Asurge in violent crime has left Orihuela Costa residents shaken, following a recent shooting that critically injured a man, and an attempted kidnapping just days later.
Locals are demanding immediate reinforcements for law enforcement and heightened security measures as fear spreads across the coastal community.
The shooting occurred on May 13 in La Zenia, a bustling district known for its eateries and shopping hubs.
The victim remains in critical condition, and the Civil Guard investigation is ongoing. Authorities have yet to release full details, but sources confirm the attack happened close to a number of popular tourist spots
Only days after the shooting, an attempted abduction further unsettled the community. The incident, which took place last Monday, was narrowly avoided when the intended victim escaped.
Witnesses described the suspects’ vehicle as either a grey Volkswagen Golf or a Mazda estate.
Neighbourhood group Unidos por la Costa was informed by Local Police and quickly issued a public alert on social media seeking eyewitness accounts.
However, the city’s ability to communicate effectively has been hindered by the ongoing inactivity of the Local Police's official social media channels—silent since April due to a dispute between the city council and retired commissioner Jose Maria Pomares.
Residents argue this silence has only deepened public anxiety and impaired community safety.
Unidos por la Costa is now calling for a comprehensive overhaul of public safety strategies.
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE
ORIHUELA COSTA SECURITY FEARS
Their proposals include deploying more patrol units, extending hours at the emergency centre, providing interpreter services for international residents, restoring online police updates, and introducing surveillance technologies like drones and CCTV.
The ruling PP-Vox coalition was further criticised for failing to fully utilise the area's large emergency centre, pointing to insufficient staffing—particularly a lack of firefighters and civil protection teams—and only a thin police presence.
Speaking to The Leader on Thursday, Councillor for the Coast, Sr Manuel Mestre, acknowledged that security is of concern, as we highlighted examples of recent events.
We also raised concerns about the inefficient use of the limited police resources, pointing out that dispatching three patrol cars to a bar over loud music is not an appropriate response.
Additionally, we asked about an increase in the number of police and Guardia Civil officers assigned to the coast, which the councillor promised to follow-up.
With its population swelling to over 100,000 in peak season and its sprawling urban layout, Orihuela Costa poses unique policing challenges.
Many residences remain unoccupied during off-season months, making them prime targets for illegal squatting—an issue particularly acute in areas like Cabo Roig.
Although local officials launched a task force last year to combat home squatting and have reported a decline in incidents, residents insist that more needs to be done.
Public concern over safety reached a boiling point last November following the murder of
READY MADE HUB:
The ruling PP-Vox coalition was further criticised for failing to fully utilise the area's large Emergency Centre
15-year-old Cloe, allegedly by two 17-year-old friends. Her death highlighted longstanding problems in the area: poor lighting, abandoned properties used for drugs and parties, and a general lack of infrastructure.
The notorious “Chinese House” in La Florida— long a hotspot for illegal activity—symbolises these broader issues.
In response to the tragedy, the police acted by sealing off several unsafe properties and fining owners for negligence. Yet concerns persist, particularly at IES Playa Flamenca, the school attended by both Cloe and her accused killers. Parents continue to report drug use, weapons,
and violence on and near to the campus.
Compounding the sense of insecurity, a family was mistakenly held at gunpoint in their Lomas de Cabo Roig home shortly before Cloe’s murder when armed intruders entered the wrong address.
Residents believe these events are not isolated, but symptoms of a growing and dangerous pattern.
With pressure mounting from both residents and advocacy groups, Orihuela Costa’s leaders, once again, face urgent calls to restore order and safety to a community on edge.
Orihuela Costa’s Coastal Walkway Blocked for yet another Summer
Legal Battles, Bureaucratic Delays, and a Long Road to Reopening a Beloved Coastal Walkway
Residents and tourists in Orihuela Costa will face yet another summer without access to the popular pedestrian pathway connecting Aguamarina and La Caleta at Cabo Roig, near the Bellavista urbanisation. Although plans are in motion, bureaucratic and logistical delays mean the long-awaited reopening won’t happen in time for the 2025 summer season.
The Orihuela Council had hoped to complete the necessary work following an expropriation ruling in mid-April. However, with demolition, paving, and public lighting installations still pending—and a projected construction timeline of two months—the goal of reopening before the tourist season has become unattainable. The project is budgeted at e38,305.
City officials maintain that “everything is underway,” but critical steps remain, including final authorization from the Provincial Coastal Authority. While that approval was technically granted in April 2023, it came with a one-year deadline, now expired. Meanwhile, the City has already deposited e26,180 for the expropriation of the required land, following a valuation by the Provincial Expropriation Jury.
A LONG AND COMPLEX DISPUTE
The saga dates back more than a decade. Originally, the 227-square-meter stretch of land—perched on a cliff—was closed off by residents of the Bellavista urbanisation, who built a wall in 2013.
The area had long been used as a scenic coastal footpath. Although the land was earmarked for public use under the 1990 General Urban Development Plan and the Coastal Law, it had never been formally expropriated.
In 2013, then-Socialist councillor Antonio Zapata began legal proceedings to restore public access, leading to the demolition of the wall in 2015. That move was short-lived.
In 2016, an Elche administrative court ruled in favor of the residents, determining the path had never officially been public domain and ordering its closure and the restoration of the wall.
Further appeals ensued. In 2020, the Valencia High Court (TSJ) upheld that ruling, stating the wall had been legally constructed prior to the enforcement of the current Coastal Law and condemning the council’s 2015 demolition as illegal. The court ordered the City to restore the wall and declared null and void the local government's 2013 demolition order. Despite a Coastal Authority report in 2017 asserting the path fell under a public right-of-way, the courts concluded otherwise due to the timing of the wall’s construction. As a result, the path was formally closed again in December 2021, forcing pedestrians to make a 2-kilometer detour around a 60-meter stretch.
MILLIONS DEMANDED, THOUSANDS APPROVED
The compensation battle added further complexity.
SHUTTERED:
A symbol of bureaucratic inertia and legal entanglement.
Initially, the residents of Bellavista and the company Cabo Roig S.A., which owns part of the land, demanded a combined total of over e3 million. The city, however, valued the land at just over e69,000. The Provincial Jury ultimately sided with the City’s lower valuation, setting the compensation at just e26,180.
Despite the contentious process, the 2024 municipal budget earmarked e600,000 for expropriation and the reopening works. Yet, the legal and procedural hurdles have pushed the project well beyond its initial timeline.
A PATH FORWARD—EVENTUALLY
The pedestrian route, once a jewel of the Orihuela Costa promenade, remains shuttered, a symbol of bureaucratic inertia and legal entanglement.
While the Town Hall insists the reopening is still a priority, residents are left waiting—once again—for the return of a path that many consider a vital link in the coastal walkway and a beloved attraction of the area.
For now, it seems likely that the sun will set on another summer without the Aguamarina-La Caleta coastal connection.
MONEY - THE ROUTE OF ALL EVIL (But I want my share!)
On Sunday, May 11th, Orihuela Costa witnessed yet another grim moment in its recent history—another wildfire broke out in the Las Ramblas Golf area, the second in less than a year. The first occurred in June 2024, and while no one has been officially held accountable, many locals believe the fires are no coincidence. Speculation is rife that they were started—directly or indirectly—by developers eager to clear the land for new construction. It's hard to ignore the pattern: valuable land burns, nature disappears, and concrete quickly follows.
These weren’t just fires—they were ecological disasters. Pine trees, native shrubs, and diverse wildlife were lost, and it will take decades to recover. But let’s be honest: recovery isn’t part of the plan. The only thing that seems to regenerate faster than the forest is the profit margin of those who benefit from its destruction.
This isn’t new. Years ago, a similar fire ravaged land near the Roman arches at Campoamor Beach—an area home to the rare jarilla cabeza de gato flower. That land now hosts 250 new homes. The connection is as disturbing as it is obvious. Fires clear protected land, and shortly after, the developers move in with their blueprints and permits in hand. How convenient!
