The Cabo Roig St. Patrick’s Day Parade has firmly established itself as one of the biggest events on Spain's Costa Blanca, drawing a diverse mix of locals and tourists who are all eager to celebrate Irish culture.
With each passing year, the parade grows in popularity, highlighting the vibrant spirit of St. Patrick's Day.
This year's parade, held yesterday, on the Sunday before March 17th, attracted around 25,000 spectators. Although there were concerns about the weather in the days leading up to the event, these fears proved to be unfounded. The weather was far more cooperative than expected, allowing the parade to go ahead as planned and providing a perfect backdrop for the much-anticipated celebrations.
The parade featured over 60 entries, including Irish dancers, pipe bands, classic cars, motorbikes, and elaborately decorated floats. Many of these floats were sponsored by local businesses, and the theme was centred around Irish heritage, with performances showcasing both traditional and contemporary Irish culture.
The Torrevieja Pipes and Drums once again led the procession, setting the tone for a lively, festive atmosphere.
As the parade made its way through the streets, the crowd cheered and clapped, further adding to the sense of community spirit that has come to define the event.
This year’s Grand Marshal was Charlie Redmond, the legendary Gaelic footballer from the Dublin team, who was joined at the front of the parade by local and Irish politicians. The parade also featured performances from marching bands, music ensembles, dance groups, and carnival performers.
The parade, which lasted about 90 minutes, circled the Cabo Roig Strip, and once it concluded, the festivities continued throughout the afternoon and into the night. Bars and restaurants hosted parties, serving traditional Irish food like bacon and cabbage and Irish drinks, including Guinness.
Reports from the event highlighted the family-friendly atmosphere and the enthusiastic participation of both locals and expatriates, demonstrating the unique blend of Irish culture and Spanish warmth.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of the small organising committee the Cabo Roig St. Patrick's Day Parade has once again proved to be a wonderful celebration of community and Irish culture.
Monday 17th - Sunday 23rd March 2025
FEBRUARY INCREASE OF 11% AT CORVERA
The Region de Murcia International Airport (AIRM) registered a total of 30,670 passengers during the month of February, representing an 11.3% increase compared to the same period in 2024. However, these figures are 32% lower than the 45,149 passengers registered in the same month in 2019, the terminal's first year of operation.
The bulk of travellers at Murcia airport come from the international market, which registered 25,124 passengers in February and experienced a 13.5% growth.
Meanwhile, the domestic market remained at the same
figures as last year, recording 5,388 passengers. This was all for commercial flights.
In terms of flight operations, AIRM increased its operations by 34.8% during the month of February, corresponding to the management of 337 movements, according to sources from Aena in a statement.
During the first two months of the year, 60,782 passengers were registered, representing an 11.7 % increase. However, these figures are still below the 65,392 passengers registered in 2019, down by 7%.
The cumulative figure for flights during these same months is 684, which shows a 30% increase in operations compared to the same months in 2024.
The Aena Group's airports (comprised of 46 airports and two heliports in Spain, London Luton Airport, and 17 airports in Brazil) closed the second month of 2025 with 24,537,134 passengers, 4.4% more than the same month in 2024; they handled 223,083 aircraft movements, 4.7% more than in 2024; and transported 111,790 tons of cargo, 4.7% more than last year.
GOING BACK
By David Whitney
Bring back the sweet shops
With boiled sweets in jars
Bring back the original size
Of 'Mars' bars
Bring back the coal men
With coal in coal sacks
Bring back the dustmen
With bins on their backs
Bring back the milk men
On horse driven floats
Mini skirts, Maxi skirts
And duffle coats
Bring back the deep tins
Of 'Quality Street'
Bring back the grocer
Who sold potted meat
Bring back the shoe shops
With shoe boxes high 'Robin Starch' and blue bags
And cooking fat called 'Spry'
Bring back the fairground
With manual swing boats
The 'Beano' and 'Dandy'
And Ten Shilling notes
Bring back the teachers
Who all had respect
Bring back good manners
That many neglect
Bring back a nation
With some common sense
Bring back the days
Of pounds, shillings and pence
Bring back the good times
The love and regard
Where people helped people
It's really not hard.
FUEL PRICES DROP IN ALICANTE AMID SURGE IN LOW-COST STATIONS
Fuel prices in Alicante have dropped, with 95-octane gasoline averaging e1.424 per litre in 2024, below the national average.
The decline is driven by a surge in independent lowcost fuel stations, now making up 45% of the market.
Alicante ranks third in Spain for station density per 100 sq km, and has seen a 42.5% rise in fuel stations since 2009, boosting competition and accessibility for consumers.
Cabo Roig’s historic 16th century defensive tower reflects the area’s rich heritage
€15 Million Gap Exposes Underfunding of Orihuela Costa
Orihuela Costa contributes 15 million euros more to the municipal budget than it receives in services and infrastructure. This persistent underfunding leads to significant deficiencies, which become more evident year after year.
Of the 117 million euros in revenue the municipality collects, 45.6% (53.3 million euros) originates from the coast. When municipal tax revenue is included, this percentage increases to 63%, amounting to 13 million euros out of a total of 21 million. Meanwhile, only 33% (38 million euros) of the total municipal expenditure is allocated to the coast.
This imbalance of approximately 15 million euros results in inadequate funding for essential services such as Education, Social Welfare, Festivities, and Sports, according to an analysis conducted by the residents' association Unidos por la Costa.
The association reviewed over 1,200 income and expenditure items in the new budget.
In their view, this shortfall should be addressed annually to improve basic services and coastal infrastructure until a fair budget allocation is achieved.
Regarding investments outlined in the 2024 budget and incorporated into the 2025 plan, 12.6 million euros—only 30.7% of the total 41 million euros—are allocated to the coast. This figure, the association argues, is far below what is required to address the region’s historical infrastructure deficit.
GROWING CALLS FOR SEGREGATION
An increasing number of residents are advocating for Orihuela Costa’s segregation as a solution to the severe deficiencies in services and infrastructure. In the last municipal elections, a pro-independence party (PIOC) received the majority of votes from coastal residents who participated, though voter turnout remained low relative to the eligible population.
The growing support for segregation raises the question of whether such a move would be financially viable under current local government legislation. Unidos por la Costa asserts that the revenue generated by the coast is sufficient to sustain decentralized management, ensuring greater autonomy and recognition of its identity.
However, concerns remain about whether Orihuela’s urban centre could withstand segregation. "For years, its budget has been inflated by revenue from the coast, yet it still suffers from numerous shortcomings, along with many neglected districts across the municipality," the association states.
Additionally, Orihuela Costa’s population continues to grow, unlike the urban centre’s, further widening the funding gap. The discrepancy between the registered and actual population exacerbates the issue, making the underfunding even more pronounced.
NEED FOR ECONOMIC DECENTRALIZATION
Orihuela’s municipality consists of three administratively distinct areas: the urban core, the districts, and the coastal region. Each has unique demographic, social, and economic characteristics, with the coast experiencing a significant floating population due to residential tourism. These differences result in varied needs for income, expenses, and investments.
Unidos por la Costa states that economic decentralization would allow for individualized budget management for each area, enabling strategic spending and investment where it is most needed. The current poor state of basic services and infrastructure, they argue, reflects a spending strategy not based on objective data.
To address these issues, they insist on the necessity of decentralized, professional management, carried out by City Council staff from the coast—people who truly understand local priorities, needs, and shortcomings.
This approach, they argue, would ensure that tax revenue generated by the coast is reinvested effectively, leading to tangible improvements in services and infrastructure.
Orihuela Costa - Paying the Price for Inequality
Orihuela was once a vast, wealthy, and prestigious city. However, today it struggles due to the lack of industry, commerce, and a sustainable tourism sector of its own. Instead, it relies heavily on the economic contributions of Orihuela Costa.
Despite this, Orihuela exhibits a clear imbalance when it comes to fairness toward Orihuela Costa. The issue stems from too few coastal residents exercising their right to vote, leaving decisions in the hands of others. It's simple logic— when too many people benefit without actively participating, the system suffers. Those who don’t vote are, in effect, allowing Orihuela to continue profiting at the Costa’s expense. A few years ago, there was an ongoing debate over which municipality should govern Orihuela Costa, with Torrevieja,
Pilar de la Horadada, and Orihuela all vying for control. Ultimately, Orihuela won the claim. Yet, even today, officials from both Torrevieja and Pilar have remarked that many Orihuela Costa residents would prefer to be governed by them.
