The jury has unanimously declared the man accused of killing and dismembering his 68-year-old partner in Torrevieja in October 2021 guilty. In addition, the nine members of the court consider that he acted with treachery and cruelty. The man admitted to having committed the acts in the rst session of the trial and, when
asked if he admitted to being the perpetrator, he simply said “yes.”
The Public Prosecutor’s O ce and the Generalitat’s Legal Department initially requested 25 years in prison for the accused, while the victim’s family requested a life sentence subject to review. Finally, the parties have reduced the prison
sentence requested to 22 years and six months. The defence has agreed to the requests of the public prosecutor. However, the parties disagree on the amount of compensation to be awarded to the murdered
woman’s family. While the prosecutor is demanding 100,000 euros for each of the two children, the private prosecution is maintaining its request for 250,000 euros for each.
In its initial statement of charges, the public prosecutor argued that the accused ended the woman’s life with a “number of unnecessary stab wounds”and a speci c plan - including notes on his mobile phone calendarto prevent her from defending
herself. He then distributed the remains in rubbish containersa supermarket camera recorded him in one of them - and in a nearby vacant lot.
The prosecutor stressed to the court and the presiding judge that neither the head nor the left arm have yet been located, and that when the woman was stabbed, she was defenceless, unable to call for help.
In this regard, he stressed that the victim “su ered to death” and that the accused “did not have any kind of disorder” when he committed the crime. “He knew perfectly well what he was doing and wanted to do it,” he added.
Culture and festivals galore for Torrevieja in 2025
The “Teatro Magno” hall in the Spanish capital hosted the presentation of the events programme that Torrevieja is preparing for this spring-summer.
Once again Torrevieja will host the most prestigious International Habaneras and Polyphony Competition in the world, already declared of International Tourist Interest and awarded the Medal of Cultural Merit by the Generalitat Valenciana. This international choral meeting will take place from 20th to 26h July, on the stage of the Torrevieja Municipal Theatre, which will host 16 international choirs that will give their all to win the highest awards.
Torrevieja Municipal Theatre and the Torrevieja International Auditorium will start the year 2025 in style, with more than 60 shows that promise to be an unforgettable expe-
rience for the people of Torrevieja. The icing on the cake for this coming year will be the two great and successful musicals that are moving from Madrid’s Gran Vía to the Torrevieja Municipal Theatre, “The Phantom of the Opera” and “The Physician”.
Raúl Rojas, founding partner of the Reggaeton Beach Festival, pointed out that the dates chosen for the third edition will be 26th and 27th July. After two consecutive successful editions in Torrevieja, RBF has positioned itself as a benchmark in urban music and tourism revitalisation.
Brilla Torrevieja will celebrate its fifth edition in the city this summer. A strong and consolidated festival that surprises every year with different artists recognised at a national and international level. This year will be different, as the event will be packed
with many new features, all of which will be revealed through official social networks in early February.
The Domino’s Super League, the most prestigious eSports competition in Spain is returning to Torrevieja on 30th May to celebrate one of its most eagerly awaited finals. After the success of last year’s edition, in which the city hosted the grand final of the spring season, the new event promises to exceed all expectations.
The creator of Torrevieja Weekend, Eduardo Navarrete, confirmed that the 4th edition will come with many surprises. Pepa Charro, better known as “La Terremoto de Alcorcón” announced that she will design her first and only clothing collection in which Torrevieja will be the protagonist.
In the previous edition, Paseo Vistalegre welcomed
nearly 10,000 people to enjoy the event. Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Las Nancys Rubias, Torito, Ares Teixidó and Jiaping Ma, among other personalities, were in charge of extolling fashion, commerce and local craftsmanship of the Mediterranean city.
Transport discounts and pension increases voted down in Spanish Congress
Spain’s coalition government, led by the Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and the left-wing Sumar alliance, have faced a significant political setback as Congress rejected a sweeping omnibus bill designed to benefit millions across the country.
The proposed legislation, defeated by 177 votes to 171 with one abstention, aimed to maintain public transport subsidies, raise the minimum wage, and increase pensions in line with inflation for 2025. It encompassed 80 initiatives addressing diverse social and economic issues. The failure of the bill marks a blow to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s administration and leaves the fate of 12 million pensioners in limbo.
The PSOE-led government had bundled multiple measures into the omnibus bill in a strategic attempt to garner broad political support. However, the strategy backfired as the right-wing People’s Party (PP), far-right Vox, and the Catalan pro-
independence party Junts per Catalunya (JxCat) joined forces to block the decree.
The coalition’s reliance on JxCat, which holds seven crucial votes in Congress, has underscored the fragility of Sánchez’s government.
JxCat’s continued demands for greater Catalan autonomy and accusations of unfulfilled promises under last year’s amnesty law have created a deep rift between the parties.
The rejection has immediate repercussions for Spaniards.
From 23rd January discounted public transport fares ceased to apply, forcing passengers to pay full price. Transport Minister Óscar Puente confirmed that the legal framework for reduced fares expired following the vote. However, several regional governments, including Madrid, Catalonia, the Basque Country, the Balearic Islands, and Valencia, have pledged to temporarily maintain discounted fares using local funds.
Pensioners and workers
are also directly affected. The government’s plans to increase pensions to match inflation for 2025 will require a new decree, which must now be negotiated with opposition parties. Furthermore, the minimum interprofessional wage (SMI) will remain at 2023 levels until a new agreement is reached for 2025.
The bill’s rejection also means the lapse of several other measures, including: Flood Relief: Loan extensions for Valencia flood victims.
Energy Sector Reforms: A windfall tax on energy companies.
Green Initiatives: Tax incentives for energy-efficient housing upgrades and electric vehicle purchases.
Critics of the opposition argue that blocking the legislation comes at the expense of public welfare.
Finance Minister María Jesús Montero accused opponents of “playing political games,” stating, “The real losers here are pensioners and workers.”
Orihuela reaches 85,674 registered on padron
According to the statistical data on the population, Orihuela has experienced an increase of 1.9% compared to 2023. In 2024, the total population rose to 85,674 inhabitants, as announced by the Statistics Department of the Orihuela City Council.
The sectoral division of the territory shows a population increase in Orihuela Costa of 5% compared to 2023, while in Orihuela town the increase has been 0.1% and in the hamlets 0.9%.
The Spanish population remains the majority (53,512), although international migratory flows have gained prominence. This is the case of Ukraine, whose population in the municipality has increased by 58% or Venezuela by 48%. In general terms, the Spanish population has increased by 1.1% and the foreign population by 3.3%. The latter percentage represents 32% of the population of the municipality, covering 121 different nationalities.
After the Spanish population, the nationalities with the greatest presence in the municipality of Orihuela are the United Kingdom (9,681), Morocco (2,974), Ukraine (2,356), Russia (2,205), Colombia (1,525) and Algeria (1,013). It is worth noting the decrease in the British population by 7% compared to the previous year. This reduction may be related to factors such as Brexit or the return to their country.
Regarding the increase in numbers of people compared to 2023, the countries have been Ukraine (+865), Spain (+596), Colombia (+562), Belgium (+350) and Morocco (+225).
The distribution and increase of the population in the municipality has been concentrated in 2024 in Orihuela Costa, with a growth of 1,333 people, reaching a population of 27,929. For its part, the population growth in Orihuela city is stable, with an increase of 57 people (32,879).
Sanchez now proposes to ban all house sales to non-EU residents
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said that his government is proposing to ban people from outside the EU bloc from buying housing in Spain, as part of his drive to ease an a ordable-homes crisis. His proposal is to prevent people from outside the EU from buying homes in Spain unless they currently have legal residential status in the country.
The comments followed the socialist leader’s proposal last week to slap a tax of up to 100% on such property deals in a country struggling with strong demand and soaring prices.
‘We are going to propose to ban non-EU foreigners from buying houses in our country, in cases where neither they nor their families reside here and they are just speculating with those homes,’ Sánchez told a gathering of his socialist (PSOE) party in the Extremadura region.
Sánchez said the plan for a 100% tax was inspired by similar schemes in Denmark and Canada. The North American country bans nonresident foreigners from buying homes in a bid to make
the market more a ordable, a measure introduced in 2023 and extended to 1 January 2027. In Denmark, foreigners can buy property if they have been living there for at least ve years and have a special permit, though the conditions are eased for EU nationals.
Announcing a list of proposed measures last week, he vowed to o er more social housing, improve regulation and provide more support to renters.
He blamed the crisis on measures passed by the rightwing People’s Party (PP) when it was in government during the nancial crisis that erupted in 2008.
Announcing his 12-point programme to alleviate the crisis recently, Sánchez said non-residents from outside the European Union bought around 27,000 houses and apartments in Spain in 2023.
