The British Gazette by The British Gazette

YOUR LOCAL EX-PAT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

The

British Gazette

31st July 2020 - 30st August 2020

Benidorm l L'AlfĂ s del Pi l La Cala l Albir l La Nucia l Altea

UK tops shocking July COVID 19 death ďŹ gures as Spain's numbers remain low

Free Monthly Issue No 63 By Scott Taylor

he UK has the highest death rate in Europe from COVID 19 related deaths in July according to sources from the European centre for disease prevention and control. This comes as the UK imposed a quarantine for all visitors returning back from Spain citing an increase in detected cases. To put this into perspective after the recent outbreak in Leicester, if the Spanish government took the same illogical reasoning as the UK then Spain would order a quarantine of all people entering from the UK. Although Spain has seen an increase in detected cases these are predominantly located in the North, within a family or workgroups and all under control The figures released showed a total of 2424 deaths in the UK compared to 90 in Spain. These numbers confirm just how far the UK is behind its EU neighbours in containing the virus and that the quarantine was a knee jerk reaction for either political or economic reasons.

2 BENIDORM

Two fugitives detained in Benidorm and Dénia Local News By Scott Taylor

Benidorm and Dénia.

The fugitives, one German and one Romanian, were detained by officers over the wo men, who were weekend. wanted on European Arrest Warrants have One person was wanted on been detained by police in fraud charges, whilst the

other was on the run after being sentenced to a year in prison for driving without a licence. Extradition proceedings have now got underway for the pair.

Over 400 penalised for not wearing mask in Alicante

THE LEGAL STUFF Local News By Scott Taylor

lowing social distancing rules.

On Friday night 230 people were issued penalties for breaking pubver 400 penalised for not lic safety laws, whilst the number wearing mask in area were dropped to 188 on Saturday night. also sanctioned for not fol-

NOMBRE DE LA EDICIÓN: The British Gazette

EDITOR: C Taylor

NUMERO Y FECHA DE EDICIÓN:

August 2020

DEPÓSITO LEGAL:

A449-2014

EDITADO EN ESPAÑA:

THE BRITISH GAZETTE

Another fake hack with fake news? Local News By Elise Jones

ou have to feel really sorry for business owners in Benidorm, especially in the hospitality sector. After weeks of lockdown and although a new UK quaratine has been imposed the resort has at last re-opened to visitors and a glimmer of light could be seen at the end of the tunnel. All they needed, then, was somebody to post a fake video on YouTube in the last few days stating that the town is in lockdown again. Local sources claim the video was posted by a radio DJ for Celebrity Radio called Alex Belfield. Alex already has a reputation of being pretty outrageous in order to get likes and followers. It seems he likes to get a reaction and he’s certainly done it this time! Of course, Benidorm is NOT back in lockdown but, as you can imagine, if you are a holidaymaker about to fly out to Benidorm even though there is a quaratine and saw this you would be rather worried, to say the least. Local businesses are rightly furious and are unable to see the “joke”, not understanding why anybody would tell such outright fibs when many people could have suffered through the post. Many have reported the video to YouTube in an attempt to get it taken down. Benidorm is, thankfully, quite busy currently with Spanish tourists and certainly not locked down. Of course as in all of Valencia all safety precautions must be followed, including social distancing, hand sanitation and masks worn at all times outdoors except, of course in the pools and on the beaches. However it dosnt stops idiots thousands of miles away spreading fake news.

et2 has announced it will refund customers on holiday in Spain who have been asked to fly back to the UK early. The operator has asked that all passengers should return to the UK by today, after operating empty flights to Spain for over a week. Jet2holidays will also refund unused nights for customers affected by the flight cancellations. The airline added that it would refund the difference if customers had to book new flights to return to the UK. The airline has suspended flights and holidays to Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza up to and including 9 August, meanwhile holidays to the Costa de Almeria, Alicante, Malaga and Murcia – up to and including 16 August are also cancelled.

4 BENIDORM

Benidorm's new road signs Local News By Scott Taylor

rivers in Benidorm have been introduced to a new type of speed warning sign on their travels, which provides feedback on drivers speed using smiling or frowning faces.

NEWS

The emoticon roadsign will give drivers a visual clue as to if they are driving at a safe speed or not. The new sign was unveiled by José Ramón González de Zárate..

LOCAL

Benidorm welcomes the King and Queen Hundreds of locals, ex pats and tourists were gathered eagerly to get a glimpse and a picture. It was a really positive visit for Benidorm, and a hopeful

Local News By Elise Jones

arly in July, Benidorm welcomed two very special guests – King Felipe and Queen Letizia. This was part of their tour across their country to promote tourism, and huge crowds welcomed them to Benidorm.

It is their first official visit to Benidorm for the reigning King and Queen, and to mark the occasion Benidorm Castle lit up with the colours of the Spanish flag the night before the visit. The couple were met by the Valencian Business Confederation for a briefing, before heading to interact (whilst safely social distancing) with the public.

sign that tourism and a slice of normality should be restored in the not too distant future. From Benidorm the King and Queen continued their tour to Valencia.

