Residents of San Miguel call for solution to desalination plant’s solar needs
It has been one year since the people of San Miguel de Salinas unanimously demonstrated against the decision of the Ministry for Ecological Transition to build a solar plant on 200 hectares in the San Miguel de Salinas countryside. The
plant aimed to reduce the electricity bill from the Torrevieja desalination plant due to the serious e ects on the landscape and the rich agricultural heritage of the municipality.
The overwhelming social rejection caused Acuamed to give
up on installing the solar park in the original location, although it has not yet adopted a de nitive solution regarding the new site.
As an alternative, Acuamed, the state-owned company that manages the facility, is considering purchasing the project from a private company, which is only 500 metres from the original site and will have the same impact on the territory; but which the residents’ group clari es “has favourable administrative procedures and the consent of the a ected owners”.
The point of contention regarding the viability of this option is the price of the operation. According to the valuation of an external company, Acuamed estimates the price at three million euros, while the private company is asking for more than
double this amount.
If these negotiations fail, Acuamed proposes breaking up the megaplant into several sites. The Resident’s Association has called on the Ministry “not to succumb to the speculative moves of the private company that owns the project and to opt for
sustainable solutions” that protect the rich natural and agricultural heritage of the area.
Since the beginning of the con ict, the association claims it has maintained an attitude of protest but also a proactive and positive approach. It proposed to Acuamed alternatives such as the installation of solar panels in the Tajo-Segura transfer channel or on the AP-7 motorway or the technologies of vertical towers through which the necessary energy is obtained in a sustainable and non-disruptive way by taking advantage of the resources and situations that the environment.
Two youngsters injured in San Miguel accident
Two youngsters were injured in an accident on Friday evening, 7th March, at 9:30pm. The incident happened when a car and a motorcycle collided in the
municipality of San Miguel de Salinas.
SAMU, which attended the tra c accident on the CV-95, with two units, treated the two teenagers believed to be 15 and
16 years of age. One of them, had multiple injuries and was taken to Torrevieja Hospital; the other, with injuries to the face and leg, was taken to Elche General Hospital.
Orihuela Costa road maintenance to be managed in-house
Public management of coastal road maintenance will allow for greater savings, better quality and a quick response to incidents a study has found. Bringing the service in-house would also mean signi cant savings for municipal co ers and an improvement in the e ciency of the service, according to the results of the study commissioned by the City Council to assess the viability of direct management of the maintenance, conservation and repair of coastal roads and public spaces by the public Environmental Management Service company.
The report, which cost 5,000 euros (excluding VAT), has analysed the costs of both options and concluded that providing the service through the municipal company would not only allow for savings of more than 620,000 euros per year, but would also o er greater guarantees of job stability, more e cient management of
resources and a more agile response to incidents on public roads. According to the study, the total cost of the service, which the government team wants to provide in the coastal area through a private company, would amount to 2,342,628.80 euros per year, while, if it were entrusted to the municipal company, the cost would be reduced to 1,722,533.62 euros, which represents a saving of 26.5%.
This saving is mainly due to several factors such as the elimination of industrial pro t, since while a private company applies a pro t margin of 6% on the total budget (97,616.31 euros), the municipal company does not seek to generate pro ts, but to guarantee the e ciency of the service. This avoids unnecessary extra costs and allows all resources to be fully allocated to improving the service and urban infrastructure.
In addition, general expenses are
reduced, since in private management they amount to 211,502.01 euros (13%), while in municipal management they are reduced to 127,595.08 euros (8%). This di erence is due to the fact that the public company can share administrative infrastructure, facilities and resources with other municipal services, optimising costs.
People affected by the Sports City will decide the future of their homes
The Councillor for Urban Planning, Matías Ruiz Peñalver, has appeared before the Extraordinary Commission for Basic Services to discuss the construction project for the Sports City of Orihuela. During his speech, Ruiz detailed the characteristics of the project, its location, the technical studies carried out and the alternatives offered to the owners of the affected homes.
The councillor began his presentation by explaining the location plans and the surface area that the project will occupy, ensuring that the main sports facilities have been located in areas without housing. As for the existing buildings, he explained that the City Council has planned three options for their owners: first, relocation where those affected will be able to choose to move to a new development of 29 homes, which will be built by the Municipal Public Company for Housing and Land, which is being formalised, with the priority objective of accommodating those who currently reside
in the area; Second, compensation: those who prefer it may receive financial compensation, subject to an assessment and agreement between the parties; or finally, permanence: those who decide to stay may do so, adapting to a new planning of the Sports City.
In the case of the land that exists in the area, they are on nondevelopable land and the existing homes are not in compliance with the regulations. “We will reserve a municipal public plot to be used for rehousing the people who live in those homes.”
The Councillor for Urban Planning explained that “we understand that this is a very important decision for the affected residents and we want to guarantee them that they will not be forced to accept a single option. They will have the freedom to choose the alternative that best suits their needs, with total transparency in the process,” said Ruiz.
The Councillor stressed that the Sports City has been designed taking into account multiple
technical studies that have analysed the viability of the project. Among them, he highlighted the flood study commissioned by the consultancy EVREN in September 2023 and delivered in April 2024. This report evaluated two possible locations: one to the south of the town centre and another to the east. Different flood scenarios of the Segura River and its tributaries were analysed, such as the Abanilla ravine, the Reguerón and the Orihuela mountain range. Finally, the eastern alternative was considered the most favourable, as it presented a lower level of danger and a lower probability of flooding.
Another of the points addressed was the need to guarantee an adequate connection of the Sports City with the rest of the municipality. According to Ruiz, the necessary sectorial reports are currently being processed and, depending on their resolution, the improvement of the road connections will be assessed.
EU asylum requests down, but still exceed one
The number of asylum applications registered across the European Union, Norway and Switzerland decreased by 11% in 2024 but remained above the one-million mark for a second consecutive year, according to the annual report released by the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) on Monday morning.
Overall, 1,014,420 requests for international protection were led last year, compared to the 1,143,437 requests recorded in 2023.
The report shows that almost half (48%) of the one million applications were submitted by citizenships with historically low chances of a successful decision, suggesting they are likely to be eventually turned down by national authorities.
The trend is set to compound the recurring worries of EU member states, which have asked Brussels to reform the current legislation to speed up the deportation of rejected asylum seekers, such as economic migrants who come to the continent searching for better living conditions rather than escaping persecution or illtreatment.
The European Commission has endorsed the contentious idea of building camps (also known as “return hubs”) outside
EU territory to transfer those whose applications are denied. A revamped Return Directive is expected to be unveiled later this month.
In line with recent years, Syrians, Afghans, Venezuelans, Turks, and Colombians represented the largest groups of applicants in 2024, according to the EUAA report.
Syrian requests (151,000) went down by 17% in total and 24% in Germany, the main host country.
The change is not directly linked to the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s autocracy, which happened only in December and whose e ects are yet to fully materialise.
Claims by Afghans (87,382), Turks (55,705) and Colombians (51,529) also declined.
By contrast, Venezuelan applications rose to 73,187, a record-high gure since at least 2014. The vast majority of these (90%) were lodged in Spain.
As a result of ongoing con ict in the Central Sahel region, Spain experienced extraordinary migratory pressure in the Canary Islands. Applications from citizens of Mali (17,000) and Senegal (14,000) doubled in size from the previous year.
Ukrainians eeing Russia’s war lodged 27,000 asylum requests in 2024, a 90% rise compared to 2023. The pronounced rise is linked to the Temporary
million
Protection Directive, a special regime that applies to Ukrainian citizens and is set to expire in March 2026. Applying for asylum can provide a long-term alternative to the directive. Regarding destination countries, Germany remained clearly at the top with over 237,000 applications in 2024. The tally, though, represents a 29% drop compared to 2023.
Irregular migration
Irregular migration was one of the issues that dominated the debate of the parliamentary elections in February. Germany was followed by Spain (165,767 requests), Italy (158,867), France (158,730), Greece (73,688), Belgium (39,206) and the Netherlands (33,437) as main destinations. Cyprus saw the largest number of asylum claims per capita: one for every 138 residents.
