REDEFINING LIFE AT THE SOPHIA WELLNESS
TheSophia Wellness Centre was built to the very highest standards of quality in 2005.
This is a daytime centre with no bars or restaurants, so it is very active during the day and quiet at night.
There is also plenty of car parking within 100m of the entrance to the centre.
The Sophia Wellness Centre is wheelchair accessible with several ramps off the street and a lift.
The main emphasis of the centre is
Find Us in La Regia
GROUND FLOOR:
health and beauty but there are other convenient and useful businesses there also (see list on this page).
Visit the Sophia Wellness Centre yourself, talk with our friendly staff and find out for yourself how beneficial this centre will be to you.
Clinica Dra. Ceballos
Sun Kissed Studio
Movimiento Clinic - Physiotherapy
Icelandic Social Club SETRID
Blue Angels Social Club
Open all Hour’s Convenience Store
MIDDLE FLOOR: German Dental Clinic
MaJoNa Fiscal and Legal Office
Easy Exercise
Cabo Roig Hairdresser
Adrienn Nails
Permanent Hair Removal and Waxing
Golf Sun Spanish Properties
Self-Storage Office
Infinitech Online Communications
Meow Thai Massage Studio
TOP FLOOR:
Beach Body Gym
Sun Terrace
The Government's proposal to impose a surcharge on property purchases by non-EU buyers will have significant repercussions for Alicante's real estate sector.
The impact would be particularly severe in areas heavily reliant on residential tourism, such as Vega Baja. This region, a major economic driver for Alicante, includes the municipalities of Torrevieja and Orihuela, the two largest hubs for foreign property buyers in the province.
In Torrevieja alone, foreign buyers purchased 3,117 homes in the first half of 2024, according to data from the Notarial College of Valencia. This accounts for nearly 20% of the 15,919 total property sales recorded in the province during the same period.
To put this into perspective, international clients accounted for 82.7% of the real estate transactions in Torrevieja, based on figures from the Euroval appraiser.
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
SHIFTING DEMOGRAPHICS: POLES OVERTAKE SWEDES
While Swedes have historically been the largest group of foreign buyers in Torrevieja, the war in Ukraine has shifted the trend.
Poles now top the list, purchasing 598 homes between January and June 2024, compared to 288 by Swedish buyers. Ukrainians rank third, with 281 properties acquired.
ORIHUELA: A COMPLEX MARKET
In Orihuela, foreigners represent an even higher percentage of the market, accounting for 85.9% of property transactions. In the first half of 2024, notaries recorded 2,354 sales involving international buyers.
The British, despite Brexit, remain the most active group with 427 purchases, followed by Belgians (374) and Poles (218).
The proposed tax on non-EU buyers could disproportionately affect Orihuela’s real estate market, as British buyers—now considered nonEU—make up a significant portion of its clientele.
ALICANTE CITY: A DIVERSE BUYER BASE
Beyond Vega Baja, the city of Alicante serves as another major hub for foreign property purchases, with 1,446 transactions in the first half of
Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January 2025
Torrevieja3,117Poland Orihuela2,354UK
Alicante1,446Algeria
Benidorm579Poland
SantaPola516Poland
Guardamar471Belgium
Calpe466Belgium
Denia425Netherlands
Elche398Morocco
Xabia369Netherlands
months of 2024, totalling 516 transactions. Poles were again the most prominent buyers.
Neighbouring Guardamar saw 471 properties bought by foreigners, primarily Belgians, while Calp (466 sales), Denia (425), Elche (398), and Xabia (369) also featured prominently.
A BOOMING MARKET
Overall, from January to June 2024, foreign buyers were involved in 15,919 property transactions in the province, a 1% increase compared to the previous year.
The average transaction value was E186,489, reflecting the continued demand for real estate in Alicante, particularly among international clients.
2024. This represents around 40% of the local real estate market.
Unlike other areas, Alicante city attracts a more diverse group of international buyers. Algerians lead the list with 190 purchases, driven both by economic migration and affluent Algerians seeking a vacation home or a potential refuge.
Other notable nationalities include Ukrainians (165), Italians (101), French (95), and Russians (92).
OTHER KEY DESTINATIONS
The fourth most popular destination for foreign buyers is Benidorm, where 579 transactions were recorded.
Although the proportion of foreign buyers is lower—44.7% of total sales—it remains a significant market, with Poles and Russians leading the demand.
Santa Pola ranks fifth, with foreigners purchasing half of all properties sold during the first six
P O E T R Y C O R N E R
‘THE FADED PHOTOGRAPH’
by David Whitney c 2025
The photograph was faded
The years had not been kind
A snapshot in an album
Cast aside and left behind
A blurry face in sepia
A dress of floral lace
A message that said mother
But without familiar face
Margate nineteen forty two
Was written on the back
A scribble saying 'love you'
From a soldier name of Jack
For Paul the note meant nothing
Nor the face so faintly there
As a child he'd been abandoned
Without parents ever there
Adopted as a little child
His life had been okay
With the pair that he called mum & dad
Who cared in their own way
Not hugging kind of people
But they did what they thought right
Providing Paul with everything
But the love he prayed each night
Now they had gone and Paul was keen
To research his own birth
To find his dad and mother
Who could still be here on Earth
But a letter came advising him
His own true mum had died
No mention of his dad at all
But enough to hurt inside
She'd left Paul all her worldly goods
An abandoned terraced home
Where he'd found the faded photograph
Where he'd stood and cried alone
No happy ending to his plight
No questions answered here
Just a photo of his mother
With her face not very clear
Newbuild properties in San Miguel de las Salinas are currently being snapped up
IN MEMORY OF CLOE A PARK TO HONOUR HER LIFE
Residents of Orihuela Costa are rallying to honour the memory of Cloe, a 15-year-old girl tragically murdered by her 17-year-old ex-partner on 25 November last year, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Locals have proposed naming the park across from her high school, IES Playa Flamenca, in her memory. Cloe’s murder, which occurred in a narrow alley in La Florida just 8 weeks ago, shocked the community. Now, a group calling itself "In Memory of Cloe" is organizing a rally to remember her.
The event will take place on 25 January at 12:00 noon near the location of the recent tragedy. The organizers are encouraging Cloe’s family, friends, schoolmates, and neighbours, as well as local associations and parent-teacher groups, to attend.
A LASTING TRIBUTE
The group has requested that the Orihuela City Council dedicate the park in front of IES Playa Flamenca to Cloe. They have also proposed creating a commemorative area close to the alley where the crime occurred, aiming to establish a peaceful and meaningful environment to honor her memory.
Encarni Miralles, a spokesperson for the platform, explained, “We hope to create a simple, peaceful and beautiful space that preserves Cloe’s memory.” The event will include a minute’s silence as well as the laying of flowers brought along by many of the groups attending as a gesture of solidarity and remembrance.
Platform representatives have expressed their hope that the City Council will support this request as a sign of respect for Cloe’s family. If the request is denied, the group plans to escalate their efforts by addressing the issue at the next municipal plenary session, where they will formally raise their concerns with council members and the mayor.
A PRECEDENT IN ORIHUELA COSTA
If approved, this would not be the first park dedicated to a victim of violence in Orihuela Costa. In 2004, the community named a park after 13-yearold Shila Bidgely, who was raped and murdered.
The park initially featured a cross and a marble pedestal with her photograph, intended as a tribute to her life. However, in 2018, this memorial was
removed by the council after criticism that it resembled a tombstone and was considered unsuitable for a children’s play area. In its place, an olive tree was planted, symbolizing peace and remembrance while preserving her legacy in a more understated way.
Shila’s case became a symbol of the devastating consequences of violence against women and children.
Cloe’s alleged killer, who also attended the same high school, is currently being held in a juvenile detention centre while awaiting trial.
Meanwhile, the community continues to grieve and advocate for meaningful action to honour her life and to, once again, bring attention to the issue of gender violence.
The Key Differences Between a Company and a Government
ACCOUNTABILITY V APATHY
In a company, when errors occur, the causes are investigated, and the breakdown in the process is analysed. The process is then adjusted to prevent the mistakes from happening again. This is typically addressed immediately.
