Female Brit beaten in own home by jewellery thieves
On Saturday 26th July, at around 2pm, 59-year-old Gillian Ancrum had just said goodbye to a neighbour when her door knocked again. Thinking the neighbour had popped back she opened her door and was violently attacked.
Two men dressed in black
pushed Gill back into her own home, grabbing her round the throat. They ripped the gold chains from her neck and pushed her to the oor, stamping on her arms to stop her defending herself. Gill screamed and shouted as loud as she could and having
grabbed everything they could from her, the men ran o .
Hurt and terri ed, Gill managed to get herself to the neighbour and raise the alarm.
Unfortunately, when the police arrived, they didn´t seem overly concerned with the attack or Gill´s injuries. They wanted to know why she had answered her door and why her garden gate wasn´t locked and seemed more focussed on this than the fact she had been beaten and robbed in her home in the middle of the day.
Gill lives on a busy road in Playa Flamenca, near to a row of well-known bars and restaurants. This is not a location where you would think criminals would try their luck –but they did.
Gills daughter-in-law Lauren
said: “Should we have to lock ourselves in our own homes and not answer our doors in broad daylight? Our
community should be safe; we should have more police patrols. Criminals should be scared of committing these types of crimes for fear of being caught in the act.
“The police never took a statement or called for medical help. They told us to go to the Guardia Civil station and make a denuncia and get Gill checked at hospital.”
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The police did take a description of the men, who although spoke Spanish to each other, seemed to speak it with a foreign accent. Both were darker skinned than Spanish nationals.
To add insult to injury, Gill was told on her rst visit to the hospital there was no damage to her bones and sent home - but spent the night in agony as well as fear. Subsequent visits to her doctor and a return to Torrevieja Hospital has shown that her elbow is in fact fractured as well
as having signi cant and painful damage to the muscles and soft tissue.
Wanting to warn the local community and worried that this could happen to someone else Gill has been working with Priscilla Cromie a member of local political party PIOC to make a post a video to tell people to be on their guard.
In the video Gill tells viewers “We are not safe in our own homes!” Before beseeching people to be extra vigilant and
lock the doors, even when they are home. She said she is now scared to be in the house and scared to go out.
People are being advised to:
Lock their gates and doors –even when they are at home.
Report any suspicious activity or suspicious people to the authorities immediately.
Look out for your neighbours – we must help protect one another.
Man shot dead in Torrevieja
A man was shot dead on Sunday in the centre of Torrevieja. The incident occurred at 7pm on Pedro Lorca Street and Rambla Juan Mateo. Several Civil Guard and Local Police patrols immediately responded to the scene of the shooting, as did a SAMU unit.
Upon arrival, they found an injured man lying on the ground. Despite performing advanced CPR and other stabilization techniques, there was no response, and he died at 7:40pm.
Pictures from the scene showed police and paramedics trying to resuscitate him as he lay on the ground by the restaurant terrace.
The victim, believed to be aged around 30, was gunned down as two armed attackers red at him six times from close range before eeing on foot and jumping into a getaway car waiting nearby which was driven by a third man.
Three men were located and arrested shortly after the tragedy. The weapon believed to have been used to re the shots has also been seized.
The investigation has been led
Witnesses to the 7pm attack, which took place near the seafront, included a mother with a baby in a pushchair. The victim was shot as he walked by a town centre restaurant which closes on Sundays.
by the Torrevieja Civil Guard’s Judicial Police Team, with support from the Alicante Command’s Criminalistics Laboratory.
Uncon rmed reports are naming the victim as a senior member of the Daltons Gang, a violent criminal organisation which started out in Istanbul and has been in the news in recent years for the assassinations it has carried out and been involved in abroad.
Local Spanish press is also pointing to the victim and gunmen being of probable Turkish origin, although one report said the getaway car had French number plates which could be false.
The Civil Guard has yet to make
any o cial comments but is expected to do so in the coming hours.
The southern Costa Blanca has come under the spotlight in recent months over a number of violent incidents involving British and Irish nationals.
Last December Belfast man John George was shot dead there with the dad-of-two’s body being found partially hidden in an orchard in Rojales.
British siblings, 11 and 13, die in Salou
Police have issued further information following the news two British siblings died in Spain on the evening of last Tuesday (29th July).
Emergency services were called to Llarga beach in Salou, near Tarragona, shortly after 8.45pm local time, Catalonia’s Civil Protection agency said.
The two children, aged 11 and 13, were allegedly swept away from the beach by powerful currents at the time of the incident.
The siblings were given immediate treatment, but tragically they were pronounced dead at the scene, according to reports.
The children’s father who had also entered the water was rescued alive by the services, with local police, medical and re services all attending the scene, while a team of psychologists also rushed to the incident to assist the victims’ family.
It has been reported the dad is now in hospital after he was pulled from the water unconscious.
Catalonia’s Civil Protection agency initially said two British brothers had died, but Jose Luis Gargallo, the head of the local police force in Salou, had since con rmed it was a brother and sister involved in the tragedy. At a news conference the following day, Mr Gargallo told reporters: “There were three people who were having serious di culty getting out of the sea. There was a father with his son and daughter, of British nationality. When they got out, both of them, the boy and girl, aged 11
and 13, showed no signs of life. Attempts were made to resuscitate them with CPR, but they were unsuccessful.
“The father, fortunately, was able to be saved. He had swallowed a lot of water, he was exhausted, very fatigued, but the father was able to be saved thanks to the emergency services.”
A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development O ce spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of two British children who have died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.”
EU sets launch date for airport system to ‘help identify overstayers’
The European Union has con rmed that its longpostponed new border control system for non-EU nationals, which will eliminate the need for passport stamps, is now set to launch in October.
Originally scheduled to go live in November last year, the Entry/Exit System (EES) was delayed after several EU countries indicated they weren’t ready for its implementation.
Designed to log the dates of entry and departure for non-EU visitors, the EES will also monitor those who overstay their permitted time or are denied entry.
The system will collect travellers’ biometric data, including facial scans and ngerprints, along with other personal details. Its arrival has prompted concerns over potential delays and longer queues at European borders for those travelling by plane, train or ferry.
In March, EU member states agreed on a gradual introduction of the system, and the European Commission con rmed on Wednesday that this phased
launch will start on 12th October.
‘This will strengthen security … by helping us identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document and identity fraud,’ said Magnus Brunner, the commissioner for migration.
First agreed upon in 2017, the EES will be implemented across all 27 EU member states except for Ireland and Cyprus. It will also apply in Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein – non-EU countries that participate in the Schengen zone.
According to the EU Commission, travellers will be informed in advance through awareness campaigns at
airports and other border points throughout the EU ahead of the rollout.
‘With a six-month rollout, member states, travellers and businesses will have the time to adjust to the new system,’ Brunner said.
The phased deployment will see member states operating the system at approximately half of their border checkpoints within three months, with full implementation expected after six months.
‘EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts,’ Britain’s Foreign O ce noted in a travel advisory.
Illegal Airbnb listings removed in Spain as 55,000 more identified
Brit, 48, dies at Alicante Airport from burst varicose vein
Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights and Consumer A airs said that Airbnb has now withdrawn the 65,000 listings for holiday rentals that the ministry said back in May had violated rules, while the government has now identi ed nearly 55,000 further listings (54,728) also deemed to be illegal.
The removal of the 65,000 illegal listings comes after the multinational challenged the government’s order in court on multiple occasions – only for the judiciary to uphold the ministry’s actions.
Airbnb had argued that the ministry lacked the authority to make rulings on short-term rentals and had failed to provide an evidence-based list of noncompliant accommodation.
The Spanish government, as well as city councils and regional authorities, have launched a crackdown on tourism rentals via sites such as Airbnb and Booking.com.
Many Spaniards say such listings are creating excess tourism and driving up housing costs.
The ministry, headed by Pablo Bustinduy, said in a statement that its pursuit of
The ministry, however, said that the listings failed to include the o cial accommodation licence number, as required under legislation in force since 1 July. Others did not specify whether the owner was an individual or a corporation, as required by Spanish regulations.
the crackdown rea rmed ‘its commitment to enforcing the law and guaranteeing the constitutional right to housing over the pro ts of large multinational corporations’.
Regarding the additional 55,000 listings that the ministry claims now also violate the rules, it said it will forward this information ‘in accordance with current legal procedures so that these listings can either be removed or corrected by the platform’.
Alicante-Elche Airport resumes year-round flights to northern Spanish capital
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is expanding its reach. Flight and passenger records continue to rise month after month. In July alone, the Aena’s facility reached nearly two million passengers, with a total of 1,921,706 passengers, an 8.4% increase compared to the same month last year.
During this peak season, the 30 airlines operating at the airport have scheduled more than 14.7 million seats. This high supply propels Alicante Airport to its best summer season in its history, with 226 routes to 120 cities and thirty countries.
But work is already underway for the fallwinter season. One of the first routes to be launched will restore the direct connection between the Mediterranean and the Cantabrian Sea.
Alicante-Elche Airport will resume weekly flights to Santander throughout the year, according to the regional government.
There will be two weekly flights between Alicante and Santander operated by Vueling starting in October. Tickets are now available on the company’s website, with prices starting at €57 one way.
Alicante thus recovers this route to Seve Ballesteros Airport, which was lost in January of this year due to the dispute between Ryanair, the previous operator, and Aena. The Irish lowcost airline criticized the “excessive charges at Spanish regional airports,” prompting it to cancel certain flights. Among them was the one connecting Miguel Hernández Airport with the Cantabrian airport.
The Irish airline resumed flights between Alicante and Santander in 2023 after operating this route between the summer of 2009 and the fall of 2011. At the time, Ryanair also stated that the main reason for this cancellation was a conflict with Aena, the airport operator of the El Altet terminal.
With the opening of the new terminal, the use of walkways began, an imposition Ryanair disagreed with, requiring passengers to board planes on foot, something Aena refused. The conflict led the company to close that route, which it had resumed two years earlier. Now, just a few months later, it is being reopened, to the delight of “especially the elderly or those who have free time to enjoy,” according to the President of Cantabria, María José Sáenz de Buruaga.
A British woman has died at Alicante-Elche Airport after collapsing in the departure lounge. Angela McTier, from Blantyre in Lanarkshire, was travelling to Alicante airport in a taxi after her holiday in La Mata when she su ered a burst varicose vein, resulting in severe blood loss.
