12 September - 18 September 2023

Ministry rejects plans for three local solar farms

In a signi cant victory for environmental conservationists, the Ministry for Ecological Transition has rejected plans for three solar farms earmarked for development in the local area, adjacent to the protected Sierra Escalona natural park.

Proposals for these sites were initially submitted in 2020 but have faced repeated roadblocks due to “unfavourable environmental impact reports.” The report highlighted that the measures put forth by the companies failed to adequately address the potential damages and did not ensure su cient protection for the environment.

Spanning an expansive 300 hectares of land in the Torremendo area, the three proposed sites had the potential to generate a total of 300 megawatts of power. The Ministry received a total of 14

complaints from concerned individuals and organisations. Environmental groups, such as the Friends of Sierra Escalona, argued vehemently against the developments, contending that the projects would lead to the irreversible loss of valuable farm and forest land, negatively impacting the region’s landscape and biodiversity. The group further emphasised concerns about the unsustainable implementation of renewable energies in the Vega Baja region.

They also raised alarm over the potential uprooting of thousands of almond trees and the clearing of woodland, which would adversely a ect grazing land and disrupt the feeding habitats of protected bird species like the eagle owl and the golden eagle.

While this marks a major victory for

environmental advocates, the companies behind the projects have a month to challenge the decision by submitting an appeal to the Secretary of State for Energy.

Despite this setback, there are nine additional submissions for solar plants in Torremendo awaiting approval by the Ecological Transition Ministry. Moreover, there are over 20 similar proposals throughout the broader Vega Baja region. In June, the Ministry also rejected a proposal for a 12,000-panel solar farm adjacent to Torrevieja’s La Mata lagoon. The project, slated for development on eight hectares near the Los Montesinos roundabout on the CV95, faced opposition from the conservation group Friends of the South Alicante Wetlands. They cautioned that the farm would encroach upon the environmental impact bu er zone for La Mata and Torrevieja Natural Park lakes.

Special needs centre for San Miguel

The Valencian Government has greenlit the establishment of a new Special Education Centre in San Miguel de Salinas, aimed at catering to the educational needs of the southern region of Vega Baja. This move comes in response to a critical report from the Alicante Education Inspectorate, highlighting de ciencies in serving the signi cant population of students with special requirements in the local communities. The report particularly lamented the logistical challenges posed by the need to relocate students to other facilities.

As a result, the creation of a new special education centre in San Miguel de Salinas has been deemed vital. This centre will cater for children from the surrounding areas of Torrevieja,

Pilar de la Horadada, Dehesa de Campoamor, Orihuela Costa, San Miguel de Salinas, Guardamar del Segura, Los Montesinos, Formentera del Segura and Benijófar.

The facility, at 32 Calle Galant Delgado, has been generously provided by the Council under a temporary free transfer agreement. It is due to open its doors in the current academic year (2023-2024), initially o ering three units and accommodating up to 21 students. This will serve as a temporary solution until the construction of the permanent centre, which is expected to feature seven units and cater to an estimated 41 to 57 students.

The centre will also employ four therapeutic pedagogy teachers,

two instructors specialising in hearing and language, a part-time physical education instructor, a parttime music education instructor, a teacher with expertise in educational guidance, and three Special Education instructors. As the centre expands, so will its sta ng levels in tandem with the growing student population. The initiative underscores a crucial step towards enhancing inclusive education and ensuring that students with special needs receive the support and resources they require to thrive academically and personally. The Valencian Consell’s commitment to addressing the educational disparities in the southern region of Vega Baja is evident through this strategic move.

Children involved in two car accidents

In a traumatic accident, a 4-year-old boy was struck by a car at the Capuchino square in Orihuela. The swift response of the Comprehensive Emergency Care Coordination Unit (CICU) proved crucial, as they promptly dispatched both a Specialised Mobile Emergency Medical Unit (SAMU) and a Basic Life Support (SVB) unit to the scene.

Upon arrival, the SAMU medical team provided immediate assistance to the child, who su ered multiple traumas. Once stabilised, the young victim was

swiftly transported to Vega Baja hospital in an advanced life support ambulance, where medical professionals continue to monitor his condition.

Meanwhile, another distressing incident unfolded in Almoradí, as two children found themselves in need of medical attention following a tra c accident. The alarming event happened around 12 noon when a driver collided with a wall, prompting emergency services to intervene.

The subsequent investigation led the

Local Police to charge the driver with o enses against road safety, as it was determined that they were operating the vehicle under the in uence of alcoholic beverages, registering a blood alcohol content level of 0.88 mg/l. The driver is also facing charges for causing both material damage and injuries.

Tragically, accompanying the impaired driver were two young passengers, aged three and one, who bore the brunt of the impact. These vulnerable victims needed urgent

medical attention and were promptly transported to the hospital via a Basic Life Support (BLS) unit.

As authorities work to ascertain the full extent of the incidents, community members are reminded of the critical importance of responsible driving and the potential consequences of operating a vehicle while impaired through drink or drugs. The well-being of our youngest citizens is paramount, and concerted e orts to ensure their safety on the roads remain of utmost importance.

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Council accused of neglecting children as they return to unfit school

Local political party PIOC has slammed the local government of Orihuela saying: “once again our children and schools of Orihuela Costa are being penalised, as if our children don’t have enough to deal with, nowhere to play as all our parks to some extent are a serious health hazard, no skatepark even though it was promised and no libraries to study for exams.”

The party explained that there will be no temporary school in Los Dolses till next year thereby putting more pressure on existing schools to expand for the increased intake.

The party continued: “Here is a typical example of the serious underfunding and mismanagement: instead of 32 classes its now increased to 35, no early childhood psychomotor classroom instead another 5 classes of 5 years old, something has to give.

“A computer room sacri ced to become a 6th grade class, also a music room to become a 6th form class, the sta room to be taken away to make way for 5th years. Possibly their library will be the next casualty to be sacri ced, it is inconceivable to have a school without a library.

“Would we nd a school in Orihuela in such a dire state, these children are our future generation and are being seriously being harmed. The physical condition of our schools leaves much to

Minimum sentence for local Irish gangster

The Criminal Court number two of Orihuela, located in Torrevieja, has delivered its verdict in a case involving notorious Irish gangster John Gilligan and eight co-defendants. The charges stem from an extensive operation involving the smuggling of drugs and sleeping pills via postal packages from Vega Baja to Ireland between 2019 and 2021.

be desired, some in such disrepair, with mould, condensation running down the inside the windows, lack of materials.

“All credit must go to the schoolteachers and parents for uniting and battling against this mismanagement by Orihuela Town Hall.

“We hope that this is really a shortterm problem, but looking back through Orihuela’s history we know that this is going to be a long and frustrating period.”

Since the School opened 6 years ago requests have been made for air-conditioning units to be installed. However, despite assurances from the previous PP Mayor of a 59,000,000-euro budget sitting in the bank account PIOC claim there has been little improvement.