The reality, however, is that their interest lies not in improving the area’s infrastructure or services but in tapping into its financial resources.
Orihuela continues to reap the benefits of Orihuela Costa’s taxes, including those on property transactions, income, purchases, and even previously taxed assets.
Despite contributing up to 60% of the municipality’s total revenue - amounting to around e60 million annually - Orihuela Costa sees little in return. The budget distribution is blatantly skewed, prioritizing the city while neglecting the Costa.
A prime example dates back to 2012, when Orihuela Costa was allocated just e2 million out of a e59 million municipal budget, despite generating nearly 40% of the revenue at the time.
The lack of business sector involvement - hotels, restaurants, bars - only worsens the situation. Currently, only one significant association consistently challenges Orihuela on its budget allocation, services, and unfulfilled commitments.
The truth is, Orihuela Costa does not need to depend on Orihuela. With its growing wealth, it has the potential to reinvest in itself - improving infrastructure, expanding services, and addressing the needs of its aging population. But for independence to become a reality, the community must unite.
A dedicated political movement representing the Costa is essential. It must be headed by a strong leader capable of bringing together residents of all nationalities, businesses, and organizations. Relying solely on British voters will not be enough - change will require collective action at the ballot box.
Two cars were completely burned, while the third sustained significant damage
TORREVIEJA
CAPPROVES CONTRACT
FOR THE 2025 AND 2026 FERIA’S DE MAYO
ouncilor for Festivals Rosario Martinez has announced that the 2025 Feria de Mayo will be held at Parque Antonio Soria, while the 2026 edition will take place at Torrevieja’s new port venue.
The Local Government Board has officially approved the contracting process for organizing the event in 2025 and 2026, with a base budget of e184,274 per year (VAT included).
The 2025 fair will run from May 14 to 18, while the 2026 edition is tentatively set for May 13 to 17, subject to scheduling adjustments.
The contract includes full event organization, covering:
Assembly of the main stage with lighting and sound.
Installation of 15 recreational booths (10m x 10m).
Electrical setup, toilets, dressing rooms, and essential infrastructure.
Public portable toilets meeting regulatory standards.
TORREVIEJA GUARDIA CIVIL ARRESTS MAN FOR ARSON OF THREE VEHICLES
The Guardia Civil has arrested a 46-year-old Spanish man for allegedly committing arson. The suspect set fire to a vehicle after an argument, causing the flames to spread and damage two other nearby cars.
On February 26, officers in Torrevieja received multiple earlymorning calls about a dispute on a town street. Upon arrival, witnesses reported that a man had argued with a neighbour over the condition of the latter’s vehicle.
Hours later, the suspect returned, issuing threats and warning that he would set the car on fire.
By 5:30 AM the next morning, the targeted vehicle was in flames, which spread to two other parked cars.
Two were completely burned, while the third sustained significant damage. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze. An investigation was launched immediately. Through collected
evidence and analysis, authorities placed the suspect near the scene, confirming his involvement. His actions aligned with his prior threats.
The man, who had no previous criminal record, was arrested and charged with arson.
He appeared before Torrevieja’s Court of Instruction No. 2, which granted his release on bail pending further proceedings.
CHAOTIC OPENING TO ORIHUELA COSTA’S THIRD SCHOOL
Orihuela Costa's third school opened last Monday amid significant uncertainty, with the first 33 students beginning classes in temporary prefabricated units.
LAST MINUTE ANNOUNCEMENT
Parents were informed at the very last-minute, receiving emails on Friday that their children would be attending classes in these units, raising concerns about missing facilities like a canteen and school transport.
The school, located in Los Dolses, is currently enrolling students in phases, with 226 children expected to be attending by the end of the week.
Despite plans to appoint teaching staff, delays in recruitment have also caused frustration, with several administrative hurdles still to overcome.
The new school will eventually accommodate 450 students, including both preschool and primary grades, with classes of 20-25 students per room.
The facility includes 18 classrooms, a therapeutic pedagogy room, a linguistic development room, and additional areas for administration and staff.
GRADUAL ROLLOUT
However, 250 students from another school will need to transition midway through the academic year, adding to the disruption.
OVERCROWDING IN EXISTING SCHOOLS
Existing public schools in the area, CEIP Los Dolses and CEIP Playas de Orihuela, are facing severe overcrowding, with student-teacher ratios among the highest in the Valencian Community.
Los Dolses, designed for 400 students, had 710 pupils in
the 2023-2024 academic year with both schools having had to repurpose common spaces to accommodate the influx of students.
DISCONTENT IN EDUCATIONAL COMMUNITY
The opening of the third school has led to tensions between local authorities and the educational community. The new facility is not an independent school but an extension of CEIP Playas de Orihuela, adding to its administrative burden.
Critics argue that the lack of planning and resources is exacerbating the overcrowding crisis.
PLANNED PROTEST
Delays in the school's opening and the absence of essential services like transportation and proper staffing have prompted protests, with local organisations calling for immediate action.
FOCA has scheduled a demonstration on March 22 at 12:00, starting from Calle Nicolas de Bussi, ending at the local Town Hall in Playa Flamenca.
PSOE CRITICISM OF GOVERNMENT
PSOE councilor Maria Garcia criticized the chaotic opening of the third school in Orihuela Costa, calling it a series of unresolved issues that have caused frustration among families and the educational community.
She expressed disappointment that the public was only informed via the media that the new school was an extension of Playas de Orihuela, not a standalone facility.
Garcia highlighted the lack of teachers, school transportation, and delays in cafeteria services.
She criticized the local and regional governments for their
silence and failure to address the situation, questioning how such basic issues could remain unresolved in March. Garcia demanded transparency and accountability, warning that the opening chaos is a sign of potential problems if the El Palmeral High School is closed in September. She urged local authorities to take responsibility and ensure proper planning to avoid further issues in the future.
Guardamar’s Lemon Tree Market fights for survival
The Generalitat has rejected a proposal by Guardamar Town Hall to legalize the popular Sunday market in Campo de Guardamar, which has been running since 1993.
The market, which has around 600 stalls, is located on non-urbanizable land, partially within the Natural Park of the Lagoons of Torrevieja and La Mata.
This decision, made over a year ago but only recently revealed, raises concerns about the market’s future due to its environmental impact, traffic congestion, and non-compliance with regional planning rules.
Despite this unfavorable assessment, the market continues to operate thanks to precautionary measures from a 2015 High Court ruling that allowed the market to remain open pending resolution of appeals.
The Town Hall’s plan, which was introduced in 2021, aimed to make the market a "private tourist street market" offering both public and cultural activities.
However, previous attempts to regularize the market's status have failed.
The market plays a crucial role in the local economy, supporting hundreds of businesses and offering a wide variety of goods and services. If closed, it would have significant economic repercussions. The market's management and
the Association of Vendors are prepared to make necessary improvements, including better traffic management, to meet legal and environmental standards.
Despite ongoing challenges, the market remains open while legal and environmental issues are resolved.
Cabo Roig Conservation Area Neglect, Wall Repair still Incomplete After Three Years
For three years, Orihuela City Council has failed to fully repair a sinkhole caused by the 2019 DANA storms in the Cabo Roig Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
The area, protected for its environmental significance, suffers from neglect, invasive species, litter, and urban pressure.
A rock wall, known locally as "the wall of lamentations," was built to stabilize the slope overlooking Cabo Roig beach.
Repairs were finally made in June 2022 after approval from the Provincial Coastal Service, which required the wall to be integrated into the landscape within a year—yet this remains undone.
The Valencian Regional Government has now
taken interest in the area due to its deteriorating state.
Unidos por la Costa, representing nearly 1,000 locals, has formally requested intervention from the Ministry of the Environment.
They highlight safety concerns, including deteriorating pathways, stairs, signs, and fences, as well as the risk of landslides that could endanger the upper promenade.
The group also calls for urgent repairs to the unsafe access point to "Fossil Beach" and better public awareness campaigns about conservation.
Without action, environmental degradation threatens the long-term sustainability of this protected coastal zone.