Meanwhile, Hungary received only 29 applications in 2024 due to its long-standing restrictions to the right of asylum, which the European Court of Justice ruled to be an “unprecedented and exceptionally serious breach of EU law.”Hungary is currently the subject of a multi-million ne by the ECJ that is gradually deducted from the country’s allocated share of the EU budget.
EU finally aims for October start for Entry/Exit System passport checks
Leaders meet to discuss Rearm Europe Plan
The European Union’s long-delayed biometric passport check system, known as the Entry/ Exit System (EES), could finally launch in October this year following an agreement reached on Wednesday by member states.
EU member states approved a phased introduction of the new border check system for non-EU nationals, which will replace traditional passport stamps.
Originally scheduled to be implemented in November last year, the EES was postponed due to several countries being unprepared.
According to the agreement – pending approval from the European Parliament –the system will be rolled out gradually over a sixmonth period.
The EES rollout will happen in two stages. The second phase, which involves the introduction of electronic visa waivers for non-EU visitors –including tourists – will only be launched at least six months after the EES begins, pushing it into 2026.
First approved in 2017, the EES will use an automated system to record the entry and exit dates of visitors while tracking overstays and instances of refused entry.
Despite its intended benefits, the system’s implementation has sparked concerns about potential delays for travellers using trains,
‘We are aiming for October’ to begin the rollout, said Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak, whose country currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency. However, the European Commission will need to confirm the final start date.
ferries and airplanes to enter Europe.
Under the EES, travellers entering or exiting the EU or Schengen Area will have their personal and biometric information –including facial images and fingerprints –collected. However, the system will not apply to travel between countries within the Schengen zone, such as trips between Spain and Germany.
The phased rollout requires member states to have the system operational at 50% of border crossing points within three months, with full implementation across all entry and exit points expected by the six-month mark.
Non-EU nationals who hold residency in an EU country will not be subject to EES requirements.
Los Montesinos Council to build warehouse for employment and vocational training
The Los Montesinos Town Council has commissioned a warehouse to be built in the Levante II Industrial Estate, with a total budget of 187,550 euros and which will be used to house future employment workshops and vocational training in specialties such as masonry, gardening, painting and other trades, contributing to the professional and personal development of the residents of the municipality.
The Councillor for Development, Ana Belén Juárez, highlighted the importance of this project: “The completion of this warehouse is a fundamental step towards training and the development of new opportunities in our town. We are committed to the creation of spaces that facilitate job training and allow our citizens to acquire skills that help them integrate into the labour market.”
Once approved, the facility will be equipped with all the necessary means to carry out the relevant training. “We want to ensure that our workshops have the appropriate resources to o er quality training,” added Juárez.
The Mayor of Los Montesinos, José Manuel Butrón, has expressed his satisfaction with this progress: “This project not only represents an economic investment, but also an investment in the
future of our town. The creation of these workshops will mark a before and after in job opportunities for our residents. We are building a more prosperous Los Montesinos with greater possibilities for everyone.”
The Los Montesinos Town Council continues to work on initiatives that promote employment and training in the town, rea rming its commitment to the wellbeing and comprehensive development of its citizens.
Ursula von der Leyen has proposed a Rearm Europe Plan she said could see member states mobilise up to €800 billion to nance a massive rampup in defence spending, hours after Washington suspended all military aid to Ukraine putting pressure on the bloc to increase its own assistance.
“We are in an era of rearmament, and Europe is ready to massively boost its defence spending, both to respond to the shortterm urgency to act and to support Ukraine, but also to address the longterm need to take on more responsibility for our own European security,” the European Commission president said.
The ve measures she outlined, which she details in a letter to EU leaders ahead of an extraordinary summit last Thursday, include a “new instrument” to provide €150 billion in loans to member states to nance joint defence investments in panEuropean capabilities including air and missile defence, artillery systems, missiles and ammunition, drones and anti-drone systems.
The new instrument, von der Leyen wrote in her letter to leaders, would be established under Article 122 of the Treaty of the EU, which allows the bloc to deliver nancial assistance to a member state facing “severe di culties caused by natural disasters or exceptional occurrences beyond its control” without approval from the European parliament.
The Commission previously used this article during the COVID pandemic to set up the €100 billion SURE instrument for which it turned to the markets. It was also used to roll out emergency measures to shield European citizens and businesses from the worst e ects of the energy crisis.
Activating the national escape clause of the Stability and Growth Pact is the other key measure from von der Leyen’s defence package, and one she had already communicated last month in a keynote speech at the Munich Security Conference.
This would enable member states to exclude defence spending from their national expenditures and thus not run the risk of
falling foul of the bloc’s scal policy which mandates that government de cit and debt must remain under 3% and 60% of GDP respectively.
The Commission chief claimed that if EU countries increase their defence spending by 1.5% of GDP on average, €650 billion could be freed over the coming four years.
EU member states have massively ramped up their defence spending since Russia launched its fullscale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 but they spend unequally: Poland spent 4.12% of its GDP on defence last year, while Spain spent just 1.12%.
The other three measures proposed by von der Leyen include allowing member states to make more ample use of cohesion policy programmes to increase defence spending, expanding the mandate of the European Investment Bank so it boosts nancing of defence projects and accelerating the Savings and Investment Union to enable private banks to pour more money into the sector too.
Benidorm pioneers Europe’s first urban air taxi
In a groundbreaking advancement for urban air mobility, Benidorm has become the rst European city to successfully conduct simultaneous test ights of an air taxi and multiple drones within an urban environment.
This pioneering event, coordinated by the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) as part of the European U-ELCOME project, signi es a signi cant leap toward integrating unmanned aerial vehicles into daily city life.
The skies above Benidorm’s Poniente and Levante beaches recently witnessed the EH216-S air taxi, developed by EHang, performing test ights alongside 12 drones. These drones executed various simulated operations, including cargo transport, delivery services, surveillance, and rescue missions. The entire demonstration was meticulously monitored and managed through advanced digital platforms within the European U-space framework, ensuring both ight safety and operational e ciency.
Benidorm’s selection as the test site was strategic, owing to its distinctive urban landscape characterised by a high concentration of skyscrapers. This unique setting provided an
ideal real-world environment to trial and validate the capabilities of unmanned aerial systems. Mayor Antonio Pérez highlighted the city’s commitment to technological innovation, noting that since 2016, Benidorm has integrated drones into its local police operations, making it the rst city in Spain to do so.
He stated, “By hosting the rst ight test of an air taxi in Europe, Benidorm is once again a pioneer, marking a new milestone in drone navigation.” Looking ahead, several challenges remain before air taxis become a common sight in urban skies. These include developing speci c regulatory frameworks, constructing
necessary infrastructure such as vertiports, adapting urban planning to accommodate new modes of transport, and enhancing public acceptance of drone technology. The U-ELCOME project, set to conclude later this year, aims to address these challenges by laying the groundwork for more connected and sustainable cities through the safe integration of drones using U-space services.
Benidorm’s successful demonstration marks a pivotal step toward the future of urban air mobility, showcasing the potential of integrating unmanned aerial vehicles into everyday urban operations.
Demolition of Babilonia beach houses in Guardamar del Segura imminent
The Provincial Coastal Service has initiated the administrative process to demolish most of the houses on Babilonia Beach, located along the beachfront of Guardamar del Segura. This follows the residents’ exhaustive legal battle to halt the procedure, which ended in failure when the Constitutional Court rejected their nal appeal late last year. Prior to this, they had also sought recourse through the National Court and the Supreme Court, both without success.
The concessions for these homes, built in the early 20th century along nearly 700 meters of coastline, expired in 2018. Since then, over a dozen houses have either collapsed or been demolished due to the lack of legal grounds to prevent it. Those that pursued appeals were denied by the Ministry for Ecological Transition on environmental grounds, as the houses obstruct the natural regeneration and continuity of the coastal and dune system.