The real question is: who’s enabling it? In theory, politicians make development proposals, but it's the municipal technicians who sign off on them. These professionals are supposed to uphold regulations and safeguard the public interest. But time and again, developments are approved in flood zones and protected green areas. Either these technicians are incompetent—or as many people suggest, they’ve been compromised.
As always, money speaks louder than public safety. How else can we explain the flood of construction projects in
areas that should never have been touched?
Residents have had enough. In a letter dated November 1st, Jesus Gil of the Las Ramblas Residents Association wrote to Mayor Jose Vegara, citing years of ignored complaints about the neglect, fire risk, and flood dangers in the area. Their warnings were ignored—until tragedy struck. Again. Now, developers are moving in near the Nacimiento River, where they plan to build 64 tourist residences. The land is known to be flood-prone. Yet, Orihuela’s current urban planning councillor, Matias Ruiz—formerly a civil engineer with the very same developer—claims the area is safe from flooding “for the next 500 years.” many residents suggest that this would seem to be more like collusion than planning. This is the crux of the crisis: decisions are not being made based on science, law, or public interest. They’re being made based on relationships, past favours, and—allegedly—the contents of an envelope. The laws of nature and man are ignored when euros are on the table.
Orihuela Costa is being sold off, one fire and flood at a time. And as long as such incentives are being offered, the community, the environment, and the future will remain up for grabs.
AACC CANCER CHARITY CHAMPION CELEBRATED AT ROYAL GARDEN PARTY Hospital Guards on the Frontline
Maria Wilson BEM joined some 7,000 guests at Buckingham Palace for the Royal Garden Party on Tuesday 20 May 2025. Invited alongside her husband, Carl, Maria was honoured in recognition of her British Empire Medal for services to cancer charity work.
Over the past fifteen years, Maria has dedicated herself to raising awareness of the vital importance of early cancer detection and to securing much-needed funds for the AACC in Alicante. Her founding role in the Pink Ladies has provided comfort, information, and community to thousands of people across the Orihuela Costa.
On a glorious spring afternoon, guests strolled through the palace’s South Lawn, enjoying tea, sandwiches, and strawberries & cream under marquees festooned with bunting.
Prince William and the Princess of Wales were in attendance, alongside the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and
Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice. Maria did not meet members of the Royal Family directly, but she had the thrill of seeing them close up as they moved among the guests.
“It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Maria reflected. “To be there with so many remarkable individuals, all recognised for their service, it was incredibly inspiring.”
By day’s end, Maria had not only represented her charity with grace and warmth, but had also furthered its profile on a national stage—demonstrating that tireless local commitment can indeed be celebrated at the highest levels.
Congratulations to Maria Wilson BEM on a memorable celebration at the heart of British public life.
Maria would like to thank all current and past Pink Lady volunteers for their support over the years noting that her BEM is in recognition of their tireless work as a group.
The University Hospital of Torrevieja, a key healthcare provider for over 215,000 people in the Vega Baja region, is facing a sharp rise in security incidents.
In 2024, private guards responded to 1,013 incidents—a 39% increase from 2023—including patient outbursts, family disturbances, and six physical assaults. The Emergency Department, with 83,000 visits last year, remains a hotspot. Security also dealt with mechanical restraints, unauthorized departures, thefts, and false fire alarms.
Despite the strain, only three locations, the hospital and two Medical Centres, have consistent security coverage. Healthcare unions are pushing for more protection at other facilities. While patient complaints numbered 413, over 350 positive notes were also recorded.
As summer approaches and the population grows, staff are urging more investment in both healthcare services and essential security infrastructure.
Maria and Carl arriving at Buckingham Palace
Healthcare Unions are asking for better protection
Torrevieja to introduce dedicated Traffic Officers in a bid to modernise Policing
Torrevieja is set to launch its first-ever team of traffic mobility officers, a move aimed at improving traffic control and easing pressure on the city’s overstretched police force.
The City Council has approved 21 new positions—20 officers and one senior technician—who will focus exclusively on trafficrelated duties.
These officers will manage school drop-off zones, loading and unloading areas, public transport stops, and general traffic flow.
While part of the municipal police structure, they won’t carry firearms or handle criminal cases. Their powers will be limited to issuing fines and drafting traffic reports.
Classified under the C2 civil servant category, these roles come with a lower pay grade than Local Police but still require uniforms and operate under police supervision. Their creation is part of a broader municipal reorganization, which repurposed over 60 administrative roles—allowing for a quicker implementation without needing central government approval.
Although Torrevieja has been eligible to create this type of unit since 2006, when it was declared a “large population” municipality, it is only now acting on the opportunity. Other similar-sized cities in Spain already use such officers. Initially, the team will be based at the Local Police headquarters on the CV-905, near Carrefour. However, the council is consid-
Asoka renews it’s deal to run Orihuela Animal Shelter
Orihuela’s City Council has renewed its partnership with nonprofit Asoka to manage the city’s Animal Protection Center (CPA) in Lo Arques, San Bartolome. The e778,392.50 contract runs for three years, with an option to extend for up to five.
Under the agreement, Asoka will handle the care and management of abandoned, lost, or confiscated animals, oversee feral cat colonies, and maintain the facility. The center is equipped to care for about 800 animals per year and includes speciesspecific enclosures, a surgical unit, and quarantine zones.
Health Councillor Irene Celdron emphasized that the contract ensures quality care, highlighting services like veterinary treatment, adoption coordination, dog training, and strict hygiene measures.
Registered as Zoological Center A-0361, the CPA can house 192 dogs, 74 cats, and up to 10 large animals. Celdron stressed the value of centralized management, saying a single operator is vital for the animals’ physical and emotional wellbeing.
ering a new, centralised location, as earlier plans to expand the current facility were shelved.
This move follows the permanent appointment of 40 previously temporary officers, bringing the city’s total police staff to around 180. With upcoming recruitment, the force may surpass 200 by mid-2026.
Led by security councillor Federico Alarcon, the broader plan includes restructuring police leadership and enhancing patrol coverage—especially along the coast. While funding for a new police station is still pending, the launch of the traffic mobility team marks a key step toward smarter urban traffic management.
Whether you’re craving a refreshing mojito, a signature Palms punch, or a crisp glass of rosé, our Happy Hour offer makes it twice as nice. From sunset spritzers to pre-dinner cocktails, enjoy buy one drink and get the second at half price—all served with a side of sun and style.
When and Where?
Join us every day from 4 till 8PM at The Palms, where the poolside setting, chilled beats, and gourmet bar bites make every evening feel like a celebration.
The Palms Beach Club – Where every hour is happy, but this one’s just a little bit sweeter.
PRIDE IN THEIR SAND AS PILAR EARNS TOP ENVIRONMENTAL HONOURS
Six beaches in Pilar de la Horadada will once again proudly display the prestigious Blue Flag.
On Monday, Mayor Jose Maria Perez and Environment Councillor Pedro Miguel Moya travelled to Javea to receive the flags from the
Valencian Minister for the Environment.
The awarded beaches include Higuericas, Puerto, Conde, Jesuitas, Calas de Rocamar, and Mil Palmeras. Blue Flags are granted
BENEJUZAR TO OPEN PERMANENT ECO-PARK TO BOOST
SUSTAINABILITY
Benejuzar will establish a permanent eco-park to improve waste management and support environmental goals. Mayor Vicente Cases highlighted the facility’s role in enhancing selective waste collection and offering free, accessible disposal services. Located on a 2,500 m2
municipal plot in the La Ceramica industrial estate, the park will accept items like electronics, appliances, paint, and furniture. Environmental Councillor Jose Antonio Martinez called it a key step in preventing illegal dumping and promoting recycling. The project follows collaboration with Vega Baja and Alicante officials, and complements the town’s current mobile eco-park program. Construction planning will begin in the coming weeks.
based on strict criteria such as water quality, environmental education, beach cleanliness, management, and available services.
At the regional ceremony, 164 flags were awarded to beaches and marinas across the Valencian Community, reinforcing its position as the Spanish region with the most Blue Flags.
Mayor Perez highlighted the dedication and investment made by the local council to achieve and maintain this recognition.