MAYOR MEETS UKRANIAN ADVISOR IN SPAIN
Torrevieja Mayor Eduardo Dolon and Councillor Gitte Lund met with Valeria Nastashenko, Advisor at the Ukrainian Embassy in Spain, to discuss support for the city’s 10,000-strong Ukrainian community.
Nastashenko praised the Town Hall’s efforts in integration, aiding Ukrainian residents in social welfare, education, and legal documentation. The Mayor highlighted the close cooperation with the Torrevieja Ukrainian Association since the war began in 2022.
Despite its environmental significance, the area suffers from neglect, invasive species, litter, and urban pressure.
Image:Unidos por la Costa
The Town Hall has provided resources for residence permits, school enrolment, Ukrainian-language classes, financial aid, and humanitarian shipments. Discussions also covered plans for the long-awaited House of Ukraine, with Ukrainian government support.
A spectacular year for Mercadona
Mercadona closed 2024 with a record turnover of e38.8 billion, a 9% increase from the previous year, and e1.384 billion in profits.
Its Portuguese stores contributed e1.8 billion, while online sales reached e840 million (2% of total sales). The company paid e3 billion in taxes.
President Juan Roig called it a "spectacular year," despite 21 stores being affected by floods. Mercadona now operates 1,674 stores with 110,000 employees, having created 6,000 jobs in 2024.
Representing 2.1% of Spain’s GDP, Mercadona has also provided e108 million in DANA aid. It will soon relocate its headquarters to Albalat dels Sorells.
No, the Customer is NOTalways right....!
About 30 years ago. I attended a management course in Dublin. I know I mentioned this somewhere previously – so let’s hope this is a different story! There were about thirty of us doing the course from all over the country. I was the oldest and most of the other students had their fee paid by the company they worked for. I paid for myself; having a thirst to learn more and put the knowledge to some use. This being said, the world had already taught me a lot of the course material; but I nonetheless gained gems of knowledge that still come in useful to this day.
There were positive themes, lectures, discussions and problem solving. For example, one day we gave a lot of time to two simple words; ‘everything counts’ and there is hardly a day goes by that I don’t quote that one
The course facilitator was the very versed Kevin Fahey from Athlone. One morning our assignment was, ‘how to deal with the difficult customer.’
After the lecture, slides and brainstorming, there was a Q & A ses-
sion. ‘What if you cannot satisfy the customer; what if you exhaust every avenue, before realising that the customer has ‘their knife in you’ and the only purpose of prolonging this is to give you a hard time?’
I asked, near the end. Kevin didn’t give a straight answer to my ceist; so I proceeded with my premise and these were my words verbatim:
‘I know that I cannot win by proving someone wrong from my side of the counter, Kevin; but deep down somewhere in me ... maybe down here (patting my stomach0 I reserve me the right to tell somebody to f##k off after I have been pushed over the edge of reasonableness. ‘
Ten years later I happened to bump into Kevin on the street in Mulingar.
After the warm greetings and customary small talk; Kevin asked me;
‘Do remember what you said about the impossible-to-please customer that morning in Newlands Cross?’
‘Just happens that I do’, I replied. ‘Well, of course you know you were right!’ my mentor conceded!
I read in a newspaper last week that retail businesses cannot hold
staff due to the level of customer abuse from ‘entitled’ members of the public.
Abuse of shop workers, by an ever increasing cluster of those who feel they have a right to take out their frustrations on staff, has reached an epidemic.
Everybody is engrained with the notion that ‘the customer is always right’. London retailer, Harry Gordon Selfridge coined that phrase in the 20-century. This came at a time when the customer was not respected and had no rights. But now it has gone too far in the opposite direction.
Friendliness and consideration for the other fellow should be a twoway street. Strictly adhering to the philosophy of the customer being always right has contributed to unreasonable and rude behaviour in the commercial world of today.
I brought home a plaque from America a long time ago and it hung behind a few counters before I don’t know where it finished up. The first place it was displayed was behind the counter of the postoffice in Longwood, where I was sub-postmaster.
The sign read; ‘COURTESY IS CONTAGIOUS’.
Naturally, the greater onus to be friendly and helpful rests with the person whose job it is to leave a satisfied customer. You won’t survive long in business if you are not prepared to go the extra mile and give the customer the benefit –within reason.
But the customer being always right has gone too far when some believe it bestows licence to treat retail staff badly.
A sign of the times we live is reflected in the increasing number of notices appearing in shops and public service offices which warn; ‘Abuse of staff will not be tolerated.’ It’s as if good manners and polite-
ness are seen as old hat and even - weakness in some quarters. Crudeness, rudeness and aggression have crept into normal society; but what can you expect when this is what we hear at the top?
If powerful people, like Donald Trump, can break all the social norms, is it not natural that ordinary people assume this is the correct way to behave; and a young girl serving a cup of coffee to a yahoo will pay the price.
Like so many other facets of life, the balance is right there in the middle. Over time the ‘customer is always right’ has lost the benefit for which it was intended long ago. It has enabled unrealistic demands and abusive behaviour.
Good business practice is to seek that balanced approach, emphasising instead that the customer deserves to be listened to.
This perspective upholds customer satisfaction – but equally respecting employees and setting a healthy boundary.
Just remember; ‘the columnist is always right!’
DON’T FORGET
No one is a failure who can truly say, ‘I have done my best.’
Photo by Antoni Shkraba
FURY AS 'EL CHINGUIRITO' CLOSED IN LOS ALCAZARES
The closure of 'El Chinguirito,' a long-standing beach kiosk in Los Alcazares operating without a permit since 1991, has stirred a public outcry.
Mayor Mario Perez Cervera emphasized that, despite the backlash, legal compliance and public safety necessitated the decision.
The Council had warned kiosk operators to regularize their status, but 'El Chinguirito' failed to anticipate closure, submitting complaints after only one bidder emerged during a formal tender process.
The judge denied requests for precautionary measures. While many locals mourn the loss of a historic social hub, the mayor acknowledged the venue’s importance, especially during the pandemic, and expressed personal regret over its closure.
However, he stressed the need to ensure equal opportunity for businesses and maintain legal standards.
Despite the emotional toll, the Council insists that other establishments will fill the void, contributing to the ongoing revitalization of the Mar Menor region, as similar legal processes unfold in neighboring areas like Cartagena. Image:Facebook
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE
Rebel is a lovely young girl who is around 8 months of age.
For more info contact us either by email or by WhatsApp
The details are across
SAN MIGUEL COUNCIL APPROVES EXPANSION OF INDUSTRIAL PARK IN FLOOD ZONE
San Miguel de Salinas council has approved the expansion of the Lo Quilez industrial estate by reclassifying 60,000 square meters of rural land into industrial land, despite it being located in a flood-prone area.
This decision has faced criticism from the San Miguel Arcangel Neighbourhood Assn, which argues that the council ignored recommendations from the Segura Hydro Confederation (CHS) and the Ministry.
Both bodies advised against developing flood zones and suggested adding an underground storm tank to the project, although the CHS recommendation is not binding.
The expansion plans involve doubling the current industrial area, with space for warehouses, green areas, and additional roads.
To mitigate flood risks, the municipal government is constructing flood control infrastructure funded by the Generalitat. However, the Generalitat approved the expansion under strict conditions, including raising the ground level by 1.5 meters and creating a rainwater evacuation channel.
The neighbourhood association has raised concerns about the inclusion of a waste management plot in a high-risk flood zone, noting that the location could lead to pollution. They are calling for the council to acknowledge these risks in official records and inform potential buyers.
Additionally, they insist that individual assessments be conducted for plots that may pose environmental hazards.
San Pedro to restore historic Las Monjas Spa
The San Pedro del Pinatar Council has approved the restoration of the Balneario de Las Monjas, a historic spa on Villananitos Beach in Lo Pagán. The project aims to preserve this culturally protected asset while reinforcing its structural integrity.
Designed by architect Ricardo García Baño, key renovations include repairing the walkway, consolidating the main platform, and restoring the central hut and decorative elements. Built in the 1990s, the spa has deteriorated over time due to vandalism. The restoration, with a budget of e30,548.92, will take two months and is funded by the city council. The project will enhance the spa's role as a symbol of local identity and a tourist attraction. Work is expected to begin before summer.
