Gran Alacant Advertiser continues to bring you all the local NEWS including information from the local Town Hall representative. Working for the local community since January 2005.
If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like to ask our councillors, please email on info@granalacantadvertiser.com
Oscar
Valenzuela Councillor of Gran Alacant & Education
Q: Lack of Christmas Decorations
Hi Lou, I cannot believe the lack of Christmas decorations in Gran Alacant this year. There was a tired looking sort of Christmas tree pointing the wrong way at the Medical Centre car park, it looked as if it was just put there with a "that will do" then a couple of decorations on the posts there. The Nativity figures did not appear until a week before Christmas, there was a Feliz Navidad across the entrance to GA put up early December and that was it. I call it disgraceful and disrespectful to the people that live and pay their taxes in Gran Alacant. Regards Sandra
A: Borja Merino
This Christmas, as the Gran Alacant Councilors committed to the previous year, the Christmas decoration and lighting has been increased with a life-size LED Nativity Scene in the roundabout at the entrance to Gran Alacant. The idea is to increase and improve all the Christmas lighting each year.
Borja
Merino Councillor of Gran Alacant Tourism, Health & Animal Welfare
Q: Mobile Signal
Hello Lou, like every year the issue comeback problem with GSM network coverage urbanizacion Novamar and Sol y Mar Av. Carabasi and Av. Polonia . We have been reporting this problem for three years. I wish the editional team a good year 2025 and better GSM network coverage. Regards, Thomas
A: Borja Merino
We continue conversations with telephone companies for the installation of a new antenna in the lower area of Gran Alacant, although it is a difficult process. We recommend that residents contact their telephone company indicating the lack of coverage in the area to jointly put pressure and get the telephone companies to install new antennas in Gran Alacant.
Q: Tobacconist
Anyone wishing to purchase tobacco products have to visit El Altet or Santa Pola. 87% of all residents in Spain use
tobacco products. Does anyone have any information regarding the closure of the tabacos, which was opposite the clinic, and only licenced between June and September? Last Saturday the tabacos in the GA Centre didn't have one packet of cigarettes on the shelves.
This means any cigarettes have to be purchased from a machine which has a very limited choice.
Thank you, Iris
A: GA Advertiser
We asked in the shop and they are in the process of renewing their licence so it’s only a temporary situation.
Q: Entrance Sign
Happy New Year to all. There is a new sign at the entry to Gran Alacant which says Santa Pola. There is also a sign for Gran Alacant, but in smaller letters. This must be most disconcerting for people who do not know the area. Surely the sign for Santa Pola should be in smaller letters?? Thank you Iris
A: Borja Merino
The small sign placed belongs to roads, it is a road sign that indicates that we are in the municipality of Santa Pola. On the other hand, there is a large illuminated sign that indicates the entrance to Gran Alacant with a photo of the Faro viewpoint.
LOVE IN ACTION: A COMMUNITY REFLECTION FOR VALENTINE’S DAY
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.’’
- St Paul, 1 Cor 13 vs 4-8
As Valentine’s Day draws near, hearts and homes in Gran Alacant begin to celebrate love in its many forms. This poem, written long ago by St Paul to the Church is often used at wedding ceremonies and in Valentine’s messages, but its meaning goes far deeper than romantic love alone. It paints a picture of unconditional love as a way of life - a guide for building genuine, lasting relationships within families, friendships, and our wider community.
For those of us living in this beautiful corner of Spain, far from our places of origin, the value of community is essential. Love, as described in this passage, is the foundation of true belonging. It reminds us that real love is patient, showing understanding even when cultural differences arise. It is kind, extending a helping hand to a neighbour in need.
In a diverse community, like ours, where expats from all over the world have made
their homes, this message is especially powerful. Love that “does not insist on its own way” challenges us to move beyond personal preferences and instead focus on the well-being of those around us. When we choose to listen, support, and celebrate one another, love transforms from an abstract idea into a lived reality.
Love in Our Community
Valentine’s Day offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how we can bring love into our everyday lives here in our community. Beyond romantic celebrations, we can live out the message of St Paul in practical ways:
• Patience: Taking time to understand someone’s perspective, especially when language or cultural differences create barriers.
• Kindness: Offering help to a new neighbour, sharing a meal, or volunteering time to support a local cause.
• Humility: Encouraging open dialogue and embracing differences instead of looking to be right.
• Endurance: Standing by friends and community members during both joyful and challenging seasons.
At its core, love is the glue that holds communities together. It’s more than words or gestures - it’s a commitment to seeing the best in others and working for the good of all.
Happy Valentine’s from All at Acorn International Ministries
Find out more:
Whatsapp: Steve +447469949851
Email: acornintmin@cfaith.com
Website: www.acorn-int-min.org
Facebook: @DreamCentreHondon
All are welcome. Come as you are.
Gran Alacant News
UPDATE ON PLAYGROUND BY GA MEDICAL CENTRE
Last month we wrote about the works on the children´s playground on Avenida de Escandinavia. The works have now been completed with the installation of new sailtype shade structures.
SANTA POLA’S POPULATION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS
Santa Pola has hit a historic population milestone, with 38,556 registered residents as of January 1, 2024, marking a growth of 849 people over the past year. According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE), this represents a 21.5% increase in the last decade and the town's seventh consecutive year of growth.
Now the tenth most populous municipality in Alicante province, Santa Pola stands out alongside cities like Alicante, Elche, and Torrevieja. The town’s population rebounded from a low of 31,529 in 2014 during the economic crisis, steadily climbing since 2019.
