Following days of searching, the body of missing Belfast father John Hardy (also known as John Geroge) has been found in Rojales and a 32-year-old man of Czech nationality arrested for his alleged involvement in the murder.
The 37-year-old father of two from west Belfast was
last in touch with his family on 14th December. He was reported missing four days later after he failed to board his flight home to Northern Ireland. His parents Billy and Sharon, brother Darren, and sisters Courtney and Caitlin, along with up to 50 friends and wider family from Northern Ireland,
were involved in the search operation.
A body was found on a Rojales farm which Spanish police believe is that of John George.
Meanwhile a man appeared in court in Torrevieja after being arrested by Spanish police. The 32-year-old, who has not been named, was released on bail by the Spanish court who now regard him as an official suspect.
In a statement, the Valencian Community’s High Court of Justice said: “The head of Torrevieja’s Court of Instruction Number Two, acting as a duty court, has decided to release with precautionary measures the man arrested in relationship to the homicide of a northern Irish citizen whose body was discovered in Rojales.”
The decision appeared to confirm earlier reports police were planning to make more arrests with the suspected killer still on the run.
The suspect told a court in Torrevieja, near Alicante, he was being scapegoated
because John’s family had named him on social media. Defence lawyer
Manuel Ramon Rives also said the decision to detain his client was due to his “recent friendship” with the main suspect in the murder.
John George’s family arrived in Belfast International Airport to be greeted by crowds of supporters who clapped and came forward to embrace them. Mr George told those gathered they are determined to bring his son home to claps and cheers, as well as chants of “justice for John”.
He told the PA news agency they were overwhelmed by the support, adding “I don’t know how we can ever repay all these people. Many have been with me from day dot to find John, three and a half weeks, nearly into the fourth week,” he said.
“I wouldn’t have come home today if I had not got John. I’d have still got up every morning, put my boots on and searched fields.
Mr George said they are now focused on getting his son’s body home and giving him a Christian burial.
“It’s never going to be the same without John, but at least he’ll be home in Belfast where he belongs,” he said, adding: “I pray that I get justice for my son.”
Hospital staff work extra shifts to cope with flu surge
The increase in respiratory infections caused by u, which doubled in the rst week of the year, is causing a “high level” of saturation in the Emergency Departments of several hospitals, where dozens of patients are waiting to be assigned a bed on the ward, and in some cases the situation is “chaotic”, according to the unions.
The SATSE nursing union denounced the collapse in the Emergency Department of the Vega Baja Hospital and in the Torrevieja University Hospital, CCOO has con rmed that there the emergency departments were overwhelmed with patients
su ering respiratory problems.
In response Torrevieja Hospital has doubled the number of rooms on the ward because there were no more beds. The union points out that the lack of a contingency plan from the human resources of the Ministry is what has failed in this spike in infections that is usual at this time of year.
“This is cyclical, it is seasonal because it always occurs during these periods, so knowing that it can happen, there is no contingency plan to deal with the situation and the problem is the lack of human resources, because even if you have the necessary infrastructure to
Electricity bills
Spain’s electricity wholesale market experienced a signi cant price surge in December 2024, marking the highest electricity costs of the year. The increase follows a sharp rise in November and sets the stage for further challenges in 2025 as the country grapples with energy market uctuations. Adding to consumers’ nancial strain, from January 1, 2025, the government reinstated the 21% IVA sales tax on electricity bills. The reduced IVA rate of 10%, previously applied when market prices exceeded 45 euros/MWh, was not extended into the new year. As a result, households are bracing for higher electricity costs in January.
cover this peak, if you do not have sta the collapse does not subside,” Yolanda Ferrández, secretary of the Health Federation of CCOO Vinalopó-Vega Baja, explained on Radio Orihuela. To alleviate this situation, the measure has been taken to recommend the wearing of masks in hospitals and in Torrevieja the management of the hospital is o ering extra shifts to sta , something that CCOO considers “is not the solution because you cannot make sta work more, the solution has to come from a hiring plan from the Ministry that allows coverage in peak periods like this one.”
to rise in Spain
The Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) estimates that the average bill for households on the PVPC tari will reach 85.57 euros in January, a 15% increase compared to November’s 74.60 euros. This rise compounds the nancial burden for many families and re ects the ongoing volatility of energy markets.
Energy experts warn that the price of electricity is beginning 2025 with a “clear upward trend,” driven by an increase in natural gas prices. While the electricity market’s ‘pool’ closed 2024 with an average price of 63.04 euros/ MWh—a 28% reduction from 2023 and 35.8% lower than the
ve-year average—November and December saw prices soar above 100 euros/MWh, leaving uncertainty about the trajectory of energy costs in the months ahead.
Consumers also face added expenses from xed costs, including tolls, charges, and system adjustments, which contribute to rising bills.
Households on free-market tari s with xed prices are shielded from immediate uctuations, but the recent spikes are driving up prices for renewal o ers. This makes it increasingly di cult for consumers to secure favorable deals in the energy market.
The OCU encourages consumers
to actively seek xed-price tari s that o er stability in the face of ongoing market uncertainty. “Good opportunities can still be found,” the organization emphasized, advising consumers to act quickly to lock in better deals.
As the energy market enters 2025, Spanish households and businesses face a challenging period of economic adjustment amid soaring electricity costs and an uncertain outlook.
Spanish study claims a glass of wine a day is good for the heart
Drinking a small amount of wine each day may protect the heart, according to a new study of Spanish people following the plant-based Mediterranean diet, which typically includes drinking a small glass of wine with dinner.
In a group of people over 60 at risk for heart disease, drinking one-half to one glass of wine a day reduced the risk of having a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke by 50% when compared to people who drank no wine.
However, this protective e ect disappeared in people who drank more than one glass per day, according to senior study author Dr. Ramon Estruch, who studies cardiovascular risk, nutrition and aging at the University of Barcelona. At the beginning of the study, people were asked about their typical food and drink and were required to provide a urine sample used to measure tartaric acid — a chemical excreted in urine that is naturally found in grape products such as wine. After a year on the Mediterranean diet, the urine test was repeated — if grapes or wine were consumed within the last ve or so days, the test would pick it up.
“By measuring tartaric acid in the urine, alongside food and drink questionnaires, we have been able to make a more accurate measurement of wine consumption,” Estruch said.
“This study examines the importance of moderate wine consumption within a healthy dietary pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet,” said Estruch, an internist in the internal medicine department of the Hospital Clinic in Barcelona, in a statement.
“Until now, we believed that 20% of the e ects of the Mediterranean diet could be attributed to moderate wine consumption; however, in light of these results, the e ect may be even greater,” he said.
However, critics say the study doesn’t consider the well-known health harms of alcohol, including wine.
“While the study suggests that low to moderate wine consumption may lower CVD (cardiovascular) risk, it is not an all clear to crack open a bottle of red wine,” said Tracy Parker, senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, who was not involved in the study.
“It is well-documented that
excessive alcohol consumption is harmful to heart health,” Parker said in a statement. “Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of heart and circulatory conditions, such as high blood pressure and vascular dementia, as well as liver problems and certain cancers.”
In addition, many people don’t accurately measure their wine pours, experts say — what should be a small 4-ounce glass of wine could easily become a 6-ounce or even 9-ounce pour.
“People often say that ‘wine is good for the heart’but we also know too much wine is ‘not good for the heart’,” said Paul Leeson, professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Oxford, who was also not involved in the study.
The research, published recently in the European Heart Journal, is part of an ongoing Spanish study investigating the impact of a Mediterranean diet on people at risk for heart disease. The 1,232 participants in the current study had type 2 diabetes or risk factors such as smoking tobacco, high cholesterol and blood pressure, were overweight or obese and/ or had a family history of heart disease.
La Liga endorses Europol´s clampdown on illegal sports streaming
A Europol operation during last summer’s European Championship and Paris Olympics dismantled a network of several hundred providers of illegal streaming of sports and other pirated content, Spain’s La Liga football division announced recently.
The European Union’s law enforcement agency identified more than 560 resellers of pirated content that included streaming of movies, series and TV channels.
La Liga, which cooperated in the investigation, said more than 100 suspects were identified and 11 were arrested.
‘The operation was carried out in the context of major sporting events this summer such as UEFA EURO 2024 and the Olympic Games, with the main objective of combating digital piracy in the form of the publication, distribution and broadcasting of digital content subject to copyright and related rights,’ La
Liga said in a statement. More than 100 searches took place, with the seizure of nearly 30 servers and 270 IPTV devices, as well as 100 domains linked to illegal activities. Drugs and weapons were also seized, and cryptocurrency worth about 1.6 million euros was confiscated, along with 40,000 euros in cash.
The network distributed more than 2,500 TV channels and reached over 22 million users worldwide without the consent of the copyright holders, La Liga said.
The operation involved 15 countries, including Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.
‘Operation Kratos,’ took place from June to September and brought together law enforcement authorities from EU and non-EU members, as well as EU agencies and private digital content companies.
Iberia crowned most punctual airline in Europe
Spain welcomes record 88.5 million tourists
Spanish carriers Iberia and Iberia Express have been named the most punctual airlines in Europe in 2024, taking the two highest rankings in an industrywide survey published for the year.
According to data analytics organisation, Cirium, Iberia Express was the most punctual airline in Europe in 2024 with an arrival punctuality rate of 84.69%, which also made it the most punctual low-cost airline in the world in 2024. According to Cirium’s On-Time Performance Report for 2024, Iberia was the second most punctual airline in Europe, with a total of 183,268 ights and 81.58% of ights arriving on time at their destinations. This made the carrier the world’s eighth most punctual carrier overall.
