22 August - 28 August 2023

Body found after ten days in Punta Prima apartment

A grim discovery was made by the Torrevieja Civil Guard as they uncovered the body of a man, who had been dead for a minimum of ten

days, within a residential apartment in Punta Prima. The distressing nd was reported by the apartment’s residents, who were alerted by a strong and

pungent smell permeating the area. The report was made at approximately 10:30pm on Saturday. The apartment was situated on Pleamar Street in the Rocío del Mar neighbourhood on the border with Orihuela Costa.

Upon responding to the alarm, the Civil Guard o cers entered the apartment and were confronted by a grisly sight – the remains of a 54-year-old man, originally from Norway, in a highly advanced stage of decomposition. The individual was identi ed as the solitary tenant of the apartment, as indicated by o cial documents retrieved from one of the rooms.

Tragically, it was revealed that the tenant su ered with Diogenes syndrome. This is a behaviouralhealth condition characterised by poor personal hygiene, hoarding, and unkempt living conditions. It is most common in older men and women, which is why it is also called senile squalor syndrome. People with Diogenes syndrome demonstrate little concern for self-care or a clean living environment, and seem undisturbed about their condition or how others respond to it.

Consequently, the residents of the building only registered an issue when the overpowering stench extended to the communal areas of the apartment block. Moreover, the deceased had

also been grappling with health complications stemming from his morbid obesity.

The task of removing the body was executed at 12:45 on Sunday morning, accompanied by stringent preventive measures routinely undertaken in such circumstances. Civil Guard o cers and funeral service providers donned protective biological clothing to ensure their safety during the process.

The Rocío del Mar neighbourhood, near to the Ferrís palm grove and the coastline, has been recognised as one of Torrevieja’s most tranquil and historical tourist enclaves. However, the sombre incidents of individuals dying in isolation, their absence only discerned after a signi cant time, has regrettably become a recurrent occurrence in Torrevieja and its periphery. The Civil Guard has recorded approximately twenty instances of such solitary deaths over a period of just over a year.

The revelation underscores the signi cance of fostering a sense of

community vigilance and connection, particularly in circumstances where individuals may be struggling with physical and mental health conditions that impede their ability to reach out for assistance. Authorities and local charities emphasise the need for neighbours and acquaintances to be on the look out for any unusual or suspicious signs that might indicate a person’s wellbeing is compromised.

As the investigation into this disheartening occurrence continues, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of social engagement and support networks in ensuring the welfare of all members within a community.

Busy Benidorm indicates bumper summer

As the summer sun continues to draw in throngs of tourists, Benidorm’s bustling tourist sector is not the only positive sign of a resurgent season. The surge in local road tra c, exceeding pre-pandemic gures, is adding to the city’s buoyant atmosphere.

Recent data released by the Department of Mobility has revealed a striking upswing in vehicular activity within Benidorm during the month of July, with a notable 15% increase compared to the same period in 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The trend has continued into August, the rst half of which saw a noteworthy 6% rise in road users compared to the corresponding period four years ago, signalling a sustained and robust recovery for the city’s tourism sector.

Nuria Montes, the Regional Tourism Minister, expressed her optimism last week, predicting that this year’s high season in Benidorm could potentially set a new record in terms of visitor numbers, showcasing the region’s exceptional appeal to travellers.

Francis Muñoz, Benidorm’s Mobility Councillor, noted that the city’s remarkable rebound has been matched by an impressive resilience in the road infrastructure. Despite the heightened vehicular activity, major tra c disruptions have been conspicuously absent.

Muñoz highlighted the e ectiveness of strategic measures implemented over recent years, speci cally tailored to enhance mobility along main avenues and at entry and exit points to Benidorm. These measures have undeniably contributed to the city’s ability to

accommodate increased tra c ow seamlessly.

The health of Benidorm’s tourism can also be gauged through the lens of airport passenger gures. Alicante-Elche Airport, a crucial gateway for visitors to the region, recorded a notable milestone in July, welcoming 1.71 million travellers. Although this gure is marginally lower than the record-breaking 1.72 million passengers in 2019, it remains a clear testament to the destination’s enduring popularity and its rapid post-pandemic recovery.

As the summer of 2023 continues to unfold, Benidorm stands as a testament to the resilience and allure of its tourism industry. With roads bustling and airports welcoming travellers, the city’s enduring appeal is not only weathering the storm but thriving in the sunshine.

Thousands of kilos of unfit food seized

The Civil Guard launched Operation Mahala to combat the counterfeiting, sale, labelling, trade, illegal distribution or adulteration of food products and economic fraud. O cers have investigated and charged a person in charge of a company and denounced another for a crime of food fraud related to more than 34,000 kilos of food un t for human consumption.

Earlier this year the Alicante Nature Protection Patrol (PACPRONA) obtained information about possible irregularities by two commercial companies located in two industrial buildings in Torrevieja. The warehouses were believed to contain expired food products, which were distributed between Spain and Portugal.

Once all the establishments were

located and the existence of illegal activities veri ed, o cers raided the premises. O cers found foods with manipulated best-before dates, expired foods and others in a poor state of preservation, all of them ready for sale and distribution.

The owner and manager of the

company along with all the evidence proving the crimes have been passed to the relevant bodies. In addition, complaints have been made against the investigated companies for administrative infractions, and have been sent to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Water of

the Generalitat Valenciana.

The proceedings have been made available to the Investigating Court No. 4 of Torrevieja. Likewise, all the food removed has been destroyed by an authorised waste manager.

Thanks to these actions, the Civil Guard has withdrawn from the market more than 34,000 kilos of food, between Torrevieja and other towns, un t for consumption. They did not meet the conditions for human consumption and could have created public health problems.

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Four foreign fugitives arrested in Torrevieja

The Civil Guard, within the Summer 2023 Operation and the framework of the Safe Tourism Plan, has arrested four people with outstanding European Arrest or Extradition Orders from di erent European countries. All were arrested in Torrevieja during June and July. The Civil Guard, in order to guarantee citizen security in Torrevieja due to the increase in tourists, has increased policing and security measures in the town. This includes the collaboration of o cers of the French Gendarmerie.

The rst of the detainees was a 25-year-old man who was being sought by the German judicial authorities for the crime of reckless murder. He was arrested along with his brother, the latter being wanted for a

civil crime. The second, another 25-year-old man, was also arrested for attempted murder and another for drug tra cking in Germany. He had a 15-year prison sentence pending with the German authorities.

On 12th and 13th July, two men aged 40 and 47 were arrested. This time,

Animal lovers flood emergency 112 phone line

wanted by the Romanian judicial authorities for a crime of smuggling and another of money laundering, respectively.

All the detainees were placed at the disposal of the Central Investigating Courts of the National Court of Madrid, all await extradition proceedings.

Prehistoric rock carvings in Guardamar and Rojales

Almost a hundred prehistoric rock carvings have been found in Guardamar del Segura and Rojales during an investigation carried out by the archaeologist, Antonio García Menárguez, in collaboration with the university expert in Anthropology, photographer and journalist, Eduardo de Gea.

The investigation identi ed this type of art for the rst time in the region with a total of 17

locations in the municipalities of the Vega Baja including Rojales and Guardamar. The chronology focuses on the Bronze Age, according to the preliminary conclusions of Antonio García.

Eduardo de Gea explains that the historical remains found, such as bowls or petroglyphs, which are arti cial holes excavated in natural rock surfaces. Most of them have geometric shapes and others do not have a clear shape,

while others form drawings such as sheets and presses. Carvings were also located in rock formations forming altars.

It is believed that these historical remains were related to livestock and prehistoric practice rites and o erings, especially to attract rain and increase fertility. A research group is being formed to continue this pioneering research in the region.

The Valencian Community’s emergency 112 number has seen a staggering in ux of 11,177 calls this year alone, highlighting a pressing concern for animal-related issues. From 1st January to 15th August, concerned citizens have dialled the emergency hotline to report a wide range of incidents involving animals.

Of the total calls received, a signi cant 58% were related to lost, abandoned, or mistreated animals. Disturbing reports of animal cruelty, trapped pets, and aggressive behaviour contributed to the numbers. A further 24% of calls pertained to instances where protected species were discovered in hard-to-access locations or had sustained injuries, underscoring the need for increased awareness and conservation e orts.

