Woman kills her partner after an argument in Orihuela Costa
A 49-year-old Norwegian woman has been arrested in Orihuela Costa for allegedly stabbing her 45-year-old husband to death after an argument. The couple´s three children aged 6, 8 and 10 where in the family home at the time of the incident.
The accused was injured after having been previously attacked by her husband and was taken to a hospital, where she was under the custody of the Civil Guard after being detained and underwent surgery for an injury to her arm.
The incident happened in an isolated house located in PAU-9 of Orihuela Costa, close to the border with Torrevieja. It was the woman herself who called 112 at around 1:35 in the morning. She said that she had had an argument with her partner and that after being attacked she had stabbed her husband in self-defence. She told the emergency services operator she had stabbed him at least three times with a kitchen knife. One of the stab wounds damaged his heart and the woman told 112 that she thought he was dead and then she waited for the arrival of the Civil Guard and other emergency services.
The medical services arrived at the scene but were unable to do anything to save the man’s life. The woman was arrested and treated for her injuries before being later transferred to a hospital. O cers from the Guardia Civil barracks in Torre de la Horadada also
attended the scene.
The children are in a shelter as it has not been possible to locate any close relatives who also live in Orihuela Costa. O cers from the Women Minors Team and the Homicide Unit of the Alicante Command also went to the area after learning of what had happened.
The body was taken early in the morning to the Institute of Legal Medicine in Alicante, where an autopsy was scheduled to be performed this morning.
The Civil Guard has no record of gender-based violence between the Norwegian couple. However, an investigation is underway to determine whether there may be a history of abuse in their country of origin.
The body was taken early in the morning to the Institute of Legal Medicine in Alicante, where an autopsy was scheduled to be performed this morning.
The Civil Guard has no record of gender-based violence within the Norwegian couple. However, an investigation is underway to determine whether there may be a history of abuse in their country of origin.
Brother alleges abuse
The brother of the accused ew from Norway as soon as he heard what had happened and has claimed his sister acted in self-defence and lived in terror of her husband. He told regional daily newspapers Informacion that his sister was kept as if in prison in a house where there are no neighbours, and no one passes by.
She claims it was the fourth her husband had attacked, but she never reported him for fear of what he might do if she did. It is alleged that the deceased had previously threatened to kill her two older children, who were from a previous relationship and live in Norway.
Despite calls for the accused to be treated as a victim of gender violence, the judge presiding over the case on Saturday made the decision to provisionally imprison the woman without bail. The decision was made after the woman gave her statement to the duty judge and the case was opened as a crime of murder.
Summer Cinema arrives in Orihuela
Summer Cinema is coming to Orihuela with a total of seven sessions spread across the districts, the city and the coast. The Councillor for Youth, Anabel García, was in charge of presenting the programme designed for all audiences. The lms will be screened free of charge at 9.30pm with popcorn being handed out, as well as o ering an area for the little ones “where they can have fun before and after the screenings” said the councillor.
The Summer Cinema programme started on Saturday (3rd August) on Fragata Street in Punta Prima, Orihuela Costa, with the lm Shazam: Fury of the Gods; on 9th August at Murcia Street in Montepinar, Super Mario Bros will be screened; on 10th August in La Cruz de San Bartolomé Park, it will be the lm Sonic 2; on 14th August in Plaza del Obispo Almarcha in La Murada, Mummies will be screened; on 17th August in Plaza de la Iglesia in La Matanza, The World’s Worst Neighbour; on 24th August in the La Aparecida festival grounds, the lm Fast X will be shown; and on August 30th, at the Glorieta Gabriel Miró, in the centre of Orihuela, the lm “Wonka” will end the Summer Cinema nights.
Valencian community municipalities to set tourist let limits
Each council in the Valencian Community will be able to set its own limits on tourist accommodation licences- depending on the situation in their area. This comes hot on the heels of tough measures announced by Valencian Trade and Tourism minister Nuria Montes.
Spain’s Valencia region, one of Europe’s most popular beach destinations, is cracking down on short-term vacation rentals as o cials nationwide grapple with growing anger over mass tourism. The regional government will ne homeowners as much as €600,000 for renting rooms for short-term vacations, Nuria Montes added. The government will immediately alert platforms they need to take out these kinds of rentals. The “unorderly growth” of short-term rentals “creates damaging e ects which, in the case of tourist apartments, could create social problems, a drop in housing supplies and the consequent increase in prices,” Carlos Mazon, the Valencia president, said during the presentation.
Tourist rentals in Valencia have surged 170% from 2015, according to data provided by Montes. In the city of Valencia, most new apartments destined for tourist use will be limited to ground- oor and rst- oor units.
Buildings that are used entirely for holiday rentals will require a hotel-like license, and new ones may not open in Ciutat Vella, the historical part of town.
A raft of measures to deal with tourist saturation and unlicenced apartments is expected to be approved by the Valencian cabinet in the coming week. This includes o ering a 24-hour contact service and o er internet access. Tourism rentals will require a ve-year license to operate and will be responsible for checking and recording the identity of all guests aged over 16. Key lock boxes will be banned on outside walls and public areas. Apartments will be checked against certain standards including a ban on using butane gas for heating or cooking.
It is believed these measures will ush out illegal lets and will also give local authorities wide latitude to regulate holiday rentals according to their own needs.
“With this new legislation, municipalities are going to take back control of what properties may be used for, and in Valencia we are going to raise a big entrance barrier to ensure the trend does not grow in future,” said Sandra Gómez, the deputy mayor of Valencia.
Pilar celebrates 38th anniversary of independence
Pilar de la Horadada has celebrated the 38th anniversary of its independence from the municipality of Orihuela. The event was marked on 30th July in the Plaza de la Iglesia. They focused on a tribute to the Plus Ultra Academy that trained many young people from Pilar at the time when the neighbours fought for segregation.
More than a thousand residents were able to enjoy a documentary on the town directed by María García Samper and edited by the Department of Culture, which reflected the cultural weight and training that the Plus Ultra academy achieved at that time, with a teaching staff that led young people towards a different future than the one they had outlined, in the context of a time of austerity, allowing them to access opportunities.
Three former students: Emilia Sánchez Moya, María García Giménez and Antonio
Ballester López shared their experiences and testimonies at the academy, as well as the mark it left on their lives.
The mayor José María Pérez Sánchez and the councillor for Culture, Darío Quesada, in addition to recognising the work of the director of the academy, Carlos Martínez, welcomed on stage Florentina Adiego Aransay, Consuelo Zapata Samper, Mari Fina Moya Pérez, Isabel Castejón Martínez, representing her brother José Antonio, and Mari Sol Izquierdo.
The mayor closed the event by praising the importance of the academy and the legacy it has left in Pilar de la Horadada. His speech ended with the sound of bells and fireworks that gave voice and light to the façade of the parish church, which for so many years served as the stage for the segregation process and even for the celebration of the birth of the Pilar municipality.
Teenager seriously injured after being run over by a concrete mixer in Redován
A 15-year-old teenager was seriously injured, with several fractures, after being run over by a cement mixer truck on the Sierra de Redován road.
The accident occurred shortly before 6.30pm when a group of young people were riding bicycles along this road that connects the town of Redován with the San Carlos neighbourhood and the N-340.
It was at the cemetery that the group of teenagers stopped after seeing that the concrete mixer was about to perform a manoeuvre to join the road. But at one point, it seems, one of the minors continued driving at the same time as the vehicle was reversing and was run over by the truck.
The minor who was seriously injured is a resident of
Redován and was transferred by helicopter to the Alicante Doctor Balmis General Hospital after being stabilised by the health services.
Patrols from the Civil Guard , Redován Local Police, as well as two SAMU and Basic Life Support ambulances attended the scene of the accident and provided first aid.
