The Leader Newspaper 29 April 24 – Edition 1021

According to the 2023 census, the municipality of Orihuela has 82,449 inhabitants. It is the capital of the Vega Baja del Segura and the largest municipality in the province of Alicante.

However, although its city centre has 32,902 inhabitants, and the Coast has 28,503, according to the most recent figures published in March 2024, this latest figure is far from reality.

That the coast is much more populated than the municipal register shows suggests something that we all sensed, but following the data published by the water company Hidraqua, it is now confirmed.

There is a direct relationship between water consumption and the number of inhabitants in an area, which allows us to estimate the real population far more accurately. The closing data for 2023 showed the month of August 2023, as the most populated with 150,000 inhabitants in Orihuela Costa, while the month of December was the least populated with just 25,000 inhabitants.

It is now estimated that the real average of the inhabitants of the coast should be set at around 45,000 people of an average and fixed population, so the coast now quite clearly exceeds the city.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

POPULATION OF ORIHUELA COSTA

It is a shame that “transient” residents do not formally register, as this would have a significant impact on political decisions. The coast would have a much greater weight in local elections than the city of Orihuela and therefore much more influence in the appointment of the mayor, which would undoubtedly boost investments in services and infrastructure, so necessary in the area.

The growth is exponential, with both Orihuela Costa and some other postal codes in Torrevieja, leading the population growth of Spain, according to the INE. And the growth is not only based on the sale of homes, but also on the services that they demand.

The arrival of new residents drives the need for labour, which in turn contributes to the continued growth of the population. Perhaps that growth is not due so much to the arrival of new owners, but rather to the current owners residing in their homes for longer periods.

The urban model of Orihuela Costa is fundamentally based on residential tourism, since we have very little hotel tourism on the coast. This generates owner-owned tourism, which usually evolves, turning the owner-tourist into a resident.

From a tax perspective, a person who spends more than half of the year in a location is considered a resident. Following this definition, it is likely that there are many more residents than are officially registered in the municipal registry.

There are three types of people who do not appear on the registry:

RETIRED OWNERS:

Many of them enjoyed their homes on holiday during their working lives, but when they eventually retire, they decide to settle here for much of the year. Despite this, they maintain strong ties to their country of origin, where they often appear as false residents since their true residence is here in Orihuela Costa. Many only return home for Christmas and for special occasions.

UNREGISTERED WORKERS:

It is still a sad reality, but there are many jobs where people are employed without a contract, an underground microeconomy, which welcomes workers as temporary reinforcements, “mini jobs,” people who eventually tend to take root, people who are here and working under the radar, but who are not counted.

TELEWORKING:

This group grows and grows and will continue

FOUR LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES NOW REGISTER MORE BIRTHS TO FOREIGN MOTHERS

leaving a numerical relationship between births at a negative number of -4,765, lower than the figures of València,but three times worse than those registered in Castellón.

According to the data provided by the Valencian Institute of Statistics (IVE) in its latest analysis of the Natural Movement of the Population (MNP),corresponding to the year 2022,the number of births to foreign mothers has increased considerably at a general level, where,in four municipalities,Teulada, Torrevieja,Calp and Xàbia,births are higher than those to Spanish mothers.

In first position is Teulada-Moraira, where 41 babies have been born to foreign mothers and only 22 to Spanish

to do so. Things usually start with short periods or “long weekends” but many end up residing where they spent the summer. Although currently a minority, but they are starting to gain weight.

Both groups usually register when they need to; either to send their children to school, because they need to be registered with Social Security, or because they want to make use of the Spanish health system in a more functional way.

In summary, it seems fairly obvious that the population of the coast is showing considerable growth, as officially we top the list of the fastest growing districts in Spain, so if the trend continues as it currently is, in just a few years, officially registered residents on the coast will surpass those in the city of Orihuela and will have a much greater influence on municipal politics.

With thanks to: www.campoamor.com

mothers,while in second position is Torrevieja,where 325 children were born to foreign families and 233 were born to Spanish nationals.

Overall,the data shows that of the 13,262 babies born in the province of Alicante in the defined period,3,897 belonged to foreign families,which represents 30% of the total.

This means that nearly one in three births are carried out by non-Spanish mothers,data that is similar to Castellón but which is much higher than the province of València.

HAIKU BY JOHN MCGILVRAY

If you poke the bear though it takes years to react you will surely die.

Monday 29th April - Sunday 5th May 2024

The number of teleworkers on the coast is also on the rise

FAMOUS BIGASTRO DANCE CLUB SHUT DOWN BY AUTHORITIES FOR 3 YEARS

The Metro Dance Club in Bigastro has been closed down for three years, and the management fined 50,000 euro, for repeated non-compliance offences.

The Department of Justice, Interior and Public Administration has imposed the sanctions on the company responsible for the management of Metro Dance Club after nine other files opened against the company in the last 24 years, for various acts of non-compliance, were ignored, offences ranging from exceeding opening hours to organising events without a licence, according to the resolution issued by the Ministry.

The closure decree is from April 2022, but it was only recently implemented after several appeals from the company were finally rejected.

The origin of the sanction dates back to October 2021. The company Yanoinma Mtro SL requested special authorisation on October 7 to hold an event outside the hours allowed in its opening licence, which runs from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.

The company then requested a permit for a "cafeteria" activity, with hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for 10/24/21. It was denied on 10/19/2021. The nightclub filed an appeal, which was again denied two days before the event.

However the nightclub, according to the resolution, did not cancel the event, so agents from the Autonomous Police appeared at the facilities that day at 9 in the morning. The agents "verified that the establishment was open to the public, with a fast food establishment open in the parking area and a dance floor in the adjacent area of about 1,200 square metres, in which about 500 people were dancing, the majority without masks, during a period of Covid, and without maintaining social distance.

The nightclub points to "police harassment" as the cause of the closure, stating that the people who were in the premises were outside of the discotheque, in an outside area, waiting for the money loaded on their bracelets, and that had not been spent, to be returned.

However, the resolution states that three hours after the inspection by the agents began, at 11 in the morning, "the establishment was still open with people dancing and consuming on the terrace and the music at high volume".

The resolution goes against both the company, Yanoinma

Mtro SL and its manager, José Ramón Navarrete. This company has been listed as the holder of the Metro Dance Club licence since August 2010, but the manager has been linked to the premises "for more than 20 years," states the Consell's opinion. A situation that has been taken into account when issuing this sanctioning file.

The ruling states that "we cannot omit the offending will over the years, nor that the establishment has been sanctioned on many occasions, including with closure sanctions. And despite all this, the attitude of the sole administrator of the company is to circumvent the legislation applicable to the establishment that it runs, attempting to mock the Administration in this case, alleging that the people who are in a tent, consuming and dancing, are waiting to be refunded the amount paid and not previously consumed, "3 hours and 30 minutes after its closing time, while the activity continues".

The resolution cites up to nine open sanctioning files, the majority for non-compliance with schedules, capacity and for dedicating the establishment to an activity for which it does not have authorisation.

With the aim of joining forces and demanding its opening, Metro Dance Club has started a collection of signatures on the Change.org platform that has already collected a total of 5,500 signatures.

The Bigastro Council has also shown, in a very unusual move in these cases, "its unconditional support" in statements that the town's Festival Councillor, Manuel Giménez, has made public on the club's own social networks.

Giménez thanked Metro for its work during these years and noted that, thanks to this, "it has made Bigastro an international epicentre of musical culture with professionals from all over the world."

Orihuela Costa Residents still looking for answers

Last Thursday, Councillors at the Orihuela Plenary Meeting responded to questions submitted by the Asociación de vecinos Cabo Roig y Lomas-Orihuela Costa, (AVCRL) in respect of the current positions on the planned Eco Park in Lomas de Cabo Roig and the provision of a second Centro Salud, or extension to the present Medical Centre.

U-TURN FOR LOCATION OF ECO PARK

In a response from the Councillor for Urban Solid Waste Collection and Street Cleaning it was announced that the planned ecopark will not now be installed on Plot Q1 in Lomas de Cabo Roig where it was initially planned to be sited.

The councillor said that they are now studying alternative plots, with better road communication for users and in an area with fewer residential properties and other buildings.

Although it was planned to be operational by the end of 2023, there were delays with the transfer of the land to the Regional Waste Consortium. That delay now seems to have worked in favour of AVCRL and the Lomas de Cabo Roig

The Council Plenary Meeting, which is open to the public, is held on the 3rd Thursday of evey month in Orihuela

Residents in that the council has finally seen sense and is relocating the plot following objections from residents. It was stated that there is no indication, as yet, of where the new location will be, although the councillor said there would be an announcement shortly.

QUESTIONS REMAIN OVER PROVISION OF SECOND HEALTH CENTRE

Police clampdown on e-scooters

Torrevieja Local Police continues with its informative, training and prevention work with personal mobility vehicles, e-scooters and their riders.

In recent weeks, several road controls have been caried out in different locations, where

many young people who are under 16 years, and not of the legal age, have been stopped driving these vehicles, for which they have been sanctioned. The police have said that further checks will be carried out in order to continue raising awareness.