The 48-year-old made it to the airport but collapsed in the departure lounge. Despite emergency treatment, she passed away at the scene. Her daughter, Michelle Hilston, told STV that her mum had been working to get healthier so she could see her granddaughters grow up.
The 24-year-old said: “My mum watched the grandkids at least two nights every week and always looked forward to them coming over. I’m heartbroken for my two girls who have just lost that special relationship with her.
“If there’s one thing my mum loved, it was going
on holiday, she thrived over there and this particular holiday to La Mata she just kept saying how amazing it was, it was her best holiday and she’d felt so well and couldn’t wait to bring the grandkids over. She was due to go away with me and my two toddlers next month as well.”
A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development O ce spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a British woman who died in Spain.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with the expenses of bringing Angela home and covering her funeral costs. It reads: “Hi, sadly our friends mum Angela became unwell and passed away 22nd of July while coming home from her holiday in Alicante. We are just looking to take a bit of stress o Angela’s family to bring her home and let her get laid to rest. Any donations at all would be greatly appreciated.”
Three-hundred-metre ‘Bull of Spain’ tourist attraction causes controversy
A proposal to erect a colossal 300-metre-tall metal bull statue in Spain has ignited widespread controversy, with critics labelling the plan “absurd”.
The Spanish Academy of Bull ghting has put forward the ambitious project, dubbed Toro de España (“The Bull of Spain”), which it envisions as a national monument to celebrate the country’s embattled bull ghting tradition. The Academy says it would fully fund construction if a city agrees to donate the required public land.
Madrid, Spain’s capital, swiftly rejected the proposal. However, interest may be brewing in the northern city of Burgos, where the populist right-wing Vox party has expressed openness to hosting the project.
“It would be an opportunity to put Burgos on the global map,” said Fernando MartínezAcitores, Vox’s deputy mayor of Burgos, in comments reported by The Times. He
believes the statue could become a major tourist draw. Plans suggest the bull would tower nearly three times higher than Burgos Cathedral, featuring observation decks in its horns and housing restaurants and souvenir shops at its base.
Jorge Álvarez, president of the bull ghting academy, defended the proposal, stating that it would “boost tourism and employment” in the host city. He likened its potential cultural impact to that of the Ei el Tower in Paris or the Statue of Liberty in New York.
But not everyone in Burgos shares the enthusiasm. Former mayor and opposition leader Daniel de la Rosa ridiculed the concept on social media, writing on X (formerly Twitter): “You won’t believe it, but I assure you it’s no joke. In my 14 years as a corporate employee, there was never an idea as absurd as the one Vox made public today... We’ll have to take it with a pinch of salt.”
The plan has also reignited debate over Spain’s controversial bull ghting tradition, or torero. Animal rights groups such as PETA have long condemned the practice, describing it as “ritualistic slaughter” and a “tradition of tragedy.” Bull ghting has been banned in the Canary Islands since 1991 and brie y in Catalonia before the Constitutional Court overturned the decision. Despite growing criticism, symbols of bull ghting remain embedded in Spanish culture. Large black bull silhouettes— originally advertisements for Osborne’s Veterano brandy—still dot the Spanish countryside, standing on hillsides and highways. Whether Toro de España becomes the next iconic landmark or a failed monument to a divisive past remains uncertain, but the debate over its symbolism has already captured national attention.
Latest identity theft scam hits local communities
Warnings are circulating in the local community regarding a group going door-to-door posing as Internal A airs employees. They have documents and letterheads from the Ministry of Interior, Justice, and Peace and claim that they need to verify that each person in the household has valid ID for the upcoming census.
They are moving through di erent areas and are very convincing, as they are smartly dressed, have IDs and laptops. According to those who have been approached someone came to their house and said they needed to take their photo and ngerprints. They had a laptop, a biometric machine and a database of names.
They even sat down with the homeowner to show the menu of information needed on the computer. Please be aware that no such initiative exists on the part of the government. Never give your personal data to anyone who turns up on your doorstep, no matter who they claim to be or claim to represent.
Torrevieja
opens
second emergency care centre in August
Starting this week, Torrevieja will enhance its healthcare services with the opening of a new Continuous Care Point (PAC) in the El Acequión area. This new facility will operate alongside the existing PAC at La Loma Health Center, marking the rst time the municipality has two out-of-hospital emergency centers.
The Torrevieja primary health zone currently includes ve health centers: La Loma, Acequión, La Mata, Patricio Pérez, and San Luis. Until now, only La Loma o ered PAC services. The Ministry of Health explained that the decision to expand emergency coverage responds to the town’s growing population and the resulting increase in healthcare demand.
The new El Acequión PAC will provide continuous care on weekdays from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. the following day. On weekends and public
holidays, it will remain open 24 hours a day.
O cials emphasize that this addition will help reduce pressure on both the La Loma PAC and the Torrevieja Hospital emergency department. Currently, the La Loma PAC handles an average of 230 patients daily, with peak days seeing up to 340. By redistributing patient ow, the new center aims to shorten waiting times, improve
response e ciency, and optimize healthcare resources across the city.
In a statement, the Regional Ministry highlighted that the new organization represents an important step in strengthening Torrevieja’s healthcare network. With two PACs now available, residents will bene t from a more balanced and accessible distribution of emergency services, ensuring quicker and more equitable care when it is most needed.
Civil Guard arrests man in Dolores after scooter theft traced by GPS
The Civil Guard has arrested a 25-year-old man in Dolores for stealing an electric scooter from a home in San Fulgencio, thanks to the collaboration of the victim, who used a tracking application to locate the vehicle.
The incident began on June 20, when a resident of San Fulgencio reported the theft of his electric scooter from his home. When ling the complaint, the owner provided all the necessary documentation proving ownership of the scooter. In addition, he informed the o cers that he had a tracking application installed on his mobile phone, which allowed him to follow the device’s movements in real time.
In the days following the theft, the complainant maintained constant contact with the Civil Guard, updating them with the information he obtained from the application. Just four days later, the tracking data led him to believe that he had located the
stolen scooter in the town of Dolores. Without delay, he went to the Dolores Police Station and noti ed the o cers on duty.
Agents from the Investigation Department immediately went to the location indicated by the GPS signal. After conducting discreet surveillance, they identi ed the suspect as he was preparing to leave on the scooter. The o cers swiftly intervened and stopped the man, con rming that the scooter matched the one reported stolen. This
was veri ed through the documentation the victim had previously provided, which facilitated the quick recovery of the vehicle.
The suspect, a young man aged 25, was arrested for theft with force and later brought before the Orihuela Court of Instruction No. 2. Thanks to the e ective cooperation between the victim and the Civil Guard, the scooter was returned to its rightful owner in perfect condition, just four days after being stolen.
VISIT FOUR VALENCIAN BODEGAS ON A FANTASTIC TWO DAY WINE TASTING TOUR
The adventure begins with a scenic journey to the Terres dels Alforins wine region, nestled in the province of Valencia — a land steeped in winemaking tradition since Roman times. At the rst stop: Bodega Los Piños, founded in 1863, you’ll discover some of their winemaking secrets and enjoy a tasting of their distinctive wines, followed by a light lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, the journey continues north to visit Bodega Enguera. This family-run winery was born in 1974 when Pedro, the son of humble land workers, ful lled his lifelong dream of owning land to plant vineyards and a small orchard. Today, the bodega is renowned for its commitment to sustainability — including an innovative bat conservation project that helps control pests naturally. After an enjoyable tasting of three of their organic wines, the coach will make its way to Hotel Anna in Cocentaina, where you’ll have time to unwind before
indulging in a relaxed evening meal. The following morning, after a typical Spanish breakfast the coach sets o on a short 30-minute journey into the heart of the Terres dels Alforins wine region –made even more special by the fact that it’s grape harvest season, a magical time of year when the vineyards are full of life and activity. The rst stop is to the prestigious Bodega Daniel Belda, a family-run winery with over 90 years of history. Here you will enjoy an enlightening two-hour visit learning about the grapes, the winemaking process, and, of course, savour ve carefully selected wines. After lunch in a local restaurant you visit the fourth and nal wine maker – Bodega Rafael Cambra. This is the newest winery in the area, founded in 2001 by Rafael himself, a fourth-generation winemaker with training in both Spain and France. Rafael’s passion and innovation shine through in this tour of the winery, as you discover his renowned vines, and enjoy a tasting of four of his nest wines. Then you’ll head back home – with a coach full of wine, wonderful memories, and taste buds still tingling from the exquisite avours of the Terres dels Alforins.
PRICE: 259€ per person. Includes Visit to 4 Bodegas & Tasting 15 Wines, Coach Travel, 2* Hotel Anna Cocentaina, Dinner with wine and water, Breakfast & 2 Lunches.
MORE INFO & BOOKINGS: Please call Jessica on 679 35 95 96 or visit eurotourguide.com
Decomposed cow washes up on La Mata beach
An unusual and unsettling discovery was made yesterday on La Mata beach in Torrevieja when the lifeless body of a cow was found oating in the sea. The incident alarmed bathers and prompted a rapid response from the municipality’s lifeguard service.
According to reports, beachgoers rst noticed a large object drifting about one kilometer from the shore. Concerned that it could be a kayak with people trapped inside, they immediately alerted lifeguards. Two members of the rescue team set out to investigate, guided by the waves that slowly pushed the object closer to land.
Rubén García, coordinator of Torrevieja’s lifeguard team, stated that the origin of the animal remains a mystery. “We cannot con rm how the cow ended up in the sea or from where it may have drifted,” he explained.
Following protocol, the lifeguards quickly noti ed the local police and the municipal cleaning service. A cleanup crew soon arrived at the beach with specialized equipment, including a shovel truck, to remove
Upon reaching the object, the lifeguards con rmed it was not a boat but the carcass of a cow in an advanced state of decomposition. The discovery shocked many beach users, who had gathered to watch the unusual scene unfold.
the animal and ensure the area was safe for bathers.
Authorities are now investigating possible explanations, including whether the cow may have fallen from a transport vessel, been washed into the sea by a river current, or drifted from another coastal area.
Despite the unusual nature of the incident, the beach was reopened to the public shortly after the cleanup, with o cials assuring residents and visitors that there was no risk to public health.