In an unexpected revelation, 9% of the calls were dedicated to reporting bee or wasp nests and swarms, predominantly found on buildings and public roads. This unexpected trend underscores the unique challenges posed by urban wildlife and the interactions between humans and nature.

Around 1% of callers raised concerns over potential violations of wildlife preservation

laws, speci cally pertaining to game hunting and illegal shing. These calls serve as reminders of the delicate balance required between human activities and the preservation of local ecosystems.

One of the more intriguing revelations was the 2% of calls related to marine animals, either stranded or deceased, along the region’s coastlines. This category included sightings of majestic creatures such as whales, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and jelly sh. This statistic serves as a testament to the region’s rich marine biodiversity and the increasing awareness about the need for their protection.

Unsurprisingly, the data indicates a surge in animalrelated incidents during the summer months, with 66 reports handled in June and 48 in July alone. July took the lead in terms of incident reports, with a whopping 2,426 calls, closely followed by June with 2,439 calls.

Taking a closer look at the geographical distribution of these animal-related reports, the province of Valencia accounted for the majority with 5,134 calls. Alicante followed with 4,650 calls, while Castellon reported 1,447 incidents.

The dedicated 112 call team

has devised a comprehensive set of protocols for each type of animal-related report. Upon receiving these calls, pertinent information is swiftly transferred to the competent authorities, including the Guardia Civil and local police forces. Additionally, wildlife and marine recovery centres across the region, along with the Oceanographic Foundation, play a crucial role in responding to these incidents.

As the Valencian Community grapples with these ongoing challenges, the surge in emergency calls underscores the vital importance of fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and the diverse animal life that shares our world. The collective response to these incidents, both in terms of reporting and action, will play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s ecological future.

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Torrevieja Hospital to stay under health department

The Torrevieja Hospital will not be returning to private management, as con rmed recently by the new Valencian Health Minister, Marciano Gomez. The decision comes after a period of both accolades and challenges for the hospital, which was under the control of management company Ribera Salud for 16 years until October 2021.

The hospital garnered international recognition for its excellence in patient care, earning accolades as one of Spain’s and the world’s premier medical institutions. However, recent years have witnessed a surge in patient grievances, marked by appointment and operation delays, alongside sta protests and resignations due to dissatisfaction with working conditions.

Marciano Gomez, who assumed the role of Health Minister in July under the newly formed Partido Popular/ Vox regional government, emphasised that the focus is on enhancing e ectiveness and e ciency within the health department.

Minister Gomez said: “We are not considering reverting health department management, but we are committed to implementing e ective and e cient improvements.”

He cautioned against a

hasty reversal of management strategy, citing potential complexities related to personnel and working conditions.

Despite Gomez’s stance, the issue remains open for further discussion. Salvador

Ruso, the Vox spokesperson for the Torrevieja council, has urged the Mayor of the Partido Popular (PP) party, Eduardo Dolon, to advocate for a renewed management contract for the hospital under private operation. “We aim to restore the exceptional healthcare services that the community once enjoyed during the hospital’s private management years,” Ruso asserted.

Vox representatives from various municipalities under the Torrevieja health department, including Guardamar, Orihuela,

San Miguel de Salinas, and Pilar de la Horadada, have echoed the call for administrative changes under the new regional administration.

While former socialist-led Valencian government decisions regarding Torrevieja Hospital have been met with strong protests by Eduardo Dolon, the mayor has not publicly commented on Ruso’s request for a management contract tender. Instead, Dolon has prioritised e orts to elevate the overall quality of patient care.

As the Torrevieja Hospital saga continues, stakeholders and citizens alike remain engaged in the debate over the hospital’s management approach, with the focus on striking a balance between public administration and the pursuit of optimal healthcare delivery.

Train travel overtakes flying in Spain

The high-speed rail landscape in Spain has undergone a remarkable transformation, with new data revealing a staggering 76% surge in passenger numbers. The in ux can be attributed to intensi ed competition between private operators Iryo and Ouigo, who have not only rede ned rail travel pricing but also sparked a monumental shift in traveller preferences.

Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) unveiled these revelations in its annual report for 2022. The report underscored how the rivalry between highspeed rail companies, coupled with the entrance of Iryo and Ouigo, has dramatically altered the transportation dynamics, compelling a signi cant portion of travellers to choose trains over planes.

Last year, 23.7 million passengers hopped on highspeed trains, a considerable 76% surge compared to the previous year. In an astonishing twist, this number even surpassed the pre-pandemic record of 22.4 million passengers in 2019, signalling a renewed interest in rail travel.

The most notable bene ciary

of this rail renaissance is the Madrid-Barcelona route, where an overwhelming four out of ve passengers (78%) now prefer the train over the plane. This marked a substantial increase from 2019, when only 64% of passengers favoured train travel. Within this route, passengers displayed varying preferences for service providers: 58% opted for AVE, 26% chose Ouigo, and 14.2% boarded Avlo, Renfe’s budget-friendly alternative. The inception of Ouigo on this route has led to a noteworthy shift, with almost half of AVE passengers switching to trains operated by other companies, primarily due to the enticing price reductions.

Insights from the Trainline online platform further illuminated this trend. The Madrid-Barcelona route witnessed an astonishing 43% drop in prices during the nal quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2019, attributable to the escalating competition. Interestingly, despite this price decrease, bookings surged by nearly 70% during the same quarter. The average cost for this route plummeted from 81 euros in 2019 to an a ordable 46 euros in 2022.

Beyond the Madrid-Barcelona corridor, similar trends emerged on other routes featuring the new competitors. The MadridValencia corridor saw passenger preference for trains soar to an impressive 90% in 2022 from 86% in the preceding year. The number of individuals traveling by train between these two cities more than doubled, showcasing a remarkable 108% increase compared to 2021. However, destinations yet to experience the entry of these new operators observed relatively stable or slightly diminished preference for rail travel. Notably, the preference for the train on the MadridSeville route dipped from 90% in 2015 to 85% in 2022, while the Madrid-Malaga route witnessed a decrease from 84% in 2015 to 78% in 2022.

This year’s stats

Preliminary 2023 data from Trainline illuminates how coastal tourism has experienced a remarkable revival, thanks to the high-speed operators o ering enhanced connectivity to cities like Malaga and Valencia. Tourists arriving via train in Valencia observed a remarkable 400% boost.

PSOE candidate secures spot as Parliamentary Speaker

In a last-minute twist, socialist contender Francina Armengol has clinched a pivotal victory by garnering the support of the hard-line faction of the Catalan independence movement. This strategic alliance has propelled Armengol to the esteemed position of Parliament Speaker.

The political landscape of Spain has witnessed a signi cant shift as Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s socialist administration solidi ed its hold on the highest echelons of power within the country’s legislative machinery. This triumph comes hot on the heels of the eleventhhour support garnered by the socialist candidate from two key pro-Catalan independence parties.

As the outgoing prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, must have heaved a collective sigh of relief as Francina Armengol, a prominent gure from the Socialist Party of the Balearic Islands, emerged as the new president of the Congress with an overwhelming majority. This critical vote, widely regarded as a rehearsal for the impending momentous investiture decision next month, has set the stage for the determination of the nation’s next governing body.

The parliamentary ballot, which saw Armengol secure

178 a rmative votes out of the total 350 in the Chamber, outshined her conservative counterpart from the Popular Party (PP). Despite commanding a numerical advantage within Congress with 137 seats, the Popular Party’s bid fell short as it failed to rally the necessary cross-party support for an outright majority.

The Socialist Party (PSOE) deftly manoeuvred its way into alignment with the pro-Catalan independence party Junts, a move that proved pivotal in securing Armengol’s victory. This strategic partnership was solidi ed through concessions, including a commitment to bolster the presence of co-o cial languages in the Congress. Furthermore, the investigation into the Pegasus case and measures aimed at “ending repression” stemming from the controversial and

Nine new local police officers take office

illegal Catalonian referendum of 1-O were also o ered.

The stage for this political showdown was set by the inconclusive national elections held on 23rd July. These elections left all major parties grappling with the challenging task of assembling the requisite backing to e ectively lead the nation. As the dust settles, the delicate balance of power rests in the hands of parties spanning the ideological spectrum.

