Protest overshadows Christmas lights event in Orihuela Costa
What was meant to be a festive Christmas lights switchon in Orihuela Costa turned into a demonstration recently as residents voiced frustrations over perceived neglect by the city council. The protest, organised by the Unidos por la
Costa association, saw dozens of attendees blowing whistles and holding signs demanding equal treatment for the coastal area.
The evening began at Plaza del Oriol, outside the Coastal Town Hall in Playa Flamenca. The municipal delegation, including
Mayor Pepe Vegara , Councillor for Festivities Rocío Ortuño and Councillor for the Coast Manuel Mestre led a short procession to the Mercadona roundabout where this year´s Christmas tree was placed.
As Mayor Vegara initiated the countdown to illuminate the lights, the sound of festive music was drowned out by the blast of whistles and chants from protesters. Unidos por la Costa, led by Tomás Moreno, distributed around 80 whistles to ensure their message was heard loud and clear. The protesters carried signs with messages such as “We pay, we expect equality” and “We demand action, not empty promises.” Despite the disruption, the
delegation posed for
The protest was the latest in a
series of actions by Unidos por la Costa, a residents’ association boasting nearly 1,000 members and 10,000 Facebook followers. The group has long voiced concerns over what they see as neglect and inadequate management of services in Orihuela Costa. They criticized the PP-Vox coalition for failing to address an “accumulated de cit of services” and noted that none of the projects listed in the 2024 budget have been tendered.
municipal
photos by the Christmas tree and later retreated to the town hall to unveil a nativity scene.
Orihuela improves services to become a smart tourist destination
Within the framework of the Orihuela Tourism Sustainability Plan for Destination, the City Council is contracting the services to improve the management of the city as a smart tourist destination.
Orihuela is continuously experiencing a growing tourist demand based mainly on holiday products linked its coast, although there is room for growth in new tourist segments of a cultural, gastronomic and artistic nature, in which the new High Speed rail connections will play an in uential role in the future of the tourism sector.
This new development involves modifying the current seasonal tourism model towards a model managed in an intelligent manner. Better institutional management is necessary to respond to these new tourist realities in an attractive, e cient and sustainable manner.
The contract will involve the provision of a team of professionals with the capacity to achieve two speci c objectives: to help better coordinate the di erent municipal departments with complementary competencies associated with tourism, as well as to analyse
data from di erent systems that issue information relevant to tourism such as presence sensors, mobility and parking systems, mobile device apps and social networks etc.
The budget assigned to this contract amounts to 89,999 euros and its duration will extend until the end of March 2026.
The project is supported by the subsidy received from the Ministry of Industry and Tourism within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, 100% nanced by the European Union, Next Generation EU.
Robbers told officers they were renting the house when caught inside
National Police officers have arrested two people of Spanish and Colombian nationality, aged 24 and 18, in Orihuela, as the alleged perpetrators of a home burglary.
The officers received a call in which the victim reported that, when trying to access the house, he noticed that the door showed signs of having been forced. Once there, the
officers checked the damage and after entering the house they surprised two people inside, a man and a woman, who told them that they had rented the house and had been living there for about 10 days.
After interviewing the true homeowner, officers were told that she had been in the house
the day before and had left it safely locked and secured, leaving everything in perfect condition. She confirmed that there was no damage and also that the lock cylinder had been changed by someone else.
For these reasons, in addition to the fact that these people could not show any rental contract, the agents arrested
the man and the woman as alleged perpetrators of a crime of burglary in an inhabited house.
Following the completion of police investigations, the detainees have been placed at the disposal of the investigating courts on duty in the town of Orihuela.
Torrevieja man arrested for 19 crimes against property
The Civil Guard, within the framework of Operation ‘Eolo24’, has arrested a 36-yearold man as the alleged perpetrator of 19 crimes against property, of which 13 are robberies with force and 6 thefts. The detainee has been placed at the disposal of the Court of Instruction No. 1 of Torrevieja
The investigation began in March 2024, when a series of thefts of air conditioners or their components were discovered in the town. Officers from the Investigation Area of the Main Post of Torrevieja began work to clarify the events, collecting evidence and analysing patterns of action.
New school for Torrevieja
Another branch of the investigation led the agents to detect the presence of a suspicious vehicle, which was tracked and linked to the person responsible for selling the parts.
Finally, after managing to identify the alleged perpetrator, the officers carried out the final
During the investigation phase, in which the Torrevieja Local Police collaborated, the agents found out that the stolen appliances were not sold on the secondhand market but were dismantled and their components were sold individually in scrapyards. Radiators, electric motors, copper and other parts were distributed separately to avoid their origin raising suspicions.
operation, establishing different surveillance devices and concluding with the arrest of the suspect at his home in Torrevieja.
The detainee, a 36-yearold man of Spanish nationality, who has a history of similar crimes and is charged with 19 crimes against property, 13 of which are robbery and 6 of theft, was placed at the disposal of the Court of Instruction No. 1 of Torrevieja, which ordered his release with the imposition of precautionary measures.
The Department of Education, Culture, Universities and Employment is studying the implementation of a new Infant and Primary school in prefabricated classrooms in Torrevieja in September 2025 to provide a solution to the huge number of enrolments that have occurred in the city in recent years.
The regional secretary for Education, Daniel McEvoy, together with the territorial director of Education, Juan Antonio Castaño, met with the mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, and the councillor for Education, Ricardo Recuero. After the meeting, the regional secretary visited the CEIP Nº 15 and the CEIP Inmaculada to check the state of both facilities.
During the meeting, the situation of the educational infrastructures in Torrevieja was discussed and the need for the Vega Baja to have two Integrated Vocational Training Centres (CIFP) was brought to the attention of the regional secretary for
Education. In this regard, the regional secretary for Education stated that, after having studied the training needs of the productive system, the Regional Ministry announced the implementation of a CIFP in Torrevieja in the coming years to complete the o er in the region, which is very necessary because it is one of the most dynamic areas of the Valencian Community economically, labour-wise and socially.
Regarding the current problems in Torrevieja, the mayor reported that work is being done on signing a collaboration agreement between the City Council and the Department of Education to address the construction of school number 14, currently in prefabricated classrooms, and which would be located in the southern area of Torrevieja (Villa Amalia), and IES number 6, currently also in prefabricated classrooms as a delegated section of IES Torrevigía, which would also be located in the southern area of the city, speci cally in
the urbanization of Los Altos. Furthermore, given the demand for students in the city, the implementation of a new centre in prefabricated classrooms (school number 16) located in the Mar Azul Urbanisation will be studied, on the same plot where the Amanecer school was located when it was in prefabricated buildings.
The regional secretary for Education indicated that it is urgent to reinforce the teaching sta in Torrevieja’s educational centres, as well as to increase the so-called “UECO classrooms”, both in Primary and Secondary education, to meet the special needs of the numerous students who have arrived in the city of Torrevieja.
Finally, Eduardo Dolón thanked Daniel McEvoy for his visit and his willingness to ensure that in the coming years Torrevieja can have all the educational infrastructure necessary to o er the best quality and service to the local students.
Man wins Spanish scrabble championship without speaking the language
Nigel Richards, a professional Scrabble player from New Zealand, has achieved the extraordinary. Despite not speaking Spanish, Richards claimed victory at the Spanish Scrabble World Championship held in Granada, Spain.
Richards defeated defending champion Benjamín Olaizola of Argentina, who speaks uent Spanish, in a tournament where Richards lost only one game out of 24. Olaizola secured second place, winning 18 games. Amazingly, Richards only began studying the Spanish Scrabble word list a year ago. His friend Liz Fagerlund, a New Zealand Scrabble o cial, shared insights into his unique talent. “Nigel can’t understand why others can’t do the same thing,” she said. “He sees words as pictures and recalls them e ortlessly.”
This isn’t Richards’ rst linguistic feat. In 2015, he became the French Scrabble world champion after just nine weeks of studying the French word list—a title he
reclaimed in 2018.
Regarded as the greatest Scrabble player of all time, Richards’ Spanish-language triumph is remarkable even by his exceptional standards. Competing in Spanish Scrabble required him to adjust to di erent tile values and navigate a vastly larger pool of seven- to nineletter words, demanding a distinct strategy from the English game.
Richards’ analytical, mathematical approach to Scrabble has astounded the Scrabble world throughout his three-decade career. In 2008, he became the rst player to simultaneously hold the world, U.S., and
British Scrabble titles. To win in the U.S., he had to “forget” 40,000 English words not included in the American word list.
Richards’ mother, Adrienne Fischer, revealed in a 2010 interview that her son didn’t excel at English in school and never attended university. “I don’t think he’s ever read a book, apart from the dictionary,” she remarked.
