm welcome, a great view and of course, the famous sausage sandwiches.

THE MENU at the Masters dinner always seems far too rich, I’m sure if I ate McIlroys choice I’d be as sick as a dog. It’s time a vegan won, if only to confront the illustrious guests with veg soup and prune yoghurt.

DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, 3 4th President of the USA, was golf mad. He wrote the 1953 State of the Union Address at Augusta National in a “cabin” constructed for his use.

Dwight saw the golf course as a place to build relationships and foster goodwill and understanding among the international community. What a pity Benjamin, Xi and Vlad don’t play, not that it’s done much to foster Donald’s goodwill.

“BEST DRIVERS OF 2026.” The mixture as before. TaylorMade’s Qi4D apparently offers improved aerodynamics and feel, as well as a greater choice of shaft options than the Qi35. Big deal!

Titleist GT3’s increased adjustability comes from a new weight track placed much closer to the face than on it’s predecessor the TSR3,

and has minor improvements in acoustics and forgiveness. Wow! Ping’s new G440 K has a tad more adjustability than the G430K thanks to the heavier adjustable 32gm back weight. Gosh!

The Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond Max’s tour-inspired head shape results in slightly more forgiveness than the standard Triple Diamond model. Amazing! Treat yourself to an Easter Egg instead, they cost about as much this year.

THE BRITISH ARMY in the 19th century needed a base, and the sleepy village of Aldershot Heath in Hampshire was selected. It soon became a large military town. In 1883 The Royal Aldershot Officers Golf Club was formed by Lt. Col. Sartorious VC.

Wind,Wobbles & Hazards as Saurines Serves Up April Madness!

If we hadn’t known better we would have thought the wind was an April Fool’s joke. Honestly, standing on that 1st tee in the blazing sunshine with the wind whipping around our what-nots! Well, it wasn’t a joke so the earlier groups battled against it for the first few holes. Then, it was glorious, layers were shed quickly and better golf set in (for some… read on).

We were only here a few weeks ago and the course was, again, in good condition. The greens at Saurines are not for the faint hearted at all. Undulating and tricky. What should have “sat” didn’t and “rolled off”. Still a bit sandy but the greenkeepers are working hard to keep the course in good shape.

Peter Turbefield thought it was a swim-

ming competition and decided to take a dip on the 1st….

37 golfers, 32 members and 5 guests contributed to some good scores (and one or two just didn’t contribute much at all!). There were a couple of single and double Matchplays being played without the general competition also. The main scores today were as follows: Gold: Richard McCann(40 pts and best score of the day)

Silver: Alan Bryce (39 pts)

Bronze: Mike Seymour (36 pts)

Singles Matchplay: Dave Rowe vs. Guy Wade Palmer (Dave Rowe win); Rita East vs. Peter Turbefield (Rita East win)

Doubles Matchplay: The McCann Clan vs. Barry Roehrig & Steve Fleet

(McCann win); Phil de Lacy & Robin Eastman vs. Dave Friedman & Alan Bryce (de Lacy/Eastman win)

Ner a two was had today so the “Twos Pot” will rollover until next week. Nearest the Pins were Bill Hogg (2nd), Sten Ronsen (6th), Peter Turbefield (10th) and Alan Bryce (14th). Bill Crighton won the football card with Celtic and the “McBride Bottle” was received by Sandra “OD” Dibble who doesn’t do middle ground, just wins or loses…. (she’ll enjoy it with her steak tonight with a score which would made her legally eligible!).

Two best guests this week were Bill Hogg (37 pts) and Andrew Drinkwell (32 pts).

Keep up to date with SMGS on our website www.smgs.org. **SPONSORSHIP AVAILABILIT Y** If you are interested in sponsoring one of our games –please contact smgs91info@gmail.com to discuss further. We are proud to be supported by Michaela Schmidt at www.golf-hotspots. com for all your golf travel requirements.

