Extinguished Firefighters Club - Spain

2012 Meetings

ASK31

Indian Restaurant

Bar & Tapas

Playa Flamenca

DAMO’S

IRISH PUB

Via Park III, Los Altos

Live Entertainment

Saturday’s

from 9.30pm

Every Sunday

from 8.30pm

Fun Quiz

Jackpot rising every week

Every day

all your sports shown on our

5 plasma screens

Spud Murphy’s menu available

when Spud Murphy’s are open

Wanted

Motor Bike -

Honda CB450 or 550.

Any condition, anywhere. complete or parts.

Mail me on davedanie@gmail.com

Next Meeting

Lo Marabu Bar Restaurant

Quesada

off the Lemon Tree Road in Dona Pepa,

between the Euromarina Offices and Bankinter.

Thursday

1 March 2012

15:00

Events

2 December

Iain opened the meeting with a few words in tribute to Brian Willoughby who sadly died last month, Iain made reference to Brians loyalty and regular attendance at Extinguished Firefighters meetings and socials, and told the members that both he and Chris Graham had spoken with Brians widow Pam following the funeral, and assured her that if there was ever anything we could help her with, not to hesitate to contact us, and also that she would always be welcome at any of our events. All present raised their glasses in memory of Brian.

Iain asked those attending the Christmas dinner and social at Lo Marabu to ensure that their menu requirements were passed to him as soon as possible and no later than Monday 13th December.
Numbers now attending is 31, so it should be an enjoyable evening.

Iain reminded everyone that we will be holding a raffle at the event and asked that those attending provide a raffle prize, the proceeds from the raffle will be added to the existing sum raised earlier in the year plus the personal donations that members pledged earlier in the year. Dave Pare agreed to collect the personal donations on the night. Dave Bruce donated 65.04 euros at the meeting. It is anticipated that a sizeable amount will be raised for APANEE.

Iain invited new members Roy and Mick to introduce themselves and welcomed them both to the meeting.

A question was asked regarding the collection of monies on behalf of AECC, as nothing has been heard from AECC for a few months. Iain agreed to contact Jennie Mutter for more information.

At 1525 Iain left the meeting leaving Dave Graham to conduct the remainder of the afternoon.

Next Meeting in Lo Marabu at 1500 on Thursday 6th January 2011.
Merry Christmas and a Peaceful, Prosperous New Year.

4 November

The November meeting took place in Lo Marabu, Dona Pepa, with a welcome return from the UK and other places for a few members. Their return recorded the best turn out for many months and bodes well for the Winter season.
In addition to the usual stalwarts we had two potential new members following the recent press release, with Alex Harvie formerly of Dorset Fire Service and Pete Coles most recently of North Wales Fire Service joining us for the first time.
Alex and Pete gave a brief resume of their service and were welcomed by us all. Unfortunately for Iain, Pete recounted a tale of ye olde tymes gone by and although Pete barely scratched the surface, he awakened a few other stories in Iains' mind for future use when backed into a corner.

Dave G raised the issue of our Christmas away trip to Benidorm, and due to unforeseen difficulties it was agreed to postpone the event.

Our Christmas Night Out has been arranged and will take place in Lo Marabu on Friday 17th December 2010, at 1930 for 2000.

Three Course Dinner with wine.....priced around 18-20 euros pp.(all prices and menus will be confirmed before our December meeting)

Live entertainment .

Members are encouraged to invite friends, Please confirm names and numbers at the December meeting.

Iain raised the issue of fund raising for APANEE, a number of our members have pledged to save 1.00 euro/week this past year, for APANEE which when added to the existing funds raised at previous raffles, and any funds raised at the Christmas Night Out, could come to a substantial sum. Iain agreed to meet with APANEE to determine if there was anything that we could buy for them to improve their existing facilities. At the meeting Iain gratefully received 20.00 euros from Alex for APANEE.

It was suggested, and agreed that each couple attending could bring a raffle prize which was agreed, comment was made that if a member wins a prize then they should accept the prize, as notoriously our Dave G gave up a very tasty box of expensive biscuits only for another member to win and thoroughly enjoy, mmmmmm. Thanks Dave G.