VOICEOVERS WANTED
The N332 team are currently looking for a couple of volunteers to help with a small project they are developing for launch at the end of this month. Specifically, at this time, female voiceover artists are needed who are able to record a few short audio clips.
Your location doesn’t matter, nor does age, so long as you can send the files by email or Dropbox. They specifically need female voices initially, but males will be called for soon. If you are interested and intrigued enough, please email your details and a short clip, or combine the two, and send it to news@n332.es
MABS FUNDRAISING IN BUTTERFLIES, JACARILLA
Butterflies Cafeteria in Jacarilla is hosting a fundraising event to support the MABS Cancer Foundation on Thursday, April 3rd, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This event aims to raise money for the vital care and support MABS provides to cancer patients and their families. The event will feature a raffle with various prizes, including delicious treats from Butterflies. All are welcome to attend and join in the fun and goodwill. A MABS press release praised the foundation’s volunteers, describing them as "hidden angels" who travel long distances to offer compassion and care to cancer sufferers in the Vega Baja area. Donations can also be made at Butterflies, Avda de la Paz, Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
TAKING SCIENCE TO THE STREETS IN BENEJÚZAR
The 10th Vega Baja del Segura Science Competition will take place in Benejúzar's Plaza de España on April 4-5, showcasing student projects from nearly 20 schools across the region. The event aims to promote scientific knowledge and engage young people in STEAM subjects (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics). Over 200 students will participate, presenting their research and experiments to the public. The competition also includes interactive science activities and demonstrations, fostering curiosity and innovation in science education.
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1.Favoured (10)
7.Machinery (5)
8.Flabby (7)
10.Droop (8)
11.Blow (4)
13.Infertile (6)
15.Rule (6)
17.Unsightly (4)
18.Continuous (8)
21.Sketch (7)
22.Regal (5)
23.Heedless (10)
CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. Solution on
1.Harsh things said behind the captain's back? (5,5)
7.Sounds to be permitted if given voice (5)
8.Coped as he grew older? (7)
10.Twisted blade can be evenly weighted (8)
11.Extremely deficient delivery - only half (4)
13.Herod's other island? (6)
15.Tip-top edition using thin gauzy paper (6)
17.Rounds of feline drinks? (4)
18.Sacks the money-takers (8)
21.Shyness kept ready if needed? (7)
22.Drilling tool used in putting fireguard back (5)
23.Publicity man wildly resents gap (5,5)
DOWN DOWN
1.Damage the booty (5)
2.Jeopardise by showing wrath after the finale (8)
3.How many have less feeling? (6)
4.Has possession of ring at three points (4)
5.Go off the topic - unusual dirge on ship (7)
6.Does he purr over his swag? (3,7)
9.Boring step taken to get bushels, quarters, etc.? (3,7)
12.Wet chair to be treated cautiously (4,4)
14.He is against work on problem (7)
16.In which court pictures are not for public viewing? (6)
19.3 in a boat, perhaps (5)
20.Hearty bowman? (4)
THE LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers
1. What is the most populated city in the world today that did not exist at the beginning of the 20th century?
2. The US Virgin Islands belonged to which European country from 1754 - 1917? a. GB, b. France, c. Denmark, d. Spain
3. Who was the front man for "The Silver Bullet Band"?
4. Which French coastal city was named after the Greek goddess of victory?
5. The following is the movie poster tag line to which 2007 film? "The last man on Earth is not alone."
6. The following words are from which famous poem? "Short days ago we lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow."
7. Which country was known as Italian North Africa between 1912 and 1927?
8. Which crime is also a collective noun for magpies?
9. The names for which two continents stem from characters found in Greek mythology?
10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the word "Night" somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? a. So why on earth should I moan, b. I'm not content to be with you in the daytime, c. Come on now try and understand, the way I feel when I'm in your hands, d. I woke last night to the sound of thunder, how far off I sat and wondered
11. A city in Spain and in the US state of Ohio, a famous
on page 20)
kind of sword, and an unusually hard type of steel. (6 letters)
12. Johnny Weissmuller of Tarzan fame won five Olympic gold medals in swimming. In which team sport did he win an Olympic bronze medal?
13. Which kind of storm is named after a one legged wind god? a. Hurricane b. Tornado c. Typhoon d. Cyclone
14. Name the films in which Gary Oldman plays a role alongside with each of the following actresses. a. Natalie Portman, b. Mila Jovovich, c. Winona Ryder, d. Glenn Close
15. What is both the 2nd largest island in the United States and the name of a large predator?
16. Measured in distance from Europe, what was Portugal's remotest colony in the 16th century?
17. The name of which fragrant herb stems from the Latin word for "dew of the sea"? a. oregano b. cinnamon c. basil d. rosemary
18. Which child prodigy, once called the "Mozart of Pop Music", was a member of the Spencer Davis Group, Traffic and Blind Faith, and later released successful solo albums titled 'Arc of the Diver' and 'Back in the High Life'?
19. The Irving Stone novel and 1965 film titled "The Agony and the Ecstasy" were both a biographical portrayal of which multi-talented genius?
20. A fortified wine with a very long shelf life AND an Atlantic archipelago.
Arts & Culture &
Las Terrazas de la Torre Golf Resort Charity Event
A charity Darts and Petanque competition at Las Terrazas de la Torre Golf Resort raised over e1,100 for local charities last December.
Organized through the "Terrazas Darts" Facebook group and supported by local
businesses, the event benefited cancer patients via MABS San Javier, underprivileged children through the Torre Pacheco Foodbank, and an animal rescue foundation.
Encouraged by its success, organizers will host another
GEARING UP FOR THE JAZZ EVENT OF THE YEAR
San Javier is finalizing preparations for its renowned International Jazz Festival, a major summer event.
The City Council is seeking a company to provide essential services, as it lacks the resources to manage the festival independently.
Running from late June to late July, the festival features 14 concert nights at venues including the Municipal Auditorium, Winter Theatre, and outdoor locations.
The selected contractor will handle equipment transport, setup, and teardown, with technical staff ensuring smooth performances.
A specialized piano service will provide a Steinway & Sons grand piano for key venues.
Additional services covered in the contract include graphic design, video editing, website maintenance, accommodations, transportation, catering, and event staffing.
event on Monday, April 14, 2025, at The 19th Hole pub, starting at 14:00 hrs (registration at 13:30).
Entry fees are e10, including a e2 pool game fee, and raffle tickets cost e1 each (sold in multiples of five).
All proceeds will support MABS Torre Pacheco and the Torre Pacheco Foodbank. The event aims to unite the community for a great cause.
For more information, contact +34 660 14 3003 or email phil.holmes@t-online.de.
Initially contracted for 2025, the agreement may extend to 2027. With these preparations, San Javier is set to deliver another successful edition of its celebrated Jazz Festival, maintaining its status as a summer cultural highlight.
Octo and Gertie win over young readers
Catral resident Carolynn Barclay, a poet and artist, published a children’s book, Octo and Gertie, inspired by poems written during the Covid lockdowns. The stories, created with her grandson Lukas in mind, feature a spider named Octo and a gecko named Gertie who become unlikely friends and share adventures.
Originally tucked away in a drawer, the poems were revived when Lukas, now nearly six, enjoyed them even more than before. Encouraged by Lukas and his friends, Carolynn turned the poems into a book. She also illustrated the book, designing colourful, engaging characters for children aged 3-7.
Octo and Gertie celebrates friendship, fun, and kindness, teaching that differences can be overcome. The book has been well received, with Lukas’s school already reading it to the class.
Published in January by Mirador Publishing, it’s available on Amazon, and Carolynn is working on a followup book about more exotic animals.
COST OF REPORTING A STOWAWAY
A couple have been fined £1,500 by the UK’s sad Home Office for “importing” a 16-year-old migrant into Britain.
They had been holidaying in France and a wretched migrant climbed inside a zipped cover of a bike rack on their way back to Calais.
They saw trainers sticking out of the cover and then discovered the youth. They gave him a drink of water and phoned police, who took him into custody.
The couple couldn’t believe it when they got a fine from the bureaucrats at the Home office who I think you could count on one hand the brain cells of all of them!
Have they got no idea that from now on the last thing anyone who finds a stowaway in or on their vehicle will do is phone the police? They will simply let him go to do goodness knows what!
When we return to the UK every year (not from Calais but Dieppe) our vehicle and top box, quite rightly, is inspected. What were the morons at the customs post at Dover doing? Obviously not doing their job properly.
