Gran Alacant Advertiser March 2024

MAKE YOUR HOUSE THE COOLEST PLACE

MAKE YOUR HOUSE THE COOLEST PLACE

Gran Alacant Advertiser continues to bring you all the local NEWS including information from the local Town Hall representative. Working for the local community since May 2005.

If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please email on info@granalacantadvertiser.com

Q: Disabled Access on MASA Square

Hi Lou, A few month’s ago I complained about lack of disability access to MASA Square. In November, you and I had a meeting with Asun, the lawyer at Gestidem located in MASA square. The three of us examined the square and came up with two possible solutions.

We have arrived back in GA in February I am delighted to see the blue parking and access at Masa square. I have thanked Asun personally and would like to thank you for your assistance. I cannot express how much this will help accessing all the great facilities in the square.

Again many thanks to all of you who have made this possible. Best regards, Jan

Q: Vegetable Stalls

We have a house near the old market site, which is now being used for the temporary

school. We do not have a car, which makes the visit to the new market a lengthy and inconvenient trip.

Would it not be possible to allow a small number of fruit and vegetables stalls to pitch on the Sunday second hand market? There seems to be plenty of room and it would greatly increase the convenience of people living at the top of Gran Alacant?

Perhaps you could pass this on to the council please.

Regards, Ian Dickinson

Oscar Valenzuela's Reply:

Thank you for your question. The Sunday market is only authorised for second hand sales at this time.

Q: Bus

I have been living in Gran Alacant now for 10 months and I am really enjoying my time here.

I was wondering if there are any plans to run the number 15 bus any later in the day. I think the last bus leaves the commercial centre at 1.20pm. Regards, Owen

Oscar Valenzuela's Reply:

We can ask Vectalia about this at our next meeting, however please be aware a private company operates the bus service and the timetables are their responsibility.

Q: Exit at Novamar

Hi Lou, Again, I must ask you to remind Oscar about the very dangerous exit from Novamar III, between the roundabout and the school. The pedestrian crossing close to the roundabout is also dangerous. A few months ago, Oscar stated that they needed

Oscar Valenzuela Councillor of Gran Alacant & Education

Borja Merino Councillor of Gran Alacant, Tourism, Health & Animal Welfare

a new budget to install the potentially lifesaving speed bumps that I asked for. Well, it is a new year now, and it cannot really cost very much. Are there any plans?

Best regards, and thanks for your useful magazine!

Rune

Oscar Valenzuela's Reply:

We have plans to introduce more speed bumps in GA. We are waiting for the new budget to be finalised.

LARGE ITEMS COLLECTIONS

Tuesdays and Thursdays ONLY.

Please Whatsapp only this number any day of the week to let them know the name of the street you are leaving your large items on.

This would help to make the service more efficient and keep our Gran Alacant nice and tidy.

Q: Dog Mess

Dear Oscar and Borja, Having read your reply to the complaint about the increasing problem of dog mess, I felt compelled to respond.

You say Police Surveillance has increased and the cleaning service reinforced but nothing is improving. In fact, the situation is getting worse. Lack of rain means the streets and Sierra areas are not being cleaned.

Some of the worst areas are the Clot de Galvany, Gabe Market and Aldi, the paths surrounding the Post Office and the pathway directly behind the urbanisation of Monte Faro.

If you look at the worst areas, they surround urbanised areas where residents live. Many times, it is the residents of these urbanisations taking their pets out first thing in the morning and at night. I live on Monte Faro urbanisation and witness this every day. I have offered bags to dog owners and have been told, very rudely, to "go away". The sad fact is some dog owners do not care. Just as long as the mess is not outside their house!

Could the council look into employing a Dog Wardens to give out on the spot fines. After a couple of fines, I am sure most irresponsible dog owners would start investing in some poo bags!

More bins around the most common dog walking areas would help, although this would mean the Cleaning Service might have to walk onto the Sierra to empty them. Kind regards, S.R.

Oscar Valenzuela's Reply:

With the new police station in GA, more security cameras and more presence in GA we are hoping to see improvement with this unneighbourly problem.

Q: Landscaping at the entrance to GA Hi Lou

In the last issue of the GA Advertiser, the councillors were talking about damage to the new landscaping at the entrance to GA. We use the pedestrian crossing where the bus stops are. We also use the crossing nearest to the roundabout on the exit road towards Consum and Lidl. It can often be SAFER to use the routes where the new landscaping is because there is better sight of speeding traffic.

Three cars have smashed into the barriers on either side of the exit road from GA since mid-December. One such incident was whilst children were being collected by the school bus. This is because cars exit the roundabout at such speed that they cannot, or will not; stop if people are already on the crossing. Likewise, on the approach to GA, there have been instances where people who are not even at the bump decide they can try to beat the pedestrian who is already actively crossing.

On the entry to the roundabout from Consum and Lidl, drivers do not consider pedestrians who are crossing as they are looking over their left shoulder to try to exit without slowing or stopping for the crossing.

Whilst using the crossings every day, I have issues each week where drivers speed up when I am pushing my baby in his pushchair, and have my young daughter walking alongside me. It is no wonder people choose to cross at a place that they feel is safer, regardless of how much time they can save by walking to the crossing from the park area.