Road Closures in the Centre of Torrevieja

For the next two weeks, traffic flow will be disrupted due to road closures in the centre of Torrevieja in connection with the port redevelopment work.

Diversions will be in place due to the construction of the Paseo de la Libertad roundabout.

This is the first phase of the works and unless you need to go into town, it is probably best to avoid the area, thereby doing your bit to minimise disruption during this phase.

In response to the question submitted about the Orihuela Costa Centro Salud the answer was much more evasive, although the councillor did acknowledge that the Orihuela Costa Health Centre is a priority for this government team and that no option to improve the service at the Health Centre has been ruled out. She said that the consumption of water on the coast triples, hence a large increase during the summer in the number of coastal residents and users of the centre, which is why we continue to support a second Centro Salud, where a better service can be provided to the residents of the coast.

She added that “the administration is not as fast as we would like it to be. That is why I cannot give you a concrete date, but we continue to work to demonstrate that Orihuela Costa deserves an extension of the health service and to demonstrate that the health needs are much greater than the data might suggest.”

The main concerning factor is that while the Orihuela Council opts for a second health centre, the Valencian Generalitat has budgeted 5.4 million euro for the extension of the current centre, which could be lost if it is not used.

Tickets to be Released for a Free European Celebration

Tickets will soon be released for a free, celebration gala to commemorate Europe Day in Torrevieja, to be held at the Torrevieja International Auditorium, on 9 May.

The event is being organised in commemoration of Europe Day 2024, and will feature David Civera, who took part in Eurovision in 2001 with the song “Dile que la quiero” (Tell her that I love her), achieving 6th position.

The gala, which will be held on May 9 at 7:30 p.m., will feature several performances by local artists that will make the audience vibrate prior to David Civera's concert.

Tickets are free and can be reserved and downloaded

from the culturatorrevieja.com portal starting May 3.

The Torrevieja Council will also provide a free bus service from calle Faleria to the International Auditorium, with the first departure at 6 p.m. and the last at 6:30 p.m. Meanwhile, on 11 May, the "Europe Day" Pétanque tournament will take place, from 9:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., on the courts of the Rocajuna urbanisation, with teams representing Spain, United Kingdom, Sweden, France, Belgium, and the Rest of Europe.

Spain, winners of the Tournament in the last edition of 2023, will of course be hoping to retain the title.

ORIHUELA TOURISM LAUNCHES ITS OWN WHATSAPP CHANNEL

Orihuela has launched its WhatsApp channel, an initiative designed to provide tourist information to local residents in a quick and accessible way.

With this new channel, the residents of Orihuela will have the opportunity to receive news about the activities organized by the Department directly on their mobile phones, as well as relevant information about events and tourist programs in the city.

One of the reasons for the creation of the WhatsApp channel is to make it easier for people who do not use social networks to stay informed through this tool to which everyone has access, “We want to ensure that all residents of Orihuela have access to information about our tourist activities. With the launch of our WhatsApp

channel, we seek will make information more accessible to those who are not familiar with social networks or websites. This channel allows us to reach a wider audience and ensure that no one misses out on any important activity or program", explained the Councilor for Tourism, Gonzalo Montoya.

To join the WhatsApp channel of the Tourism Department of Orihuela, those interested can do it through the link at:

www.theleader.info/2024/04/27/orihuela-tourism/ “Our goal is to facilitate access to tourist information about Orihuela and ensure that everyone can enjoy what our city has to offer” said the councillor.

ORGANIC FARM AND CABO ROIG MILITARY VISIT AMONG MAY TOURIST ROUTES

This Orihuela Tourist route for the month of May begins with visits to see the curiosities of the Circo Theatre and the Episcopal Palace.The departure is scheduled from the Plaza del Poeta Sansano at 5:30 p.m.on May 3.

Other notable routes in May include to the poet Miguel Hernández on May 5 and 25,where visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the life and work of the poet through two tours: "Miguel Hernández through the Murals of San Isidro" and "Miguel Hernández: Life and Work."

On May 11,an exclusive route through the Convents of Orihuela will take place,including a visit to the house of the Carmelites,the church of the Convent of the Trinity and the Monastery of San Juan.The departure will be at 10:30 a.m. from Plaza del Carmen.

On May 12,the route will take place in Orihuela Costa,with a visit to the Cabo Roig military detachment,a facility attached to the Alicante Special Operations Command where training of water specialist teams,Green Berets,the Civil Guard and Navy divers is carried out.

On May 17,tourism travels to the district of La Matanza,where a different route will take place featuring organic farming farm with animals,in the middle of nature and getting to know the countryside in more depth.It is a type of cultivation in which animals participate and you will have the opportunity to taste the food that is grown there.

May 18,International Museum Day,will feature children's workshops in Plaza del Carmen and Plaza de la Condesa Via Manuel,in the morning from 11:30 a.m.to 2 p.m.

In addition,tourist routes will be offered that will include a visit to the Cathedral,Santo Domingo and the Civil War Refuge,giving participants a complete vision of the historical wealth of Orihuela.

For more information,visit website www.orihuelaturistica.es or by WhatsApp 673 836 385.

You can also contact the following Orihuela Centro tourist office phone numbers: 96 530 46 45 or 96 530 27 47 or,the Orihuela Playa tourist office phone number 96 676 00 00,ext.4507

Gonzalo Montoya announcing details of the channel

NAZI SWASTIKA DEFACES BUST OF BRITISH HERO IN ALICANTE

The Port of Alicante has cleaned up the bust of Archibald Dickson, captain of the ship SS Stanbrook, that left the port of Alicante carrying more than 2,500 last refugees just before the end of the civil war.

A Nazi swastika had been painted on the monument, together with a black stain on the metal

plate, bearing the inscription "In memory of the Republicans repressed and exiled by Franco's dictatorship".

The Port Authority cleaned the plaque, which is barely one month old, after it had been replaced by the Civic Commission for the Recovery of the Historical Memory of Alicante.

The Port's intention is to establish a joint monument with the memorial of the Stanbrook and other illustrious Alicante sailors.

After the attack, the spokesman for the Alicante Civic Commission, Óscar Llopis, said that this was the third time that similar graffiti had appeared on the monument.

The first was in 2017, when they tore off the plaque a day after the plenary session of the Alicante City Council approved the twinning of the city with the hometown of Captain Dickson, Cardiff (Wales). The second occurred in 2019, when the bust was daubed with graffiti of the Falange.

We want to show our total rejection that this is

happening in our city in the 21st century," said Llopis.

On 28 March 1939, the SS Stanbrook found itself anchored in the port of Alicante waiting to load onboard a cargo of oranges and saffron.

Upon seeing the thousands of refugees at the port, Welsh ship captain Archibald Dickson defied the ship owner Jack Billmeir's order to not evacuate any civilians, taking as many people on board as possible and transferring them to Oran in Algeria.

Unfortunately, the Stanbrook had a tragic end just six months later, being sunk in the North Sea by a torpedo fired from a German. Captain Dickson was killed in the sinking.

The graffiti was quickly removed by the Alicante council

‘WHILE I THINK OF IT …’

Ifind that I have come to this stage in life, where if I don’t say it, or do it while it is still fresh in my mind … I just totally forget it. Right now, you, dear readers, have reached the site of some of the greatest columns that never were. You see, a small part of my brain (or should that read ‘a part of my small brain’?) is always on the lookout for a topic for YCBS. I could be out for my morning walk when the subconscious clicks in with a gem.

So where is all this wonder-writing I hear you holler? The truth is that more often than not, by the time I arrive home I have forgotten the great idea!

I sometimes worry about how forgetful I have become. Please take my word for it, rather than forcing me to give out embarrassing examples.

Once upon a time you could give me your phone number if we met on the street and I would remember it. Now, you would need to write it on a piece of paper – a piece of paper that I would forget where I left within the hour!

I have also become ‘bad with names’ – something I had built my businesses on being good at. I could go on. Is this a cause for worry? I don’t know. I hope it is more to do with an ‘attention’ problem than a memory problem. I’m not so sure that I like it when someone refers to my forgetfulness as a ‘senior moment’! Mind you, those of us with the memory span of a goldfish, now have a credible excuse for our cock-ups when claiming, ‘I remember nothing about it!

There is some consolation in being told that from middle-age on, the speed of memory retrieval slows down in most people. There are three parts to our memory mechanism;

learning, storage and retrieval. If each of those is a tank, I have three leakages that John Lennon can’t fix.

Smoking, exposure to air pollution, poor diet, lack of sleep, obesity and insufficient exercise are said to increase the risk of memory loss. I tick all the right boxes above, so why do I not have the same crossword skills that I used to?

Stress is an unrecognizable cause of memory loss, and maybe I can park some of the blame there over the past year. Sustained elevation of cortisol raises blood pressure and can interfere with your memory.

You will come across all sorts of ‘quack cures’ claiming to restore your memory retention. Beware of most of the extravagant ‘cures’ advertised on the Internet. I would have more faith in the suggestion that certain foods can help. Berries, which are rich in antioxidants, are recommended. Also fatty fish, which is rich in Omega-3 and whole grains, which contain complex carbohydrates.

