Gran Alacant Advertiser June 2021 by Gran Alacant Advertiser

JUNE

2021 ISSUE 197

YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE SINCE 2005

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We at your Gran Alacant Advertiser continue to bring you all of the NEWS, including that from a representative from the Town Hall, as we have since May 2005.

If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please just email them to us at the magazine - granalacantadvertiser@hotmail.co.uk Hola Oscar, The national state of emergency ended on 9th May, however the Jose Antonio Aleman Valero indoor sports hall in Gran Alacant remains closed daily until 5pm. The Gran Alacant Walking Football group are not allowed to book this facility in the evenings. We would like to ask when we can expect a sports facility of any kind to be available, in Gran Alacant , to residents during the day.

LATEST NEWS FROM THE GA COUNCILLOR OSCAR VALENZUELA 22nd April During the last week of April the drains around Gran Alacant were cleaned and cleared in accordance to a plan that was agreed with the Gran Alacant Neighbourhood Association. This work was planned with the help of Hydraqua who were able to identify the drains that often have issues during the periods of heavy rain.

We also are asking, why it is the existing policy of the council to continue to improve and upgrade exiting astro-turf facilities in Santa 4th May Pola before providing ANY astro-turf facility in On the 4th of May, at different locations Gran Alacant. around Gran Alacant, cleaning, clearing and disinfection continued following With more and more young families living in the action plan and demands of private Gran Alacant, it is very important from a health neighbours and the Gran Alacant and safety aspect to have a sporting facility Neighbourhood Association. with a playing surface that does not cause impact problems to children’s hips, knees and 15th May ankles as they are growing. On the 15th May the Parks and Gardens workers treated a plague of caterpillars in This is also important to us older citizens, the Puerto Marino urbanisation. whose joints need to be looked after carefully as we get older. They also continued working on the long park that adjoins the Clot de Galvany Our group would be happy to meet with you by treating and conserving the wooden at any time to discuss this issue further. fences. Muchas gracias, John Fraser, Gran Alacant Walking Football Answer from Oscar Valenzuela: Hello John, thank you for your email and bringing this problem to my attention. Since I had only been given very short notice to answer this question before the magazine went to print, I will look into this for you and have an answer for you in the next issue of the magazine.

Thanks as always to Encarni the cleaning councilor, parks and gardens for her work. 18th May and 10th May Weekly fumigation continues in and around Gran Alacant with special attention being given to coordinating with the City Council of Elche to increase the effectiveness of spraying in the area of the CloIt’s very difficult to completely remove

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the mosquitoes but we are doing our best to reduce the impact of this infestation. 19th of May Manual clearing actions and heavy machinery are being carried out in different areas and parks in the neighborhood. I want to thank the Department of Cleaning, Parks and Gardens for the work done, as always. Shortly, manual clearing will continue on sidewalks, tree pits and curbs in different areas.

If you would like to supply news or info for our next edition, or have a question for Gran Alacant Councillor Oscar Pedro Valenzuela, please email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

Alicante is the home of The Ocean Race Museum and has been the headquarters for The Ocean Race since 2008. Each of the World races has started from Alicante, with the last race being held in 2017/2018. The next edition has been delayed due to COVID19 but will depart from Alicante in October 2022. In the meantime, fans of this race can enjoy watching the first ever Ocean Race Europe. This race departs from Lorient, France on the 29th May 2021, stops in Cascais, Portugal before heading to Alicante, Spain and then finishing in Genova, Italy on the 19th June. For more information check out the website: https://www.theoceanrace.com/en/the-ocean-race-europe Santa Pola has asked for a greater presence of Seprona (Servicio de Protección de la Naturaleza) in the mountains. They have requested that there is a reinforcement of environmental watchdogs to keep the mountains and the cape in good condition. The Nature Protection Service is a special unit of the Spanish Civil Guard that is responsible for nature conservation and management of the hunting and fishing industry. READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