Residents have now exhausted all legal avenues in their bid to extend their concessions, making the demolition of the remaining houses inevitable. The Mayor of Guardamar del Segura, José Luis Sáez, expects the demolitions to begin “sooner rather than later” and stated that authorities are working to unify all demolitions into a single project. This, according to Sáez, would reduce costs and streamline the process.
Despite the imminent demolitions, residents continue to negotiate with authorities in an e ort to delay the process. While they acknowledge that their homes are ultimately lost, Manuel López, secretary of the Babilonia Residents’ Association, con rmed that they have secured a postponement, ensuring that demolitions will not commence until after the summer.
Two arrested for selling Chlorethyl near Almoradí nightclub
A Civil Guard operation on March 1 in Almoradí led to the arrest of two individuals for selling chlorethyl near a nightclub.
Authorities had set up a surveillance operation to prevent drug sales in the vicinity of the establishment. During the monitoring, officers observed multiple people approaching a parked vehicle within an hour of the nightclub opening. After brief conversations with the occupants, buyers exchanged money for small white boxes before leaving. Some were later seen taking spray cans from these boxes, applying the substance to their clothing sleeves, and inhaling it.
Suspecting the substance was chlorethyl, officers identified the two alleged sellers and searched the vehicle. Inside, they found 33 bottles of chlorethyl, 6.7 grams of hashish, and 275 euros in cash.
The suspects, aged 23 and 26, were arrested for an alleged crime against public health related to the illegal sale of medicines. The case, along with the confiscated items, has been handed over to the Court on Duty in the Judicial District of Orihuela.
Chlorethyl is a local anesthetic used for pain relief in sports injuries. However, its misuse can cause memory loss and loss of consciousness. When combined with alcohol, it poses a serious health risk, potentially leading to respiratory coma.
“The
OSI warns of new ‘Sextortion’ email scam targeting victims in Spain
Spain’s national internet security organization, OSI, has issued a warning about a new wave of ‘sextortion’ emails in which cybercriminals demand payment in Bitcoin to prevent the alleged release of explicit content involving the recipient. These blackmail emails contain threatening messages such as “You have an outstanding payment. You must settle your debt,” “Open before it’s too late!”, “You could be in trouble with the law,” and “This is your last chance.”
According to OSI, the scammers do not actually have access to any explicit material but use extortion tactics to pressure victims into making payments. They choose Bitcoin as the currency for these transactions because it is difficult to trace.
Authorities advise anyone who receives such an
email to block the sender and delete the message without responding, as replying could confirm that the account is active and lead to further fraud attempts. If a payment has already been made, victims should collect and store all evidence, including emails and payment records, and file a complaint with the Spanish state security forces. Online tools can be used to verify evidence and obtain additional proof. To check whether
any compromising content has been published, victims can perform ‘egosurfing’— searching their name in databases, media, and online sources to assess their digital footprint. If such content is found, they have the right to request its removal for privacy reasons.
For further assistance, those affected can contact Spain’s INCIBE cybersecurity helpline at 017.
Seagate Wealth are very proud to announce that Edny Van Den Broek, Account Manager from Prudential International will be one of the guest speakers at the Finance & Tax Forum being held on Tuesday 18th March.
The event takes place at Hotel La Laguna in Ciudad Quesada and begins at 11.00am.
Along with Edny, we will be joined by Mark McMillan from the relocation Department at SunLawyers. Mark will be discussing the NLV – Non-Lucrative
To obtain the NLV, you will need to prove that you have su cient nancial means to support yourself without working in your new country. This means for a married couple €35,991 is needed. For years 2 and 3, the sum of €71,982 will need to put aside in savings and cannot be used for living expenses.
Therefore, it is essential to have a solid nancial plan and investment strategy before applying for the visa.
Many people assume they will need to keep this money in a Spanish bank account, but that is not the case.
The Prudential o er the International
Prudence Bond which o ers life assurance as well as being fully tax compliant. This is a way to make your money work for you whilst complying with the visa requirements.
Susan Longland from Currencies Direct will be talking about currency exchange and the various ways they can save you money, especially when buying and selling property.
For the opportunity to nd out more about Prudential and Sun Lawyers, as well as Currencies Direct, register to come along to the event and talk to “the man from the Pru”. Simply call 965704 338 or email: Contact@ SeagateWealth.es to reserve your place.
Hyundai and Kia recall alert: fire fisk due to brake fluid leak in older models
The European Commission’s Rapex alert system has issued a warning about a major mechanical failure in several Hyundai and Kia models manufactured between 2007 and 2014, which may present a re risk due to brake uid leakage.
According to Spain’s OCU consumer organization, there is a potential internal brake uid leak that could cause a short circuit in the ABS/ESC electrical system, leading to fuse box overheating and possible res.
The a ected Hyundai models include the Santa Fe, H1, and IX55 (20072014), as well as the Accent, Tucson, Genesis, and IX35 (2009-2014). If all vehicles from these years sold in Spain are impacted, the OCU estimates that 50,000 Hyundai vehicles could be at risk.
Additionally, 40,000 Kia vehicles produced between 2007 and 2014 may have the same defect. The Rapex alert, issued in early February, lists the a ected Kia models as the Sportage (2009-2014), Carens (20092012), Optima (2010-2013), and Rio (2009-2011). In total, if all a ected Hyundai and Kia vehicles sold in
Spain are included, up to 90,000 cars could be at risk.
Vehicle owners are advised to contact the manufacturer to verify if their model is a ected. This can be done by visiting an authorized dealer or reaching out through o cial customer service channels by phone or online.
VISIT A FASCINATING OUTDOOR MUSEUM IN THE ELCHE MOUNTAINS
This place is a real hidden treasure and a truly captivating experience for all ages to enjoy. Tucked away in the mountains of Elche, there is a curious group of sculptures carved in the rock, called El Cau de Elche. An open-air museum with more than a hundred works that tell a historical story with a fairy tale ambiance. The artwork was created by Mariano Ros who died at the age of 91 in 2017. He had hand crafted them with some colleagues from the year 2000 to 2008. Among the sculptures you can see the city’s coat of arms, the Glorieta Fountain
, the Lady of Elche, the famous Palmeral and monuments such as the Church of Santa María. The location can be easily reached by leaving your car at Parking Mariano Ros, 03291 Elche, and taking a ten minute walk to the site. This involves walking on a slightly bumpy pathway with gravel and small rocks, not suitable for pushchairs or mobility scooters. Dogs are allowed on a lead. El Cau de Elche is open all day, every day and entrance is free. More amazing places to discover on the Costa Blanca can be found on the website www.costablancascene.com
Sánchez reaffirms commitment to 2% defence spending amid EU rearmament plan
Following the EU’s historic agreement to allocate up to 800 billion euros for rearmament, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reiterated his pledge to increase defence spending to 2% of GDP by 2029. Speaking at the Emergency Summit on Ukraine and Defence in Brussels on Thursday, Sánchez vowed to “support Ukraine for as long as necessary” and announced a 1-billioneuro military assistance package for the country.
According to 2024 reports, Spain ranks last in NATO in terms of GDP share spent on defence, with only an estimated 1.28% of its budget allocated. When asked about his previous commitment to reaching 2% by 2029, Sánchez acknowledged that NATO members must now “accelerate efforts”
beyond their initial targets.
Sánchez has scheduled a meeting next Thursday with leaders of all congressional parties except Vox to discuss Spain’s response to the war in Ukraine. He justified the far-right party’s exclusion by stating that “we already have a very clear idea of what their vision is.” While there is expected to be broad cross-party support for increasing military spending, Sánchez has faced criticism for his reluctance to consult the
opposition on foreign policy. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the rightwing Partido Popular, accused him of failing to provide clear explanations, stating that “most prime ministers explain what they are going to do; the Spanish one does not.”