According to real estate registry data, Britons led the way for foreign property buyers in 2023 with 9.5% of the total transactions by nonSpaniards.
Sánchez has also announced higher taxes and tighter regulation for tourist
apartments, often blamed for reducing the availability of residential properties and causing rents to spike.
The PP opposition party called the 100% tax ‘xenophobic’. Sánchez is ‘selling’ the limitation on the purchase of ats to foreigners ‘as if it were a panacea, when it is a smokescreen with no real e ect’, the PP said in a statement.
A total of 638,552 property deals were sealed in 2023, of which foreigners — including EU nationals — carried out slightly more than 19%, according to housing ministry gures. The share reached 31.5% and 28.6% respectively in the Balearic and Canary Islands, two tourism hotspots, and 29.2% in the eastern Valencia region. But the rate was just 6.3% in the Madrid region.
Last year, Spain announced that it was scrapping its Golden Visa scheme that allows wealthy people from outside the EU to obtain residency permits by investing more than half a million euros in real estate. Those who already have a golden visa may retain it but no new ones will be issued.
Arrest warrants issued and cause of death determined in John George case
The solicitor for the family of John George, a 37-year-old father of two from west Belfast, has revealed that he was stabbed before being shot, according to an autopsy report by Spanish authorities. George’s body was discovered near Rojales after he went missing in December.
Spanish authorities have issued an international arrest warrant for the primary suspect in the murder.
The Valencian High Court said three orders have been activated- namely an international warrant, a European arrest warrant and a national search and arrest warrant.
The suspect, whom the victim’s family has described on social media as a Northern Irish drug trafficker, is believed to have fled to Thailand.
The family’s solicitor, Kevin Winters, confirmed the autopsy findings, stating, “The report shows
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John was stabbed before being shot. To ensure clarity and accuracy, we have instructed a second pathologist to conduct another autopsy on John’s remains next week.”
Earlier this month, a 32-year-old Czech man was granted bail under strict conditions while being investigated as an alleged accomplice in the murder. Authorities have since confirmed that three separate arrest warrants are now active for the individual believed to have carried out the killing.
John George was last heard from on 14th December during a “distressing” phone call to his family while on holiday in the Orihuela Costa. When he failed to board his return flight four days later, his relatives reported him missing. He had planned to drive from Cabo Roig to Benidorm but never arrived.
The George family has alleged that John was lured to Spain and murdered by someone he knew. In a statement shared on social media, they claimed the individual was involved in drug trafficking and fled the country following the killing.
Spanish authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding George’s death.
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Trump threatens Spain with 100% tariffs
Newly elected United States President Donald Trump mistakenly identi ed Spain as a BRICS nation in the Oval O ce at the White House when answering a question about NATO during a press conference.
While he was signing executive orders immediately after his swearing-in ceremony, Trump was simultaneously answering questions from some reporters. One journalist asked him about contributions to NATO from countries like Spain, which Trump described as being ‘very low’.
Trump then went on to say that Spain was a BRICS nation. BRICS is not an actual ‘alliance’ but a group of emerging economies that analysts considered to have broadly the same types of economic trends in the early 2000s. BRICS takes its name from the initials of some its rst ‘members’ – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – but it now includes
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Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Spain, Europe’s fth largest economy, is not considered a BRICS nation.
When Trump was asked about the contribution of less than 5% from several NATO countries to the Atlantic Alliance, including Spain, he asserted that Spain is part of the BRICS.
‘I think Spain is well below,’ said the US president. He then went on to ask the reporter: ‘And yet are they a BRICS nation?’
Before the reporter could respond, Trump said: ‘Spain is a BRICS nation. Do you know what a BRICS nation is? You’ll gure it out. If the BRICS want to do that,’ the president continued, ‘that’s ne, but we are going to impose at least a 100% tari on the business they do with the United States.’ Trump has told European o cials many times that he wants NATO members to up spending on NATO to a total of 5% of GDP. Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, has previously said that Spain aims to invest at least 2% of its GDP to NATO by 2029. According to Albares, there are a total of 10 countries that still contribute less than 2% of their GDP.
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Woman arrested at Alicante Airport with 20,000 ‘viagra’ tablets
The Civil Guard has arrested a 63-year-old Dominican woman at Alicante-Elche Airport for carrying nearly 20,000 sexual enhancement pills.
The woman faces charges of smuggling and crimes against public health.
The discovery occurred during routine baggage inspections of a ight arriving from Madrid, which had transited through other countries. Upon examining the woman’s luggage, X-ray imaging revealed unusually dense contents.
A subsequent manual inspection uncovered a suitcase completely lled with blue pills marked with the inscription “sildena l citrate,” the active ingredient in erectile dysfunction medication. Authorities counted a total of 19,944 pills. The Fiscal and Border Analysis and Investigation Unit (UDAIFF) took over the case after determining that the passenger lacked documentation to justify possession of such a large quantity of pharmaceuticals.
Following her detention, the woman was brought before the Elche Court of Appeals, which granted her release on bail. Meanwhile, the con scated drugs have been sent to the Pharmaceutical Inspection Services of the Alicante Government for analysis. The investigation aims to determine whether the pills are counterfeit or altered medicines, which would pose additional risks to public health.
The Civil Guard emphasised the seriousness
As a result, the Civil Guard, in collaboration with the Tax Agency, seized the pills and arrested the woman.
of smuggling unregulated pharmaceuticals, highlighting the risks of distributing potentially counterfeit drugs. Sildena l, commonly known for its use in treating erectile dysfunction, requires strict regulatory compliance due to possible health complications if improperly manufactured or used without medical supervision.
The case underscores the vigilance of airport security and customs authorities in intercepting smuggled goods that could harm public health. Investigations are ongoing to establish the origin and intended destination of the pills.
Decanting for beginners - How and why to pour wine into caraffes
By decanting the wine into a vessel of di erent proportions sediments, also called depots, ltered become. However, the most important aspect of decantation is the perfect preparation of the wine.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The wine is slowly decanted from the bottle into a decanter, a bulbous carafe. This is done against a light source to determine when the wine sediment is moving towards the neck of the bottle. Before it can leave the bottle, the decanter stops the process and lets the depot stay in the bottle.
The decanted wine is now left in the carafe for a certain amount of time, depending on its age, to allow it to develop. The e ect on the aromatic power of the wine depends on the selected carafe size.
DECANTERS - WINE BREATHES
Cara ng is a related
type of decanting, at the crying targeted ventilation become, exclusively for their to intensify avors. With this method, the wine usually does not require separation of the sediment. Cara ng is related to decanting due to the shape of the vessel.
By adding air, the aromas of the wine develop. The surface area of the wine produced determines the in uence of oxygen on the aroma. The more surface the wine is granted the stronger the taste intensi es. This in
turn depends on the shape of the vessel.
Usually you carafe red wine. But white wines can too carafed become. This makes sense especially for heavy white wines.
A younger wine normally needs a longer timeto develop the taste. So can a very young Cinsaut or Pinot Noir up to several hours rest. an intense one Syrah with long storage history needed for a similar result in contrast less time.
“The
Orihuela
Health
Department
assures: “All admitted patients have an assigned bed”
The Orihuela Health Department has responded to a complaint from the SATSE Nursing Union, which criticized the management of Vega Baja Hospital for alleged “inaction” regarding overcrowding in the Emergency Department. SATSE claimed that more than 35 patients were awaiting admission to the ward and 10 patients were being treated in corridors, among other concerns.
In a statement, the Department of Health clarified that “currently all patients with an admission order have an assigned bed, and there are some free beds in hospitalisation.” The department acknowledged that some exceptional circumstances had caused delays, citing
the high incidence of respiratory viruses typical for this time of year and an aboveaverage number of hospital emergencies as contributing factors.
To address these challenges, the management of Vega Baja Hospital implemented immediate measures.
Since January 8, the hospital has reinforced its staff by deploying five additional internists per day in the afternoons. Reinforcements have also been made to nursing and auxiliary nursing care teams, with one to two additional staff members per shift being added to the emergency unit as needed. These measures were extended to other areas of the hospital to manage the increased pressure.
The hospital has also carried out a large number of short-term hiring processes to ensure the availability of quality care. Additional steps included processing accumulated tasks across various staff categories to further expand the workforce.
According to the statement, the emergency service staff expressed gratitude to hospital management for their swift actions and the additional support provided to handle the surge in emergencies. The Orihuela Health Department reiterated its commitment to maintaining quality care and addressing the challenges posed by seasonal illnesses and increased patient demand.
VOX Orihuela presents motion to address illegal immigration concerns
The VOX Municipal Group of Orihuela has announced its intent to present a motion at the upcoming Municipal Plenary Session on January 30, aiming to tackle the issue of illegal immigration. The party highlights what it describes as a signi cant rise in irregular arrivals to Spain and outlines the associated social, economic, and security consequences for citizens.
