Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader edition 654

No 654

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th February, 2017

Tel: 637 227 385

Beach study shows improved satisfaction ouncils are required to provide information to the Department of Tourism so as to enable the evaluation of local beaches for the annual quality awards.

In the case of Orihuela the study, carried out by local marketing organisation Cuma, seems to have been based on questions put to just 1500 people, both residents and visitors, between 16 June and 30 September last year.

The sample would seem to be rather small but a spokesperson for the council said that it was about the usual number if not a slight increase on similar surveys carried out in previous years.

Nevertheless, according the new councillor for beaches,

C

Luisa Boné, the important factor is the 6 point increase in the level of general satisfaction that seems to have been enjoyed by those who were questioned showing global satisfaction of very nearly 80%..

Following the dip experienced

in 2014 when the level fell back to 73.44%, almost 4 people in every 5 gave Orihuela

Costa beaches a ‘thumbs up’ in 2016 which saw it increase to 79.61%.

Continued on Page 2

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Beach Study Continued from Page One

Telephone

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637 227 385 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info Advertising Sales 637 227 385 office@theleader.info Journalists 600 228 616 office@theleader.info The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.

Some of course were deemed to have provided rather more satisfaction than others with Cala Bosque, Cala Capitan, Aguamarina Beach and Cala Mosca all showing improvements on the previous year.

“Not only does the report tell what the people like about our 11 beaches” said Ms Boné, “it also shows us where we are going wrong and where we can make improvements in the future.”

Maintenance and cleaning showed a satisfaction level of 84.07% while first aid and police surveillance featured high at 93.62% but there were complaints about the build-up and removal of algae, the inadequate walkways on all beaches and the poor accessibility at Cala Mosca.

Low water pressure in the footbaths was another cause for concern as was the lack of footbaths, the lack of toilets and in one case the lack of activities and of suitable refreshment facilities on the beach.

“And it is in these areas where we will be paying special attention” said Boné “as we continue working to maintain and improve the satisfaction of our eleven beaches for all users, whether tourists or residents, during 2017."

In January 2016, local pressure group FAOC handed over to the then Coastal Coordinator, Sofía Álvarez, their own proposal for Orihuela’ s beaches, which contained an Integral Plan showing outstanding necessary actions, contemplating their gradual implementation before last summer.

With few of the recommendations actioned the report

was again presented in September 2016, together with a Financial Proposal for the 2017 budget, highlighting once again the deficiencies previously listed by the survey of beach users.

There is no doubt that the Orihuela Costa can boast some of the best beaches in Spain.

Year after year they are awarded with “Q for Quality” flags, which are internationally recognised as the highest award which can be given to beaches, but there is little doubt also that the authorities are resting on their laurels and failing to make the necessary improvements that will enable the beaches to continue to be among the best in the world.

The solution, of course, is to dedicate the necessary investment to the beaches of Orihuela Costa in accordance with the needs and priorities that exist but with local tourism put under pressure with the exchange rate gradually dropping off and the uncertainty posed following the BREXIT vote, if tourists are to be attracted in the necessary numbers, that investment needs to be found now to ensure the continued popularity and attraction of the Costa’s beaches.

Thirty school children left without supervision

O

nce again parents of children at an Orihuela Costa school are accusing the Orihuela Department of Education of abandoning their children. They say they are disappointed and very angry that at least 30 of them have been left without a sports coach for over a week.

All of the children, from the APA Playas de Orihuela, stay behind after lessons to practice their sport between 4.30 and 5.30 pm. The children are members of two teams, one each of basketball and football, that represent their school in competitions and leagues across the municipality.

In the last five months they have had five different coaches but since last Monday they have been left totally to their own devices with no-one at all turning up to provide them with any coaching.

Another Orihuela Costa school has just 2 coaches while the parents claim that in the city of Orihuela

there is a pool of 49 sports coaching staff.

The families faced with this situation, say that they feel discriminated against. They say that their children are being denied the right to play sports and that they are unable to do so in their school the only alternative is that they pay the high costs of the Municipal operated CDM, with private management, that many can ill afford.

Already, they say, they have had to contribute toward the cost of shorts, shirts, bibs and tracksuits.

The parents are also complaining about the fact that when they are late picking them up because of delays at their workplace, the children, who are infants and juniors, have been found abandoned at bus stops, which they say is totally unacceptable and completely unsafe.

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Those questioned attached the greatest importance to cleaning, first aid, security and the lifeguard service

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HELP Vega Baja sign collaboration agreement with Quirónsalud Michele Masson said “we have been working very closely with Quirónsalud hospital recently

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he President of HELP Vega Baja Michele Masson and D. Francisco Fiestras Pérez, Managing Director of Quirónsalud, Torrevieja signed a collaboration agreement which will provide members of HELP Vega Baja a number of benefits including a free annual blood test, annual dental clean and a 10% discount on general and surgical health services from 1st February 2017.

Members will need to simply produce their HELP Vega Baja membership card or voucher from HELP when booking their appointment.

Michele Masson said “we have been working very closely with Quirónsalud hospital recently and in particular with Samantha Biddles from the Relaciones externas internacionales who has been extremely supportive to the charity. Through the collaboration the hospital hosted a talk on Parkinsons earlier in the month and was very well supported by not only the HELP Parkinsons group but other people interested in the disease too. We anticipate holding similar talks in the future on subjects of interest to people and we are sure these will be well received too.

As we have also recently announced, we are delighted that we have been given permission by Quirónsalud to introduce a hospital visiting team there. We believe this to be a huge benefit to those people who are admitted to the international ward and our volunteers will be meeting shortly to plan the rota etc.”

Other recent successes for HELP include the offer for members of a free dental checkup and clean at Quirónsalud, a 10% reduction on private consultations at the hospital and a reduction in costs for residential care at Casa Verde, HELP Vega Baja have on several occasions announced that they are

keen to work together with other charities and organisations and Michele Masson chaired the first meeting of CARE (Communication And Resource Exchange) meetings last week which was held at Quirónsalud and attended by presidents from many local charities.

Michele said “we are fortunate in this area that there are several charities with committed volunteers who work extremely hard to support people in many ways. It is therefore very important that charities communicate with each other to ensure that we are using our resources in the most efficient way possible. It is early days yet for this new group but the signs are very positive that we will be able to work together for the benefit of those people that need our help”.

If you are interested in helping any charity one of the easiest ways to start is by following their Facebook page. This helps to raise the awareness of the charity which is very important to its success.

Michele added “the local press are extremely supportive to charities and we appreciate this, however, the more publicity we can receive the better and areas such as Facebook really do help. The CARE group are working towards holding a Charities Awareness Day later in the year - watch this space (and the Facebook pages too)!

For more information on HELP Vega Baja contact their San Miguel Centre on 966 723 733 or email office@helpvegabaja.com

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Santa Pola Brit arrested Friday market to move early March for abusing 30 children

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British man aged 70, and identified as MF, was arrested by the Guardia Civil in Santa Pola last week following the issue of a European arrest warrant.

He has since been extradited to the UK where he is charged with 45 sexual offenses against children both in the UK and abroad.

MF is said to have previously worked in the UK as a teacher where he abused boys, including his own adopted son, in a warehouse adjacent to the college in which he taught. He was also a leader in the Boy Scouts Movement which provided him with access to even more young boys.

After being arrested and sentenced in the United Kingdom, and after then jumping bail in Thailand, he changed his name, sold his house and moved to

T

he Torrevieja Councillor of Markets, Javier Manzanares, has said that the action required to move the weekly Friday market to its new site is almost complete and that market pitches are currently being allocated to traders. As such he says that he fully expects the market to be trading at its new site early next month.

Before the final decision is taken to move, however, he added that the resolution must be approved by the Local Government Board Once that is done the decision "will be communicated to all traders and will also be published in the Official Gazette of the province".

Before the transfer takes place an information point will be established in the current market enclosure so that in the afternoons, the traders can

find all the information they need so all is made absolutely clear and there are no problems, no confusion and everything occurs in the most fluid way possible.

The councillor said that work is continuing so that the service provided by the local bus company will also be expanded, in order to serve the new site.

The new market will be provided with additional security, with the permanent presence of the Local Police and with a Civil Protection checkpoint. In addition users will also have other amenities, such as public toilets at both ends of the site and the council will launch a mobile application so that merchants can advertise their products, upload offers, discounts, completely free of charge.

Samaritans Recruitment and Open Day Wednesday 22nd February Are you curious about work of Samaritans in Spain?

Perhaps you are interested in becoming a listener?

Have your got a few spare hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or administration?

To find out more and join us for refreshments and a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre by the Punta Prima roundabout on the N332.

(Volunteer positions are unpaid but some expenses can be claimed)

WEDNESDAY 22nd FEBRUARY Between10am and 2pm

www.samaritansinspain.com Recruiting:janeatsams@outlook.com

Spain using a new identity.

The investigation was carried out by the Central Operative Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard and the Organic Unit of the Judicial Police of Alicante.

Meanwhile a Norwegian man wanted for sexually abusing a 12 year old girl over a year ago has been arrested in Torrevieja The 27 year old man is said to have committed abuses in Norway before travelling to Spain where he has been staying in his mother's house The detainee is said to have had a good relationship with the girl's family so he often spent time alone with his victim. Abuses took place both in the home of the minor occurred and in the offender’s vehicle, where in addition to sexually abusing her he also to rape her on different occasions.

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At the Boulevard on LIFELINE at World Cancer Day LIFELINE has a new dedicated telephone number.

The new number is 966 39 4718 or mobile 697 176 149

LIFELINE is the name that Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur calls its welfare section.

LIFELINE volunteers can Make home visits and carry out assessments Advise on where to get nursing care Liaise with social services Match volunteers to beneficiaries for long term support (subject to availability of volunteers) Give advice on care aids Give information about residential care homes

T

he sun shined down on World Cancer Day at Zenia Boulevard and lots of people attended throughout the day, helping to raise a fantastic 1,784.16â‚Ź.