Now living in Malaysia, Richards avoids the spotlight and rarely speaks to reporters. “He doesn’t understand the fuss,” Fagerlund said. “I get lots of requests for interviews, but he’s just not interested.”
Spanish Golden Visa ban delayed by Spanish Senate
Spain’s Senate has temporarily stalled a proposed ban on the Golden Visa program, leaving its future uncertain. Initially set for abolition by early 2025, the program—which grants residency to foreign investors—was expected to end after Spain’s Congress approved a bill last month to scrap it. However, the Senate vetoed the legislation, delaying its implementation and raising questions about whether the ban will proceed at all. The veto sends the bill back to Congress, which retains the authority to override the Senate’s decision. Nonetheless, the delay highlights political divisions within Spain’s legislative bodies. The Senate, controlled by the centre-right Partido Popular (PP), opposed the bill, while Congress is dominated by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s coalition government of the centre-left PSOE and left-wing Unidas Podemos.
The disagreements are partly political but also procedural. Critics, including the PP, have raised concerns about the way the bill, o cially titled the Judicial E ciency Bill, was structured. While its primary focus is on
speeding up trials for illegal squatting cases, the Golden Visa ban was added as an unrelated amendment. The PP described this approach as a “hodgepodge of uncoordinated legislative amendments” and criticized the government for failing to use proper legislative drafting techniques.
Despite the legislative uncertainty, the Golden Visa program continues to attract signi cant interest. Following the announcement of the proposed ban in April, applications surged, with the number of approvals rising from an average of 69 per month in early 2024 to 95 per month between April and October. By the end of October, 780 visas had been granted in 2024, with 573 issued since the ban’s announcement.
This spike re ects a broader trend of increasing demand for Golden Visas in recent years. From 2013, when the program was introduced, until 2021, annual approvals remained under 1,000. However, in 2022, they more than doubled to over 2,000 and climbed further to over 3,200 in 2023.
Chinese nationals account for the highest number of approvals, with more than 3,300 visas granted between 2013 and 2023. Russian
Spanish fishermen protest EU proposal to drastically cut fishing days
Thousands of Spanish shermen are protesting a European Union proposal to signi cantly reduce the number of days trawlers can operate in the Mediterranean, a measure aimed at improving sh stocks and protecting biodiversity.
Under the proposed plan, the current 130 days trawlers can spend at sea each year would be slashed to just 27 or 28 days—a 79% reduction. Spanish shermen have condemned the proposal, arguing that it would devastate the country’s economy, harm the shing industry, and threaten thousands of jobs.
On the second day of the recent protests, hundreds of shermen gathered in front of the European Commission’s o ce in Madrid, calling for the plan being negotiated in Brussels to be halted. Their demands echoed across Spanish ports, where shermen in Andalusia, Murcia, Valencia, Catalonia, and other regions joined the strike. Many sh markets also ceased operations in solidarity.
The demonstrations were organised by Spain’s National Federation of Fishermen’s Guilds and the
Shipowners’ Association Cepesca. Both groups warned that if the proposal is enacted, trawling in the Mediterranean—a shing method that employs approximately 3,000 people directly and supports 17,000 additional jobs indirectly— could disappear entirely.
Industry representatives argue that the EU’s plan is based on awed data and fails to consider the realities of local sheries. “This measure would not only cripple our livelihoods but also dismantle a traditional industry that sustains entire communities,” said one protester.
The European Commission has defended the proposal as necessary
for preserving marine ecosystems and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Mediterranean sheries, which have faced overexploitation. However, critics contend that the drastic reduction fails to balance environmental concerns with economic and social impacts.
As negotiations continue in Brussels, the Spanish shing industry is standing rm in its opposition, warning of irreversible damage to a centuries-old trade. For now, Spain’s trawlers remain docked, their crews united in demanding a more balanced approach to safeguarding the Mediterranean’s resources.
TikTok expands in-app shopping to Spain and Ireland
nationals follow closely with 3,100 visas, and more than 1,000 British citizens have also successfully applied.
While Chinese applicants dominate in numbers, U.S. investors have had the greatest nancial impact. Between 2018 and 2022, American investors contributed €1.6 billion to the Spanish economy through the program, compared to €768 million from Chinese investors.
The Golden Visa program has long been a source of debate, praised for attracting foreign investment but criticized for contributing to housing a ordability issues and bene ting the wealthy. If Congress overrides the Senate’s veto, the program could still end in early 2025. However, for now, the delay allows Spain’s real estate and investment sectors to continue capitalizing on the surge in applications.
As the debate continues, the program’s fate rests in the hands of Congress, which must decide whether to push through the ban or explore alternative reforms. Meanwhile, interest in Spain’s Golden Visa remains high, underscoring its enduring appeal among global investors.
TikTok has launched its in-app shopping service, TikTok Shop, in Spain and Ireland, marking its rst step toward broader expansion across Europe.
The feature enables users to purchase products directly within the app while interacting with businesses and creators in real-time.
“The service will o er users the possibility to purchase products and talk to businesses and creators in real time,” TikTok said in a statement. However, the option to sell products is currently limited to businesses based in Spain and Ireland.
TikTok Shop debuted in Spain on Tuesday, showcasing a variety of products such as air fryers and health supplements, with prices ranging from €3 ($3.16) to €60.
TikTok reports that 20 million people use the platform monthly in Spain, highlighting the potential reach of its new shopping service.
To ensure secure transactions, TikTok claims to collaborate with trusted third-party payment platforms. The company also plans to expand TikTok Shop to other European countries, including France, Germany, and Italy.
The European rollout comes as TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance Ltd., seeks to diversify its markets amid increasing scrutiny in the United States. TikTok faces the threat of being banned in the U.S. unless ByteDance divests its stake in the
social media platform.
TikTok Shop has already proven to be one of ByteDance’s fastestgrowing ventures, and its expansion into Europe signals the company’s ambition to cement its presence in alternative markets while capitalizing on the growing trend of social commerce.
With millions of users across Europe, TikTok Shop has the potential to transform how consumers engage with brands and shop online, blending social media and e-commerce in a seamless experience.
Civil Guard helps a man with a serious wound to his arm in Torrevieja
The Civil Guard in Torrevieja recently demonstrated the importance of swift action and public collaboration when they assisted a seriously injured man following multiple calls from concerned citizens.
On December 3, at 9:30 p.m., the Guardia Civil received reports of a man bleeding heavily on the street near Calle Torresal. Upon arriving at the scene, o cers were directed by passers-by to follow a trail of blood that led them to the injured individual.
The man was found with a severe wound and an open fracture on his right arm, from which he was losing a signi cant amount of blood. Semiconscious and visibly weak, he was unable to provide a coherent account of what had happened. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the o cers applied a tourniquet to his upper arm to stem the
bleeding and stabilized him until emergency medical services arrived.
After the man was transported to Torrevieja University Hospital, where he underwent surgery, the o cers conducted an investigation and determined, based on witness statements, that his injuries were the result of a domestic accident. The quick response by the Civil Guard likely prevented
a far worse outcome.
The injured man is now recovering favorably, and the Civil Guard has taken this opportunity to emphasize the critical role of public cooperation and rapid action in emergencies. They encourage citizens to use the ALERTCOPS application for e cient communication and assistance in such situations.
De Kogl, Winery from Slovenia
This week we are going to meet the Kogl from the country of Slovenia. This statement is an important statement of the winery in Slovenia where we made this
Many people do not know how good and delicious the wines from this country are. The people are very passionate about growing grapes and making wine.
A bit of history: Socialize. In the embrace of the mighty local lime tree. The sound of a glass, cheerful dogwood, sensual touches and radiant looks. Souls are opening. Color, smell and taste of Kogel. Farewell. Another time. The lime tree, accustomed to death, remains.
Prlekija, the landscape between Mura and Drava is a colorful world of wine banks, calm valleys and grooved elds. Here is the home of relaxed, cheerful, benevolently witty and proud and naturally friendly, wise, talkative and hardhearted people: Prlekov and Prlečk.
Because of the battle on Holy Sunday in 1199, when the local patriots of Frederick of Ptuj, with the help of the soldiers of the Teutonic Knights - the Crusaders, conquered and defended the “no man’s land” at the mouth of the Pesnica River by burning and pillaging the Hungarian hordes, the place was called Velika Nedelja (MAGNA DOMINICA lat.) after this event. on the hill above Veliko Nedelja is the Kogl farm. The fact that the hill is covered with vineyards was rst mentioned in 1542. Until the land liberation in 1848, the hill was owned by the Crusaders, after which it was managed by wealthy noble families from 1860 onwards. The massive masonry building at the top of the estate was built in 1820. with a name and a surname, compared to the clod of earth and its creative power, shaped and directed by nature, it is just a simple, big NOTHING. Everything that presents itself as more than NOTHING is exclusively the domain of MAN’s conceit.