Come on moron bureaucrats at the Home Office – sack the staff at Dover.
We certainly need Trump and Musk in Britain axing all the jobsworths. Bring it on!!
As for the teenager from Sudan – send him packing – no ifs or buts from namby pamby waste of space judges.
INADEQUATE XL BULLY LEGISLATION
Yet again we have heard of another killing by an XL Bully dog in the UK.
This time it was a 19-year-old girl in Bristol, who was set upon and gored to death by yet another of these killer dogs. The owners were arrested for having a dangerous dog not under proper control.
Why on earth is it that Britain’s politicians can never get legislation right and get something done positively without namby pambying about?
After a wave of attacks with people being killed or injured, last year the government made it a criminal offence to own the XL bully breed in England and Wales without an exemption certificate.
Anyone who owned one of the dogs must have had the animal neutered, have it microchipped and keep it muzzled and on a lead in public, among other restrictions. Not good enough. If the breed is dangerous
Tony Mayes Rant
Do you agree that the UK is becoming a ‘Namby Pamby’ state ?
WHAT’S YOUR OPINION
Email us at: office@theleader.info and let us know what you think.
then they all should go, no ifs and buts to appease the dog lovers who seem quite happy to turn a blind eye to how potentially dangerous they are.
PROTESTERS BLOCK GATWICK’S GROWTH
Britain should toughen up in many other issues too. I have written before about soft touch judges allowing all manner of reasons why an immigrant, legal or illegal, who has committed a criminal offence should be allowed to remain in the UK rather than be instantly deported back to his or her home country.
The government should instantly close all loopholes – no more namby pambying.
And if an airport needs expansion, as does single runway Gatwick, protests by nimbys should be ignored. Gatwick has been an airport for generations, and has attracted thousands of people to live close by.
But what happens. As soon as they get wind of anything that might give them additional noise or damage the value of their homes, up they get in protest.
And no doubt the environmentalists will be out in search of anything they can find at Gatwick, like rare toads, newts or creepy crawlies that no-one actually wants, claiming we cannot harm an “endangered species”. The government is there to govern and should get on with it and totally ignore the endless stream of protesters.
LENIENT SENTENCES BLAMED
I doubt that there are very many people living in the UK today that wouldn’t agree with me that the level of crime is getting worse and more people are living in fear of crime. We hear more and more cases of random killings – at schools, and other public places.
We hear of police increasingly unable to investigate low level crime because of cutbacks. We hear of fewer and fewer community police being employed and ridiculous decisions of shoplifting below a certain amount not even investigated.
And worse still we hear increasingly of magistrates and judges handing out more lenient sentences. Unable to send people to prison because of overcrowding, more wrongdoers are given suspended sentences. Not so long ago the only suspended sentence that would be handed down would be one at the end of a rope!
And there are far too many people in prison today who actually deserve that – or an extremely painful public birching.
But what has got my goat now is that the Sentencing Council - yet another quango –this one comprising soft judges and politicians, has the gall to suggest that courts should take into account whether the defendant is black, what religion he or she has, whether he or she belongs to a sexual minority, or whether the defendant is pregnant or has children.
Opponents are worried that these guidelines will create a two tier justice system, where minority groups will get preferential treatment and more likely to escape jail.
In my book it is more likely that these groups will be tempted to commit a crime if they think they are more likely to be treated leniently.
It all smacks of Britain becoming a namby pamby nation and it’s no wonder that illegal immigrants are pouring into the UK by the boatfull, up to 1,500 per week when the weather is fine.
The chair of the body behind the sentencing reforms has defended the changes by saying a punishment tailored to individual offenders had the "greatest likelihood" of being effective.
Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick has
accused new sentencing guidelines of having "blatant bias" against Christians and straight white men.
Mr Jenrick added it was evidence of "two-tier justice" and will be "very corrosive to public trust and confidence in the criminal justice system". I couldn’t agree more.
UK'S SUPER-RICH CUT BACK
If you want any more reasons why the Labour government has got it wrong in not increasing tax on the super-rich instead of attacking farmers and depriving people of winter fuel allowance, this is it.
Millionaires are four times less charitable than the average person in the UK, a new study has found.
The Charity Aid Foundation (CAF) found the country's wealthiest people donated the equivalent of 0.4% of their combined investable assets - £7.96bn.
Meanwhile, the UK public donated the equivalent of 1.6% of their income - £13.9bn.
CAF found that if each of the country's 536,673 millionaires were to donate 1% of their investible assets, they could give the charity sector a £12bn boost.
The most popular charities supported by the country's wealthiest were in education, with six in 10 high-net-worth individuals supporting this sector. An example of the rich looking after their own ensuring their children in private education are well looked after.
Only 4% of the rest of the population donated to education.
It’s sad that Labour of all parties are the ones who are no longer the Robin Hoods – taking from the rich with the broadest shoulders to help the much less well off.
Photo by Los Muertos Crew:
CHURCH SERVICES
Church of JESUS CHRIST of LATTER-DAY SAINTS
We meet at 10am each Sunday in the chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. Torrevieja Phone or whatsapp 659 016 733
THE SALT CHURCH
Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship.
Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain
Int Christian Assembly Evangelical Church Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja Sunday Service 10.30 a.m
Pilar Christian Community Pentecostal/Evangelical Church
Sunday Service 11.30am C/Canalejas 3, Pilar de la Horadada
Join us for a multitude of activities, coffee mornings, excercise, bereavement group pastor@pilarchurch.com
CARS FOR SALE
The Car of the Month is a 2022 Ford Focus ST Line X HYBRID - 22,500€ Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars. For a small selection of our latest offers see ad on page 5. We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality.
ENGLISH SPOKEN Tel 96 666 22 60.
CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS
AGE CONCERN COSTA BLANCA SUR
We are here to help with well being forthe over50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre in La Siesta, ring 966 786 887 or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es
AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. Tel: 96 678 6887.
ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, TORREVIEJA BRANCH
Meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield on Mob/Whats 711 011 373
RAFA Costa Blanca RMG
We are a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact is via the RAFAwebsite rafa.org.uk.
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
EMERGENCY112
AMBULANCE061 or 112
FIRE SERVICE080 or 112
LOCAL POLICE092
NATIONAL POLICE091
GUARDIA CIVIL 062
DOMESTIC ABUSE016
BRITISH CONSULATE 917 146 300
IRELAND CONSUL 965 107 485
LOS ALCÁZARES
DIGITAL CAMERA CLUB.
Keen on photography?
We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings.
For additional info contact: coordinatorladcc@gmail.com www.los-alcazares-camera.club
ITEMS FOR SALE
500 English hardback nonfiction books in great condition: Satire (Punch, Private Eye, Viz), politics, history, Beano/ Dandy, rock bands/ singers, biographies, world leaders/ events, film, ONLY e5 each plus P&P. (1)
7000 vinyl LPs most in great condition, all categories US & UK bands & singers from 1960s on. e4 each plus P&P.
Knitting Machine Brother KH-881 very little used, e280.
Two antique oak beer barrels (half size) 40cm diameter, 55cm high, only e95 each
For all of the above call Steve on Phone 641 443 033
COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA)
Open to residents of Orihuela Costa who are over 60 years of age.
Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar.
TRANSLATIONS
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
DOCTORS,HOSPITALS, EMPADRON'S.
Documents / Medical reports translated.Rapid dates for TIE cards (March-April). Residencia Renewals.Driving licence exchange also available.
Contact : Jason Paul: Mobile 603 86 87 56 / WhatsApp
Open twice a week for a programme of English speaking activities and Spanish lessons. Activities include Games & Quiz on Mondays. Art sessions and Easy Conversation on Wednesdays. Information and advice regards living in Spain. Anyone wanting to join CCA social activities can pop along between 1-2pm Mondays and Wednesdays for more info from Eva or Norah in the Cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com
AUTOMOVILES CRESPO
The Rain in Spain.....!
Although in many parts of Spain there hasn’t been much respite from rain, for many areas we are about to start one of the two wettest periods of the year, so it is therefore worth visiting our tips for driving in rain.
Firstly, before setting off, defog the windows fully. It is neither acceptable nor safe to just clear a small part of the windscreen to continue, all windows should be fully clear.