“There is virtually very little shaded area outside to protect teachers and pupils from the sun. And when the school opened 6 years ago the parents and teachers had to take on the roll of cleaners to get the school ready as the government hadn´t made provision for cleaning sta ,” the spokesperson added.

The Public Prosecutor’s O ce classi ed the o enses as crimes against public health, involving substances that pose no serious harm, unauthorised export, supply, and distribution of medicines, as well as illegal possession of weapons.

The investigation, spearheaded by the Udyco unit of the Murcia National Police Corps, uncovered multiple networks operating in the Alicante area, engaging in the distribution of narcotics. The surveillance, monitoring, and telephone interceptions conducted between July 2019 and February 2021 culminated in the identi cation of an alleged branch responsible for dispatching narcotic substances, including hashish and cannabis, to Ireland through various parcel companies.

John Gilligan, who gained notoriety in Ireland due to his earlier investigation in connection with the journalist Veronica Guerin’s murder, was implicated as the key gure in this operation. Notably, no prior links between drug tra cking and the crime were substantiated. Additionally, the accused sent a range of unauthorised medications - Limován, Datolán, and Zoplicalone - in partial shipments to Ireland.

The trial, initially due to take place at the end of last year, faced delays due to the absence of one of the accused, Gilligan’s son.

Ultimately, the verdict issued established minimum sentences for all the accused, following a consensus. For the distribution of the sleeping pills, the Prosecutor’s O ce sought a combined sentence of four years. Two years in prison were requested for the other con scated drugs, along with an additional ten months for involvement in a criminal group. As for the rearm discovered at Gilligan’s residence, the prosecution sought a year and a half of imprisonment, exclusively for him.

Gilligan was among the accused who opted for a plea bargain. Throughout the proceedings, he took responsibility for the events, absolving his partner

and the rest of the defendants. Moreover, he was the only one held in custody pending trial, though he was released two months later after posting bail of 12,000 euros.

The sentence was ultimately reduced to a year and a half in prison, with the charge of belonging to a criminal group withdrawn. The verdict against Gilligan acknowledged the mitigating factor of confession. For the crime against public health, he was sentenced to 9 months in prison and ned 14,000 euros, with an additional three months of subsidiary personal liability.

Additionally, it was resolved to suspend the prison sentences for all convicted parties for a two-year probationary period, contingent upon them not committing any further o enses during this time frame.

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John Gilligan

Scooter fines are double trouble

Spain’s Directorate-General for Tra c (DGT) continues its strict enforcement of a crucial safety rule for electric scooter riders, imposing nes of €100 on those who fail to comply. The regulation, designed to safeguard riders, explicitly states that personal mobility vehicles are authorised to transport only one person.

The DGT emphasised that violating this rule, known as “the circulation of two people,” is subject to a €100 ne, as stipulated in the General Tra c Regulations. This measure aims to curb the alarming rise in accidents involving electric scooters in Spain.

Recent years have witnessed an uptick in electric scooterrelated incidents, with 385 reported accidents in 2022 alone. Tragically, these incidents resulted in 83 severe injuries and claimed the lives of 18 individuals.

The primary factors contributing to these accidents are well-documented:

Pavement Riding: Riding electric scooters on sidewalks is strictly prohibited, yet many riders out this regulation, leading to collisions with pedestrians.

Intoxication: Operating electric scooters under the in uence of alcohol or drugs signi cantly impairs judgment and coordination, heightening the likelihood of accidents.

Excessive Speed: Electric scooters are capable of speeds up to 25 km/h, surprising many riders. Riding too fast can compromise control and lead to accidents.

Lack of Helmet Use: Helmets play a crucial role in safeguarding riders from head injuries during accidents. However, a substantial number of electric scooter users forego this essential safety measure.

To address this growing issue, the Spanish government has taken steps including prohibiting pavement use and mandating helmet use for riders. However, there remains a pressing need for

comprehensive education campaigns to inform riders about the risks associated with electric scooter use. Furthermore, rigorous enforcement of existing regulations is paramount to ensuring the safety of all road users.

As electric scooters continue to gain popularity as a means of urban transportation, adherence to safety guidelines is of paramount importance.

The DGT’s unwavering commitment to enforcing these rules underscores its dedication to preserving the well-being of riders and pedestrians alike.

Guardia Civil busts holiday rental scam ring in Torrevieja

Guardia Civil o cers have arrested three individuals involved in a holiday rental scam operation centred around Torrevieja. The suspects, who are facing charges of sustained fraud and association with a criminal organisation, have been presented before the Court and granted conditional release.

The operation, dubbed “Mesekito,” was launched by the Guardia Civil in response to a surge in complaints regarding fraudulent vacation rental listings in Torrevieja, observed between February and March of this year. In the initial phase of the investigation, law enforcement scrutinised the modus operandi used by the alleged fraudsters, which exhibited a striking similarity across the majority of the complaints. These individuals exploited property rental platforms, demanding payments via bank transfers or cash for properties that weren´t theirs to rent out. Once the payments were received, the scammers vanished, leaving victims empty-handed and without recourse for refunds. The gang went to the extent of impersonating legitimate real estate agencies to gain the trust of unsuspecting victims.

Subsequently, investigators delved into a detailed analysis of the bank accounts associated with these crimes, leading to the positive identi cation of the three gang members. These culprits, two men and one woman, aged between 42 and 63 were all Spanish nationals, with a history of similar fraudulent activities.

Upon establishing the involvement of the suspects in several of the crimes, a series of coordinated searches were executed at the residences of the individuals in Torrevieja. This resulted in the seizure of critical evidence, including bank records, materials pertaining to the impersonated real estate rms, transaction documents, mobile phones, more than €10,000 in cash, eight vehicles, eight properties, one pension plan, and sixteen bank accounts linked to the criminal enterprise. The suspects were arrested on the spot.

The investigation continued with a European court order from the Provincial Prosecutor’s O ce of Freiburg, Germany, pertaining to a €4,000 scam perpetrated by the dismantled gang against a German couple in July. In total, 29 cases of fraud have been resolved, with victims hailing from Germany,

International students carry out their internships at the Torrevieja hospital

Algeria, Colombia, Ecuador, Poland, Ukraine, and Spain. The investigation is ongoing, and the possibility of additional victims has not been ruled out.

The Guardia Civil strongly advises exercising prudence and vigilance while using online platforms to prevent falling prey to rental and real estate scams. It is recommend to insist on veri able proof of property existence, approach overly enticing o ers with scepticism, conduct due diligence on both the advertiser and platform before making payments, and exclusively utilise o cial channels for nancial transactions.

This internship program allows students from di erent courses to reinforce their knowledge and come into contact with daily clinical practice.

The Torrevieja health department has received a visit from international students who, taking advantage of the summer vacation period of many of them, have chosen the Torrevieja health department to carry out extracurricular internships.

European students studying medicine, nursing, biomedical engineering and optics

The Torrevieja University

Hospital and the health centers in the area have received European students of medicine, nursing, biomedical engineering, and optics and optometry, among others.