The Wines:
Young, fresh and lively; aged and polished; more or less sweet and dry; dominant or subdued; boastful, luxurious, sometimes modest... So di erent, yet always hetzelfde. De onze. Van Kogel. Zij ontwerpen, ontwikkelen en veranderen samen met ons. En omgekeerd.
De Alter Ego wijnen zijn samengesteld uit verschillende wijnen, waar onder bijvoorbeeld de Pinot Noir, de Auxerois, de Syrak, de Traminer en de chardonnay.
The Red wine, the Mea Culpa, a fantastic wine from the Pinot Noir with the Syrah.
The Rose of the Rubulus Pinot Noir is a powerful Rose that you will hardly nd anywhere
And sparkling wine RUBELLUS - CLASSIQUE is a sparkling sparkling wine produced according to the classic process, with a second fermentation in the bottle. then there are the Sparkling wines that are certainly not inferior to the renowned champagnes.
The Company..
Socialize. In the embrace of the mighty local lime tree. The sound of a glass, cheerful dogwood, sensual touches and radiant looks. Souls are opening. Color, smell and taste of Kogel. Farewell. Another time. The lime tree, accustomed to death, remains These beautiful wines are therefore available at Beau Wine Tastings in Albir, strength and quality that is what we stand for.............
Orihuela Medieval Market celebrates its 25th Anniversary
The Councillor for Festivities, Rocío Ortuño, has o cially announced the publication of the tender for the upcoming edition of the Medieval Market of Orihuela. This highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place on the 31st of January and will continue over three days, concluding on the 2nd of February.
The contract for the event encompasses the comprehensive organization and execution of the Medieval Market, including the technical de nition of the array of shows and activities that will bring the market to life. As part of the agreement, the company that is awarded the contract will be required to pay a minimum fee of 2,284 euros. The market itself will center around the theme of the three cultures that coexisted during
the medieval period— Christian, Jewish, and Muslim. Re ecting this, the event’s route will be thoughtfully divided into three distinct cultural areas, stretching from Plaza de Santiago to Santo Domingo.
Throughout this route, there will be various dedicated spaces, including taverns and an array of stands, all designed
to create a vibrant and immersive medieval atmosphere. These areas will also serve as stages for a variety of entertainment shows and activities, enriching the experience for attendees during the full three days of the event. This immersive celebration will transport visitors back in time, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Orihuela’s history.
Pilar de la Horadada to build three new paddle tennis courts in the sports centre
The Pilar de la Horadada Town Council has announced the tendering of two signi cant projects aimed at improving the municipality’s sports facilities. These initiatives are designed to modernize and expand the range of sports options available to residents. They include the renovation of the arti cial turf on the central football pitch and the construction of three paddle tennis courts within the municipal sports centre.
The rst project involves the complete renovation of the arti cial turf on the central football pitch at the sports centre. The budget for this work is set at 274,859.67 euros (including VAT), with an estimated completion time of three months. The municipal sports centre currently has two arti cial turf football pitches. One of them, which is primarily used by sports schools for training, was recently renovated. However, the central pitch, located within the athletics track and primarily
used for competitions, has not undergone signi cant upgrades since its construction in 2009. The City Council has recognized in the project plan that the pitch’s current condition is no longer optimal for sports activities due to wear over time. The renovation project will include the installation of state-ofthe-art arti cial turf that
adheres to the technical standards outlined in the proposal. Furthermore, the contract will include a 12-month warranty period to guarantee the quality and durability of the work. These improvements aim to ensure that the central pitch meets modern standards and provides an excellent facility for sports practice and competitions.
Visit a craft market at the Rodeo Caves in Rojales
This popular and vibrant event takes place on the rst Sunday of every month from 10am to 3pm.
Browse around a bohemian style craft market o ering handmade jewellery, ceramics, works of art, and many other hand crafted items. You can also enjoy watching the painting demonstrations, participate in art workshops, then sit back, relax with a drink, and listen to the live music which completes the great atmosphere.
The Rodeo Caves, tucked away in the town of Rojales, consist of a set of caves excavated from the mountain in the 18th century by Murcian miners who came to Rojales for agricultural work. Creating a unique underground urban
plot, the caves became the home of generations until the beginning of the 20th century. Today they are a tourist attraction and a fascinating place to visit. Having been transformed into beautiful studios and workshops by local artists and craftsmen, they open their doors to visitors, free of charge, every Monday to Friday from 10am till 3pm. The address to get to the caves is Cuevas del Rodeo, 4, 18, 03170 Rojales, Alicante.
For more information on places to discover and things to do on the Costa Blanca, you can visit the 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.
All was well and ended well
A group of exhausted, but satis ed, Thespians were able to relax on Sunday afternoon after the fourth and nal performance this year’s Adapt Theatre Group pantomime, Snow White and the 7 Guiris. All the usual last minute panics have now become anecdotes to add to the fourteen years of stories and triumphs that the group has produced.
This year we were privileged to have the outstanding performer and
singer, Carine Van Vooren as Snow White and along with yet another witty and original script from Jane Cronin, an Italian hunter played by Eric Berg and 7 hilarious guiris (aka typical Brits abroad) namely Noisy, Nosey, Boozy, Bossy, Scotty, Paddy and Posh, not to mention a spectacular, if somewhat aged, Prince Charming and our dame Mrs. Clutterbucket (Madame Cluteurbouquet, if you don´t mind) the whole show went down a
storm with both Spanish and English speaking audience members. Special thanks also go to our director Linda Myers and all our support crew. We will shortly be announcing how much money has been raised for charity and of course, plotting our next year’s spectacular.
If you would like to go on our mailing list please contact Eric Berg on ericberg2@hotmail.com
Mercadona serves up festive delights with exciting new announcement
Mercadona has unveiled one of its most eagerly awaited features for the festive season. The Spanish supermarket chain is once again enhancing its “ready to eat” section, o ering a special selection of ready-made dishes that can be ordered for Christmas and New Year celebrations. These include options such as suckling pig, shoulder of lamb, stu ed chicken thighs, seafood salad, and canapés—everything you need to make your festive gatherings perfect without the stress of cooking.
The deadline for placing orders in-store for Christmas Eve dinner is 20 December. For New Year’s Eve celebrations, orders must be placed by 27 December. Additionally, ready-made selection trays, such as canapé assortments, will be available at the main fresh food counters on 23 and 24 December for Christmas, and on 30 and 31 December for New Year’s.
To take advantage of this service, customers should check which stores o er the “ready to eat” Christmas orders and select the one closest to them.
Local police on hunt for illegal billboard advertissers on the coast
The Local Police of Orihuela Costa have uncovered fraudulent use of billboards owned by the Orihuela City Council. These billboards are being used without proper authorization, and it appears that a fee is being charged for their use. In response, the municipal body has issued a direct appeal to businesses, stating: “If you are an advertised company and you appear in any of the following photos, please contact the Local Police, who will tell you what to do.”
This message has been addressed to dozens of companies that have been advertising at more than 20 locations across the Orihuela coast in what is suspected to be a fraudulent arrangement.
The Local Police shared this message during the Constitution holiday
through a series of seven Facebook posts. Each post featured images and detailed locations of the billboards in question, showing advertisements from well-known companies on the Orihuela coast. These companies come from a wide range of sectors, including construction, hospitality, shopping centers, and real estate agencies specializing in the sale and rental of summer homes. The issue itself is not new, but the City Council has only recently taken such a firm and public stance. It has directly called on businesses to remove these advertisements, which have proliferated in recent years, prompted by residents’ complaints about a perceived lack of control by municipal urban planning services.
This action follows
criticism from the Valencian AntiFraud Agency, which admonished the City Council over the matter, and ongoing complaints from residents. Some residents had even proposed the mass removal of these unauthorized billboards as part of the participatory budget process. However, this proposal was rejected after the technical study phase, as municipal officials determined that the cost of such an action exceeded the 60,000euro budget allocated for each of the municipality’s 11 districts. Despite these constraints, the City Council has now taken a more assertive approach to address the issue, aiming to reclaim control over its urban landscape and ensure compliance with municipal regulations.
Almoradí honours the legacy of young Geologist lost in mine tragedy
The Almoradí City Council, through its Education Department under the leadership of Councillor Susana Miralles, has marked the International Day of the Educating City with a series of tributes and significant events aimed at fostering awareness and appreciation for education and community contributions in the region.