In the rain, the car windows tend to fog up due to the humidity and the difference in temperature between the outside and the inside of the car. This condensation prevents correct visibility.
The rear windows have an anti-fog system in all cars and the newest ones can also incorporate it in the windshield. In addition, there are also anti- fog treatments that can be applied to the glass.
If we do not have this technology, we can always defog the windscreen using ventilation: simply direct the air to the glass, selecting this position on the dial so that it comes out through the dashboard grilles. This air must always be hot (heating).
Turn on the lights. Given that visibility drops significantly in the rain, it is vital to be seen by other cars. In this way, when it rains, the DGT recommends driving with the dipped headlights activated.
Daytime running lights may not be enough. And in case of particularly heavy rain, the
front fog lights might even be needed. Increase the safety distance. On wet roads, grip is reduced, so the braking distance increases. Thus, the DGT recommends leaving twice the distance than usual with the vehicle in front of us to avoid impacts.
You might remember the two-second rule, always allow 2 seconds distance between you and the vehicle in front, which can be checked by counting when the vehicle in front passes a fixed point on the road and allowing at least 2 seconds before you reach the same point.
In wet weather, this distance should be at least doubled, and so 4 seconds would be the minimum.
Smooth ride. In the rain, it is essential to avoid sudden manoeuvres: swerves, braking or strong acceleration should be avoided. Thus, we must brake and accelerate progressively, treating the pedal with care.
Reduce speed. The higher the speed, the greater the risk of aquaplaning, since it will be more difficult for the tyre to dislodge the water. But in general, given that grip is reduced, and braking distance is increased, the ideal thing to do in the rain is to drive slower.
Moreover, driving at a higher speed produces more erratic disturbances in the aerodynamic flow, which creates more “spray” behind your vehicle, making visibility more difficult for others.
In addition, a high speed favours the tunnel effect, which reduces peripheral vision, which is a dangerous combination if it is also raining since visibility is reduced.
Avoid puddles and pools of water. Asphalt does not always dislodge water correctly, in addition to the fact that if there are irregularities in the surface, puddles or pools with accumulated water can form. In these areas, the risk of aquaplaning is higher.
Of course, you must be careful not to deviate into a dangerous path when avoiding puddles of water, such as an adjoining lane, or even oncoming traffic.
If you come across a large body of water, as far as possible, the ideal is to avoid driving through it. But if there is no choice, it should be done as slowly as possible and trying to cross it with all wheels.
However, if the body of water is deep, or even if you cannot be certain of the depth, do not drive through it. As little as an eggcup amount of water can damage the engine and you could become stranded in the water.
If you suddenly find yourself in the middle of a sudden deluge, the best thing to do is to stop the car. Extremely heavy rain can cause zero visibility from our vehicle, and also for others on the road.
Fatigue, a hidden danger on the road, is responsible for 20% to 30% of all accidents, according to Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT). It reduces your ability to concentrate, increasing the risk of collisions or veering off the road. At Generali Expatriates, we
want to ensure you stay safe by explaining how fatigue affects your driving and the factors that contribute to tiredness behind the wheel.
HOW FATIGUE AFFECTS YOUR DRIVING
Fatigue slows your reactions, impairs vision, and leads to
slower, less precise movements, putting you at greater risk. It can also cause headaches and discomfort, making driving more difficult. When you’re tired, you’re more likely to make risky decisions and misjudge other drivers’ actions. WHAT INCREASES
FATIGUE WHILE DRIVING?
Lack of rest
Take a break every two hours or 150 kilometres to combat tiredness.
Weather and lighting
Fog, rain, or driving at night or during dawn/sunset requires more concentration and leads to faster exhaustion.
Traffic and road conditions
Heavy traffic, poor roads, or mechanical issues in your car increase stress and fatigue. High stress levels
Rushing or stressful driving situations lead to poor judgment and greater fatigue.
STAY SAFE WITH THE RIGHT CAR INSURANCE
Fatigue is just one risk you face on the road. At Generali Expatriates, we offer car insurance solutions tailored to
your lifestyle. And now, take advantage of our cashback offer! We are offering a 10% cashback on your premium every time you take out a new car or home insurance policy with us—valid until May 26, 2025!
For a quote or to find a broker, visit the website: www.generaliexpatriates.es or call 91 342 25 49.
STAY SAFE AND PROTECTED WITH GENERALI EXPATRIATES.
SAN LUIS ROMULANS CROWNED VOYAGER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS!
South Alicante League: Monday 10th, was the last match of the South Alicante Winter League.
SL Romulans were away, taking the long drive south to Phoenix (Mazarron). It was a close fought game on the unknown green but they had a great result; sharing the points 6-6, with the Romulans winning the shots 74-64. All their hard work paid off as they’ve finished the season as Voyager League WINNERS!!
SL Trekkers were at home v Monte Mar and after all the previous difficulties during the season with a reduced team, we finished with an excellent result taking 10 points-2, 132 shots-64. Team members worked hard, as they have
during the season, right to the end of each match. This week’s Winners: Pauline Johnson, Ralph Jones, Lyndon Johnson 36-4, Marilyn Fryatt, Kevin McKenna, Brian Miller 26-11, Sheila Cammack, Brian Gardiner, Jean Cooper 27-14, Mary & Phil Lockley, Vic Mahomet 28-15.
Unfortunately the SL Klingons had a very tough morning away v top of the Enterprise league, Emerald Isle Titans, finishing 2 points-10, 77 shots-110. Our winning team: Dee Hoey, Carol & Gary Thorpe 30-11.
Winter League: Wednesday 12th the San Luis team, after the journey north to El Cid, had a hard morning’s work for 3 points-7 and 58 shots-79. Winners:
Cathy Morrisroe, Bill Webb, Noel Morrisroe, Scott Malden 17-10, Neil & Sandra Burrows, Carol & Gary Thorpe 17-17.
Southern League: Friday 7th, was the last Southern League match for the SL Lions, Tigers & Leopards but we don’t have much time to relax as we have our internal club championships to complete, followed by the 2 wood triples league beginning on Friday 21st March, followed by 26th March; VC League and 31st March the South Alicante Summer Triples Leagues.
Good luck to all our teams, here’s to an enjoyable summer season.
SHEILA CAMMACK
Emerald Isle Titans Triumph in Title Clash!
The Titans started the week at home with a crucial match against the San Luis Klingons, where the league championship was on the line. They delivered an impressive performance, securing a 10-2 aggregate victory with a total score of 110-77. Well done, TITANS!
Winning Rinks: N. Davis, I. Grimshaw, M. Ellis – 31-12, J. Holmyard, S. Marks, R. Marks – 27-8, M. Oakley, A. M. Gerrard, M. Dyer – 22-9, D. Jones, N. Prior, D. Mooney –19-18
The Neptunes also played at home against Quesada Diamonds, securing a dominant 12-0 aggregate win with a total score of 106-65.
Winning Rinks: M. Nash, C. Wilson, J. Fenty – 29-5, K. Whelan, G. Dyer, G. Wallis – 24-15, I. Laverick, A. Gower, J. Sayers – 16-11, J. Ball, T. Faffett, P. Willicott – 21-17,
Sunny Corner GS @ La Torre
Winner Steve McGuinness 39 pts (pictured with Brian Cunningham), 2nd Petrus 33 pts, 3rd Chris Wren 32 pts
High combined pairs
Steve McGuinness & Shane 70 pts
Low combined pts Tony & Nigel 38 pts
Thanks to Sunny corner for sponsoring first prize fish & chips for 2 with a bottle of wine & bottles.
Next outing 25th March at Riquelme
G. Inwood, K. John, A. Pridmore – 18-16
The Moonrakers faced a tough away game against Quesada Rubies and suffered a 2-10 loss, with an aggregate score of 63-110.
Winning Rink: D. Clark, J. Forrest, A. Forrest – 18-16
In the Winter League, the Emperors played away at El Rancho and secured a superb 9-1 win, with an aggregate score of 94-40.
