18 June - 24 June 2024

Maria Wilson awarded B.E.M in King’s birthday Honours

Playa Flamenca resident Maria Wilson has been awarded the British Empire Medal in King Charles III Birthday Honours List 2024.

Maria, aged 76, is wellknown as a local fundraiser having established Maria and the Pink Ladies anticancer charity in 2010 after

having been diagnosed with breast cancer. She continues to run the Pink Ladies and Pink Panthers alongside her role as President of the AACC.

During that time the charity has raised more than 576,515 euros of which every penny has been donated to the AACC and used towards helping local residents in the prevention and battle against cancer, predominantly through subsidised cancer screening checks for male and female cancers including bowel, skin, breast, prostate, cervical and ovarian.

Maria’s breast cancer was found though screening and after a mammogram found her cancer, Maria was told that the early detection had saved her life. It was this experience that made her determined to not only encourage people to get tested but to make sure that the process was affordable and accessible to all, particularly expats who may not have access to the Spanish health system.

Since then, Maria has battled cancer a further three times, the last being lung cancer earlier this year. Despite her own situation Maria has always made sure

the work of the charity and the association carried on as usual and said: “I have a passion for Early Detection and intend to carry on the fight for as long as I’m able.”

The money Maria and the Pink Ladies have donated over the years has been raised through personal donations by members of the public and numerous special events including the Santa Walf and the flagship Walk for Life, which this year alone is estimated to raise an amazing 5,000 euros.

B.E.M

The British Empire Medal is awarded for ‘handson’ service to the local

community. This could be a long-term charitable or voluntary activity, or innovative work of a relatively short duration (3 to 4 years) that has made a significant difference to people’s lives. Maria said: “I would like to thank all the Pink Ladies over the years, numbering over 60 different ladies and more recently the Pink Panthers, as I couldn’t have done it by myself. Also, the people of Orihuela Costa who have supported us along the way and donated so kindly and selflessly and helped save so many lives.

“I still can’t believe that I been given this award and feel truly honoured and grateful. I am delighted that the work of the charity and all involved has been recognised and am determined to continue the work to fight this terrible disease.”

Local Police creates Environmental and Administrative Unit for Orihuela Costa

The Councillor for Citizen Security, Mónica Pastor, held a meeting this week with the Commissioner of the Local Police, José María Pomares, the Councillor for the Coast, Manuel Mestre and municipal representatives of Orihuela Costa such as Raúl Fernández, Quentin Ghislain Botelberge, Unai Villanueva and Sergio Daniel Sujoy, to present the Environmental and Administrative Unit (UMAD) of the Local Police.

The new unit will be responsible for carrying out surveillance, control, monitoring and reporting of activities that in some way disturb the well-

being of the residents who live in Orihuela Costa, such as the illegal dumping of rubbish. This new unit will be made up of eight permanent officers on morning and afternoon shifts, who will be led by an inspector.

The unit will have a direct telephone number to answer all related questions, which is 34 672210904, in addition to the general telephone number of the Local Police 34 965300204. Monitoring and reporting will be carried out by the Local Police with complete anonymity for local residents who wish to collaborate.

Special attention will be paid to

the surveillance and monitoring of conflict points regarding the disposal of different types of waste such as garden prunings, building and general debris and household goods, while coordination with other municipal departments such as cleaning, road maintenance and MSW, Environment and Infrastructure will be on-going. This will lead to the establishment of clean points for the deposit of the waste.

Other areas of monitoring will be the surveillance and control of empty homes, as well as helping, acting and informing owners if any incident is detected.

Brits help Alicante-Elche Airport break its passenger record

Alicante-Elche Airport achieved a historic milestone in May, registering 1,749,487 passengers, the highest number ever recorded in a single month. This new peak surpasses the previous record set in July 2019 by 1.6%, according to data released by Aena.

International travellers were the primary contributors to this surge, with foreign visitor numbers increasing by 15.8% compared to the previous year. Domestic traffic also saw a significant rise, with 236,354 passengers, marking a 22.6% increase.

Among international travellers, the United Kingdom led the way with 596,238 passengers. Other top contributors included the Netherlands with 105,755 passengers, Germany with 104,503, Belgium with 87,167, and Poland with 74,982.

In terms of flight operations, Alicante-Elche Airport handled 11,019 journeys in May, reflecting a 14.6% growth compared to the same month in 2023.

For the first five months of the year, the airport has managed a total of 6,568,592 passengers,

an 18% increase from the same period in 2023. Flight operations from January to May totalled 41,848, up 15% from the previous year.

With the busy summer season approaching, forecasts suggest that 2024 will see record-breaking activity, with passenger numbers expected to exceed 15 million. This remarkable performance underscores Alicante-Elche Airport’s growing significance as a major hub for both international and domestic travel, driven by increasing demand.

More savings planned on groceries

The Spanish government plans to extend the IVA sales tax reduction on certain staple foods, which was originally set to expire on 30th June.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the extension during an interview on Televisión Española (TVE) today, citing persistently high food prices and the need to support households.

“Food prices are still high, and we have to make this enormous effort for the public coffers but also for our households,” Sánchez stated. He intends to present the proposal to extend the IVA rebate to the lower house of parliament, where his government holds a minority.

Last December, the government implemented a 0% IVA rate on essential items such as milk, bread, eggs, cheese, fruit, cereals, and some vegetables. The IVA rate on pasta was reduced from 10% to 5%, and in March, the government lowered the sales tax on oil to 0%, though this measure has not yet passed through parliament.

In April, the government’s economic update and fiscal forecasts for 2024 and 2025, sent to Brussels, indicated that the IVA rebate on food would end on 30th June. However, with food and non-alcoholic beverage prices increasing by 4.7% year-on-year in April, driven mainly by the rising cost of fruit and vegetables, the government decided to reconsider the deadline.

Notably, the price of olive oil surged by 68.1% year-on-year in April and has tripled since January 2021, accumulating a 204.8% rise. The IVA reduction was initially introduced to mitigate the impact of price increases following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Inflation continues to strain Spanish households, with the CPI rising by three-tenths of a percentage point in May to 3.6%, the highest rate in over a year. The removal of some support measures since January has directly impacted inflation, with May marking the third consecutive month of price increases.

Storms dump 50 litres per square metre across the province

The storm front that swept through the province of Alicante last week, released up to 50 litres per square meter of rain at some points. The strip of instability, which had forecast by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), ran through the territory from northwest to southeast and reached pre-coastal and coastal areas of Alicante Province.

In the Vega Baja the storm was more localised and recorded between 10 and 20 litres in Torrevieja, 10 in Rojales and 7 in Jacarilla. Despite the modest

amount recorded in Torrevieja, it was enough to cause some traffic flow problems in the streets and the water collected by the stormwater systems to exceed half a meter in some areas of the new Doña Inés storm tank.

However not a single downpour fell in Orihuela city, although there was a noticeable increase in the flow of the River Segura as it passes through Orihuela because in the Vega Alta and Vega Media, especially in the Region of Murcia, the storms have been very intense

in recent days, which will help with irrigation in the fruit and vegetable fields. These rains in the middle of June, accompanied by a drop in temperatures, represent a real relief for many areas of the interior and northern province where the Mediterranean pine forests need the water as much as in the Huerta. These rains will however have a minimal impact on the reservoirs of the Júcar basins - Guadalest, Amadorio and Beniarrés - and the Segura in the province.

Firefighters rescue a disoriented 79-year-old man in Los Montesinos

Firefighters from Torrevieja Fire Station have rescued a 79-year-old German man who had become disoriented when his car left the road on which it was traveling in an area of fields between Los Montesinos and La Mata.

The alert came in at 6:22pm and according to the Provincial Fire Consortium, “the driver had become disoriented and ended up driving away towards muddy terrain before leaving the vehicle.”

The Consortium deployed an extensive search by land and air, with a special rescue group, drones and helicopter. Finally, the man was located from the air by the helicopter at 9:23pm.

“muddy, slightly injured and at a certain distance from his vehicle,” said Firefighters who descended to rescue and care for him.

Its not known if the man thought the dirt track was a short cut or whether the detour from the road was unintentional.

Ryanair flies couple to Lithuania rather than Spain

A British couple’s holiday got off to a nightmare start after an airport mixup saw them flown to the wrong airport thousands of miles away from their intended destination. However, unfortunately for Andrew and Victoria Gore, this nightmare turned out to be very real after they jetted off on a family trip to Spain - only to land on the other side of Europe.

After an extraordinary mix-up at Bristol airport, the couple from Mountain Ash in South Wales were put on the wrong Ryanair plane – away from their family and friends.

Andrew, Victoria and 10 others made their way to Bristol airport for the trip, expecting a week away in the Mediterranean sunshine. However, despite having boarding passes showing their destination as Barcelona, they were flown to Kaunus in Lithuania.

Due to the couple having booked special assistance, they were boarded separately from the rest of their family. After noticing

they couldn’t see the rest of their relatives on the flight, Victoria asked cabin crew if they had boarded and was ‘assured’ they were all on the same flight. However, once their Ryanair flight landed it was very clear they were not on the same flight and nowhere near Spain.

To reach their intended destination, they then had to endure a 150mile Uber ride across an international frontier to Riga in Latvia, and a 1,400mile flight to Spain.

With no direct flights from Kaunus to Barcelona, ground staff booked them on the following day’s flight from Riga, 150 miles north across the Latvian frontier. They were also assigned a hotel, and an Uber to take them there.

To add insult to injury when they finally did arrive in Barcelona the following day they were told that their luggage had been taken off the Bristol-Barcelona flight. It was later flown out and arrived two days later.

Yolanda Díaz Resigns as head of Sumar after disappointing EU election

Yolanda Díaz, a prominent figure in Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government, has resigned as the leader of Sumar, the leftwing junior coalition partner. This decision follows a disappointing performance in the recent European Union elections, where the rightwing opposition People’s Party (PP) emerged victorious in Spain.

“I have decided to leave my role as head of Sumar,” Díaz announced. Despite stepping down from her leadership position within Sumar, she will continue to serve as Spain’s labour minister and one of Sánchez’s deputy prime ministers.

Her resignation came just a day after voting in the European Parliament elections, where the PP outperformed other parties. Reflecting on the election outcome, Díaz, 53, remarked, “The elections have been like a mirror. People aren’t wrong when they vote or when they choose not to vote. It is always our responsibility, and in this case, mine. The people have spoken, and I am taking it into account.”