People with a great memory enjoy a huge advantage in all walks of life. It is said that our new Westmeath Minister for Enterprise and Energy, Peter Burke, has a photographic memory and retains all the information he acquires each day. This may account for the incredible advancement in the career of Minister Burke and the mystery of how he can get through so much work in a single day.

But Mr Burke and all those other lucky people with a photographic memory are only in the halfpenny class in comparison to an 18 years old Canadian girl!

Emily Nash is one of only around a hundred people in the world who literally remember everything. Throw any date you like at the teenager over the past dozen years and Emily can tell you, not only what she did, but the

clothes that she wore and what she ate. Every day of her life is filed away to be drawn on at will. Emily Nash is the youngest of this astonishingly exclusive club worldwide known to have HSAM (highly superior autobiographical memory)

Whilst Emily Nash is an extraordinary exception, it is my experience that all women have a gifted memory when it comes to certain areas. We shall say no more about that, other than, may the Lord look down on the man that Emily Nash marries … In searching for some positive in having a poor memory, it strikes me that the individual

with the perfect memory cannot shake off the hurt from the bad days as easily as those of us whose recall is dulled by the fog of a suspect memory.

Some of you will have heard me tell my by now thread-bare memory-loss joke – and a few of you heard it more than once! Anyway – and for the last time; ‘there are two signs of old age. One is loss of memory and …sorry … I can’t remember the second one!’

DON’T FORGET

No person has a good enough memory to be a successful liar.

GRAN ALACANT TOURIST TRAIN TO RETURN

Tourist trains have become increasingly popular recently,and in the Santa Pola area of Gran Alacant it is no exception, becoming a popular tourist attraction to explore the most beautiful areas of the neighbourhood.

The good news is that the tourist train in Gran Alacant is set to return this year,as the council has put the operating contract out to tender this week,closing on May 2.

The Santa Pola City Council has pub-

lished the rules for the tender for the operation of a tourist train in Gran Alacant to promote tourism in the residential area,having ended the previous concession.This service has been consolidated for years as a tourist attraction in the area by visiting various areas of Gran Alacant characterised by their beautiful views of the sea.

The minimum fee that interested companies must offer is 3,500 euro per year, which can be improved upwards,and the duration of the contract will be two years with the possibility of another two years of extension.

MAN STOPPED IN GUARDAMAR TOWING DAUGHTERS PRAM WITH AN E-SCOOTER

Guardamar Local Police were caught out at the weekend, scratching their heads,as they scoured DGT (General Directorate of Traffic) rules and regulations looking for the section which might be applicable to a rather unusual e-scooter they intercepted being ridden through the streets of the town.

The officers stopped a member of the public who had adapted his scooter to pull along a pushchair containing his daughter.

“I never cease to be amazed by some of the things I see in our streets,”said one of the officers.

The e-scooter had a rigid bar affixed to the chassis of his daughter’s pram as he merrily rode along his way,containing the young girl,the daily shopping,and a protruding flower pot,behind.

As the officer explained,“vehicles cannot undergo reforms that alter their nature,and an electric scooter cannot have more than two wheels,nor be used by more than one person."

Numerous accidents occur involving people riding Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMV),or in other words,electric scooters.

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) and the different local police forces regularly remind us of the rules for the use of these vehicles in guaranteeing road safety,but we still see users who are capable of surprising us by their total disregard for the law,as was witness by the Local Police of Guardamar del Segura.

‘EL BAR S C’ SAN CAYETANO RAISES FUNDS FOR LOCAL CHARITIES

Customers at ‘El Bar S C’ in San Cayetano enjoy testing their brains every week at the regular Friday night quiz, and they are also keen to win a meal for two in the half-time raffle. Over the past six months in the raffle, the bar’s generous customers have raised €2,000 which the owners, Sally and Caroline, have decided should benefit the local community.

€1,000 has been presented to the village’s local primary school, CEIP San Cayetano, and the quizzers turned out in force to see the cheque presented to Director, Antonio, and Head of Studies, Pencho.

Said the Director ‘We want to use the donation to create a decorative mural that serves as inspiration and motivation for our students. It is expected to be launched shortly and will be completed by the end of this year, 2024.’

The other half of the money is to go to the San Cayetano Fiesta Committee who organise three weeks of celebration in the summer, culminating with a pro-

cession up to ‘Cabezo Gordo’. The Friday night quiz at ‘El Bar S C’ starts at 8pm every week.

ORIHUELA CAMARA EXPANDS ITS ADVISORY SERVICE.

Camara has extended the hours of service for information, training, and specialised advice for companies in energy matters and guidance to two days a week, in which it offers specialised information and support when applying for subsidies.

Companies can now access this service on Mondays and Thursdays, both in and at its Orihuela Costa facilities in Cabo Roig. To request an appointment, call 966 74 3505, or email: energia@camaraorihuela.org.

Jail for MadridBarajas airport boss

The National Court has sentenced the former chief commissioner at the Madrid-Barajas airport,responsible for the border controls,to 5 years and 8 months in prison for having received gifts in kind and in cash between 2010 and 2015,including high-end cars,luxury watches,or money,by business owners as a reward for giving “the best treatment and consideration”to the clients and relatives of said executives.

AGUAMARINA BEACH WARNINGS OF LANDSLIDES

The steep rocky coastline of Orihuela Costa and the frequency of storms continues to leave areas on the coast that are prone to landslides, in particular an area close to Aguamarina beach.

Costas has again notified the City Council of the danger of falling rocks at a point where the sandy area narrows. In its letter, the state body warns that actions in matters of citizen security are the responsibility of the town councils.

A month ago, during a routine inspection, Costas notified the council of a landslide on the Cabo Roig pedestrian path from an unbuilt plot. The point was subsequently marked with fences and police tape.

SUCCESSFUL FASHION WEEKEND REPEATS IN TORREVIEJA

After the successes achieved in previous editions, the “Torrevieja Weekend”, an initiative promoted by the designer and businessman Eduardo Navarrete and the Torrevieja City Council, will see the city dressed up once again on Friday the 14th and Saturday the 15th of June.

The weekend will see fashion, music and many celebrities visit participating businesses with music, brass bands, dance and carnival troupes. The culmination will be a magnificent Fashion Show and live concert on Saturday evening on the Paseo Vista Alegre starting at 8pm

Olive oil continues to increase in price despite lower source costs

The Facua-Consumidores en Acción consumer body has said that the price of Olive Oil in large supermarkets and hypermarkets has continued to increase, despite the fact that source costs have declined for 12 consecutive weeks at origin.

In April, the average price of a litre plastic bottle of extra virgin olive oil in supermarkets was 13.45 euro with thirty prices taken into account, from Mercadona, Día, Hipercor, Alcampo, Eroski and Carrefour. The average per litre of extra virgin olive oil at the beginning of January was 12.92 euro, 0.53 euros less than in April.

Spanish imports of fruits and vegetables grow by 64%

The Spanish import of fresh fruits and vegetables has registered strong growth in the last decade,increasing from 2.5 million tons to 4.1 million tons,64% more.

This increase has occurred both in the purchase of products from outside Europe,with 110% more, totalling 2.13 million tons,and from European countries,which grew by 33% to reach 1.98 million of tons.

PSOE wants work stopped at Finca Langostina pending ECHR ruling

The PSOE has joined with the Wesenauer family fight in the fight to save their home, and stop the construction of newbuild properties in what was the Finca Langostina garden.

Two reports from the University of Alicante and the former municipal archaeologist both support that the house, one of the last exponents of ancient dry coastal agriculture, enjoys protection.

The PSOE says that the orihuela Council should stop the work until such time as the European Court of Human Rights has

given its ruling.

The family has appealed to the ECHR that it be allowed to recover the land on which the building work is planned, because they consider that it was taken from them by virtue of a regional urban planning regulation that was later overturned by Europe: the LRAU.

The Council, although it has committed to promoting the protection of the property, has refused to stop the works for fear of having to face a compensation claim from the builder.

Getting older has its difficulties. Our bodies become less flexible,mobile,and certainly much less agile.

We develop pains in places we never felt pain before.We use the car more and more,even for short distances.

We walk around our homes and at the supermarket,but not much more than that.

Unfortunately,that’s not enough exercise for our bodies,we need to do more and to do it regularly.We’ve all heard the saying “if we don’t use it, we’ll lose it”,sadly it’s true.

Those,over 55 find exercise hard and less enjoyable,and we don’t want to look bad in front of others.

At EASY Exercise in the Sophia Wellness Centre,La Regia (Cabo Roig) there are six Easytone seats and six Powertone beds in a circuit that takes 35 minutes to complete,ideally twice or three times a week.

There are also two seats designed to help people with serious mobility problems following stroke,heart attack or paralysis.

In addition,there are four vibration plates to improve circulation and help those with diabetes,posture,and circulation issues.Muscles benefit from being exercised regardless of how it happens.

Unlike a regular gym,you don’t need special clothing,to train hard,perspire and ache all over or even to shower after a session.

Toning is exercise,but it is EASY exercise.

While the comfortable machines are moving your muscles you can choose

to do nothing while you are being exercised but if you put in some effort in you can gain more from your routine than those who can’t or don’t want to.

