Despite around 20 noisy protesters greeting the Valencian President at the Town Hall door, Carlos Mazon, has unveiled a e5 million investment package to revitalise the Eras de la Sal complex in Torrevieja, highlighting its potential to become a cornerstone of tourism, culture, and heritage preservation.
Speaking alongside the Mayor Eduardo Dolon, Mazon emphasised the Generalitat’s commitment to restoring the historic Ice Factory, allocating e100,000 this year to begin work and pledging up to e2 million by 2027 as the project progresses.
“The Ice Factory will become a new symbol of the city,” Mazon said, “housing a next-generation tourism office with exhibition spaces and event areas, designed to enrich the visitor experience.”
MUSEUM OF THE SEA AND CULTURAL COMPLEX
As part of the broader Eras de la Sal initiative, the Generalitat has also launched the authorisation process for a new Museum of the Sea. An additional e3 million will be invested into the complex by the Department of Culture, e200,000 of which has already been allocated.
Mazon criticised the previous administration for failing to support the project, stating: “We promised to unlock this stalled initiative in the first quarter of the year—and we have now delivered.”
The project will restore and integrate the historic Ice Factory (built in the 1920s–1930s) with a new four-story annex, including a tourist centre, offices, meeting rooms, and a documentation hub.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Security staff almost outnumbered the protesters
INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION AND
Beyond cultural development, Mazon also announced four major education projects totalling e19.3 million, including the construction of:
Primary Schools 14 and 15
Secondary School No. 6 (currently in pre fabricated units)
Full renovation of the La Laguna second ary school
He also celebrated the accelerated completion of La Inmaculada and Amanecer schools, long delayed by previous administrations.
CV-95 HIGHWAY WIDENING AND PORT REDEVELOPMENT
The President went on to speak about the feasibility study for the widening of the CV-95 highway
between Orihuela and Torrevieja, targeting a e180 million investment through a public-private partnership.
The aim is to put the project
Bienvenidos a Torrevieja by
Peter Craig
out to tender before the end of this legislative term.
“This road is essential to our region’s mobility and economy,” Mazon said, promising that the widened highway will remain toll-free.
In addition, the transformation of Torrevieja’s port area is moving forward, backed by a e100 million public-private investment, which includes a leisure centre, parking facilities, and the restoration of Muelle Minguez.
Held back by about 20 local policia and guardia officers, the protesters intensified their shouts as Mazon left the building, climbing into his vehicle to head off to another event in La Murada.
‘CARE HOME HORROR’ ‘CARE HOME HORROR’
Elderly British R Elderly
British R esidents said to esidents said to be living among trash, animals be living among trash, animals and feces in Illegal Care Home and feces in Illegal Care Home
According to a recent elDiario.es report, the ‘retirement home’ still continues to operate despite a lack of care and medical attention.
An illegal British-run nursing home operating under the guise of a rural guesthouse has been uncovered in the village of La Manchica, near Fuente Alamo in Cartagena, Spain.
The revelation came after an 84-year-old English woman, known as A.S., was rushed to hospital in critical condition last month.
She was found in a filthy room at a remote farmhouse, suffering from dehydration, kidney failure, and infected wounds.
Medical staff described her as being “on the verge of a coma.”
The farmhouse, owned by British couple Brian and Susan, has allegedly operated as an unlicensed elderly care facility for years.
The couple moved to La Manchica in 2018 and set up ‘Pension Hakuna Matata – Rural Guest House’ and a bar.
Promoted online through their Casa Care website as offering "professional, high-quality care services" for those needing continuous support, the reality is far grimmer.
Prices ranged from e100 for a single day to e2,000 for four weeks (excluding VAT). However, investigations by elDiario.es reveal the establishment lacks accreditation and provides no genuine medical or personal care.
Although Brian claimed the residence closed over a decade ago, recent photos, videos, and job postings from 2023 and 2024 suggest otherwise.
Elderly residents, including A.S., appear frequently in these images, often in vulnerable conditions.
Testimonies from the Primary Care Emergency Service (SUAP) in neighbouring Fuente Alamo, who have reportedly visited the property multiple times over the years, responding to calls involving frail British nationals, describe elderly British residents as
living in appalling conditions—surrounded by trash, animals, and human waste.
Despite repeated alerts and a Guardia Civil inspection in 2020, authorities have failed to take effective action. Bureaucratic delays and a lack of coordination between social services, health, and law enforcement have been blamed.
Neighbours and locals have long suspected the residence was operating illegally, with some accusing the couple of additional crimes, including benefit fraud, animal cruelty, and even drug trafficking.
Locals express fear of retaliation and frustration at the lack of intervention. A.S. remains in hospital, while the status of other potential residents remains unknown.
Medical professionals involved over the years say they feel powerless, as official channels seem unresponsive despite a widespread awareness of the situation.
Photo credit Google Maps
ORIHUELA COSTA - WHERE CAMPAIGN PROMISES GO TO DIE!
Over the past few weeks, the two opposition parties, PSOE and C's, have been calling the PP and VOX government liars over the contracts— claims that, frankly, we have known about for a long, long, time. They argue that months ago, the government falsely promised that the implementation of the road maintenance contract on the coast would be approved within weeks.
Politicians are often masters of double-talk—regularly saying things that contradict previous statements, or offering different opinions depending on the situation, often to deceive the public. And as we know, Orihuela has a talent for deception.
As the saying goes, "Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive."
The problem with lies is that you have to remember exactly what you previously said.
When you're pressed for answers, that's when liars get caught. Unfortunately, political lies often go unexposed until the damage is done. But the truth never changes—it stays constant, so you never have to remember.
Now, suddenly, Orihuela Costa is on the lips of all the opposition parties. Some have been vocal about it for a while, but now PSOE has jumped on the "support Orihuela Costa" bandwagon, undoubtedly with a view to picking up votes in the 2027 elections. However, the Coast has a long memory.
For those of us who remember the 2023 elections, we can recall the numerous promises made by PP and VOX— promises that havesince been forgotten. Politicians use lies to gain or hold onto power, and once they’ve tasted it, they’ll never stop. Simply put, they lie all the time. When they lie, it’s like having their fingers crossed behind their back, hoping they won’t get caught—but, in the long run, they usually do.
Some time ago, Martina Scheurer said, "Maybe that’s why I’m not like other politicians. You have to be political and hide things, but the truth is more important than stringing people along with false promises that may never be fulfilled."
Being in opposition must be incredibly frustrating—without real power to make a difference. Many people argue that Orihuela Costa, with its 29,000 residents, should take priority over the city because the coast pays more in taxes. While it's true that residents on the coast contribute, the real issue is voter turnout. How many people are actually registered and bother to vote? Only a small fraction. That’s the real problem facing the Coast—voters. Without their support, change is
impossible. It’s so very disappointing to realise that without an increase in voter participation, nothing will change. But unfortunately that is the harsh reality!
With just over two years until the next elections, it’s safe to assume that many of the promised actions will soon start to materialise—like the footbridge over the AP7, which might miraculously appear just before the May 2027 elections. Already we are seeing the introduction of an emergency contract to repair the potholes in Villamartin and Los Dolses.
It's disheartening to see how easily memories fade—how residents forget the long trail of broken promises, only to place their trust once again in the very parties that let them down.
Unfortunately, unless activists and voters in the Orihuela Costa wake up very soon, May 2027 is likely to be no different.
DARK JOURNEY FOR JUSTICE ENDS IN GLOBAL CHASE
Rojales Murder Case Closed
What began as a father’s desperate search ended in a harrowing discovery and a cross-border chase for justice. John George, a 37-year-old Northern Irishman, arrived in Alicante in December 2024, seeking sunshine and good times. But after a final phone call to his father on December 14, he vanished without a trace.
Alarmed by the silence, George’s father flew to Spain on December 21, sparking a Civil Guard investigation that
SISTER ACT’S MOTHER SUPERIOR IN THE STEADY HANDS OF JO
When Jo swapped England for sunny Spain, she sought to keep her passion for musical theatre alive—and found the perfect outlet with Studio 32. There, she trained under two stage powerhouses: international vocal coach Nicole and Studio 32’s director Mark, a former West End professional and theatre chief.
Now, Jo steps into the pivotal role of Mother Superior in Sister Act, portraying a woman dedicated to order and discipline— until the free-spirited Deloris Van Cartier turns convent life upside down. Jo’s performance masterfully captures the struggle between authority and unexpected joy, blending emotional depth with sharp comedic timing.