Winners pictured (L to R) Alan Bryce (Silver), Mick Pryke (Captain), Richard McCann (Gold), Bill Hogg (Best Guest), Mike Seymour (Bronze), Andrew Drinkwell (Best Guest) and taking prime position, front and centre – Sandra “OD” Dibble (McBride Bottle).

One of it’s distinguished members was Freddie Tait, who finished 3rd twice in the Open and won the Amateur in 1896 and 1898 before being killed in the Boer war. Another famous army course, Tidworth Garrison overlooking Salisbury Plain, was constructed in 1908 by soldiers and locals as a 9 hole course. It was re-designed by H. S. Colt after the first world war, some work being carried out by P.O.W’s. Peter Alliss called it a gem of a course.

Sadly, both courses have now mostly lost their link with the military.

We would have known where to get hold of our much-reduced army in an emergency if it was playing in a foursomes at Aldershot. Until next time: Happy Golfing.

The Inbetweeners

at El Plantio

This week, members of the Inbetweeners Golf Society gathered at their home course, El Plantio, for another enjoyable day of golf. The morning began on a slightly chilly note, but by the time the first group reached the 7th tee, conditions had turned perfect—warm sunshine paired with a gentle breeze, creating an ideal setting for the round.

The course was in excellent shape as always. The fairways were immaculate, and the greens showed significant improvement following their recent spring maintenance, which certainly helped contribute to some impressive scoring across the field.

The Day’s Winners were: 1st Place: Sam Williamson (40 points), 2nd Place: Carl Radcliffe (39 points), 3rd Place: Roy Harris (38 points...... Nearest the Pin Winner: Hole 7: Jimmy Scott, Hole 9: Joel Mortiers, Hole 14: Ruud Meggelen, Hole 18: Cees Klinkenberg

A big 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 welcome — everyone’s part of the game

THURSDAY DARTS LEAGUE MATCH RESULTS FOR 2 APRIL 2026

DIVISION 1

Illy's Oldies3-9Mind the Gap Fire Station B11-1Hub Hyenas

DIVISION 2

Lesson Street Trotters12-0Milo's CC Eagles5-7Fire Station All Stars

DIVISION 3

Domino Desperado's6-6Tipsy Cow CK1 Chuggers8-4 Leeson Street Nomads

DIVISION 4

Hub Hellraiser's4-8Tipsy Tigers Queens & Jesters7-5CK1 Tornado's Tipsy Cow Archers5-7Illy's Idols

Byes: TipsyToadToppers,MeetingPointDartagnan's, CC'sBee's

180: AkashPanchal,AstonBriant,NigelJustice,LeeMaiden, DarrenSanderson,DarioSierra

HIGH FINISH: JohnnyNineteen146,DarrenJustice117, PaulChick104,CraigMcCarthy103,100

Things are hotting up in the league in the penultimate week of the season, with Division 4 already having an outright winner (Tipsy Tigers) but the battle continuing for runners up and winners in the other divisions.

Illy’s Oldies played their last game of the season, having a bye next week, against The Gap, who are still within striking distance of winning or becoming runners-up in this division.

Gap, clearly out for the challenge went to break 5:1 up which included a 180 from Darren Sanderson.

Continuing their winning streak after the break, Craig McCarthy took the first single with an 18 dart finish out on 100, and in the 2nd leg out on 103.

Despite Darren Sanderson scoring several triple figure scores, Oldies Arnt Brandenburg won the 2nd game.The Gap came back taking the next 3 games comfortably.Score 3-8.

