THERE were eight reported incidents on the first day of Denia’s controversial Bous de la Mar fiesta last weekend, three of them involving hospitalisation.

 In the first accident a 23 year old Alcoy resident suffered a dislocated shoulder after being struck by a bull. A 31 year old Barcelona man, reportedly part of a stag party, was later gored by another animal although his injuries are not serious.

In the third and most worrying incident a male was knocked unconscious and treated at the scene. This caused the festivities to be temporarily stopped but he is now understood to be in a stable condition.

The annual event is hugely popular, with predominantly young men travelling from all over Spain to take part. However many people, both Spaniards and expatriates, see it as cruel to the animals and dangerous for those taking part.