Winning Rinks: J. Holmyard, A. Pridmore, J. Taylor, M. Harley – 32-10, M. Oakley, N. Prior, S. Elvin, M. Ellis –33-4, N. Davis, R. White, D. Mooney, R. Marks – 16-13, I. Laverick, P. Reilly, S. Marks, C. Lindgren – 13-13 (Draw) SAPS takes place every Saturday at 13:15. ELWYN MORRIS
LA SIESTA GOLF SOCIETY were lucky to have the best day in weeks for their Doubles Match Play. It wasa great battle one up one down all the way to the finish on the 18th hole Jacs and Steve some say they had the putt of a lifetime. Next for La Siesta, a belated St Davids Day
QUIZ FROM P 14:
1.Brasilia, 2.Answer c.Denmark, 3.Bob Seger, 4.Nice (from Nike), 5.I am Legend, 6.In Flanders Fields, 7.Libya, 8.Murder, 9.Two answers.Europe (Europa) and Asia (mother of Atlas), 10.Four answers.a.Hard Day's Night (Beatles).b.All Day And All Of The Night (Kinks). c.Because The Night (Patti Smith).d.Night Moves (Bob Seger), 11.Toledo, 12.Water polo, 13.Answer a.Hurricane (from the Mayan 'Huracan'), 14.Four answers.a.Leon:The Professional.b.The 5th Element.c.Bram Stocker's Dracula.d.Air Force One.15.Kodiak, 16.Macao, 17.Answer d.rosemary (from 'rosmarinus'), 18.Steve Winwood, 19.Michelangelo Buonarroti, 20.Madeira
SAN MIGUEL DOLPHINS SECURE THIRD DESPITE QUESADA DEFEAT
BARRY JONES
On Monday San Miguel had all 4 teams in action, in the A Division the Dolphins were away to Quesada Pearls where they lost 8 - 4, best winning trip were Ian Hope, Steve Cantley and Dave Homer 23 - 21. The Dolphins finished third in the league.
The Orcas were at home to La Marina where they lost 120, the Orcas finished bottom of the division and will be relegated.
In the C Division the Stingrays were at home to Greenlands Beach losing 5 - 7, best winning trip were Gary Newark, Brian Mundell and Niel West 23 - 17.
The Marlins were away to Vistabella - No report posted.
On Tuesday the Orcas were away to Country Bowls Flamingos, in a re-arranged game, where they lost 3 - 9, 84 shots to 112. The best winning trip were Ann Taylor, Sandi Hannan and Mike Douglas 24 - 19.
A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pm - 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow. Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting at 1.45pm, by appointment ONLY. To book, please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508.
We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique clubwe only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES. For further information on San Miguel B.C please contact secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905. BY
CARP R US ANGLING
Carp-R-Us finally managed to start their Spring Series, delayed due to unusually bad weather, at the El Bosquet complex.
The weather was pleasant to start with, but rain was predicted for later and it duly arrived around 11.30 followed by a torrential downpour in the early afternoon which fortunately stopped in time for the weigh-in.
The match was fished over three sections, one on 1926 and two on 28-41. The match overall was won by Doug Hornblow, fishing his first match of the year with the club. Doug used feeder tactics on fancied peg 41 to weigh in a creditable 20.40kg way ahead of anyone else.
Second overall, and winner of the other section on that stretch was Tony Felstead on peg 31 with 6.88kg caught on pole and maggot. The 19-26 section was won by Marlene Hutchinson (peg 24) with 5.64kg, again caught using feeder tactics.
Information about the club can be found on www.carp-r-us.weebly.com
Torrevieja Darts Ladies Org League Format 12 (11/3/25)
BYEWhacky Chicas
Ladybirds13 - 8Gap Girlz
Primadonnas10 - 11Tipsy Tigers
Dolly Mixtures11 - 10Friendly Temps
Hot darts League Format Week 12 (11/3/25)
Chelsea Campbell (GG) 140, 100 x4, Dons Ralph (LB) 140, 108, 100, Pat Schofield (TT) 165, 112, Lesley Justice (DM) 102, 100, Mitch Halliday (PD) 180, Christine Pattison (GG) 131, Sarndra David (LB) 128, Sandra Crabbe (LB) 120, Jane Kelly (FT) 114, Claire Marie (GG)
High check-outs over 75 - Lesley Justice (DM) T17- 3-D14 (82)
LEAGUE TABLEPLegs FLegs A Gap Girlz1117457
Ladybirds1013485
Friendly Temps10106108
Tipsy Tigers1096120
Primadonnas1196143
Wacky Chicas1093116
Dolly Mixtures1078138
Left to right - Jacs Boswell, George Cumming, Steve Vice Captain Mott, Bette Trotter
LADIES INDIVIDUALS
VENUE - TIPSY TOAD
GROUP STAGE RESULTS
3 legs x 501.(All 3 played)
GROUP 1
Lesley Lumb 3-0Ann Taylor
Ann Taylor 0-3Dons Ralph
Lesley Lumb 2-1 Dons Ralph
Group Qualifier - L.Lumb 5 pts.
GROUP 2
Sandra Crabbe 3-0Jane Wills
Jane Wills 0-3Chelsea Campbell
Chelsea Campbell 2-1Sandra Crabbe
Group Qualifier - C.Campbell 5 pts
GROUP 3
Cheryl McGlynn 0-3 Sue Spiers
Sue Spiers 2-1 Mitch Halliday
Mitch Halliday 3-0 Cheryl McGlynn
Group Qualifier - S.Spiers 5 pts.
GROUP 4
Carol Peace 1-2 Sharon Frain
Alison Scammell 1-2 Carol Peace
Sharon Frain 3-0 Alison Scammell
Group Qualifier - S.Frain 5 pts.
SEMI FINALS - BEST OF 5 LEGS 501 S.Spiers 1-3S.Frain L.Lumb 1-3C.Campbell
FINAL - BEST OF 5 LEGS 501 C.Campbell 3-0 S.Frain 0
CAMPBELL'S TON TOTAL
5x100,2x121,2x125,2x140,14x81+
HIGH OUTS:Ralph – 72,Halliday - 68 (on Bull),Campbell - 62.
Chelsea Campbell retained her Serenity Insurance singles title in style this week at the Tipsy Toad, El Galan.
Her opponent in the final Sharon Frain, despite finding big trebles with regularity, couldn't convert scoring trebles into 3 figure scores.
Campbell most definitely could, nailing the 3 doubles required without reply.
The champion had an early scare in the group stages, losing the 1st leg to a lively Sandra Crabbe, but replying with 121,125 and a 62 out.
Her 2nd match against Jane Wills produced 11 scores of 80+, both players finding big scores with ease, the future champion however taking all 3 legs.
Lesley Lumb stood in the way of Campbell in the semi-final, finding 100,120, D12 for 1 apiece.
Lumb's consistency forced the Gnomes player to step up a gear, taking the next 2 for 3-1 and a place in the final.
Sharon Frain had 2 real "toughies" to qualify for the semis, the first against an in-form Carol Peace, the match going to 3 legs, Peace hitting 4x85+,115, Frain responding with 93,95,121. The second against Hub teammate Ali Scammell, who despite moving house recently, is finding time to hone her dartboard skills.
As expected, the big trebles found with ease from both, the outer dominated by Frain to qualify.
The Dartagnan faced the very capable Hellraiser Sue Spiers, who had dropped just the one leg to Mitch Halliday after beating her team captain Cheryl McGlynn without reply.
Spiers won the 1st of five legs with 117, D18, but couldn't cope with the incessant high scoring of Frain for 3-1.
All competitors remained for the final and presentation, the top 4 receiving bottles of wine from proprietor Andy Gildea, awards presented in June.
Bob Smith officiated, Simone de Lacy score recorder.
20th March
Venue - MEETING POINT-
Finalists Chelsea & Sharon
Gp1 - Dons, Ann, Lesley
Gp 4 - Ali, Carol, Sharon
Gp 3 - Mitch, Sue, Cheryl
Gp 2 - Chelsea, Sandra, Jane
Sue &Sharon
Chelsea &Lesley
Bob Smith
San Miguel Challenge at Saurines de la Torre
Have you been to the new adventure park that we didn’t know existed in Murcia? Well – we did today – we have renamed Saurines de la Torre as “The Wild & Windy West Parque Aventura” with its newest ride “The Rollercoaster Greens”….. if you’ve played there lately you will understand what I mean!
Another attraction of this new park was the weather feature with the Weather Master switching the sun on and off and the wind machine was on and off also.
In all seriousness, most of the golfers had a few choice words to say about the very undulating greens and pin positions today.