LEAGUE TABLES

DIVISION 1 PPtsF/A

Fire Station B 71160:24

Tipsy Toad Toppers 71158:26

Mind the Gap 71054:30

Hub Hyenas 7421:63

Illy's Oldies 8023:73

DIVISION 2

Fire Station All Stars 71354:30

CC Eagles 7947:37

Meeting Point Dartagnan's 7742:42

Leeson Street Trotters 7641:43

Milo's 8132:64

DIVISION 3

Tipsy Cow 81050:46

CK1 Chuggers 7947:37

Domino Desperado's 7946:38

Leeson Street Nomads 7642:42

CC's Bee's 7231:53

DIVISION 4

Tipsy Tigers 91875:33

Illy's Idols 91156:52

CK1 Tornado's 91055:53

Tipsy Cow Archers 9956:52

Queens & Jesters 9542:66

Hub Hellraiser's 9140:68

Oldies Alan Fleming finished on a high winning the final game.POTM:Brian AbbeySteve Carret

In the 2nd match in this division, Fire Station B also in the running for the title played Hub Hyenas.

There was a flurry of 3 figure scores from both sides in the 1st half, a total of 33, which included a 180 from Nigel Justice for the Station.The home team won all triples and the first of the pairs.The Hub managed to win the 2nd pairs only for the Station to take the final game.Score 5:1. There were 19 triple figure scores in the singles from the home team, and a 180 from Hubs Dario Sierra.

Station clearly came prepared for the challenge, seeking to be champions of the league, only conceding 1 leg in the 6 singles and finished the night 11:1.POTM: Justice - Sierra

In Division 2 there was only 1 match, Dartagans having a bye, Milos unable to

put out a team, thereby Leeson St Trotters taking the win, which just left CC Eagles v Fire Station All Stars.

Eagles were seeking a win to stay in contention to win the division, the visitors seeking a win to stay top and win the title. All Stars, clearly up for the challenge won 5 of the 1st half games with 18 three figure scores including a 180 from Aston Briant. Score 1:5

Eagles raised their game in the 2nd half, Reg Christopher and Carlos Escancia winning their singles.Score 3:5.All Stars

Aston Briant took the 3rd only for Eagles Marijn Noordermeer to win the 4th.

Paul Christopher won his game to bring the score to 5:6.

Everything hinged on the final showdown between Harry Belga and Darren Justice.Would Eagles still be in the running for title or would the All Stars take it?

Justice rose to the occasion and secured the win and title in fine style taking both legs and out on 117.

In Division 3 there were still three teams in contention to win or become runners up.Dominos Desperados and Tipsy Cow, both contenders, met each other, the Cow’s playing their last game of the season, with a bye next week.

The visitors started well winning the first triple, the home team to taking the next 2, which included a 180 from Akash Panchal.

Dominos won the first pairs, Tipsy Cow the next 2.Score 3:3.

The battle continued after break, “Homies”winning the first game, the visitors taking the 2nd.

Dominos father and son, Colin and Ben Kernanhan, both won their singles, score 6:4.

Pressure now on the visitors, Murray MacLeod and Bob Smith fought back taking the final 2 games and a draw. Whilst this leaves Tipsy Cow top of the Division for now, other teams have a game in hand so they will have to wait until next week to see if they are “Champions”.

CK1 Chuggers, the 3rd team in the Division still in contention to win or become runners up, met with Leeson St Nomads.Chuggers started well, winning the first 4 games, Nomads taking the final pairs.Score 4:2.

Nomads James Mackay won the 1st of the singles only for Chuggers to win the next 3 games.Score 7:3.Nomads Mike

Tierney, scoring 129,126, took the 5th against Paul Tollerfield scoring 3x100, 140.Chuggers Dons Ralph scoring 140,121,145 won the final game and kept their team in the running to take the title.POTM:Ralph - Graham White Hub Hellraisers met up with Division winners Tipsy Tigers.Hellraisers Lesley Dolling won the 1st triple scoring 92 out D2, Tigers winning the next 2 games, Sharon Crane scoring 140, 115 against Kim Forbes scoring 126.Tigers took the 1st pairs, Lee Maiden scoring a 180, “homies”taking the 2nd and Tigers the 3rd.Score 2:4.