Marco Sansavini, President of Iberia said: “We are very pleased with this recognition by Cirium, although our objective is to continue improving. It has been a complex year, full of disruptions, which prevented us from reaching the quality standards that an airline like
ours is committed to o ering its customers.”
“In 2025, we are determined to make even greater e orts, to review each of our processes and change whatever is necessary to achieve excellence in punctuality. This is the wish of every one of Iberia’s 10,000 employees, pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, engineers, and o ce sta , as well as our colleagues at the airport, now part of South, IAG’s handling company,” Sansavini added.
Iberia has been among the most punctual airlines in Europe and in the top 10 worldwide for the last nine years. Iberia Express, meanwhile, was the most punctual low-cost airline in the world for ve consecutive years, between 2014 and 2018, plus the most punctual low-cost airline in Europe in 2019 and 2022, and the most punctual airline in Europe in 2023. In the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, two of the most important markets for Iberia Express, departure punctuality has been above 90% in both archipelagos.
Iberia Express achieved its high rate of punctuality despite having progressively increased both its number of ights and the use of its eet, which currently stands at 27 aircraft according to ch-aviation – 13 Airbus A320s, two A321s, and 12 A321neos. In 2024, for the rst time in its 13-year history, Iberia Express exceeded 43,000 annual ights with a eet utilization of 11 hours, a level that brings it closer to ultra-lowcost airlines.
“This achievement by the airline makes us especially proud, because, on the one hand, it allows us to o er a good service to our customers and, on the other, it showcases the huge level of commitment of the entire Iberia Express team,” said Carlos Gómez, CEO of Iberia Express.
“At Iberia Express, we face important challenges in the short, medium, and long term, which we can only achieve by all rowing together in the same direction, which will surely allow us to maintain these excellent gures achieved in 2024,” added Gómez.
Eurozone unemployment hits record low in November
Unemployment across the euro area remained steady at a record low of 6.3% in November 2024, according to data released by Eurostat.
The gure matched both October’s rate and analyst forecasts, re ecting a continuing trend of labour market resilience despite economic challenges.
The total number of unemployed people in the euro area fell to 10.819 million, down 39,000 from October 2024. Compared to November 2023, the number of unemployed dropped by 333,000. However, youth unemployment, which tracks job-seekers under 25, remained a concern, holding steady at 15%—its highest level since October 2023.
Across the broader European Union (EU), unemployment similarly held rm at 5.9% in November, a slight improvement from the 6.1% recorded a year earlier. The total number of unemployed in the EU declined by 16,000 month-
on-month to 12.968 million, and by 295,000 compared to November 2023.
While the overall eurozone and EU gures marked progress, unemployment trends varied signi cantly among member states.
Germany maintained its position as the euro area’s labour market leader, with an unemployment rate of just 3.4% in November.
Spain remained at the opposite end of the spectrum, recording one of the highest unemployment rates in the bloc at 11.2%.
France followed with 7.7%, while Italy reported an unemployment rate of 5.7%, a record low according to Italy’s National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT).
Italy’s unemployment rate fell from 5.8% in October to 5.7% in November, defying analyst predictions of 6%. The number of unemployed dropped to 1,457,000, down by 24,000 month-onmonth, marking the lowest level in over 17 years.
The labour force
participation rate, which measures the proportion of working-age individuals actively employed or seeking work, remained stable at 66.3%, a 21-month low.
Italy’s labour market resilience comes despite slowing economic growth in the wake of the pandemic. Government initiatives, such as the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), have helped create opportunities in key sectors like telecommunications while supporting vulnerable job seekers.
The eurozone’s recordlow unemployment gures underscore the region’s capacity to maintain labor market stability. However, persistent challenges, such as high youth unemployment and disparities among member states, highlight the need for targeted strategies to sustain job growth and address economic inequalities across the bloc.k.
Spain has recorded a historic 88.5 million international tourists in the rst 11 months of 2024, surpassing the total for 2023 by two million, according to new data from the INE national institute of statistics.
Between January and November, international visitors spent close to €120 billion, marking a 17% increase compared to the previous year. This surge in tourist spending underscores Spain’s continued appeal as a global travel destination.
Spain’s tourism growth extended into the traditionally quieter months. In November alone, the country welcomed 5.7 million visitors, a 10.3% increase from the same month in 2023. These tourists generated €7.7 billion in spending, up 16% year-on-year, with average daily expenditures reaching €178.
The United Kingdom, France, and Germany
remained the leading sources of international tourists. The UK accounted for over 17.5 million visitors, a 7.1% rise from the previous year.
Among Spain’s most popular regions:
Catalonia attracted 18.9 million visitors, up 9.9%.
The Balearic Islands welcomed 15.1 million, marking a 6.1% increase.
The Canary Islands hosted 13.8 million, a rise of 9.6%.
Valencia experienced the strongest overall growth for the year, with 11.2 million visitors, an increase of 15.5%. However, November’s growth slowed to 4.2%, partly due to the e ects of the ‘Dana’ storm.
Tourism expenditure rose 16.7% to €118 billion through November. The UK was the largest contributor, accounting for 18.1% of total spending, followed by Germany (12.3%) and France (8.8%).
Regional spending highlights included: Catalonia, representing 18.9% of total expenditures.
The Canary Islands, contributing 17.4%. The Balearic Islands, responsible for 16.7%.
Economic Signi cance Amid Overcrowding Concerns
Despite criticism and protests over overcrowding in key tourist areas, the sector remains a cornerstone of Spain’s economy. Tourism activity in 2023 generated €184 billion, representing 12.3% of GDP, a 0.9-point increase from 2022.
The industry also provided over 2.5 million jobs, equating to 11.6% of total employment. Spain’s record-breaking tourism gures highlight the sector’s resilience and its critical role in driving economic growth, even amid environmental concerns and calls for sustainable practices.
Civil Guard detains woman in Orihuela for alleged cyber scams
The Civil Guard of Murcia has arrested a Ukrainian woman in Orihuela, suspected of carrying out a dozen cyber scams totaling over one million euros. Additionally, two other women are the subjects of international search and arrest warrants in connection with the case.
The investigation was initiated following a complaint from a victim residing in Mazarrón. The scam involved a company promoting investments in cryptocurrencies and other nancial products, initially promising substantial pro ts from small investments. This was followed by persistent o ers of exclusive opportunities that persuaded victims to invest more money.
Specialized cybercrime investigators from the Guardia Civil’s Arroba teams discovered that the funds had been transferred to various bank accounts
held by companies and subsequently diverted to other accounts in Eastern European countries. Both the identities of the company owners and the business operators were falsi ed, seemingly to facilitate the movement of large sums of money without arousing suspicion.
Operation “Blokil” has uncovered more than ten victims across Spain and resolved 11 cases involving fraud, document forgery, and money laundering, amounting to 1,300,000 euros. The arrested woman has been brought before the Court of Instruction in Totana, Murcia.
Benferri’s ongoing recovery and plans for 2025
The year 2024 has been pivotal for Benferri, as the town continues its efforts to repair and improve infrastructure damaged during the catastrophic DANA floods of 2019.
Mayor Luis Vicente Mateo highlighted the progress made during the year, including significant repair and conditioning projects, as well as preventative measures such as the construction of a rainwater tank as part of the initial phase of the Vega Renhace Plan. These actions have been crucial in safeguarding the town and addressing the lingering consequences of the 2019 floods, during which Benferri was the first municipality to face the torrent of water from the Abanilla ravine.
Mayor Mateo used his year-end review to reflect on the ongoing challenges and called attention to areas where more work is needed. He criticized
the Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS), stating that it “has not done its homework” in maintaining channels and gullies designed to mitigate flood damage. According to Mateo, these failures leave the region vulnerable to future weather events, and he emphasized the need for more decisive action to prevent similar disasters.
Looking ahead to 2025, Benferri plans to continue its recovery efforts. Key priorities include repairing roads and completing the restoration of the municipal swimming pool, both of which remain affected by the DANA. Mayor Mateo also expressed optimism regarding long-awaited intervention from the Ministry of Education on the town’s municipal school, which has been in operation for 50 years and is in urgent need of modernization.
In addition to these projects, plans are underway to expand the town’s medical office, an initiative aimed at improving healthcare access for residents. This expansion reflects the municipality’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens as part of its broader recovery and development agenda.
The combination of ongoing repairs, new infrastructure projects, and a focus on preventative measures marks 2025 as a critical year for Benferri. It is a time not only for rebuilding but also for addressing longstanding vulnerabilities, ensuring that the town is better prepared for future challenges while continuing to improve the lives of its residents.
Torrevieja resident investigated for faking robbery to claim insurance
The Civil Guard, as part of its crime prevention e orts, has investigated a resident of Torrevieja for ling a false complaint about the theft of a highend mobile phone. The incident occurred in early December when the man reported to the Main Post of the Civil Guard in Torrevieja that he had been robbed in a central street of the town early in the morning. According to his statement, a thin man approximately 1.80 meters tall, dressed in grey clothing and a hood, had stolen a mobile phone worth over 1,000 euros from him. The complainant claimed there were no witnesses or cameras in the area and that he had not been injured during the alleged robbery.