With Francina Armengol’s unexpected ascent to the role of Parliament Speaker, the Spanish political landscape stands poised for further evolution in the coming months. As the nation braces itself for the impending investiture decision, the outcome of this manoeuvre is certain to leave a profound impact on the direction of Spain’s governance and its relationship with Catalonia.

The Plenary Hall of the City Council of Torrevieja has hosted the inauguration of 9 agents that increase the sta of the Local Police. The inauguration ceremony was attended by the mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon, Councillor for Police, Security and Emergencies, Federico Alarcón, and the mayor of Personnel, Maria Jose Ruiz.

The councillor for Personnel informed that when the IVASPE (Valencian Institute of Public Safety) organises the course these 9 agents will be appointed

to their posts, which are called for in the selective process they have passed. Once they have passed the IVASPE course, these local police o cers will be appointed as career civil servants.

With these new additions has already increased by about 25 police o cers, including o cers, quartermasters and agents, the sta , although from the government team will continue to work for the Local Police of Torrevieja is growing signi cantly. The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon,

has valued very positively this increase in local police throughout this summer, full of numerous events and activities in our city. Eduardo Dolon, after swearing or promise their positions, has welcomed them all and encouraged them to work with great dedication to continue improving the image of the city of Torrevieja.

Torrevieja currently has a total of 142 local police o cers (122 agents, 12 o cers, 6 inspectors, 1 quartermaster and 1 commissioner.

Torrevieja installs illuminated traffic signsacrosscity

The Councillor for Local Police, Mobility and Tra c, Federico Alarcón, reports that the illuminated signs are already in operation in some parts of the city of Torrevieja. This way, it is foreseen that they will be placed in practically all the municipal term.

They are luminous signs that are activated by presence detectors, synchronised by RF with their twin, and by cable with luminous beacons on the ground, all powered by solar energy. They are being placed at pedestrian crossings in the municipality of Torrevieja with the aim of warning drivers that they are in front of a pedestrian crossing, thus improving road safety.

Four transceiver-operated signals have been installed in the vicinity of the re station and the SAMU base. These are activated at a distance of 500 metres, with power-on con rmation, to warn drivers of the departure of emergency vehicles with right of way.

Timer-operated signs have been installed in sports areas as well as in school zones. A total of 31 signs, all of them powered by solar energy, to warn vehicles that they are in a pedestrian zone. Folding fences

have also been replaced in schools. A total of 29 units have been installed, all of which are made of galvanised steel with re ective signs and the name of the school.

In addition, Pasblue technology continues to be installed in tra c lights throughout the municipality. This is a warning device for the

visually impaired which, as you approach the tra c lights, your phone will warn you that you are there. A total of 80 have now been installed on the city’s busiest roads. The work to renew and improve road signs will continue with the aim of improving road safety, implementing all the current advances in this area.

Brilla Torrevieja ends with crowd of more than 31,000 people

The festival has conquered international audiences from more than 28 countries and 47 Spanish provinces during more than three weeks of shows.

Torrevieja shines more than ever after culminating its third edition of the festival “Brilla Torrevieja” with great success. Almost three weeks of shows and programmed activities have made this event, sponsored by the City Council of Torrevieja, a unique spectacle that has managed to bring together more than 31,000 attendees. In addition, more than 7 million people,

both nationally and internationally, have been able to follow the festival and keep up to date thanks to social networks, press, radio and other media.

On August 16th, Brilla Torrevieja culminated its third edition leaving behind more than 13 performances of main groups, as well as other groups that accompanied the edition and that have added up to a total of 25 performances on the large stage located in the Antonio Soria Park in Torrevieja. The event, which was full of art, culture, music and family entertainment, was attended by a large

number of people from 47 Spanish provinces and 28 countries around the world.

The highlight was the performance of the Black Eyed Peas, who delighted an enthusiastic audience who danced to their music. For his part, Melendi captivated the city and hung the sould out sign on the third night, where he recalled his greatest hits. Other important artists from the music scene such as India Martínez, Loquillo, Abraham Mateo, Israel Fernández and Diego del Morao and Kidd Keo were also part of this edition.

Without forgetting culture and humour, there were performances by comedians such as Goyo Jímenez, Luís Piedrahita and Galder Varas, where laughter and good humour lled the atmosphere. The little ones were also able to enjoy performances by Pica Pica and Superthigs Sing & Party.

Finally, artists such as Pablo Músico, Alex Lumbier, Aire Puro, Isidro Dj, Filiu, Luces de Neón, La Hornet, Juanjo Dj, The Troupers Swing Band, TG Psyco and Grupo Azahar completed the great line-up for this year 2023.

The organisers have described

this year’s event as a success. Javier Riquelme, promoter of “Brilla Torrevieja” has expressed: “For us, to achieve that the celebration has passed without serious incidents and to receive positive feedback from the majority of attendees is the real success”. In addition, he announced that “we are already working on next year, to be able to meet all the needs of our audience in the next edition and reach a greater number of attendees. Our mission is that there is no place in the world that does not know the city of Torrevieja”.

San Miguel organises the night route “The home of the owl” through Sierra Escalona

The Department of Youth of the San Miguel de Salinas City Council has organized a night route through Sierra Escalona for next Thursday, August 31 at 8:30 p.m. The activity is aimed at young people between the ages of 12 and 30 registered in the municipality and places are limited. Those interested must

register through the form that they will nd on the City Council’s social networks: Facebook or Instagram @cijsanmiguel.

The purpose of this nocturnal route is to learn about the life of the Eagle Owl, guided by Pablo Perales, a great connoisseur of the mountains, environmentalist and forestry technician. During

the tour, ultrasound detectors for bats, thermal cameras for fauna detection, entomological sleeves, UV light ashlights to detect scorpions and binoculars and long-range telescopes will be used.

It is advisable to wear suitable footwear and clothing and a ashlight.

Downbeat UK Retail Sales

Poor UK Retail Sales gures were released this morning, falling from +0.6% in June to -1.2%, signi cantly lower than the -0.5% forecast. July’s wet weather is thought to have kept people indoors and out of the shops.

Retail sales are an indication of consumer spending, and the lower-than-expected results could indicate the tightening of consumer budgets because of the cost-of-living crisis. Low retail expenditure adds to the unhealthy picture of the UK’s economy, particularly considering the sluggish growth this year.

Although reduced retail sales could ease in ation pressures, this could cause sterling weakness over the next few months.

However, the UK economy does appear resilient. Forecasts from banking group ING predict UK GDP will rise to 0.3% in Q3 and 1.1% by Q4 this year. It also expects better growth for the Eurozone this year, forecasting around 1% growth over the next two quarters.

GBP / EUR UPDATE

China concerns grow

The People’s Bank of China has stepped in to support the renminbi following a poor run of data this week. The central bank unexpectedly raised interest rates earlier in the week, which, combined with weakening exports and a lull in consumer con dence, added to downward pressure on the currency. According to reporting from the Financial Times, the state banks are buying renminbi and selling dollars in an attempt to stabilise the currency.

Currency manipulation has long been a part of China’s growth strategy. Although the renminbi has been behaving more like a free- oating currency in recent years, its volatility is limited compared to other advanced economies.

Reports at the beginning of the year seemed to suggest that the government would step back its involvement in the currency when three state-run nancial newspapers in Shanghai and Beijing said that “investors should avoid Chinese currency risk and adapt to higher foreign exchange volatility.” We’ll wait and see how far the PBOC’s support goes.

San Fulgencio Town Council adds two new officers to its Local Police force

The new o cers join the current 24 members of the force to ensure safety in the municipality.

The Local Police of San Fulgencio has recently increased its sta thanks to the incorporation of two new o cers, from the employment exchange constituted after the selective process by free shift

carried out by the City Council of Catral. The o cers join the 24 members that currently make up the local police force of the municipality of San Fulgencio.

The mayor and head of the Department of Security, José María Ballester, together with the chief commissioner, Cristóbal Rodríguez, welcomed the two o cers and congratulated them

on taking up their duties at the Town Hall. The mayor stressed “their responsibility to work for our town and protect our neighbours”, while noting his commitment “to continue to gradually expand our sta to ensure the safety of our citizens, as well as greater speed and e ciency in the event of an emergency”.

Hundred unemployed trained in digital marketing

Convega is giving six courses on digital marketing, social networks, o ce automation and web pages within the programme of labour insertion itineraries.