Hubs Dolling scoring 123,121 won the first single and team-mate Sue Spiers the 2nd Score 4:4.

Unfortunately that was the end of their winning streak, Division Champions taking the final 4 games to maintain their unbeaten season.POTM:DollingCrane

In the Queens & Jesters v CK1 Tornados game the visitors were fighting to maintain runner-up position. Jesters won all 3 triples, which included a 160 from Matt Cummins.They continued their winning streak taking the 1st of the pairs, CK1’s Bill Leaves and Terry Hughes winning the 2nd and the host the final.Score 5:1.

Jesters won the 1st of the singles only for the visitors to take the next two. Score 6:3.Cummins won his single to win the match whilst Tornados won the final 2 games.POTM:Cummins - Kirsty Green

In this final game between Tipsy Cow Archers v Illy’s Idols both teams were fighting for runner up position.Archers started well taking all triple games, which included a 121 from Paul Raffell. Idols not to be beaten fought back winning all pairs, Greg Anniuk scoring 124. Score 3:3.

It was neck and neck after break, teams winning alternate games, Idols Jayne Cahill winning the 1st scoring 138, Archers Jan Norbury scoring 118 taking the 2nd, Henni Oortnyn the 3rd and Raffell the 4th.Score 5:5.

Idols Angela Chick won the 5th and teammate Paul Chick the final game and the match to move their team into runners up position.POTM:Angela Chick - Raffell

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Your partner for reliable solar installations and advanced technology. Using strict Northern European standards. We speak your language: service available in NL, EN, DE, FR and ES. Quality you understand.

JoliArtes

STAND(S): C17A,C17B

SECTOR: Retail & E-commerce

JoliArtes is more than the paint. It is emotions, stories, memories, motivation, inspiration and connection. Art for healing, art with feeling, with a message, with words you chose.

Karl Daniel Fawsett

STAND(S): C20A,C20B

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Key Currency S L

STAND(S): A69B

SECTOR: Finance

Award-winning international currency specialists delivering competitive exchange rates, secure transfers, and personalised support for property buyers and sellers moving funds internationally

Kolstad Property

STAND(S): A80B,A80C,A81A

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

A trusted Scandinavian real estate agency on the Costa Blanca, offering personalized service and expert guidance to international clients seeking to buy or sell exclusive Mediterranean homes

Kristel Stephanie Prantl

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Unspecified

La Paloma Art Studio (Aslaug Thorvaldsdottir)

STAND(S): 2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A,C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

La Paloma Art Studio (Rebekka Reynisdottir)

STAND(S): C2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A, C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

La Solera Vinoteca

STAND(S): A84A,A84B,A84C

SECTOR: Unspecified

La Solera Vinoteca - Step into your new favourite wine store. We specialise in small, family wineries from local areas, bringing you the authentic taste of Spain.

Legacy Hair & Beauty

STAND(S): A2A,A2B

SECTOR: Health & Beauty

We are focused on providing hair, nails, beauty and holistic treatments with the highest level of customer satisfaction, whilst maintaining excellent standards of hygiene and professionalism.

Llum del SOL

STAND(S): C21C,C21D

SECTOR: Home & Garden

Llum del Sol is an artisanal brand of 100% natural soy candles, handmade in Spain. We create unique pieces where elegance, fragrance, and well-being come together.

Lo Stivale Italiani in Torrevieja

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Lobster

STAND(S): A52B

SECTOR: tv_telephone_internet

Lobster is Spain’s only all-in-English mobile and fibre broadband service. Get the best mobile deals and ultra-fast fibre for brilliant home internet!

LOK U RA P C

STAND(S): A36A,A36B

SECTOR: professional_services

We are the largest computer specialist store in the province with a 600m2 showroom, ink, toner, technical service, all in one place.

