Costa blanca and costa calida leader edition 658

No 658

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th March, 2017

Tel: 637 227 385

Quake shakes up Montesinos Once again the Vega Baja suffered a minor earthquake last Thursday morning which, according to the National Geographic Institute (IGN), had its epicentre just southeast of Los Montesinos with a magnitude of 2.7.

The tremor was said to be twelve kilometres deep and felt in Los Montesinos as well as in nearby towns of Rojales, Benijófar, Almoradí, Dolores, Daya Nueva and Torrevieja The IGN catalogued the quake as intensity IV, the level at which you would be expected to feel the tremor as well as it

causing minor damage to household, crockery, glassware and the like.

Manuel Regueiro, the president of the Colegio Oficial de Geólogos (ICOG), has warned that Spain may be due a major earthquake soon, if statistics of history and monitoring are anything to go by.

Statistically, Spain has suffered a major, destructive earthquake every 70 years, but as the last one was at Arenas del Rey (Granada), on Christmas Day in 1884, the risk of reoccurrence may be increasing with every day that passes.

Continued on Page 2

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Quake shakes up Montesinos 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.

The southern Iberian Peninsula is an area between the Eurasian Plate and the African plate, the plate being in the middle of the Alborán Sea, concentrating the highest rate of earthquakes. In addition, particularly high-risk areas are the provinces of Málaga, Almería, Granada and Murcia.

Of the twelve major earthquakes that have occurred in Spain in the last 600 years, the worst recorded quake took place in 1829 in Torrevieja (Alicante), resulting in most of the area being destroyed and leaving 400 people dead. That earthquake displayed a magnitude of 6.9 at its highest, although there were also aftershocks with

some considerable time difference apart.

Locally you have to go back to 12 Jan 2015 for a larger earthquake, which also took place in Los Montesinos, when it recorded a magnitude of 3.3.

RECENT EARTHQUAKES IN THE REGION 12 Jan 2015: Los Montesinos, 3.3 magnitude 27 February 2016: Santa Pola 2.7 magnitude 21 March: Crevillente 1.9 magnitude 17 April: El Campello 1.9 magnitude 17 April: San Miguel 1.6 magnitude 20 April: Santa Pola 2.2 magnitude 22 April: Totana, Murcia 2.2 magnitude 26 April: Torrevieja 1.6 magnitude 8 June: Alhama Murcia 2.5 magnitude

Spanish State visit confirmed for UK The British Ambassador to Spain, Simon Manley, has welcomed the announcement of a State Visit to the United Kingdom from the 6th to the 8th of June 2017.

“In this Sapphire Jubilee celebration year for Her Majesty the Queen, I am delighted that that Their Majesties King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain have accepted her invitation to visit the UK” said Mr Manley.

“This State Visit will celebrate not only the long and deep royal and historic ties between our two countries, but also our strong relationship as partners bilaterally, within Europe and on the global stage. We enjoy close connections in terms of culture, commerce, education, science and innovation.

This is an opportunity to celebrate and deepen those links.”

Nearly 300,000 Britons are registered as residents in Spain and 18 million visitors came from the UK last year, whilst more than 132,000 Spaniards are resident in the UK and two million visited in 2015.

On top of that, we share close educational connections, with nearly 11,000 Spanish students studying at UK universities and 50,000 students attending British schools in Spain.

This is the first State Visit by King Felipe and Queen Letizia to the UK and they will stay at Buckingham Palace. The programme will be announced in due course.

PLEASE CAN YOU ANSWER OUR PRAYERS?

La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja, is looking for someone to play its Church organ.

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e now have a new Choir Master and a newly re-formed Choir. However, the person who currently plays the organ has ill health which is making it increasingly difficult for her to play.

If you can play a Church organ or an electric piano, both of which we have in the Church, please answer our prayers. You would be assured of a very warm welcome both by the Choir and the Church congregation which is usually about 100 strong at our 11.00 am Services.

Our Church Services are held at 11.00 am every 2nd and 4th Sunday (and 5th Sunday, when this applies). We also have Services at 9.30 am on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. In addition, Choir practice is held on Wednesday afternoons at 3.30 pm.

If you are interested in becoming our Lead Organist or Pianist please contact Pastor Keith on 666 180 108 or just come along to one of our Services and introduce yourself.

You will find La Siesta Evangelical Church on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja. We are counting on you to answer our prayers.

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Essential repairs to Cala Capitan walkway get underway

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our years it has taken, but at least the work is finally underway as UTE Soluciona SL and Marco OPP SA have begun the task of cleaning up the rock face and removing loose debris along the previously closed section of the coastal walkway from Cala Capitan to Cabo Roig.

The cost of the project, which will take seven weeks to complete, is said to be just short of 190,000 euro with much of the finance being provided by the Valencian Coastal Authority.

The Cabo Roig walkway has been closed since the summer of 2013 due to the danger of landslides in the area. The repair works that would allow the pedestrian path to open, just along from Cala Capitan at it’s most dangerous point, have been promised on a number of different occasions with the contract previously being awarded twice, the last time on 22 December, when the Local Government Board approved the placement of the work. The initial sum set aside was said to be 281,000 euros, with the commission eventually awarded for 187,147 euros.

On previous occasions the works have stalled due to lack of funding but with the election of the new government team, the procedure was restarted in December 2015.

As the vast majority of visitors are drawn to the region by the wonderful Mediterranean coastline it seems inexplicable that the council has taken four years to find the funding necessary to carry out the Cala Capitan repairs, especially as resources for many much more expensive Orihuela city projects have appeared far easier to obtain.

Luisa BonĂŠ, the coordinator of the Coast announced the start of the work at a press conference last week. She said that the contractors will removal all loose materials, clean up the slopes to achieve some sort of uniformity following which they will cover the slopes in a metal mesh which will be anchored down to ensure there is no repetition of the unpredictability and the rock falls experienced in recent years.

Despite being one of the most beautiful landscapes in the area this stretch of coastline became particularly dangerous as a result of rock falls and landslides caused by heavy rains and erosion from the sea.

On a number of occasions in the past the walkway was actually cut off by fallen mud and rock until four years ago the council closed it completely, establishing a diverted walkway along the adjacent beach.

It was only a matter of good fortune that nobody was seriously injured at the time.

In the next few weeks I for one will be looking forward to striding out once again along one of the most stunning walks on the rollercoaster of the pathway between Cabo Roig and Cala Capitan.