These figures only reflect officially registered residents, while Santa Pola’s appeal as a tourist hub means the actual number of inhabitants is even higher due to seasonal visitors.
AENA TO INVEST €20M IN ALICANTEELCHE AIRPORT EXPANSION
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (managed by AENA) has unveiled a €20 million plan to create a dedicated terminal area for non-Schengen Zone flights, including UK travel. This expansion follows a record-breaking 2024, with over 18.3 million passengers - a 17% increase from 2023 - and 116,270 flight operations.
The new zone will streamline UK arrivals and departures, with centralised border controls and Automated Tray Return Systems (ATRS) to reduce security wait times. Construction is set to begin in 2027, pending national investment plan approval.
The airport remains a top destination for British travellers, welcoming over six million UK passengers in 2024, alongside significant traffic from the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and Poland.
If you would like to supply news or info for our next edition, or have a question for our Gran Alacant Councillors, please email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com
A Sweet Encounter
Saturday the 11.01.25 a sunny January day, we went to the market in Santa Pola. After we had shopped, we wanted some churros. As usual, we chose the churros stand closest to the exit, where they cost 1.20 Euro.
My husband got in line and I had to find a place for us to sit. The sun is shining and there are many people sitting, there are no free tables. I tried to ask a Spanish woman, (in half English and half Spanish) who was sitting at a 4 person table if there were 2 free chairs. The lady smiled and nodded. I sat down with our many bags of strawberries, socks, avocados and sweatpants.
The nice lady took one of the bags from me and squeezed the air out of it and tied a knot on the bag and gave it back to me, so I could put it in one of the other bags. I don't speak Spanish and was happy and grateful for her big smile and her helpfulness. The line for Churros is long, but now her husband comes with their Churros. We greet and smile.
The Spanish woman offers me one of her Churros, but I try to say in Spanish that my husband is going to buy us some. The Spanish man corrected my pronunciation and I thank you.
Now my husband brings our Churros and all 4 of us enjoy our sweet eat without saying anything.
In the heat of the fight, I don't see that my husband has taken napkins because he has all the napkins in his hand around his churros paper cone. The Spanish woman smiles a little and gives me a tissue to dry my fingers.
Now the Spanish couple is getting up, but the woman opens her bag and unfolds a large plastic bag, hands it to me, and holds it so I can put all our bags in this bag.
She is so lovable and caring that I hold her wrist for a bit. We look at each other and smile big, it then turns into a big hug on both cheeks between us two women.
It was a warm and loving meeting between Spain and Denmark.
A BIG THANK YOU TO YOU
Susanne & Jan
The GA Advertiser travelled all the way to Mount Rangitoto, New Zealand! Thank you Karen for taking us along!
Q: Emergency Phone numbers
Hi Lou, what do you think about emergency contact numbers, in the magazine police ambulance and hospital? Can’t find them anywhere and I am sure others would find them useful. Julie
USEFUL GA NUMBERS
local non-emergency issues such as noise control, lost property, non-violent crimes, pet and parking regulations
MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB
Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix, The Belfry, La Piedra, Skippers, Santara Resort, The Reiki Room
TURKEY CHASE
Sunday December 15th
The yearly turkey chase took place on a beautiful December morning. It was well attended with everyone wearing something relating to Christmas. The turkey crowns were won by Maggie with twenty eight shots and Barry with thirty shots. The eggs were won by Lynne and Ian. Thank you to Joan and Chris Harding Sue and Les Bounds who donated the turkey crowns. Also thanks to Julia and Ian Hamilton who donated the eggs, with the help of the chickens!! The Chairman thanked Sue, Joan and Howie for as usual organising the Turkey Chase. The football card was won by John Freeman with Bradford.
CHRISTMAS DAY
On Christmas morning a few members organised a roll up which was enjoyed by all who attended. After the roll up they enjoyed a few drinks and nibbles.
NEW YEARS AFTERNOON
What started as a little get together for a New Year’s Eve lunch ended up a great afternoon. We ended up with twice the original booking. Could this be a yearly get together?
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
We had a lovely evening celebrating Cindy’s birthday at Good View. Delicious food and great company. Hope Cindy enjoyed the evening as much as we all did.
What’s On? In & Around Gran Alacant This Month
Regular Weekly Events
EVERY MONDAY
SANTA POLA MERCADILLO
General market. 9:00 to 14:00. Ctra. Elche, Santa Pola in front of the bus station.
BELGIUM GRAN ALACANT CLUB DE PETANCA at 11:00 on the playground beside the church (opposite Aldi) . New members welcome.
LONDON TAVERN QUIZ AFTERNOON at London Tavern (Commercial Centre) at 15:30. FB: The London Tavern, Gran Alacant. www.londontavern.es
EVERY TUESDAY
GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY - meet at El Plantio Golf Resort at 7:40am. All golfers welcome. Contact Michael (966 698 925) or Tony (966 183 004)
LINE DANCING CLASSES at Santara Resort Theatre from 10:00-14:00 (see below for more info). Price 5€ - includes raffle ticket in support of ASPETGA. Contact Sue on 711 075 023.
SKIPPER QUIZ at Skipper Bar in MASA Square. Starts at 17:00. Booking essential. FB: Skipper Bar. Tel: 711 04 24 34.