Love, Life & Legacy

Ceremonies

STAND(S): B35A,B35B

SECTOR: Professional Services

Magic Woman

STAND(S): A60B,A60C

SECTOR: Home & Garden

Magic Woman – a finishing specialist with an artist’s soul on Costa Blanca. Painting, wallpapering, decorative plasters, murals and reliefs. I combine craftsmanship with an artistic approach for unique interiors

Magica Creations

STAND(S): C39A,C39B

SECTOR: Retail & E-commerce

Handmade For YOU

Bracelets, Necklaces, Bags, Fashion Accessories Home Accessories and Decorations

MAR IAN N E LOE B LE WR ITE R

STAND(S): C9B

SECTOR: professional_services

Marianne is a novel and poetry writer who has published 5 novels and five poetry books in Spain, France and in America. Her next thriller will be in Dutch.

Maris Dzelzskalns / Kirsten K

STAND(S): C18A,C18B,C19A,C19B

mentacion, diseño de cejas, regeneracion capilar no quirurgica, criolipolisis laser y remocion de tatuajes. Tecnologia avanzada para resultados visibles. Visitanos en la feria!

Monja Hamesch STAND(S): A55A

SECTOR: Nutrition - Healthy active Lifestyle

Mosttaza STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Retail & E-commerce

MY LAWYE R I N S PAI N STAND(S): A45A,A45B

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

My Lawyer in Spain is a team of experienced Solicitors and Abogados with offices across Spain who can deliver a one-of-a-kind, tailor made service for whatever legal service

SECTOR: Unspecified

Maris Dzelzskalns is an artist who creates original works filled with emotion and personal expression. His paintings reflect a connection with nature,especially flowers and poppies.

Mary's Puzzles

STAND(S): A38A

SECTOR: media_agency

Mary’s Puzzles is a free bilingual puzzle magazine on the Costa Blanca, combining fun, community, and smart advertising, connecting local businesses with loyal readers through engaging, high-quality monthly content.

M B Consulting

STAND(S): ENTRANCE

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

Consulting in sales and purchase of properties in notary, power of attorney, Wills and inheritance, tourist license, NRA number, NIE and residencia, car registration, taxes resident and non-resident

Melanie Wagener

STAND(S): A58A,A58B,A58C

SECTOR: home_improvements

General contracting company with master craftsmen. Remodeling, conversions, renovations, bathroom renovations with design examples, pool and landscaping, terrace waterproofing, insulation for house insulation. Request a free quote.

M E LODY MAK E R S S I NG I NG

G ROU P QU E SADA

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Mnavais

STAND(S): C28B,C29A,C29B,C30A

SECTOR: Health & Beauty

Elly Permanent Makeup, centro medico-estetico especializado en micropig-

N332 Spanish Traffic Law STAND(S): ENTRANCE

SECTOR: Education & Training Facebook Page dedicated to helping the international community living in Spain better understand changes in traffic regulations and stay informed about relevant news, providing clear and reliable information.

Nordicfysio S.L. STAND(S): A15B,A15C,A16A, A16B

SECTOR: Health & Beauty Struggling with back pain or sciatica?

Nordicfysio Clinics help active adults and seniors reduce pain, restore mobility and avoid surgery through advanced physiotherapy and personalised treatment.

OMAGG IO BY ROB E RTO S L STAND(S): C13A,C13B,C14A

SECTOR: Unspecified

Orlando Abel Santiago Ortiz STAND(S): A30A,A30B,A30C,A30D, OUTSIDE

SECTOR: bar_restaurant

Out of the Sun in Spain STAND(S): A69C,A70A,A70B

SECTOR: Home & Garden

Out of the Sun delivers premium solar window film in Spain, reducing heat, glare, and UV damage while maintaining natural light—installed professionally with transparent pricing and guaranteed results.

Padjaingel Airike

STAND(S): B26A, B26B

SECTOR: Art / Artesano Hola! Me llamo Airi. Soy artesana de Estonia. Todos mis articulos son productos unicos hechos a mano que reflejan calidad, maestria artesanal y un toque personal.