Supported by expert coaching and her own heartfelt vocals, Jo anchors the production with a portrayal that’s both moving and
tracked John’s movements from Benidorm’s busy streets to the remote groves of Rojales. There, on January 7, police uncovered his body—hidden among the trees, shot dead the day he disappeared.
Two suspects quickly emerged: a 32-year-old Czech accomplice, arrested and charged under strict conditions, and a 27year-old Irishman with a criminal record who fled Spain, abandoning even his dogs in his haste. A European Arrest Warrant followed.
memorable. As opening night approaches, it’s clear: the convent—and the show—are in safe hands.
After months of international coordination involving INTERPOL and Portuguese authorities, the fugitive was captured in Braga, Portugal, on March 25, and extradited to Spain on April 3.
Praised as a model of seamless transnational policing, the investigation led by the Civil Guard and the Pilar de la Horadada Judicial Police Team brought swift justice. For a grieving father, it ended a nightmare—and ensured his son’s tragic story would not go untold.
Ah, footballers. The modern gladiators of grass, the demigods of the pitch, the only people on Earth who can convincingly cry during a Champions League loss and then be photographed hours later in head-to-toe designer at a yacht party in Monaco.
These men are athletes, yes—but also philosophers (in their own way). Who else could deliver such immortal wisdom as: “We gave 110% and at the end of the day, it’s a game of two halves”? Shakespeare could never.
From humble beginnings to Bentleys and Balenciaga, the average footballer’s journey is a classic rags-to-riches-toquestionable-tattoo saga. And while their job description is “kick ball well,” the real work begins off the pitch: the Instagram thirst traps, the club transfer dramas, the carefully curated image of a man who definitely reads books but suspiciously never posts any of them.
Let’s not forget the hairstyles. Footballers treat their heads like mood boards. One week it’s bleach blonde, the next it’s a man bun tied with existential angst. Occasionally, it’s a mullet. Always bold, rarely good.
Of course, we must mention the WAGs (wives and girlfriends), a vital sub-ecosystem of the footballer lifestyle. Together, they form dynasties of eyebrow perfection, fashion influence, and reality TV potential. Love may come and go, but a well-lit beach proposal on Instagram? Forever.
Then there’s the post-match interview, a sacred ritual where footballers, freshly sweat-drenched, speak in riddles: “The lads gave it their all, we go again next week, credit to the other team, but we wanted it more.”
Translation: “We won. Or lost. Not really sure. Please let me go shower.”
Despite it all—the scandals, the dramatic dives that
deserve Oscars, the staggering inability to make toast without assistance—we love them. They give us moments of unfiltered joy and rage, they make impossible goals look effortless, and they somehow convince us that a man in compression shorts screaming at a referee is high art. So here’s to footballers: the saints, the sinners, the walking Gucci ads. You may never master the offside law in your explanations, but damn if you don’t make the game beautiful—and baffling—to watch.
And if it all goes wrong? Don’t worry. There’s always punditry, property, or launching your own cologne………called Victory, Gloat or Offside.
CONSERVATION BOOST FOR MAR MENOR WITH RELEASE OF 900 EELS
More than 900 European eels were released into the Mar Menor as part of a major conservation project led by ANSE and WWF Spain under the GePescArt2 campaign.
A total of 911 eels, weighing 410 kilograms, were tagged—300 of them with Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags for detailed tracking.
The initiative aims to better understand the local eel population and assess the effects of fishing activities. So far, 67 tagged eels have been recaptured and safely released, providing valuable data on their behaviour and health.
This project builds on earlier studies, including 2018–2019 tracking of eels migrating over 6,000 kilometres to the Sargasso Sea.
The collected information will help inform sustainable fishing practices and guide conservation policies at local, national, and European levels. Funded by Spain’s Biodiversity Foundation and the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, further studies are planned in southern Alicante’s wetlands.
STRONG START AS ALICANTE AIRPORT BOOSTS IT’S EUROPEAN R OUTES
Alicante-Elche Airport has had a strong start to 2025, setting three new records in the first quarter and gearing up for a historic high season.
The airport is expanding its route offerings, with new destinations such as Belgrade (Wizz Air), Athens (EasyJet), Linz and Salzburg (Ryanair), and Chisinau (FlyOne and Sky Up), while maintaining its focus on key Central European cities.
Dutch low-cost carrier Transavia, the sixthlargest airline at the airport in 2024, has announced a boosted winter schedule for 2025/26.
Dutch low-cost carrier Transavia, has announced a boosted winter schedule
E19 MILLION FOR THREE NEW SCHOOLS
During his visit to Torrevieja, President Carlos Mazon, alongside Mayor Eduardo Dolon, announced a 19 million euro investment for two new primary schools (No. 14 and No. 15) and a new secondary school, IES No. 6 "Eras de la Sal", replacing prefabricated classrooms.
The investment also includes the renovation of IES Las Lagunas.
Mazon emphasized the strong collaboration between local and regional governments to meet the city’s educational needs. On April 17, the Local Government approved three municipal plots for the new schools.
Mazon also promised that the Education Minister will visit Torrevieja soon to finalize plans.
The city has seen a 50% increase in its school-age population from 2019 to 2025, outpacing growth in the surrounding areas and the wider Valencian Community.
This schedule includes increased flights to Brussels, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, and ParisOrly, while maintaining its frequency on the Amsterdam route.
The winter program will operate from November 2025 to March 2026, with notable increases in frequency, such as 12 weekly flights to Eindhoven and Rotterdam, and nine flights to Brussels. Paris-Orly will see eight weekly flights, up by two from last winter.
These expanded services enhance travel flexibility and increase competition on popular routes, especially with airlines like Vueling, Ryanair, and Brussels Airlines.
With this expanded schedule, Transavia strengthens its presence at Alicante-Elche Airport, solidifying its position as a growing European travel hub, even during the low season.
RAFAL GAME PARTY
The second edition of "Rafal Game Party" will take place on May 3, 2025, at the Auditorio Arte Musical in Rafal, bringing together gamers for a day of competition and technology. Participants can enjoy the latest gaming consoles and popular games like FC25, Fortnite, and Fall Guys. The event will feature themed zones, including simulators and a mobile gaming area, and the grand final of the FIFA Villa de Rafal League.
The event also promises a surprise special guest. Rafal’s Youth Councilor, Victor Garcia, highlighted the event’s focus on teamwork, respect, and healthy competition.
‘You never miss the water till the well runs dry...’
We take water for granted in Ireland. I have heard many people proclaim over the years that; ‘whatever problems we may have in this country, a shortage of water will never be one of them.
Now, amidst all the uncertainties of the strange times we live in, I am not so sure about the water.
A recent report in the ‘Westmeath Examiner’ included an appeal from Uisce Eireann to the people of the greater Mullingar area not to waste water. The water level at Lough Owel has dropped to an unprecedented low. This is the sort of scare we could live with in September or October … but April? This is serious stuff … and if we had nothing else to worry about, the issue of a plentiful supply of clean water could be top of the agenda.
You might at first think that when the lake level falls below its normal low all that is required is to wait for the rains to fill it back up again - such as with the wet week being experienced this week.
It isn’t that simple, my friends. When the water level sinks below its lowest optimum level for any length of time, the banks dry out and cracks appear. Then as the water rises, the lake does not fill because so much of the water seeps away through the new found escape routes – and in fact, rather than close in again; the cracks remain and can widen.
Another thing here is that it is more difficult to maintain quality when water levels sink. With climate change now a fact of life, depending on nature to replenish our rivers and lakes unaided is no longer a ‘given.’
On top of all this, comes the dreadful divulgence from Councilor Andrew Duncan in last week’s paper that raw sewage is polluting both Lough Ennell and the river Brosna. If this news doesn’t worry you … well, it should.
With our population growing and cities expanding, there is an everincreasing demand for more water. It is likely that water will eventually have to be drawn
across the country from the Shannon to service thirsty old Dublin.
Clean drinking water is our most precious resource … worth more than all the gold in the ground. The only commodity more important than water is air. Water sustains life. Both man and beast can survive on very meager rations of food – but we can only live a short time without water.
As requested by Uisce Eireann, we can all conserve water by turning off taps, only running dishwashers and washing machines when full and general using common sense. But surely the greatest scandal is that 37 per cent of treated water is lost through leaks and faulty pipes?
This writer may be in a minority on this one, but I find it quite inconceivable that the country rebelled against paying the price of a packet of cigarettes a week to upgrade our water system. Maybe it’s because I never worked or lived in any other country where there aren’t water charges … and a lot more than
what it would have been in Ireland.