As part of the commemorations, students from IES Antonio Sequeros, Azud de Alfeitamí, and Colegio Santa María de la Huerta de Almoradí participated in a conference featuring three esteemed Geology professors from the Universities of Alicante and Barcelona. The conference highlighted the work and legacy of Victoriano Pineda González, a young geologist from Almoradí who tragically lost his life last year in the Suria mine (Barcelona). The professors— Jesús Soria, Iván Medina, and Luis Gibert—delved into a range of topics, including the geological uniqueness of Bajo Segura, the causes of earthquakes in Vega Baja, and the lasting impact of Victoriano Pineda’s contributions to geology. Through their engaging and informative talks, they provided insights into his life and work, making his achievements accessible and inspiring to the students.
The Auditorium served as another venue where the memory
of Victoriano Pineda González was honored. His parents, María José and Victoriano, were present, alongside the university professors who had mentored him—Jesús
Soria, Iván Medina, and Luis Gibert.
Together, they shared anecdotes and reflections on his professional excellence and personal virtues. The speakers emphasized his promising career as a geologist, tragically cut short by the accident in the Suria mine, and celebrated the enduring significance of his contributions.
The mayor of Almoradí, María Gómez, announced that a Victoriano Pineda González Prize for Science will be established next year to honor individuals, projects, or initiatives from Almoradí that are connected to scientific
advancement, ensuring his legacy remains a source of inspiration. During the same event, the accomplishments of the town’s young academic achievers were also celebrated. Recognition was given to students who had received Extraordinary Awards for their outstanding academic performance in the past year. These included Primary School students Noa Valero Cano, Hugo Sala Coves, Marcelo Berná Martínez, Maya Ramón Pertusa, Blanca Martínez Correas, Lucía Andreu Rico, and Hugo Poveda Gumbao, as well as Secondary School students Inés Canillas Ruíz, María Canillas Ruíz, Carmen López Miravete, Leire Orts Rico, Clara Ripoll Sanmartín, and Monserrate Vives.
Spanish Government proposes 45-euro monthly minimum wage increase
The Spanish government intends to raise the minimum wage (SMI) by around four per cent in 2025. This would result in an additional 45 euros per month for workers earning the lowest income for fulltime employment, totaling an extra 635 euros over the year. Over 2.5 million workers are expected to bene t from this increase, according to government sources. The monthly SMI would rise from the current 1,134 euros (in 14 payments) to 1,180 euros, bringing the total annual gross remuneration to over 16,500 euros in 2025.
This planned increase, under consideration by Pedro Sánchez’s government and being reviewed by a commission of experts appointed by the ministry for work, is based on two main factors. First, the government aims to ensure the increase matches at
least the rise in prices this year, as promised by Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz. In ation up to November has grown by 2.8 per cent, and the goal is to protect the purchasing power of the most vulnerable workers. Second, the government seeks to align the increase with the growth in average wages, which has risen by approximately 4 per cent according to the latest statistics. Collective agreements have led to an average wage increase of 3.05 per
cent up to November, with projections for 2024 indicating a rise to around 4 per cent (3.74 per cent).
The proposed increase would maintain the minimum wage at 60 per cent of the average wage, in line with the commitments of the European Social Charter. This threshold is consistent with the current SMI of 1,134 euros, though the UGT union has called for a higher gure, well above 1,200 euros.
We need a Christmas Helping Hand
As many of you know, A Helping Hand is a food and clothes bank based in Torrevieja who are struggling to feed all the people on their books. Both this paper and Seagate Wealth Management are doing all they can to support this wonderful local charity.
We are still looking for stocking fillers:
Selection boxes.
Chocolate Santas.
Chocolates for the tree.
We are also looking for gift donations that can be dropped into us that can be given as gifts to children whose families can’t afford to get them anything.
We are also looking for gifts for raffles and tombolas, so any bottles of wine, spirits or chocolates would be very appreciated.
If you can donate anything from the list below, it would be so very
appreciated as we want all our families to have the best Christmas they can: Rice, milk, pasta, soup mixes, tomato frito, tinned tomatoes, toilet rolls, wet wipes, baby milk (NATIVA 1,2 &3), nappies - size 4..5..& 6, cheese triangles/ slices, chorizo/salami slices, ham, hot dogs, yoghurts, childrens’ snacks and juices, shampoo/ conditioner, washing detergent ,toothpaste, tuna ,salt and sugar.
You can visit us in person on Tuesdays and Fridays between 10am and 1pm to see for yourself the work we do and meet some of the people we help. We are based in Avda. Deva 315, San Luis, Torrevieja.
We need properties to replace those recently sold or reserved. Necesitamos propiedades para reemplazar las recientemente vendidas o reservadas.
Speak Your Language
Upcoming changes to Spain’s retirement age in 2025
With the arrival of the new year on January 1, Spain introduces changes to the retirement age for workers wishing to claim 100% of their state pension. These changes will require many to extend their careers slightly. However, the adjustments do not apply uniformly to all employees, as factors like years of contributions determine individual eligibility.
Workers with more than 38 years and three months of contributions will still be able to retire at 65. For others, the retirement age will be later. In the 2024 calendar year (January 1 to December 31), those who meet the 38-year contribution threshold can retire at 65 without penalty. Workers who have contributed less will need to wait until they are 66 years and
six months to retire without reductions.
From 2025, the requirements will shift. The retirement age for workers with 38 years and three months of contributions remains 65, but for those with fewer contributions, it will increase to 66 years and eight months. Two significant changes accompany this shift: the contribution period required for retirement at 65 will rise by three months, and the retirement age for those with shorter contribution histories will increase by two months compared to 2024.
These reforms are part of a broader strategy to align Spain’s retirement system with the goal of establishing 67 as the standard retirement age by 2027.
Early retirement will also be subject to stricter penalties. From
2025, workers with fewer than 38 years of contributions will need to be at least 64 years and eight months old to qualify for early retirement. For those with longer contribution histories—38 years or more—voluntary early retirement will be possible from age 63. Workers who do not meet these criteria will face penalties for each month of early retirement. Conversely, those who continue working beyond the standard retirement age will receive financial incentives.
These reforms aim to strengthen the sustainability of Spain’s pension system by increasing the number of social security contributors while delaying the disbursement of retirement pensions.
This Week´s Movie Picks
Bohemian Rhapsody
Saturday 21st December, Channel 4, 10.20 pm
Bohemian Rhapsody is a foot-stomping celebration of Queen, their music and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury. Freddie defied stereotypes and shattered convention to become one of the most beloved entertainers on the planet. The film traces the meteoric rise of the band through their iconic songs and revolutionary sound.
Mama Mia! Here We Go Again
Sunday 22nd December, ITV2, 10.00 pm
Discover Donna’s (Meryl Streep, Lily James) young life, experiencing the fun she had with the three possible dads of Sophie (Amanda Seyfried). As she re ects on her mother’s journey, Sophie discovers that she is more like her mother than she ever realized before.
Tuesday 17th December
Point: Lucky Stars
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Martin Lewis: How to Win at Board Games
22:00 Gino and Fred: Emission Impossible
23:10 ITV News
23:45 ITV News London
Wednesday 18th December
04:50 Unwind with ITV
06:05 Deal or No Deal
07:00 Good Morning Britain
10:00 Lorraine
11:00 This Morning
Loose Women
Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow
Tipping Point: Lucky
Deal or No Deal 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
Lochs
21:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip
22:00 The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan 23:00 Motherland 23:30 Newsnight
22:00 Inside M&S at Christmas
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 The Italian Job
08:50 The King of Queens
09:15 The King of Queens
09:45 The King of Queens
10:15 Frasier 10:45 Frasier
11:15 Frasier
11:45 Frasier
12:15 Channel 4 News Summary
12:20 A Christmas Carousel
14:05 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 Chateau DIY at Christmas
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 The Great Celebrity Bake Off: Stand Up To Cancer 22:00 Hotel Chocolat at Christmas 23:00 Gogglebox
08:50 The King of Queens
09:15 The King of Queens
09:45 The King of Queens
10:15 Frasier
10:45 Frasier
11:15 Frasier
11:45 Frasier
12:15 Channel 4 News
Summary
12:20 Christmas at Grand Valley
14:05 Jamie’s Christmas Shortcuts
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 Chateau DIY at Christmas
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 The Dog House
22:00 A Very British Hotel
23:00 Miriam’s Dickensian Christmas
08:35 The Adventures of Paddington 08:55 Milo 09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Reu & Harper’s Wonder World
09:40 Milkshake! Jen’s Jolly Bakes
09:45 Peppa Pig
09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
10:00 Milkshake! Story Den 10:05 Milkshake! Hippo Watch
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:55 5 News at Lunchtime
09:10 PAW Patrol
09:30 Reu & Harper’s Wonder World
09:40 Milkshake! Jen’s Jolly Bakes
09:45 Peppa Pig
09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
10:00 Milkshake! Story Den 10:05 Milkshake! Hippo Watch
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:55 5 News at Lunchtime 14:00 Friends 14:30 Crazy Christmas Love 16:15 Mistletoe and Merlot 18:00 5 News at 5
19:00 22 Kids & Counting
20:00 Christmas in the Cotswolds 21:00 Own Brands: The Christmas Taste Test 22:00 The Good Ship Murder 23:00 Devil in Disguise: The Murder of Ronald Platt 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World
et s Roc performed their final hristmas erformance
Let’s Rock Quesada gave their final Christmas performance this week to a delighted audience of over 100 people, and received a standing ovation.