Can someone please address traffic safety at these crossings? The close proximity to the roundabout, and poor visibility, means it is just a matter of time before there is a serious incident. Kind regards, Andy

Oscar Valenzuela's Reply:

We have talked about this with the local police a number of times. It was felt that to move the zebra crossing further along the road would be even more dangerous. With the opening of the new police station,

new security cameras have been installed. These will monitor the roundabout and issue fines to all vehicles going over the speed limit. We hope this will make the zebra crossing much safer for everybody.

YOUR LATEST LOCAL GRAN ALACANT NEWS

LOCAL POLICE STATION

The grand opening of Gran Alacant Police Station took place on Sunday 18 February. The new facility is located in the heart of GA between the access road from the main N332 and the shopping centre.

The opening ceremony was for all residents to learn more about the work of our local police officers and discover the latest resources to improve safety and security in the area. Local police demonstrated the latest technological resources such as the drone, intelligent video surveillance cameras and a new application for mobile devices that will make it easier for residents to notify police in an emergency.

NEW POLICE APP

Can you imagine that you no longer have to call the police by phone when you have an emergency?

Imagine that with just the press of a button on your mobile phone the local police will receive your notice immediately along with your geolocated location.

BENEFITS QUICK NO WAITING IMMEDIATE RESPONSE

HOW TO USE

1. Download the app: EUROCOP MYALERT

2. Register your details.

3. Local Police will check your data and authorise its use.

4. When you need your local police, you will only have to press the alert app button and you will immediately connect with the police with your geolocation, which will facilitate the immediate arrival of the agents.

Thank you Stella for sending your picture from Rome!

GA NEIGHBOURHOOD

ASSOCIATION

Mayor Loreto Serrano and Jose Luis Gil, President of the GA Neighbourhood Association, signed an agreement whereby the City Council grants the association the use of premises for their meetings.

Borja Merino and Óscar Valenzuela, Councillors of Gran Alacant, believe this move will help to promote neighbourhood participation in the future decisions and projects that the City Council has. It represents progress and another example of the commitment that the City Council has with the neighbourhood.

Councillor for Markets, Joaquín Lozano said, “The Neighbourhood Association requested the use of a municipal facility. By moving the market to the current location on Creta Street, those facilities were left available and the first option of this council was to give it to the Neighbourhood Association so that they have a space where they can meet and carry out their activities.”

PLANS FOR SKYWALK & LIGHTHOUSE

Santa Pola City Council held an event to present a new master plan for the costal facade of Cabo de Santa Pola. The study carried out by the University of Alicante suggests routes which will maximise the enjoyment of this natural environment both on foot and by bicycle.

The Deputy Mayor, José Pedro Martínez, and the Councillor for Tourism Borja Merino led the event. Martínez explained, "We present this study carried out by the University of Alicante in the form of a master plan. The objective is to improve the use and enjoyment of the coastal facade of Cabo de Santa Pola. This is a unique environment with great natural and

ecological value. The only specimen of fossil coral reef in Europe and a symbol of our local identity”.

The Sierra de Santa Pola is a cliff formation that rises 144 metres above sea level to the north of the town centre. In its foothills is the cape that marks the end point of the bay of Alicante and the beginning of the bay of Santa Pola. At its highest point is the Atalayola Watchtower, which houses the current lighthouse.

"In its upper area, Cabo de Santa Pola is already one of the most visited points on the Costa Blanca thanks to the viewpoint suspended over the cliff that offers incredible views of the Mediterranean with views of the island of Tabarca. Our intention is to continue moving forward with the improvement of accessibility on its coastal façade with the creation of new pedestrian and cycling routes," added Martínez.

Cape Santa Pola is a unique example in Europe of a fossil coral reef from the Messinian era, formed mainly by the remains of corals of the genus porites, stromatolites and halemed algae. Cape Santa Pola is considered to be one of the SIX MOST SPECTACULAR Capes in the province of Alicante.

GA ADVERTISER WINS AN AWARD

The GA Advertiser received a Certificate of Appreciation from The Royal British Legion. Paul Kane, Chairman presented the award

to Lou, Editor for “unfailing support to the Legion’s activities and their outstanding support to The Branch.”

Huge congratulations to Paul Kane who has been Chairman of The Gran Alacant and La Marina Royal British Legion for the past 4 years. Paul has now been elected to the post of Chairman of Spain District North.

Spain District North is here to administer and support the delivery of welfare services plus the membership and fundraising activities of RBL's 15 branches throughout Northern Spain.

District North Spain's area of responsibility runs from the French border in the North to Roquetas de Mar, Almeria in the South, including the Balearic islands. Most of our Branches are predominantly based along "the Costas" between Valencia and Almeria.

The vision Paul has for the district is to raise membership and ensure RBL are providing for the welfare of our beneficiary's throughout Spain North and to be the torch bearers of remembrance. The branch were awarded The Chairman's Bugle for being the best branch in Spain North.

At the monthly meeting, The Pub were also recognised for their amazing support with a Certificate of Appreciation.

Spain District North - RBL Annual Conference

Inspiring Stories

NEW TO 2024 CUSTOMER REVIEWS

If you have any POSITIVE feedback about any of our ADVERTISERS we would love to hear them. The BEST one(s) will be selected for this page and the rest will be posted to the GA Advertiser social media pages.

ALICANTE HOLIDAY VILLAS

“Fantastic company to deal with. Never had a problem. I would highly recommend.”

- Alan Greenough

REIKI ROOM

"Love getting a massage and facial from Jackie Canale. Highly recommend Jackie's services. I am literally glowing now!"