GBP
The pound started the week on a firmer footing, buoyed by improving market confidence following the US-EU trade deal. Investors seem to be showing more appetite for risk, which has supported GBP against both the dollar and the euro.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with President Trump earlier this week to discuss UK-US trade relations, with a particular focus on UK steel exports. While the UK remains temporarily exempt from the 50% global tariff on steel and aluminium, exports are still subject to a 25% duty. Starmer is reportedly pushing for a sector-specific exemption, and both sides have agreed to begin implementing a framework to reduce tariffs further, though no formal changes have taken effect yet.
On the data front, last week’s UK retail sales rose by 0.9%, a rebound from the previous month’s -2.7% drop, but still short of the 1.2% forecast. This underperformance adds to concerns that the UK economy may be losing momentum. Sterling has continued to weaken against the US dollar, with GBP/USD falling 4.8% since the beginning of July and reaching an 11-week low earlier today. While this move is largely driven by USD strength, it reflects broader investor caution toward GBP.
EUR The EU has narrowly avoided a major escalation in trade tensions with the US, thanks to Sunday’s agreement that limits tariffs to 15% and exempts key sectors. While this outcome is far from ideal, it represents a clear improvement over the previously
GBP / EUR UPDATE
threatened 30% blanket tariffs. The deal provides short-term relief for exporters and removes a significant source of uncertainty for the eurozone economy.
However, when markets looked at the detail of the agreement, it became clear that Europe conceded more than the US, which contributed to euro weakness at the start of the week. That trend reversed sharply on Friday, following a weaker-than-expected US employment report, which triggered USD selling and EUR buying, a significant move that erased the vast majority of the pound’s gains against the euro over the week.
Last week, the European Central Bank held rates steady, with a notably dovish tone in the accompanying press conference. Markets now believe the ECB has likely concluded its rate adjustment cycle for 2025, as policymakers shift focus to supporting growth amid global headwinds.
This week for the euro, the spotlight turned to Germany and Spain. Eurozone flash CPI came in at 2.0% YoY, with core inflation at 2.3%, both slightly above expectations. German retail sales rebounded 1.0% MoM, beating the 0.5% forecast, while preliminary GDP data showed 0.1% growth for the euro area. These figures suggest modest resilience in the eurozone economy, despite weak sentiment indicators and ongoing global uncertainty.
Views expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may differ from your appointed Moneycorp representative. This commentary does not constitute financial advice. All rates are sourced from Bloomberg and forecasts are taken from Forex Factory.
Tourist camp in Sierra Escalona faces strong environmental opposition
The environmental group Friends of Sierra Escalona has led formal objections against Orishas Trust SLU’s application for a Declaration of Community Interest (DIC) to establish a tourist camp in the protected Sierra Escalona area. The group argues that the project threatens both environmental and territorial values while also posing a serious ood risk.
According to their allegations, nearly half of the 33 hectares designated for the facility fall within the Sierra Escalona and Dehesa de Campoamor Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA), which forms part of the Natura 2000 Network. The land also lies within the Protected Landscape of Sierra Escalona and its surroundings, an area recognized for its rich biodiversity. The group stresses that the site currently supports traditional dryland farming of almond trees, cultivated on historic terraces, a landscape they argue must be preserved amid
ongoing pressure from irrigation projects that have already transformed much of the region.
Flooding risks add another layer of concern. The proposed camp borders the basin of the La Pedrera reservoir and includes more than six hectares identi ed as vulnerable to geomorphological hazards. Environmentalists note that at-bottomed gullies and ravines descending from Sierra Escalona toward La Pedrera pose a clear risk, with one major gully running directly through the planned facilities. To address this, the project design splits the camp into
two sections connected by roads, a layout the group calls unsafe. They describe the decision to authorize construction in such a location as “reckless.”
The objections highlight a growing clash between tourism development and environmental protection in the region. While the project seeks to promote nature-based tourism, Friends of Sierra Escalona argue that it undermines the very natural and landscape values that draw visitors, threatening fragile ecosystems and exposing future visitors to unnecessary risks.
EMA reverses course on Donanemab: Alzheimer’s drug receives positive opinion
Just months after rejecting its approval, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has given positive feedback on donanemab, a drug developed by Eli Lilly for early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. The decision marks a signi cant shift, as the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) had previously denied marketing authorization due to concerns that its bene ts did not outweigh potentially life-threatening risks.
Now recommended under the trade name Kisunla, donanemab is advised for adults with con rmed amyloid pathology who are heterozygous or non-heterozygous carriers of the ApoE4 protein. The European Commission is expected to make a nal decision in the coming months.
Patrik Jonsson, executive vice president and president of Lilly International, called the feedback “an important
milestone,” noting that donanemab could make “a signi cant di erence in the lives of people with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease.”
Alzheimer’s a ects an estimated 6.9 million people in Europe, a gure expected to nearly double by 2050 as the population ages. Around a third of those with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia progress to a more advanced stage within a year. José Antonio Sacristán, medical director of Lilly Spain, emphasized the urgency of early detection. “It is essential to enhance early diagnosis, access to biomarkers, and the training of multidisciplinary teams in our healthcare system,” he said, adding that approval by key institutions could “change the course of the disease in its early stages.”
The EMA’s revised stance is based largely on data from the TRAILBLAZERALZ 2 trial, which showed donanemab signi cantly slows cognitive and
functional decline while reducing the risk of disease progression. Results from the TRAILBLAZER-ALZ 6 study further supported the treatment, showing that adjusted dosing lowered the risk of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities with edema (ARIA-E) while maintaining plaque clearance and P-tau reduction.
Although amyloid-related side e ects such as ARIA-E and ARIA-H (haemorrhage/ hemosiderosis) can be serious, they are often asymptomatic. Patients carrying the ApoE4 gene may face increased risks, underscoring the need for careful medical oversight.
Administered once a month by infusion, donanemab is already available in the US, UK, China, Japan, Australia, and several other countries. Notably, it is the rst Alzheimer’s treatment proven e ective enough to allow discontinuation once amyloid plaques are cleared, potentially lowering treatment costs and reducing patient burden.
Surgical waiting times improve but remain a challenge in Vega Baja and Torrevieja hospitals
Recent data from the Regional Ministry of Health reveals ongoing challenges and some progress in surgical waiting times at Vega Baja Hospital in Orihuela and Torrevieja Hospital. Since the regional government change in July 2023, health o cials have shifted from monthly to semiannual reporting of waiting list statistics, with the most recent gures re ecting conditions as of June 30, 2024.
At Vega Baja Hospital, waiting times have improved notably compared to the situation in December 2023. The average wait time dropped from 108 days in December to 77 days by the end of June. While these gures re ect two di erent periods of care, the improvement is clear and o ers some relief for patients facing delays. Despite this progress, a signi cant number of patients remain on the surgical waiting list, totaling 1,610 individuals as of June 30.
Of these, about half of the patients have been waiting no
longer than 90 days. However, 328 patients have been waiting between 91 and 180 days, and 462 have endured waits longer than six months, highlighting a substantial backlog. By specialty, the situation varies considerably.
General Surgery has 230 patients waiting, with an average wait time of 40 days. Gynecology and Obstetrics report 41 patients, with an average delay of 51 days. Orthopedic Surgery and
Traumatology represent the largest group, with 768 patients on the list. Unfortunately, this specialty also experiences the longest waits, averaging 115 days, with over half of those patients waiting more than six months.
At Torrevieja Hospital, the total number of patients awaiting surgery is slightly higher, at 1,667. Among them, 1,197 have been waiting less than three months,
while 299 patients have been on the list for between 91 and 180 days. There are still 171 patients who have been waiting over six months. The average waiting time in General Surgery is 36 days, with 238 patients on the list. Gynecology sees 70 patients with an average wait time of 46 days, most under 90 days. Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology have 278 patients waiting, with an average wait time of 55 days; while most wait less than three months, eight patients have experienced delays beyond six months.
When compared to other health departments within the Valencian Community, Torrevieja Hospital’s waiting times fall in the middle of the pack. Out of 25 departments, ten report better average waiting times than Torrevieja. These include areas such as Vinarós, Sagunto, Requena, Valencia-Doctor Peset, La Ribera, Denia, Marina Baja, Manises, Elche-Crevillente, and the Provincial Hospital Consortium of Castellón, where average surgical waiting times
range between 35 and 55 days.
Meanwhile, Vega Baja Hospital in Orihuela fares less well in comparison. Only seven departments in the Valencian Community report worse waiting times than Vega Baja, according to o cial statistics published as of June 30. This indicates that while there has been some progress in reducing delays, signi cant challenges remain, particularly in addressing the large number of patients with long wait times.
The shift from monthly to semiannual reporting means updates on these critical gures come less frequently, but the data continues to highlight the urgent need for ongoing improvements in surgical scheduling and resource allocation to reduce wait times. Patients and healthcare providers alike are hopeful that continued e orts will further reduce delays and improve access to timely surgical care in the region.
Hacienda del Alamo Golf & Spa Resort is celebrating
This spectacular resort, located in Fuente Álamo, Murcia, a stone’s throw from the beaches of Mazarrón and 10 minutes from Murcia International Airport, is the ideal place for a grand opening.
OMALA RESIDENCES, an ambitious real estate development of more than 1,000 homes promoted by Abala Desarrollo Inmobiliario of the Hozono Global Group, which guarantees the solvency and quality of the project, is already on the market with its rst two phases.
Villas Melissa. 23 elegant and functional detached villas with solarium. 3 spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms and 111 m2 of build surface on 400 m2 plots. Communal swimming pool and the option of enjoying your own private swimming pool. Prices from €297,700.
Frontline Villas. 18 exclusive villas, of three di erent types, on the front line of the amazing golf course designed by Dave Thomas. 162 m2 of build surface, distributed over 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, laundry room, dressing room and covered garage. Private swimming pool.
Plots between 700 and 1,000 m2. Prices from €432,200.
OMALA RESIDENCES is undoubtedly the best newbuild o er within a golf resort on the Costa Cálida and in southern Alicante.
OMALA RESIDENCES allows you to enjoy a detached villa on a spacious plot for the price of an apartment in other locations, within an established resort with all the necessary amenities and services (24/7 security, 18-hole golf course, 6-hole pitch & putt, 4-star hotel, supermarket, bars and restaurants, hairdresser, spa, etc.).
A great investment opportunity and a chance to change your life await you at OMALA RESIDENCES.
We would be delighted to welcome you to our o ce, located very close to the clubhouse.
