The Leader Newspaper 05 Aug 24 – Edition 1035

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See main ad on page 17

arly morning tragedy at a holiday home in Orihuela Costa, where a man was allegedly stabbed to death by his wife in the presence of their three young children, aged 6, 8 and 10, all of who lived with them and were at home when the incident occurred.

The victim is a 45-year-old man, the husband of the alleged perpetrator, aged 49, who was arrested at the house when the officers arrived.

They are a family of Norwegian nationality, who have been on holiday in Spain since last May.

They are residing in an isolated rental home in Pau 9 on the Garbanzuelo estate, very close to the border with Torrevieja, where the events took place.

The Spanish press is reporting that the wife of the dead man was injured after being previously assaulted by her husband following an argument between the pair.

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ORIHUELA COSTA MURDER

She was subsequently transferred to hospital where she underwent surgery for an arm injury, and where she still remained on Friday morning under the supervision of the Civil Guard.

It was the woman herself who called the emergency services at about 01:35 in the morning. She reported that she had had an argument with her partner and that after being assaulted, in self-defence, she had stabbed her husband on at least three occasions with a kitchen knife.

One of the stab wounds went through his heart and the woman told 112 that she believed he was dead after which she waited for the arrival of the Civil Guard and other emergency services.

The woman was arrested and treated for her injuries before being transferred to a hospital.

The children are currently in a reception centre because the authorities have not been able to reach close relatives who also reside in Orihuela Costa.

The body was transferred to the Institute of Legal Medicine in Alicante, where this morning the autopsy was scheduled to be performed.

The Civil Guard has no history of genderbased violence within the Norwegian couple, however they are investigating whether there could be a history of ill-treatment in their country of origin.

BROTHER CLAIMS SHE LIVED IN CONSTANT FEAR

The brother of the 49-year-old woman stated on Saturday that she lived in constant terror of him and that he had threatened to kill her two other children that she has from a previous relationship, and who both live in Norway. According to the brother, she never reported him for fear of reprisals.

The woman’s brother made the statement to the press outside the Orihuela courts, where she was appearing on Saturday. In a mix of English and Spanish, the man called his deceased brother-in-law a "psychopath" and a sexist, and said that his sister lived "as if she were in prison", locked in the house where the events took place on Friday. It is a house, he added, that is located in a secluded area "where nobody passes by and there are no near neighbours".

The man, who flew from Norway immediately after learning of the incident, claims that in the early hours of Friday morning her brotherin-law was out of his mind and attacked her, injuring her arm, as well as telling her again that he was going to kill her two older children.

According to her, this was the fourth time he attacked her, but she never told the authorities what was happening out of fear. And, once again, she reiterated that she acted in selfdefence.

The woman said that she had stabbed her husband at least three times, after he attacked her and chased her around the house. This is said to have happened in the presence of the couple's three children, aged ten, eight and six.

ëBEYOND BELIEFí

A poem inspired by the tragic event in Southport

A day for children dancing

A day for them to play

Innocently laughing

Yet for some their final day

As someone without feelings

Who has murder on his mind

Has a mission to accomplish

Of the most repulsive kind

The laughter turns to screams of fear

The children's smiles have ceased

For evil brandishing a knife

In other words a beast

Has gone upon a rampage

And has stabbed those in his way

Nobody had a chance to think

Nobody time to pray

The panic and the mayhem

The senseless act to kill

Has taken lives without a qualm

As if it's just a thrill

The aftermath is one of grief

Of absolute despair

The why and motives questioned

But the answers are not there

REPUTATION OF TORREVIEJA

Dear Editor,

Torrevieja’s authority deserves a gold medal for the city’s splendid 4 km seafront esplanades.

Surely one of coastal Spain’s best parades for tens of thousands of citizens and tourists who enjoy the promenade’s atmosphere, panoramas and fresh sea breeze daily.

However, especially in high season, all is ruined by an eyesore invasion of hawkers peddling dodgy brands from scattered bedsheets leaving little space for strollers.

Why aren’t local tax-paying businesses up in arms over this grossly unfair confiscation of their legitimate incomes?

Indeed, why are the police so tolerant and the authority so unworried about this unlicensed commandeering of the people’s parades?

It is the same in Barcelona. Our only negative recall was inelegantly navigating hundreds of hawkers strewn blankets to get a view of the marinas.

The reputations of Torrevieja and similarly blighted seafronts will suffer a high cost for such complacency. This is Spain; leave Dakar where it is.

Sincerely,

Michael Walsh

Some victims still so critical

Their lives forever marred

The mental pain and anguish

Echo where they have been scarred

And those little children

Who will never see another dawn Will forever be remembered From the time that they were born

Now issued with their Angel wings

Far from all hate and harm

They can make their friendship bracelets

In the peace and tranquil calm

They can dance and they can sing out loud

Their favourite 'Swifty' song

In the safety of God's Heaven

Where they now have to belong

And those parents and those injured Will forever live in grief

Given challenges to overcome

Whilst shocked beyond belief

An actual horror story

Played out in a world gone mad

Where love and life mean nothing

Where you lose the faith you had

But Faith and Hope must never die

And whilst we point the blame

The lives of those who lived through this Will never be the same.

A big pussy cat sigh, and a loud contented purr.

STREET RUBBISH

Hi, the letter concerning the rubbish on our streets, 22nd inst., highlights the indifference of attitude of people living and/or just holidaying here.

The blatant dumping is the act of a transient population that has no roots here. They don't care that there are ecoparks at no cost within 15/20 minutes drive (Pilar and San Pedro). Those who think this is too much trouble are selfish....

They would be prosecuted in their own country for such vandalism. Blaming the Council is the cynical way out, ignoring the fact that they pay a miniscule amount in property and services tax to the Council compared to their own country of origin.

And while domestic bins are clearly marked for specific items,in Spanish and other main languages (including English), the indifference shown by many users in dumping indiscriminately is rampant.

The writer rightly says we should not have to live with such filth on our streets, but as is becoming more patent through other parts of Spain, it is more likely that it is caused by transient visitors, tourists and residents with no roots here and who just don't care.

Regards,

Charlie Dowling

Resident C/Talco, Orihuela Costa

The pedestrian footbridge project has now been approved by the Demarcation of State Roads

ORIHUELA COUNCILLORS REPORT ON PROGRESS OF COASTAL PROJECTS

Representatives of Orihuela Costa Districts X and XI met on Tuesday where updates were provided on outstanding projects by the councillors responsible. The Councillor for Urbanism, Matías Ruiz Peñalver, was the first to report on a number of outstanding works, including the third junior school on the coast.

He said that the contract will soon be awarded for the temporary school to be built in Los Dolses. Work will then begin straight away, with the school due to be completed at the beginning of 2025.

The Councillor for Education and Commerce, Vicente Pina, confirmed this to be the case. He said that it will have two floors, although the second floor will not be accessible. He added that the teaching staff is already available from the Conselleria de Educación de la Generalitat.

With regard to the new school planned for construction, he said that there are two alternative sites that have now been presented to the Generalitat. He believes that in three school years the school will be operational.

Councillor Ruiz reported on the widening of the pedestrian bridge over the AP7 (Lomas de Cabo Roig). He stated that the pedestrian footbridge project has already been approved by the Demarcation of State Roads, so the whole process can

now begin, although the tender document is still to be drawn up and finally approved.

At the Ramón de Campoamor Civic Centre, the works have been budgeted for and will start soon, while the expropriation (compulsory purchase) of the Aguamarina seafront promenade as it passes through the Bellavista I urbanisation, is currently with the Provincial Expropriation Board to determine a fair price. The resolution is expected to be quick with the budget already set aside to undertake the opening process.

Manuel Mestre, the Councillor for Orihuela Costa, concluded the meeting by reporting that there is still no date for the start of the repairs to the railings of the promenade from Cala Mosca to Cala Capitán, including the esplanade of Playa Flamenca.

PUBLIC REJECT BIO WASTE PLANT

Los Montesinos public rejects the biowaste plant

Hundreds of residents took part in a demonstration on Tuesday toward the proposed bio waste plant that is being planned for the municipality. They demand that the Council revokes the transfer of land to the Consortium

A demonstration with few precedents in the municipality, comparable to those of segregation or those that demanded new schools, which sent a clear message to the government team, surprised by the neighbourhood discomfort caused by its decision to offer a plot of land to the Sustainable Baja Consortium of waste management on which they will host the plant.

Tuesday’s demonstration, was a demonstration of force relevant for a municipality of only five thousand inhabitants, with a neighbourhood platform against the plant that has taken just two weeks to be organised, such is the strength of opposition.

It seems as though the mayor had been negotiating this move with the Consortium for months, but he failed to inform

Hundreds of residents took part in a public rally last week demonstrating against the location of the proposed plant

the residents. The chosen site, a plot of 3,500 square metres, is close to a number of businesses including a hotel, two evangelical churches, furniture shops and many other public services.

On Tuesday the convenors remembered with nostalgia the achievement of the segregation from Almoradí, 34 years earlier, and warned that they will not allow the Council to over-

ride the will of the people, although the cession of land will be difficult to reverse.

So what is a biowaste plant?

A biowaste plant is a facility that provides oxygen-free conditions where anaerobic digestion can occur. Simply put, it's an artificial system where you can turn waste into sustainable energy and fertilizers, with positive effects on the environment.

Orihuela Summer schools cancelled

Orihuela families are facing another summer without council-run summer schools due to political infighting and administrative delays.

The Partido Popular and PSOE are blaming each other for the cancellation, which has been confirmed by the Education Councillor, Vicente Pina.

Despite attempts to expedite the process, the winning bid for the contract was only recently chosen, leaving insufficient time to start the program this year.

Although summer schools are guaranteed for the next two years, Orihuela residents are left frustrated by the incompetence of their elected officials.

WEEKLY MARKET SUSPENDED FOR ANOTHER YEAR DUE TO RBF FESTIVAL

At the peak of the summer high season, the Friday souk, which is held weekly in Antonio Soria Park, will be closed once again, with the resulting losses, due to the holding of the Reggaeton Beach Festival (RBF), one of the most important urban music events in Europe.

The event will occupy the space designated for the weekly market, which hosts some 480 stalls and is considered the most important in the Valencian Community in terms of the number of licenses

and services, says the Councillor for Markets, Antonio Vidal.

This multi-purpose venue is also intended to host large events, "sacrificing one week a year" for the market, said the councillor, who added that during peak period it can expect to serve up to 36,000 people over the course of a day.

This is the same situation as last year, when traders were forced to miss out on one of the busiest weekends of the year.

Summer Cinema for the kids during August evenings

Councillor for Youth,Anabel

has announced details of the Summer Cinema,one of the most significant activities of the summer season in the municipality of Orihuela.This event,designed for all audiences and especially for the enjoyment of children and young people,will take place during August in different locations in the municipality of Orihuela.

It will visit Orihuela Costa on the 3rd of August,in Punta Prima,Calle Fragata, where Shazam: Fury of the Gods will be screened.

Entry to the screenings,which will take place on a large open-air cinema,will be free,with the shows starting at 9.30 pm.

The
García,

PSOE WANTS ANSWERS ABOUT CLOSED ORIHUELA COSTA

BEACH BARS

The absence of beach bars, sunbed and parasol rental services on the beaches of Punta Prima, Cala Mosca and Cala Estaca has generated considerable discontent among residents and tourists who frequent these coastal areas, according to a complaint made by the PSOE in Orihuela on Thursday morning.

The situation is due to the fact that Lot 1 of a contract comprising five lots has not yet been awarded, this being the only one still pending allocation.

The socialist councillor María García has expressed her concern and continues to question political leaders about their lack of explanations.

"It is not surprising that the residents have lost confidence in the mayor and the councillor for the Coast because, despite their promises, they are not capable of showing their faces and explaining the reasons for what has gone so badly wrong" said García.

The contract for the operation of the beach season services began its tender documentation in November 2023 and consisted of 5 lots, of which, so far, Lots 2 to 5 have been awarded, however, Lot 1, which covers the aforementioned beaches, is still outstanding, because the winning company failed to submit the correct documentation.

Despite the fact that there were four companies interested in managing these services, the situation has not yet been resolved.

"We are concerned that the company that wins the contract will now wait for the new season in April" added the socialist councillor.

"This situation has generated an unequal experience for visitors on the different beaches in Orihuela Costa who do not understand and feel frustrated because they see how full services are being provided elsewhere while they are still waiting," commented García.

In addition, she demanded that the Councillor for Coasts, Manuel Mestre, comes forward and clearly explains what is happening with this lot, underlining the perception of abandonment and lack of transparency toward residents and tourists.

TORREVIEJA HOSPITAL ROAD WIDENING PLANNED

The long-standing traffic congestion at the Torrevieja Hospital junction is set to be addressed. After years of delays, the Valencia regional government has announced plans to widen the CV-95 road. The project, estimated to cost 167,585, aims to alleviate traffic and improve access for hospital patients.

Originally, the hospital builder was obligated to widen the road, but this was never enforced. The current administration has blamed the previous government for the oversight. However, critics point out that local officials from the current ruling party also held positions that could have prevented the issue.

Despite the political back-and-forth, the focus now shifts to resolving the traffic problem. Studies will be conducted to determine the best approach for the road widening project.

STUDIO 32 BROADWAY CHRISTMAS

Yes, it's started, the cast have their scripts, dancers are dancing, soloists are singing, tap dancers are clacking away, short of a bit of snow this production is under way. Big Broadway hit shows all there memorable musical hit stoppers, the Christmas ones are truly amazing and etch themselves into our minds for the fantasy of this special time. Our rehearsals are under way and these songs from the classic musicals have started to up lift our own hearts. It is a joy to be involved. Now we hope you will join us in the theatre at the end of November to be part of this show. Every age group will want to sing along with us, as the Muppets, Elf, Scrooge, Mr Fezziwig and many more characters take to the stage.

RENOVATION OF LA MATA PROMENADE

The renovation work to the pedestrian path along the La Mata seafront is taking shape and during August some sections will gradually be opened to the public, with the first stretch between las avenidas de los Europeos y Holandeses, 450 of the 1,300 metres opening this week

The total cost of the work was estimated at almost 4 million euros, but it is now expected to be modified upwards due to overruns.

The works will see the renovation of the 1,317 metre section that runs between the salt channel to the north of La Mata, passing through la plaza de EncarnaciÛn Puchol y la avenida de los Europeos to el Molino del Agua.

The path originally laid 25 years ago, now provides three meters of diaphanous walkway between the front-line homes and the beach, manufactured with 70% recycled pine wood products and 30% high density polyethylene.

It will also have new LED lighting to illuminate the seaside promenade after more than a decade of demands.

SHOWCASE...FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER...

Local actors, comedians, singers, drama, pantomime, musical theatre, dance and singing groups will be represented in a spectacular “Showcase” of comedy and entertainment to help a worthy charity, Paradise Rescue Kennels.

The event will be held on January 18th and 19th 2025 at 7.30pm, hosted by The Club Quesada

This is the vision of Susie Robinson. Bringing together local talent in one venue to “Showcase” the best of the best for worthy causes Susie said.

“We have an incredible variety of local talent, so what better way for them to “Showcase” themselves, than in a spectacular “variety/light-hearted” show. At the same time hopefully encouraging new members and reaching out to new audiences.

I have been so encouraged and thrilled by the positive response so far. Yes, it does sound ambitious and a long way off, but diaries quickly fill up, and many groups are already looking at next year's productions, so we need to get in there early, and get as many groups and local talent represented as possible.

It is joining together as ‘One Voice’ - we are all fundraisers and we love to entertain.

Watch this space for an incredible line up.!!!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have you and your group represented at such a unique and entertaining audience experience

Contact Susie on: Mob/WhatsApp 602 575 273

Email: cliveandsuerobinson89@gmail.com for details and info.

Kindly consider current column-content a chip of class …

The word ‘class’ gets circulated a lot. It can mean many different things to many different people. I suppose each one of us considers ourselves to be ‘a chip of class!’

Some aspects of our class society are easy enough to define. We have the ‘upper class’, ‘middle class’, ‘merchant classes’, ‘working class’ and so on. But who can say what constitutes ‘class’ in an ordinary person? We shall come back in a minute to look at ‘lack of class’; but to me class is a mix of small decent traits in a person that gives them an aura of ‘class.’ Class in human terms, rich or poor, is how one shows consideration to others and how we perceive ourselves. A person of class will act politely, exhibit good manners, demonstrate good breeding and behave according to the accepted norms of society. The modern class system – whilst it still exists

is more fluid and complex than bygone eras. Unfortunately race and colour still determines class in some areas.

During mass in St Camillus Nursing Centre, a few Sundays ago; a visiting priest, Father Paul Crosby from Trim, told a story about a friend of his who was in terrible pain with a back problem and was waiting on an operation. The married father of young children was devastated at the hospital desk when the consultant’s secretary told him there was a waiting list and it would be three months before he could get in for surgery. With that an elderly patient, a lady due to have the same operation the following week, stepped forward, excused herself, and asked if she could swop places with the younger man. How unusual was that? And it worked! Now, if I want to give you a definition of ‘class’ –that lady is it!

At one time class was generally understood to be just about good manners, but like a lot of words in everyday use, the meaning has changed – or at least widened over the years. Elegance, poise and sophistication will still universally generate the class compliment. But today the word can be used as a quick summary of anything from a good footballer, a new car, nice house, throwaway comment, or a good singer.

It probably is much easier to spot or define a ‘lack of class.’ Not having proper etiquette or sufficient social skills to maintain a sense of self-dignity is begging for that label. These people will be suspected of gossiping more than thinking and preferring trinkets over tenor.

A ‘lack of class’ will most often be demonstrated through rudeness, vulgarity and ‘in your face’ - with confrontation always being the first option. Like all manner of human deportment, class, or lack of it, isn’t always that easy to stick a label on – but you will just know the difference when you encounter it! Class should never be confused with wealth. There is an old saying, a favourite of my mother’s, which states; ‘Money doesn’t buy class!’ (I suppose that one is a good fall back line when you don’t have the money!) But it is nonetheless true. You can have all the money and be the biggest gobshite in town and be poor whilst displaying dignity and class. Donald Trump is my example for this paragraph.

Sport is a class act and no sport demonstrates class more than GAA. No matter how intense

the battle, hurling is played in an honest, manly manner. Mortal enemies become lifelong friends when the battles are over. How opposing hurling and football fans can mingle is held up as an example of class across the world. Most importantly of all, there is no class distinction in the GAA.

Golf too is an honorable game that oozes class - because like squash and a few other games, the players generally will call their own fouls. The worst thing that can be said about a man is that he cheats at golf! Then, no two games illustrate the gap in class more than rugby and soccer. One code respects the referee and the opposition and their supporters can mingle without any urge to fight the other team’s followers. Soccer on the other hand –apart from local clubs, can often be said to show the very worst signs of that ‘lack of class’ – where supporters would happily kill each other.

Around twenty years ago I heard an interview with the retired doorman of London’s Savoy Hotel. (I have previously quoted a line from this guy for you) Anyway, a ceist he was asked was, were celebrities offended when he didn’t recognize them at the door. His answer was pure class: ‘The ones that matter don’t mind and the ones that mind don’t matter!’

DON’T FORGET

A person should have enough class that he doesn’t feel he has to look up to anyone; he should also have enough to be wise enough not to look down on anyone.

The GAAmanifesto unveiled at Croke Park

LOS MONTESINOS INDEPENDENCE

July 30th was a very special date for the town of Los Montesinos,as it marked thirty-four years since the municipality gained its independence from Almoradí, which was granted on July 30th,1990 after years of tireless effort,dedication and work by all the citizens of Montesinos,and which became a reality through Decree 140/90 of the Generalitat Valenciana.

This was a milestone that was made possible thanks to those who worked hard to make it a reality. For this reason,on the occasion of this important date for the people of Montesinos,the Town Hall prepared a series of activities and special events, including free entry to the municipal swimming pool for all residents registered during on 30th of July. Also,during the previous weekend,the 2nd Craft Fair and the Cirmágico show were held,an event that mixed the circus with magic.

The culmination of the anniversary of segregation came on Tuesday when the Plaza Sagrado Corazón de Jesús hosted the performance of the zarzuela "La Tabernera del Puerto" performed by the lyrical group "Ciudad de Elda" and the Montesinos Musical Group.

FOUR INJURED IN TORREVIEJA COLLISION

BENEJÚZAR APPROVES 2024 BUDGET

The Municipal Plenary of the Benejúzar Town Council has given the green light to the General Budget Project for the financial year 2024. The sum amounts to 4,956,324 euros, and as stated by the mayor , Vicente Cases, "it is a budget governed by the control of public spending, responsible and balanced, but at the same time realistic and ambitious, adapted to the needs and interests of our residents".

He pointed out that this term, the government has given priority to investments related to essential services in the municipality, focusing on policies aimed at economic promotion, training for the unemployed, environmental protection, improving health, maintenance of cultural and sports facilities, and activities focused on social action, animal welfare, culture, sport and town planning as well as funding for social aid (PEIS), and school transport.”

Four people were injured in a serious traffic accident on Wednesday morning on Calle Joaquín Chapaprieta in the town centre. The incident took place at 05.40, when two vehicles collided. Two of the victims were trapped in their vehicles.

The Provincial firefighting teams, who arrived from Torrevieja station, used special rescue boards to free the trapped victims and prevent possible additional injuries. The team was made up of a Command and Leadership Unit (UMJ), a Heavy Urban Pump (BUP) and a Various Rescue Van (FSV), under the supervision of a sergeant, two corporals and six firefighters.

According to the Emergency Information and Coordination Centre (CICU), which received the call at 5.40am, the injured included two women aged 23 and 24 and two men aged 43 and 48. The CICU activated two Basic Life Support (BLS) units, which transferred the injured to Torrevieja Hospital with wounds and bruises. The rescue concluded at 6.38am.

CHS REMOVES 438 TONS OF WASTE FROM THE SEGURA RIVER IN FIVE MONTHS

Much of the waste recovere is plastic

The Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS) has removed a total of 438 tons of waste from the Segura riverbed and its surrounding areas, between January and May 2024.

The work has been carried out at five floating barriers installed by the Confederation between the province of Alicante (3) and the Region of Murcia (2) and 23 waste points in both regions, both by the environmental agents of the CHS and by groups of individuals or municialities authorised to do so .

Most of the waste corresponds to urban animal solids with 365.64 tons, followed by plant remains with 42.96 tons - the "bardomeras"animal remains with 830 kilos and hazardous waste with 460 kilos.

Although CHS does not provide detail, most of the solid waste collected is plastic containers, which are very polluting both in the river and on reaching the sea.

It is also reported that 20 per cent of the garbage poured into the river that arrives in the Vega Baja originates from the Region of Murcia.

ALICANTE FLIGHT DIVERTED TO BARCELONA

LOCAL HOLIDAYS

WEEK COMMENCING 5

AUGUST 2024

There are many local holidays scattered around the country, but in our area, Monday is the focus.

Monday 5 August 2024 – Aspe, Calpe, Hondon de las Nieves, Xàtiva.

Remember, the next national holiday, or red day, is 15 August, so a week on Thursday, which will also mean a long weekend for many who will taking a bridging day on the Friday.

A TUI Airlines flight from Alicante to East Midlands had to be diverted on Tuesday due to a passenger suffering a medical episode.

Flight BY7219, operated by a Boeing 737-800, took off from Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport as 12:43, and moments later requested an emergency diversion to Barcelona, where it given priority and landed at 13:32.

Medical crews were then able to attend to the passenger, said to be a child, who had suffered convulsions on board.

Fancy getting paid to shop at Zenia Boulevard

The Marbella based company focussed on Attitude Research and Management is recruiting for what could be a dream job for many, offering the chance to get paid to shop at the Zenia Boulevard.

Specifically, the job, which is listed on jobtoday.com, is for

a Mystery Shopper to target predominantly fashion and food stores at the centre.

The role is part-time, between 10 and 20 hours, at a rate of 20 to 30 euro per hour, although for some the fact that you must be “expert” in Spanish might be sticking point.

The company also has openings for Mystery Shoppers in other areas, but if you don’t qualify you can always role play and pretend you’re shopping trip is for quality assurance purposes, but if you do, please keep in mind that it is you that foots the bill!

Torrevieja street cleaners not ruling out strikes

Street cleaners in Torrevieja gathered in the town hall square last Monday, to protest the continual abuses of the multi-million-euro contractor ACCIONA.

Antonio Escamilla, representative of the UGTunion, led the complaints about the company and in particular the service in Torrevieja, for the ìserious breachesî, the ìlack of communicationî, along with the ìlack of personnel and resources that they have suffered from the beginningî of this now more expensive contract that is providing a worse service to the residents than ever before.

Despite attempts to rectify the situation, there has been no progress, and so, they do not rule out strikes if the situation does not change.

President of Valencia Community visits Pilar de la Horadada

The President of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón, has made an institutional visit to the Town Hall of Pilar de la Horadada where he held a meeting with its mayor, José María Pérez. During the meeting, various

issues regarding health and culture were addressed, as well as investments in infrastructure that the Generalitat has planned for the Vega Baja region.

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ACROSS ACROSS

7.Parentless child (6)

8.Mood (6)

10.Bridge (7)

11.Compel (5)

12.Unsightly (4)

13.Dwarf (5)

17.Emulsion (5)

18.Just (4)

22.Amulet (5)

23.Bauble (7)

24.Saga (6)

25.Watchword (6)

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.Self-important (7)

2.Shaft (7)

3.Claw (5)

4.Scent (7)

5.Jet (5)

6.Generate (5)

9.Insult (9)

14.Recompense (7)

15.Parcel (7)

16.Feign (7)

19.Chastise (5)

20.Guffaw (5)

21.Inane (5)

ANSWERS Week 1033

QUICK QUICK

ACROSS: 3 Fragrance; 8 Race; 9 Frivolous; 10 Nipple; 11 Snort; 14 Price; 15 Ease; 16 Tress; 18 Slab; 20 Poker; 21 Ladle; 24 Hiatus; 25 Maladroit; 26 Ovum; 27 Stratagem.

DOWN: 1 Transpose; 2 Sceptical; 4 Rare; 5 Given; 6 Allure; 7 Clue; 9 Fleet; 11 Sieve; 12 Talkative; 13 Wearisome; 17 Split; 19 Banana; 22 Larva; 23 Fast; 24 Hire. CR CR YPTIC YPTIC

ACROSS: ACROSS: 3 Speculate; 8 Okay; 9 Eavesdrop; 10 Sundry; 11 Utter; 14 Optic; 15 Rest; 16 Taboo; 18 Cede; 20 China; 21 Eaten; 24 Manila; 25 Statesman; 26 Acme; 27 Clergymen.

DOWN: DOWN: 1 Hopscotch; 2 Magnitude; 4 Play; 5 Cleft; 6 Ledger; 7 Trot; 9 Erect; 11 Urban; 12 Reminisce; 13 Stratagem; 17 Ocean; 19 Easter; 22 Essay; 23 Et al; 24 Made.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS ACROSS

7.It may remove the cap of the first batsman (6)

8.The boss put the mistake right (6)

10.Creature found in old pate? (7)

11.Delia could be perfect (5)

12.Arguments concerning lines (4)

13.In which you'll find maps of the mountains (5)

17.Boat that rights itself when capsized (5)

18 .Some fearless nobleman (4)

22.Language of the Chindits (5)

23.Clean up Arundel? (7)

24.English county sorted out (6)

25.Instance of eating out? (6)

DOWN DOWN

1.The stance of various troupes (7)

2.Fields mowed as ordered (7)

3 .Purport to be a singer (5)

4 .Money at the top of the column (7)

5.Frequently decimal? (5)

6.Bore with repetitious training exercises? (5)

9.Food made from stale lamb? (9)

14.Servicemen sorting out the remains (7)

15.Air-raid people doing conflict studies? (7)

16.Churchmen going round in circles? (7)

19.It may keep light away from heads somehow (5)

20.I change the rent by not moving (5)

21.Cower when getting the bird? (5)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 21)

1. The name for which treatment (or substance) is the Latin word for 'I shall please"?

2. The Duffle coat is named after the town Duffel. In which country is the town of Duffel located? a. France b. Holland c. Belgium d. Switzerland

3. Due to its acidic clouds, which planet reflects the most sunlight, thereby making it the brightest planet in our solar system?

4. Justin Henry was only 8 years old when he was Oscar nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Name the Oscar winning 1979 film in which he appeared.

5. What are the two most populated cities in South Korea?

6. Which popular edible product probably takes its name from the Spanish harbour Port Mahon?

7. Bobby Moore was the youngest England football captain with 22 years and 47 days. Who was the second youngest captain with 22 years and 125 days?

8. Which two singers had a 1981 number one hit song in the US charts with the numbers 9 and 5 somewhere in the song title?

9. In which Italian town was Leonardo da Vinci born?

10. What specifically connects the following countries: Luxembourg, Djibouti, San Marino and Singapore?

11. The Spanish word for 'dung' and the last name of a char-

acter in the film Dr. Strangelove. (five letters)

12. Our sun is 1,391,980 km in diameter. The largest known star is the red hypergiant Canis Majoris. Its diameter is what?

a. 3 million km b. 30 million km c. 300 million km d. 3 billion km

13. The following line, spoken by the twin ghosts known as the Grady girls, is from which classic horror film? "Come play with us Danny, forever, and ever and ever."

14. Which of the following rivers flows through the most German states? a: Oder, b: Rhein, c: Elbe or d: Main

15. The 'cinq positions des pieds' are the basics of what?

16. What is the only African country in which atmospheric nuclear tests have been carried out? a. Algeria b. South Africa c. Eritrea d. Sudan

17. In which epic film does Laurence Olivier play an historical character whose title when translated means "the expected one" or "the rightly-guided one"?

18. What speed does the car in Back to the Future have to reach in order to travel in time? (mph)

19. Between which two cities is the busiest international border crossing in North America located?

20. Starbucks coffee was named after a character in which classic book?

Alicante airport strikes throughout August

Staff working for the private security firm that operates at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez airport are continuing their strikes throughout August,having recommenced the industrial action this week.

The CCOO,USO,CSIF and UGT trade unions called on the more than 290 workers to a mobilisation with partial strikes planned which started on Wednesday, and will continue on 15th,16th,17th,18th,30th and 31st of August,due to the lack of agreement with the company that is the concessionaire of the airport security service.

Therefore,those who plan to travel by plane during these holidays should arrive at the airport with extra time to pass the control in time.

The planned hours of strikes will be one hour in the morning (from 08:30 to 09:30) and one hour in the afternoon (from 18:00 to 19:00).

Spanish military models on display

More than 500 figures recreate historical scenes from Spanish military history in an exhibition being held at the Vista Alegre Exhibition Hall in front of the Yacht Club.

With free entry, the exhibition will offer visitors an artistic and detailed look at crucial moments in Spanish military history.

Rafael Aracil Sala reflects his skill in modelling with the representation of emblematic scenes from the military history of Spain.

Aracil’s works are also in many prestigious military museums, such as the Army Artillery Museum in Cartagena, the Museum of the Military Emergency Unit at the Torrejón air base, Madrid, and the GAR Museum of the X Command of the Civil Guard in Logroño.

In this exhibition, you will find models depicting: Blue Division, Marine Corps, Spanish Civil War, Sahara War, Paratroops, Civil Guard, Air Force, Transport, Spanish Navy, Artillery

Woman rescued after Los Balcones Embankment Fall

According to the firefighters, the scene of the incident was in an area of ??difficult access and had a very steep slope. Once rescued, the woman, who was suffering from bruises, was treated on the spot by a Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance crew.

Members of the Provincial Fire Department rescued a woman who fell down an embankment in the Los Balcones of Torrevieja.

Can I Drive at 55 kmph in a 50 Zone Without Being Fined?

This is a common question that occurs frequently and has been brought back into the limelight due to the increase in the number of speed cameras being installed on the road network in Spain, but the simple answer is no, you cannot drive at 55 kilometres per hour in a 50 zone and not get fined.

It’s myth busting time again, and this belief that you are allowed to exceed the speed limit before you get fined is exactly that, a myth, but it is a myth which is based on something factual and somewhat scientific,

known as the margin of error.

For the purpose of simplicity, we are using 50 kilometres per hour throughout this article, but the principle applies at all speeds. To demonstrate the proof of what we are saying, look at the table of fines provided by the DGT in their Know Your Traffic Laws leaflet, and you can clearly see, for a 50 kilometre per hour limit road, the fine is issued at 51 kilometres per hour. Not 56, or 58, or any other variation, but 51.

It is true that speed cameras are set at a slight-

ly higher limit than the road, an amount which is irrelevant so we will not reveal that, but it is not so that you are allowed to exceed the speed limit, it is because your speedometer is most likely showing the incorrect speed. There are two reasons we will explain that contribute to this, and apologies to any experts in the mathematical field, we admit that we are simplifying this for the purpose of offering an explanation, but the first thing we have to tell you is that irrespective of the speed your vehicle is travelling, there is one

part (or four parts usually to be exact) which is not moving at all. That is the part of the tyre in contact with the road. If it were moving, you would be skidding. There is also the opposite at the top of the wheel, where the speed is doubled. This actual speed also changes based on wheel size, which includes over or under inflated tyres, for example, and even the turn circle, going over bumps, the weight of the load, there are many different factors that constantly change the actual speed the vehicle is moving.

The second problem, under EU law, speedometers must never underreport a vehicle's speed. It is however permitted to over report the speed, to an extent, but never under. Therefore, in theory, you should never be driving at a speed faster than what the speedo says.

Some vehicles, such as certain HGV’s or buses, have their speedometer calibrated, although this calibration has to be carried out frequently to ensure accuracy, but for the vast majority of vehicles they are not, and so, the speed you see on your speedo is highly likely to be wrong. It might only be out by a few kilometres per hour, although the gap increases with speed, but the reality is this is the reason why there is a margin of error set in the cameras. Not to allow you to speed, but to allow for these anomalies mentioned.

Incidentally, if you are thinking that the GPS or mapping speed might be more accurate, it isn’t. So, the solution, is stay within the maximum permitted speed, or slower, as speed limits are maximums and not targets.

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 an attractive 2019 Ford Ecosport at just 21,900e Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See 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

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 programme 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. More info from Eva or Norah. in the cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help with 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 in La Siesta , ring 966 786 887 or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es 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 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373

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

Retired former UK Military and Policeman looking for a long term rental in the area from August. I am a non smoker & prefer somewhere with a pool. Please call 711049995 or reply by email to johnmdonaldson@yahoo.com

Record number of drownings in Province of Alicante

Between May and July, eighteen people have drowned in the province of Alicante, more than in the whole of 2023 when the total for the year was 17, according to data from the Spanish Federation of Rescue and Lifeguarding. They are all victims in aquatic spaces, from swamps to swimming pools and the sea of course, but in the case of the province the majority are recorded in the latter.

When explaining the causes, experts from the federation point to the increase in the occupation of the coast with the same lifeguard service despite the rise. They demand that the administrations now increase human and material resources, with an increase in surveillance, extension of the hours of the rescue personnel during the summer, starting the service earlier and lengthening it in the afternoon, due to the increased number of deaths by drowning in supervised spaces outside the established hours.

They also want surveillance extended beyond the summer season in a region with increasingly more months of good weather and more people bathing in the sea in spring, autumn and even winter, introducing minimum coverage in restricted areas, equipping each post with a watchtower and rescue equipment to ensure that those who do go to bathe can do so safely.

The first half of June was by far the worst period on the beaches of Alicante, with twelve victims, during

a period before the lifeguard service was introduced.

It was eventually activated in July, but still, just last week a couple drowned in Guardamar and on Sunday they were followed by two more deaths, one on the beaches of El Campello and another in Pilar de la Horadada. In addition, an 80-year-old woman died on Monday while bathing on a beach in Torrevieja that didn’t have a lifeguard service.

Alberto García Sanz, director of the Spanish School of Lifesaving and First Aid, says that "the increase in tourism means a greater risk of deaths by drowning." According to García, people bathe more when there is no surveillance than in unsupervised areas.

"In most beaches in the province of Alicante there are usually lifeguards, but they are only present during peak hours."

He points out that more and more people are arriving at the beach as early as 7 or 8 in the morning.

"These people are in the water before the lifeguard service arrives and they don't know if there is a red, yellow or green flag; or if there are currents that are likely to drag them out into the sea, with no one around to help."

He also added that “the Spanish economy is largely supported by tourism, so we need to take measures to ensure that this does not happen. However, safety in the aquatic environment is not being increased proportionally, nor are the resources that should be available in these environments."

Lifeguards usually work between 10am and 6pm before and after which there are still many thousands of holidaymakers bathing in the sea.

CAN THE NEW GOVERNMENT RECONNECT BROKEN BRITAIN?

There have been some horrific news stories coming out of the UK over the past fortnight - mindless violence, the lack of morality and the simple care for others, demonstrating just how appallingly bad Britain has sunk.

Obviously the worst was the unbelievable news of the stabbing of young children in a dance fun club in Southport when three were killed under the knife of a deranged, black 17-year-old.

But first I am going to highlight the most dreadful lack of care at an A&E department in a hospital in Nottingham. A 39-year-old mother of two, called 111 complaining of severe headache, neck pain and blurred vision.

She was advised to go to the hospital, which she did, but it was busy. She arrived at 11.30pm, and was seen by hospital staff who decided it was not serious and she was asked to wait. However, did not respond three times when she was called between 4.30am and 6.50am, having been assessed again around 2am. Stupidly, staff registered her as having discharged herself, but 10 minutes later she was found slumped on the floor, with a coat over her head.

In fact she was suffering from a brain bleed, and she should have been rushed immediately into a ward. Had that happened far quicker, she would probably have survived. She died days later from a brain aneurysm. Sadly there have been the usual platitudes from the hospital trust, and the coroner, at an inquest, registered that “opportunities were missed”. These severe failings were under the last government’s watch which, as anyone with any sense knew, put more value on maintaining and encouraging private health care than enabling the NHS to adequately cope with the demands put on it.

Failure to quickly deal with industrial disputes and allowing endless strikes which achieved nothing other than hugely extending waiting lists, speaks volumes.

The sad death of this patient who was denied urgent medical care has great relevance to my wife and me, because a partner of relative suffered a similar severe headache and whose partner called for an ambulance to take her to a hospital in Manchester. It took 7 hours to arrive.

Tony Mayes Rant

According to new research, a layer of diamonds up to 18 kilometres(11 miles) thick coud be tucked below the surface of Mercury.

By then she was in an extremely bad state and when medics saw her they were very concerned. It was discovered that she too had a brain bleed, and they transferred her to a specialist hospital where she underwent an operation on her brain.

She has spent the last 10 months in hospital, and only now has been been taken to a care home where she can get more mental and physical stimulation; being taken on shopping trips and other excursions.

She still has a tracheotomy and is very frail. Ironically she used to be a nurse. Let’s hope that the new government gets the NHS back to the state the Labour NHS founder anticipated.

SOUTHPORT RIPPED APART

I now turn to that most appalling atrocity in Southport, the stabbing by a black teenager wielding a curved kitchen knife, of young children, leaving three fatally injured, eight others injured, five critically, plus two adults who were trying to protect the terrified youngsters.

Arrested shortly afterwards was a 17-year-old youth born in Cardiff, Wales, of parents who came from Rwanda, East Africa. What possessed him to target the Taylor Swift Yoga and Dance Workshop aimed at children aged between primary school years two and six (seven to 11 years old) we, as yet don’t know. That will become clear when he appears at his trial. What has happened so far is that he has been named as Axel Muganwa Rudakubana – a judge on Thursday lifting reporting restrictions because he is only a few days away from his 18th birthday when he could legally be named and because the lack of information was allowing speculation that the accused was an illegal immigrant. The prime minister visited Southport earlier this week, and was met with comments from anxious parents, asking such things as “who

will be next” and “what are you going to do about it?” Valid questions. Misinformation on social media suggested the attacker was a Muslim illegal immigrant and what followed was an appalling wave of violence, firstly outside a Southport Mosque, with thugs, several armed with machetes, trying to break into and damage the building. and also in Whitehall, Manchester and other cities, leading to many police being injured. This outpouring of mass violence is testament to the very strong feelings against illegal immigration.

I do not agree with much of the Reform party’s and Farage’s utterances, but I do agree with him when he says that Britain has imported people who do not share British values and some even wish the country harm. The suspect was born in Britain, but it is obvious that he must have been radicalized to carry out such an atrocity.

All we have heard so far from the government is that police must helped to combat mass civil disorder as have seen in the past week. All very well, but Britain desperately needs a government which does not push the immigration problem into the long grass, or turn a blind eye because it is too difficult to take on the human rights brigade. Otherwise, those fears expressed by Stockport mothers will become an increasing reality, perhaps, as a start, Britain needs to throw out of the country all foreigners who have committed offences which carry a punishment of 6 months or more.

I have no doubt that there is considerable support throughout Europe for combined action to put an end to mass illegal immigration. It’s far too easy for an economic migrant, or someone fleeing from justice in their own country to slip into Britain, and end up being seriously radicalized.

Sadly there is anger bubbling not far from the surface throughout Britain, caused because so

much money is being spent on immigrants at the expense of British people who, for years have been faced with a continuing cost of living crisis.

And another aspect which must not go unchecked is the role of social media. Time for it to be far more controlled.

UNDERLYING TENSIONS

I mentioned earlier it has been a terrible time for appalling news in the UK. Another was the dreadful scene at Manchester Airport when we saw pictures of a police officer stamping on and kicking the head of a man lying prone on the ground.

What wasn’t shown was what led up to the incident. Police later showed footage of a serious affray between a group of men of Asian origin and police, in which a number of officers were injured, including a police woman who suffered a broken nose.

It’s another example of the underlying tensions building up in Britain, which no way can be described as being a happy place currently.

MERCURY’S 10 MILE THICK LAYER OF DIAMONDS

And finally, on a far happier note, we know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and scientists believe there are huge volumes of diamonds...on Mercury.

Sadly, they are well beyond reach for many years. The small planet is a long way away, it’s close to the sun and so hot that metals melt and when it gets dark temperatures drop to almost absolute zero. And to make it even more difficult, the diamond belt is a long way under the surface of the planet. Star Trek crew or the crew of Voyager where are you?

ADAPTing to Amateur Dramatics in August

Who in their right mind would be thinking about pantomime during the heat of the summer? Well someone has to and the ADAPT Theatre Group is quietly building up to start our rehearsals at the end of August.

The summer is also a perfect time to reflect on everything being in the group means to us, not just acting on stage but also enjoying each others’ company. Many of us have come to “amdram” later in life and in many cases it has opened up a new world of selfexpression and self-development!

As Jan (our resident “baddie”) says:

“Discovering amateur dramatics has been a life-changer for me. I have a hobby that I love, I have made so many good friendships ... my biggest regret is that I should have started AmDram in my 20s”

Jan’s words are echoed by Gill (Peter Pan, Geppetto ...) “I may have needed help getting “over the hill” but being in panto makes me 30 years old all over again!”

One of our founder members, Enid (Blue fairy, Wendy and many other roles) sums it up like this: “A new interest and new

Characters in the short play “The Audition”

friends. A lifesaver for me when my husband died. Forever grateful.”

In addition to our annual bilingual pantomime performed in San Pedro del Pinatar, we have had fun with shorter plays for the

Official Language school in San Javier. Here is a picture of our play “The Audition”

To find out more about the Adapt Theatre Group visit: https://adapttheatregroup.wordpress.com/ or phone Eric on 656 361 098

SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

SUDUK

QUIZ FROM P 14:

1.Placebo, 2.Answer c.Belgium, 3.Venus, 4.Kramer vs Kramer, 5.Two answers.Seoul and Busan (formerly Pusan), 6.Mayonnaise, 7.Michael Owen (England 4 Paraguay 0, 17 April, 2002), 8.Two answers.Dolly Parton (9 to 5) and Sheena Easton (Morning Train (9 to 5)), 9.Vinci.10. The capital city is the same name as the country.11.Guano (Colonel Bat Guano).12.Answer d.3 billion km.13.The Shining.14.c:Elbethrough seven German states (Bundesländer).15.Classical ballet.16. Answer a.Algeria (France tested nuclear weapons in the Sahara between 1960-1961).17.Khartoum (Olivier plays the 'Mahdi').18.88 miles per hour.19.Detroit and Windsor Ontario (The Ambassador Bridge).20.Moby Dick (after the name Pequod was rejected by some of the co-founders.The company was instead named after the chief mate on the

ONE EURO CHALLENGE FOR UKRAINE Rally to demand more Police in Guardamar del Segura

Blue Angels ES2UA and Krasa Eventos are working together to raise funds to buy a replacement van that will replace the previous one donated to the frontline last July. This donation was urgently required to get injured defenders from the frontline to hospitals. But, also assist in evacuating civilians to safer areas away from combat and missile zones.

All we are asking is just e1 (less than a coffee). Payment can be made to PayPal @dvdlongworth@gmail.com or Bizum 615 623 847.

Also, a forthcoming event on the 24th August.

Singers/Entertainers are invited to come and do a slot of no more than 30 minutes. Free of charge to make the event into an International show of solidarity for Ukraine.

Any Entertainers interested in giving their service freely can contact Krasa Eventos via email krasaeventos@gmail.com.

As it is increasingly hard trying to raise funds, sadly, this war is NOT over.

We appreciate people are also facing money constraints due to rising prices everywhere.

Just 1 can help us achieve our goal

of a minimum. e5,000 So far we have raised e1,295.61 towards the vehicle.

On Friday morning the square in the centre of Guardamar del Segura hosted a rally in which support was given to the Local Police and the Civil Guard as participants demanded an increase of officers for both security forces.

The rally, convened by the Federation of Public Employees Unions (FESEP), was aimed to make visible the lack of personnel that both forces currently suffer as they "attempt to face and protect the free exercise of citizens' rights and freedoms."

The protest took place in the context of the labour conflict that is already taking place between the local police staff and the government team due to both their lack of personnel and the conditions in which they carry out their daily work.

The limitations of the local police force have on several occasions led to the closure of the local police station at night in June and July. The agents refused to perform overtime while their working conditions continue to be unacceptable in a municipality with 18,000 registered inhabitants that reaches 80,000 in August due to the tourist influx.

Two motions have been submitted to the plenary which remain unapproved, the payments nightshifts and holidays and an increase in the number of agents in the complement.

The motions are being supported by all the political formations of the left and right opposition: PP, Vox and the United Left.

Pequod, Starbuck)
Guardamar Police protesting in the Guardamar Plenary

All Change for National Lawn Bowls Squad

2024 has seen a massive change in the way the Spanish squad operates. 3 Regional co-ordinators from Valencia, Almeria and Andalucia now report back to the Team Manager “Ruth Compton” Individual Trials and training camps are held regionally in these areas and a National Camp is held annually to assess and confirm the squad members for the following year.

The playing uniform has also been updated bringing Spain forward into the modern era with new a sublimated kit.

With the next World Bowls Championships a long-term goal, Spain are well represented around the World this Year firstly with Pete & Lisa Bonsor competing in Guernsey at the World Indoor Championships, Singles & Mixed Pairs.

Pete performed well reaching the Quarter Final narrowly losing to the eventual winner Jason Greenslade representing his newly adopted country, Guernsey.

September sees a return of the European Championships in Ayr, at the last ones in 2022 Spain were once again “voodoed” when this time Covid hit the camp and all momentum was lost.

Notable points were, the Mens fours defeated Silver medallists Ireland and the Mens pairs who missed out on a medal by 1 Point.

This year sees 7 Players from the Valencian region coupled with 3 Players from Almeria make the trip to Northfield Bowling Club in Ayr, Scotland. The dates of play are 2nd Sept to the 8th September and Spain are entered in all 4 disciplines.

Mens Squad: Pete Bonsor (Singles & Triples)

Alan Bannister (Triples & Fours)

Andy Miles (Pairs & Fours)

Tony Mason (Triples & Fours)

Dave Morrison (Pairs & Fours)

Ladies Squad:Lisa Bonsor (Singles & Pairs)

Jenny Thompson (Triples & Fours)

Dee Hamilton (Triples & Fours)

Debbie Perryman (Pairs & Fours)

Lorna Cormack (Triples & Fours)

on Monday morning the 9th of September and driving for 28 hours to arrive back just in time for the start of the Valencian Championships where they have had great success in recent years. Maybe 2 weeks in “Bonny” Scotland on real grass will take some time for them to re-adjust?

The Spanish team are also playing the first World Bowls approved “Test Match” on Spanish soil (carpet) for a number of Years against Switzerland. This will be held on October the 15th at Benitachell Bowls Club. This should be a great event and spectators/supporters are more than welcome.

In November Richard “Freddie” Willey will be pulling on the Spanish Shirt for the first time in the World Champion of Champion at “Browns Bay Bowling Club” in Auckland New Zealand. Freddie has family out there and will be gone for a few weeks, we wish him luck.

2025 events will include World Indoor Singles & Mixed Pairs, World Champion of Champions, Atlantic Senior Fours, Malaga Test Match and much more.

The squad is completely “Self Funded.” Players’ using their own monies have successfully represented Spain at the last 5 World Championships and numerous other events Worldwide. Your support is appreciated and as a squad we are always looking for new members who want to progress in our game. For players in the Valencian region please do not hesitate to contact Pete Bonsor peteandlisab onsor@hotmail.com to discuss your pathway to play for Spain.

SERENITY INSURANCE DARTS LEAGUE AGM

This years AGM will take place at the Tipsy Toad, El Galan on Thursday 15th August. Registration of existing teams and entry fees for season 2024 / 25 is from 700pm, meeting commences 8-00pm. Any new teams wishing to enter should contact Simone de Lacy on 600 980 744 prior to the 15th for relevant information.

Existing teams / captains are reminded to forward any proposals for change of rules, by Thursday 8th August.

Proposals not received by this date will be ineligible for voting purposes.

The new season is anticipated to commence early October. Entry forms with relevant information are currently in circulation and must be presented with relevant fees on 15th August.

The photo above shows the winners of the Ladies Pairs, Bliss Wright and Chelsea Campbell while left is the Menís Singles Champion, James Brown.

YOUR DREAM HOME SUMMER POOL LEAGUE

BUNGALOW DIVISION WEEK 12

Bar Rambla Red8-1CC's

Havana Habaneros7-2Thistle & Rose Blue

Thistle & Rose Red3-6Bar Rambla Blue Tipsy Cow6-3Echos

The One Bar2-7Maschis

P W Agg Pts

Havana Habaneros12103820

Bar Rambla Red **12113420

Maschis1292418

Thistle & Rose Blue **1281414

CC's125-1410

Tipsy Cow124-108

Bar Rambla Blue **125-128

Thistle & Rose Red123-206

The One Bar123-226

Echos122-324

** deducted 2 points (not adhering to league rules)

PENTHOUSE DIVISION WEEK

12

Firestation Redwatch7-2Arianaz

Kaceys6-3Courtyard B

Courtyard A6-3Firestation Bluewatch

Tipsy Toad8-1Mickeys Bar

Sports Bar3-6New Tavern

P W Agg Pts

Tipsy Toad12124424

Firestation Redwatch12115622

Courtyard A1282016

Firestation Bluewatch1281816 Kaceys126-212

Sports Bar125610

New Tavern124-208 Arianaz123-326

Mickeys Bar122-344

Courtyard B121-562

SPURS PLAYER ON THE MOVE TO ELCHE

Spurs have reached agreement with Spanish Segunda Division side Elche for the permanent transfer of Yago Santiago.

Having joined the club at the start of the 2019/20 season from hometown club Celta Vigo in Spain, Yago initially linked up with the Under-18s before progressing through the ranks to become a regular for the Under-21side. Helping Wayne Burnett’s side to the Premier League 2 league and play-off double last season with 17 goal involvements, Yago featured amongst the substitutes in five competitive first team matches during his time in north London, firstly in the 4-1 win over Leeds United on the final day of the 2022/23 season before being named in the matchday squads for the Premier League visits to Manchester City, Brighton and Manchester United, plus the home FA Cup fourth round tie with City, last term. Spurs ended their press release by wishing Yago all the best for the future.

The seven players from this region will be straight into their cars
Spain new shirt

PILAR DE LA HORADADA SEGREGATION

GOLF TOURNAMENT - LO ROMERO

For 7 years we have been celebrating independence it in the best way, combining sport, health and solidarity. The practice of the best golf exercised in an environment preserved embraced by the social responsibility that this sport provides with its 100% charitable character.

In the most recent tournament, a total of 96 players took part, donating 7,200 EURO to the Spanish Association for the Fight Against Cancer (AECC) by course owner Don Victoriano Jiménez and the mayor Don José María Pérez. It was received by Mrs. Emilia Sánchez, president of the AECC of Pilar de la Horadada in the presence of the provincial president of the AECC Mr. Fermín Crespo and the sports councillor Mr. José Antonio Martínez.

The participants were divided into two stableford categories, although there was also an award for

the player with the lowest score, winning the scratch prize. In addition, there were many other interesting prizes for the participants, including an annual season ticket in Lo Romero Golf for the winners of each category and for the scratch prize, and a 6-month season ticket for the second placed golfers.

Category 2 second place - 6 months birdie card season ticket

Adolfo García Albaladejo - 43 points -

Winner 2nd category - 6 months

Eagle card membership - Eric Fjallman - 43 points

Category 1 second place - 1 year birdie card season ticket - Ángel Estudillo - 40 points

Winner 1st Category - Eagle Card 1 year - Michel Bates - 41 points

Winner scratch - 1 year eagle card - Carl Fjallman - 70 points

Other prizes included nearest the pins, as well as the longest and the most accurate drive on a par 5.

The players enjoyed a paella and refreshing drinks after the tournament.

7,200 EURO was raised for the Spanish Association for the Fight Against Cancer (AECC)
A total of 96 players took part in the tournament

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