Through collaboration agreements, the Torrevieja health department, through its training, research and teaching service, o ers clinical practices to university students and also to students in training cycles.

“It is the best way to prepare to enter the world of work and have direct contact with the healthcare reality,” says Melanie López, Training and

Teaching Supervisor. “We also maintain agreements with other universities or external teaching centers to carry out internships in various degrees, both undergraduate and postgraduate. Every year, more than a hundred students have clinical experiences in our environment, a fact that gives us enormous satisfaction”, she adds.

This internship program allows students from di erent courses to reinforce their knowledge and come into contact with daily clinical practice and patient care.

Are Your Savings Still In The UK?

Many people who have moved to Spain do not want to bring all their savings and investments with them to this country. Spanish banks do not have a great track record and then there is currency question – Sterling or convert to Euros?

One of the main problems with keeping your money in the UK, is a lack of adviser to keep an eye on your investments and switch funds when the need arises. Your UK nancial adviser should not continue to work on your behalf if you are living as a Spanish tax resident.

Another problem is that UK based savings like ISA’s, Premium Bonds and other NS&I products are not suitable for Spanish

residents.

As a Spanish tax resident there are a number or products o ered by some of the worlds’ largest nancial institutions speci cally tailored to meet your investment needs. Indeed, one such provider, Prudential International, have a Spanish tax compliant savings bond that outperforms the UK equivalent simply because of the taxation treatment.

Here at Seagate Wealth we understand that many ex-pats do not wish to bring their money to Spain and for that reason we work with a number of product providers to ensure their money works as hard as possible with minimum risk. The

Prudential savings bond o ers clients a way to grow their money virtually tax-free, with no need to report on their annual tax return or the Modelo 720. The other major bene t is the money is not held here in Spain, but in the Republic of Ireland.

The Seagate team has a wealth of experience in providing advice on all aspects of savings and investment options. If you have an investment, but no adviser, we can help to get your portfolio back on track.

For a free no-obligation chat with a UK quali ed adviser, call 965 704 338 or email: contact@seagatewealth.es

Irishman arrested after fleeing scene of fatal accident

After the collision, the cause of the accident abandoned the wrecked vehicle and ed the scene .

The Civil Guard has arrested a person related to the road accident that occurred in the early hours of last Saturday in Torrevieja, consisting of a head-on collision between two passenger cars, resulting in the death of one person. The detainee has been taken to the Court of First Instance and Instruction No. 1 of Torrevieja, which has ordered his release with precautionary measures.

The accident occurred last Saturday, September 2, around 4:50 a.m., at kilometer 57,450 of the N-332 highway near the municipality of Torrevieja. A car collided violently with another that was traveling on the road. After the impact, the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident left the scene on foot.

Agents from the Torrevieja Tra c Detachment units, the Reporting Team and the Investigation and Analysis Group of the Tra c Subsector (GIAT) of the Alicante Civil Guard were

brought to the scene. Once at the scene, the medical services con rmed the death of the driver of the car.

In the rst phase, the Alicante Attestation Team and the GIAT began the investigations, with the support of agents from the Torrevieja Civil Guard Main Post. In this phase, investigators carried out a thorough inspection of the scene, once to locate the alleged perpetrator, carrying out inquiries related to the vehicle abandoned at the scene, which belonged to a rental

company. The agents observed that the contract had been signed by a couple of Irish nationality and once identi ed, they took extreme precautions to prevent them from leaving Spain.

Finally, investigators managed to arrest the alleged perpetrator, a 29-year-old man of Irish nationality, being investigated for the crimes of reckless homicide and leaving the scene of the accident.

On September 4, the detainee

was placed at the disposal of the Investigative Court No. 1 of the judicial district of Torrevieja, who ordered his release with the imposition of precautionary measures.

It is recalled that this type of conduct carries with it 1 to 4 years in prison for the crime of reckless homicide and 3 to 6 months in prison and the prohibition of the right to drive for a period of 6 months to 2 years, for the leaving the scene of the road accident.

The Local Police of Orihuela recovers three rings valued at more than 9,000 euros

One was in platinum with 11 Ti any & Co brand diamonds, another in white gold and another in 18-carat gold.

The night service of the Orihuela Local Police on the coast recently identi ed an individual who, according to a neighbor, was trying to rob the interiors of vehicles parked in the Campoamor area and who had su ered several robberies on previous nights. Observing a young man who matched the description, they proceeded to identify him, noting that he was wearing three rings, of which he did not clearly explain their origin.

The agents continued the investigations and discovered that, of the three rings, one was made of platinum with 11 diamonds and from the Ti any & Co brand valued at 4,650 euros; another was made of white gold in the shape of a ower valued at about 4,000 euros; and the last one was made of 18 karat gold valued at about 370 euros.

Continuing with the investigations, the Local Police located the owners of the rings.

GBP It has been another challenging week for the pound. GBP/USD tested the water under 1.2500 for the rst time in three months, as broader dollar strength dominated the price movement.

The pound has lost roughly 5% against the dollar since reaching a high of around 1.3140 in early July. GBP/EUR also drifted back below 1.1650 for a spell, having previously eyed a clean break over 1.1700.

Aside from the dollar dynamics (see USD), The Bank of England’s recent comments could also have contributed to the pound’s decline. The Bank’s Governor Andrew Bailey seemed to suggest earlier in the week that UK interest rate hikes may not need to continue while forecasting “quite a marked” fall in in ation throughout the rest of the year.

Bailey was speaking at a Treasury Committee hearing, alongside fellow MPC colleagues Cunli e and Dhingra, when he told MPs that rates were “much nearer the top of the cycle”, and while previously there had been a clear need to raise rates, the Bank of England was “not in that place anymore”. Previously, markets had expected two more hikes this year, but the news seemed to push back market-implied expectations for future BoE rate hikes. The markets have priced in a 25bps hike at September’s rate decision at an 84% probability.

Incoming data coming out of the UK this week largely beat analyst estimates. There was a surprising rebound in consumer spending in the UK over the past month, with Retail Sales rising by 4.1%, according to data published by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) on Monday. The increase was boosted by spending on health and beauty products and followed a relatively poor July that was impacted by unseasonal weather and rain, deterring consumer spending.

Furthermore, UK Services and Composite PMIs came in above expectations. The UK Services PMI came in at 49.5, ahead of the expected 48.7, and the UK Composite PMI was 48.6, ahead of the 47.9 forecast. Although both sets of data represented respective seven-month lows, they avoided matching January

GBP / EUR UPDATE

2023’s two-year low.

Next week is a busy one for the UK, with the latest GDP, unemployment and consumer in ation expectations set for release.

EUR

The euro has now been in decline for eight straight weeks against the dollar, with the pair registering a total fall of around 5% in the process, with the pair currently testing support at 1.0700. The two biggest drivers in the euro decline seem to be similar to the pound at the moment, with an uncertain outlook on rate hikes, driven by weaker incoming data, combined with a strong dollar performance impacting the single currency.