Paloma Art Studio (Elin H Bjarnadottir)

STAND(S): 2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A, C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Paloma Art Studio (Iren Kjernsholen)

STAND(S): 2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A, C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Paloma Art Studio (Liv Marzorati Karlsson)

STAND(S): 2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A, C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

SECTOR: Unspecified

Serenavida invites you to live well, live naturally, live coastal. Find your ideal home and healthy solutions. Aromatherapy, chemical free cleaning and healthy kangen water straight from your tap.

R J S C B D

STAND(S): A68A,A68B

SECTOR: health_fitness

Studio Paloma is a group of artists who paints with various techniques and motifs, from figurative oil paintings to acrylic abstract. We will exhibit around 100 paintings.

Paloma Art Studio (Solveig Rosland)

STAND(S): 2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A,C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Unspecified

Paloma Art Studio (Unni Rosland)

STAND(S): 2B,C3A,C3B,C4A,C4B, C5A, C5B,C6A.C6B,C7A,C8A, C8B,C9A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Paula Brito Escudero

STAND(S): C32A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Productos Españoles con todos los registros sanitarios.

Para la Salud, bien estar, perdida de peso y gran negocio de network marketing para ganar un buen sueldo

P LAN ET SOUVLAK I

STAND(S): OUTSIDE

SECTOR: Food & Drink

Greek Street Food, wraps and boxes.

PROTAL LOG I STICA I NTE RNATIONAL, S.L.

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Unspecified

Protectora SAT Animal Rescue

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit At Protectora SAT Animal Rescue we rescue, care for and rehome stray and abandoned dogs. We are funded entirely from donations and income from our shops.

Renata Irena Byczkowska

STAND(S): A63A,A63B,A63C

RJS CBD delivers award-winning CBD oils and balms that support pain relief, sleep, and wellbeing, offering trusted quality, global shipping, and personalised guidance for customers seeking effective wellness solutions.

R K Playa Flamenca

STAND(S): A68C,A69A

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

RK Playa Flamenca, real estate agency in Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja. We stand for owners, putting people before properties, delivering honest advice, clear strategy and a close service that drives

Rojales Pantomime Group

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit We are a vibrant community of local performers, passionate about bringing the magic of theatre to our stage. Join us today!!

Ronnie Nordins Marockanska Keramik & Medelhavsvaxter

STAND(S): C22A,C22B,C23A,C23B,C24A, C24B,C25A, C25B,C26A,C26B,C27A, C27B,C28A

SECTOR: Unspecified

ROSA M E DITE R RAN E AN HOU S E S

STAND(S): A12A,A12B,A12C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Rosa Mediterranean Houses your real estate agency since 1989. We speak your language.

Rose y Maya

STAND(S): A15C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Rose y Maya provides professional rental management on the Costa Blanca, helping property owners maximize income, reduce stress, and offer guests a high-quality, seamless stay experience.

Royal British Legion Spain (Orihuela- Costa Branch)

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

Royal British legion, Spain District North, Welfare Team

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

The Royal British Legion provides lifelong support for the Armed Forces community - serving men and women, veterans, their families and beneficiaries. In 96 Countries around the world.

Royal Naval Association

Torrevieja

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

We are a non profit Military Social Club, who also raise money for local charities.

Samaritans in Spain

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Samaritans in Spain provides confidential emotional support to all English speakers residing in Spain who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair via FREEPHONE 900 525 100.

Sandra's Soul Cave STAND(S): B36A,B36B

SECTOR: Retail & E-commerce

Quality crystals of all shapes and sizes, along with other spiritual items and divination tools. Available for guidance and to answer your spiritual questions.

SCANDIC LEGAL SERVICE SL

STAND(S): A40A,A40B

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

Your law firm in Torrevieja with more than 20 years of service to Scandinavians.