Contact: sales@ omalaresidences.com 606100001
The mysterious blue dragon returns to Spanish shores
This summer, Spain’s Mediterranean coast has welcomed back an extraordinary visitor: the blue dragon (Glaucus atlanticus). This tiny sea slug, only 2 to 4 centimeters long, captivates with its shimmering metallic blue color that looks almost otherworldly. On July 29th, one was spotted in a tidal pool at Racó de Mar in Canet d’en Berenguer, Valencia, con rming the ongoing presence of this fascinating species along Spain’s shores.
Despite its fantastical name, the blue dragon is a small nudibranch that oats upside down on the ocean surface. Its striking blue color camou ages it from predators both above and below the water. What makes it even more remarkable is its diet: it feeds on venomous marine creatures like the Portuguese man o’ war and stores their venom in its own body, making it a dangerous creature despite its delicate appearance.
The blue dragon has
been known in Spanish waters for centuries, with records dating back to 1705 in Ibiza. However, sightings have become more frequent in recent years, with appearances in Alicante in 2021 and Gran Canaria in 2023. Experts believe this increase is due to a combination of marine currents pushing them ashore, the warming Mediterranean Sea—up to 6°C above average this summer—and a rise in their prey, the Portuguese man o’ war.
Though mesmerizing, the blue dragon’s sting can be painful and should never
be touched. Beachgoers are urged to alert lifeguards if they spot one. If stung, rinsing with saltwater, carefully removing tentacles, and applying cold compresses are recommended, along with seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen.
The blue dragon is a stunning but lethal reminder of how climate change is reshaping marine life, bringing exotic species closer to our coasts. Spanish beach visitors are encouraged to stay informed, respect marine wildlife, and enjoy the ocean safely.
Geologist warns: Alicante at high risk of major earthquake
Alicante, along with parts of Murcia and Granada, faces a signi cant but often overlooked seismic risk. While Spain is not known for frequent earthquakes like Japan or California, the southeast remains especially vulnerable. Geologist and science communicator Nahúm Méndez Chazarra, known as Un geólogo en apuros, issued a stark warning:“We live turned away from seismic risk, especially in areas like Alicante.”
According to Méndez, Spain’s public institutions and emergency systems are illprepared to handle a major earthquake. He warns that complacency, combined with growing urban density and outdated building codes, could result in catastrophic consequences.
The reminder comes shortly after the powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula in late 2023. Thanks to advanced early warning systems, low coastal population, and the quake’s depth, its impact was far less devastating than feared. “Technology can save lives, but it’s useless without education
– people must know how to act,” Méndez stressed.
Spain’s seismic history highlights the danger. The 1829 Torrevieja earthquake, measuring 6.6, killed 389 people, while the 2011 Lorca quake, at 5.1, left nine dead and caused €1.2 billion in damage. Experts warn that a similar event today could prove even deadlier, given population growth and thousands of older buildings lacking seismic reinforcement.
Méndez calls for urgent action: earthquake
preparedness courses in schools and companies, annual drills in high-risk municipalities, and stricter building regulations, including retro tting vulnerable structures. Survivors echo his concerns. “In Lorca, we learned the hard way. No one told us what to do,” recalls María López.
The geologist’s message is clear: prevention and education are essential. “Let’s not wait for another Lorca or Torrevieja. The risk is real, and so is the solution: education, prevention, and action.”
Benferri inaugurates expanded and modernised municipal pool
The President of the Alicante Provincial Council, Toni Pérez, visited Benferri on Tuesday to see the recently completed expansion and improvement works on the municipal swimming pool, accompanied by Mayor Luis Vicente Mateo. The project required an investment of €554,642, of which 85% (€471,500) was funded by the Provincial Council, with the remainder covered by the Benferri City Council.
Mayor Mateo expressed his gratitude for the support, highlighting that “the help of the Alicante institution is essential for small municipalities like Benferri to carry out projects of this magnitude.”
For his part, President Pérez praised the initiative as “a highly accessible and sustainable project that enhances the aesthetics of municipal services and adds a new attraction for the town.” He emphasized that the Council’s resources are provided “at the service of all municipalities, regardless
of political a liation, so that each locality can decide how best to use them, ensuring the e ective functioning of local autonomy.”
Details of the Works
The project expanded the outdoor pool from 25x12 meters to 35x16 meters, doubling its capacity and allowing it to be designated as a recreational or multipurpose facility. An over ow water return system replaced the old skimmer system, improving e ciency and water quality. In addition, a separate
children’s pool and wading pool were built, along with a new pergola providing shaded areas for visitors.
The inauguration was also attended by Vice Presidents and Provincial Deputies Ana Serna, Marina Sáez, Antonio Bernabéu, and Francisco Cano, who joined the tour of the new facilities.
With these improvements, the Benferri municipal pool is set to become a modern, accessible, and family-friendly space for residents and visitors alike.
Torrevieja removes dangerous palm from Paseo Vista Alegre
The Torrevieja City Council has removed a dangerously leaning palm tree from Paseo Vista Alegre to ensure the safety of pedestrians. The action, carried out by the company Actúa — responsible for maintaining the city’s green areas — was completed smoothly and without incident, preventing potential personal injury or property damage.
The preventive measure comes after a recent incident in which strong winds knocked down a palm tree on the same promenade. Following that event, municipal technicians conducted inspections of other trees in the area. During the review, they detected a Phoenix Dactylifera palm that posed an imminent risk of falling, prompting its immediate removal.
Councilor for Parks and Gardens, Concha Sala, emphasized the importance of maintaining the city’s emblematic palm trees, noting that many
have been part of the urban landscape for six to seven decades. “Some of these palm trees are between 60 and 70 years old, so we are intensifying monitoring and conservation e orts,” she explained. Sala also con rmed that replanting initiatives are underway to preserve this characteristic species within Torrevieja’s coastal environment.
The Department of Parks and Gardens stressed that the care of urban trees is a top priority for the City Council, not only to
protect the city’s green heritage but also to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Regular evaluations of plant health and structure are carried out, with swift responses to any identi ed risks.
This latest intervention underlines the municipality’s commitment to both heritage preservation and public safety, ensuring that Paseo Vista Alegre remains a secure and pleasant space for locals and tourists alike.
The Civil Guard has carried out a major blow against organized cybercrime with the arrest of sixteen individuals accused of fraud, money laundering, and membership in a criminal group. The operation, known as Operation Fake Link, was launched after a complaint led in Callosa de Segura revealed the existence of a sophisticated bank identity theft network that had already caused signi cant nancial damage across the province of Alicante.
Investigators have so far documented thirty complaints in Alicante, with losses exceeding 256,000 euros. Authorities believe the number of victims could increase as inquiries progress, given the scale and e ciency of the fraudulent scheme.
The investigation began in October 2023, when a resident of Callosa de Segura reported receiving an alarming SMS, apparently from his bank, warning of a suspicious transaction. The message included a link that directed him to what appeared to be the o cial bank website. In reality, the page was a meticulously cloned portal designed to capture con dential login details. Like many others, the victim was deceived by
the credible appearance of the site and the urgency of the message, unwittingly handing over his credentials. The scam was made possible through a technique known as SMS Spoo ng, which allowed the perpetrators to impersonate the bank’s genuine phone number. As a result, fraudulent messages appeared in the same thread as legitimate bank communications, lending them an air of authenticity. Once the criminals obtained the victims’ credentials, they accessed the real accounts and even telephoned the victims while posing as bank employees. During these calls, they persuaded the victims to authorize transfers to what they claimed were secure accounts. In truth, the funds were redirected to accounts belonging to so-called nancial mules, individuals recruited to lend their bank accounts in exchange for a commission.
The criminal group operated with a highly organized threetier structure. At the top were the ringleaders and technicians, responsible for registering fake domains, hiring SMS distribution services, and designing fraudulent websites. Beneath them were the communicators, who directly contacted victims
and guided them through the fraudulent process. Finally, the mules and collectors were tasked with receiving the stolen funds, withdrawing them quickly from ATMs, and delivering them to the leaders.
The speed at which the group acted was key to their success.
In many cases, money was withdrawn within just two hours of the victim providing their information, leaving little time for banks to detect the fraud or freeze the transfers. Some of the stolen funds were later converted into cryptocurrency through unregulated platforms, further complicating e orts to trace the money.
As part of the operation, fteen
arrests were made in Barcelona and one in Alicante. The detainees include twelve men and four women, aged between twenty and fty, and of various nationalities. They are accused of multiple counts of fraud, money laundering, and belonging to a criminal group. During searches, investigators seized a range of electronic devices, documents, and digital evidence, all of which have been handed over to the Court of First Instance No. 3 of Orihuela. In addition, authorities froze thirty-eight bank accounts linked to the suspects.
The Civil Guard has urged citizens to remain vigilant against this type of scam, stressing the importance of caution when receiving unexpected or
alarming messages. O cials warn that individuals should never click on suspicious links sent via SMS or email and should be wary of messages that attempt to create a sense of urgency by warning of supposed fraudulent activity. Under no circumstances should banking passwords or veri cation codes be shared over the phone or entered through uno cial links. If in doubt, citizens are advised to contact their bank directly through veri ed channels. Any suspected fraud should be reported immediately to the authorities or by calling 062.
The success of Operation Fake Link highlights both the sophistication of modern cybercrime networks and the need for ongoing vigilance. Authorities have warned that such scams are becoming increasingly common and elaborate, combining technological expertise with psychological manipulation to deceive victims. While the arrests mark a signi cant victory against organized cybercrime, o cials emphasize that public awareness and prevention remain the most e ective defenses against these evolving threats.
Orihuela expands mental health team with 21 new positions
The Ministry of Health has announced the creation of 21 new positions for the Mental Health Service of the Orihuela Health Department, continuing the expansion that began in September last year with 10 new posts. This represents an 85% increase in professionals within just 12 months, aimed at addressing longstanding shortages in mental health care across the Vega Baja region.
The growth is especially signi cant in mental health nursing (+140%), clinical psychology (+82%), and psychiatry (+60%), according to Bartolomé Pérez Gálvez, Director General of Mental Health and Addictions, who shared the news during a meeting with the Orihuela Health Department’s leadership team.
In total, 31 professionals have been added since last year: six psychiatrists, eight clinical psychologists, eight mental health nurses, four social workers, two occupational therapists, and three administrative sta . The expansion represents an annual investment of
over €1.7 million, placing Orihuela above the regional average for mental health resources for the rst time.