Councillor Moya praised the exceptional coastal water quality and explained that the presence of posidonia (a type of seagrass, often mistaken for seaweed) is a clear indicator of a healthy marine ecosystem.
This plant requires clear, oxygen-rich waters to thrive, underscoring the excellent environmental conditions of the area’s coastlines.
DRIVER ARRESTED AFTER 20-KM WRONG-WAY DRIVE ON AP-7
A 74-year-old man was arrested after driving 20 kilometers in the wrong direction on the AP-7 motorway near Cartagena last week.
The Civil Guard responded after multiple calls reported the dangerous situation.
Officers intercepted the vehicle at kilometer 799, safely bringing it to a stop.
The driver refused a breathalyzer test and was arrested for reckless driving and failing to comply with alcohol testing.
Authorities later revealed he had been arrested three days earlier in Valencia for a similar offense, also involving wrong-way driving on another motorway.
The incident occurred in the early hours and posed a serious risk to road users.
Mayor Jose Maria and Councillor Pedro Miguel Moya travelled to Javea to receive the flags
Your doctor knows you inside-out......
About 30 years ago a young doctor, new in town, walked into the Squash Club. Those were heady days to be an Offaly man with a love of hurling and keeping fit. We connected from the start and that man and I have been friends ever since.
There are a few people we all meet during a lifetime that we can say it is a blessing and a privilege to know. Liam is one such person; someone whom I can quite literally declare that my wife and I trust with our life; and that trust has been proven to be well founded.
At that time, in the mid 90s, I would still have been in that bumptious bracket claiming that nobody should ever go near a doctor unless they are sick. Let’s just say that luckily for me, people like Liam changed my mind.
Twice since then I have been diagnosed with cancer that only for early diagnosis and surgery would have killed me by now. He has also been instrumental in saving my wife’s life in the past year. Dr Liam is not the only great doctor at the centre – but he is the one who ‘knows me inside out!’
Now, having established the fact that waiting to be sick before your visit to the doctor is waiting too long; recently my inquisitive mind is asking if it has gone too far in the opposite direction;
and if some patients push it so far as to be over-diagnosed?
Was it Alexander Pope who said; ‘a little knowledge is a dangerous thing?’
A lot of people are now having their first consultation with ‘Doctor Google’; before attending their GP expecting to have their own diagnosis endorsed. Some time back I heard a man say that
he was just back from seeing his doctor with a problem. ‘It didn’t take long, because I had Googled it and was able to tell him what I needed’, the man said.
All I can say is that doctors are patient people … because if I was that doctor, it wouldn’t have taken long either! Hypochondriacs probably cannot help
themselves and worrying about their health when there is nothing to worry about is very real in that patients head.
The doctor will give that patient the same time as anybody else in order to reassure them that they don’t have the disease they fear.
Regular readers of YCBS will be only too well aware that what we write here doesn’t have to be ‘right’ A column is only an opinion, but coming back to our earlier point, I wonder has mainstream medicine moved into the realm of over-diagnosis? Let me explain what I am on about.
The latest technology has made it possible to detect disease years before it would naturally make itself known through symptoms.
Modern medics can detect the earliest signs of say Alzheimer’s Disease, dormant neurological condition and other afflictions that might not affect the patient for another 20 years … if ever. I know that if I had the choice, I wouldn’t want to know until I had to.
Look at all the worry and anxiety not knowing would save? And remember, ‘worry is interest paid on a debt not due!’ Not every cancer cell grows to threaten life, but when they are found on early tests, they have to be treated with equal aggression to a ‘big C’.
The pharmaceutical industry has a vested interest in promoting (unnecessary?) medical tests. Also my old bugbear of social media is adding to the contribution of encouraging over-diagnosis.
The Lads and myself, back in the old never-go-to-a-doctorunless-you’re-sick, days would have claimed that the more tests you have, the more likely the outcome will be they will find some borderline abnormality to start treating you for. Today, there may be some truth in that assertion due to the over-diagnosis.. Having said all of the above, when I get a call from Liam telling me; ‘your bloods are due to be done’, my answer is always; ‘how soon can you see me!’
Despite enduring many illnesses during her lifetime; great medical care and modern medicine allowed my mother to enjoy a marvelous quality of life until the age of 95. I remember being out canvassing with Pat Coogan many years ago.
We called to a house of an elderly family I was friendly with and I asked Mick; ‘you know Pat, don’t you?’ Mick’s answer stuck in my mind and it says everything about all of the above. ‘Why wouldn’t I know him – and his brother keeping three of us alive!’ The brother was their doctor. We wrote a column earlier this year on nursing and the caring profession – which brought in an unprecedented response.
Most of us have our own special doctor – whom we hold in admiration, respect and affection. And why wouldn’t we … ‘and he keeping all of us alive!!’
DON’T FORGET
There are not great men except those who have rendered service to mankind
LA HOYA STREETS HONOUR LOCAL RESIDENTS
Torrevieja City Council has officially approved the naming of 16 streets in the new La Hoya urban development, a major expansion project expected to house more than 7,000 homes.
The street names pay tribute to local teachers, artists, clergy, political figures, and other individuals who have played significant roles in the city’s cultural and social fabric.
Leading the list is Avenida Canonigo Antonio Pamies Andreu, honouring a prominent local clergyman, and Calle Don Vicente Castell Ibañez, a revival of a 1981approved name for a former mayor and merchant.
Nine other names had previously been approved by mayoral decree
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE
Do you have space on your sofa for Lucky Dos? At 10 years old, he’s still full of love and has so much to give to someone special.
in 2014 for the Los Balcones area but were never implemented until now.
Among the newly designated names are Avenida Almirante Blas de Lezo, Calle Jose Manuel Gutiurrez Rodriguez, and Calle Maria Garrigos de la Hoz, the latter commemorating a young woman who died in a tragic accident.
A central plaza and the development’s only parking area will both be named after Jose Luis Serna, founder of TM Grupo Inmobiliario, a lead developer of La Hoya.
Streets will also carry the names of community-nominated figures such as Don Gabriel Ballester Garcia and Doña Joaquina Lorente, highlighting the area's close-knit local identity.
HEALTHCARE CRISIS IN SAN MIGUEL AND LOS MONTESINOS WITH LACK OF DOCTORS
Residents of San Miguel de Salinas and Los Montesinos are raising alarm over a mounting healthcare crisis, with just eight family doctors serving a population of over 15,000—equating to nearly 2,000 patients per doctor, far above the regional average of one to 1300.
On Wednesday, the Platform for 100% Public and Quality Healthcare staged a protest outside the San Miguel health centre, temporarily blocking 19 de Abril Street in the town centre. Demonstrators demanded that the Valencian Generalitat fulfil its 2023 promise to expand the facility, address staff shortages, and improve public transport links to Torrevieja University Hospital.
Despite a 2023 commitment from Torrevieja Health Department manager Jose Cano to study a centre expansion, no visible progress has been made. Protesters labelled the promise a "broken commitment" as appointment wait times stretch far beyond the 48-hour standard for primary care access.
The situation is especially dire in the basic health area, which also serves Los Montesinos and Entre Naranjos. The region suffers from some of the longest delays in the entire health department, with healthcare professionals overwhelmed and infrastructure struggling to keep pace with population growth—fueled by a current construction boom of 3,000 new homes.
The platform also criticized the lack of regular public transport to Torrevieja Hospital, calling it a major barrier to accessing essential services. "We need a functioning public transport system, not more asphalt," said spokesperson Eva Delafuente.
Among the demonstrators were Socialist mayors Juan de Dios Fresneda (San Miguel) and Jose Manuel Butron (Los Montesinos), alongside regional deputy Ana Belen Juarez.
Their presence sparked some criticism, as they had been largely absent from similar protests during the previous regional administration.
CALL FOR BRITISH RESIDENTS IN ALICANTE PROVINCE TO GET A TIE
The British Embassy in Spain is urging British residents in the provinces of Alicante and Málaga to exchange their Green Certificates for the biometric TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) as a matter of urgency.
This renewed push follows new data from the Spanish Ministry for Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations, which shows that a significant number of British nationals in these two regions still hold the outdated Green Certificate.