VOX had previously proposed a similar motion in October 2024, calling for the expulsion of illegal immigrants and the rejection of NGOs that support them. However, that motion was postponed due to the DANA tragedy in Valencia. The party now seeks to resume its push for these measures at the forthcoming plenary session.
The party also claims that this in ux has led to increased citizen insecurity, with crimes committed by foreigners rising to 28% of total reported crimes in 2023, up from 25% in 2022, as reported by the National Institute of Statistics. Additionally, VOX draws attention to the dangers posed by human tra cking routes, such as the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands, which is controlled by violent ma as. According to their statement, over 10,000 individuals lost their lives attempting to cross the sea in 2024 alone.
Rejection of Illegal Immigration Policies VOX Orihuela expressed its opposition to what it describes as open-door immigration policies, criticizing recent actions by regional governments in Castilla y León, Aragón, Murcia, Comunidad
In its latest statement, VOX cited data from the Ministry of the Interior, which reports that 63,970 illegal immigrants entered Spain in 2024—an increase of 12.5% compared to the previous year and a cumulative rise of 65.2% since 2020. VOX attributes this trend to what it calls “pull e ect” policies implemented by the European Union and the Spanish government, which it deems irresponsible. According to VOX, the only way to e ectively curb illegal immigration is to dismantle these policies and send a strong message that no immigrant entering Spain illegally will have their status regularized.
Valenciana, and Extremadura. Initially, these regions were tasked with distributing a small number of illegal immigrants, but VOX claims that the gures have since escalated to unsustainable levels.
The party referenced a July 2024 statement by the Professional Union of Local Police and Fire ghters in Guardamar, which called for urgent measures to improve citizen safety and address immigration challenges. VOX also highlighted the lack of transparency from the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, which allegedly refused to disclose information about the cost and distribution of irregular immigrants. According to VOX, 14,000 illegal immigrants were transferred from the Canary Islands to mainland Spain in 2023, contributing to what it describes as overwhelming migratory pressure.
The party criticized government plans to transform the Canary Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla into central hubs for distributing illegal immigrants across Spain. Residents in these areas, VOX claims, strongly oppose the
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creation of reception centers due to the impact on local security and prosperity. Furthermore, VOX cited a January 14, 2024, report from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), which indicated that while illegal entries into the EU overall decreased by 38%, the Canary Islands route saw an 18% increase in migratory ows compared to 2023.
Proposals to Combat Illegal Immigration
The motion presented by the VOX Municipal Group includes a series of proposed measures to address illegal immigration in Orihuela:
A formal rejection of open-door policies toward illegal immigration.
A demand for the immediate expulsion of illegal immigrants currently in the municipality of Orihuela.
Opposition to the establishment of reception centers for illegal immigrants in Orihuela.
A declaration that Orihuela will not collaborate with associations or NGOs that support human
tra cking and illegal immigration.
A reallocation of funds currently used to support illegal immigration towards repatriating immigrants to their countries of origin or transferring them to Brussels, as the European institutions are seen by VOX as enablers of these policies.
Promotion of a popular consultation to gauge citizen support for strengthening security measures and expelling illegal immigrants.
Legal reforms to prevent fraudulent registration practices that allow illegal immigrants undue access to social bene ts.
This motion re ects VOX’s broader stance on immigration, emphasizing stricter policies to address irregular arrivals, enhance local security, and oppose what it views as the enabling role of NGOs and EU-driven initiatives.
The upcoming plenary session will determine whether these proposals gain traction within the local government.
Sterling fell to its lowest level against the dollar since November 2023 last week as investors’ concerns over the UK in ation outlook and increasing government debt led to a sello in the UK gilt market. The 30year rates reached highs last seen in 1998, whilst 10-year yields rose to the highest level since 2008.
Comparisons were drawn to Truss and Kwarteng’s mini-budget in 2022 as markets moved quickly to sell UK assets, leading Darren Jones, the Treasury’s chief secretary, to reassure investors, saying the gilt market continues to function in an “orderly way.” If the surge in yields is sustained, it could wipe out the government’s dwindling £9.9 billion of scal headroom and pressure it to tighten scal policy.
The combination of slow growth and above-target in ation is pointing towards a period of stag ation for the UK, which will only reduce investor con dence, and this week’s mixed data would have done little to improve sentiments. Wednesday’s UK year-over-year CPI release came in slightly below forecast at 2.5%, against the expectation it would remain at 2.6%.
However, Thursday’s UK GDP gure came in below expectation at 0.1%, which, although it was a return to positive growth, missed the 0.2% forecast by markets.
The Bank of England may have some di cult decisions to make in controlling
in ation and ensuring growth isn’t negatively impacted. The probability of an interest rate cut at the BoEs next meeting is currently 75%, with 44 basis points of cuts expected this year – less than two 0.25% cuts.
Sterling ended the week today with UK Retail Sales falling far short of the expected rise to 0.4%, coming in at -0.3%.
EUR
The euro hit highs since November 2024 against the pound following the UK gilt market sello seen last week after a relatively quiet data week from the Eurozone. German Preliminary CPI released Monday gave the euro a slight uptick, coming in at 0.4% above forecasts of 0.3%.
This week was quiet again for the euro, with European Central Bank Monetary Policy Meeting Accounts released 12:30pm on Thursday, and Eurozone Final yearover-year CPI was released at 10am today, coming in as expected at 2.4%.
Markets are currently pricing in an interest rate cut at the ECB’s next meeting on the 6th February at 95%.
This commentary does not constitute nancial advice. All rates are sourced from Bloomberg and forecasts are taken from Forex Factory.
Free interactive childs tourist guide revealed for Torrevieja
The International Tourism Fair of Madrid (FITUR) served as the stage for the launch of Torrevieja’s rst-ever Tourist Guide speci cally created for children. Rosario Martínez, the Councillor for Tourism at Torrevieja Town Hall, unveiled this new initiative at the Costa Blanca Tourism Board’s municipal hall. The guide was developed in response to the increasing number of families visiting the Torrevieja Tourist O ce seeking tailored recommendations for enjoying the city with their children.
Unlike typical tourist guides for adults, this one is designed to let children explore Torrevieja on their own terms. Featuring a vibrant, visual layout with appealing illustrations and QR codes that provide additional details, the guide o ers a fun and interactive way to connect young visitors with the city’s cultural, natural, and recreational o erings.
The guide includes details on local beaches, the MataTorrevieja Natural Park, fun activities like bowling, the library, swimming pools, and the water park, as well as nautical adventures and other attractions. Notably, the guide also includes an original comic and the retelling of one of Torrevieja’s beloved legends, adding a creative and cultural twist to the exploration.
This initiative underscores Torrevieja City Council’s dedication to promoting family tourism, o ering a unique blend of entertainment and education for children. The guide is available for free at the Tourist Info on Paseo Vista Alegre and is set to become an invaluable resource for both visitors and residents who want to rediscover the city through the eyes of young explorers.
Torrevieja Baraka Towers project is put on hold
The Baraka Towers project has been put on hold, at least for now. The City Council is set to reject the proposal during Monday’s plenary session, following a Supreme Court ruling that determined the buildings would violate the Coastal Law by impacting the maritime landscape. As a result, the City Council will close the urban planning le for the 81 Distribution Area, which includes the plot next to the Doña Sinforosa gardens.
This marks the end of a project that had garnered signi cant attention in Torrevieja’s urban planning over recent years. The project aimed to introduce the rst major skyscrapers in the municipality—80meter-tall towers with 26 oors of residential units, located on the Acequión beach waterfront.
For now, the developer, Baraka, does not appear to be seeking compensation. The project can only move forward if there is a legislative change to unblock it, but for the time being, it will remain suspended. The
Supreme Court ruling also a ects another tower project, promoted by Metrovacesa, as reported by Alicante Plaza.
There are two court rulings against the projects—one from the Supreme Court and another from the High Court of Justice of the Valencian Community. Both rulings reference article 30 of the Coastal Law, which mandates that “architectural screens
or the accumulation of volumes must be avoided.” The courts determined that this provision applies to the Baraka Towers project, given the site’s status as unconsolidated urban land. According to the courts, the towers would create a visual barrier and an architectural screen in an area that currently has no buildings of this scale.
Plans to improve lighting on Orihuela Costa seafront promenades
Within the framework of the Plan for Sustainable Tourism the City Council of Orihuela, through its Tourism and Infrastructure departments has announced the tender for the contract for the installation of a new public lighting on the seafront promenades of Aguamarina, Flamenca, La Zenia and Punta Prima. This aims to modernise and adapt the lighting of these coastal areas,
characterised by their high affluence and their tourist value.