“This region has su ered unjusti able discrimination in mental health for years,” Pérez Gálvez stated. “We are committed to reversing that trend with real and sustained investment.”
The additional sta are already improving services: psychiatric consultations have risen 1.3%, psychology consultations 8%, and nursing consultations 23%, reversing the decline caused by sta shortages in previous years.
One of the key initiatives is the Early Detection Unit in schools, launched in April with two clinical psychologists who have already treated 24 students. Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to introduce advanced therapeutic technologies such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for resistant depression and OCD, and virtual reality treatments for phobias and anxiety.
“Our goal is not only more resources, but the best treatments,” Pérez Gálvez emphasized. “We are building a modern, evidence-based mental health service accessible to all.”
Council approves €14M flood safety works on Segura river
The Council has approved a €14.3 million project to enhance ood safety along the left bank of the Segura River. The plan focuses on increasing the drainage capacity of the river’s mouth and the nal section of the Azarbe del Señor canal, which carries excess irrigation water. Financed with European funds, the works are expected to be completed within 11 months.
This intervention comes in response to the devastating oods caused by torrential rains in September 2019, which severely a ected several municipalities in Vega Baja del Segura. The event highlighted the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather, underscoring the urgent need for longterm protective measures.
Since then, the Generalitat, together with other administrations and public entities, has been advancing a series of coordinated actions to strengthen ood resilience
in Vega Baja. The current project plays a central role in that strategy, aiming to improve water evacuation, safeguard communities, and make better use of rainwater resources.
By expanding drainage capacity, the works will help channel and remove excess water more e ciently after heavy rains. This not only reduces the risk of ooding in populated areas but also ensures accumulated water can be managed and reused wherever possible.
Authorities stress that this
is a priority intervention, as the river’s mouth is a critical point for water evacuation into the sea. Strengthening the hydraulic system here will signi cantly improve the overall safety and functionality of the area’s water channels.
With climate change increasing the frequency of intense rainfall, o cials emphasize that projects like this are essential to protect both people and property while supporting sustainable water management for the future.
Hidraqua wins top award for AIpowered customer service project
Hidraqua and its joint ventures, responsible for managing the complete water cycle in 77 municipalities across the Valencian Community, have received the Platinum Customer Experience Award 2025 from Contact Center Hub. The recognition, in the category of Best IT Project in Chatbots and Virtual Agents, highlights the success of a customer service initiative powered by advanced Arti cial Intelligence (AI). The solution was developed by Veolia, the global leader in ecological transformation and parent company of Hidraqua, in collaboration with Telefónica Empresas.
The project has been praised for its strong focus on accessibility and digital inclusion, under the motto “to everyone, anytime, anywhere.” Thanks to this approach, the digitalization strategy rolled out by Veolia and Telefónica has achieved outstanding results. According to the Net Promoter Score (NPS), customer satisfaction with automated processes
has surpassed 63%.
One of the project’s key milestones has been the optimization of chatbot channels, with automation reaching over 66% e ectiveness. Among these, the WhatsApp channel has shown remarkable performance, successfully resolving 70% of customer queries through automation.
Speaking about the recognition, Isidoro Andreu Hurtado, Client Director at Hidraqua, underlined the importance of balancing digital innovation with personal service:
“We must continue advancing in the digitalization of our services, but without losing sight of all the segments of society we serve. Personalized and close attention remains key, ensuring that automation never reduces the e ectiveness of our response to customer needs.”
María Monzó, Chief Customer O cer at Veolia Spain, also highlighted
the value of collaboration:
“This award recognizes the importance of strategic alliances in driving digital transformation. The partnership between Veolia and Telefónica has allowed us to combine expertise and technological leadership to enhance the customer experience, ensuring digitalization and personalization go hand in hand without leaving anyone behind.”
The award-winning project forms part of Veolia Group’s broader GreenUp strategy, which promotes technological innovation, sustainability, and customer-focused solutions through strategic alliances.
The Platinum Customer Experience Awards, organized annually by Contact Center Hub, are considered one of the most prestigious honors in the industry, celebrating excellence and innovation in customer service.
This Week´s Movie Picks
Saturday 9th August, Channel 4, 11.00 pm
In 1986, Saroo was a five-year-old child in India of a poor but happy rural family. On a trip with his brother, Saroo soon finds himself alone and trapped in a moving decommissioned passenger train that takes him to Calcutta, 1000 miles away from home. Now totally lost in an alien urban environment and too young to identify either himself or his home to the authorities, Saroo struggles to survive as a street child until he is sent to an orphanage. Soon, Saroo is selected to be adopted by the Brierley family in Tasmania, where he grows up in a loving, prosperous home. However, for all his material good fortune, Saroo finds himself plagued by his memories of his lost family in his adulthood and tries to search for them even as his guilt drives him to hide this quest from his adoptive parents and his girlfriend.
The Imitation Game Sunday 10th August, BBC2, 11.00 pm
It is based on the real life story of legendary cryptanalyst Alan Turing. The lm portrays the nail-biting race against time by Turing and his brilliant team of code-breakers at Britain’s top- secret Government Code and Cypher School at
the
Bletchley Park, during
darkest days of World War II
Tuesday 5th August
ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Safe House
Wednesday 6th August
14:00 BBC News at One
BBC London 14:45 BBC News at One 15:00 Money for Nothing
15:45 Escape to the Country 16:45 The Bidding Room 17:30 Bridge of Lies
18:15 Pointless
19:00 BBC News at Six
19:30 BBC London
20:00 The One Show
20:30 EastEnders
21:00 MasterChef 22:00 Destination X
The Tournament
Great British Menu
World’s Busiest Cities 18:15 Flog It!
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Rick Stein’s Food Stories
20:00 SOS: Extreme Rescues
20:30 Grand Tours of Scotland’s Rivers
21:00 Digging for Britain
22:00 The Moors Murders: A Search for Justice 23:00 Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing
Loose Women
ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News London 15:00 Celebrity Catchphrase
16:00 Lingo
17:00 Tipping Point
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 The Fortune Hotel
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Celebrity Specials
09:40 The King of Queens
10:10 Frasier 10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 Chateau DIY
19:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Do You Have ADHD?
22:00 24 Hours in A&E
23:00 Brain Surgeons: Between Life and Death
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 Chateau DIY
19:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Can’t Sell Must Sell
22:00 Johnny Vegas: Art, ADHD and Me
23:00 Air India Crash: What Went Wrong?
09:40 The Smurfs 09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:05 Pawsome Puzzles 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:30 Vanessa 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 Hoax: The Kidnapping of Sherri Papini 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 A Yorkshire Farm
20:00 Somerset: Wonder Of The West Country 21:00 Coastal Adventures with Helen, Jules & JB 22:00 Pompeii: Life in the City with Dan Snow 23:00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild
10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Pawsome Puzzles 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine
12:30 Storm Huntley
13:30 Vanessa 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 Revenge for My Mother 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 A Yorkshire Farm
20:00 Somerset: Wonder Of The West Country
21:00 Call the Bailiffs: Time To Pay Up
22:00 Soldier: For King and Country 23:00 Fare Dodgers: At War With The Law
09:35 Georgia and Tommy: Baby Steps
The Only Way Is Essex
The Real Housewives of Potomac
The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
Dinner Date 14:05 Georgia and Tommy: Baby Steps 15:05 The Only Way Is Essex 16:05 Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles
The Real Housewives of Potomac 18:00 The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal
Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles
Georgia and Tommy: Happy Essex After 23:00 Botched
Georgia and Tommy: Baby Steps
The Only Way Is Essex 11:15 The Real Housewives of Potomac 12:10 The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City 13:05 Dinner Date 14:05
Agatha Christie’s Poirot 23:00 Foyle’s War
Thursday 7th August
19:30
20:00
20:45
Point
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:30 Tom Kerridge Cooks Spain
22:00 The Fortune Hotel
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Spectre
Friday 8th August
14:45
BBC News
Impossible 14:45 The Boss 15:30 The Tournament
16:15 Great British Menu
17:15 Great British Menu
18:15 Flog It!
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Rick Stein’s Food Stories
20:00 Villages by the Sea
10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Fern Britton: Inside the Vet’s
16:00 Lingo
17:00 Tipping Point
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 Chateau DIY
19:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Supercruising: Life at Sea
22:00 Johnny Vegas: Art, ADHD and Me 23:00 Gogglebox
10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun: What Happened Next
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
09:55 Peppa Pig
10:00 Peppa Pig
10:05 Pawsome Puzzles 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:30 Vanessa 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 A Reservation for Death
17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 A Yorkshire Farm 20:00 Somerset: Wonder Of The West Country 21:00 The Hotel Inspector 22:00 The Secret Life of Trees
23:00 Air Crash: The Miracle Children of the Amazon
09:40 The Smurfs
09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:05 Pawsome Puzzles 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:30 Vanessa
14:40 5 News at Lunchtime
09:35 Georgia and Tommy:
10:30 The Only Way Is Essex 11:15 The Real Housewives of Potomac
12:10 The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
13:05 Dinner Date
14:05 Georgia and Tommy: Baby Steps
15:05 The Only Way Is Essex
07:30 Classic Emmerdale
08:00 Classic Coronation Street
08:35 Classic Coronation Street
09:10 Midsomer Murders 11:15 The Royal 12:20 Heartbeat
You?
21:30 MasterChef
22:00 Here We Go
22:30 Mrs Brown’s Boys
23:00 BBC News at Ten
23:30 BBC London
23:40 St. Denis Medical
20:30 Beechgrove Garden
21:00 Gardeners’ World
22:00 The Gone
22:55 Natural World
23:00 Rev.