The urgency stems from the upcoming implementation of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), expected to begin in October 2025. Under this new system, non-EU nationals entering the
Schengen Area must register their personal and biometric data unless they hold a valid biometric residency card—such as the TIE. The Green Certificate does not meet these requirements and will not be recognised at EU borders.
This means British residents with Green Certificates may be denied entry, wrongly identified as tourists overstaying their 90-day limit, or even sent back to the UK. Although an appeals process exists, it may require the individual to return to the UK while the case is resolved.
With hundreds of thousands of British nationals travelling through Alicante and Málaga airports annually, the Embassy
stresses that it is critical for remaining Green Certificate holders to act now. Most residents have already made the switch, and those who haven't are urged to do so immediately.
His Majesty’s Ambassador to Spain, Sir Alex Ellis, praised the efforts of community groups helping raise awareness and encouraged anyone still holding a Green Certificate to make the change by October.
The Embassy has increased outreach across both provinces, working with local charities, town halls, and media outlets to assist British residents in securing their TIE in time.
TORREVIEJA’S DESALINATION PLANT DILEMMA SPARKS OUTRAGE OVER THREAT TO HOSPITAL EXPANSION
Astorm is brewing in Torrevieja as the national government’s proposal for a second desalination plant faces fierce backlash—this time over fears it could derail long-overdue plans to expand the city’s university hospital.
The only land identified for the new plant, which would produce 100 hectometres of water annually for agriculture, lies directly between the existing desalination facility, the salt lagoon, and
the hospital. But critics warn the 90,000 square metres required would block any future hospital expansion, potentially costing Torrevieja critical healthcare resources just as demand is rising sharply.
Mayor and regional MP Eduardo Dolon (PP) has taken an unusually strong stance, warning the proposal would “eliminate any chance” of enlarging the hospital—echoing calls from healthcare professionals who suggest a second hos-
pital may soon be necessary.
The plan has also exposed internal rifts. While Murcia’s PSOE leader prematurely announced Torrevieja as the confirmed site, local PSPV-PSOE leaders were left in the dark, sparking frustration and revealing a worrying disconnect within the party.
Alicante’s sub-delegate, Juan Antonio Nieves, has since walked back the certainty, insisting the location is “not yet decided.”
Experts have also raised red flags. No technical studies have been carried out, no public consultation launched, and no state-owned land is available. The area is already saturated with major infrastructure—from the current plant to the hospital, sewage works, and power lines—all within a zone awaiting urgent road upgrades.
Some suggest revisiting Guardamar del Segura as a more viable option. As climate pressures mount, Torrevieja must weigh sustainable water needs against the right to adequate healthcare.
Placing two critical developments in direct conflict, with no clear plan, risks sacrificing both.
Firefighters Threaten to Pull Summer Coverage in Pilar de la Horadada
Firefighters in Alicante have warned that unless stalled labour agreements are resolved, there will be no summer fire coverage this year in Pilar de la Horadada and Santa Pola—two of the province’s busiest tourist towns.
Seasonal fire units typically run from June 15 to September 15, staffed by volunteers during their time off. But this year, those volunteers are refusing to serve, citing broken agreements by the Alicante Provincial Fire Consortium.
Though crucial for tackling fires, rescues, and accidents during the high season, the coverage is unpaid and depends on voluntary participation. A e1 million budget has been allocated, yet union reps say no commitments will be made until demands—including reduced shift loads, an end to cross-station coverage, and leadership changes—are met.
Without local coverage, Pilar would rely on distant stations in Torrevieja or Almoradi; Santa Pola would depend on Elche or Crevillent.
With the summer season approaching fast, the standoff threatens not only public safety but also political fallout for local PP-led governments under increasing scrutiny.
The siting of a second desalination plant could affect future expansion plans for the adjacent hospital
The Torrevieja deployment in June last year
DO YOU WANT TO FEEL GR-R-REAT?
At the Sophia Wellness EASY Exercise Centre there are three different circuits that each take 45 minutes to complete, ideally twice or three times a week.
One of the circuits is designed to help people with serious mobility issues following stroke, heart attack, paralysis, joint replacement or long periods of inactivity.
Another circuit has 5 machines for targeted and a more intense workout. The most popular and interesting circuit has 12 machines that focus on all the main muscle groups.
In addition to each of the 3 circuits there are seven vibration plates to help improve circulation.
Unlike a regular gym, you don’t need special clothing. You don’t need to train hard or perspire and ache all over, you don’t even need to shower after a session. This is exercise, but it is EASY exercise.
While the comfortable machines are moving your muscles you can choose to just lie there and do nothing while you are being exercised but if you put in effort in you can gain more from your routine than those who can’t or don’t want to.
Training will be given on your first visit, and more information will be given as you progress. Your mobility and overall flexibility will be apparent within one month. Try for FREE yourself. Call 663 771 345 for a suitable time. All you need to bring with you, for hygiene reasons is a bath towel and a pair of socks.
EASY Exercise is a totally different concept as the machine works you whereas traditional gyms you work the machine. EASY Exercise is designed to be a fun and social experience where you can enjoy yourself and make new friends
Greater mobility, flexibility, reduced muscle and back pain, improved blood circulation and a brighter happier outlook are the main benefits of EASY Exercise. You will be able to walk or climb stairs with increased flexibility of movement.
Regular exercise at the Sophia Wellness Easy Exercise Centre will improve your quality of life enormously.
Don’t just say “I must do something” book a FREE trial today on 663 771 345. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Improved mobility and flexibility will be apparent within one month
DOWN: DOWN:1 Rational; 2 Traffic; 4 O'clock; 5 Entertains; 6 Hindu; 7 Rich; 10 Bring about; 12 Red-nosed; 15 Trident; 16 Strafe; 18 Actor; 19 Snug. Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
3.Reproduce an appropriate entrance, I hear (9)
8.Flat excavations (4)
9.Hurrying to get the gins an' mixers (9)
10.Raid in the street (6)
11.Awanderer? On the contrary, insane (5)
14.Asense of spectacle (5)
15.Incline towards being thin (4)
16.Help for Northern Ireland gets misdirected to Asia (5)
18.Apledge made in the boathouse (4)
20.Knock over the firelighter (5)
21.Agree about being keen (5)
24.Choose the best (6)
25.Complete dismissal of a cockney's charity (3-3-3)
26. Examine love of prohibition (4)
27.Medical man consumed to a higher degree (9)
DOWN DOWN
1.Access to a confession (9)
2.Sum needed to get garage built (9)
4.Study article carried by Communist (4)
5.An area of occupation (5)
6.Angel I found to be pleasant (6)
7.Nurse in attendance (4)
9.Leaders having an interesting time in a Caribbean republic (5)
11.Drain out at the lowest point (5)
12.Handed over an organ indeed (9)
13.Rising prices discovered by Ian in loft conversion (9)
17.An impasse, too, could involve an advantage (5)
19.Have not heard of a Hampshire town (6)
22.The Spanish and the German are senior (5)
23.Writer Victor shows love after an embrace (4) 24.Fit costume (4)
THE LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on
1. What kind of "Babies" reached number one in the album charts on both sides of the Atlantic in 1973?
2. In which 1987 war drama did actor Vincent D'Onofrio gain a film record 32 kg for his role?
3. The all-powerful alien deity Azathoth was a creation of which horror fiction writer?
4. Which organisation's motto is "Nation shall speak peace unto nation"? a. BBC, b. UNO, c. NSA
5. The famous Ali-Foreman fight nicknamed 'Rumble in the Jungle' took place in which city?
6. The movie poster tag line for which 1986 film and Academy Award winner for Best Picture was - "The first casualty of war is innocence"?
7. In the English language, what are the names of the four most populated cities in Germany that end with the letter "n"?
8. Which church in Spain attracts the most visitors? 9. In sport, which two domestic leagues have the highest average attendance figures worldwide?