O cers launched an extensive investigation into the report. Upon analyzing the details, they identi ed patterns typical of false complaints. Furthermore, no
evidence was found at the scene to support the man’s account or the presence of the described perpetrator. As the investigation progressed, the complainant provided contradictory versions of the event, altering details about the location, the method of the robbery, and the description of the alleged perpetrator, which reinforced the o cers’ suspicions.
On December 26, after being summoned for further questioning, the suspect confessed that the reported events were false and that he had, in fact, lost his mobile phone. It was also con rmed that after ling the complaint, he attempted to obtain compensation from his insurance company, which was denied due to the policy having expired. The 29-year-old man, who has no prior criminal record, is now being investigated for an alleged crime of simulating a crime. The
case has been referred to the Torrevieja Court on Duty, which will determine his criminal responsibility.
This incident is not isolated.
During the summer and autumn months, the Guardia Civil in Torrevieja investigated four other individuals for similar cases. Most of these false reports were made with the intent of obtaining insurance compensation or explaining the loss of valuables to family members.
The Civil Guard has issued a reminder to citizens that ling a false complaint is a criminal o ense under Articles 456 and 457 of the Spanish Criminal Code. Such actions have legal repercussions and misuse valuable police resources that could otherwise be allocated to genuine cases. The Civil Guard emphasizes the importance of acting responsibly and honestly when ling complaints.
Ricardo Rodríguez Hurtado elected General Secretary of PSOE in Almoradí
The local assembly of the PSOE in Almoradí has elected Ricardo Rodríguez Hurtado as its new general secretary, along with the members of the Local Executive Committee who will serve alongside him. This marks a signi cant shift for the party in the municipality, bringing an end to the management committee previously chaired by Fran Maciá, the secretary of Regional Organization.
With the formation of this new executive body, the Almoradí socialist group is now aligned with the statutes of the PSOE, reinstating a formal political direction. The party highlighted that this return to normalcy positions the local group to e ectively navigate ongoing organizational processes and prepare for future political challenges.
Joaquín Hernández, the regional secretary, expressed gratitude to the party’s militants for prioritizing the socialist vision and fostering unity. He emphasized that this collective commitment
is a crucial foundation for the PSOE to reclaim leadership in Almoradí, stating, “This unity is the fundamental step so that, in the 2027 elections, Almoradí will be socialist.”
Ricardo Rodríguez Hurtado, the newly appointed general secretary, outlined the aspirations of the Local Executive Committee. He a rmed their dedication to addressing the pressing issues facing Almoradí, emphasizing inclusivity in their approach. “The intention of the new
executive committee is to work to address the problems of Almoradí and, to this end, it will be open to all those people who pursue the same goal,” Rodríguez declared.
The election of Rodríguez and the formation of the new executive signal a fresh chapter for the PSOE in Almoradí, underscoring a uni ed commitment to revitalizing the party’s presence and in uence in the municipality ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Socialists criticise Orihuela government over Ribera Saludproposal
Luis Quesada, the socialist councillor for Orihuela, held a press conference this morning to announce his group’s intention to present a motion at the next plenary session. The motion aims to express their rm opposition to the recent proposal introduced by Ribera Salud, which was supported by Orihuela’s Mayor and Councillor for Urban Planning. Quesada denounced the initiative, stating that it “attacks, degrades, and belittles the health care that belongs to everyone and is for everyone.”
Quesada accused Mayor Vegara of failing to prioritize public welfare. “If Vegara were a good mayor, which he is not, instead of endorsing this idea, he would ask Ribera Salud to use the signi cant pro ts it has made managing the Torrevieja Hospital over the years to bene t the administration,” he argued. He suggested that Ribera Salud could contribute by donating the proposed space instead of pro ting at the expense of public land and the collective good.
The councillor also took aim at the silence of the People’s Party (PP) regarding
the nearly €11 million allocated by the previous Botanic government for the expansion of the Torrevieja Hospital. He questioned why no one in the PP has demanded accountability from President Carlos Mazón for this budgeted amount, adding, “Even if they expand it, they won’t provide the personnel or services it needs.”
Criticism of Public Land Use and Health Investments
Quesada sharply criticized the current administration for prioritizing private interests over public health. He questioned how Mayor Vegara could justify “applauding the giveaway of public land to private companies for pro t” while failing to allocate land for improving public health facilities in Orihuela Costa. This failure, according to Quesada, risks forfeiting an investment of over €3 million earmarked for the expansion of the Orihuela Costa Health Centre.
The councillor also recalled the PP’s opposition to the previous government’s plans for the Vega Baja Hospital expansion, accusing them of politicizing health initiatives.
“The PP of Orihuela accused
the previous Valencian Government of electioneering when the expansion works were announced and even took the matter to court.
Yet today, these are the only health projects underway in Vega Baja, and they are on schedule because the Botanic government delivered,”he said.
Condemnation of Election Campaign Tactics
Quesada concluded his remarks with a scathing critique of the Valencian PP’s election tactics. He referenced the banners placed near health facilities during the campaign that read, “Smile, they are leaving,” a jab at the previous administration. “Today, I tell you we cry because those who do business with the public have returned,” he lamented, signaling his deep concern over the direction of the region’s health care policies.
The motion by Quesada and his group underscores the growing tension over public versus private health care initiatives in Orihuela, re ecting broader debates about the role of private entities in managing essential public services.
VISIT THE ELCHE PALM GROVE MUSEUM
Set in a traditional 19th century house and surrounded by palm trees, this charming museum is a must see when visiting Elche. The house has two wings connected by a covered wooden bridge and is located in the heart of the city at the palm grove known as Huerto de San Plácido. Here, you will discover the history of the palm, its uses, and evolution, in the various exhibition rooms. Your museum experience is then complemented by a walk outside in the grove where a specialist palm worker will show his traditional palm plaiting skills in the workshop
annex of the museum. (Mornings from Tuesday to Friday onlybooking is required by calling 966 658 054).
Museum Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10am-2pm and 3pm-6pm Sundays 10am-2pm (Closed Mondays & Public Holidays) Entrance Fee: 1€
STORY OF THE ELCHE PALM GROVE
The Palmeral of Elche is a unique cultural landscape, of outstanding value and universal signi cance. It is the heart of an irrigation system established by
the founders of the Islamic city of Elche, a millennium ago, and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000. With more than 200,000 specimens and about 50,000 in municipal nurseries ready to be planted, the Elche palm grove is the largest in Europe. Although viewed from a distance it may look like a forest, it is actually a plantation carried out for agricultural purposes, which is why the plots or their groupings are called orchards. Each of the plots is anked by alignments of palm trees, so that, seen from the
air, they form grids. The terraces created inside have traditionally been dedicated to agricultural crops. Currently, the palm grove has a more landscape and cultural function than agriculture, focusing on the production of the white palm for Palm Sunday, and on small harvests of dates for the local market.
To discover more fascinating places to visit on the Costa Blanca, check out this website www. costablancascene.com
Having posted a six-month low against the USD on 22 November, GBP managed to nd some much-needed footing as market rates picked up by close to two cents earlier this week. With in ation rising to 2.3%, the BoE is expected to pause any changes to monetary policy in its 19 December meeting.
This week’s release of the UK manufacturing and services PMI will likely shift the focus to the UK’s economic performance. Business sentiment about the outlook for 2025 has soured. The Institute of Directors (IoD) has just released a survey showing that business con dence has declined to its lowest level since April 2020, when the rst UK Covid lockdown was announced. Over 600 business leaders surveyed by the IoD believe that Rachel Reeves’ budget will be a block to business investment in the new year.
Manufacturing PMI, which was released on Monday morning, showed a contraction to a nine-month low. Output for September is 0.7% lower than it was a year before. The drop suggests there will be further challenges in the sector, caused by an uplift in costs and continued uncertainty in demand.
On Tuesday, the British Retail Consortium released its retail sales data for November, which came in signi cantly below expectations. Markets expected an uplift to 0.7% from the previous 0.3% release as consumers began their festive spending; however, the gure landed at
-3.4%.
The latest Services PMI data, which was released on Wednesday, delivered better news, coming in at 50.8, indicating the industry is in expansion and ahead of the 50.0 gure expected.
EUR
Last Friday saw eurozone in ation rise to 2.3% for November, up from 2.0% in October, and above the European Central Bank’s target for the rst time in three months. The rise was widely anticipated, with price increases in the service sector outweighing the reduction in energy costs across the bloc.
Eurozone monthly core in ation dropped by 0.4%, which suggests underlying price pressures could be easing. Services prices rose 3.9% yearon-year, but fell by 0.9% compared to October, o ering a glimmer of hope for the in ation outlook.
While the annual increase marks a slight departure from the ECB’s target, the monthly data shows a more optimistic trend. Consumer prices in the eurozone fell by 0.3% in November compared to October, which is the steepest monthly decline since January 2024.
While there remains a chance of a 50 basis point cut at the European Central Banks meeting on 12 December, it looks unlikely. A rate cut in some form is widely anticipated, but concerns about Trump’s trade tari s on imports to the US have the potential to curb EU growth and will likely force a smaller rise.
Compost bricks: A revolutionary solution for agricultural soil erosion in Orihuela
The solution to combat soil erosion caused by torrential rains may lie in an innovative invention: compost bricks. This groundbreaking creation, developed by the Polytechnic School of the Miguel Hernández University through the Institute for Agri-Food and AgroEnvironmental Research and Innovation (Ciagro), is set to play a crucial role in the European Rains project. Over the next four years, the project aims to enhance the resilience of European agriculture to water scarcity.