Díaz also took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to elaborate on her decision, stating, “Sometimes it is necessary to take a step aside to take a step forward. I firmly believe in the power of politics and its ability to deliver good news to those who need

us most. You will always find me there.”

She emphasised the need for a leadership debate within Sumar, which she founded in July 2022 to unite various left-wing parties under one umbrella. In the recent EU elections, Spain’s left-wing parties secured five seats, a slight decline from six seats in the 2019 elections. Of these, Sumar won three seats, while its rival and former coalition partner, Podemos, secured two.

The relationship between Sumar and Podemos has been strained, especially after Sumar excluded thenEquality Minister Irene Montero, a key figure in Podemos, from its candidate list for the general elections last July. This rift highlighted the growing divisions within Spain’s left-wing factions.

In the European Parliament elections, the opposition PP claimed 22 of Spain’s 61 seats, followed by Sánchez’s socialists with 20 seats. This marked a shift from the 2019 elections, where the socialists had a decisive victory with 21 seats compared to the PP’s 13.

Díaz’s resignation signals a significant shift within Spain’s leftwing politics, as parties regroup and reassess their strategies following the recent electoral setback.

More drownings take the local total to twelve

Tragedy struck again on the Costa Blanca as two more bathers lost their lives, raising the death toll to 12 since the beginning of June. The latest victims, a 66-year-old man and a 64-yearold woman, both of German nationality, presumably drowned at Arenales del Sol beach in Elche.

The emergency services coordination centre (CICU) reported that the couple was discovered unconscious on the shore at approximately 1:15pm. Despite the immediate efforts

of lifeguards and ambulance service paramedics, the pair did not respond to resuscitation attempts. An autopsy will be conducted to determine if underlying medical conditions contributed to their deaths.

Preliminary speculation suggests that one of the individuals may have suffered a heart attack, with the other possibly attempting a rescue.

The incident occurred amid hazardous bathing conditions caused by strong easterly winds,

which have been generating dangerous currents and waves along the coast. Earlier in the day, a green flag signifying safe swimming conditions had been flying, but it was later changed to red as the situation deteriorated. This unfortunate event underscores the growing concerns over safety on the Costa Blanca beaches during this period of rough seas. Authorities continue to urge beachgoers to heed warning flags and exercise caution while swimming.

Disfrutar in Barcelona named World’s

Best Restaurant 2024

Barcelona’s Disfrutar, helmed by chefs Oriol Castro, Eduard Xatruch, and Mateu Casañas, has been crowned the World’s Best Restaurant 2024 and the Best Restaurant in Europe. The prestigious accolade was announced during a neon-lit ceremony in Las Vegas on Wednesday night.

The announcement was part of the unveiling of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 list, which celebrates global culinary excellence with entries from 26 territories across five continents. This year’s list includes three newcomers, showcasing the diversity and innovation in the gastronomic world.

Disfrutar, which was ranked No. 2 in 2023, is renowned for its modern techniques and exquisite ingredients.

A statement from the organizers praised the restaurant for delivering “an experience that subverts traditional fine dining in a completely surprising way,” with a tasting menu that combines Mediterranean identity and avant-garde flavors to create thoughtprovoking contemporary cuisine.

Following Disfrutar in the rankings is another Spanish establishment, Asador Etxebarri in Atxondo, Basque Country, taking the second spot. Paris’s Table by Bruno Verjus secured the third position.

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants

2024 list is compiled from the votes of 1,080 international restaurant industry experts and well-traveled gourmets, who form The World’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy. The Academy is divided into 27 regions, each with 40 members. The organization emphasizes that the voting process is free from sponsor influence.

Spain boasts five restaurants in this year’s Top 50. Alongside Disfrutar and Asador Etxebarri, Madrid’s Diverxo is ranked fourth, Quique Dacosta in Dénia, Alicante is 15th, and Elkano in Getaria, Basque Country holds the 28th position.

Redován gives sister town a cutting of Miguel Hernández’s fig tree

The Redován Twinning Committee with the French municipality of Saint Aubin de Mèdoc has carried out a new cultural exchange with a visit to the municipality, invited to attend the ‘Noctambules’, an important musical festival held in the French city. Both towns have established an annual visit to strengthen ties and last year it was the French who traveled to Redován to see the patron saint festivities, this time it was the turn of the people of Redován to travel on an expedition in which they have also visited the cities of Soulac invited by their mayor, to whom they gave a figure of the Griffin of Redován and Bordeaux, the latter for the inauguration of the tram that connects it with Saint Aubin and where they also chatted with the first mayor of the city.

Councilor Ramón López Escarabajal, as municipal representative in the Twinning Committee, presented the mayor of Saint Aubin de Mèdoc with the gold insignia of the Redován City Council, a gesture that was reciprocated since the mayor, Christophe Duprat, also gave the insignia of its municipality that already appears in the office of the Mayor of the Redován City Council. A cutting of the fig tree from Miguel Hernández’s house in Orihuela also traveled to France, a cutting given by the city of Orihuela “after meeting the mayor who during last year’s visit were delighted with

this space,” said López. Along with the cutting, which was planted in a green area of Saint Aubin, the former mayor of Redován and member of the Twinning Committee, Emilio Fernández, also presented the French mayor with a book of poetry by Miguel Hernández in French and Spanish.

During the visit, which took place between June 1 and 4, the Redován Twinning Committee had the opportunity to visit some

vineyards and a winery, to discover how the famous French wine from the Bordeaux region is made.

Ramón López has indicated that both municipalities are already working for the next meeting, which will be in Redován and for which they want to have the presence of music students from Saint Aubin de Mèdoc just as they did two years ago from the Redován Musical Union , who brought his music to the French town.

Europol dismantles Balkan cartel trafficking drugs from South America

Forty people have been arrested and eight tonnes of cocaine seized following a four-year international police operation targeting a criminal network trafficking large quantities of the drug from South America to Europe via West Africa and the Canary Islands.

The extensive investigation, led by Spain’s Guardia Civil and coordinated by Europol’s operational taskforce, uncovered that a Balkan cartel was using logistical hubs in West Africa and the Canary Islands to smuggle cocaine from Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador into EU countries. Once in Europe, the drugs were distributed across the continent using handling centres in Belgium, Croatia, Germany, Italy, and Spain.

In a statement released on Thursday, Europol said the leaders of the drug trafficking organization had been temporarily based in Turkey and Dubai. “From there, they operated the control and command centres of the criminal network,” the EU law enforcement agency stated. “Investigations into this network identified a significant threat: criminal actors’ ability to collaborate closely and deploy associates long-term to facilitate their

large-scale drug trafficking operations.”

Europol highlighted the crucial cooperation between nine national forces—Brazil, Belgium, Croatia, Germany, Italy, Serbia, Spain, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates—in dismantling the network. The Guardia Civil’s involvement began in September 2020 when officers intercepted a Croatian-flagged sailing boat bound for the Canary Islands carrying one tonne of cocaine. The boat had taken on the drug shipment from a freighter off the Gulf of Guinea. Encrypted communications obtained from the devices of the three people arrested on the sailing boat were then shared with Europol, which was already investigating the cartel. In August last year, the Guardia Civil stopped another boat carrying 700kg of cocaine in waters off the Canaries. Information from that bust revealed that the same Italian-Croatian crew had previously used the boat to transport 500kg of cocaine from Brazil. When Europol shared the Spanish intelligence with other partner countries, it emerged that police in Belgium, Germany, and Serbia were also pursuing the same individuals and their associates.

Man arrested for Campoverde robberies

The Civil Guard has arrested a 43-year-old man for committing 18 crimes of robbery with force in homes in the Pinar de Campoverde urbanization in Pilar de la Horadada, Ibi and San Vicente del Raspeig. The author, who had numerous previous convictions for similar acts, was arrested at his home in Los Montesinos. Jewelry and electronic material have been recovered, with which efforts are being made to identify other possible victims.

The Civil Guard, between the months of November and December of last year, detected a significant increase in the number of robberies in the Pinar de Campoverde urbanization, in the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada. These robberies were characterized by their commission mainly in the evening, when the residents were absent, and by forcing doors or windows.

Given the seriousness of these events, the Main

Post of the Civil Guard of Pilar de la Horadada, with the collaboration of the Local Police of the municipality, began a series of coordinated services to reinforce security in the affected area. With the aim of investigating these thefts, operation Nopi was launched . As the investigations progressed, the agents had valuable citizen collaboration from the neighbors, which generated crucial information for the police investigation.

In one of the robberies investigated, an electronic device was stolen, the subsequent use of which by the criminal allowed the agents to locate his habitual residence, located in the municipality of Los Montesinos, and determine his identity.

During the search, jewelry, electronic material and 2,700 euros in cash were seized. In addition, instruments for evaluating jewelry, such as diamond purity verification tests, scales and other effects, were seized.

The agents arrested the person responsible for these thefts, a 43-year-old Moldovan man, who had a history of crimes against property. Investigators have been able to prove the participation of the detainee in 18 crimes of robbery with force inside homes: 10 in the Pinar de Campoverde urbanization, 7 in Ibi and 1 in San Vicente del Raspeig.

The detainee, along with the seized effects, has been placed at the disposal of the Court of Instruction No. 1 of Orihuela, which has ordered his release with the imposition of precautionary measures.

Given the possibility that the criminal changed residence to hinder investigations, at the end of March, together with the Citizen Security Unit of the Torrevieja Civil Guard Company, a search of the home was carried out.

Les Corts rejects solar panels for Torrevieja desalination plant

The plenary session of Les Corts has voted in favor of a proposal from the PP to show its rejection of the installation of the photovoltaic electrical station to self-supply the expansion of the Torrevieja desalination station and urge the Government to paralyze the project. The non-law proposal (PNL) has gone ahead in this Thursday’s vote with the support of Vox and the abstention of Compromís, while the PSPV has voted against.

In its initiative, the Popular Party asks that the project be carried out through a sustainable model that is respectful of the territory, through the study and approval of alternatives to supply clean energy that do not affect the San Miguel de Salinas orchard and the Vega Baja region, such as the coverage of the open channel of the Tajo-Segura transfer, the margins of the AP-7 highway or the roof of the Torrevieja Hospital.

During this Wednesday’s debate, PP deputy Eduardo Dolón criticized the “caprice” and “environmental atrocity” of the plant planned by the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, whose owner, Teresa Ribera, has accused of raising it without being “able to explain it” or to address it with the mayor of San Miguel de Salinas, the socialist Juan de Dios Fresneda.