Of course none of us like paying more tax, but rational debate was drowned out by the ‘professional protestors’ whilst the rest of the population went to work. In poor times we paid for our water by way of digging a well and purchasing a pump. Next many of us contributed to ‘water schemes’ to encourage piped water along our road. There are places on God’s earth where obtaining water takes up a major part of a family’s daily routine.
Four miles is the average carry for drinking water in Africa – and this is in developing countries. Worse is the fact that almost exclusively it is left to women and children to ferry the water.
No surprise that this water is more often than not contaminated with life-threatening
diseases. One in four humans lack safe drinking water around the world … so put that in your water-protesters pipe and smoke it. Surely there at least needs to be a deterrent charge for those who grossly waste our now finite lifegiving resource?
Once upon a time there was a plentiful supply of spring water throughout the land. Spring water is that which naturally emerges from the ground. You taste the difference when you put a mug of refreshing clear and natural water to your lips.
And this is not just your imagination; water from a natural spring contains minerals that contribute to healthy bones and muscles.
My late and eccentric old uncle refused to drink ‘Lough Lene water’ out of a tap; so we had to retain and maintain a well and a pump in the yard. This was put down to his ‘oddness’ at the time … but Uncle Paddy was nobody’s fool!
DON’T FORGET
Neutrality is the most extremist stance of all. Without it, no dictator could prosper.
AMONG FLAMINGOS - A STUNNING LOOK AT TORREVIEJA’S HIDDEN WILDLIFE
To celebrate International Book Day and the sixth year of flamingo nesting in Torrevieja, the University of Alicante’s Torrevieja Campus, with support from the local Departments of Tourism and Culture, presented the book Among Flamingos on April 24. Held at La Mata Natural Park, the event featured officials and author Federico Kenzelman, whose work visually documents the annual nesting of flamingos in the Torrevieja lagoon—a remarkable yet little-known natural phenomenon since 2020.
Published as part of the UA’s TerritoriUA collection, the book showcases Kenzelman’s stunning photography, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these majestic birds within their protected habitat.
According to the author, the book aims to celebrate and raise awareness of Torrevieja’s rich natural heritage.
Among Flamingos is available through the University Publishing Service, select bookstores, and will soon be accessible online via the university’s digital repository for free.
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE
Brugal is a young boy around 2 years, who weighs around 11 kilos. He is a sweet boy with lots of energy who is fully vaccinated with a passport, microchipped, castrated, blood tested, treated monthly for fleas and ticks, dewormed and heartworm prevented. For more info or an appointment (appointments only) contact the kennels directly.
Tensions are mounting within Orihuela’s local government as Vox renews its push for increased public funding to the Catholic Church, placing Mayor Pepe Vegara (Partido Popular) in a politically sensitive position.
Though Vox is the junior coalition partner, its support is essential to Vegara’s leadership and it is now wielding that leverage more assertively.
Vox has reintroduced a contentious motion seeking e165,000 for the Junta Mayor de Cofradias and e100,000 for the Diocese of Orihuela in the 2026 municipal budget.
Unlike typical budget negotiations handled discreetly, Vox has again taken its demands public—highlighting internal tensions and directly challenging the mayor’s authority. This follows a similar motion withdrawn in
February, suggesting escalating friction within the coalition.
By bypassing internal talks and bringing the issue to the April plenary session, Vox is forcing a showdown that could destabilize the partnership.
The Partido Popular has not yet publicly responded, but internal strain is reportedly growing.
While Vox argues that the Church plays a vital social role in Orihuela, critics note the proposed funding increase lacks a clear plan, raising concerns about transparency.
Notably, the new motion excludes previously included Church charities like Caritas and San Jose Obrero, potentially alienating moderate PP supporters.
Mayor Vegara now faces a difficult choice: concede to Vox and risk backlash, or push back and jeopardize coalition stability.
Federico Kenzelman with Rosario Martinez
Mestre and Vegara
Dangerous Drift as 12-Year-Old Swept Out to Sea at Campoamor
A 12-year-old child was rescued after being swept out to sea on an inflatable li lo off La Glea Beach, raising concerns over parental neglect and beach safety.
The incident occurred on April 17, when the boy was spotted about 150 metres from shore, drifting away due to an offshore wind.
Despite calm sea conditions and the green flag being up, the wind quickly turned a seemingly harmless situation into a potential danger.
The lifeguard service immediately activated the emergency
PUPPET SHOW BRINGS HISTORY TO LIFE FOR HUNDREDS OF PILAR SCHOOLCHILDREN
The puppet show organized by the Municipal Theatre Workshop, with support from the Departments of Culture and the Elderly in Pilar de la Horadada, concluded its 2025 program with a special performance benefiting the Rafa Puede Foundation.
The event was attended by Mayor Jos? Maria Perez Sanchez and local officials. More than 700 children from the Day Centre and local primary schools enjoyed ten tailored performances, while an additional show supporting the PilarTEA Association filled the Casa de Cultura auditorium to capacity.
The show, titled “Danger on the Horadada Coast: Rock at the Tower,” spotlighted the 16th-century significance of the local watchtower, which led to the town's founding.
A total of 18 volunteers lent their voices to
protocol, with the rescue jet ski reaching the child swiftly. Fortunately, the boy was unharmed physically, though shaken by the experience.
What raised further alarm, however, was the absence of the child’s parents. According to the rescue report, the parents did not arrive at the scene until after the paramedics had completed their assessment, despite the beach being relatively quiet at the time.
This incident highlights the critical need for constant vigilance when children are near the water, especially when using inflatables or floating devices.
the production, while 23 senior citizens— active participants in community programs—performed on stage. Councillor Eli Marcos also joined the cast, emphasizing the collaborative and intergenerational spirit of the project.
The lifeguard service urges parents to stay alert at all times, as even favourable sea conditions can quickly become dangerous due to factors like offshore winds.
The swift and effective response from the rescue team prevented any injury, but the situation underscores the importance of active parental supervision.
The incident has prompted calls for more awareness and preventative measures, emphasizing that beach safety is a shared responsibility between emergency services and the public.
SCHOOL ENROLMENT FOR 25/26 BEGINS ON 5 MAY
Tpublic schools in Orihuela will begin on May 5th, as announced by Education Councillor
Families can apply for Infant and Primary Education from May 6th to 14th, and for Secondary (ESO) and Baccalaureate from May 15th to 23rd via the online portal adminova.
Support will be available at first-choice schools for those needing help with the digital process.
Enrolment for Infant and Primary will occur online from June 18th to 27th and in-person until July 2nd.
ESO enrolment runs from July 16th to 21st (online) and July 16th to 22nd (in-person), while Baccalaureate enrolment is scheduled from July 22nd to 25th (online) and until July 28th (in-person).
Pina also noted an increase in educational units at several schools and assured families of continued guidance and support, praising the municipality’s schools for their dedication and quality education.
LOS BALCONES PROPERTY OWNER ACQUITTED OF FRAUD IN 75,000 EURO DISPUTE
ATorrevieja property owner has been acquitted of fraud charges after a failed house sale left a German buyer e75,000 out of pocket.Both the Public Prosecutor and the private prosecution had sought a three-year prison sentence and e77,000 in compensation,alleging the seller resold the property without returning the buyer’s deposit.
However,Orihuela’s Criminal Court No.4 ruled there was no criminal deception,stating the matter should be resolved through civil litigation,not criminal proceedings.
The case stemmed from a 2022 transaction in the Los Balcones urbanisation.The buyer advanced e75,000 toward the e370,000 sale price but failed to secure financing before the deadline.With no public deed signed,the accused later sold the house to a third party, sparking a criminal complaint.
Court documents reveal that the parties signed a reservation contract on 13 August 2022,with e3,000 paid upfront and the notary appointment set for 31 October 2022.Additional payments totalling e75,000 were made over the following weeks.
Critically,the contract stated that failure to complete the purchase would result in the forfeiture of the deposit,a standard clause under Spanish civil law (Article 1454 of the Civil Code).
The court found that the seller acted within her contractual rights once the buyer failed to meet the financing condition."Where is the sufficient deception required by law?" the magistrate asked,concluding that the failed sale was a civil breach,not a criminal offence.
TORREVIEJA LAUNCHES E87,000 TENDER TO DRAFT LOW-EMISSION ZONE
City Promises Minimal Sanctions in any future Zone
Torrevieja City Council has launched a tender worth e87,200 (VAT included) for the drafting of its low-emission zone (LEZ) project, funded through the ‘NextGenerationEU’ Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan.