THE BRITISH GAZETTE

BACK IN THE BEACH BARS! Local News By Elise Jones

Giddy punters took to social media to share their joy at being back, with several posting jubilant videos and photos of themselves singing, laughing and knocking

Local News By Scott Taylor

The famous Costa Blanca watering hole – now re-named Aloha Beach Bar – reopened back in May after the area’s coronavirus lockdown was lifted and thirsty holidaymakers have wasted no time flocking back to the popular daytime drinking spot.

Nearly 1.1 million lose jobs during second quarter of the year

early 1.1 million jobs have been lost during the last quarter in Spain due to the coronavirus pandemic.

enidorm Brits have shared their delight at being back in Tiki Beach Bar after UK tourists were finally allowed to return to the holiday hotspot.

The details of the job back drinks.

ous”.

One person sharing a group photo in the bar wrote: “Us oldies gave it a chance a few weeks ago… really enjoyed it!”

Tiki is said to have taken over a bar next door so holidaymakers can enjoy their booze whilst maintaining a sensible distance. And some visitors hailed the “fantastic safety measures” to keep customers safe from Covid-19.

Jealous commenters chimed in to reveal their envy, with one writing “wish we were there right now”, another saying “love this place” and a third posting “miss it, so jeal-

Others said they actually pre-

fer the bar now as there are no lairy stag and hen parties, with one person commenting: “Not a mankini in sight!” In September 2018, judges ordered the closure of the "controversial" pub, devastating thousands of holidaymakers and fun-loving locals. The hugely-popular bar was ordered to shut its doors "for good" following years of

losses were published this week in the latest workforce survey – the EPA – by the national statistics agency – the INE. At the moment 3.37 million people are unemployed in Spain, with the unemployment rate at 15.3%. Traditionally this period is when unemployment levels are at their lowest. complaints from bleary-eyed neighbours. It was a massive favourite with Brits for daytime as well as evening boozing until the courts called time on the bar. Let’s just hope the latest quarantine status in the UK will soon be lifted, so more people can enjoy the bar.

6 L'ALFÀS DEL PI & L'ALBIR

L'ALFÀS DEL PI & L'ALBIR Local News By Scott Taylor

long beach of El Albir and various smaller coves such as those of La Mina, El Médico and el Amerador. These are overlooked by the Torre Bombarda (a watchtower which was built to spot Berber pirate raiders in the Middle Ages) and a recently restored 17th century lighthouse which is now home to the Sierra Helada visitors centre. The path up to the lighthouse provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the landscape of the Sierra, and of course to enjoy panoramic views out over Alfaz and beyond towards Altea.

LOCAL

NEWS

he municipality of Alfaz del Pi (or, in Valenciano, L'Alfàs del Pi) is one which in some ways is overshadowed by its neighbours of Benidorm and Altea but which nonetheless has its own unique identity. The historic origins of Alfaz del Pi are nicely illustrated demonstrated by its name: “Alfaz” derives from the Arabic “al-Alfaz del Pi (L’Alfas del Pi)faḥṣ”, which means crop field, and demonstrates that the town we know today was founded during the long years of Moorish rule which ended in 1258. However, until the 18th century it was known as “Alfaz de Polop”, and the distinctive “Pi” was not grafted into the name until 1786 in commemoration of the planting of the large pine abroad, although this time tree which can still be seen in it can be Alfaz del Pi (L’Alfas the Plaza Mayor. del Pi)said that they are invaders of a rather different But the Moors were by no kind. Of the population of means the first people to set21,700 only 44% are Spanish, tle in this part of the coastline with the rest consisting priof the Marina Baja area of Almarily of northern Europeicante. Two kilometres away ans who have purchased refrom the town centre, on the tirement or holiday homes in coast, is El Albir, which nowthis part of the Costa Blanca. adays is much like any other Over 3,000 of these residents coastal development except are British, but for once they for the presence of the reare easily outnumbered by a mains of a large 5th-century different expat community: Roman villa, including a burAlfaz del Pi, remarkably, is ial ground. Many of the items home to the second largest found here are now on disNorwegian expatriate popuplay in the Roman museum lation in the world, smaller of El Albir. only than that of London. Nowadays too the town of The official Norwegian popAlfaz del Pi is occupied by ulation is around 5,000, but hordes of invaders from

In among the numerous residential developments in the countryside of Alfaz it is also still possible to find some of the mills which were built along irrigation channels for the local vineyards and citrus orchards in the 16th century.

some estimate that if the “floating population” is taken into account the real figure is nearer double that. As a result, the town is well supplied with Norwegian shops and other manifestations of Scandinavian culture – there is even a Norwegian school here - and is twinned with Oslo. Not that Alfaz del Pi (L’Alfas del Pi) only Scandinavians will feel at home here: the golf driving range at El Albir doubles up as the local cricket club, and in all over 100 nationalities are represented on the local electoral roll! Located just to the north of the Sierra Helada, which separates Alfaz from Benidorm, the municipality features the

These were provided by the generosity of Baroness Beatriz Fajardo de Mendoza, and were part of a system which also benefitted Polop, La Nucia and Benidorm, but although some of them are still in working order the main pillar of the local economy has been tourism ever since the town began to expand in the 1960s. As a result of this expansion Norwegian salmon is now found on the shelves of shops in Alfaz alongside the local seafood specialities, while dark Scandinavian breads proliferate along with the typical delicacies of the Costa Blanca: an unusual combination, and which clearly proves attractive to large numbers of north Europeans!