Thanks to Zenia Boulevard management for the generous donation of the iris plants and for letting us, yet again, take over the shopping centre for the afternoon.

Big thank you to Tony of Sunshine FM for being with us all day, Stevie Spit for comparing and singing, Rob Sweeney, David Williams and his Rod Stewart tribute, Suzy.G and Jaz, The 2 Ton Spice Girls tribute, Janelle Gaskell, Nikki.G, Kylie Burgazzi and saxophonist Stuart Sinclair, Just Ollie, Kevin Tyler and Luis Blacknight as Flashback and Totally Dance

with their fantastic troop of 2-16 year old girls and boys.

Lots of appointments were taken and queries answered which is always our greatest aim at these fundraisers.

And thank you once again to all the lovely Pink Ladies wonderful and Panthers for giving up their time to make events like these possible.

Organise a monthly Luncheon Club for beneficiaries If you or someone you know needs assistance please ring the new number If you are interested in helping people who may need assistance and especially if you have nursing or care experience please come along to our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887 for more details

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Candlelight and Composers!

Vivace celebrates its 10th Anniversary Dinner A candlelit surprise welcomed members of Vivace Classical Choir as they arrived at El Prado restaurant in San Miguel on Friday night.

The garden room had been decorated with beautiful table settings and decorations for this special occasion. The lilac colour theme represented the choir’s colourful ladies’ scarves worn for their concerts.

Posters from all the concerts performed over the years were hung around the room, and folders of press cuttings and programmes were on display, reminding everyone of just what has been achieved in those years.

The candlelight was a surprise to everyone, though, as there was a major power cut in San Miguel due to roadworks in the town! As ever, the wonderful staff at El Prado rose to the occasion and provided temporary lighting as the guests arrived. A perfect scene, treated with a great deal of humour. And then, just as the food was about to be served, the lights were restored - to an enthusiastic cheer, and the evening continued in high spirits.

Each table was named after a composer, and became the table’s team name for a musical quiz, based mainly on the composers whose works the choir has sung, with the addition of a few quirky questions

to really get the brains working. Tables were of 6, 7 and 8 people, and the smallest “Verdi” table won the prize! Quality winning over quantity! Congratulations to them!

The choir is already in rehearsal for their forthcoming Celebration Concert, an evening of some of the favourite pieces sung by the choir over the years. Two concerts will be performed, the first at La Siesta Church on Friday 31st March at 7.30, and the second in the Casa de Cultura in San Miguel on Saturday 1st April at 8.00. Details of ticket sales will be available soon.

After over 10 years in charge, Vivace’s Musical Director Tom Pargeter is handing over the baton. Starting with 16 singers in October 2006, Vivace now has some 60 members. Tom has really enjoyed the time, and very much hopes the choir will continue to go from strength to strength, offering the opportunity for local singers to learn and perform major classical works.

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See main ad on page 3

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Chris is fully time served so you can be assured that for all your car repairs and motoring repairs needs your car is in very capable hands. Garage Services can even come to you to carry out those smaller jobs at your home or place of work, saving you both time and money.

So don't take chances with your car - trust the experts! Garage Services car and auto repairs is a top quality English speaking car mechanic company which covers Torrevieja and the Costa Blanca area.

You will find our car repair and mechanic service second to none and our prices extremely competitive, also our customer service and attention to detail all that you would expect from a reputable English speaking mechanic business.

So if you are in the Torrevieja Costa Blanca area and you need the services of a top notch English speaking mechanic then just contact Chris McCarthy at Garage Services car and auto repairs, car mechanic Costa Blanca and leave us to solve your problems.

The company is allied to Checkatrade, a directory of trades and services that have been vetted to the highest standards in all areas of the business activity where insurance, technical qualifications and professional memberships are all fully scrutinize. Not only that, but they also monitor the work on an ongoing basis by collecting feedback directly from customers. Since 1998 Checkatrade have collected almost 300,000 customer reports which highlight the strengths and weaknesses of their listed companies.

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Email: christmccarthy@yahoo.co.uk And, if you take your car to Chris this month you will get a free tracking with every full service.

LEADER

Rajoy and Trump speak by phone Mariano Rajoy, spoke by phone lats Tuesday with Donald Trump. The two leaders chatted about issues of mutual interest, such as security, the economy and bilateral relations.

The pair expressed their interest in maintaining a good relationship. President Trump enquired after the situation of the Spanish economy. Rajoy stated that Spain, with a stable government and an economy enjoying growth in excess of 3%, is in the best possible condition for being a good partner for the United States in Europe, in Latin America and also in North Africa and the Middle East.

The two leaders discussed the situation opening up in Europe as a result of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union.

They then spoke about the upcoming meeting of NATO leaders in May. As well as their participation in NATO, Spain and the United States have a strong bilateral relationship on defence matters, with the Spanish bases of Rota and Morรณn being used on a joint basis. Accordingly, defence and security was one of the issues addressed by the two leaders.

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The International Cofradia needs you!

The International Cofradia during Semana Santa in Torrevieja

BY PAUL MUTTER

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his year will be the 13th year that the Paso of Jesus in the Garden of Olives (Cofradia de Nuestro Padre Jesús en la Oración del Huerto de los Olivos) has been carried through the streets of Torrevieja during Holy Week by the International Cofradia. To carry the Paso effectively we require about 100 men, each year needing to recruit approximately 20 new members to replace those who for one reason or another are unable to take part.

This is a fantastic opportunity to participate in one of the most important events in the local Spanish cultural and religious calendar. Those of us who have carried the paso in the processions will testify to the fact that it is a unique experience and one which all of us will remember for the rest of our lives. You do not have to be super fit to take part; most of our members are retired and certainly not in the ‘first flush of youth’.

It is particularly important this year that we recruit more new members than traditionally we have had to because we are anticipating losing quite a few of our existing team. If we are unable to assemble around 100 people we will be forced to push the Paso during the processions rather than carrying it on our shoulders and that would be a great disappointment, not just to ourselves but also to the many

thousands of people who line the streets to watch the processions.

If you are interested in taking part please contact David McLachan on 865 661 937 who can give you a further details and come along to our first meeting which is detailed below.

The first official meeting of the International Cofradia will be on Thursday, March 2nd. This is principally for registration of existing and new members. We will then be meeting each following Thursday, March 9th , March 16th , March 23rd, March 30 and again on April 6th when the Paso will be taken down to be parked behind the Inmaculada church in the centre of Torrevieja ready for the Easter processions during Semana Santa. The meetings will be held at the Semana Santa Museum on the outskirts of Torrevieja starting at 7:30 pm in the evening. Subscriptions for membership have been kept at €35.

If you are an existing member please make sure you come and attend the first meeting and if you have not already done so why not bring along a friend to become part of this unique group of people. If you are an existing member and are not taking part this year please can you bring your uniform along to the first meeting or contact Paul Mutter on 671 218 285.

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Lettuce Pray!

Lemons facing price squeeze?

By Andrew Atkinson Recent bad weather in the Vega Baja region severely hitting crops - including lettuce, courgettes and aubergines - lead to rationing in some supermarkets in Britain after the storms, flooding and snow.

With a shortage of greens between now and April, Morrisons are just one of the retailers who have put rations in place.

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Lettuce aplenty in Los Montesinos, Alicante, in the Vega Baja region, that was hit during the recent bad weather.

Photo: John Stevens.

age market price of 86p - an increase of 30p - up from an average of 56p, almost 54% increase. In Spain it is not uncommon to get three for 1 euro.

Now shoppers in Britain are not only feeling the squeeze on their veg - costs of lemons vary - from 35p to £1 - each!

Data provider IRI Retail Advantage report the volumes of courgette sales slumped by £2m in January.

Morrisons and Tesco issued a limit on the number of items each customer can purchase - with Morrisons limiting each customer to three heads of broccoli and two iceberg lettuces - and Tesco limiting three heads of iceberg lettuce per customer.

During winter Europe sources 80% of its fresh produce from southern Spain, including growers within the Vega Baja region - including Los Montesinos, Alicante.

"As a result of the Spanish harvest being very difficult this year, we have just about enough coming in to supply our customers," said a Morrisons spokesman.

Floods in Spain's south-eastern Murcia region almost wiped out some field crops, including lettuce and broccoli.

One retailer said produce from Spain and Italy is causing major problems, with Iceberg lettuces, normally £6 a box, costing £16. Aubergines, normally £6 a box now £24; and courgettes (£5 per box) now £16.80.

However this week there was fields amass with newly grown lettuces in Los Montesinos, which is good news for the farmers and workers in the region, in the wake of the floods after more that two days of continuous rain last month.

In Britain consumers can expect shortages of iceberg lettuce, baby spinach, mixed leaves, rocket, lollo rossa, cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, lemons, and oranges.

Ex-pats have beamed at the plethora of greens available in Spain - at a bargain basement cost - to that of in Britain, where prices of lettuce are rising, due to the shortage.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs report a pair of Little Gem lettuces had an aver-

The Spanish association of fruit and vegetable producers, FEPEX, said it expected the shortage of leafy vegetables grown outdoors, including lettuce and spinach, to continue until early April.

In the wake of the crisis sales of seeds and bulbs in Britain have increased by 272% in the first week of February, compared to the same period in 2016, as people turn to grown their own veg.

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Inconclusive; 7 Fight; 8 Anger; 9 Lie; 10 Travelled; 11 Indian; 12 Dental; 15 Incessant; 17 Tic; 18 Llama; 19 Image; 21 Imperfection.

DOWN: 1 Intelligible; 2 Nag; 3 Lethal; 4 Statement; 5 Vigil; 6 Predilection; 7 Field; 10 Translate; 13 Title; 14 Tariff; 16 Chasm; 20 Arc. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Preservation; 7 Order; 8 Raise; 9 Mar; 10 Sweetmeat; 11 Unsaid; 12 Abuser; 15 Armistice; 17 Air; 18 Omaha; 19 Issue; 21 Shoe repairer.