Migrants rescued off coast of
Punta Prima
The stream of small migrant boats heading to the Alicante coast continues. A precarious vessel was spotted about 12 miles from Torrevieja and Maritime Rescue came to the aid of the 15 immigrants who were on board after locating the boat offshore near Punta Prima.
The boat, the third to arrive in Alicante after two previous ones were
spotted the day before in Moraira and El Campello, was carrying 15 people, including a woman and two children.
The crew of the Salvamar Leo, the Maritime Rescue vessel, have taken the 15 immigrants on board and transferred them to the port of Alicante, where they will be initially cared for by the Red Cross before being taken charge of by the National Police.
Mastral Project launches a new live webcam on Playa del Cura, Torrevieja
From last Thursday, August 1, it is possible to watch live, via the Internet, Playa del Cura in Torrevieja, one of the most central and busiest beaches in the city, especially in the summer months.
The Proyecto Mastral team has installed a new webcam, which joins the other six already installed in other parts of the municipality of Torrevieja and which are accessible from the Proyecto Mastral YouTube channel, also through the website www.webcams. eltiempoentorrevieja.es and from the Proyecto Mastral mobile application.
This camera allows you to see the entire length of the beach live thanks to its panoramic lenses and will do so both during the day and at night with a maximum definition of 4K.
The installation of this
Prime Minister invokes right not to testify against wife
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez exercised his right to decline testimony before a judge who visited his o cial residence, Moncloa, as part of an ongoing investigation into corruption allegations against his wife, Begoña Gómez. Sánchez’s lawyers con rmed his decision, which is protected under Spanish law, allowing individuals to refuse to answer questions in cases involving close family members.
Hours after the scheduled interview, government legal o cers led a complaint against Judge Carlos Peinado, citing the need to defend “the institution of the presidency,” government spokeswoman Pilar Alegría announced. Sánchez, a member of the Socialist Party, was under no obligation to testify against his wife.
“The hearing lasted exactly two minutes,” stated Antonio Camacho, Gómez’s lawyer, adding that Sánchez remained “absolutely calm.” Earlier this month, Gómez also invoked her right to remain silent during her questioning by the judge.
The allegations, brought forth by the legal activist group Manos Limpias, accuse Gómez of leveraging her position to in uence business deals. This
group, known for its right-wing and far-right a liations, often targets left-leaning politicians, though their cases rarely succeed.
Judge Peinado, who declined Sánchez’s request to submit written testimony, became the rst judge to enter Moncloa to take a statement from a sitting prime minister. A public prosecutor and a lawyer from the far-right Vox party were also present during the questioning.
Alegría criticized the investigation, describing it as an attempt to tarnish Sánchez’s reputation. “They have come to record a hoax with a clear objective, which is to erode the image of the president of the government on the basis of a no-case,” she said, expressing con dence in the government’s stance.
The lawsuit led by Spain’s state legal services claims that Peinado’s refusal to allow written testimony may constitute “criminal acts.” The complaint emphasizes that it is not an attack on the judiciary but a measure to address perceived judicial abuse.
“You cannot separate one person into two and claim that you are going to question him as the spouse, when what determines the subject of the investigation ... is the fact that the husband of the person
under investigation is the head of government,” the lawsuit argues.
Sánchez has labelled the case a “smear campaign” aimed at undermining his left-wing coalition government. Although Spain’s Public Prosecutors’ o ce recommended dismissing the probe, a provincial court allowed the lower-court judge to continue the investigation. Judge Peinado will ultimately decide whether to dismiss the allegations or advance the case to trial.
Following the initiation of the probe, Sánchez shocked the nation by suggesting in an April open letter that he might consider stepping down due to the “unprecedented attack” on his wife. However, after ve days of re ection, he chose to remain in o ce.
Earlier this year, Spain’s government watchdog on con icts of interest dismissed a complaint by the right-wing People’s Party (PP) alleging that Gómez had in uenced her husband’s decisions regarding an airline. Gómez, 49, who does not hold public o ce, has maintained a low pro le, focusing on marketing and involvement with non-governmental organizations and fundraising projects.
live camera has been possible thanks to the invaluable collaboration of Pizzería Nº1, one of the best-known restaurants in Torrevieja located right in front of Playa del Cura.
The aim of this new camera is to bring this
enclave of the city of salt closer to everyone, while also allowing the state of the sky, easterly storms and meteorological phenomena that may occur in this south-facing area to be captured.
Inflation rises again across the Eurozone
Inflation in the eurozone climbed once more in July, surprising economists and casting doubt on the likelihood of swift interest rate reductions by the European Central Bank (ECB). Preliminary estimates from Eurostat, released on Tuesday, revealed that the harmonised index of consumer prices rose by 2.6% year-on-year, up from 2.5% in June. This increase contradicted forecasts predicting a drop to 2.4%.
Energy costs played a significant role in the inflation surge, with prices rising 1.3% on a monthly basis, a sharp increase from June’s 0.2% rise. Non-energy industrial goods also experienced a faster price increase of 0.8%, compared to 0.7% in the previous month.
Services recorded the highest annual inflation rate in July at 4.0%, just slightly down from June’s 4.1%. Food, alcohol, and tobacco saw an annual increase of 2.3%, marginally lower than June’s 2.4%. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, remained steady at 2.9% year-on-year, exceeding market expectations of a decline to 2.8%.
Among eurozone countries, Belgium reported the highest annual inflation rate in July at 5.6%, the highest since
January 2023. However, on a monthly basis, Belgium’s inflation decreased by 0.6%, reversing a 0.5% rise in June. In Germany, harmonised consumer prices increased by 2.6% year-on-year, a slight uptick from the previous month’s 2.5%. Monthly inflation in Germany also accelerated to 0.5%, up from June’s 0.2% rise. The Netherlands saw a small increase in inflation, rising from 3.5% to 3.6%, the highest level since July 2023.
Conversely, Spain and Portugal experienced significant drops in consumer prices. Spain’s annual harmonised inflation rate fell from 3.6% to 2.9%, while Portugal’s declined from 3.1% to 2.7%. Both countries saw the largest monthly decreases, with Spain’s inflation dropping by 0.7% and Portugal’s by 0.8%. France experienced a minor increase in annual inflation, rising from 2.5% to 2.6%.
The July inflation report represents a setback for the eurozone’s efforts to reduce inflation, with the unexpected rise challenging the ECB’s strategy. Markets are currently anticipating a 90% probability that the ECB will cut interest rates at its upcoming meeting on 14th September.
The PSPV-PSOE joins forces in Almoradi after resignation of general secretary
The Provincial Executive of the PSPV-PSOE of Alicante has appointed a Management Committee for the Municipal Group of Almoradí. In this way, a provisional body is established to replace the Municipal Executive Committee after the resignation on June 28 of the then general secretary, Jaime Pérez.
The Management Committee, which will be chaired by the Secretary of Regional Organization, Fran Maciá, was born from the consensus between the Regional Executive of Vega Baja and the Provincial and National Executives of the PSPV.
The Regional Secretary of the PSPV-PSOE of Vega Baja, Joaquín Hernández,
has pointed out that the appointment of a Management Committee in Almoradí “is a previous step that is marked within the organic normality of the party when these exceptional situations occur and that the PSOE of the Region will contribute to ensuring that the project that is born in the future is an integrative and strong project for the PSOE of Almoradí”. In addition, he wanted to “thank the work carried out by the current General Secretary and his generosity in having put the socialist project before particular interests”. Likewise, Hernández has pointed out that “he is convinced that the Almoradí militancy will rise to the
occasion and that they will work for a consensus project that will win Almoradí.”
The provisional board of directors is made up of Jesús Martinez Sanz, Carmen Sánchez Mazón, Amanda Fernández Ros and Javier Giménez Clemente.
National Police arrest man in Orihuela for robbing a house while its owners were sleeping
National Police officers have arrested a 32-year-old Spanish man in Orihuela as the alleged perpetrator of a crime of burglary. The suspect entered a home while its residents were sleeping inside, after jumping over a wall more than two metres high.