THE BRITISH GAZETTE

Alfas launches a day of talks on residency for British nationals

and is aimed at people who have difficulty with the application because of language barriers, literacy, disability, or with no access to he town hall in Alfas del Pi will host a day of in- The initiative will take place technology. formative talks to Brit- on the 12th August at 10AM

Local News By Scott Taylor

ish nationals who have not yet made an application for residency at the Casa de Cultura.

New work giving access from the town centre to Albir commences

Local News By Scott Taylor

onstruction work has begun on the new roundabout giving access to Albir. The new project on the N332

will allow a direct link between the town centre and Albir with a direct link vis Camino Vieja de Altea. The project will last six months and will â&#x201A;Ź800.00 after the town compulsory purchased privately owned land.

for cost hall the

Present at the announcement was Tony Such the Urban development counsellor and Oscar Perez the Technical services counsellor with them announcing the new road will have two lanes and a hard shoulder and pedestrian pavement.

8 L'ALFÀS DEL PI & L'ALBIR

Albir Anchor celebrates its 25th anniversary Local News By Elise Jones

LOCAL

NEWS

onstructed in bronze, and measuring 5.5 metres in length, the artist Jose Castro Florez always intended the beautiful monument to symbolise the draw that many international visitors feel to return to Albir and stay; to put down their roots and anchor. It is thought that the anchor also represents the relationship between the village resident and the traveller; the desire to settle and the craving to know what awaits them.

The monument is called ‘Asentamiento’ and is one of the most popular spots for keen photographers and tourists alike, in Albir. It’s a much loved symbol of Alfas del Pi and its beach resort of Albir. This monument was made in 1995, 25 years ago this year, by our calculation, and installed as the centrepiece of the “Paseo de las Estrellas” promenade. The artist passed away sadly back in 2011, where his ashes were scattered over Alicante from a private plane – but we thank him for a great symbolism of the town.

Albir’s blue ﬂag Beach

Local News By Charlotte

lbir beach recently saw the prestigious blue flag raised by Ana Castillo and Pepe Vivuela who were awarded the Faro de Plata Award at the opening celebrations of the 2020 Festival de Cine de l’Alfas (the L’Alfas del Pi Film Festival 32nd Edition). The Blue Flag awarded to beaches origi-

nated in France in the year 1985, before being introduced across Europe from 1987. The standards for the Blue Flag Beach are related to four principle areas – Safety and Services, Water Quality, Environmental Management and Environmental Education and Information. The stunning beach and coastline of Albir has saw yet another successful year of celebrating its Blue Flag beach!

Alfaz sees new businesses open Local News By Elise Jones

n these trying times it is so refreshing to hear that some businesses are thriving, and even expanding. The boutique hotel, Hotel Moli in Alfaz Del Pi is one example. Not only do they have a bar and restaurant on site, but they have also acquired an additional premises in the town, called ‘Moli Lounge Bar’. The bar used to be called ‘Bisxtra’ ad is located on Carrer La Ferreria, in the heart of Alfaz Del Pi. Bar Code Alfaz, in the centre of the town is also reopening this Customers can expect a week under new management. warm welcome and good quality drinks at reasonable They have promised lots of excitprices. ing changes and offers to tempt

us in. New owner Lynne Hill says ‘lots of changes already and more to follow – we hope you can come and support us in our new venture’.

Speaking to numerous residents out and about in Alfaz, the general feeling is that things could slowly be returning towards normality.

Locals are noticing a steady increase in trade, but are of course concerned now that the news of quarantine for Brits returning has been announced.

EAT & DRINK FOOD & DRINK

10 FOOD & DRINK

Eating Out By Scott Taylor

here’s nothing we like to do more than ﬁnding a spot on a terrace to share a drink and something to eat in good company. If it’s something we enjoy in our own town, on holiday in a new town it feels twice as good. If you are reading this article it’s because you have already booked your holiday in Benidorm or are thinking of doing so, maybe looking for terraces, bars or restaurants that meet your expectations.

refreshing drink whilst overlooking the Mediterranean sea. Eat around the Castle area of Benidorm One of the most attractive corners of Benidorm is the area of ‘ El Castillo’, also called the Mediterranean Balcony. The essence of Mediterranean coastal town can be felt more here than from any other point in the town. Sitting on a terrace in this place is one of the most pleasant experiences, where you can listen to the sea and feel the cool sea breeze whilst contemplating the Benidorm skyline, both Levante and Poniente.

Well you’ve found the best place for it, , the town of skyscrapers has a great selection prepared to satisfy all tastes and meet your needs in each area. Do you need recommendations for bars in Benidorm? Do you want to know about some of the best terraces in Benidorm? Are you looking for restaurants in Benidorm? Keep reading!

Where to eat in La Cala of Benidorm and La Cala of Finestrat The Cala of Benidorm is one of the quietest areas of the town. For this reason a lot of the Benidorm locals go there to enjoy long days at the beach. As well as the beach many people visit to enjoy the good restaurants that the area has to offer

Eating on the Levante Beach Benidorm

Eating out in the Old Town

The Levante beach seafront is one of the busiest areas when the sun is up high and also when it goes down.

In Benidorm Old Town, the more you walk the more options you are going to ﬁnd. . El Paseo de la Carretera, la calle Alameda y Martínez Alejos and the streets that lead from them are where you can ﬁnd most atmosphere.