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Where are our Local Police?

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otable for their absence from the hugely successful Save Cala Mosca protest on Sunday 5 March were not only members of the Popular Party government of Orihuela and their junior partners, Ciudadanos but also, the local police.

It is astonishing that an event involving over 400 people from all over the area, authorised by the Alicante authorities, did not attract the presence of any uniformed members of the local police. Did they think that these peace-loving protesters would cause no problems or was there another reason?

Apparently there was. The Orihuela Costa local police were summoned to Orihuela to be present at sporting events. According to our information, this left only two police officers to attend to the interests of Orihuela Costa with its population of 30,000 registered inhabitants plus the many visitors here on a sunny Sunday. This is not a oneoff help to the capital city. It is more the norm.

It happened in February when Orihuela was celebrating the

ADAPTinG to san pedro’s caRnival

Twenty-three members from ADAPT, with an average age of 65 years and an estimated total years of 1,500, undertook the challenge of walking, dancing, spinning umbrella’s for almost three hours during the recent San Pedro del Pinatar Carnival, walking over 10,000 steps (according to the pedometer!)

As late afternoon came the light sabre’s on the

umbralla’s illuminated our way! The effect was impressive as they were opened and closed along the route.

We finished the route a little weary but happy to have achieved what we set out to do and experience the joy of being invited to join in a very special Spanish tradition.

Medieval Market.

The truth is that Orihuela Costa has too small a share of the 190 or so strong municipal police force.

With more than a third of the population, not counting non-residents and visitors, we should have at least double the present number of 30. Will we get the numbers needed and necessary for our security?

We can confidently predict: NO. Orihuela comes first and the coast lags behind in everything. Clean streets, properly maintained parks and gardens and civic facilities such as a Cultural Centre.

The Town Hall have just inaugurated with much pomp and circumstance the previous, distant and difficult to find “reading point” as a citizens participation centre, relying on volunteers and only open when the caretaker is available. Until changes were made last year, the reading point was also used

as one of three voting stations inaccessible and difficult to find in order to discourage Orihuela Costa residents from voting in local elections.

And what about the famous Emergency Services Centre, the foundation stone of which was laid 10 years ago and which is still a rusting skeleton of a building? How many times have we been assured that building was about to resume and we would soon have a sparkling new modern centre for local and national police, fire station and other emergency services?

In the meantime, we continue with a local police station in the basement of the Playa Flamenca Town Hall which, when the Town Hall closes at 3 p.m. each weekday, becomes a patrol car with a mobile telephone! The United States gets America first with Donald Trump and we get Orihuela first and the coast last, for everything! CLARO PRESS RELEASE

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Parents arrested after cocaine found in 2-year old daughters blood

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he National Police have arrested a couple, both Spaniards aged 38 and 40 years, after their daughter was found to be suffering from the effects of cocaine by staff at the Alicante General Hospital.

They have been charged with an offense of the temporary abandonment of a minor.

The couple took their two-year-old daughter, who was suffering with anxiety attacks, dizziness and paralysis, to the General Hospital of Alicante last Friday, where clinical toxicology tests

A Policewoman searches the child’s bedroom

“Sex Doll” Brothel opens in Barcelona

carried out in the paediatrics department found the presence of cocaine in her blood.

They immediately called the National Police who arrested the parents for the temporary abandonment of minor whilst not fulfilling the duties required of a parent. The father was said to be suffering from the effects of cocaine at the time.

The police then searched the couple’s home although they failed to find any traces of the substance. A spokesperson said that it was thought that the child might have had access to the drug that her father consumed.

The investigation was carried out by agents of the UFAM in Alicante.

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or a special introductory price of just €80 an hour, residents of Barcelona can now live out their fantasies with a silicone sex doll. They can choose the height and size of the doll, it’s colour and it’s contours. They can then dress it before choosing to partake in whatever fantasy that they might wish, and all the time the hyper-realistic looking mannequin will retain it’s smile and it’s serenity.

The brothel, named Lumidoll, slang for prostitute, is the very first brothel of it’s kind and it opened in Spain’s second city last Friday.

The dolls are made with state-of-the-art polymers and are designed to look as close to the ‘real thing’ as is possible. They are completely disinfected

before and after every service “with special antibacterial soap,” so the brothel owners say that there is absolutely no chance of any contagion. A spokesperson for the brothel, said that “the sex dolls are not going to replace us; they fulfill their role as a fantasy but they are not a threat to our profession.”

For the time being Lumidoll has just four Sex Dolls available whose “unlimited” services are paid for by the hour. One hour with a doll is €120, although there is a special introductory offer of €80 for the coming weeks. Ninety minutes with a doll will cost €150 (or €100 while the special offer lasts) and two hours are €170 (or €120 at the reduced rate).

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Works begin on Municipal Theatre

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he mayor of Torrevieja, José Manuel Dolón, said last week that work is now underway on the improvements that need to be made to the Municipal Theatre to enable the granting of the necessary licenses and permission that will allow it once again to be brought into use.

Currently, work is being done in the stairway area at the corner of each floor that will enable the granting of a fire certificate. The task includes the drilling of the floors so that builders are able to install a depressurisation system so that the stairs can be used in case of fire.

The mayor has said that he hopes all works to be completed within a few weeks so that this important resource can be reopened and once again host important local events.

The mayor said that, in parallel, they are carrying out cleaning work so that everything will be ready when the works are completed.

The mayor also said that it had been necessary to unclutter the theatre rehearsal room where, for years, materiel has been accumulating

Cleaning Up Cabo Roig Following the article some weeks ago on the good work being done by the Cabo Roig Clean Up Committee, which scours the area’s streets every Friday morning as it disposes of litter and waste, a recent trip around the area just last week shows just how successful their efforts have been.

The bins and their surrounds are much tidier, the roads are much cleaner and much of the graffiti previously found on the sides of the larger stores has now been painted over. Indeed the photo shows two members of the committee painting over the very last of the scrawling eyesore just last Friday as the community looks forward to next week’s St Patrick’s Day.

and preventing the room from being properly used. He said that much of the equipment stored in the room was highly flammable and presented a very real danger of fire.

He said that there were no plans for anything that had been disposed of to be used again. It comprised of scenery and props which was all completely surplus to requirement.

The only exception mentioned in the report is the clothing and various costumes since it considers that, duly preserved, much of it could possibly be re used in the future.