The outcome of next week’s ECB rate decision remains uncertain, with ECB President Lagarde recently avoiding giving markets any indication of whether the ECB will pause or opt for another 25bps hike.

However, many senior ECB o cials have continued to highlight the possibility of further ECB rate hikes. Bundesbank President Nagel commented that it “would be wrong to speculate that an interest rate peak will soon be followed by cuts,” and fellow ECB member Klaas Knot suggested the markets risked underplaying the chances of a hike.

This is especially relevant when considering incoming data continues to re ect a more challenging economic backdrop, which suggests that the ECB could do well to continue raising rates. Among that data, another batch of weak-looking European services PMIs continued the downbeat trend, with Spain, France, Italy and the region as a whole missing estimates, although Germany matched expectations. The latest data also con rmed a 0.2% decline over the past month in regional retail sales and another decline in German factory orders. The latest EU growth gures also missed estimates, with GDP rising by a mere 0.1% during Q2, against an expected increase of 0.3%.

Next week, all eyes will be on the ECB, and markets will be looking at what the central bank has to say, as much as the outcome of the rate decision.

The mayor visits the new municipal vehicle depot in Torreveija

The Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon, and the Councillor for Safety and Emergencies, Federico Alarcón, accompanied by the manager of the concessionaire (EYSA), Javier Basoco, visited the new Municipal Vehicle Depot, located on land owned by the City Council of 7,000 square meters, between the Fire Station, the Ecopark and the Municipal Animal Shelter.

The Mayor emphasised that for the rst time in the history of the city, the vehicle depot is owned by the City Council, which also means savings for the municipal co ers.

This new vehicle depot has involved an investment of 521,276 euros, and is included in the award of the “Service for the removal of vehicles from public roads, storage and custody of the same, as well as placement and removal of fences and mobile signage on public roads”. This service began in January 2022 and was awarded to the company ESTACIONAMIENTOS Y SERVICIOS, S.A.U (EYSA) for a total price of 3,549,999 euros (VAT included).

The new depot, which employs 16 people, is located on a plot with better communication and access

than the previous one, and a capacity for 219 storage spaces. In addition, pedestrian and vehicle access is independent, creating a safe route for pedestrians through the interior of the plot from the payment point to the location of their vehicle.

The depot also has all the urban services necessary to carry out the activity, as well as areas for cleaning, maintenance and storage of rolling stock, the installation of a video surveillance system and an automated access control system with a number plate reader and self-checkout.

Rojales Town Hall issues 200,000 euros in consumer vouchers

The Rojales Town Hall and the Association of Traders (ACR) have signed an agreement for the implementation of the V campaign “Activa Rojales” which will mean an income of more than 400,000 euros in the local commerce. The initiative is funded by the town council and the provincial council with 215,000 euros.

With these promotional campaigns, the administrations involved have injected more than two million euros into local commerce and hospitality since May 2022, when the rst edition

of the consumer voucher was launched, according to Miriam Trives, councillor for Tourism, Local Development, Promotion and Commerce.

The fth campaign started yesterday to collect in person, by appointment, of vouchers for the over 55s. On the 18th, vouchers for the general public will go on sale. The rst batch of vouchers will go on sale at 10 am and the second at 5 pm.

Anyone can participate in the initiative by providing their national identity card (DNI). With this, each customer will bene t from a voucher which

can be purchased online through the platform htpps:// rojales.bonoconsumo.es or by scanning the QR. It should be noted that the purchase of vouchers by each citizen is doubled. That is, if a person buys a voucher with the maximum amount of 50 euros, this becomes 100 euros to spend.

The campaign is managed by the ACR and the vouchers can be used in any of the 114 associated establishments (food, computers, furniture, household appliances, catering, etc.).

My eldest son is complaining to me about our youngest daughter, not asking his twin girls to be bridesmaids at her wedding next year. I am quite sick and tired of my grown children squabbling all the while; if it’s not one thing, it’s another, and they all come and bleat to me. I have to say that the youngest daughter does not bring her problems to my door; however, my two sons and daughter get on to me continuously when their siblings do something they don’t agree with, and expect me to act as go-between and sort it out. In the past there have been comments like, ‘mum agrees with me that you are out of order’. Now, it’s the bridesmaid issue with my twin granddaughters, who will be three years old by the time the wedding comes around. The bride has chosen her two friends to be her attendants, and is having no young children in the bridal party. I have told my son, that it’s her choice who she wants to be bridesmaid. She hasn’t even chosen her sister - but I understand that, as they don’t get along. Why am I always piggy in the middle? I am getting sick of it.

Of course, it is the bride’s prerogative to choose whom she wishes to be her attendants, just as it’s the bride groom choice who is to be his best man. If your son is unhappy his daughters have been sidelined, you should tell him he must speak to his sister about that. It may be that you have always been available as ‘the sounding board’, for everyone’s gripes in the family. If you want it to stop, tell the next one who complains that you are not getting involved and they are old enough to fight their own battle.

WRITE TO SARA IN CONFIDENCE. A PSEUDONYM WILL BE USED IF YOU WISH. SARA READS ALL LETTERS AND CAN GIVE A PERSONAL REPLY. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION TO SARA@ COSTABLANCAPEOPLE.COM OR SARA IS AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS, TELEPHONE 650 054 467.

Update your iPhone now: Apple issues an urgent software update - here’s how to install it on your smartphone

Just six weeks since it released its last software update, Apple has had to issue an urgent follow up.

iOS 16.6.1, released globally on Thursday, xes a security bug that leaves iPhones vulnerable to ‘spyware’ – software that steals information from a device.

Apple was alerted to the bug by the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab, which said it is ‘capable of compromising iPhones without any interaction from the victim’.

In a web post about iOS 16.6.1, Apple con rmed the new update ‘provides important security xes’ without giving any additional details, although it did acknowledge Citizen Lab experts ‘for their assistance’.

Apple is due to announce a brand new mobile operating system, called iOS 17, along with the new iPhone 15 next week.

Unfortunately, the bug is too dangerous to wait for the release of iOS 17 (expected later this month) so Apple has had to quickly roll out this latest version of 16.6.

To install the urgent update, users just need to head to their iPhone Settings and select ‘General’ followed by ‘Software Update’.

A fact box about iOS 16.6.1 should appear with the message: ‘This update provides important security xes and is recommended for all users.’

Tapping ‘Download and Install’ should start the update, which could take a few minutes to complete.

Apple said the update is also available for iPadOS, the operating system running on its iPads.

The tech giant said: ‘For our customers’ protection, Apple doesn’t disclose, discuss, or con rm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available.’

However, Citizen Lab provides plenty more details about the vulnerability, which is being used by cybercriminals to deliver the notorious ‘Pegasus’ spyware, created by Israeli rm NSO Group.

In a blog post, Citizen Lab said it uses an ‘exploit chain’ method – one involving multiple vulnerabilities to compromise the victim step-by-step –but without any interaction from the victim (‘zero click’).

‘Citizen Lab immediately disclosed our ndings to Apple and assisted in their investigation,’ the research group said.