10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the word "King" or "Queen" somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? a. No phone, no pool, no pets, b. Midnight, I'm a waiting on the 12:05, c. Caviar and cigarettes well
page 20)
versed in etiquette, d. Mundo paparazzi mi amore cicce verdi parasol
11. Nick & Nora, Double Old Fashioned, Flute and Copita are all examples of what?
12. What was American singer and actor Dooley Wilson's most famous role in film?
13. Which player won a record 11 NBA titles in his 13 year career?
14. Although not officially recognised by the ATP, Australian tennis player Sam Groth's serve was once recorded at which record speed? Plus or minus 10 km/h.
15. Suffolk Punch, Abaco Barb, Norman Cob, American Cream Draft, Friesian and Mangalarga Marchador are all examples of what?
16. With which 1983 film does one associate the song "Maniac"?
17. Paarl is a major wine growing area in which country?
18. Which song was a number one hit in the US charts for both Mariah Carey and The Jackson Five?
19. What is the largest member of the weasel family?
20. Which two letters were the title of a number one album on both sides of the Atlantic in 2005?
EILEEN AND DEBBIE DELIVER NUN-STOP COMEDY
Get ready for a night of unforgettable laughter as Eileen and Debbie, the dynamic comedic duo, headline Sister Act at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio.
Renowned for their impeccable timing and boundless energy, these two seasoned performers will transform the stage with their portrayal of nuns whose peaceful convent lives are upended by the arrival of the bold and brassy Doloris.
Their performance promises a delightful mix of heart and hilarity, with divine mischief and sharp comedy that will have audiences in stitches.
electric, delivering both endearing characters and side-splitting moments that make for a truly joyous theatrical experience.
Presented by Studio 32, Sister Act will be performed from Wednesday, May 28 to Saturday, May 31, with evening shows at 7:30 PM and a matinee on the final day at 2:00 PM.
Tickets are priced at e12 and are available at www.costablanca.events or by calling (+34) 679 062 272.
Orihuela Costa Queens of San Juan
Last Saturday, an event was held to mark the presentation and farewell of the Queens of the Fiestas of San Juan in Orihuela Costa.
Guests—including members of the jury, families, residents, and friends— shared a delicious brunch to celebrate the joy and spirit that define our cherished local traditions.
The event served as a tribute to the outgoing queens, honouring their dedication throughout their term.
parking lot in front of Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre, transforming Orihuela Costa into a hub of music, colour, and tradition.
This year’s festival program promises excitement for all ages, with live music performances, the return of the beloved local market, carnival rides and attractions, creative contests, and a wide variety of culinary delights sure to please both residents and visitors.
The Commission works tirelessly to create a calendar of inclusive, festive events that reflect our shared heritage and foster a strong community spirit.
We warmly invite everyone to participate in this celebration of identity, tradition, and joy.
Let us come together to honour the customs that unite us and make Orihuela Costa a truly special place to live and visit.
Eileen and Debbie’s chemistry is
The eevent also welcomed the new queens who will lead the upcoming celebrations.
The San Juan Festivities will take place from June 12 to 30 in the
Don’t miss the chance to witness comedy magic on stage — laughter is guaranteed, and blessings are optional!
This annual celebration is organized by the Orihuela Costa Festival Commission, a community-driven team committed to preserving and promoting the cultural fabric of the region.
For information regarding participation, placing a stand, or entering one of our contests, please call 672 83 51 58 or contact: comisionfiestaoc@gmail.com
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 Tel: 966 799 273 / 660 127 276 www.icatorrevieja.es
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 2018 FORD Ecosport Titanium AUTO - 17,500€ 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.
LOS ALCÁZARES
DIGITAL CAMERA CLUB.
Are you 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
TRANSLATIONS/ EFFICIENT RATES
N
DOCTORS,HOSPITALS, EMPADRON'S.
Documents / medical reports translated.
Rapid dates for TIE cards ( June -July ).Residencia Renewals.Driving licence exchange also available.
Contact : Jason Paul: Mobile 603 86 87 56 / WhatsApp
ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, TORREVIEJA BRANCH
Afriendly and engaging group of people who embrace their ethos of Comradeship, Loyalty, Patriotism & Unity while enjoying a variety of social events, meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 1700 hrs at Silverstoneís 2023 (Bar/Restaurant). Av. Romero, 03176 Montebello, Alicante Contact: Membership Secretary, Carl Louden; email: carllouden@msn.com or Phone +34 678 518 202
ROYAL AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION
COSTA BLANCA
We are a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact is via the RAFAwebsite rafa.org.uk.
ERECTILE DISFUNCTION
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION DO YOU HAVE ED PROBLEMS ?
We have the solution! Jells, cialis, sidenafil. Over 7 products for both men and for ladies! Mixed trial packs. Free delivery throughout Costa delSol, or via post to all the other costas
WhatsApp or call 603117394.
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. 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
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
The next meeting of the RBL Orihuela Costa and District Branch will take place on Monday, 9th June, 2025, at 2:30 PM, with a 3:00 PM start.
The meeting will be held at Gracey’s Bar, La Zenia, located on the top floor close to Lidl, just 2 mins from Pet’s World.
Everyone, including nonmembers, are welcome.
For more info please call +34 616 917 675 or 711 082 090
HELP MAR MENOR
Coffee & Company events on the 2nd Tuesday of every month, at Bar Restaurante Las Claras del Mar Menor, C/ Helena, Los Alcazares 11.00 am until 12.30
Open to all nationalities who may be feeling isolated, lonely or simply hoping to meet new friends.
Our volunteers will be on hand on the day.HELP is a non profit organisation, we raise money from donations to give to local charities within Murcia.
AUTOMOVILES CRESPO
ROYAL BRITISH LEGIO
SILVER CRIME WAVE
One of the most upsetting news stories from the UK is that there’s a distressing increase in pensioners being caught shoplifting.
Supermarkets, convenience stores and shopping malls have been attacked by organised criminal gangs for years now, but a big rise in the cost of living has driven pensioners who in the past were just about managing, into criminality for the first time in their lives.
Staff have noticed some pensioners putting a jar of coffee for example, into their trolley and slipping another into a pocket.
It’s a dilemma for the management who don’t want the bad publicity from prosecuting a hard-up pensioner.
The Labour government’s crass decision to axe the pensioners’ winter fuel allowance for almost all, rather than doing what Labour traditionally does to tax the better off, has added to the plight of those pensioners who have not built up a next egg over their lifetime.
The number of shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales has risen to the highest level on record, according to official figures, surpassing half-a-million offences for the first time in 2024.
A total of 516,971 shoplifting offences were ot reported, because last year, a 20% increase on the 429,873 in 2023, according to the Office for National Statistics. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, because there are countless offences not reported because shopkeepers believe it’s just a waste of time. The sad thing is that the huge wave of crimes just puts prices up at the shops.
How sad has Britain got? Especially when you consider that countless millions of pounds of tax raised in Britain which should be helping improve the lot of the British but are instead being spent housing illegal immigrants.
* And on this subject, it has been revealed that a landlord who has rented out his properties to the government to house immigrants has become a billionaire.
What an indictment on Britain. It’s no wonder that with some people making mega bucks over immigration, including human rights lawyers and the like, there’s a reluctance on the part of some to act with determination to cut the flood of illegals crossing the Channel.
REPTILES OVER RENEWABLES
Environmental campaigners are out in force yet again in the UK – this time worried about “snakes and lizards” at risk from the laying of
Tony Mayes Rant
an electricity cable from an offshore wind farm.
Emotions ran so high at a council meeting in North Devon that security guards had to be posted on the doors – all because the council was to debate whether to give permission for cables to be laid under one of the UK’s top tourist beaches and under dunes above high water mark.
Isn’t it about time that environmentalists got the message that the UK needs to act on climate change and solar and wind power plays an important part in that.
The cables will go underground and I’m sure that any snakes and lizards around will have the good sense to move out of the way while a trench is cut for the cables.
Thank goodness the council, for once, had the sense to grant permission, but it’s cost a fortune because of months of campaigns, site visits, ecological and economic reports. No wonder the UK is in the economic mess it’s in trying to cope with the barmy squad!