EYES DOWN at Tommy's Bar (Avda. Escandinavia). Starts 20:00. Booking recommended. FB: Tommy's.
EVERY WEDNESDAY
GA MEN'S WALKING FOOTBALL starts 11:00am on the Astroturf pitch at Gran Alacant Sports Centre (1€). FB: Gran Alacant's Walking Football Community. For more info contact Steve on 642 01 05 15.
GA SWEDISH CLUB meeting at Texicano restaurant (Carabassi centre) at 13:00. Open to Swedish speakers. FB: Svenskar på Gran Alacant.
EVERY THURSDAY
GRAN ALACANT MERCADILLO General market. 9:00 to 14:00. Calle Antoñita Sanchís Buades (next to Aldi/ Gabe Market).
GA WOMEN'S WALKING FOOTBALL starts 11:00 on the Astroturf pitch at Gran Alacant Sports Centre. FB: Gran Alacant's Walking Football Community. Contact Julie +44 792 618 7469.
WINE LOTTERY at the Norwegian Club (Urb. Sierra Mar). From 11:00-14:00. FB: DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant.
QUIZ NIGHT WITH JEANIE from 19:0021:00 at Alonai restaurant (Santara resort), Gran Alacant.
EVERY FRIDAY
FRIDAY ACTIVITIES at the Norwegian Club (Urb. Sierra Mar). Open from 12:00-14:00 for coffee and then again from 20:00-23:00 for social gatherings. FB: DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant.
EVERY SATURDAY
LIVE MUSIC at Brisa del Mar restaurant in MASA square. Starts from 20:00. FB: Restaurante Brisa del Mar. Tel: 611 369 454.
Bringing you the best events going on in and around Gran Alacant. Whether you are looking to make new friends or try something new, there is something for everyone!
QUIZ & PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT at Dick Turpin Bar (Sierra Mar square). Starts 20:00. FB: Dick Turpin Tel: 966 69 96 56.
KARAOKE WITH KEVIN at The Jolly Roger Sports Bar (Carabassi Centre). Starts from 21:00. FB: Jolly Roger Gran Alacant Tel: 621 18 74 14
ANDY'S KAROKE at Tommy's Bar (Avda. Escandinavia). Starts from 21:00. Booking recommended. FB: Tommy's.
EVERY SUNDAY
GRAN ALACANT RASTRO MARKET
Second-hand market. 9:00 to 14:00. Avda. Escandinavia Marketplace, Gran Alacant.
RUNNING CARDS GAME at Dick Turpin Bar (Sierra Mar square). Starts 16:00. FB: Dick Turpin Tel: 966 69 96 56.
ONE MORE TIME BAND LIVE ROCK
MUSIC (from 9th Feb) at Miley O’Rourke’s Irish Pub. Starts at 19:00. FB: Miley O'Rourke's Irish Pub Carabassi Centre Gran Alacant. Tel: (+353) 86 409 3286.
Throughout the Month
WEDNESDAY 12TH FEBRUARY
PIZZA NIGHT at the Norwegian Club (Urb. Sierra Mar). FB: DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant.
THURSDAY 13TH FEBRUARY
GRAN ALACANT CLEAN-UP once a month a group of volunteers meet to collect litter around Gran Alacant. Meet at 10am in Carabassi Centre (outside Heavenstar restaurant)
SATURDAY 15TH FEBRUARY
LONDON TAVERN 1ST BIRTHDAY
PARTY at The London Tavern (Centro Comercial GA). FB: The London Tavern, Gran Alacant Tel: 681 62 32 85.
PLUS LIVE MUSIC ALL MONTH AT THE LONDON TAVERN (SEE ADVERT IN COMMERCIAL CENTRE)
TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY
WINE TASTING NIGHT at the Norwegian Club (Urb. Sierra Mar). FB: DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant.
WEDNESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY
BOOK CLUB GRAN ALACANT at Skipper Bar in MASA Square. Meeting at 2pm. For more info contact Beth (+44) 7853 3630607.
WINE TASTING NIGHT at the Norwegian Club (Urb. Sierra Mar). FB: DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant.
THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY
AFTERNOON TEA & LIVE MUSIC WITH KIM PETERS at The London Tavern (Centro Comercial GA). Afternoon Tea starts from 15:30, music starts from 16:30. Booking essential. FB: The London Tavern, Gran Alacant Tel: 681 62 32 85.
Coming Up
To avoid disappointment, get in touch with the organisers to make your booking!
We had a great turnout of volunteers last month including Ants and Kees - the Dutch couple that inspired the creation of the GA Cleanup group! The amount of rubbish collected from around Masa Square was staggering - the town council had to be contacted for removal as there was so much.
Hopefully this will inspire more people to join us for future collections, we look forward to seeing you this month!
Next meetup:
Thursday 13th February at 10am Meeting at Carabassi Centre (Outside Heavenstar)
All are welcome to come along and get involved. Gloves, bags and litter-pickers (courtesy of the GA-Homefinders team) are provided.
Book of the month by Beth
If you like a thriller with a twist then this is for you My Recommended Book of the Month The Housemaid by Freida
McFadden
Every day Millie cleans Andrew and Nina Winchester’s beautiful house. She often collects their daughter from school. Every evening she cooks a delicious meal for the whole family, before heading up to eat alone in her tiny room in the attic.
Millie spent time in prison and this job means everything for her. Somewhere to live and a job where she can save some money. She is determined to do anything to keep her job.