‘We expect to publish a more detailed discussion of the exploit chain in the future.

‘We urge everyone to immediately update their devices.

‘This latest nd shows once again that civil society is targeted by highly sophisticated exploits and mercenary spyware.’

Citizen Lab also advised any unnamed iPhone user ‘who may face increased risk because of who they are or what they do’ to enable Lockdown Mode, Apple’s security feature rst released last year.

How to install the ‘urgent’ iPhone update

1. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone (denoted by the cog or gear icon)

2. Select ‘General’ followed by ‘Software Update’

3. Tap ‘Download and Install’

“Will

If you have a question or problem with any household technology needing my help or want to join the Technology Help Group please email Brian at cbtechnology.help@gmail. com.

As a group member, you would have access to the group website which contains previous session notes, and handouts and access to previous Costa Blanca People published articles.

Scan the QR for a reminder of what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group o ers.

Please note that we have a new venue for our Monthly Meetings. I am pleased to announce that we are now meeting at Dilly’s Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. The next group meeting is on Wednesday 13th September from 10:00 to 12:00. See updated information accessed by scanning the QR code above

Join

Your tech questions answered by Brian Hoile of the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group, helping over 320 members with their PCs , smartphones and more. Group members can attend meetings in person or online using Zoom or Teams.

“Can I use Google Maps to navigate without internet access?“

You can save an area from Google Maps to your phone or tablet and use it when you’re o ine.

Note: You are downloading a map of a selected area (not a route) for use when you are o ine. Download areas & navigate o ine.

Tip: You’re unable to download o ine maps in some countries or regions because of contractual limitations, language support, address formats, or other reasons.

Tip: You can save maps on your device or an SD card. If you change the way you save maps, you’ll have to download the map again.

Open Google Maps. Select your pro le picture. Select O ine maps.

Click on the down arrow next to

“SELECT YOUR OWN MAP”

A map appears. Move or expand the map shown to take in the area you want to navigate within when o ine. The size of the download le will be shown below the map, the larger the area the larger the download le. Select “Download”. Your map will be downloaded to your device. A generic lename will be shown

in a list below with a lename of Map 1. Select the 3 dots to the right of the lename to rename the le name to indicate the area covered by the o ine map. Save o ine maps on an SD card by going to the o ine map’s settings. Select” Storage preferences” and choose between Device or SD Card.

After you download an area, use the Google Maps app just like you normally would. If your internet connection is slow or absent, your o ine maps will guide you to your destination as long as the entire route is within the o ine map. Tip: Transit, bicycling, or walking directions are unavailable o ine.

If you use Waze it also allows o ine navigation.

If you con gure your desired route while you’ve still got an active Internet connection, you’ll be able to use Waze in o ine mode. Once you’ve con gured your route while connected to the Internet, then, you can go o ine and the Waze app will continue to provide basic navigation.

Brian Hoile Technology Help Group

Visit the magical viewpoint of Benidorm

Known as Balcón del Mediterráneo, this is one of the best viewpoints on the Costa Blanca, where you can see the skyscrapers of Benidorm, the beaches of Poniente and Levante, the marina, and the promenade lined with palm trees. Located on top of a rock, acting as a divider between the two main

sandy beaches of the city, this place is a real treasure that o ers the best panoramic view from all over Benidorm.

It is amazing to observe the crystal clear waters of the nearby cove from the viewpoint, which is highly visited during the day, but then at night, with less crowding and being illuminated,

the ambiance magically transforms to o er another spectacular view of the city. The Balcón del Mediterráneo is located within close walking proximity to the Plaza de la Señoría, the Parish of San Jaime and Santa Ana and the Plaza del Castillo, which is next to the arch of the Plaza de Castelar. A delightful part of

the old town to also pay a visit, where you can stroll around and explore the little streets, and then relax to soak up the atmosphere sitting at one of the outdoor cafe terraces. More ideas of delightful places to visit on the Costa Blanca can be found on the website www.costablancascene.com

This Week´s Movie Picks

Pearl Harbour

Saturday 16th September – Channel 5, 5.55pm

Pitch Perfect

Sunday 17th September – ITV2, 8.50pm

Pearl Harbor is a classic tale of romance set during a war that complicates everything. It all starts when childhood friends Rafe and Danny become Army Air Corps pilots and meet Evelyn, a Navy nurse. Rafe falls head over heels and he and Evelyn and Rafe hook up. Then Rafe volunteers to go ght in Britain, and Evelyn and Danny get transferred to Pearl Harbor. While Rafe is o ghting, suddenly one morning comes the air raid we now know as “Pearl Harbor.”

The Barden Bellas are a collegiate, all-girls a cappella singing group thriving on female pop songs and their perfect looks. After a disastrous failing at last year’s nals, they are forced to regroup. Among the new recruits is freshman Beca, an independent, aspiring DJ with no interest in the college life. But after she meets Jesse, from the rival all-male a cappella group, Beca has a new outlook and takes it upon herself to help the Bellas nd their new look and sound and get back into the competition.

Tuesday 12th September

Wednesday 13th September

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor

On Sunday the 3rd September2023 along with my partner Rose, I laid a wreath at La Siesta Cenotaph for the 30,989 merchant seamen and boys that lost their lives facing the Italian and German blockade of Great Britain. They saw ships disappearing in a ash of blue smoke and men drowning in thick black oil from petrol and ammunition ships disintegrating but the convoy kept on going to feed and supply arms to beat o our enemy and all these crews were civilian, their uniform was

a little pin badge on their lapel. If you survived from your sunken ship your family allotment and your pay was stopped. Sometimes weeks in a life boat or beached somewhere not until you reported back to the shipping o ce would you get paid. Joining another ship after the war they gave us a pin red duster veteran badge. I am a veteran of the Sicily and D-Day landings.

Yours sincerely

Joseph Billet Ciudad Quesada

BBC one BBC two ITV Channel 4Channel 5ITV2 ITV3

Thursday 14th September

Friday 15th September

Saturday 16th September

BBC one BBC two ITV Channel 4Channel 5ITV2 ITV3

Sunday 17th September

Monday 18th September

Residential solar power is the future

behind Sunhero’s foundation in 2019, was to bring photovoltaic energy to all those willing to take a step forward into the future of renewables.

In a sector that is becoming more and more competitive, o ering accessible and a ordable solutions, together with custom designs and quality service, are the key ingredients of the value proposition for PV business. The combined e orts from both private companies and local governments have made solar a real alternative to traditional energy.

The price of solar panels drops by 99%

Home solar energy adoption rises by 200%

During the past year, Spain went through an exponential growth of home solar panels installations, becoming the second country in Europe (just after Germany) with the highest solar energy capacity. So far this year experts have reported a 200% increase.

The energy crisis in Europe reached record levels in the price of electricity in 2022, which, combined with governmental incentives and subsidies, has facilitated a clear path towards energy transition. This new ‘go solar’ pattern is extended through Spain at a national level.