From Vox, José Muñoz has predicted that photovoltaics will be a “ruin” for neighbors and farmers “due to the whims of Pedro Sánchez and Teresa Ribera”, while advocating for a state water plan to benefit the area.

Among the opposition groups, the Compromís deputy Juan Bordera has criticized the “missteps” of the PPCV and its president in terms of renewable energy. Although he has acknowledged that the plant is “an outrage,” he has

stressed that it is not the only project that must be opposed and that is why he has justified the abstention of his group.

For her part, the socialist deputy Mª José Salvador has defended that the Government “is looking for the best solution with the minimum impact for the growing areas”, with “dialogue with the mayors of the area”, and that the minister will communicate it “ In the next weeks”.

EUR

GBPEUR posted fresh highs earlier this week, finally breaking the psychological 1.18 barrier on interbank exchange rates that had previously kept the pair contained. The pair hadn’t reached this level since August 2022.

The move appears to be due to the political uncertainty that last weekend’s European Parliamentary elections seemed to cause, sending ripples through many EU governments. Several popular far-right parties have made striking gains across France, Germany, Belgium, and Austria.

These far-right parties are predicted to have taken up a quarter of the Member of European Parliament (MEP) seats in Brussels, potentially changing the political landscape across the bloc. In particular, the focus amongst voters in this sector is immigration policies, the lack of sovereignty for EU member countries, and pushback against green energy initiatives.

The swing in votes was so significant that Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, resigned, and French President Emmanual Macron has called a shock snap election across the channel. This vote will now take place three years sooner than necessary.

With the first round of elections due to take place in France on 30th June and 7th July, President Macron has taken a massive risk in calling this election while his main opponent, Marine Le Pen, surges in popularity. Le Pen’s National Rally party won more than 31% of the vote, more than double Macron’s Renaissance party which took 15%.

This euro weakness follows the very muted response from markets last Thursday in response to the European Central Bank moving to cut its key interest rate by 0.25% to 3.75%, the first time that it has cut rates since 2019.

This is a significant shift in policy for the ECB, which had been holding interest rates at record highs since September 2023 as it has attempted to control the rocketing inflation that followed the global pandemic and the start of the Russia Ukraine war.

Inflation in Europe fell to 2.6% in May and is

GBP / EUR UPDATE

expected to drop back within its 2% target range before the end of this year. Despite the significance of this swing in monetary policy, exchange rates were hardly impacted as the expectation had been clearly outlined in commentary from ECB President Christine Lagarde for some time, and there had been a quiet end to trading last week across the board.

GBP

The pound capitalised on euro weakness on Monday as a stagnant end to last week has failed to transition to the new week.

This week saw the release of the latest unemployment data on Tuesday and growth and manufacturing data on Wednesday.

The UK unemployment rate was expected to remain unchanged at 4.3%, but came in slightly above expectation at 4.4%. This is higher than the mean average for unemployment, demonstrating that the UK economy is not quite operating at full health or returning fully to growth cycles because there are still barriers to entry within the employment market.

On Wednesday the manufacturing sector reported lower than expected output across the board and GDP growth figures for April showed the UK economy has flatlined.

The unmeasurable risk to GBP is currently running into the UK general elections on the 4th July. Over the coming weeks, we will continue to see a ramp-up in efforts on the election campaign trail, and given the impact this morning on FX rates following the snap election announcement in France, we cannot rule out a market reaction to political events as they unfold.

With the UK elections on the 4th and France’s first round election dates set for the 30th June and 7th July, political uncertainty could be a growing factor for analysts over the weeks ahead.

Disclaimer: This commentary does not constitute financial advice.

Civil Guard arrests couple for citrus fruit buying scam in Arneva

The Civil Guard, within the framework of operation Moño 24, has arrested two people in Beniel, a man and a woman aged 40 and 46 respectively, for the commission of an alleged crime of fraud on a farm in the district of Arneva , in the municipality of Orihuela. Both have been arrested and, after giving statements, they have been released with evidence. The arrests were notified to the Investigative Court of the Judicial District of Orihuela.

The perpetrators of this scam signed a contract for the sale of 18,720 kilograms of oranges with the victim, specifying a payment of 5,054 euros by bank transfer that was never made. After acquiring the merchandise, the fraudsters sold it to a third party who acquired it in good faith.

The alleged perpetrators, a couple made up of a man and a woman, both businessmen in the agricultural sector, contacted the victim through a broker who was an intermediary in good faith, since he had done previous business with the victim. The woman, who acted as the ringleader, negotiated

the price, collected the merchandise, agreed on the payment method by bank transfer, and kept the money obtained from the sale of the product acquired through deception. Although the victim delivered the product and made the invoice, those responsible for the scam never made the agreed payment.

Operation Moño 24, supported by the Almoradí Civil Guard Main Post, included four inspections in agricultural and commercial farms in Orihuela and Beniel.

The suspects, known for similar incidents, conducted

negotiations and set prices without fear, using the façade of an apparently solvent company to gain the farmer’s trust.

The Civil Guard, through the ROCA Teams, increases the security of agricultural farms through permanent surveillance and maintaining greater contact with these groups. In addition to investigating this type of crime, the agents, through the talks they usually give at the request of this group, explain how they can improve their security to avoid new scams.

A new solar plant is planned in Los Montesinos

The Official Gazette of the Province (BOP) announced last Wednesday a proposal by Los Montesinos Solar SL to install a photovoltaic plant, named “FV Montesinos Solar.” The plant is to be located between the San Miguel de Salinas highway and the Canal Levante highway, near the La Herrada urbanization. The project, with a budget of 1.6 million euros, will occupy 5 hectares of high agrological capacity land within the hydrological and landscape basin of the Laguna de Torrevieja.

This proposal is now open for public review and objections for a period of fifteen business days. It marks the fourth solar plant planned for Los Montesinos, all situated on similarly highquality agricultural land in the Laguna de Torrevieja basin. In February, Miguel Ángel Pavón, vice president of Friends of the Southern Alicante Wetlands, raised concerns about the largest proposed plant, “Lo Vigo,” which spans 19 hectares.

The Los Montesinos City Council had approved a suspension of licenses at the end of 2023, which, according to Pavón, would apply to this project as well. There is already significant opposition from citizens against a solar plant planned in San Miguel de Salinas intended to support the expansion of the Torrevieja desalination plant.

In addition, four other new plants have been proposed but not yet publicly disclosed: “Crujía

8” on 8 hectares in Almoradí, “Aleta 11” on 9.6 hectares between Almoradí and Algorfa, “Botavara 11” on 9 hectares in Algorfa, and “Almura 11” on 6.4 hectares in Algorfa. All these projects also involve land with high agrological capacity.

The surge in the solar energy sector has even reached areas with limited available land for new developments, such as Torrevieja. By May of last year, Corporación Energética 1, SL planned a solar installation in Los Romeros, near the CV-905 and CV945 road intersection, bordering the Natural Park of the Torrevieja

and La Mata salt flats.

This month, Villenlar proposed another photovoltaic project, “PSF Orihuela Belmonte,” with a capacity of 8 megawatts and an investment of 6.4 million euros. This facility, planned for the south of Orihuela near San Miguel de Salinas, would cover 163,690 square meters. It is located next to the Itel macroplant, which proposed 242,256 panels over 182 hectares but was rejected by the Ministry for the Ecological Transition in January 2023 due to unfavorable reports from the Generalitat.

Wayne Lineker knocked unconscious in Ibiza

Wayne Lineker, brother of football legend Gary Lineker, was knocked unconscious while trying to protect a female friend during a night out. The incident occurred at 4 a.m. outside Eden Bar in Ibiza when Wayne, 62, was punched by a man. Video footage released by The Sun captures Wayne raising his arm in defense before being struck, causing him to collapse and lose consciousness for at least six minutes. Witnesses described seeing blood pouring from his mouth.

The altercation began when the aggressor and his friends started harassing Wayne’s female

companion, who is in her 20s. As Wayne attempted to leave in a taxi, the man and his group confronted him, closing the taxi door and then attacking him. The attacker and his friends fled the scene immediately after the assault.

A Welsh student who witnessed the incident described the scene as “horrible,” noting that Wayne appeared lifeless at one point and was barely responsive when he regained consciousness. The police arrived but left shortly after without significant action. Wayne eventually left the scene in a taxi about an hour later

Three injured in boat explosion at Cabo Roig Marina

Two men and a woman, between 31 and 42 years old, have been injured by burns of varying degrees when an accidental explosion occurred inside a recreational boat in the port of Cabo Roig, in Orihuela Costa.

According to investigation sources, the explosion

occurred at 9:57 a.m. and a Civil Guard patrol, among other emergency services units such as a SAMU unit, a helicopter, traveled to the scene of the incident. medicalized and a BLS unit.

As a result of the explosion, a 42-yearold Spanish man had to be transported by helicopter due to

serious burns to the Fe hospital in Valencia, while a 31-year-old Lithuanian woman and a 38-year-old British man were taken to the hospital in Torrevieja, also due to burns. The investigation is carried out by the territorial unit of the judicial police at the Civil Guard post in Pilar de la Horadada.

National Police arrest Orihuela thieves

Two individuals have been arrested as alleged perpetrators of a robbery with force inside an establishment in Orihuela during the early hours of the morning.

In those events, the location’s security cameras recorded a hooded individual accessing and manipulating the cash register. Following what happened, Judicial Police agents began the appropriate investigations.

After viewing the aforementioned security cameras, it was concluded that there were actually two alleged perpetrators: one was waiting outside the premises as a guard, while the other was trying to carry out the robbery. It was possible to specify their affiliations thanks to the fact that this pair of individuals had been identified by a Citizen Security Patrol of the National Police in the vicinity of the place and in the hours close to the event.

Once the images

were compared with the descriptions provided by the agents who identified these people, it was possible to reliably conclude the authorship and organize a search operation for the arrest.

The search concluded successfully and the two perpetrators, men, aged 31 and 33, were arrested. The proceedings have been sent to the Investigative Courts of Orihuela.

Callosa police make more than 100 positive drug tests in two months

The Local Police of Callosa de Segura, since it acquired the batches of drogotests for detecting drugs in drivers at the beginning of April, began to apply them to all vehicles and roads in the urban area. In just over two months, agents have obtained 102 positive results for illegal substances such as cocaine, cannabis, hashish, methamphetamines, opiates and similar. Only a failure rate of less than 10% was obtained in these tests.

One of the areas where the most drug tests have been car-

ried out has been in the La Cruz neighborhood, “with a neighborhood demand in relation to greater control in drug retail matters,” says the Local Police of Callosa, whose agents “have been carrying out different traffic checkpoints, especially during night shifts, in order to avoid driving with the presence of prohibited substances in the body.”