She tries to ignore how Nina Winchester makes a mess just to watch her clean it up. How Nina tells lies about her daughter and how her handsome husband seems more broken every day. It is hard for Millie not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina’s life. The walk-in closet, the fancy car, the perfect husband.
But things are not what they seem and by the time she realises her bedroom door only locks from the outside, it’s far too late.
I really enjoyed this book which keeps you guessing Freida McFadden has also written The Housemaid’s Secret and The Housemaid is Watching.
Beth worked as a Qualified Librarian in Aberdeen for 20 years. She loves reading and delights in finding exciting new authors as well as reverting back to favourite writers of all genres. Beth has lived in Gran Alacant for the last 15 years.
JOIN OUR CLUB
Next Book Club Meeting is Wednesday 26th February at 2pm in Skipper Bar, MASA Square
We meet up once a month, discuss the books we are reading now and suggest new ones.
Anyone interested in joining us or looking for more information please contact: Beth on Whatsapp +44 7853 363060
Gran Alacant Ladies GALs
As we kick start 2025 we are delighted to confirm that our 2024 fundraising went to Elche Childrens Care Home. We raised €1578 for the charity through the year.
During 2025 we will be supporting SAT Animal Rescue.
Any ladies with a connection to Gran Alacant are very welcome to join our Facebook site "Gals (Gran Alacant Ladies) and we look
forward to welcoming you. Just answer the two simple joining questions.
Check our EVENTS tab on the Gals (Gran Alacant Ladies) facebook site for more details of all our future events.
Dont forget, our monthly Coffee/Breakfast informal get together at Alonai, Santana Resort. Please see our EVENTS tab again on the facebook page for details.
If any local businesses would like to donate a prize to help us raise money for SAT Animal Rescue please get in touch.
Selina Bruce, Joanne Whearity and Claire Williams. The GALs Admin Team
CARABASSI CENTRE
Special Valentine´s Messages
Valentine´s Poem by
Julie Parker
Spanish love is in the air. Not just in the masa square.
It’s on the Beach and all around. Open your heart and it can be found.
You lovely people who live in GA. To your valentine you need to say.
I love and think of you every day. And in my heart you will always stay
Spanish love is in the air. Not just in the masa square.
THE SECRETS OF A HAPPY MARRIAGE
AN INTERVEW WITH BARRY & SANDRA
This month we meet Barry and Sandra Lane who are both from Norfolk and have been married for an incredible 56 years!
HOW DID YOU BOTH MEET?
In the print room - I was 17 years old and whilst running a printing press, Sandra and her friend Jimmy came from the bindery into the print room to do some work. My elderly assistant and her elderly friend got together to get us to go out with each other, so one of them asked Sandra if she wanted to go out with me and the other asked if I wanted to go out with Sandra. They set the day and time, we met up and the rest is history!
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN MARRIED?
We´ve been married for 56 years.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LIVING IN GA?
We have lived in GA for 23 enjoyable years and have made many new friends.
WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP?
The best thing is how compatible we are!
DESCRIBE YOUR FIRST DATE.
We drove to the coast and walked the beach getting to know each other. Barry was 17 and Sandra a young 15 years of age. Unbeknown to me I had been watching Barry play football for Fakenham Town when I used to go and watch the matches with my Dad.
WHAT DID YOU THINK OF EACH OTHER WHEN YOU FIRST MET?
I was besotted, I thought he was handsome and really lovely.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR WEDDING DAY (WHERE DID YOU GO ON HONEYMOON)?
It snowed heavily the day before our wedding day on February the 8th, which caused several phone calls from guests
saying they would still be there. Thankfully we had decided to wait for a honeymoon and have it later in the year, then we went to Wales.
HAVE YOU HAD ANY TOUGH TIMES AND IF SO HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH THEM?
There has been some tough times, mostly due to illness but by sticking together we got through them.
WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE?
Compromise!
Would you like to share your secrets of a happy marriage?
For more information, email info@granalacantadvertiser.com
1st Holly Hepburn 8pm
5th Baz 4pm
8th Roberto knight 8pm WED 12th Alfie g 4pm Fri 14th Bryan thomas 8pm
Grill diameter: 38 cm
Side tables
Dimensions: 102 X 63 X 99 cm (Length, width, height) 699€
Sofa bench
Two large chairs
Small side table
All made of powder coated aluminum
Natural
FRIDGE
€
No Frost Technology
Independent temperature regulation
Open door alarm
Special functions: Holidays and Eco VitaFresh Plus 0°C drawer for meat and fish
EURONICS GRAN ALACANT
Centro comercial Gran Alacant
Av. Finlandia 23, blq. 3, local 2 03130,Gran Alacant, Santa Pola granalacant@euronics.es Tel.: 966 69 53 65
ENGLISH SPEAKERS
EURONICS LA MARINA
Google TV
GAS CERAMIC STOVE
Power: 4200 W
Energy class: A.
Three power levels. Butane and/or propane gas.
AIR FRYER
139 €
6 programs: Air Fryer | Max Crisp | Bake | Roast | Reheat | Dehydrate.
Cook with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.
Capacity: 5.2 L. Up to 1.4 kg of chips.