Spain’s huge solar power potential With an average of 2,500 hours of sunshine per year and 9.7 million roofs available, Spain is one of the countries with the highest potential for residential solar energy. The reason

Since solar panels became commercially available in the 1980s, the price has fallen by 99%. Technological breakthroughs have transformed solar energy into one of the most e cient and a ordable in the renewable sector.

Experts from the Institute for

Climate Energy and Disaster Solutions have a rmed that “Solar is going to completely dominate energy supply in the future,”. “If you look at the new electricity capacity that is being installed around the world, the largest single component is solar.”

Now is the perfect time to bene t from residential solar power. In addition to saving up to 70% on the electricity bill, solar energy o ers independence from electricity price uctuations and increases the value of the houses. Not to forget, its contribution to mitigating climate change.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Please note that all information contained within this Costa Blanca People Business Pro le has been provided by the client, and is therefore deemed correct and accurate. Any errors, omissions or inaccuracies are the sole responsibility of the client.

E Estate Agents

My New Home in Spain Tel: 711 007 147 hello@mynewhomeinspain.com www.mynewhomeinspain.com

La Casa Blanca Estates Tel: 966 117 978 653 987 928 sales@lacasablancaestates.com www.lacasablancaestates.com

H

Health & Beauty

Indiana´s Hair & Lash Boutique Tel: 681 250 190 Indiana’s hair & lash boutique Indianashairandlashboutique

D

Dental Clinics

Carredent British Dental Practice

(Dr. Ian F. Smith)

Tel: 965 711 797

Mob: 638 608 532

Email: jardindelmar21@icoud.com

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Tel: 966782451

654939202

Email: domrepair2@gmail.com

We Need A Helping Hand

As many of you know, A Helping Hand is a food and clothes bank based in Torrevieja who are struggling to feed all the people on their books. Both this paper and Seagate Wealth Management are doing all they can to support this wonderful local charity. If you can donate anything from the list below, it would be so very appreciated as summer is proving a di cult time for donations:

Rice, milk, pasta, soup mixes, tomato frito, tinned tomatoes, toilet rolls, wet wipes, baby milk (NATIVA 1,2 &3), nappies - size 4..5..& 6, cheese triangles/slices, chorizo/salami slices, ham, hot dogs, yoghurts, childrens’ snacks and juices, shampoo/ conditioner, washing detergent ,toothpaste, tuna ,salt and sugar.

If you prefer to shop online, then please visit Al Campo, Mercadona or even Amazon and the donations can be sent to: Avenida tomas boj andreu casa 2 bloque 4

You can also donate in the following ways: https://www.paypal.me/ daniellasixx8 revolut.me/nikkis2qrb ES23 0128 0655 2401 0002 4012

If you can help in any way, there are various drop o

points and you can nd your nearest one by checking out the Helping Hand Facebook page.

As they say on their Facebook page: “If you can spare just 1,2,3,4,5 euros anything and if everyone reading this article did this we could help so many people. We really need your help, we need to survive to help these families please, please help.”

Hardware Store

Everak Tel: 965 072 847 Ctra. de Dolores, 54, 03160, Almoradi Email: info@everak.com everak.com

M Motors Venture Fleet SL Tel: 965077330 671549920

Email: info@venture eet.com www.venture eet.com

Mobile Home Parks

Costa Del Paradise

Tel: 679 224 974 +44 1274 543 103 108

Email: info@costadelparadise.com www.costadelparadise.com

R Removals & Storage

Sunbay Insurance Tel: 965063483 693719221

Email: info@sunbay-insurance.com www.sunbay-insurance.com

Pest Control Fog O Spain Tel: 625 723 331 www.fogo spain.com

Swift Removals & Storage 0034 603336463 or 0034 602468949 0044 7465 623697

Email: info@swift-removals.net www.swift-removals.net

Travel Agents Worldwide Horizons Travel Tel: 966 761 492 689 140 360

Email: travel@whtravel.es www.whtravel.es

kplus3180@gmail.com ww.kitchensplus.eu

Seventh Almoradi and Vega Baja authors fair

The Mayoress of Almoradí, María Gómez and the Councillor for Culture, Lourdes Cañizares, present the “VII Almoradí and Vega Baja Villa de Almoradí Authors’ Fair” with the activities that will take place throughout the month of September.

Once again, and with great enthusiasm, the Almoradí Town Council is committed to writing and the knowledge of the writers of the region. With this edition we have been organising this consolidated event for 7 years, being a reference in the region and with a great participation. The di erent activities will revolve around the promotion of writing and reading.

On the 14th, 21st and 28th of September, every Thursday of the month, the III Meeting of Authors “El espacio de tu aliento” will take place in the lounges of the Casino of Almoradí at 19:30. This meeting is organised by the writer Fernando Mañogil, with the collaboration of the cultural association “Casitura”, and the sponsorship of the Almoradí Town Hall.

On 15, 18, 22 and 25 September, a Creative Writing

Workshop will be given by María Reina. You can register by calling 966782324 or directly at the Library counter. From 14 years old.

On Saturday 23rd September, coinciding with our traditional weekly market, the “VII Feria de autores y autoras Villa de Almoradí” will be held in the Plaza de la Constitución, from 10:30 am, where you can visit the stalls of the di erent authors and chat with them and buy their works, as well as di erent activities:

-Lettering workshop by Pako

Mínguez, from 12 years old, -Reading animation with the “Tree of stories”, for all audiences.

On Friday 29th September, to nish this intense month of reading and writing, we will have the awards ceremony of the Literary Contest “Villa de Almoradí”, Antonio Sequeros and Juvenil, together with the Photographic Contest, in the lounges of the Casino at 20:00.

From the Almoradí Town Hall we invite our neighbours and visitors to participate, hoping that it will be to your liking.

Bars & Restaurants

Furious Strictly bosses launch probe to uncover the elusive mole after celebrity partnerships are leaked ahead of next week’s launch

BBC chiefs have launched a probe to nd the Strictly mole after the celebrity and professional dancer partnerships were leaked.

Just hours after this year’s stars were paired up in a pre-recorded show on Wednesday, the names were available to see online - prompting the show’s bosses to go into meltdown.

Strictly sources say they are ‘furious’ the surprise is ruined for the show’s viewers who will learn the dance duos in the special episode which airs next Saturday night.

The leak comes after the mole repeatedly revealed which contestant had been eliminated from Strictly during last year’s before the Sunday night results show.

Insiders say they are ‘at a loss’ as to know who is revealing the information, with some suspecting it could be a member of sta - either at the BBC, someone who works for an outside company involved with the production or they are connected to one of the cast - but bosses are determined to get to the bottom of it.

Antiques Roadshow star Bunny

Campione announces her husband has died aged 91

Antiques Roadshow favourite Bunny

Campione has announced the sad news that her husband, Major Iain Grahame died aged 91.

During his time in the King’s African Ri es, Grahame had Idi Amin, later dictator of Uganda, under his command.

He subsequently visited Uganda with his second wife, Didy, who, to the horror of those present, told Amin to remove the fake VC from his chest.