The Local Police of Callosa de Segura reminds that the penalties for this reason amount to 1,000 euros and the deduction of 6 points from the driving license.

Terra Natura Benidorm homes a snake rescued by the Guardia Civil

The Civil Guard of Valencia has delivered to the nature and animal park Terra Natura Benidorm a snake, known as false coral (Lampropeltis triangulum), which had been rescued at a home in the municipality of Massanassa. The agents of the Seprona of Gandia went to the house after receiving a call from a neighbor, reporting that he had found in his dining room a snake that apparently had slipped through the window of the second floor of the building.

The false coral has been taken to Terra Natura Benidorm to be cared for by the park’s expert herpetologists. Upon receiving the specimen, it was taken to the quarantine area as a preventive measure and underwent a veterinary examination to check its state of health. The species is in a conservation status of minor concern.

In addition to the general examination performed to check its health status, a coprological test has also been carried out to detect possible infections, the result of which has been good, and various external deworming treatments and a treatment against internal flagellates have been applied.

The park’s team of herpetologists has extensive

experience in the handling and care of reptiles. The false coral can now be observed by the public in the permanent exhibition of venomous creatures at Terra Natura Benidorm, which is located inside the volcano in the Pangea area.

The team of herpetologists of the park has extensive experience in the handling and care of reptiles. The false coral can already be observed by the public in the permanent exhibition of venomous creatures of Terra Natura Benidorm, which is located inside the volcano in the Pangea area.

The false coral differs from the coral snake by the order of the

colored rings and because the false coral is not venomous. As recalled by the herpetologist of Terra Natura Benidorm, David Martí, “there is much confusion between the two species, so extreme caution should be exercised if you find any of these snakes and alert the security forces to be handled by an expert and knowledgeable about the handling of these animals”.

The false coral can reach up to 1.5 meters in length as an adult. This species usually mates between April and June and is not aggressive. Due to the confusion that occurs with the coral snake because of its resemblance, it is one of the snakes that suffers the most attacks by humans.

This Week´s Movie Picks

Night at the Museum 2

Saturday 22nd June - ITV2 - 9.00 pm

Sunday 23rd June - ITV2 - 7.00 pm

After his wife’s death, Dr. John Dolittle (Robert Downey, Jr.) decided to hide from the world with his beloved animals. But he has to take a journey to a mysterious island to find a healing tree, which is the only medicine that can help the dying Queen Victoria (Jessie Buckley) in Buckingham Palace.

Ben Stiller returns as night museum security guard Larry Daily, who gets back there just in time to find that he needs to get his friends out of trouble. This new installment takes us to the Smithsonian Institution, and introduces us to new characters such as Amelia Earhart, General Custer, and many more.

Tuesday 18th June

Channel 4 News Summary 13:10 Help! We Bought a Village

and

in

Wednesday 19th June

24 Hours in A&E

Football Cops 09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Peppa Pig 09:35 Peppa Pig 09:40 Peppa Pig

09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

09:55 Meet the Experts 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:15 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20

21:00 The Repair Shop 22:00 Fake or Fortune?

Meet the Richardsons 23:30 Newsnight

00:50 Made in Britain 01:20 ITV Studio Sessions 01:50 Teleshopping 04:00 Tonight 04:25 For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond

04:50 Unwind with ITV

06:05 James Martin’s Spanish Adventure 07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning 13:30 ITV Lunchtime News

13:50 ITV News London 14:00 Live: UEFA EURO 2024 17:15 Live: ITV Racing Live

19:00 ITV News London

19:20 Party Election

Broadcast

19:30 ITV Evening News

20:30 Emmerdale

21:00 Coronation Street

22:00 Adam Lambert: Out, Loud and Proud

23:00 ITV News at Ten

23:30 ITV News London

23:45 Peston

09:05 Everybody Loves

Raymond 09:35 Everybody Loves

Raymond

10:05 Frasier

10:35 Frasier

11:05 Frasier

11:35 Frasier

12:05 Great Canal Journeys

13:05 Channel 4 News

Summary

13:10 Help! We Bought a Village

14:10 Car S.O.S

15:10 Countdown

16:00 A Place in the Sun

17:00 A Place in the Sun

18:00 Sun, Sea and Selling

Houses

19:00 Four in a Bed

19:30 The Simpsons

20:00 Channel 4 News

20:55 Party Election

Broadcast

21:00 Location, Location, Location

22:00 Grand Designs

23:00 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses

09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Peppa Pig 09:35 Peppa Pig

09:40 Peppa Pig

09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

09:55 Meet the Experts 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:15 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 Secret Lives of Housewives 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun

18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Party Election

Broadcast

19:05 Police Interceptors 20:00 Super Dogs With Extraordinary Jobs 21:00 Waitrose: Trouble in the Aisles 22:00 Cold Call 23:00 Trauma Room One

8:50 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo?

09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 World’s Funniest Videos 10:30 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 11:00 Love Bites 12:00 Love Bites

WOW Beach opens in style for the summer at La Glea

The participants in this event enjoyed the experience of witnessing live the putting into practice of a technique that dates back to Phoenician times and that has its maximum expression in the fishing villages of Cádiz, where this blue fish is caught every spring using the ancestral technique of the almadraba (tuna trap). The attendees were able to taste a special menu created for the occasion by the chef Fonsi Lillo. This second edition of the event has exceeded all expectations, registering an increase of more than 30% in attendance compared to last year, which had already been very well received. “There was a lot of expectation around the celebration of this second ronqueo at WOW Beach. Even before we announced it, we started to receive numerous calls asking if

we were going to repeat the event this year. But, even knowing the interest aroused, we have been surprised by the speed with which we reached sold out”, explained the Operations Director of Las

Colinas Golf & Country Club, Javier Rodríguez.

In addition to Balfegó, the restaurant umawa, Cielo de boca, Heineken, Mar de Frades

and Montabellón collaborated in this second edition of the ronqueo at WOW Beach. “It is a great satisfaction for us to see that this cultural and gastronomic

experience, which we decided to go for last year, has had such a spectacular reception. This encourages us to continue along

Thursday 20th June

00:40 UEFA EURO 2024 01:45 Teleshopping

04:00 Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace

04:50 Unwind with ITV

05:45 British Touring Car Championship

07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning

13:30 ITV Lunchtime News

13:50 ITV News London

14:00 Live: UEFA EURO 2024

17:15 Live: ITV Racing Live

19:00 ITV News London

19:30 Robson Green’s

Friday 21st June

Digging for Britain

20:30 Beechgrove Garden

21:00 Gardeners’ World

22:00 Chinook: Zulu Delta 576

23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight

Saturday 22nd June

19:20 Party Election Broadcast

19:30 ITV Evening News

20:15 Live: UEFA EURO 2024 23:30 ITV News

00:00 ITV News London

00:15 Emergency Nurses: A+E Stories

01:15 Made in Britain

01:45 Teleshopping

04:00 Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace

04:50 Unwind with ITV

06:05 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show

07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine

11:00 This Morning

13:30 Loose Women

14:00 ITV Lunchtime News

14:20 ITV News London

14:30 Live: ITV Racing Live

17:15 Live: UEFA EURO 2024

20:30 Emmerdale

21:00 Coronation Street

22:00 Beat the Chasers

23:00 ITV News at Ten

23:35 ITV News London

23:45 UEFA EURO 2024

The Larkins

04:50 Unwind with ITV

06:05 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show

07:00 Simply Raymond Blanc 07:25 Diamonds Are Forever 09:25 Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show 10:25 ITV News

10:30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning

12:40 Ainsley’s National Trust Cook Off

13:40 James Martin’s Great British Adventure

14:10 ITV Lunchtime News

14:30 Live: ITV Racing Live

17:15 Live: UEFA EURO 2024

20:10 Live: UEFA EURO 2024

23:30 ITV News

23:45 Face/Off

07:50 Cheers 08:15 Everybody Loves

Raymond 08:40 Everybody Loves

Raymond 09:05 Everybody Loves

Raymond 09:35 Everybody Loves

Raymond 10:05 Frasier 10:35 Frasier 11:05 Frasier 11:35 Frasier 12:05 Great Canal Journeys 13:05 Channel 4 News Summary 13:10 Help! We Bought a Village 14:10 Car S.O.S 15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun

17:00 A Place in the Sun

18:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 19:00 Four in a Bed 19:30 The Simpsons

20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Party Election Broadcast 21:00 The Supervet 22:00 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 23:00 Outrageous Homes

09:05 Everybody Loves

Raymond 09:35 Everybody Loves

Raymond

10:05 Frasier

10:35 Frasier

11:05 Frasier

11:35 Frasier

12:05 Great Canal Journeys

13:05 Channel 4 News

Summary

13:10 Help! We Bought a Village

14:10 Car S.O.S

15:10 Countdown

16:00 A Place in the Sun

17:00 A Place in the Sun

18:00 Sun, Sea and Selling

Houses

19:00 Four in a Bed

19:30 The Simpsons

20:00 Channel 4 News

20:55 Party Election

Broadcast

21:00 Dispatches

22:00 Celebrity Gogglebox

23:00 The Nevermet

06:55 Sunday Brunch

07:00 Frasier

07:25 Frasier

07:50 Frasier

08:15 The Simpsons

08:40 The Simpsons

09:05 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel 10:50 The Simpsons

11:20 The Simpsons

11:50 The Simpsons

12:20 The Simpsons

12:50 Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat

14:25 Couples Come Dine with Me

15:25 Four in a Bed

15:55 Four in a Bed

16:25 Four in a Bed

16:55 Four in a Bed

17:30 Four in a Bed

18:00 A Place in the Sun

19:00 Channel 4 News

19:30 Formula 1 21:00 Fisherman’s Friends: One and All 23:10 Taken

09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Peppa Pig 09:35 Peppa Pig 09:40 Peppa Pig

09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

09:55 Meet the Experts 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:15 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:20 Set Up By My Lover 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Party Election Broadcast 19:05 Police Interceptors 20:00 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble 21:00 Happy Campers: The Caravan Park 22:00 Cold Call 23:00 Category A: HMP Full Sutton

08:55 Milo 09:10 PAW Patrol

09:30 Peppa Pig

09:35 Peppa Pig 09:40 Peppa Pig

09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

09:55 Meet the Experts 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:15 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends

14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 She Went Missing

17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun

18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Party Election

Broadcast

19:05 Police Interceptors 20:00 Lidl: Behind The Scenes 24/7 21:00 Dalgliesh 23:00 Live: Boxing

08:25 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated

08:50 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 World’s Funniest Videos 10:30 Totally Bonkers Guinness World

08:15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series

08:25 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 08:50 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 World’s Funniest Videos 10:30 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 11:00 Love Bites 12:00 Love Bites 13:00 Dress to Impress 14:00 Deal or No Deal 15:00 Family Fortunes 16:00 Veronica Mars 17:00 Dawson’s Creek 18:00 Supermarket Sweep 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal 21:00 The Masked Singer US 22:00 Love Island 23:05 The Stand Up Sketch Show 23:35 Family Guy

09:10 PAW Patrol 09:35 Rubble & Crew 09:50 SpongeBob SquarePants 10:05 Entertainment News On 5 10:10 Cruising with Jane McDonald 10:25 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 11:15 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 12:15 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 13:10 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly 14:15 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly 15:10 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly 16:10 Our Yorkshire Farm 17:05 Our Yorkshire Farm 18:05 Secrets of the Heinz Factory 19:05 5 News Weekend 19:10 Party Election Broadcast 19:15 The Good Life: 50 Years of Laughter 20:45 Countdown to the Coronation: Inside Westminster Abbey 22:20 Kate: A Queen For The Future 23:20 When TV Goes Horribly Wrong 08:05 Dodo 08:20 Dodo 08:30 Scooby-Doo!