DOWN: 1 Perambulator; 2 End; 3 Varlet; 4 Turntable; 5 Opine; 6 Letter-writer; 7 Ogres; 10 Shipshape; 13 Slate; 14 Divine; 16 Meath; 20 Sea.

ACROSS 1.

Leave (6) 4.

Bog (6) 9.

Warily (13) 10. Bared (7) 11. Embellish (5) 12. Form (5) 14. Demon (5) 18. Go in (5) 19. Release (7) 21. Imprisonment (13) 22. Holds up (6) 23. If not (6)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

5.

6.

7.

8.

13.

15.

16.

17.

20.

Determine (6) In brackets (13) Circular (5) Daunt (7) Official (13) Dictum (6) Apart (5) Depict (7) Following (6) Odd (5) Gratitude (6) Memorise (5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z

SUDOKU CHALLENGE Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 22

15

18

23

42

43

52

BONUS BALL

28

04

10

31

38

44

LUCKY STARS

08

10

07

21

26

35

43

LUCKY STARS

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Tuesday Euromillions jackpot 45 million euro Wednesday UK Lottery jackpot 14 million euro

that end with the letter 's'.

8. Barbie dumped Ken after 43 years for a brief relationship with which Australian surfer?

9. What is the largest inland lake in South America?

10. Add a dance style to complete each of the following song titles. a. Sultans of ........... b. ........... Italiano. c. ............

Uniform Charlie Kilo. d. Tennessee ............ e. Yes Sir I can .............

11. In 1670 John Dryden became the first of his kind to be crowned with laurel. Explain.

12. Which parts of the body do each of the following Greek roots denote? One point for each correct answer. a. cephal. b. glot. c. rhin. d. pod 13. In literature, Abel Magwitch is the financial

benefactor of which character?

14. Name the three male tennis players who won the most Grand Slam singles titles in the 1970s.

15. Which two historical American gangsters has Warren Beatty played in film?

16. Found on the island of Madagascar, what is the name of the largest nocturnal primate in the world? Six letters, first letter 'A'.

17. Which products name stems from an embossed depiction of a buffoon wearing a cap with bells?

18. What kind of flowers, painted by Vincent Van Gogh, are worth more than his world famous painting 'Fifteen Sunflowers'?

19. The name for which island country means 'the old' in Spanish?

20. In song, which jovial character "lived in the sand at the Isle of Man"?

QUIZ ANSWERS 1. The most stars on The Hollywood Walk Of Fame. (Five in total).

2. Sunday (Dominica is Latin for Sunday). 3. Cod War(s). 4. Mars (Valles Marineris). 5. Gort. 6. Baklava. 7. Buenos Aires, Lagos, Los Angeles and Paris. 8. Blaine. 9. Lake Titicaca. 10. a. Sultans of Swing (Dire Straits), b. Mambo Italiano (Dean Martin), c.

Foxtrot Uniform Charlie, Kilo (Bloodhound Gang), d. Tennessee Waltz (Patti Page), e. Yes Sir I can Boogie (Baccara). 11. John Dryden was the first official 'Poet Luareate'. (laureate means 'crowned with laurel'). 12. a. head, b. tongue, c. nose, d. foot. 13.

'Pip' (Great Expectations). 14. Bjorn Borg (8), John Newcombe (5), Jimmy Connors (5). 15. Clyde Barrow (Bonnie and Clyde) and Bugsy Siegel (Bugsy). 16. Aye-aye. 17. Foolscap paper. 18.

'Irises'. 19. Antigua. 20. Happy Jack (The Who)

ACROSS 1. Two pig stealers will get beaten! (3-3) 4. Makes an outline of a game, we hear (6) 9. Thought I'd no reactions when disturbed (13) 10. Serious enough to resent a change (7) 11. Did it flow divinely from the choir? (5) 12. Two prepare to take the strain (5) 14. Diplomatic representative in a maiden voyage (5) 18. A topless specimen is quite enough (5) 19. The devil of a match (7) 21. A device that has some current attraction (13) 22. Insist upon a lock being put back (6) 23. Although he keeps going, he remains where he is (6)

1. The singing cowboy Gene Autry is the holder of which stellar record?

2. On which day of the week did Christopher DOWN Columbus discover Dominica?

1. Diplomacy, we hear, took a devious course (6) 3. What was the name given to the last war involv2. Youthful soothsayers, biblically speaking (5,8) ing Iceland?

3. Girl involving one in love entanglement (5) 4. The largest canyon discovered is 3,000 kilome5. Make a new adjustment for the back row, by the sound of it (7) tres long, spans as much as 600 kilometres 6. An imaginative air-trip? (6,2,5) across, and is as in parts up to 8 kilometres deep.

7. Dispatched with railway guard (6) Where is it?

8. Before the end of the day, the trial will make you irritable (5) 5. What is the name of the robot in the 1951 sci13. Somehow trace an alternative producer ... (7) ence fiction film classic 'The Day the Earth Stood 15. ... indispensable for one who is filming (6) Still'?

6. What is the name of the sweet Greek dessert 16. This craft will upset the lotteries (5) made with filo pastry, chopped nuts and honey?

17. As a culinary device, it causes some friction (6) 7. Name the four most populated cities in the world 20. Land-line shown on the map (5)

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‘Twitters from the Atlantic’ Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper.

He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.

Are You Friendly?

This week, I received a very cross email from Dawn, a regular reader of ‘Letters from the Atlantic’. Dawn is a British expat who has lived in Italy for many years, and is very unhappy about an article that she recently read in an expat publication. Dawn sent me a copy of the article that was basically a survey of nations that had the most friendly and unfriendly attitudes to expats living in their countries.

The article claimed that Denmark, Switzerland and Norway are the most unfriendly destinations for expats. Despite the generally high quality of life in these countries, they are just not friendly enough with poor attitudes to expats and a local culture that is difficult to get used to. These ‘sinners’ were closely followed by Germany and France that ranked 56th and 57th in a list of 67 countries. Again, the general friendliness (or lack of) figured highly in France, whilst in Germany socialising with the locals and the language were major barriers to successful integration. Mind you, it could be worse, with Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic being the most unfriendly of all.

At the top of the friendliness list are Mexico, Costa Rica and Uganda, with Greece and Cyprus making huge leaps forward in the friendliness stakes. According to the article, these countries bend over backwards to make expats feel at home. However, the top destinations overall for expats are Taiwan, Malta and Ecuador, which is due to quality of life issues that include financial factors and healthcare, whilst Qatar, Italy and Tanzania plummet to the bottom as the worst countries for expats to live in.

I think that it was at this point that Dawn felt sufficiently moved to

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By Bar rie Mahoney

fire off an email to me, since Mexico ranks number one in the ease of she has lived in both France settling in index, as well as highly across and Italy for a number of years, the weather and friendliness sub-indexes. and resents the implication that both countries are unwelcoming to expats. She makes the point that these countries made her and her partner feel welcome, although initially she found negotiating French bureaucracy a challenge.

However, Dawn also makes the point that being able to speak French helped her to settle during those first few months in a new country. In France, she lived in a small village where she quickly became accepted into the community, whilst in Italy integrating into a large city was more difficult, but Dawn quickly overcame this by So what about the UK? Based on the data before the Brexit referenhelping to support a local animal welfare charity, voluntary work dum, the UK came in 33rd place in Dawn’s article, which was mainteaching English in her local primary school, as well as helping to ly due to friendliness towards expat families, as well as job security. deliver bread to elderly local residents from the local bakery!

However, the cost of living was thought to be too high, pushing the Dawn’s email basically gives all expats a simple lesson in how to be ranking to a lower position. One can only imagine how expats from a happy and well integrated expat. Those expats who claim to live in Europe view the friendliness of the UK population towards them folunfriendly countries should ask themselves whether they have bothlowing the referendum. ered to learn the language and take part in local and cultural activities. Do they appreciate and value local traditions, or attempt to have a conversation with their neighbours? Have they fallen into the usual British expat trap of living in a British enclave, only socialising in British bars and restaurants, complaining about life in their host country and comparing it to the UK through rose tinted glasses? Do they only watch British television and only ever speak in English and expect others to speak to them in English? Frank answers to these questions may give an explanation of why some countries are regarded as more unfriendly than others.

Of course, data and statistics can be made, massaged and twisted to interpret almost anything, and surveys such as this are little more than meaningless. As all wise expats like Dawn quickly realise, much of our attitudes about the friendliness of people in our host country is heavily influenced by our attitudes towards them.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: http://barriemahoney.com and http://thecanaryislander.com or read his latest book, ‘Footsteps in the Sand’ (ISBN: 9780995602717).

Available in paperback, as well as Kindle editions. © Barrie Mahoney

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Boats and Nautical Boat for Sale. A good strong old fashioned reliable Cuddy. 6 metre, 2 birth seats 6. Inboard Volvo Penta , recently serviced, runs great. Ideal boat for pottering, fishing on the Mar Menor.

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Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2016 Ford Edge Sport Diesel Automatic 4x4 priced at just 47,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars including -Ford Focus Petrol Year 2014 – 13.900€ - Mini Cooper S Petrol 192hp Year 2015 – 25.900€ Opel Insignia Auto Diesel Year 215 – 22.900€ -Peugeot 308 Petrol Year 2012 – 9.900€ or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality.

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Social and Clubs The next meeting of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 16 February at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras. The

Torrevieja Branch meets at the Casa Ventura in San Luis at 7.30 pm on the 2nd Friday while the La Marina/Gran Alacant Branch meets on the 1st Monday at The London Bar, behind Dial Prix in Gran Alacant at 6pm. Everyone Welcome.