- Angela Brookes

GA FAMILY DOCTORS

Ants & Kees, a retired couple from Eindhoven, Holland, were spotted walking along Avenida Mediterraneo carefully picking up rubbish along the way. Currently visiting Gran Alacant for a short 2 month holiday, they decided to go out and clean the area they had seen littered with trash.

In a chance encounter with Lou (the owner of Gran Alacant Advertiser), the couple explained that in Holland, schools would organise for children to clean public spaces occasionally and that by going out to pick up litter, they hope to inspire others do the same and look after their environment.

“I received excellent care in this Clinic. I was very sick and I was seen to straight away. Dr. Soraya and Mata were very friendly, professional and welcoming. I did not have to wait long to be seen to in the Clinic and the home visit was immediate too. I will be going to this clinic from now on. Thank you.

- Neil

The couple explained, "We do this because we think it is much nicer and for Spain, because we care about the people and the country. It would be a good idea if this is done by more people, for example through a Facebook group or App."

Thank you Ants and Kees, we hope you have a safe journey back to Holland!

If you would like to supply news or info for our next edition, or have a question for our Gran Alacant Councillors, please email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

Going Solar

Installing solar power in your home or business is a big decision for most people. Information can be overwhelming and complicated to understand. At GA Customer Services, we pride ourselves in helping our customers make informed decisions about their home and business services. Here is some useful information about solar power that answers many of your FAQs.

Who can have solar panels in Spain? If yo u own your own roof or outside space where your solar panels will be placed you can generate your own electricity with solar panels in Spain. If you live in a community you may need to get the permission from the community first.

How do photovoltaic panels work? Each solar PV panel is made up of photovoltaic cells. When the sunlight hits the cells, electrons are knocked loose. Those loose electrons then flow , creating a current and the current is captured and transferred to your distribution board via an inverter.

Will I still need to pay an electricity bill? Your solar panels will only generate electricity during daylight hours, so during the night you will need to draw electricity from the National Grid. However, your electricity bill will be only be a fraction of what you would be paying without solar pane ls. If you want to go completely ‘offgrid’ you can install a battery to store the electricity you generate throughout the day, for use during the night.

Do solar panels need a lot of maintenance? They require very little maintenance, just periodic light cleaning to remove dirt, leaves and other debris that could block the sun’s rays.

Should I have a battery with my solar installation? If you consume a lot of electricity during evening and night-time hours, a solar battery could be a good option for you. With a solar battery you can store up the electricity your solar panels produce during the day, for use during the evening and night, when your solar panels are not producing electricity.

What is an inverter? It works by taking the 'DC' output from your solar panels and transforms it into 'AC' output. The appliances in your home run on AC, not DC, which is why the solar inverter must change the DC output that is collected by your solar panels. If you would like to add batteries later, you will need a hy brid inverter.

How long does it take to cover the initial investment? Depending on the amount of panels installed, anything from about 3 to 6 years.

If you would like more information or are interested in a free quote, get in touch and we will be happy to help.

SERVICES AVAILABLE: Initial proposal and quote based on your individual needs and circumstances. (Each client is different). Installation within a month with the company’s own installers. (Much better than sub-contracting out). Installation in a day. App for monitoring solar power usage. Virtual wallet to use extra energy you don’t use. 15-25 years guarantee.

PRODUCTS WE OFFER: Solar panels and equipment. EV Car Chargers, Outdoor solar pool heaters.

GA Customer Services

For more information

Jaime:

613 673 474

granalacantcustomerservices@gmail.com

Don’t forget we also offer: alarm systems, electricity and gas contracts, traffic office work and much more.

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix, The Belfry, La Piedra, Skippers, Santara Resort, The Reiki Room

JOAN & CHRIS HARDING DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Saturday 20th January

What a wonderful afternoon we had at La Piedra celebrating Joan and Chris’s 60th wedding anniversary. They first met at junior school, wow what a lovely achievement!! The food was as usual delicious, the drinks flowed and the company was great, we hope Joan and Chris enjoyed the afternoon as much as we all did. We organised a collection for Joan and Chris for their anniversary which they have used towards a trip to Galicia.

CHICKEN RUN

Sunday 28th January

The monthly chicken run was well supported by twenty eight members so we played four rinks of trips and one rink of pairs. The chickens were won by Diane Horsington with twenty three shots and Ian Hamilton with twenty seven shots. David Eades and a new member Megane Goreleone won the eggs. Thank you to Jean and Rod Chamberlain who donated the chickens and Ian and Julia Hamilton with the help of the chickens who donated the eggs. Thanks to Howie, Sue and Joan for organising another successful club day. The football card was won by Barry Watson with Portsmouth.

MATADORS

Since our last report the Matadors have had a very successful month, both at home and away. These great results mean we have extended our lead at the top of the league.

Well done to everyone who have taken part in the matches and keep up the good work for the remaining games of the season in both leagues.

INTERNAL COMPETITIONS

The Internal competitions are going well. Ladies and men’s pairs final has been played Diane Horsington and Cindy Bedford won the ladies, David Eades and Phil Goble won the mens, well done to all.

The ladies and men’s singles final will take place on Saturday 2nd March followed by the presentations and Buffett at the Belfry.