The police investigation began after a report of a robbery in a home was filed. The victim told the officers that he discovered a man inside his home next to the double bed where he was sleeping with his wife. After asking him why he was there and going out after him, the man left the house through the main door.
The victim then observed that the house was in disarray, and that several items were missing, including mobile devices and sets of keys to various
vehicles that he owned, all valued at around 900 euros.
Weeks later, the victim reported the theft of a van belonging to him, which had been stolen with the keys that he reported after the robbery that occurred at his home. The vehicle was recovered by the local police as it had been involved in a traffic accident.
A few days after the theft of his vehicle, another van belonging to him was stolen when it was parked next to the door of the company he ran, near his home, using the vehicle’s own keys to commit the theft, which were also stolen from the home. The same day of the theft, the van was recovered after being found parked in one of the districts of the area.
Continuing with the efforts to clarify the events, the agents managed to identify the man who had broken into the home to steal.
Once the alleged perpetrator was located and arrested, he was placed at the disposal of the on-call court of the town of Orihuela.
Vive Plan will develop 600 homes in Torrevieja that will benefit more than 1,600 people
The President of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón, has announced that through the Vive Plan “more than 600 public housing units will be developed in Torrevieja, which will benefit more than 1,600 people”.
This was the opinion of the head of the Consell during his visit to the Torrevieja town hall to present the Vive Plan, “an initiative designed to combat one of the most serious and persistent problems in the Valencian Community and Spain, namely access to housing”.
Mazón has given Torrevieja as an example, “the first municipality in the province of Alicante to join the Vive Plan, which will be a pioneer in developing protected housing for its young people and vulnerable people”. He also highlighted the commitment of the municipal corporation headed by its mayor Eduardo Dolón to
“listen to its residents and provide solutions to the need for access to the real estate market”.
Specifically, the council will provide a total of 4 plots, three in the La Hoya area and another in La Manguilla.
Thanks to this initiative, the council will receive approximately 90 social housing rental homes, of which around 80 will be for people under 35 years of age and the rest as social housing.
During his speech, the head of the Consell has highlighted the Vive Plan where the Generalitat, local councils and sectors such as real estate and finance “have joined forces to provide a solution to the needs of thousands of young people and families in the Valencian Community.”
Thus, this plan contemplates public-private collaboration through the transfer of land from town councils and publicly owned
plots in order to “from the joint responsibility and unity of all, offer affordable and social rental housing for sale to thousands of people from Alicante, Castellón and Valencia, preferably to young people who have access to housing as the main barrier to their emancipation.
In this way, he has pointed out “the responsibility, the work and the rigor” of the public and private institutions to promote the construction and development of 10,000 affordable homes in the Valencian Community that the Vive Plan contemplates, while ensuring that “this plan is designed with common sense and sustainability on urban land, without the need to reclassify any land.”
Along these lines, he has highlighted the “comprehensive policy of the government of change to comply with the housing legislation” and has stated that “we are making a constitutional right that has been forgotten in recent years a reality”.
In this regard, he referred to the modification of urban planning regulations, the streamlining of procedures with the decree on administrative simplification or the new decree on public housing that the Consell is preparing.
CHS removes 438 tons of waste between January and May
The Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS) has removed a total of 438 tons of waste within the waste clean-up campaigns carried out both in the Hydraulic Public Domain (DPH) and in the NonHydraulic Public Domain, in the areas of competence of the Basin Authority, between January and May 2024.
The work has been carried out on five floating barriers that the Confederation has distributed between the provinces of Alicante (3) and Murcia (2) and 23 waste points detected in both provinces by both the environmental agents of the CHS and by notices from individuals or town councils transferred to the River Basin Authority.
As for the type of waste detected, the majority corresponds to urban solids with 365.64 tons, followed by plant remains
with 42.96 tons, animal remains with 0.83 tons and hazardous waste with 0.46 tons.
To carry out these cleaning and maintenance works, the CHS has invested 175,975.61 euros.
The CHS insists on the need to raise awareness, both among users of the Segura basin resources and the general population, so that no waste is dumped into the riverbeds or onto the surrounding lands of the DPH or other adjacent
areas.
Without citizen cooperation, waste tends to accumulate in certain areas, which is detrimental to the waterways and surrounding areas.
Finally, the River Basin Authority works and devotes great budgetary efforts, using the agency’s own funds, to carry out the routine maintenance and conservation of all the main and secondary channels that make up the hydrographic network
GC Partners making money transfer simple
For more than 20 years GC Partners has been making transferring money simple for those living in Spain. Since then, more than 150,000 clients have transferred money to more than 125 markets across the world. And now that experience is being offered to the local community from GC Partners new office in Los Dolses.
Headed by Area Manager Michelle Ward, the four-strong team are financial services specialists in moving money overseas, utilising great exchange rates. The team prides itself on its commitment to customer service and full transparency for client and partners alike. The new office compliments the current GC Partner offices in Spain at Punta Prima and Mojacar.
Michelle said: “Los Dolses is a perfect location and lots of
our clients in this area live nearby. It is also easily accessible for our partners and clients alike and a beautiful office.”
Whether you´re an individual looking to purchase a property overseas or send salary or pension payments, GC Partners can help. From a substantial one-off property sale to regular ongoing payments, you can rely on the expert team to work quickly, reliably and securely. You should be able to move your money in a way
that suits you. That’s why the team of dedicated currency specialists takes the time to get to know its customers, to ensure you getting exactly what you need. The team will make currency exchange simple; while helping you move your money the way you want to.
For local businesses GC Partners provides a range of tailored financial solutions from FX and international payments mass payments, hedging, global currency accounts and more. Built on years’ of experience the solutions offered by GC Partners are proven to deliver impressive cost savings and essential stability, cash flow control and protection.
Michelle added: “With clients at the heart of our business, we deliver efficient, yet simple end to end payment solutions. It really is currency made simple.”
GBP
A slew of Central Bank meetings have dominated the economic agenda this week. The Bank of Japan (BOJ) surprised markets in the early hours of Wednesday morning by announcing a further rate hike, taking the central bank rate from 0.10% to 0.25% – a 50% chance of a hike was priced into the market. This is the highest interest rates have been in Japan since March 2008 and has resulted in further JPY strength this week.
The Federal Reserve announcement came on Wednesday evening where the FOMC voted to hold rates. The news was as expected, though Chair Powell’s press conference all but guaranteed a rate cut in September, with him saying The news was as expected, though Chair Powell’s press conference all but guaranteed a rate cut in September, with him saying “If we were to see inflation moving down ... more or less in line with expectations, growth remains reasonably strong, and the labor market remains consistent with current conditions, then I think a rate cut could be on the table at the September meeting.”
Finally, the Bank of England announced on Thursday that it was cutting rates by 0.25%, taking the central bank rate to 5.00%, its first rate cut since March 2020. The market expectations ahead of the announcement were mixed, with most economists predicting a cut albeit the
GBP / EUR UPDATE
markets only pricing in around a 60% chance. They also signalled the bar is high for back-to-back cuts and the market is now pricing in the next cut for November, which coincides with the publication of its next Monetary Policy Report and Governor Bailey’s press conference.
EUR
It’s been an equally busy week across the Eurozone with Prelim Flash GDP on Tuesday revealing a steady quarterly pace of growth, which was slightly better than expected.
CPI July estimates for the Eurozone as a whole came in slightly better than expected at 2.6% YoY, versus 2.5% expected.
Spanish and French CPI came in slightly below expectations at 2.8% (versus 3.0% forecast), and 2.3% (versus 2.4% forecast), respectively. While German CPI came in slightly hotter at 2.3% (versus 2.2% forecast).
The euro has been playing second fiddle to other major currencies this week, with Japan, US and UK interest rate decisions, and that is unlikely to change next week without any major economic data points in the immediate future.