If the error is determined to be due to human error, those responsible may be held accountable and disciplined, depending on the context and the extent of the damage to the business.
In a government, such as the one in Orihuela, when an error occurs—a fairly common occurrence—it is often the case that no one takes responsibility or even acknowledges the mistake.
Discussions about who is to blame rarely happen, and there is typically no effort to address what needs to be improved in the communication process to prevent similar issues in the future.
Orihuela continues to repeat the same mistakes, and with each repetition, it seems they become more adept at mismanagement. Most strikingly, no one is held accountable—there are no consequences, no discipline, only rewards. This is nepotism and favouritism in full force. Amid this chaos, incompetence often lies at the heart of the problem.
The real issue within the town hall is that the few intelligent voices—a clear minority—are riddled with doubt, while the majority, lacking insight or foresight, are brimming with misplaced confidence. What they fail to understand is the crucial importance of learning from the past to create a better future.
The past is unchangeable, and while the future is unwritten, for Orihuela, it seems like a foregone conclusion: the town will never change.
It's time to abandon any hope that figures like Vegara, Mestre, or others will truly listen to or care about the voices of the Coast. Time and again, they have let the people down and betrayed their voters.
Expecting disappointment has become the norm because, sadly, disappointment is inevitable. Honesty, integrity, and accountability—values that should define any government—have been discarded by an arrogant majority.
Vegara and Mestre excel at making promises, presenting flashy facts and figures, but they consistently fail to deliver on anything substantial.
Frustration is growing rapidly among Spanish residents, who are increasingly disillusioned with the local government’s
inability to address pressing issues. Non-Spanish residents, who contribute to the area and pay their taxes, also share this discontent as they watch the once-beautiful Orihuela Costa fall into decline.
The town hall risks destroying the very essence of Orihuela Costa—the "goose that lays the golden egg." It’s time to rise above the lies and demand change.
The only way to make Orihuela Costa great and beautiful again is through collective action.
If we don’t challenge the lies, they will eventually become the truth.
ORIHUELA COSTA CRIES OUT FOR FREEDOM Ryanair cuts domestic summer flights in Spain
Residents of Orihuela Costa are expressing dissatisfaction with decades of neglect, renewing their threats to seek segregation from the city unless public services improve.
Representatives from Unidos por la Costa recently met with the president of Entre Dos Mares Pro Ayuntamiento, an association
working to establish an independent City Council for 15 population centers, including La Manga, separate from San Javier and Cartagena.
Unidos por la Costa highlighted shared concerns between the regions, such as insufficient public services, inadequate returns on substantial municipal contributions, broken prom-
Ryanair has announced a major reduction in its summer 2025 schedule in Spain, blaming "excessive fees" imposed by the state-controlled airport operator, Aena. The airline plans to cut capacity by 18% across 12 routes, resulting in the cancellation of around 800,000 passenger seats compared to summer 2024.
As part of these changes, Ryanair will cease operations in Jerez and Valladolid and scale back flights to and from Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, Santander, and Asturias airport. The airline, Spain’s largest by passenger numbers, stated that it will redeploy aircraft and capacity to countries like Italy, Sweden, Croatia, Hungary, and Morocco, where governments actively encourage airline growth.
Ryanair has repeatedly criticized Aena’s airport fees, despite a freeze during the COVID-19 pandemic and a 2025 fee
ises from local governments, overcrowding during summer months, and a growing desire for self-governance.
Following their members' mandate, Unidos por la Costa is exploring legal options for greater autonomy, with segregation being a key possibility.
An alternative under consideration is forming a voter group to address the lack of local political representation. With 1,700 signatures, this temporary party would compete during
increase being blocked by Spain's competition watchdog in December.
Meanwhile, Aena's Spanish airports hit an all-time high in 2024, serving over 309 million passengers as Spain welcomed record numbers of foreign tourists.
Ryanair’s decision signals ongoing tension between the airline and Aena over policies that Ryanair says stifles growth and competitiveness.
elections and dissolve afterward.
The May 2023 elections exposed underrepresentation. The Orihuela Costa Independence Party (PIOC) earned 38.6% of votes, surpassing the combined governing parties' share but narrowly missing a council seat.
Only 3,464 of 7,069 registered voters participated, leaving a 51% abstention rate. The results emphasize residents’ frustrations and the urgent need for solutions.
The Board of Unidos por la Costa with members of Entre Dos Mares Pro Ayuntamiento
BISHOP OF ORIHUELA/ALICANTE UNDER FIRE FOR DEFENCE OF HOMOSEXUAL CONVERSION THEORY
The Bishop of Orihuela-Alicante, Jose Ignacio Munilla, has sparked controversy by defending so-called "conversion therapies," despite widespread criticism from the Ministry of Equality and the UN, which equate them to torture.
Munilla denies their existence, describing them as a "Marxist concept" aimed at silencing the Church's pastoral guidance for homosexual individuals.
He argues these therapies involve helping individuals embrace chastity.
Munilla endorsed Oscar Garcia Mulet’s book promoting such practices and defended similar approaches on his online program, Sixth Continent, claiming indi-
HOT SEAT COURT OVERTURNS HOSPITAL DISMISSALS
The High Court of Justice has ruled that the dismissal of approximately 30 laboratory staff at the University Hospital of Torrevieja is illegal. The workers, employed for up to 18 years, must be reinstated, with retrospective pay. They were dismissed in July 2023 after the Generalitat ended its concession with Ribera Salud in 2021.
viduals should have the right to psychological therapy for altering sexual orientation. He has also supported a teacher accused of attempting to "cure" homosexuality, calling the actions appropriate.
Munilla is linked to Spei Mater, an antiabortion group that organizes vigils outside clinics despite laws banning harassment. These gatherings emphasize prayer and avoid direct interaction with women or staff. Munilla himself has participated and admitted involvement in conversion therapy, describing homosexuality as a “disorder” caused by trauma or pornography. His actions and affiliations reflect his opposition to Spain’s evolving social and legal norms.
TORREVIEJA IS THE MOST TRANSPARENT MUNICIPALITY
The Dyntra Platform has named Torrevieja the most transparent municipality in the Valencian Community, achieving an 85.8% transparency index, marking a significant improvement from 37th regionally last year.
The launch of Torrevieja’s Transparency Portal propelled it to 20th nationally, though areas for improvement remain, such as publishing tax declarations and councillors’ expenses.
In contrast, Orihuela ranks 44th regionally with a 32.72% transparency index, highlighting gaps in providing key information on governance and citizen engagement.
The court criticized the Ministry of Health for mishandling the staff transition and failing to subrogate them. Despite being integrated into the hospital, the workers were excluded from employment during a shift in healthcare admin.
Unions hailed the ruling as a victory for workers’ rights, urging the Ministry not to appeal.
Other Vega Baja municipalities, including Almoradi (23.46%), Guardamar (16.67%), and Pilar de la Horadada (11.73%), perform even worse.
San Fulgencio is absent from the rankings, likely due to insufficient data provided for evaluation.
‘What’s that you just called me .......…?’
Ihave a confession to make; something I have never told anyone before … so I’ll come straight out with it. I hated my name when I was going to school. I hated it because I was the only one. There were several Tommys, Johns, Olivers, Paddys and Michaels in Johnstown School at that time … but there was only one of me … me!
The master never even had to use my surname; ‘tell Bernie to come in here’ was all he needed to say to a schoolmate.
I longed for another Bernie in the school, and one morning I thought I had him. Eddie Drumm had transferred to our school in 4th class and he often spoke about his brother Bernie.
One morning a few of us were hurling a sponge ball around the playground before the bell, when lo and behold, I spied Eddie coming up Hynes’ Hill on his super duper bicycle, and riding alongside him was a strange boy, as big as the lads in our 6th class.
Has to be Bernie, I thought to myself; but disappointment was to be my lot once more when the new pupil turned out to be Camillus Daly.