FUN DAY (Just

a reminder)

Saturday 9th March

No need to be a bowler come along and try your luck at the above event and have some fun. There will be six different challenges in each round. Help and advice will be available, as well as shoes and bowls

It will be two euros per round or three rounds for five euro. No restrictions on the number of rounds you can play.

Come along any time between 10.00am and 12am.

The South Alicante Winter League – B Division (Monday)

Win 10 – 2 against Emerald Isle Neptune (away).

Win 8 – 4 against Vistabella Drivers (away).

Lost 4 – 8 against San Miguel Oras (home).

Lost 4 – 8 against El Rancho Raiders (away). Played under very windy conditions.

The LLB Southern League – C Division (Friday)

Win 10 – 2 against Country Bowls Cubs (home).

Win 8 – 4 against Emerald Isle Outlaws (away).

Win 12 – 0 against San Miguel Cherokees (home).

Win 12 – 0 against Vistabella Conquistadors (away).

MASA SQUARE

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN APERITIVO

15€ P.P.

served with one drink included Aperol Spritz, Martini, Bellini, Chianti, Pinot Grigio or Beer

Breakfast from 9:30

Lunch from 13:00

March 10th from 13:30

Cava on arrival

Creamy Mushroom Bruschetta or Mussels with tomato & black pepper

Argentinian Fillet Steak with balsamic reduction or Lamb with garlic & rosemary both served with Hassle back potatoes

Torta Della Nonna (Apple cake) Fresh strawberries & crushed Meringue Ice cream

Gift for a mother included

Book of the month by Beth

An unusual, fascinating and beautifully written story

My Recommended Book of the Month

The Lost Bookshop

By Evie Woods

On a quiet street in Dublin a lost bookshop is waiting to be found...

For too long OPALINE, MARTHA AND HENRY have been the side characters in their own lives.

But when a vanishing bookshop casts its spell, these three unsuspecting strangers will discover that their own stories are every bit as extraordinary and intertwined as the ones found in their beloved books. And by unlocking the secrets of the shelves, they find themselves transported to a world of wonder….where nothing is as it seems.

This is a love story with books and booklovers at its heart. I found it quite spellbinding and magical. It was an ode to storytelling and the connections that books and words can make to us all.

Beth worked as a Qualified Librarian in Aberdeen for 20 years. She loves reading and delights in finding exciting new authors as well as reverting back to favourite writers of all genres. Beth has lived in Gran Alacant for the last 15 years.

JOIN OUR CLUB

Wednesday 27th March at 2pm, Skipper Bar MASA Square

We meet up once a month, discuss the books we are reading now and suggest new ones. Anyone interested in joining us or looking for more information

please contact

Beth on Whatsapp

+44 7853 363060

MASA SQUARE

Barry and Sandra, former owners and founders of GA Advertiser, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in February.

+34 966 697 779

fionaedwards@victoria.es

www.victoria.es

Av. Escandinavia 72

C.C. Altomar II L.10 03130

Gran Alacant Santa Pola

VICTORIA ESTATE AGENT

Real Estate, Long Term Rentals, Car Rental, Notary Mgt, Non-resident Mgt, Translations, Bank Mgt, Legal Advice, Insurance, Key Holding

EXPERTISE

Our speciality is the legal aspect of buying and selling your property.

ADVERTISE WITH US

If you are a business owner and would like to be interviewed, contact us on: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

BUSINESS INTERVIEW

ABOUT VICTORIA ESTATE AGENT

Victoria was the first real estate business in Gran Alacant established over 40 years ago in 1982 and the first estate agent to bring British and Scandinavian clients to Gran Alacant. As well as offering support and advice throughout the whole process of buying and selling your home, they also offer a host of additional services such as notarial procedures, inheritances, donations, wills, powers of attorney, non-residents advice, translations, key holding and insurance. Their speciality is the legal aspect of buying and selling.

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT VICTORIA ESTATE AGENT

“We are a family run business. Our clients are at the heart of what we do. Our main goal is to ensure that everyone is treated professionally and with care from the first moment that they contact our office.

Buying or selling a property is stressful; doing it in a foreign country is even more stressful. We want to take as much of that stress away from our clients as we possibly can. I want our clients to feel safe in the knowledge that we will look after their best interests from start to finish.”

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE

“I worked in Marks and Spencer and lived right in the heart of Cardiff in Cardiff Castle. My grandparents were Housekeepers, my parents were the Custodians of Cardiff Castle and I was very fortunate to live there for many years before we moved to Spain. My father gave the Royal Family guided tours of the Castle and the late Pope John Paul II took a nap in my bed. I am very proud of my home city. In 1995 I took the Mayor of Santa Pola and his family to visit the Castle and to be received by the Lord Mayor of Cardiff in the City Hall.”

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START THIS BUSINESS

“My parents retired and decided to invest their life savings in a property in Marbella after my Dad was diagnosed with emphysema. Sadly, they were ripped off and lost most of their money. I would not want anyone to go through the same heartache and stress that my parents did so that is the reason we started our own Estate Agency business.”

MEET THE TEAM

Fiona - Founder Management Administration

Jose Luis - Founder Commercial Director

Piedad - Secretary

Natasha - Receptionist

Anastasia – Broker

Carlos – Broker

WHY NAME YOUR BUSINESS VICTORIA

“We wanted a name that was easy to pronounce for all nationalities. The name Victoria is also very traditional, regal and reminds me of home.”