Divisions within Sánchez’s government have also contributed to his cautious approach. Sumar, the leftwing coalition partner, has previously expressed concerns about rising military expenditure. However, its spokesperson Verónica Martínez Barbero recently clarified that the party’s main issue is not the spending increase itself but its effectiveness. Despite internal tensions, it is now expected that Sumar will ultimately accept the government’s push for higher military contributions.
GBP
The pound has been relatively stable this week, acting as a bit of a passenger amidst the broader currency movements. Despite this, the pound has appreciated to its highest levels since the beginning of November against the dollar, who’s weakness was driven by weaker economic data in the past month, Trumps’ tariff announcements on Canada, China & Mexico – fuelling concerns about a wider trade war and dampening the US Economic growth outlook, US stock markets fell as a result.
EUR
The euro has shown significant strength, reaching its highest levels since the beginning of November against the dollar. This appreciation has been supported by a sharp rise in German yields, driven by plans to increase
German government spending on infrastructure and defence, as well as to reform the debt break. There is also rising debate about whether the ECB is close to or at a neutral interest rate. The ECB lowered key rates by 25 basis points yesterday, as expected. ECB President Christine Lagarde noted that the ECB will remain datadependent and make decisions on a meeting-by-meeting basis. They are projecting inflation in Europe to meet its 2% target by 2026.
Views expressed in this commentary are those of the author, and may differ from your appointed Moneycorp representative. This commentary does not constitute financial advice. All rates are sourced from Bloomberg and forecasts are taken from Forex Factory.
Are you affected by a non-regulated funeral plan?
Recent reports suggest that Iberian Funeral Plans may have ceased trading, leaving customers uncertain about the security of their prepaid funeral plans. If you have been affected, we sincerely sympathise and want to help. Information about how to get hold of us can be found at the end of this article. While we are still gathering information, this situation highlights the risks of purchasing plans from unregulated providers.
Regulated Funeral Plans Offer Protection
If you have purchased a plan from a regulated provider, there is no cause for concern. In Spain, Portugal and Cyprus there are only two funeral plan providers currently operating that are regulated:
• Avalon Funeral Plans
• Golden Leaves
These companies are fully authorised and
regulated in the UK, ensuring that your investment is protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This is the same scheme that safeguards all UK bank accounts for up to £85,000. With FSCS protection, in the unlikely event of a provider’s failure, you are guaranteed to receive either an equivalent funeral plan or financial compensation at the current market value.
An unregulated funeral plan does NOT have this protection.
What Can You Do If You Have an Iberian Plan or Another Unregulated Plan?
If you hold a funeral plan with Iberian Funeral Plans or any other unregulated provider, we strongly recommend acting quickly to secure your arrangem ents.
To support those affected,
we have established a financial assistance initiative. If you need guidance on your next steps, we encourage you to reach out:
Call us on 966 799 070 Visit us at: avalonfuneralplans. com
We understand the importance of ensuring your final wishes are carried out with dignity and peace of mind. Don’t leave your plans to chance—contact us today to explore your options and secure a regulated, protected funeral plan.
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.
Lawyer in Torrevieja faces criminal charges for misappropriating €190,000 in compensation
A legal scandal has erupted in Alicante as the Attorney General seeks a prison sentence for a lawyer accused of misappropriating over €190,000 intended for the family of a deceased woman. The case highlights serious ethical concerns within the legal profession, raising questions about trust and accountability.
The allegations stem from a compensation payout granted by the Health Department to the husband and children of a woman who passed away at the Hospital of Torrevieja. Instead of transferring the funds to the rightful bene ciaries, the lawyer allegedly kept the money for personal use. Reports indicate that the attorney received the compensation check but failed to hand it over, e ectively embezzling the funds.
In response, the Attorney General’s O ce has requested a three-and-ahalf-year prison sentence and a ve-year professional disquali cation, barring the lawyer from practicing law. This severe penalty underscores the gravity of the ethical violation and reinforces the legal system’s commitment to client protection.
The case has sparked public outrage, particularly within the legal community. Trust is the cornerstone of the lawyer-client relationship,
and such incidents can severely erode public con dence in the legal profession. Experts warn that breaches of ethical responsibility like this could contribute to a wider distrust in legal institutions.
As the case progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the obligations lawyers have to their clients. Beyond the personal and nancial consequences for those involved, such actions can have a lasting impact on public perception of the legal system as a whole.
Exclusive Semi-Detached Villas and Quads in Bigastro, Alicante
A brand-new residential development is rede ning luxury and comfort in the charming village of Bigastro, located in the picturesque Vega Baja region of Alicante. This exclusive project features eight quads and two semi-detached villas, all meticulously designed in an elegant Mediterranean style that blends traditional aesthetics with modern functionality. Perfectly positioned in a tranquil yet well-connected area, these properties cater to those who seek a harmonious balance between privacy, convenience, and accessibility.
Spacious and Functional Design for Modern Living
Every detail of these exquisite homes has been carefully planned to maximize space, comfort, and functionality. Each property boasts an expansive layout across two oors, ensuring ample room for families, professionals, or retirees looking for a serene retreat in the sun.
Ground Floor: Thoughtfully designed to enhance daily living, this level features an open-plan kitchen seamlessly integrated into a bright and airy living room. A spacious bedroom, a full bathroom, and a separate laundry room complete the ground oor, providing practicality and ease of movement.
First Floor: The upper level houses three additional bedrooms, including a luxurious master suite with an ensuite bathroom. The remaining bedrooms are generously sized, ideal for family members or guests.
Private Solarium: One of the standout features of these homes is the impressive 40 m² private solarium, o ering a perfect space to soak up the Mediterranean sun, enjoy al fresco dining, or simply relax with stunning open views.
Outdoor Living: Each property is complemented by a private garden with the option to add a swimming pool, allowing homeowners to create their personal oasis of leisure and relaxation.
Private Basement Garage: With a spacious underground garage of more than 60 m², residents bene t from secure parking with direct access to their home, adding an extra layer of convenience and security.
Bigastro: The Perfect Blend of Tranquillity and Connectivity
Nestled in the heart of the Vega Baja, Bigastro is a welcoming and peaceful municipality that o ers an authentic Spanish lifestyle while being exceptionally well-connected to major cities, beaches, and essential amenities. The village provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it a fantastic place for permanent residence or a holiday getaway.
Orihuela: Just 5 km away (5-minute drive), o ering rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks.
Guardamar Beaches: Only 25 km (15-minute drive) to some of the nest sandy shores on the Costa Blanca.
Torrevieja: A vibrant coastal city located 30 km away (25-minute drive), known for its lively marina, shopping, and dining options.
Alicante Airport: Conveniently
accessible at just 55 km (30-minute drive), ensuring easy travel connections.
Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre: A premier shopping and entertainment hub, just 30 km away (25-minute drive), featuring international brands, restaurants, and leisure facilities.
Bigastro also o ers a full range of essential services, including supermarkets, schools, healthcare facilities, and sports centres, ensuring residents have everything they need within easy reach.
Your Dream Home on the Costa Blanca Awaits
Whether you’re searching for a permanent residence or a vacation home in an idyllic Mediterranean setting, these luxurious villas and quads in Bigastro present the perfect opportunity. With their stylish
This Week´s Movie Picks
Ticket to Paradise Saturday 15th March, Channel 4, 10.00 pm
David and Georgia, divorced parents who can’t stand each other, head to Bali after their daughter Lily announces her plans to marry a local islander she just met while on holiday. They decide to put aside their di erences and work together to stop the wedding, believing that doing so will keep Lily from making a dreadful mistake similar to their own.
The Greatest Showman Sunday 16th March, Channel 4, 6.45 pm
Orphaned, penniless, but ambitious and with a mind crammed with imagination and fresh ideas, the American entertainer, Phineas Taylor Barnum, will always be remembered as the man with the gift to blur the line between reality and ction. Thirsty for innovation and hungry for success, the son of a tailor manages to open a wax museum; however, he soon shifts focus to the unique and the peculiar, introducing extraordinary, never- seen-before live acts on the circus stage. Now, some people call Barnum’s rich collection of oddities, an outright freak show; but, when Phineas, obsessed for cheers and respectability, gambles everything on the opera singer, Jenny Lind, to appeal to a high- brow audience, he will lose sight of the most crucial aspect of his life: his family. Will Barnum, the greatest showman, risk it all to be accepted?