The current lighting system shows notable wear and is of a design now considered obsolete. The existing lights generate high energy consumption due to the technology used, offer low light output and show an advanced state of deterioration in both their design and materials.
The new lighting will
SATSE condemns “saturation” at Vega Baja Hospital, blaming management’s “inaction”
The Nursing Union SATSE has raised concerns this Wednesday, denouncing what it describes as a “serious saturation” in the emergency department of Vega Baja Hospital, which it blames on the “inaction of the center’s management.” According to the union, the current conditions are jeopardizing both the quality of care and patient safety.
In a statement, SATSE highlighted that more than 35 patients are currently waiting to be admitted to the ward, with another 10 patients being placed in corridors in what the union calls undigni ed conditions, further compromising their safety. The union also reported waiting times of up to 72 hours to secure a bed, a situation they argue leads to both physical and emotional deterioration for patients and their families. Additionally, SATSE pointed to a shortage of basic resources in the emergency
department, including pillows and blankets, and an urgent need for repairs to inoperative bells in respiratory patient cubicles. These shortages are said to particularly a ect elderly patients, who are left isolated in conditions that put their well-being at risk. While the union acknowledges that some reinforcements have been made, they maintain that the numbers are still insu cient to address the current situation.
In response, the Ministry of Health defended the actions taken in recent weeks to alleviate pressure on hospital services. According to the regional government, “all patients with an admission order have an assigned bed and there are still available beds for hospitalization.” They attributed the exceptional circumstances to the usual seasonal increase in respiratory conditions and a signi cant rise in hospital emergencies.
be made up of very lowconsumption LED lamps, which will allow an increase in luminosity and a significant improvement in energy efficiency. This change will mean a 60% reduction in electricity consumption and a decrease in CO2 emissions, in line with the sustainability objectives of the municipality. The streetlights will maintain their current position, but the vertical supports will be cleaned up and stateof-the-art lights and lamps will be installed.
The budget assigned to this action is €198,505.01, and the execution of the project is planned within a period of three months. The initiative is part of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, with financing from the European Union through the Next Generation EU funds, managed by the Ministry of Industry and Tourism.
Dolores prepares for the 7th edition of its iconic gastronomic event: A Tribute to the Artichoke
Mark your calendars!
From April 24 to 27, 2025, the municipality of Dolores will host the 7th Gastrocultural Artichoke Festival, celebrating one of the Vega Baja region’s most renowned agricultural treasures: the artichoke. Known and valued worldwide, this humble vegetable takes center stage in a festival that brings together gastronomy, culture, and tradition, while positioning Dolores as a premier gastronomic tourist destination.
The festival promises a vibrant program that includes round tables, tastings, talks, and conferences led by renowned experts, local farmers, and artichoke enthusiasts. These sessions will not only deepen your appreciation for this versatile crop but also explore its cultural and economic signi cance. The event’s highlight, the End of Campaign Artichoke Festival, adds a rich layer
of cultural and artistic experiences to the lineup. Visitors can enjoy live art, cultural exhibits, culinary showcases, and much more.
At its heart, the festival celebrates a crop that is deeply intertwined with the heritage and identity of the Dolores community.
Why the Artichoke from Dolores Stands Out
The artichoke grown in Dolores is distinguished by its traditional irrigation methods and unique environmental factors. The fertile elds are nourished by the municipality’s proximity to the El Hondo Natural Park, giving the soil a high salinity content. This results in a product that is white in color, has a compact texture, and boasts exceptional longevity under optimal conditions.
Additionally, Dolores is an active member of the Artichoke Association“Vega Baja”, further underscoring its commitment to this
prized crop. The artichoke is not just a staple of local agriculture but a symbol of the region’s connection to its fertile gardens and farming traditions.
A Celebration of Heritage and Prosperity Beyond gastronomy, the festival fosters tourism and highlights the agricultural wealth of the region. As visitors gather to experience this tribute to the artichoke, Dolores strengthens its position as a key destination for those seeking authentic culinary and cultural adventures.
Whether you’re an artichoke a cionado, a lover of ne food, or simply curious about the rich traditions of the Vega Baja region, this festival is an unmissable event. Come for the food, stay for the culture, and leave with a newfound appreciation for Dolores and its beloved artichoke.
SEPE warns of scam phone numbers and phishing attempts targeting users
Spain’s public employment service, SEPE, has issued an alert about fraudulent phone numbers impersonating the agency to extract personal and nancial information.
According to SEPE, these phone numbers—starting with 800 or 807—charge users while requesting sensitive bank details for illicit purposes.
SEPE emphasized that its o cial information number is 060, and its appointment number is 91 926 79 70. It urged the public to avoid interacting with suspicious numbers or providing any personal information.
A Broader Trend of Scams
This warning follows a growing wave of scams a ecting both individuals and companies. Recently, Primor, a Malaga-based perfume retailer, agged a fraudulent website o ering fake discounts in its name to deceive customers.
SEPE highlighted that most scams rely on phishing emails and fraudulent calls to impersonate o cial entities. These scams aim to obtain bank and tax information. SEPE stressed that it would never request con dential details via email or phone. The agency only contacts users by email if the user has previously authorized such communication.
Tips to Avoid Scams To help users protect themselves, SEPE
shared practical advice:
Verify Sender Email Addresses: Ensure o cial SEPE emails come from recognized domains. Check for Grammar Errors: Scams often contain spelling or grammatical mistakes. Inspect URLs Before Clicking: Hover over any email links to con rm the destination URL is legitimate. By staying vigilant and following these tips, users can reduce the risk of falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
National police arrest fugitive wanted by German authorities under European arrest warrant
National Police o cers in Torrevieja (Alicante) have apprehended a 33-yearold German fugitive who was the subject of a European Arrest Warrant (EAW) issued by German authorities.
The arrest occurred when the individual visited the local police station for administrative purposes. Upon identifying him, o cers acted promptly to detain him in connection with the EAW for Extradition, issued in June 2019 for crimes involving vehicle theft.
The fugitive’s o enses date back to 2018 in the German town of Monheim, where he was part of an organized criminal group that specialized in stealing high-end vehicles. These stolen cars, valued at €385,000, were transported to Poland for illegal resale.
After completing the necessary police formalities, the detainee was handed over to the Central Court of Instruction of the National Court, which will oversee the extradition process. This arrest underscores the ongoing e orts of the National Police to collaborate with international authorities in enforcing justice and addressing transnational crime.
TikTok nutritionist recommends Mercadona’s potato omelette as healthiest ‘fast food’
In today’s fast-paced world, nding healthy and convenient meal options can be a challenge. However, Mario Ortiz, a renowned Spanish nutritionist with a large following of 140,000 on TikTok, has declared Mercadona’s potato omelette the ultimate “healthy fast food” for those who lack the time or energy to cook.
Ortiz, known for his practical advice on maintaining a balanced diet, highlighted Mercadona’s ‘tortilla’ potato omelette as a standout choice for its impressive nutritional value. Available in two versions—with or without onion—the omelette has been praised for being “exceptional” in both taste and health bene ts.
Breaking down the ingredients, Ortiz emphasized that the dish
is composed of 66% potato and 30% pasteurized egg, with only 1% sun ower and olive oil. Notably, he also pointed out that the potatoes are not fried, further enhancing its health appeal.
“This is practically a dish made purely from potatoes and eggs,” Ortiz explained, underscoring the simplicity and wholesomeness of the product. For those seeking a quick yet nutritious meal option, the Mercadona
stands out as a “great, quick, and healthy option,” according to the expert.
The endorsement has drawn attention to this staple product from the Valencian supermarket chain, o ering a convenient and healthy alternative to traditional fast food options. Whether you’re a fan of the onion or onionfree version, Mercadona’s tortilla seems to be a win for busy individuals striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
tortilla
Do you fancy a FREE LUNCH provided by HAMILTON’S BAKEHOUSE?
Then join us for our FREE Prestige Lunch event hosted by the senior advisors from:
LEGAL& FINANCIAL EXPAT ASSISTANCE
Where we will be exploring the following and more Legal and Financial areas:
Spanish & UK Wills / Powers of Attorney and how UK beneficiaries inherit a Spanish estate How to save & Invest tax-efficiently in Spain
Assets in the UK? - The Modelo 720 overseas assets declaration explained Inheritance tax in the Valencia region - what about Stepchildren? What is happening with UK pensions after the recent budget?