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LARGE ITEMS COLLECTIONS

Tuesdays and Thursdays ONLY. Please message this number T: 686 801 323 any day of the week to let them know the name of the street you are leaving your large items on. This would help to make the service more efficient and keep our Gran Alacant nice and tidy. FROM N332 Here is some more information about the changes to some speed limits that came into force in Spain on the 11th of May 2021. The New Law was published in the #BOE by Royal Decree 970/2020, on the 10th of November and modifies the RGC. NEW GENERAL SPEED LIMITS on URBAN ROADS, the following: 2️0 km / h on roads that have a single carriageway and path/sidewalk. 30km / h on single lane roads per direction of travel. 5️0km / h on roads with two or more lanes per traffic direction. These apply within towns / villages / cities and urban areas. FINES for EXCEEDING the SPEED set by the road, depending on how much the imposed limit is exceeded, can be either SERIOUS or VERY SERIOUS, thus differentiating the amount of the penalty. The margin for mistakes will always be applied to the corresponding speeds of course. You will not be fined for going exactly 1km over the speed limit! Don't forget they allow space for mistakes.

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They are back! After the Sad news of Rogers Bar demise, The Silent Disco GA team are pleased to announce the imminent opening of ‘THE LONDON TAVERN’ Situated 1st floor of the commercial centre next to Kings Pizza. Funded by the Silent Disco Team, the Bar Manager will be the one and only Roger Staples. Delivering the standard of service that has made him so popular. We also lucky to obtain the services of Lee Wilkinson, who will continue to provide the best English breakfast you can buy, along with many other culinary favourites. We are on target to have the grand opening Thursday 1st July and we all look forward to welcoming you to the newest Bar in Gran Alacant. READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

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BOOK CLUB GRAN ALACANT Book of the month by Beth I have been looking forward to reading this book for some time and it was definitely worth the wait. My Recommended Book of the Month Christy Lefteri The Beekeeper of Aleppo

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.

Moving, powerful, compassionate and beautifully written The Beekeeper of Aleppo tells the story of Nuri a beekeeper and his wife Afra an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo – until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape. As Nuri and Afra travel through a broken world, they must confront not only the pain of their own unspeakable loss, but dangers that would overwhelm the bravest of souls. I admit there was a tear in my eye more than once while reading this book. It is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit. Told with deceptive simplicity, it is the kind of book that reminds us of the power of storytelling.

NEXT BOOK CLUB MEETING

Wednesday 23 June 2pm, 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

CWW Electrical Services Qualified electrician All electrical work undertaken Tel: 617 872 405 *** Contact Clive or Wendy

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Happy 88th Birthday Françoise BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE CAKES made in GRAN ALACANT

Happy Birthday MARTA @ GA FAMILY DOCTORS

by Valentina t: 641 47 17 85

Celebrating Birthdays in Gran Alacant Share your special moments with us & email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

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The Gran Alacant and La Marina Royal British Legion celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the legion by cycling 100 mile on an Exercise Bike in MASA square in relay of 10 miles each which was completed in just over four hours, this amazing effort

RAISED 611EUROS FOR THE POPPY APPEAL

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C/Holanda 9, bajo 8 Gran Alacant

www.familydoctors24h.com info@familydoctors24h.com

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ABOUT US

In 2018, the project of the doctors of Gran Alacant Family Doctors 24h was born. One which consisted in creating a familiar clinic where patients could be in a close environment, with a trustworthy and reliable doctor that keeps track of them, and even assists their emergencies and other kinds of necessities, of them and their family. With the objective of making an improvement in the health area, more than two years ago we begun this pathway - the GP and general doctors, along with the odontologist, the psychologist, the pediatrician, the gynecologist, the physiotherapist and osteopath, the aesthetic doctor, the cardiologist, the personnel of nursing assistants and other collaborators. We offer an integral health service with the best assistance quality, delivering personalized solutions to our patients. Family Doctors 24h consists of reference

physicians in their respective specialities. Our clinic is located in a privileged and wellcomunicated area of Gran Alacant, close to the shopping centre and only 10 minutes away from the Alicante-Elche airport, near of the most important cities of the province of Alicante. Family Doctors 24h has facilities with personalized attention and the support of the most advanced technology. We provide the patient with an emergency service with 24-hour telephone service, 365 days a year. Our dental clinic offers general dentistry for children and adults, cosmetic and restorative dentistry, orthodontics. We have a personal treatment with the best solutions for each case. We also help with home visit service for patients who have mobility problems.