WHY GRAN ALACANT

“We first opened an office in Gran Alacant below the apartments then we moved to the office we are in now. In 2007 we closed the office in Santa Pola and all moved to Gran Alacant. We knew Gran Alacant would be the future of Santa Pola. I have seen many changes here since first moving here all those years ago and I look forward to seeing Gran Alacant continue grow.“

BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB

“Meeting new people and seeing my clients come back year after year. We still have clients from when we started 42 years ago.

I love the team we have here at Victoria. My husband Jose Luis designed our beautiful office. Piedad has been with us for 22 years. Piedad and Anastasia are like family to us. Natasha our daughter is marrying Carlos in June this year and our builder associates who have become friends are hosting the wedding reception in a beautiful finca in Murcia, Rincón Huertano.“

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF YOUR JOB

“Dealing with the Spanish authorities can be challenging. The harder they make it, the more determined I get. Brexit has also added a new set of challenges to the equation.

Our motto is ‘if there’s a problem there is a solution’. For every set of challenges, we will find a way to make it work.”

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME

“For the first 10 years, I never took a day off work. I was determined to establish and build up the business. Now I take the weekends off and enjoy spending time reading, walking, listening to music and spending quality time with family and friends.

On Sundays I spend time with my Mum who recently turned 90 and is sharp as a tack. She lives in Santa Pola and I am helping her write the memoirs of her life living in Cardiff Castle.”

Cardiff Castle

YOU HAVE A GREAT REPUTATION

“We always try to help people and do things properly. The wellbeing of our clients is important to us and I suppose if you work like this then it pays off.

We like to give our clients that extra bit of care and attention, for them to know that we will do our best for them.

We have worked hard to build up a good reputation and a great client base and we are grateful they keep coming back to us year after year.”

CROWN S490

BARON S590

Why Choose Us to Sell Your Home?

FAST-TRACK THE SALE OF YOUR PROPERTY WHEN YOU SIGN WITH US AS A SOLE AGENT

Official valuation of your property as an API-registered agent since 2007

Trust in us as your sole agent - have 1% off our fees

Minimum 6 months with us - no extension

Conveyancing & notary - NO EXTRA COST

SHOWCASE YOUR PROPERTY AT ITS BEST

Professional photos of your property

Full video of the urbanisation together with your property

Includes 360 virtual tour of your property

WITH EXTENSIVE ONLINE PROMOTION TO FIND YOUR BUYER

Advertising your property on the most important Spanish websites

Video of your property on our website plus all of our social media platforms

PLUS

We advertise your property in our display window

a

QR code on the front of your house

est

8 th Anniversary at Zest

1 st Anniversary atLa Mala Uva de Juli

THE NORWEGIAN CLUB - GRAN ALACANT

TRIP TO JALON/TARBENA: SHOPPING AND SIGHTSEEING IN JALON

• Steep mountain roads with death defying cyclists

• Beautiful view at Coll de Rates

• Tarbena and a few almond trees blossoming

• Restaurante Sa Cantarella; views towards Benidorm, good atmosphere and very good food

TRIP TO BODEGA BOCOPA ALICANTE

THE NEW KITCHEN AND OFFICIAL OPENING

25 JANUARY

Beautiful weather and good to see so many club members at the opening enjoying themselves.

The new kitchen is bright, open and airy. We have chosen a good quality kitchen with practical solutions.

Thank you Harald, Inger Frank and Reny for a well executed project.

JOIN OUR EXCITING TRIPS PLANNED FOR 2024

For updates on our upcoming trips follow our Facebook page

12th - 14th March 3 DAY

BACKGROUND

Wednesday 3rd April

The Norwegian Club is located in the Sierra Mar Urbanisation of Gran Alacant and operates from September through to May. The club was established in 1999. We (our members) bought the property in Sierra Mar in 2001. We are a voluntary organisation with no employees.

TODAY

Today we have around 500 members. Most of our members are Norwegians with a few Swedish members. Here you can meet old friends and make new ones.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

The club runs many social activities.

Spanish Classes

Spanish classes started in October and runs 4 times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 10-11.45am.

Wine Lottery

Every Thursday from 12-3pm, we organise an extremely popular wine lottery. We recently had a record number of 165 members to turn up for this event.

Funds raised from the wine lottery goes towards building maintenance and other charitable activities.

Friday Activities

We are open on Friday from 12-2pm for coffee and then again from 8-11pm for social gatherings.

Other activities include; bridge club, painting club, day coach trips, walking tours and evening parties.

HELPING OUR MEMBERS

We aim to help our members as much as we can. If anyone gets sick or needs help translating in Spanish, we are there for them. We also hire out children’s equipment over the summer months for our members.

For more information, please check out our website and Facebook page.

DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant

Photos Inger Guslå and Reny Eigildatter

NEW!

W e b e l i e v e i n s i m p l e r e c i p e s , w h a t ’ s m o s t i m p o r t a n t i s f r e s h , g o o d q u a l i t y i n g r e d i e n t s .

P

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O p e n i n g h o u r s :

M o n d a y t o S a t u r d a y | 1 7 : 3 0 - 2 3 : 0 0

S u n d a y | C l o s e d

( + 3 4 ) 6 7 6 4 5 7 5 2 9

Home Turf

Follow us on Instagram: juanruano.oficial & archiemaddan

LOS CERROS DE ÚBEDA: A WANDER THROUGH SPAIN´S GOLDEN AGE

Our parents’ golden wedding anniversary offered the opportunity to take the entire family on an adventure into one of the most beautiful yet lesser known southern Spanish cities: Úbeda. Only three and a half hours drive away from Gran Alacant, this small city in Jaén province in Andalucia is best known today for the production of olive oil; however, it is also a UNESCO world heritage site and contains possibly the finest concentration of renaissance buildings anywhere in Iberia.