The Council, having already requested an extension for the LEZ implementation, has set a five-month timeframe for preparing the project.
Initially, the city received a e430,000 grant for the LEZ and an additional e157,000 for complementary measures, with a strict execution deadline of June 30. Unable to meet this, the Council requested an extension until December 31.
Given the tender’s timeline and the award process, the project draft is unlikely to be completed before late September. The tender outlines three phases: Phase I involves public participation (one month), Phase II requires submitting the project draft (four months), and Phase III finalises the complete project. Phases I and II can proceed simultaneously.
Strict penalties are outlined for delays: very serious breaches (over five months delay) incur fines between e1,500 and e3,000; serious breaches (delays over three months or one month in Phase II) carry penalties of e801 to e1,500; minor breaches, including slight delays or poor service conditions, range
from e200 to e800.
The final LEZ plan must define access and parking restrictions, emphasising improvements for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. However, traffic limitations will only be introduced under specific conditions, such as congestion or when pollution thresholds are surpassed.
The City Council insists that sanctions will be rare and only applied in exceptional cases. Additionally, the project must propose the installation of environmental sensors, fixed access controls like cameras and meters, parking sensors, and management systems for loading zones and urban logistics.
The ruling cites recent Supreme Court decisions,including STS 631/2024,reinforcing that economic disputes without clear deceptive conduct belong in civil courts.
Defence lawyer Maria Barbancho Saborit welcomed the decision,stating,"It is crucial to uphold the presumption of innocence and distinguish civil disputes from criminal acts."
The judgment is not yet final and may be appealed to the Provincial Court of Alicante.
During the trial,the court heard testimony from the buyer,the seller’s relatives,and property professionals, supported by extensive documentation.
he student admission process for
Vicente Pina.
Councillor Vicente Pina
Looking over Los Balcones to the hospital and the sea
IGET THE VERY BEST FROM YOUR BODY
s there something that you would like to change about your body? Maybe you want a bigger this or smaller that?
The human body is a miracle of nature and although not perfect, it is amazing. Our body, however, need appropriate exercise to function at its best potential.
When we were young the exercise, we needed was different to middle age exercise. Now, we over 55s need a much easier, gentler type of exercise.
Our bones are more brittle, our bodies have developed all types of ailments, and we are not as strong or fit as we used to be.
EASY Exercise is typically not for the young, it is scientifically designed to help those who have or want to avoid mobility, flexibility and circulation issues. EASY Exercise is about improving the quality of your life, physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. There is no skipping, running, jumping of lifting heavy weights involved. Each comfortable machine is motorized and designed to move different muscles to give you a gentle but effective workout.
As you will be seated or lying down for each exercise there is no body-weight pressure on any of your joints. EASY Exercise is designed to significantly improve and then maintain your mobility, flexibility, circulation and to reduce pain.
EASY Exercise is open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 1pm and costs only 55e per month. Most members use the centre 2 or 3 times a week.
A session lasts 45 minutes, and you do not need special
clothing or footwear. There are 3 different circuits available, each designed to meet different needs. Our appointment system avoids delays helps you make the most of your time in the centre. We often hear outrageous claims about how good products are but unfortunately you must part with your cash to find out if the claims are true or not. EASY Exercise offers you and a friend a FREE trial, so here it costs you nothing to find out. To book a FREE trial at EASY Exercise, Sophia Wellness Centre, La Regia (Cabo Roig), call 663 771 345 today.
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1.Gust (6)
4.Hesitated (6)
9.Liable to mishaps (8-5)
10.Coagulate (7)
11.Helicopter blade (5)
12.Range (5)
14.Chubby (5)
18.Prickle (5)
19.Lack (7)
21.Eminent (13)
22.Gas (6)
23.Folk (6)
SUDOKU CHALLENGE?
in the grid
that every
every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. Solution on Page 18
9.It's designed to measure any increase in the rates (13)
10.Describing the victim of a road accident in poor health (3-4)
11.One of the family in nineteen, we hear (5)
12 and 4 Ac. They don't sound like the big guns of the church (5,6)
14.Nourishing food made by the monk without any hesitation (5)
18.In the trial I assumed a different name (5)
19.Holiday area where I arrive in disarray (7)
21.It's twelve pounds more than its name implies (13)
22.Does the spadework with five hundred little people (6)
23.In the Scriptures, the righteous female (6)
DOWN DOWN
1.They are stepped up in flights (6)
2.Lacking any provisions (13)
3.Habitation that gives one endless obscurity (5)
5.Social worker making normal arrangement about the first of the emoluments (7)
6.Militarily speaking, one who's part of the establishment will be (2,3,8)
7.Tennis-player who officiates in church (6)
8.The promenade is the scene of hostilities (5)
13.Notice which is extraordinarily verbose (7)
15.Realised the bounder is embracing the girl (6)
16.Buy and sell a craft (5)
17.One in the queue who provides the fare required (6)
20.Wives will show differing opinions (5)
THE LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers
1. Which flower and national symbol in a European country reached number 2 in the UK singles charts (119 in the US charts) in 1967?
2. The name of which mega city with an estimated 21 million inhabitants is the Portuguese word for "lakes"?
3. What is the common name for the ulnar nerve, the largest unprotected nerve in the human body?
4. What is the name of the exotic citrus fruit which looks like an orange but is no bigger than a large olive? (seven letters)
5. Which surname beginning with the letter "G" has been since 1930 the most common surname at FIFA World Cups?
6. In which Bond film does 007 take to the sky in 'Little Nellie'?
7. Which Oscar winner for Best Actor was Lisa Marie Presley briefly married to?
8. Which airline operates the most Airbus A380s?
9. What are the four largest countries in the world without an airport?
10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the name of a country somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? a. And as for fortune and as for fame, I never invited them in, b. Got in a little hometown jam, c. Show me round your snow peaked mountains way down south, d. Visions of
on page 18)
swastikas in my head, e. And the day was just beginning as I stood in the morning rain
11. 'Specimen born hard' is an anagram for which dog breed?
12. In film, what were Dr Strangelove's last five words?
13. Which two colours are found on the flag of Nigeria?
14. Qantas, the national airline of Australia, is an acronym for what?
15. Tripoli is the largest city in Libya. In which other Mediterranean country is a Tripoli the second largest city?
16. Which US state has carried out the most executions since 1976?
17. Gram flour, a staple ingredient in the Indian cuisine, is made from what?
18. The following are a few albums that reached No 1 in the UK charts during the year 1988. Can you name the artist?
a. Popped In Souled Out, b. Introducing The Hardline According To ...., c. Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son, d. Tango In The Night, e. Lovesexy
19. The following is the last line to which popular book? "Hazel followed; and together they slipped away, running easily down through the wood where the first primroses were beginning to bloom."
20. Plus or minus 5, in which year did Halley's Comet last appear in the night sky?
ORIHUELA COSTA FLOODGATE FIASCO AS DEVELOPERS
PUSH
FORWARD
DESPITE PUBLIC WARNINGS OF DISASTER
Work is underway to clear a plot of land along the Nacimiento River ravine in Orihuela Costa, where 64 townhouses are planned. However, the Orihuela Council has not yet issued the necessary planning permission.
Originally, the site was designated for 24 large single-family homes, but a project modification has nearly tripled the number, now proposing semi-detached houses between 90 and 95 square metres each.
Over the past week, tractors have been clearing vegetation from the Campoamor site, sparking concern among local residents. In response, the newly formed Costa Campoamor Residents’ Association is preparing to formally petition the mayor’s office, the Urban Planning Department, and Coastal Affairs to revoke the land's developable status.
Residents argue that construction in this flood-prone area would endanger future homeowners and block natural water flow during heavy rains.
Despite these concerns, the Urban Planning Department insists the project has obtained necessary flood and environmental approvals from the Segura River Basin Authority.
Environmental groups, including Friends of the Sierra Escalona (ASE), strongly oppose the development, highlighting that the plot is adjacent to a "hazard zone 1," the highest flood risk category. They argue that no homes should ever have been authorised so close to the Nacimiento River.
Further complicating matters, the site is located in an area classified with geomorphological risks under the Valencian Community's flood prevention plan (Patricova).
In 2003, the City Council approved a partial plan change allowing residential development in the Y-1 Campoamor sector. Public groups now demand that this approval be revoked due to heightened flood risks.
Adding to the controversy, current Urban Planning Councilor
was
the civil engineer who drafted the original project two legislative terms ago.
clarified that he no longer has any involvement with the development in his current role.
