Fed up with the negative image being portrayed of the resort, councilors have voted in favour of requesting an amendment of the law on anti social behaviour to the Provincial Government in Valencia. Currently, the Local Police can in theory issue fines, although in reality it is doubtful whether any are actually ever issued.

Those that are, are in the main ignored and left unpaid once the offender has returned back home. They appear to be requesting an order that would enable the Spanish authorities the power to chase up unpaid fines in the UK.

Councilor for Security Lorenzo Martinez said that the situation is not “alarming” considering the numbers that come here, but for that small minority that misbehave it is better to have a pertinent and effective deterrent.
However, quite how easy will it be to police as what one person finds offensive is ok by another.

Party groups are really the prime targets here – a semi naked thong wearing stag walking down the Levante promenade on a Saturday is certainly not unusual here – but in front of families with young children really isn’t appropriate. Would they be given a warning to cover up first?

Hens, with the bride-to-be carrying a giant blow up appendage is another example although most just wear printed t-shirts with dates and names… probably the safest option!

The authorities just need to think carefully as these groups are important to the economy and many bars here survive purely because of them. Perhaps a stern warning would be adequate? Don’t kill the goose that lays the golden egg springs to mind although in all honesty, some of them, their behaviour and subsequent press headlines we could do without.