The packed room was treated to a host of great festive rock and pop songs, which also included solos, duets and small groups singing all the Christmas classics.
The choir was once again delighted by the feedback which included the following “we have
never seen a choir quite like yours... you were brilliant’. ‘We’ve had a great time tonight, your performance really lifted our spirits’, and ‘the choir really look as though they are having the best time’. Watch this space for news of their next concert in the coming new year, when Let’s Rock will be bringing to you ‘The Beatles’.
Let’s Rock – the Costa Blanca’s Feelgood Choir!
Thursday 19th December
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 Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow
16:00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:30 Emmerdale
Gone Fishing
22:00 Caroline Aherne: Queen of Comedy 23:10 Mandy 23:30 Newsnight
Friday 20th December
09:15 The King of Queens
09:45 The King of Queens
10:15 Frasier
10:45 Frasier
11:15 Frasier
11:45 Frasier
12:15 Channel 4 News Summary
12:20 Christmas in Love
14:05 Jamie Cooks
Christmas
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun 17:00 Chateau DIY at Christmas
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas
21:30 For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond
22:00 Beat the Chasers
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:30 ITV News London
23:45 Rocky V
06:10 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 Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow
18:15 Flog It!
19:00 Richard Osman’s House of Games
19:30 Nigella: At My Table
20:00 The Lake District: A Wild Year
21:00 Chris and Michaela: Under the Christmas Sky 22:00 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby
23:00 The Royle Family
23:40 Newsnight
16:00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars
17:00 Deal or No Deal
18:00 The Chase
19:00 ITV News London
19:30 ITV Evening News
20:00 Emmerdale
20:30 Coronation Street
21:30 Vera
23:15 ITV News
23:50 ITV News London
Saturday 21st December
04:00 Gino and Fred: Emission Impossible
05:00 Unwind with ITV
06:10 Deal or No Deal
07:00 For the Love of Britain
07:30 Love Your Garden
08:30 Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh
10:25 ITV News
10:30 James Martin’s Saturday Morning
12:40 Inside M&S at Christmas 13:40 ITV Lunchtime News
Up, Doc?
17:55 Flog It!
18:45 Paddington: The Man Behind the Bear
19:45 Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby 20:45 Dad’s Army 21:25 Eurythmics at the BBC 22:55 Annie Lennox at the BBC
23:55 The BBC One Sessions
13:50 Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball 2024 15:15 On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
18:00 ITV Evening News
18:15 ITV News London
18:30 The Chase: Celebrity Special
19:30 Katy Perry: Night of a Lifetime
21:00 The 1% Club
22:00 F9 The Fast Saga
08:55 Milo 09:10 PAW Patrol
09:30 Reu & Harper’s Wonder World
09:40 Milkshake! Jen’s Jolly Bakes
09:45 Peppa Pig
09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
10:00 Milkshake! Story Den 10:05 Milkshake! Hippo Watch
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:55 5 News at Lunchtime
14:00 Friends 14:30 A Ring for Christmas 16:15 Tying The Knot For Christmas 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Secrets of the Christmas Market
22:00 First Dates 23:00 Gogglebox
08:20 Cheers
08:50 The King of Queens
09:15 The King of Queens
09:45 The King of Queens
10:15 Frasier
11:15 Frasier
11:45 Frasier
12:15 Channel 4 News
Summary
12:20 Too Close for Christmas
14:05 Jamie Cooks
Christmas
15:10 Countdown
16:00 A Place in the Sun
17:00 Chateau DIY at Christmas
18:00 Four in a Bed
18:30 Kirstie’s Handmade
Christmas
19:30 The Simpsons
20:00 Channel 4 News
21:00 Junior Taskmaster
22:00 Celebrity Gogglebox
23:00 The Last Leg
05:35 Frasier
06:00 Frasier
06:25 Frasier
06:50 Alvin and the Chipmunks
08:20 The Simpsons 08:45 The Simpsons
09:10 The Simpsons 09:40 The Simpsons
10:10 Homegrown Christmas
12:00 Four in a Bed 12:30 Four in a Bed 13:00 Four in a Bed 13:35 Four in a Bed 14:05 Four in a Bed
14:35
20:00 Air Fryers Made Easy 21:00 Inside the Tower of London 22:00 Dalgliesh 23:00 Prime Suspect: The Murder of Diane Jones 09:15 What’s New ScoobyDoo? 09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?
09:10 PAW Patrol 09:30 Reu & Harper’s Wonder World
09:40 Milkshake! Jen’s Jolly Bakes
09:45 Peppa Pig
09:50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
10:00 Milkshake! Story Den 10:05 Milkshake! Hippo Watch
10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley
13:55 5 News at Lunchtime 14:00 Friends 14:30 Coupled Up for Christmas 16:15 A Royal Christmas Holiday 18:00 5 News at 5 19:00 Aldi vs M&S: Who Does Xmas Best?
20:00 Cruising with Jane McDonald 21:00 Fresh vs Frozen at Christmas 22:00 Dalgliesh 23:00 Carry On: Secrets & Scandals
09:35 Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? 10:00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 10:30 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records
Secret Crush 11:50 Secret Crush 12:55 Dress to Impress 13:55 Supermarket Sweep 15:00 Family Fortunes 16:00 In for a Penny 16:30 Kung Fu Panda Holiday Special 17:05 It’s a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie 18:10 FYI Daily 18:15 It’s a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie 19:00 Celebrity Catchphrase 20:00 Deal or No Deal 21:00 No Time to Die 22:10 FYI Daily 22:15 No Time to Die
Classic Coronation Street
Classic Coronation Street 09:05 George and Mildred 09:35 George and Mildred 10:10 Inspector Morse 12:20 The Royal 13:25 Heartbeat 14:30 Classic Emmerdale 15:00 Classic Emmerdale 15:35 Classic Coronation Street 16:05 Classic Coronation Street 16:40 Inspector Morse
18:55 Downton Abbey 20:00 Heartbeat 21:00 Doc Martin 22:00 Doc Martin 23:00 Grantchester
Sunday 22nd December
7:05 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
08:35 The Simpsons
09:00 The Simpsons 09:30 The Simpsons
10:00 The Simpsons
10:30 Sunday Brunch
13:30 Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events
15:30 The Snowman
16:00 Ron’s
Monday 23rd December
Connect 21:30 University Challenge 22:00 The Hairy Bikers: You’ll Never Ride Alone 23:00 Mackenzie Crook
Detectorists
Detectorists 23:50 Detectorists 07:00 Good Morning Britain 10:00 Lorraine 11:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:35 ITV News London 14:45 Ainsley’s Festive Flavours
09:35 Frasier 10:05 Everybody Loves
10:35 Everybody Loves
11:05 Everybody Loves
11:35 Everybody Loves
15:50 The Grinch 17:30 The Chase: Celebrity Special
18:30 Pictionary
19:00 ITV News London
19:15 ITV Evening News
19:30 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars
20:30 Emmerdale
21:00 Coronation Street
22:00 The Big Quiz: Coronation Street v Emmerdale
23:00 ITV News at Ten
23:10 ITV News London
23:25 The Equalizer
09:50 Pip and Posy 09:55 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:10 Milkshake! Story Den 10:15 Jeremy Vine 12:30 Storm Huntley 13:55 Friends 14:20 5 News at Lunchtime 14:30 Mistletoe & Wine
12:05 Everybody Loves Raymond 12:35 The Simpsons 13:05 Channel 4 News Summary 13:10 The Simpsons 13:40 The Simpsons 14:05 The Dog House 15:10 The Great British Bake Off 16:25 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas 17:30 Jamie Cooks Christmas 18:30 Channel 4 News
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, January 8th, 2025. You are welcome to attend.
“How do I attach photos from Google Photos to an email”?