Initially designed for soils damaged by forest res, compost bricks were rst tested on a burnt mountainside in Bejís (Castellón), according to Raúl Moral, director of Ciagro. Speaking to this publication, Moral explained that the technology is now being adapted for agricultural soils. These soils not only su er from organic matter depletion but also face severe erosion and runo due to
the increasingly frequent and intense oods in the Spanish Levant. Compost bricks serve a dual purpose: acting as a protective barrier against erosion while functioning as a 100% biodegradable fertilizer.
Addressing Erosion in Citrus Plantations
Moral highlighted the pressing need for such solutions in the Vega Baja region, where citrus plantations have increasingly been established on hillside terrains. These farming practices often leave the soil exposed, leading to signi cant nutrient loss due to erosion. To address this, Ciagro has begun testing compost bricks on agricultural land, following successful trials in public gardens in Benidorm and on slopes near motorways and railway lines. Currently, a partnership with ve farmers from the Guardamar Water Court has been established to extend testing to cultivated elds.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Composition
One of the standout features of these compost bricks is their environmentally friendly composition. Made primarily from plant bers, such as those from palm trees or reeds, they completely eliminate the need for plastic or chemical additives. This ensures that the bricks are not only e ective in preventing erosion but are also sustainable and biodegradable, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly agricultural practices.
The introduction of compost bricks represents a signi cant step forward in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events on agriculture. By combining innovation with sustainability, this Orihuelamade invention has the potential to transform how farmers protect and nourish their soil, fostering a more resilient agricultural landscape across the region and beyond.
New Orihuela Costa school still awaits opening despite progress
Construction on the new school in Orihuela Costa continues, but the facility is still not operational.
Work on the municipal site on Calle Níspero is progressing, while the Ministry of Education has yet to announce an o cial opening date for the new school.
During the recent holidays, the Orihuela City Council con rmed the signing of the acceptance certi cate for the prefabricated classrooms. Last week, the necessary furniture to equip the classrooms arrived, with the Councillor for Education, Vicente Pina, and Félix Sotos, the future director of the new school and current teacher at Playas de Orihuela school, present to oversee the delivery. When asked about the timeline for when the classrooms would be fully operational, municipal sources did not provide speci c details, stating only that the nal shipments of
furniture had been received.
After a lengthy administrative process, the City Council was able to award the construction contract for the adaptation of the municipal property. This site had previously been used for the temporary housing of Playas de Orihuela school in barracks last September.
Sources indicate that the works are nearing completion, with only minor tasks left, such as
asphalting and repainting the playground. However, essential services like electricity and water are still not operational, further delaying the school’s opening.
While construction is progressing, the community in Orihuela Costa remains anxious for the school’s completion. The hope is that within the next few weeks, the school will be ready to open its doors to students, marking the end of a long wait for local families.
National Police arrest five for defrauding elderly in Tocomocho scam
The National Police have apprehended ve individuals in Torrevieja—three men and two women aged between 25 and 78—on suspicion of perpetrating multiple scams using the infamous “Tocomocho” method. This group, identi ed as a highly specialized and organized criminal network, primarily targeted elderly individuals, exploiting their trust and goodwill to execute their schemes.
The investigation was launched following complaints from two elderly victims, both of whom recounted being tricked by a group employing elaborate emotional manipulation and persuasion tactics to rob them of money and valuable jewelry.
The First Victim’s Ordeal
The rst victim, a 77-yearold woman, described being approached outside a shop by a woman in her 40s, who claimed to possess a bag lled with money. Shortly after, another woman, aged 75, and her purported son, a 58-year-old man, joined the interaction. Pretending to o er assistance, the man o ered to drive them around in his car.
Using a ruse to establish trust, the scammers convinced the victim to hand over money and jewelry as part of a supposed
arrangement to safeguard the money in the bag. The victim, believing their claims, withdrew €3,000 from her bank and handed over several pieces of jewelry. She was subsequently abandoned on a street corner with the bag, which turned out to be lled with worthless newspaper clippings.
The Second Victim’s Experience
In another incident, a woman pretending to have a disability approached the victim on the street, seeking help to nd a nonexistent address. An accomplice and a driver, who claimed to be the disabled woman’s son, soon joined the interaction. Through manipulation, they convinced the victim to withdraw €3,000 and hand over her jewelry in exchange for “safekeeping” a package purportedly lled with banknotes. After accompanying the victim to the bank, the scammers left her with the package, which, like the rst case, contained only newspaper clippings.
Uncovering the Scam
The National Police, acting on the victims’ reports, initiated a detailed investigation that led to the identi cation of both the suspects and the vehicle they used. O cers tracked the group’s movements and intercepted them while they were driving
through an area frequented by elderly people, likely seeking new targets. The arrests were made in Torrevieja as the suspects returned to their residence.
Evidence Recovered
During subsequent searches, the authorities seized €12,320 in cash, various pieces of jewelry, and multiple lottery tickets. The stolen items were positively identi ed by the victims, who reclaimed their property.
All ve suspects, who are Spanish nationals with prior
convictions for similar o enses, were detained. Three of them have already been brought before the courts, while the investigation continues to uncover additional crimes potentially linked to this group.
A Warning from the National Police
The National Police emphasized the importance of vigilance and awareness, particularly for protecting elderly individuals, who are especially vulnerable to such schemes.
The “Tocomocho” method is a well-known scam targeting seniors, wherein fraudsters pretend to have a winning lottery ticket or large sums of money they cannot manage. They solicit the victim’s help, promising a share of the winnings in exchange for jewelry or cash, only to disappear with the valuables.
Steps to Prevent Such Scams
Be cautious of strangers: Avoid engaging with individuals who approach with unusual requests or promises of extraordinary opportunities. Consult trusted individuals: Share any suspicious proposals with family or friends before acting. Guard valuables: Never hand over money, jewelry, or personal property to strangers under any circumstances. Report suspicious activity: Notify the police immediately if you encounter unusual behavior. Contact 091 or visit a police station. Educate and inform elders: Ensure that elderly relatives and friends are aware of such schemes and know how to spot and avoid them. The National Police also encourage citizens to contribute to crime prevention by reporting suspicious behavior anonymously via their o cial website, www.policia.es, or at any local police station.
Valencia regional government responds to flood impact on animals, providing extensive support
Carlos Mazón, President of the Valencia regional government, announced that the Generalitat has assisted over 1,000 animals affected by the recent floods caused by the Dana. The government activated five emergency initiatives, offering rescue, shelter, free veterinary care, food, and reconstruction efforts.
Mazón thanked the support of organizations like Bioparc, which helped with supplies and animal care. From the start, the Generalitat worked with Valencia’s official veterinarians to manage animal rescues and set up primary care points in areas without functioning veterinary clinics.
At the rescue centre in Sporting de Benimaclet, 434 animals were cared for, with additional animals treated at various clinics
and shelters, including CEU veterinary hospital and others. For urgent cases, specialized care was provided at leading veterinary hospitals.
The regional government, working with veterinarians, has helped
restore services in affected municipalities. Primary care points remain available in areas without clinics. Additionally, new subsidies are being developed to support animal rescue organizations, ensuring continued aid for animals impacted by the floods.
We need properties to replace those recently sold or
Necesitamos propiedades para reemplazar las recientemente vendidas o reservadas.
Man arrested in Benidorm for allegedly coercing woman into paying rent with sexual services
A 38-year-old Spanish man was arrested by National Police o cers on the Costa Blanca for allegedly coercing a woman into paying rent with sexual services in Benidorm. The investigation began after the victim reported being sexually exploited and assaulted while trying to recover her belongings from the suspect’s residence.
The woman had been added to a social media group by a friend to help her nd a room to rent. After formalizing a rental agreement for 300 euros a month, she moved into a shared house with the suspect and another woman. However, once she arrived, the man allegedly demanded that she provide sexual services as payment. When the woman refused, she left the room but left her belongings behind.
Upon returning to collect her items, the man reportedly prevented her from entering. She eventually managed to enter and found that the lock had been tampered with and 200 euros were missing. As she attempted to leave with her belongings, the man allegedly assaulted her, hitting her on the head, arms, and back, and tried to steal her phone and other possessions.
The suspect was arrested
and taken to the National Police station in Benidorm. Authorities are advising people to be cautious when signing rental contracts and sharing housing, especially through social media and messaging groups. They encourage anyone experiencing exploitation or other risks to report the situation immediately.
Reports can be made anonymously and con dentially through the o cial website, www. policia.es, or in person, by phone, or online.
24-Year-old woman dies after being struck by train on Costa Blanca
A tragic incident occurred on Monday, 6 January, when a 24-year-old woman was fatally struck by a train on the railway line between Torrellano and San Gabriel, located on Spain’s Costa Blanca.
The woman, identi ed as Moldovan, was crossing the tracks at an unauthorized point when the train hit her around 6 p.m. Initial reports suggest that she may have been lost and talking on her mobile phone at the time of the accident. Emer-
gency response teams, including forensic and police units, quickly arrived at the scene to investigate the circumstances of the tragedy.
As a result of the incident, Spanish rail infrastructure operator Adif halted train services between Torrellano and San Gabriel. The disruption a ected long-distance, medium-distance, and Cercanías commuter trains traveling along the C-1 line of the Murcia-Alicante route.