In the late mediaeval and renaissance period (14th to 16th centuries) the city came to contain literally dozens of noble palaces, often built to the highest standards. The reason why this relatively obscure hilltop city became the focus of so

much aristocratic building is possibly linked to the ebb and flow of the reconquest of the south of Spain by the northern christian kings. Keen to encourage people to move to the newly conquered areas the kings offered generous tax and other legal concessions. These attractive tax breaks attracted wealthy families and seems to have turned late mediaeval Úbeda into a sort of early Monaco. Flush with cash and a desire to display their status these families built a series of magnificent palaces, usually built around a courtyard in the classic iberian style.

This hive of ambition and wealth produced men of ability and drive. In the early 16th century two successive members of one local family rose to the highest level of the Imperial Spanish administration as Secretaries of State for both the Emperor Charles and his son King Phillip 2nd. These two men, Francisco de los Cobos and Juan Vázquez de Molina, had access not only to great wealth but also to the finest artisans and builders in Europe and the city of Úbeda gained buildings of the highest quality rivalling those of renaissance Italy. The Molina family buildings are centred around Vázquez de Molina Square and include the family´s palaces and various religious buildings.

Throughout other parts of the city there are further numerous palaces, churches and convents. The striking feature of these buildings is the quality of their design and craftsmanship with their facades covered in carvings and statues often of classical

inspiration. The narrow streets of the old city are a wonderful place to wander and explore; as fine as anywhere in Spain. The city’s hilltop site also affords breathtaking views over the local landscape which is dominated by the endless fields of olive trees that give the city its contemporary prosperity. There are so many olive trees that this region represents the largest man made forest anywhere in the world, giving rise to the Spanish saying “wander the hills of Ubeda” meaning to wander off of the point.

The time of our visit coincided with the local festival of tuna music groups. Tunas are musical clubs formed of students from different faculties of Spanish universities, similar to the fraternities of American colleges. Dressed in the historical costumes of the Spanish golden age these groups of strolling players entertain the city with their masterful playing and singing; usually combined with much drinking along the way! The tradition of students playing and serenading in public probably dates back to the early 13th century. The weekend we visited Úbeda the city was full of these groups of young (and not so young) graduates of famous Spanish universities bringing the ancient city to life in a unique and time honoured musical fashion. The music (and drinking) continued late into the night. The combination of the beautiful architecture and charming music made the nighttime city an enchanting place to be.

Our accommodation was also fitting, being an old noble town palace with origins in the 13th century, around the time that

the city fell into christian hands. Centred around a galleried courtyard with rooms and gardens leading off in all directions one was transported back in time to an older Spain of dark shadows and bright light glimpsed through archways and shuttered passageways. What a unique experience!

Our weekend in Úbeda passed swiftly and we spent the last day visiting the neighbouring city of Baeza which is also a UNESCO site containing beautiful buildings and streets.

Cities like Seville, Córdoba and Granada take most of the attention of tourists visiting southern Spain. If you want to visit one of the less well known gems of Spain, off the beaten track, we highly recommend Úbeda, a long weekend is sufficient to immerse yourself in the city and travel in time.

Welcome to Can Mimosa, a Mediterranean inspired restaurant and bar, that offers a contemporary menu full of flavours and fresh products.

Enjoy a selection of wines, beers, cocktails and aperitifs on the sunny terrace with beautiful views and sunsets.

I would also like to wholeheartedly thank you for choosing La Paletta Restaurant for the last 11 years, for the continued custom and support, it has been a real pleasure serving you.

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Camila

AVDA.ESCANDINAVIA

Firstly Gran Alacant Singers would like to wish their member Hermann a speedy recovery and we send love and healing wishes to you and Elisabet.

We are a social group who formed over coffee and share a love of singing and music but are not a choir.

We meet every Wednesday at 17.30 in the library at Santara Life Resort to practice and learn many different genres of songs. We do several local performances a year in Gran Alacant raising money for local charities.

The cost is €10 per month which covers the buying of the music and the printing of the lyrics. Enthusiasm is more important than ability so either pop along to see us or join our FB group:

Gran Alacant SIngers

SPECIAL EVENT COMING SOON IN MARCH!

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK/ INSTAGRAM TO FIND OUT MORE

SANTA POLA

CLINICA VETERINARIA

GRAN ALACANT EXOTICS

Calle Holanda 9, MASA Square I T: 966 698 569

Monday - Friday 10:00 -13:00 & 17:00 - 20:00

Saturday 10:00 -13:00

Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793

English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747

ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS

We have read recently at the papers the case of adverse reactions to Nolotil in humans. Some deaths have been reported these last years in people who were on this painkiller. The symptoms consist on a dramatic white blood cells drop (agranulocytosis), and the strange thing is a minimum percentage of these cases were reported in Spaniards. The disappearing of granulocytes, whose role in immunity is critical, implies the individual is unable to fight against any kind of infection, so even a small, banal injury may develop a lethal infection.