A total of 90 unemployed people from the Vega Baja del Segura are taking part in the training courses being given by the Consortium for the Economic Development of the Vega Baja, in collaboration with the Valencian Employment and Training Service (LABORA) of the Department of Sustainable Economy, as part of the ILCOVU Programme.

It is a plan of labour insertion itineraries that is being carried out in Rojales and Benijófar aimed at unemployed people from vulnerable groups throughout the region.

The project, which is part of the recovery, transformation and resilience plan nanced by the European Union through NextGenerationEU funds, aims to train students in issues related to the digital environment in order to facilitate their access to the labour market.

In this sense, until the end of September, six courses will be given in subjects related to the initiation to the creation of web pages, social networks, digital marketing and o ce

automation.

This training plan has a budget of 117,000 euros, consists of 300 hours of training, 50 hours for each course, and the students have a grant for attendance and aid for transport and work-life balance.

Training to improve employability

The manager of Convega, Rosa Fernández, stated that “the Consortium promotes training actions, with the direct involvement of companies, to improve the professional quali cations of the unemployed. Training that helps participants to increase their technical skills and also the transversal skills most in demand by companies, such as digital skills or teamwork, among

others, all of which are essential for a correct job performance”.

“Among the tasks carried out by Convega’s technical sta of labour insertion are the prospecting of companies, the design of personalised itineraries of labour insertion, the monitoring of the training process of the person assisted and a labour accompaniment that validates the correct adjustment of the people hired to the characteristics of the jobs”.

This labour insertion programme is not the only one carried out by Convega throughout this year, as in addition to these six courses there are more than twenty training actions carried out in the nine approved centres that Convega has in the region.

My wife’s family has just left our home in Spain, after a two week stay. When we left England, we gave everyone an open invitation to come and visit us. After little contact and general disinterest in our lives, my brother-in-law asked if he and his family could come this summer. From the moment they landed at the Airport, demands were made and liberties taken. They have treated our house worse than a Hotel, and their treatment of my wife’s hospitality was appalling. We had

assumed they would want to spend time with us, but no. They wanted to do their own thing entirely; until of course it came to meal times, when we were expected to lay on barbecues by the pool. Then, rather than spend the evening with us, they went off to meet ‘friends’ of theirs - and guess whatwe weren’t invited. Finally, they had a flight home in the early hours, and wanted us to run them to the Airport at 2am. Disgruntled, we suggested they get a taxi, which my wife booked, and which was subsequently cancelled

by them; so, we had to run them in the end. I want to tell them how disappointed we are with them, but my wife says to leave it alone, and we will never allow them to visit again.

It’s really bad that you have been treated this way, but of course you have learned that you never want a repeat of the experience. I’m afraid some people are users, and you’ll never change that. Thankfully you live many miles away from them, and do not have to invite them again. If they ask you on another occasion, just say that the Hotel is fully booked.

Fourteen rescued of Torrevieja after boatcapsizes

They survived thanks to life jackets and a jerry can that kept a baby a oat

A total of 14 people were rescued 42 miles o the coast of Torrevieja this Thursday morning, after staying in the water for 18 hours after having overturned the boat in which they were traveling. A shing boat spotted these people oating in the water and came to their rescue.

The migrants reported that 17 people were traveling on the boat, including a woman, a girl and a baby. They left Algeria and capsized around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday and 14 of them were able to survive thanks to

the life jackets and the baby thanks to the fact that they kept him a oat with a gasoline canister that they were able to cut and shade him, as explained by the Red Cross.

Maritime Rescue Units, including a helicopter, picked up the immigrants, and the most serious were treated at the General Hospital of Alicante and the rest by the Red Cross device in the port of Alicante.

According to the information available, of the 17 people who were on the boat, three were still missing (two presumably dead and one missing).

The Consell regrets the disappearance of the three

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

“What is a VPN and how do I use one?“

A VPN, which stands for virtual private network, establishes a digital connection between your computer and a remote server owned by a VPN provider, creating a point-to-point tunnel that encrypts your personal data, masks your IP address, and lets you sidestep website blocks and rewalls on the internet.

A VPN changes the locational information given out by your devices when connected to the internet.

Most people use a VPN to access content online that is geographically restricted by the supplier. For British people who live outside of the UK, a VPN is used the access BBC iPlayer, ITV X, All4 and My5 so that programs can be streamed or downloaded (to watch later without the need for the VPN).

There are some circumstances where the VPN can block your activity on the internet. This is usually the case when a website or Web service can detect the presence of the VPN and block access.

There are free and subscription VPNs available. Some paid VPNs give you a free trial to give you the opportunity to see if it is

suitable for your needs.

To use your chosen VPN once it’s been installed on your devices you need to open the VPN application.

Then you need to select the country that you want to access the geographically restricted content. e.g., UK to watch BBC iPlayer content.

Your computer or mobile device is now showing that you are in the UK, so you are free to watch any content with geographical restrictions.

After you have nished with the iPlayer of your choice the VPN is still active. You can close it or it will close when you power o the device you were using.

“Do I need to perform regular maintenance on my mobile phone?”

Yes, you do, you need to make sure that the system software is up to date. Go to Settings. Select System and then select Software Update which will check to see if an update is available. Keep all installed Apps up to date by checking to see if updates are available or go to settings and enable automatic update of Apps.

Brian Hoile Technology Help Group

Dolores Pumpkin tasting scene

immigrants

The Council has lamented the deaths of these people and reiterates its willingness to ght, within the scope of its powers, against the illegal tra cking of persons and against those who support and favor it.

The Minister for Justice and the Interior, Elisa Núñez, has expressed “the Consell’s condemnation of illegal human tra cking” and has urged the National Government to stop the ow of illegal immigration, to promote tougher penalties against ma as and put an end to the call e ect policies that take the lives of thousands of people every year.

Project led by the Polytechnic University of Valencia and the University Miguel Hernández

The municipality of Dolores has been the scene of a tasting of pumpkins grown in the elds of Carrizales whose di erent variants are part of a project led by the Polytechnic University of Valencia in collaboration with the Miguel Hernández University of Elche.

The mayor of the

municipality of Dolores, Joaquín Hernández, and the councillor for Employment, Tourism and European Projects, Efrén Zaplana, attended the tasting and pointed out “the importance of this research which aims to optimise the crop in the context of climate change and to see how the product behaves when grown on land such as that of Dolores, with less irrigation and salinised

soil”.

The pumpkin tasting was organised by the researcher Belén Picó, who directs this project; María José Diez, director of the Germplasm Bank, where the seeds come from, and Santiago García, professor of Genetics at the UMH and neighbour of Dolores, who collaborates in the project in collaboration with the town council.

This Week´s Movie Picks

Skyfall

Saturday 26th August – ITV, 9.30pm

Knight & Day

Sunday 27th August – ITV2, 7.45pm

When James Bond’s latest assignment goes gravely wrong and agents around the world are exposed, MI6 is attacked, forcing M to relocate the agency. These events cause her authority and position to be challenged by Gareth Mallory, the new Chairman of the Intelligence and Security Committee. With MI6 now compromised from both inside and out, M is left with one ally she can trust: Bond. 007 takes to the shadows, aided only by eld agent, Miss Eve Moneypenny, following a trail to a mysterious enemy, whose lethal and hidden motives have yet to reveal themselves.

Looking forward to attending her sister April’s wedding, the commitment-shy tomboy and classic cars a cionado, June Havens, catches a plane to Boston. Then, out of the blue, she crosses paths with the handsome and charming stranger with the killer sense of humour, Roy Miller, and just like that, June’s life will never be the same again. Now, as the dashing man of intrigue plunges June into an excitingly risky world of high-speed car chases, deadly man-to-man ghts, and lethal stray bullets, dangerous, nononsense adversaries are after the mismatched duo, hell-bent on retrieving a tiny state-of-theart device that’s worth millions. But, who’s this Roy Miller guy? Is he truly one of the good guys? Above all, could he be the one?

Top tips for an award-winning photograph

In support of World Photography Day on the 19 of August, Specsavers Ópticas are sharing their tips for taking an award-winning photograph. They are also reminding residents of the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol and Mallorca, that they have until the 1 of September to submit entries for their summer photography competition to nd an image which captures the essence of Spain. The winning entry will receive a €100 Amazon voucher and a pair of designer sunglasses.