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA 13:05 Channel 4 News Summary 13:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 14:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 15:10 Countdown
A Place in the Sun
A New Life in the Sun 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 A Place in the Sun 20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 School Swap: UK to USA
Wednesday 12th March
Scandal: Love and Lies Exposed
09:35 Mixmups 09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:05 Milkshake!
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning
13:15 ITV Lunchtime News
13:35 ITV News London
13:45 Live: ITV Racing Live
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 The 1% Club
22:00 Top Guns: Inside the RAF 23:00 Guy Martin: Top Gun
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary
13:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 14:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Come Dine with Me
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Love It or List It
22:00 George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations
23:00 Get Millie Black
09:20 Milo 09:35 Mixmups 09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Body in the Attic 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Eggheads 20:00 Shop Smart, Save Money
21:00 Scams: Don’t Get Caught Out 22:00 Prime Suspect: Hunting The Predators 23:30 Casualty 24/7: Every Second Counts
09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 World’s Funniest Videos 10:30
16:45 Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico
17:25 Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico
04:50 Unwind with ITV 06:00 Wheel of Fortune 07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning
13:15 ITV Lunchtime News
13:35 ITV News London
13:45 Live: ITV Racing Live
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:30 Tonight
22:00 The Undercover Police Scandal: Love and Lies Exposed
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:00 The Apprentice: You’re Fired 23:30 Newsnight
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 The Late Debate
Friday 14th March
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary
13:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
14:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Come Dine with Me
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 The Dog House
22:00 24 Hours in A&E
23:00 Get Millie Black
10:10 Frasier
09:10 PAW Patrol 09:20 Milo
09:35 Mixmups 09:45 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:45 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 My Two Husbands 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Eggheads 19:25 Eggheads 20:00 Portugal with Michael Portillo
13:35 ITV News London
for Mexico
17:25 Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico
18:10 Beechgrove Garden 18:15 Flog It!
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Great Continental Railway Journeys
20:00 Pompeii: The New Dig
21:00 Gardeners’ World
22:00 Arena
Saturday 15th March
13:45 Live: ITV Racing Live
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 Beat the Chasers
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:30 Newsnight 06:00 Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning 13:15 ITV Lunchtime News
23:45 Jack Reacher
10:40 Frasier
11:10 Frasier
11:40 Frasier
12:10 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA
13:05 Channel 4 News Summary
13:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses 14:10 Sun, Sea and Selling Houses
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 A New Life in the Sun
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Come Dine with Me
19:00 A Place in the Sun
20:00 Channel 4 News
20:30 Unreported World
21:00 One Question
22:00 Gogglebox
23:00 The Last Leg
09:05 The Simpsons
09:30 The Simpsons 10:00 The Simpsons 10:30 The Simpsons
11:00 The Simpsons
11:30 Formula 1 13:00 The Call of the Wild
10:30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning 12:40 Prue Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen
13:40 James Martin’s French Adventure 14:10 ITV Lunchtime News
14:30 Live: Men’s Six Nations
17:40 ITV Evening News
17:55 ITV News London
18:05 The Chase: Celebrity Special
19:10 Wheel of Fortune
20:15 Live: Men’s Six Nations
23:35 ITV News
23:55 Social Media Murders
14:55 The Dog House
15:55 Four in a Bed
16:25 Four in a Bed
16:55 Four in a Bed
17:30 Four in a Bed
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Channel 4 News
19:00 Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids
20:00 Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker
21:00 Ancient Greece by Train with Alice Roberts
22:00 Ticket to Paradise
09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig
10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:45 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 14:40 5 News at Lunchtime 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Memories of Murder
17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Eggheads 19:25 Eggheads
20:00 Sue Perkins: Lost In Thailand
21:00 Around the World in First Class
22:00 The Flatshare 23:00 The Flatshare 23:55 Most Shocking Celebrity Moments
09:55 SpongeBob SquarePants 10:10 Entertainment News On 5 10:20 Gardening With Carol Klein
11:15 Gardening With Carol Klein
12:10 Gardening With Carol Klein
13:10 Kate Humble’s Coastal Britain 14:05 Kate Humble’s Coastal Britain 15:00 Kate Humble’s Coastal Britain 16:00 Happy Campers: The Caravan Park 17:00 Happy Campers: The Caravan Park 18:00 Jane Mcdonald’s Florida
19:25 5 News Weekend 19:30 St James’s Palace: The Secret Royal Residence 21:00 Portugal with Michael Portillo
22:00 The Middletons: How Family Shaped Our Future Queen
08:45 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 World’s Funniest Videos 10:30 World’s Funniest Videos 10:55 Love Bites 11:55 Love Bites 13:00 Dinner Date 14:00 Deal or No Deal 15:00 Supermarket Sweep 16:00 Charmed 17:00 Gilmore Girls 18:00 Dinner Date 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal
21:00 Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 22:00 22 Jump Street 23:05 FYI Daily 23:10 22 Jump Street
07:00 Classic Emmerdale 07:30 Classic Emmerdale 08:35 Classic Coronation Street
09:10 Inspector Morse 11:35 The Royal 12:40 Heartbeat 13:40 Heartbeat 14:40 Classic Emmerdale
09:55 Peppa Pig 10:00 Peppa Pig 10:05 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:45 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 14:45 Home and Away 15:15 Rear View Mirror 17:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
23:00 He Said, She Said: Blake Lively vs Justin Baldoni 09:10 What’s New ScoobyDoo?
09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
Dinner Date
Deal or No Deal
Supermarket Sweep 16:00 Charmed 17:00 Gilmore Girls 18:00 Dinner Date 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal 21:00 Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 22:00 Hell’s Kitchen USA 23:00 Family Guy 23:35 Family Guy
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, April 9th, 2025. You are welcome to attend.
“Can I put emergency contact information on my phone”?
In emergencies, having quick access to essential contact information can be critical if you need help. Both Android and iPhone devices provide ways to add emergency contact information that can be accessed from the lock screen without unlocking the device.
For Android Devices Using the Settings App: Open the Settings app on your Android device.
• Select About phone (or About device). Tap on Emergency information.
• Enter your medical information and emergency
contacts.
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.
• Ensure that the information is saved and visible on the lock screen.
Using a Medical ID App: Download a Medical ID app from the Google Play Store.
Follow the app’s instructions to enter your medical information and emergency contacts.
Ensure that the app is con gured to display information on the lock screen.
For iPhone Devices
• Using the Health App:
• Open the Health app on your iPhone. Tap on your pro le picture or the Medical ID tab.
• Select Edit.
Enter your medical information and emergency contacts.
• Enable the option Show When Locked to ensure the information is accessible from the lock screen.
• Tap Done to save your information.
Accessing Emergency Contact Information
On Android Devices
• Press the Power button to wake up the device. Swipe up on the lock screen.
• Tap on Emergency, then Emergency information.
On iPhone Devices
• Press the Power button or Home button to wake up the device.
Swipe up or press the Home button to bring up the passcode screen.
• Tap on Emergency, then Medical ID.
Conclusion Setting up emergency contact information on your smartphone can provide peace of mind and crucial assistance in urgent situations. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that rst responders and others can quickly access vital information from your device’s lock screen.
“How do I send an emergency call on my phone discreetly”?
• On iPhones: Press and hold the side button and one of the volume buttons, or rapidly press the side button ve times.
• On Android devices: The method can vary, but it often involves pressing the power button multiple times or using a dedicated SOS button if available. Once activated, the phone will automatically dial emergency services and can also send the user’s location and a pre-set emergency message to your designated contacts.
Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Costa Blanca Technology Help Group” Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Brian Hoile Costa Blanca Technology Help Group
Bars & Restaurants
Butane gas cylinder market shrinks as Spain updates pricing system
The traditional butane gas cylinder remains a heating alternative for Spanish households, especially amid high mains gas and electricity costs. However, its market is steadily declining. According to data from the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (Miteco), sales have halved over the past two decades to 700,000 tonnes annually, particularly in rural areas.
This decline has led to a “progressive closure of distribution agencies, company decapitalization, and reduced investment, potentially a ecting supply and service quality,” warn distribution companies.
Torrevieja approves major tax cuts for electric vehicle owners
In response, the Spanish government has updated the pricing formula for butane cylinders, following calls from the Spanish Federation of Lique ed Petroleum Gas Distributors (Fedglp). The new system, published in the O cial State Gazette (BOE) on 6 March, revises the automatic determination of maximum pre-tax sales prices.
operating costs, including salaries, transport, and eet maintenance, which are vital for sustaining home deliveries.
Under the ministry’s calculations, if the updated formula had been applied in January, the price per cylinder would have risen by 1.36 euros (8.1%). However, this remains well below the 26% in ation increase since 2015, when the last update occurred. Fedglp, meanwhile, has advocated for a 1.80euro increase to cover
The price per cylinder will be capped at 17.47 euros, with gradual increases of up to 20 cents per review every two months and a maximum price rise of 5%. In the latest review on 21 January, the price rose slightly to 16.64 euros. The next adjustment, scheduled for 18 March, will adhere to the 5% cap, ensuring prices remain within a range of 15.80 to 17.47 euros.
The coastal city of Torrevieja has taken a signi cant step toward promoting sustainable transportation by approving a 75% reduction in circulation tax for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicle owners. The measure, set to take e ect in 2026, was unanimously backed by all political factions, re ecting a strong commitment to environmental and economic bene ts for residents.
E ective Date: 2026
Eligible Vehicles: Hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles, as well as classic cars over 25 years old and vehicles owned by large families. Original Proposal: An additional 20% tax reduction for all cars and motorcycles was
initially suggested by the local political group Sueña Torrevieja but was not included in the nal version. Political Consensus and Environmental
The motion, introduced by councilor Pablo Samper of Sueña Torrevieja, received rare unanimous support from the ruling Popular Party (PP), Socialist Party (PSOE), and Vox.
Samper highlighted that the city’s tax regulations had remained unchanged since 2014 and needed to be updated to align with modern environmental policie. Torrevieja has approximately 66,689 registered vehicles, contributing around €5.3 million annually in circulation tax revenue. However, with electric vehicles comprising less than
10% of registered cars, o cials believe the tax reduction will have minimal nancial impact on the city’s overall budget.
Municipal leaders have assured that revenue from vehicle taxes will continue funding essential infrastructure improvements, including road repaving and pedestrian safety projects. The tax incentives align with a broader strategy to encourage sustainable transportation while providing economic relief to families.
With this landmark decision, Torrevieja is positioning itself as a forward-thinking city that prioritizes both environmental responsibility and community welfare.
Bars & Restaurants
Spain arns of sur e in fake traffic fine scams
Spain’s Directorate-General of Tra c (DGT) has issued a warning about a rising wave of fake tra c ne noti cations targeting drivers nationwide. Scammers are using sophisticated tactics, including SMS messages and emails that appear to be o cial, to demand payment for non-existent nes.
Drivers are advised to verify the source of any tra c ne they receive before making a payment. O cial nes come with a 50% reduction if paid within 20 calendar days. To ensure legitimacy, recipients should carefully review the noti cation, checking vehicle details, the description of the penalty, and the ne amount. The DGT sends noti cations either by post or, if the recipient cannot be located, through the Tablón Edictal (TEU). Electronic noti cations are also issued via the Dirección Electrónica Vial (DEV).
For paying, claiming, or appealing a ne, drivers should directly contact the issuing authority. If the ne originates from a town hall or regional government, such as the Junta de Andalucía,
communication should be made with those o ces for guidance on payment or appeals.
Andrea Gullo, a legal expert in tra c and transport nes at Pyramid Consulting, emphasizes the need for vigilance in identifying fraudulent notices. She warns that recognizing fake nes is crucial to avoiding scams.
Several signs indicate a fraudulent ne. Direct payment links included in messages are a strong red ag. Misspellings or unprofessional language should also raise suspicion. Additionally, the absence of key details, such as a case number or vehicle registration, suggests a scam.
If a driver wishes to appeal a ne, they must do so within 20 days of noti cation. After this period, appeals can only be made if an error is evident.
Lodging an objection within the given timeframe means forfeiting the 50% discount. The objection must introduce new or di erent information from that reported by the issuing o cer.
If the DGT rules in the driver’s favor, the complaint is dismissed
and the ne is suspended.
Should the driver disagree with the DGT’s resolution, they can either pay the full penalty or continue appealing through reconsideration. This must be done within one month of the resolution noti cation. A prior objection is necessary for further appeals. If the nal appeal is unsuccessful, the driver still has the option to take the matter to court, requiring legal representation.
To con rm the authenticity of
a ne, drivers are encouraged to use o cial channels, including the DGT website, the Dirección Electrónica Vial (DEV), or the DGT headquarters.
New EU Directive Enhances Drivers’ Rights
To strengthen consumer protection, the EU has enacted Directive 2024/3237, which introduces critical changes in tra c ne procedures. Under the new directive, nes must be written in clear, accessible language and include detailed
explanations of the o ence, legal consequences, and available options for payment or appeal.
Additionally, drivers now have the right to receive noti cations in the language of the country where their vehicle is registered. The directive also mandates compliance with European data protection rules, ensuring the authenticity of noti cations and safeguarding personal information. These measures aim to provide greater transparency and security for drivers across Europe.
Poppadum
Bars & Restaurants
Davina McCall has recalled the 14 empowering nal words she said to her surgeon before she underwent a life-saving brain operation.
Last November, the TV presenter, 57, endured a complex six-hour operation to remove a 14mmm colloid cyst from her brain, after the tumour had earlier been picked up during a routine scan.
And in a new interview with The Times, in which Davina chats her consultant neurosurgeon Kevin O’Neill, she admits that she was tempted to beg him to ‘keep me alive’ for the sake of her three children, but she instead opted for a calmer approach.
Lily Allen has lashed out at her exhusband David Harbour and mocked his abilities in the bedroom following their separation.
The British singer, 39, split from the Stranger Things actor, 49, late last year after four years of marriage.
Now, Lily has revealed that she is still ‘not over’ the breakdown of her marriage during a live audience recording of her podcast, Miss Me?, at Hackney Empire in London.
Jeremy Clarkson has revealed he was forced to call the police after thieves targeted his farm.
The former Top Gear host, 64, purchased Diddly Squat Farm in Oxfordshire back in 2008 as it’s since been the focus of his popular Amazon Prime show Clarkson’s Farm.
However, despite its TV presence, that didn’t stop potential robbers from setting their sights on the farm and its animals, with Jeremy revealing in his The Sun column that they’d even used drones to scout the area.
Danny Jones’ ‘drunken kiss’ with Maura Higgins is reportedly a ‘slap in the face’ for his wife of over 10 years, Georgia Horsley.
The married McFly singer, 38, hit the headlines after spending the evening with Maura, 34, at Universal Music’s BRIT Awards afterparty last Saturday, where they were spotted in a compromising clinch.
And in the wake of the scandal, despite the situation being said to be huge blow for Georgia, she has apparently made a pledge about her marriage and her future with the rocker.
Tom Cruise’s latest movie has reportedly been forced to halt lming after a member of the cast su ered a ‘major injury’ on the Pinewood Studios set in Buckinghamshire.
According to The Sun, the unnamed actor injured their pelvis and leg and was taken to hospital, causing chaos and ‘costly delays’.
The movie, which is directed by Oscar winner Alejandro González Iñárritu sees Tom, 62, play a megalomaniac who tries to save humanity.
Enticing offer from Hotel Algorfa!