All members and potential members are encouraged to check out www.ex-fire.co.uk and click on the Extinguished Firefighters page for up to date information.

7 October

The extinguished firefighters held their October meeting in their new meeting venue, Lo Marabu in Dona Pepa on Thursday 7th October which was well attended, with a number of members having returned from UK.
In the absence of Dave G, Iain opened the meeting by welcoming everyone, with special welcomes to Dougie and Rob who have returned to the Costa Blanca following Summer in the NE of England. Iain also made a special welcome to Brian and Pam and on behalf of the Club wished Brian a full and speedy recovery from his impending surgery at Hospital in Benidorm.
Iain informed the meeting that since our last meeting he had visited Emmerson at the Courtyard and had informed him that we were now meeting at Lo Marabu, Iain passed on Emmersons remarks to the meeting.
Iain confirmed that the October Social had been arranged for 14 people in Sinfonia de Roma this Saturday at 2000 hrs.
Dave G arrived and was able to update the meeting on plans for the Benidorm Trip for Christmas, nothing has been confirmed yet re dates and costings but Dave will report back shortly.
Long time member Maggie arrived at the meeting and joined in the general discussion round the table.
Iain asked the meeting to consider what use the charity funds raised for APANEE should best be put to. Iain will invite suggestions at the November meeting.

The next meeting will be held at Lo Marabu on Thursday 4th November 2010 at 1500 hrs.

2 September

The September meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters was held in Lo Marabu Bar Restaurant in Dona Pepa, Quesada.

Dave G opened the meeting by welcoming everyone.
Dave informed us of the plans for our pre Christmas event, he has arranged for two nights full board all inclusive at the Hotel Flamingo in Benidorm, arriving at the Hotel on Friday 3rd December departing Sunday 5th December. The cost of the event is 37 euros per person per night. For those of us not afraid of the odd risque joke Dave is also going to arrange tickets for a show to see the Bluest comedian on the Costa Blanca, Alby Senior!!!! not for the faint hearted.
Anyone wanting to go to Benidorm should contact Dave G before or at the next meeting and be ready to pay a deposit. According to Andy there is more than one Hotel Flamingo in Benidorm so Dave will ensure we all get the correct directions.

Iain brought the meeting up to date with the reason for the change of meeting place for this meeting, and suggested that now might be a convenient time to permanently move away from the Courtyard. After much discussion about new venues we agreed that for the foreseeable future we would relocate to Lo Marabu, Iain had a brief discussion with Dave and Julie, the owners of Lo Marabu and they are delighted to welcome the Extinguished Firefighters to their hostelry.
Dave tasked Iain to be the member to tell Emmerson at the Courtyard, thanks Dave.

Dave told the meeting that he did not have a recent report on the welfare of our member Brian Willoughby but would phone him very soon.
Iain asked for everyone who was willing to help with the issue and collection of charity collection cans on behalf of AECC for their details in order that we can be briefed by AECC on our duties. Well done to all who volunteered.

Iain invited those wishing to attend the Lions Club Mad Hatters Tea Party, at Casa La Pedrera, on 26th September to purchase tickets for the event, well done to everyone who bought tickets. Any one else wishing tickets can contact Iain or Dave D, tickets cost 5 euros which gains entry for 1 adult and 1 child free. for more information visit www.torreviejacostalions.org or see your local press. All funds raised are going to APANEE the Torrevieja disabled childrens charity.

Malcolm has volunteered to organise our next social event in one of three restaurants in San Miguel, as soon as the venue is known everyone will be informed. Saturday 11th September at 2000 hrs, more to follow shortly.

OUR NEXT MEETING WILL BE ON THURSDAY 7TH OCTOBER IN LO MARABU, DONA PEPA, QUESADA at 1500hrs

5 August

The August monthly meeting was held as usual in the Courtyard on Thursday 5th August. The turnout was lower than usual due to a number of members being back in UK others having visitors from UK and of course Brian is still recuperating from his recent hospitalisation.
Dave G opened the meeting by welcoming everyone including two former Essex firefighters visiting for the first time.