On an evening, the discos that are on the seafront, open their terraces and you can enjoy a

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 11

The History of Pizza

Eating Out By Scott Taylor

ne of the most popular dishes in the world today is without a doubt a pizza. Its long history spans centuries and millennia's, unifying the countries of Europe and later on continents and entire world. As we look further back to the past we can see the origins of the pizza in the 1st century BC as a sort of flattened bread that was used by several European civilizations. The first major breakthrough in the history of pizza happened in 16th century with the arrival of tomatoes from the New World. Often thought as a poor man's vegetable, sauces made from potato soon became integral part of the Italian pizza and which later spread across the entire world. The earliest known home of ancient pizza comes from the island of Sicily, where archeologist found remains of the 3000 years old flattened breads and tool for their manufacture. The similar kind of dishes papered in the surrounding European areas in the following centuries. One of the earliest mentioning's of pizza came from the historical writings of the Darius, the Great conquest of Europe. It mentions the habit of his soldiers to bake flattened bread on their shields, which were later covered with cheese and dates. Roman Empire and especially the area around the Naples and Pompeii were famous for their use of pizzas as everyday meals. There are several historical writings from those times that mention their skill in making flattened breads that were afterward seasoned with various toppings. The most famous mention of pizza from that period was one in poet Virgil poem The Aeneid". The volcano disaster that stoke Roman city of Pompeii left immeasurable amount of important archeological artifact for the modern historians. Among the ruins of the preserved city, archeologist found many signs that proved the common existence of pizzas in Roman Empire - street stands where pizza was sold, bakeries where they were made and even equipment that baker used. The other parts of Eu-

rope continued to make variations of flattened bread dishes, with many of them surviving even to today (coca from Catalonia and Valencia, Greek Pita, Turkish Pide, Lepinja or Solmun in Balkans). The moment which solidified popularity of Pizza in Italy happened in 1889, when famous Naples pizza chef Raffaele Esposito made three pizzas for Umberto I King of Italy and his wife Queen Margherita di Savoia. His successful pizza presentation made his designs part of an Italian food culture, and consummation of pizza continued to spread across Italy. America became acquainted with pizzas in late 19th century, when many Italians colonized several US cities. Concentrated Italian presence in Chicago, New York City, and Philadelphia became one of the first areas where pizza was sold in United States.

12 FOOD & DRINK L'ALFÀS DEL PI & ALBIR cream, which we topped with strawberry jam and the individual homemade light and ﬂuffy cream sponge cakes topped with fresh fruit. Daringly delicious we all thoroughly enjoyed the array of tasty food served at It’s a Piece of Cake afternoon tea, with charming presentation and fantastic service.

EAT & DRINK FOOD & DRINK

FOOD REVIEW PIECE OF CAKE LA CALA AFTERNOON TEA MENU

his month my family and I visited It’s a Piece of Cake located just out of Benidorm in the beautiful setting of La Cala Bay.

fully set table.

My Husband and I enjoyed a glass of cava, as the piping hot pots of tea were served, along with homemade tea We were all looking forward pot shaped delicious shortto visiting the eatery on a bread biscuits. fantastic sunny August afternoon for their renowned af- As we chatted over our tea and biscuits an impressive ternoon tea.

were eager to tuck into. We enjoyed petite quiches, and sausage rolls with light and crispy pastry along with a selection of fresh sandwiches loaded with tasty traditional sandwich ﬁllings.

The eatery offers a full menu alongside their well-known homemade sweet treats. You can enjoy breakfast options including build your own breakfast, light bites to hearty main meals including traditional Sunday roasts. Linda and Connie also welcome you to their ‘Sing – a -long Sunday’

where you can enjoy an afternoon of great food and of course drinks including their

My children were thrilled with the selection of delightful

tempting cocktail menu, selection of ‘G and Tea’ with a selection of traditional and ﬂavoured gins served in a teapot and jugs of sangria.

We were all greeted with a warm welcome from Linda and Connie on our arrival and were seated at a delight-

three-tiered cake stand was served loaded with delightful cakes, sandwiches and pastries that my family and I

sweet treats, that looked and tasted delicious, alongside piping hot cups of English tea. We all tucked into the homemade scones, oozing with

We thoroughly enjoyed our family afternoon at It’s a Piece of Cake and will deﬁnitely be returning again soon, call by and visit the team at Avenida Marina Baixa 3, Local 2, La Cala, see their advert in the British Gazette and take a look on social media at ‘It’s a Piece of Cake’ on their Facebook page.

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 13

Top Spanish Foods to try in Benidorm

ome of the most famous chefs in the world hail from Spain. There are restaurants in the Basque Country and Catalonia which you have to book a year, rather than a month in advance. But posh nosh aside, discover the top ten traditional Spanish foods to try in Benidorm Patatas Bravas Whilst the Spanish are keen on spices, they're not so hot for spicy food. One of the few exceptions to the rule is this famous Spanish dish and nationwide favourite, patatas bravas. Here a ﬁery red sauce, varying in composition from province to province, accompanies humble spuds which have been peeled, cubed, and fried. Paella One of the most famous Spanish dishes is, of course, paella. For an authentic paella, visit Valencia, it was here in the mid-19th century, on the shores of Lake Albufera, that the dish was born. In a Valencian paella, the key ingredients are chicken and

rabbit although the seafood versions are considered traditional in more coastal areas. Gazpacho Nothing cools you down more on a hot summers day, aside from a cold shower than a starter of this chilled soup. Which explains why this Spanish dish hails from mainland Spain's most southerly region, Andalucia. Combining pestle-and-mortared cucumber, garlic, onion, pepper, and tomato with olive oil, salt, water and wine vinegar, the gazpacho receives a happy ﬁnish of chopped cucumber, onion, pepper, and tomato.