Volunteers are urgently needed in all areas by the Age Concern LIFELINE Team visiting people in their own homes to assess their needs, reporting back to the Lifeline Team Leader. There are many people who live alone, are lonely and need some form of social contact. Please call Age Concern on 96 678 6887.

(69185) HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes in areas surrounding Quesada, San Luis, La Siesta Torrevieja, La Mata, Orihuela Costa, Villamartin to Campoverde, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or email charitycentre. helpathomecb@gmail.com.

TORREVIEJA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (TCF) is an English speaking lively church located at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas 68, Torrevieja 03183. Residents and holiday-

makers are welcome to attend our services every Sunday at 10.30 a.m. with communion and “kids church”. During the month of August there will be NO Wednesday Fellowship meetings because of holidays and the heat. Our Wednesday Fellowship Meetings (Bible Study) will recommence in September beginning at 6.00 p.m. For further information see our website www.tcf-Spain.org or tel: 966 700 391.

Pets Delmonte Catotel Cartagena. The cattery that cares! Tel 968 168 711 or 616 276 379 (69083)

Do you want to Sell Why not use the power of the Leader to sell your unwanted goods or to advertise your business. Classified advertising is available on these pages from just 6 euro per entry while you could take a business card size display ad in the run of the paper for only 120 for 3 months. Email office@theleader.info

Property for Rent Property to rent in Roda village. 2 bed apartment and 2 bed townhouse with communal pool.

Rents from 300-400 euro (+ utilities). Please call 628 931 306

Property for Sale FOR SALE: Los Montesinos, La Herrada, Alicante. 2 bed/1 bath bungalow/apartment, near to G u a r d a m a r / To r r e v i e j a / S a n Miguel. Gated garden entrance, with fully tiled path/garden.

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Exterior security grills fitted to all windows/doors. Community pool. Habitation Certification.

Genuine enquiries only. Priced to sell at: 67,500 euros. Tel: +447702 340744 Email: lancashiremedia@talktalk.net For Sale Town House In SAX/Alicante. 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, with separate granny flat.

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Reduced for quick sale. 125.500 Euro. Tel 626 253 569. (90187) Beautifully presented 2 bed ground floor bungalow. Consists of Lounge/Diner, good sized kitchen with storage. Master bedroom with fitted wardrobes, twin bedroom with fitted wardrobes and family bathroom. Good sized garden and communal pool.

Property is located just a short stroll to Villamartin, ideal for full time living and holidays 80,000 euros Tel 966 772 553 (92320) Dolores. Large Finca in plot of 10,000 m2. All services connected. Build Size 215m2. Must be viewed. 195,000 euros. Tel 649 189 930 (65297) This three bedroom, two bathroom quad house in Entre Naranjos is South-facing and has been finished to a very high standard.

Wonderful mountain views. Euro 114.950. For further details, please call 0034 96 897 1860.

(142076) A two bedroom, one bathroom seaside apartment with stunning

views of the Med. This property is in a popular and secure block, just a short walk to the sandy beaches of Cabo Roig and Campoamor. It can be accessed by stairs and by a communal lift and has the use of a communal pool. There is a large balcony with beautiful views. A short walk from the vibrant nightlife of the Cabo Roig Strip, it is close to all necessary amenities including 24hr medical centre. Euro 94,950. For further details, please call 0034 637 227 385.

(142073) Wonderful 3 bedroom...2 bathroom house...with views of the sea...in the heart of Playa Flamenca...no need for a car...everything within walking distance...149.000 euros. Must be viewed. Call 640 534 964 Cabo Roig in one of the most sought after urbanisations on the coast. 2/3 bedroom, 1.5 bath bungalow, just 200 mtrs from the sea. Immaculate and cared for property with large lounge, log fire, aircon and all white goods.

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189,995 euros. Tel 600 228 616.

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Euronics Darts League Results: Thursday 9th Feb Results of rescheduled matches before the last game of the first half Season: Hub Hyenas 10-2 Hen's Teeth Coqs Hens Teeth Chicks 1-11 Junction Jackals Evolution 10-2 Tavern Las Rosas 5-7 Massey's Tavern 0-7 Sporting Misfits Match Results for 9th February 2017 Junction Jaguars 1-11 Las Rosas 7-5 Ale House 4-8 Tavern 4-8 Pint depot Queens 4-8 Porter House Bees 7-5 Hub Hellraisers 2-10 Hen's Teeth Chicks 0-12

Hub Hyenas Hen’s Teeth Coqs Porter House Massey’s Evolution Sporting Life Misfits Junction Jackals El Capitan

League Table end of 1st Half season P Hub Hyenas 15 D i El Capitan 15 v Massey's 15 i Junction Jackals 15 s i Porter House 15 o Porter House Bees 15 n Las Rosas 15 A Ale House 15

Pts 29 26 26 26 21 19 18 16

D i v i s i o n B

Evolution Tavern Oldies Junction Jaguars Hen's Teeth Coqs Sporting Life Misfits Pint Depot Queens Hub Hellraisers Hen's Teeth Chicks

15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15

S***T Happens Alley Gators Pin Pals The Bandits Gi Gi's Hookers

6 4 0 4 6

2 4 8 4 2

999's Alley Cats Sunrise Colegas Pin Pushers Sol Amigos

Top Performers

Ladies

Gents

Hi/Game J Hi/Game+H/Cap Hi/Series Hi/Series+H/Cap

Julie Thorpe 198 Sandy Bell 248 Julie Thorpe 517 Sandy Bell 645

Brian Tomlin 195 Brian Tomlin 240 Maurice Allen 547 Gunter Wilms 647

Gi Gi's Hookers Sunrise Colegas Pin Pushers Alley Gators Alley Cats S***T Happens Sol Amigos 999's The Bandits Pin Pals

P W 51 45 51 41 51 38 51 38 51 37 51 35 51 34 51 31 51 24 51 16

Gms Av 51 761 51 745 51 749 51 753 51 742 51 754 51 753 51 736 51 732 51 724

D 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0

L 23 27 29 30 31 33 34 36 44 52

Tot 38832 38001 38228 38427 37861 38478 38448 37547 37340 36961

Hi-G Hi-S Pts 858 2431 90 839 2402 82 857 2357 77 902 2472 76 834 2395 74 849 2439 70 881 2412 68 823 2334 63 823 2383 48 815 2318 32

TORREVIEJA DARTS LADIES ORGANISATION League Format Week 1 Results

Wildcats at Macklins Friendly Temps El Balcon Chicas

Auxiliary cup and fixtures and venues were posted in last week’s Leader but will also be emailed to all captains as a reminder along with the fixtures list for the 2nd half season.

Thursday 16th February sees the next round of the Knock-out and

Well done to Hub Hyenas for topping the leader board for the first half season but everything is still to play for in the league trophy. All teams will retain their match points tally but leg points will return to zero for the 2nd half of the season.

There will also be a strict no rescheduling rule for all teams unless there are extenuating circumstances e.g. bereavement of a team member.

If you cannot get at least 4 players together because there is a party or some of your best players are elsewhere, then you will have to concede the game 0-7 in favour of the opposition. The committee must be notified of all intentions to cancel a game.

14 11 9 7 6 5 4 3

-

3-6 6-3 4-5

Black Dog Ladies Friendly Chicas Primadonnas

By Simone de Lacy and Gilly Kirby

The league will nowsplit into Division A and Division B (as indicated left) and the first league game of the 2nd half season will be on Thursday 23rd February.

Finishing in top spot at the halfway stage, half a pack of Hyenas!

Cadena Sunrise 10 - Pin Bowling Week 17 - 8 February

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League Table Primadonnas Friendly's Temps Black Dog Ladies Wildcats at Macklins El Balcon Chicas Friendly Chicas Gogartys Girls

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 0

W 1 1 1 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 1 1 1 0

Pts. 3 3 3 1 1 1 0

Hot Darts Ellie Attwood 140+100, Beatty Powell, Sue Casey 140, Marylyn Jackson, Sam Billingham, Margaret Boden 127, Pamela Taylor 121+100, Lorraine McGrath, Natalie Clifford 121, Kim Fickle 119, Ann McGivern 118, Noreen Dobbs 109, Brenda Knowles 104, Groa Ingvadottir, Jane Costello, Carol Hurley 100 Wildcats - This is just to remind you that the Wildcats are now playing from Macklin’s Bar, in Via Park III. I have maps; and if anyone needs them please let me know. In the meantime, any players out there interested in playing for the Wildcats, we need one or two more players so please get in touch. Thank you.

Well done everyone this week, especially the Captains for getting the Results in on time, keep up the good work, and enjoy your darts.

Pam Horton, 96 571 0066. Email: Dartess501@gmail.com

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VISTABELLA BOWLS CLUB

SOUTHERN LEAGUE RESULTS AND TABLES FOR FRIDAY 10 FEBRUARY

By LYNNE BISHOP

DIVISION A

S.A.Enterprise league. The Albatrosses in need of important points got a good result from their home game against Greenlands Maples.

L Bishop, SJ Broadhurst & J Bowman 26-9. T French, C Watkins & B Pain 18-10. G Paylor, S Allman & E Bishop 19-13. VB 113 (10) 89 (4) G. The Drivers at San Luis playing the Klingons managed to pick up five points, any points from there we should be grateful for! S Whitehall, M Foulcer & P Rafferty 23-16. J Chaplin, S Norris & I Kenyon 16-11. F Barclay, L Barber & G Thorpe 17-17. VB 86 (5) 121 (9) SL. The Voyager league Eagles were away to Horadada Falcons and clocked up three wins, J Bagwell, P Cadwell & A Kendall 17-7. D Harwood, P Bagwell & P Tomkins 17-11. R Smith, K Rennison & R Pownall 16-13. VB 83 (6) - 98 (8) H. Winter league was a windy affair, played at home against Javea Green we won on two rinks, lost on three but gained the overall shots. J Chaplin, M Foulcer, B Norris & E Bishop 24-12. L Bishop, P Tomkins, A Brown & I Kenyon 21-12. VB 86 (6) - 84 (6) JG. Fed 4's Vikings got mulched by the Emerald Isle Leprechauns, playing away from they lost on all three rinks, VB 45 (0) -84 (8) EI. Southern league Lanzadores away to the Emerald Isle Cavaliers, two wins from J Chaplin, S Broadhurst & I Kenyon 19-16. B Regan, D Chaplin & J Bowman 17-14. Could have been better! Shots, VB 92 (4) -122 (10) EL. Picadors at home v Quesada Swallows, three winning rinks, F Barclay, B Ewart & G Thorpe 27-10. K Hardy, S & B Norris 28-11.