SMART TV 55"
Chromecast built-in
Resolution 4k
Bluetooth 5.0
Voice Assistant Built-in satellite tuner
Pza Sierra Castilla 151, loc. 10 03177, Urb la Marina San Fulgencio lamarina@euronics.es Tel.: 966 79 77 03
EURONICS CIUDAD QUESADA
Centro comercial Consum Av. Salamanca 11, local 8 03170 Ciudad Quesada quesada@euronics.es Tel.: 966 73 12 11
EURONICS SAN FULGENCIO
Centro com. Bahía del Segura Calle Mar Jónico 4, local 1, 2 y 3 03177, San Fulgencio sanfulgencio@euronics.es Tel.: 865 760 580
EURONICS LEVANTE
THE NORWEGIAN CLUB - GRAN ALACANT
NORWEGIAN CLUB RE-OPENED 16 JANUARY AFTER CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS!
SPECIAL EVENTS AT THE CLUB IN FEBRUARY
For updates on our upcoming events and trips follow our Facebook page: DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant
Wednesday 12th February PIZZA NIGHT
Tuesday 25th &
Wednesday 26th February WINE TASTING
JOIN OUR EXCITING TRIPS SPRING 2025
BACKGROUND
Wednesday 5th February
DAY TRIP: MURCIA
OLD TOWN & CASINO
Wednesday 19th February
DAY TRIP: ELCHE
OLD TOWN, PALM PARK & DAMA DE ELCHE
Wednesday 12th March
DAY TRIP: CIEZA
FLORACIÓN DE CIEZA FRUIT BLOSSOMING
Wednesday 19th March
DAY TRIP: DENIA
LAS FALLAS IN DENIA (AFTERNOON/EVENING TOUR)
Wednesday 26th - Friday 28th March
3-DAY TOUR
DAY 1: Mojacar playa via Aguilas
DAY 2: Day trip Almeria and Tabernas
DAY 3: Depart Mojacar playa, stop & lunch
HALF BOARD
Wednesday 9th April
DAY TRIP: CARTEGENA
The Norwegian Club is located in the Sierra Mar Urbanisation of Gran Alacant and operates from September through to May. The club was established in 1999. We (our members) bought the property in Sierra Mar in 2001. We are a voluntary organisation with no employees.
TODAY
Today we have around 500 members. Most of our members are Norwegians with a few Swedish members. Here you can meet old friends and make new ones.
ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
The club runs many social activities.
Spanish Classes
Spanish classes started in September and runs 4 times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 - 11.45am.
Wine Lottery
Every Thursday from 11am - 2pm, we organise an extremely popular wine lottery. We recently had a record number of 165 members to turn up for this event.
Funds raised from the wine lottery goes towards building maintenance and other charitable activities.
Friday Activities
We are open on Friday from 12-2pm for coffee and then again from 8-11pm for social gatherings.
Other activities include; bridge club, painting club, day coach trips, walking tours and evening parties.
HELPING OUR MEMBERS
We aim to help our members as much as we can. If anyone gets sick or needs help translating in Spanish, we are there for them. We also hire out children’s equipment over the summer months for our members.
For more information, please check out our website and Facebook page. DenNorskeKlubbenAlacant
Home Turf
Follow us on Instagram: juanruano.oficial & archiemaddan
A TRIP TO THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE CITY…
In recent years the capital city of our region, Valencia, has been anointed as the most desired city for foreigners to move to in Spain, or indeed in the entire world if some sources are to be believed! In 2024 Forbes magazine nominated Valencia as the best place to live for that rarefied species of immigrant known as the “expat” and Youtube is full of content breathlessly celebrating the city. We decided that we should visit the city to see if all of the fuss is justified…
We visited in the holiday period between Christmas Day and New Year and started with a morning of volunteering clearing the rice fields of the Albufeira area immediately adjacent to the city of Valencia. We wrote in last month’s edition about our previous visit to help with the clear up of this area following last October´s floods. Having completed our morning of work we headed to our hotel to shower and start our city break. We have visited the city several times but this time our plan was to have an indulgent time sampling the food, drink, shopping and general atmosphere of the city to see if it lives up to its new-found stellar reputation…
Our first evening was spent in the fashionable Ruzafa area mingling with the
young international crowd who have made this district their home. Ruzafa’s grid of 19th century streets spoils one for choice with its range of lively restaurants and bars; we opted for a Mexican meal of tacos washed down with excellent margaritas. We finished the evening with some serious late night shopping in the area’s many independent shops; a particular feature is the high quality vintage clothing stores that sell pre-owned designer label garmentswe picked up a few bargains!
The next morning we were up early to head to one of the other fashionable barrios in the city, the beachside community of El Cabanyal. This is a former fishermen’s village that gradually developed into an early beach resort and eventually became absorbed as part of the city. It is possible to reach this area by tram from the city centre but we chose to walk down through Valencia’s surviving huerta and then along the City of Arts and Sciences. The huerta is a belt of farmland that has survived alongside the most modern part of Valencia, its traditional farms and hamlets co-exist only 10 minutes walk away from the exotic organic forms of Santiago Calatrava’s sparkling white and blue tiled urban landmarks. El Cabanyal itself is a
wonderful survival, having nearly been swept away by a previous city government. Nowadays, its beautiful modernismo (art nouveau) houses and cottages are much prized and undergoing restoration. We lunched at a glamorous fish restaurant called La Sastreria where we were seated at the open kitchen bar and able to watch the chefs hard at work preparing all manner of wonderful dishes including our own lunch of freshly caught turbot.