Residents, environmentalists, and civic groups continue to pressure local and regional authorities to halt the project before any irreversible damage is done.
MatIas Ruiz
formerly
Ruiz has
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 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.
TRANSLATIONS/ EFFICIENT RATES
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
CAR FOR SALE.
RHD Mazda Premacy 2.0 litre petrol. Year 2003. 11-month ITV. Good all-round car but paintwork needs some TLC. Lady owner giving up driving. e1900. Almoradi CALL GRAHAM ON 605 31 98 89
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 Friday, May 16th, 2025, at 3:45 PM, with a 4:00 PM start. The meeting will be held at Gracey’s Restaurant, located on the top floor near Lidl, just 2 minutes from Pet’s World. Everyone, including nonmembers, are welcome. For more info please call +34 616 917 675.
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.
AUTOMOVILES CRESPO
ROYAL BRITISH LEGIO N
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
ERECTILE DISFUNCTION
C T S C o m m u n i t y T h e a t r e
AACTS Brings Laughter, Chaos and the Mafia to the Stage
ACTS Brings Laughter,Chaos,and the Russian Mafia to the Stage – Tickets Selling Fast!
With just two weeks to go until opening night,excitement is building for ACTS' latest theatrical production—and tickets are flying!
If you’re looking for a hilarious,fastpaced evening out,this is one show you won’t want to miss.
Join our talented troupe of local actors as they bring to life a wild farce packed with twists,turns,and outrageous characters.
The plot? Picture this: a Russian Mafia boss is on a desperate mission to track down his runaway mother—who just happens to be romantically entangled with a flamboyant,aging actor.
Add in three feisty ex-wives,kidnapping, murder threats,and a sprinkle of cheeky scandal,and you've got a recipe for a riotous night of entertainment!
ACTS is proud to support local charities, with proceeds from the show helping to make a difference in the community.On performance nights,guests can enjoy a drink and take part in a raffle—plus, there's plenty of free parking at the venue.
Show Dates: 8th, 9th, and 10th May
Venue: Cardinal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio
Available from the following outlets: Majik Mobiles,Benijofar – 688 705 525
The Post Room,Benijofar – 966 712 382
The Treasure Chest,Quesada – 966 718 100 Oasis Bar,San Luis – 965 270 506
Cards & More,La Marina – 966 790 954
The Card Place,Benimar – 966 713 266
The Post Box,Dona Pepa – 966 717 156
Or reserve your tickets by calling 631 940 295 or emailing actstheatre@icloud.com
Curtain Up: 7:30 PM .... Tickets: e10
Debra Charity Shop,La Marina – 616 076 072
Come for the comedy, stay for the chaosand support a great cause while you’re at it!
TOUGHER RULES FOR HOLIDAY LETS
There’s some good news for people living in urbanisations in Spain – the government has toughened up on owners letting their properties out to holidaymakers.
Owners will now have to ask the urbanisation for permission and if less than three fifths agree, then, if the owner lets the property, he/she will be breaking the law.
People will know only too well how disruptive holidaymakers in residential properties can be, caring little about the welfare of people living nearby.
On one urbanisation I know of two homes which have been empty for years presumably resulting from the owner dying intestate. Multiply that across Spain and there must be many thousands of homes similarly affected. Here’s an area where Spain can and should act, bringing in legislation if necessary to take ownership and ease the acute housing shortage.
It’s this and spiralling rents which has fuelled anger across Spain. I heard last week of the plight of tenants in Madrid where landlords have refused to make repairs to properties and say they want tenants to quit – because they want them out to raise the rents.
It’s the same sorry story of acute housing shortage in the UK and, no doubt, in many other countries too - made worse, of course, by out of control immigration.
GENDER VS. SEX
Thank goodness that common sense has prevailed and the tireless work by campaigning women including J K Rowling has borne fruit.
I refer to the Supreme Court ruling that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equalities Act refer to biological sex and not the gender with which a person identifies. It is a marvellous victory for those fighting against the woke nonsense which has invaded Britain and put women at risk. It is sad there were so many spineless MPs in parliament who would not stand up and say that what defines a man and a woman is biological – in other words what they were born with and not what they would like to be.
It puts an end to the appalling situation of a man being able to enter a female changing room or toilet and put women at risk, or a man with additional strength able to compete against women in sport. However, where do trans people go when they need to pay a visit to a loo? And how
Tony Mayes Rant
Using NASA’s powerful space telescope, a Cambridge team have discovered molecules which can only be produced by living organisms.
much prejudice will be levelled at them in future? They have as many rights as anyone else.
It’s sad that we have got into this sorry state –people should have kept their sexual orientation to themselves over the decades. Personally I would like to see an end to gay pride marches which just add to divisions in society of which there are far too many.
But right now it’s totally wrong for trans people to send hate mail to the successful campaigners or to daub graffiti on London statues as forms of protest.
INFLUENCERS' IMPACT ON SCHOOL BEHAVIOR
I’ve written recently about teachers in the UK having increasing problems with unruly children and teenagers – bringing knives into school and attacking teachers – many of whom have experienced violence in the classroom.
But it seems there is another even more appalling element to it and that’s that social media influencers are fuelling a rise in misogyny and sexism in classrooms.
Boys, incredibly even from the age of 1,0 are refusing to speak to or engage with female teachers. Boys watching the influencers on their iphones are believing they are superior to girls and act in a hostile manner to them.
These are not isolated incidents, more than 5,800 teachers were polled by the teachers union and almost three in five said they have experienced the trouble and believe social media has contributed to a deterioration in pupils’ behaviour.
The problem is that are are far too many so called “influencers” who are preying on vulnerable youngsters indoctrinating them with all manner of vile views and it all spells trouble for the future.
People such as Andrew Tate, who has a huge following on social media who display such hatred against females should be banned.
Beijing?
It just shows how robot technology has advanced in just one generation. Can you imagine what life will be like in another generation or two? At the moment humans were able to win the races – but just wait!
UK FUNERAL DELAYS GROW
In Spain it takes only a matter of days to arrange a funeral – which puts pressure on grieving relatives to make all the necessary arrangements.
But in Britain it seems the opposite is the case. Changes in the way death certificates are issued are making the process even more stressful.
It used to take about three weeks to get funeral arranged, but now it can take up to eight weeks.
The reason is that up until last September, causes of death could be signed off by a GP, but now they have to be independently scrutinised by a medical examiner, before a death certificate can be issued.
But Britain has imported many thousands of people of different cultures who have views wholly different from British values. Women in Afghanistan, for example, cannot get an education, or a job and in the Middle East it’s very similar, with men controlling what they think and how they dress.
Social media could be a source of good, if it wasn’t for the fact that there are so many who reach for their mobile phones and write a load of rubbish without engaging their brains.
Humanity may think it has become more civilised down the centuries, but scratch the surface and people have identical base desires and hatreds than they did in the Stone Age.
While on the subject, social media is causing a problem in another direction. Mountain rescue teams in Wales and Scotland are finding they are being called out far more frequently – not by people in their 50s and beyond, as in the past, but by the 20 somethings, going into dangerous areas to get the “perfect” picture to post on line!
SCIENTISTS SPOT ALIEN LIFE
One of the most exciting stories of the week is that scientists have discovered new but albeit tentative evidence that on a planet far, far away there may be life.
Using NASA’s powerful space telescope, a Cambridge team studying the atmosphere of a large planet more than 200 light years away have discovered molecules which, on Earth, can only be produced by living organisms. Who knows, in a few years we might be finding life on many other planets – live which will undoubtedly have evolved far differently than here in Earth.
My hope is that if we ever get there and found life we will not have any of Trump’s successors – all he will want to do is to slap tariffs on them!
Did you see TV news over Easter and the world’s first humanoid v robot half marathon in
That process has been introduced by the government to address "concerns" about how causes of death were previously scrutinised, following high-profile criminal cases such as those of Harold Shipman and nurse, Lucy Letby.
And it’s this extra level of bureaucracy which is causing distress to many – unable to move on after the death of a loved one.
Perhaps politicians should think more carefully about changing the system without first ensuring there is staff on board to do the work.
SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION
QUIZ FROM P 14:
1. Edelweiss, 2. Lagos, 3. Funny bone, 4. kumquat (or Cumquat), 5. Gonzalez (or Gonzales), 6. You Only Live Twice ('Little Nellie' is the nickname for the mini helicopter), 7. Nicolas Cage, 8. Emirates, 9. Four answers. Andorra, Liechtenstein, San Marino and Monaco. 10. Five answers. a. Don't Cry For Me Argentina (Julie Covington), b. Born In The USA (Bruce Springsteen), c. Back In The USSR (Beatles), d. China Girl (David Bowie), e. Lost In France (Bonnie Tyler). 11. Doberman Pinscher, 12. "Mein F?hrer, I can walk!" 13. Green and white. 14. Queensland And Northern Territory Aerial Services. 15. Lebanon. 16. Texas. 17. Chickpeas. 18. Five answers. a. Wet Wet Wet, b. Terrence Trent D'Arby, c. Iron Maiden, d. Fleetwood Mac, e. Prince. 19. Watership Down. 20. 1986
Charity Day & Golf Highlights A Great Day at Vistabella
What a fantastic day of golf and giving as THE SAN MIGUEL GOLF SOCIETY hosted our Prostate Cancer UK charity event! Huge thanks to Prostate Cancer UK for their generous prize donations. We’re proud to announce that six of our teams will represent us at the Costa Blanca Charity Day at Vistabella on May 17th.
We were also delighted to donate e340 to the local Pink Ladies, a wonderful group supporting women on the Orihuela Costa before and after cancer diagnoses. The donation was presented to their Local President, Maria Wilson B.E.M.
As for the golf, we kicked off in beautiful weather, though Vistabella’s infamous wind arrived by midday, testing the later starters. Despite that, 48 members competed in our 5th Eclectic round on a course in top shape— with “yucky” pin positions and slick greens! It was a tight contest for top spot between El
VULCANS EDGE GLADIATORS IN CLASH OF RIVALS
South Alicante Summer League - Spitfire Div Emerald Isle Vulcans v Greenland's Gladiators
A very close tight game again against our arch-rivals with Emerald Isle Vulcans coming out on top. Good win for them 8-4 but only winning by 9pts, some very close games. Good wins by Janet Jukes, Len Ridge & Dave Morrison 25-14, Mandy Tompkins, Freddie Willey & Dave Palmer 31-9.
Harrier Div - Warriors v San Miguel Christians
Good close games but not quite the finish yet
LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB
Capitan and La Secretaria, with El Capitan claiming victory on countback—winning a Range Finder and a Royal St. Andrews polo.
Results:
Gold: John Osborne (39 pts)
Silver: Roddy Duncan (39 pts)
Bronze: Lee Eastman (45 pts, tied with Sandra Dibble)
Nearest the Pins:
Darren Strugnell, Red McAuliffe
Roddy Duncan (x2)
Each won a polo shirt and sleeve of balls.
Jan Skog claimed the only “Two” of the day and the full pot.
The football card was won by Paul Lambert (West Brom), while Cecilia Lager took home the “McBride Bottle” and a Prostate Cancer UK head cover.
Thanks to all who contributed to the Blob Tin, adding to the e510 raised so far. Final total to come next week!
Next event: Mar Menor – we can’t wait!
Warriors. Good win for San Miguel 10-2 (89pts -77pts). Good win again for Rosie Frances, Pearl Houghton & Alan Mawer 22-6.
Valencian Championships League (VCL)
South Division A - San Luis Falcons v Giants
A tricky game on a very difficult green which caught out some of our bowlers. San Luis Falcons coming out on top 8-4 (97pts to 82pts). A good win for our Carol Stobbart (ladies Singles) 21-18 plus our Fours winning a close game Linda Saunders, Mark Jukes, Richard Saunders & Keith Stobbart 17-15.
South Div B - Greenland's Titans v La Marina Titans were unlucky this week with La Marina coming out on top 7-5 (81pts-60pts).
Good performances by Mandy Tompkins /
Monday's summer league saw us entertain Quesada Blenheims, and a fine performance saw La Marina victorious in a 10 points to 2 victory.
On Wednesday we visited Greenlands in the B. Division of the V.C.L. and came away with a good 7 - 5 victory.
2bowls Summer League - Friday Greenland's Goanna's - rearranged match against Country Bowls. Greenland's Dragons v Quesada
What a close game some excellent bowling from both teams. Both teams sharing the points 6-6(77pts - 70pts).
Good wins for Dave Donovan, Mandy Tompkins & Lin Hamersley 19-10 plus Allen Bowen, Suzie Cooper & Dave Palmer 22-10.
Well done Dragons great result. By Freddie Willey
Great wins in the singles for Janet Parsons 21 - 4, and John Rae 21 - 8. A 15 - 15 draw for Garth Slater & Barry Roberts secured the points plus the aggregate score.
Come along to the Sports Complex on Calle Berne any Tuesday or Thursday at 10.15 am and have a go.
All equipment needed is available. You will be made very welcome.
BY BARRY ROBERTS
Dyer Stands Out Despite Tough Outing
Vulcans started their week away at Greenlands Gladiators, earning a solid 8–4 win with an aggregate score of 100–91. Winning rinks: N. Prior, D. Mooney, M. Dyer – 33–9, I. Laverick, J. Taylor, J. McCormack –20–7, M. Oakley, N. Davis, M. Ellis – 20–11
Victors travelled to face San Miguel Vikings and came away with a strong 10–2 victory, aggregate 95–72. Winning rinks: S. Johnson, P. Moore, K. Jolliffe – 24–7, M. Riley, C. Wilson, R. White – 24–11, E. Morris, A. Malcolm, J. Loughran – 23–11, J. Speedie, B. Eldred, J. Sayers – 16–15
Dukes visited San Miguel Sheriffs, where the hosts
took control with a 10–2 win, aggregate 108–74. Notable performance: M. Dyer – 21–16
Earls played at home against San Miguel Deputies, securing a good 8–4 win, aggregate 97–82. Winning rinks: P. Willicott – 21–12, S. Johnson – 21–15, K. Jolliffe – 23–15
Lords hosted San Luis Pythons but fell short, losing 4–8 with an aggregate of 68–89. Winning rinks: M. Oakley, S. Elvin, M. Ellis – 22–16, J. Holmyard, I. Laverick, J. Taylor – 15–13
SAPS are scheduled to play at 13:15. Elwyn Morris
Lockleys & Mahomet Lead the Charge in Hurricane Thriller
It has been a positive week, with good results and useful points for all our teams, let’s hope we can keep the momentum going as the weather warms up!!
Summer Trips League, Hurricane Div. Monday 21st, SL Wellingtons were away v Quesada Lancasters and had a close-fought match with a good result, 7points-5, 76 shots-69. Winners: Mary & Phil Lockley, Vic Mahomet 20-11, Pauline Johnson, Derrick Cooper, Barbara Louis 1712, Sheila Cammack/ sub. Gary Thorpe, Derek Biggs, Jim Gracie 17-17.
VCLeague: Wednesday 23rd SL Falcons were at home to the Greenlands Giants. Once more there were some close fought matches, finishing with a good result, 8 points-4, 97 shots-82. Winners: Men’s singles - Dave Webb 21-17, pairs - Peter Ayres, Gary Thorpe 23-17, Triples - Stuart Wilson, Sandra Burrows, Carol Thorpe 20-10.
South Alicante 2 wood triples: Friday 25th SL Cobras had an excellent result at home v Vistabella, just missing out on a clean sweep, taking 10 points-2, 93 shots- 52. Winners: Lesley & Wayne Howlett, Jean Cooper 24-14, Pauline Johnson, Barbara Louis, Lyndon, Johnson 18-11, Tony Ferreira, Ngaio & Peter Baldwin 17-8, Chris Jackson, Dee Hoey, Vic Mahomet 23-6.
SL Pythons had a good morning away v Emerald Isle Lords, 8 points-4, 89 shots- 68. Winners: Stuart Wilson, Carol & Gary Thorpe 24-12, Fran & Neil Cox, Derek Biggs 19-9, Cathy & Noel Morrisroe, Jim Gracie 17-10. By Sheila Cammack
Mixed results for San Miguel
Monday 21st April the San Miguel Moors had a bye. The San Miguel Christians played away against Greenlands Warriors where they won 10-2, 79 shots to 77.
The highest win for the Christians came from Gerry Gough, Bill Brownlee and Colin Fowler who won 22-14. The Vikings were at home against Emerald Isle Victors where they did not fare so well losing 2-10, 71 shots to 95.
The only win for the Vikings came from Terry Lock, John King and Dave Sceal who won 27-8.
San Miguel Sheriffs played at home against Emerald Isle Dukes on Wednesday 23rd April and secured a 10-2 win, 106 shots to 74. The best win came from Steve Parr in the gents singles 21-5.