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Retirement of Samaritans Trustee

The Samaritans in Spain said a fond farewell and thank you to Ole Jung at their AGM on the 5th March. Ole has been a hard working Trustee and Secretary for the last 3 years.

Lynda Brettle the CEO presented him with a painting of the Samaritans charity shop and drop in centre in Punta Marina . President Ed Purcell thanked Ole for his work and commitment to the Samaritans.

Councillor visits Municipal Animal Protection Centre The Councilor for Health, Noelia Grao, visited the municipal animal protection service, Asoka, last week, with the purpose of raising awareness, education and respect for animal welfare in the region.

A spokesperson for Aoska said "we do not want the shelter to be an animal stockpile. We want to encourage residents to adopt which is why we will now focus on the awareness amongst schoolchildren through talks in schools and educational centres throughout Orihuela.

The centre will also focus on attracting volunteers, to increase their staff so that they can offer a better service. They will do this by holding an Animal Protection Day and open day.

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The Sound of Musicals Melody Makers International will be starting rehearsals for their next concert, The Sound of Musicals which will take place on 24.06.2017, as usual on the last Saturday of June. Choir members are still being stopped and complemented on the sensational Andrew Lloyd Webber concert that took place on the 28th January 2017.

Melody Makers next concert promises to be equally as good.

The Evening with Andrew Lloyd Webber concert attracted many new members to the prestigious Melody Makers Choir. These new members were totally overwhelmed by the professionalism of Nigel Hopkins and how he managed to obtain the very best from every member of the choir. They commented on how much they enjoyed and learned from every rehearsal, and the great feelings of success they felt performing to two packed houses. These new members fully echoed what long standing members of Melody Makers International have gained from being part of Nigel’s choir. What really surprised the newer singers was the genuine positive response

and the glowing praised heaped on them by truly appreciative audiences.

Singing in a choir is a great hobby and makes you leave rehearsals feeling very uplifted and positively glowing and on a high after successful public performances. Research has shown that singing together is beneficial for health and mental well being, and certainly the discipline of learning lyrics and music is a great way of keeping your brain active and healthy.

Nigel Hopkins has three great choirs, Orihuela Costa Male Voice Choir that meets at La Zenia Church every Thursday at 11am and would love to welcome new members, In Harmony that is well into rehearsals for their next concert of Rutter’s Requiem as well as Melody Makers International that meets every Tuesday at the New Asturias at 5.30pm. These choirs raised over 10,000€ last year for various local charities and the local churches.

If you would like to sing with a great choir, help raise money for

local charities, make new friends and develop a really engrossing hobby contact Nigel on 96 677 5976 or come along to rehearsals. It is not too late to be part of the next concert The Sound of Musicals.

Campoverde Theatre Group Donation to local charity PADS

Sadly, very little stays the same in this day and age and, like many local Groups, membership numbers have dropped at The Campoverde Theatre Group.

Despite this the Group is still flourishing and they were delighted to be able to make yet another, substantial donation to Charity. This time a cheque in the sum of EUR1.000 was handed to PADS, another local Charity, which was extremely close to the heart of their late

Chairman, Adelle Kippin.

Pictured are members of both

PADS and the Campoverde Group.

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Torrevieja RBL wins National Award

The Spain District North Recruiting and Retention Award is presented annually to The Royal British Legion Branch with the most improved membership over the previous three years. At the Conference in January, the Award for 2016 was presented to Torrevieja Branch by the National Chairman, Terry Whittles.

Gerry Lynch, Chairman of the Branch said he was thrilled to have received this Award, which came as a complete surprise and would be a great boost to the Branch. He paid tribute to his hardworking Committee and the very supportive members. Our events are always well attended and we regularly welcome new members to the Branch. We are a ‘happy’ Branch and have been established in Torrevieja for 26 years, being the very first Branch in District North.

Peggy Wyatt, Principal District Recruiting

Officer, said she was delighted that Torrevieja Branch had been recognised. It is testament to all the hard work undertaken over the years. They are a friendly Branch and this has borne fruit when it comes to recruiting. They have also taken great steps to retain their members, some of whom holiday in the area.

The Branch meets on the 2nd Friday of the month at Casa Ventura, La Siesta, Torrevieja 6.30 for 7pm. For further information please contact : the Membership Secretary, Pauline Grindlay on 966 704146 or email: rbl3456membership@gmail.com.

The photo shows Gerry – centre right, National Chairman – Terry Whittles, Members of the Torrevieja Branch Committee, Peggy Wyatt, Principal District Recruiting Officer, left

The Battle for Cala Mosca

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ith reference to the ongoing Battle to save “Calla Mosca”, as the fight has been going on for several years now.

Isn't it time that Orihuela City started to show some consideration to the wishes of people of the Costa and back them in this Battle. Or is it as so many people on the Costa believe that the Orihuela City council only see the Costa as a cash cow and offer nothing?

Yes we have a Town Hall which has a limited Police office and other Official offices to collect revenue. We also have a Suma Office to collect revenue.

Do we have an Ambulance Station? NO. Do we have a Fire Station? No. Why because no revenue can be collected from these services. The same as some other services are denied to the habitants of the Costa. No Library, No Theatre, Nowhere to bury our loved one's, the list goes on.

If Orihuela City continue to bury their heads in the sand this Battle may be the Last Straw to break the camels back. Orihuela Costa should seek to be either independent or governed by a closer municipality,could either San Miguel or Torrevieja do a better job?

So come on Orihuela City come out and support the Fight of the People support the Battle for Calla Mosca.

Or the fight may be against you?

Regards TJ Sawkins

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Mice; 3 Estrange; 8 None; 9 Dramatic; 11 Praiseworthy; 13 Lustre; 14 Pamper; 17 Particularly; 20 Mystical; 21 Taxi; 22 Tendered; 23 Mesh.

DOWN: 1 Monopoly; 2 Canvass; 4 Shrewd; 5 Remarkable; 6 Notch; 7 Each; 10 Escritoire; 12 Crayfish; 15 Partake; 16 Scrape; 18 Arson; 19 Emit.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Pack; 3 Sinister; 8 Laid; 9 Daughter; 11 Make the point; 13 Catkin; 14 Stucco; 17 Face the music; 20 Seaboard; 21 Muse; 22 Dispense; 23 Bede.

DOWN: 1 Polemics; 2 Cricket; 4 Images; 5 In good time; 6 Titan; 7 Rare; 10 Strike home; 12 Concrete; 15 Costume; 16 Shorts; 18 Amass; 19 Used.

ACROSS 1.

Risk (5) 4.

Evolve (7) 8.

Desolate (7) 9.

Of the moon (5) 10. Require (4) 11. Define (8) 13. Den (4) 14. Deer (4) 16. Authorise (8) 17. Too (4) 20. Grieve (5) 21. Turkish title (7) 22. Theft (7) 23. Perch (5)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

12.

13.

15.

18.

19.

Tiny (13) Oath (5) Source (4) Repudiated (6) Speed (8) Desire (7) Idealist (13) Miserly sum (8) Lassitude (7) Solitary (6) Language (5) Distant (4)

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

Solution on Page 22

QUIZ ANSWERS

Day In The Life (Beatles), b. That'll Be The Day (Buddy Holly), c. All Day And All Of The Night (Kinks), d. Another Day In Paradise (Phil Collins), e. Night And Day (Cole Porter), f. Perfect Day (Lou Reed). 13.

Quantum. 14. a. The Lion King, b. The Lady & the Tramp, c. 101 Dalmations, d. The Incredibles. 15. Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland (both via Kaliningrad Oblast), Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, the

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

held in 1844 between two countries not known for their cricketing history or prowess. Can you name the two countries?

12. The following words are from songs with the word 'Day' in the song title. Can you name the song? a. The English army had just won the war, b.

You gave me all your loving and your turtle doving, c. The only time I feel alright is by your side, d. She calls out to the man on the street "Sir can you help me?" e. Only you beneath the moon or under the sun whether near to me or far, f. Feed the animals in the zoo, then later a movie too 13. Which modern scientific word is Latin for 'amount'? (7 letters) 14. In which animated Disney films would one find the following characters? a. Pumba, b. Si & Am, c.

Pongo, d. Edna E. Mode 15. The Russian Federation has land borders with fourteen countries, how many can you name?

16. The Australian Maria Ann Smith was responsible for which popular pomaceous product?

17. Which planet in our solar system is named after the Roman god of, amongst other things, commerce and thievery?

18. Who released the following No. 1 UK albums in 1975? a. Physical Graffiti, b. Venus And Mars, c.

Atlantic Crossing, d. Once Upon A Star 19. The name of which very large company is an acronym of the founders name, the farm where he grew up, and his home parish?

20. The 3 key combination Ctrl-Alt-Delete can be used to reboot your computer or to summon its task manager. Computer geeks sometimes use which expression from the Star Trek TV series to describe this?

1. Bossa Nova. 2. Madison Avenue. 3.

Laos. 4. Rio Bravo. 5. He is a quadruple amputee. 6. Psych. 7. Special Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe. 8. a.

Marathon Man, b. The Boys From Brazil, c.

Wild Geese II. 9. Piano builders or pianos.

10. a: Zeitgeist (lit; the trend at that time), b: Wicker (such as in basketry), c: Ombudsman, d: Gesundheit, e: Smorgasbord, f: Sputnik, g: Pavlova (Anna Pavlova). 11. Canada and the USA. 12. a. A

ACROSS 1. Don't drop this kind of phrase (5) 4. No philosophy for the single-minded? (7) 8. Seat ten of the most tidy (7) 9 and 22Ac. Resorts to protection when these talkers become diffuse (5,7) 10. Social status is offensive (4) 11. Lot One is a variety of sharpener (8) 13. Shape a wooden seat (4) 14. Hack greenstone (4) 16. Puts to pasture, as it happens (5,3) 17. Finished part of a love rhapsody (4) 20. What speakers do is nothing to grumble at (5) 21. Everybody is in favour of a gas-bag! (7) 22. See 9 Ac. 23. Some of the quickest aircraft for part of a flight (5)

1. The name of which music style means 'new wave'?

2. Which New York City street is synonymous with the US advertising industry?

DOWN 3. What is the only landlocked country in SEast Asia?

1. They're largely made up of regulars in the services (13) 4. Which famous film title is also the Mexican name 2. Give some instruction to the attendants (5) for the river known in the USA as 'Rio Grande'?

3. What gardeners use for a sprinkler, we hear (4) 5. In September 2010, former steelworker Philippe 4. Hold back and tie in a knot (6) Croizon swam the English Channel, completing the challenge in just less than 14 hours. The record at 5. Well, the area isn't ruined (8) that time stood at 6 hours, 57 minutes and 50 sec6. Annoying enough to make Kim sore (7) onds, so why was Croizon's crossing so amazing?

7. Member of staff at the Naval College? (6-7) 6. What is the Greek root for 'soul'?

12. Go in search of some chance of success (8) 7. One can buy whole leaf grade tea labeled SFTGFOP. What do the letters stand for?

13. Burner in which the front part holds the ash container (7) 8. In which film did Sir Laurence Olivier play? a. A 15. Jack often comes after discarded bits and pieces (6) Nazi war criminal named Dr. Christian Szell, b. An 18. Shakespearean character instrumental in making a bloomer (5) aging Jewish Nazi hunter named Ezra Lieberman, 19. Fifty in the main uprising - they are drunk (4) c. Nazi war criminal Rudolf Hess 9. BlĂźthner, Erard, Chickering, Broadwood, Beckstein, Heintzman and Cristofori are all famous examples of what?

10. Borrowed words used in the English language: a: German word meaning "spirit of the times" - nine letters, b: Scandinavian originating word meaning "a hard woven fiber formed into a rigid material" - six letters, c: Swedish and Old Norse word for "commissary", "representative" and "steward" - nine letters, CAN YOU MASTER THE second letter 'M'. d: The German word for "health" SUDOKU CHALLENGE? ten letters, e: Swedish word meaning "a meal served buffet-style" - eleven letters, second letter Fill in the grid so that 'M', last letter 'D'. f: Russian word meaning "way" or every row, every column, "journey" and literally translated is "travelling comand every 3x3 box conpanion" - seven letters, g: A meringue dessert named after a Russian ballet dancer tains the digits 1 to 9.

11. The first official international cricket match was

People's Republic of China, Mongolia, and North Korea. Not included are its maritime borders with Japan (Sea of Okhotsk) and the USA (Bering Strait). 16. The 'Granny Smith' apple. 17. Mercury. 18. a. Led Zeppelin, b. Wings, c. Rod Stewart, d. Bay City Rollers. 19. IKEA (Ingvar Kamprad, Elmtaryd, Agunnaryd). 20. Vulcan Nerve Pinch.