Back in those days, every child had
an ordinary, pronounceable and spellable name. Later when we moved on to gracing the dancehalls with our talents; with the girls on one side of the hall and the boys on the other; and if you raised your voice and asked; ‘would you like to dance, Mary’, half the girls would turn round to see who was asking!
Or if a girl was looking out for her friend’s brother and asked; ‘is Jimmy here’, the makings of a full team might take a step forward!
Moving on … and the first thing to say here is that in time I grew to appreciate my own name and eventually I wouldn’t swop it for any Jimmy or Joe.
I certainly wouldn’t trade it for a lot of the names that new babies are saddled with these days. The more obscure and way-out the name, it seems the more that some modern parent relishes calling it to the rafters.
‘Come along now, Pandora!’ ‘Would you like another bag of crisps, Maverick? Do these parents never pause to ponder upon how their adult child may feel about the bizarre name their parent landed them with?
Our name is the most important thing about us. It bestows uniqueness and separates each one of us
from the rest of the 8 Billion people we share the planet with. Of course names always went in and out of fashion – but at least they were real names. (Or the priest wouldn’t baptise the child).
In the 1960s there were loads of Jackies, named after Jackie Kennedy and then we had a cluster of John Pauls in the 1980s to commemorate the two popes of that name. There were Kylies after you-knowwho and now we have Rihanna.
Traditional Irish names are back in vogue and this is nice. Eunna, Fiadh, Caoimhe, Sadhbh, Rian and Oisin, all featured prominently on last year’s popularity chart. I’m delighted to see both Jack and Finn listed in the top ten – as I have one of each among my grandchildren! It is also amazing to see Seans and Paddys making a significant comeback.
We had a great bit of banter one night in the Squash Club, back in the day, when Mark made the case for children having a say in how the
schools should be run - and whether they might reject a certain teacher or not.
Nobody is laughing now, Mark, because what you promoted has pretty well come to pass! Now, isn’t a child’s name even more important than the above, so, considering that so many parents are getting it terribly wrong, why not delay officially naming the child until he or she reaches the use of reason?
The baby might be just given a number for the first few years; A1, B4, Q6 and so on. Get the idea? Then when the children reach the age of seven, they get to choose a name?
The kids would not do any worse than what an awful lot of parents are doing now; and they couldn’t blame anyone else in the following years. If a girl chose to be ‘Snow White’, or a boy announced he wanted to be ‘Rover’, what’s wrong with any of that!?
And now to finish on a more serious note; it may come as a surprise to you to learn that the most popular baby’s name in England and Wales last year, was Mohammad. Should any mammy out there need help in finding a nice sexy, beguiling name for her son in 2025; she could do worse than looking no further than me …
DON’T FORGET
A man has three names: The name he inherits, the name his parents give him, and the name he makes for himself.
10-YEAR OLD VANDALS
The Local Police of La Union have reported a dangerous incident involving three 10year-old boys caught placing stones on the train tracks of the Feve railway. The children's parents have been informed of the seriousness of their actions.
Alerted by local residents, officers quickly responded to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered the children arranging stones in a row on the tracks. When confronted, the boys initially denied responsibility, claiming it wasn’t their doing.
In the official communication sent to the parents, the police emphasised the severe risks associated with the prank. They explained that placing obstacles on train tracks is an extremely "dangerous action that could cause the trains to derail." The letter also highlighted that the children themselves were also at a "high risk of being run over."
COUNCILLOR OPTIMISTIC FOR FUTURE OF ORIHUELA COSTA
Orihuela’s deputy mayor and councillor for the Coast, Manuel Mestre (VOX), shared his reflections on 2024 together with his future plans for Orihuela Costa in an interview with Radio Orihuela Cadena SER on Wednesday. Mestre expressed frustration over the administrative delays in addressing persistent issues such as street cleaning, garden maintenance, and road repairs, which continue to concern residents.
However, he remains optimistic for the future, citing efforts like delegating the municipal company ILDO to manage the coast’s green areas.
Mestre emphasized that 2025 and 2026 will bring a major transformation to Orihuela Costa, with projects including promenade upgrades, urban furniture modernization, and the installation of a panoramic lift.
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE
Jack is fabulous 10 year-old that would love to be back in a home. He would make a great companion. For more info contact info@satanimalrescue.com or WhatsApp 688792515
When questioned about legal proceedings against Mayor Pepe Vegara for alleged tax fraud, Mestre affirmed his belief in Vegara’s innocence and emphasised the coalition’s strong professional and personal relationship with the mayor, stating that any future decisions would depend on the court’s ruling. Image courtesy: https://vegabajadigital.com/
CAMARA FREE JOB TRAINING PROGRAM
The Camara de Comercio of Orihuela has introduced free courses for people aged 16 to 29 who are registered in the Youth Guarantee program. The Talent Joven program provides job training to help young people transition into the workforce while strengthening businesses with skilled employees. Courses include Artificial Intelligence (AI), fitness training, and lifeguarding. Other courses include English certification (B1 and B2), nail aesthetics, school monitoring, and warehouse assistance.
Courses are held from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and are funded by the Generalitat Valenciana, Labora, the European Social Fund, Youth Guarantee, and Camara España. Registration via the Camara website.
PILAR DE LA HORADADA ENCOURAGES ACTIVE AGEING
The Sports Department of the Pilar de la Horadada Town Council, in collaboration with the Department for the Elderly, is expanding its free activities for residents aged 65 and over.
Starting this January, additional sessions are being offered to enhance the physical abilities of older adults, with 70 participants already enrolled.
The sessions are held at the Leisure Centre for the Elderly in Parque 30 de Julio, with two options available: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays or Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 3:45 PM to 4:45 PM.
To join, participants can attend during the designated times. If spaces are full, they will be added to a waiting list and contacted as spots become available. This initiative aims to promote health and well-being among the senior population.
Tunnelling into Africa
The proposed Spain-Morocco tunnel under the Strait of Gibraltar aims to connect Europe and Africa, revolutionizing travel and trade.
Scheduled for completion by 2030, the 42-kilometer tunnel will feature a 27.7kilometer underwater section, allowing 20minute high-speed train journeys.
Expected to handle 12.8 million passengers annually, it promises economic, tourism, and technological advancements. However, challenges include seismic activity, hard seabed rock, and environmental impacts.
While ambitious, doubts about meeting the 2030 deadline persist, given its technical and logistical complexities.
TORREVIEJA’S ‘DISMEMBERED BODY PARTS ‘MURDER TRIAL UNDERWAY
A 70-year-old Finnish man will face trial on Monday for the brutal murder and dismemberment of his 68-year-old partner, also from Finland, in October 2021. The charges claim the crime was premeditated, with the defendant having written about his intent to torture and kill her.
The prosecution argues he prolonged her suffering, torturing, suffocating, and stabbing her before discarding her remains in various trash containers around town. The police
FITUR BOYCOTT BY PSOE
PSPV-PSOE mayors from tourist municipalities in Valencia will boycott Fitur after Turisme Comunitat Valenciana decided to remove individual municipal stands. The mayors argue this move hinders tourism promotion and harms local economies. They also criticized Carlos Mazon for his handling of the Valencian floods, calling for his resignation due to his "lamentable behavior" during the region’s DANA floods.
were alerted when a homeless man found the victim's leg in a bin, sparking a search that uncovered the victim's head in a distant landfill. The man was arrested after being seen near a crime scene in the same clothes he wore in surveillance footage.
The prosecution seeks 25 years for murder with the aggravating factors of torture and cruelty. Forensic experts found no mental illness that could reduce his responsibility, and the trial is expected to last five days.
TORREVIEJA PREDATOR ARREST
A 57-year-old Spanish man was arrested by the Civil Guard in Alicante on multiple charges, including four counts of robbery with violence, one count of sexual assault, theft, and fraud using stolen bank cards. The investigation, named "Operation Barista," began in August 2024 after complaints about theft and fraudulent card use in Torrevieja.
Officers uncovered more serious crimes, including assaults on women walking alone near La Mata Natural Park. On November 21, the suspect was arrested after being identified by a distinctive feature.
A knife and multipurpose tool were seized during the arrest. The investigation is ongoing.