Training will be given on your first visit and more information will be given as you progress.Improvement in your mobility and overall flexibility is apparent very soon after beginning and within one month you will be amazed at the things you can do that were painful,or practically impossible to do,before you started EASY Exercise.

Try it yourself,for FREE.Call or whatsapp 663 771 345 for a suitable time. You can bring a friend.All you need to bring with you,for hygiene reasons is a bath towel and a pair of socks.

Your free trial will take a maximum of one hour.EASY Exercise is a totally different concept to traditional gyms. EASY Exercise has many benefits,the most important are reduced muscle and back pain,greater mobility to be able to walk or climb stairs and increased flexibility of movement. It’s Time to Feel Great,Be More Flexible,Mobile and Pain Free Regular

key

healthy life benefiting heart function,blood pressure,sugar control and mental well-being.

Bankinter to shake up Irish market

Spanish bank Bankinter is to seek regulatory approval to offer a “full range of financial products and services” in Ireland.

The bank is the parent company of Avant Money, which has been offering consumer loans, mortgages, and other services in Ireland. In a statement, Bankinter said that it would re-organise its business in Ireland by acquiring all the shares in Avant Money from its subsidiary Bankinter Consumer Finance.

It will then set up Bankinter Ireland, which will operate as a branch of the parent company.

Spanish Patriots bound for Ukraine

According to El Pais, Spain has agreed to supply a batch of 50 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, adhering to requests from NATO and the EU for European countries equipped with this American-made system to support Ukraine's air defence against potential Russian attacks. Government sources disclosed that Spain's Ministry of Defence has decided to supply only the missiles, each valued at over one million euros.

REPORT ON SEXUAL ABUSE WITHIN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

The Government has approved the Response and Implementation Plan of the Ombudsman's report on sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, a study in which seven ministries took part. The report concluded that 440,000 people could have suffered sexual abuse in Spain, and half could have been committed by the clergy of the Catholic Church, which "did not give an adequate response to the problem," according to the minister for justice, Félix Bolaños.

In implementing the report, the Government's objectives are fivefold: recognition and reparation; attention to victims; prevention; training & awareness; and information and research.

TRIAL REOPENED FOR THE TORREVIEJA CARNIVAL PARADE

Acourt in Torrevieja has agreed to reopen the judicial proceedings in relation to the complaint filed regarding the parade in underwear of children belonging to a troupe in the city carnival on February 5 .

The complaint by Christian Lawyers was lodged after videos that went viral on social networks in which,accompanied by their parents,a group of minors dressed in nipple shields,suspender belts,stockings,lingerie and heels,are seen parading carrying sexual symbols as well as LGTBIQ+ flags.

According to the reopening order,the investigating court number 2 of Torrevieja has made this decision and has summoned two people as investigators for May 28,as well as two com-

plainants and a witness.

As such,the judge revokes the dismissal of this complaint decreed in the past,in an order against the appeal.

The president of Christian Lawyers, Poland Castellanos,celebrated the decision and has said that “it is all about protecting the innocence of children and preventing them from being hypersexualized.”“First and foremost is the best interest of the child and we cannot allow these acts,supported by public money,to go unpunished,”she added.

THE

INTERNATIONAL

CONCERT BAND PRESENTS A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES

'The Costa Blanca International Concert Band will be giving it's second concert of the year at the Salt Church, Pol Ind, Levante 2, Calle Daya Nueva, 12, 03187, Los Montesinos on Friday 24th.May starting at 7pm.

Under the musical direction of Jeremy Davies the band will present an exciting 'Night At The Movies' with music from Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Disney Film Favourites and many more.

Once again we are very much looking forward to this event and are pleased to announce that we will be joined for the first time by the Melody Makers Choir.

Tickets are available at 10 euros from the Card Shop in either Punta Prima or Benimar, Bargain Books in San Miguel or by phoning Graham on 34 711056343, Pat on 34 646031584 or Jeremy on 34 722160667. Additionally you can also purchase them from The Post Box, Doña Pepe, Ciudad Quesada and The Treasure Chest, Ciudad Quesada.

The band is totally international with musicians from the UK, Spain, Norway, Germany and Switzerland. We are always looking for more players to join us, contact Graham on 34 711056343, alternatively just come along to one of our rehearsals.

We rehearse every Friday downstairs at the library in San Miguel from 4.30pm.to 7pm, you will be made very welcome.'

The court will hear the case on 28 May

DONATIONS FLOW AS PANTO GROUP RECRUIT BACKSTAGE

This year, the Rojales Pantomime Group are spreading funds raised from their 2023 Pantomime across four charities. The Torrevieja Alzheimer´s Association recently accepted 2000. Last week, a further 1000 was shared between the Rojales Caritas and Help Vega Baja.

Further funds are earmarked for the San Fulgencio Caritas.

Dee Braiden, last year´s Director and John Fagg, the Chairman of the Pantomime Group presented the donations to the grateful recipients.

This year´s Pantomime preparations are well underway with a full cast who are raring to go and a new Director, Alison Clough supported by her Co Director, Leigh Humphries.

While the group are extremely lucky to have many members that are happy to work behind the Scenes, they still require more people to work Backstage, Front of House etc.

If you think you might be able to help, contact Alison at dw2024rojalespanto@gmail.com for further information.

ALICANTE CAR & MOTORCYCLE FAIR AT IFA_FIRA

IFA-FIRA Alacant hosts the largest selection of vehicles in the province in a new edition of Firauto + Expocar and Sobre2ruedas

IFA-Fira Alacant is preparing to host, an exciting edition of the largest automobile fair in the province, full of surprises and a wide range of offers on vehicles, both cars and motorcycles, the fair will take place from May 10 to 12, The exhibition Centre will once again become a major dealership from May 10 to 12 with the celebration of the 51st edition of FIRAUTO, New Car Fair, the 37th edition of EXPOCAR, Used Car Show, and the 19th edition of

SOBRE2RUEDAS , Motorcycle Fair.

During the three days of the event, the two exhibition halls will bring together a wide variety of vehicles and brands to make it easy for the consumer to find the car or motorcycle that best suits their needs. With all this, Firauto + Expocar & Sobre2ruedas will have all the new products from the leading brands, as well as used vehicles, kilometre zero and motorcycle accessories. In this edition, the event will have more than 130 brands and more than 1,500 vehicles on display, where the motorcycle offering will be larger than in previous editions, in a total area of 29,400 square meters. Visitors will also be able to enjoy great discounts and exclusive prices during the fair on hundreds of mid- and high-range models. All this makes Firauto + Expocar & Sobre2ruedas an essential event for those looking to purchase a new vehicle.

Among the car brands on show at Firauto + Expocar are Peugeot, Hyundai, Renault, Dacia, Opel, Nissan, Cïtroen, Kia, Mazda, Jaguar, Seat, Seat Mó, Honda, BMW, Mini, Audi, Mercedes, Mitsubishi , Volvo, Fiat, Jeep, Ssangyong, Alfa Romeo, MG, Omoda, Volskwagen, Cupra, Subaru, DFSK, Lexus, Toyota, Suzuki – Xev, Citroen, Land Rover and Ford.

Meanwhile, Sobre2Ruedas will bring together more than 50

motorcycle brands including Suzuki, Ducati, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Indian, Kymco, Harley Davidson, BMW, Piaggio, Aprilia, Polaris, KTM, Vespa, Benelli, Peugeot, Gas-Gas, CF Moto , Voge, Wottan, UM, Triumph, Hanway and Setter.

The opening hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the IFA-Fira Alacant web box office in advance for 4 euros or at the box office on the day for 7 euros. Accompanied minors under 12 years of age can enter for free.

You can also download a discount voucher through the fair's website. The discount voucher is valid for up to 4 people, and cannot be combined with other promotions.

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ACROSS ACROSS

6.Seer (7)

7.Automaton (5)

9.Fret (5)

10.Restrict (7)

12.Expostulate (11)

14.Satisfaction (11)

18.Unfamiliar (7)

19.Divest (5)

21.Stratum (5)

22.Acquit (7)

DOWN 1.Stream (5)

2.Thin (6)

3.Wager (3)

4.Chest (6)

5.Signify (7)

8.Eat (7)

11.Invention (7)

13.Depict (7)

15.Journey (6)

16.Idea (6)

17.Filter (5)

20.Recede (3)

ANSWERS Week 1020

QUICK QUICK

ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Asparagus; 8 Rio; 9 Cataclysmic; 11

Precede; 12 Laird; 13 Priest; 15 Breeze; 17

Drawl; 18 Discard; 20

Incongruous; 22 Ado; 23 Testament.

DOWN: 2 Sea; 3 Ruche; 4 Geyser; 5 Similar; 6 Archipelago; 7 Roundhead; 10

Trepidation; 11 Pipe

dream; 14 Solicit; 16

Adonis; 19 Syria; 21 Urn.

CR CR YPTIC YPTIC

ACROSS: 1 ACROSS: 1 Overspend; 8 Ill; 9 Definitions; 11 Contact; 12 Adult; 13 Ratify; 15 Dampen; 17

Leeds; 18 Octopod; 20

Ace of Hearts; 22 Nod; 23 Spectator.