Calamari There is an argument that anything tastes good deep-fried. What is beyond doubt is the scrumptious crunchmeets-chewy gastronomic experience of battered squid. Especially when doused in freshly-squeezed lemon.

Tortilla Española Another traditional Spanish tapas dish, Spanish omelette, is nothing like the version which used to appear in British kitchens with judicious use of chunky pepper. Tortilla Española is also known as "tortilla de patatas" where pre-fried potatoes are the main ingredients after eggs. Chopped onion is Jamón Ibérico sometimes added to the Walk into any bar, let recipe which often sparks alone restaurant, in any controversial conversapart of Spain and you'll tions with Spaniards. always see a leg of ham. One of the bar staff will, Chorizo on request, slice the You'll certainly know ham into succulent slic- when you've sampled this es to create one of the traditional Spanish dish, country's most distinc- as the taste lingers forsetive taste sensations. A veral hours after you eat popular Spanish tapas this spicy and sweet saudish, Spain produces sage. Especially as whoa massive 40 million ever's made it would have hams a year. probably gone heavy on the garlic.

14 BENIDORM

Maxwell family devastated after recent judge ruling Apartments in April 2017 The 10-page document released by the Alicante appeal judges insisted that there was

no strong evidence of criminality and nothing to indicate that the victim had not jumped to her own death.

Alicante judges her death was not an accident after the murder suspect were cleared by appeal judges in Alicante after appealing the he family of Benidorm ruling by a Benidorm judge. plunge victim Kirsty Maxwell have been The victim plunged to her dealt a shattering blow after death in suspicious circumlosing their fight to persuade stances from the Payma

Local News By Scott Taylor

NEWS

LOCAL

Benidormâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ionic venue Benidorm Palace prepares to re- open

Eating Out By Charlotte Taylor

enidorm Palace is set to re -open again on Friday 7th August 2020. Benidormâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic venue located along Avenida Dr. Severo Ochoa has been entertaining visitors for over 30 years since

opening in 1977 with amazing live shows and seating up to 1,660 persons. During the venues recent closure Benidorm Palace has spent this time upgrading and renovating the main event room. Benidorm Palace has be-

come even more spectacular with the addition of modified gigantic high definition screens, which are moveable, fantastic

for viewing across all seats in the show room and offering the stage with now a much larger area.

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 15

16 FOOD & DRINK

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 17

The Great British Sunday Roast from Afganistan? Eating Out By Scott Taylor

n Benidorm you can get a Sunday dinner every day of the week and It's been a British way of life for as long as most of us can remember and is one of the nation's favourite foods, appearing on top of countless top ten lists. But hardly any of the elements which make up a Sunday roast originated in Britain.

Previously known as ‘dripping pudding’, Yorkshires were once cooked underneath the meat roasting on a spit in order to capture the valuable and tasty juices dripping from the joint.

The pudding would pack out a meal in times when meat was expensive and there wasn’t much to go around. We assume that carrots were always orange but according to the graphic, carrots, which originated in Afghanistan 5,000 years ago, were almost all purple.

We tuck into carrots from Afghanistan, green beans which were first cultivated in Peru, and potatoes, now a firm fixture in a Sunday roast, were shunned when they first made their appearance in Britain.

Seventeenth century Dutch growers took mutant strains of the carrot and in tribute to William of Orange, leader of the struggle for Dutch independence at the time, developed them into the orange varieties we grow and eat today .

First we look at green beans, which originated in Peru were ﬁrst spread throughout southern and Central America by migrating Indian tribes.

Another commonplace vegetables which appears on the graphic is broccoli.

Spanish explorers stumbled upon them during their travels in the new world in the 16th century and shipped them back to Europe on long voyages.

Native to the Mediterranean, broccoli was originally engineered from cabbage in ancient Roman times in Italy, where it became very popular,

They then continued their journey to English shores in the packs of Spanish and Portugese traders, where they were eventually cultivated.

In contrast the vegetable remained relatively unknown in England until the 1700s when it was ﬁnally discovered and nicknamed Italian asparagus.

When it comes to the protein on our plate, all modern day cows are descended from a single herd of wild ox, which roamed across Europe and Asia 10,500 years ago.

And while we can't imagine a roast dinner without crispy roast potatoes, we Brits didn't really take to spuds when they ﬁrst arrived on our shores.

Britain’s love of beef began during the reign of King Henry VII in 1485.

Potatoes were ﬁrst cultivated by the Inca Indians around 5000 BC and were brought to Europe in 1536 by the Spanish when they conquered Peru.