DATE SET FOR COURT APPEARANCE OF ORIHUELA MAYOR
Orihuela Mayor Pepe Vegara is scheduled to stand trial for alleged tax fraud, with hearings set for January 22 and 24 at Criminal Court Number 1. The case stems from Vegara's refusal to settle with the Public Prosecutor’s Office in March 2022.
Alongside Vegara, four executives from Estaci?n ITV and Orikoffee SL face charges of falsifying documents and evading taxes, including VAT and corporate tax for 2005.
The scheme allegedly involved fraudulent invoices and inflated prices. The prosecution seeks seven years in prison for the accused and fines totaling over 5 million euros. This legal battle began in 2011, was archived in 2015, but reopened before the statute of limitations expired.
Vegara's political future depends on the trial’s outcome, with a conviction likely impacting his position, while an acquittal could strengthen his leadership.
Orihuela’s population has grown by 1.9% in 2024, reaching 85,674 residents. The largest increase was in Orihuela Costa, which saw a 5% rise, while central Orihuela grew by 0.1%, and rural districts increased by 0.9%.
Spanish nationals still form the majority,
but international migration is notable, with Ukrainian and Venezuelan populations rising by 58% and 48%, respectively.
Foreign residents now make up 32% of the population. Growth in Orihuela Costa was significant, with 1,333 new residents, while rural areas such as La Murada and Hurchillo also saw increases.
On the campaign trail with Mazon in May last year
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1.Small rodents (4)
3.Alienate (8)
8.Not any (4)
9.Striking (8)
11.Laudable (12)
13.Sheen (6)
14.Cosset (6)
17.Specifically (12)
20.Hated (8)
21.Japanese mountain (4)
22.Proffered (8)
23.Network (4)
CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. Solution on
DOWN DOWN
1.Sole market control (8)
2.Solicit (7)
4.Astute (6)
5.Notable (10)
6.Nick (5)
7.Engrave with acid (4)
10.Writing desk (10)
12.Crustacean (8)
15.Scent (7)
16.Systematic plan (6)
18.Fireraising (5)
19.Prepare for publication (4)
ANSWERS Week 1058
QUICK QUICK
ACROSS: ACROSS:
1 Fluctuation; 9 Nurture; 10 Liven; 11 Inept; 12 Unnerve; 13 Ensure; 15 Aspect; 18 Scuffle; 20 Alibi; 22 Refer; 23 Sapient; 24 Remonstrate.
DOWN: DOWN: 2 Large; 3 Cluster; 4 Useful; 5 Talon; 6 Obverse; 7 Anniversary; 8 Uncertainty; 14 Shuffle; 16 Scamper; 17 Versus; 19 Forgo; 21 Inert.
CR CR YPTIC YPTIC
ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Cotton socks; 9 Ocarina; 10 Amour; 11 Knack; 12 Checked; 13 Nobles; 15 Claret; 18 Bonanza; 20 Evade; 22 Least; 23 Stadium; 24 Happy medium.
DOWN: DOWN: 2 Omaha; 3 Trickle; 4 Nuance; 5 Orate; 6 Knocker; 7 Cock-and-bull; 8 Credit terms; 14 Bandana; 16 Leeward; 17 Ransom; 19 Not up; 21 Adieu.
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
1 Cannot be reduced to hypocritical talk (4)
3.Poolís fun when played in small measure (8)
8.Eager return of the prima donna (4)
9.Ban Clare going out to find a crustacean (8)
11.Winner taking road back over lump of fruit (8,4)
13.New desire to live (6)
14.Fastener for broken petals (6)
17.Must I use loan up at the same time? (12)
20.Ends risk of upsetting American Indians (8)
21.Insect with the right drink (4)
22.Lay a peer out when thereís another day (4,4)
23.Employed when previously owned (4)
DOWN DOWN
1.Bounder claims corpses (8)
2.Beginners without bad habits? (7)
4.Mountain-climbing police can be calm (6)
5.Top men into position, being all-powerful (10)
6.If returning to church take high-class shawl (5)
7.Was untruthful about song (4)
10.What the drug addict has on Boxing Day? (4,6)
12.Sun creed possibly criticised (8)
15.Character on the bow shows great skill (7)
16.Man returning index of verse (6)
18.Help Northern Ireland back an Asian country (5)
19.Spoken part of the Pastoral Symphony? (4)
THE LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page
1. What kind of aircraft served as 'Air Force One' for US presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan and George H W Bush?
2. Who was Minnehaha's lover?
3. On the 15th of December 1970, a Soviet spacecraft completed the first successful soft landing and transmission of data from another planet. On which planet did the Soviet probe land?
4. Name the three films in which both Michael Caine and Lawrence Olivier are found in the cast.
5. Bruno Richard Hauptmann was convicted and executed for the kidnapping of which man's son?
6. What does an ichtyophile love?
7. Which competition first took place in 1927 at the Worcester Country Club in Massachusetts?
8. Banja Luka is the second largest city in which European country?
9. Since the introduction of the 'Open Era' in 1968, which woman has won a record six US Open singles titles in tennis?
a. Chris Evert b. Martina Navratilova c. Serena Williams d. Steffi Graf
10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the word "Radio" somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song?
a. I'd sit alone and watch your light, my only friend through
17)
teenage nights. b. I heard you on the wireless back in 52. c. I never told a soul just how I've been feeling about you, but they said it really loud, they said it on the air
11. An exclusive economic zone (EEZ) is a seazone in which a state has special rights over the exploration and use of marine resources. With 11,691,000 km2 in total, which European country has the largest in the world?
12. Many animals have a so called Jacobson's organ. Where in the body is it found?
13. Which five E. U. countries have a red and white flag?
14. Which actor has played the role of Adolf Hitler, Richard Nixon, Yitzhak Rabin, Richard the Lionhearted and Pablo Picasso?
15. The name of which spice, often used in Indian cuisine, stems from the Medieval Latin words for "worthy earth"?
16. Which tropical fruit was a hit single for Harry Nilsson in 1971?
17. What is the national sport in Cuba?
18. A ballistic missile submarine and an adult male kangaroo. One word.
19. Which famous poem by John Donne is also the title of an Ernest Hemingway novel?
20. In the 1969 film The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie, which French expression does Jean Brodie use to describe her pupils?
COASTAL PARKING CHARGES
e400,000 Revenue Windfall for Orihuela
Orihuela’s government plans to increase revenue by expanding regulated parking (ORA) on the coast, aiming to generate e575,000 in 2025 - a 187% rise from 2024’s e200,368.
The proposal includes introducing blue zones on Orihuela Costa during July, August, and September, while suspending city parking enforcement during summer afternoons.
Managed by municipal company Ildo, the initiative will add 1,200 coastal parking spaces, though final details are pending.
The 2025 budget projects e3.09 million in administrative concessions revenue, an 82% increase from 2024, largely driven by beach kiosk concessions expected to generate e1.6 million. Orihuela also anticipates e2.49 million from fines and plans for Ildo to manage green zones previously outsourced.
These measures aim to enhance coastal services, address parking demand, and boost municipal income, while offering discounts for large families and refining city parking regulations.
GENERALITAT FINALLY LEGALISES VISTABELLA GOLF COURSE
The Generalitat Valenciana has officially granted environmental approval to the Vistabella golf course in Jacarilla, legalizing it 15 years after its opening.
Spanning 530,000 m2, including 50 hectares of greenery, lakes, and tree-lined areas, the course attracts European golf enthusiasts and supports surrounding residential developments.
Its operations rely on 300,000 m2 of treated water annually, with water concessions only finalized in January 2024. Initially, insufficient wastewater from local treatment plants delayed the project, compounded by a real estate crisis that reduced occupancy levels.
Now legally regularized, Vistabella joins eight other
Vistabella finally legalised, 15 years after opening.
regional courses driving tourism and urban growth in Vega Baja.
The approval requires water use monitoring and upgrades, ensuring sustainable operations while
supporting real estate and economic development. The course remains a cornerstone of international appeal and local investment in the area.