Our final day was dedicated to the upmarket area of Colón and the historic city centre. Colón resembles Barcelona’s Eixample but with a softer and more feminine lightness of touch to its buildings and general atmosphere. Colón oozes sophistication and quiet luxury with historic apartment buildings of great grandeur sitting above rows of discreet boutiques and businesses that one suspects may have been serving the whims of Valencia’s old money since before the turn of the last century. At its heart lies the glorious art nouveau former neighbourhood market now restored and reborn as a food court with chic bars and bistros nestled under its beautiful glass and mosaics. We were tempted to linger and join the city’s beau
monde for a glass of cava but decided that our final lunch should be taken in the heart of the old mediaeval city. Lunch, of course, had to be Valencia´s signature dish of paella. We found an outdoor restaurant in a little baroque square behind the cathedral and ate al fresco under the winter sunshine. After lunch we wandered through the maze of ancient passages and lanes that crisscross the old city, stopping along the way to examine the range of shops including a bookshop stocking only first editions and design led souvenir shops selling merchandise featuring elements of Valencia’s distinctive floral decorative motifs and emblems.
So, did our visit’s findings justify Valencia’s status as the world’s new favourite city? Well actually, Valencia does definitely have the atmosphere of a city on the rise; there is a new energy in the city and a huge number of interesting things to do and see. Valencia has lived under the shadow of other “cool” Spanish cities (you know who they are…) for a long time, perhaps its time to glowup has indeed arrived!
An Interview with Bobbie
Managing the SATs Charity Shop & Life in GA
Bobbie (Roberta Stella Drever) has been married to George for 46 years and has lived in Gran Alacant for 9 years. Their children and grandchildren live in the UK and enjoy regular visits to see them.
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO GRAN ALACANT?
Our move to Spain was done totally on impulse as we had no plans on leaving the UK. We lived near Stonehaven Harbour on the North East side of Scotland and a “Move to Spain” advert on a cold, wet January night prompted the move. A “comfort break” on our way back to Alicante, while house hunting further south, brought us to Gran Alacant. It was love at first sight.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH ELCHE CHILDREN’S CARE HOME CHARITY?
In addition to my family, I have 2 loves in life. One being animals the other my teaching career. For the last 16 years of my career, I ran a base in a mainstream school for teens with emotional and behavioural difficulties. When I moved here and saw and advertisement to help Elche Children's Care Home Charity, I was immediately drawn to it.
I joined both ECCH and SAT Animal Rescue around 2017 have been a committee member of ECCH for about 6 years. Our fundraising events provide the youngsters (age 12-18) with what many others take for granted, including warm clothing, cosy bedding, and occasional trips to the beach or cinema during holiday times. Each year
we aim to raise between 90100 euros per youngster to buy them 3 gifts and some sweet treats for 3 Kings Day. The kids are so excited when we hand out the gifts. Many cuddles and a quite a few tears of appreciation make it a magical evening. Presently we are exploring ways of continuing support for the most vulnerable youngsters after they leave the home.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH SAT ANIMAL RESCUE?
The passing of our beloved Spaniel (Chandler Ross) brought my husband George and I to SAT Animal Rescue. Our intention was to help walk dogs but we ended up adopting. Our dog Jester sneaked into our hearts, followed by Peggy and Raul. Two rescue cats Phoebe Monica and Scout completed our pet family. Phoebe passed away earlier this year aged around 18. Jester sadly only lived a few months as he had extreme epilepsy and had been in the kennels almost 7 years. He spent his last month's lounging on our sofa and bed having loads of cuddles. My husband George says Raul (Antonio) who is now 14+ is the last as it is so hard getting on holiday when you have a very dependent dog… but watch this space!
I was asked to open the SAT Animal Rescue charity shop in GA 6 years ago and was assured it would just take a few hours a week of my time! Had I thought to speak to any of the other managers they would
have put me right. This year, after almost 20 years of fundraising, our new larger kennels opened at San Isidro to replace the very dilapidated kennels in Dolores.
SAT Animal Rescue depends entirely on the income from the charity shops and donations from the public. Many of the dogs arrive needing a lot of medical attention, including surgery which, even with the generosity of a wonderful vet, costs thousands of euros each year.
HOW CAN GA RESIDENTS HELP SUPPORT THESE CHARITIES?
There are loads of ways to support either charity. Pop all your brown coins in a box, they soon build up. Do you have an unwanted gift? Donate it for one of our raffles or tombola. Having a night out with friends hold your own fun raffle. The GA shop always needs volunteers to work just
a few hours each week and it is a wonderful way to meet people and make new friends.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING IN GRAN ALACANT?
Living in GA provides so many opportunities for an interesting and fun lifestyle, but I can honestly say that volunteering for ECCH and SATs has definitely enriched both mine George's life.
A BLAST FROM THE PAST - the grand opening of SATs was featured in the magazine in 2019!
Cases of cats suffering from bird flu are becoming more and more common in USA, specially those ones which are being fed with raw milk and food. We have mentioned in the past bird flu is causing problems in American dairy farms, so milk infected with H5N1 virus has been a source of infections for cats, rats, and some people. But nowadays, some transmission to cats by raw food diets has been reported. All the infected cats have died.
Why are we worried about what is happening to cats in USA? Because, despite there are people who believe borders are significant, the truth is we all live in the same world ecosystem. Animals such as migratory birds and insects spread worldwide viruses and parasites and there is no way to stop it, so participation of human passengers is not necessary at all for this expansion.
H5N1 bird flu becoming a global problem is just a matter of time. In fact, a Veterinary alert for this virus is active at this moment in Spain.