Shoppers warned about fraudulent website impersonating popular Spanish perfume chain Primor
Consumers across Spain are being urged to exercise caution after discovering a fraudulent website that deceptively claims to sell perfumes and cosmetics from Primor, a wellestablished Malaga-based retailer. With over 70 years of history since its rst store opened in 1953 on Calle Granada, Primor is one of the country’s most reputable and beloved chains for beauty products.
However, Primor’s longstanding success has caught the attention of cybercriminals who seek to exploit the company’s trusted name for their own fraudulent schemes. During this holiday season, a deceptive link (primor-perfums.com) has been circulating, promising special o ers from the popular retailer. In reality, this website is designed to imitate Primor’s o cial online presence and trick unsuspecting shoppers, according to reports from the digital news outlet Newtral.es, which rst agged the fraudulent site.
Con rming the scam, sources within Primor have clari ed that this fake website is not a liated with the company in any way. This is not the rst time cybercriminals have attempted to deceive customers by misusing Primor’s brand name or logo. The company has previously dealt with similar fraudulent attempts and is taking necessary steps to protect its customers.
Primor is warning consumers to be vigilant and to avoid
interacting with these counterfeit o ers. Customers should only use the o cial Primor websites for online shopping: https://www.primor.eu/ and https://www.primorbox.eu/.
As of now, the fraudulent website redirects users to an unrelated Italian perfume retailer, which has no connection to Primor. To ensure the safety of their purchases, customers are encouraged to carefully check URLs and verify the legitimacy of any online shopping platforms they visit.
Financial Advice for Americans in Spain
A challenging aspect of life for Americans in Spain is dealing with financial institutions. In addition to the everyday financial headaches we all face, a few extra ones confront Americans who live here.
As Peter Dougherty, financial planner at BISSAN Wealth Management in Spain explains: “Do financial entities want Americans who reside in Spain as clients? It often appears that the answer is no. The U.S. enforces FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) rules that dissuade many Spanish banks from wanting American clients.
Even banks willing to accept U.S. clients are often unaware that Americans need to continue to file annual U.S. income tax returns. That makes these customers subject to PFIC (Passive Foreign Investment Company) rules which penalize Americans abroad for investments in non-U.S.
mutual funds, including those in Spain. As a result, the investments that Spanish banks recommend to its U.S. clients are sometimes disadvantageous to these customers.
In addition, if an American keeps a large enough balance in a financial account outside the States or has foreign financial
assets of sufficient value, they also need to file a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Assets (FBAR) and/ or a Form 8938.”
“The solution for Americans living in Spain,” says Dougherty, “is to seek out a financial planner who is familiar with regulatory, tax and investment rules in both the U.S. and Spain. That’s
why I became certified as a financial planner by Spain’s European Financial Planning Association (EFPA España) and why I earned a master’s degree in Spanish taxation from Instituto Europeo de Asesoría Fiscal (Institute of Tax Planning) in 2024.
There are now nearly 100,000 accredited financial
planners in the United States. In terms of financial planners accredited by the European Financial Planning Association of Spain; however, there are only 1,000 of us. Those disproportionate numbers might lead one to believe that there is a greater “need” for financial planning by Americans in the U.S. than by Americans in Spain. The reality is exactly the opposite.”
To schedule a free consultation with Peter Dougherty of BISSAN Wealth Management: https://financial-planningin-spain.com
BUSINESS PROFILE
Please note that all information contained within this Costa Blanca People Business Pro le has been provided by the client, and is therefore deemed correct and accurate. Any errors, omissions or inaccuracies are the sole responsibility of the client.
This Week´s Movie Picks
Moonfall
Saturday 18 January, Channel 4, 10.00 pm
An unknown force knocks the Moon from its orbit and sends it on a collision course with Earth. Former astronaut Jocinda Fowler is convinced she knows the key to saving humanity - but only a disgraced former partner and an outsider believe her.
Sing 2 Sunday 19 January, ITV2, 2.30 pm
With his theatrical company a local success, Buster Moon is dreaming of bigger things. Unfortunately, when a talent scout dismisses their work as inadequate for the big time, Buster is driven to prove her wrong, and he inspires his players to gamble everything to sneak into a talent audition in Redshore City for demanding entertainment mogul Jimmy Crystal. Against the odds, they catch his interest with some frantic creative improvisation and even more desperate lies, like personally knowing reclusive rock star Clay Calloway, who has not been seen in 15 years. Now faced with a tight production window with only a vague story idea and dire consequences for failure, Buster and his friends must all stretch their talents put on a show.
23:45 Britain’s Notorious Prisons
09:10 The King of Queens
Frasier 10:10 Frasier 10:40 Frasier
Frasier
09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:10 Operation Pawsome 10:15 Jeremy Vine
Storm Huntley
in
in
21:00 Eat Smart: Secrets of the Glucose Goddess 22:00 Manhunt
23:00 Marilyn Manson: Unmasked
09:10 The King of Queens
09:40 Frasier
10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier 11:10 Frasier
11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA 12:35 Channel 4 News Summary
12:40 Four in a Bed 13:10 Four in a Bed 13:40 Four in a Bed 14:10 Four in a Bed
14:40 Four in a Bed 15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Junior Bake Off
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Grantchester
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Peston
08:20 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 08:45 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
Friends 14:15 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: A Lesson in Murder 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Winter Road Rescue 19:25 Winter Road Rescue 20:00 Lost Dog, Found Dog with Clare Balding 21:00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly
22:00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild 23:00 Who Killed Lin & Megan Russell?
09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:10 Operation Pawsome 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:15 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Aurora Teagarden Mysteries 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Winter Road Rescue 19:25 Winter Road Rescue 20:00 GPs: Behind Closed Doors
Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
21:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It
22:00 Patience
23:00 Marilyn Manson: Unmasked
21:00 The Air Fryer Diet: Lose Weight Fast
Surgeons: A Matter of Life or Death
999: Emergency Call Out
18:15 Flog It!
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Joanna Page’s Wild Life 20:00 Live: Masters Snooker 21:00 Digging for Britain 22:00 Miriam Margolyes: Almost Australian 23:00 The Traitors: Uncloaked
23:30 Newsnight
Friday 17th January
06:05 Deal or No Deal
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals
15:30 Pictionary 16:00 Lingo
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:30 Tonight 22:00 Beat the Chasers
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 The Late Debate
06:05 Deal or No Deal
07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women
14:30 ITV Lunchtime News
14:55 ITV News London
15:00 Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals
15:30 Pictionary
16:00 Lingo
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Joanna Page’s Wild Life
20:00 Live: Masters Snooker
21:00 Monty Don’s British Gardens
22:00 Lucy Worsley Investigates
23:00 The Traitors: Uncloaked
23:30 Newsnight
Saturday 18th
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 True Crime Presents
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Inside M&S
04:50 Unwind with ITV 06:05 Deal or No Deal 07:00 Dancing on Ice 08:30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh 10:25 ITV News
10:30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning
12:40 Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours
13:40 James Martin’s French Adventure
14:15 ITV Lunchtime News
14:30 To Be Announced
17:00 Tipping Point
17:30 ITV Evening News
17:45 ITV News London
18:00 The Chase: Celebrity Special
19:00 Wheel of Fortune
20:00 The Masked Singer
21:30 Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win
22:30 North Shore
23:20 ITV News
09:10 The King of Queens
09:40 Frasier
10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier 11:10 Frasier
11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA 12:35 Channel 4 News Summary
12:40 Four in a Bed 13:10 Four in a Bed 13:40 Four in a Bed 14:10 Four in a Bed 14:40 Four in a Bed 15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun 17:00 A New Life in the Sun 18:00 Junior Bake Off 19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Sandi’s Great British Woodland Restoration
22:00 Patience
23:00 Marilyn Manson: Unmasked
09:40 Frasier 10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier 11:10 Frasier 11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
12:35 Channel 4 News Summary
12:40 Four in a Bed
13:10 Four in a Bed
13:40 Four in a Bed
14:10 Four in a Bed
14:40 Four in a Bed
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Junior Bake Off
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Food Unwrapped
21:30 Travel Man: 48 Hours in...
