Turn right at the baked beans for politics

The 2011 local election results are on a knife edge. The political status quo are facing a strong challenge from the emergence of many new, young, vibrant parties, all demanding a spring clean-up of political ideology and antiquated attitudes, especially communication with local international communities who it is estimated will represent around 50% of the potential total vote.

Knowing the usual town hall and municipal facilities can be alien to attracting expats, in a last minute attempt to get their individual messages across to this vital target market, Spanish political strategists are busily searching for venues generally popular with the English speaking community.

Many Brit based bars and restaurants in the Marina Alta region have reportedly agreed to hold coffee mornings or cheese and wine get-togethers.

But one party has topped the pops with its initiative in managing to book one of the most populated English venues on the Costa – no, it’s not a fish and chip shop in Benidorm – try Iceland Supermarket in Javea.

On Saturday 23^rd April, the newly formed XD party will be setting up shop in the outside coffee area from 10am until around midday to introduce themselves and invite questions and criticisms about the political management of Javea.

Spanish party Leader Oscar Anton will be there together with other English, German and French speaking members.

Providing it proves popular, the XD say they will make it a regular Saturday event up to the election time. If any other parties have acquired unusual venues to connect with the public, we would be interested to hear from you.

By Benny Davis