On WED 5th FEB at MID-DAY. in BENIJÓFAR (NEXT
TO HAMILTON’S BAKEHOUSE)
Attendee numbers strictly limited to 40 - booking/reserving your place in advance is required by calling: 865 756 058
Each attendee will be sent a digital registration voucher to be presented upon arrival One lucky voucher will be drawn after lunch and the holder will win their choice of a FREE WILL (worth up to 159€) or a FREE POWER OF ATTORNEY (worth up to 199€) more info can be found at: www.chorusfinancial.es and: www.thywill.es
• No stress • No drama • No problem Interest free monthly payments available
We share 5€ from each sale between these 3 charities We cover the whole of mainland Spain, the Balearics and the Canaries
(Gabriel’s Spanish Bar Assc Reg No. is ICAE 1265)
Sales & Administration Representative Required
Location: La Zenia, Orihuela Costa, Alicante
Working Hours: Monday to Friday
Contract Type: Fixed
Job Overview:
We are seeking a dynamic and motivated Sales & Administration Representative to join our busy office. In this role, you will assist clients in finding their ideal holiday destinations while providing exceptional customer service. You will work closely with clients to understand their travel preferences and guide them in selecting the best options for their needs.
Key Responsibilities:
• Assist clients in choosing the best holiday destinations based on their preferences, budget, and travel needs.
• Provide detailed information on travel packages, destinations, and related services.
• Handle client inquiries via phone, email, and inperson meetings.
• Manage bookings and coordinate travel arrangements, including accommodation and transportation.
• Maintain and update client records and booking details in the office system.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure smooth processing of bookings and travel arrangements.
• Follow up with clients to ensure satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
• Support administrative tasks such as filing, scheduling, and data entry as needed.
Requirements:
• Fluent in both English and Spanish (written and spoken) to a high level.
• Additional language skills are highly valued.
• Previous experience in sales, administration,
or customer service is preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fastpaced environment.
• Passion for travel and helping clients plan memorable holidays.
What We Offer:
• Competitive salary and attractive working conditions.
• Contract-based position with opportunities for growth.
• A friendly and supportive team environment.
• An exciting opportunity to work in the travel industry and help clients create unforgettable experiences.
Send CV with a Covering Letter to travel@whtravel.
es
Spain breaks record for hotel overnight stays in 2024
Overnight stays in hotels across Spain hit a historic high in 2024, increasing by 4.9% compared to the previous year and reaching 363.6 million, according to data released by the INE national statistics institute on January 24.
Record-Breaking Domestic and International Tourism
Overnight stays by Spanish residents grew slightly by 0.2%, setting a new record of 241.7 million, while stays by foreign visitors surged by 7.5%, hitting 121.9 million—both gures reaching all-time highs.
Tourists from the United Kingdom and Germany played a signi cant role, contributing a combined 102.9 million overnight stays, or 42.6% of the total for foreign tourists. UK visitors’ stays rose by 4.3%, while those from Germany increased by 8.2%.
Occupancy Rates and Top Destinations
In 2024, Spain’s hotels achieved an average
occupancy rate of 61.4%, a 2.2% rise from 2023. Weekend occupancy rates climbed to 66.7%, up 1.6%.
The island of Mallorca topped the list as the most popular destination, recording 49.5 million overnight stays. Other high-performing destinations included Barcelona, Madrid, and San Bartolomé de Tirajana, while Adeje boasted the highest average occupancy rate per bed at 78.3%, and an 80.3% weekend occupancy rate.
Hotel Prices and Revenue
The hotel price index (HPI)
rose by an average of 7% in 2024, which marked a slowdown compared to the 8.6% growth in 2023.
In terms of revenue, the average daily rate (ADR) per occupied room reached €121.50, while the revenue per available room (RevPAR) averaged €84.60.
These gures highlight a robust rebound in Spain’s hospitality sector, driven by both domestic and international tourism growth, solidifying the country’s position as a global tourism leader.
This Week´s Movie Picks
Top Gun: Maverick
Saturday 1st February, Channel 4, 9.30 pm
Set
30 years after its predecessor, it follows Maverick’s return to the United States Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor program (also known as US Navy-Fighter Weapons School - “TOPGUN”), where he must confront his past as he trains a group of younger pilots, among them the son of Maverick’s deceased best friend Lieutenant Nick “Goose” Bradshaw, USN.
Legally Blonde Sunday 2nd February, ITV2, 8.05 pm
Elle Woods is a fashionable sorority queen of her college -- she has it all, a handsome boyfriend, wealth, and status. Things begin to change for Elle when her boyfriend, Warner dumps her and he starts dating Vivian, a law student. Elle decides to win back her former boyfriend by applying to Harvard Law School, she is able to pass her test and get into Harvard. Being in Harvard may not be easy for Elle, she soon falls in love with Emmett and she befriends Paulette, a manicurist at the nail salon. Along the way, Elle decides to take her studies more seriously and she must take on a court case when her role model Brooke Windham is accused of murdering her husband. Elle is determined to prove Brooke’s innocence.
Tuesday 28th January
A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 The Fear Clinic: Face Your Phobia
22:00 Manhunt
23:00 Vicky Pattison: My Deepfake Sex Tape
Wednesday 29th January
Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Grantchester
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Peston
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
12:35 Channel 4 News
12:40 Four in a Bed 13:10 Four in a Bed 13:40 Four in a Bed 14:10 Four in a Bed 14:40 Four in a Bed 15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Come Dine with Me
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It
22:00 Brian and Maggie 23:00 Celebrity Gogglebo
09:30 Milo
09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
08:10
Home and Away 15:15 All of You
Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Our Great Yorkshire Life
20:00 Lost Dog, Found Dog with Clare Balding 21:00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly 22:00 The Castaways 23:05 The Child Snatcher: Manhun
09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:00 Milkshake! Lunar New Year 10:05 Rubble’s Big Builds 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away
Broken Ties
Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
5 News at 5 19:00 Our Great Yorkshire Life 20:00 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 21:00 Heat Pumps: Are They Really Worth It? 22:00
Thursday 30th January
Friday 31st January
The Boss
Wild China
17:15 The Planets
18:15 Flog It!
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Alison Hammond’s Florida Unpacked
20:00 Yellowstone: Wildest Winter to Blazing Summer
21:00 Monty Don’s British Gardens
22:00 Uncanny
23:00 Uncanny: Post Mortem 23:30 Newsnight
Saturday 1st February
Pictionary
Lingo
Deal or No Deal 18:00 The Chase
ITV News London
19:20 Party Political Broadcast
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:30 Tonight 22:00 Beat the Chasers
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Long Lost Family
04:00 Lingo
04:50 Unwind with ITV
06:05 Deal or No Deal
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine
11:00 This Morning
13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals 15:30 Pictionary
16:00 Lingo
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:00 Emmerdale
20:30 Six Nations Rugby
23:35 ITV News
00:05 ITV News London
00:20 The 1% Club
01:15 Olivia Attwood’s Bad Boyfriends 02:05 Teleshopping 04:00 Lingo
04:50 Unwind with ITV 06:05 Deal or No Deal
07:00 Dancing on Ice
08:30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh
10:25 ITV News
10:30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning
12:40 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours
13:40 ITV Lunchtime News
13:50 ITV News London
14:00 Live: ITV Racing Live
17:00 Six Nations Rugby
20:00 The Masked Singer
21:30 The 1% Club
22:30 North Shore
10:40 Frasier 11:10 Frasier
11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
12:35 Channel 4 News Summary 12:40 Four in a Bed 13:10 Four in a Bed 13:40 Four in a Bed 14:10 Four in a Bed 14:40 Four in a Bed
15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Come Dine with Me
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 The Dog House
22:00 Brian and Maggie 23:00 24 Hours in A&E
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
12:35 Channel 4 News
Summary
12:40 Four in a Bed
13:10 Four in a Bed
13:40 Four in a Bed
14:10 Four in a Bed
14:40 Four in a Bed
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Come Dine with Me
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Food Unwrapped
21:30 Travel Man: 48 Hours in...