22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown
23:00 Big Fat Quiz of Everything
05:55 Frasier
06:20 Frasier
06:45 Frasier
07:10 The King of Queens
07:35 The King of Queens
08:00 The King of Queens
08:25 Frasier
08:55 Frasier
09:25 Frasier
10:00 Frasier
10:30 Frasier
11:00 The Simpsons
11:35 The Simpsons
12:05 The Kid Who Would Be King
14:25 The Karate Kid
17:15 The Great Pottery Throw Down
18:30 Channel 4 News
19:00 Sarah Beeny’s New Life in the Country
20:00 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road
09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Milo
09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:10 Operation Pawsome 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:15 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Engaged To Be Murdered
17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Winter Road Rescue 19:25 Winter Road Rescue 20:00 Will You Get Dementia? 21:00 Majorca: Jewel Of The Med 22:00 Britain’s Great Cathedrals: To the Glory of God
09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:10 Operation Pawsome 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:15 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Chronicle Mysteries 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Winter Road Rescue
19:25 Winter Road Rescue 20:00 Inside The Hilton: Park Lane
21:00 Susan Calman’s Cruise Of A Lifetime
22:00 The Good Ship Murder
23:00 Ronnie Corbett: My 30 Funniest Moments
08:55 DORA
09:10 PAW Patrol
09:30 Cooking with the Gills
09:40 The Smurfs 09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants
10:05 Entertainment News On 5 10:10 Winter Road Rescue
10:40 Cruising with Jane McDonald
11:30 Cruising with Jane McDonald
12:30 The Weekend Travel Show
14:00 You Are What You Eat 15:00 You Are What You Eat 16:00 Happy Campers: The Caravan Park
17:00 Happy Campers: The Caravan Park
18:00 Only Fools And Horses: Secrets & Scandals
18:55 5 News Weekend 19:00 The Great Flood of 1968
09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 10:10 World’s Funniest Videos 10:35 World’s Funniest Videos 10:55 Secret Crush 12:00 Secret Crush 13:00
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald 20:20 FYI Daily 20:25 Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald 22:00 Love Island: All Stars 23:05 Family Guy 23:35 Family Guy 003:30 Teleshopping 04:30 Unwind with ITV
Classic Coronation
In for a Penny
09:10 The Darling Buds of May 10:30 The Royal 11:35 The Royal 12:40 Heartbeat 13:40 Heartbeat 14:40 Classic Emmerdale 15:10 Classic Emmerdale 15:40 Classic Coronation Street 16:10 Classic Coronation Street 16:40 A Touch of Frost 18:55 Heartbeat 19:55 Heartbeat 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 Unforgotten
07:40 Looney Tunes
07:55 Looney Tunes Cartoons
Dodo
Live: Masters Snooker
23:00 Top of the Pops
23:35 Billy Connolly: My Absolute Pleasure
21:00 Our Tiny Islands
22:00 Moonfall
20:30 The Royals On Holiday 21:30 Bagshot Park: A Royal Residence 22:30 Kate
19th January
09:25 Frasier 09:55 Frasier 10:25 The Simpsons 11:00 Sunday Brunch 14:00 The Simpsons
14:30 The Simpsons
15:00 Four in a Bed
15:30 Four in a Bed
16:00 Four in a Bed
16:30 Four in a Bed 17:00 Four in a Bed
17:30 George Clarke’s American Adventures
18:35 Channel 4 News
19:00 Mysteries of Stonehenge
Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 22:00 Out There 23:00 ITV News
23:15 The Dry 23:45 The Dry
20th January
Ainsley’s
20:45 The Great Pottery Throw Down
22:00 Celebrity Hunted
23:00 Celebrity Gogglebox
23:55 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown
09:30 Cooking with the Gills 09:40 The Smurfs 09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants 10:05 Entertainment News On 5 10:10 NFL End Zone
10:35 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble 11:35 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble 12:35 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble 13:35 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild 14:35 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild
15:35 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles 16:35 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles 17:30 Fawlty Towers: 50 Years of Laughs 19:00 The Air Fryer Diet: Lose Weight Fast 19:55 5 News Weekend
20:00 Holiday Scams: Don’t Get Caught Out 21:00 22 Kids & Counting 22:00 Rich House, Poor House 23:00 When Holidays Go Horribly Wrong & Other Travel Nightmares 08:10 Dodo 08:20 Dodo 08:30 Scooby-Doo! Frankencreepy
Where the Polar Bears Wait 20:30 Celebrity Mastermind
Only Connect
QI
ITV Lunchtime News
ITV News London
Tipping Point: Best Ever Finals 15:30 Pictionary 16:00 Deal or No Deal
17:00 President Trump: The Inauguration 19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Out There
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
Newsnight 00:25 Long Lost Family
23:45 The Real Manhunt: The Night Stalker
09:10 The King of Queens 09:40 Frasier 10:10 Frasier
10:40 Frasier 11:10 Frasier
11:40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA 12:35 Channel 4 News Summary 12:40 Four in a Bed 13:10 Four in a Bed 13:40 Four in a Bed 14:10 Four in a Bed 14:40 Four in a Bed 15:10 Countdown 16:00 A Place in the Sun 17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Junior Bake Off
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Jamie’s £1 Wonders & Money-Saving Meals
22:00 24 Hours in Police Custody
23:00 Katie Price: Making Babies
09:30 Milo 09:40 Mixmups 09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Peppa Pig
Pawsome Puzzles
Jeremy Vine
Storm Huntley 13:45 Friends 14:10 Friends 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Picture Perfect Mysteries: Dead Over Diamonds 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Winter Road Rescue 19:25 Winter Road Rescue 20:00 Police Interceptors 21:00 Traffic Cops 22:00 The Michelle Mone Scandal: Where Did Our Money Go? 23:00 Motorway Cops: Catching America’s Speeders 08:10 Looney Tunes Cartoons 08:20 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 08:45 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New Scooby-
If you have a question or problem with any household technology needing my help or want to join the Technology Help Group please email Brian at cbtechnology.help@gmail. com.
As a group member, you would have access to the group website which contains previous session notes, handouts and access to previous Costa Blanca People published articles.
Scan the QR code for a reminder of what the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group o ers.
Meetings at Dilly’s Bar, Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, Alicante. Group meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00. The Next meeting is on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025. You are welcome to attend.
“What is a Portable WiFi Router “? A Portable Wi-Fi router is a device that performs a router’s functions and includes the functions of a wireless access point. It is used to provide access to the Internet or a private computer network. Depending on the manufacturer and model, it can function in a wired local area network, in a wireless-
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.
only LAN, or in a mixed wired and wireless network.
You may see claims from companies o ering “free WiFi “. The WiFi is free but you need to buy the device AND pay for “Data” to use it. Therefore the “free” claims are misleading.
If you are travelling and need internet in more than one country, then this would seem to be the answer.
You need to nd out which countries they o er (to suit your potential needs) and whether in each country they o er connection to all telephone networks in that country, or at least the major networks (as with here di erent networks give you di erent signal strength dependent on your physical location).
Provided the price of the device and the monthly cost of data is acceptable to you AND you get access to an Internet connection wherever you plan to visit then it would be much better than relying on Data Roaming with your mobile phone and current network provider.
So you need to ask how much the monthly Data fees will be.
Is the monthly fee a ordable?
Does it cover all areas you want to travel to?
Can you turn on and o the Data subscription?
“When I open an App on my phone it immediately closes down. What can I do “?
The rst thing to try is to clear the Cache. Cache is a storage area where frequently accessed data is temporarily stored for quick access. App cache: Every app on Android (or, again, other operating systems) creates and stores its own cached data. Clearing the cache can help free up storage space and resolve issues like slow performance or app crashes. The cache stores temporary data that helps apps load faster, but it can sometimes become corrupted or too large. To clear the App Cache go to Settings/Apps. Select the required App then select Storage followed by Clear Cache.
This should x the App.
Hoile Technology Help Group
Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Costa Blanca Technology Help Group” Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Brian
Bars & Restaurants
Spanish government set to raise the minium wage in 2025
The Spanish government is set to raise the minimum wage (SMI) by between 3.4% and 4.4%, following the recommendations of a committee of experts. This increase will amount to an additional 39 to 50 euros per month, bringing the monthly SMI for full-time employment to a range of 1,173 to 1,184 euros (based on 14 payments per year), up from the current 1,134 euros.
The process to finalize
the new SMI involves several steps. The advisory committee, which has evaluated the increase needed to maintain the SMI at 60% of the average wage in compliance with the European Social Charter, will officially present its conclusions to the Ministry of Labour. Once this report is received, Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz plans to hold discussions with trade unions and employers to negotiate an agreement. The proposal
will then be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.
The government intends to finalize and implement the new minimum wage before the end of the month. This will allow the increase to be applied retroactively, ensuring it is reflected in the first paychecks of the year without administrative delays. This initiative underscores Spain’s commitment to fair wage policies aligned with European standards.
Spanish Government launches year long commemoration of Franco’s death
The Socialist-led Spanish government has launched a year-long series of events to commemorate fty years since the death of General Francisco Franco, the dictator who ruled Spain until 1975. A total of 100 events are planned throughout 2025, with the aim of celebrating Spain’s transition from totalitarian rule to democracy. However, the initiative has sparked controversy and met with mixed reactions from political opponents and other stakeholders.
Critics argue that Spain’s transition to democracy was not immediate after Franco’s death and that his peaceful passing in bed complicates the narrative of a clear break from dictatorship. The main opposition parties on the right, the Partido Popular and Vox, have announced their refusal to participate in the events. They contend that they were neither consulted during
50 years on
the planning process nor involved in the organization.
King Felipe VI also distanced himself from the launch event on Wednesday at Madrid’s Reina So a modern art museum, citing a scheduling con ict. On the other hand, ministers have expressed openness to the participation of Emeritus King Juan Carlos, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s democratic transition, despite his recent controversies.
At the event’s inauguration,
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized the importance of remembering Spain’s autocratic past to educate younger generations about the dangers of dictatorship. He noted that autocratic values are resurging globally, making these commemorations particularly relevant. In a veiled reference to gures like Elon Musk, Sánchez underscored the need to defend democratic principles in the face of rising authoritarianism.
Bars & Restaurants
Rojales Pantomime Group donate to Age Concern
The Rojales Pantomime Group performed their version of ‘Dick Whittington’ at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio in December 2024. The feedback from the audience was extremely positive and it was clear that the Pantomime was enjoyed by adults and children alike. Oh yes it was! While King Rat and his dastardly Rat pack were booed with gusto, the Goodies of the piece, Dick Whittington and Alice
were encouraged with cheers. The show included music, song, dance and slapstick from the Dame and her sidekick, Idle Jack. Throughout, there was plenty of laughs and audience participation.
After all the hard work, a good time was had by all and thanks go to all the cast and the unsung heroes from sound and light to Wardrobe to backstage to Front of House and many more who made it the success it was.
