School community demands action over extreme temperatures
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The educational community of Playas de Orihuela is urgently calling for help after months of inaction from the City Council regarding the school’s broken boiler—a problem that has persisted since March of last year. The school, one of the three primary centres on the Orihuela coast, serves more than 700 students who now endure classrooms so cold that they keep their coats on all day. Teachers describe the situation simply:
The school year began with classrooms overwhelmed by heat due to the absence of air conditioning, a problem that flipped into severe cold once winter arrived. Motor home Insurance
“We’re freezing.” What initially affected only part of the building has now worsened; the gas supply has not been delivered since last month, leaving the entire centre without heating during the coldest weeks of the year.
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Teachers and students have been suffering from thermal stress on both extremes of the temperature scale. After repeated complaints, the Parents’ Association (AFA) began collecting quotes to commission a technical report on classroom temperatures. With the support of school management, they requested an official temperature measurement from a Workers’ Commissions (CCOO) technician in mid-September. However, a sudden drop in temperature during the evaluation period made it difficult to obtain accurate data. Meanwhile, the school had already sent multiple written requests to the City Council, none of which received a reply.
The AFA proposed several temporary measures, including the use of portable air conditioning units, but these were rejected because they were not permitted in classrooms and required more electricity than available. As a result, teachers and students faced the late-summer heat with only one or two fans per classroom—measures the AFA described as “clearly insufficient.”
The school’s management team has repeatedly appealed to the local administration for proper air-conditioning systems, insisting that Playas de Orihuela is the only public school in the area without one. The building, exposed to direct sunlight all day and ventilated only through doors and windows, houses up to twenty-five students per classroom—overcrowding that had already raised concerns earlier in the year. Teachers stress that the issue lies not with the school, but with the City Council’s ongoing failure to provide the necessary resources.
With no other options, families have begun submitting mass petitions to the City Council, highlighting the extreme temperatures endured by their children. They emphasise that both the beginning and end of the school year have become unbearable due to heat, while winter brings the unresolved heating failure from last year.
A school board meeting is scheduled to discuss the crisis, though the community still awaits the arrival of a technician to
repair the long-neglected boiler. Parents, teachers, and school staff all warn that these conditions damage not only health but also learning. Temperature-related stress creates clear educational inequalities, as some schools have climate control and others do not.
This issue is not isolated. Several schools and institutes across the province of Alicante reported dizziness, fainting, and even a hospitalisation during the autumn heat, with classrooms reaching temperatures above 30°C—far exceeding the legal 27°C limit established by occupational safety regulations. The Alicante Pediatric Association has warned that such conditions severely hinder concentration, attention, and overall learning. Beyond poor academic performance, children and adolescents often experience irritability, mood changes, and—in younger students— an increase in tantrums.
The community of Playas de Orihuela now waits for meaningful action, insisting that students’ well-being and educational equality can no longer be ignored.
Three arrested in Albatera after cocaine seizure
Authorities in Albatera have arrested three people for suspected drug trafficking after a joint control operation led to the discovery of more than 50 grams of high-purity cocaine. The incident occurred on October 26 at around 8:20 p.m., when officers from the Civil Guard in Dolores and the Albatera Local Police were conducting routine vehicle and identity checks on the CV-909 road.
The officers stopped a car carrying two men, aged 27 and 37, and a 44-year-old woman. Their nervous behavior raised suspicion, prompting a thorough search of both the vehicle and its occupants. Hidden among their clothing, agents found several types of narcotics, including a 53.3-gram rock of pure cocaine, a piece of hashish, and a cannabis cigarette. They also seized 150 euros in cash, a mobile phone, and the vehicle itself, which authorities believe was used to support the drug-trafficking activity.
The cocaine, the most significant part of the seizure, was concealed on the body of the woman, who is pregnant. Before being placed in custody, she was taken to a medical center so that appropriate health measures could be ensured for her and the fetus.
When officers informed the group that they were being arrested for drug trafficking, the 27-yearold man reacted violently in an attempt to escape. A struggle followed during which two officers were injured, and one was bitten by the suspect. Despite the resistance, the agents managed to subdue him and secure all three individuals without further incident.
The detainees have all been charged with crimes against public health related to drug trafficking. In addition, the younger man
faces an additional charge for assaulting law enforcement officers.
After being processed, the three were placed at the disposal of Orihuela’s Court of Instruction No. 2. The court hasorderedtheirreleasewithcharges while the investigation continues.
The operation highlights the ongoing collaboration between local and national security forces in combating drug distribution networks within the region, as well as the challenges officers encounter during routine enforcement actions.
Lifting machine catches fire on Torrevieja’s Avenida de la Purísima
Firefighters from the Torrevieja station responded on Tuesday to a fire involving a lifting machine on Avenida de la Purísima, number 61, in the Curva del Palangre area. The blaze affected only the vehicle and resulted in no injuries, according to the Provincial Fire Consortium.
The fire is believed to have started beneath the machine, later spreading upward through the tires and engulfing more of the equipment. Although the incident caused noticeable material damage, authorities confirmed that no nearby property or individuals were harmed.
To tackle the fire, the Provincial Fire Consortium deployed a Command Unit and a Heavy Urban Fire Engine. The team included a sergeant, a corporal, and four firefighters from the
Torrevieja station. Their coordinated intervention allowed them to quickly contain and extinguish the flames, preventing the situation from escalating further.
Local Police and the Civil Guard also arrived at the scene to manage security and keep the area clear. They assisted with traffic control and ensured that bystanders remained at a safe distance while emergency crews worked.
Thanks to the prompt response of the firefighters and the support of local authorities, the incident was resolved efficiently, with damage limited solely to the lifting machine involved. Officials have not reported any ongoing risk following the intervention.
A case of avian flu has been confirmed in a peacock found dead in Reina Sofía Park in Guardamar del Segura. The City Council reported that laboratory tests identified the virus as the cause of the bird’s death, prompting the immediate activation of official eradication and control protocols.
Working alongside regional animal health authorities, the council has launched several preventive measures to stop the spread of the virus and protect both wildlife and the public. These measures include draining and cleaning the park’s lakes, establishing confinement zones, and removing certain species as part of containment efforts. All actions are already underway within the park.
Officials remind residents that, under Ministerial
Order APA/1288/2025 of November 11, feeding or providing water to birds is strictly prohibited. Signs placed throughout Reina Sofía Park and along Avenida Ingeniero Mira clearly indicate this rule.
The local government stresses that avoiding contact with wild birds is essential, noting that while the risk of human infection is very low, transmission is possible
Avian flu detected in peacock at Guardamar’s Reina Sofía park
through direct contact with an infected animal.
The City Council continues to monitor the situation closely and will keep the public informed of any significant updates. Authorities emphasize the importance of following all safety guidelines to help prevent further cases and ensure the wellbeing of both the community and the park’s wildlife.
Orihuela invests €100,000 to resurface fourteen streets in La Murada
The Orihuela City Council has launched the first phase of its municipal road resurfacing plan in La Murada, a longawaited initiative backed by a €100,000 investment. This initial stage includes improvements to 14 streets, addressing long-standing demands from residents who have repeatedly called for better road conditions. Mayor Pepe Vegara, Infrastructure Councillor Víctor Valverde, La Murada Mayor José Manuel García Escolano, and councillors Manuel Mestre and Víctor Sigüenza visited the works to review progress.
The streets included in this phase are Jardín (Los Rocamora), Juan XXIII, Juan Ramón Jiménez, Los Almendros, the connection between La Caja and La Plaza streets, the Los Campirulos neighborhood, Magnolias Street (pending until Iberdrola completes utility channeling), Constitución, Las Cadenas, Los Riquelme (including Marcelina Street), José María García Rocamora (scheduled for December 1), and part of Los Mellinas Road (also scheduled for December 1).