The King’s royal guards would dine on roasted beef every Sunday after church. This then lead them to be known as Beefeaters. This tradition then spread to the population, who would drop off their beef at the local bakers on their way to church to be roasted until they returned. And while Yorkshire pudding is now a ﬁrm ﬁxture on the main plate, it was originally served as an appetiser with gravy.

However in England potatoes were extremely unpopular and regarded with distaste. It wasn’t until 1795, when the ruling classes realised their potential to solve food shortages did they start to become popular. A huge campaign was launched by the Board of Agriculture to encourage the working classes to adopt them into their meals and potatoes

soon became a staple ingredient, where The Germans named them meerretthey still remain to this day. tich (sea radish) which then the British mispronounced as mareradish, which Horseradishes have long been treasured in turn led to what we call them today. for both their ﬂavour and their health beneﬁts, with many using them to treat By the late 17th century, horseradish conditions such as rheumatism and even was the standard accompaniment for act as an aphrodisiac. beef in England, with inns and coach stations growing them in large quanThe modern day horseradish can be tities to make cordials which would be traced back to central Europe where they drunk by exhausted travellers. were commonly found growing next to the sea.

18 BENIDORM

Spain introduces new residency document for British nationals

This means some changes to the appointments process and that anyone registering from now on will be issued with the biometric TIE card, rather than the current green paper document.

EU countries to bring in a new residency system for British nationals and HMA Hugh Elliott welcomed its introduction. He also explained what it means for UK nationals, saying: ‘We’ve seen lots of questions and concerns on social media, so I want to underline two key points. First, I want to assure you that all British nationals, who are legally resident in Spain by the end of this year, will have their rights protected, including the right to live and work here, and lifelong access to healthcare for UK state pensioners, including those who claim a pension in the future.

Spain is one of the first

If you already have the green

Local News By Scott Taylor

n Monday 6th July the Spanish Government launched a new residency document for UK nationals who are protected by the Withdrawal Agreement – the Tarjeta de identidad de extranjero or TIE.

residency certificate – A4 or credit card-sized version – or in the future the TIE, they are equally valid in demonstrating your residence status and your rights as a beneficiary of the Withdrawal Agreement. Almost 360,000 British people are already registered here in Spain. And whilst you may choose to exchange your current certificate for a TIE at some point in the future, there is no requirement to do so. The green residency document gives you the same rights as the new TIE card. So please be assured on that point.’ Information for UK nationals is available at gov.uk/ livinginspain

Local News By Elise Jones

Jet2 Holidays axed until 17th August after UK quarantine

airport from Tuesday July 28 as we are not operating flights to these destinations.

et2 flights and holidays to Spain have been axed. "This advice also applies to They will hopefully re- customers travelling to any of start again on August 17. our destinations in Mainland Spain. The news comes after the UK government announced that “We will be operating our Britons would have to quar- scheduled programme of antine on their return home flights back to the UK from after cases spiked in Spain. these destinations tomorrow. A Jet2 spokesperson said: “Following the latest government advice regarding travel to the Balearic and Canary Islands from the UK, we are advising customers who are due to travel to the following destinations (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza) not to go to the

“This is an extremely fast-moving situation, and we will give regular updates.” TUI, meanwhile, has suspended all its holidays and flights to mainland Spain until August 9th. On July 28th it also suspended its holidays and flights to the Balearic and Canary Islands until at least July 31st.

The Company said in a statement that people with flights and holidays to Mainland Spain who had planned to travel between July 27th and 9th August may cancel or change their reservation, while those travelling from 10th August onwards will have to wait for a further statement from them. However Jet2 have now stated that all passengers should return hope this week as they will no longer run ghost flights to collect passenger still in Benidorm. DART (who own Jet2), Easyjet, TUI and Ryanair have all seen their share prices dip after the UK Government’s announcement.

Refugees land in Benidorm

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 19

Local News By Scott Taylor

leven immigrants came ashore in Benidorm earlier this week after being spotted by Guardia civil patrol. The boat contained 11 people including two minors who are believed to be Algerian. The boat arrived at 11am and was taken to Benidorm port after police and the red cross attended to the refugees before they were handed over to National Police officers in good health. This is the second wave of Algerian refugees landing in the Alicante Province with

another boat arrived 24 hours earlier also arrived in Alicante with nine people on board. Police transferred the refugees to the hospital after some of the party tested positive for Covid 19.

Sunbed increase

he contractor for the beach sunbeds has raised the price of sunbeds and um-

brellas on the beaches of Benidorm to 6 euros. That is the maximum allowed by the City Council.

King emeritus Juan Carlos to leave Spain

ormer king Juan Carlos, who has been facing corruption allegations, has left the country, according to reports. The nation’s supreme court opened an

inquiry in June this year into his involvement in a high-speed rail contract in Saudi Arabia which was granted to Spanish companies in 2011.

Juan Carlos, 82, has declined to comment on the allegations. His lawyer, Javier Sanchez-Junco, said despite his decision to leave, the former king would “remain at the disposal of the prosecutors’ ofﬁce”.

A letter from Juan Carlos to his son, King Felipe, published on the royal family’s website, said: “I am informing you of my considered decision to move, during this period, out of Spain.”