UK GOVERNMENT TACKLING THE 90-DAYRULE
The UK government has appointed Michael Ellam to lead discussions with the EU and other international forums, signaling a strategic shift in postBrexit relations.
Ellam, beginning his role on January 13, 2025, will oversee the EU Relations Secretariat, established by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in 2024. His focus includes reducing trade barriers, enhancing security cooperation, and tackling shared chal-
lenges like migration.
Ellam’s extensive experience in finance and public service, including roles at HSBC and HM Treasury, makes him a valuable asset for advancing the UK’s "Plan for Change," which emphasizes economic growth and national security.
Key issues include addressing the Schengen Area's 90-day travel rule for UK citizens and fostering closer ties with Europe in trade and security.
CHURCH SERVICES
Church of JESUS CHRIST of LATTER-DAY SAINTS
We meet at 10am each Sunday in the chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. Torrevieja Phone or whatsapp 659 016 733
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, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain
Int Christian Assembly Evangelical Church Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja Sunday Service 11 a.m Tel: 966 799 273 / 660 127 276 www.icatorrevieja.es
Ss Peter andSt Paul Church of England
C/Granados, La Siesta SERVICES
1st/3rd Sunday 1130am 2nd/4th/5th Sunday 5pm c-of-e-torrevieja.com
Pilar Christian Community Pentecostal/Evangelical Church
Sunday Service 11.30am C/Canalejas 3, Pilar de la Horadada
Join us for a multitude of activities, coffee mornings, excercise, bereavement group pastor@pilarchurch.com
CARS FOR SALE
The Car of the Month is a 2022 Ford Focus ST Line X HYBRID - 22,500€ Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars. For a small selection of our latest offers see ad on page 5. 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 Tel 96 666 22 60.
CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS
AGE CONCERN COSTA BLANCA SUR
We are here to help with well being forthe over50ís. 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 in La Siesta, ring 966 786 887 or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es
AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. Tel: 96 678 6887.
ITV TO JAN 25
ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, TORREVIEJA BRANCH
Meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield on Mob/Whats 711 011 373
RAFA Costa Blanca RMG
We are a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact is via the RAFAwebsite rafa.org.uk.
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
EMERGENCY112
AMBULANCE061 or 112
FIRE SERVICE080 or 112
LOCAL POLICE092
NATIONAL POLICE091
GUARDIA CIVIL 062
DOMESTIC ABUSE016
BRITISH CONSULATE 917 146 300
IRELAND CONSUL 965 107 485
COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION (CCA)
Wanted - We are seeking Tutors to hold social Spanish language classes /activities at the Centro Civico, Alameda del Mar, Orihuela Costa, to all nationalities 60 years plus. These positions are on a voluntary basis, to teach Spanish at all levels. Basic foundation, Level 1. Intermediate. Quiz/Games and Easy Conversation. Travelling expenses offered to all Volunteer Tutors.
We start the Spring term Monday 13thJanuary. To become a Member of Community Care Association, enjoy social activities, make friends and learn a new skill or two, you can join CCAactivities for only ˇ20 a year.
Contact:-oc.communitycare@gmail.com, or speak to Eva or Norah at CC Alameda del Mar, on Monday 13th/ 20thJanuary between 1pm and 2pm for more information and to register.You will need to bring a copy of your Passport to join CCA".
AUTOMOVILES CRESPO
JALICANTE’S HIPPIE MARKET FACES CLOSURE AFTER 40 YEARS
anuary 15, 2025, marked a heartbreaking day for the vendors of Alicante’s iconic esplanade market, known as "the hippies."
After more than 40 years as a vibrant hub for locals and tourists, the market faces imminent closure, with eviction looming on January 31 unless a last-minute agreement is reached. The closure threatens the livelihoods of nearly 60 families who depend on the market. Lucia Ramello, spokesperson for the Vendors Association, shared their anguish: “They’re forcing us to close, but we don’t know what will
become of us. My worker of 15 years, who is deaf, has no future now.”
Established in 1979, the market returned to the Esplanade in 2001 with fixed stalls after temporary relocations. At its peak, it hosted over 80 stalls; now, fewer than 30 remain. Despite government promises of relocation, traders argue the proposed location lacks safety and accessibility. A demonstration is planned for January 19 as vendors fight to protect their future.
Mar Menor Ferry Services
Suspended
The ferry service between Santiago de la Ribera and La Manga del Mar Menor has been suspended indefinitely due to low water levels. San Javier Town Hall hopes this is temporary and has assured residents that operations will resume as soon as tide levels rise.
When active, the ferry runs Wednesday to Sunday, taking 40 minutes per trip. Tickets are sold onboard.
STRONG YEAR END AS ALICANTE AIRPORT BREAKS PASSENGER RECORD IN 2024
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport set a new record in 2024, welcoming nearly 18.4 million passengers, a 15.8% increase from 2023. This impressive growth of 2.6 million passengers solidifies its status as one of Spain’s top transportation hubs.
Key to this success is the airport’s reduced reliance on seasonal traffic, with international passengers accounting for 15.79 million—a 16.8% rise. Domestic traffic also soared by nearly 17%, reaching 2.8 million passengers. Flight operations climbed to 116,270, up 15.6%.
The United Kingdom led passenger numbers with 6.12 million travellers, followed by the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and Poland. December 2024 alone saw over 1.21 million passengers, a 17% increase year-on-year.
To meet growing demand, Aena has announced expansion plans, including a second terminal and upgrades to handle non-Schengen traffic. These developments aim to solidify Alicante-Elche Airport as a key gateway for global and domestic travel.
For updates, check directly with Ferry Mar Menor at +34 649 201 610.
Visit www.marmenorferry.com, or email info@marmenorferry.com.
Once restored, departures from Santiago de la Ribera will be at 11:30, 13:30, and 17:30.
From La Manga’s Puerto Tom?s Maestre, ferries will leave at 10:15, 12:30, and 16:30.
Stay informed as, when operating, weather conditions may affect schedules.
Operations will resume as soon as tide levels rise
SPEED KILLS!
Actually, the title of this article, “SPEED KILLS”, is not strictly true. A plane flying from Spain to the UK would exceed several hundred kilometres per hour, as would a train.
It is not speed alone which kills, which is why it is more correct to say that “Inappropriate Speed Kills”.
All roads have a maximum permitted speed, often not realised is that the vast majority also have a minimum speed, and these speeds are determined by the characteristics of the road, the layout, and the environment, amongst other things.
However, it is also important to note that whenever we talk about maximum permitted speeds, they are precisely that, a maximum, and not a target.
We too must act appropriately and further reduce our speed depending on the environment, the weather, traffic, the surroundings, and so on.
Throughout recent years, both the number of vehicles and the number of journeys has been increasing.
Sadly, the road to zero fatalities still seems a long way off, as the Ministry of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, in 2024 there were 1,154 fatalities on roads, and rather than
reducing, this figure increased by 14 people compared to 2023.
And the next step is one continuing the trend we have seen through 2024, as the DGT officially confirms that it will install up to 122 new speed cameras, 53 new fixed measuring devices and 69 section measuring devices, adapting their distribution from now on to the new circumstances of incidents.
In addition, the Traffic Group of the Guardia Civil will increase their surveillance on roads with the highest incidence rates in the provinces with the highest percentages of incidents on high-capacity roads, and the Local Police will also join in with more intensified campaigns and focus within the town and city boundaries.
Although we mentioned motorways at the start of this article, their usual sterile environment allows for a faster flow of traffic, in theory, but it is here where the largest increase in fatalities has occurred, increasing by 7%.
Although not related to the road itself, another statistic of note is that the number of fatalities in vans have increased by a staggering 98%.
There has of course been an increase in vans as home delivery an ecommerce takes off, but this too should not be at the expense of
Whenever we talk about maximum permitted speeds, they are precisely that, a maximum, and not a target!
the lives of those who work in these vehicles, and so we can expect an increase in checks on this type of vehicle too.
With these 122 new radars, the DGT will complete a road speed control that will include some 1,325 speed cameras. Spanish roads already have 763 official fixed speed points, and 90 section radars.