23:30 Newsnight
23:58 BBC Weather
Saturday 9th August
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Under the Bridge
22:45 Under the Bridge
23:35 ITV News
18:00 Chateau DIY
19:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It: Brilliant Builds
22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown 23:00 First Dates
14:45 Home and Away 15:20 Killer Design 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 The World’s Strongest Man
19:30 Live: Pre-Season Friendly Football
22:30 Billy Connolly: In His Own Words
11:50 The Simpsons
12:20 The Simpsons
12:50 The Simpsons
13:20 The Simpsons
13:50 Four in a Bed
14:20 Four in a Bed
14:55 Four in a Bed
15:25 Four in a Bed
15:55 Four in a Bed
12:40 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours
13:40 ITV Lunchtime News
14:00 To Be Announced
18:00 Deal or No Deal
19:00 ITV Evening News
19:20 ITV News London
19:30 The Chase: Celebrity Special
20:25 The 1% Club
21:30 No Time to Die
16:30 Location, Location, Location
17:30 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It
18:35 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations
19:30 Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids
20:30 Channel 4 News
21:00 Manhattan Project in Colour
22:00 Griff’s Great American South
23:00 Lion
09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants
10:10 Entertainment News On 5
10:20 Ben Fogle: Make A New Life In The Country
11:10 Ben Fogle: Make A New Life In The Country
12:05 The Hotel Inspector
13:05 The Hotel Inspector
14:05 The Hotel Inspector 15:05 Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure 16:05 Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure 17:00 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild 18:05 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild
19:00 7 Wonders of the World with Bettany Hughes 19:55 5 News Weekend 20:05 Secrets of the Royal Palaces
The Ritz: The World’s Most Famous Hotel
16:05 Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles
17:00 The Real Housewives of Potomac
18:00 The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal
21:00 Abbey Clancy: Celebrity Homes
22:00 Save the Last Dance
23:00 FYI Daily 23:05 Save the Last Dance
Prince Harry: My Terrible Year 23:30 When TV Goes Horribly Wrong 13:15 Deal or No Deal 14:15
13:30 Cruising with Jane McDonald 14:30 Cruising with Jane McDonald 15:30 To Be Announced 18:30 Ben Fogle’s Lost Worlds 19:55 5 News Weekend
20:00 The Air Fryer Diet: Lose Weight Fast 21:00 22 Kids & Counting 22:00 Rich Holiday Poor Holiday 23:00 Killer at the Crime Scene 11:50 Georgia and Tommy: Happy Essex After 12:50 Deal or No Deal 13:55 Deal or No Deal 14:55 99 to Beat 16:00 Charlotte’s Web 17:05 FYI Daily
Emmerdale
The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:00 Nicola Sturgeon: The Interview
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 SHARK! Celebrity Infested Waters
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Cold Case Forensics
09:40 The King of Queens
10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier 11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 Chateau DIY 19:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Michael Mosley: Secrets of the Superagers
22:00 Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins 23:00 Crime Scene Cleaners
09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Pawsome Puzzles 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:30 Vanessa 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 When Mom Becomes a Murderer 17:00 All Creatures Great and Small
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 A Yorkshire Farm 20:00 Traffic Cops
21:00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders
12:10 The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
13:05 Dinner Date
14:05 Billie and Greg: The Family Diaries
15:05 The Only Way Is Essex 16:05 Abbey Clancy: Celebrity Homes
17:05 The Real Housewives of Potomac
18:00 The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City
19:00 In for a Penny
19:30 Deal or No Deal
20:30 The Bachelor Australia 22:00 The Princess Diaries 23:00 Botched
22:00 Police: Night Shift 999 23:00 Forensics: Murder Scene 09:35 Georgia and Tommy: Baby Steps 10:30 The Only Way Is Essex 11:15 The Real Housewives of Potomac
Classic Coronation Street 08:35 Classic Coronation Street 09:10 Midsomer Murders 11:15 The Royal 12:20 Heartbeat 13:30 Heartbeat 14:35 Classic Emmerdale
15:10 Classic Emmerdale 15:40 Classic Coronation Street 16:10 Classic Coronation Street
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, handouts and access to previous Costa Blanca People published articles.
Scan the QR code for a reminder of what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group offers.
Meetings at Dilly’s Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The Next meeting is on Wednesday, September 10th, 2025. You are welcome to attend.
“Is BBC Sounds still available in Spain”?
As of July 21, 2025, BBC Sounds is no longer directly available for listeners outside the UK, including in Spain. This change is part of the BBC’s strategy to make BBC Sounds an exclusive service for UK audiences, funded by the UK TV licence.
Here’s what this means and how you might still access some BBC content from Spain:
* BBC Sounds App and Website: These are now geo-blocked for
Your tech questions answered by Brian Hoile of the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group, helping over 400 members with their PCs , smartphones and more. Group members can attend meetings in person or online using Zoom or Teams.
users outside the UK.
* New BBC Audio Service: The BBC has launched a new audio experience on BBC.com and the BBC app specifically for international audiences. This service includes:
* BBC Radio 4 and BBC World Service English
* Links to live streams of all BBC national and local radio stations. You can often access these by directly going to URLs like https:// www.bbc.co.uk/radio1 for live listening.
* Third-Party Platforms: BBC content will continue to be available on various third-party podcast platforms (like Spotify, Apple Music, TuneIn, etc.). This means you can still find many BBC podcasts and live radio streams through these apps.
* VPNs (Virtual Private Networks): Some users report success in accessing BBC Sounds by using a VPN to make it appear as if they are browsing from the UK. However, the BBC actively works to detect and block VPN usage.
In summary, while the dedicated BBC Sounds app and website are no longer available in Spain, you can still access a good portion of BBC audio content through the new international BBC.com audio service, the BBC app, and various third-party platforms.
How to prevent data loss if the computer’s hard drive fails?
Hard drive failure is an unfortunate but common occurrence. The key to protecting your data is a robust backup strategy. Have at least three copies of your data. This includes your original working copy.
Store your data on at least two different types of storage media (e.g., your computer’s internal drive, an external hard drive, and cloud storage). This protects against a single type of media failure.
Keep at least one copy of your data in a geographically separate location. This protects against disasters like fire, flood, or theft at your primary location. Cloud storage is excellent for this.
Regardless of the method you use, it is essential to back up your important data regularly.
Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Costa Blanca Technology Help Group” Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Brian Hoile Costa Blanca Technology Help Group
Cecotec recalls faulty air fryers over electric shock risk
A safety alert has been issued for the Cecotec CecofryPixel 2500 Touch air fryer (model reference 04982) due to serious electrical safety concerns. The product has been flagged by the EU’s rapid alert system for dangerous non-food items, citing non-compliance with the Low Voltage Directive and the European standard EN 60335-1. The identified risk is significant: the air fryer may leak electric current, which could lead to electric shock if the outer casing is touched during a malfunction. In some cases, this electrical fault may also cause overheating.
As a precaution, Cecotec has removed the affected air fryer from sale. The company is offering free replacements for customers who own one of the potentially faulty units. This applies to products purchased through Cecotec’s own
physical or online stores, as well as those bought from other authorized retailers.
To determine if your air fryer is part of the affected batch, visit Cecotec’s official website and enter the serial number found on the bottom of the appliance. If your device is included in the recall, you can fill out an online form to receive a free replacement. Cecotec will also arrange for the collection of the defective unit.
Customers who need assistance or have questions about the replacement process can contact Cecotec directly by calling 960 62 81 91 91 or emailing info@ programascecotec.com.
If you own a CecofryPixel 2500 Touch, it’s important to check your unit immediately and stop using it if it is part of the recall. This safety measure is being taken to prevent potential electric shocks or fire hazards and to ensure customer safety.
This Summer Let's Rock Rock & Pop Choir
...are singing songs from The Movies, TV, West End & Broadway for our proposed Concerts to be held in the New Year ....come along and audition to join our fabulous singing group... Singing technique and voice coaching available
Wednesdays from 23rd July 2025 until the end of Summer 5pm to 7pm at St Peter's & Paul's Church La Siesta
Contact Sarah to find out more Tel 650 054 467 Call, WhatsApp or email singinggroup@outlook.com
Dancers Coming Soon!
Study links popular sweetener Sucralose to reduced cancer treatment effectiveness
Sucralose, a widely used arti cial sweetener found in many “zero” and “light” drinks in Spain, may hinder the e ectiveness of cancer treatments, according to new research by the University of Pittsburgh and the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. The study, published in Cancer Discovery, found that consuming sucralose alters gut bacteria and lowers levels of arginine, an amino acid vital for the function of T-cells that help destroy cancer cells during immunotherapy.
The ndings are particularly concerning for patients with melanoma and lung cancer. Researchers observed that patients consuming higher amounts of sucralose responded less e ectively to immunotherapies such as anti-PD1, which boost T-cell activity. These patients also showed lower survival rates compared to those with lower sucralose intake.
Tests conducted on mice
con rmed that sucralose altered the gut microbiome by increasing bacterial species that degrade arginine. As a result, the reduced arginine levels impaired T-cell function, limiting the bene ts of immunotherapy and leading to the development of larger tumors.
The study analyzed the diets of 132 immunotherapy patients, some also undergoing chemotherapy, and found a clear association between sucralose consumption— whether in co ee or diet soft drinks—and weaker treatment outcomes.
However, researchers
noted a potential way to counteract these harmful e ects. Supplements of arginine or citrulline, which the body converts into arginine, were shown to mitigate the impact of sucralose on treatment e ectiveness.
Sucralose is sold in Spain under several trade names, including Canderel, Sucralin, and Splenda, and is a common ingredient in beverages marketed as low-calorie or sugar-free. Researchers advise cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy to be cautious with their intake of the sweetener until further studies con rm safe consumption levels.
Three Years of Transformation: The Truscott Family’s Triumph at Hotel Algorfa
Three years ago, the Truscott family embarked on a journey to revitalize Hotel Algorfa, and what a remarkable transformation it has been! Taking over a property with its share of challenges, the Truscotts have not only restored the hotel but have also infused it with new life and vibrancy, making it a central hub for both locals and tourists alike.
One of the most significant achievements has been the reopening of all hotel rooms. Previously plagued by water damage and leaks, these rooms now stand as a testament to the Truscotts’ dedication and investment in quality repairs, including relining the roof to ensure
a leak-free future. Guests can now enjoy comfortable and well-maintained accommodations, a crucial factor in attracting visitors to Algorfa. The reformed pool and courtyard area offer a serene and inviting space for relaxation and recreation. The addition of an aviary, housing macaws and an African grey, adds a unique and delightful touch, captivating guests of all ages.
The culinary experience at Hotel Algorfa has also undergone a significant upgrade. The renewed restaurant and terrace provide a welcoming ambiance for diners, while the introduction of the “best carvery in Algorfa”
has quickly become a local favorite, drawing crowds for its delicious offerings. Furthermore, the opening of an onsite supermarket and bakery adds a layer of convenience for guests, making their stay even more enjoyable. The Truscott family has demonstrated a keen understanding of what it takes to create a thriving hospitality venue. Their commitment to improvement, attention to detail, and passion for creating memorable experiences have set Hotel Algorfa on a path of continued success. Here’s to many more years of innovation, growth, and community engagement.
Mel B has celebrated her second wedding in Morocco with her husband Rory McPhee, marking their marriage with a spiritual ceremony in Marrakech.
The couple, who rst tied the knot in London last month, took to Instagram on Sunday to share a glimpse of their latest nuptials.
She captioned her post: ‘We got married!!! Again! A wedding so good we keep the celebration going with our closest and dearest in our fav place at @selmanmarrakech... we had the time of our lives!!’
Kelsey Parker paid tribute to her late baby after tragically losing her third child.
The podcaster, 34, su ered heartbreak in June after her son Phoenix - her rst child with boyfriend Will Lindsay - was ‘born sleeping.’
After an incredibly stressful and challenging month for the family, Kelsey, Will and her children with late husband Tom Parker - Aurelia, six, and Bodhi, four - headed on a muchneeded family holiday.
Lisa Faulkner revealed she was on the way to lm something rst thing this morning as she got back to work following her husband’s BBC axing scandal.
Her husband John, 60, was red from MasterChef after 20 years following an allegation of racism last month, after he revealed he was the subject of a claim that was upheld as part of an inquiry into his co-star Gregg Wallace.
Following his unceremonious departure from the broadcaster it was revealed by the Daily Mail that ITV, where John also fronts TV shows, were backing him.
Christine McGuinness has made a thinly-veiled dig at her ex husband Paddy as she opened up about her sexuality.
The 37-year-old model is in the current line-up for the new series of E4’s Celebs Go Dating after splitting the Top Gear star in 2022.
Christine, who shares three kids with Paddy, 51, described her new way of dating as her being a ‘free spirit’ and she is ‘enjoying’ spending time with women.
Rita Ora is set to release new music on behalf of a huge Net ix show.
The How We Do singer, 34, has recently been in the studio cooking something up for the dating series Love Is Blind UK.
According to reports, she is set to bring out a song named Joy - which is a powerful track about ‘ nding inner peace’ and is expected to be released in the coming days.
Health & Beauty
I am more than thrilled at being asked to be my friend’s bridesmaid... I have never been a bridesmaid and never thought I’d be asked. However, I am very upset at not being included in the trip to go and choose dresses. I tackled my friend afterwards and she said that she wanted a prepurchase look at what was around before taking the rest of the girls. I may have bought that suggestion, if she hadn’t taken the maid of honour with her, and her mother. Also it seems the decision has been made on the dress, so there won’t be another opportunity for me to choose. There was a small falling out with my friend, with her saying it was up to her how she wants her wedding to go.
You may not like what I have to say.......but this is probably the one time a woman and ‘bride to be’ must have the privilege of making her own decisions, including
choosing the attendants outfits. You also say that her choice of dress for the bridesmaid’s meets with your approval, so I would let this one go if I were you. Getting married is a very stressful time for the happy couple, and the easier the journey is to arrange everything, the better. You say your feelings were hurt because you weren’t included in the decision-making; that may be so, and you’ve had your say; but again I wouldn’t push any more unless you want to be excluded completely. You will possibly understand if you are ever in the same position. You feel you have been sidelined; however, your thoughtful friend knew you had never been a bridesmaid before, and asked you to be hers. Enjoy the day and the experience, and remember the day is about your friend and her fiance, not you. A good friend / bridesmaid facilitates all arrangements.
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.
Health experts warn against dangerous “Princess Diet
With summer underway, the pressure to lose weight quickly is leading many young people to try risky viral diets, the latest being the so-called “princess diet.” This extreme eating pattern, spreading rapidly on social media, particularly among teenage girls, encourages drastic calorie restriction disguised as an “elegant lifestyle.”
The diet promotes consuming only 300 to 600 calories a day— less than a quarter of what a healthy adult needs. Each day is themed after a Disney princess, with rules tied to the fairytale character. For example, a “Snow White day” allows only apples. Other practices include surviving on small amounts of raw fruit or vegetables, drinking tea, co ee, or water to suppress hunger, skipping meals as “punishment,” exercising on an empty stomach, and rejecting foods labeled as “impure.”
“This is not only unsustainable but borders on encouraging an eating disorder,” warned José Luis Esteller, nutritionist at Vithas Almería hospital. He stressed that the diet dangerously romanticizes restrictive eating, luring vulnerable teenagers into harmful habits.
The health risks are severe, even in the short term. Possible e ects include malnutrition, muscle loss, hormonal imbalance, chronic fatigue, hair loss, digestive problems, and fainting. Psychologically, it can trigger anxiety, depression, body image obsession, and eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia.
Esteller pointed out that today’s thinness culture is often disguised as “self-care” or “lifestyle,” making it harder for young people to recognize the risks.
“Teenagers are especially vulnerable, as their self-esteem heavily depends on external validation,” he added.
As an alternative, specialists recommend balanced eating with fresh, seasonal foods like fruit, salads, and sh, keeping regular mealtimes, avoiding extreme restrictions, and consulting experts for safe weight management.
Vithas Almería emphasizes nutritional education and early detection of eating disorders, reinforcing that true self-care is about balance, awareness, and respect for one’s body—not harmful dieting trends.
The Ultimate Summer Skin & Beauty Edit
Hydration • Protection • Radiance
As summer sets in, it’s time to elevate your beauty routine. At Indiana’s Hair & Lash Boutique, we believe in skin that glows, lashes that last, and treatments that protect and perfect. Here’s your go-to guide for healthy, radiant summer skin—from deep hydration to high-tech facials.
HydraFacial: The Deep Clean
Your Skin Craves Sweat, SPF and pollution can clog pores and dull your glow. A HydraFacial delivers a three-step, medical-grade treatment: cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration—infused with powerful antioxidants.
The result? Instantly smoother, brighter, and deeply hydrated skin— without any downtime.
Perfect before holidays, weddings or just because your skin deserves it.
LED
Your Skin Health
This gentle but powerful treatment uses therapeutic wavelengths of light to treat a range of skin concerns:
• Blue light combats acne-causing bacteria
• Red light boosts collagen and calms in ammation
• Near-infrared light accelerates healing and soothes sun-exposed skin
Combine with your HydraFacial for the ultimate skin refresh.
Radio Frequency (RF): Lift, Firm & Sculpt
Heat-based RF technology stimulates collagen production, tightens skin and improves texture— ideal for those noticing early signs of ageing or wanting a more lifted look.
Best results come with a course of treatments, but you’ll feel a di erence after just one.
Overnight Hydration: Glow While You Sleep
Air conditioning, sun and sweat all dehydrate your skin. Lock in moisture overnight with a hydrating serum or overnight mask—especially those packed with hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
Pair with red LED light therapy before bed for boosted overnight renewal.
SPF: Your Non-Negotiable Daily Essential
Even on cloudy days, UV rays are strong enough to cause premature ageing, pigmentation and longterm skin damage. Applying broadspectrum SPF 30 or higher daily is a must—even on cloudy days.
Choose a lightweight, non-greasy formula ideal for layering under make-up or wearing alone.
Lash Extensions: Summer-Proof Glamour
Heat, humidity and beach days? No problem. Our custom lash extensions are absolutely e ortless. No mascara. No smudges. Just perfect lashes— day and night.
Your Summer Skin & Beauty Checklist
HydraFacial LED Light Therapy
RF Skin Tightening
Overnight Hydration
Daily SPF
Lash Extensions
At Indiana’s Hair & Lash Boutique, we blend advanced skin technology with beauty expertise—giving you con dence, protection, and that summer glow from the inside out
How to choose the right sunscreen for healthy skin protection
Selecting the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming, yet it is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin. Sunscreens shield you from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, reduce the risk of skin cancer, prevent painful sunburns, and slow down premature aging. To make an informed choice, it helps to understand factors such as SPF, water resistance, broad-spectrum coverage, and ingredients.
Experts recommend using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. SPF stands for “sun protection factor,” and while it does not determine how long you can stay in the sun, it reflects how much UVB protection a product offers. An SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Even if you use a higher SPF, it is vital to reapply every two hours and immediately after swimming or sweating.
The type of sunscreen you use often depends on your preference and skin needs. Creams and lotions are often best for dry skin,
while gels may suit oily skin. Sticks work well around the eyes, and sprays can make application easier, especially on children. However, it’s important to rub sprays into the skin after applying to ensure even coverage.
The ingredients in sunscreen deserve careful attention. Some, such as avobenzone and octocrylene, can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in people with sensitive skin. Fragrances and preservatives may also cause irritation. There are growing concerns about environmental impacts as well, with chemicals like oxybenzone linked to coral reef damage. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are considered gentler on both sensitive skin and marine ecosystems.
Broad-spectrum sunscreens are strongly recommended since they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays, known for causing wrinkles and sunspots, can even penetrate through windows, while UVB rays are responsible
for sunburn. Waterresistant sunscreens also provide longer-lasting coverage but still require regular reapplication.
Choosing the right formula for your skin type matters. People with oily or acneprone skin may prefer oilfree or non-comedogenic sunscreens, while those with dry skin may benefit from added moisturizers. Fragrance-free options are often best for sensitive skin. Skin tone can also influence sunscreen choice; lighter skin tones face a higher risk of sunburn and may need SPF 50 or higher, while darker skin tones, though less prone to burning, are more susceptible to hyperpigmentation from UVA rays.
Correct application is as important as the sunscreen itself. Apply generously at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, making sure to cover all exposed areas, including the ears, neck, lips, and the tops of the feet. Most adults need about an ounce—enough to fill a shot glass—for adequate coverage. Daily use is key since up to 80% of
UV rays penetrate clouds. Always check expiration dates, as sunscreens lose effectiveness over time.
Ultimately, the best sunscreen is one you will use consistently. Look for a broad-spectrum, water-
resistant product with an SPF of at least 30, suited to your skin type and lifestyle. If you are unsure, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice. Protecting your skin today helps ensure healthier skin for years to come.
July sees rise in road fatalities despite safer highways
During the month of July, 101 fatal road accidents were recorded in Spain, resulting in 112 deaths — two more than in the same month of 2024. This increase comes in a context of rising mobility, with longdistance travel growing by 3% compared to last year. A total of 48.5 million long journeys were registered over the month.