Any photo you take using your mobile phone will automatically be stored in 2 places (Gallery on your phone and Google Photos using the Google account you are logged into on the phone).
If the photo or photos you want to share with someone else using email were taken on the phone you are currently using, you can nd them in the Gallery.
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.
If it’s not on your current phone, you can access other photos using Google Photos on your phone or a computer.
The important thing is to make sure you access Google Photos while logged in to the Google account you used to take the photos you want.
You can attach photos to an email that are stored on your phone in Gallery.
To attach photos from Google Photos you need to open Google Photos.
Select the photo or photos you want and then select Share. Then select how you want to share it by choosing the App you want to use i.e. Gmail.
Also as Google Photos are stored on Cloud Storage you can share a link to the individual photos.
“A program on my laptop has frozen. What can I do?
If a program has “frozen” then you need to close it. There are 2 choices:
1. Try to close the program using “Task Manager”
2.“Press and hold” the Power button to turn o the laptop.
Task Manager Press and hold Ctrl + Alt + Del Select Task Manager.
In Task Manager window, you can tap Process tab to see all running applications and processes incl. background processes in your
computer. Here, you can check all Windows background processes and select any unwanted background processes and click End task button to terminate them temporarily.
Attention Social Group leaders and group members.
If you run or belong to a social group, I can be available to give a presentation on an agreedupon topic within the remit of the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group covering Smartphones, Tablets, Computers, Cloud Storage, Printers, Smart TV’s, TV Boxes (IPTV)., Amazon Fire Stick, Smart Speakers, Smart Watches, Satellite Navigation, Dash Cams, CCTV Systems. Alternatively, I am available to host a question-andanswer session on any topic listed. Contact me at cbtechnology. help@gmail.com .
Brian Hoile Technology Help Group
Join the Group by searching Facebook for “Costa Blanca Technology Help Group” Send your questions to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Date when Spain’s universal charger regulation ta es effect
The deadline of December 28, 2024, marks a signi cant shift in the European Union’s approach to electronic device charging standards. From this date, all mobile phones and other devices sold within the EU must incorporate a USB Type-C charging port as a universal charger. This requirement, established under Spain’s Royal Decree 187/2016 of May 6 in response to a European directive, aims to reduce electronic waste and help consumers save money.
In Spain, the regulation applies to a range of gadgets, including smartphones (such as iPhones), tablets, digital cameras, headsets, portable video game consoles, wireless speakers, eReaders, and accessories like keyboards, mice, and portable navigation devices. Laptops are also included in the scope of the rule, but manufacturers have until April 28, 2026, to comply. However, smartwatches
and tness wristbands are exempt due to their size and usage conditions.
This regulation enables consumers to use a single charger for various small and medium-sized portable electronic devices. Furthermore, buyers will have the option to decide whether to include a charger with their purchase. The law mandates that packaging and product information clearly indicate the charging system used and whether a charger is included, using labels or pictograms. For online sales, this information must be displayed near the price.
Devices supporting fast charging will standardize their charging speed, ensuring consistent performance across compatible chargers. The EU projects annual savings of up to 250 million euros for consumers by eliminating unnecessary purchases of chargers. Additionally, the regulation is expected to have a positive environmental impact by reducing electronic waste, as discarded chargers currently account for approximately 11,000 tonnes of waste per year in Europe.
Cabo Roig
Understanding the investment world in Spain
Many of us open a local bank account to pay our bills in Spain. But when it comes to our investments, it’s less clear how we should proceed.
In the United States, three types of investment professionals are available:
• Broker-dealers purchase and sell securities, both for clients (the “broker” part) and for themselves (the “dealer” part)
• Investment advisers give clients advice on investment decisions
• Financial planners provide a roadmap for our finances that increases the likelihood of achieving our goals
Furthermore, there is an American working at BISSAN who helps English-speaking families and individuals across all of Spain as a financial planner. His name is Peter Dougherty and he is certified as a European Financial Planner (EFP) by the European Financial Planning Association of Spain and he holds a Master’s degree in Spanish taxation from Instituto Europeo de Asesoría Fiscal (the Institute of Taxation Studies).
This is how Peter explains the role of financial planning, “A financial plan is a roadmap for our finances that increases
In Spain, the big banks act as broker-dealers and investment advisers, but seldom as financial planners. However, there is a firm in Spain that successfully assists clients with financial planning: BISSAN Wealth Management. Founded in 2010, BISSAN has been providing independent, regulated financial planning ever since. Spain’s financial securities regulator, the CNMV (Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores), authorizes and regulates BISSAN Wealth Management.
the likelihood of achieving our goals. Having a financial plan is particularly important for expats living in Spain. Without one, we increase the possibility of confusion, frustration or even financial loss. Creating a financial plan on our own, though, can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s best to partner with professionals like the talented team at BISSAN
Wealth Management. BISSAN’s experts can help build a wellthought-out strategy to give us the confidence we’re on track to meet our objectives, as well as provide guidance around tax strategies to help minimize costs.”
To schedule a free consultation with Peter Dougherty: https://spainfinancialplanning. weebly.com
Max George has revealed he will be spending Christmas in hospital to undergo heart surgery, he told fans on Thursday.
The Wanter singer, 36, who has battled alcoholism previously, admitted he is ‘very lucky that this was caught when it was’ as he shared the shocking health scare.
Max hasn’t disclosed what condition he is su ering with.
Beyonce fans were left shocked after Forbes dropped husband Jay-Z’s last name from her moniker days after he was accused of raping a teenager.
Jay-Z, 55, real name Shawn Carter, was accused in a lawsuit of raping a 13-year-old girl with Diddy at a party after the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards. The rapper vehemently denied the accusations in a bizarre statement posted shortly afterward.
Forbes named Beyonce, 43, as one of the year’s most powerful women days after the allegations emerged, and listed her as ‘Beyonce Knowles’ instead of her o cial name ‘Beyonce Knowles-Carter’ - leading fans to claim the move was a ‘soft launch name change.’
I’m A Celeb’s Barry McGuigan was reunited with his wife Sandra and heartbreakingly told her he misses their late daughter and she ‘would have loved’ seeing him on the show, in emotional scenes set to air on Friday.
The former featherweight boxing champion, 63, was the seventh star voted out of the jungle alongside Love Island’s Maura Higgins, 33, in a shock double vote o .
Barry’s exit from the jungle will be covered during the upcoming Coming Out show, which follows this year’s stars in their rst moments after leaving the Jungle.
Ellie Goulding has reportedly sold her £3.1million London home, following her split from husband Caspar Jopling.
The singer, 37, separated from the art dealer in February this year and the pair are now co-parenting their fouryear-old son Arthur.
The ve-storey, four-bedroom semidetached townhouse in Marylebone was initially put on the market for £5.95million in October of 2020, before being slashed down by £350,000 to £5.6million a year later..
Making a big comeback for
role in four years.
Wallace and Gromit are set to encounter their returning archnemesis Feathers McGraw - 16 years after their previous adventure.
otel Algorfa a ery onvenience Store
Hotel Algorfa Bakery and Convenience Store is a delightful spot that has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination. One of the highlights is the “build your own sub” option, where you can choose your favorite ingredients to create a delicious sandwich exactly how you like it. The bakery also boasts homemade waffles and crepes, which are perfect for a sweet treat at any time of the day. You can’t miss the ice-cream counter, where you can scoop your favorite flavors into a homemade waffle cone, adding a special touch to your dessert. For
those who love baked goods, this place also offers a variety of pies, pastries, and cakes that are freshly made every day. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills the store, offering loaves, rolls, and other bread products that are perfect for breakfast or as a side for any meal. Everything is made with care, ensuring that each bite is full of flavor. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick snack or looking for ingredients for your meals, Hotel Algorfa Bakery and Convenience Store is a charming place that provides quality food and satisfying treats for everyone in the community.
Wallace And Gromit creator Nick Park has revealed he had to beg Peter Kay to come out of TV retirement and appear as Inspector Mackintosh in the highly-anticipated Christmas special.
the animated duo, Vengeance Most Fowl will premiere on Christmas Day on BBC iPlayer and BBC One - and it’s Peter’s rst TV
Health & Beauty
Should you steam or boil vegetables
along. When she does fit me in to her busy schedule, she always changes arrangements that I have made and where to meet up, for somewhere she would rather go; usually somewhere expensive, and I always seems to end up paying the bill. We met her for cocktails once, and in walked her friend soon after...again my husband ended up paying for cocktails for this friend of hers who we didn’t know, just to be polite, as the lady was by herself.