D Gunning, J Neve & M Foulcer 16-16. Shots, VB 109 (7) - 97 (7) Q. Conquistadores away to La Siesta Golds won on one rink, L Prockter, P Tomkins & B Prockter 19-11. Shots, 91 (2) - 115 (12) LS. Sponsored by Venture Fleet, Autos Direct, Rivingtons Restaurant & TV Choice.

Greenlands Oaks 91 La Marina Sharks 98 Vistabella Picadors 109 Montemar Matadors 121 Emerald Isle Cavaliers 122

(4) (6) (7) (12) (10)

Mazarron Miners (10) San Luis Lions (8) Quesada Swallows (7) San Luis Tigers (2) Vistabella Lanzadores (4)

102 100 97 73 92

San Luis Lions Quesada Swallows Emerald Isle Cavaliers Vistabella Lanzadores La Marina Sharks Mazarron Miners Vistabella Picadors Montemar Matadors Greenlands Oaks San Luis Tigers

P 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14

W 50 50 47 43 39 40 35 36 34 29

Diff 307 188 138 105 67 -130 -58 -119 -173 -325

Pts 126 121 115 108 99 96 88 88 75 63

D 4 2 1 4 5 4 4 4 3 3

L 30 32 36 37 40 40 45 44 47 52

Win 11 10 10 9 8 6 7 6 2 1

DIVISION B El Rancho Mustangs San Miguel Cougars Quesada Swifts EmIsle Claymores La Manga Crusaders

130 118 126 121 117

El Rancho Mustangs San Miguel Jaguars San Miguel Cougars Emerald Isle Claymores La Siesta Blues La Marina Seagulls Quesada Swifts La Manga Crusaders La Marina Dolphins Country Bowls Geckos

(10) (12) (10) (12) (8)

San Miguel Jaguars La Siesta Blues La Marina Seagulls La Marina Dolphins C’try Bowls Geckos

(4) (2) (4) (2) (6)

87 75 83 93 87

P 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14

W 54 49 45 46 40 35 34 37 33 34

Diff 546 295 151 109 -36 -217 -112 -334 -74 -328

Pts 127 122 112 107 95 84 82 82 79 78

D 1 3 3 2 1 4 4 0 5 3

L 29 32 36 36 43 45 46 47 46 47

Win 9 10.5 9.5 8 8 6 5 6.5 4 3.5

DIVISION C El Rancho Raiders San Luis Pumas La Siesta Golds Horadada Royals

147 111 115 127

Horadada Royals Greenlands Cedars Montemar Toreadors Emerald Isle Outlaws Vistabella Conquistadores La Siesta Golds San Luis Pumas El Rancho Raiders Emerald Isle Roundheads

(10) (10) (12) (10)

Em Isle Roundheads Em Isle Outlaws Vistabella C’dores Greenlands Cedars

(4) (4) (2) (4)

84 108 91 88

P 13 13 12 12 12 12 12 13 13

W 56 46 40 37 36 37 27 27 15

Diff 495 175 208 76 103 -132 -90 -371 -464

Pts 134 114 97 94 90 84 66 61 33

D 3 4 3 6 5 2 2 1 4

L Win 19 10 28 9 29 8 29 7 31 7 33 4 43 5 50 5 59 1

GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB

By Dave Webb In the Enterprise Division, The Maples were away to Vistabella Albatrosses. Final score was Total shots for - 89. total shots against 113. points for - 4. points against - 10. Winning rinks were ..............Sheila Stead, Ann Butterworth, skip Jim Oliver. 16 shots to 15. Jean Thompson, Joan Oliver, skip Marilyn Fryatt. 23 shots to 15.

In the Fed 4s The Bulls were away to Country Bowls Badgers. Final score was ...........Total shots for - 44. Total shots against - 62.

Points for - 2. points against - 6. Winning rink was - Janet Bliss, Jean Thompson, Rudy Wattley skip Graham Watt. 24 shots to 17. In Div A, the Maples were at Home to Mazzaron Miners. Final score was ...............Total shots for - 91, total shots against - 102. Points for - 4. Points against - 10. Winning Rinks were - Sheila Stead, Joan Oliver, skip Mel Brown. 22 shots to 9. David Fryatt, Zoe Wilcock, skip Jim Wilcock. 22 shots to 10.

In Division C the Cedars were away to Horadada Royals. Final scores were .....Total shots for - 88. total shots against - 127. points for - 4. points against - 10.Winning rinks were .......Rudy Wattley, Terry Lawton, skip John Obrien. 19 shots to 14. Jean Giddings, Phil Lockley, skip Graham Watt. 18 shots to 15.

Linea Directa Spanish Nationals Look out for details of the draw, which took place at Quesada Bowls Club last Saturday, on the Linea Directa Nationals Facebook page.

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad and Avalon Saturday February 4th - Toreadors v Greenlands Sycamores At the third time of arranging we were able to complete our match at Greenlands after bad weather had intervened previously.

After resuming on the eighth end and the previous scores a hard fought match ended with the Sycamores winning on four rinks with the Toreadors winning on shots. Well done to our winning rinks of Sheila Roberts, Danny King and skip Les Bounds. Cliff Norris, Howie Williams and skip Graham Smyth. Shots 97 – 91. Pts 6 – 8 Monday February 6th - Monte Mar Toreadors v La Siesta Apollos A fine all around performance by the Toreadors saw them winning on three rinks and drawing on one. Well done to the winning rinks of Sue Bounds, Les Bounds and skip Jan Gatward. Dave Thomas, Howie Williams and skip Graham Smyth. Steph Mathingson, Rita Towle skip Joan Harding and drawing rink of Sheila Roberts, Pauline Woodfine and Barrie Woodfine. Our two losing rinks both lost on the last end.

Monte Mar Matadors v La marina Explorers Winning on three rinks and drawing on one well done to Sue Kemp, Harry Dobson and skip Brian Zelin 17 – 3. Geraldine Fisher, Mike Farrelly and skip Gordon Fisher 21 – 11. Ronnie Cairns, Alan Ashberry and skip Roy Mercer 21 – 13. Denise Ashberry, Dave Melville and skip Bill Young 18 – 18. Shots 109 – 98, Pts 9 – 5 Wednesday February 8th - Winter League Monte Mar v La Marina A bit windy for bowling but an enjoyable morning had by all.

Winning on two rinks and drawing on one. Well done to Sheila Roberts, Ethel Finan, Val Hignett and skip Alan Ashberry. Jan and Bill Webster, Pauline Woodfine and skip Barrie Woodfine. The drawing rink of Ronnie Cairns, Howie Williams, Joan Harding and skip Barrie Woodfine. Shots 72 – 93 La Marina. Points 5 – 7 Thursday February 9th - Picadors v Emerald Isle Shamrocks Picadors winning on on two rinks. Points 6 – 2 .

Monte Mar Lords v San Luis Condors. Winning on one rink well done to Ronnie Cairns, Babs Caiger, Dave Melville and skip Bill Young. Shots Lords 44 – 57 Condors. Points Lords 2 – 6 Condors.

Friday February 10th - Monte Mar Matadors v San Luis Tigers Winning and five rinks a good all around performance.

Shots Matadors 121 – 73 Tigers. Points Matadors 12 – 2 Tiger For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com. or email us at info@montemarbowls.com.

We are also on Facebook.

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Emerald Isle Bowls.

By Robin (the scribe) Adams.

3rd Feb, E.I. Claymores v La. Marina Seagulls, 2 good teams in a tight match: E.I 2 wins & 1 draw but winning the shots. 115-89, Points 7 all. E I. Winners: Alan Brown- Sue Johnson- Pete Willicott, (34-7). Carol Donnellan - Mary Malcolm. & Dennis Burkett (17-8). Barbara Doran, Cas Thomas & Mike Thomas. Got draw.

E.I. Outlaws v Greenlands Cedars. A great result for the Outlaws, winning on 5 rinks, & taking points, 112-80. Outlaw winners: Robin Adams, Mike Petty, Margaret Breen, (20-18). Ann Ede, Sheila Wickens, Ally Burns. (16-14). Linda Burns, Frank King, Ron Ede, (13-10). Maureen Foulds, Joe Dear, Ernie Bennett, (30-7). Sheila Adams, Reg Fooks & Stan Cheetham. (20-14). .

Fri 3rd, E.I. Cavaliers v Vistabella Picadores: not the result we wanted, winning on 2 rinks, losing shots by 89-104. Points 4-10.

Cavalier Winners: Pat Coffey, Jan Westall, Steve Westall, (17-14).

Linda Vincent , Glenda O'Dell, Mel O'Dell. (22-10).

Roundheads v Horadada Royals, Bad day, lost 14-0.

6th Feb. Moonrakers v Quesada Diamonds: Disaster Day 14-0 Neptunes v San Miguel Comets: Good result winning 4 rinks - 2 Shots, 98-97, points, 10-4.

E.I.Wlnners, Graham Roberts, Len Fisher, Brian Kavanagh, 25-11. John Jarvis, Ed Shepherd, Jim Mulloy, (18-14). Barbara Doran, Cas Thomas, Mike Thomas, (1612). Elwyn Morris, Barbara Eldred, John Malarky, (26-15).