Councillor Valverde stressed that these works are “essential and long requested by residents and local representatives who are committed to improving basic services.” He confirmed that three areas remain unfinished due to ongoing utility installations, and he announced that planning is already underway for an additional resurfacing plan to be executed at the end of 2025.
“Our goal is for the outlying districts to receive another significant boost to their road infrastructure,” he added.
Beyond roadworks, the council is also investing in broader improvements.
Valverde highlighted ongoing developments near Parque de los Trovadores, one of La Murada’s largest parks, as part of a municipal project to renovate 27 children’s playgrounds. Three parks in La Murada will receive upgrades, with Trovadores receiving one of the highest investments due to its size.
Valverde reaffirmed that La Murada will continue to be a priority. “There are still many deficiencies in lighting, paving, and sidewalks. We are already
preparing the 2026 budget to keep addressing these needs.”
La Murada Mayor José Manuel García Escolano expressed gratitude for the support, noting the frustration of residents after decades without improvements. “There is a street here that hasn’t been paved in 40 years. That’s unacceptable. Thanks to this administration and the approved budgets, we are finally making real progress.”
Mayor Vegara emphasized that the resurfacing plan responds to long-standing needs across the municipality, not just in La Murada. “There has been a major lack of maintenance for years. We can’t change the past, but we can take action now. Some streets haven’t been touched in four decades. At last, maintenance is becoming a reality.”
Vegara confirmed that La Murada will receive additional investment next year. “This paving is only the beginning. Another major project will follow in 2026, continuing the work residents have been requesting for years.”
Two deaths in 24 hours highlight deadly
fire trends in Spain
Two men have died in separate residential fires—one in A Coruña and the other in Villaverde, Madrid—within just 24 hours this week. A third person remains in critical condition in A Coruña. These incidents add to the alarming statistics on residential fires in Spain: more than 30,000 building fires occur each year, claiming 172 lives in 2024. According to a report from the Mapfre Foundation and the professional firefighters’ association, three out of four fire-related deaths in the country occur in homes. Last year, a total of 234 people died in fires and explosions.
The report shows that older adults are particularly vulnerable. Nearly half of the deaths caused by the 19,500 home fires reported last year affected people aged 65 and above, and two-thirds of those victims were men. Living rooms are the most dangerous area of the home, accounting for 35% of fatalities, followed by kitchens (27.3%) and bedrooms (25.5%). A third of fatal accidents occur on the ground floor, and most deaths happen at night
between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Thursday is the riskiest day of the week for home fires, and the coldest months—December and February—are the deadliest, with 31 and 22 fatalities respectively. The risk of dying in a fire is nearly five times higher for individuals who live alone.
Smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death, responsible for 70% of fatalities. Burns account for a quarter of deaths, while trauma and heart issues make up smaller percentages. Electrical system failures—short circuits and overloads—cause 42% of fatal fires. Heat-producing appliances, such as cookers and fireplaces, account for 20%, and smoking-related accidents cause one in seven deaths.
Experts recommend avoiding electrical overloads, using heating devices with caution, checking combustible materials on terraces, and conducting regular electrical inspections. They emphasize that smoke detectors remain one of the simplest and most effective life-saving measures in homes.
ENJOY A WALK ALONG THE ORIHUELA COSTA PROMENADE
This picturesque walking route follows the beautiful Mediterranean coastline of the Orihuela Costa and covers 16km of breathtaking views with cliffs, coves, beaches, crystal clear waters and golden sand. The pathway is mostly paved and wheelchair accessible, though a few of the beaches can only be reached by stone steps. With plenty of resting viewpoints along the way, this promenade gives you the freedom to discover as much of the coast as you like. A perfect opportunity to pack a flask and sandwiches,
watch the people stroll by, and listen to the waves of the sea. Starting at Playa Flamenca beach, the path continues through La Zenia, Cala Capitan, Cabo Roig and ends at La Glea beach in Campoamor. This is a really wonderful experience to discover the areas natural beauty, take in the fresh sea air, and admire some of the most impressive vistas the Costa Blanca has to offer!
For more ideas of places to visit and things to do on the Costa Blanca, visit the website www. costablancascene.com
Vega Baja joins nationwide strike as nursing assistants demand C1 status
Nursing assistants (TCAEs) across Spain held a nationwide strike on Friday, November 28, a movement strongly supported in the Vega Baja region. At Orihuela’s Vega Baja Hospital, assistants gathered at the main entrance to stage a work stoppage and demand the reclassification of their professional category.
Currently, TCAEs are recognized under the C2 category, equivalent to basic assistant-level positions. However, the group insists that their qualifications and responsibilities correspond to the C1 category. This upgrade would bring not only official recognition of their technical role but also a salary increase “in line with the duties we perform,” they explained.
In a statement, the group argued that their current classification contradicts existing legislation, including the Basic Statute of Public Employment (EBEP) and the Framework Agreement for a 21st Century Administration signed in 2022.“This situation is
unfair—to us, to our profession, to the health system, and to patients,” they said.
The assistants emphasized their essential role in daily healthcare. “We are the first hands to touch the patient,
the first support, the first comforting glance,”they noted. They highlighted the technical and compassionate care they provide, often stepping in during emergencies or when units are overwhelmed. “That is why we will no longer accept being ignored.”
GBP: Budget Relief, but Structural Weakness
Persists
The UK Budget delivered short-term market relief, with gilt yields easing and sterling edging higher. However, the fiscal stance spend now, tax later does little to address the UK’s underlying growth challenge. The government aims to raise approximately £30bn through measures including:
• Extended freeze on income tax and NIC thresholds
• NICs applied to salary sacrifice pensions beyond £2,000 per annum
• Pay-per-mile scheme for hybrids and EVs
• Higher gambling taxes
• Increased taxation on dividends and interest income
• Surcharge on high-value homes
• Reduced capital gains tax reliefs
Additional spending focuses on welfare, energy bill relief, and NHS funding. While markets welcomed the Budget as a stabilising measure, it is not a growth catalyst. Sterling remains near the lower end of recent ranges against USD and EUR, and upcoming UK data November PMIs, consumer and mortgage lending, and BRC shop price inflation are unlikely to shift interest rate expectations or the growth outlook.
Any sustained GBP recovery will likely depend on external developments rather than domestic drivers. Political fallout from Budget leaks could add volatility in the near term.
EUR: Growth Risks Overshadow Inflation
Progress
ECB commentary last week hinted at a
GBP / EUR UPDATE
desire to retain flexibility for future easing should conditions deteriorate. Fiscal loosening across member states offers some support, but recent surveys underscore weak economic momentum.
Key data in focus:
• PMIs: Final November readings expected to confirm subdued activity
• Unemployment: October figures likely unchanged
• Inflation: Provisional November CPI expected flat versus October (headline 2.1%, core 2.4%)
• Industrial Production: France (end of week) and Germany (early next) are pivotal; underperformance could weigh on EUR
While inflation continues to ease, core remains elevated in some Southern states. The dominant market narrative heading into yearend is growth—or the lack thereof. If activity indicators disappoint, EUR downside risk persists despite inflation progress.
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.
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.
Pilar de la Horadada to Launch Christmas Festivities on December 5
Pilar de la Horadada is preparing to welcome the Christmas season with a festive program filled with activities for all ages. The Town Hall has announced that the celebrations will officially begin on Friday, December 5, with the lighting of the Christmas decorations and the inauguration of the Municipal Nativity Scene. The event will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Square, marking the start of a month of holiday events.