This commentary does not constitute financial advice. All rates are sourced from Bloomberg and forecasts are taken from Forex Factory.
Two bathers die in 24 hours on the beaches of Vega Baja
Two bathers died in 24 hours on the beaches of Vega Baja. Last week, the Emergency Information and Coordination Centre (CICU) activated a SAMU to assist a 79-year-old woman who had drowned on Acequión beach in
Torrevieja. The medical team, upon arrival, could only confirm the death.
The day before, on Sunday, at around 7:30 p.m., the CICU received another call about another drowned person. It happened in
Mil Palmeras de Pilar de la Horadada. A SAMU was dispatched to the scene, and medical personnel performed resuscitation maneuvers, but there was no response; the person had died.
Brussels hands over nearly 9.9 million euros to Spain
On Friday, July 26, the European Commission released almost 9.9 billion euros in EU funding to Spain as part of the fourth payment of the country’s recovery and resilience plan. However, an outstanding payment of 1.58 billion euros remains frozen due to non-compliance with one of the plan’s objectives. Spain’s Ministry of Finance has expressed confidence that the remaining amount “will be received in the coming months.”
The European Commission confirmed that Spain had satisfactorily met 60 out of 61 objectives, which led to the approval of nearly the entire fourth payment of 10 billion euros. However, the payment suspension procedure
was activated because Objective 201, which concerns the investment program for the digitalization of small and mediumsized enterprises (‘Agents of Change’), has not been “satisfactorily” met due to a lack of demand.
Despite acknowledging the initial steps taken by Spanish authorities, including the launch of the Kit Consulting program as a replacement, the Commission emphasized that further work is required. The Spanish government now has six months to meet this target to access the outstanding 1.58 billion euros; failure to do so could result in the loss of these funds.
Spain has met 60 objectives, including 34 reforms and 26
investments, focusing on areas such as digital transformation, energy transition, pensions, research and development, innovation, education, water treatment, digitization of public services (including justice), and interterritorial cooperation. With the payment made on Friday, Spain has now received a total of nearly 48 billion euros from the EU, accounting for 60 percent of its share of non-refundable transfers. In terms of objectives linked to these transfers, Spain has completed 181, representing 36 percent of the targets. The Ministry of Finance noted that Spain has received the most transfers from the EU, totaling nearly 48 billion euros.
All employees in Spain can now opt to work and receive full pension
Spain’s government is set to introduce new rules governing the compatibility of work and pensions, specifically addressing the conditions under which individuals can continue working while also receiving pension benefits. The proposed reforms are aimed at extending the option of combining work with full pension benefits to a broader range of workers, while also adjusting the rules for partial and active retirement.
Key Aspects of the Proposed Changes:
1. Extended Eligibility for Full Pension While Working:
Currently, self-employed individuals with at least one employee can receive 100% of their pension while continuing to work once they reach the legal retirement age. The new proposal extends this option to all workers, allowing them to receive 100% of their pension after five years beyond the retirement
age, which typically means from the age of 70. This is intended to encourage longer participation in the workforce.
2. Gradual Increase in Pension Percentage:
For those who continue working past the usual retirement age, the proposal
outlines a graduated scale for pension receipt. Initially, retirees can receive 45% of their pension if they work, increasing incrementally each year: 55% in the second year, 65% in the third, 80% in the fourth, and reaching 100% after the fifth year
3. Impact on the SelfEmployed:
The new rules reduce the immediate pension benefits for self-employed individuals. Currently, they can receive 100% of their pension upon reaching the standard retirement age. Under the new system, they would start at 75% in the first year, moving towards 100% over five years.
4. Partial Retirement Adjustments:
The reforms also propose changes to partial retirement, which allows workers to reduce their working hours while drawing part of their pension. The current provision allowing partial retirement four years before the legal retirement age will be adjusted. In manufacturing, workers can retire three years earlier if a relief contract (someone hired to cover the reduced hours) is in place. The required years of contributions for early partial retirement will remain at 33 years, instead of the proposed increase to 38.5 years.
5. Concessions and Ongoing Negotiations:
The government has made concessions, such as not requiring the initially proposed increase in the contribution period for early partial retirement in manufacturing. There is ongoing negotiation, particularly concerning the number of contribution years required for partial retirement eligibility in other sectors, where the government proposes a higher requirement of 36.6 years.
These reforms aim to balance the financial sustainability of the pension system with the need to provide flexible retirement options for workers. The government hopes to finalize these measures in agreement with trade unions and employers’ organizations, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of Spain’s workforce.
Changes in access to the Emergency Department at the Vega Baja Hospital
The Orihuela Health Department has reported that, due to the progress of the extension work at the Vega Baja Hospital, the Emergency Department door is scheduled to be reestablished to its previous location on Monday, August 5. Therefore, vehicle access will be via the opening
enabled from the road and pedestrian access will be from the sidewalk outside the hospital. The waiting area in front of the Emergency Department door will also be moved.
On the other hand, starting on Monday 12
August, the bus stop will be moved a few metres further and will be located next to the taxi rank. In addition, the direction of tra c inside will change, with the central lane serving as the entrance to the hospital and the lane bordering the orchards serving as the exit.
il Palco at WOW Beach: authentic Italian cuisine next to the sea
WOW Beach o ers again this year during the months of July and August a unique gastronomic experience on the seafront of La Glea beach in Dehesa de Campoamor. The authentic Italian cuisine of the restaurant il Palco at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club moves during the summer months to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea to o er, in an idyllic setting
that is hard to match, the best dishes from its menu.
In addition, the chef has incorporated a series of culinary proposals prepared for your exclusive enjoyment from the pleasant terrace of WOW Beach.
The experience of bringing il Palco’s cuisine to the beach club of Las Colinas Golf & Country Club took place for the rst time last year. The extraordinary acceptance of the proposal by the public has made it happen again this summer.
‘Spending an evening enjoying the avours of il Palco in one of the best beachfront locations in the province of Alicante is undoubtedly a unique experience for those looking for a di erentiated and quality o er,’ said Javier Rodríguez, Operations Director of Las Colinas Golf & Country Club.
The il Palco dinners from the WOW beach restaurant can be enjoyed from Wednesday to Sunday during the months of July and August.
The opening hours are from 18:30 to 23:30, but the bar will remain open until 01:00 in the morning for those who wish to extend an unforgettable evening. More information and reservations at: www.wowbeach.es
Charity Events in aid of Stevie spit
Each week the Costa Blanca People will feature forthcoming events that have been organised to help raise funds for Stevie Spit. Stevie was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer of the colon, liver andIflungs. you would like to see your event featured please send details via whatsapp to 607031113. Also you can make a donation directly via the Go Fund Me page which has been set uphttps://gofund. me/41506431
Romana Self Storage 633 125 889 or 965 075 122 colin@laromanaselfstorage.com www.laromanaselfstorage.com
M.A.V Transport & Removals
663595225 / (0044) 7786 737230
Email: infomavspain@gmail.com www.mavspain.co.uk
Facebook M.M.V.Transport&Removals
davendonc@aol.com
www.transconeshipping.com
Go Satellite Tel: 965725670
Info@freetvspain.com www.freetvspain.com
Avenida De Las Naciones 36-2, Ciudad Quesada Rojales
Solar Panels
Medsun Solar Tel: 604 193 857
Email: info@medsunsolar.com www.medsunsolar.com
Swimming Pools
Leak Tech
Tel: 966 194 179 / 627 752 965
Info@leak-tech.net www.leak-tech.net
This Week´s Movie Picks
Tomb Raider
Saturday 10 August, ITV2 - 9.00 pm
Lara Croft (Alicia Vikander) is the fiercely independent daughter of eccentric adventurer Lord Richard Croft (Dominic West), who vanished when she was scarcely a teen. Now a young woman of twenty-one without any real focus or purpose, Lara navigates the chaotic streets of trendy East London as a bike courier, barely making the rent, and takes college courses, rarely making it to class. Determined to forge her own path, she refuses to take the reins of her father’s global empire just as staunchly as she rejects the idea that he’s truly gone. Advised to face the facts and move forward after seven years without him, even Lara can’t understand what drives her to finally solve the puzzle of his mysterious death.