Amin complied - one of the reasons, perhaps, that Grahame was sent back

to Uganda after Amin ordered the execution of Denis Hills, a British writer who’d described him as a ‘black Nero’ and a ‘village tyrant’. Again, Grahameand Hills - survived.

His rst meeting with Bunny was inauspicious: they drove into each other going round a corner on a country lane.

BBC deny their controversial Jimmy Savile drama has been delayed after it was claimed ‘bosses were urging more focus to be placed on the victims’

The BBC have denied that their controversial Jimmy Savile drama The Reckoning has been delayed after it was reported that bosses at the channel were calling for more focus to be placed on his victims.

The four-part series is expected to be screened by the BBC this autumndespite a backlash from victims of the sex o ender, who died in 2011 aged 84.

The Reckoning, which will trace the disgraced former star’s upbringing, his early career and proli c child sex o ences, nished lming in January 2022.

It was then reported on Friday that is release date had been put on hold, but the BBC have con rmed that the series, starring Steve Coogan, will still air as planned.

It comes after The Sun reported that after watching early versions of the drama, BBC executives called for the main focus of the drama to shift to Savile’s victims so as to stop viewers from ‘misinterpreting’ it as a biopic of the paedophile

Anneka Rice reveals she wants her ashes to be turned into paintings for her sons after her death

Anneka Rice has revealed what she wants to do with her ashes after her death, admitting she doesn’t want them simply left ‘in a box’.

The TV presenter, 64, told how she has arranged for her ashes to be turned into paintings to be given to each of her sons - Thomas, 34, Josh, 33, and Sam,

23.

She said she has enlisted artist Maggi Hambling - who is said to have designed an album cover for Ed Sheeran - to create the three paintings after her death.

Anneka said she wants three seascape works of art to be created using ‘lumpy’ blue paint that will have her ashes in it, with one going to each of her sons.

According to the Daily Star, she said: ‘I’m going to ask Maggi, probably our greatest living artist, if she will use the paint, which will be kind of lumpy, but very good for one of her seascapes, if she could do me three little seascapes.

Specsavers Ópticas conjures new range of Harry Potter inspired glasses for children

For over 20 years, Harry Potter™ and the Wizarding World™ have captivated the imagination of readers and moviegoers across the globe. Now, parents who grew up immersed in the fantastical universe can share the magic with their own little ones, with Specsavers’ new Harry Potter inspired collection of stylish yet practical children’s frames. Created in partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, the line is inspired by the boy wizard, arguably one of the most famous glasses wearers worldwide. The Harry Potter eyewear collection consists of six frames – two inspired by Harry Potter’s iconic round frames and four square to represent each of the Hogwarts houses. Suitable for kids aged 8–11 the range o ers a style for everyone and a chance for children to capture the magic of Harry Potter every day. Made of lightweight acetate and metal with exible hinges, they’re sturdy enough to endure whatever adventures the day may bring and are available as regular glasses or as sunglasses. The collection is now available in all Specsavers Ópticas stores in Spain.

Product list:

32908596 - HARRY POTTER™ 01

Inspired by Harry Potter’s iconic round glasses, these frames are made from pale-gold metal with chocolate brown nose bridge gving the front a two-tone appearance. Flexible hinges

and acetate plastic tips keep things comfy and durable. Finished with the Harry Potter™ logo on the temples and hidden lightning bolts all around the rims.

32908602 - HARRY POTTER™ 02

Nothing says “wizard” quite like these round-eye glasses. Made from thin silver metal with a black lining on the front and matching tips in acetate plastic. Complete with etched Harry Potter™ logo detail as well as the iconic lightning bolt on the temples and inside-left tip.

SKU 32908619 - HARRY POTTER™ 03GRYFFINDOR

Whether you’re studying math, music or magic, you’ll be all set with these square Hogwarts-inspired glasses. Gry ndor fans can show their allegiance to the infamous Hogwarts house with these stylish frames. Made from lightweight acetate with exible hinges and Gry ndor house name, colours and motif detail on the sides.

There are also frames for Slytherin, Hu epu and Ravenclaw fans to enjoy.

32908626 - HARRY POTTER™ 03SLYTHERIN

32908626 - HARRY POTTER™ 03HUFFLEPUFF

32908626 - HARRY POTTER™ 03RAVENCLAW

About Warner Bros. Consumer Products:

Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), part of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Brands and Experiences, extends the company’s powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. WBCP partners with best-in-class licensees globally on an award-winning range of toys, fashion, home décor, and publishing inspired by Warner Bros.’ biggest franchises from DC, Wizarding World, Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera, Game of Thrones, Cartoon Network and Adult Swim. With innovative global licensing and merchandising programs, retail initiatives, and promotional partnerships, WBCP is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

About Wizarding World:

In the years since Harry Potter was whisked from King’s Cross Station onto Platform nine and three quarters, his incredible adventures have left a unique and lasting mark on popular culture. Eight blockbuster Harry Potter lms based on the original stories by J.K. Rowling have brought the magical stories to life and today, the Wizarding World is recognized as one of the world’s best-loved brands.

Representing a vast interconnected universe, it also includes three epic Fantastic Beasts lms, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – the multi-awardwinning stage-play, state-of-the-art video and mobile games from Portkey Games, innovative consumer products, thrilling live entertainment (including

four theme park lands) and insightful exhibitions.

This expanding portfolio of Warner Bros. owned Wizarding World tours and retail also includes the agship Harry Potter New York, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo, and the Platform 9 3⁄4 retail shops.

The Wizarding World continues to evolve to provide Harry Potter fans with fresh and exciting ways to engage. For the worldwide fan community, and for generations to come, it welcomes everyone in to explore and discover the magic for themselves.

WIZARDING WORLD characters, names and related indicia are © & TM Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. WB Shield: © & TM WBEI. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s23)

What is the purpose of hazard lights and how to use them properly

Hazard lights are ashing lights on a vehicle that indicate to other drivers that the vehicle is experiencing some kind of problem or emergency.

They are also known as hazard warning lights, ashers, emergency lights, or four-way ashers. The hazard light symbol is usually a red triangle with an exclamation mark inside, or a switch with two red triangles pointing opposite directions. he purpose of hazard lights is to alert other drivers that you are not driving normally and that they should exercise caution when approaching or passing you. Generally, this means that you are stopped or traveling signi cantly lower than the posted speed limit. For example, you should use your hazard lights when:

1. Your car breaks down and you need to pull over to the side of the road.

2. You have a at tire and you need to change it on the shoulder.

3. You are driving in a funeral procession and you need to follow the lead car at a slow pace.

4. You are getting pulled over by a police o cer and you need to signal your compliance.

However, there are also situations when you should not use your hazard lights while driving, as they can confuse or mislead other drivers and

create more hazards. For instance, you should avoid using your hazard lights when:

Driving in bad weather, such as rain, snow, or fog. Your hazard lights can make it hard for other drivers to see your turn signals or brake lights, and they may not be able to tell which lane you are in or if you are changing lanes. Instead, you should use your headlights and taillights to improve your visibility and follow the tra c rules for safe driving in inclement weather.