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OUR DENTAL CLINIC

OUR SPECIALITIES:

PERSONAL TREATMENT

What characterizes us is the personal treatment with the patient and their family, we seek solutions to their problems, including, if necessary, communication with our specialist laboratories and collaborating hospitals for complete care.

• • • • •

GENERAL MEDICINE DENTAL CLINIC PEDIATRICS CARDIOLOGY GYNECOLOGY

• • • • • •

PSYCHOLOGY PHYSIOTHERAPY BLOOD TEST ULTRASOUND HOME ASSISTANCE 24H AESTHETIC MEDICINE

THIS MONTH’S PROMOTIONS: FAMILY DOCTORS MEMBER CARD one payment per year and you will receive: * GP consultation 20€ (normally 60€) * One FREE dental polish & check up per year * Monthly offers and promotions

GENERAL CHECK 75€

Consultation, Blood Test, ECG (normally 130€)

COVID PCR TEST 98€ - ANTIGEN 50€ DENTAL 2X1 & LED WHITENING 150€ PLAZA MAYOR

YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY 15

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MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix and The Belfry

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB FRIDAY LEAGUE - Friday 23rd April As bowling still has restrictions we have decided to run in-house competitions on Mondays and Fridays, over six weeks. The winners will be announced after the last matches. The first Friday League was Saint Georges day so everyone wore something red. It was a very enjoyable mornings bowling, followed by lunch and drinks at Maritas Kitchen. CHICKEN RUN - Sunday 25th April Although the numbers are still restricted everyone who put their name down had a game. We played eighteen ends with a break after nine. The chickens were won by Sheila Roberts and Neil Crawford and the

eggs by Desiree Williams and Jim Shearing. Thank you to June and Ronnie who donated the chickens and Julia and Ian for donating the eggs. The football card was won by Jack Burrell with West Brom.

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MAY DAY Friday 1st May Day Mayham

We had a fun competition played over eighteen ends with a break after nine ends for refreshments. The first nine ends the mat was placed on the tee and the jack was delivered to different lengths. The second nine ends the mat was placed at different lengths and the jack was placed on the tee. It did cause a bit of confusion but everyone enjoyed themselves. The winning team all ladies was Jan Soars, Sue Boumds and Skip Cindy Bedford well done girls!!!! After the bowling Bernardo and his staff did a very enjoyable buffet in the Rincon. RACE AFTERNOON - Thursday 6th May Dunbars organised a race afternoon for the club which included a two course dinner. Everyone who attended enjoyed

a fun afternoon some winning more than others!!! There was plenty of cheering from the audience encouraging the horses or greyhounds they had backed. After the racing Mandy served a enjoyable two course meal with a drink. Thank you to Kevin and Anthony for the racing, a big thank you to Dunbars for the kind donation to the Bowls Club. QUIZ - Friday 14th May After a few requests from members we decided to have a quiz on Fridays after bowling. Ian Hamilton agreed to organise the quiz questions, he did a very good job. The result was a draw so two teams shared the prize. As the quiz was successful we will be having a quiz every Friday after bowling commencing around 1.45pm. SOCIAL EVENTS The next social event will be at Casa Lisa, Santa Pola on 20th June. They will be a coach available, anyone interested there is a list on the Social Events Board at the club. For further social events please check on Facebook Friends of Monte Mar or at the Bowls Club. CHICKEN RUN We will be holding a table top sale on 27th of June.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com We are also on Facebook

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SANTARA LIFE RESORT

TERRY TALKS

Alcohol free opinion & Chat terry@montelinvestments.co.uk

NOT SO SPEEDY GONZALES

I have a few motoring annoyances this month, following on from last months electric car rant.