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‘Letters 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.

What’s Not to Like?

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lthough the current ‘party line’ in the UK appears to demand that the European Union be viewed with acute suspicion and blamed for everything that has got wrong in Europe and, in particular, the United Kingdom, there are still many of us that actually appreciate the EU and all that it has achieved over the years. So, before any determined Brexiters reading this article choke on their cornflakes, I should add a rider that I am viewing its achievements through the eyes of an expat living in Spain and the Canary Islands.

The UK has made its own decision and it is time to move on.

The EU’s anniversary summit and celebrations are due to take place on 25 March 2017, and although the British Prime Minister has been invited, at the time of writing it is anticipated that she will not attend on the basis that it is not regarded as appropriate for the UK to take part in an act of unity and forward planning when the country is about to leave. On this day, EU leaders will gather in Rome to look back over 60 years when just six countries embarked on a project aimed at uniting Europe. The Treaty of Rome was signed on 25 March 1957 by the then leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. As well as a time for celebration, it will be a time for reflection, as well as looking forward to a challenging new decade that will see the UK leave the EU, as well as a new and unpredictable US President to deal with.

In Spain and the Canary Islands, the post Franco period could have been one of acute turmoil and political unrest, but the EU nurtured this troubled country into the successful and peaceful democracy that

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By Bar rie Mahoney

we see today. I am not saying that Spain could not have done this on its own, but it would have been much harder and a more painful process to achieve in so short a space of time. Much of the island where I live, half of which was mostly a barren desert wilderness sixty years ago, has been transformed into an island holiday paradise where many holidaymakers come to escape to the sun. Major infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and tunnels cut though mountain regions have been funded by the European Union enabling all of the island to be developed, which benefits residents and tourists alike. Again, without this level of funding, I doubt that this development would have happened.

As far as benefiting my own life, and for many others like me, the freedom to live and work in any of the member states has been one of the most significant benefits, accompanied by the freedom to purchase property, open a business and enjoy life in a country of my own choosing, rather than being trapped in the country of my birth.

For me, this has been a blessing that will be denied to others through rigid immigration policies and other restrictions that have become the narrative of many in the UK. Citizens’ confidence in the EU has been badly shaken in recent times due to the World Economic crisis, the clumsy handling of debt for countries, such as Greece, and the migrants’ crisis. During this period of doom and gloom, it is easy to forget the EU’s many achievements, which include 57 per cent of all UK trade, clean rivers and beaches, structural support for areas of decline such as Wales, Cornwall and Lincolnshire, cleaner air, recycling, cheaper mobile phone charges, cheaper air travel, no paperwork or customs between

member countries, access to European health services, EU funded research, labour protection, maternity rights, counter terrorism…I could go on for a few more pages, but you get the general idea?

Above all, after centuries of war between European neighbours, the EU has finally brought peace.

I, for one, will be celebrating the European Union and the influence for good that it has upon Spain and the Canary Islands, as well as for the people of Europe on 25 March. As with so many things in our fast-moving lives, we often do not know the value of something until we have lost it.

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 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. Yours for 2500€ ono call or WhatsApp 0044 7706 578 300 or email rmabiss@hotmail.com JetSki For Sale - Yamaha Wave Runner XLT 1200, 3 seater, super fast, own trailer recently serviced. 3000€ ono Call or WhatsApp 0044 7706 578 300

10.30 a.m. with communion and “kids church”. For information see 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)

Car and Vehicle Sales

Items For Sale

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 or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. (69148)

Aluminium set of gates for sale.

Personnel 123cm high, min 100cm wide. Drive 123cm high, min 290cm wide. High quality and very good condition. €300.

Email rondhill@hotmail.com for photos and more details.

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

Guest speaker will be photographer David Stokes. 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.

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.)

On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome residents, visitors and children. For information see our website www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or phone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108.

TORREVIEJA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (TCF) is an English speaking lively church located at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas 68, Torrevieja 03183. Residents and holidaymakers are welcome to attend our services every Sunday at

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

can use through their laptops when making presentations. If you can help please contact the Branch Chairman at: orihuelacosta.chairman@gmail.com

Property for Rent Villamartin, Very large 2 Bed Flat, 2 Bath, Furnished, Air Con, Sky TV, Com Pool, Sun Terrace, 5 Mins walk from Plaza, €350pcm plus only Elec,Water & Community Charge, Dean 639 288 935 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 4 Bdrm 2 1/2 bathroom furnished Villa for rent LMC 1000 euros PCm fully inclusive of all magm fees, water charges , rates and has wifi . Great Views . Use of 2 communal pools and heated indoor pool and a small gym, available early Apri. Email meandjoe@netvigator.com

Items Wanted

Property for Sale

Can you help the Royal British Legion. The Orihuela Costa and District Branch are in need of a small, new or second hand, projector that members and guests

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.

Balustrades to side/front; mature garden. Gazebo. Entrance: door, leading to fully double glazed tiled terrace/Conservatory area; water tap, 2 elec. sockets. House: Comprises of Lounge; sep. kitchen/leading to Roofed Galleria; toilet; 2 double beds.

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.

Single Garage space & 50 metre Patio. Quiet area with no community fees. Close to all local amenities. 160,000€ O.N.O. Call: 868 08 34 55 Or email: anna-gargan@hotmail.com LA MANGA - Immaculate 2 bed, 2 bath apartment. Fully-furnished. Close to beaches and Veneziola Golf. 2nd floor.