Despite the tragic toll, there were encouraging signs. On three days — Monday the 14th, Wednesday the 16th, and Monday the 28th — no fatalities were reported, showing that with collective effort it is possible to eliminate road deaths.
The figures reveal a shift in where accidents are occurring. Fatalities on highways and dual carriageways decreased
from 31 last year to 21 this year, while deaths on conventional interurban roads rose from 79 to 91. In terms of transport modes, the number of vulnerable road users killed fell significantly, with 46 deaths compared to 61 in July 2024. This decrease was driven mainly by fewer pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. However, deaths among passengers in cars increased, rising from 41 to 54.
Looking at accident types, head-on collisions and vehicles running off the road caused more deaths than last year, while side collisions, rear-end crashes, and pedestrian runovers decreased. Seventeen of the victims were not using safety devices at the time of the accident, including 13 car occupants, three van
passengers, and one truck driver who were not wearing seatbelts.
By region, Andalusia recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 24 deaths, five more than last year. Castile and León registered the largest decline, with 10 deaths — seven fewer than in July 2024. The deadliest day of the month was Sunday the 6th, when 11 people lost their lives.
So far in 2025, a total of 632 people have died on Spanish roads, 15 fewer than during the same period last year. With August now underway — a month that claimed 133 lives in 2024 — authorities are stressing the importance of extra caution in order to reverse the upward trend seen in July.
Beware the Bizum car scam: how fraudsters are targeting online car sellers in Spain
Selling a car online in Spain has never been easier, thanks to platforms like Wallapop, Milanuncios, and Facebook Marketplace. But while more people are successfully connecting with buyers, police are warning of a growing danger that’s catching even experienced sellers off guard: a slick new scam using Bizum, Spain’s favorite instant payment app.
For many sellers, the biggest frustration used to be dealing with time-wasters and so-called “tyre-kickers.” Now, the stakes are much higher, with con artists employing clever tricks to walk away not just with your trust, but with your money.
The scam unfolds in a way that feels perfectly ordinary at first. You post your car online, and before long, a prospective buyer gets in touch. They seem genuinely interested, perhaps even quoting details from your advertisement to prove they’ve read it carefully. Conversation flows easily, and the buyer appears professional and polite—exactly the kind of person you’d hope to deal with.
Then comes the hook. The buyer explains that they need to “reserve” the car before
they can view it. Maybe they need to convince a spouse, a boss, or simply justify taking time off work. To show they’re serious, they suggest sending a deposit via Bizum. On the surface, it all sounds perfectly reasonable. After all, a deposit is a sign of commitment, and Bizum is widely trusted in Spain for its speed and simplicity.
Here’s where the trick slips in. Instead of sending you money, the buyer sends a Bizum request. If you’re distracted, eager, or perhaps not familiar with the small differences in Bizum notifications, you may accidentally click “accept.” What feels like confirming receipt of a payment is actually authorizing a transfer from your account to theirs. By the time you realize the mistake, your money is gone, and the scammer has vanished.
What makes this scam particularly effective is how well it exploits the psychology of selling. The excitement of a potential sale, combined with the pressure of moving quickly, lowers sellers’ guard. Bizum’s ease of use, usually an advantage, becomes a weakness when scammers rely on rushed clicks and overlooked details. Police note that even tech-savvy individuals
have fallen victim, proving that this scheme isn’t just targeting the less experienced.
Avoiding the Bizum car scam starts with slowing down. Never allow the rush of a sale to push you into quick decisions. Always read Bizum notifications carefully; the wording will clearly show whether you’re receiving a payment or being asked to authorize one. Remember that no genuine buyer needs to pay a deposit just to view a car. If someone insists, that’s a major red flag.
If you do fall victim, don’t blame yourself. The fraud is designed to feel natural, and the scammers are experts at creating a sense of trust. The important step is to report the incident to the police as quickly as possible. Every report helps authorities track patterns, warn others, and reduce the chances of more people being caught.
At the end of the day, selling your car online can still be safe and straightforward—but only if you stay alert. Share the warning with friends, doublecheck every Bizum request, and trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away. A lost sale is better than lost savings.
CHURCH AND CHARITIES
International Christian Assembly Evangelical Church. We welcome you to Sunday Service at 10.30 am (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 Montesinos. www.saltchurch.es Facebook: SaltChurchSpain
The Alfaz spiritual friends centre o er a warm welcome at “The Comm” (Ex The Forum/Mare Nostrum) Camino del Pincho 2, l’Alfaz del Pi, 03580, Alicante. Visiting medium every week - services starts 6.30 pm every Thursday. ‘Free Healing is available after the service. contact Dot 634 320 013 email: dorothydorothy608@gmail.com
LOCKSMITHS
A22 faces technical bankruptcy as Superliga dreams collapse
The promoter of the controversial Superliga, A22, has entered technical bankruptcy following a year of steep nancial losses and dwindling support for its breakaway football project. The development casts fresh doubt on the future of the league, which had been championed by Real Madrid and FC Barcelona as a revolutionary alternative to UEFA competitions.
According to lings with the Spanish Commercial Registry, A22 reported losses of €5.5 million in 2024, a dramatic increase from the €200,000 loss recorded the year before. The company’s net equity has now fallen to a negative €5.2 million, placing it on the brink of dissolution under Spanish law. Revenue also plummeted, dropping from €3.3 million in 2023 to just €720,000 in 2024, despite continued backing from its agship clients Real Madrid and Barcelona. Meanwhile, expenses surged to more than €6 million, double the previous year, even though the company employed only one sta member and an administrator.
Shareholders attempted to stabilize the situation with injections of €500,000 in both 2023 and 2024, but these e orts proved insu cient to counter mounting losses. Under Article 363 of Spain’s Capital Companies Act, the company now faces legal grounds for dissolution.
The Superliga project itself has struggled to gain momentum since its unveiling. Strong opposition from UEFA, LALIGA, and domestic football authorities
has limited its reach, despite a 2023 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union that questioned FIFA and UEFA’s monopoly over continental competitions. That decision, however, stopped short of endorsing the Superliga format.
A22 sought to reignite interest in late 2024 with a revised competition model and the launch of a free streaming platform called Unify. But the initiative failed to attract support, with criticism from both football organizations and fans reinforcing the perception of the Superliga as an unpopular and divisive venture.
The challenges have been further compounded by new legislation in the United Kingdom. The Football Governance Act, passed in 2024 and due to take e ect in 2025, will establish an independent regulator for English football. Crucially, the law explicitly bans clubs from joining closed competitions not based on sporting merit. This e ectively shuts the door on the participation of leading Premier League clubs such as Manchester City and Chelsea, which had been seen as key potential allies for the Superliga’s success.
As A22’s nancial situation worsens, the vision of a breakaway European league is increasingly in jeopardy. With mounting legal obstacles, widespread opposition, and evaporating nancial support, the Superliga appears to be slipping further from reality, leaving the traditional meritbased football structure rmly in control of the sport’s future.
San Miguel Golf Society at Las Ramblas
Everybody who travels through Dehesa de Campoamor knows the name but how many have actually played this course? Well a few of our group hadn’t today and the feedback was very good. “Why don’t we play this course more often?” was a recurring question. Well – it’s a tough, tight track but very enjoyable and in excellent condition.
Before we get to golf, I have two things – one very sad and one which is part of the ethos of our Society.
We have lost a dear member of our Society this week – taken far too soon and far too young after a brief illness – Steve Davies. Both him and his wife, Yvonne, have been members for a few years and had become firm friends with various other members who lived locally in Quesada. We are incredibly sad at this news and send all our love and condolences to
Yvonne and family at this very sad time.
Also, this week we donated our monthly blob of €270 to a local, well-known charity – Help At Home – who are based at Playa Flamenca and do an incredible job supporting anybody who requires assistance with whatever aspect of care that is required. A really amazing job for our local Orihuela Costa.
The golf was good – in parts, bad in parts by all accounts but not totally diabolical scores for a course of this calibre. 34 golfers today including 6 guests coming in with the following:
Gold: John Osborne(36 points and best score of the day)
Silver: Michael Lenihan (34 points)
Bronze: Lee Eastman (35 points)
**SPONSORSHIP
AVAILABILITY** If you are interested in sponsoring one of our games – please contact smgs91info@gmail.com to discuss further.
Next week we are at La Finca. Two photos this week - Golf Photo L-R: Derek Braid (“McBride Bottle”), Michael Lenihan (Silver), Tony “PBomber” Smale, John Osborne (Gold) and Lee “El Capitan” Eastman (Bronze). Well done all. And Charity Photo with Help at Home – two of their amazing volunteers, Penny and Pearl pictured with our Secretary, Sandra.
Nearest the Pins this week were Gary Kavanah (6th), John Osborne (10th), Richard Howard (14th) and Denis Ryan (12th). Twos taken by John “Tutu” Osborne (having two x Twos), Steve Webb and Guy Wade Palmer – well done. The “McBride Bottle” was “won” by Derek Braid and the football card was claimed by “El Presidente” Darren Strugnell with Stoke City.
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
QUICK CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Duffer(9) 8. Devour(3)
Date(11)
Utter(7)
Claw(5)
Cows (6)
Staid (6)
Brief(5)
Criminal(7)
Legacy(11)
Forefront(3)
Cash-keeper(9)
Interval(3)
Uplift(5)
Affair(6)
Encase(7)
Reprisal(11)
Rigorous(9)
Entreating(11)
Immoderate(9)
Shoe-fastening(7)
Uncommon(6)
Memoranda(5)
Hint(3)
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the wordwheel, take ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must contain the central letter and at least three others. Letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one nine-letter word in the wheel.
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
1. What biased sporting photographers do!(4,5)
See 17 Across 9. End, as even the longest sentences do(4,2,1,4) 11. Defensive wall to appear different near the top of the trench(7)
12. Why Dracula hides another monster(5)
13. Right among those different people!(6)
15. Fixes a water system for the fruit, we hear(6)
17 & 8Ac. He’s saddled with the pack(8)
18. Noble baritone gets upset when I leave(7)
20. Tree producing pumice?(8,3) 22. One about to show bad temper(3) 23. An expert in physics(9)
2. A tailless hound causes a fuss(3)
3. Is put in trouble – don’t retire (3,2)
4. Rough sketches for indoor game, we hear(6)
5. What the schoolboy carries will upset nearly all the class(7)