DOWN: DOWN: 2 Vie; 3 Sonia; 4 Estate; 5 Diorama; 6

Tissue paper; 7

Glistened; 10 Find the lady; 11 Carolling; 14 Fastens; 16 Toffee; 19 Theft; 21 Two.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

6.This horse presumably will never run free (7)

7.This bird may have a voracious appetite (5)

9.Yearn to curtail 2 (5)

10.Obviously 150 appear before their time (7)

12.Actively supporting opponents to left and right? (2,4,5)

14.Remark about some in division (11)

18.Conditions in the orchestra? (7)

19.Takes cooked meat (5)

21.How and when soldiers move? (5)

22.Put the bedclothes back on to get better? (7)

DOWN DOWN

1.Enchantment brings injury to 100 (5)

2.Cowardly clan leader imposed on 7 (6)

3 and 20Dn. Blush on seeing Communist study (6)

4.As far as an African journey can be (6)

5.Commercial traveller wasn't truthful when he answered (7)

8.Medieval study of lacy hem (7)

11.Bravery shown by many as old as we are (7)

13.He has lines to deliver, of course (7)

15.Royal person not initially in charge (6)

16.Such people going by car would be a bloomer (6)

17.Pay carries on (5)

20.See 3 Down.

Solution on Page 19 CAN

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 19)

1. "For Anyone Who Ever Wished Upon AStar" was the movie poster tag line for which popular 1940 film?

2. When translated, the name of which toy is a combination of the words 'egg' and 'watch'?

3. Which troubled fictional character lives and works in and around the small town of Ystad?

4. What are the names of the five men Paul Simon gives advice to in his song '50 Ways To Leave Your Lover'? One point for each correct name.

5. The name for which letter in the Greek alphabet means "small o"?

6. Lon Chaney Sr., Charles Laughton, Anthony Quinn and Anthony Hopkins have all played the role of which tragic orphan in film?

7. Which two film titles from the spaghetti western maestro Sergio Leone began with the words "Once upon a time"? One point for each correct answer.

8. TA(pronounced "T" "A"), TD, TF, Aand B are some famous models of what?

9. What were the first three US built widebody airliners to enter commercial operations in the 1970s? One point for each correct answer.

10. Which funk band did The Animals lead singer Eric Burdon join in 1969?

11. In music, a grouping of two or more lines, set off by a space, is called a verse. Which six letter word is the equivalent in poetry?

12. Which infamous "solution" does one associate with the Wannsee Conference?

13. What was Chief engineer Scotty's first name in the TV series Star Trek?

14. Who did Nathuram Godse assassinate?

15. With which sport does one associate 'Gentleman Jim Corbett'?

16. The following are all lyrics from songs with the word 'Fire' somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? One point for each correct answer.

a. Help me escape from this feeling of insecurity

b. You know that it would be untrue

c. The taste of love is sweet when hearts like ours beat

d. And if the mountain should crumble or disappear into the sea

17. The extinct Dodo bird was native to which island in the Indian ocean?

18. Operation Barbarossa was the codename for the invasion of which country?

19. What are the middle names of each of the following US presidents? a. Richard M. Nixon, b. John F. Kennedy, c. Lyndon B. Johnson

20. In which 1996 film does the Slim Whitman song 'Indian Love Call' save the planet Earth?

ACROSS

Business raises concerns over late

invoice payments

The Spanish Confederation of Small and Medium Enterprises (CEPYME) published its late payment observatory, where it warns that almost half of the invoices paid in Spain, the majority to self-employed workers and small businesses, are paid outside the legal deadline established, which is a maximum of 60 days.

According to data from the confederation, late payments represent a financial cost of 2.6 billion euro for small businesses, 50% more than in the same period of the previous year.

TORREVIEJA JOINS CELEBRATION OF WORLD TAI CHI DAY

World Tai Chi Day was celebrated on Saturday with the Municipal School reading a manifesto in Plaza de la Constitution prior to fiving a emonstration of the art.

The events then continued on Paseo Juan Aparicio

Restoration of Palmeral de Orihuela viewpoint.

The Orihuela Council has received a subsidy of 32,000 euros from the Provincial Council of Alicante for the restoration of areas degraded by uncontrolled waste dumping.

The purpose of the grant is to restore and adapt the area of the Palmeral de San Antón viewpoint, by removing scattered garbage, waste from discharges, conditioning of the road and signage, thereby promoting the landscape integration of the area and the maintenance of the environment of Monte de San Miguel de Orihuela.

OPERATION PRIMOTO RESULTS IN 35 ARRESTS

The Civil Guard has dismantled two organizations dedicated to the sale of drugs that operated in the provinces of Alicante, Murcia and Valencia.

Searches have been carried out in Torrevieja, Bigastro, Callosa de Segura, Orihuela, San Miguel de Salinas and Beniel.

In total, 35 people between the ages of 22 and 64 have been arrested, 26 men and 9 women, who, depending on their level of participation, are attributed with crimes against public health and membership of a criminal gang.

Torrevieja’s Court No. 2 is now dealing with the case.

RECORD YEAR FOR MAHOU

SAN MIGUEL

Mahou San Miguel has closed an exceptional year 2023,marked by growth on multiple fronts.With a 10% increase in its turnover to reach the record figure of 1,9 billion euro, and a net profit that rose by 6.1%, rising to 108.3 million euro,the company consolidates its position as leader of the beer sector in Spain.

Water reserves stabilising

According to the latest weekly Hydrological Bulletin,the Spanish hydraulic reserve now stands at 66.6% of its total capacity (56,039 hm3),compared to 50.1% the previous year and 64.8% of the average for the last decade.

The reservoirs currently store 37,342 hm3 of water,increasing in the last week by 17 hm? (0.0% of their current total capacity).

SKEGNESS TO SPAIN

BY JOHN MCGREGOR

When I was nine my family moved from sleepy old Kent to the far frozen North, to live amongst tribes of noisy savages. Actually we went to the city of Nottingham in the East Midlands, and really the locals weren’t that bad, although I had three fights at school during the first week, due to the way I spoke.

I said paast, as in art, not past as in pasta, and up, not oop - and some beastly boys didn’t like it.

But accent apart I loved the place, and still do. The people there are very friendly and talk to you anywhere – on a bus, in the street. Oh, and I’m a Forest supporter (with my fingers crossed).

Where we had lived in Kent in summer we went to the nearby seaside for the day, but Nottingham is eighty miles from the sea. Almost everyone went to Skegness, aka Skeggie for their holidays.

My Mum, Dad, two sisters, my little brother and I all stayed there once in a guest house. The town was cold and windswept, although the official proud description is – bracing.

So imagine our surprise when the following year we were off to Spain. Dad´s sales team had won two weeks on the Costa Brava, staying in a villa with maid service and our own beach.

From the company’s head office in Slough we were conveyed to Heathrow airport by Austin Princess. The family flew by BEA Vanguard to Barcelona - anyone remember when airline stewardesses looked like Brigitte Bardot? We felt like royalty being served with airline food, my three siblings and I thought we had gone to heaven.

The villa was shared with another family from the company, an older couple with their nineteen-year old son Warren. As I was eleven Warren was the older brother I never had.

From our own rocky beach he taught me to dive, snorkel and fish in the warm greenyblue Meditteranean. Our two friendly little Spanish maids came in every morning and cleaned the place from top to bottom. My Mum was so embarrassed, she cleaned up before they came.

The tiny village was about half a mile away, the scene like a picture postcard. Thick forests descended down from the hills to a small, sheltered crescent-shaped sandy bay, with half

a dozen fishing boats pulled up on the beach. Pedalos cost a few pesetas and gave our parents some peace. One day Warren and I were in one, and my two sisters in another, way out in the bay.

We were playing pirates and trying to ram the girls craft sideways on, accompanied by their screams and our bold shouts. My little brother, aged four who had insisted on tagging along fell off the back of ours with the impact and was spluttering full of seawater, but luckily Warren spotted him and dived in to fish him out.

An unlikely cock-and-bull story was made up when we returned as to why they were both soaked.

The most memorable part of the holiday, the height of sophistication for me was experiencing the little bars and restaurants. The outside tables had stripy umbrellas advertising various drink brands, and for the first time in my young life I drank – Coca-Cola.

Up until then my soft drink experience totalled either Corona orangeade or lemonade delivered from the back of a lorry. So to gaze at a glass of coke with ice cubes, and wait for it – a slice of lemon – was sheer bliss.

There were straws and wonderful little plastic advertising stirrers. Sitting outside a café with my coke, soaking in the fabulous beach view of my Mediterranean I have never been happier. I had arrived in paradise - Skegness it was not.

We were all deeply suntanned, the type of tan you can only get from a continental sunthe sort that lasts for a few weeks when you get home. Sure, it wore off, but for me, the damage was done. I now knew the existence of paradise - and I knew where it was – with Coca-Cola, ice and lemon - and where it should be drunk.

Now when I saw pictures or paintings of sunny, sandy shores, boats, sea, bars and cafes, I could now identify with them. Yes I had been there, done that, and definitely got the tee shirt, and…I wanted to be back there, one day, and not just for holidays.