On the same evening, the traditional Christmas tree in the Church Square will also be illuminated. The lighting ceremony will feature performances by the Rondalla “Viejas Glorias” and students from the RB Academy School, adding music and atmosphere to one of the town’s most anticipated seasonal moments.
The festive program, which runs throughout December and into early January, includes a wide variety of activities designed for
families, children, and adults alike. Highlights include Christmas concerts, a themed Escape Room, a Christmas film series, and storytelling sessions for younger audiences. Santa Claus will make his traditional visit, and the popular Christmas Afternoon will return once again.
Sports enthusiasts can participate in the San Silvestre Pilarense race, while families will be able to ring in the new year early with the children’s New Year’s Eve celebration.
The town will also host its traditional Old Day Afternoon festivities.
The holiday program will culminate with one of the most cherished events in Pilar de la Horadada—the Grand Parade of the Three Kings. This annual procession, held in early January, draws crowds of all ages and brings the Christmas season to a joyful close.
With its rich and varied lineup, Pilar de la Horadada promises a festive season full of light, music, and community spirit.
SPECIAL OFFERS FOR EXPATS
UK budget tightens rules for expats paying into state pension
The UK government has introduced significant changes to the rules governing voluntary National Insurance contributions for people who leave the country to live abroad. These measures, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in this week’s Budget, will affect many working-age British citizens and former UK residents who had previously relied on topping up their state pension from overseas under relatively flexible conditions.
Under the current system, individuals who have spent a minimum of three qualifying years working or paying contributions in the UK can continue to make voluntary payments from abroad. This arrangement has long been considered unusually generous compared to pension systems in other countries. It has also allowed thousands of British expats to secure the 35 qualifying years needed for a full UK state pension, which presently pays £230 per week (around €262).
As long as they met the basic requirement of three qualifying years, people who moved abroad could continue paying contributions indefinitely, regardless of how long they had been out of the country.
However, starting in April next year, this threshold will rise sharply. The minimum number of qualifying
years required before someone becomes eligible to make voluntary overseas contributions will increase from three to ten years. According to the Budget statement, this change closes a loophole that allowed individuals who had spent very little time in the UK to build up a substantial pension entitlement from abroad.
The Budget also introduces another major shift affecting self-employed people who leave the UK. At present, many self-employed expats have been allowed to continue paying cheaper Class 2 voluntary contributions—a considerably lower rate than the standard Class 3 contributions paid by most people topping up from overseas.
From next April, this option will be abolished. All expats making voluntary contributions toward the state pension will be required to pay the higher Class 3 rate, significantly increasing the cost of maintaining their UK pension record.
These measures are expected to impact a wide range of people, including younger Britons who move abroad for long-term work opportunities, early retirees settling overseas, and dual-nationals who previously spent only a few years in the UK before relocating permanently. The government
argues that the new rules ensure fairness and sustainability within the system, preventing individuals with minimal UK work history from receiving full pension benefits funded largely by UK taxpayers.
Importantly, the Budget changes do not affect the separate bilateral Social Security agreement between the UK and Spain. Under this arrangement, workers who have spent part of their careers in both countries may combine their contribution years to improve their pension entitlement in either country. This coordination system means that people who have worked legally in Spain and previously in the UK can still use their combined contribution records when calculating their state pension on retirement.
Overall, the reforms mark a substantial tightening of pension rules for British expats. While many overseas residents have benefited from the UK’s historically flexible voluntary contribution system, the government now seeks to align it more closely with international norms—raising qualifying requirements and removing lower contribution rates for those living abroad.
(Gabriel’s Spanish Bar Assc Reg No. is ICAE 1265)
Former minister Ábalos and exadviser Koldo García jailed without bail in ‘Koldo Case’
Former Spanish transport minister José Luis Ábalos and his exadviser, Koldo García, have been remanded in custody without bail as the investigation into the high-profile “Koldo Case” intensifies. The scandal centres on alleged corruption involving the former PSOE heavyweight and his close circle, linked to the awarding of public contracts during Ábalos’s tenure.
On Thursday, a Supreme Court judge ordered their immediate imprisonment, citing an “extreme” risk of flight. The decision comes after prosecutors requested heavy prison sentences— up to 24 years for Ábalos and 19 years for García— based on what they described as overwhelming evidence. Both men face charges including criminal organisation, bribery, influence peddling, embezzlement and misuse
of confidential information. The accusations relate to contracts allegedly steered toward a company connected to businessman and co-defendant Víctor de Aldama.
The judge’s ruling reflects growing concerns within the prosecutor’s office that the defendants, aware of the severity of the potential sentences, might attempt to evade justice. The case has already generated national political turbulence, with Ábalos still holding a parliamentary seat despite being suspended. His detention means he can no longer attend congressional sessions, and he is now expected to lose his salary, though he has not formally resigned.
Ábalos arrived at the Supreme Court on Thursday carrying only a small backpack—apparently the belongings he intended to take with him to
prison—signalling that he anticipated the outcome. García appeared before the court later that day, facing the same charges and the same decision to deny bail.
The investigation has been ongoing for months, with secret recordings and testimony forming part of the evidence that prosecutors claim exposes the full scale of the alleged corruption network. García himself was initially known for being a key figure in revealing parts of the scheme through hours of covert audio, which now form a substantial part of the case against him and others.
The first phase of the trial is expected to begin in the coming months, marking a decisive chapter in one of Spain’s most closely watched political corruption cases in recent years.
Local man marks 10th anniversary of “Pink November” in memory of late wife
When you lose someone to cancer, life is never quite the same. For 73-year-old Pat Welsh, that loss inspired a decade-long mission of hope, awareness, and colour.
For the past nine years, Pat has dyed his hair bright pink every November to raise money and awareness for cancer support — and this year marks a very special milestone: the 10th anniversary of his “Pink November” campaign.
“It’s a twist on the Movember campaign,” Pat explains. “After losing my wife to cancer, I wanted to do something that would make a difference — to help fund screening, research, and holistic care. My hope is that my fundraising can help a family spend just a little more time with their loved one, or even help find a cure so others don’t have to go through the same pain my family did.”
Pat’s efforts have become a local symbol of compassion and resilience, reminding everyone to see the person — not the patient, not the cancer.
He adds, “Support the fighters. Admire the survivors. Honour the taken.”
All proceeds from Pat’s 2025 campaign will go directly to the Pink Ladies, a
dedicated group providing hands-on support to those facing cancer, those recovering, and to further research toward a cure.
“From pennies to pounds, it all adds up,” says Pat. “Every donation helps.”
Donations can be made at: https://gofund. me/266fd83d2
Valencia man sentenced to 15 years for killing his mother
A 37-year-old man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for killing his 68-year-old mother in March 2023 at their home in Valencia’s San Marcelino district. The case, resolved through a plea deal on Thursday, highlights yet another failure to detect and address severe mental health pressures before they escalate into tragedy.
The victim, who suffered from long-term residual schizophrenia, lived with her son, who had become her primary caregiver. Overwhelmed by the emotional burden of her care, the man confessed to striking her with the metal handle of a mop and then suffocating her with a cushion once she was on the floor and unable to defend herself. Under usual circumstances, such a killing—classified as parricide involving a particularly vulnerable victim—could carry a life sentence with the
possibility of parole. However, the court granted a partial exemption due to the offender’s diminished mental capacity.
The trial had been scheduled to proceed before a public jury next week, but the agreement between defence, prosecution, and private accusers allowed the case to be resolved in a single hearing, with the sentence delivered verbally. In addition to the 15-year prison term, the convicted man received five years of supervised release and must pay his brother €45,000 in damages.