DRIVING HIGH
Sometimes I get the impression that Spain is pure crazy, and an example of this is the news that
the Spanish Interior Ministry has ordered police not to fine drug users they find in possession or using drugs in parked cars, as long as it is not involved in trafficking.
Police unions, quite rightly, are furious over this instruction.
The Ministry order is because a parked car is considered “a private space” and in Spain, drug possession and consumption is decriminalised on private property.
The instruction, signed by Secretary of State for Security, Rafael Perez Ruiz, is based on the idea that personal vehicles are objects “closely related to the privacy of their owners” and that they are protected with “a reasonable expectation of privacy.”
So police, suspicious that a would-be driver has taken drugs have to wait until that driver drives away before they can act. Come on Mr Ruiz, think again and quickly, before lives are lost through this nonsense.
You wouldn’t be too pleased if a drugged up driver crashed into you or a family member and police did nothing to prevent it because of your stupid diktat.
police in the UK have totally over-reacted because of social media posts.
Critics say people should spend more time investigating real crimes – and there are many of them – and not concerning themselves on non crimes.
It is not an easy call for police because there have been several reported instances where terrorists and people with mental disorders have posted their thoughts on social media before setting off on killing sprees.
But it’s not much fun for a totally innocent person – and a retired special constable at that – is treated in such an appalling manner.
Perhaps the public should restrict their social media comments to less controversial topics and leave the difficult stuff to those such as journalists who know what’s legal to write and what’s not.
BANKING ON MISERY IN SPAIN
RETIRED COP IN CUFFS OVER TWEET
People in Britain should be extremely careful what they write on social media – they could very quickly fall foul of the thought police.
An example came recently when a retired special constable found himself arrested and detained over a social media comment he posted about the threat of antiSemitism in Britain.
He found himself handcuffed at his home by six officers from Kent police – the force he had served for a decade – after challenging a supporter of proPalestinian marches on X.
Officers scrutinised the 71-yearold’s collection of books by authors such as Douglas Murray, a Telegraph contributor, and issues of The Spectator, pointing to what they described as “very Brexity things”.
They were also shown on bodycam footage raising concerns about a shopping list containing bleach, tin foil and gloves drawn up by Mr Foulkes’s wife – things she needed because she was a hairdresser.
It is understood that the pensioner intends to sue the police over the incident.
This is not the first time that
Mrs M and I had the misfortune last week to have to visit a Spanish bank – something I have always dreaded over the 15 years we have lived in the country. Why? When we arrived the place was packed and we had to wait two hours before our number came up and we were able to go to the cash desk, where there was only one member of staff present.
This Spanish bank has branches on UK high streets, and if I visit one in Britain I can always be seen within 10 minutes.
If it’s possible for the bank to do that in the UK, then it should be possible to do it in Spain, and I suggest every Spanish bank employee visit the UK and see how it’s done.
Perhaps it’s time the Spanish stopped treating so called “professionals” as gods and demanded that for the first time they put their customers first and not themselves.
By the way, people waiting for service were mostly formally dressed and probably had taken time off work. Just add up all the wasted hours throughout the country caused by inefficient banks.
Spain could be far more productive if it examined ways of reducing time wasting, endless unnecessary paperwork and crazy bureaucracy.
SILVER CRIME WAVE:
Pensioners forced into criminality by rising prices
Set Sail with Confidence
Generali Expatriates Boat Insurance Has You Covered
Whether it’s your full-time residence or a beloved getaway, Spain’s Mediterranean coast has become a second home to many expats.
For boating enthusiasts, it’s a true paradise: year-round sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and perfect conditions for heading out to sea.
But owning a boat or yacht isn’t just about enjoyment – it also means taking care of the practicalities. If you're preparing to start the new season on the right foot, it’s not only the engine and equipment that matter – having the right insurance in place is just as important.
After a long winter in storage, your boat is probably ready to be brought back to life. With the good weather now here, it’s time to enjoy the freedom of the open water.
A thorough clean and check-up, and you're ready to rediscover the joy of being back on the waves, doing what you love most.
Even when you’ve taken care of all the physical preparations, it’s easy to overlook the unpredictable – the accidents or issues that can arise while out at sea.
Whether you have a dinghy, a jet ski or a luxury yacht, it’s not just the hull and engine that need protection – you do too.
Boating is full of variables, and the unex-
pected can happen at any time. That’s why having the right insurance from a trusted provider is essential. With Generali Expatriates, you’ll find a policy that goes far beyond basic third-party liability.
Generali Expatriates’ yacht and boat insurance offers a comprehensive range of benefits, including:
Damage to your own vessel, including theft – covering tenders, special acces sories, personal belongings, and wreck removal
Nautical assistance for the boat and its occupants
Legal assistance
Extended third-party liability, including:
Voluntary civil liability
Environmental pollution damage
Participation in coastal regattas
Protection when the boat is moored or stored on land
And that’s not all – the policy also includes accident cover. Should the worst happen, it provides compensation for death, permanent disability, and injuries to passengers caused by accidents, whether on board or during boarding and disembarkation –including medical expenses.
You can also choose to insure your vessel
and
under the traditional Institute Yacht Clauses, for that extra layer of reassurance.
Whether it’s for your car, home, life, pets, business, accidents – or your boat –
Generali Expatriates is the #1 preferred expat insurer in Spain.
With a network of over 200 brokers and agents, you can get advice in your own language.
For a quote or to find a local broker, visit www.generaliexpatriates.es or call 91 342 25 49 and speak to someone today – we’re here to help.
Generali Expatriates – helping you enjoy life in Spain, with confidence
peace of mind.
Generali Expatriates – helping you enjoy life in Spain, with confidence and peace of mind.
Maria Sets Ambitious Goal of Raising e10,000 at 15th Annual Walk for Life
ORIHUELA COSTA — The much-anticipated 15th annual Walk for Life is set to take place on Sunday, 1 June 2025, with Maria and the Pink Ladies leading the charge to raise vital funds for the Asociacion Española Contra el Cancer (AECC).
The event, which, this year begins at 11:00 AM from The Emerald Isle and not the Playa Flamenca promenade, invites participants to join a 5-kilometre charity stroll aimed at sup-
porting cancer awareness, early detection, and patient care services.
Maria has set an ambitious fundraising target of e10,000 this year, hoping the community’s generosity will help boost the AECC’s crucial early-detection programmes.
Registration for the event is e5 per walker, while children under 16 can participate free of charge.
Sweet Day Out for Torrevieja
U3A Chocolate Lovers
Torrevieja — Tuesday, 20th May was a treat-filled day for 52 members of the Torrevieja U3A, who embarked on a delicious day trip to the renowned Valor chocolate factory in Villajoyosa.
Far from an ordinary Tuesday, the outing offered a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Valor chocolate family. Members enjoyed an informative guided tour of the factory, followed by the highlight of the visit — tasting a tempting variety of chocolate creations.
Following the tour, the group headed to a charming local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Menu del Dia, where good food and lively conversation were shared in equal measure.
With spirits high and stomachs full, the group then enjoyed a leisurely stroll and some relaxation along Villajoyosa’s picturesque seafront before boarding the coach back to Torrevieja.
A thoroughly enjoyable day out, filled with sweet moments and good company — a perfect recipe for U3A camaraderie.
QUIZ FROM P 14:
1. Cleopatra (Liz Taylor), 2. Curacao, 3. Answer b. rain (earthy scent after rain falls on dry soil) "the word is constructed from Greek, petra, meaning stone, and ichor, the fluid that flows in the veins of the gods". 4. U.S.S. Caine (The Caine Mutiny). 5. Paul McCartney. 6. Fenugreek. 7. Wonder Woman. 8. Scree. 9. Two answers. Czech Republic and Bosnia and Herzegovina. 10. a. I'm A King Bee (Stones). b. Dancing Queen (ABBA). c. The Witch Queen Of New Orleans (Redbone). d. The Court Of The Crimson King (King Crimson). 11. In order:
Attendees are encouraged to wear something pink to show solidarity with the cause.
The event will also feature complimentary water bottles provided by The Emerald Isle and a limited number of free Spain Property Shop caps, available on a first-come, firstserved basis.