Through all rest of my teenage years, marriage(s), kids, mortgages, careers, and life I never forgot the sun´s warmth, the clear cloudless sky, and the fabulous turquoise blue/green colour of my friend, the Mediterranean. It took a few years, a few sav-

ings, a few sacrifices, but the desire to come back never left me.

In 1995 I bought my first holiday home here in Spain and then finally and relatively unexpectedly came to live here on the Costa Blanca in 1998.

Has the novelty worn off? No, not yetEngland is still cold and not really where I prefer to be, here the sun still shines. Today I’m lucky enough to have my own swimming pool to enjoy in the spring, summer and autumn and I can even see my mate the Med from my upper patio.

The beach is only ten minutes away and my wife and I often go for a casual stroll. I finished with alcohol some time back, so guess

ORIHUELA WILL OPEN FOUR BEACH BARS BEFORE MAY AFTER 15 MONTHS CLOSED

The first beach bar to open after fifteen months of closure, following expiry of the contract in January 2023 was in La Caleta, Cabo Roig, last weekend. It was followed by the beach bar in La Glea, Campoamor.

The bar in Cala Bosque, La Zenia, perhaps the most popular of all, has also lifted its shutters, and in the following days the chiringuito in Cala Capitán will do likewise. By the beginning of May, four of the six that have now been contracted should be open and operational.

With the exception of the La Glea restaurant service, the first three to open have been awarded to the previous concessionaire, Chiringuitos del Sol.

Lot 1, which includes Punta Prima, Cala

what I drink now? The only difference is as I struggle with my middle-aged waistline today it’s the diet version I drink these days, but the buzz is still there.

Diet Coke or its successor Coke Zero is now served just the same way they did then in those innocent, halcyon days – oh, no it can’t be over sixty years ago.

Some years ago I took a trip up to the Costa Brava - guess what? The village is still there, and – unbelievably it´s still just the same. Half a dozen bars and fishing boats, same forest down to the village, hardly any new buildings – oh and the villa’s still there - how about that? There´s not much today that’s stayed the same over that period of time, is there?

Viva Espana…

Mosca and Cala Estaca, is still pending award, waiting for the recommended company to present further documentation.

It is estimated that the Orihuela City Council has lost 3 million euros in income due to the closure of the beach bars, however the new contracts will see the municipal purse receive almost 2 million euros compared to the 900,000 euros that were obtained from the previous contract.

CONTROVERSIAL VOX CULTURAL MANAGER RESIGNS

TGabÌn has been accused of workplace harassment, which has already led to the sick leave of some employees, according to the letter that one of these employees sent to the mayor of Orihuela, Pepe Vegara.

GabÌn has sent his resignation in writing to the Mayor's Office, since he is the first mayor in charge of appointing and dismissing the manager of the municipal company, in charge of managing the town's cultural spaces and events.

The resignation comes after the letter sent by one of the employees to the mayor, and on the same day that the opposition asked to convene an extraordinary council of Orihuela Cultural to request his dismissal, after the controversy over the sale of tickets for a concert by Mal˙ last week, an event that had not been approved by the Orihuela Cultural council.

The complaint to the mayor for this alleged workplace harass-

ment is not new. In the writing recorded by the Orihuela Cultural worker, he refers to the fact that "the purpose of this letter is to follow up on our conversation on March 7, 2024, in which I explained the work difficulties that I have faced since August 2023, coinciding with the political changes in the company". The accusations of harassment are also transferred to another of the senior officials of Orihuela Cultural. Both, according to this complaint to the mayor, "have spread comments about alleged complaints from other workers regarding my work performance.

These complaints, however, have

not been officially presented to the company, but rather appear to be based on rumours and internal gossip. It is It is worrying that the Manager has made decisions based on this information without having consulted me directly or having verified the veracity of the facts."

GabÌn, in his resignation letter, however, does not allude to any of these issues, and points out that the decision corresponds to "personal reasons", while at the same time he takes pride in his management, since his appointment, he assures, " I have done nothing other than work with all the professionalism, all the passion and all the honesty that this position needed".

So far, VOX are silent in response, referring to the mayorís communications office. Vegara, for his part, has limited himself to pointing out that he accepts the manager's resignation, without assessing the content of the letter written by a member of the staff or the political consequences of this new controversy. After his resignation as manager of the municipal company, GabÌn's future as an advisor is also in question, due to serious accusations regarding his management.

he manager of Orihuela Cultural, Vox advisor RamÛn GabÌn, has resigned after his umpteenth controversy.

Orihuela’s Vox advisor Ramón Gabín, has resigned

The Church of JESUS CHRISTof Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733

Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you.

www.Saltchurchspain.

Facebook SaltChurchSpain

International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11 a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a very attractive 2019 Ford Focus ST-Line Hybrid at just 21,900 euro. Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and

gramme of English speaking activities, support, information and advice with the support of Orihuela Council. Anyone wanting to join CCAsocial activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm. You can register between 1pm & 2pm on those days, in the Cafe area where you will find Eva or Norah. email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

The RAFACosta Blanca RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact with the RAFAand the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See page 7. We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENTGROUP.

Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887. Everyone is welcome. Los Alc·zares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details.

COMMUNITYCARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a pro-

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar/restaurant, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373

LOOKING FOR Silent Business Partner for small Private Care Home. Invest 10K and get 20K back in 14 months. Call 747 438 225 CONSTRUCTION AND GENERALBUILDING. For all building works large or small, phone 604 152 124 for quotes. We also specialise in pool leaks and repairs. (1012)

Law Services: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR, Solicitor, Debt Collections, Bad Tenants. 747 438 225

ORIHUELA FAILS IN GRANT FOR FOOTBALL STADIUM

The Scorpions will have to wait rather longer than they first thought to see their football stadium renovated after the Orihuela council failed in its bid to obtain a grant from the Valencian Community.

The Higher Sports Council (CSD) has published the provisional results of the applications for subsidies however, the council’s proposal has not reached the cut-off mark. The City Council was confident of being able to attract this aid worth 510,000 euros, after losing an aid from the Provincial Council of 90,000 euros at the beginning of the current legislature but that will now not be the case.

QUIZ FROM P 14:

1.Pinocchio, 2.Tamagotchi, 3.Kurt Wallander, 4. Five answers.Jack, Stan, Roy, Gus and Lee. ("slip out the back Jack", "make a new plan Stan", don't need to be coy Roy", "hop on the bus Gus", "drop off the key Lee"), 5.Omicron, 6. Quasimodo (the Hunchback of Notre-Dame), 7. Two answers.'Once Upon A Time In The West' and 'Once Upon A Time In America'.8.MG sport cars, 9.Three answers.Boeing 747, McDonnell Douglas DC-10, Lockheed L-1011 Tristar.10. War, 11.Stanza, 12."Final Solution" (Die Endlösung) The extermination of the Jewish people (holocaust) during WWII.13.Montgomery, 14.Mohandas Gandhi, 15.Boxing, 16.Four answers.a.Relight My Fire (Take That), b.Light My Fire (The Doors), c.Ring Of Fire (Johnny Cash), d.The Unforgettable Fire (U2).17. Mauritius.18.Soviet Union (the German invasion of the Soviet Union in WWII).19.Three answers. a.Milhous, b.Fitzgerald, c.Baines, 20.Mars Attacks

According to the CSD resolution, the project obtained 32 points, well below the cut-off mark to qualify for aid, which was established at 50 points.

Another Oriolano project has also missed out, the digitalisation of the Palacio del Agua indoor swimming pool, which achieved 48 points, two below the minimum required.

Los Arcos has suffered great deterioration in recent years, especially since the DANA of 2019. The damage caused by the floods forced the government of former mayor Emilio Bascuñana to demolish the main stand and replace it with a metal structure.

SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

The previous PSOE-Cs government put out to tender and contracted the maintenance service for the natural grass of this field and that of San Bartolomé and just before they lost control, they announced that they wanted to increase the capacity of Los Arcos by 1,000 seats.

Following the promotion of Orihuela CF to

Segunda Federación - Grupo 4, the stadium is regularly achieving attendances of 3,000 spectators, and that could increase if the team is promoted again this year, to First Division. RFEF.

Currently they occupy the final playoff pace with just 2 games of the season remaining.

TORREVIEJA DARTS LADIES ORGANISATION

DIANALLOYD

MEMORIAL

SEMI - FINALS

Tipsy Tigers 2 - 5 Friendly Chicas Ladybirds 2 - 5 Gap Girlz

Hot Darts : Bliss Wright (GG) 140, 100x3, Dons Ralph (LB) 100 x4, Chelsea Campbell (GG)

140, 100x2, Alison Webster (FC) 140, 100x2, Sandra Crabbe (LB) 140, 100, Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 135, 133, Angie Mullen (LB) 116, 101, Nina Mander James (TT) 114, 106, Helen Bushell (FC) 120, Claire Lumb (GG) 114, Lin Cousins (FC) 102, Eileen Askew (TT) 100, Angie Mullen (LB) - D20D20 check-out

Are Golf Buggies allowed on the road in Spain

In the form which most golf buggies take, their design and designation is that of a vehicle to be used on the golf course, for example, moving from hole to hole. Because of this, that are not normally considered roadready, or road-legal, and are for the exclusive use on the course.