The attack occurred sometime between 3:00 p.m. on 23 March and 1:00 a.m. the following morning, though forensic experts estimate the time of death to be around 4:00 p.m. According to the ruling, the assault was sudden, with a clear physical imbalance
between the 48-kilogram, 1.60-metre-tall victim and her son. After killing his mother, the man lay down in her bedroom until his brother returned home and discovered the body.
A psychiatric evaluation found that the defendant suffered from an affective disorder with anxiety and depressive symptoms, intensified by the demands of caring for his mother and a recent emotional breakup. Forensic specialists noted borderline personality traits that impaired his judgment and self-control, though they concluded he did not suffer from a mental illness severe enough to fully exonerate him.
Originally facing up to 25 years in prison, his sentence was reduced through the plea deal, though he remains responsible for compensating his brother for their mother’s death.
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Bigastro: Tranquillity and Connectivity
Bigastro is a cosy municipality in the south of Alicante, known for its peaceful surroundings and its excellent connection to the main towns and beaches of the Costa Blanca.
Orihuela - 5 km (5 minutes by car).
Guardamar beaches - 25 km (15 minutes by car).
Torrevieja - 30 km (25 minutes by car).
Alicante Airport - 55 km (30 minutes by car).
Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre - 30 km (25 minutes by car).
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BUSINESS PROFILE
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This Week´s Movie Picks
When renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday, the inquisitive and debonair Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is mysteriously enlisted to investigate. From Harlan’s disfunctional family to his devoted staff, Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self-serving lies to uncover the truth behind Harlan’s untimely death. Santa Claus: The Movie
7th December, ITV, 4.50 pm
This is the story of a master toymaker who discovers a magical kingdom of elves in the North Pole and becomes Santa Claus. But when his eager-to-please elf, Patch, leaves for the big streets of New York City, he becomes mixed up with a dastardly toy tycoon’s plan to take over Christmas. And so begins his adventure to rescue Patch and to save Christmas for all the children of the world.
TM Grupo Inmobiliario
BBC one BBC two ITVChannel 4Channel 5ITV2
Tuesday 2nd December
Wednesday 3rd December
Tipping Point
16:00 Lingo
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
23:15 ITV News
23:50 ITV News London
10:40 Frasier 11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 American Pickers
13:05 Channel 4 News
Summary 13:10 Come Dine with Me: The Professionals
14:10 Find It, Fix It, Flog It
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 Help! We Bought a Village 18:00 Jasmine Harman’s Renovation in the Sun
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
20:55 The Political Slot
21:00 Grand Designs: House of the Year
22:00 24 Hours in A&E
23:00 Emergency Helicopter Medics
09:55 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:00 Peppa Pig 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:55 5 News at Lunchtime 14:00 Home and Away 14:30 My Christmas Wish 16:15 A Christmas Miracle 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Secrets of the Royal Palaces
20:00 The Motorway 21:00 Traffic Cops
22:00 Murder: Suspect No 1 23:30 Peeping Tom: The Landlord & His Secret Cameras 09:25 The Big Bake 10:20 The Only Way Is Essex 11:05 The Real Housewives of Dubai 12:00 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 13:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
4th December
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Tonight
21:00 Emmerdale
22:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
23:15 ITV News
23:50 ITV News London
Friday 5th December
19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two
20:00 Villages by the Sea
20:30 Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing
21:00 Gardeners’ World
22:00 Empire with David Olusoga
23:00 Inside No. 9
23:30 Newsnight
23:58 BBC Weather
Saturday 6th December
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning
13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Sara Davies’ Christmas Craft Off
16:00 Lingo
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
23:30 ITV News
07:00 James Martin’s Great British Adventure
08:00 Love Your Garden
08:30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh 10:25 ITV News
10:30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning
12:40 ITV Lunchtime News
12:55 Champions: Full Gallop
14:00 To Be Announced
17:00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals
17:25 Bullseye
18:30 ITV Evening News
18:45 ITV News London
19:00 The Chase: Celebrity Special
20:00 Celebrity Catchphrase
21:05 The 1% Club
11:10 Frasier 11:40 Frasier
12:10 American Pickers
13:05 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:10 Come Dine with Me: The Professionals
14:10 Find It, Fix It, Flog It
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 Help! We Bought a Village
18:00 Jasmine Harman’s Renovation in the Sun
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
20:55 Rory Peck Awards
21:00 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations
22:00 Cancer Detectives: Finding the Cures 23:00 Gogglebox
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 American Pickers
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary
13:10 Come Dine with Me: The Professionals
14:10 Find It, Fix It, Flog It
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 Help! We Bought a Village
18:00 Jasmine Harman’s Renovation in the Sun
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
20:30 Unreported World
20:55 Rory Peck Awards 21:00 Secrets of Supercheap Shopping
22:00 Gogglebox
23:00 The Last Leg
09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Everybody Loves Raymond
09:55 Frasier
10:25 Frasier
10:55 The Simpsons
11:20 The Simpsons
11:55 Formula 1
13:25 Come Dine with Me: The Professionals
14:25 A Place in the Sun
15:25 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces
16:30 Location, Location, Location 17:30 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It
18:35 New Zealand’s Best Homes With Phil Spencer
19:30 Channel 4 News
20:00 Bettany Hughes’ Treasures of the World
22:05 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
23:05 Romesh Ranganathan’s Parents’ Evening
21:05 New Zealand By Train
22:05 Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator
23:05 The Serpent Queen
09:55 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:55 5 News at Lunchtime 14:00 Home and Away 14:35 Christmas Lessons in Love
16:15 Planes, Trains, and Christmas Trees
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Secrets of the Royal Palaces
20:00 The Taste Test Restaurant 21:00 Inside the Tower of London 22:00 Play for Today 23:00 Fred And Rose West: The Search For The Victims
08:55 Stan & Gran 09:15 PAW Patrol 09:30 Milo 09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:55 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:55 5 News at Lunchtime 14:00 Home and Away 14:30 Once Upon a Main Street
16:15 Ghosts of Christmas Past 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Secrets of the Royal Palaces
20:00 Inside The Four Seasons Park Lane
21:00 Christmas Cruising With Susan Calman 22:00 Live: Boxing
11:05 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles 12:05 Good Morning Christmas! 13:05 Entertainment News On 5 13:10 Good Morning Christmas! 13:55 Meet Me at Christmas 14:55 Entertainment News On 5 15:00 Meet Me at Christmas 15:45 Christmas at the Holly Day Inn 16:50 Entertainment News On 5 16:55 Christmas at the Holly Day Inn 17:35 A Very Yorkshire Christmas 18:35 5 News Weekend 18:40 A Very Yorkshire Christmas 19:30 Our Big Yorkshire Christmas 21:05 Secrets of the Royals: Births, Marriages and Deaths
Queen Elizabeth’s Last
08:55 Buying the View 09:25 The Big Bake 10:20
08:30 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 08:55 Buying the View 09:25 The Big Bake 10:20 The Only Way Is Essex 11:05 The Real Housewives of Dubai 12:05 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 13:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! 14:15 I’m A Celebrity... Unpacked 15:15 Celebrity Catchphrase 16:20 The Real Housewives of Jersey 17:20 The Real Housewives of Dubai 18:15 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 19:05 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
20:25 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
21:30 FYI Daily 21:35 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
23:05 Family Guy 23:30 I’m A Celebrity... Unpacked
09:15 Classic Coronation Street
10:20 Doc Martin 11:25 The Royal 12:30 Heartbeat
13:30 Heartbeat
14:30 Classic Emmerdale 15:00 Classic Emmerdale 15:30 Classic Coronation Street 16:00 Classic Coronation Street
16:30 Downton Abbey 17:40 Doc Martin
18:50 Heartbeat
19:55 Heartbeat