• Driving in heavy tra c. Your hazard lights can make other drivers think that you are slowing down or stopping, when in fact you are moving at the same speed as them. This can cause them to brake suddenly or swerve to avoid you, which can lead to accidents. Instead, you should use your turn signals and brake lights to communicate your intentions and follow the tra c ow. Parking illegally. Your hazard lights do not give you permission to park in a prohibited area, such as a re lane, a handicap spot, or a crosswalk. You can still get a ticket or get towed for parking illegally, even if you have your hazard lights on. Instead, you should nd a legal parking spot and follow the parking rules.

• Hazard light laws di er across all

the countries, so it is important to check the speci c regulations for your state before using them. Some states allow using hazard lights while driving under certain conditions, such as when the vehicle speed is 25 mph or less, or when there is a tra c hazard ahead. Other states prohibit using hazard lights while driving altogether, unless it is for emergency purposes. You can nd a list of hazard light laws by state here.

Hazard light etiquette is also something to consider when using them. You should use your hazard lights sparingly and only when

necessary, as overusing them can reduce their e ectiveness and annoy other drivers. You should also turn o your hazard lights as soon as the problem or emergency is resolved, and resume normal driving. You should thank other drivers who show courtesy or assistance when you have your hazard lights on, such as by waving or ashing your headlights.

Hazard light history is interesting to learn about as well. Hazard lights were invented in 1951 by a British car manufacturer called Standard-Triumph.

They were originally designed to warn other drivers of an impending air raid during the Cold War era. They were later adopted by other car makers and countries, and became mandatory in the U.S. in 1966.

Hazard lights are an important safety feature that can help you communicate with other drivers in case of trouble or emergency. However, they should be used wisely and appropriately, following the law and etiquette for your state and situation. By doing so, you can avoid creating more hazards and ensure a safer driving experience for yourself and others.

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CHURCH AND CHARITIES

International Christian Assembly Evangelical Church. We welcome you to Sunday Service at 11am (English) Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja, 03185 www.icatorrevieja.org Phone; 966799273 or 660127276 (SH) Join us at Salt Church. Sundays at 10.30am. We are a friendly Church, Bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship.Calle Daya Nueva 12, Poligino Industrial Levante II, 03187 Los Montsinos. www.saltchurch.es Facebook: SaltChurchSpain

Torrevieja hosts the XI International Bowling open

The Councillor for Sports of the City of Torrevieja, Diana Box Alonso, reports that the International Bowling Open “Ciudad de Torrevieja”, very popular among the growing masses of national and international players, will be held for the eleventh consecutive year in Ozone Bowling Torrevieja, between 16 and 24 September. This year, it is both the most international tournament held in Spain and an o cial tournament of the annual European Bowling Tour. Simultaneously, in the same bowling alley, another tournament for players over 50 years old will also take place, the III Torrevieja Senior Open.

The qualifying phase of the Open Ciudad de Torrevieja will end on Saturday 23rd September. The format is six games, played in the American style, that is, alternating between two courts. Participants can rejoin without limit to improve their result. Players receive an extra handicap of 8 pins per game.

The nal phase between the top 32 nishers will take place throughout Sunday 24 September, culminating in a single-game head-to-head phase

between the top eight scorers. The player with the highest total score at the end will receive a cheque for 3,000 euros and a trophy. This year, the total prize money amounts to 13,800 euros. Among the last champions of the Open Ciudad de Torrevieja are three Finns, a Spaniard, a Norwegian, a Venezuelan and a Belgian.

In addition to the open category, for players with averages of 190 or more, the tournament also has two lower categories: Category B (averages between 189.99 and 170) and Category C (averages below 170). In addition, for the third time in a row, the Torrevieja Senior Open, a separate but simultaneous six-game tournament for players who have reached the age of 50, will be played. Its nal phase will be played on Friday, 22 September, in the morning.

During the tournament, admission to the bowling alley will be free of charge at all times. The last two qualifying days, Friday and Saturday, as well as all nals will be streamed live on YouTube. Ozone Bowling Torrevieja also has an online scoring service. The

relevant links can be found on the Facebook pro le of the organisers, Club Euro Bowling Torrevieja (@ eurobowlingtorrevieja), and at bowl4u.com/ eventos.

More than 70 per cent of the registrations for the two tournaments come from outside Spain, with a typical stay in a hotel or holiday at being between four and six nights. At the moment, the list of participants includes, in addition to Spaniards, eighteen nationalities, ve more than in 2022: Argentina, Belgium, Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, France, Holland, Italy, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States and Venezuela. Consequently, the tournament brings considerable tourist value to Torrevieja.

Aspe U.D. “A” 1 - C.D. Montesinos 3

A quick round up regarding Saturday night’s game, in my opinion.

We came into this game needing a win, after last week’s defeat in the cup. A win is what we got.

1st half very even although we shaded it but it still looked (and still does), like we are too light up front. We desperately need a goal scorer.

We should have gone in ahead but the ball hit crossbar, and the rebound o the goal line, went against us.

The second half started badly as we soon conceded a goal and, for much of the remainder of the 2nd half, it looked like we would end up getting beaten again.

But credit where it’s due, we battled away, didn’t give up and, with 10 minutes to go, Manu headed home an equaliser from a corner.

5 mins later, Manu again scored after a scramble in the Aspe area to put us in the lead.

With the ref looking at her watch (she was excellent), young Anderson chased a back pass to their keeper, who kicked it straight at the young lad (actually think it him on the bum!!) and the ball ended up in the back of the net.

3 points and a great start to the season although, in my opinion, we still need a goal-scorer.

Match report from Eddie Cagigao

El Bosquet Summer Festival 2023

This years event took place over three days at the El bosquet Complex on Monday 4th , Wednesday 6th and Fridat the 8th of September. The festival was organised by Bill Reade and was this year assisted by Steve Higgins.

The complex was split into two main sections pegs A1 to 7 and 8 to 16 and a random draw was made daily.

This was the rst time that I have been unable to attend this festival so I only have the results etc so I have no idea of the tactics used etc.

Day 1

The top weight on this day was actually Nick Bastock on peg 6, with 17.320kg but Nick was not actually in

the festiival due to other commitments.

1st Neil Bomford, peg 1, 17.200kg

2nd Steve Higgins, peg B1, 16.540kg

3rd Bill Wakenhall, peg13, 13.120kg

Day 2

1st Neil McBernie,peg 13 37.420kg

2nd Vinny Smith, peg 10, 35.520kg

3rd John Havercroft, peg 14, 25.900kg

Day 3

1st Neil McBernie , peg 2 33.880kg

2nd Vinny Smith, peg 15, 24.660kg

3rd Lenny Bolton, peg 1, 24.500kg These results meant that the Festival was won by a fantastic angler and good friend to all NeiL McBernie with a massive three day total of 82.700kg. Full results tables are shown right.

Ian Brown

SOLUTIONS