Hotel Algorfa is thrilled to present an enticing offer for a memorable weekend escape. For just €50 per person, guests can enjoy an overnight stay on a Saturday that includes a delightful evening meal, engaging entertainment, and a Sunday carvery ticket for two. This package is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy quality time with a loved one or a friend.
Upon arrival at Hotel Algorfa, guests will be greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere of the hotel. The overnight stay ensures a comfortable room where you can unwind and recharge. As the
evening approaches, guests can indulge in a sumptuous meal featuring a variety of local dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. The dining experience is further enhanced by live entertainment, making for a lively and enjoyable evening filled with music and fun.
After a restful night’s sleep, guests can look forward to a hearty breakfast to kickstart their Sunday. The highlight of the weekend awaits with the Sunday carvery, offering a selection of tender meats, seasonal vegetables, and traditional
accompaniments. This feast is designed to satisfy and provide a perfect ending to your weekend getaway.
This fantastic offer requires a minimum booking of two people, making it an ideal choice for couples or friends looking for a unique experience. Hotel Algorfa, located in the beautiful Alicante Province, promises exceptional service and a delightful stay. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to create lasting memories—book your stay today and enjoy all the comforts and entertainment that Hotel Algorfa has to offer!
Health & Beauty
hat is acid reflu
the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and burping. GER is often triggered by spicy or fatty foods, carbonated drinks, or certain medications.
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around them, and it feels like every spare minute of free time we have is spent getting together with them. I know my husband feels suffocated...it was hard for me trying to keep everyone happy, and honestly, I could do with not having that worry any more.
This is your life; you need to move for work, and for your future. It would also do you good to get away from things that make you unhappy; you tell me your mother interferes with your life a lot, and rules the roost with everyone in the family; then it’s time to break away. Leave for your new life, and show you mother that you are strong and have a mind of your own. Keep things positive and friendly. Hopefully she will come around eventually, and even if she does not... no one has the right to tell you what to do. You are young, and if you don’t take opportunities now; life will pass you by and you may have regrets.
My husband lost his job, and wants us to move to another country where he has been offered work with a company he used to work for. We are both keen to start a new life after months of unemployment and uncertainty. I have such a strained relationship with my family; particularly my mother. We broke the news to everyone that we are leaving, and my mother in particular, has been off with me. She can be quite manipulative, and she has been dropping hints that she and my father will not be able to come and visit us if we go; and that they are turning their spare room into an office, so there will be no bedroom for us to stay in, if we return for a visit. I see it as an attempt to prevent us from emigrating, but we have to think of ourselves. Why can’t she be pleased for us? We need to go because I also see it as a way of getting away from my mother; I love her but she rules everyone’s lives and I am sick of it. It makes my husband miserable that we are so entrenched in life with my family. Everything revolves 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.
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Acid re ux, or gastroesophageal re ux (GER), occurs when stomach acid or food backs up into the esophagus due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This causes symptoms like heartburn, a bitter taste, burping, nausea, and bloating. Occasional acid re ux can happen after large meals or lying down too soon.
If acid re ux occurs frequently, it may be diagnosed as gastroesophageal re ux disease (GERD), a ecting about 20% of the U.S. population. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medications.
Types of Acid Re ux
Gastroesophageal Re ux (GER):
A common condition where stomach contents ow back into
Gastroesophageal Re ux Disease (GERD): A chronic form of acid reux where symptoms persist and damage the esophagus, causing additional issues like di culty swallowing, chest pain, chronic cough, and throat irritation.
Common Symptoms of Acid Re ux
Burning sensation in the chest or throat
Bitter or sour taste (regurgitation)
Burping, bad breath, sore throat
Feeling of a lump in the throat, hiccups, abdominal bloating, nausea, dry cough
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Benefits of female intimate sur ery se ual health and well-being
On the occasion of European Sexual Health Day, experts highlight the growing interest in female intimate surgery, a set of techniques designed to improve the functionality of the genital area, aiming to treat physical discomfort, vaginal laxity, dryness, or correct congenital anomalies that can a ect wellbeing and quality of life.
According to Dr José Enrique Martín, Head of the Gynaecology Department at Quirónsalud Valencia Hospital and a pioneer in private healthcare in this eld in the Valencian region, “the increasing demand for intimate surgery re ects the way women today approach their intimate health, well-being, and genital aesthetics.”
Among the most requested intimate surgeries, Dr Martín highlights labiaplasty, which aims to reshape the labia minora or labia majora to improve aesthetics and comfort; vaginoplasty, designed to restore the rmness and tone of the vaginal canal; and hymenoplasty, a hymen reconstruction procedure for
cultural or personal reasons. Lastly, there is labia majora augmentation, using either autologous fat or hyaluronic acid to restore volume and a youthful appearance.
“The goal of these techniques,” says the specialist from Quirónsalud Valencia Hospital, “is to improve the symmetry or rejuvenate the appearance of the intimate area, especially after childbirth or with aging, as well as to improve emotional health, boosting self-esteem and enhancing sexual satisfaction.”
How Vaginal Laser Works
Vaginal laser uses controlled light energy to stimulate the regeneration and remodelling of intimate tissues. “Its mechanism of action,” explains Dr María José Alfageme, a specialist from the Gynaecology Department at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, “is based on the stimulation of collagen and elastin, achieving greater rmness, hydration, and tone in the vaginal mucosa.”
Vaginal laser treatment is known for being a minimally invasive procedure, requiring no surgery and o ering a quick
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recovery time. Generally painless or only mildly uncomfortable, each session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately.
“Furthermore, the results are progressive and natural, as the treatment gradually stimulates tissue regeneration, improving the rmness, hydration, and functionality of the intimate area,” adds Dr Alfageme.
Bene ts of Female Intimate Surgery
Female intimate surgeries o er a variety of bene ts that span physical, aesthetic, and emotional aspects, improving both health and the con dence of patients. “From a functional standpoint,” explains Dr Martín, “these procedures help reduce discomfort caused by enlarged labia minora, improve vaginal tone, and treat urinary incontinence, providing greater
comfort in daily activities and intimate relationships. They can also aid recovery after childbirth by restoring the structure and functionality of the intimate area.”
From an aesthetic perspective, many women choose these interventions to achieve a more symmetrical and harmonious appearance, eliminating scars or congenital or acquired irregularities. “This not only impacts aesthetics but also comfort when wearing tight clothing or engaging in certain activities,” clari es the specialist from Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital.
Moreover, on the emotional and psychological level, these procedures can lead to a signi cant boost in self-esteem and personal con dence, reducing insecurities and anxiety related to intimate appearance. “Many women report greater satisfaction in their daily and intimate lives, feeling more comfortable with themselves and in their relationships,” conclude the specialists.
EU new car registrations drop, while Spain sees growth in January 2025
New car registrations across the European Union fell by 2.6% in January 2025, with significant declines in major markets such as France (-6.2%), Italy (-5.8%), and Germany (-2.8%). However, Spain saw a positive shift, recording a 5.3% increase in new car registrations.
According to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), a total of 831,201 new passenger cars and SUVs were registered in January 2025, down from 853,249 in January 2024. Despite the overall decline, electric vehicles (EVs) gained market share, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounting for 15% of registrations, up from 10.9% in the previous year. Hybrid-electric vehicles led the market, representing 34.9%, while the combined market share of petrol and diesel cars dropped to 39.4%, a notable decrease
from 48.7% in 2024.
Sales of plug-in electric cars grew by 34%, contributing to the 15% market share, with strong performances in Germany (+53.5%), Belgium (+37.2%), and the Netherlands (+28.2%). In contrast, France saw a slight decrease of 0.5%. Hybrid-electric vehicle sales increased by 18.4%, particularly in France (+52.2%), Spain (+23.5%), Germany (+13.7%), and Italy (+10.6%), totaling 290,014 cars and maintaining a 34.9% market share.