We must also add the 430 mobile radars that
are officially operated by agents of the Traffic Group of the Guardia Civil, as well as the 11 helicopters and 23 drones that the DGT's Aerial Resources Unit also has and which are currently operational to control and sanction speeding, and to all of this we must add the countless cameras under the local authority and local police controls.
The solution… Slow down!
CLIMBING THE LADDER
I have considerable sympathy for people who want to get onto the property ladder and buy their own home, only to find they are priced out of the market.
As usual greed has taken over and as in many other countries, Spain has found house prices soaring because of rents being pushed up by gentrification and landlords shifting to more lucrative, short-term tourist rentals.
It’s the same sorry story in the UK, but I do take exception to what the Spanish government is discussing – to impose a 100% tax rise on non EU people trying to buy in Spain.
Why pick on the Brits? The British have poured billions into Spain over the years and many Spanish have got very rich as a result. Why should someone living in say Poland or Germany get preferential treatment over Brits – or are we for ever going to be punished for Brexit, which the majority of British now do not want.
What’s needed is severe restrictions on holiday rentals, on line holiday rental companies – another wretched import from moneymad America - have been responsible for pushing up house prices, especially in tourist hot-spots.
In my book people who want to holiday abroad should stay in hotels, which have been built for them. And those on urbanisations who choose to rent out their homes for months on end should be hit with massive additional urbanisation fees or for urbanisations to order a total ban.
After all it’s holiday makers coming to residential areas which cause the most disturbance – and house owners who find they can’t make mega bucks renting out perhaps should sell up and go.
THE FOLLY OF WOODEN HOMES
I cannot begin to imagine what it must be like to watch a house you have spent years turning into a lovely home burn to the ground, with nothing you can do to stop it.
The dreadful fires in California which has cost many lives, and made many thousands homeless is heart wrenching.
But there are several lessons to be learned from this horror and the first is that when a politician starts campaigning for budget cuts they should be ignored and never voted for.
Just one month before the Los Angeles fires broke out the fire chief warned that budget cuts were hampering the department's ability
Tony Mayes Rant
to respond to emergencies, a department memo shows. Funding for the city's fire department decreased by $17.6 million, or 2%, between the 2024-25 fiscal year and the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to city budget documents.
However, the city council in November approved a four-year $203 million contract with the firefighter's union to help boost wages and health benefits for staff, drawing from the budget's general fund. Cutting budgets for essential public services is stupid, irresponsible, and in my book, criminal.
Britain has had a gut full of it for 14 years under the Tories who believed that what the public wanted was budget cuts to give people tax cuts.
Of course, tax cuts benefit the rich far more than the poor, and we have seen the result in the UK – a health service on its knees, schools and hospitals falling to bits, social care dreadfully underfunded to the extent that people dread getting old and fearful of losing their homes to pay for sky high social care costs.
And let’s not forget the stupidity of letting private companies run water and sewage services, the railways, bus services and selling off land where once we had gas holders, so that now Britain is at risk of the lights going out when temperatures fall below freezing.
And now the super-rich in Los Angeles are getting a taste of the stupidity of cutting budgets of essential services. I heard a report saying that one super rich family had lost a $14.5m mansion in the fire and that it was uninsured. They had not bothered about insurance because they were so rich they could simply build another home. No doubt this is another example of people who would spend a fortune on employing accountants to come up with tax avoidance schemes. It’s obscene, totally selfish and should be utterly condemned.
The fires should teach Americans another lesson. Looking at the pictures of the houses reduced to ash makes it clear that most are made of wood. All that remains is a brick built chimney and a brick facade. It’s stupid building properties made mostly of wood in dry areas.
When we were holidaying in America we saw an end of terrace house on fire and fire fighters trying to contain it. When we passed by hours later the entire row of houses were gone – because they were made of wood.
We went driving around in Maine into forested areas with many houses surrounded by trees.
Yes, wood is cheap but it’s a case of ‘penny-wise, pound foolish.’
TRUMP’S FROZEN OBSESSION
Still on the subject of America, we hear that crazy “America first” president banging on about wanting to take control of Greenland. It’s all about the fact that under all the ice there are huge reserves of gas and minerals. America is about to get four years with a selfish and ruthless president putting money first and anything and everyone a poor second. If he doesn’t cause WW3 it will be a miracle.
EARTH'S INFERNO
A few weeks ago you read it here first – before it was officially announced by the Met Office - that the world had exceeded the 1.5 degree increase in global temperatures which scientists warned would be the trigger for global weather disasters.
The actual figure is 1.6 degree increase and the prediction now is that temperatures will go on rising for at least another decade unless the world’s biggest polluters, China and India, seriously cut their emissions.
OUTSMARTING THE FLU
There are some nasty bugs doing the rounds this winter – both in Spain and in the UK and it’s important for people to have the relevant jabs when they are offered.
I think it is both arrogant and stupid for people to ignore medical advice and I welcome a statement from Boris Johnson’s wife Carrie begging people to get the flu jab after she spent almost a week in hospital with a chest infection that left her “struggling to breathe”. Having ‘flu is bad enough but it can turn to pneumonia and UK and Spanish hospitals are stacked with people with serious complications. So...get jabbed!
THE SHAME OF LOOKING AWAY
The scandal of the Pakistani grooming gangs who were left virtually unchecked for years to abuse and rape white, vulnerable girls has continued to be very widely reported since the Labour government refused to conduct a full public inquiry.
It has been stated that in more than 50 UK towns and cities, men, mainly of Pakistani descent, carried out appalling abuse of girls, plying them with drink and drugs and forcing them to have sex with countless men.
It has become quite apparent that police, councils and relevant local and national bodies turned a blind eye to the abuse, pretending the girls were the guilty ones because they were promiscuous.
It was convenient to turn a blind eye because they wanted to further the myth that Britain was a successful multi-cultural society. It is now apparent it is far from that.
I was appalled to hear a TV interview with an Iranian woman now living in the UK, who said that she heard what an Imam at a local Mosque was telling young men. That Imam told men that they had a religious responsibility to protect all Muslim women and to ensure they always dressed modestly in public. But scantily dressed white women made it obvious that they were promiscuous, and it was acceptable for a man to abuse them.
This too should be the subject of a public inquiry, and in my view there should be far more control over what is preached in all religious places.
QUIZ FROM P 12:
1.Boeing 707, 2.Hiawatha, 3.Venus, 4.Three answers.The Battle Of Britain, A Bridge Too Far, Sleuth.5.Charles Lindbergh, 6.Fish, 7.Ryder Cup, 8.Bosnia and Herzegovina, 9.Answer a.Chris Evert, 10.a.Radio Ga Ga (Queen), b.Video Killed The Radio Star (Buggles), c.On The Radio (Donna Summer), 11.France, 12.Nasal cavity, 13.Five answers.Austria, Poland, Malta, Denmark and Latvia (Latvia's flag is maroon red and white), 14.Anthony Hopkins, 15.Turmeric (from 'terra merita').16.Coconut, 17. Baseball, 18.Boomer, 19.For Whom The Bell Tolls, 20. Creme de la creme
Torrevieja Darts Ladies
League Format Week 5 (14/1/25)
Tipsy Tigers 14 - 9 Primadonnas
Friendly Temps 5 - 5 Dolly Mixt’rs
Hot darts:Wendy Hayward (TT) 154, 116, Diane Burns (DM) 140, 100, Mitch Halliday (PD) 121 x2, Debbie le Grys (PD) 128, Nicola Moseley (FT) 124, Carole Dibden (DM) 112, Sharon Crane (TT) 116, Sue Wade (FT) 100 Highest Check-out Wendy Hayward (TT) 154, Bull Finish Susan Hodgeson 81
LEAGUE TABLEP FA
Gap Girlz4 6220
Friendly Temps4 5235
Ladybirds3 4526
Tipsy Tigers4 4149
Primadonnas5 3970
Wacky Chicas4 3648
Dolly Mixtures4 3354
Sunny Corner at Roda
Twenty four played on a sunny but chilly morning.