Bird flu is another important reason for
Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793
English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747
controlling cats killing and eating wildlife. Is not good for the ecosystems, and it may also become a direct problem for us.
Another important implication of bird flu is: watch out for raw diets! They can be more “natural” than processed dry food, but they are a risk for food security. We shouldn’t offer our pets raw food as their main diet. It’s not a fancy: alimentary infections happen everyday, and all the cats which died of bird flu had commercial raw diets which were supposed to be perfectly healthy.
Our main duty as Veterinary Surgeons is to keep pets healthy in order to contribute to keep people and environment healthy as well. Don’t forget to inoculate and deworm your cats even if “they never go out”. Don’t let them kill and eat birds.
Some advice for dogs: pine tree caterpillar is back, like every winter. Avoid walking your dogs in pine tree areas till the end of March. The damage may be very serious if a dog licks, bites or swallows a caterpillar, and it must be treated as an emergency. A first aid treatment could be cleaning the tongue with water (the water shouldn’t be swallowed by the dog).
SOCIAL GROUP FOR SWEDISH SPEAKERS IN GA!
Ann-Christin Sterner, from Gothenburg, founded a Swedish social group in Gran Alacant a year ago to connect Swedish speakers, foster friendships and mutual support.
The group meets every Wednesday at 13:00 at Texicano Restaurant (Carabassi centre) attracting 20-40 regular attendees. Sterner plans to expand activities as interest in the group continues to grow.
Gran Alacant’s ELCHE CF SUPPORTERS GROUP
A group of international fans in Gran Alacant regularly watch Elche football games. Home matches see the group usually meeting at the London Tavern at the GA Centre prematch. The group, primarily made up of 19 season ticket holders who sit together, arranges carsharing to get to the ground in time for some pre-match beers and food before returning to GA afterwards.
Tickets can be purchased via the club website at www.elchecf.es and there is also the occasional spare ticket available through the group as well.
Jornadas in Spain have games all spread out with each match being televised. It is normal for the date and time of matches to not be announced until 2 to 5 weeks beforehand.
After an inconsistent start to the season, a great run since defeat against Almeria in October has meant Elche are in the conversation for promotion from Segunda - the second division of Spanish football,
with a title challenge now ongoing. With some consistency, a return to La Primera is possible.
Home games in February are against two teams struggling to survive in the league. Tenerife fly over on the weekend of 9 February and then Cartagena make the short trip on 23 February - the date and time of both games are still TBC.
If you’re a local bar owner reading this and want to show away games for the group then please get in touch as we are planning our social events up until June.
Find the group on Facebook at ‘Peña Elche CF de Gran Alacant’ ¡Mucho Elche!
GA SOCIAL CYCLISTS
There is a vibrant group of social cyclists in Gran Alacant who meet up outside of Molly Malones most days of the week at around 10:00am.
We ride hybrid and off road bikes, are of varying ages, fitness levels and both sexes and usually cycle the rural roads and paths around Gran Alacant, Santa Pola and Elche which means 12 – 25 miles per ride.
Fitter, stronger cyclists can opt to take different routes but, we always meet up at a designated stop for a coffee, and importantly, a natter. Sometimes the group is just two cyclists, whilst other times it can be as many as 10-12 and as a testament to the group, in the years we have been meeting, many strong friendships have been formed.
As we don’t all live in Gran Alacant we communicate via a Whatsapp Group so it is best to check on the Whatsapp group who is around and who is going out on any particular day.
If you want to join us please contact us on Whatsapp: 00353 / 87 991 6020
GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY
GAGS are now back to playing twice a week, Tuesday and Friday at 8am. We are looking forward to meeting up with our regular players and welcoming new members whether they be residents or visitors.
SOCIETY DETAILS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Where: El Plantio Golf Resort. The official address is A-79, Km3, 03114, Alicante.
When: the formal Society Day is Tuesdays weekly when all golfers are most welcome. In addition we have an informal get together every Friday which has always been a Gentleman’s Day.
Time: on both days normally 8am so please be there by 7.40am. Occasionally the Starter may request we change the time so unless you are a regular golfer it would be best to check with us beforehand.
Cost: usually €50 per round at peak times to include a buggy plus €1.50 mandatory insurance charge. It can sometimes be cheaper during less busy, off peak seasons. In addition the Society requires €5 sweep money which is all paid out at the end of the round.
We look forward to seeing you
For more information please contact: Michael (966 698 925) Tony (966 183 004)
GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS
THE (CONTINUING) ADVENTURES OF THE GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS
Sunday 18th January saw the latest edition of the Santa Pola half marathon with at least 6400 competitors. This is always a great day out for runners and spectators, and a massive day for Santa Pola. There are two notable upcoming events in February; The Elche 10k on 9th February and the Alicante 10k/21k on 16 February.
Wayne completed the Newcastle 10k on 19th January, smashing his PB which has inspired him to break the 50 mins barrier next time. Geoff has been Park Running, and like Wayne the running conditions have been cold (-4/5° C) and bright. Meanwhile, Staffan out does us with the cold, snowy conditions in Sweden. At the other end of the spectrum John has been sailing through the southern Pacific ocean where he has been running 5km circuits of the ship, which creates a fascinating set of results as the Garmin uses GPS to locate his position and obviously the ship is moving forward
at a rate of about 18 knots at the same time he is running. Result: he records a run of 24km at world record pace.