For this reason, Nolotil has been forbidden in some countries such as Sweden and UK. Meanwhile, in Spain, Nolotil is the most widely used painkiller, and it’s absolutely necessary for millions of people in order to have a normal, free of pain, life. Why does this happen? Because genetic differences between individuals make some of them sensitive against substances which are totally harmless for other people (or animals).

Logically, in every country, natives share most of their genetic material. This explains, for example, Swedish people are normally blonde and taller than Spanish.

These adverse drug reactions (ADR) appear in animals too. First of all, we have to make a difference between allergic reactions and ADR: for example, is not the same thing being allergic to seafood than having “bad digestions” after eating seafood.

In Veterinary Medicine, breeds peculiarities concerning medicines and diseases are being profusely investigated, and they are a very valuable tool for diagnosis and treatment. It’s absolutely necessary to know very well which are diseases are prone to suffer certain breeds, and which medicines mustn’t be used in certain

breeds and species. The typical example is the antiparasitic medicine (for both internal and external parasites) Ivermectin, which was a real revolution (and still is) when it appeared at the market. It’s an extremely efficient medicine and practically free of side effects in most animals, but in case of Collies and related breeds (Rough Collie, Border Collie, Bearded Collie, Shetland, etc) can be lethal due to a molecular particularity of haematoencephalic barrier in these animals. Of course, there are some labs which offer DNA tests to make sure if an individual has this abnormality at its genoma, but it makes nonsense to perform this expensive test in every Collie. It’s much more logical just not to use this medicine in these breeds. The real problem appear in crossed animals: a dog may look externally like a German Sheperd, but who knows if one of its grandparents was a Collie and transmitted the wrong gene to its grandchild? For this reason, it’s not easy to predict how it’s going to be the effect of a medicine like in a non-pure breed animal.

ADR are always described at the leaflet, and they are classified according frequency of appearing and severity. This ADR will appear even when giving the right dosage, they have nothing to do with overdose or with a wrong way of administration (for example using in an empty stomach a medicine which has to be given with some food, or vice versa).

If you are suspecting an ADR in our pet, you have to report it to the Vet immediately in order to start a pharmacovigilance proceeding. So, making medicines safer is a task of both sanitaries and people who uses them (in case of pets, the owners).

Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán col 793

English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747

LA MARINA

LA MARINA

Gran Alacant’s ELCHE CF SUPPORTERS GROUP

A group of football fans in Gran Alacant have their own Elche CF supporters club to attend home games at the stadium and watch away games in local bars around Gran Alacant.

Home games see the group move around different bars in Gran Alacant as their meeting place, with the usual bars used being Happy’s at the GA Centre while Tommy’s is the regular spot up the hill.

From there, the group, which is primarily made up of 19 season ticket holders who sit together, arranges carsharing to get up to the ground in time for some pre-match beers and food before returning to Gran Alacant afterwards. Travel to the ground is problematic with no easy public transport links. With the group sharing driving duties, they have managed to shift larger groups of fans to games.

Tickets are always easy to come by this season with the club being in the second division. They can be purchased via the club website at www.elchecf.es and there is also the occasional spare ticket available

through the group as well, with a number of new attendees coming along having read this column.

Jornadas in Spain have games all spread out with each match being televised. It is normal for the actual date and time of the match to not be announced until 2 to 5 weeks beforehand.

The home league games in March are against Alcorcón on Monday 4 March at 20:30 and then Albacete on the weekend of 17 March - date and time to be confirmed. After a slow start to the season, Elche are now challenging towards the top of the table.

Find the group on Facebook at ‘Peña Elche CF de Gran Alacant’ ¡Mucho Elche!

GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY

Celebratiion of Life of

Barry Conron

In memory of Barry, cheers to you! A delicious Aperitivo lunch and drinks, shared with your friends in the Gran Alacant Golfing Society today. With love from Anne x

GA MEN’S WALKING FOOTBALLL

With good weather throughout February, the Gran Alacant Walking Football group continued to enjoy the weekly sessions outdoors.

For anyone who wishes to join us at GAWF, we meet every Wednesday on the outdoor astroturf at the Polideportivo (Sports Centre) in Gran Alacant. Kick off is at 12.15pm but please arrive at 12 noon to allow for teams to be picked and a prompt start. Entrance to the facility is via the gate from the car park where the market used to be held.

We remind you that we will continue to share the facility with the school and appreciate your consideration of staff and pupils from the school. Also, we can only use changing room number 3, on the left hand side as you enter the indoor centre.

For members, please keep an eye on the Whatsapp group for upcoming social events. Also, any constructive suggestions are welcome as we move forward.

Remember that there is walking football available every weekday between Gran Alacant and Santa Pola.

For more info please visit our Facebook page Gran Alacant’s Walking Football Community or contact Steve on +34 642 01 05 15

GA WOMEN’S WALKING FOOTBALL

KICKING OFF IN 2024

Shout out to all aspiring Mary Earps, Alexia Putellases, Vanina Correas or Birgit Prinzs – our Womens Walking Football Sessions recommenced on the 29th February, Thursday 11.30hrs at the Polideportivo (Leisure Centre) Gran Alacant.

These sessions provide a great opportunity to meet new friends, maintain or improve fitness and share a laugh or two. We meet

for post session refreshments at Cafeteria

El Tio Chato and join the Mens Walking footballers for a social meet up every month.

We welcome newcomers of all ages and anyone interested can find out more about us on our Facebook page – Gran Alacant’s Walking Football Community.