Here in Gran Alacant and all over Spain from the 11th May they are to reduce speed limits. BEWARE. Any road with one lane in each direction will have a 30kph limit. Single lane roads with a pavement either side raised above the road 30kph. On single lane roads and double lane roads with pavements at the same level as the road 20kph. Roads with two lanes or more of traffic in each direction 50kph. I personally think it’s not speed that causes accidents, its failure to stop. I’d rather be doing 150 kph in a Ferrari than 30kph in some of the junk I see around. It also takes no account of conditions. There’s a joke here in Gran Alacant. “How do you know when it’s rained?” By the sound of the emergency service sirens. I’ve never found it difficult to cross a road and not get ran over. Let’s start teaching pedestrians how to cross them. They’ve clearly forgotten. Stop laying all the blame on motorists if pedestrians cannot tackle such a simple task. If the motivation is to save lives dare I suggest some alternative that may have greater effect? 1. Position of Crossings at entrances to junctions. The number of times I have been looking to see a space in traffic to turn left across traffic or keeping an eye on other cars when leaving a roundabout to then only find someone halfway across the

crossing is numerous. 2. Small last minute direction signs. Now I wear glasses to drive, but I need a microscope to see some of the directional signs and I need to be able to react to them in 0.0075seconds to follow their instruction. 3. No signs at all. How half of Spain’s Towns, shopping centres, golf courses are ever found is beyond me, meaning drivers spend most of the time staring at their sat navs rather than the road. 4. Roundabouts and general indicating. Enough said, we’ve all seen this. A lot of the cars we see may be covered in parking prangs, but I guarantee the indicators are in perfect working order! 5. Slip roads. Unlike the UK right of way is given to the car on the main carriageway NOT to the car wishing to join it. Many a time I’ve sat there in a stationary car looking for a gap in traffic doing 120kph hoping my 0-100kph speed is better than it says in the manual. 6. Control parking better. All that requires is no parking at entrances to roads. Too often I am forced to pull out with zero visibility. These are just a few things that could be altered that I am convinced would improve road and pedestrian safety, but I fear all road planners were shot by Franco many years ago. The other bone of contention is toll roads. Only very recently the Toll between Gran Alacant and Benidorm and beyond was taken away. Probably at significant cost given the removal of booths, and barriers. Well they’ve decided to put them back! Nothing at all to do with the money Spain is getting from the EU as part of the COVID rescue plan of course not . From 2024 they are looking at charging 1 cent per KM.

TERRY TALKS

Alcohol free opinion & Chat terry@montelinvestments.co.uk

Road pricing on the way. How exactly they will do that we don’t know as yet, but I am guessing electronically rather than endless toll-gates. I seem to remember predicting this last month.

COVID vaccination is moving ahead a lot faster here now. Communidad Valencia’s rate of COVID is the lowest in all Spain, currently at only 44 per 100,000 so come on over as soon as you can, we are all waiting.

On a positive note, COVID vaccination is moving ahead a lot faster here now. Communidad Valencia’s rate of COVID is the lowest in all Spain, so come on over as soon as you can, we are all waiting.

Bars are open as are Restaurants, and you can even get a haircut!

I promise next month more upbeat!

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL Firstly it appears winter is behind us. By Spanish standards a long one. The sun is shining and the patio doors permanently open.

Walking around I see many bars not closing but improving. What was BarLoko is to be a Thai restaurant associated with Mandalas next door. Infernum Restaurant has also revamped its exterior. Stay safe everyone. Remember the only difference between an optimist and a pessimist is an optimist has a better time.

Disagree with anything? What an opinion you have discussed? Message me on terry@montelinvestments.co.uk (putting Terry Talks in the subject matter) Or you can comment on the online version of the magazine on facebook.

Rentals - Key Holding Property Management

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SIERRA MAR

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Celebrating St. George’s Day ...

... in Gran Alacant

Gran Alacant and La Marina Royal British Legions held a St George's Day Afternoon Tea with over 45 members attending it was an amazing afternoon and 485€ was raised for the Poppy Appeal

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MORE PROPERTIES REQUIRED!

We had a successful month in May but we need to list more. Thinking of selling tomorrow? Call today!