Scandinavianbeds.com

STAND(S): A81C,A81D,A81E

SECTOR: home_improvements

Jensen beds combine Scandinavian design, advanced spring systems and sustainable materials to offer maximum comfort, personalized support and high quality rest.

Scottish Roberto STAND(S): A71C

SECTOR: media_agency

We help local businesses with their social media and online presence. We will help your business shine online and reach new heights.

Seagate Wealth Management STAND(S): A70C,A71A,A71B

SECTOR: Legal & Fiscal Services

At Seagate Wealth Management, we all come to work every day to help Expats make the most of their finances.

S E N S E X

STAND(S): C21A,C21B

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

SENSEX is the personal brand of Cristina Henarejos Carmona, a sexologist specialized in Sexual Education and Female Sexual Empowerment.

Sia Ollivija STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Unspecified

Siesta Green Energy STAND(S): A46A,A46B

SECTOR: Solar & Renewable Energy

Siesta Energy is an independent energy company based in La Zenia. It offers an alternative to the large, traditional electricity companies.

Simply Doors and Windows STAND(S): A14BC,A15AB

SECTOR: home_improvements

Your uPVC specialist with 40 years experience, installing in Spain since 2003. All contracts are installed to the highest standard and come with a 10 year warranty

Six Oaks Properties STAND(S): A7A,A7B

SECTOR: Unspecified

Six Oaks Properties guides international clients to their ideal home in Spain. From the Costa Blanca to Costa Calida, we combine local knowledge, personal service, and a smooth, buying experience.

Skandinavisk Noticias S.L. STAND(S): A32B

SECTOR: Media & Publishing

Our Scandinavian paper Vikingposten has been on Costa Blanca 26 years. We deliver the paper every second week through more than 150 places from Altea in the north to La Manga in the south. On our website (spaniaavisen.no) you can keep yourself updated 24 hrs a day with news from all over Spain

S MARTLI M automatic blind cleaner 5en 1

STAND(S): B32AB

SECTOR: Home & Garden

SMARTLIM cleans blinds in under 3 seconds, over 700 times yearly, with zero effort or risk. It transforms the dirtiest area into the cleanest while improving insulation.

Spain Walking International Football Teams S L STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

Spanish Riviera Homes STAND(S): ENTRANCE

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Spanish Riviera Homes launched as a family business in 2004 and has since grown from strength to strength. We are Spanish property experts on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida.

Stone Valley

STAND(S): B31A,B31B

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

Welcome to Stone Valley, your magic place to find Stones & Crystals, for healing, decoration, feel good and fun, and all kinds of Bohemian things to make your life beautiful!

Stroopwafels Holanda

STAND(S): OUTSIDE

SECTOR: Food & Drink

Freshly baked Dutch stroopwafels with warm caramel filling. Made on-site and impossible to resist. A sweet experience visitors will smell, taste and remember.

Studio32

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & NonProfit

fresh (unlike other similar brands), suitable for the whole family and all skin types. Stop by there!

The Property Group International STAND(S): A38C,A39A, A39B,A39C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

International real estate specialists in Spain offering apartments, villas, investments and commercial property, with full support including legal, finance, relocation and after-sales services for overseas buyers and investors.

The Smith Collection STAND(S): C35A,C35B

SECTOR: Home & Garden

The Smith Collection is a collection of original drawings and paintings. It is presented by Stephen Smith, a Scottish artist and resident of La Manga del Mar Menor.

Time's Kebab & Pizzeria

STAND(S): OUTSIDE

Studio32 is the Costa Blanca's Premier Musical Theatre Company. Established in 2013, we collaborate to produce the world's top musicals in their original language, English. All details on Facebook.

Sverre Henrik Bautz

STAND(S): C1A,C1B,C2A

SECTOR: Art / Artesano

We paint using oil an acrylic

SWE A Costa Blanca

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity & Non-Profit

TAK EC H I PAN DP I N.COM LI M ITE D STAND(S): A22A

SECTOR:

Financial Services & Wealth Management

Takechipandpin.com provides card payment solutions, offering wireless terminals and competitive transaction rates.