Jack Reacher: Never Go Back
Sunday 11August, Channel 4, 10.00 pm
After accomplishing the assignment of dismantling a human tra cking organization, the former military and drifter Jack Reacher goes to Washington to invite his liaison, Major Susan Turner, to have dinner with him. However, he meets her substitute, Colonel Sam Morgan, who explains that Major Turner has been arrested and accused of espionage. Jack seeks out her veteran lawyer, Colonel Bob Moorcroft, who explains that Major Turner has also been accused of the murders of two soldiers in Afghanistan. Further, he also tells Jack he is being sued, accused by a woman of being the father of her fteen year-old daughter, Samantha. When Moorcroft is murdered, Jack is accused of being the killer and sent to a prison.
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Tuesday 6th August
The Chase 19:00 ITV News London 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:30 Emmerdale 21:00 Cooking with the Stars
Vera
Wednesday 7th August
04:00 On Assignment 04:30 Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes in 12 Hours 05:05 Unwind with ITV 06:10 Ainsley’s Taste of Malta
Summary 13:05 Paris 2024 Paralympics: Meet the Athletes
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 A New Life in the Sun: Where Are They Now?
19:00 Come Dine with Me
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It: Brilliant Builds
22:00 Trump vs Harris: The Battle 23:00 Gogglebox
09:30 Peppa Pig 09:35 Peppa Pig 09:40 Peppa Pig
09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
09:55 Go Green With The Grimwades
10:05 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends
14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Who Killed Our Father? 17:00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles 20:00 Our Great Yorkshire Life 21:00 The Yorkshire Vet: At Home with the Greens 22:00 Your Kitchen: 60 Years of Fads and Gadgets 23:00 A Killer Makes A Call
14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 My Killer Reunion
17:00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles
20:00 Beyond the Yorkshire Farm: Reuben & Clive 21:00 Cumbria: The Lakes & The Coast 22:00 Cause of Death 23:00 Casualty 24/7
08:50 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New Scooby-
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
Zenia Services clear winners for ballustrades
Zenia Services has built its excellent reputation over the last 12 years as the company that does ‘everything to do with windows, except the windows’ across the southern Costa Blanca. It offers evacuation safety grills, grill refurbishment and mosquito blindsand is now leading the way in glass balustrades and stair-rails.
If you are looking to modernise your property then adding glass balustrades is a cost-effective way to achieve an up-to-date look, add value to your house and provide all the privacy you need. These striking and chic panels can be used for outdoor stairways, balconies, terraces and around swimming pools and Zenia Services handles every aspect from start to finish.
You can choose from white (frosted), sun reflective, grey, brown or blue and using 8mm laminated glass provides extra safety. The panels are fully tested and can be finished with stainless steel or aluminium posts and handrails for addition style and safety.
Just imagine how impressive your
property would look if you replaced your wall or concrete balustrades with this stylish contemporary look. And, even better, imagine never having to laboriously paint all those balustrades ever again! Zenia Services will remove and dispose of them and prepare the surfaces before installing your stylish glass alternatives. This stylish solution is now more affordable than ever. Many believe that the modern glass panelling must
by expensive but Zenia Services has honed its manufacture and supply chain to pass on savings directly to the customer.
And whilst you’re sprucing up your home, Zenia Services can also give your tired grills a new lease of life, improving the kerb appeal of your property ideal for a summer or presale makeover. Grills are uninstalled and sandblasted to remove the old paint and rust and then powder coated in any colour of your choice.
Zenia Blinds makes and manufactures all of its blinds in house, with now being the ideal time to install mosquito blinds. All are tailor made, of the highest quality and are supplied and fitted by Zenia Services.
All Zenia Services work is guaranteed, fully legal and fully insured. For an unbeatable, affordable and friendly service call Neil and the team for a free no obligation quotation on 659 763 517, check them out on Facebook or email: zeniaservices@gmail.com
Thursday 8th August
01:25 Teleshopping
04:00 Champions: Full Gallop
04:50 Unwind with ITV
06:05 Wheel of Fortune
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine
11:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal
16:00 Tenable
17:00 Tipping Point
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
Osman’s House of Games
20:30 EastEnders 21:00 When Bridges Collapse: The Genoa Disaster 22:00 Interview With the Vampire 22:50 Live at the Apollo 23:00 Not Going Out 23:30 Newsnigh
Friday 9th August
20:30 Emmerdale
21:30 Tom Kerridge Cooks Britain
22:00 Irvine Welsh’s Crime
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:35 ITV News London
23:45 Mission: Impossible
06:05 In for a Penny
06:30 Gino’s Italian Express
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine
11:00 This Morning
13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal
16:00 Tenable
17:00 Tipping Point
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
World
22:00 Miriam Margolyes: A New Australian Adventure
23:00 Gavin & Stacey 23:30 Newsnight
09:30 Everybody Loves
Raymond
10:00 Frasier
10:30 Frasier
11:00 Frasier 11:30 Frasier
12:00 The Simpsons
12:30 The Simpsons
13:00 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:05 Paris 2024
Paralympics: Meet the Athletes
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 A New Life in the Sun: Where Are They Now?
19:00 Come Dine with Me
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 The Supervet
22:00 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces
23:00 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond
10:00 Frasier
10:30 Frasier
11:00 Frasier
11:30 Frasier
12:00 The Simpsons
12:30 The Simpsons
13:00 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:05 Paris 2024 Paralympics: Meet the Athletes
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 A New Life in the Sun: Where Are They Now?
19:00 Come Dine with Me
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
22:00 Champions: Full Gallop
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Mission: Impossible II
21:00 PopMaster TV
22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown
23:00 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You
09:35 Peppa Pig 09:40 Peppa Pig
09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
09:55 Go Green With The Grimwades
10:05 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Murder & Matrimony
17:00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea 18:00 5 News at 5
19:00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles
20:00 Bank Scams: Don’t Get Caught Out 21:00 Fresh vs Frozen: Which Is Better?
22:00 Susan Calman’s Grand Days Out 23:00 The Child Snatcher: Manhunt 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
09:25 Peppa Pig
09:35 Peppa Pig
09:40 Peppa Pig
09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
09:55 Go Green With The Grimwades
10:05 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:15 Jeremy Vine
12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends
14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Killer Design 17:00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Amazing Railway Adventures with Nick Knowles
20:00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders 21:00 Motorway: Hell on the Highway
20:30 St James’s Palace: The Secret Royal Residence 22:00 Sandringham: A Royal Residence with Nigel Havers
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 In for a Penny 14:30 In for a Penny 15:00 Supermarket Sweep 16:00 Charmed 17:00 Dawson’s Creek 18:00 Dress to Impress 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 21:00 Bob’s Burgers 21:30 Bob’s Burgers 22:00 Pitch Perfect 23:00 FYI Daily 23:05 Pitch Perfect
Sunday 11thAugust
13:25 ITV Lunchtime News
13:30 Flushed Away 15:15 Thunderball
17:50 ITV Evening News
18:05 ITV News London
18:10 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
21:00 Midsomer Murders
23:00 ITV News
23:15 The Other Mrs Jordan: Catching the Ultimate Conman
Monday 12th August
Unwind with
Jason Atherton’s Dubai Dishes 07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning
13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal
16:00 Tenable 17:00 Tipping Point
18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Long Lost Family
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Mission: Impossible III
08:40 Frasier
09:05 Everybody Loves
Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves
Raymond
10:00 Everybody Loves
Raymond
10:30 Sunday Brunch
13:30 The Simpsons
13:55 The Simpsons 14:25 The Simpsons
14:50 A Place in the Sun
15:50 Four in a Bed
16:20 Four in a Bed
16:50 Four in a Bed 17:20 Four in a Bed
17:55 Four in a Bed
18:25 Channel 4 News
18:55 Paris 2024 Paralympics: Meet the Athletes
19:00 The Secret World of...