If you are seeing a pattern in this friend’s behaviour; trust your instincts and learn from this. There are people out there who will use others to their advantage, and maybe this woman is one of them if she repeatedly practices the same routine, it has certainly earned her the same comments from other people. It’s up to you now whether you want to join the rank of this woman’s ex-friends. Personally, I don’t like being made a fool of.
My friend invited us round to her place for dinner, to reciprocate after she and her partner came to ours for a meal a while ago. When we got there, she had invited another couple, who we did not know. She didn’t tell us this before we arrived. She has now done this twice to us, and I find myself getting rather annoyed about it. I’ve known her for years and she is always there when there is anything to be gained, if you know what I mean. She also asks that we bring plenty of wine and beer, and a desert dish when we go to her house. She has complained to me in the past that people have called her selfish and that she has been accused of using others; and I know she has lost friends as a result. I never really took much notice, but I am starting to see that these people may have had a point. When she knew we were buying a house in Spain, she suddenly became my best friend; until then she was only a work colleague who didn’t really show much interest in me. When I am with her, I get the feeling that she is easily bored with my company, and so she will invite others 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.
In recent years, the beauty industry has witnessed a seismic shift in consumer priorities. While injectables such as Botox and llers once dominated the conversation around anti-aging and aesthetic enhancement, a growing number of individuals are pivoting their focus toward skin health. The rise in popularity of advanced skincare treatments over quick xes highlights a broader societal shift towards holistic, sustainable, and science-backed beauty solutions.
A Move Toward Long-Term Skin Wellness
The allure of injectables lies in their ability to deliver immediate, dramatic results. However, many consumers are now questioning the long-term implications of these procedures. Concerns about overuse, unnatural outcomes, and dependency on invasive treatments have prompted a reevaluation of priorities.
Instead of seeking eeting perfection, individuals are investing in treatments that improve their skin’s natural health and appearance over time. Customized facials, chemical
peels, microneedling, and laser therapies are becoming staples in skincare regimens. These treatments not only address visible concerns like wrinkles or pigmentation but also enhance skin texture, hydration, and elasticity at a foundational level.
The Science of Skin
Skincare enthusiasts are increasingly educated about ingredients, skin biology, and the importance of preventative care.
This surge in knowledge, fueled by dermatologists’ social media presence and reputable skincare brands, has empowered people to take a proactive approach to aging. Treatments that stimulate collagen production or repair the skin barrier are now seen as smarter investments than short-term solutions like injectables.
Vegetables are among the healthiest foods, rich in protective plant compounds, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Their consumption supports healthy body weight and reduces the risk of conditions like heart disease and certain cancers. However, how vegetables are cooked significantly impacts their nutrient content.
Steaming is a cooking method that preserves nutrients better than boiling. It uses hot steam from boiling water to cook food, transferring heat without submerging the food in water. This reduces nutrient loss, as opposed to boiling, where water-soluble nutrients, such as vitamin C, leach into the water. Research shows steamed vegetables retain higher levels of certain vitamins and plant compounds like beta-carotene and flavonoid antioxidants compared to boiled ones.
For instance, a study comparing steaming, boiling, and microwaving found that steamed vegetables generally retained more beta-carotene and flavonoid antioxidants, except for carrots. Although steaming does result in some vitamin C loss, it is significantly less than boiling. Another study noted that after five minutes of steaming, vitamin C loss ranged from 8.6% to 14.3%, while boiling led to a loss of 40.4% to 54.6%.
Boiling submerges vegetables in water, causing greater nutrient loss due to leaching. High-temperature, water-based cooking methods like boiling are among the most detrimental to nutrient retention. Opting for steaming is a healthier choice to maximize the nutritional benefits of vegetables.
Moreover, innovations in technology have made non-invasive options more e ective than ever. Fractional lasers, radiofrequency devices, and advanced exfoliation methods can deliver results that rival injectables, minus the needles and downtime.
Cultural Shifts in Beauty Standards
Cultural attitudes towards beauty are also evolving. Natural beauty and “skinimalism” (minimal makeup paired with radiant skin) are celebrated across social media and pop culture. Celebrities and in uencers increasingly emphasize skincare routines over aesthetic
procedures, normalizing the pursuit of healthy, glowing skin rather than a frozen or overly sculpted appearance.
Additionally, the stigma surrounding aging is diminishing. The narrative has shifted from erasing age to embracing it gracefully, which aligns with the ethos of investing in skin health rather than cosmetic camou age.
Psychologically, the focus on skin treatments fosters a sense of selfcare and empowerment. Engaging in regular skincare routines and treatments is an act of nurturing oneself, contrasting with the anxiety that can accompany reliance on injectables for perceived beauty
“perfection.”
Conclusion
The shift from injectables to skin treatments signi es more than just a trend; it re ects a deeper transformation in how we de ne and pursue beauty. Prioritizing skin health over super cial xes aligns with a broader emphasis on wellness, authenticity, and longterm investment in self-care. As technology and science continue to evolve, the future of beauty looks brighter—rooted in empowerment, education, and the celebration of natural skin.
The Rise of Skin Health Over Injectables: A New Era of Beauty Investments
avigating the hristmas oliday Season ips to help from a Relationship herapist
The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy and togetherness, but for many, it can also bring stress, strained relationships, and emotional challenges. For those living away from home, the distance from family and traditions back home can add an extra layer of complexity. As a relationship therapist, I’ve worked with many individuals and couples navigating the pressures of Christmas, and I’d like to share some tips to help you nd balance and connection during this festive season.
1. Set Realistic Expectations
The “perfect” Christmas is often a myth perpetuated by movies and social media. It’s important to remember that no Christmas is without its hiccups. Setting realistic expectations— whether it’s about the way the day will unfold, the gifts you’ll give, or the family interactions you’ll have—can help reduce stress and disappointment.
Tip: Communicate openly with your loved ones about plans and priorities. Agreeing on what’s most important ahead of time can alleviate misunderstandings.
2. Balance Time Together and
Time Apart
While Christmas is about togetherness, it’s also okay to need some personal space. Spending extended time with family or houseguests can be overwhelming. Likewise, for those of you missing family, it’s vital to carve out time for selfcare.
Tip: Schedule moments in the day just for you. This could be a quiet morning co ee, a walk on the beach, or a virtual call with a loved one far away. Respecting personal boundaries can lead to more meaningful interactions with others.
3. Acknowledge and Manage Holiday Stress
Financial pressures, the desire to please others, and navigating family dynamics can heighten anxiety. It’s okay to acknowledge these feelings rather than suppressing them. Anxiety or stress doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human.
Tip: Use mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or journaling, to centre yourself when things feel overwhelming. Remember, it’s okay to say “no” to commitments that don’t serve your well-being.
4. Recreate Traditions or Make New Ones
For some, being far from home can make the Christmas holidays feel a little hollow. Embrace the opportunity to create new traditions with friends or your immediate family here in Costa Blanca. These can bring a sense of belonging and connection to the present.
Tip: Perhaps meet up with fellow expats, take a holiday trip to explore the region, or introduce local Spanish traditions to your celebrations.
5. Seek Support if You Need It
If you’re nding the season di cult, whether due to isolation, relationship stress, or other personal challenges, remember that support is available. Therapy Partners o ers tailored counselling for expatriates, and in the New Year, we’re looking to introducing support groups to foster connection and shared understanding within the community.
The Christmas holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. With a bit of preparation and selfcompassion, you can navigate this time with greater ease and enjoy moments of joy,
connection, and re ection. Take care and have the best Christmas you can!
For more information about Therapy Partners’ services in Spain and to stay updated on our new support groups, visit: www.therapypartners.co.uk/ therapy-locations/spain.
the Mi Quirónsalud App
oll road price increases in Spain
The investment required in Spain to meet rising mobility demands and modernize transport networks is estimated at over 150 billion euros, according to Seopan, the association of construction companies and concessionaires. Of this, 24 billion euros are needed for road infrastructure, which lacks dedicated funding mechanisms unlike airports, supported by fees from Aena, or railways, funded through Adif’s charges.
Transport Minister Óscar Puente has repeatedly raised the idea of nancing roads through a pay-per-use system, similar to systems across most of Europe. While this proposal was initially included in the government’s reform plan submitted to the European Commission, it was later withdrawn. Roads in Spain handle 86% of passenger mobility and 93% of freight transport. For
now, a generalized pay-per-use system is not planned. Instead, existing toll roads will adjust their rates in 2025 based on in ation, with no state subsidies, reverting to the pre-in ation crisis model.