7th Feb, E.I. V Highjackers, (friendly). Good desultory for the Isle, won on 4 rinks drawing on 2. Winning 12-6. Big money winners, E.I. Winners, Steve Watson, Liz Page, Tony Kelly, Hijackers, June, Eddie & Mike P. Thanks Hijackers for the enjoyable match.

8th Feb, Winter Leageu. E.I. V Greenlands. Perfect result for the Isle, winning all 5 rinks.& Shots by 96-71. Points, 12-0. Winners were: Dennis Rhodes,Mary Whitelock,John Pooley & Colin Lindgren , (22-10). Jean Parkes, Mike Stacey, Jim Mulloy, Paul Parkes. (2115). Sue Johnson, Mike Thomas, Dennis Burkett & Ian Brewster,(1614). Cas Thomas, Jan Westall, Pat Coffee, Steve Westall. (16-14).

Mike Veale, Ron White, Ann Marie Stevenson @ Drew Gerrard (21-18).

Premier Knockout, Sat 4th Feb. Good win with 3 rinks, & shots 70-55.

Winners: Colin Lindgren, (21-11). Mike Veale, Paul Parkes, (21-10) Pat Heaney, Dennis Birkett, Ian Brewster, 15-14. Well done .

9th Feb, Fed 4s poor day for Shamrocks, winning only one rink, & losing shots,, 48-68. Points, 2-6. E.I. Winners: Robin Adams, Sheila Wickens, Alex Malcolm & John Mularkey.

Fed 4 s, E.I. v Vistabella Vikings: A perfect score for the Isle, winning on all 3 rinks, sorry I don't have the individual names and scores, but a fine result, up to 3rd!!

Fri 10th, Outlaws v San Lois Pumas: a poor day for the Outlaws, winning on 2 rinks, & losing shots by 3. Points 4-10. Winners.Robin Adams, Mike Petty, Margaret Breen. (21-12). Maureen Foulds,Tony Harris, Ernie Bennett, (18-11). E.I. Claymores v La Marina Dolphins. A brilliant result for the Claymores, winning on 5 rinks, & taking shots, 121- 93. Points 12-2. Claymore winners: Margaret Riley, Jack Redfern, Bill Allen, (23-15). Len Fisher, Cas Thomas, Mike Thomas (17-12) Carol Donnelson, Mary Malcolm, Dennis Birkett. (24-11). John Jarvis, Ed Shepherd & Jim Mulloy, (22-12).

Alan Brown, Sue Johnson, Pete Willicott, (18-17). A great result

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB

By Barry Latham I wish I hadn’t said anything about our best week being last week as we only had one win this week. Explorers away at Monte Mar playing the Matadors had a good game so I am told but the Opposition won 9-5. Dave Hadaway continued his good form with Jim Reeves and young Anne Stone winning 22-12. Margaret Finlayson scraped through by one shot with the help of Rob Finlayson and Maureen Kidd. Mike Stone battled to a draw with Jim Manning and Janet Parsons.

The Pathfinders didn’t find their path too well either at El Rancho or as the Captain said “It was a bad day at the office.”

Went down 12-2 with our only winning rink being John Withers, Martin Butler and Paul Tregoing. Still counting up the overall score.

Our first win this week came through the Winter League with us beating Monte Mar by seven points to five. Both won two and a half rinks each with ours being Shirley Hadaway, Don Harrison, Mike Smith and Anne Stone followed by Barry and Wendy Latham, Peter Parsons and Kathy Manning. The draw came from John Mallet, Mike Stone, Mo Kidd and Dave Bulfield.

The Sharks at home to San Luis Lions had a really close game and just lost overall by two shots with both sides winning three rinks. The winners were Alex Whyte, Jim Reeves and Kathy Manning; Alan Castle, Phil Pape and Janet Parsons; last but not least Roy Hart, John Mallet and Andy Bartlett.

Seagulls flew over to Quesada to play the Swifts and were out flown by them to the tune of 10-4. The two winning rinks were Dave Taylor, Gina Hindle and Lynne Armitage plus Barry Latham, Wendy Latham and Barbara Forshaw.

The Dolphins played Emerald Claymores somewhere and lost 12-2. Our victorious threesome was Brian Duff, Martin Butler and Maria Duff. Well done to them.

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Monday 13th - Sunday 19th February, 2017

Father and Son Splash their way to third in Catalan championships.

The Supermoto race series has already started in Spain with the first round of the Catalan chamAt 15 years of pionships held last weekend at the spectacular age Loris FordMora d'ebre circuit in Catalunya. Whilst Dunn was the Saturday practice was held under sunny skies, youngest comcome race day the heavens opened and the best petitor in the of Spain's supermoto racers had to battle in the SM2 youth class torrential rain and storm force winds. The track was partially flooded in places and the dirt section had to be closed due to the tricky conditions.

The Advance Moves International Removals sponsored Supermotoland team were fielding their 3 riders in the premier SM1 class with Mathew Ford - Dunn and with his brother Anthony in the SM road class. The third rider was Mat's son Loris Ford-Dunn, who at only 15 years old was the youngest competitor in the SM2 youth class that runs in the same race as the adults.

Anthony Ford- Dunn was off to a good start by qualifying 3rd in the SM road class and in his first race he was third away but an early crash ended his day with a dislocated shoulder that side lined him for the rest of the meeting. His recovery is progressing well and he hopes to be fit for the first round of the European championships in Italy at the end of March.

Undeterred by Anthony's injury, Loris and Mat lined up for their two races in one of those rare moments where father and son are in the same race. The tricky conditions made for a tough race but both rid-

ers held their nerve and finished strongly with Mat 5th in SM1 and Loris 3rd in SM2. The next race saw the track starting to dry a little but this time Mat ran with the leaders and finished in 3rd to give him 3rd place overall in SM1, and Loris finished 3rd again in SM2 to put him 3rd overall as well. With both riders on the podium it was a great day for the Advance Moves International Removals sponsored Supermotoland.com race team and they now continue their training and preparations for the 2nd round of the Catalan championship on the 12th march , followed closely by the first rounds of the Spanish and European Supermoto championships.

La Siesta Bowls Club By Rod Edgerton The week commenced with a set back for the Apollos in their quest for promotion with a home defeat by Montemar Toreadors by 115 shots to 99. La Siesta securing 5 points to their opponents 9. Winners for La Siesta were Dawn Taylor, Norman Adcroft and Harold Charleton 19-16, Sheila Chorley with Bill and Sue Jordan 21-19 whilst Irene Laverick, Ramsay Sinclair and Brian Gardiner managed a creditable draw 19-19.

The Pioneers made the long trip to Mazarron with a depleted squad and lost by 135 shots to 76 the sole winners in a 12-2 defeat being Jean James, Tom Heaslewood and Val Dalton 22-13. Well done to Tony Dalton and his team in getting a full team together in difficult circumstances.

Things picked up on Tuesday with the Fed 4’s results. The Parakeets at Home to San Luis Bazas won on all three rinks getting the full 8 points with a shots difference of 54-40. The biggest win came from Joy and Brian Gardiner with Tony Campbell and Pat Reilly who won 18-9.The Hoopoes visited Horadada and came away with a 6-2 win by 70 shots to 34 and the biggest winning rink was Val Dalton, Jean Hepehi with Florence and Mike Edwards who won 32-7.

The Winter League team carried on from last week’s encouraging result with a home victory against Finca Guila by 95 shots to 79 picking up 7 points to their opponents 5.Winning rinks for La Siesta were achieved by Jack Cooper, Brian Harman with Bill and Sue

Jordan by 23 shots to11 and Irene Laverick, Tony Campell, Pat Harman and Jean Cooper who won 25-14. The rink of Florence and Mike Edwards with Pat and Trish Reilly secured a further point with a draw 19-19.

The Blues travelled to San Miguel to play the Cougars and came away with just the single winning rink of Dave Davies, Brian Gardiner and Harold Charleton who won 21-8. The overall shots being 75-118, thus La Siesta came away with 2 points to San Miguel’s 12. The friendly team of Alex Morrice, Ramsey Sinclair and Beryl Styring managed to win their encounter by 14-12.

Before the Golds home match with Vistabella a minute’s silence was held in memory of Dave Livesey who passed away this week. Dave has been a member of La Siesta for several years, he will be sadly missed by all, both at the Bowls Club, and by his many friends in the Monday Cribbage League. Our thoughts are with Aileen and family at this sad time.

Good news for the Golds was an encouraging 12-2 victory over the Conquistadors by 115 shots to 91 taking 12 points to their opponents 2. Star rink was provided by Derek Souter, Penny Porter and Johnnie Ryder 27-12. Thanks to Jim Hudson for stepping in and providing a good win with Tom Heaslewood and Hilary Clarke by 22-14. So well done everybody for a great team effort.

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB By Sheila Cammack.

A week of mixed weather and results. South Alicante Winter Triples: Enterprise Div. Monday 30th SL Klingons home v VB Drivers, some useful points 9-5, 121 shots-86. Winners: Shirley Verity, Jo & Julian Pering 29-10, Janet Wigfield, Ray Clarke, Peter McEneany 17-17, Bob White, Keith Phillips, Mal Hughes 16-9, Kath Reid, Sabrina & Russell Marks 32-11. SL Trekkers, away v SM Pulsars, a good result, 10pts-4, 106 shots-89. Well done: Margaret & Barry Roseveare, Neil Morrison 19-17, Doug & Fay Beattie, Drew Russell 15-14, Dave Steadman, Alan Mawer, Peter Fuller 28-11, Irene Everett, Dave Tilley, Vic Slater 18-16. Discovery Div. SL Romulans, home v CB Flamingos; a hard game 5-9, shots 83-107. Winners: Marie Henley, Cas Blay, Babs Shand 15-10, Pat Baylis, Danny McErlean 23-23, Kath Waywell Christine Phillips, Harry Epsom 18-13.