Although we have many satisfied customers, we need to expand our portfolio, so if you are wishing to sell your property then please get in touch as we have buyers waiting. www.ga-homefinders.com

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Avda.Finlandia, 19, BL2, Local 5 Gran Alacant - Santa Pola (Alicante)

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The Reiki Room Harmonious Healing

with Jackie Canale

International Practicioner of Holistic Medicine, fully licensed & insured

REIKI YOUR WAY TO A MORE BALANCED YOU

Hi all, it’s been a while since I last done a little blog, I thought it was time for a little update from The Reiki Room. Over the last few months I have been feeling the energies around us very dense, at some points almost suffocating down to the amount of negative vibration surrounding us which I personally feel has been an accumulation of all the depression over the uncertainty of the global pandemic and all the other negative politics in the mix. Having this conversation with my friend and fellow holistic therapist Dámaris we

came to discuss that in order to change the energies around us we must first work on our own energies and not allow ourselves to become a magnet for negative energy. We decided to teach Reiki Level 1 to anyone wishing to learn it, unsure how many people may actually be interested. Before we knew it 2 days of teaching were fully booked, and we have a waiting list for another, and a planned retreat day awaits us…thank you universe! So, what is Reiki some of you may wonder? Reiki is working with the energy fields in the body. In the late 1800’s, a Japanese Buddhist

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The Reiki Room T: 693 018 046

Email: thereikiroom40@gmail.com Facebook: The Reiki Room-Harmonious Healing

The Reiki Room is situated in Don Pueblo across from The Life Resort

Priest, Dr. Mikao Usui, rediscovered a way of channelling the healing energy and created the Usui system of natural healing, which is called Reiki pronounced ‘Ray Key’ meaning Universal Life Energy. We are all energy, everything and every living being is energy. Life energy flows through every living thing. A good and even flow of life energy keeps the body healthy and the energies within the body balanced. However, when the flow is disrupted or unbalanced this then allows illness or ‘dis-ease’ to thrive. Reiki treatments have a positive result on a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual level and raises our vibration creating harmony and balance in our energy fields. When our energy fields is balanced our bodies run in perfect harmony. Reiki should and could be shared by so very many for a happier present & future. Our courses were a huge success and we cannot wait to share the teachings and energies with more of you. A special thank you to all who came to the course, we hope you continue to use your channel for the greater good. For anyone interested in our next certified course dates please get in touch now. If you have never had a Reiki treatment and wonder what it is try my special offer of the month. 30 mins Reflexology Foot Treatment with 30 min Reiki with Chakra balance for 35 euros

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AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA

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AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA

Home Turf Manhattan on the Med ...

On our doorstep is possibly the most famous holiday resort in Europe: Benidorm! This vacation city built up from a quiet port over the last 60 years enjoys some quite breathtaking statistics, highest number of skyscrapers per citizen in the world, second to New York in number of skyscrapers per square metre, the city contains five hundred “high rise” buildings including one hundred and forty hotels, estimates of the number of guest beds available in the resort vary between half and three quarters of a million. ‘Intempo’, at 200 metres, is the tallest residential building in Europe. Quite simply there is nothing like it anywhere else in the Mediteranean. Benidorm is to holidays what the City of London is to finance, Stuttgart is to car making and Milan is to fashion. We spent a weekend in Benidorm, just before the internal Spanish travel restrictions were lifted, to enjoy some of its attractions and to try to understand how this resort has grown to such size and success.

Benidorm’s scale is apparent from the moment one approaches the city, its towers are visible from miles away and its seafront sweeps along the two beautiful natural beaches Levante and Poniente that are the foundation of its success.

However, the key to Benidorm’s success over six decades has been more than just a lucky location and wonderful climate. The city as it now appears is the product of careful town planning. What appears at first to be a jumble of development and towers is in fact a well thought out arrangement of streets and spaces designed to give each of the large hotels its own pocket of space and views. The man responsible for this approach to the city’s development was Mayor D. Pedro Zaragoza Orts and it was he who decided that if Benidorm was going to be a resort then it would be one that offered a first class experience, even for an economy price. Don Pedro is also famous for engineering the lifting of the ban on bikinis on Spanish beaches, even taking on the local bishop to do so! To really appreciate the clever town planning that has guided the city’s growth we took the panoramic lift to the rooftop bar on the 20th floor of the Hotel Madeira Centro. The view over the cityscape is remarkable, it even begs one’s attention away from the natural beauty of the sunset, sea and mountains. Seen from above this city of towers feels more akin to Hong Kong or Miami than any European city. The next day we took a hike around the city to enjoy its empty streets before the tourists are welcomed back. To the north of the city and climbing the hills bordering it one finds Rincón de Loix, a more residential part of town. At the point where these hills meet the sea there is a fascinating reminder of the very earliest modern vacation development in Benidorm: Urbanización Castell de Mar. This set of holiday apartments was built in 1957-58 in what may be described as “pueblo” style. It is a charming survivor from the early days of Spanish costa tourism.