As a result of the
team´s e orts, the Rojales Pantomime Group raised funds from the show to make charitable donations to Age Concern, Help at Home and other local charities. The group is already preparing for next year´s pantomime. If you are interested in joining us as a cast member, backstage, Sound and light or even as a social member, please send your contact information to Alison at dw2024rojalespanto@ gmail.com
Navigating hand luggage rules in 2025
Hand luggage can be a source of frustration for many travelers, particularly frequent flyers navigating varying airline policies. Airlines allow passengers to carry hand luggage in the cabin free of charge, provided it meets weight and size requirements. To prevent unexpected charges or last-minute hassles, consumer organization OCU advises travelers to measure and weigh their luggage at home. Here’s a guide to the carryon baggage policies of major airlines in 2025.
Ryanair permits all passengers to bring one small hand bag, up to 40 x 20 x 25 cm, at no cost (except infants on a parent’s lap). For an additional fee, passengers can carry a cabin case weighing up to 10 kg. Bags exceeding the size limit will be either refused or placed in the hold for a charge of €70–€75 (including IVA on domestic flights).
Iberia allows one free cabin suitcase with dimensions of 56 x 40 x 25 cm and a weight limit of 10 kg. If the bag exceeds these limits, surcharges range from €50 to €150.
For Business Class passengers, the weight limit increases to 14 kg, and two pieces of luggage are permitted on longhaul flights, excluding those departing from the USA. Additionally, passengers may carry one personal item, up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm, free of charge.
Vueling passengers may bring a small bag and, if their fare includes it, a cabin suitcase measuring 55 x 40 x 20 cm, with a weight limit of 10 kg. Checked luggage can weigh up to 30 kg and measure 158 cm. Any weight exceeding this limit incurs a charge of €12 per extra kilo, up to a maximum of 32 kg.
Air Europa allows Economy passengers to carry one free cabin bag
measuring 55 x 35 x 25 cm, weighing up to 10 kg. A personal item of 40 x 30 x 15 cm is also permitted. Business Class travelers may bring two cabin suitcases weighing a combined maximum of 14 kg. Noncompliant luggage may be placed in the hold for an additional fee.
EasyJet offers all passengers one free small item of hand luggage, with a maximum size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm (including handles and wheels) and a weight limit of 15 kg. It must fit under the seat in front.
Passengers can purchase a larger carry-on bag with dimensions of 56 x 45 x 25 cm and a weight limit of 15 kg. Oversized luggage may incur additional fees. Understanding these guidelines helps travelers avoid unnecessary stress and unexpected costs. Always check specific airline rules before flying and ensure your luggage complies with their size and weight limits.
Bars & Restaurants
Lily Allen has checked into an £8,000-a-week trauma treatment centre after telling friends she was close to a nervous breakdown after the collapse of her marriage.
The Mail on Sunday can reveal that the singer’s mental health deteriorated signi cantly after she returned from holiday to her marital home in New York last week – having split from her husband, the Stranger Things actor David Harbour, in December after discovering he was using the celebrity dating app Raya.
While she was at their Brooklyn townhouse, I am told that Lily felt ‘triggered’ by the thought of him being elsewhere in the city with another woman.
The former Little Mix star, 32, has been topping charts since embarking
And she delighted fans with a brand new song, which was praised for being ‘unapologetic’ and ‘authentic’ aside from a ‘banger’.
As she juggles life on the Loose Women panel, her career as a comedian and being a mum to two teenagers, Judi Love tells us it’s all about striking a balance. With a 19-year-old daughter and a 15-yearold son, both from a previous relationship, Judi isn’t afraid to admit she sometimes su ers from the dreaded “mum guilt”.
“I think we all [have mum guilt] – it’s completely natural as a mum trying to balance a career with spending as much time with your children as possible. I always try to remind myself that as long as I’m doing my best to nurture them and set an example, which we all are, there’s nothing to be guilty about,” says Judi, 44, who is ercely private when it comes to her children being in the spotlight
Lauryn Goodman is reportedly desperate for a year abroad and is said to have asked Kyle Walker for a huge favour - after her family have cut ties with her.
The reality TV star, who shares two children with the Manchester City star, is said to be keen to take a time out from the UK in order to fully focus on her kids. And she’s thought to have asked Kyle if she is able to rent out her home.
The Wanted star Max George revealed he wrote a will after being rushed to the hospital last year.
Max, 36, spent weeks in the hospital before Christmas after doctors discovered an irregularity with his heart. After being hospitalised, he broke the news to his girlfriend, Maisie Smith, 23, about what was happening while she was preparing to go on stage for work in Kent.
Celebrations at Hotel Algorfa
Christmas and New Year’s Eve at Hotel Algorfa was a truly magical experience, filled with joy, celebration, and unforgettable moments. As the holiday season enveloped the hotel in a warm glow, guests were treated to an array of festive activities, delightful culinary offerings, and a welcoming atmosphere that made everyone feel at home. The Truscott family and the entire hotel staff worked tirelessly to ensure that each guest’s experience was nothing short of extraordinary.
From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted with the enchanting sights and sounds of the season. The hotel was beautifully decorated, with twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and a stunning Christmas tree that served as the centerpiece of the restaurant. The warm and inviting ambiance created a perfect backdrop for holiday gatherings, where friends and families could come together
to celebrate. The spirit of Christmas was palpable, and it was heartwarming to see guests of all ages enjoying the festive decor and engaging in cheerful conversations.
The culinary team at Hotel Algorfa truly outdid themselves during this festive season. Guests were treated to a sumptuous Christmas dinner featuring traditional holiday dishes, expertly crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The menu included everything from succulent roasted meats to delectable desserts that left everyone wanting more. Special attention was given to dietary preferences, ensuring that all guests could indulge in the culinary delights. The New Year’s Eve celebration was equally impressive, with a grand buffet that showcased an array of international cuisines, allowing guests to embark on a culinary journey as they welcomed the new year.
Entertainment was a highlight of the holiday festivities at Hotel Algorfa. Live music performances filled the air with cheer, inviting guests to dance and sing along to their favorite holiday tunes. The hotel also organized various activities for families, including festive crafts for children and games that brought everyone together.
The laughter and joy shared among guests created a sense of community, making the holidays even more special.
As the clock approached midnight on New Year’s Eve, guests gathered for a countdown celebration that was filled with excitement and anticipation. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone ready to ring in the new year together. When the clock struck twelve, cheers erupted, and guests raised their glasses in a toast to new beginnings.
The Truscott family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the guests who chose to spend their Christmas and New Year’s Eve at Hotel Algorfa. Your presence truly made the celebrations memorable, and it was a joy to share these special moments with you. Thank you for being a part of our holiday festivities and for contributing to the warmth and joy that filled the hotel.
As we look ahead to the new year, we are excited about the opportunities that await and the chance to create more wonderful memories with you. We hope to see you again soon at Hotel Algorfa, where the spirit of hospitality and celebration continues to thrive. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead filled with happiness, health, and unforgettable experiences!
Jade Thirlwall had fans head over heels after she released her brand new single IT girl on Friday - which they rmly believe could be a second savage dig at Simon Cowell.
on her solo career earlier last summer.
Health & Beauty
My husband and I split when our child was very young. We have remained on fairly good terms for the sake of our daughter, who lives with me. He remarried and now they have a child. Up until the birth, my daughter was very excited about the new baby. Now, she tells me stories where she is being overlooked by my husband‘s mother, and all the attention is going on the baby. This behaviour did not change and got worse; she is now coming home from her visits in tears with tales of her granny buying presents for the baby, and nothing for her. Apparently it has gone unnoticed by my former husband; when I spoke to him about it, he didn’t think it was a problem, and he make excuses for his mother, which infuriates me. I haven’t spoken to my former mother in law since the divorce, but I feel I need to say something as
it’s affecting my daughter’s feelings. Any advice on how I fix this?
You tell me that your mother-in-law is also playing favourites with the other grandchildren in the family. If you don’t speak up about it, this may badly damage your daughter’s confidence and self worth. If your ex-husband doesn’t see what is going on, I would sit your daughter down with him and yourself, and ask the child to give her side of things. Then ask your ex to have words with his mother; and, if he doesn’t then you will. Even if parents / grandparents can’t help themselves in loving or favouring one child over another; the last thing they must do is ever let it show.
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.
Daily walking recommendations
Minimum Activity Level: Walking 2.5 miles daily (~5,000 steps) is a baseline to be considered active.
Moderate-Intensity Target: Aim for 150 minutes of brisk walking per week (~1 mile daily at 100-119 steps per minute). You should feel slightly out of breath but still able to converse.
Optimal Health Bene ts: Walking 4-5 miles daily (8,000-10,000 steps) improves heart health, reduces the risk of premature death, and supports weight management. Even hitting this goal 1-2 times per week provides signi cant bene ts. Research Insights:
Studies link walking 4-5 miles daily with lower mortality rates in adults under 60, though causation remains unclear.
Walking 5 miles per day can aid weight loss, as demonstrated in an 18-month randomized trial.
The Perfect Time to Begin Your
As the frosty chill of winter settles in and the layers of clothing pile on, thoughts of summer may feel a world away. But for those dreaming of smooth, hassle-free skin by the time the sun shines again, now is the ideal moment to embark on a laser hair removal journey.