00:45 The Royal 01:35 Upstairs, Downstairs 02:35 Upstairs, Downstairs 03:30 Teleshopping 07:00 Classic Emmerdale 07:30 Classic Emmerdale 08:00 Classic Coronation Street 08:35 Classic Coronation Street 09:05 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 10:10 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 11:25 The Royal 12:35 Heartbeat 13:40 Heartbeat 14:40 Classic Emmerdale 15:10 Classic Emmerdale 15:40 Classic Coronation Street 16:15 Classic Coronation Street 16:50 Inspector Morse 19:00 Heartbeat 20:00 Heartbeat 21:00 Doc Martin 22:00 Shetland 23:20 Shetland

Sunday 23rd June

Raymond 08:35 Everybody Loves

Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 The Simpsons 10:00 The Simpsons 10:30 Sunday Brunch 13:30 The Simpsons 14:00 The Simpsons 14:30 The Simpsons 15:00 The Simpsons 15:30 The Simpsons 16:00 The Simpsons 16:30

Monday 24th June

08:35 The Adventures of Paddington

Mixmups 09:10 PAW Patrol 09:35 Rubble & Crew 09:50 SpongeBob SquarePants 10:05 Entertainment News On 5 10:10 Cruising with Jane McDonald 11:00 Cruising with Jane McDonald: Down Under 12:10 Cruising with Jane McDonald: Down Under 13:25 Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South 14:20 Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South 15:20 The Hotel Inspector 16:20 The Hotel Inspector 17:20 Britain’s Favourite Toys... Ever! 18:50 5 News Weekend 18:55 Party Election

19:00 The Canary Islands with Jane McDonald 21:00 Jane McDonald & Friends 22:00 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles 23:00 Frankie Howerd: In His Own Words

08:30 Scooby-Doo in Where’s My Mummy?

Tonight

Emmerdale

Coronation Street 22:00 Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace

ITV News 23:30 ITV News London 23:45 Peston

Frasier

Great Canal Journeys

Channel 4 News Summary 13:10 Help! We Bought a Village 14:10 Car S.O.S 15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun 17:00 Renovation Nation 18:00 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 19:00 Four in a Bed 19:30 The Simpsons 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Party Election

Bake Off: The Professionals

Dispatches 23:00 NHS in Crisis? The Debate

Milo

PAW Patrol 09:25 Milkshake! Craft Party 09:35 Peppa Pig 09:40 Peppa Pig 09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:55 Meet the Experts 10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:15 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Paralyzed by Danger 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Party Election Broadcast 19:05 Police Interceptors 20:00 Traffic Cops 21:00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders 22:00 The Hospital: Life On The Line 23:00 Autopsy

08:05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 08:15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 08:25 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 08:50 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 World’s Funniest Videos 10:30 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 11:00 Love Bites 12:00 Love Bites 13:00 Dress to Impress 14:00 Deal or No Deal 15:00 Family Fortunes 16:00 Veronica Mars 17:00 Dawson’s Creek 18:00 Dress to Impress 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal 21:00 The Masked Singer US 22:00 Love Island 23:05 Olivia Attwood: The Price of Perfection

02:50 Bless This House 03:20 Unwind with ITV 03:30 Teleshopping 07:00 Classic Emmerdale 07:35 Classic Emmerdale 08:00 Classic Coronation Street 08:35 Classic Coronation Street 09:05 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 10:10 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 11:30 The Royal 12:35 Heartbeat 13:40 Heartbeat 14:40 Classic Emmerdale 15:10 Classic Emmerdale 15:40 Classic Coronation Street 16:15 Classic Coronation Street

16:50 Inspector Morse 19:00 Heartbeat 20:00 Heartbeat 21:00 McDonald and Dodds 23:00 Wire in the Blood

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 offers.

Meetings at Dilly’s Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The Next meeting is on Wednesday 12th June 2024. You are welcome to attend.

“I have an old mobile phone which “How do I check on my Windows computer that my Apps are up to date”?

For Windows 10 and 11

1. Click the Microsoft Store icon. Available updates will download, and a button indicating available downloads will appear. If the button doesn’t appear, your computer may have not checked for updates yet.

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.

2. Click on the Library Icon on the left of the screen.

3. “Updates & Downloads” status is shown at the top of the screen.

4. Click on “Get updates”

“How do I get accents for characters on my mobile phone or tablet”? Accents or diacritics, such as the acute ⟨á or grave ⟨à indicate a difference in pronunciation. On the virtual keyboard on your phone or tablet, if a letter has an accent or accents available, they are available by pressing and “hold” on the letter you require. If accents are available for the chosen character they will be shown. By continuing to hold on to that character you can move to the accent option you require and when you release from the virtual keyboard that character (with the required accent) will be displayed.

“I have and use OneDrive and Google Drive on my Smartphone but do not see them on my Windows computer. Why”?

To access OneDrive and Google Drive using File Explorer you need to:

• For OneDrive, login to your computer using the same Microsoft account you use on your mobile

phone. Once you do that you can login to OneDrive using your Microsoft password.

• For Google Drive, you need to download “Google Drive for Desktop”. Once installed you need to login to the same Google account you use on your phone.

“I need to send someone a document by email which is larger than the permitted maximum file size. What can I do to send this file”?

Copy and Paste the required file into the Cloud Storage of your choice. Open File Explorer and find the file located on the Cloud Storage. Select the required file. Right-mouse click and select “Share”.

Select “Copy Link” and paste that into an email. When the recipient clicks on the link in the email they will download your file to their device from your Cloud Storage.

Brian Hoile

Technology Help Group

Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Costa Blanca Technology Help Group” Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com

We Need Your Help

Always help someone. You might be the only one that does.

Seagate are pleased to support the amazing charity A Helping Hand - a food and clothes bank charity. They support hundreds of families that are in poverty and in crisis and they urgently need food and clothes donations from you. There is a constant need for help with simply the basic staples such as tuna, toilet paper, milk, tinned food, pasta, rice, soup mix, baked beans, olive oil. They also need hygiene

items such as washing detergent, shower gel, shampoo as well as baby items needed are nappies, hero baby milk 1 and 2 and baby wipes.

As we begin 2024, they are hoping to be able to provide for families throughout the next few months when times are hardest. January, February, and March are the toughest times for this charity, so please spare a thought and give what you can. You can drop off

your donation to their base in San Luis on Tuesday or Friday morning from 10am until 1pm or at over 20 drop off places around the area –check their Facebook page for locations. There are many bars and restaurants that also support the charity, as does BIG FM who are also a drop off point. As the message on their Facebook page says, “Always Help Someone –You Might Be The Only One That Does”.

VISIT THE PICTURESQUE WALKING ROUTE AND

BIRD WATCHING PARADISE AT EL HONDO NATURE RESERVE IN CREVILLENTE

This beautiful protected nature reserve is located on the border of Elche and Crevillente where the rivers Rio Vinalopó and Rio Segura channel together to form a great natural lagoon.

It is considered one of the main wetlands of importance in the Valencian Community, since 1988 and was declared a natural park by the Generalitat Valenciana in 1994. The park appears on the RAMSAR lists and is classified as a ZEPA (Special

Protection Area for Birds), due to the relevance and abundance of its bird life.

The park is known for its tranquil ambiance, picturesque landscapes dominated by reeds & ponds, and the abundance of wildlife with different species of birds, ducks and flamingos. You can take a choice of walkways, stop at shaded observational spots where you sit for a rest, and appreciate plenty of bird watching along the way. El Hondo

Natural Park has a covered picnic area with its own bird watching station, and a visitor’s information centre with walking route suggestions, giving you the chance to discover as much of the park as you like and at your own pace. The visitors centre is open every day from 9am till 2pm and 12pm to 2pm on Saturdays. It has a mini exhibition hall presenting photographs of the reserve and informative panels about the area with audio visuals.

The actual nature reserve is open to the public every day, all day and with free entrance. There is a car park with ample spaces and toilets on site. The nature reserve can be found at the following location: Finca el Rincón, Azarbe de Afuera, s/n, 03158 San Felipe de Neri, Crevillent. If you would like to discover more delightful places like this on the Costa Blanca, you can visit the website at www.costablancascene. com

Maggie´s Aerobics back at the Emerald Isle, La Florida

Maggie´s Aerobics are now back at the Emerald Isle, La Florida from 9th June. Why not join them in the lovely warm water every Monday, Wednedsay and Friday from 10.00 am followed by a cup of coffee and a good chin wag with friends after.

Spanish Consumer Association issues health warning for 12 supermarket energy drinks

Spain’s Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) has issued a warning regarding energy drinks sold in many popular supermarket chains across the country. The warning specifically targets those drinks that exceed the recommended daily caffeine limit.