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The development contains a delightful little bar called Bar Meritas still complete with its original fittings; the perfect place for a spot of refreshment overlooking the sea, just follow the road down to the sea and the bar is on the left hand side with seats on a terrace outside. We later took lunch in playa de Poniente, in a former English Pub, the “Coach and Horses”

which has undergone a recent update and now serves a varied menu including asian inspired food and even the odd vegan dish; not what one perhaps expects in Benidorm. However, this is emblematic of changes that may be coming to the city and its hospitality business. New tastes and fashions in food, entertainment and recreation are slowly creeping in and bringing greater diversity to a hospitality model that can seem impervious to change. We also stayed in a very nice boutique hotel, RH Canfali, that proudly advertised

itself as a “gastro hotel” and indeed offers gourmet cuisine in its restaurant, once again a sign of changes.Benidorm is large enough to offer something to everyone and the high level of expertise and resources in its hospitality sector means that it is capable of delivering whatever it sets its hand to. The issue for the city and its hotels and bars is deciding in which direction it wishes to go in the next 60 years.

As Benidorm comes back to life after the enforced shut down it is worth taking a moment to appreciate this extraordinary city, a combination of Blackpool, Las Vegas and Brasilia toasting under the Spanish sunshine. Long may it continue to welcome visitors in its warm embrace and we recommend a visit whatever your tastes. Follow us on Instagram: juanruano.oficial & archiemaddan

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LOS MONTESINOS

WHAT’S THAT IN THE CLOT? TRUST US

by Mark Etheridge

MARSH HARRIER are looking for in the way of identification is a long-tailed bird with wings held in a shallow V shape as it circles overhead.

When my younger brother got his first bike, he developed the unusual habit of looking down at the foot pedals while he was cycling along. A combination of this and an unexpectedly parked car led to a badly chipped front tooth and a determination not to cycle like that ever again. If you don’t look where you are going, you are bound to end up in a pickle. This is something that our bird this month doesn’t seem to have learnt. Each year there are reports of stunned Marsh Harriers which have flown into trees, telegraph poles, electricity pylons and the like while flying along at low level with their heads down, which is their usual method of hunting. It is a rare breeding bird in the UK, but there are up to 1,000 breeding pairs in the whole of Spain. These numbers are heavily augmented during the winter months by birds visiting from more northerly and easterly parts of Europe; we are not sure whether they actually breed in the Clot, but indications are that they might be doing that. You could mistake them at first for some species of eagle or buzzard (and there are a few of those about as well) as they are quite large birds, and they will drift lazily in the thermals as they hunt over their range in a similar fashion. What you

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Most sightings in the Clot are of juvenile and female birds with a creamy-coloured head; my photograph shows the male which is actually smaller and lighter coloured, with more grey in the tail and wings, and the head is streaked with grey and brown. As the name implies, these are birds of wetland areas, feeding on birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians which they catch by flying along slowly at low level, then dropping down suddenly to catch their prey. There have been reports of Marsh Harriers actually drowning their prey; sitting on the water holding their catch beneath them until they were sure that it was dead. An interesting fact about male Marsh Harriers is that they are often bigamous, raising two or sometimes three separate families in one season, which means that during that time he has a lot of work on his hands (or claws) to keep multiple broods well fed! The Spanish name for the Marsh Harrier is Aguilucho Lagunero which of course refers to their habitat – lagoons and marshes – and the fact that it looks a bit like an eagle. If you are in one of the bird hides in the Clot, or just strolling along the paths, and all of a sudden the whole duck population seems to take to the skies in a quacking panic, it is worth while scanning the skies overhead to see if one of these magnificent birds has spooked them. You might like your paté, but the Marsh Harrier likes his Pato. You can see more photographs of birds and other animals from our area by visiting www.marketheridge.smugmug.com See you next month.