21:00 Rosemary and Thyme 22:00 Midsomer Murders
Sunday 7th December
ITV News
10:30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh
12:30 Live: EFL
15:20 Fletchers’ Family Farm
16:20 Fern Britton: Inside the Vet’s
17:20 Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again
19:30 ITV Evening News
19:45 ITV News London
20:00 The Great Escapers 21:00 Bullseye
22:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
23:05 Changing Ends
23:30 ITV News
23:50 Sorry, I Didn’t Know
Monday 8th December
07:40 Cheers
08:10 Cheers 08:35 Cheers
09:00 Everybody Loves
09:25 Everybody Loves
Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Sunday Brunch 14:00 Formula 1 16:30 Four in a Bed 17:00 Four in a Bed 17:30
20:30 Emmerdale 21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
Frasier 11:40 Frasier
12:10 American Pickers 13:05 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:10 Come Dine with Me: The Professionals
14:10 Find It, Fix It, Flog It
15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun 17:00 Help! We Bought a Village
18:00 The Great B&B Challenge
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
23:20 Changing Ends 23:45 ITV News 09:40 Everybody Loves
20:55 Rory Peck Awards
21:00 Inside the World’s Most Luxurious... 22:00 Summerwater
23:00 24 Hours in A&E
09:15 PAW Patrol 09:40 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
09:55 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:00 Milkshake! Make A Change 10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:55 5 News at Lunchtime 14:00 Home and Away 14:30 A Tale of Two Christmases
16:15 A Sprinkle of Christmas 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Secrets of the Royal Palaces
20:00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders 21:00 Police Interceptors
22:00 The Forsytes 23:10 Police: Night Shift 999
08:55 Buying the View 09:25 The Big Bake 10:20 The Only Way Is Essex 11:05 The Real Housewives of Dubai 12:05 The Real Housewives of Atlanta
13:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
14:05 I’m A Celebrity... Unpacked 15:05 Celebrity Catchphrase 16:05 The Real Housewives of Jersey 17:05 The Real Housewives of Dubai 18:00 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 19:00 I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
20:00 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
13:25 Heartbeat 14:25 Classic Emmerdale 14:55 Classic Emmerdale
15:25 Classic Coronation Street
15:55 Classic Coronation Street 16:25 Downton Abbey 17:35 Doc Martin
18:45 Heartbeat 19:50 Heartbeat
21:05 FYI Daily 21:10 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince 23:20 I’m A Celebrity... Unpacked 09:50 Classic Coronation Street 10:20 Doc Martin 11:25 The Royal 12:25 Heartbeat
21:00 Rosemary and Thyme 22:05 Midsomer Murders
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, December 10th, 2025. You are welcome to attend.
“I have forgotten the PIN to open my Tablet. What can I do”?
For most modern Android tablets, if you forget your PIN, the only way to reset it is to perform a Factory Reset (also called a Hard Reset). This will erase all the data on your tablet so you should use this method as a last resort.
1. Remote Reset using Google’s Find My Device If your tablet is connected to WiFi/data, is logged into your Google
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.
Account, and has the Find My Device feature enabled, you can erase it remotely. Go to the Website: On a computer or another phone, go to google.com/android/find.
• Sign In: Sign in with the same Google Account that is linked to your locked tablet.
• Select Your Tablet: Find your tablet in the list of devices.
• Erase the Device: Select the option “Erase device” (or “Factory reset device”).
• Confirm: Confirm the action. This will remotely wipe the tablet.
• Set Up: Once the erase is complete, your tablet will reboot as new.
2. Manual Factory Reset (Recovery Mode) If the remote method doesn’t work, you’ll need to use the physical buttons on your tablet to boot into Recovery Mode and perform a factory reset.
• Power Off: If you can’t access the power menu due to the PIN, you may need to press and hold the Power button for about 10-20 seconds until it forces a shutdown.
• Enter Recovery Mode: Press and hold a specific combination of buttons. Common combinations are: o Power Button + Volume Down o Power Button +
Volume Up o Power Button + Volume Up + Home Button (common on older Samsung models)
o Hold the buttons until you see the Android logo or a Recovery Mode menu.
• Navigate and Select: Use the Volume Up/Down buttons to move through the menu, and the Power Button to select an option.
• Wipe Data: Navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset” and select it.
• Confirm: Select “Factory data reset” or “Yes - delete all user data” to confirm.
• Reboot: When finished, select “Reboot system now.” When the tablet restarts, it will be reset to its factory state.
Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Technology Help Group”. Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Brian Hoile Technology Help Group
Chris raises €540 for Poppy Appeal
Christopher John Shire (Chris) proudly raised €540.60 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal through a raffle and generous donations. He would like to express his sincere thanks to Elaine and Norma, the proprietors of The Nook, for kindly allowing him to hold the fundraiser there. Their support helped create a warm and welcoming space where friends, family, and customers could come together for a meaningful cause.
Chris also extends heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed, whether by purchasing raffle tickets, making donations, or simply offering encouragement. The positive response from the community played a vital role in making this year’s effort a success.
This marks the third consecutive year Chris has carried out this fundraiser, and he is delighted with the amount collected. Each year, the growing level of support demonstrates the community’s commitment to honouring and remembering those who have served. Chris is deeply
grateful for the continued enthusiasm and generosity shown by all involved, and
he looks forward to keeping this tradition alive in the years to come.
Last few remaining places for New Years Eve
As 2025 winds down, many are already thinking about how to welcome the year ahead. For those seeking a festive night full of music, food, and celebration, Hotel Algorfa is once again hosting its highly anticipated New Year’s Eve extravaganza.
This year’s event promises a packed evening of live entertainment. Guests will enjoy the soulful voice of Wardi alongside a headline performance by Simon Patrick, widely regarded as Europe’s number one Elvis Presley tribute act. From classic ballads to rock-and-roll anthems, the show is set to
deliver all the energy and nostalgia needed to usher in 2026. The celebrations begin at 6 p.m. and carry on until 2 a.m., offering eight hours of nonstop entertainment.
The hotel has designed the night as a fully inclusive experience.
Drinks will be served throughout, while a sweet and savory buffet ensures guests can keep their energy up as they sing and dance their way into the new year. The package is priced at €95 per adult, with children under 12 able to join for half the cost, making the event both festive and family-friendly.
With its lively program,
extended hours, and all-inclusive offering, the party has become one of the area’s most sought-after year-end gatherings. Hotel representatives recommend securing tickets early, as demand is expected to be high and availability limited.
Hotel Algorfa’s New Year’s Eve celebration offers more than just a party—it creates memories. Whether you are an Elvis fan eager to sing along to your favorites or simply looking for a joyful way to step into 2026, this event brings together food, music, and community spirit in one unforgettable night.
Molly-Mae Hague has admitted to having a difficult weekend, after both her partner Tommy Fury and their daughter Bambi were taken ill.
The former Love Islander, 26, took to her Instagram Stories on Sunday night to reveal she’d spent the last few days looking after the boxer, also 26, and their two-year-old, after they both caught viral bugs.
She shared a sweet black-andwhite snap to sum up her weekend, showing her cuddling Bambi, while lying in bed together.
A former X Factor star looks totally unrecognisable after becoming a spiritual healer, a decade after his appearance on the ITV talent show.
Rapper Mason Noise, real name Mason Binnell, was mentored by Nick Grimshaw during the 2015 competition where he famously locked horns with Simon Cowell.
But now Mason has changed his name to Matreya and gone are his trendy vests and baseball caps for a huge bushy beard with flowing capes and face paint.
Paddington: The Musical has received a series of glowing reviews from critics after its official opening in theatres over the weekend.
The lost bear has now made it all the way from Peru to London’s West End in search of a new home and is sure to delight families in the run up to Christmas.