Today, supermarkets offer a wide array of energy drinks. Pioneering brands such as Red Bull and Monster are now accompanied by others like Burn, Crazy Tiger, Energety, Nocco, Rodeo, Reign, and Rockstar, along with numerous whitelabel, own-brand products marketed as energy drinks. According to the OCU, up to 12 energy drinks currently available in Spanish supermarkets surpass the recommended daily caffeine limit.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) provides guidelines for what constitutes a ‘safe’ caffeine intake, which

can vary depending on the individual. For healthy adults, up to 400mg of caffeine spread throughout the day is generally considered safe. This translates to about 5.7mg per kilogram of body weight. For instance, a person weighing 60 kg can safely consume up to 342mg of caffeine per day. For pregnant or breastfeeding women, up to 200mg per day is considered safe for the baby’s health. A single dose of caffeine up to 200mg, roughly 3mg per kilogram of body weight, is deemed safe for adults (non-pregnant), children, and adolescents. For an adolescent weighing about 50 kg, the maximum safe amount would be 150mg.

The OCU highlighted that consuming just one can of some energy drinks could exceed these recommendations. Reign Melon Mania, for example, contains 200mg of caffeine per 500ml

can, which is 100% of the safe single dose limit.

However, Reign Melon Mania is not alone in this regard. Based on EFSA’s guideline of 3mg per kilogram of body weight, a 50kg individual should not exceed 150mg of caffeine in one sitting, as this would reach the maximum safe level of consumption. As shown in the table below, 12 energy drinks meet or exceed 150mg of caffeine per can, the maximum daily amount recommended by EFSA for an adolescent weighing 50kg.

Bars & Restaurants

Claire Sweeney’s entertainment company had just £756 in it when she joined Coronation Street last year.

The soap star, 53, who is best known for her role in Brookside, has played homeless drug addict Cassandra Plummer on the ITV soap since June 2023, after taking a long break from acting.

Claire runs a company called Westmoreland Entertainments Ltd, and books filed to Companies House earlier this year show that the company was running low on cash at the time she landed the moneyspinning role.

A pair of Taylor Swift fans were left fuming after being sold £660 VIP tickets with a ‘restricted view’ at her Liverpool Eras gig at the Anfield stadium on Thursday.

The attendee, Zella, was left frustrated by her poor view of the concert and posted a video to TikTok, which quickly amassed over half a million views.

She wrote: ‘Paid £660 for VIP seats and this is our view. We asked and they won’t move us,’ she penned: ‘Actually going to cry.’

GEMMA Collins was told her mum could die after being rushed to hospital just hours after a family meal.

The 43-year-old got the shock of her life when Joan stopped breathing - and was told doctors would not resuscitate. The Towie star told The Sun about 69-year-old Joan’s terrifying health scare amid a turbulent few weeks.

Speaking at the book launch of Steve Bennett’s Fibre First diet, Gemma said: “I’ve had a lot of stress the last couple of weeks.

“My mum was suddenly taken into hospital and I was told she could die. “They would not resuscitate her if she went into cardiac arrest.

EMMERDALE star Hayley Tamaddon was rushed to hospital after suffering “horrendous” pain where she thought her “head was going to explode.”

The soap actress, 47, took to her Instagram page to describe her plight as she was sent to the medical ward and put on a drip. Hayley is known by Emmerdale for playing Del Dingle in the beloved Yorkshirebased soap.

Yet she was away from filming yesterday as illness struck.

Hayley took to her Instagram Stories to write: “Today. Woke up. Thought my head was gonna explode.

“Puked up twice. Took Jasper to nursery. Got ready for a photoshoot.

SHARON Osbourne has taken a swipe at Katie Price as she slammed her singing - and showered praise on Katie’s ex Peter Andre.

The outspoken star unleashed her acid tongue and got her family in on the act, with husband Ozzy and their kids Kelly, 38, and Jack, 39, all pouring scorn on Katie. They discussed everything from Katie’s career to her plastic surgery obsession and her love of singing.

And The Osbournes, who are said to have a combined £341 million, didn’t have many good things to say about bankrupt Katie.

Sharon kicked off the attack by bringing up Katie’s first husband and said: “Peter Andre, I was saying, we like him, he’s a really good guy. “But singing, with, she was, oh my god.”

Sunday carvery extended at Hotel Algorfa

IThis week at hotel algorfa we’ve expanded our selection at the carvery with the addition of now 4 meats to choose from and now you can expect to find cauliflower cheese included in the buffet style, self-serve dishes at no additional cost! This was much appreciated by our customers who complemented the carvery throughout. Christina’s aqua

aerobics has proved popular so far - her upbeat, Spanish music themed aqua dance routine is a great start to the day and you can most definitely feel the effects later on. Christina has a range of expansive skills including scuba diving and synchronised swimming that will increase the activities in the pool over the summer so watch our Facebook page for

what’s upcoming! The team are now preparing for a busy summer of entertainment with the very best line ups every weekend. Our dedicated group of staff are working tirelessly to provide a great service to include new menus, expanding the onsite supermarket and not to mention the addition of another 10 new rooms! Find us on page 2 for all upcoming events.journey.

To our guests, thank you for your continued support and for making Hotel Algorfa your home away from home. To potential new team members, we look forward to welcoming you to the Truscott family and working together to create memorable experiences for all who visit our hotel. Please send your CV to accounts@ hotelalgorfa.es or bring them into the hotel in person.

In these times of growth, Hotel Algorfa stands as a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and community support. We look forward to a bright future and the many opportunities ahead. For more information on upcoming events, find us on page 2!

Health & Beauty

Taking Ginger and Turmeric together

Turmeric and ginger are popular spices and supplements with Asian origins. They’re a part of the same plant family Zingiberaceae and share origins of being used in traditional medicine in India and China for centuries.

issue, but nothing changes.

This is going to be tough I am afraid. You have got yourself and your children into bad habits, and I am sorry to say that they may not have much respect for you if they know you are such an easy touch. As for wanting to change things now, you can tell them that the last hand-out will absolutely have to be the last, because you simply do not have the money to spare. You must stress that you know they will understand, and you are certain that because they love you, they would not want you to endure any personal hardship. You may have to come clean and tell them your true feelings about how they treat you; now is not the time to pussy foot.

I have given my children money whenever they have asked for it - thousands and thousands over the years. When they turned 18 they each got a car, they’ve had televisions brought for them, computers and devices updated at every turn, clothes galore, and I never asked them for housekeeping. Since they got their partners I only hear from them when they want something. My sister was constantly telling me that I should have them earn pocket money by doing chores, so that they know the value of money; I am starting to see she had a point; her children have turned out great, are well-balanced, and see their parents often. I know I have brought this upon myself, but how can I change things now? Since I retired, I am on a fixed income and I have to budget. All the I get from them is them saying I should go back to work, but I want to work less and enjoy my life now. The only time I get to see them is if I have some cash for them. As it is, they ask for a bank transfer; if I did this I would not see them at all. Now the youngest daughter is expecting a baby; her prospective mother in law is more in their life that I am, and I am seeing the writing on the wall; that they will likely not include me much in the baby’s life. Up to now I’ve not raised the 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.

So, does sunscreen reduce wWhen scrolling through your Instagram feed or watching your favourite celebrities strut the red carpet, it is as if they are resistant to imperfections with radiant skin and flawless makeup, have you ever wondered how A Listers achieve that red carpet glow. What if we told you that you too could wake up each morning looking and feeling fabulous, ready to take on your day. If you are just as intrigued as we are, then you will love our guide to the most popular celebrity facials, all of which you can book in at Indiana’s hair & lash boutique .

So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at

some celebrity favourite beauty treatments:

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning has been named “Hollywood’s biggest skincare secret”, and we can definitely see why stars wanted to keep this glow-boosting treatment all to themselves!

Designed to remove the upper layer of skin cells, along with the annoying ‘peach fuzz’, dermaplaning allows you to exfoliate the skin thoroughly. To do this, a specialist blade will be used to very gently scrape away any old, dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, healthy layer of skin There are several fantastic benefits of dermaplaning, the main of which being

that it is effective on all ages and most skin types. It is an excellent way to revitalise dull, dry or sun-damaged skin while unclogging your pores and resmoothing texture.

Laser Carbon Peel

One of Angelina Jolie’s favourite facials is the laser carbon peel, designed to banish fine lines and blemishes to produce radiant, glowing and youthful skin. The treatment contains two stages, whereby the carbon product is applied to the skin to begin drawing out any toxins and contaminants, and is then removed using an innovative laser. The pores are cleansed of any built-up dirt thanks to the heat from the laser, leaving your skin feeling smooth and looking youthful.

The great thing about the laser carbon peel is that it doesn’t have to be used only on the face. You can also choose to have laser carbon peel on the neck and hands, reducing fine lines, targeting acne scars and much more.

Microneedling By far, one of the most popular treatments in the celebrity world is

Turmeric has traditionally been used to relieve the common cold and treat digestive, skin, and upper respiratory tract disorders.1 It’s most widely touted for reducing inflammation. Ginger is often used for its digestive benefits, particularly for relieving nausea and pain, along with its immune health benefits.2

Taking ginger and turmeric together may reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammation-related illnesses such as arthritis, digestive diseases, and even diabetes. However, taking them together may also have further potential risks.

There’s not much research on the combined benefits of turmeric and ginger, but some studies have found promising results.

A recent study evaluated the effects of an herbal supplement containing turmeric extract, ginger, and black pepper compared to Naproxen—a

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)—on participants with knee osteoarthritis. After four weeks, the participants had significant decreases in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)—a compound that plays a role in inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis.12

Black pepper greatly improves turmeric’s bioavailability—your body’s ability to absorb it—which may have increased the turmeric’s benefit as part of the herbal supplement in the study.3

Turmeric and ginger both exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity on the body and they’re generally well-tolerated, so combining them may help reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress in the body.13

Another recent study found that turmeric and ginger have a synergistic effect when it comes to fighting inflammation, meaning they work better against inflammation when used together. However, this study was conducted on animals and human cells in test tubes, so person-based studies are needed to confirm the effect on human bodies.

microneedling. So, how does microneedling work? Well, it is pretty straightforward. By making tiny punctures to the skin, you kickstart the natural healing process, promoting health while increasing collagen and elastin production. Together, this boosts your cell turnover, replacing any old, damaged cells with fresh, healthy skin that looks and feels radiant. Microneedling can also be a fantastic way to reduce common signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles, without using injectables. Due to the improvement in collagen and elastin production, your skin will look visibly smoother and more youthful while feeling much firmer

Radio frequency

This in turn triggers the natural production of collagen which results in improved skin structure and a firmer, healthier, more appearance.youthful-looking

The even better news is that it continues to promote collagen production over the next 4 to 6 weeks following the treatment, so you’ll see the results improve even more as time goes on.