GUARDAMAR WHAT’S THAT IN TRUST THE CLOT?WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK. THIS THIS MAGAZINE MAGAZINE IS IS NOW NOW IN IN ITS ITS 15TH 14TH 14tH YEAR. THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS CARABASSI 15TH YEAR. CENTRE TRUST US. US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

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GRAN ALACANT CARABASSI CENTRE

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CLINICA VETERINARIA GRAN ALACANT EXOTICS

Monday - Friday 10:00 -13:00 & 17:00 - 20:00 Saturday 10:00 -13:00

Tel: 966 698 569

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A “NORMAL” SUMMER The pandemic seems to be more and more under control, and this means we will probably be able to travel. FOR THIS REASON, WE WOULD LIKE TO REMIND YOU OF SOME THINGS:

An EU Pet Passport is required for travelling to any EU country in case of dogs, cats and ferrets. British Pet Passport at this moment is only valid at the UK. We can keep both passports in order to prove our pet is been vaccinated, but your pet will require an EU Pet Passport for returning to Spain. If you choose to fly, Iberia (Spanish airlines) has a phone number (901111500) for additional info about the requirements for travelling with the pet in the cabin or in the hold. For example, there is a list of breeds, such as potentially dangerous breeds or brachycephalic ones, which cannot travel in the hold at all, and in the cabin only if they are small enough. Travel Certificate is still necessary, the same way it was before Brexit.

Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747

Grooming Service Available Make sure if transportation company or the lodging place have “extra” requirements for pets. So far, investigations for NcOV19 vaccines in animals are not finished, so it’s not available and it’s not mandatory. We must remark once again that pets are not NCoV-19 vectors and are not a risk for people that live with them. We noticed these last weeks a growing number of cases of fake treatments for animals, specially false flea collars purchased via internet. It’s just impossible that a complete flea & tick & mosquito collar which lasts for 7-8 months is worth €10. Medicines and anti parasitic treatments must be bought in authorized places, and selling medicines on the Internet, so far, is forbidden. We can purchase food, harnesses, bowls, toys, pet carriers, shampoos, but not antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, hormones or anti parasitic treatments. The risk of being cheated is even bigger if the collar looks lighter of softer than the “normal” one, or if the medicine doesn’t have a batch number or an expiration date. The best case scenario would be the medicine doesn’t work but at least doesn’t harm the animal. The worst case would be a serious damage to the pet or the owner. This year we are expecting to enjoy the dogs beach with no complications. Let’s don’t forget the dogs vaccines must be updated, otherwise it won’t be allowed to get to the beach.

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PETS IN SPAIN www.petsinspain.com

Pets In Spain is a website dedicated to the re-homing of abandoned and unwanted animals on the Costa Blanca. Whether you are looking to adopt an animal, advertise an animal or if you simply want to know more about taking care of your pet in Spain, please take a look at our site or Call: 645 469 253 Tabitha is around 18 months old and a few months ago turned up at a families house and gave birth to 4 kittens. The kittens are now ready to leave mum and she has been sterilised. She is a very friendly and calm cat

Ellie is around 8 weeks old and is one of the kittens from Tabitha, she is in excellent health and has been handled from birth so is very friendly.

Honey, Spice and Teddy have all been adopted from our last issue. India was found in a box with her siblings when just 2 weeks old. She’s been in a foster home since then getting bottle fed and will be ready for a home at the end of May.

Dixie is sister to India and also has a brother that’s almost identical to her. They are both looking for forever homes and are used to other cats and dogs

To view more animals for adoption visit our website. If you would like to advertise an animal email: info@petsinspain.com

Tel: 645 469 253

The Charity is run by a team of volunteers CV-01-043388-A CIF No G-54353743

Tel: 600 845 420 RITCHY New arrival at the shelter, this gorgeous, chunky French Bulldog, Ritchy . 6 years old, very cuddly. Still being assessed with other dogs and cats.

K9 CLUB www.k9club.es

e-mail: k9clubinfo@gmail.com LOVELY LITTLE TANA Collie type dog, very intelligent. Would like a forever home with a garden as likes to potter about. Could live with another dog but Tana loves cuddles and would likely be more relaxed as an only dog in the house so she gets all the attention! Speyed, vaccinated.