Directed by Luke Sheppard, with original music and lyrics by McFly’s Tom Fletcher the show is now on at the Savoy Theatre and follows Paddington’s comic mishaps with the adoptive Brown family.
Danny Cipriani’s heartbroken exwife Victoria has claimed he ended their two-year marriage ‘with no explanation’.
In a new interview, Victoria, 43, said she felt blindsided when the rugby player, 38, announced their split on Instagram.
Victoria filed for divorce in August last year, nine months after their split, and later claimed Danny blew £600 a month on drugs.
Wayne Lineker has revealed he has been left ‘unable to walk’ and is recovering in hospital after being rushed to intensive care with ‘extremely dangerous’ pneumonia.
The O Beach owner, 63, who is the brother of footballer and broadcaster Gary Lineker, took to his Instagram Stories with a lengthy health update on Sunday.
Wayne, who is based in Ibiza, explained how he had fallen ill with what he assumed was COVID and then a heart attack, before medics diagnosed pneumonia.
STEPS — glitter, key-changes & pop perfection
This week on Rewind & Play, we’re stepping (pun fully intended) back into one of the UK’s most joyfilled pop legacies — STEPS. Few groups have delivered pure pop escapism quite like them, and even fewer have done it with such camp sparkle, precision choreography, and key-changes strong enough to lift the roof off a stadium.
Formed in 1997, STEPS — Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Lee LatchfordEvans, Lisa Scott-Lee, and Ian “H” Watkins — were originally brought together for a line-dancing style single (yes, really). But what started with 5, 6, 7, 8 became a full-blown pop explosion, taking over charts, dance floors, and school discos for years to come.
And here’s where it gets juicy — some little-known gems even diehard fans may not know:
• Before auditions, the band’s original concept was literally inspired by the line-dance craze of the mid-90s. Their country-pop debut wasn’t meant to launch a pop dynasty… yet here we are.
• Claire almost didn’t make the group — she originally auditioned as a soloist but impressed so strongly she was added to the lineup later.
• Lisa Scott-Lee once said she recorded most vocals sitting crosslegged on the floor of the studio — a quirky habit she believed gave her better emotion and tone.
• “H” didn’t get his nickname from his surname — it actually stands for “Hyperactive”, given because of his wild energy during early rehearsals.
• Faye Tozer already had West End theatre dreams brewing — and later
fulfilled them, starring in shows like Singin’ in the Rain long after the pop glitter settled the first time around.
But let’s talk hits. From One for Sorrow to Tragedy, Deeper Shade of Blue ( My Favourite Steps track by the way ), and Stomp, STEPS built a catalogue of floor-fillers engineered for pure happiness: glittery dancepop, harmonies you could scream in your bedroom mirror, and
choreography the whole nation knew. If you didn’t learn the Tragedy dance at some point — did you even grow up in the pop era?
And those key-changes… iconic. Weapon-grade. The kind of musical moment where even your uncle at a wedding feels compelled to fistpump dramatically.
Then came 2001 — the shock split. Christmas week. Pop fans traumatised. But like all great comebacks, the reunion years have been just as triumphant. Their later albums, like Tears on the Dancefloor and What the Future Holds, proved STEPS aren’t just nostalgia — they’re polished pop pros who still know how to deliver a banger.
Through breakups, reunions, TV documentaries and glitter storms, STEPS have stayed true to what made them magic: unapologetic,
euphoric pop. No irony. No edge. Just joy, drama, key-changes, and confetti cannons. And honestly? That’s exactly what the world needs.
Join me next week on Rewind & Play as we dive into another artist who helped shape the soundtrack to our lives.
Till next week! And don’t forget to tune in to SUGAR RADIO for all the best hits & throwbacks — from the 90s to today! Catch us on 90.8 / 87.5 DAB+ from Benidorm to Mojacar. And hey — Im on weekdays 11:00 till 15:00, spinning your favourites!
Lee Fox
Health & Beauty
Seasonal winter fruits offer a healthy swap for festive snacks
My wife and I have three young adult children who are still at home. Our daughter is lazy and indifferent to standing on her own two feet. It’s been exhausting....my wife has to physically drag her out of her bed each morning and get her off to work; we’ve lost count of the jobs she’s been sacked from; she is work-shy and would be completely idle if we didn’t insist she get work and pay us keep, as do the other two. Our sons worked part time whilst attending college and contributed to their own educations when they could. All we get from our daughter is that she is being singled out. We have helped her, we have paid for numerous night school courses that she has attended once or twice and then thrown it in...she would tell us she was going but she’d really be sitting in McDonalds. She tells us she is on the spectrum, or has ADHD which she keeps asking to be tested for; but I have told her that having a label put on her incapacity to try harder and step-up, will not make things easier for her. Her laziness only appeared when she began adolescence, so my wife and I don’t buy any of this affliction stuff. All she wants to do is get a ticket to lie on the sofa all day and order from Deliveroo. We are done in, getting older ourselves and need for this behaviour to stop. Any advice would be welcome. If I were you I’d stop the lounging about on the sofa and ordering Deliveroo....it’s your house so you can turn off the television (or 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.
Exploring Today’s Most Popular Hair Colouring Techniques
Modern hair colouring offers a wide range of techniques that allow clients to achieve everything from subtle dimension to dramatic transformations. Among the most widely used methods are foils, highlights, balayage, lowlights and full head colour, each providing a distinct result
take the TV out of her room), and refuse delivery from the Deliveroo guy when he knocks on your door. Whose money is she using to order Deliveroo? Of course, some of this advice might be shutting the stable door once the horse has bolted, but I believe it’s never too late to instil some house rules. I would sit everyone down and have a good talk, so that your daughter does not feel picked on. Tell them they need to help with chores, if they are not already doing so; put the vacuum round, polishing and mopping, doing the washing up on rota, helping mum with shopping, mowing the lawn, helping with the laundry and ironing....these are all of things that they will be doing for themselves when they get their own place. I also think your daughter should visit her GP and get herself tested...she doesn’t need to wait for you to do it, although you should offer to go with her. However, as you have said, it will not be a ticket to slope off in life; folk with challenges simply just have to work harder to achieve, and that is what you expect to happen. Lots of things have to get ‘sucked up in life’; there are so many more people worse off, and until your daughter realises that, she will not change. Finally, some tough talk might be in order...try taking her down to the children’s cancer ward, or show her someone with cerebral palsy who lives life being pushed about in a wheelchair.... those poor kids would give their right arm to be in your daughter’s shoes.
suited to different styles and preferences.
Foils remain a classic choice for precise colour placement. Colourists use foil packets to isolate sections of hair, allowing for controlled lifting or darkening. This method is ideal for creating strong contrast, structured highlights or multi-tonal effects. It also offers reliable, even
Even if you haven’t started your Christmas shopping, you’ve likely already seen the towering displays of chocolates, mince pies and festive treats filling supermarket aisles. But winter isn’t just the season of indulgent snacks—it’s also the best time to enjoy a range of delicious fruits at their peak.
British favourites such as apples, pears, cranberries and elderberries are all in season, and nutritionist Rob Hobson says these should be going into our baskets instead of ultra-processed festive snacks. He explains that Christmas treats are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats while offering very little nutrition—making them easy to overeat. In contrast, winter fruits provide antioxidants to support the immune system and fibre to aid gut health.
Hobson recommends eating most fruits raw and keeping the skins on for maximum
processing, making it a staple in professional salons.
Highlights, whether applied through foils or freehand, add brightness and dimension throughout the hair. They can be fine and natural or bold and high-contrast. Highlights work well for clients who want to lighten their overall look without committing to a full colour change. They also blend seamlessly with many base shades, from warm chocolate browns to cooler blondes.
Lowlights provide depth and richness by adding darker tones throughout the hair. Unlike highlights, which brighten, lowlights help create contrast and enhance movement by weaving deeper shades into lighter hair. This technique is particularly effective for preventing overly light or one-dimensional blondes, adding balance to sun-faded colour or restoring naturallooking depth. Lowlights work beautifully with a wide range of colours, from deep chestnut and cocoa tones to soft ash or caramel shades.
Balayage, a technique that continues to grow in popularity, involves hand-painting colour
nutrients, while noting that elderberries must always be cooked due to their natural toxins. Fruits can also be enjoyed stewed, baked or paired with yoghurt, nuts or seeds for a more filling snack. Frozen berries are another excellent option since they’re picked at peak ripeness and retain their nutrients.
His top seasonal picks include blackberries, rich in fibre and antioxidants; pears, helpful for digestion and immune support; and apples, known for improving
gut health and lowering LDL “bad” cholesterol. Cranberries offer festive flavour along with well-known benefits for urinary tract health, while cooked elderberries provide antiviral and immune-boosting effects.
With adults advised to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, winter is the perfect time to swap sugary snacks for seasonal fruits that support both health and energy levels—without compromising on flavour.
onto the hair for a soft, blended finish. Unlike traditional foils, balayage creates a more sunkissed, natural gradient with less noticeable regrowth. It is a versatile option for those seeking low-maintenance lightening or gentle transitions between darker and lighter tones.
Full head colour remains the best option for clients wanting a uniform shade from roots to ends. This technique delivers
complete coverage, whether the goal is a rich brunette, a warm caramel, a creamy blonde or even a striking bleach white. Full colour services are also essential for covering greys or refreshing previously coloured hair.
Across all techniques, today’s colour palette is more diverse than ever. Deep chocolate browns offer depth and shine, while golden and beige blondes bring softness and radiance. High-lift blondes and bleach white tones provide a bold, modern finish for those seeking maximum brightness. With professional guidance, clients can choose shades that complement their complexion, style and maintenance preferences.
Whether subtle or dramatic, contemporary colouring techniques allow every client to express their individuality while achieving a polished, professional result.
Come to Indiana’s Hair & Lash Boutique in Benijofa and speak to Indiana to explore which style, technique or colour best suits your hair and the look you want to achieve.
Therapeutic advances usher in a new era in the fight against pancreatic cancer
Early diagnosis, personalised therapies and new targeted drugs are marking a paradigm shift for one of the cancers with the poorest prognosis.
Torrevieja, 21 November 2025. Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most complex tumours to diagnose and treat, but progress in recent years is opening up a more hopeful outlook for patients. This is explained by Dr Enrique de Madaria, a specialist in Digestive Diseases at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital and Quirónsalud Alicante, who emphasises that the combination of new imaging techniques, emerging biomarkers and targeted therapies “is beginning to change a disease that for a long time seemed immovable”.
Pancreatic cancer develops when cells in the pancreas start to grow uncontrollably, generally in the part responsible for producing digestive enzymes. The most common type is pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
One of the greatest challenges is achieving earlier diagnosis. Because the pancreas lies deep within the abdomen, early tumours rarely cause clear symptoms. “When signs such as abdominal pain, weight loss or jaundice appear, the disease is often already advanced,” Dr De Madaria points out. At present, nearly
80% of cases are detected when surgery is no longer possible — despite being the only treatment that can potentially cure the disease. New tools for the early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer
Although there is still no effective screening programme for the general population, technological progress is enabling the detection of increasingly small suspicious lesions thanks to tools such as high-resolution MRI scans, endoscopic ultrasound, and advanced image-analysis systems based on artificial intelligence. “This is where we are seeing a qualitative leap:
technology is sharpening our ability to identify incipient tumours and, in some cases, to get ahead of symptoms,” the specialist explains.
At the same time, new biomarkers are being investigated that could revolutionise early detection, including fragments of circulating tumour DNA, specific metabolites, and even signals detectable in saliva and stool samples — a line of research still in the experimental phase but especially promising.
A treatment approach that requires a multidisciplinary team Managing pancreatic
cancer calls for close coordination between gastroenterologists, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and nutritionists. Specialists review each case in tumour boards to decide on the best therapeutic plan.
Surgery remains the only potentially curative treatment, but only a small proportion of patients are eligible for it at the time of diagnosis. In some cases that are initially inoperable, new chemotherapy regimens can shrink the tumour and make later surgery possible.
Advances in the treatment of pancreatic cancer
In recent years, medical treatment for pancreatic
cancer has evolved significantly, leading to clear improvements in survival.
However, the most important breakthrough comes from personalised medicine. Some tumours harbour mutations that allow the use of targeted therapies.
“We are witnessing a paradigm shift,” says Dr De Madaria. “For decades, KRAS — the main mutation in pancreatic cancer — seemed untouchable, but drugs are now starting to emerge that can act on specific mutations such as KRAS G12C or G12D. The first trials are promising.”
In addition, therapies capable of acting against several KRAS variants are already in development, which could benefit a far larger proportion of patients. Research is also exploring combinations with immunotherapy and other targeted treatments, with increasingly robust preliminary results.
Although pancreatic cancer remains a major challenge, the pace of progress is faster than ever. “For the first time, we are seeing research deliver not only knowledge but real tools that can transform prognosis,” concludes Dr Enrique de Madaria. “Collaboration between centres and participation in clinical trials have been key to opening new doors for our patients.”
New rules make electric scooters a serious commitment this Christmas
With Christmas just around the corner, electric scooters are once again topping wish lists—especially among teenagers and young adults. But before placing one under the tree, buyers should be aware that Spain’s rules for electric scooters are tightening significantly. What used to be seen as a fun, convenient gadget is now legally treated much more like a road vehicle, with strict requirements already in place and new ones arriving in 2026.
Where You Can—and Cannot—Ride Today
Across most Spanish cities, electric scooters are officially classified as Vehículos de Movilidad Personal (VMP). This means riders must follow road-traffic rules comparable to other vehicles. Scooters are banned from pavements and pedestrian streets, one of the most frequently ignored rules. Riders must use designated cycle lanes or the road, respecting the traffic flow. The maximum legal speed is 25 km/h, and carrying a passenger is strictly prohibited.
must display an identification sticker or plate. Unregistered or non-certified scooters will be illegal to use on public roads. This aims to ensure safer vehicles and guarantee proper compensation for accident victims.
Local Councils
Adding Extra Rule s
Municipalities also have the power to introduce additional restrictions. Fuengirola is preparing an ordinance to make helmet use mandatory for all riders, regardless of age. Other towns have already adopted this rule, resulting in a noticeable drop in scooter use. More councils are expected to adopt similar measures throughout 2026.
What Christmas Buyers Need to Know
If you’re thinking about gifting an electric scooter this year, plan carefully:
Choose a model that meets current certification standards (such as EN 17128) to ensure it can be registered next year.
Budget for liability insurance, currently around €20–€50 per year, though prices may rise once the requirement becomes law. A clean driving licence may help reduce premiums.
Expect helmet requirements, and check the rules set by your local council.
Teach essential safety rules from the start: use the road or cycle lanes only, respect the 25 km/h limit, and never carry another passenger.
More Than a Toy
This Christmas marks a turning point. Electric scooters in Spain are no longer considered casual recreational devices. They are becoming regulated motor vehicles with obligations: registration, insurance, road-safety standards, and protective gear. Users who fail to comply risk fines and other legal consequences.
Before deciding to give a scooter as a gift, consider not just the fun factor—but the responsibilities that now come with it.
Police enforcement is increasing nationwide. Fuengirola, as an example, has already issued nearly 600 fines in 2025, mostly for pavement riding, the top complaint among pedestrians. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries the same penalties as driving a car, including fines and potential licence implications.