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to accompany their owners on the walk.
Sponsorship forms are available both in advance and on the day of the event, with all proceeds going directly to the AECC.
Whether walking alone, with family, or alongside pets, participants contribute to an important cause that benefits cancer patients and their families.
To register or find out more information, visit www.pink-ladies.org or contact Maria at 633 487 595.
SUDUK SUDUK O O SOLUTION SOLUTION
USA, Mexico, Canada, Guatemala, Cuba and Haiti. 12. Sirtaki. 13. The Wizard Of Oz. 14. Argentina. 15. 68 degrees Farenheit (20 C). 16. a. Interview With A Vampire. b. Fight Club. c. Inglorious Basterds. d. Snatch. 17. The Championships, Wimbledon (30% Barcrown creeping red fescue and 70% perennial ryegrass). 18. A Countess From Hong Kong. 19. DDay. (The Longest Day) The line is from Verlaine. It was used by BBC radio to inform the French resistance of impending invasion, the signal for the French to set about destroying rail lines, communications, and other German targets to pave the way for liberation. 20. Kon
Tiki (The Shadows)
Dominant Wins for Greenlands Gladiators and Titans in League
BY FREDDDIE WILLEY
South Alicante Summer League Round-Up
In the Spitfire Division, Greenland’s Gladiators continued their dominant form with an emphatic 10-2 win over the Emerald Isle Falcons, finishing with a 111-60 points advantage. Strong performances came from Janet Jukes, Michael Stone, and Dave Morrison with a 23-11 victory, followed by Mandy Tompkins, Freddie Willey, and Len Ridge, who secured a 20-14 result. Linda and Richard Saunders, alongside Pete Bonsor, added a 21-12 win. The standout performance came from Carol Stobbart, Mark Jukes, and Keith Stobbart with a commanding 33-4 triumph.
In the Harrier Division, Greenland’s Warriors faced a challenging away fixture against the San Miguel Christians. Despite a valiant effort, the Warriors were defeated 10-2, with an overall scoreline of 93-66. A highlight for the visitors was a strong 27-10 win by Lisa Curtis, Steve Penfold, and John O’Brien.
In the Valencian Championships League – South Division A, Greenland’s Giants fell 8-4 to a wellorganised Emerald Isle Dukes team. The Dukes outscored the Giants 9072, though there were positives in the form of a 28-19 pairs win from Janet Jukes and Dave Morrison, and a 16-11 triples victory by Darren
Reynolds, Len Ridge, and Pete Bonsor.
South Division B saw Greenland’s Titans continue their impressive season with a 10-2 win over the Emerald Isle Earls, finishing 93-71 on points. Lin Hamersley dominated the singles 21-8, Mandy Tompkins and Dave Palmer edged the pairs 19-15, and the triples team of Anne Stone, John Palmer, and John O’Brien won
16-11. The fours sealed the victory, with Dave Donovan, Michael Stone, John Taylor, and Alan Mawer winning 18-16.
Lastly, all matches in the 2 Wood Summer League were cancelled due to bad weather.
All matches in the 2 Wood Summer League were unfortunately cancelled this week due to bad weather.
MIXED FORTUNES ACROSS THE BOARD @ THE EMERALD ISLE
By Elwyn Morris
It was a mixed week for Emerald Isle teams across the divisions. The Vulcans had a tough outing away to Greenlands Gladiators, suffering a heavy 2–10 loss with an aggregate of 60–111, despite a narrow 17–14 win from I. Laverick, J. Taylor, and M. Harley.
The Victors fared much better at
home against San Miguel Vikings, earning a solid 8–4 victory and a 106–82 shot advantage. Strong wins came from S. Johnson, P. Moore, and K. Jolliffe (30–13), A. Westwater, G. Hindmarsh, and G. Odell (25–10), and G. Dyer, M. Craig, and M. Odell (25–12).
The Dukes also impressed with an 8–4 win away at Greenlands Giants,
taking the aggregate 90–72, thanks to standout performances from R. Marks (21–11) and M. Dyer (21–6).
Meanwhile, the Earls were beaten 2–10 at home by Greenlands Titans, with a highlight win from P. Willicott (21–19).
SAPS continues Saturdays at 13:15. "The rain in Spain is a pain."
Strong Performances at San Luis Despite Weather Woes
A good week this week and last, as I catch up, unfortunately the weather intervened on Friday!!
Summer Trips League, Hurricane Div. Monday 12th, SL Wellingtons had a good result away v Country Bowls Kites, 8 points-4, 90 shots-84. Winners: Cathy Morrisroe, Carol Thorpe, Noel Morrisroe 18-8, Pauline Johnson, James Gwynn, Dave Webb 24-14, Bob Bromley, Derek Biggs, Jim Gracie 29-14.
Monday 19th home v Quesada Lancasters SL Wellingtons had another good result 8 points-4, 103 shots-85. Winners: Barbara Louis, June Jones, Gary Thorpe 20-10, Pete Ayres, Carol Thorpe, Jim Gracie 24-16, Mary & Phil Lockley, Bob Bromley 25-20. VCLeague: Wednesday 14th SL Falcons had a tough morning away v Quesada Lions, shots 59-95, 2 points-10. Winners: Triples, Bill Webb, Brian Gardiner, Jean Cooper 20-12.
Wednesday 21st SL Falcons were away v Country
Bowls Foxes, winning 8 points-4, 95 shots- 83, unfortunately I have no other information but well done to the winners.
South Alicante 2 wood triples: Friday 16th SL Cobras had a good result at home v Greenlands Dragons, 8 points-4, 87 shots-81. Winners: Judy Carroll, Dave Blackie, Gordon Paton 24-10, Chris Jackson, Ngaio & Peter Baldwin 19-15, Derrick Cooper, Dave Louis, Brian Gardiner 19-14.
SL Pythons had a very close fought match away v Greenlands Goannas, points 6-6, shots 88-90.
Winners: Neil & Sandra Burrows, Scott Malden 21-18, Bill Webb, Ralph Jones, Dave Webb 25-16, Peter Ayres, Derek Biggs, Jim Gracie 23-12.
Friday 23rd SL Pythons v SL Cobras match postponed due to heavy rain, replay: Tuesday 3rd June.
Sheila Cammack
Cue Boris Bar victory in Winter Wednesday Pool League
Congratulations to the Boris Bar team for an outstanding performance in this yearís Winter Wednesday Pool League, securing the top spot with an impressive three games to spare! Their consistency and skill were on full display throughout the season.
The competition was fierce across the board, with plenty of close matches and strong challenges from all teams, making for an exciting and competitive league.
Abig shoutout to the Boris Bar squad: Christian (Captain), John, Allen, Brian, Dirk, Rob, Chris (Bruce), Perry, Kris, Mike, and Alison ó well played, team!
Special thanks go to the league committee and our sponsor, D & M Car Hire, for organizing a smooth and enjoyable season and providing the winnersícup.
Weíre sure all teams are already looking forward to next yearís Winter Wednesday League.
Once again, well done Boris Bar ó champions of the winter season!
Christians and Sheriffs Strike Big Wins in Busy Week at San Miguel
by Mary Whitelock
On Monday 19th May the Moors had a bye, the Christians were at home to Greenlands Warriors where they had a great 10-2 win, 93 shots to 66 with the highest scoring triple of Deirdre Anderson, Keith Brimley and Sue Gell winning 31-1. The Vikings were away to Emerald Isle Victors where unfortunately they lost 4-8, 82 shots to 106. Highest winning triple was John Halligan, Dave Askew and Doug Jones who won 27-13.
Wednesday 21st May saw the Sheriffs playing at home against Quesada Lions where they had a brilliant 10-2 win with some really close games, the shots were 94-84 and the highest win came from the rinks team of Margaret Patterson, Dave Homer, Rab Harvey and Mike Douglas who won 25-10. The Deputies were away to Quesada Tigers where they lost 4-8, 76 shots to 81 with again some close games. The highest win came from Pat Luijk and John King in the pairs who won 21-7.