Dave G updated everyone on the health and welfare of Brian and we wish Brian every success with his planned surgery in the immediate future.

Iain thanked Dave D for organising our July night out at Casa Nicolas and also for having the photographs forwarded to our web page on www.ex-fire.co.uk , notoriety does not come easily.

Iain asked if any members would be willing to assist AECC with lifting collection tins currently in Bars/Restaurants throughout the area. I t would be ideal if those volunteers were able to collect in their local communities to save one person driving round all the collection points. Dave G said that as long as we had means of identification from AECC then he and others would be happy to assist

Dave G informed the meeting that he was planning the August night out at a Spanish Restaurant in San Fulgencio on Saturday 14th August at 20:00 hrs. 15 already committed to going, contact Dave G for final details/directions etc.

Dave G spoke briefly regarding our Christmas venture to Benidorm and will report back in September re more details.

The meeting finally closed with mine host Emmerson giving Dave G the keys to the Bar and asking him to lock up when we left.

Iain would like thank Dave G and Andy Colqhoun for assisting with the house removal of Jan and Eddie from Los Montesinos to Playa Flamenca on Sunday 8th, much appreciated and in the true tradition of the Fire Service.

Next meeting will be in the Courtyard on Thursday September 2nd 2010 at 1500hrs

1 July

The monthly meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters was held on Thursday 1st July in The Courtyard, Quesada. Numbers attending were down mainly due the fact that a substantial number of our members have escaped to the UK to avoid the now hot Costa Blanca Summer, and others who have been invaded by visiting family and friends trying to escape the vagaries of the British weather.

Before the meeting commenced there was a lot of "Friendly banter" regarding the recent demise into oblivion of Fabio and his boys, It must be said that most of the mickey taking was well received and gave Iain and fellow Scot Andy the opportunity to redress "1966 and all that" with memories of the day in 1967 that Scotland became unofficial World Champions when they beat the "Auld Enemy" on the hallowed Wembley turf.

The meeting commenced with Dave G updating the members on progress regarding our Christmas adventure to Benidorm which is scheduled for the last week November/First week December, estimated cost of 130.00 euros for three days/two nights inclusive of all meals and drinks, early indications are that there are ten couples attending, more details will follow in September.

Dave G gave an update on the health and welfare of our good friend and colleague Brian Willoughby following his recent stays in Torrevieja Hospital, and intimated that Brian and Pam will be going on the Benidorm trip. Good luck Brian and have an early return to full health.

Iain informed the meeting that he had been in conversation with Graham Knight regarding the official opening of the new Torrevieja Fire Station. The new station pump room is now housing the appliances but the old station is still standing so no date is yet available, Graham did say however that any announcement may be made at very short notice, watch out for any news in your e mail system or by checking the website www.ex-fire.co.uk click on Extinguished Firefighters.

Iain informed the meeting that he had tried to contact member Tim following the last meeting, however had received no reply from Tim. Dave D reported that he still had a polo shirt for Tim.

Andy reported no change in the situation regarding the Pensions Ombudsmans review of the Firemans`Pension Scheme.

Dave D reminded everyone of our forthcoming social evening on Saturday 10th July, arriving after 1900 hrs for pre dinner drinks, with dinner at 2000hrs in Casa Nicolas, next to the CV 905 the Crevillente- Torrevieja Road. Anyone not already booked can do so by contacting Dave D directly or by e mail on davedanie@gmail.com indications are that there are currently 12 going to Casa Nicolas

The next general Club meeting will be on Thursday August 5th at 1500 in the Courtyard, Quesada, new members guests etc all welcome.

3 June

Dave G opened the meeting with an update on the health and welfare of our colleague and good friend Brian Willoughby. Brian has suffered a mild heart attack but is now showing signs of a good recovery in Torrevieja Hospital. The members wish him a speedy recovery and his name is top of the list for our Christmas celebration in Benidorm.

Our June social event was discussed and due to some football tournament taking place in S.Africa the numbers attending the event will be lower than normal, however the event will still go ahead as planned.

Our July Social will take place on Saturday 10th July and will be at Casa Nicolas Restaurante, 1900 for 1930, for drinks on the terrace followed by a meal with wine, priced at 10.99 euros, which includes entertainment. Thanks to Dave D for organising.

Dave G reminded everyone of the planned event pre Christmas in Benidorm, the meeting agreed unanimously that Dave should go ahead and come back with prices etc for the next meeting.

Andy informed the members of the latest position regarding the FBU appeal to the pensions Ombudsman, and that a number of test cases have now been put forward for consideration.

The Club polo shirts and blazer badges were distributed to all present, Dave D has possession of those for others not present.

The formal part of the meeting closed and then as usual the stories of times gone by started.

5 May 2010

Hi everyone,

One year on and our Extinguished Firefighters have settled into a consistent attendance of members at meetings. The May meeting was well attended and although the business side of the meeting was minimal, the social side(the important part) went on longer than usual, with quite a few members having to be hauled out by their partners.

Iain commented on the April event at Portico Mar and thanked Andy Colquhoun for organising it.
The May event is our first Anniversary night in the Courtyard on Saturday 8th May and a good number have already booked their places, anyone not already booked can do so by contacting Iain or Dave or directly with Emmerson at the Courtyard.

Dick Daniels suggested a venue for the June Social, and true to club tradition was duly despatched to organise it. The event will be a meal at Camposino on the 12th June 1930 for 2000. Dave G recommends that we should go for the T bone steak, a few euros extra but apparently huge!!! More info to follow, plus directions on how to get there.

The long awaited T/Polo shirts should be ready for distribution shortly.

Dave G invited Peter Thorpe and his business partner Sylvia from UK TAX REFUNDS SL, to give a talk to the club on the benefits of being fiscally correct in Spain. Peter was very informative and gave many of us some guidance on how best to keep our tax obligations to a minimum.
Peter outlined that as we were all recipients of a pension from "The Firemens`Pension Scheme" we had no option but to pay income tax on that in the UK, however he also outlined the benefits of having the "Old Age Pension" paid and taxed in Spain.
Any member wishing a more specific personal consultation can contact Peter and Sylvia on 965 690 518 or by e mail on info@taxrefund.uk.com you can also visit the website www.taxrefund.uk.com
One of the surprising pieces of information that came out was that Dave G is not yet 65, paper rounds must be very hard in Gateshead.

1 April 2010

The monthly meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters was held on Thursday as usual in the Courtyard in Quesada.
The meeting was well attended with visiting guests formerly of Northamptonshire Fire Service, Dave Taylor and his wife Frances.

Dave and Iain welcomed everyone to the meeting and gave an account of the past months activities, including the March social event which had gone down very well with everyone who had attended.
Dave gave an update on the members who had joined the Costaleros and of how well disciplined the Costaleros are in the way they conduct the processions, the main event is the Procession on Good Friday followed by a barbecue which will by all accounts finish in the early hours of Easter Saturday morning. Congratulations to all the Extinguished Firefighters taking part this year.
Iain gave a brief resume on the situation still on going between the FBU and the Pensions Ombudsman, and it is hoped that a few test cases will find in favour of all retired firefighters at home and abroad.

The April Social will be a dinner, held in Restaurante Portico de Mar between La Mata and Guardamar just off the N332, on Saturday 10th April, any members wishing to attend should contact Andy Colquhoun as soon as possible to book their place andyandpamcolquhoun@hotmail.com .

Dave G suggested this years Christmas event should be in Benidorm late November early December, with perhaps a couple of nights stay in a quality hotel and maybe a night out at the Benidorm Palace, this suggestion was well received and Dave was unanimously elected to organise it. Well done Dave G

One year old in May

The Extinguished Firefighters will celebrate the first anniversary of their coming together, with a buffet supper with entertainment to be held in the Courtyard Bar/Restaurant in Quesada on the evening of Saturday 8th May 2010 1930 for 2000, all members and those in the past who have attended meetings are welcome with partners. Price to be announced shortly.

Nearly one year old the Club has acheived a number of successes and has a good core of regular attenders and participants in the various events being organised, more on that in May.

ALL MEMBERS SHOULD NOTE THAT THE MAY MEETING WILL TAKE PLACE AT 1500HRS ON WEDNESDAY 5TH MAY 2010 AND NOT THURSDAY 6TH

4 February 2010

The monthly meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters took place in the Courtyard on Thursday 4th February.
Once again there was a good attendance of what has settled down to our core membership.
Dave G informed the meeting of the arrangements for registration and training nights for those members volunteering as Costaleros, all the information is contained in the COASTRIDER newspaper of 2nd Feb.
Iain informed the meeting that arrangements for a fund raising event for the people of Haiti had still to be confirmed with Emmerson.
Iain informed everyone about the forthcoming Lions Club Dinner and Dance in the Real Golf Hotel on the Campoamor Golf Resort,on the 20th March a number of members are going to attend with partners, any other members wishing info or tickets can contact Iain on idsbennett@hotmail.co.uk or 966 731 495.

Dave G informed everyone that it was his intention to have a fund raising raffle for the children of APANEE at the Caribbean night on 20th February and asked for raffle donations from those attending.

Dave P intimated that he was going to put aside 1 euro per week to donate to APANEE children at the end of the year, Iain agreed that it was a good idea and agreed to do the same.

Iain informed the group that there was still no date for the official opening of the new Torrevieja Fire Station.

Dave D is still having some problems with the company supplying T shirt but hopes to resolve the matter shortly.

Dave P agreed to organise a night out at his local Chinese restaurant for members and partners however he has since encountered a double booking in his diary and has had to postpone the event.

The "formal" part of the meeting closed and was followed by the usual social side of the club.

7 January 2010

Iain welcomed everyone to the meeting with New Years Greetings.

Dave and Iain brought the meeting up to date with recent events regarding the Club.

Iain informed the meeting that both Dave and himself had been invited by Tony Pipkin to present 300.00 euros to APANEE in Torrevieja on behalf of Howard, Tonys` son who had last year cycled from Aylesbury to Torrevieja raising funds for various charities.
Iain and Dave were delighted to do this and did so just before Christmas.
Both Iain and Dave spoke about their experience at APANEE and following some discussion it was agreed that the Club would dedicate 2010 to raising funds for APANEE.

Social events were discussed and Dave Daniel has agreed to organise a social event in the near future, it was also generally agreed that in addition to our monthly "business" meeting that we should schedule a social event every second month, accepting the fact that we cannot all attend every event but would where possible we would all attend when we could.

Andy Colquhoun gave an update on the ongoing issue of the inequality between commutation figures for retired male and female firefighters, The FBU are still on the case.

Still on the horizon is the official opening of the new Torrevieja Fire Station, Iain will keep everyone updated regarding the opening date.

Any members who still wish to order T/Polo Shirts or blazer badges should contact Dave Daniel as soon as possible on davedanie@gmail.com
.......

2010 Meetings

2011 Meetings

Photo’s….

Three of the Extinguished Firefighters delivered some much needed food and gifts to the Ayuntamientos of Rojales and Benijofar for onward distribution to those most in need,on the 2nd of January 2012. The retired firefighters from all parts of the United Kingdom raised funds at there Christmas Night out in December and decided to donate food and gifts locally. In addition there was a very welcome donation of five dozen Cornish Pasties from the Cornish Pride Shop in Los Dolses, owners Shane and Steve himself a former retained firefighter from Barnstable were delighted to donate the pasties to such a worthwhile cause.

The photograph shows the goods being handed to the Mayor in Benijofar by ex firefighter Dave Graham, and the three ex firefighters Iain,Dave and Andy in the council chambers in Rojales.

The Extinguished Firefighters meet on the first Thursday of every month at 1500hrs in Lo Marabu wine bar and Restaurant , Dona Pepa, Quesada. All retired fire service personnel are welcome to attend. For more information contact Iain on 966 731 495.

Extinguished Firefighters deliver festive cheer

1 December 2011

The December meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters took place in Lo Marabu on 1st December. A good turn out as usual with Dave D and Dougie vying for the role of DO, turning up long after the the first crews in attendance.

Dave G opened the meeting with his usual skills. Dave discussed the charitable donations that he proposed be given to the needy in Rojales, Dave also showed the meeting some hand knitted children’s toys which will be given to needy children in time for three kings day. Dave proposed that he contact the Mayor of Rojales to arrange handover of the food and toys.

Dave G thanked Andy for arranging the night at Harris bar restaurant in November.

The January Night out will be at Bibianas in San Fulgencio on Saturday 14th January 2012

The Christmas Night out is on 16th December 1930 for 2000, a few members have identified that they may be a little late as they are to attend the Carol Service in Torrevieja before the dinner. Iain will inform the restaurant that there will be a few latecomers. Dave G reminded the meeting that everyone should bring a suitable raffle prize.

If you want to attend the dinner on the 16th, contact Iain as soon as possible to book your places, there are currently 32 people going, tickets priced at 16.95 represent excellent value.

Iain informed the meeting that the Extinguished Firefighters had "a shout" two weeks ago when one of Dave Gs 'friends' house was flooded by the heavy rain, Ex Fireys Dave G, Iain and Rickie and Daves' wife Chris turned out to carry out salvage duties.

The issue of the "overspend" of the kitty at the November night out was discussed and those who over indulged were identified and will in due course reimburse the kitty.

The meeting continued with the usual nibbles provided by Lo Marabu and a few pints were purchased to wash them down.

The next meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters will be at 1500 on Thursday 5th January 2012

The Extinguished Firefighters wish all friends and associates a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful prosperous New Year.

6 October

They say that Summer is over but today at our October meeting we all sat in the shade to keep out of the suns rays.

A well attended meeting with some returning from UK and others who had sent visitors home.
Iain informed everyone that two stalwart members could not attend the meeting as , Dick Daniels was in San Jaime Hospital recovering from a hip operation, and the other Dave Daniel (no relation other than through the fire service and friendship) was visiting Dick in hospital.
We all wish Dick a speedy recovery and hope Sue enjoys the rest whilst Richard (Sunday name) is in hospital.
The next social event will be at Restaurante Bibianas in San Fulgencio on Saturday 15th October at 2000 hrs, an excellent venue that doesn't break the bank. Please confirm with Iain asap that you are to attend, currently there are 14 going so let Iain know if you wish to attend.

Chris updated everyone on the tax implications of reaching the age of 65, in relation to paying tax in either Spain or UK.

As per usual our hosts at Lo Marabu layed on a tasty snack which was well received by everyone.

The next meeting at Lo Marabu will as usual be on the first Thursday of November

Iains Party 12/08/11

Iain welcomed everyone including an excellent turnout of ex fireys and partners to his party at the Lime Bar. Iain made mention of our good friend Dougie Mole who was unable to attend the Lime Bar as he was in UK Celebrating his 85th Birthday with his friends and family, Congratulations Dougie see you in the Autumn when you and Norma return to the Costa Blanca.
Dave G made a very eloquent speech to the party goers on behalf of the ex fireys, thanking Iain for assisting with the founding of the Extinguished Firefighters. Dave and Andy had provided a device to make the evening go with a bang, unfortunately the two ex fireys are more used to extinguishing fire rather than igniting one.

4 August

The August meeting was held as usual at Lo Marabu on Thursday 4th August. We were relatively low in numbers due to the holiday season, both with visitors here and some back in UK. Dave welcomed everyone to the meeting and due to the limited numbers kept everything very brief.
Iain reminded everyone about his forthcoming party on the 12th to which all are invited.
Dave informed everyone that Rickie had volunteered to have a BBQ at his home in Catral on Saturday 10th September, Andy suggested that we all meet at the Quesada Arches and travel together to Catral. More details at the September meeting.

2 June

The Extinguished Firefighters June Meeting was held as usual in the Lo Marabu on Thursday 2nd June.

Iain tendered apologies from Sheila and Chic who were unable to attend, and welcomed Malcolm who had earlier intimated that he may not be able to attend.
Dave D tendered apologies for Dick Daniels who had decided he would rather watch the womens tennis on Television!!!!!! nice one Dick.

Dave G opened the meeting by asking for numbers who will be attending the Car Treasure Hunt on Saturday 18th June, there will be around 5 or 6 cars plus passengers.
Entry fee is 5 euros per car.
The event starts at 1000 hrs on 18th and everyone is asked to be there promptly, cars will leave at 5 minute intervals.
The start point is the slip road at the roundabout in front of the Quesada Arches. All participants should bring a digital camera, as some photographic evidence of the journey will be required.
The route which obviously remains a closely guarded secret will be mainly on country roads with splendid scenery.
It is expected that the journey will take around 2 hours.
Last minute entries will be accepted, contact Dave G on 965 997 244
The Treasure Hunt will be the June Social.

Derek has volunteered to organise the July Social at a Restaurante just off the N332 near to the Torrevieja end of the current roadworks, just off the roundabout, more details to follow.

Iain asked if he could organise the August event, which will take place in the Lime Bar, Calle Los Arcos, Quesada from 2000 on Friday 12th August, free buffet and dancing on the Lime Bar Terrace, to PDQ until after midnight. This social event coincides with Iain 21st Birthday!!!! All Extinguished Firefighters and partners will receive an invitation shortly.

Rickie volunteered to organise the September Social, more details to follow.

Chris informed everyone about his new found status as an OAP in receipt of his UK state pension paid in Spain, everyone listened intently and counted the days until it was their turn.

Chris gave Iain 107 euros which was the sum raised at the May Raffle, the money will be kept until a suitable Charity is picked, Dave G suggested APANEE may again be suitable.

Andy updated the meeting regarding the issue of equality in the commutation rights of retired male and female firefighters, basically the case is still at the Ombudsman.

Dave D has now got the Tshirts for a few of the newer members and has also ordered a couple of embroidered badges for future presentation purposes.

General discussion ensued with the three stooges, Iain,Dave G and Chris being last to leave around 1700hrs.

Date of next meeting is Thursday 7th July at 1500hrs.

5 May

The May meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters was once again well attended.
A couple of dates for your diaries, on the 14th May we are celebrating the second anniversary of the formation of the Extinguished Firefighters with an evening meal with entertainment, (perhaps Elvis is alive and working in Benimar) at "Route 66" an American Diner in Benimar, It sounds like a great night. Chris is organising the event and it would be good if you could let me know ASAP if you wish to attend. Please let me know by Wednesday 11th May at the latest.
Can I also ask that you bring a prize for a Raffle.

The second date for your diaries is a "Treasure Hunt" to be organised the two of the Daves, i.e. Pare and Graham. The event will take place on Sunday 19th June and the only rule to date is that each car has a digital camera, the starting point and time will be advised to you all in due course.

Invite friends to both events, the more the merrier.

Torrevieja Fire Station

A number of extinguished Firefighters attended the official opening of the new Torrevieja Fire Station on Friday 4th February.
We were all made very welcome and were introduced to the official dignitaries including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Torrevieja, The Fire Chiefs from Benidorm, San Vincente and Torrevieja.
The station is a fabulous facility although the station remains seriously undermanned in comparison with UK fire stations, at any one time there are only 6 bomberos on duty, they work one 24 hour shift followed 4 days off on a continual rota.
Joaquin the Torrevieja fire officer proudly showed us round the station and showed us all the appliances and equipment.
As agreed at our monthly meeting Dave Daniel presented the crew with a memento from our club, a framed Club badge.
The Fire Chiefs stated that our members would be welcome to visit the station and perhaps may wish to attend training exercises in the future.
Dave Graham is intending setting up some social events to include the local bomberos.
Our thanks go to Pedro Valero and Graham Knight for arranging and escorting us on the visit.

Photo’s ..

Chris passed on some advice at the March meeting,

1. Mobile flat battery. This can activate a reserve power source in the phone. Using keys for relevant symbols type in -
star 3370 hash

2. Unique code for mobile, to give to air time provider i.e. vodaphone etc: If mobile stolen, provider can with this number kill the mobile so that the mobile becomes useless. Using relevant keys type in the following and a unique no: will appear on screen.-
star hash 06 hash

3. If forced to withdraw money from ATM by mugger or whoever.- Type in PIN backwards followed immediately by hash. Money should be provided, but silent alarm is raised and police should respond to the ATM location. Suggest confirming with own bank.

3 February

The February meeting took place as usual at Lo Marabu on a pleasant sunny afternoon on the outdoor terrace.

Dave opened the meeting by welcoming Rickie Stocks, recently retired from the W.Yorkshire Fire Service, Rickie introduced himself with a few words on his Brigade career.

Iain confirmed that he had received an e mail from Graham Knight stating that the long awaited opening of the new Torrevieja Fire Station was to take place on Friday 4th February at 1100 and that all the Extinguished Firefighters were welcome to attend. A number of members agreed that they would attend.
Dave D agreed to organise a memento of our vist to the station featuring our club badge, which he would present to the bomberos.

Dave G stated that he hoped to make contact with the bomberos at the station with a view to setting up some social events.

Our next social event will be at Restaurante Maite in Benijofar on Saturday 12th February 1930 for 2000, Thanks to Dave G for organising.

The afternoon quickly went by with a few people reminiscing about mutual friends in the service and finished around 1700.

6 January

In the absence of Iain, Dave Graham opened the meeting by wishing everyone in attendance a Happy New Year.

All agreed that the Christmas meal held at Lo Marabu was a great success. Also everyone was pleased with the amount raised during 2010 and presented to APANEE by Iain. It was put to the members present that we choose a different charity for 2011, this was agreed and suggestions for a suitable charity would be discussed at the February meeting.

It was also agreed that due to lack of numbers at this meeting the January social evening would not go ahead and arrangements will be made to hold the February social evening at Maite’s in Benijofar.

After a suggestion from Dave G. It was unanimously agreed that the Extinguished Firefighters challenge the Torrevieja Firefighters to a social / games evening to be held at The Green Baize, Quesada, and any monies raised would go to the Spanish Firefighters Charity. Further details and date to be arranged after Dave has put this to Torrevieja Firefighters (he has to practice his Spanish first).

Everyone enjoyed the meeting sitting outside in the warm sunshine.

Next meeting Thursday 3 February at Lo Marabu.

2 February

The February meeting of the Extinguished Firefighters took place in Lo Marabu and was again well attended with two new retired firefighters Allan and Malcolm attending for the first time.

Dave P had invited a representative from The Help Association of Vega Baja to talk to the meeting about the organisation which was well received by many, some of whom may decide to become members on an individual basis.

Much discussion ensued however no decision was taken with regards to the Firefighters offering support to The Help Association, Dave P and Rickie will pursue other avenues where we may be able to offer support.

Some members believe that we should do as in the past and nominate a suitable charity at the end of each year.

Dave P thanked Pauline from Help for her attendance.

Dave G thanked Iain for organising the Burns Night as our January Social.

Iain thanked Andy and Rickie for their participation at Burns Night, and also DaveG for looking after the man who became unwell during the evening.

Iain informed the meeting that there will be a Ten Pin Bowling night at the Ozone in Torrevieja on Monday 13th February at 2000 hrs. Iain, Dave G, Dave D, Rickie and Andy all indicated that they will attend.

Dave G will arrange the March social at Bibianas.

Dave P and Rickie collected one euro from everyone for our charity collection.

Iain informed the meeting about the Tree Planting Day at La Mata, and the plans for a Day of Celebration in June to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth, more to follow on that.

The meeting was unusually held indoors due to the inclement weather and had to be brought to an abrupt end when the Lo Marabu Happy Hour crowd arrived and made it impossible to talk.

The next meeting will be held in Lo Marabu at 1500 hrs on Thursday 1st March which incidentally for all the Daves in the EFF is St Davids Day!!!!!!

Ten Pin Bowling night

at the Ozone in

Torrevieja

on Monday

13th February

at 2000 hrs.