In simple terms, most golf buggies are not authorised for use on the roads of Spain. The reason for this is that all vehicles are constructed for the purpose they are intended to serve, and for that purpose to be on the road, they must satisfy rigorous minimum safety requirements.

All cars which are sold for using on the road, for example, have undergone a rigorous testing protocol, and are scored based on factors such as the potential damage caused in a crash. That scoring system determines if they can be used on the road or not. Most golf buggies do undergo this type of test because they are not intended for road use.

There are, however, some makes and models of golf buggies which have undergone this process. As part of that certification protocol, they must also therefore be fitted with several

standard features, in addition to satisfying crash testing, such as lights, rearview mirrors, seat belts, to name but a few, and these elements must be either factory fitted, or approved by the vehicle manufacturer. In other words, you cannot just go to a local bazaar and buy a bathroom mirror and

Sellotape that to the frame. These elements must also have been approved.

Moreover, once the vehicle satisfies those standards, it must undergo ITV certification in Spain, and have an ITV card issued.

You can theoretically do this for any golf buggy, but only if it satisfies the minimum standards and is certifiable and has all of the elements mentioned.

Assuming your golf buggy does satisfy those standards mentioned (and more), it still doesn’t mean it can be used on the road, because

as a vehicle, it must also be registered. That then means it must display a number plate (in most cases of the few that would qualify it is likely to be comparable to a moped, or microcar, and so a yellow number plate would be the norm).

The vehicle also requires insurance, like all vehicles on the road, and the driver must hold an appropriate licence (AM being the minimum, although a B car licence automatically qualifies that).

Driving without a licence is a criminal offence.

Only if or when a golf buggy has gone through the testing and registration process, and is registered and displaying the number plate, and if the vehicle is insured and the driver has the appropriate licence, can the golf buggy be considered road-legal and allowed to drive on the road.

There are other requirements for driving once you reach this point.

And, to clarify another point, in golf courses which operate behind gates or in enclosed areas, the same rules apply if the area is open to the public, and so golf buggies which are not licenced and registered are also not even permitted on these roads within the enclosed golf complex.

La Marina Bowls Club

If you really want to celebrate St George's day you should go to Alcoy, where they have a marvellous parade and if you can't make the parade just go any day and visit the museum.

In our own way we celebrated on the green, the picture show some of our more photogenic members wearing the appropriate red and white (not the blue and white of our English soccer team). Our dragon slayers on this occasion were Lorita Ray, Tom Edwards and Mike Lowe. Well done to all for a fun day. On Monday we travelled to San Miguel with a fine 9 points to 3 victory, our

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB

A mixed week; for our teams getting used to playing with new team members and new match structures, also the weather; going from sun to cloud (with cool breezes) to rain overnight and back again, instead of the usual blue sky!!

South ALC Spitfire Div.: April 22nd SL Wellingtons, had a good result at home to San Miguel Moors; points 8-4, 92 shots -76. Winners: Joy & Brian Gardiner, Jean Cooper 20-14, Kath Reid, June & Keith Jones 28-10, Noel Morrisroe, Florence Murphy, Keith Phillips 25-9.

Harrier Div.: SL Hercules, had the long journey

contributing trips were – Anne Stone, Norman Ship and Barry Roberts 20-18, John Callaghan, Janet and Pete Parsons 23-11, Lesley & Dave Joynes and Len Daniels 16-15, Peter Horsfield, Shirley Hadaway & John Rae 19-19. Giving us a overall shot difference 88-86 in our favour.

Wednesday see us away again, this time to St Louis for a afternoon game where we lost 8-4, our winners were Janet Parsons 15-21, not to be outdone her husband Peter skipped by Don Fowkes won the pairs 7-18, the overall shots were 75-85 against La Marina.

Don't forget new members and or spectators are always welcome and you can contact Barry 641873985 for any further information.

Dave Hadaway

away to Bonalba. Fortunately our players coped with the journey and for many the unknown green, gaining 8 points-4, 82 shots-76. Winners: Ray Watmough, Fran & Neil Cox 21-11, Judy Carroll, Gordon Paton, Derek Biggs 23-12, Phil & Mary Lockley, Dave Webb 17-8.

VCL Southern Div A: April 24th SL Falcons, at home to La Marina, had a good result; 8 points-4, 85 shots-74. Winners: Scott Malden 21-10, Cathy & Noel Morrisroe, Noel Morrison 20-9, Kath Reid, Bob Bromley, Mike Veale, Pat Reilly 22-16.

Div B: SL Hawks: BYE.

Div C: SL Kestrels were at home v Emerald Isle, winning two elements and taking the overall

SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB with Barry Jones

On Monday San Miguel didn’t have the best results.The Christians were at home to La Marina securing only 3 points and missing out on the shot difference,86 - 88.The best result came from Pat Luijk,Ann Taylor & Jim Taylor 23 - 10.

The Moors were away to San Luis Wellingtons and gained 4 points,76 - 92,The highest winning rink were Margaret Patterson, Allan Patterson & Eddie Cowan,25 - 11.

On Wednesday,San Miguel Deputies were home to Country Bowls where they lost 3 - 9,100 shots to 87.The winning triple were Stan North,Jack Jackson and Bill Brownlee 17 - 14.

San Miguel Sheriffs were away to Quesada Tigers where they lost 5 - 7,with a shot difference of just 4 points.The best winners played in the rinks and were Margaret Patterson,Janet Parr, Steve Parr and Stuart Hemmings 25 - 9.

San Miguel Marshalls were also away to Country Bowls Meerkats where they also lost 2 - 10,67 shots two 104.The best winners

shots 95-84 for 6 points-6. Winners: Barbara Louis 21-7, Ken Stringfellow, Kevin McKenna 289.

2 Bowl League Friday 26th SL Cobras had a tough morning away v Emerald Isle Lords, unfortunately after a close battle, they just gained 2 points-10, 78 shots-91 Winners: Judy Carroll, Gordon Patton, Dave Blackie 19-17.

SL Pythons were at home v Greenlands Goannas & also had a tough morning, shots 76-91, points 4-8. Winners: Dee Hoey, Pete Ayres, Bob Bromley 21-14, Keith Jones, Florence Murphy, Keith Phillips 21-8.

Sheila Cammack

played in the trips and were Dave Askew,Angela Broadhurst and Ken Guiney 26 - 12.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place on Wednesdays from 1.30pm for 2.00pm - 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow.Due to the popularity of the Wasps,first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons,starting at 1.45pm,by appointment ONLY.

To book,please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508.

Please note there will be no WASPS on the afternoon of Wednesday 8th May due to club competitions.

There will be no WASPS session on Wednesday 8th May 2024 due to San Miguel hosting the Nationals Single Competition.

We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique clubwe only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES.

For further information on San Miguel B.C please contact club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905 or club president Alan Campbell on 606 676 118

GREENLANDS BC

With Pearl Houghton

The Gladiators were playing Quesada Lions and the spoils went to Quesada winning 8 to 4. The TITANS had a bye this week.

The Warriors travelled to Vistabella and it proved a hard game with some rinks only losing bt 1 or 2 shots so the result was a win for Vistabella 10 to 2. Well bowled everyone a great effort with few points.

The Gonnas were up against San Luis Pythons and achieved a great victory away from home ground 8 to 4 so well done to all.

The Dragons were up against Country Bowls Eagles today and was a hard fought battle with no joy at the end losing on all rinks

Two woods are really testing some of our bowlers but I'm sure points will come in later games Well done Country Bowls 12 to 0 .on your victory.

EMERALD ISLE

Vulcans started the week at home against Quesada Blenheims and they got a great 8-4 Aggregate of 89-75 win with M Oakley M Ellis

C Lindgren 20-8, D Jones N Prior D Mooney 19-16 N Davis S Marks R Marks 20-19

The Victors travelled to Country Bowls Bluebirds, and they had a tough day losing 0-12 with an Aggregate of 66-101

Earls played in VCLat San Luis Kestrels, and they got a very good draw 6-6 Aggregate of 84-95, P Willicott 21-19, I Laverick K Barber M Odell 29-17, S Johnson

G Inwood G Dyer M Willicott 18-10

The summer Friday league commenced with E I Lords playing San Luis Cobras and they had a fine win 10-2 Aggregate of 91-78

C Wilson N Prior B Kavanagh 2210, S Kavanagh B Eldred R White 19-18 M Oakley S Elvin J McCornack 16-15, PMoore R Stockell J Taylor 17-13

SAPS is on every Saturday at 1315 with 2 hours of Bowling, coaching if needed, Shoes and Bowls supplied if required all for 5 Euros and a bar.

Come enjoy Bowls in the sun at The Emerald Isle

MATCH RESULTS 25TH APRIL

CUP RESULTS - VENUE,TIPSY TOAD

K.O.CUP - FINAL

Mind the Gap 7 v Tipsy Toad Toppers 5

AUXILIARY CUP - FINAL

C.C.Bees 7 v C.K.1 Lads 5

180's THIS WEEK: James Brown

TOP FINISHES THIS WEEK: Dale McGuiness 86, Paul Moody 68, Pete Spence 60, Sam Salt 60.