Sessions take place every Thursday 11.30am on the Astroturf pitch at the Gran Alacant Sports Centre.

2€ per session - first session free. Arrive at 11.20 please for introductions and a prompt start.

For more info please visit our Facebook page Gran Alacant’s Walking Football Community or contact Julie on +44 792 618 7469

GALS (Gran Alacant Ladies)

MARCH UPDATE

GALs kicked off 2024 with lunch at Azafran Indian Restaurant at Masa Square. 37 ladies enjoyed a menu del dia, and our hosts very kindly donated a free lunch, the raffle of which raised of €97. This will be donated to Elche Children’s Care Home.

We raised €39 selling tickets for a voucher for treatment at The Reiki Room, kindly donated by Jackie Canale. Stella Roberts was the lucky winner of the voucher. We were also very kindly donated an original watercolour by artist James Fraser (the husband of member Kath Fraser). Sales for this auction has raised €150, and the lucky winner will be drawn at our next lunch.

Our monthly lunches continue to be very popular with guest lists filling up quickly, we often have a waiting list for our events. We aim to use local restaurants, and spread our events across Gran Alacant. If any restaurants would like to collaborate with us on an event or if any local businesses would like to donate a prize to help us raise money for the Elche Children’s Care Home, please get in touch.

Cookie

This is the gorgeous COOKIE, who is a 6 year old Mastin x She loves her walks and is good on the lead, likes being made a fuss of, lots of cuddles and is very playful.

Can anyone give Cookie her forever home?

Our very popular monthly coffee morning is held at Freiduria Hispania, at the Carabassi strip. Natalie and her family make us very welcome. This is a much more informal meet up, with a relaxed and chatty vibe.

Our weekly walkers take to the trails between Gran Alacant and Santa Pola every Wednesday, taking in well deserved refreshments before taking the bus back to Gran Alacant.

Gals has representation from 10 counties, with ages from 20 to 65+. We are all based or connected to Gran Alacant or its immediate surrounding area. The group forms part of a vital network of friendship and support new members are very welcome. Any ladies wanting to join can visit our Facebook page:

GALs - Gran Alacant Ladies

Our beautiful new puppy was found wandering the streets and is looking for his forever home.

This is BERTIE who is around 6 months old and a Basset cross Labrador breed... he is such a happy boy who loves cuddles and playing with the other dogs and is also good with cats

He is vet checked, fully vaccinated, wormed, and chipped with a passport

Bertie is young enough to learn direction and fit in with any loving home.

If you would like more information or to meet this bundle of fun please contact us!

If you are interested in adoption or would like more info please contact us on:

180

180

League Table Season 2023 / 2024

Most 180’s

Luis (Taberna B) x 3 Peter (Pub A) x 1 Rafa (Tommy´s) x 1

Robert (Taberna B) x 2 Alex (Taberna A) x 1

Ray (Pub A) x 2 Miguel (Taberna A) x 1

Neil (Pub A) x 2 Brett (Turpins B) x 1

Chris (Mileys) x 2 Rafa (Taberna A) x 1

Beni (Redz) x 1 David (Redz) x 1

GA SOCIAL CYCLISTS

Clemen (Taberna A) x 1 Sergio (Mileys) x 1

There is a vibrant group of social cyclists in Gran Alacant who meet up outside of Molly Malones most days of the week at around 10:00am.

We ride hybrid and off road bikes, are of varying ages, fitness levels and both sexes and usually cycle the rural roads and paths around Gran Alacant, Santa Pola and Elche which means 12 – 25 miles per ride.

Fitter, stronger cyclists can opt to take different routes but, we always meet up at a designated stop for a coffee, and importantly, a natter. Sometimes the group is just two cyclists, whilst other times it can be as many as 10-12 and as a testament to the group, in the years we have been meeting, many strong friendships have been formed.

As we don’t all live in Gran Alacant we communicate via a Whatsapp Group so it is best to check on the Whatsapp group who is around and who is going out on any particular day.

If you want to join us please contact us on Whatsapp 00353 / 87 991 6020

Friday 15th March at 10am

You might remember from our January issue of the Gran Alacant Advertiser that we featured an email from one of our readers, Francois, who hoped to inspire others by organising a public beach collection day.

All are welcome to join the beach clean-up - gloves and bin bags will be provided!

GEOFF'S Quiz Quiz SUDOKU

Hi, my name is Geoff and I have been asked by Lou to challenge you every month with a few teasers. I hope you enjoy them.

I first came to GA in 2001 and bought my house in 2002 where I have been a regular visitor ever since. You will see me at the quizzes, or out and about, running or cycling. If you see me come and say hi, or, just give me a cheery hello. I am also a big lover of live music and try to see as many live acts as I can.

1. What is the procedure called where an anaesthetic is injected close to the spinal cord?

2. What poisonous oily liquid occurs naturally in tobacco leaves?

3. Who had his first UK top 10 hit with 'Wichita Lineman'?

4. Which sign of the Zodiac is represented by the Scales?

5. In which country was Rudyard Kipling born?

6. What is the gemstone for September?

7. What instrument has been nicknamed the 'Mississippi Saxophone'?

8. One and a half litres of champagne is known as what?

9. In alphabetical order name the three PARTICLES that make up an atom?

10. What is the common name of the 'Aurora Borealis'?

To solve the puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk

Difficulty Rating: EASY