20:00 World’s Most Secret Hotels
21:00 Titanic in Colour
22:00 Jack Reacher: Never Go Back
09:30 Everybody Loves
Raymond 10:00 Frasier
10:30 Frasier
11:00 Frasier
11:30 Frasier
12:00 The Simpsons
12:30 The Simpsons
13:00 Channel 4 News
Summary
13:05 Paris 2024 Paralympics: Meet the Athletes
13:10 A New Life in the Sun
14:10 Car S.O.S
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 The Great House Giveaway
18:00 A New Life in the Sun: Where Are They Now?
19:00 Come Dine with Me
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Yorkshire By The Sea
22:00 Emergency
23:00 Murder Case: The Digital Detectives
08:55 Mixmups 09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 DORA
09:40 Rubble & Crew 09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants
10:05 Entertainment News On 5
10:20 Cruising With Susan Calman
11:10 Susan Calman’s Grand Week by the Sea 12:05 Susan Calman’s Grand Week by the Sea 13:05 Susan Calman’s Grand Week by the Sea 14:05 The Hotel Inspector 15:05 The Hotel Inspector 16:05 Coastal Devon & Cornwall with Michael Portillo 17:05 Coastal Devon & Cornwall with Michael Portillo 18:05 5 News Weekend 18:10 When TV Goes Horribly Wrong 21:00 22 Kids & Counting 22:00 Mums on Strike 23:00
09:35 Peppa Pig
09:40 Peppa Pig
09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
09:55 Go Green With The Grimwades
10:05 Milkshake! Monkey Rhymes
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:45 Friends
14:10 Friends
14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Gone Mom: The Disappearance of Jennifer Dulos
17:00 The Cruise: Fun-Loving Brits at Sea
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys
20:00 Traffic Cops
21:00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders 22:00 Forensics: Murder Scene
23:30 Police: Hour Of Duty
09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
10:00 World’s Funniest Videos
Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records
Love Bites
Love Bites
Dress to Impress 14:00 In for a Penny 14:30 In for a Penny 15:00 Supermarket Sweep 16:00 Charmed 17:00 Dawson’s Creek 18:00 Dress to Impress 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 21:00 Bob’s Burgers
21:30 Bob’s Burgers 22:00 Family Guy 22:30 Family Guy 23:00 Family Guy 23:30 Family Guy
08:00 Classic Coronation Street 08:30 Classic Coronation Street 09:00 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 11:00 Bless This House 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 A Touch of Frost 19:00 Heartbeat 20:00 Heartbeat 21:00 Vera 23:00 Cracker
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 14th August 2024. You are welcome to attend.
“How can I see les that “What is the one thing most people don’t seem to know”?
If you connect your phone to For me, it’s not knowing where to find messages from non-Facebook friends on Messenger. If you are sent a Messenger message from a person who is NOT a Facebook friend the message does not appear in the normal message feed. To see a message sent from a non-Facebook friend you need to look at “Message Requests”. Here you will see the name of the person (same name as the Facebook profile) and the message
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.
they sent to you. When you receive a Message Request you have choices. You can ignore or Block the message. If you choose to reply, subsequent messages will appear in the normal message feed using the name of the person’s Facebook profile.
“My English spelling, punctuation and grammar are not very good. Anything available to help me”?
When sold by Amazon a Fire e There is an application called Grammarly that works in the background wherever you are typing on a computer or mobile device ( Android or iPhone) that automatically checks and offers suggestions to improve your written text.
Your language preference is set to American English by default, but you can change it anytime.
Currently, Grammarly supports only the English language. To change the default language go to https:// account.grammarly.com/customize/ language.
“Can I print from my Phone or Tablet”?
Yes, you can.You will need to have aWiFi printer. Search for an iPrint App for the manufacturer of your Wi-Fi printer. After installation complete the setup process by following the on-screen prompts. You will then be able to print or scan a document.
“What antivirus applications are required for computers”?
Microsoft recommends all customers protect their devices by running a compatible and supported antivirus program. Customers can take advantage of built-in antivirus protection, Windows Defender (but only for Windows 10 and 11 which are supported with updates) or use free or paid antivirus software. Windows Defender is more than capable of protecting you from viruses. You can also use the popular anti malware Apps Spybot and Malwarebytes. Mac computers are not immune to viruses, and other malware and Mac-targeted attacks are increasingly prevalent. Following best practices for securing your device and using built-in security features can help, but antivirus software can protect your device even further.
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 o
your donation to their base in San Luis on Tuesday or Friday morning from 10am until 1pm or at over 20 drop o 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 o point. As the message on their Facebook page says, “Always Help Someone –You Might Be The Only One That Does”.
HAVE A REFRESHING SUMMER DAY OUT AT THE ALGAR
WATERFALLS
The Fonts D’Algar can be found in Callosa d’en Sarria, close to Benidorm, and is one of the most beautiful and refreshing places to visit during the summer. A picturesque nature reserve with spectacular scenery featuring cascades, crystal clear pools, lush greenery and picnic spots. Your visit will take you on a 1.5km walk way meandering along the Algar River, including some stone steps and rocky pathways. During its journey, the river carries an abundant amount of cold water, forming waterfalls and natural reservoirs through gorges and abundant Mediterranean vegetation. During the summer most of the ow comes from the wells located at the source, which is later pumped to the Guadalest reservoir. The Algar River constitutes a natural area with a high degree of conservation in ecological wealth, and at the same time endowed
with tourist services and environmental education. This place is a natural treasure for the importance of water as an ecological, economic and cultural resource. Along the route, there are plenty of viewpoints to stop and rest, fresh natural springs to take a dip, and areas to chill out with a picnic. The pretty little town situated next to the waterfalls o ers a lovely selection of traditional Spanish restaurants and souvenir shops.
OPENING TIMES: Every day from 9am-7pm ENTRANCE PRICES: Adults 5€, Pensioners 4€, Children 2€ COACH TRAVEL WITH DAVID’S COACHTRIPS: Call 966 785 910
LOCATION: Les Fonts d’Algar, Pda. Algar s/n 03510 Callosa d’en Sarrià, Alicante For information on more delightful places to discover on the Costa Blanca, visit the website www.costablancascene.com
Bars & Restaurants
Jeremy Clarkson has gone to war with local ramblers at his Diddly Squat Farm – by placing beehives at the perimeter of his farmhouse next to a public footpath to keep out nosey fans.
The TV star, 64, has strategically erected 11 beehives behind a vefoot high hedge at the start of a lane that leads to his Cotswolds farm.
The one-mile-long lane is closed to all tra c, but walkers are allowed to use it, resulting in fans of the Amazon Prime reality series Clarkson’s Farm meandering along it in an attempt to catch a glimpse of his farmhouse, where he lives with his girlfriend Lisa.
Ben A eck’s stunning new $20.5million bachelor pad - which he took out a $10million loan for - that he bought in a brutal birthday swipe to Jennifer Lopez as their divorce ling looms can be seen in newlyreleased images.
The 51-year-old A-lister’s new vebedroom, six-bathroom property was purchased on his 55-year-old estranged wife’s birthday of July 24 and it looks like he will be living comfortably.
The 6,200 square-foot property was originally built and designed in the early 1940s by noted architect Cli May before being extensively remodeled by its previous owners.
Adele fans have been left furious after they accused Ticketmaster of ‘unfair, non-transparent, and exploitative treatment of early ticket buyers’.
Fans of the singer were left feeling ‘betrayed’ as they launched a petition to Change.org to address the issues surrounding the sale of Adele’s run of concerts in Munich, the rst of which kicked o on Friday evening.