Today one of the group recorded the 2nd fastest time in the world over a set distance. For the sake of modesty they want to remain anonymous.
Notable dates for upcoming runs:
February 2nd - Murcia
Featuring 10km, 21km and 42km. February 9th – Elche 10km run
March 15th - San Vicente del Raspeig 5km and 10km
May 10th - Elche Annual night race 5km & 10km
There are many more events taking place around the region, but more details can be found at: www.chiplevantecom.
Don’t forget, if you see us in Gran Alacant join us for a run or say hello. No matter your ability, if you are visiting the area and want to run with someone, please get in touch on 00447476851356.
GA WOMENS WALKING FOOTBALL
On the 10 th January 2024, our Women’s Walking Football squad were featured on the UK Channel 5 programme Bargain Loving Brits in the Sun (Series 12 Episode 35). The filming itself took place on the 2 nd November 2023 before we had secured sponsorship from GA Home- Finders and taken delivery of our fabulous new shirts.
Feedback from those who watched the programme has been extremely positive and many felt that it portrayed GA in a good light (always useful). Rumour has it that the film crew are keen to return sometime this year so we may still get the opportunity to parade our sponsorship and new strips on UK National TV!
If, at the start of the year, you resolved to try something new, get fit or simply socialise more, then we are the group for you. It doesn’t matter that you’ve never kicked
a ball before - even Messi and Beth Mead had to start somewhere! Just come along for a screen test… ooops I mean free trial session!
Sessions take place every Thursday (except in July and August) at 11.00 hours (arrive at 10.50) on the Astroturf pitch at the GA Sports Centre with post-match refreshments at El Tio Chato Café Bar.
GA MENS WALKING FOOTBALL
Hello! GAWF sessions are up and running again and it is pleasing to see some new faces as well as well known players. Already we have enjoyed some great games. New members are always very welcome to come along and give it a try. Especially after the excesses of the festive season!
Walking football is an excellent way to keep fit and meet new people. Designed for the more mature gent (over 50) it is played at a more leisurely pace but still has a competitive edge! If you wish to take part, Gran Alacant Walking Football club meets each Wednesday at 11am on the outdoor astroturf pitch at the GA Sports Centre (Polideportivo). The cost is only 1 euro per session. Please arrive around 10.50am to allow for teams to be arranged. Everyone is welcome regardless of ability or experience. We have members from several countries with players’ ages ranging from early fifties to over 70. In addition, there are regular social meets (combined with the women’s group) with partners welcome too. So if you would like to join us at GAWF, or want to know a bit more, please get in touch.
Walking football is well-established in the area. As well as our Wednesday group (GAWF) and the women’s group, there is the opportunity to play most weekdays between Gran Alacant and Santa Pola.
For members, please keep an eye on the Whatsapp group or the Facebook page for information regarding upcoming social events. The next social event will be on the first Tuesday in February with the venue to be confirmed.
Results up to and Including 18th
Highest Checkout
• Niño ( La Taberna B) 130
• Miguel ( La Taberna A) 130
Quickest Check-Out
League Table Season 2024 / 2025
•
• Pete & Rob (The Pub) 17 Darts
Most 180’s
Aaron (Jollys) x 1 José (La Taberna A) x 1
• Fran (La Taberna A) 131
Quickest Check-Out
• Fran (La Taberna A) 15 Darts
AVISO AL PÚBLICO (19/24)
GRAN ALACANT BUS SERVICES
AVISO AL PÚBLICO (19/24)
Se informa a los Sres. Usuarios de la línea Santa Pola<->Alicante de los horarios establecidos a partir del día 2 de septiembre del 2024.
SANTA POLA - ALICANTE - SANTA POLA BUS
Se informa a los Sres. Usuarios de la línea Santa Pola<->Alicante de los horarios establecidos a partir del día 2 de septiembre del 2024. SANTA POLA-ALICANTE (LINEA 1 y 3)
SÁBADOS
SÁBADOS
AVISO AL PÚBLICO
(17/24)
Se informa a los Sres. Usuarios de la línea Urbano Gran Alacant de los horarios establecidos a partir del día 2 de septiembre del 2024.
AVISO AL PÚBLICO (17/24)
➢ URBANO GRAN ALACANT (LINEA 15)
Se informa a los Sres. Usuarios de la línea Urbano Gran Alacant de los horarios establecidos a partir del día 2 de septiembre del 2024.
SÁBADOS
SÁBADOS
Quiz Quiz
Hi, my name is Geoff and I have been asked by Lou to challenge you every month with a few teasers. I hope you enjoy them.
1. Which British singer, born in 1929 had the birth name Richard Maxwell?
2. Kissing increases most peoples heartrate to how many beats per minute?
3. Who sends the most Valentine’s? Men or Women?
4. What modern day device was first patented on 14 February 1876?
5. Apart from Valentine’s day on which holiday are the most number of flowers sent?
6. St Valentine was said to be martyred in which year?
7. What hugely popular website debuted on 14 February 2005?
8. Who was the notorious gangster who initiated the St Valentine’s Day Massacre?
9. Yellow Roses symbolise what?
10. Shakespeare mentions St Valentine’s day in which of his plays?
11. What brain chemical is known as Cuddle or Love hormone?
12. When was 14 February first declared to be Valentine’s Day?
13. Which famous British Explorer was killed in Hawaii on 14 February 1779?
14. On 14 February 1989 The Ayatollah Khomeini issued a fatwa against which author?
To solve the puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk
