THE CITY air smells like incense. Stall owners prepare for the crowds, turning on the water sprinklers over fresh coconut pieces, and arranging tubs of sweet marshmallow, giant lollipops, plastic horns, drums and cold drinks.

It is the first stop in Spain for many Irish tourists. But Alicante never attracts the plaudits it deserves. It’s also a perfect place for an Easter break, as Peter Geoghegan finds out.

The Football Association have cleared Tottenham of blame following the FA Cup replay against Chelsea when a fan aimed a punch at Frank Lampard.