20 LA CALA & FINESTRAT NEWS

Visiting Finestrat Village & La Cala Local News By News Desk

EAT & DRINK LA CALA & FINESTRAT

he village of Finestrat and the beachside resort of Cala Finestrat are both located in the Marina Baixa region on the Costa Blanca, close to neighbouring Benidorm and around 40 kilometres from the city of Alicante and its International Airport. The village nestles on the mountainside of Puig Campana affording wonderful views to the mountains and out to the coast and Mediterranean. The charming village has a typical Moorish feel, with colourfully painted houses and narrow cobbled streets. Cala Finestrat on the other hand has increasingly become more and more popular and its development has made it almost an extension to Benidorm itself. Finestrat Village The village of Finestrat has retained much of its old school charm, with its Moorish feel and ancient monuments, including the 13th century Castell (Castle) de Finestrat, the 18th century Church of Saint Bartholomew, La Torre (the watch tower) and the Hermitage Crist de Remei. There is a scattering of bars and restaurants servicing typical Mediterranean and British cuisine and a few shops and amenities. Check out some of our advertisers while you are visiting this amazing village. La Cala Finestrat Cala Finestrat is a beach resort located just three kilometres away from busy Benidorm. The resort offers adequate amenities and facilities, a good selection of restaurants, bars and shops that you can find here in this section. Cala Finestrat is suitable for families and couples looking for a relaxed beach resort, yet close to lots of activities and amenities should you desire. During the summer months an arts and crafts market is held on the promenade dur-

ing the afternoon. Beaches The beach of La Cala is fairly quiet, as most wanting a more upbeat atmosphere head to the beaches surrounding Benidorm. The beach is a clean sweep of golden sand, ideal for children and safe for bathing. There are some delightful restaurants set along the promenade. Places to visit

Neighbouring Benidorm offers a vibrant and pulsating nightlife and excellent shopping facilities and the wonderful, cultural city of Alicante is just 40 kilometres away.

a round or two of golf during your holiday, you will be content at Finestrat, with the Real Faula golf club close by, which offers two excellent courses.

The Terra Mitica and Terra Natura theme parks, Aqualandia water park and Mundomar marine and exotic animal park are close by and all offer a fun day out for the whole family.

Both Finestrat and Cala Finestrat are relaxed destinations compared to some of their neighbouring resorts. Both offer a selection of local bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy good cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.

If you are looking to enjoy

Eating out and nightlife

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 21

Finestrat Blood Donation Day

Local News By Charlotte Taylor

inestrat Youth Centre will host a blood donation day on Wednesday 5th August 2020, between the hours of 17.00 and 20.30. Finestrat local council department of health have set up an appointment system which can be accessed via telephone and WhatsApp messaging service, on 606936432. The appointment system can be used during the hours of 09.00 and 14.00 and is to ensure security measures are upheld, once at the Youth Centre on 5th August all security measures alongside

health regulations against COVID 19 will be implemented for the blood donations to be carried out safely.

Serena's- Finestrat's hidden gem

erena’s café bar is located in the picturesque village of Finestrat, where you can enjoy fantastic food and drink. Owners John and Jacqueline ensure you receive a warm welcome to the establishment, offering a delicious home cooked menu including a range of tasty burgers, a selection of tex mex nachos, every Friday is ‘Fishy Friday’ with Serena’s scrumptious fish and chips and they offer the best Sunday lunches in town. With a large range of drinks on offer including draught, bottles and cocktails why not enjoy a cold pint of draught Guiness whilst watching the Rugby Six Nations, visit Serenas for their popular Quiz Night or enjoy a catch up with friends and

family over a game of pool. Serenas is definitely the place to vis-

it here in Finestrat, call by and see John and Jacqueline at Serenas located along Calle Puig Campana Fin-

estrat and follow them on Facebook at Bar Serenas Finestrat for updates and great deals on food and drink.

22 BENIDORM

NEWS

Local News By Phil Watson

Electric charging point for vehicles along Avenida de Montecarlo

Cyclist who fell from bike dies in Altea La Vella

LOCAL

Local News By Charlotte Taylor

ast Saturday evening an incident occurred in the Altea la Vella area, where a cyclist who was reported not to be wearing a protective helmet experienced a fall from their bike.

Local News By Charlotte Taylor

ith the increase of electric vehicles accessing the town here in Benidorm there has been a new electric charging access point

added along the Avenida de Montecarlo in the Rincon de Loix area of Benidorm. The charging point has been installed by GET company and can be found just outside their offices at Avenida de Montecarlo 4. The access point has space

for two vehicles to charge at any one time. Toni Perez the Mayor of Benidorm along with the Councillor for Mobility visited the new charging point facilities-an innovative addition to Benidorm.

The fall resulted in the casualty hitting their head, where emergency service assistance was required along with ofďŹ cers from the Local Police in Altea. Sadly, the cyclist passed away from his injuries.

24 NATIONAL NEWS

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 25

THE BRITISH GAZETTE

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 27

Welcome to John from Discover the Sea Local News By Charlotte Taylor

iscover the sea in style and set sail with Zenit -your private hire yacht! Join Discover the Sea and enjoy the Costa Blanca with owner John who has 16 years of experience on board as a sea man and is an experienced diver. You can enjoy the many sea excursions available aboard Zenit including Benidormâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peacock Island to exploring the stunning coastlines of Altea and Calpe. If you are more adventurous

you can enjoy venturing out for diving and magical snorkelling experiences. Join John on board Zanit for an exclusive service for upto 8 people with transfers from your property or hotel included. You can make fantastic memories on board partying with friends or a relaxing afternoon of romance with loved ones aboard Zenit.