The Deputies were away to Emerald Isle Earls losing 4-8, 82 shots to 97. Highest win came from Ian Hope, Paul Durham and Phil Broadhurst winning their triple 24-19.
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. by Mary Whitelock
Dave Palmer (Pairs) 15-15, Suzie Cooper, John Taylor & Tony Hodges (triples) 20-13 plus Brian Tomlin, Dave Donovan, John O'Brien & Alan Mawer (Fours) 13-11.
PETANCA WITH A PURPOSE
Charity Event Hits the Mark in San Luis
The Las Salinas Mixed Triples competition held on Saturday, April 19th, was a fantastic display of sport and community spirit at the beautiful petanca terrains of San Luis Club. With 33 teams representing 17 different clubs, the atmosphere buzzed with energy and friendly rivalry.
All proceeds from team registrations and the popular tombola went directly to support the San Jose Obrero Orphanage—a cause close to many hearts.
A big round of applause goes to Jackie Lowton, the competition secretary, who handled all team coordination and registration with flawless efficiency. Meanwhile, Carol and Maxine were hard at work throughout the day, raising additional funds from the cheerful crowd with their infectious enthusiasm.
The San Luis Petanca Club generously
provided refreshments, and the barbecue proved to be such a hit that extra burgers had to be quickly sourced to meet demand!
League secretary and umpire John ensured fair play across the board, while his wife Ang tirelessly kept track of the scores, collecting and recording results after every round.
After a thrilling day of competition, the final standings were:
1st Place: Escorpiones – 4 wins, +32 points
2nd Place: Limonar Justin 2 – +29 points
3rd Place: Rocajuna (3) – 3 wins, +28 points
A heartfelt thank you to all the players and supporters for making the event such a success and for their generous support of the Las Salinas Petanca League and the San Jose Obrero Orphanage.
TDLO Singles Competition & Diana Lloyd Memorial Team KO Finals
High Scores: Dons Ralph 180 x3, 140 x2, 138, 132, 125 x2, 100 x5, Chelsea Campbell 180, 140, 121, 119, 100 x5, Sandra Crabbe 150 x2, 121, 105, 100 x5, Jane Kelly 134, 125, 120, 100, Elaine Haston 119, 118, 100 x2, Yvonne Rouffignac 133, 117, 119, Diane Burns 140, 100, Lisa Ivill 131, 127, Sarndra David 130, 100, Sue Wade 128, 121, Lynn Young 121, 108, Sharon O'Rourke 140, Pat Schofield 133, Sarah Grove 119, Diane Curran 114, Chris Greenwood 111, Trudi Collins 100
WINNER: Chelsea Campbell Gap Girlz
Runner Up: Dons Ralph, Ladybirds
Third: Sandra Crabbe, Ladybirds
Fourth: Jane Kelly, Friendly Temps
Some superb scoring in a competition that saw four 180?s!
Top scorer Dons Ralph claiming three of the max’s and narrowly missing out on this season’s elite spot, claimed by the calm and steady nerves of PDC player, Chelsea Campbell.
On April 24th, 2025, the Inbetweeners Golf Society enjoyed a splendid day at El Plantio Golf, characterized by warm sunshine and an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and determination. The members showcased their competitive spirit, resulting in a vibrant and engaging home game that highlighted the essence of the sport.
The favorable weather conditions undoubtedly enhanced the competition, leading to remarkable scores and an enjoyable experience for all participants.
The Nearest the Pin awards sparked intense rivalry, with JUHA JORTIKKA, triumphing Hole 9, GRAEME BUCHANAN, claiming victory Hole 14, and JIM FEGAN securing his prize Hole 7 and 18.
As the day concluded, the society convened at the El Plantio clubhouse for refreshments and the prize-giving ceremony, celebrating the camaraderie that defines the Inbetweeners Golf Society.
Eugenio Jimenez Lara earned 3rd place with 38 points, while Frank Cullen narrowly missed the
ALFIEíS GOLFSOCIETY
(AGS) Font del Llop - 24th April 2025
Hosted by our president, Shaun Staplehurst, our President?s Day competition took us to Font del Llop, in the hills inland from Alicante. Despite it being a bit of a trek, we had a great turnout again, with a field of 43 players.
Armed with a 'goodie bag' of snacks and drinks courtesy of our President, we set off on a course in great condition. The freshly-cut greens caught most of us out and when the wind picked up later in the round, it meant distance and accuracy from the tee was sometimes harder to find too. But, that didn`t stop our winners. Despite the conditions and a far-from-easy course, we saw some outstanding scores on the day.
Well done to our winners:
1st Place ñ Gary Armstrong, with 44 pts 2nd Place ñ John Moore, 41pts, 3rd Place ñ Chris Udell, 38pts, 4th Place ñ David Blow, 37pts Congratulations to our overall winner, Gary Armstrong, who was presented with a commemorative crystal decanter and glasses and received a voucher for one free round of golf with AGS The other 3 winners were presented with vouchers from the Lucky Lion
Nearest the Pin: Hcp 20 and above:Hole 12 ñ NTPin 1, Ian Connell, Hole 7 ñ NTPin 2,
CARP-R-US ANGLING
The Eden 2 stretch of the Rio Segura causes more headaches for Carp-R-Us than any other venue.
It takes a lot of work to keep it fishable and in the last few weeks it has been unusable due to flooding.
Monday this week saw the venue looking perfect. The river was just within its banks with a nice steady flow and the paths had all dried out. It was also fishing well.
Therefore, imagine our surprise and disappointment when we arrived today to find the river had dropped by over a metre leaving some pegs
top position with 42 points. The standout performer was Lesley Cullen, who emerged as the champion with an impressive 43 points.
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Explore membership details and upcoming events at inbetweeners golf society – golfers of all skill levels and nationalities are enthusiastically welcomed to join our ranks.
Malcolm Fitter, Hole 2 - NTPin 3, Sam Udell, Hcp 19.9 and below: Hole 3 - NTPin 1, Alan Small, Hole 9 ñ NTPin 3, Nick Oldfield NTPwinners were presented with vouchers from the Lucky Lion
The Best Net score on Hole 18 was won by Chris Udell, with a net Eagle. He was presented with a bottle of Brandy
Best front 9 was won by Steve Croft, with 20pts Best back 9 was won by Dave Thornton, 20pts Both received a sleeve of Pro V1 balls from our President
The captainís chosen charity is Help at Home, and this yearís fund currently stands at ˇ765
Many thanks go to Sam Udell, our charity member, for her hard work.
Our thanks, as always, go to Michael, Anouschka and the staff at the Lucky Lion for their continued support and delicious after-match meal and refreshments.
Our next match, at Saurines, will be Thursday 29th May. This is the second round of our Eclectic Cup. With an impressive 1st round score of 43, Bob Chambers is the man to beat.
For further information, contact the Secretary, by email - alfiesgolfsociety@gmail.com
BYMike Leyland
again unfishable.
The match went ahead and was won by Russell Davidson from the downstream end peg with 5.10kg caught using pole and maggot, second from peg 6 was Steve Fell with 3.50kg caught on pole and bread.
Willy Moons was third with 0.96kg and Ron Salisbury fourth with 0.58kg. Sadly, three dry nets were recorded.
On the plus side, no terrapins or crabs were caught!
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.
Most 180's: Mark Farmer 9, James Brown 7, Pete Spence 7, Bob Smith 7. Total 180’s: 113
High Finish'sThisWeek: Les Adams 114, Tim Clarke 99, Mark Farmer 98, John Rodford 90 Current High Finish: Patrick Wagner 154
DIVISION 1
TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS V FIRE STATION
Toad finished their campaign strongly, with just the one point separating winners and runners up.Gap a further point adrift, fair to say it was close.
A good all round performance from Station, as always, their continued improvement, will ultimately reap rewards.Toad's Lee Maiden rolled back his many years and opened the 1st leg with a 180 and 88, figured his ton plus average more than enough, put his arrows away to sit at the bar.Sensible, Lee.
Pete Spence enjoyed a 16 dart singles with Aston Williams, the Toad amassing 7 tons overall.John Rodford knocked in Toad's top out with a 90, Moises Gonzalez just behind with an 86.Vycka Bobinas however was deemed POTM with a total of 3x140, 3x ton+, 2x100.
Station's POTM Patrick Wagner, had a nice 83 out, 3 tons and 9 scores of 85+.Tim Clarke's 99 out was Station's best, along with 6 tons.Darren Justice got the better of Paddy Moran (few do) in 3 legs, the match including 9 tons or more.