22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown 23:00 The Last Leg
06:55 Cheers
07:20 Cheers
07:45 Cheers
08:15 Frasier
08:40 Frasier
09:05 Frasier
09:35 Frasier
10:05 Frasier
10:40 The Simpsons
11:10 The Simpsons
11:40 The Simpsons
12:10 Stormbreaker
14:00 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
16:55 Channel 4 News
17:25 Grand Designs
18:30 Sarah Beeny’s New Life in the Country
19:30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road
20:30 Our Tiny Islands
08:35 Peppa Pig 08:40 Peppa Pig 08:50 Rubble & Crew 09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Rubble’s Big Builds 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Murder for Mortgage: Secrets on Maple Street 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5
Bob Marley Reimagined
23:20 ITV News
23:40 Social Media Murders
21:30 Top Gun: Maverick
09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups
09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
10:00 Peppa Pig
10:05 Rubble’s Big Builds 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 My Missing Sister 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Our Great Yorkshire Life
20:00 Inside The Hilton: Park Lane
21:00 The Good Ship Murder 22:00 Susan Calman’s Cruise Of A Lifetime 23:00 The Greatest TV of The ‘80s
08:55 DORA 09:10 PAW Patrol
09:30 Cooking with the Gills 09:40 The Smurfs 09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants
10:05 Entertainment News On 5 10:15 Winter Road Rescue 10:40 Cruising with Jane McDonald 11:35 Cruising with Jane McDonald 12:30 Cruising with Jane McDonald 13:30 The Weekend Travel Show
Susan Calman’s
09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 10:10 World’s Funniest Videos 10:40 World’s Funniest Videos 11:00 Secret Crush 12:00 Secret Crush 13:00 Dinner Date 14:00 Supermarket Sweep 15:05 In with a Shout 16:05 Charmed 17:00 Gilmore Girls 18:00 Dinner Date 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Wheel of Fortune 21:00 Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars
16:40 A Touch of Frost 18:55 Heartbeat 19:55 Heartbeat 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 Endeavour
22:00 Love Island: All Stars 23:05 Family Guy 23:35 Family Guy 04:30 Unwind with ITV 05:00 Teleshopping 07:00 Classic Emmerdale 07:30 Classic Emmerdale 08:00 Classic Coronation Street 08:35 Classic Coronation Street 09:10 A Touch of Frost 11:35 The Royal 12:40 Heartbeat 13:40 Heartbeat 14:40 Classic Emmerdale 15:10 Classic Emmerdale 15:40 Classic Coronation Street 16:10 Classic Coronation Street
Sunday 2nd February
Frasier
09:25 Frasier
Live: ITV Racing Live 17:00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars 18:00 The Chase: Celebrity Special 19:00 ITV Evening News 19:15 ITV News London 19:25 Dancing on Ice 21:00 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Celebrity Specials 22:00 Out There 23:00 ITV News
Monday 3rd February
Loves
09:55 Frasier 10:25 Frasier 11:00 Sunday Brunch
14:00 The Simpsons
14:30 The Simpsons
15:00 Four in a Bed 15:30 Four in a Bed 16:00 Four in a Bed 16:30 Four in a Bed 17:00 Four in a Bed 17:35 George Clarke’s American Adventures
18:35 Channel 4 News 19:00 Mysteries of...
Celebrity Hunted
23:20 The Dry 23:50 The Dry 07:40 Cheers 08:10 Everybody Loves
Gogglebox 09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants
Entertainment News On 5
Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble
Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble 12:00 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble 13:00 Yorkshire: A Year In The Wild 14:00 Yorkshire: A Year In The Wild 15:00 Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure 16:00 Dan & Helen’s Pennine Adventure 17:00 One
Tipping Point: Best Ever
Pictionary
Lingo
Deal or No Deal
The Chase
ITV News London 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Out There
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Fred and Rose West: Reopened
08:45 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:10 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:40 Everybody Loves Raymond
10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier 11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary 13:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 14:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun
22:00 Go Back to Where You Came From 23:00 First Dates
09:35 Mixmups
09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:55 Peppa Pig 10:05 Peppa Pig 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 Don’t Steal My Husband 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Our Great Yorkshire Life 20:00 Police Interceptors 21:00 Traffic Cops 22:00 Murder: Suspect No 1
Fortunes 16:00 Charmed 17:00 Gilmore Girls 18:00 Dinner Date 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Family Fortunes
If you have a question or problem with any household technology needing my help or want to join the Technology Help Group please email Brian at cbtechnology.help@gmail. com.
As a group member, you would have access to the group website which contains previous session notes, handouts and access to previous Costa Blanca People published articles.
Scan the QR code for a reminder of what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group o ers.
Meetings at Dilly’s Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The Next meeting is on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025. You are welcome to attend.
“What is the di erence between a local and a Microsoft account on a computer”? The main di erence between a local account and a Microsoft account is that a local account is speci c to one device. In contrast, a Microsoft account can be used across multiple devices and Microsoft services.
A local account is created on the device and doesn’t require
Internet connectivity to sign in. It’s independent of other services and not connected to the cloud. Your settings, les, and applications are limited to that single device.
A Microsoft account, on the other hand, is associated with an email address and password that you use with Outlook.com, Hotmail, O ce, OneDrive, Skype, Xbox, and Windows. When you sign in to your PC with a Microsoft account, you’re connected to a Microsoft cloud service, and your settings and les can sync across various devices. You can also use it to access other Microsoft services.
“I have deleted les from my OneDrive cloud storage but the amount being used has not reduced. Why”?
When you delete les from your cloud storage, they are moved to the respective Bin. The Bin counts toward your overall usage. For OneDrive and Google Drive, the les in the Bin are permanently deleted after 30 days, and for Google Photos, after 60 days. You will need to empty the respective Bin to reduce your Cloud Storage being used.
With Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and Google Photos, if you are nearing or exceeding the limit of free Cloud Storage, other services from that provider may
not function. In particular, you won’t be able to upload, edit, or sync new les (such as Camera Roll) to your OneDrive. Your existing les will remain but will be read-only. With Google, you will not be able to send or receive Gmail emails. With Microsoft, if you use Outlook, Hotmail, Live or MSN again these email accounts will be not able to send or receive emails.
“I want to send a large le by email. How do I send it”?
The solution is not to send the le but rather send a link to the le stored on Cloud Storage by sharing a link to the le. This link can then be pasted into an email. The recipient clicks on the link to download the le.
Brian Hoile Technology Help Group
Your tech questions answered by Brian Hoile of the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group, helping over 400 members with their PCs , smartphones and more. Group members can attend meetings in person or online using Zoom or Teams. Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Costa Blanca Technology Help Group” Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Patagonia Grill House: A fresh look for a Quesada favourite
For 20 years, Patagonia Grill House has been a cornerstone of the Quesada dining scene, and for the past 13 years, it’s been run with care and pride by the same family. Over the years, the restaurant has seen its share of updates, but this latest refurbishment is, without a doubt, the most exciting transformation yet.
The space now boasts lavish marble floors, crisp white walls, and elegant mirrors, all brought to life by modern LED lighting. The centrepiece? A striking
blue-lit bull that perfectly refl ects the restaurant’s logo and Argentinian roots. We have a dazzling wine display, showcasing a carefully curated selection of Argentinian and international wines—a true highlight for wine lovers. The new look seamlessly blends modern elegance with the authentic charm that Patagonia Grill House is known for.
But here’s the real star of the show—our Argentinian steaks . Every cut is imported directly from Argentina, guaranteeing authenticity
and unmatched fl avor. Argentinian beef is worldrenowned for a reason: the cattle are raised on nutrient-rich grass and roam freely on fl at pastures, ensuring they don’t develop excessive muscle, which makes the meat tender and succulent. It’s no wonder steak lovers from near and far come to Patagonia Grill House for a taste of the real deal.
And while our menu refl ects the rich culinary heritage of Argentina, we’ve kept everything you love the same. The same delicious food, the same family-friendly prices, and the same warm, welcoming atmosphere. For us, it’s not just about
the design; it’s about the memories we’ve shared with you over the years.
Birthdays, anniversaries, wedding proposals, and heartfelt conversations have all taken place here, and we’re incredibly proud to be a part of so many special moments in your lives.
This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where friends, families, and neighbours gather— and we’re thrilled to keep serving you with the same dedication as always. Come and experience the fresh new look for yourself—let us bring a smile to your face and joy to your belly!
Please see our main advertisement on page 5
Two white label olive oils among Spain’s best, according to OCU report
The Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) has revealed its latest rankings of extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) available in Spanish supermarkets, placing two white label oils among the top-rated in the country. The analysis evaluated 23 EVOOs, assessing quality, value, and other factors.
The top spot went to Oleoestepa, DOP Estepa, which scored 89 out of 100, priced at €12.44/litre. Following closely were Auchan Bio Ecológico from Alcampo (€14.26/litre) and AOVE Hacendado from Mercadona (€8.75/litre), both private-label options.
White Label Oils Shine
Half of the top ten oils in the report were white label products, offering notable savings of about €1.50 per litre compared to leading brands. While the prices quoted reflect those in November 2024, these oils demonstrate that high quality is achievable at a lower cost.
Criteria for Evaluation
The OCU used the following criteria to rate the oils:
Purity of the oil (free from blends with other oils).
Acidity levels (15% of the score).
Quality and care of the olives (15%).
Oxidation (10%).
State of conservation (15%).
Tasting and sensory analysis, which accounted for 45% of the total score.