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) Two bed, 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)

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE

By Simone de Lacy

“THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Euronics Darts League Results: Thursday 9th March unction Jackals (2) El Capitan (1) Massey’s (1) Porter House (2) Evolution (2) Tavern (2) Hen’s Teeth Coqs (2) Hub Hellraisers

8-4 6-6 6-6 8-4 8-4 8-4 10-2 5-7

Las Rosas Hub Hyenas (1) Porter House Bees (1) Ale House Junction Jaguars Hen's Teeth Chicks Sporting Life Misfits Pint depot Queens (2)

League Table Hub Hyenas Junction Jackals El Capitan Massey's Porter House Porter House Bees Ale House Las Rosas

P 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

Pts 32 31 30 28 27 20 19 18

legs 20 23 22 16 23 12 18 10

D i v i s i o n

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

18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

20 15 13 11 9 6 5 4

28 19 19 24 20 10 16 10

D i v i s i o n

A

B

Well it was a night of epic draws in Division A as El Capitan faced

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the Hub Hyenas again at their home turf for a show down. It was 3 the remaining games in their current form to take the Division B a piece at half time, neither team giving an inch, and Ed Klimonis shield. getting a 180 in the 3rd triple although eventually losing that leg to Their royal highnesses did it again though this week and gained the prowess of Eyre, Smith and Miller. The Capitans then 2 more match points by defeating the ladies of the Hub went ahead in the singles, with Jim Storey checking out Hellraisers who had the benefit of being on home first even though Super Shaun Smith added another turf. Hellraisers Sue Speirs deserved her MOTM 180 to his pile. Capitan’s also took the next sinwith some great scoring (78, 121, 97, 107) and gle courtesy of Jim Waddell but then Eyre, fine finishing with D3, D2, D19 earning 3 of Miller and Stuart Clarke took the next three their total 5 legs. Quean Marie also finished single for the Hyenas, making the score 6-5 in 3 out of 4 her games and together with into the last game. Capitan’s David Rotella Deb Wrights 2, Lorraine Cox’s 1 and Vi took the last leg to make it a draw, giving Turnip’s 1, they did the necessary ahead of both teams 1 match point. Meanwhile a Hellishly late surge for the last 2 singles.

Massey’s only managed a draw against the Well done ladies!

Porter House Bees which sees them lying in 4th place at the moment and only just Pairs Competition: Semi’s - Finals above the Porters whose 2nd win in a row Next week sees the semi’s and finals of the sees them climb a little higher. The Jackals Ladies and Men’s Pairs competitions which win against Las Rosas sees them back into will be held at Masseys for the Ladies (Simone 2nd place again, snapping at the heels of the Finished my singles so and Debbie officiating) and at the Junction for Hyenas, who they have yet to play. So it is still thought I would sample the lads. Please come and support your team mates. very much open as to who will top the league at the PB’s hat collection Player registration from 7:45- 8:00 then draw and end of the season play.

This week was a happy week for the Hen’s Teeth Coqs as they Ladies Semi-finalists @ Massey’s: wrote history with an epic win over the Sporting Life Misfits with Graham White putting in a great personal performance and securing Pat Schofield & Wendy Hayward (Jaguars), Winnie Mackay & MOTM. Sporting Sonya, back from your epic charity cycle in Henne Oortwijn; Jan Hassall & Val Holland (Hen’s Chicks) and Vietnam and Cambodia gained MOTM for the Misfits- I s there no Cheryl McGlynn & Sue Spears (Hellraisers); end to this lady’s talents? Evolution at PB’s entertained the Jaguars Men’s Semi-finalists @ The Junction to a night of Waller’s Hi Jinks and Keith Hickman’s singing and reminiscing of his childhood. The Division B leaders went 5-1 up Mel Bettel & David Rotella (El Capitan); Graham Parker & Tim by half time but the jags clawed back to an eventual score of 8-4.

Goodacre (PH Bees) Stuart Clark & John Eyre (Hub Hyenas); Evolution are practically untouchable now and just need to complete Adrian Buitekaht and John Spencer (Las Rosas)

Carp R Us Fishing The third match of the Spring Series was our first visit of the year to Blanca. This is possible one of the most beautiful venues we fish, even though the fishing can be hard as it proved to be today. The weather was exceptional for early March but once the breeze dropped the carp and barbel went off the feed. First was Roy Buttress with 2.90kg caught on feeder and corn, second was Peter Kerr with 2.62kg using the same method, equal third were Derek King and Doug Hornblow with 2.52kg, Derek using pellet and a method feeder, Doug pellet and straight lead.

Following the AGM held on 5th March the club is pleased to announce that its annual subscription has dropped to 30€. The club is also holding a mini golf day on 21st April, more details are available on the website.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carprus.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.

Cadena Sunrise 10 - Pin Bowling Week 21 - 8th March Pin Pushers Sunrise Colegas Gi Gi’s Hookers The Bandits

2 2 20 -

6 6 6 8

Alley Cats Sol Amigos Alley Gators S***T Happens

Top Performers

Ladies

Gents

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

Lynne Ailsby 178 Val Rowe 218 Lynne Ailsby 477 Val Rowe 599

Gary Walsh Gary Walsh Gary Walsh Gary Walsh

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

P W 63 56 63 50 63 48 63 46 63 44 63 43 63 40 63 35 63 34 63 22

Gms Av 63 762 63 749 63 749 63 751 63 747 63 754 63 755 63 736 63 730 63 729

D 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0

L 28 34 36 38 39 40 43 49 49 62

Tot 48030 47231 47218 47351 47123 47524 47577 46403 46033 45938

245 269 592 664

Hi-G Hi-S 858 2431 839 2402 881 2399 902 2472 857 2357 881 2412 901 2485 823 2383 823 2334 815 2322

Pts 112 100 96 92 89 87 81 70 69 44

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SOUTHERN LEAGUE FINAL RESULTS AND TABLES FRIDAY 10 MARCH

DIVISION A Quesada Swallows Montemar Matadors San Luis Tigers Vistabella Lanzadores Greenlands Oaks

109 99 131 107 98

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

(8) (10) (8) (12) (4)

EmIsle Cavaliers La Marina Sharks Mazarron Miners San Luis Lions Vistabella Picadors

(6) (4) (6) (2) (10)

90 85 106 94 119

P 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

W 62 59 56 53 53 54 50 49 45 38

Diff 281 272 91 159 -13 -92 -93 -53 -206 -346

Pts 153 147 134 132 132 128 123 120 99 85

D 4 4 2 6 6 4 5 4 3 4

L 42 45 50 49 49 50 53 55 60 66

Win 13 13 10 11 10 8 9 9 4 3

DIVISION B La Marina Dolphins San Miguel Jaguars Country Bowls Geckos La Siesta Blues Em Isle Claymores

99 166 126 115 111

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

(8) (14) (12) (8) (12)

San Miguel Cougars (6) La Manga Crusaders (0) La Marina Seagulls (2) El Rancho Mustangs (6) Quesada Swifts (2)

95 57 80 97 79

P 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18

W 65 64 58 59 54 46 46 43 44 46

D 3 2 4 2 1 4 4 5 5 0

L 40 42 46 47 53 58 58 60 59 62

Win 13.5 10 11.5 10 11 7 7 6 5.5 8.5

Diff 426 564 174 106 32 -120 -229 -152 -374 -427

Pts 160 150 143 137 129 110 108 103 103 102

DIVISION C San Luis Pumas 150 Montemar Toreadors 80 Vbella Conquistadores 99 La Siesta Golds 76

(14) (2) (12) (0)

El Rancho Raiders Em Isle Outlaws Greenlands Cedars Horadada Royals

(0) (12) (2) (14)

70 128 85 154

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

P 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16

W 73 54 55 50 47 43 40 34 21

Diff 671 225 163 223 55 -288 -78 -426 -545

Pts 174 134 134 121 112 98 96 79 41

D 3 6 4 3 5 2 2 1 4

L 20 36 37 43 44 51 54 61 71

Win 13 10 10 10 9 5 7 7 1

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San Miguel Bowls Club by Pat McEwan

El Rancho Bowls Club.