Winter League: Wednesday 8th great result home v El Cid; points 11-1, shots 95-70. Winners: Neil Morrison, Jo Pering, June & Keith Jones 18-14, Shirley Verity, Ray Clarke, Julian Pering, Russell Marks 21-9, Kath Reid, Sheila Cammack, David Blackie, Scott Malden 18-16, Irene Everett, Lynne Morris, Peter McEneany Tom Hill 18-18, Ann Holland, Keith Phillips, Sabrina Marks, Mal Hughes 20-13. Another win for the Berleens: Margaret Morrison, Les

Bedford, Barry Edwards, Vic Slater 20-16.

FED 4’s League Div A SL Ospreys, on Thursday 9th home v SM Apaches; 47shots-45, pts 4-4. Winners: Sheila Cammack, Jo Pering June & Keith Jones 21-10, Ann Holland, Keith Phillips, Giuseppe Galelli, Mal Hughes 15-20. Div B SL Condors; good points home v MM Lords, 6pts-2, shots 57-44. Winners: Allen Bowen, Bill Webb, Barry Edwards, Brian Pocock 22-14, Ray Clarke, Charlie Marigold, Neil Morrison, Sue Cooper 21-10. Tuesday7th Div C SL Bazas away v LS Paraketes, a frustrating result 0-14, 40 shots-54.

Friday 10th LLB Southern League, SL Lions had a very close result away v LM Sharks, shots 100-98 8pts-6. Winners: Ray Clarke, June & Keith Jones 18-15, Kath Reid, Keith Phillips, Mal Hughes 20-14, Ann Holland, Steve Simmons, Giuseppe Galelli 26-8. SL Tigers, away v MM Matadors hard work for 2 points-12shots 73-121.

Winners: Marina Beardsall, Bill Webb, Neil Morrison 20-12.

SL Pumas home v EI Outlaws, good result 10pts-4, 111 shots -108.

Winners: Kath Waywell, Kevin Hull, Ray Watmough 22-15, Pat Baylis Danny McErlean, Phil Hasler 18-16, Chris Lythe, Tony Davies, Margaret Clarke 24-22, Margaret Stephens, Terry Baylis, Geoff Shand 24-16. www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com

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Carp R Us This weeks match was moved from the River Segura in Murcia town centre to the Embalse de Argos because of the state of the banks after the recent bad weather.

The day started cool but by midday the sun was out and the conditions were very good. Mark Foden was the clear winner with 27.70kg using method feeder and corn, Dave Hoare was second with 10.60kg, Graham Ledley third with 7.12kg and Tom Marshall fourth with 7.06kg. This was the final match of the winter series and the two leading anglers were separated by a single point going into the match. Tom Marshall’s fourth place saw him clinch victory in the series from Steve Fell.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on our Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

The club is currently looking for new members and anyone interested can contact us through the Facebook page, the website or calling the club secretary, Steve Fell, on 634379081.

The picture attached is of this weeks venue, the Embalse de Argos.

El Rancho Bowls Club Monday found The Pintos playing at home against The Pathfinders from La Marina, a stiffish breeze making the bowling a little tricky and as you would expect the home mastered it more quickly than The Pathfinders. But it was a good match with most mastering the mat at some time during the game, but it can be a little disconcerting when the wind changes just after release of the bowl and in the end the Pintos took 5 rinks and the overall shots.

The Broncos had a bye and I believe were playing a friendly at Emerald Isle in the afternoon.

On Friday morning the Mustangs played San Miguel Jaguars at El Rancho, which was bound to be a tough match against the then league leaders. The stiff cold breeze proved a little tricky, but the lack of runs makes it a fair surface all round. I am sure the Jaguars were a little disappointed in going away with 2 rinks and hence 4 points, but the Mustangs will be pleased against the strong visitors.

Judy Foley, Keith Cunningham and Geoff Jones 19-12. Barbara Jones, Sheila Cooper and Carolyn Harris 18-26. Maxine Wright, John Skipper and Rod Wright 11-20. Henry Ryder, Jan Bright and Richard Lee 21-15. Irene Thomson, Jane Hamill and Eddie Jones 248. Bob Morgan, Merv Armstrong and David Whitworth 37-6.

In the afternoon the Raiders entertained the Roundheads from Emerald Isle, playing well and taking full advantage of the home mat to take rinks and the overall shots, a good result. Ngaio Baldwin, Peter Baldwin and Graham Day 25-22. Helga Schiffman, Peter Blackburn and Keith Longshaw 11-15. Marion Haynes, Diane Yates and Dave Haynes 10-21. Ann C Taylor, Shirley Edwards and Bob Taylor 36-5. Gill Bartlett, Bob Easthope and Rob Clark 38-9. Fred Dunstone, Gary Dunstone and Gary Newson 27-12. For membership contact Brian Taylor on 965077093 or briantaylor_es@yahoo.co.uk

San Miguel Bowls Club by Pat McEwan All 3 San Miguel teams didn't do too well in this weeks SABA league. The Pulsars managed to get 4 points at home to San Luis Trekkers. Well done to Pat McEwan, Ron Nairey, Dave McEwan 1613: Peter Rees, Ken Hope, John Raby 15-13. There were some very close games with Sue Milner, Brenda Rees, Eddie Cowan losing 1917: Anita Brown, Sheila Booth, Gary Raby losing 15-14: Ron Squires, Keith Green, Paul Thomas losing 18-16. Shots 89 - 106.

The Comets also picked up 4 points away at Emerald Isle. Good result by Sheila Errington, Peter Ross, Brian Errington 21-10: Carl Eagle, Jack Jackson, Bill Brownlee 24-9. They lost the shots by 1 !

The Meteors had a really bad day at Quesada losing on all rinks, better luck next week!! Jan Allen, Dave Greenland, Ian Rogers had hard lines and got beat 18-17. Shots for 90 - Against 132.

The WASPS are still going strong, Wednesday at 1.30pm, Come along and have a try. Suitable for all players.

For information please contact the President, Eileen Potts, telephone 966730376 or Secretary, Pat McEwan, telephone 966714257.

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PADDY’S POINT GOLF

For our President's Day we travelled to La Finca, our first visit for a while. We had a good turnout of 40 members and guests but, alas, the high winds on the day made scoring very difficult for most of us.

Despite this we had a great day and an even better evening back at the pub where we enjoyed a superb three course meal courtesy of our President Rory. Thank you Rory, Hazel and staff for your hard work and generosity. Thanks to Costa Calida Golf for arranging our outing.

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th February, 2017

EUROGOLF FEBRUARY MEDAL On Thursday 9th February Eurogolf played their monthly medal and the results were Cat 1 (0-16) 1st Sue Gillette 77 c/b 2nd Malcolm Foskett 77 c/b 3rd David Gregson 80 Cat 2 (17-22) 1st Bert Lawson 73 2nd Stan Low 77 c/b 3rd Pete Gartside 77 c/b Cat 3 (23-28) 1st John Holland 71 2nd Bev Fairhurst 75 3rd Colin Hobden 79 Cat 4 ( 29 +) 1st Chris Stanley 72 2nd Lauraine Walker 77 3rd Ed Silvester 73 February medal winner John Holland 71 Best front 9 Gordon Bourne 35 Best back 9 Marilyn Eckersall 36 NTPs 5th Sue Forbes 11th Cindi Green 12th in 2 Pino Perito 15th Malcolm Foskett 17th George McCallum Football draw Sue Pegg, Debbie Weedon x 2 and Mike Mitchell TUESDAY TOFFS On Tuesday 7th February Toffs played their normal stableford competition.

The results were Cat 1 (0-15) 1st Ian Pegg 38 2nd John Barraclough 36 3rd Bill Martin33 Cat 2 (16-19) 1st David Blanchette 34 2nd Carin D Kruijs 33 3rd Dave Nicholls 31 Cat 3 (20-24) 1st Phyllis Venables 35 2nd Gordon Bourne 34 3rd Steve Sayers 33 Cat 4 (25-36) 1st Lauraine Walker 35 2nd Ed Silvester 32 3rd Norman Wood 31 Overall Toffs winner Ian Pegg 38 Best front 9 Jan Shorley 20 Best back 9 David Gregson 18 NTPs 5th Jeff Lynch 11th David Gregson 12th in 2 George McCallum 15th John Conolly 17th Sue Forbes berst guest Ray Thompson Football draw Stan Low, David Valentine, Franco Gentili, Dave Nichols and Ian Pegg If you would like to play with Eurogolf at La Marquesa Tuesdays and Thursdays please visit the website www.eurogolf-quesada.co.uk

NEAREST THE PRESIDENT'S DRIVE - John Aird.

NTP holes 3 & 6 No winner, hole 13 Ken Dunne, hole 16 Terry Fitzgerald.

LONGEST DRIVE hole 11 John McGettighan, hole 18 Myra Coull.

The 2's pot was shared by Derek Burgess, Ken Dunne and Terry Fitzgerald. BEST GUEST with 31pts Gerry McGhee.

3rd place Joey McAvoy 29pts, 2nd Derek Burgess 29pts c/b, Winner - Myra Coull 30pts.

Our next outing is to El VALLE on 8th March and our Captain's Day is on 12th April at Mar Menor. Photo shows our President Rory Lee presenting the trophy to the winner, our Captain, Myra Coull.

Lime Bar Golf Society On a fine but very cold and windy morning 32 players teed-off on this challenging course. The competition was played in the stableford format and the scores recorded are as follows:- Nearest the pin on the 3th hole was Pete Gillespie, the 6th hole was Ian Johnstone, the 9thth hole was Ken Styan, the 13th hole was K. Spence, the 17th hole was Les Henderson Silver Class 3rd place was Gary Lester with a score of 25 points, 2nd place was Nev. Greenwood with a score of 26 points, 1st place was Bryan Archer with a score of 27 points Gold Class 3rd place was John Williams with a score of 29 point, 2nd place was Les Henderson with a score of 30 points, 1st place was Mike Heighway with a score of 30 points (on count-back) A very enjoyable days golf in pleasant company, thanks to the committee, the Lime Bar staff and the ladies selling the football tickets.