Seopan’s president, Julian Núñez, explained during the release of the report Análisis de la Inversión Prioritaria en Infraestructuras en España that toll increases are linked automatically to in ation. In 2023, tolls rose by 4% instead of the 8.4% linked to CPI, with operators compensated through state agreements. In 2024, toll increases ranged from 5% to 6.65%. Projections suggest a 2.7% increase for 2025, pending nal decisions.
Beyond roads, Seopan estimates 151 billion euros are necessary for transport infrastructure, with 85 billion allocated for projects planned between 2024 and
2035. Railways account for 51.2 billion of this, with 16.5 billion for high-speed networks aimed at reducing congestion and promoting sustainable freight transport. However, achieving the government’s target of shifting 10% of freight to rail by 2030 remains unlikely, with the current gure below 4%. Seopan’s report anticipates high-speed rail could yield 60 billion euros in pro ts over three decades.
ovember ends with fatalities in traffic accidents
November 2024 has had an irregular pattern in terms of accidents on interurban roads. In the rst fteen days, 20 people died and on November 4, 5 and 6, no deaths were recorded.
In contrast, the second half of the month had a worse performance, with two days (November 17 and 23) with 10 deaths, another day with 8 and another with 7, well above the daily average of 3.
77% of the deaths occurred on conventional roads, as can be seen in the table.
The reduction in motorcycle deaths is particularly noteworthy, with 13 deaths recorded, 12 fewer than in November last year. This decrease in motorcyclist deaths is very signi cant on conventional roads, where 9 have died compared to 21 deaths in November last year.
The number of pedestrian deaths has also been reduced from 16 in November 2023 to 6 this year.
Taking into account the type of accident, fatalities due to head-on collisions are down (14 compared to 23 in November 2023). Deaths due to road departures are up slightly (37 compared to 33 in the same month last year).
Regarding the use of safety systems, 12 of the deceased were not using the corresponding safety system at the time of the accident: 11 car users and 1 van user were not wearing a seat belt.
By autonomous community,
the Balearic Islands, Galicia and Catalonia are the communities that have seen an increase in their accident rate this month. In the rest of the autonomous communities, the rate has decreased.
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Sir hris oy teams up with addy ower
Sir Chris Hoy has joined forces with Paddy Power, which has pledged to pay a bonus of £180,000 for every ninedarter scored at the World Darts Championship. Running from December 15 to January 3, the campaign, called “The Bigger 180,” aims to “smash the silence around men’s health” and encourage men to take proactive steps before it’s too late.
In October, Hoy, a six-time Olympic gold medallist, revealed the heartbreaking news that his prostate cancer diagnosis is terminal, giving him between two and four years to live.
Emphasizing the importance of awareness and early detection, Hoy stated, “This isn’t about medals or records. It’s about saving lives. If sharing my story gets just one person to check their risk or book a screening, then it’s all been worth it.”
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK, with one in eight men diagnosed during their lifetime. Tragically, a man dies from the disease every 45 minutes. Hoy has candidly shared that, despite having no symptoms, his cancer was only diagnosed when it was too late, and he believes earlier testing might have caught it sooner.
As part of the campaign, Paddy Power will donate £1,000 to Prostate Cancer UK for every 180 scored during the tournament. This year’s contributions are expected to exceed the £1 million
raised in the 2023-24 season through “The Big 180” campaign. Sky Sports, a new partner of “The Bigger 180,” will leverage its extensive audience to amplify the campaign’s message and reach.
The £180,000 nine-dart bonus will be divided equally among Prostate Cancer UK, the player who achieves the feat, and a fan in the crowd at Alexandra Palace. Hoy praised the initiative, stating, “Paddy Power’s always been about grabbing attention, and this time, it’s for something
life-changing. They’re using their platform not just to entertain but to save lives, and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.”
He also commended the creativity behind the nine-dart bonus, calling it a “stroke of genius” that celebrates exceptional darts performances while turning them into opportunities for meaningful impact. Among the stars participating in this year’s tournament is Luke Littler, runnerup in the 2024 event, who is expected to play a prominent role.
Gareth Southgate to receive a nighthood
Former England manager Gareth Southgate is set to receive a knighthood in the New Year Honours List, according to reports. This recognition comes as a tribute to his transformative tenure with the national team, during which he guided England to consecutive European Championship nals in 2021 and 2024—an unprecedented achievement for any England manager.
Southgate resigned from his role in July 2024 after a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 nal. Over his managerial career, the 54-year-old oversaw 102 matches, achieving an impressive record of 64 wins, 20 draws, and only 18 losses. His tenure also included a World Cup semi- nal appearance in 2018, an accomplishment that earned him an OBE in 2019.
Southgate initially stepped into the role on an interim basis in 2016, following the abrupt departure of Sam Allardyce after just 67 days. Taking over during a turbulent time
for English football, Southgate brought stability and optimism to the team, fostering a renewed sense of pride among fans and players alike.
His path to a knighthood was not without controversy. Southgate had previously invested in the Ingenious Media lm investment scheme, which was scrutinized by His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs and Whitehall o cials. However, an investigation cleared him of any wrongdoing, paving the way for this honour. In 2021, Southgate missed out on knighthood recognition after being agged “amber” on a tax risk list, despite his success in guiding England to the Euro 2020 nal.
If knighted, Southgate will join the esteemed ranks of Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson, further cementing his legacy as one of England’s greatest football managers. His leadership, vision, and results have left an indelible mark on the national team, earning him widespread respect and admiration.
On Tuesday the 3rd Dec we fished the complex at El Bosquet. 21 anglers turned out on a cool morning.
Winner of section 1 was Nick Bostock from peg 7 with 12.03 kg closely followed by Bill Reid from oeg A1 with 8.66 kg and Gary Plant with 7.26 kg.
Winner of section 2 was Tery ( Mr Pastry ) brindley from peg 26 with 11.03 kg closely followed by Harry Billing from peg 27 with 7.77 kg and Graham Patterson from peg 28 with 5.04 kg.
Section 3 was won by Alan Priest from peg 40 with 7.69 kg
followed by Tony Felstead from peg 37 with 5.5 kg and Richard King with 3.74 kg.
On Wednesday 4th Dec we fished the same complex on another cold start.
Section 1 was won by John Waples from peg 3 with a weight of 21.62 kg followed by Terry Brindley from peg 1 with 14.22 and Bill Reid with 7.7 kg.
Section 2 was won by Harry Billing from peg 13 with a weight of 17.99 kg followed by Bary Homer from peg 14 with 10.35 kg and Alan Priest from
peg 12 with 8.6 kg.
On Tuesday 10th Dec and Wednesday 12 th dec we fished the annual christmas match. Day one was a very cold start ( 7 Degrees ) .
Section 1 was won by Tony Felstead from peg 7 with a weight of 14.55 kg followed by Nick Bostock from peg 5 with 8.24 kg and Bill Reid from peg 1 with 6 01 kg.
Section 2 was won by Harry Billing from peg 12 with the top weight on the day of 21.75 kg followed by Richard King from
peg 10 with 12.92 kg and Keith Hurst from peg 9 with 6.99 kg.
Section 3 was won by Graham Patterson from peg 40 with 11.97 kg followed by John Waples from peg 38 with 8.98 kg and Steve Higgings from peg 37 with 6.16 kg.
Day 2 was an even colder start.
Section 1 was won by Steve Higgings from peg 2 with 11.62 kg followed by Richard King from peg 7 with 10.15 kg and Graham Patterson from peg B1 with 9.39 kg.
Section 2 was won by Richard Smith from peg 12 13 92 kg
followed by Nick Bastock from peg 14 with 12.4 kg and Garry Plant from peg 11 with 10.16 kg
Section 3 was won by the overall winner of the day and the two day competition
Harry Billing from peg 40 with 17.86 kg closely followed by Alan Priest from peg 37 with 17.47 kg and Dennis from peg 39 with 14.59 kg.
Thank you to everyone who took part and the committee wish all members a happy Christmas and a prosperous new year.
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.
6
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so that every column, row and 3x3 square includes all the digits from 1 to 9
7. He has a short way to pull(5)
Guard gives a warning(4,3)
A show presented before the show(7) 10. Not above using two foreign articles(5) 12. A source of light at the seance?(6,4)
Thought one had respected other people’s feelings(10)
1. In the main, they’re disasters(10)
2. Scene of a towering row(5)
3. It’s never been seen, still I follow it(4)
4. A runner, but not in the vegetable garden(6)
5. She vainly seeks masculine attentions(8)
6. Warm drink(7)
11. Some steps that have to be suspended(4-6)
13. Artists keep a boat by the bank(8)
14. In a bad temper the day none came round(7)
16. Makes it correct for me to be in tails(6)
17. Possibly eager to correspond(5)
20. Ill-considered evidence of a feverish disposition(4)