The course overall was lush and green – maybe pre-empting St. Patrick’s Day on Monday. Fast greens, to be sure, to be sure – especially if you didn’t putt hard enough for your ball to race up the hill onto the plateau of the green and stay there.
I witnessed one such incident of the ball rolling back down the hill three times to end up in the
same position at the putter’s feet (you know who you are…). To say the day was challenging is a slight understatement.
44 set off into the desert wilderness with better weather overall than our last outing here, the scores weren’t awful and there were some fancy twos – one of which I again witnessed as a fantastic chip in off the fringe of the green on hole 2.
The category winners today were:
Gold: Steve Webb (36 points) joint best score of the day
Silver: Matt Newman (35 points)
Bronze: Ivan Hanak (36 points) joint best score of the day
The Twos Pot was shared between Paul Lambert, Tony Smale, Tommy McGinn and Rod East. With Nearest the Pins winning a sleeve of balls for Guy Wade Palmer, Denis Ryan, Kev Allbright and Paul Guest.
Our best guest and previous member, also winning a sleeve of balls, was Robert GIllies. Matt
Winners (and the unusual suspects) pictured (L to R) Ivan Hanak (Bronze),Mickey Roscoe (PBomber),Darren Strugnell (President) Lee Eastman (Captain),Steve Webb (Gold),Tony Smale (PBomber) and Matt Newman (Silver).Well done all (well nearly all…).
Newman also took the coveted football card with Watford (also a season ticket holder there we believe!).
Overall an enjoyable day out and already looking forward to La Serena next week.
CULLEN SHINES AT SAURINES DE LA TORRE
Luckily Paddy’s Point GS enjoyed a dry day for our jaunt to Saurines de La Torre.
It did get a bit windy but apart from that it was fine and although the greens were not at their best it didn’t stop some great scoring as you will see from the results.
Paddy’s Point once again saw that were all well fed when we got back, this time it was fish and chips, thank you Rory, Hazel and all your hard working staff, you are the best.
I must add that It was great to see our Vice Captain back on the fairways after a forced lay off, well played Carmel, lovely to have you back.
Next month is our big one, Captain’s Day. Mar Menor for the golf followed by our evening meal and presentation of prizes at Los Angeles Restaurant. Look out your glad rags folks..
RESULTS - NTP - Declan Doyle, Pat Coyne, Declan Smyth & Jim Fegan. LONG DRIVE - Mick Ruttledge & Sheila Coyne. Arthur Lambe & Jim Fegan shared the 2’s pot.
BEST GUEST - John Byrne 34 pts.
3rd place - Sheila Coyne 38pts, 2nd - Bill Kelleher 38pts c/b and the winner of the St Patrick’s Day Trophy was, the man himself, Mr Paul Cullen with a fantastic 45, yes, 45 pts. Well done Paul.
STRONG WINDS CHALLENGE INBETWEENERS
The Inbetweeners Golf Society held their away game at Bonalba Golf Course this week, proudly sponsored by Toldos4sun.
Despite the wet and windy weather in the days leading up to the event, members arrived well-prepared with waterproofs and umbrellas.
To their surprise, the course was dry and in playable condition.
The strong winds in the morning made it challenging to secure nearest the pin prizes on the par 3 holes. However, by early afternoon, the winds calmed, and the sun made an appearance, making the back nine much more enjoyable for everyone.
It turned out to be a successful day for all, with several high scores recorded.
Nearest the Pin Winners: Hole 8: David Howells, Hole 14: Ian Wanty, The Day’s
Winners:
3rd Place: Lesley Cullen with 31 pts, 2nd Place: Ian Wanty with 32 pts, 1st Place (and winner of the Toldos4sun Trophy): Frank Cullen with 37 pts
After play concluded, all participants gathered at Bonalba’s Restaurant for welldeserved refreshments, where the winners were presented with their prizes.
The Inbetweeners Golf Society would like to sincerely thank Toldos4sun for their generous sponsorship and support.
If you're interested in joining a golf society that prioritises fun, camaraderie, and friendly competition, we’d love to have you!
Visit our website at www.inbetweenersgolfsociety.com to learn more about membership and upcoming events. We welcome golfers of all skill levels!
We’d also like to say a big Get Well Soon to Norman McBride, one of our very regular players who is currently in Torrevieja Hospital. We want you back on the course soon!
Vic Smith Claims La Marina win at Alicante
La Marina Golf Society arrived in Alicante prepared for wet weather conditions, as various regions in Spain were experiencing flooding and weather warnings. However, these concerns proved to be unfounded as we enjoyed fair weather throughout the day, with precipitation occurring only late in the afternoon.
Despite Alicante's tee boxes being largely devoid of grass, several impressive scores were recorded, with two-thirds of players achieving 30 points or more.
The presentation took place at the Sports Complex, where the Captain, Alan Craig, began by welcoming new member Gordon (Jock) Reeves to his first game with the society. Alan continued with the announcement of winners as follows:
Nearest the pin on hole 3: Vic Smith, on hole 6: Alan Craig, on hole 12: Anita Stokes, on hole 17: Paul McCabe
There were no 2s recorded today; therefore, the 2s pot will roll over again for the third time to El Plantio on March 20th, with the first tee at 10:00 AM for the Scandinavian Cup.
Members are reminded that the presentation for this game will take place later that evening at Bar 13 from 7:30 PM.
Several match play games occurred at Alicante, with Dave Slightam defeating Alan Craig 4-2; Mike Cunningham defeating Gordon Thursfield 2-1; and Vic Smith defeating Iain Lyall 5-4.
The results of today's Stableford competition are as follows:
Sue Lyall in third place with 39 points (handicap 37), Gerry McCabe in second place with 41 points (handicap 26),
The winner on a card play-off, also with 41 points (handicap 33), Vic Smith.
Congratulations to all the winners.
For more information please check on lamarinagolfsociety.eu.
17 National Teams to Train at Pinatar Arena in Late March
Pinatar Arena has announced the list of national teams that will be based at the training complex from March 17 to 25.
A total of 16 teams, including Iceland, Spain U21, Kosovo, Czech Republic U21, Germany U18, and the Netherlands U18, have once again chosen Costa Cálida to prepare for their upcoming international fixtures.
ICELAND TO PLAY HOME MATCH IN MURCIA
Due to renovation work at Laugardalsvöllur Stadium, Iceland will face Kosovo* in a crucial UEFA Nations League match on Sunday, March 23, at 18:00, determining promotion or relegation between Division B and C.
This will be the second UEFA Nations League match played in Murcia in the coming days, as Ukraine will host Belgium three days earlier.
Tickets are available at www.compralaentrada.com
SPAIN U21 RETURNS TO MURCIA
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has scheduled a friendly against the Czech Republic U21 team in preparation for the upcoming U21 EURO in Slovakia this June.
Match: Spain U21 __ vs. Czech Republic U21 __
Venue: Artés Carrasco Stadium, Lorca
Date & Time: Friday, March 21, at 19:30
MINI EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP AT PINATAR
Over the course of the event, Pinatar Arena will host 18 international matches, with 15 of them taking place at the complex. The tournament will feature: U21 Teams: Czech Republic, Hungary, Scotland, Republic of Ireland, Iceland, and Norway.
20:00 - Republic of Ireland U21 vs. Scotland U21 (Pinatar)
Netherlands U18 v Germany U18
19:30 - Spain U21 vs. Czech
MARCH 22, 2025
17:00 - Sweden U18 vs. Austria U18 (Pinatar)
14:00 - Poland U18 vs. Scotland U18 (Pinatar)
MARCH 23, 2025
18:00 - Iceland NT vs. Kosovo NT (Murcia)
12:00 - Denmark U18 vs. Wales U18 (Pinatar)
17:00 - Germany U18 vs. Netherlands U18 (Pinatar)
MARCH 24, 2025
20:00 - Hungary U21 vs. Ireland U21 (Pinatar)
14:00 - Czech Republic U21 vs. Norway U21 (Pinatar)
MARCH 25, 2025
11:00 - Sweden U18 vs. Poland U18 (Pinatar)
14:00 - Iceland U21 vs. Scotland U21 (Pinatar)
Fans in San Pedro del Pinatar will get to watch some of the most promising young talents in international football, with several matches also being broadcast live.