It helps businesses accept secure payments, reduce fees, and manage transactions efficiently with flexible, user-friendly services

TB Varahaldus OU STAND(S): OUTSIDE SECTOR: Unspecified

Teresa Jiminez Ringana Partner STAND(S): B33A,B33B

SECTOR: Health & Beauty

Hoping you'll discover a vegan brand, free of toxins and additives,

SECTOR: Food & Drink

Torrevieja Makelaar

STAND(S): A61A,A61B

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

We are Dutch/Spanish real estate agents with over 28 years of experience and sell throughout the provinces of Alicante and Murcia.

Torrevieja Vision slu (Intervision Expert)

STAND(S): A37A,A37B

SECTOR: Retail & Ecommerce

UC RAN IANOS DE TOR R EVI E JA

(Natalia Zhezhnyavska)

STAND(S): ZONE B

SECTOR: Charity

V-Ride

STAND(S): A22BC

SECTOR: leisure_tourism

V-Ride is a video game that lets you enjoy an immersive Virtual Reality experience. Cutting-edge entertainment with real sportsmovement simulation based on equestrian sports and a fully immersive multisensory system.

Valentyna Grechko

STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: health_fitness

Viajes Yasikar

STAND(S): A25ABC

SECTOR: Tourism & Travel

Yasikar Travel is an agency specialized in cruises and custom trips, designing unique experiences for travelers seeking to discover the world with personalized attention.

VIQU E Z Guitars

STAND(S):

C10A,C10B,C11A,C11B

SECTOR: Artesania, fabricacion de guitarras

Handcrafted guitar making

Vivee Real Estate

STAND(S):

A59A,A59B,A59C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Choosing a property in Spain shouldn’t be complicated. Vivee Real Estate simplifies the process with clear selection, real support and decisions made with confidence from the very beginning.

Viviana Coromoto Perez Vanegas STAND(S):

C32B,C33A,C33B

SECTOR: Unspecified

VSTEC H

STAND(S):

A77A,A77B,A77C

SECTOR: Solar & Renewable Energy

VSTech is the expert company in Solar Energy (panels, EV chargers), HVAC, and Security Systems (alarms and video surveillance) for homes and businesses.

WOW-Estates

STAND(S): A29ABC

SECTOR: Unspecified

WOW-Estates helps international clients find their dream property on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida with honest advice, local expertise and full guidance from A to Z.

XeroStream STAND(S): A3A

SECTOR: Retail & E-commerce

A business opportunity with a UK company bringing Water from Air Technology into every home. Using advanced nano-filtration, XEROSTREAM creates exceptionally pure, mineralised water—free from contaminants and inspired by nature.

Yahuah Apparel of Believers STAND(S): TBC

SECTOR: Retail & E-commerce

My designs serve as a reminder of God’s love and grace. It’s more than fash-

ion; it’s about spreading hope, love, and the message of salvation. May your God bless

Yayueli's Academy STAND(S): B28BSECTOR: Education & Training

Yayueli's Academy is a language-focused academy offering Spanish for foreigners, English, and German, alongside academic support, revision classes, and exam preparation in a supportive and motivating learning environment.

YOU R N EW HOM E S PAI N STAND(S): A78A, A78B,A78C

SECTOR: Real Estate (Sales & Rentals)

Your New Home Spain provides personalised, professional advice, guiding every client through each step of the buying or selling process with expertise and care for a smooth property journey.

Zipper Boots STAND(S): A53A

SECTOR: Unspecified Zipper-boots es una marca española de calzado creada por las hermanas Estefania y Alejandra Hernandez. Diseñamos botas convertibles en botin, combinando diseño, calidad y versatilidad para mujeres que buscan estilo y originalidad.