OCU’s Recommendations
The report also advises consumers on how to
use olive oil effectively:
Use extra virgin olive oil for salads or raw dishes, where its flavor shines. For stews, regular virgin olive oil is sufficient and more affordable. For frying, opt for cheaper refined oils, which have a higher smoke point and perform better under high heat. This latest report reaffirms the quality and value of private-label products, showing that premium taste doesn’t always come with a premium price tag.
Studio 32 are
youth springs eternal at San Fulgencio theatre in May. Boisterous, comic and loud are not necessarily how you would describe a convent. But when sister Mary
Clarence arrives, things change, not to mention a mobster and his gang on their way for retribution. Hail Mary! , its classic comedy time for the Studio 32 group. Shortly after the rip-roaring Christmas Broadway show, success breeds success as we are delighted to be joined by new members as this grand
new adventure beckons. Could the Pope be looking in , on this special occasion in a slightly irreverent production of the comings and goings of this tongue in cheek farcical play. Our reward will be in heaven. God bless you all and see you in May
Bars & Restaurants
Liam Payne is reportedly set to be honoured with a special tribute at this year’s Brit Awards.
The singer died in October last year aged 31, after he fell from a thirdoor hotel balcony in Argentina.
It’s said that show bosses are in the early stages of putting plans in place to pay an ‘unforgettable’ tribute to the star, who had attended attended the event several times over the years both as a solo artist and part of One Direction.
Tom Parker’s widow Kelsey Parker has revealed she’s expecting a baby with her new boyfriend Will Lindsay.
The 34-year-old announced the happy news on Saturday, with the pregnancy coming three years after The Wanted singer’s death.
Tom passed away in March 2022 from brain cancer aged 33. The pair had two children together, Aurelia, who is now ve, and Bodhi, four.
Sinéad O’Connor has left £1.7million to her children and urged them to ‘milk her music for what it’s worth’ in her nal wishes.
The Irish singer tragically passed away, at age 56 in London on July 26, 2023 - just 18 months after her beloved 17-year-old son Shane Lunny took his own life.
Sinéad married four times and had four children: Jake, 36, with her rst husband John Reynolds; Roisin, 27, with John Waters; Shane, with Donal Lunny; and Yeshua, 16 with Frank Bonadio. She is survived by her three children.
Sydnie Christmas has revealed she’s going back to school despite winning £250,000 on Britain’s Got Talent.
The singer, 29, who triumphed on Britain’s Got Talent last year, has revealed she’s returning to school to nish her credentials.
Before nding fame on the ITV talent show, Sydnie worked at a central London gym. Now, even after her big win, she’s determined to complete her Level 3 personal training quali cation.
Lee Mack was left shocked after a contestant revealed the ‘heartbreaking’ reason she ended up on The 1% Club.
The comedian, 56, returned to front the latest series of the hit game show but one participant called Alice revealed she had no idea what she was doing there.
She said: ‘I don’t actually know what I’m doing here, I thought this was a a scam and my boyfriend was going to propose.’
Sunday carvey at Hotel Algorfa
The carvery at Hotel Algorfa is a delightful weekly tradition that has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Held every Sunday from 13:00, this culinary event o ers an exceptional value for those looking to indulge in a hearty meal without breaking the bank. With prices starting at just €8.99 for a single course, it’s an a ordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste. The twocourse option at €10.99 and the three-course option at €12.99 provide even more value, allowing guests to
savor a variety of delicious o erings.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the selection of three meats, which typically includes succulent roast beef, tender pork, and juicy turkey. Each meat is cooked to perfection and served alongside an array of traditional accompaniments that elevate the dining experience. Pigs in blankets and sausage meat stu ng add a festive touch, while the homemade Yorkshire puddings are a must-try for anyone who appreciates
Vegetable lovers will also nd plenty to enjoy, with dishes like creamy cauli ower cheese and crispy roast potatoes complementing the meats beautifully. The creamy mash and rich Bisto gravy provide the nishing
touches to a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a feast that caters to all tastes, ensuring that every guest leaves with a full belly and a smile on their face.
For those who can’t make it on Sundays, the midweek carvery on Wednesdays from 17:00 o ers another excellent opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal. Priced at just €15 for two people, it’s a fantastic deal for couples or friends looking to share a meal together. This midweek option maintains the same high standards of quality and taste, making it a popular choice for those who want to
enjoy a hearty dinner without the weekend crowds.
Overall, the carvery at Hotel Algorfa is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together to enjoy good food and good company. Whether you’re a regular or a rst-time visitor, the welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes make it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. Don’t miss out on this fantastic culinary o ering – mark your calendars for Sunday or Wednesday and prepare for a feast that will leave you eager for your next visit!
classic British fare.
Health & Beauty
My father told me something on his deathbed, that I wish he had not. He told me that he’d had an affair with a woman, whom he considered was the love of his life. Mum never knew about it; he’d managed to keep it from her as it was a work affair. He told me that he’d wanted to leave my mother, and had broached the proposal to this woman. She was also married; her husband had discovered the relationship, and she was not prepared to leave him. My father told me he was heart-broken and had never got over it. I really wish he had not told me about the affair; it has ruined any good memories I had about our lives together. Whenever I recall what I thought was a happy memory, I always revert back to that conversation my Dad had with me in hospital; and then, I say to myself that it was all lies. It has left me kind of traumatised and I am very angry with him, not only for cheating on my mother, but for confiding in me, when he could have kept this upsetting information to himself.
other than perhaps for selfish purposes. People often confess on their deathbed in order to absolve themselves for their journey onto the next life. You tell me that you will not divulge this information to your mother, who believed and still believes your father to be a Saint; and so you must keep his secret. There is another aspect of this betrayal that you have not mentioned to me; the fact that he was also apparently happy about abandoning you.... you would have only been teenage at the time. You have told your partner, have shared this burden and are able to talk about it with someone else at least. These recollections may become less in time, but if not, I think you would benefit from talking to a Psychologist. I am sending you some information of a very good man in Malaga. Help can be found online, and video / Facetime consultations are available. Therapy these days is all about positive ways to move on and cope, rather than perpetually talking about the problem and delving into the why’s and wherefores. what it will be.
There was no reason your father needed to tell you about this affair, WRITE TO SARA IN CONFIDENCE. A PSEUDONYM WILL BE USED IF YOU WISH. SARA READS ALL LETTERS AND CAN GIVE A PERSONAL REPLY. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION TO SARA@ COSTABLANCAPEOPLE.COM OR SARA IS AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS, TELEPHONE 650 054 467.
What is dry skin?
Dry skin, also known as xerosis, often manifests with a rough, tight, or itchy texture that can leave the a ected areas feeling uncomfortable or irritated. This condition is frequently accompanied by visible aky or scaly patches, which may vary in severity depending on the underlying cause and environmental factors. In more advanced cases, the skin may develop cracks, which can exacerbate discomfort and increase susceptibility to further irritation. These symptoms are particularly noticeable in areas of the body where the skin is naturally drier.
While xerosis can appear on virtually any part of the body or face, it is most commonly observed in regions with a lower concentration of oil glands, such as the elbows, lower legs, hands, feet, and lower arms. These areas are more prone
to becoming dehydrated because they lack the natural lubrication provided by sebaceous glands, which are more prevalent in other parts of the body.
If left untreated, dry skin can progress to a condition called pruritus, characterized by severe and persistent itching. This relentless itching often leads to scratching, which, while temporarily relieving the discomfort, can cause signicant damage to the skin’s protective barrier. Once the skin barrier is compromised, the risk of developing secondary issues, such as skin infections, increases substantially. The combination of dryness, cracking, and itching creates a cycle of irritation that highlights the importance of addressing xerosis promptly through proper skincare and hydration.
New Year, New You! Resolutions Made Easy at Indiana’s Hair and Lash Boutique
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Spain introduces new breathalisers
Spain’s DirectorateGeneral of Traffic (DGT) is rolling out a new type of breathalyser that can detect a driver’s blood alcohol level without the need for the driver to blow into a tube. These devices, known as proximity breathalysers, use advanced technology to detect alcohol particles in the air exhaled by the driver. When brought close to the driver’s mouth, the device can quickly determine an approximate blood alcohol concentration.
To carry out the test, a Guardia Civil officer holds the proximity breathalyser a few centimeters from the driver’s mouth. The
device then analyzes the air exhaled by the driver and detects any alcohol particles. The result is immediate, providing an approximate blood alcohol level within a few seconds.
If the proximity breathalyser indicates a positive result, a more accurate test will be conducted, either through a traditional breathalyser or a blood sample.
One of the main advantages of these new devices is the speed of the measurement process. There is no need for the driver to blow into a tube, significantly reducing the time required for the test. Additionally, the driver
only needs to talk to the officer, making the process more straightforward and less intrusive.