Over the course of 10 dates the Hello hitmaker will play to a total of 740,000 fans as she headlines the stage at the Munich Messe stadium, which has been custom-built for her stay in the city.
Zoe Ball has paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mother and marked the rst birthday since her death.
The BBC Radio 2 host, 53, announced that her mother Julia, 74, had passed away in April following a cancer diagnosis.
Zoe shared earlier this year that a funeral had taken place but on Friday in a tribute, told fans the past few months had been ‘harder than I could ever have imagined’..
Brooklyn Beckham has been rushed to hospital after he broke his shoulder as he gave fans a health update on Friday. Taking to Instagram with a snap from his hospital bed, the eldest Beckham son, 25, revealed the severe injury, but hasn’t explained how it occurred. Brooklyn looked in good spirits despite the circumstances as he smiled in the black and white sel e.
Have you visited Hotel Algorfa yet?
Nestled in the charming village of Algorfa, the tranquil hotel offers a perfect getaway with its serene pool area, where guests can relax under the sun while vibrant parrots soar freely overhead, adding an exotic touch to the serene surroundings. The hotel’s lively bar and restaurant buzz with energy, featuring a rotating lineup of Alicante’s best musicians who provide captivating live entertainment, ensuring an unforgettable evening as you indulge in delectable local cuisine. Each day, the on-site bakery tempts visitors with the aroma of freshly baked homemade
bread, creating an inviting atmosphere that keeps guests returning for more. The dedicated team at the hotel is always on hand to provide exceptional service, ensuring that every guest feels at home and cared for. Whether lounging by the pool, savoring freshly baked treats, or enjoying lively performances, your stay at this Algorfa hotel will be a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. For information on upcoming events, see our advertisements on page 2.
Health & Beauty
I walked in on my elderly mother who was speaking on the telephone to someone who was asking for her bank details. Amazingly, she was relating her card details to this person. If I hadn’t walked in at that moment; who knows what the consequences would have been. I gave her a thorough talking to about the ways in which these people operate.
How to prevent a migraine
Migraine triggers vary from person to person, depending on how an individual’s body reacts to certain environmental factors. These triggers can include bright or ashing lights, loud noises, medications, missing meals, overuse of painkillers, physical exhaustion or overexertion, stress and anxiety, strong odors, tobacco use, and weather changes. Some people also experience dietary triggers, which may include aged cheeses, alcohol, ca eine or ca eine withdrawal, cured or processed meats like bacon or ham, dark chocolate, and yogurt.
There is a television programme on BBC1 called Scam Interceptors, that everyone should see. I can understand your concern; when my parents arrived in Spain I warned my father of the ‘Gas Man’ scam. For anyone who is not aware of this swindle, please be on your guard if anyone supposedly from ‘Repsol’, or a similar gas company, knocks on your door saying that they need to check your gas supply. The best way to deal with these people is simply to close the door on them. Thankfully, most of our properties here in Spain have a gate at the threshold, and everyone should lock their gate at all times, so that no one can enter your premises without an 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.
Indiana´s hair & lash boutique is going from strength to strength since it opened its doors four years ago. Indiana has been a stylist for ten years and having trained in London and Spain, her talents are very much in demand. She specialises in advanced cutting, short or long hair and all types of colouring. Indiana´s hair and lash boutique are offering a series of Summer treatments including hair, beauty and skincare. Indiana said “Summer is a really special time of the year – the January blues are over and everyone is looking forward to relaxing in the sunshine. It’s a time when we can treat ourselves or treat our partner, to a well deserved pampering session. Its amazing that time out for a bit of self care can do for the mind and it is something we love – being able to give our clients a boost and seeing them walking out of the salon with a smile on their face, its so rewarding”. Also on offer this Summer are a variety of specialist facial treatments by Sharon. As well as spa facials, antiaging facials and treatments such as dermaplaning and micro-needling. Sharon is
invitation. Another well known scam is the ‘Locksmith’ scam. Homeowners and holidaymakers alike have been scammed for years by this method. Someone posing as a holidaymaker will call at your door, and say they are locked out of their holiday accommodation a few doors down on your complex, and need money to pay the Locksmith who wants paying before he can open the door to the property, of course their wallet is inside the house which is why they are asking you to lend them the fee. Of course it is a scam, and you will never see the man again. Please be aware.
Tracking your triggers can be facilitated by keeping a journal or maintaining notes on your phone.
Logging your environmental triggers and keeping track of your diet can help you and a healthcare provider understand what to avoid to prevent migraines.
Dietary choices can signi cantly impact the severity and frequency of migraine attacks. Making subtle but
bene cial changes to your diet can help prevent migraines. Preventative dietary choices include choosing whole-grain foods to increase ber intake, drinking enough water (nine cups per day for females and 13 cups per day for males), eating fewer highly processed or high-salt/ high-sugar foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, limiting alcohol intake (particularly red wine), eating at consistent times each day without skipping meals, reducing co ee consumption to less than two cups per day, and avoiding any dietary triggers. Although physical overexertion can be a migraine trigger, regular exercise can help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Aerobic (cardio) exercise o ers several bene ts that can improve migraine symptoms and prevent attacks, including boosting heart rate, easing anxiety and depression, improving sleep, and reducing stress.
also working wonders with a range of indulgent skincare treatments. If you feel your skin could benefit from rejuvenation speak to Sharon (at Indiana´s) every Friday and she will recommend the best treatment for your skin type.
Two of the most in demand treatments at Indiana´s are offered by the lady herself.
Indians is all about the lashes, offering both individual eyelash extensions and the LVL lash perming treatment –both of which last for weeks at a time and really open up the eye and give a wonderful, no nee for mascara look.
Trained in London, Indiana´s lash clients return to her again and again to avail of her skills in the lash department.
Indiana said” I´m so lucky to have such wonderful support over the last four years. Id like to thank my mum, Jenny, for always pushing me to be my best self. My clients for their unwavering support and to Sharon – you are a dream to work with, I am so fortunate to have you. Four years done and hopefully many more to come!”
in the Mi Quirónsalud App
The LEGAL way to scrap your vehicle
With over thirteen years in the automotive trade along Costa Blanca, Bradley Breakers have accumulated a wealth of stories, many of them cautionary tales that shed light on the intricacies of vehicle ownership and scrapping in Spain.
Picture this: you’ve bid farewell to your trusty old banger, convinced that it’s been consigned to the scrapyard, only to be blindsided by a hefty ne months later. It’s a scenario that has played out more times than one might imagine, as long as your name remains tethered to the document of ownership, you bear legal responsibility for that vehicle.
Unlike the processes encountered in other countries, the Spanish system of scrapping a vehicle is full of regulations and requirements, made even more complex by the recent Environmental Badges.
Bradley Breakers are experts in navigating this bureaucratic mine eld. With their expertise and commitment to customer
satisfaction, they o er a seamless solution to this daunting task. They’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that it’s as simple as you could wish for.
They will ensure that you receive the o cial DGT Certi cate (Baja), knowing that your car has been properly disposed of. When it comes to selling or scrapping your car, peace of mind is paramount. That’s why
it’s crucial to trust a reputable company like Bradley Breakers. Contact Bradley Breakers 607 848 332
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British Airways and Iberia owner
abandons Air Europa takeover plans
The multinational International Airlines Group (IAG) has faced a second unsuccessful attempt to acquire Air Europa. As the parent company of Iberia, British Airways, Vueling, and Aer Lingus, IAG has decided to abandon the takeover due to the European Commission’s stringent demands. These demands included signi cant concessions on routes and slots to prevent market concentration, which IAG deemed unfeasible.
“It is the best decision to protect the interests of the shareholders,” stated Luis Gallego, the group’s chief executive, on Wednesday. The requirements set by the Directorate General of Competition were so stringent that continuing with the acquisition no longer made business sense for Iberia. Consequently, IAG has decided not to proceed. As part of the agreement, Iberia will pay 50 million euros in compensation to Globalia, the majority owner of Air Europa, holding 80% of its shares.