Lashes

Every celebrity is always armed with fluttering eyelashes as they pose on the red carpet, and you’ll be pleased to know that it couldn’t be easier to replicate this look, at Indiana’s hair and lash boutique we offer individual lashes and also LVL Lash lift & tint.

With so many wonderful treatments to choose from, you most definitely will not be short of inspiration for treating yourself.

Just walking for four minutes per day may lower cancer risk

We’ve been told for decades that walking 10,000 steps per day—or racking up 150 minutes of physical activity per week, no matter what method you choose—should be our goal. But a growing body of scientific evidence is shining a spotlight on the fact that you’ll start to accrue some serious gains at levels far lower than that. (For example, we learned last September that walking for 2 minutes after meals can help lower blood sugar.)

If you feel daunted by going from couch to 10,000 steps or 150 minutes, listen up: A new study published July 27, 2023, in the journal JAMA Oncology suggests that just 4 to 5 minutes of “vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity” is enough to significantly lower cancer risk.

Researchers at the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre in Australia noticed that previous studies suggested that adults who don’t exercise appear to be at higher risk for developing 13 kinds of cancers (breast, endometrial, colorectal, liver, kidney, lung and more), but noticed that there was a knowledge gap about how much exercise might move the needle.

“More than 1,800 cancer cases diagnosed in Australia this year are likely to be the direct result of physical inactivity,” professor Karen Canfell, D.Phil., director

of the Daffodil Centre at the University of Sydney, explains in a University of Sydney news release.

Sedentary lifestyles are prevalent here in the U.S. as well: about 6 in 10 American adults don’t meet the recommended activity guidelines (those aforementioned 150 minutes of aerobic exercise, plus two full-body strength workouts per week)—and 25% of adults aren’t active at all, according to the latest estimates from the

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The researchers involved in this study wanted to try to determine the impact of small bursts of movement. They decided to call these bursts vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA), and they placed everything from vigorous housework and carrying a heavy basket around the supermarket to quick power walking to get the mail or playing active games with

kiddos under this umbrella.

“VILPA is a bit like applying the principles of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to your everyday life,” Emmanuel Stamatakis, Ph.D., lead author of this study, as well as a professor of physical activity, lifestyle and population health at the School of Health Sciences at the University of Sydney, adds in the news release.

Bouts as short as one minute “count,” Stamatakis and his team confirm. (By the way, yes, lower-intensity activities like yoga and walking can be effective enough to qualify as exercise, too. But you have to invest more time than you would for VILPA to score health benefits.)

Using data from 22,398 people enrolled in the UK Biobank, a database of biomedical information from more than 500,000 United Kingdom residents often used for research purposes, the researchers dove into details gathered from wrist accelerometers for seven days. Then, they compared these activity rates to the health outcomes noted in clinical health records for seven years. The pool of participants had an average age of 62, and they did not normally exercise or take leisurely walks during their free time. The researchers excluded individuals who had received a previous cancer diagnosis,

or who had been diagnosed during the first year (since that was likely not enough time for any VILPA to make a difference on health outcomes). They also controlled for age, smoking status, sleep habits, genetics, diet and body size.

During the seven-year follow-up, the study authors found that 2,356 cancer cases had been diagnosed, and about 1,084 cases were cancers that they think may be less likely if more physical activity was present. About 92% of VILPA bouts lasted about 1 minute, and those who racked up 3½ minutes of VILPA per day appeared to be at 18% lower risk for cancer (compared to their peers who did none). Just 4½ minutes of VILPA daily was linked to 32% lower risk for physical-activity-related cancers, the researchers note. The benefits continue to build with more activity, but that’s a significant shift accomplished in a timespan that’s equivalent to a couple commercial breaks or one pop song.

The study authors admit that, as of now, they’re still unsure of exactly why this occurs. However, they believe VILPA’s relationship to lower cancer risk may be related to better cardio-respiratory fitness, changes in insulin sensitivity and lower levels of chronic inflammation.

Five worst drinks for hydration

Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks, such as sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened teas, can cause dehydration. According to registered dietitian Brittany Lubeck, M.S., RDN, beverages containing fructose and glucose, common sugars in these drinks, have been linked to worsening dehydration. These drinks often contain high amounts of sugar, requiring your body to dilute the sugar by drawing water from your tissues, which can lead to dehydration over time. Additionally, sodas can increase oxidative stress on the kidneys, which are crucial for maintaining hydration. While occasional consumption is fine, regularly drinking sugary beverages in large quantities can be problematic.

Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine has a diuretic effect, leading to increased urination. However, the fluid from your morning coffee generally offsets this effect, and having two or three cups doesn’t typically impact your hydration. Problems arise with excessive caffeine intake, which can be dehydrating. Lubeck suggests limiting excessive caffeine consumption and drinking plenty of water after consuming coffee, tea, energy drinks, soda, or other caffeinated beverages. Opt for decaffeinated versions or herbal teas to reduce caffeine intake.

Alcohol

Alcohol is another diuretic that increases bathroom trips. Lubeck explains that alcohol inhibits vasopressin, an antidiuretic hormone that helps with water retention. Without drinking water or other hydrating beverages along with alcohol, dehydration can occur. To maintain fluid balance, drink a glass of water between alcoholic drinks or choose loweralcohol options like spritzers. Adhere to the recommended limit of one drink per day for women and two drinks for men.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks often have high levels of caffeine and sugar, which together can significantly dehydrate your body. Caffeine increases urination, while sugar can disrupt fluid balance.

Instead, choose natural energyboosting alternatives like green tea, matcha, or coconut water. You can also make your own energy drink to control the ingredients and reduce added sugar and calories, such as the EatingWell Energy Drink with green tea and yerba maté.

Fruit Juice

While fruit juice can be hydrating, some varieties, such as fruit punch, lemonades, juice cocktails, or fruit-flavored drinks, contain a lot of added sugar. Drinking these throughout the day can contribute to dehydration and increased calorie intake. Instead, choose whole fruits over juice to get fiber and other nutrients that help keep you hydrated. If you drink juice, look for 100% juice with pulp to get some fiber and enjoy it in moderation.

Health Council set up to promote local participation and dialogue

The Torrevieja Health Department has formed its new Health Council, a participatory body aimed at improving healthcare and promoting public health in the area.

The Torrevieja Health Council has been formed with the aim of fostering collaboration between the various stakeholders in the local healthcare system, including healthcare professionals, patient representatives, patient associations, public health and local authorities. This council will serve as a platform to discuss and propose solutions to health challenges, as well as to ensure that health policies respond effectively to the needs of the community.

The constitution ceremony took place on Tuesday morning, June 11. During the event, the importance of citizen participation in health-related decision-making was emphasized and the main objectives of the council were highlighted.

One of the first actions of this council will be to analyze the situation of the state of health and its determinants of each of the municipalities that make up the Department of Torrevieja, as well as identify and promote community health actions through participatory projects.

For the manager of the department, José Cano, “the creation of the Health Council

is a fundamental step towards a more inclusive and participatory healthcare system. We are committed to the continuous improvement of health services and firmly believe in the value of collaboration with the community,” he stressed.

For his part, the president of the Health Council and mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “this council gives us a unique opportunity to make our voices heard and actively contribute to the improvement of healthcare. We are very grateful for this space for dialogue and cooperation.”

The Torrevieja Health Council will meet periodically to review and evaluate the policies and actions implemented, thus ensuring constant monitoring and continuous improvement of the healthcare services offered to the population.

Seventy

percent of the

Spanish public

believe there are too many cars on the roads

The total number of passenger cars, commercial vehicles, lorries, and buses on Spanish roads rose by 1.01% last year, reaching 30,722,465 vehicles. The average age of vehicles in Spain continues to rise, now exceeding 14 years. Specifically, passenger cars average 14.2 years, light commercial vehicles or vans are 14.4 years, larger commercial vehicles and lorries are 14.9 years, while buses remain at 11.8 years, according to a report by IDEAUTO based on data from the DirectorateGeneral of Traffic (DGT). This increase in vehicles, particularly in cities, has led to a significant portion of the public—seven out of ten— believing there are too many private cars in their city. This finding comes from a study on the use of multi-mobility transport modes for commuting in Spain, conducted by the FREENOW taxi-booking app. Multi-mobility is gaining importance in Spanish society. There has been a notable rise in the use of micromobility vehicles such as electric bikes, scooters, mopeds, and motorbikes, as well as car-sharing. Currently, 43% of the population has used one of these transport modes at some point, up from 32% in 2023. Those who use multi-mobility the most are aged 26 to 35 (65%), followed by those aged 18 to

25 (58%) and 36 to 45 (54%).

While some people are still hesitant to adopt new commuting options, the increase is largely due to the convenience these options offer for city travel (41% versus 23% in 2023). Other popular reasons include speed (35%) and ease of parking in city centers (34% versus 13% in 2023).

Regarding the frequency of use, 44% of the population utilize these modes of transport several times a month, mainly for leisure (57%, primarily those aged 26 to 35) and work (23%, mostly those aged 18 to 25).

Currently, one of the main challenges is achieving fast and efficient mobility. Shared mobility is proving popular in this new travel framework. Among all multi-mobility transport modes, car-sharing is the most favored (27%), followed by car rentals (22%) and electric scooters (21% versus 11% in 2023). Only 5.7% of vehicles in Spain are low or zero emissions. There are 9,036,129 vehicles without an emissions badge (29.4% of the total), in addition to 9,141,364 vehicles in category B (29.8% of the total).

Slowdown in electrical car sales

The slowdown in electric car sales has raised significant concerns in Europe, particularly with the continent’s goal to ban non-zeroemission cars by 2035. This would mean only electric, hydrogen, or synthetic fuel-powered vehicles could be registered. In response, manufacturers are shifting focus to promoting non-plug-in hybrid models, which are currently more successful, while striving to remain competitive against Chinese rivals planning to manufacture in Europe at low prices. The industry is now urging the new European Parliament for additional support.

Early 2024 registration data indicate a shift in trends. For the first time, the market share of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles has declined compared to the previous year. From January to April, electric and plugin hybrids accounted for 12% and 7.2% of EU sales, respectively, slightly below 2023 figures. Meanwhile, non-plug-in hybrids have increased their share from 22.7% to 29%.

In Spain, the situation is more concerning. By May, electric cars made up only 4.5% of the market, and plug-in hybrids 5.9%, both lower than in 2023. Although sales are growing, they lag behind the rapid increase in hybrid vehicle registrations, now representing 36% of the market. Faconauto, the Spanish dealers’ association, attributes this to the high price of electric cars, suggesting that those who could afford them

have already bought them. They advocate for stronger incentives, such as Navarre’s tax deduction of 30% of the purchase price, and call for the renewal of the Moves aid plan, which offers subsidies of up to 7,000 euros per vehicle.