On the other hand, plugin hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) saw a decline of 8.5%, driven by sharp drops in Belgium (-66.6%) and France (-54%). PHEVs now account for 7.4% of the EU car market.
The petrol and diesel car markets faced considerable drops. Petrol car registrations fell by 18.9%,
with France experiencing the steepest decline at -28.2%. Diesel car registrations also dropped by 27%, resulting in a 10% market share for diesel vehicles.
In terms of brand performance, the Volkswagen Group led the EU market with 229,898 units registered, a 5.6% increase from January 2024. Stellantis followed with 162,506 cars, down 17.9%, while the Renault Group saw an increase of 5%, registering 90,362 units. Volkswagen was the top-selling brand, with 95,975 units sold, up 14.9%, followed by Toyota with 65,794 units (-7.8%) and Skoda with 52,549 units (-4.4%).
While electric vehicle sales overall rose by 34%, Tesla’s registrations saw a significant drop of 50%, with only 7,517 cars registered in January 2025.
New geolocation emergency warning lights to replace hazard triangles in Spain by 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, geolocation emergency warning lights will replace the traditional hazard triangles for most vehicles in Spain. This new regulation mandates the use of the V-16 emergency beacon for increased visibility during road incidents. However, not all vehicles will be required to carry these devices, and some drivers have questions about which vehicles must comply.
Under the new rules, vehicles registered in Spain will need a V-16 light to ensure visibility in the event of an emergency, but there are exceptions. For example, motorcycles are not required to carry the devices, though their use is recommended. A key group of vehicles that must already carry the V-16 lights includes motorhomes, which are already subject to
this requirement according to the Directorate-General of Tra c (DGT) as of July 2023.
The obligation to carry a V-16 beacon is outlined in Royal Decree 159/2021, which regulates auxiliary services on public roads. This device is intended to improve road safety by reducing accidents caused by drivers walking on the hard shoulder to set up traditional safety triangles.
The V-16 light enhances visibility both physically and virtually, providing added protection without requiring drivers to leave their vehicles.
While V-16 lights will be compulsory for passenger cars, multipurpose vehicles, buses, and small goods vehicles starting in 2026, motorcycles are excluded due to space constraints and practicality. However,
it is highly recommended for motorcyclists, who are among the most vulnerable road users. The compact design of the V-16 makes it easy for motorcyclists to carry, o ering them increased safety in case of an incident.
Motorhomes, unlike other vehicles, must already carry a V-16 beacon. The DGT’s instruction from July 2023 states that the V-16 is an essential accessory for motorhomes, with some models designed to attach easily to non-horizontal or non-metallic surfaces using magnets or suction cups for optimal visibility.
As the regulation comes into e ect, Spanish drivers are advised to ensure they comply with the new requirements to improve safety on the roads.
Classifieds
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San Miguel GS not at Font del Llop...a
littleanecdote
SMGS didn’t make it to Font del Llop on this very wet and windy Wednesday in March but, hey, I had time on my hands sat at home in the warmth to write a little fun report regardless (apologies in advance) …
It is with a heavy heart that I must report the unfortunate, rare cancellation of San Miguel’s outing to Font del Llop. Whilst we had all looked forward to our scheduled Wednesday of golf and laughter, light banter, in-game betting and the occasional accidental club toss, fate (and a particularly illtempered weather front) had other plans.
The forecast had predicted cloud and rain over the last few days, and it didn’t disappoint. Even the hardiest of golfers, as opposed to us fair weather folks who cancelled early, were still prepared to head north for today’s outing. It got down to five golfers when we made
the decision late yesterday afternoon to pull the plug (no wet pun intended).
Prior to its unexpected cancellation, I believe, the course had been in impeccable shape since our last outing there a few weeks ago. However, I had been reliably informed that FdL is one of the worst courses, due to its valley, inland location, to play in bad weather, with buggies being generally forbidden on the course, which would have affected quite a few of our members.
With a bit of poetic licence, fairy-dust and little rainlashed energy, I’ve embellished some scores (purely for entertainment purposes) as follows:
Gold: Darren Strugnell (54 points) – El Presidente
Silver: Tony Smale (54 points) – El Photobomber
Bronze: Alan “Macker”
Macdonald (54 points) – El Sage Abacus: Lee Eastman (5 points) – El Capitan
The “Twos” won soley by “Officer” Dibble with no fixing whatsoever and the four NTPs were John Osborne, John Osborne, John Osborne and John Osborne (bit of a stutter on the keyboard there). Mickey Roscoe scratched the golf card before even collecting any money and no guesses it was Manchester United. Our fine-wine definitely went to El Capitan, Lee Eastman.
Next week, with the weather looking much better we are going to be at Saurines de la Torre (which was affected by heavy rain at our last outing). (FACT!).
This week’s photo offering is a dreamy affair… with left to right: Lee Eastman (El “Guvnor” Capitan), Alan “Macker” Macdonald (El Sage), Tony Smale (El Photobomber) and Darren Strugnell (El Presidente).
Spanish football mourns the loss of referee David García de la Loma
The world of Spanish football has lost a dedicated referee, David García de la Loma, who passed away on Tuesday, March 4, at the age of 31. García de la Loma had been battling synovial sarcoma since 2021, a rare form of cancer that led to the amputation of his right arm. Despite this, he made an inspiring return to the eld, continuing to referee matches in the Segunda Federación division.
The Spanish Football Federation expressed its condolences, highlighting David as a symbol of perseverance, courage, and a deep love for refereeing. “David has been an example of a ghter,” the Federation stated. “His colleagues, in all categories of our football, will wear black armbands this week to honour him.”
Born in Palencia, García de la Loma had reached the Segunda Federación at the end of the 2020-2021 season, ful lling his dream of refereeing at a higher level. However, his diagnosis and subsequent treatment disrupted those plans.
In a poignant interview, García de la Loma shared his journey, explaining how the decision to amputate his arm was necessary to eliminate the cancer risk. He re ected on the challenging moments, expressing his gratitude for the support of his family, friends, and colleagues, especial-
ly during the di cult COVID-19 restrictions.
On September 10, 2022, García de la Loma had a memorable moment when he returned to the pitch at El Cerro del Espino to referee a match between Atlético B and Don Benito. The teams celebrated his resilience by presenting him with a commemorative shirt and giving him a standing ovation. Re ecting on that day, García de la Loma said, “I still can’t believe it, but it’s been done, and it’s been possible. Now it’s time to keep improving.”
His story of determination and passion for the sport will continue to inspire many in the football world.
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
QUICK CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Throw (4) 3. Stately(8) 9. Funeral-goer(7) 10. Part of a flower(5)
Prodigality(12)
Separate(6)
Incentive(6)
Conference(12)
Aspect(5)
Brave (7)
Being(8)
Carry(4)
Praises(8)
Gush(5)
Aviator(6)
Rapturously(12)
Representative(7)
Young horse(4)
White-hot(12)
Miss(8)
Infringe(7)
Brainy(6)
Angry(5)
Heroic(4)
WORDWHEEL
Using only the letters in the wordwheel, take ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must contain the central letter and at least three others. Letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one nine-letter word in the wheel.
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
1. The flower grew(4)
Getting a taste of palm mixture to sing about(8)
100 join mad craftsman in idle talk(7)
Brown as pie(5)
Where the little learning can be found(6,6)
Draw out note that is legal(6)
Threaten one politician with death(6)
Wish joy to uncle at rag(12)
Some are afraid a horse could get into their state(5)
Cultivation up to being old(7)
Giving rein to fancies of mad reign(8)
The direction in which things are wrecked(4)
1. One gets the message, no doubt(8)
2. Employees one should be about to lean on(5)
4. Stop the others after half a year (6)
5. Somehow shut my pools, about 2nd June – after I’ve gone(12)
6. Get better, as I am to show without doubt(7)
7. Happy boy has good head on him(4)
8. Place found for a candidate?(8,4)
12. Supporter heard ten out(8)
14. Put in quarantine one who is overdue by such a margin(7)
16. The box is not put upside down on the vehicle(6)