Lisa James from Specsavers Ópticas in Guardamar will be one of the three store directors to shortlist the top ve entries. She comments, “Keen photographers living close to our stores have until September 1st to enter our summer photography competition and show us, through an image, what makes Spain so special to them. Ahead of World Photography Day, we wanted to share the following tips for taking a great photograph to help them with their entries. I wish you the very best of luck!”

Brainstorm possible shots which really epitomise Spain to you –Think of the sights which really scream Spain, whether that’s amenco, food or landscapes and go out to nd and capture those moments. Make sure your camera is properly set up and consider using a tripod to ensure the shot is steady and enable long exposure photography options.

Experiment with the rule of thirds – This is a great trick for well composed

shots, where the main subject is in the left or right third of your image and the other two thirds are more open.

Play with perspective – Try the same subject from a few di erent angles and see what is the most powerful.

Get the lighting right –Photographs taken in the golden hour (the hour just after the sun rises or before it sets) gives the best possible light. Outside of this time, make sure you are aware of the light conditions and beware of shadows and glare. At night, the ash tends to give you problems such as red eye and washedout images, so play with the settings, or soften the light from the ash by covering it.

Review your options with a critical eye and keep trying until you get it right – Look at your pictures on a large device such as a tablet or computer, rather than your phone, to be able to critically review them. Look at whether there’s anything out of focus, the light, composition and background and discard the images you don’t feel are at their best. Keep trying di erent places, times of day, moments and concepts until you nd the one that you feel really proud of. Once you’ve got it, send it in to us for judging.

A jury formed of three Specsavers Ópticas store directors will judge the entries and shortlist the top ve

entries. These will then be posted on social media and the image with the most likes and comments will be declared the overall winner. The winner will receive a €100 Amazon voucher and a pair of designer sunglasses worth up to 159€.

The competition is open until the 1 of September and photographs can be submitted on social media by tagging @SpecsaversOpticas on Facebook and @specsaversspain on Instagram, sending photos via Messenger or via email to spain.marketing@specsavers.

com.

It is open to residents of the provinces of Alicante and Malaga and the island of Mallorca and you must be aged 18 and above. Terms and conditions apply, which can be found at www.specsavers.es/sorteo

Tuesday 22nd August

Wednesday 23rd August

The late Diane Brown

Diane Brown was a well known and loved vibrant socialite in the El Chaparral, La Siesta and San Luis areas sadly passed away recently after a short battle with cancer. Diane, aged 61, was a dedicated heath worker who retired to the Torrevieja area back in 2013 and fully embraced the Mediterranean lifestyle.

One of her favorite activities that she used to enjoy was the thrill and spectacle of walking the prom in downtown Torrevieja on a Saturday evening. In doing so she was participating in the impromptu fashion show and competing with and being scrutinized by the other Spanish ladies who looked her up and down all the way from her 4” heels, past her glamorous dresses and handbags right up to her short blond hair.

Diane was also a big music fan and attended many of the live music sessions on the local urbanizations and further a eld where she would be

seen to enjoy dancing the night away.

Dancing Queen by ABBA was one of the songs played at her funeral. She was also a keen “crafter” and lled any spare time she had with being creative in dressmaking, crochet, and more recently the art of the CriCut machine.

It was one of her last wishes that her death was used to bene t others. In the UK a just giving page was opened and raised over £4,500 for the hospice that cared for her in her nal days. It was the same in Torrevieja where a “plate and bottle” party was held with family and friends making donations to Diane’s chosen local charity, “A Helping Hand”. This was followed a day by a charity garden party where her collection of shoes (over 60 pairs), dresses and handbags were all o ered for donations. These two combined local events raised over €1,200.

Pictured are Sean Murphy and Linda Pearce precenting a cheque to Nikki Lloyd from A Helping Hand.

A Helping Hand food and clothing bank was established in 2021 after helping one family in need and has grown from there. They provide 20 to 30 basic bags of food twice a week as well as extras such as salt and co ee, sugar and hot chocolate. Other

essentials include washing detergents and cooking oil as well as baby requisites such as nappies and baby wipes.

Clothing, furniture, bedding, towels, children’s toys also form a big part of the stock in the bank.

A Helping Hand rely solely on donations and have several drop o points around the Torrevieja area and cannot do the work that they do without support. More information can be found on FaceBook or by emailing Nikki (nikkisixxlloyd@gmail.com

BBC one BBC two ITV Channel 4Channel 5ITV2 ITV3

Thursday 24th August

Friday 25th August

Saturday 26th August

BBC one BBC two ITV Channel 4Channel 5ITV2 ITV3

Sunday 27th August

Monday 28th August

VI Rodeo Film Festival of Rojales

Rojales is preparing to host the 6th Rodeo Film Festival, a cultural event that promises to immerse attendees in the exciting world of cinema through a careful selection of short lms. This year’s edition will take place from August 24 to 27, with the closing gala scheduled for Saturday, September 2, at the emblematic Replaceta del Teatro, located in the Cuevas del Rodeo.

The festival has reached a new milestone by receiving more than 400 short lms, of which 28 have been selected, which will be screened during the days of the event. These short lms cover various themes and genres, forming part of four di erent sections: the o cial section, the section dedicated to Gender Equality and LGTBI themes, the section focused on the environment and the Vega Baja short lm section.

Julio Pérez del Campo, Goyawinning director, presents Hijos de África

Among the outstanding works of the program is the new short lm by David Valero, lmed in the nearby town of La Murada. In addition, the Goyawinning director, Julio Pérez del Campo, presents Hijos de África, a work that promises to take viewers on an emotional journey about the problem of slave children in Benin. These works re ect the diversity and creativity that the Rodeo Film

Festival will exhibit.

One of the novelties this year is the space dedicated to short lmmakers from Vega Baja. This initiative will allow local artists to showcase their creations and share their artistic vision with the public. In this way the festival not only celebrates established talent, but also provides a springboard for emerging voices in the region. As a result of the quality of the selected short lms, it suggests that many of these works will have an international festival tour.

Showcase for the most promising lm productions

The Rodeo Film Festival has become a showcase for the most promising lm productions.

According to Inma Chazarra, Councilor for Culture of the Rojales City Council: «This edition of the Rodeo Film Festival marks a qualitative leap in the history of the event. Because of the amazing response from the lmmakers and the incredible quality of the short lms presented, they re ect

the growing importance that the festival has achieved in the cultural landscape of the region.

We are excited to see how this edition exceeds all expectations and further enriches the cultural o er of our population”.

The projections will take place from 9:30 p.m. in the Replaceta del Teatro, an idyllic setting in the Cuevas del Rodeo that will unquestionably provide attendees with a unique cinematographic experience. The closing gala, which will take place on September 2 at the same time and in the same place, will be the highlight of the festival, where the prizes will be awarded to the best short lms in each section.

Likewise, on Saturday, August 27, the last day of projections in the o cial section, the festival will present the Honorary Award for Professional Career to lm director Benito Rabal. It is evident that the 6th Rodeo Film Festival promises to be an unforgettable encounter between art, culture and cinema, consolidating itself as one of the most important events in the region.

The population of Rojales and movie lovers are invited to enjoy this unique and enriching experience. For more information, you can visit the website of the Rojales City Council, the social networks of the Department of Culture and the Facebook page of El Rodeo Film Festival.

A B C Angels

We Need A Helping Hand

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

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

E

Estate Agents

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

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

H

Nursing Care

D

Dental Clinics

Carredent British Dental Practice

(Dr. Ian F. Smith) Tel: 965 711 797

Mob: 638 608 532

Email: jardindelmar21@icoud.com

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Tel: 966782451 654939202

Email: domrepair2@gmail.com

H

Hardware Store

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

Manzana 8 vivero 1 los altos Torrevieja 03185

Mobile number

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

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

M Motors Venture Fleet SL

Tel: 965077330 671549920

Mobile Home Parks Costa Del Paradise

Tel: 679 224 974 +44 1274 543 103 108

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

R Removals & Storage

Concept Nail Spa Tel: 965072570 678210063

Concept Nail Spa

Indiana´s Hair & Lash Boutique Tel: 681 250 190

Indiana’s hair & lash boutique Indianashairandlashboutique

PHB Supplies Tel: 865757135

Email: phbsupplies@gmail.com www.phbsupplies.com

Sunbay Insurance Tel: 965063483 693719221

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

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

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

Pest Control

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

Travel Agents

Worldwide Horizons Travel Tel: 966 761 492 689 140 360

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

SUMMER RECIPES

Marinated FetaBeet Salad

Ingredients

2 pounds loose beets

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1 tablespoon nely chopped shallot

Finely grated zest of 1/2 medium lemon

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon champagne or white wine vinegar

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Pinch freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh soft herbs, such as dill, parsley, or mint (or combination), divided 8 ounces feta cheese, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slabs

Method

1. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat to 400°F.