SUDUKO SOLUTION

Las Ramblas Social Club On Monday we played Best 2 of 4, all count on the par 5's with three teams coming in with the same scores of 95pts. However, on a count back, the winners were: 1st Pete Dunn, John Shervell, Marleen Billen, and Joyce McClusky. 2nd Ann Marie Weisheit, John Dobson, Peter Wickham and Mike Mahony. 3rd Rod Doel, Dave Pulling, Bryan Neal and Maria Oldenzeil On Wednesday, with Blue Skies, Very Cold and Strong Winds, and Dressed for Skiing we played the 2nd round of our Eclectic Joker the results were as follows: Cat.1: 1st Bryan Neal 38pts, 2nd Terry Field 37pts, 3rd Lindsay Forbes 37pts on countback. Cat 2: 1st Geoff Biggerstaff 44pts, 2nd Rod Doel 38pts, 3rd Terry Cullen 37pts. 2's Club: Bryan Neal and Liz Robertson.

The start of Friday's Greensome's were delayed due to frost on the fairways.

Fortunately the format of this game lends it's self to faster than normal play so we were able to keep warm.

The winners in 1st place were John Collins and Heindrick Oldenzeil with a good score of 75.75. 2nd were Dave Pulling and Rod Doel with 76.

Mike Mahony

EL PLANTIO 2 GOLF SOCIETY

By David Swann A very windy morning upset the games of many of the pairings in El Plantio 2's Greensome competion on 7th February. However the dynamic duo of Ian Craig and Penny Goujon posted a fantastic return, beating the nearest completion by almost 8 shots. Most of the members know the abilility of Ian but this time Penny, who plays off a high handicap, more than matched him and both posted respective ntp’s to rub salt into everyone else's wounds.

Nearest the pins : Hole 4, Ian Craig, Hole 6, Penny Goujon. 3rd Place Handicap 10.26, Lawrence Wanty, Gary Needham, Net 57.74 Shots . 2nd Place - Handicap 9.94, John O'Brien, Ken Green, Net 57.06 Shots. 1st Place - Handicap 11.8, Ian Craig, Penny Goujon, Net 49.20 Shots.

If anyone would like to join our Society, we play at El Plantio Golf Club on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. We use both courses - the Par 3 nine hole course and the main 18 hole course, so we cater for all abilities. The membership rates are very competitive, so call for more details. Anyone who wishes to play in the Society as a guest or join as a new member, contact Ian Henderson on 966 716 616 or 636 116 230

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MIKE PROBERT TALKS GOLF (Sponsored by Costa Blanca Green Fee Services).

Here on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and resident alike and with this in mind we have secured the services of Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services to provide a weekly round up of local golfing events and topics and in conjunction with us at THE LEADER will provide discounted golf prices to all of our readers and run our golf competitions.

‘PLK’ Remember what your Dad said to you when he gave you your first putting lesson.

First you must get your balance, because golf is a game of balance.

Then try and keep your head still, lead with the left hand and PLK. What is PLK I hear you say?

PLK stands for ‘putt like a kid’ What does this mean?

Kids are fearless putter, just watch them, they are as unmechanical as you can get.

They set up, aim and pull the trigger without a lot of secondguessing and no body tension.

Their sole objective appears to be to move the hole back a foot or two.

If it is this easy WHY do things go wrong and the shortest of putts seem almost impossible to hole?

Why do great golfers and champions stop winning when they reach their 40’s despite still hitting the ball well?

The answer is almost certainly the pressure and scars of having faced and missed so many important putts in previous years coupled with the inability to remove the outcome of the putt from the mind.

I am sure that all golfers at some time have stood over a putt and had the thought, if hole this I will…….... or if I miss this putt I will…..…….

Remember what I stated in a previous article and play NATO golf and try to be not attached to the outcome.

Will this be easy?

The answer is no but if you try to eliminate the negative thoughts and putt like a kid at least you may find that you are less stressed on the course and start to enjoy your golf more.

We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us.

The deals shown in the table are some of the best currently available to you: Golf Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) Font Del Llop La Finca La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero Roda Villamartin Villaitana Poniente Vistabella

Price €118 €51 €86 €86 €60 €80 €110 €48 €80 €126 €94 €35 €94 €102 €47 €62

Comments Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Sgle green fee after 1.30pm Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee & Buggy 2 Plyrs and Buggy (w/e)

For Bookings and more information contact Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 Quotation of the Week “Putting affects the nerves more than anything and I would feel sick over three footers” - Byron Nelson

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Monday 13th - Sunday 19th February, 2017

So near yet so far for Torry Novelda CF ................. 1 CD Torrevieja .............. 0

T

orry went into this important div 3 fixture against play off seeking Novelda, lying second from bottom, in what is proving to be a difficult season (to say the least!). With the transfer window now well and truly shut, team coach Pedreno has made his last throw of the dice, as a number of players have come and gone, but unfortunately the end

result appears to be the same. Points have to be put on the board, but the million dollar question is where are they going to come from? With a home match at Nelson Mendela, ko 5pm, next Sunday against high flying Ontinyent in store, the stark reality is that relegation to the Preferente division now seems more probable than possible.

Pedreno´s men started brightly, but Novelda carved out a goal scoring opportunity on 16 mins. From a corner, the ball was worked to Toni whose shot flew narrowly wide. Moments later from another corner, Carlao headed just over, before Torry forged a rare strike on goal with a Vicente near miss. As per normal, keeper Buba came to his sides rescue on 34 mins denying Benja, then 5 mins later

he could only watch as the same player just missed the target. The dangerous Benja forced another fine save from Buba shortly before half time, before proceedings were brought to a halt with surprisingly both goals still intact.

Novelda made their intentions quite clear as both Benja then Pucelano went close to opening their account, before on the hour mark, a Zapata scorcher was punched to safety by the over worked Buba. Zapata wasn´t to be denied though, for on 78 mins from a corner, he was on hand to blast the ball past a helpless Buba.

Even though Nica, Joel and Borja were brought on by Pedreno, the hosts were just too good for a Torry side that need more time to find their feet, but unfortunately time is rapidly running out.

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The Plaza golf society @ The Alehouse With a frosty starts to the day at La Finca ours players had a great day.

With no one winning the 2’s pot we have a rollover for the next game, which is the Captains day.

The nearest the pins were sponsored by the committee, Tony Smale taking hole 3, Kevin Rose hole 6, Steve Higgins hole 13 and Dave Blackburn hole 16. All collecting 10€ bar tab. Last place was Bob Price with just 17 points, taking a bottle of wine, Steve Higgins just missing out with 18 points. Liz Sully won best lady and was also fined for wearing her Christmas jumper ( all goes to a good cause tho). Scratch card was won by Claire Attwood.

Our guests saw Peter Reffell coming 2nd on count-back with a score of 22 and Dave Blackburn 1st with 25 points. Our members saw Andy Shaw coming in 3rd with a great score of 32 points, Troy came in with a impressive 34 points and Nick Spicer finally found his form and scored an exceptional 35 points winning the day.

Our next event is Captains day and is a sell out. Our first event in March takes us to La Torre on 10th March. If you wish to join us please email us at theplazagolfsociety@gmail.com, Please follow us on Facebook or pop into The Alehouse.

Members of T.M.G.S. fly into La Marquesa 36 members and just a couple of guests flew into La Marquesa, well with the strong winds it was a job to keep your feet on the floor. This golf course is situated in a vale between Ciudad Quesada and Rojales so you can imagine the strength of the wind there. La Marquesa afford us a 2 tee start which really helps to get everyone in quickly, so there is no 2 hour waiting for the presentation .The golf course was presented in good condition and our members seem to enjoy playing there, they also enjoy the menu del dia in the clubhouse afterwards. With these difficult conditions the scoring could be expected to be low and so it proved, except for a couple of exceptions in our Bronze category but no one broke par as can be seen in the results. N.T.P. competition; hole 5 O. Cederberg, hole 11 T. Norris, hole 15 S. Sonesen, hole 17 C. Marsden: Bronze category, 3rd P. Mahoney 22 pts.

2nd O. Haubner 30 pts. 1st C. Marsden 34 pts. Silver category, 3rd R. Nilsen L/H 27 PTS. 2ND M. Kennedy 29, 1st L. Jernberg 32 pts. Gold category, 3rd O. Cederberg 28 pts. 2nd B. Gillies 29

pts. 1sr B. Watson 29 pts. L/H.Photo: Silver cat winners. Full details of our Society can be found at www.tmgs.org www.facebook.com/TMGSGOLF

Valverde in driving seat at Vuelta de Murcia The Spanish veteran Cyclist Alejandro Valverde (Movistar) showed a clean pair of pedals at the Tour of Murcia on Saturday when he raced to his fifth win on home soil.

The 36 year old native of the city broke clear with 60 kilometres of the 182.7km stage to win in 4hrs 03mins 08secs from Colombian Jhonatan Restrepo (Katusha), 2mins 10secs back in second and Austria's Patrick Konrad (Bora-Hansgrohe) third.

Valverde had won at La Vuelta a Murcia on four previous occasions in 2004, 2007, 2008 and 2014 and the win sets him up nicely as he goes head-to-head with Alberto Valverde approaching the finish line.

Image courtesy of Movistar

Contador at the Ruta del Sol in Andalusia this coming week Valverde got away from the pack more than 60 kilometers from the finish and never really looked under any threat.

Colombian Jhonatan Restrepo (Katusha-Alpecin) took second (+2:10) directly in front of the Austrian Patrick Konrad (Bora-Hansgrohe).

The one-day, 182.7km Spanish classic from San Javier to Murcia featured three categorized climbs, including the Category 1 Alto Collado Bermejo (1,200m), which was first revealed at the Vuelta a España.

24

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