Last weekend saw some brilliant games in the Club Championships.

Very well done to all who reached the finals and congratulations to the winners. Ladies Singles, Anita Brown; Gents Singles, Fred Willshire; Ladies Nominated Pairs, Gail Willshire & Lyn Greenland; Gents Nominated Pairs, Tom Dalgleish & John Marshall; Mixed Pairs, Anita Brown & Ron Nairey; Mixed Triples, Reg Cooper, Brian & Lyn Miller; Mixed Rinks, Margaret Patterson, Linda Plaisted, Allan Patterson, Cliff Plaisted.

The Pulsars were at Quesada winning on 2 rinks. Winners Alan Booth, Tom Dalgleish, Derek Farmer 26-13; Irene Ward, Janet Thomas, John Staden 23-22. Pts for 4 against 10. Shots 95 to SM 135 to Quesada.

Meteors had a better result away at La Marina winning 8 points to 6.

Margaret Rogers, Brian Allen, Ian Rogers 19-10; Val & Chris Collier, Stuart Denholm 27-13; Linda Plaisted, Tony Sansom, Cliff Plaisted 21-11. Shots 109 for, against 92.

The Comets had a fantastic result against Greenland Sycamores winning 12-2. Stan North, Jim Jarvie, Jack Jackson 26-14; Sheila Booth, Bob Graham, Brian Errington 38-7; Bob Nesbitt, Dave Champion, Barbara Scotthern 30-7; Ros Stockell, Peter Ross, Bob Donnelly 26-7; Joyce & Bill Reeves, Frank Scotthern 15-14. 152 shots to SM 76 to GL. The Winter League picked up 4 points against Javea Green with shots 76 for, 97 against. Cliff Plaisted, Val & Chris Collier, Stuart Denholm 19-17; Noel Davis, Gail Willshire, Mary Dyer, Fred Willshire 19-17.

In the Fed Fours, the Cherokees played Vistabella Vikings only managing to get 2 points. Well done to Noel Davis, Reg Cooper, Chris Collier, Lyn Greenland18-14. Shots 18-14.

For further infor contact Pat McEwan telephone 966714257.

Monday found the Pintos travelling to Country Bowls to play the Flamingos on a glorious if very windy day, which proved to be a little tricky. But we had a good morning’s bowls and came away with 3 rinks and the overall shots by a margin of one.

Meanwhile the Broncos had a very good day at the office, playing at home against Emerald Isle Saturn. Battling against the strong wind and a good team they took the rinks 5-1 and the overall shots by a good margin, well done all. Edward Elsam, Ann C Taylor and Bob Taylor 20-9. Ria Dukker, Tricia Elsam and Richard Needham 11-15.

Gill Bartlett, Bob Easthope and Rob Clark 27-10. Fred Dunstone, Gary Dunstone and Gary Newson 15-13. Ngaio Baldwin, Peter Baldwin and Graham Day 21-12. Marion Haynes, Diane Yates and Dave Haynes 21-1.

On Friday the Raiders were at San Luis playing the Pumas, who are always a tough opponent, but it’s only the company that matters.

Alas the Raiders came away without a point, but that’s not important, as long as you enjoy the outing. Meanwhile the Mustangs were playing the Blues at La Siesta and put up a good valiant fight to take 3 rinks, but lost the overall shots, a good result to finish the league. A mixed bag of performances, brought grins and groans, but we had a good time. June Whitworth, Irene Thomson and Eddie Thomson 2524. Bob Morgan, Jim Taylor and David Whitfield 10-24. Barbara Jones, Sheila Cooper and Jim Gracie 17-9. Ann Taylor, Malc Sykes and Geoff Jones 13-28. Denise Morgan, Ann Abbott and John Skipper 10-17. Henry Ryder, Jan Bright and Richard Lee 22-13. For membership details contact Brian Taylor on 965077093 or at briantaylor_es@yahoo.co.uk or Carolyn Harris on 966774316 or at elranchobowls.secretary@gmail.com

LA MARINA BOWLS By Barry Latham Here it is the last week of the Enterprise and Discovery Leagues. The Explorers played at home against San Miguel and after a close game we lost by two points. Well done Jim Manning, Mike Stone and Barbara Forshaw, same to Peter Parsons, Phil Pape and Carol Smith and same with Alex Whyte, Shirley Hadaway and Janet Parsons.

Thank you to all players who helped the Explorers this season.

The Pathfinders didn't do so well in their last game losing away 13-1 to Emerald Isle Neptunes who finished third. Well done Terry Perchard, Peter Bailey and Paul Tregoing and well done to all the players who kept the Pathfinders in the Discovery Division.

Winter League is still going along and we went over to San Luis only to find they were in fine form and we lost 10-2. We managed one win and that was Dave and his girls all back together again. So good on yer Dave Hadaway, Jean Perchard, Barbara Forshaw and Janet Parsons.

Last games this season for all three of our Friday teams so the Sharks went to play the Monte Mar Matadors but unfortunately they were the better side on the day and we lost 10-4. Our winners were Peter Parsons, Tom Spencer and Andy Bartlett also Dave Lewis, Jim Manning and Margaret McLaughlin.

Oh dear the Seagulls flew away to play Country Bowls Geckos and were blown away 12-2. Our one valiant winner was Sue Daniels, Mike Stone and Mo Taylor.

Last but certainly not least the Dolphins beat San Miguel Cougars 84 and with that result only just fell below the Seagulls in the league.