Overall winner: Dave Short 35 pts. Combined par 3s: Rod Tedstone 10 pts. Blind pairs: Pete Harman/Mick Cook 56 pts & Brian Cunningham/Ken Lexl 56 pts.
Pictured is Dave Short receiving his prize from Mick Cook
THE INBETWEENERS GOLF CLUB
The Inbetweeners Golf Club opened its 2025 home games season at the picturesque El Plantio golf course.
Braving the winter chill, 22 determined members layered up for a challenging day on the course. The event featured a “lucky dip” format, pairing players randomly, with com-
bined Stableford scores determining the winners. A frosty start delayed tee times, but players stayed focused, skilfully tackling the slick fairways and slower greens. After the final group finished, everyone warmed up with drinks in the clubhouse, where club captain Paul Saxton hosted the presentation.
The captain welcomed two new members before announcing the nearest-the-pin winners: Hole 7: Kicki Modin, Hole 9: Dave Slightam, Hole 14: Jimmy Fegan, Hole 18: Ruud Meggelen
Jimmy Fegan and Les Pirie shared the two-pot with stellar putting performances. Charlotte Tranberg and Kicki Modin claimed third place on countback with 70 points, just behind Jimmy Scott and Frank Cullen in second. The day’s winners, with an impressive 74 points, were Jimmy Fegan and Lesley Cullen.
Congratulations to the winners and all who participated! Visit www.inbetweenersgolfclub.com to join this fun and friendly club.
FROSTY START AT LAS COLINAS
“Come to Spain for the sunshine,” they said. Driving into Las Colinas, we simultaneously asked, “Is that frost?” An early tee time was nearly delayed by an hour due to heavy frost, creating a bit of confusion as late arrivals adjusted to revised tee times. Despite the chilly start, all 45 well-wrapped golfers teed off on schedule, and the day blossomed into a beautiful winter’s afternoon.
The course, as always, was in excellent condition, though the pin positions and yellow tee boxes raised a few eyebrows. Either the Greenkeeper had a sense of humor or thought it was April Fool’s Day, as some holes played dramatically differently, impacting scores.
After layers of clothing were gradually shed, here are the day’s top scores: Gold: Mike Stott (36 points), Silver: Rob Fyfe (34 points), Bronze: Pat Dooley (35 points)
The “Twos” pot was split by Paul Lambert and Mike Stott, who managed two twos. Nearest the Pin winners included Peter Spinks, Paul Lambert, Roger Webb, Issy Wiggins-Turner, and Mike Stott. Ken Flaherty claimed the football card pot with Bolton.
Next week, we head to Vistabella for our second Eclectic meet, already fully booked. Membership is currently closed, but guests can join the reserve list via our website.
Lee Eastman (Captain), Pat Dooley (Bronze) Rob Fyfe (Silver) and Mike Stott
MATCH RESULTS
16 JANUARY 2025
DIVISION 1
Tipsy Cow3-9Illy's Oldies
Mind The Gap9-3Toppers
Milo's2-10Hub Hyenas
Leeson St Trotters0-12Domignomes
Fire Station7-5CK1 Chuggers
DIVISION 2
CK1 Tornados3-9CC's Bees
Hub Hellraisers3-9Fallen Angels
Tipsy Toad Tiaras4-8Dartagnans
Illy's Idols7-5Pint Depot Queens
Domino's Desp’Does7-5Tipsy Cow Archers
DIVISION 1 PPtsLegs
Domignomes91888
Mind The Gap91683
Toppers91478
Fire Station91155
Hub Hyenas9960
Ck1 Chuggers9844
Tipsy Cow9439
Illy's Oldies9436
Leeson Street Trotters9435
Milo's9222
DIVISION 2 PPtsLegs
Fallen Angels91775
Cc's Bees91679
Dartagnans91572
Domino's Desperadoes91050
Ck1 Tornados9953
Illy's Idols9749
Tipsy Cow Archers9544
Pint Depot Queens9540
Tipsy Toad Tiaras9341 Hub Hellraisers9337
180: Howard Kalve, Dave Rowlinson, Cain Garcio, James Brown, Pete Spence, Ricardo Perez, Mark Farmer, Steve Monk-Dalton
Most 180's: Steve Monk-Dalton 4 High Finish'sThisWeek: Dave Rollinson 126, Jonathan Jiminez 118, George Larkin 110
Current High Finish: Patrick Wagner 154
DIVISION 1
TIPSY COW V ILLY'S OLDIES
Despite tons from Cow's Murray McCleod, Dave Robinson and Steve Lumb, the hosts lost all 3 triples Alan Fleming and Craig Miller obliging.Oldies also won 2 of the pairs, Howard Kalve notching a 180 and both outs with partner Fleming 2x100, Miller hitting 2x140 with Dez Field.John Giggs 125, and McCleod 97,140 getting Cows lone 1st half point. Kalve POTM, 4x100+ guaranteed Oldies a point in the 7th, Giggs playing a blinder 2x100,140,5x90+, for POTM to keep Cow in the match against Fleming 2x100,121,140 for 2-6.John Poole wrapping up the match on D8.The 11th was a blinder Bob Smith 4x100,121, losing in 3 to Miller 3x100,121,3x80+.
MIND THE GAP V TOPPERS
With plenty of darts talent on show, surprisingly the 1st leg was completed on D1 by Darren Sanderson. lt soon warmed up however, with a total of 57 tons or more, 180's from James Brown and Pete Spence, in the same singles, the latter taking 15 darts in the 2nd for victory.Best finish a 68 from Sanderson. Gap took the 1st half 5-1, the 2nd half 4-2.5 tons or more from John Rodford and Andy Rutter, Spence 4x100,2x140,180 for POTM.Formidable Gap darts from Brown, 2x100,125,140,180, Andres Liamazarez, 3x100,120,2x140, Che Liam, 2x100,121,2x140, Paul Moody 5x100 and POTM Sam Salt, 4x100,131,3x140.
MILOS V
HUB HYENAS
A Cain Garcia 180 and Alejandro Alcaraz 125 and D4 got Milos 1st but the hosts failed to build on their impressive start.The remaining 5 legs of the 1st half going the visitors way.
Samuel James added a 2nd point for Milos with a tasty Bull out with match scores of 5x100+, 3x80+ for POTM.Antonio Sedeno narrowly losing out to Jason Blackburn 1-2, the Hubber knocking in 4 tons and a 76 out.George Larkin found some form with a 110 out, but it was Dave Rollinson earning Hub's POTM with 3x100,131,2x140,180 and a 126 out on the Bull.
LEESON ST.TROTTERS V DOMIGNOMES
Despite the scoreline, Trotters produced some reasonable arrows.Monique Eldenebos 2x100,3x95, Billy Dolling 3x100+,3x81 and POTM Gail Murray 115,125, 2x85+ a 64 out and an 18 dart 501. Gnomes robots produced, Mark Farmer 8x100+,180,
Ricardo Perez 5x100,137,4x140,180 and a measly 68 out, Oscar Lopez 125,139, 100 out, Chelseas Campbell 4x100,2x140,5x81+, and last but not least Jonathon Jiminez 121,133,136,171,6x83+ and a 118 out for POTM.
FIRE STATION V CK1 CHUGGERS
Some nice scores in this one and close as expected.The match at 5 each, Station had 2 players in fine form to finish.Tim Clarke faced Glen Delaney in the 11th, the Station skipper coming out on top, both scoring well.The 12th pitched Patrick Wagner against Mick Wade.The tie went to 3 Wagner finding D10 for both points and taking his ton tally to 6. Donna Ralph won POTM for the visitors, Steve Dalton banging in his customary 7 tons including a 180, Zack Green 5x100,140.Ashton Williams hit 5 tons, 4x80+ and a 68 out for POTM, Robbie Monks 3 tons, 10x80+.
DIVISION 2
D4, leaving Tierney the glory on D4 after 85,140, Mackay however receiving POTM.
TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V DARTAGNANS
Lisa lvill opened Tiaras account with a 91 out, followed by a D7 in the 3rd, to include numerous decent scores for a POTM.Wendy Hayward and Sharon Crane were T's other finishers, Pat Schofield top scoring with 138, Dartagnans claiming the balance.
The visitors bagged 4 legs in each half, Mitch Halliday and Jesus Madrid 3x100, claiming 2 outs each, but Bryan Livsey receiving POTM earning his side a draw with 3 tons.Halliday showboating for the match with a D6,D4 out.
ILLY'S IDOLS V PINT DEPOT QUEENS
ldols claimed all 3 triples via Carol Webb, Jayne Cahill and llly Vangelder, Queens response a clean sweep of the pairs, via Debbie Wright, Marie Cummins and Alison Wands.
CK1 TORNADOS V CC.BEES
Dave Baldie top scored for CK's, the outs provided by Bill Leaves and POTM Kirsty Green with the other 2 were all the hosts could provide against a strong Bees.Jeff Saunders and Liam Lumb had no trouble finding the T20 in the 1st half, Bees leading 1-5. Saunders added a 140 in his losing singles to Leaves, Dougie Adkins a 60 out for his sides 6th, POTM Lumb D6 for both points and overall scores of 4x100, 140.
HUB HELLRAISERS V FALLEN ANGELS
Sue Spiers banged in the top scores ,but it was Lesley Dolling who earned Raisers POTM for gaining her sides 3 finishes.Tony Spiers and Mike Tierney provided Angels scores in the 1st half, Jimmy Mackay 2 outs.
Mackay added a 3rd finish for 2-5, Spiers a 6th on
Carol Webb and Ruth Gwilliams both scored tons and the necessary outs for an ldols 5-3 advantage, prior to a Lorraine Cox victory.Winnie Mackay and Henni Oortwijn finding the outer circle for ldols' 6th and 7th legs.POTM - Webb - Wands.
DOMINOS DESPERADOS
V TIPSY COW
ARCHERS
At 6-5 to Despos with one to play the result was anyone’s guess.The outcome, a Chris Oates win for the hosts over Jan Norbury 131.Despos enjoyed a 1st half 4-2 lead, with Colin Kernahan adding a 5th after earlier tons.Paul Raffell pulled one back for Archers only for Sarahanne Kernahan to ensure the draw with Despos 6th.
Greg Annuik 98,D7 and Steve Collins POTM,132, D2 made it 6-5 the result in the balance.An excellent match Paul Chick, Despos POTM.
John &Howard
Sam &Dave
Lesley &Jimmy
Aston &Dons
Gail &Jonathan
BAD DAY AT THE OFFICE FOR 9 MAN THADER IN LOCAL DERBY
Having already beaten and drawn against arch rivals Torrevieja this season, Thader must have fancied their chances in this Community League fixture. Mirroring the recent cup match between the 2 sides, there was another encouraging crowd inside Moi Gomez stadium, Rojales.
A fine midweek performance against Denia, in which goals by Press & Fran gave Thader a deserved victory, lifting them to the dizzy heights of 2nd, whilst Torry lay in 7th position.
Biteno should have put Torry ahead on 12 mins, but from the edge of the box, he shot wide of the target.
In a half of few chances, Thader had 2 glorious opportunities in quick succession. First off, Fran headed wide of the upright, then within seconds, Tremino forced a good save from Hector between the posts.
All hell let loose when Kone had to be held back by fellow Thader team mates, for which one can only assume, was a derogatory racial
comment made in his direction by a Torry player. The game's only goal arrived on the stroke of half time. A terrible defensive mix-up allowed Mati the opportunity to run towards goal, before planting the ball past Chema, then into the net off the far post.
It was highly debatable whether he was onside or not, but as senor Lopez (linesman) was so far behind play, he was in no position to rule one way or the other.
Straight from 2nd half ko, Tremino went on a solo run, before watching his goal bound shot acrobatically pushed away for a corner. On 50 mins, Fran struck a beauty from fully 30 yards, but once again, Hector magnificently pulled off a wonder save.
Thader’s task was made that more difficult, when less than a min later, captain Juan made a reckless challenge on an opponent. Although it was without doubt a silly, unnecessary foul, there was no real intended malice, so to have received a straight red card, appeared a tad harsh, to say the least.
What followed was less of a surprise, for both Raul (manager) and Adrian (assistant) picked up their now customary yellow cards (for dissent), which were quickly followed by a red to Adrian (more dissent), who immediately trundled off to the changing room.
A way back into the game at this stage was looking a big ask, for a Thader side, who were a shadow of their former selves.
Loud appeals for a penalty, when Tremino appeared to be hauled down in the Torry penalty area on 72 mins, fell on deaf ears, before 2
mins later, sub Amin shot wide. Chema saved well from Torry dangerman Mati, then up the other end, Amin hit the post.
Torry should have put the game to bed on 88 mins, but when faced with a 1 on 1, Anton somehow sliced his shot wide.
Already on a booking, Alvamo’s foul on Pepe, earned the Torry midfielder another yellow, quickly followed by a red card.
Into stoppage time, Tremino forced man of the match Hector into another brilliant save, then from the resultant corner, Thader were denied another penalty for an illegal challenge.
A nasty foul on Hector by ex Torry Amin, earned him a red card, before, in the ensuing melee, the other Hector (Torry no 3 defender), was also dismissed for an off the ball altercation. Berni had the last word, when his thunderbolt was again impressively saved by goal keeper Hector, as Thader failed to break the deadlock. Both teams left the field with 9 players apiece, in a match which was not for the faint-hearted. Next weekend (25th or 26th Jan) Thader have another Community league match, this time away at Eldense ‘B’. Check CD Thader facebook page for more information.
Mati scores the only goal of the game. Photo courtesy Dario Perez
THE PERFECT BEAUTIFUL BODY IS A MYTH
Have you ever met anyone who is 100% happy with their own body, there is always something that they feel they would like to change. Even people with perfect bodies want bigger this or smaller that. Some want to be taller, smaller, slimmer, more muscle, less wrinkles, more hair, less hair, whiter teeth, the list goes on and on. Although the perfect beautiful body is an impossible dream, the human body is a miracle of nature and although not perfect, it is amazing.
Our bodies need certain things to function correctly - air, water, healthy food and appropriate exercise. This short article is not about the first three but rather about the last.
When we were young the type of exercise we needed was different to the exercise that we needed in middle age. Likewise, now that we are over 55, we need a much softer, gentler form of exercise. Our bones are more brittle, our bodies have developed all types of ailments, we are not as strong or as fit and we need to rest more.
EASY Exercise is typically not for the under 55’s, it is scientifically designed to help those who have or want to avoid mobility, flexibility and circulation issues. It is not for gym bunnies or those looking for a time machine. EASY
Exercise is about improving your life, physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
There is no skipping, running, jumping of lifting heavy weights involved. Each comfortable machine is motorized and designed to move different muscles to give you a gentle but effective workout. As you will be seated or lying down for each exercise there is no body-weight pressure on any of your joints. EASY Exercise is designed to significantly improve and then maintain your mobility, flexibility and circulation and to reduce pain.
EASY Exercise is open Monday to Friday, 8.45am to 1pm and costs only 55ˇ per month. Most members use the centre 2 or 3 times a week.
A session lasts about 45 minutes, and you do not need special clothing or footwear. There are 3 different circuits available, each designed to meet different needs. Our appointment system avoids delays helps you make the most of your time in the centre.
Marketing gurus often make outrageous claims about how good their products are but unfortunately you must part with your cash to find out if they are telling the truth or not.
EASY Exercise offers you and a friend a FREE trial, so it costs you nothing to find out if this form of exercise will suit your needs.
To book a FREE trial at EASY Exercise, Sophia Wellness Centre, La Regia (Cabo Roig), call 663 771 345 today.
FREE!
FOR FREE TRIAL CALL OR WHATSAPP 663 771 345 You can even bring a friend.Your free trial will take a maximum of one hour.
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.
Regular exercise,twice or three times a week,at the SOPHIA EASY EXERCISE CENTRE will improve your quality of life enormously.