As of 2025, the maximum permitted blood alcohol level in Spain is 0.2 grams per litre of blood, or 0.1 milligrams per litre of exhaled air. If the driver exceeds this limit, the financial penalty can vary based on the blood alcohol level and whether any persons or property have been harmed. Penalties can go up to 1,000 euros, and the most severe offenses may result in the loss of six points from the driver’s license. In some cases, the vehicle may even be impounded.
Price of butane gas cylinders to rise
The maximum retail price of a standard butane gas cylinder in Spain will rise by 0.18%, reaching a cost of 16.64 euros starting Tuesday, January 21. This increase continues the upward trend that began in September of the previous year. According to a resolution published in the O cial State Gazette (BOE), the price rise is due to a 0.43% increase in raw material costs, a 1.18% decrease in freight prices, and the depreciation of the euro against the dollar by 4.1%, as explained by sources from the Ministry for Ecological Transition.
The Consumers and Users
Organization (OCU) highlighted that this price increase marks a rise of 75 cents compared to the same time last year when the cylinder cost 15.89 euros. This represents a 4.7% increase yearon-year, which is notably higher than the average Consumer Price Index (CPI). The OCU also pointed out the gradual increase over recent months, with the price rising by 60 cents in September, 68 cents in November, and now by an additional 3 cents.
The OCU noted that the main cause of this price hike is the depreciation of the euro against the dollar, which fell by 4.1%. This devaluation, combined with
a slight drop in international butane prices, has prevented the price of the cylinder in euros from decreasing as expected.
Looking ahead to March, the price of butane gas will depend on several factors, including raw material costs, freight, exchange rates, and marketing costs. While it is di cult to predict exactly, the OCU suggests that if the typical annual cycle for butane prices continues, we may see a price drop. However, the uncertain value of the euro against the dollar means that a strong dollar could complicate any potential price decrease.
Brussels demands Spain’s diesel tax for fifth EU funds installment
Last Tuesday, the EU’s Economic and Financial Affairs Council (Ecofin) approved changes to Spain’s recovery plan, unlocking 25 billion euros in European aid as part of the fifth payment of the Next Generation funds. The plan, presented in December, includes a controversial diesel tax as a key requirement. Spain must meet this milestone within two months, when the European Commission will assess the country’s progress. Failure to meet the target could result in a partial payment, as seen with the fourth payment.
Podemos supports the diesel tax only if a permanent tax on energy companies is introduced, but PNV and Junts oppose this. Despite resistance, Minister for the Economy Carlos Cuerpo expressed optimism, stating that the tax will be approved “on time.”
The milestone includes reforms in various areas, such as environmental, corporate, and personal income taxes, along with the diesel tax increase. The plan also brings forward 55 milestones that Spain has already met, making the country eligible for 25
billion euros, with 9 billion in grants and 16 billion in loans.
A key demand from Brussels is that Spain’s tax reform should generate at least 0.3% of GDP in permanent revenue, roughly 4.5 billion euros. Any shortcomings in the reforms could impact the payment amount.
Additionally, European finance ministers approved Spain’s fiscal adjustment plan, which focuses on achieving sound public finances and sustainable growth through reforms and investments while reducing public deficits and debt.
CHURCH AND CHARITIES
International Christian Assembly Evangelical Church. We welcome you to Sunday Service at 11am (English) Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja, 03185 www.icatorrevieja.org Phone; 966799273 or 660127276 (SH) Join us at Salt Church. Sundays at 10.30am. We are a friendly Church, Bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship.Calle Daya Nueva 12, Poligino Industrial Levante II, 03187 Los Montsinos. www.saltchurch.es Facebook: SaltChurchSpain
The Alfaz spiritual friends centre o er a warm welcome at “The Comm” (Ex The Forum/Mare Nostrum) Camino del Pincho 2, l’Alfaz del Pi, 03580, Alicante. Visiting medium every week - services starts 6.30 pm every Thursday. ‘Free Healing is available after the service. contact Dot 634 320 013 email: dorothydorothy608@gmail.com
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Sheerin’s Golf Society “Scottish Cup”
This is the first sponsored competition of 2025. The Scottish Cup (Quaich) has been sponsored by our Scottish friends Donald Main and Chris Baillie since 2015, unfortunately Chris could not make the competition this year. The course at Alicante was in reasonable condition apart from all the work being carried out on the front nine tee boxes and fairways. For the players in the UK the weather was 22 degrees with plenty of sun when the clouds had disbursed and a few players still wore shorts. The format was blind draw doubles scoring Stableford points with both individual scores added together.
Winner of “The Scottish Cup” (Quaich) was “Lord” Gain and “Ladie” Lambie with a score of 75 points, runners up were “Fruit Farmer” Tom Goulden and Steve Hopkins with 74 points and third place went to “Usain Bolt” John Bolt and “Lion” John Fairbrass with 70 points. Group A nearest the pin’s winners were holes 5 and 8 “Usain Bolt” John Bolt and hole 14 Gary Hill, group B winners were holes 12 and 18 Kevin Quinn and hole 9 “Mr Celtic” Brian Gordon. Best front 9 with both scores added together went to Kevin Quinn and Brian Gordon with 36 point, best back 9 was Brian Court and Graham Lambie with 32 points, the two’s pot of €15
was shared between (He’s nearly on Fire) Steve Burns on hole 16 and “Usain Bolt” John Bolt on hole 8.
The winner of the football card was Steve Hopkins with Stoke City winning €40 and raising €40 for our 2025 charities.
We would like to thank Kellie, Katie and staff for their great hospitality. Photo shows Donald Main presenting the Quaich to winners Steve Gain and Tricia Lambie.
www.sheerinsgolfsociety. com
sheerinsgolf society@ gmail.com
Celebrate 10 years of sailing at Comunitat Valenciana 2025
The Comunitat Valenciana Olympic Week (CVOW) celebrates its 10th edition this year, running from January 30 to March 4, 2025. Organized by the Federació de Vela de la Comunitat Valenciana, this prestigious sailing event has become a key fixture in both national and international sports calendars. CVOW 2025 will feature over 15 Olympic and pre-Olympic classes in simultaneous regattas across four prominent Valencia clubs.
Unveiled at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) 2025, CVOW’s significance in promoting nautical sports tourism in the region was highlighted. The event contributes to the tourism sector, particularly in February, benefiting from its strategic timing. Carlos Torrado, President of CVOW, expressed appreciation for the participating nautical clubs, emphasizing their role in the event’s success and its impact on the local and global sailing scene.
The 2025 edition brings several exciting developments. RCR Alicante will focus on fostering young talent with classes like the 420 and ILCA 4, as well as innovative classes like Wing Foil. Despite weather challenges, RCN Valencia will host the Europa Cup for the
29er class. RCN Torrevieja will feature the Olympic 49er class and host both the European Championships and the Spain Cup for the Europe class. At CN Santa Pola, the Spanish Championships for Techno and iQ Foil Youth classes will highlight windsurfing, co-hosted with CT Iván Pastor.
Strategically positioned across key venues, the championship events include the Spain Championship for 49er and RC IOM at RCN Torrevieja, the Spain Championship for 470 and youth classes at RCR Alicante, the Europa Cup for 29er at RCN Valencia, and the Spanish Championships for Techno and iQ Foil youth at CN Santa Pola.
Sailors from around the world are invited to participate in this iconic event. The regatta’s innovative format and timing offer thrilling races and a platform for emerging talent. Registration is available through the official Comunitat Valenciana Olympic Week website.
As CVOW reaches its 10th anniversary, its influence on competitive sailing and regional tourism continues to grow, solidifying Comunitat Valenciana’s reputation as a leading destination for nautical sports enthusiasts.
QUICK CROSSWORD
ACROSS 6. Extract(7)
Female fox(5)
Sum (5)
Solidify(7)
Unconcerned(11)
Basic(11)
Rapture(7)
Frighten(5)
Stop (5)
Flourish(7)
Laud(5)
Keep(6)
Copy (3)
Digit(6)
Residue(7)
Limit(7)
Send away(7)
Expedite(7)
Hate(6)
Confront(6)
Avidity(5)
Arid(3)
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the wordwheel, take ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must contain the central letter and at least three others. Letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one nine-letter word in the wheel.
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
wrap(5)
The limitation of the player who may substitute?(7) DOWN
1. Serious place to end up!(5)
2. Put little work into wrong choice(6)
3. Permitted to have a tenant(3)
4. Go there to finish an abstainer(6)
5. Try clue for knives, forks, etc. (7)
8. Loco men adapted eyeglass(7)
11. Allowed, indeed to be expunged(7)
13. A ten-play forfeiture(7)
15. Youth leader is in good time every twelve months(6)