Welcome to a new Tavern in Town Local News By Charlotte Taylor

ere at the British Gazette we welcome our new advertising partner St James Tavern, a recently opened bar and restaurant in the Old Town area of Benidorm just tality business and have behind Mc Donalds. lovingly restored the establishment, St James Fully refurbished and Tavern to its former name with a fantastic new and to its former glory as food and drinks menu St a bar and restaurant with James Tavern Benidorm a fantastic reputation for awaits you! both traditional English food and regular live enOwners Ian and Rizvan tertainment and themed both have a wealth of nights. They also serve a experience spanning great selection of beers, over 45 years within the wines hand crafted cockrestaurant and hospi- tails and fish bowls. You

can also use their online ordering system to enjoy St James Tavernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food for both takeaway and delivery orders. Call by and see Ian, Rizvan and their team from 9 am til late at Calle de Finestrat 5, St James Tavern look forward to wishing you a friendly and warm welcome

28 BENIDORM

Welcome to Harry's of Benidorm Local News By Charlotte Taylor

Harry’s Bar offer both traditional Spanish Tapas dishes and a variety of British favourites. Located just along from Levante Beach this is the ideal place to order your beach box – perfect to enjoy whilst relaxing during a hot Summer’s afternoon at the beach.

he British Gazette would like to welcome our advertising partners Harry’s Bar Avenida Doctor Orts Llorca 7 .just around the corner from Supercor Supermarket along from Benidorm’s Levante Beach.

LOCAL

NEWS

We recently met with owners Mark and John Paul who opened Harry’ Bar just a few years of experience in the months ago on 12th June. food and drink and hospiThe duo who have many tality business in both Spain

and the UK bring their skills and expertise to their latest venture here at Harry’s Bar in Benidorm.

You will find a great selection of fresh food, drinks, daily special menus and a warm welcome from Mark and John Paul at Harry’s Bar – a great cafe bar where you will be sure to return again!

Valencian president plea to UK over quarantine

given current statistics’. It comes after Spain has experienced a resurgence in coronavirus cases since ending its lockdown last June – however the speculation is that the UK Government may have another reason for the ruling.

Local News By Elise Jones

n 27th July, the president of the Valencian Community, Ximo Puig, has pleased with British authorities to exempt his region from the 14-day quarantine on returning travellers. Puig asked for special measures for particularly the Costa Blanca, in the Valencian province of Alicante, after the UK reversed quarantine measures last Saturday in a shock move.

quences on the tourist industry The President is concerned in the area, which is the main that the lack of British tour- source of economy here on the ists may have severe conse- Costa Blanca.

He stressed that Alicante has fewer incidents of coronavirus than the UK, saying ‘the decision does not seem justified

The country currently has 34.94 cases per 100,000 people, while England has recorded 13.27 cases per 100,000 people in the last 14 days but it’s important to take from these figures that the Valencian Community has recorded only 13.29 cases per 100,000 people over the last two weeks. There was talk about the Balearics and Canaries being exempt from the quarantine, but it has now been confirmed that they are to be included.

Benidorm football clubs merge to mount promotion charge Local News By Scott Taylor

here are positive winds of change in the Benidorm football community as they undergo changes to improve the footballing structure and teams in the town. The two most important clubs in the city have joined forces to compete in the Regional Preferente to get Benidorm back to the Third Division. Atlético Ciudad de Benidorm and Benidorm CD have merged forming a new club Atlético Benidorm Club Deportivo The new team will compete in Regional Preferred league and a structure that will have the academy teams in the best lower categories of the Valencian Community. The club has not only changed in name and structure but has also changed the clubs branding. Atlético Benidorm Club Deportivo presented the new badge on the eve of Sant Jaime, patron saint of Benidorm, as a gesture to the town to

which they owe everything. The new badge of Atlético Benidorm Club Deportivo brings together the coat of arms of La Villa, the castle over Canfali, Les Caletes, l'Aguiló, l 'Illa and according to its seafaring tradition, the sailboat and the Sant Jaime cross. The reference to the Kingdom of Valencia remains after the football, then the name of the city and the team also appears.

If you would like more information then you can join the British supporters club ﬁnd them on facebook , for tickets and shirt sales visit them on www.benidormcd. com Everyone involved with The British Gazette and our radio station 90.1 FM The Dorm wishes the new team the best for the future and are sure this merge will bring success.

30 NEWS

THE BRITISH GAZETTE 31 Supporting children with meals across Benidorm during COVID 19 Pandemic

Property sites to be investigated

Local News By Charlotte Taylor

enidorm’s programme of delivering meals to school aged children across the vicinity during the COVID 19 pandemic, originally began in April and was planned to continue through to the end of the current school year however it was extended and continued through to the end of July.

T during this time across the Benidorm area to assist in relieving the financial and social crisis that families face as a result of the pandemic.

he antitrust watchdog announced that it was opening disciplinary proceedings against several property websites this week that are suspected of using their algorithms to fix prices.

Seven companies, including Spain’s biggest property platform, Idealista SA, have been named in the investigation. The findings are expected to take up to 18 months to be produced. All of the named businesses deny any wrongdoing.

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