DOMIGNOMES V HUB HYENAS
Despite an unsteady start to this one (Hub won the 1st), Gnomes DOMInated the match from the 2nd leg, retaining their champions status.Matt Dawson finding D4 in the opener.
Hyenas will regret not taking advantage of singles opportunities, which wouldn't have changed the result, but would have made the journey home a little happier.
Some excellent arrows from Gnomes 36 tons or more, but not achieving the top scores of the night, that from POTM Mark Ellis notching up a 171 and a 180.Mark Farmer was in top form with outs of 80,82,98, plus 8 tons or more.Ricky Perez, currently enjoying his recent success at the World Soft Tip Championship, recorded 11 tons or more.But it was Chelsea Campbell receiving POTM after a real 3 leg belter with Dawson, 11 match tons or more, 6 to Dawson, but the winning doubles to Super Gnome Campbell.
DIVISION 2
TIPSY COW V CK1 CHUGGERS
CK were in fine triples form, Zach Green 140,95, 59 out, Paul Tollafield 100, Les Adams 100, Terry David 2x100, D4, Murray Macleod 100, D4 replying for Cow. The visitors repeated the score in the pairs for 2-4. Cow's Lesley Lumb 52 out, D8 and Steve Lumb 140,180 getting the hosts 2nd leg.
Tollafield 2x100 needed 3 legs to defeat a lively Macleod 2x100 for 2-5, prior to a Cow revival, the hosts winning the next 4.Lesley L.112,68 out, Kevin Swan, POTM Steve L.3x100 and Bob Smith 2X100,140 making it 6-5.Green saved the day for CK's with a 2x95, 2x100, POTM three leg win over John Giggs 120.
DIVISION 3
CC BEES V DOMINOS DESPERADOS
Bees dominated the 1st half, winning 5 of the 6 legs available.Akash Panchal taking the 3rd triple after earlier tons.Bees were in fine form Jeff Saunders 100,125, Simon Bantleman an 83 out and Liam Lumb 100 and 2 outs of note.
Lumb made it 6 for Bees, Richie McSweeney POTM the 7th with excellent scoring over Eunice Letts. Dougie Adkins 100,121, just getting the better of Steve Wilson in 3 legs, prior to Panchal 135 and a 68 out getting his and Despos 2nd leg of the evening. Colin Kernahan put in a POTM losing performance against an outstanding Saunders 2x100,2x140 in 3 legs.
CK1 TORNADOS V FALLEN ANGELS
Tornados found it tough going this season, but gave a good account of themselves in this concluding game. Two 1st half outs from Paul Laidlow and Kirsty Green were countered by Angels Andy Forrest John Eyre,James Mackay and Mike Tierney. The 2nd half was "evens stevens", although POTM Eyre increased Angels advantage by taking the 1st in 3 legs.The next 3 went CK's way via Dave Baldie, POTM Steve Mullen 100,116,140 and Sharon O'Rourke 137 for 5-5.Graham White 100,100, and Forrest on D10, closed the game for Angels and 2 points.
DIVISION 4
HUB HELLRAISERS V TIPSY TOAD TIARAS
Tiaras looked likely winners at half time, the score 24,Tiaras winning all 3 triples, through Nina McGuiness, Simone de Lacy and Pat Schofield.
Lesley Dolling and Ali Scammell replying for Raisers, Lesley Eagles ensuring Tiaras lead at the break.
Raisers knew they needed some sort of result to be in with a shout of league success.Skipper Cheryl McGlynn's choice of singles order of play proved piv-
otal.Sue Spiers 121,D15, Dolling 132,D1, POTM Carol Rowland D4 and McGlynn herself all won for 64.Unfortunately for Hub, Tiaras hadn't read the script Sue Damery and POTM Schofield taking the 11th and 12th for the draw.
ILLY'S IDOLS V TIPSY COW ARCHERS
A draw was sufficient for Archers to win the division, albeit on leg difference.They did however find themselves 5-3 down with 4 to play, a loss meaning 2nd place.Rob Norbury added a 4th for the visitors, Steve Franklin a 5th on D4, Karen Raffell the 6th and at least a point.ldol's Christine Hutchinson nailed D9 in the 12th for the draw, Archers now sweating on the outcome of Raisers match.
Sharon Williams again earned a POTM contributing 2 vital team legs, Rob N.the same accolade for Archers. Karen Raffell the visitors hero on the night earning the point making them champions.
DIVISION 1
Domignomes v Mind the Gap illy's Oldies v Fire Station
DIVISION 2
Dartagnans v Fallen Angels CC Bees v Tipsy Cow Archers
Semi Finals played over 2 legs. Only in the event of a draw over 2 matches (1212) will there be a 1001, six a side decider (rule 9b). One leg per discipline (triples, pairs, singles) all other rules apply.
Champions Gnomes
Raisers &Fred
POTMRob
POTM
Vycka & Patrick
ROAD TO GLORY AS TORREVIEJA SETS THE STAGE FOR WALKING FOOTBALL’S GLOBAL CELEBRATION
Prior to the Walking Football World Nations Cup, which will be held at Torrevieja Sports City this October, an intensive coaching and matchday session will take place at the same venue on Saturday 3 May.
A total of eight teams are set to participate, including three from England and one from Sweden. Spain will be well represented, fielding an over-50s team, three teams in the over-60s category, and a squad from the Orange Bar in Vista Bella. Players will be travelling from across Spain, including Madrid and the Costa del Sol, to take part. The event serves as both a training camp and a selection programme for the upcoming World Nations Cup. Coaching staff from the Spain national squad will be in attendance, sharing their expertise alongside Spain Director Mark Kavanagh and Walking Football founder and director Mark Coleman.
Walking football, a slower-paced version of the traditional game, was first developed in England in 2011 to encourage older adults to stay active through a sport they love.
The game’s key rule — no running — allows players over 50 or 60 to enjoy football competitively but safely, significantly reducing the risk of injury. Since its inception, walking football has grown rapidly worldwide, promoting fitness, social inclusion, and mental wellbeing among senior communities.
Following the Torrevieja gathering, another training camp will be held in Malaga on the Costa del Sol, with a final session back in Torrevieja scheduled for September, just before the tournament.
Advertising opportunities are currently available in the tournament programme, alongside various player and event sponsorship packages. For advertising, contact Neil on +34 637 227 385 or office@theleader.info. For sponsorships, reach Mark Kavanagh on +34 711 02 54 72 or markkavanagh.swift@gmail.com.
The World Nations Cup has already attracted a global roster, with confirmed teams as follows: Japan x 6 teams, England x 6 teams, Spain x 4 teams, New Zealand x 4 teams, Hong Kong x 1 team, Egypt x 2
World Cup Fever Boosts Local Walking Football Scene in Playa Flamenca
With the Walking Football World Cup set to take place in Torrevieja this October, drawing teams from across the globe, interest in the sport is surging, especially here in the Costa Blanca.
Leading the local charge is the well-established Playa Flamenca Walking Football Club, proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024. Based at the C.D.M. sports facility, the club hosts weekly matches every Monday at 4 p.m., welcoming new players aged 50 and over to lace up their boots and join the fun.
Experience is optional but enthusiasm is essential. The club is particularly keen to hear from anyone interested in trying their hand (or gloves) at goalkeeping.
More than just a game, Playa Flamenca
Walking Football is known for its vibrant social scene.
The team has even been honoured with the “Pride of Spain Award” for community spirit. Post-match gatherings take place at the local favourite, The Thistle and Rose bar, where players, supporters, and WAGs (wives and girlfriends) enjoy a well-earned bite to eat and plenty of camaraderie. So whether you're looking to stay fit, try something new, or meet like-minded folks, come along for a kick-off at 4 p.m. on Mondays—you’ll be made to feel right at home.
For more information, contact team secretary Vicky at Flamencawalkingfootball@gmail.com.
Advertising opportunities are currently available in the tournament programme, alongside various player and event sponsorship packages.
teams, Italy x 2 teams, Nigeria x 2 teams, Wales x 4 teams, Canada x 3 teams, Jersey x 2 teams, Czech Republic x 2 teams, Columbia x 1 team, Rwanda x1 team, Cyprus x 2 teams, France x 3 teams, Portugal x 1 team, Northern Ireland x 1 team, Australia x 3 teams, Scotland x1 team, Basque Country x 2 teams, Brazil x 1 team, Holland x 2 teams, Catalans x4 teams.
The televised tournament public draw will take place on May 31st at the Habaneras Shopping Centre.
The Spain Squad that finished 3rd in the World Cup of Nations held 2 years ago in England