TEAM TONS: Gap - 20, Toppers - 15, Bees - 11, Lads - 11.

MOST HALF TIME SANDWICHES EATENNameless (Gap).

TWO EXCELLENT FINALS,both going the distance,the match results unknown until the 12th leg in each.Very competitive finals,but sportingly played,a credit to each of the 4 teams playing.

Great atmosphere in the Toad,the 3rd year both finals have been played simultaneously at the venue.A particular thank you to Lisa Ivill,who with the help of her staff ensured the evening was faultless.

MATCH REPORTS

MIND THE GAP V TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS

Pete Spence took advantage of Gap's lacklustre finishing in the 1st and banged in D19 for an early lead.

The 2nd triple, produced 3 tons and 4x121+, James Brown finding D8 to level.Spence, Dave Askew and John Rodford gave the T20 a good hiding in the 3rd, Spence again finding the outer on D5.

Sam Salt and Gordon Cowan just nudged out Spence and Rodford in the 4th, Cowan hitting D6 and D4 in 2 to level the score.Brown D10 and Darren Sanderson 100,140,81 taking advantage of an uncustomary below par outing from Lance Harvey and Paddy Moran.

The 6th and last leg before half time was a real cracker, Paul Moody 100,140 and Che Liam 81 losing out to Askew 2x100 and Dale McGuiness 140 and an 86 out on D16.The score 3 apiece.

Liam faced McGuiness in the 2nd half opener, the

latter not quite matching the form of his opponent finding D4 after 100,140.

Sanderson 100,123 lost out to Askew in the 8th, the Topper banging in D16 after 100,140.Gap's 3rd single pitted Salt against Andy Rutter, the latter consistently finding the T20, as was Salt 140,140,99 setting up a 60 out accomplished in 2.

Spence equalled Salt's out in the 10th, his opponent Brown managing 100,180 but no victory, now 5-5.

Cowan 137,97, D5 overcame Topper's skipper Hugh Galloway, leaving Moody to face Rodford in the 12th for victory or a 13th leg 1001 team decider.

It was to be a close affair, both players matching each others score.Moody requiring 68 hit T18,D7 for the match, Gap victorious and no need for a 1001.

POTM - Moody - Rodford.

CC BEES V C.K.1 LADS

Yet another cliff hanger, the result not determined until the 12th leg.Lads opened their Cup Final account with a Steve Mullen D8, Kevin Wood contributing 81,100, Bees Simon Bantleman's 125,99 not utilised.

Bees reacted as expected with 4 straight wins via the 2nd trio of Paul Christopher 100,D5, Reg Christopher 85,140 and Dougie Adkins.Followed by their select threesome of Paul C.100, Reg C.140, D1 and Bantleman.Darren Hurcombe and Steve Dalton responding for Lads.

Adkins and Reg C.D16, then Paul Tollafield 100,D9 and Bantleman made it 4 in a row for Bees and a 1-4 score, Les Adams 85,125 and John Crabbe 82 unlucky to lose.

Dalton 100 and Hurcombe 95,90, D10, reducing the deficit to 2-4 prior to the individuals.

Steve Dalton 100,100,D6 added a 3rd Lads point defeating a difficult opponent in Ivan Jones 140, before Bantleman redressed the balance on D10, unsuccesful opponent Hurcombe hitting 3 straight tons.Wood found D20 for victory over Reg C.both players hitting 140, the score now 4-5.

Adams found the T20 with ease in the next but found himself losing to a Mark Timothy 97,D8 for 4-6.

Mullen had to beat Tollafield in the 11th to keep Lads in the match and so he did on D4, the match hingeing on the 12th leg, Crabbe versus Paul C.The skipper knocked in 2 x 140's then D4 for the Cup.POTM - Hurcombe - Reg C.

PRESENTATION NIGHT - LOS CUCALOS,JUNE 6TH.

Team captains have been forwarded invitations / details, directly.Event is free to league members.Guests are welcome to

come along and enjoy the buffet, wine, table magic, music (until late) and presentation on offer for a giveaway 10 euro.

KOCupPOTM, Paul &John

KOCup Winners - Gap

KOCup R/Up, Tipsy Toad

Team Captains, John, Paul, Hugh, Bill

Auxiliary Cup Winners - CCBees

Auxiliary Cup POTM, Reg &Darren

Auxiliary Cup R/Up. Lads

THREE CUP FINALS AWAIT RELEGATION THREATENED THADER

Although still clear of the Community league relegation zone,because of this recent mauling at play off contenders Calpe, the trapdoor appears too close for comfort for the men from Rojales.

CF Calpe ............4

Thader ...........0

Losing talisman Javi for a 3 match suspension was a massive hammer blow for manager Canales,who himself was serving a 1 match ban.With only 3 games of the season remaining, every game must now be treated like a cup final.

Straight from the offset,Thader were on the attack,culminating in an assist by Dani Lucas to Tremino,who narrowly missed the target.

Four mins later,it was Berni's turn to provide an assist,this time it was Cristian who failed to test Calpe's keeper,Cassius. Unfortunately,Thader could not maintain these bright beginnings, for it was the hosts who took the

lead on 19 mins. A defensive error let in Adrian,who made light work of rounding Chema before side footing the ball home.

Calpe were now making regular penetrating runs into Thader territory,then on 26 mins,an unmarked David unleashed an unstoppable drive to double their advantage.Back in early December last year,these 2 sides drew 2-2 at Moi Gomez stadium,but when defensive frailties were once again exposed on 39 mins,it seemed a long way back for the men from Rojales.

Lack of challenges allowed Federico to advance to within just Chema to beat,which he managed to do with ease.Although Thader managed to produce 3 shots in the time that remained of the 1st half,it was only a well struck shot by Cristian,which required an acrobatic save by Cassius.

It looked to be more trouble for Thader a minute into the new

half when the ball was bundled over the line,but thankfully Calpe's celebrations were cut short when ref Costallo spotted a foul on Chema.

Berni provided a delightful cross cum shot on 48 mins,which agonisingly just eluded the outstretched foot of Dani Lucas. Back up the other end,Federico had a glorious opportunity to secure a brace,but with just Chema to beat,he shot wide.

Captain Dani Lucas almost scored a consolation goal on 55 mins,but his long range effort was well saved.Federico did achieve his brace on the hour mark,courtesy of an assist by Alvaro,allowing him to shoot into an empty net.

Substitute Javier saw his shot initially saved by Chema,before the rebound bounced to safety off the post.To rub salt into an already deep wound for Thader,in the

closing minutes,Ruben (standing in for Canales) was shown a red card for comments made to the ref,whilst standing within the technical area.

Next Sunday,ko 1130,Thader have a massive home match at Moi Gomez stadium,against fellow relegation candidates Callosa.

This is one you don't want to miss!

DEFEAT AT VILLAJOYOSA THREATENS TO UNRAVEL TORREVIEJA’S SEASON

League leaders Torry made the 130-minute round trip to 11th placed Villajoyosa on Saturday looking for a positive reaction following the disappointing home draw against Crevillent only 3 days earlier.

was well blocked by a defender sliding in.

On the half-hour mark a penalty shout for Villajoyosa came to nothing as Carmona used his strength to beat the striker who goes down in the box.The appeal was perhaps more in hope than expectation as the referee waved play on.

The line up saw Carmona and skipper Manu back in the defence,but unfortunately top scorer Lewis was unavailable for selection due to suspension,after picking up a late yellow card.

Both Antón and Campillo also missed out due to injury and sickness respectively.

Nevertheless,Gil was able to put out a strong squad that should have been capable of overturning their mid table opposition. And it certainly looked that was with Torry quickly out of the blocks and applying early pressure.Abadía came closest to opening the scoring as his in-swinging corner almost put the visitors in front,cruelly striking the outside of the near post and going behind for a goal-kick.

It was a cagey game with very few chances but Torry were dominating the ball.Dani Muñoz connected well with a strike after an Abadía corner was poorly cleared,but it

Goalless at the interval Torry finished the half on top but were struggling to break through a well organised Villajoyosa defence.

An early opportunity for the visitors in the second half as Montero went close but moments later Torry found themselves behind.A mix up between Toro and Ramiro gifted the ball to a Villajoyosa midfielder, who played a perfect weighted ball through to his striker to open the scoring.

Torry almost got an instant leveller as Luis Carlos struck a volley,but with the keeper beaten there was a defender on hand to clear the ball off the line.There was then a big chance for Gombo who should have scored,a cross finding him at the back post but he can't adjust his body in time and misjudged his header with the ball bouncing wide of the goal.

The home side’s second came with just a

dozen minutes remaining,a poor free kick conceded by Alek with the resultant freekick hit low and straight down the middle of the goal,to double Villajoyosa's lead.

The last 15mins were very frustrating for Torrevieja,Villajoyosa managed the end of the game well and knew how to effectively run down the clock,so a bad day at the

office for Gils men,just about all of which failed to impress.

Torry must now rely on slip up’s by Murada and Novelda if they are to win the league,in a season where there are surely still a few twists and turns to be had in the title race.

Contact the Torry Army at: torryarmyfootball@gmail.com

Next Sunday a massive home match against fellow relegation candidates Callosa.