A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays, please be there for 1.30pm, session will be 2.00pm to 4.00pm - 10 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 club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905.
Pre season here already! Swansea to Tango with Stevenage in Pinatar Friendly
As the dust settles on the 2024-25 campaign, clubs are already turning their attention to the challenges of next season — and for Swansea City and Stevenage, that begins in the Spanish sun.
The two sides will meet in a pre-season friendly on Saturday, July 19, at the Pinatar Arena in San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, with kick-off scheduled for 12pm local time.
The fixture will mark the end of a week-long training camp for Swansea City as new head coach Alan Sheehan begins shaping his squad for the 2025-26 Championship season.
League One outfit Stevenage, led by Alex Revell, will also be based in Murcia from July 16 to 20 for their own preparations. The clash against the Swans will be a key part of their five-day camp as they gear up for another campaign in the third tier.
The friendly represents more than just a warm-up — it’s part of a broader football boom in the region.
The Pinatar Arena, which will host the match, has cemented itself as one of Europe’s leading training destinations. Between January and April 2025 alone, it welcomed 81 teams from 28 countries, a 25% increase on the same period last year. This influx brought over 9,000 visitors and accounted for more
Parke’s Ace Leaves the Rest in the Rough!
than 17,000 hotel nights in the Mar Menor area, reinforcing the venue’s growing importance to Murcia’s sports tourism economy.
The biggest surge in visitors came from national teams, with 61 men’s and women’s squads training at the complex in early 2025 — nearly double the number from the same stretch in 2024.
Many came to participate in high-profile events such as the Pinatar Cup, MIMA Cup, UEFA Women’s U17 Euro Round 2, and the WU23 Friendly Finals, the latter featuring 12 under23 women’s national teams.
Over just a few winter months, the Pinatar Arena hosted 101 friendlies — 35 of which were televised — significantly enhancing Murcia’s visibility on the international football stage. With its 10 natural grass pitches and mild climate, the arena continues to offer ideal conditions for teams looking to escape the harsh winter back home.
Now, as summer approaches, the venue is once again gearing up for a packed schedule. Swansea City and Stevenage are among the first clubs confirmed to visit, with more announcements expected soon.
The Holy Grail of the Golfing Community – A HOLE IN ONE (to be continued…..).
What a difference the weather makes to a course. The last few trips to Font del Llop have, to say the least, been brutal. But today –the sun shone from tee, the breeze tried to hit us but we pushed back and well… overall the day was fantastic.
A few comments on dry, uncut fluffy fairways and bullet-hard greens but the scores didn’t echo that, if we are being honest.
A short report because all the kudos goes to Gavin Parke for his HOLE IN ONE on the 17th. Not much more elaboration on a hole in one other than a huge congratulations (not his first, or second or third I believe….). His golfing prowess and halo is blinding us all and we had a drink to toast him -thank you.
Some great scores today – well done to all:
Gold: Drew Niblock (41 pts)
Silver: Paul Lambert (40 pts – welcome back Lambo – nothing to do with Palace winning the FA Cup?)
Bronze: Ivan Hanak (41 pts)
Two “Twos” this week shared between Drew Niblock and Ken
Once again, the Mar Menor is poised to become a hotbed of pre-season action, drawing teams, scouts, and supporters to this thriving corner of Spain.
For both Swansea and Stevenage, the July 19 encounter will offer a valuable test — and a glimpse of what's to come in 2025-26.
And
Peter Spinks and Gavin Parke (hmmm…. is a hole in one a nearest the pin or actually an “IN” the pin” (I’ll never know myself HA HA !)?).
Back to our most local course, Vistabella, next week. We are looking forward to our next Eclectic.
L-R above – Ian Merga (McBride Bottle), Ivan Hanak (Bronze), Lee Eastman (Captain), Paul Lamber (Silver), Gavin Parke (HOLE IN ONE!!!!). Drew Niblock (Gold – absent).
Fore the Fun of It: Inbetweeners Tee Off with Just Six Clubs and a Smile
sun-soaked skies at the beautiful El Plantio Golf Course, the Inbetweeners Golf Society kicked off the first round of their highly anticipated 3-game
Challenge Trophy.
In true test-of-skill fashion, each player was limited to just six clubs and a putter ó a twist that prom-
ised creativity, strategy, and no small amount of banter.
The perfect weather set the stage for a memorable day, with players embracing the restrictions and rising to the occasion. The fairways were lively with friendly competition as society members navigated the course with precision, adaptability, and a good dose of humour. With Round 1 now in the books, all eyes turn to the second leg of the Challenge Trophy. If the opening round is anything to go by, weíre in for a thrilling series.
Nearest the Pin Winners: Hole 7: Lesley Cullen, Hole 9: Colin Taylor, Hole 14: Paul Saxton, Hole
18: John Brastock Dayís Winners: 3rd Place: Jon Brastock with 36 points, 2nd Place: Lesley Cullen with 37 points, 1st Place: Vic Smith with 40 points
Following the round, members gathered in the clubhouse for the prize giving and well-deserved refreshments. If you seek a golf society emphasizing fun, camaraderie, and friendly competition, we invite you to join us! Visit www.inbetweenersgolfsociety.com to discover more about membership and upcoming events; all skill levels and nationalities are welcome!
END TO CARP-R-US SPRING SERIES
Carp-R-Us finished its Spring Series on the Rio Segura at Bigastro.
There had been queries about this venue in the days leading up to the match as there is a lot of work going on there.
This was most definitely the case with over half of the far bank of the match stretch now covered in black plastic with the work gradually moving upstream.
Fortunately, only five fished, which meant we were able to use the down stream pegs where, we though, work had finished.
Unfortunately, it hadn´t quite, with peg 7 seeing several visits from workers filling gaps and sealing joints.
The match itself was disappointing.
The previous two matches on this stretch have required over 10kgs to win, but today Willy Moons was the clear winner with 5.42kg from peg 9.
Second was Roy Dainty with 2.94kg (peg 10), third Trevor Morrey with 2.40kg (peg 6) and fourth Steve Fell with 2.10kg from peg 7.
This means the Series was won by Willy Moons with 38 points (out of a maximum of 40!) with Steve Fell second with 35.
Information about the club can be found on www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.
Swansea City has a new head coach in Alan Sheehan
Flaherty.
Nearest the Pins from Darren “El Presidente” Strugnell, Drew Niblock, Ken Flaherty,
Under bright,
EXCITEMENT BUILDS FOR WORLD NATIONS CUP DRAW AT THE HABANERAS SHOPPING
Walking Football Teams Around the Globe Await Group Reveal
Next Saturday, 31st May at 7:00 PM, all eyes will be on the ground floor of the Habaneras commercial shopping centre in Torrevieja, as it hosts the official draw for this year's World Nations Cup for Walking Football.
This eagerly anticipated event marks a key milestone in the countdown to the tournament, as teams from across the globe will discover their group stage opponents.
The draw is open to the public and is expected to attract fans, players, and officials alike, offering a unique chance for local residents and visitors to be part of the action.
Organisers promise a lively atmosphere, highlighting the growth and global reach of walking football—a sport that continues to gain popularity among older adults for its emphasis on fitness, strategy, and community spirit.
The World Nations Cup is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of active ageing, international friendship, and inclusivity through sport. This year’s edition is set to be the largest yet, with teams representing countries from across Europe,
the Americas, Africa, and beyond.
Local businesses and community groups are also backing the event, recognising its value not just as a sporting competition but as a cultural exchange and tourism boost for the region, with many of the matches featuring on live TV.
The draw will determine the paths teams must take toward the finals, setting the stage for intense but friendly rivalries in what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.
So, whether you're a long-time supporter of walking football or new to the sport, the draw event is a perfect opportunity to get involved, cheer on your country, and experience the buzz ahead of the World Nations Cup kickoff as it is streamed live around the world via the Spain website: www.spainwalkingfootball.com
Join the celebration at Habaneras shopping centre, Saturday 31st May at 7 PM— where the road to the World Nations Cup officially begins.
The tournament itself will take place from 21 - 31 October in the Torrevieja Sports City.