Inadequate charging infrastructure is another factor slowing sales.

The sight of long queues at Tesla charging stations during Easter has eroded consumer confidence. Spain, with only 32,422 electric charging stations by April’s end, is far behind its target of 63,500 for the year.

This issue is widespread in the EU, with two-thirds of charging points concentrated in the Netherlands, France, and Germany. The European automotive industry body ACEA has called for greater political support, arguing that ambitious electrification targets require equally ambitious implementation conditions.

ACEA’s director general, Sigrid de Vries, emphasized the need for more substantial action in Europe.

Facing these challenges, manufacturers with 250 billion euros invested in the transition are reevaluating their plans. In early May, Mercedes-Benz announced it would not meet its 2030 electrification goal and will continue producing hybrid and combustion-engine vehicles if demand persists. Similarly, Stellantis adjusted timelines for its battery plant projects in Germany. Ford, which suspended its electrification plans for Europe last year, will now

produce a hybrid version of a multienergy car in Almussafes instead of the initially planned electric model.

European manufacturers are seeking ways to lower electric car prices to stay competitive. If unsuccessful, Chinese competitors, who dominate the battery supply market, could capture significant market share. Although Brussels announced an investigation in September to slow down Chinese imports, the impact remains unclear, and it is unlikely to impose tariffs as high as the U.S.’s 100% tariff starting August 1. Asian companies are already planning to manufacture in Europe to bypass these tariffs, with Chery setting up in the former Nissan factory. The Spanish employers’ association Anfac suggests focusing on encouraging clean mobility rather than penalizing manufacturers with CO2 emission fines.

Volkswagen recently announced plans to introduce 20,000-euro electric vehicles by 2027 and several 25,000-euro models by 2025, requesting EU support to achieve this. CEO Tomas Shaefer stated that successful electromobility in Europe requires political backing and competitive conditions. Some European brands are collaborating with Chinese manufacturers under the principle: “if you can’t beat your enemy, join them.” Stellantis, for example, plans to market cars from its Chinese partner Leapmotor starting in September.

Classifieds

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 offer 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 - Service starts 6.30PM every Thursday. Contact Dot 634 320 013 Email: dorothydorothy608@gmail.com

LOCKSMITHS

EDS? We have the solution, kamagra pills and jells, cialis, sidenafil, over 7 products for men and ladies, mixed trial packs, available by mail order. whatsApp or call 603 11 73 94. (1046)

Playa Flamenca (Zenia Mar) Original Spanish Lady, 35, very attractive offers complete service & erotic massages, private house, very discreet with parking, has medical cert. Call Ana on 657603495

“Lia”, Erotic Massage in Punta Prima, Orihuela Costa. Tantric massage, body to body with happy ending. Call or WhatsApp 653958958 (1051)

Melissa, 28... Latine, New in House 75. www. sensualspain.net, Tel: 602662458 (1045)

Bisexual woman, 64, petite, long dark hair, outside Quesada, bring a friend with you for discount. 711006560 Tracy (1044)

Mature bisexual petite woman with mature partner both 64 would like to meet men and women couples for fun outside San Miguel Tel whatsapp +447922880477 (1046)

Mery in La Zenia House 75 only this week tel 672539332 www.sensualspain.net (1048)

Classified ads from as little as €4.20 per week

Telephone: 607031113 / 647472825

Attractive

Experience the best with a one hour unique massage with Veronica. Appointments call 679292678 (1052)

Raquel, A high class, sophisticated sexy UK transgender escort in Torrevieja, elegant, alluring, slender leggy brunette. Catering exclusively to the desires of discerning gentlemen, offering unparalleled experience tailored exclusively to you. Strictly advance bookings only, either an intermate in call at my penthouse, or the convenience of an outcall at your hotel/ apartment. WhatsApp me on (+34) 711 05 34 07 (1047)

Coral sexy scultptured body, big breasts all fantasies, La Zenia CC Zenia Boulevard, www.sensualspain.net, Tel 614191972 (1046) www.sensualspain.net

Solange 36, qualified masseusse, enjoy the best reflexology too. Only available Sundays and Mondays Tel. 656314941 (1047)

Sophie Elégante, French, Sexy, Naughty Lady. Speaks 3 languages. Priv. apartment VillaMartin. Also visits all areas. Tel: 693 357 526 (1053)

Girlfriend, escort, professional masseuse. Speaks 3 languages Tel: 693 357 526 ( 1053)

Lo Crispin Golf Society at Roda Golf

At Roda Golf on the 12th. June, 26 members and 2 guests ‘teed it up’ to compete for the Society’s Committee Trophy. Although the threatened thunderstorms did not materialise, there was the odd rumble of thunder in the distance. The rain did come and go for the best part of three hours. Despite the rain of recent days the course was generally in good condition, but failed to dampen the enthusiasm and spirits of most players. Following the game most of us, as usual, returned to the Lo Crispin Tavern where the day’s prizes were distributed and welcome Tapas was supplied.

Gold Division

1st Place - Dean Astley 36 pts off 19 (Winner of the Committee Trophy)

2nd Place - Andy Quinn 32 pts off 8 on count back

3rd Place - Steve Price 32 pts off 19

Silver Place

1st Place - Paul Flanaghan 32 pts off 29

2nd Place - Keith Rennison 28 pts off 28

3rd Place - Jerry Baker 27 pts 20

N.T. P. on Par 3s

Hole 2 - Nobody

Hole 7 - Steve Price

Hole 11 - Andy Quinn

Hole 13 - Gordon Campbell

Nobody achieved a 2 so the 2s pot will be rolled over to 26th June.

The Free Game Draw was won by Carl Rodel. Our next game is an inter Society match against Quesada Golf Society at Vistabella on 19th June.

Steve Harrington (Membership Secretary)

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to play doubles together at the Paris Olympics

Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles for Spain at this summer’s Paris Olympics, the Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) announced on Wednesday.

This announcement follows 21-year-old Alcaraz’s first French Open victory, earning his third Grand Slam title. The Olympic tennis matches will be held on the same courts used annually for the French Open, where Nadal has won a record 14 times.

Alcaraz, who will be making his Olympic debut, is widely regarded as Nadal’s successor in Spanish tennis and has often expressed his admiration for Nadal as his childhood hero.

“Rafa and Carlos will be playing together in Paris,” said Spain captain David Ferrer while announcing the squad.

Winning an Olympic medal is a top career goal for Alcaraz.

After his Roland Garros victory, he mentioned that he would prefer to win a gold medal at the Paris Olympics over defending his Wimbledon title this year.

“The Olympic Games are every four years, and it’s a special tournament where you’re not only playing for yourself but for your country, representing every Spaniard,” said the No. 2-ranked Alcaraz. “I think this year I’d choose Olympic gold.”

Nadal, 38, who will also compete in singles, already has Olympic gold medals in singles (2008) and doubles (2016 with Marc López) to accompany his 22 Grand Slam titles. Nadal, who was defeated by Alexander Zverev in the first round of Roland Garros this year, has indicated that this is likely his final year on tour due to a series of injuries.

The Spanish men’s squad also includes world number 32 Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Pablo Carreño, and number two-ranked doubles player Marcel Granollers.

On the women’s side, Spanish number one Sara Sorribes and world number 67 Cristina Bucsa have been selected. Former world number two Paula Badosa, now ranked 118 and dealing with injuries, will not be part of the squad for Paris.

“We have the chance of winning two or three medals at the Olympics,” said RFET president Miguel Díaz Roman.

All national federations must finalize their lists for the Games by 19 June. The Paris Olympics will take place from 26 July to 11 August.

On Tuesday the 11th of June we made the worthwhile journey into the Murcia region to fish two consecutive matches at the wonderful Embalse De Argos, situated near to Carravaca De la Cruz. With talk of gota frias, thunder storms and very heavy rain, the first day was uneventful weather wise, with the match fished mainly in sunshine with the very odd light shower.

I have often said that this lake has the potential to be one of the best in Spain and on these two days it certainly did not disappoint with some fantastic weights enjoyed by numerous anglers. I was unable to fish the first day only able to arrive at about 1pm. I made the most of this so did some filming of what turned out to be a fantastic

match.

Winner on the first day was Willy moons, Willy was drawn on the first peg on the sunny side, which for some reason only known to Richard Wood was peg 7. After a slow start Willy using mainly the method feeder with wafter, corn or pellet started to catch some lovely carp, most coming as soon as the feeder hit the bottom. His 38.04kg was enough to secure a narrow victory.

In Second place was Bill Cannon, Bill was drawn half way along the sunny side in the trees on peg 4. He fished mainly the slow sinker with pellets and weighed 36.02kg of carp with the odd barbel thrown in for good measure.

In third place was Dennis Clarke. He was drawn on the first peg on the

cold side. Dennis fished the feeder with liquidised bread and bread on the hook. The weights on this side were very close but his 35.02kg just got him the section win.

Rods N Reels.

The following day the weather was once again decent. Slight cloud cover and a light breeze made fishing conditions initially perfect. About half way through the match we had a quite heavy shower that lasted about 20 minutes and we thought that we had got away with the weather until the last 15 minutes of the match. At this point the heavens opened and we had one of the worst downpours that I have ever fished in whilst in Spain. The muddy banks made several

comperitors look like Bambi on ice and the weigh sheets were virtually unreadable. My brand new car is not a pretty sight this morning with more sand in it than Torrevieja beach.

Forgetting the weather the venue once again fished fantastically and once again the winner was the likeable Belgian, Willy Moons. Willy was again pegged on the sunny side but this time at the far end. He again fished the feeder and caught carp steadily all day and weighed 48.53kg.

In second place was Barry Smith from the second peg in on the cold side with 47.50kg. Barry fished the feeder with maggots and after the downpour was not a pretty sight getting into his car with bear feet and underpants.

In third place was the enigma that is Richard Wood. Richard was drawn on the previous days winning peg 7, the first peg on the sunny side. He fished the method feeder with Waaafters as he calls them and weighed 47.20kg. Richard refused initially to weigh in during the thunderstorm in fear of getting his trousers dirty but after a swift kick up the backside he eventually succumbed. He is probably still there as I write, cleaning off his tackle and trying to put a demi wave back into his locks.

Overall as I said the venue fished fantastic with an average weight of nearly 30kg per man on the second day. Well done to all that took part and helped.