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Congratulations on your wedding day Chloe & Geert Wishing you a lifetime of love & happiness

14th of May 2021

GA RUNNING GROUP

THE (CONTINUING) ADVENTURES OF THE GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS If you want to join us contact Geoff 0044/ 747 685 1356 May has seen a few more of the group return to Gran Alacant which means for the first time in 15 months the majority of the group are in Spain, but there are a few still biding their time in the cold and wet climes of northern Europe, waiting their chance to enjoy the sunshine and open skies of GA. June will be a busy month for some, with the re-introduction in the UK of the Saturday Park run from 26th of June. From the chatter on the wires, this date is eagerly anticipated and there could be record numbers turning out for the first run. This is preceded by the Virtual Blaydon Race on 9th June, a 6 mile run to commemorate the famous Blaydon Race (Hands up those who haven’t heard at least the first line of the song) and then on 28th June is a virtual 21km run with Brendan Foster announcing the hosting of a virtual Great North Run (GNR) to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the very first GNR half marathon on 28th June 1981. As these are both virtual runs, and we have a number of North East members in the group, they will be taking to the roads, with a few others, to run the events. Some of the group in GA are members of the athletics club in Santa Pola where they attend training sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays most weeks. You don’t have to be a dedicated or established runner to join our group. If you want to get fit or want company when going out for a run, why not get in contact and come and join us. All are welcome. Lastly, Congratulations go this week to Chloe who got married during May. We wish her and her husband Geert a long, happy and healthy life together. Also, congratulations go to Andy, a former player with Hebburn FC, who saw his team beat Consett FC at Wembley to win the FA Vase. It was a great NE England final.

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GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY

Following the easing of the covid restrictions, El Plantio Golf Resort reopened on 1 March. GAGS is now back to playing twice a week, Tuesday and Friday with our usual tee-off time of 8am. We are looking forward to meeting up with our regular players and welcoming new members whether they be residents, holiday home owners or visitors to the region. 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.

Gary Brockwell (Gary’s Garden Services) one of the golf members, driving off the 15th tee.

We look forward to seeing you.

For more information please contact: Michael (966 698 925) Tony (966 183 004)

BICI GRAN ALACANT

We are a small group who spend most of the time here in Gran Alacant. If you are interested in joining one of our rides look us up on Facebook Gran Alacant Road Cyclist (Bici Gran Alacant) where ride details are posted.

GRAN ALACANT WALKING FOOTBALL

The national state of emergency ended on 9th May, however the Jose Antonio Aleman Valero indoor sports hall in Gran Alacant remains closed daily until 5pm.

The Gran Alacant Walking Football group are not allowed to book the facility in the evenings. Via this magazine we have asked our local councilor, Oscar Valenzuela, when we can expect a sports facility of any kind to be available to Gran Alacant residents during the day. We also are asking, why it is the existing policy of the council to continue to improve and upgrade exiting astro-turf facilities in Santa Pola before providing ANY astro-turf

facility in Gran Alacant.

Until our Tuesday indoor sessions recommence we will continue our social get-togethers on alternate Tuesdays. Our first June date is on 1st June at Tommys Bar, secondly on 15th June at Skipper Bar in the Masa Square and then at Shooters Bar at the Carabassi on 29th June, all at midday. Please check our facebook page for any updates regarding our indoor playing sessions Stay safe everyone John Fraser +44 7866 315087 / 630 582322

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WORDSEARCH WORDSEARCH GARDEN TOOLS in Spanish or English

NOW IN OUR 16TH YEAR 76

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 16TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

SUDOKU Difficulty Rating: EASY To solve the puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. While the rules of this logic puzzle may be simple, there are numerous strategies to help you solve Sudoku. For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk

Difficulty Rating: MEDIUM

9 1

6 9 7

2 4 2

7 6 2

1 8 5

2 9

9 4 3

8 1

2 7

3 6

4 7

8 8

1 5

4 8 4 9

DOODLE AREA

Difficulty Rating: HARD

5 2 4

5 3

3 9

2 7

9 8

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AMAZING HOT TUB SPAS UNBEATABLE QUALITY/PRICES

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS LIMITED SPECIAL OFFER AND CONTACT US NOW! CV 945 Partida lo Blanc, 4 Los Montesinos, 03187 Te.:: 966 720 026 - Mobile: 605 090 388 Email: info@aguaflo.es - Web: aguaflo.es