2. Scrub the beets thoroughly, then wrap them loosely in aluminum foil. No need to dry the beets before wrapping. Small beets can be wrapped together, but it’s easiest to roast large beets individually. Place on a rimmed baking sheet.

3. Roast until knife-tender, 50 to 60 minutes. Check the beets every 20 minutes or so. If they are starting to look dry or are scorching on the bottoms, dribble a tablespoon of water over the beets before re-wrapping. Beets are done when a thin knife or skewer slides easily to the center of the beet. Small beets will cook more quickly than large beets. Meanwhile, make the dressing.

4. Place the oil, shallot, lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl and whisk to combine; set aside until the beets are ready. (If using 2 di erent colors of beets, divide the dressing into 2 medium or large bowls.)

5. Set the roasted beets aside until cool enough to handle but still warm, about 15 minutes. Hold one of the beets

in a paper towel and use the edges of the paper to rub the skin away. The skin should peel away easily; if it doesn’t, the beets likely need to cook for a little longer. Peel the remaining beets.

6. Halve the beets, then cut into wedges about 1/2-inch thick. (Cut red beets last so the color doesn’t bleed onto the cutting board.) Place the warm beets in the dressing and toss to combine. Let sit until cooled to room temperature, about 15 minutes. Add half of the herbs and toss to combine.

7. Reserve one slice of feta cheese for crumbling. Place the remaining cheese on a serving platter in a single layer or overlapping slightly. Pile the beets on top, then sprinkle with the remaining herbs and crumble the reserved feta on top. Drizzle with olive oil.

Rebekah Vardy slams Coleen and Wayne Rooney’s marriage and says she ‘wouldn’t put up with her husband sleeping with hookers’ during another social media rampage

Rebekah Vardy has reignited the WAG war as she blasted her rival Coleen Rooney for ‘not letting go’ of their libel case in another furious social media rant.

The WAG, 41, has claimed she isn’t ‘jealous’ of Coleen, 37, and said that her rival is ‘boring’ and ‘publicity-seeking’ in her bombshell interview with British Vogue.

Rebekah took to Instagram on Thursday to share a stunning bikini snap, just hours after posting a pouting sel e during her family holiday to

Visit the Summer evening craft market in Altea

This quaint Artisan Market located in the main church square, Plaza de la Iglesia, is open every night over the summer until the 10th September, from 7pm to midnight. As the sun sets over this pretty seaside town, you can experience the beautiful evening ambience that Altea has to o er. Enjoy a gentle stroll along

the promenade taking in the fresh sea breeze and picturesque views, browse through the boutiques along the famous cobbled streets, and have an evening meal on the terrace at one of the delightful curbside restaurants.

Altea has to be one of the most beautiful and scenic villages on

the Costa Blanca. Its old town and viewpoint are especially known for their charm and beauty. Many of its streets are cobbled and walking through them you will see a nice selection of restaurants and boutique hotels. The Plaza de la Iglesia is the heart of Altea, an authentic central point of leisure and culture,

especially in summer. Its clean white pebbled beach with crystal clear blue waters is ideal for taking a walk or simply chilling out and sunbathing on a deck chair.

For more inspiring ideas of places to visit and things to do on the Costa Blanca, check out the website www. costablancascene.com

Portugal.

She made a number of digs at Coleen in the comments section, including one about Coleen’s husband Wayne cheating on her with hookers.

When a fan branded Rebekah jealous, she hit back: ‘Jealous of what exactly!

Spare me the pain seriously... I wouldn’t put up with my husband sleeping with hookers end of! No excuses’

Sam Asghari is set to miss out on multi-million dollar divorce payday as loophole in his iron-clad prenup with Britney Spears is revealed

Sam Asghari is set to miss out on a multi-million dollar payday during his divorce from Britney Spears, as a huge loophole in their iron-clad prenuptial

agreement has emerged.

The actor, 29, reportedly misses out on any money in the event of a divorce, as he and Britney were only married for 14 months, and the agreement stated he would get $1 million for every two years that they were married.

However, sources have told TMZ that while the prenup prevents Sam from receiving any spousal support, he could receive a one-o cheque from Britney to prevent him from sharing any ‘embarrassing information’ about their marriage.

It’s thought that the prenup features an ‘extensive con dentiality clause’ that prohibits Sam from discussing his relationship with Britney.

Sam was reportedly planning to contest the prenup by requesting spousal support and attorney’s fees, though he has denied this.

Kerry Katona admits her a air during her turbulent marriage to Mark Croft was ‘the best thing she ever did’ as it ‘saved her life’

Kerry Katona has admitted that the a air she had during her turbulent marriage to Mark Croft was ‘best thing she ever did’ as it ‘saved her life.’

The singer, 42, split from the former

taxi driver in 2010 after three years together, their relationship was marred by cheating allegations from both parties and claims he had an ‘obsession with spending her money,’ that contributed to her bankruptcy.

Kerry nally split from Mark for good after he said she cheated on him with ex Royal Marine Kevin Green, who she met at the GI Jane Bootcamp.

Appearing on Slingo’s Getting Lippy Gossip Show on Friday, alongside host Emma Conybeare and MailOnline’s Rebecca Lawrence, Kerry recalled the incident.

She explained: ‘I had an a air myself when I was with Mark Croft and it was the best thing that I ever did.’

Abbey Clancy reveals her husband Peter Crouch nearly got her sacked after an awkward prank text: ‘She had a heart attack’

Abbey Clancy has revealed her husband Peter Crouch nearly got her sacked after a prank texting game took a hilarious turn.

The model, 37, admitted her boss ‘nearly had a heart attack’ when the footballer, 42, sent her a message saying she was quitting their podcast.

Speaking on their Therapy Crouch

podcast, Abbey revealed she and Peter had to send messages to someone else in their contacts, but he took things a step too far.

She revealed: ‘Well you’ve got me red from a job anyway, so we were playing a game earlier, we had to do this thing for Whatsapp.

‘And we had to send each other a text to our phones, and Pete decided to text my boss ‘’that I don’t wanna do the show anymore’’ so she had a heart attack.’

Chronic heartburn: Find out if you need surgery for relief

Heartburn, also known as acid re ux or gastroesophageal re ux disease (GERD), is a common condition that can a ect many people’s quality of life.

Although there are various treatments to control the symptoms of heartburn, in some cases surgery may be necessary to obtain lasting relief.

Dr. Juan Antonio Casellas, Digestive System specialist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja and Quirónsalud Alicante, explains what heartburn is, when to consider surgery and the surgical options available at Quirónsalud.

What is heartburn?

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn).

“Symptoms can include: heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, chronic coughing and di culty swallowing,” explains Dr Casellas.

While lifestyle changes and medications can control heartburn in most cases, there are situations where surgery can be an e ective option. At Quirónsalud they have a team of experts in the treatment of this type of digestive pathology.

Causes of heartburn

The main cause of heartburn is gastro-oesophageal re ux, i.e. the passage of acid from the gastric cavity into the oesophagus. This can occur when the gastro-oesophageal junction, i.e. the relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter, fails or in patients with hiatus hernia.

E ective tips to reduce heartburn

To prevent heartburn, it is very important that we change our eating habits by trying to avoid, as far as possible, those foods that promote heartburn and gastro-oesophageal re ux.

1. Foods rich in fat: fried foods and sausages.

2. Very large meals.

3. Co ee and ca einated drinks.

4. High-proof alcoholic beverages.

5. Chocolates, citrus fruits and hot spices.

Dr. Casellas explains that “it is important to allow time to go to bed after eating or to do physical exercise, thus avoiding the symptoms of heartburn”.

Surgery to eliminate heartburn

Surgery for heartburn is considered when symptoms are not adequately

controlled with lifestyle changes and medications, or when complications such as oesophagitis, oesophageal stricture or hiatal hernia develop.

In addition, surgery may be considered in young patients who wish to wean themselves o long-term medication.

At Quirónsalud, digestive system experts perform this type of intervention to reduce the symptoms of heartburn.

It is important to note that surgery for heartburn should be evaluated and performed by a surgeon specialising in digestive disorders. The risks and bene ts of each procedure should be considered and discussed with the physician to make an informed decision.

Dangers of re ux for patients

The symptoms of heartburn pose no life-threatening risks to the patient per se.

It will only force you to rely on drugs such as antacids and stomach acid inhibitors (omeprazole).

It is important to consult your specialist doctor for guidance on the measures to be taken.

Surgery can be an e ective option for those who su er from chronic heartburn and do not nd relief with

lifestyle changes and medication, explains Dr. Casellas.

It is essential to consult a specialised healthcare professional to assess the need and feasibility of surgery in each particular case, such as the specialists

at Quirónsalud. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention and explore all the options available to nd the most appropriate treatment for you.

Health & Beauty

Pre loved fashion fiesta transforming your wardrobe through clothes swapping

The Costa Blanca has gone crazy with Clothes Swapping. Now you can revamp Your Wardrobe in a more responsible and sustainable Way: Not only can you nd a way of disposing of unwanted clothes but you are going to save heaps of money.

Get ready to embrace a new era of conscious fashion as the Pre-Loved Fashion Fiesta makes its vibrant debut near Jesus Pobre, Javea. Behind this groundbreaking event is Daadi Organics, a trailblazing force that’s igniting a movement toward mindful consumption and a renewed appreciation for the clothes we wear. This is the 6th event happening in Northern Costa Blanca and they are doing it all for a good cause.

Taking a Stand Against the Clothing Crisis:

In a world where the fashion industry churns out trends at an unprecedented pace, there’s a hidden crisis that is still being overlooked by many consumers – the relentless stream of discarded clothes ending up in land lls. Startling statistics reveal that globally, a truckload of clothes nds its tragic destination in a land ll every single second. Spain alone contributes to this alarming dilemma by discarding a staggering 98,881 kg of clothes annually, with a disheartening

81% destined for land lls.

The Cheap Fashion Paradox:

The rise of fast fashion, driven by the demand for inexpensive clothing, has led us down a path where the value of our clothes is diminishing. The allure of cheap prices often blinds us to the detrimental impact of this disposable mindset. We’ve become accustomed to treating clothing as disposable commodities, often discarding them within months of purchase.

An Alternative Solution: Clothes Swapping

As concerned citizens and conscious consumers, it’s time to rethink our approach. Enter the revolutionary concept of clothes swapping – a practice that’s breathing new life into our wardrobes while reducing our fashion footprint. Daadi Clothes Swaps is leading the way, o ering a fresh perspective that challenges the culture of overconsumption.

An Opportunity to Make a Di erence:

Organizer Lauren Staton asserts that clothes swaps are not only about reviving our wardrobes; they’re vibrant social gatherings that foster camaraderie and positive change. Participants pay one

entry fee and are given a complimentary organic cotton tote bag. The team of dedicated Daadi volunteers encourage them to embrace the swap fully. The philosophy is simple: you take as much as you want, and if needed, reimagine garments or share them with family and friends. Artists and crafters discover new found inspiration in fabrics that were once destined for the land ll. You will also be able to swap shoes, bags, scarves and other accessories. Men’s and children’s clothes.

Your swap donations can be taken on the day of the event although we advise you to prebook your ticket and drop o your items the day before at the venue.

Event Details:

Event Date: September 7th

Time: 2:00 PM

Location: Dar Social Club and Community Center, near Jesus Pobre, Javea

Getting Involved: For further details and inquiries, please contact [Lauren staton 665012228] or reach out to us on Facebook through Daadi Clothes Swaps. Excitingly, tickets for this event are available online at https://www.buymeaco ee. com/Daadi/e/157443

The benefits of A S hy you need this safety feature in your car

ABS works by preventing the wheels from locking up, which can cause skidding and loss of control.

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)

are an important safety feature that helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles during emergency braking.

How ABS Works ABS uses a series of sensors to monitor the speed of each wheel. If a wheel is about to lock up, the ABS system will automatically reduce the brake pressure to that wheel. This allows the wheel to continue rotating and maintain traction with the road surface.

The ABS system works very quickly, typically 10-20 times per second. This means that it can prevent wheel lockup even in the most severe braking situations.

Bene ts of ABS

ABS has been shown to be very e ective in reducing the risk of accidents. Studies have shown that ABS can reduce the risk of fatal crashes by up to 35% and the risk of serious injury by up to 70%.

ABS also helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles in slippery conditions, such as on wet or icy roads. This can be especially important in winter driving, when the risk of accidents is higher.

ABS can help drivers to:

• Stay in control of their vehicles during emergency braking

Avoid skidding

• Reduce stopping distances

Prevent accidents

How to Drive with ABS

If your vehicle has ABS, there are a few things you should know about how to drive with it. First, it is important to remember that ABS will not shorten your stopping distance. However, it will help you maintain control of your vehicle, which can be critical in an emergency.

When you brake hard with ABS, you may feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal. This is normal and is caused by the ABS system working to prevent wheel lock-up. Do not release the brake pedal when you feel this pulsing sensation.

You can also hear a clicking noise coming from the ABS system when it is activated. This is also normal and is caused by the valves in the ABS system opening and closing.

How does ABS enhance safety?

ABS can help you maintain control of your vehicle in a number of ways, including:

• Preventing skidding: When a wheel locks up, it loses traction with the road surface. This can cause the vehicle to skid, which can lead to loss of control. ABS can help prevent skidding by keeping the wheels rotating.

Reducing stopping distances: ABS can help reduce stopping

distances on slippery surfaces. This is because ABS allows you to maintain braking pressure without skidding.

• Improving steering control: When a wheel locks up, it can make it di cult to steer the vehicle. ABS can help improve steering control by keeping the wheels rotating.

Are there any disadvantages to ABS?

There are a few potential disadvantages to ABS, but they are generally minor. These include:

1. Increased brake wear: ABS can slightly increase brake wear, but this is usually o set by the reduced stopping distances and improved steering control that ABS provides.

2. Pedal pulsation: When ABS is activated, you may feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal. This is normal and is caused by the ABS system rapidly applying and releasing the brakes

Conclusion

ABS is an important safety feature that can help drivers avoid accidents. If your vehicle has ABS, be sure to understand how it works and how to drive with it. By doing so, you can help keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road.

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Spain 1 – England 0

Spain won their rst Women’s World Cup title less than a year after 15 players threatened to boycott the tournament; the victory makes La Roja the rst team to hold the U17, U20 and senior world titles at the same time.

England fell at the nal hurdle, beaten narrowly by Jorge Vilda’s Spain in the Women’s World Cup nal in Sydney - what contributed to their downfall?

Sarina Wiegman stuck. Jorge Vilda twisted. An unchanged Lionesses side, buoyed by a brilliant display against Australia in the semi- nals, entered Sunday’s nal brimming with con dence. Rightly so. But this game had di erent demands. Perhaps they required a di erent plan.

Vilda dropped his ace in the pack, Ballon d’Or Féminin holder Alexia Putellas, and replaced her with Salma Paralluelo, which worked perfectly. The young Barcelona forward occupied England’s backline throughout, causing untold problems, dragging them this way and that.

England are well-drilled. At this tournament, they have been defensively robust and organised - not against Spain. Rachel Daly and Lucy Bronze were often caught too high, allowing for the likes of One Batlle and Olga Carmona to exploit space out wide. Cracks began to surface.

Full-back Bronze is an England stalwart. She’ll go down in history as one of the best women’s players to ever wear the national shirt - someone who has won every title available, bar the World Cup. It’s bitterly cruel, then, that her mistake led to Carmona’s winner. Bronze drove up eld but ran into tra c centrally, leading to a Spain turnover and quick counter-o ensive. In a ash, Carmona linked neatly with Mariona Caldentey before stroking the ball across Mary Earps into the far corner.