Insurance: Optional Until Now—Mandatory in 2026
Another major shift concerns insurance. Until recently, liability insurance for scooter users was only recommended. From 2026, however, it will become mandatory, and fines for riding without it are expected to be substantial. Insurance will cover damage or injury caused to others, putting an end to the legal grey area surrounding scooter accidents.
Mandatory Registration With the DGT
Beginning next year, only electric scooters that meet official European and Spanish safety standards will receive a DGT registration certificate. Once registered, each scooter
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 offer 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
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Torrevieja city world cup promotes integration through sport
The 3rd Torrevieja City World Cup, held under the motto “Integration Through Sport,” will take place on December 6th and 7th at the Torrevieja Sports Complex. The tournament begins with a full day of qualifying matches on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The excitement continues on Sunday with the finals from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by the official awards ceremony.
This year’s edition brings together teams representing 12 different countries: Spain, Paraguay, Colombia, Ecuador, Poland, Romania, Ukraine, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Morocco, and Senegal. With Paraguay having won both previous editions, they enter the competition as the team to beat.
The tournament will be played in the seven-a-side football format, following standard rules and regulations. Beyond the sporting action, the event will also celebrate cultural diversity. During halftime intervals, various folk groups from the participating nations will perform, adding colour, music, and tradition to the World Cup atmosphere. Local supporters are expected to fill the stands, creating a lively environment as they cheer on their teams.
The Torrevieja City World Cup is more than a sports competition—it is a project built on social values. Public authorities highlight that sport plays a powerful role in transmitting both
personal and community principles. Participating in sport is widely recognised as improving quality of life through teamwork, discipline, and healthy habits.
San Miguel Golf Society at La Finca
If we had a member called Wendy, our caption would have been “Wendy on a Windy Wednesday”… ‘nuf said really – everybody went home very wind burnt today. But the vista from the clubhouse is always stunning, regardless of the seasons in Spain – we could have done without the wind, especially teeing off from one of the highest points from the tenth tee – hey ho! Our eager troop turned up bright and early for our inaugural Eclectic competition which has been moved from Vistabella. We haven’t played here since September when they were finalising the necessary work on the 2nd hole so we were expecting pristine conditions having let that bed in. and we weren’t disappointed. The course was in great condition, the greens were on point.
A slightly larger group of 52 today due to the sheer popularity of this local course for many of our members, not a normal occurrence but we moved on. We are always welcomed by the lovely staff at La Finca, both on and off the course (some on course staff are also members – no nepotism here we say and DEFINITELY no advantage on the scoring today *looks to the Gold and Silver
category winners* - nah, well done guys). After the game, we trundled down for some welcome food and drinks served by Mike and his fantastic staff at Silverstones Bar & Grill. The hunger levels were high after a windy round where lots of energy was expended battling the gale. Thanks All.
To the important issues –scores (impressive bearing in mind there were only 6 players with scores of 30 plus today!):
Gold: Samuel Hancock (39 points and best score of the day)
Silver: Peter Davies (34 points)
Bronze: Martin Readman (33 points)
The “Twos” were shared between Phil de Lacy, John Osborne, Ian Merga and Alan Bryce. Nearest the Pins were Phil de Lacy (3rd), Peter Harding (6th), Barry Roehrig (13th) and Samuel Hancock (16th). We had two guests today and the winner of a snazzy sleeve of SMGS balls was Steve Fleet. Bit of a battle for the “McBride Bottle” but as the “winner” had left, it defaulted to Richard Whitely who will add it to his extensive wine cellar!
We have also continued with our charity work this week when we met the
lovely Kim and Brenda from Forget-Me-Not Grief Support Programme who have set up grief counselling courses in the local area – if you know somebody who may benefit from such vital support, please get in touch. We had the pleasure of donating €450 to help them with supplies and financing a dedicated support telephone number.
Keep up to date with SMGS on our website www. smgs.org. **SPONSORSHIP AVAILABILITY** If you are interested in sponsoring one of our games – please contact smgs91info@gmail. com to discuss further. We are proud to be supported by Michaela Schmidt at www.golf-hotspots.com for all your golf travel requirements.
Winners pictured L-R Jan Skog (2nd Silver), Martin Readman (Bronze) Richard Whitely (“McBride Bottle), Mick Pryke (Captain), Samuel Hancock (Gold) Alan “PBomber” Macdonald and Paul Lambert (Vice— Captain promoting Guinness in the front). Also pictured are Kim and Brenda from Forget-Me-Not Grief Support Programme with Sandra Dibble (Secretary) and Mick Pryke (Captain).
Puzzles
QUICK CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Abeyance (10)
7. Fragrance (5)
8. Commerce (7)
10. Conversant (8)
11. Daybreak (4)
13. Sadness (6)
15. Centre (6)
17. Besides (4)
18. Collect (6,2)
21. Bit (7)
22. Got up (5)
23. Go first (4,3,3)
DOWN
1. Rage (5)
2. Horse (8)
3. Ensnare (6)
4. Smack (4)
5. Casual (7)
6. Dozing (4-6)
9. About (10)
12. Retire (8)
14. Lay by (7)
16. Initiate (6)
19. Hazardous (5)
20. Benevolent (4)
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.
Average: 15
Good: 20
Very good: 25
Excellent: 30
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
ACROSS
1. A teacher has to look after a genius (10)
7. Distance to measure right inside (5)
8. Puts on something saucy? (7)
10. Good stroke for a cricketer, but not a golfer (3-5)
11. A girl to avoid (4)
13. Properly dressed soldiers are (2,4)
15. He provides a new setting for the doctor (6)
17. Terrible ruler of vain disposition (4)
18. Vendors, possibly nameless (8)
21. Being agreeable, but saying nothing (7)
22. Excel, but not in a party (5)
23. It necessitates a lot of extra work in the theatre (5,5)
DOWN
1. It’s an idea if Tom comes up first (5)
2. Guiding line about two similar points (8)
3. A plant useful in salads may be envied (6)
4. Suitable start for the hunting season (4)
5. Possibly retains, though being less agreeable (7)
6. I’m taking the attitude that it’s rather a burden (10)
9. Light that goes up and down (4,6)
12. Bet a long striding gait is natural to it (8)
14. Hero-worshipper (7)
16. Rushes into boats (6)
19. Capital wear for a bishop (5)
20. Surveyor’s opinion (4)
SOLUTIONS
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD Across: 1 Mastermind; 7 tre;Me 8 esses;Dr 10 Off-drive; 11 Miss; 13 In line; 15 Andrew; 17 Ivan; 18 Salesmen; 21 Nodding; 22 Outdo; 23 Crowd scene. Down: 1 Motif; 2 Steering; 3 Endive; 4 Meet; 5 Nastier; 6 Imposition; 9 Sash window; 12 Antelope; 14 Leander; 16 Barges; 19 Mitre; 20 View. WORDWHEEL entwist, entwists, intwist, news, newt, nitwit, sewn, sews, sinew, stew, stews, swine, twin, twine, twines, twins, twinset, twist, twists, twit, twits, went, west, ,wets wine, wines, est,wini wins, wise, wisent, wises, wisest, ess,witn wits, wittiness.
Down: 1 Storm; 2 Stallion; 3 Entrap; 4 Slap; 5 Offhand; 6 Half-asleep; 9 Concerning; 12 Withdraw; 14 Reserve; 16 Launch; 19 Risky; 20 Kind.
15 Middle; 17 Else; 18 Gather in; 21 Portion; 22 Risen; 23 Lead the way.
QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Suspension; 7 Aroma; 8 Traffic; 10 Familiar; 11 Dawn; 13 Sorrow;