This marks one of Spain’s most intricate and prolonged corporate takeover attempts. The initial merger attempt in 2019 was thwarted in 2021 due to objections from Brussels regarding approximately 70 routes where both airlines provided direct services,
often as the sole operators.
In August 2022, IAG acquired a 20% stake in Air Europa, which it will retain. By December 2023, IAG announced its intent to acquire the remaining 80%.
During these negotiations, led by Gallego, IAG even proposed to cease operating up to 52% of Air Europa’s current ights to address competition concerns raised by the European Commission.
This proposal followed a Brussels report on April 26 expressing skepticism about the merger, which would result in IAG controlling nearly 65% of air tra c between Spain and America. Despite this, IAG remained hopeful, especially after the Commission approved Lufthansa’s takeover of ITA, formerly Alitalia.
However, the concessions o ered by Iberia were insu cient for Brussels, which had until August 20 to announce its decision.
Amidst rumors of a rm rejection, IAG preemptively announced its decision to abandon the acquisition, hoping to give investors time to absorb the news before the week’s nal trading day.
“We regret Brussels’ refusal to accept this ambitious proposal that, in our view, guaranteed consumer rights, provided direct
connections to the east, and fostered competition between hubs in northern and southern Europe,” IAG sources stated before their results presentation. “The purchase of Air Europa is no longer among our objectives.”
Looking ahead, Iberia reassured shareholders by emphasizing its priorities: consolidating nancial strength, enhancing the leadership of its Madrid hub, and ensuring the longterm viability of its handling and maintenance businesses.
Following a half-year pro t report of 905 million euros, down 1.7%, IAG announced the unexpected resumption of dividend payments, suspended for nearly ve years. A gross dividend of 0.030 euros per share will be distributed to shareholders in September based on the 2024 nancial results.
Air Europa, under the leadership of Chairman Juan José Hidalgo, will continue its strategic plan to strengthen air connectivity between Europe and America. CEO Jesús Nuño de la Rosa and Managing Director Richard Clark reassured sta that the company remains “pro table, solvent, and with a future independently of IAG,” emphasizing its long-term sustainability.
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 who o er a warm welcome at their Thursdays weekly service at the comm (ex the forum/mare nostrum), Camino del Pincho 2, l’Alfaz del Pi, 03580, Alicante, are having their summer break. We will re-open again on Thursday 12th September at 6.30 pm with a new visiting medium. contact dot 634 320 013 email: dorothydorothy608@gmail.com
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Saudi Arabia unveils 11 new futuristic stadium concepts
Saudi Arabia has unveiled a series of innovative stadium concepts as part of their bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The Kingdom initially announced their intention to host the competition after the sport’s governing body stated that only bidders from Asia or Oceania would be considered for 2034. It was subsequently revealed that Saudi Arabia was the only country to have submitted a proposal for the tournament.
Following this announcement, Saudi Arabia has taken signi cant steps to expand their sporting empire, which already includes ventures into football, golf, and notably, boxing. Football could become the primary focus in the coming decade, with growing attention on the Saudi Pro League and substantial nancial investments enhancing the nation’s pro le in the sport.
As part of their World Cup bid, Saudi Arabia has proposed 15 stadiums across ve host cities, encompassing a mix of existing, under-construction, and
planned venues. The capital city, Riyadh, is at the heart of this proposal, featuring six key stadiums. Among them is the King Salman International Stadium, which is set to be completed in 2029 and will have a capacity of 92,760, making it the largest in Saudi Arabia and a major center for sports and the national team. Additionally, Riyadh’s lineup includes the King Fahad Sports City Stadium, currently being refurbished to hold over 70,000 people, as well as the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, the New Murabba Stadium, the Roshin Stadium, and the Prince Faisal Bin Fahad City Stadium. One of the proposed stadiums is notably planned to be 350 feet o the ground, showcasing the innovative approach Saudi Arabia is taking in their bid to host the World Cup.
Hosting the World Cup in 2034 would represent a pinnacle achievement for Saudi Arabia’s strategic sports development plan, further cementing their status as a signi cant player in global sports.
England cricket legend and former coach Graham Thorpe dies aged 55
Graham Thorpe, the legendary England cricketer, has passed away at the age of 55. Known for his impressive debut in 1993, Thorpe made a remarkable start by scoring a century in his rst Ashes appearance, a feat that had not been achieved by an England player in two decades. Throughout his career, he was a pivotal gure in England’s batting lineup, participating in 100 Test matches and scoring 16 centuries. Additionally, he represented England in 82 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and had a long 17-year tenure with Surrey County Cricket Club.
Thorpe’s last Test match was in June 2005, after which he was left out of the squad for the victorious Ashes series that summer, leading to his retirement from international cricket.
He leaves behind his second wife, Amanda, whom he married in 2007, and his four children: Henry, Amelia, Kitty, and Emma. Thorpe had separated from his rst wife, Nicola, in 2002.
Tributes have poured in from across the cricketing community. Michael
Vaughan, who captained Thorpe during the latter part of his career, expressed his sorrow on social media, highlighting Thorpe’s impact as a player and teammate. Ben Stokes shared a heartfelt tribute, while Ben Duckett re ected on Thorpe as a hero and mentor. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement expressing their deep shock and sorrow, acknowledging Thorpe’s signi cant contributions to cricket and his lasting legacy as one of England’s nest batsmen.
Abbey Anglers
On Tuesday the 30th of July we shed the Rio Segura in Murcia town centre. We shed either side of the rst road bridge and the match was shed in very hot sunny conditions.
Winner on the day from the upstream end peg was Bob Robinson. Bib shed the method feeder in the middle or across with 8mm pellets and caught several carp for 13.04kg.
In second place was myself, Ian Brown. Drawn on the next downstream peg I used
similar tactics to Bob. Even though I caught more sh than Bob my 22 carp only weighed 10.70kg.
In third place from the bottom of the ramp was Bill Cannon. He also shed the feeder with pellets and weighed 7.63kg.
Rod N Reels
The following day we shed the El Bosquet complex. The match was split into two sections, one on a1 to 7 and the other on pegs 17 to 24. The competition was dominated on pegs a1 to 7 with the top 4 weights coming from these pegs.
Outright winner was Nick Bastock on peg 1, Nick shed the pole across with maggots and weighed a credible 28kg. In second place was Danny Kerkho with 19.30kg caught on the pole on paste and in third place continuing his excellent form was Bill Reade. Bill gave a masterclass of bomb shing with maggots and weighed 18.60kg.
Ian Brown
www.abbeyangling.es
QUICK CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Unlike(9)
Possess (3)
Name(11)
Clumsy persons(7)
Of them(5)
Singe(6)
Contort (6)
Get to know(5)
Simplest(7)
Wrongly(11)
Self(3)
Eyeglasses(9)
Freeze (3)
Bird of prey(5)
Pass (6)
Chirp(7)
Satisfaction(11)
Cross (9)
Smothering(11)
Divulged(9)
Sneering(7)
Extreme fear(6)
Gloss (5)
Permit(3)
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the wordwheel, take ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must contain the central letter and at least three others. Letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one nine-letter word in the wheel.
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
New baby for a publisher?(6,5)
is
there’s
We hear forty of the
2. Are in the ascendant for a while(3)
3. Enjoyment shown in getting us together(5)
4. Foreigners from an isle(6)
5. As he got found out he was taken prisoner(7)
6. Take evasive action, in a manner of speaking(11)
7. This time tomorrow!(9)
10. Illegal traders could make rack stiffer(11)
11. Mad, being had(9)
14. Take a job over to break the monotony(7)
16. Pastel composition used in the dining room(6)
19. French flower I have knowledge about(5)
21. Work found in better goldmine(3)
SOLUTIONS
taint, taunt, taut, tint, titan, toot, tout, tuna, unit, unto.