Laser hair removal has become increasingly popular, and for good reason. It o ers a long-term solution to the tiresome routine of shaving, waxing, or epilating. Yet, many people underestimate the time required to see full results. Treatments are typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with most individuals needing 6–8 sessions for optimal results. By beginning your treatments during the colder months, you’ll be ready to embrace summer with con dence, free from stubble or razor burns.
One of the key bene ts of starting now is the reduced exposure to sunlight. Laser treatments work best on untanned skin, and avoiding sun exposure both before
and after sessions is crucial to prevent irritation and pigmentation. Winter o ers the perfect cover, with less temptation to bask in the sun’s rays.
Another advantage of starting early is the gift of time. Rushing into treatments just weeks before your holiday can lead to disappointment, as the full e ects take months to manifest. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and seamless transition into summer.
However, preparation is just as important as timing. Always consult a quali ed professional to ensure the procedure is tailored to your skin type and needs. Follow the recommended aftercare instructions—hydration and sun protection are paramount.
In an age where self-care is often neglected in the hustle of daily life, laser hair removal is an investment in oneself. By starting now, you’ll not only be saving time in the future but also gifting yourself the con dence to embrace summer without hesitation.
As the new year looms, it’s the perfect time to plan ahead. Start now, and come summer, you’ll be glowing with smooth, sun-kissed con dence.
Book your FREE patch test today!
A patch test is quick, simple, and ensures you’re ready for your next beauty treatment.
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Updated cycling regulations in Spain effective now
Spain’s DirectorateGeneral for Traffic (DGT) has announced significant updates to national traffic regulations starting in 2025, particularly affecting cyclists. Cyclists will be permitted to ride against the flow of traffic on one-way streets, but only under specific conditions: the road must be a single-lane street with a 30 km/h speed limit. Cyclists will also be allowed to overtake motor vehicles on either side on congested urban roads. While in cities, they are encouraged to use designated cycling lanes, but if unavailable, they may ride in the center of the road. Additionally, cycling at night or in low-light conditions will require approved reflective elements visible
from at least 150 meters.
Other road users will also have new obligations concerning cyclists. Drivers must maintain a minimum five-meter safety distance when sharing the carriageway with cyclists. When overtaking, vehicles must reduce speed by at least 20 km/h below the posted limit and ensure a lateral separation of at least 1.5 meters.
These new rules complement existing regulations for cyclists, which prohibit the use of mobile phones or headphones and ban cycling under the influence of alcohol. Helmet use remains mandatory for cyclists under 16 in urban areas
and for all cyclists on main roads, with certain exceptions. Cyclists must dismount to cross pedestrian crossings unless it is specifically marked as a cyclist crossing. Riding on pavements and pedestrian zones is also forbidden unless designated as shared-use cycle lanes.
Cyclists are required to follow all traffic signals and indicate their intentions, such as signaling hard braking by moving their arm alternately up and down in quick motions. They have priority over motor vehicles in cycle lanes, on cycle paths, or on marked hard shoulders, but in other scenarios, they must respect established traffic priorities..
Leasing Market in Spain Grows 13% in 2024
The leasing vehicle market in Spain saw signi cant growth in 2024, with 335,530 operations recorded, marking a 13% increase compared to the previous year, according to data from the Asociación Española de Leasing y Renting (AELR).
This means that approximately 24.2% of all vehicles registered in Spain over the past year were destined for leasing.
Diesel vehicles represented 38.8% of the leasing market, with 130,311 registrations, while petrol vehicles dominated with 191,082 registrations, accounting for 56.9%. Meanwhile, electric, lique ed petroleum gas (LPG), and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles combined made up 4.2% of the market, led by electric cars, which accounted for 11,063 registrations or 3.3% of the total.
Regional performance highlights include Madrid, where leasing operations reached 29,316 in December 2024, up 24.3% compared to the same month in 2023. Catalonia also showed growth, with 2,802 leasing operations recorded last month, representing a
4.3% year-on-year increase.
In terms of vehicle categories, passenger car leasing surged by 13.3% year-on-year to 264,971 operations. Vans experienced a 15.1% increase with 55,607 leases, while truck leasing saw the highest growth at 37.8%, totaling 4,207 operations. Conversely, SUV leasing decreased by 6.1% to 9,324 operations, and agricultural vehicle leasing fell by 14.2% to 1,618 operations.
Volkswagen emerged as the most leased brand in December,
with 2,511 vehicles leased, up 11.9% year-on-year. In December alone, the total number of vehicle registrations—including both new and used vehicles—stood at 136,095, a 25.1% increase compared to December 2023.
José Coronel de Palma y Martínez-Agulló, president of the AELR, expressed optimism for the coming year, stating, “We are con dent that the year ahead will be a good one for the sector and that we will be able to achieve growth forecasts at least as favourable as those for 2024.”
CHURCH AND CHARITIES
International Christian Assembly Evangelical Church. We welcome you to Sunday Service at 11am (English) Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja, 03185 www.icatorrevieja.org Phone; 966799273 or 660127276 (SH) Join us at Salt Church. Sundays at 10.30am. We are a friendly Church, Bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship.Calle Daya Nueva 12, Poligino Industrial Levante II, 03187 Los Montsinos. www.saltchurch.es Facebook: SaltChurchSpain
The Alfaz spiritual friends centre o er a warm welcome at “The Comm” (Ex The Forum/Mare Nostrum) Camino del Pincho 2, l’Alfaz del Pi, 03580, Alicante. Visiting medium every week - services starts 6.30 pm every Thursday. ‘Free Healing is available after the service. contact Dot 634 320 013 email: dorothydorothy608@gmail.com
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Esquina Park Rangers WFC v
Portobello WFC
Esquina Park Rangers W.F.C hosted local rivals Portobello W.F.C on Sat 11th Jan at Daya Vieja for their first Match of 2025..
With the temperature about 17 Degrees it was perfect for the hour long game.
In charge was Dave Foster M.B.E.
The first quarter started with both teams tyring to break each other down, with some good Football but no obvious shots on target.
Into the second quarter the game started to open up for both teams with Esquina making the break through making it 1 nil from a nice finish from our number 9 Fredrick..
Portobello started to press & were awarded a penalty when Timothy apparently fouled one of their players, Tim’s excuse was his sole from his Primark
Sandshoe had came lose and had caught the players shin.. Dave the Ref awarded the penalty & the ball was blasted into the back of the Esquina goal with Aidie having no chance even after doing 3 backward flips, 2 somersaults & a cartwheel making it 1.1..
Into the third quarter with Esquina making a couple of changes this seemed to change their confidence in passing & keeping the ball.. Portobello took full advantage of this scoring two quickfire goals leaving the score 1..3 to Portobello..
The last quarter Esquina went back to their starting line up hoping to make up the two goal deficit..It wasnt long until they were awarded a penalty after Portobellos keeper picked the ball up after a passback..Fredrick Calmly slotting the ball into the back
of the net , making it 2 goals to 3..Both Keepers were made to work by both teams with some lovely saves from Aidie & Mark..
Esquina were looking the more likely to score with their constant pressing into Portobellos half.
It was Rewarded with a fine taken goal by Ed who waited until the Portobello keeper had made his move with Ed lobbing it into the back of the net..
With the final whistle blown the score ended three goals a piece where on reflection was a fair result..
Scorers for Esquina Were Fred Serplus 2 goals. Ed Brogan 1 goal.
Portobello. Andy Whitehead. Darren Scott. Glynn Hague.
Orihuela to host key stages of the Vuelta Ciclista a la Comunidad Valenciana from 2025 to 2027
Orihuela will play a prominent role in the Vuelta Ciclista a la Comunidad Valenciana during 2025, 2026, and 2027. The City Council has initiated an exclusive agreement with the event organizers to position the city as a prime destination for sports tourism and cultural promotion in the Mediterranean region.
Under the agreement, Orihuela will host a team time trial in 2025, a stage start in 2026, and a stage nish in 2027. The contract, valued at €139,150 (including VAT), includes promotional activities showcasing the city under the slogan “Orihuela, History of the Mediterranean.” These initiatives will feature in the event’s Route Diary, social media campaigns, and advertising spots.
The funding for the contract
will come from the Tourism and Sports councilors. The Tourism department, led by Vox, will contribute €54,000 (plus VAT), while the Sports department, led by the Partido Popular (PP), will provide €61,000 (plus VAT).
The City Council highlighted the success of the 2024 edition of the Vuelta, which attracted over 20 million television viewers and generated 56 hours of international broadcasting across 200 countries. This media exposure led to extensive social media interactions and an estimated advertising value equivalent to €415 million, according to the event organizer’s report.
Orihuela aims to leverage this partnership to boost its pro le as a hub for both sporting events and cultural tourism in the years to come.
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. Average: 15 Good: 20
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
1. A teacher has to look after a genius(10)
7. Distance to measure right inside(5)
8. Puts on something saucy?(7)
10. Good stroke for a cricketer, but not a golfer(3-5)
11. A girl to avoid(4)
13. Properly dressed soldiers are (2,4)
15. He provides a new setting for the doctor(6)
17. Terrible ruler of vain disposition(4) 18. Vendors, possibly nameless(8) 21. Being agreeable, but saying nothing(7)
Excel, but not in a party(5)
It necessitates a lot of extra work in the theatre(5,5)
1. It’s an idea if Tom comes up first (5)
2. Guiding line about two similar points(8)
3. A plant useful in salads may be envied(6)
4. Suitable start for the hunting season (4)
5. Possibly retains, though being less agreeable(7)
6. I’m taking the attitude that it’s rather a burden(10)