“The rst half we struggled to press the ball,” Wiegman conceded postmatch. “We changed it second half, back to 4-3-3, and I think we got better momentum.”

Unfortunately, by then, the damage had already been done. England’s uni ed front ripped apart in one fell swoop.

Similar style, better substance Wiegman spoke in the preamble about England playing the game of their lives. The sentiment was echoed by captain Millie Bright. But talking the talk is one thing, walking the walk entirely another. It wasn’t for a lack of tryingendeavour and e ort were there,

execution less so, as Spain’s precision passing and sharp movement outclassed that of England’s. Not even Mary Earps’ penalty save could galvanise.

“After all, Spain were just a little bit better than we were today,” acknowledged Wiegman, in sporting fashion.

Vilda’s side dominated the ball with intelligent passing triangles and give and goes. At times, England couldn’t get near. It’s not their usual approach - to play the majority of the game

without the ball - and conceding so much possession seemed to unnerve England’s best ball-players.

To illustrate, Keira Walsh only touched the ball 50 times - Aitana Bonmati registered 74 touches. Spain’s uidity and e ciency in possession was unmatched this summer, enough to ensure their shirts will now be adorned with the little gold star England’s players craved so badly. They’ll be back, but for now, this is Spain’s time to bask in the glow of glory.

Abbey Anglers

On Tuesday the 15th of August we shed the 2nd round of the Autumn cup which was also the penultimate round of the Presidents cup on the Rio Segura at Murcia town centre.

The River was running at a normal pace and conditions looked good to produce some decent weights. Things did not quite turn out that way with the river shing very patchy with lots of small sh showing but not many quality sh.

Winner on the day and continuing his good run of form was Bob Robinson. Drawn on the end peg 7 towards the crystal bridge, Bob shed the feeder with wafters or corn for 9.225kg.

In second place, would you believe it was Victor Meldrew himself, Richard Wood, drawn on the other end peg near the weir he made no mistake on the method feeder and caught 8.150kg of small carp.

In third place was Paul Burton on peg 4 after the rst bridge. Paul also used the method feeder with pellets or corn for 7.30kg.

Things are hotting up in the Presidents cup and the table below shows the leaders going into the nal round also at Murcia.

Rods N reels have no o cial matches in August so no results to show.

Ian Brown

SOLUTIONS

Dacia Sandero Stepway 2018, Manual, Petrol, 152,200 kms, 4x2, 1.0L, ABS, PAS, Radio, AUX/USB , Cruise control, Climate control, Reverse camera, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel, Navigation. 10,995€

Ford Focus Titanium 2019, Manual, Diesel, 139,927 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 1.5L. ABS, PAS, Parking sensors, Radio, USB, A/C, Climate control, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel, Navigation. 14,995€

Fiat Panda 2011, Manual, Petrol, 142,164 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 1.2L, ABS, PAS, Central locking, A/C, Electric windows. 5,995€

Peugeot 2008 2013, Manual, Petrol, 130,738 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 1.2L. ABS, PAS,Central locking, Cruise control, A/C, Radio/CD, AUX/USB, Bluetooth. 8,995€

Mini John Cooper Works 2015, Automatic, Petrol, 140,0970 kms, Hatchback/ Saloon, 2.0L. ABS, PAS, Radio, AUX/USB, Climate control, Bluetooth, Navigation, Multifunctional steering wheel. 21,995€

Citroen Elysee 2020, Diesel, Manual, 68,581 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 1.5L, PAS, ABS, Radio, Climate control, Bluetooth, Reverse camera, Navigation, Multifunctional steering wheel, Parking sensors. 12,995€

Mazda 3 2016, Automatic, Petol, 152,927 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 2.0L. ABS, PAS, Radio, USB, Parking sensors, Climate control, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel, Navigation 13,995€

Opel Astra 2019, Manual, Petrol, 25,221 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 1.0L, PAS, ABS, Aux/USB, Radio, Climate control, Bluetooth, Reverse camera, Multifunctional steering wheel, Parking sensors. 14,995€

Opel Za ra Automatic 7 Seater 2018, Automatic, Diesel, 133,000 kms, MPV 7 seater, 2.0L. ABS, PAS, Central locking, Radio, Navigation, Climate control, Cruise control, Electric windows. 16,995€

Volvo V90 D4 MOMENTUM 2018, Automatic, Diesel, 2017,172,749 kms, Estate, 2.0 L, ABS, PAS, Radio, climate control, Cruise control, Bluetooth, parking sensors, Electric boot, Multifunctional steering wheel. 19,995€

Mazda CX3 2019, Manual, Petrol, 122,005 kms, 4x2, 2.0L, ABS, PAS, Radio, AUX/USB, Parking sensors, A/C, Bluetooth, Navigation Navigation, Multifunctional steering wheel. 16,995€

Mercedes B180 2013, Diesel, Manual, 161,191 kms, Hatchback/Saloon,1.8L. ABS, PAS, USB/AUX, Parking sensors, Central locking, Multifunctional steering wheel, Bluetooth. 14,995€

LandRover Range Rover Sport 2014, Automatic, Diesel, 153,753 kms, 4X4, 4.4L. ABS, PAS, Radio, AUX/USB, Climate control, Parking sensors , Bluetooth, Navigation, Multifunctional steering wheel. 31,995€

Audi Q3 2016, Automatic, Diesel, 127,338 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 2.0L. ABS, PAS, Radio/CD, AUX/USB, Climate control, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel, Parking sensors, Navigation 19,995€

Ssangyong Rexton 7 Seater, 2014, Automatic, Diesel, 126,037 kms, 4x2, 2.0L, ABS, PAS, Radio/CD, AUX/USB, Climate control, Cruise control, Handsfree, Parking sensors, Leather seats. 14,995€

Skoda Kamiq Automatic 2022, Automatic, Petrol, 11,020 kms, 4x2, 1.0L. ABS, PAS, Radio, USBC, A/C, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel, Reverse camera, Apple car play 22,995€

Opel Grandland X 2019, Automatic, Diesel, 132,759 kms, 4x2, 2.0L, ABS, PAS, Climate control, Parking sensors, Navigation, Multifunctional steering wheel, Bluetooth, Reverse camera. 20,995€

Porsche Cayman S 2016, Automatic, Petrol, 71,878 kms, Coupé, 3.4L. MUST BE SEEN!!! ABS, PAS, Radio, Climate control, Cruise control, Navigation, Parking sensors , Bluetooth, Leather seats, Heated seats, Multifunctional steering wheel. 51,995€

Subaru XV 2014, Manual, Petrol, 164,588 kms, 4x2, 1.6L, ABS, PAS, Radio/CD, AUX/USB, Climate control, Navigation, Multifunctional steering wheel, Reverse camera, Parking sensors. 12,995€

Jaguar XF Supercharged 2015, Automatic, Petrol, 147,807 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 3.0L, ABS, PAS, Radio, Cruise control, Climate control, Parking sensors, Navigation, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel, Navigation, Reverse camera. 22,995€

Volkswagen GOLF GTI CABRIO 2014, Automatic, Petrol, 99,039 kms, Cabrio, 2.0L. ABS, PAS, Radio, Aux, A/C, Parking sensors, Climate control, Electric windows, Handsfree, Multifunctional steering wheel, Electric soft top roof. 19,995€

Mazda MX5 2017, Petrol, Manual, Cabrio, 87,234 kms, 1.5L. ABS, PAS, Central locking, Radio, USB,

A/C, Electric windows, Cruise control, Bluetooth, Parking sensors, Multifunctional steering wheel, Navigation. 19,995€

SEAT Leon Estate 2016, Manual, Petrol, 171,636 kms, Estate, 1.2L. ABS, PAS, Central locking, Radio/CD, Touch screen, Aux/USB, Climate control, Bluetooth, Multifunctional steering wheel 9,995€

Kia Stonic 2022, Manual, Hybrid/Petrol, 10,200 kms, Hatchback/Saloon, 1.0L, ABS, PAS, Cruise control, Climate control, Bluetooth, Parking sensors, Multifunctional steering wheel, Navigation. 18,995€

Renault Captur 2022, Manual, Petrol, 26,428 kms, Hatchback/Saloon,1.0L. ABS, PAS, Central locking, Radio, USB, Climate control, Multifunctional steering wheel, Bluetooth, Parking sensors, Navigation. 19,995€