Costa Del Blogga!: Aftermath of a disaster

It made the UK national press and television news. It was all over the news media in Spain. Radio 1
even got in on the act. Yes, the fire of 2016 in the Javea area will go down in the annals of time as a heartwarming feat of bravery shown by a dedicated band of rescuers.

Right on the button - a successful water drop

Stories came in of the army and civil defence having helped out at the scenes of fires as well as ordinary civilians mucking in - a positive fight for survival. A fight led by the Mayor of the town who was seen in tears as people told him of their plights. A committed, emotional man.

With householders eventually being allowed back to survey the damage it didn't take the ex-pat

The Fiesta Committee sort through food rations ready to distribute

community long in setting up collections for the fire service. Much of their kit and equipment was ruined in the fires, they also suffered physical damage to themselves, surely a reason to dig deep? Pubs, radio stations and public collections have all helped to raise money, such has been the heartfelt thanks from the people of Javea and the surrounding districts.

A special event is being held on Sunday 18th September at the Laguna Ribs restaurant (part of the Javea Karting complex) to raise money for the Bomberos, it starts at 4pm. The late afternoon and evening session

Donated drink supplies

will feature local musicians, raffles, auctions and other fundraising efforts. It's a bold project which has been put together at very short notice. The activity on social media has been frantic as the ex-pat and Spanish community have collaborated seamlessly to get the event both structured and marketed.

I personally have gone on board with local radio station TotalFM 98.1 and will present an eleven hour outside broadcast of the event as well as acting as MC. After attending a planning meeting it became apparent there was so much generosity from local businesses by the quality of the raffle prizes already donated. I'll have my work cut out getting through those raffle draws - should be fun though!

The organising committee have another six days of planning for the event. Those reading this here in Javea can help by attending and buying raffle tickets. Everyone has a chance to meet the Bomberos -

Physical as well as material injuries were
sustained by the Bomberos

we have allocated them a VIP table - it's the least we can do. It's also a chance to listen to some great local musicians ranging from classical through to rock and all genres in between. Those of you back in the UK(and the rest of the world - I know you're out there!) can support us by listening on the internet or the TuneIn App. Tweet me on @Publandlordyork or I'm on Facebook - Mick Dennison, looking forward to hearing from you.

On Friday 9th September the Vuelta (Tour of Spain) reached Javea and a time trial to Calpe was televised live. The television pictures showed the town off in a good light and hardly any mention was given regarding the fires. Maybe it was a good way to show the town is still open for business as Chris Froome led the way to finishing first in the gruelling heat. It certainly put the feelgood factor back into the town.