So good bowling by John Rae, Dave McGaw and George Furzer also Barry Sadler, Garth Slater and Margaret Sadler. Well done to John Withers, Jeff Halfhide and Shirley Withers. The other two points came from the overall score.Thanks to all who played in the Friday leagues. Hope you kept your Captains happy. Many thanks to Arthur and Keith for their hard work during the season.

San Luis Bowls Club by Sheila Cammack.

A mixed end to some of the winter leagues: South Alicante Winter Triples: Enterprise Div. Monday 6th SL Klingons away v GL Maples, close fought, 8pts-6, 111 shots-94. Winners: Shirley Verity, Jo & Julian Pering 28-09, Janet McEneany, Steve Simmons, Peter McEneany 19-14, Carol Lowry, Keith Phillips, Keith Lowry 18-11.

SL Trekkers, away v VB Drivers, close shots; 96-109, 3pts-11.

Winners: Irene Everett, Dave Tilley, Vic Slater 16-16, Audrey Ford, Mike Smith, Charlie Marigold 16-14. Discovery Div. SL Romulans, home v LS Apollos; another close match 7-7, shots 97-110. Winners: Margaret Stephens, Terry Baylis, Ken Dullaway 20-16, Dennis Jackson, Derek Smith, Ray Watmough 20-17, Chris Jackson, Danny McErlean, Phil Hasler 17-17, Audrey Blay, Marie Henley, Cas Blay 15-14.

Winter League: Wednesday 8th March home v La Marina, good result; points 10-2, shots 113-66. Winners: Ann Holland, Keith Phillips, Sabrina Marks Mal Hughes 34-11, Pam Lockett, Jo Pering, June & Keith Jones 22-17, Irene Everett, Vic Slater, Neil Morrison, Peter McEneany 26-8, Shirley Verity, Ray Clarke, Jules Pering, Russell Marks 17-11. Berleen team: Margaret Morrison, Les Bedford, Charlie Marigold, Barry Edwards, a good win 29-6.

FED 4’s League Thursday 9th Div A SL Ospreys, home v Q Panthers, tough game; shots 37-58, pts2-6. Winners: Shirley Verity,

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Sheila Cammack, Peter McEneany, Russell Marks 14-13. Div B SL Condors; home v Q Leopards good result, 6-2, shots 53-43. Winners: Jan Pocock, Ray Clarke, Brian Pocock, Colin Potter 21-15, Alan Mawer, Margaret Morrison, Charlie Marigold, Neil Morrison 17-12.

Tuesday 7th Div C SL Bazas, good result away v Horadada, 6-2, 46 shots-37. Winners: Dennis Jackson, Bob Bromley, David Blackie, Scott Malden 15-11, Pat Malden, Pat Bird, Graham Bird, John Malden 17-10.

Friday 10th LLB Southern League, SL Lions away v VB Lanzadores; hard fought points 2-10, shots 94-107. Winners: Ray Clarke, June & Keith Jones 24-5. SL Tigers, a good result home v Mazarron Miners; 8pts-6, shots 131-106. Winners: Sue Ross, Mike Smith, Drew Russell 26-14, Margaret & Neil Morrison, Derrick Cooper 28-11, Doug Beattie, Alan Mawer, Colin Potter 26-16.

SL Pumas, a great result home v ER Raiders, 14pts-0, 150 shots-70.

Winners: Chris Phillips, Derek Smith, Kevin Hull 32-9, Dennis Jackson, Bob Bromley, Harry Epsom 19-9, Pat Baylis, Danny McErlean, Phil Hasler 20-10, Mary Fromson, Marie Henley, Robin Harker 24-17, Chris Jackson, Tom Fromson, Margaret Clarke 24-12, Margaret Stephens, Terry Baylis, Ken Dullaway 31-13.

For club information check: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com

EMERALD ISE BOWLS by Elwyn Morris The Titans finished their season playing at Monte Mar Toreadors and came away with a 8-6 and an aggregate of 115-98 winning trips were D Rhodes P Coffey D Gerrard 23-10, M Whitelock C Highland M Stacey 27-14, P Heaney J Pooley I Brewster 21-20 The Neptunes finished the season by beating La Marina Pathfinders 13-1 aggregate being 132-82. This result put the Neptunes on equal points with La Siesta but had to settle for 3rd place on shots difference, well done to of the squad. Winners today were J Redfern B Allen D Birkett 28-10, M Riley C Thomas M Thomas 27-13, L Hawkins A Malcolm B Smith 27-16, G Roberts S Johnson P Willicott 19-13, E Morris B Eldred J Mullarkey 14-13 The Moonrakers played at home against Horadada Falcons and slipped to defeat 4-10 and an aggregate of 81-116, the winning trips were M Foulds D Close E Bennett 26-15, R Adams M Petty B Foulds 20-15 The Saturns travelled to E l Rancho Broncos and got beaten 12-2 and an aggregate of 71-115 winning trip was D Horne T Capewell T Culpin 15-11 The Highjackers visited EI on Tuesday afternoon and the result was a win for the EI Wed saw the EI travel to Bonalba in the winter league and they recorded a fine 10-2 win aggregate being 91-63 this keeps them in second place and in the hunt for the title, winners were C Thomas J Westall J Pooley S Westall 23-11, P Heaney S Johnson, D Birkett I Brewster 18-11, J Parkes M Veale C Highland P Parkes 21-16, D Rhodes Y Mallerburn F Close C Lindgren 17-10. The Berleen won their game as well M Whitelock B Eldred M Thomas P Coffey 16-13 Thursday in the Fed4s the EI Leprechauns played San Miguel Apaches and recorded a 6-2 win aggregate of 66-31, winning rinks M Whitelock J Pooley CLindgren I Brewster 32-5, J Parkes G Shatwell D Birkett P Parkes 22-13 The Shamrocks hosted La Siesta Hoopoes and slipped to a 2-6 defeat aggregate of 49-52, winners M Foulds M Malcolm G Roberts A Malcolm 16-15 Friday the Cavaliers travelled to Quesada and lost 8-6 Claymores finished the season at home against Quesada Swifts and had a great 12-2 win with the aggregate of 111-79 winning trips. L Hawkins A Malcolm B Smith 21-11 M Riley M Malcolm M Thomas 22-12, E Morris B Eldred J Mullarkey 19-11 J Jarvis E Shepherd J Mulloy 14-11, L Redfern B Allen B Kavanagh 21-19 The Outlaws travelled to Monte Mar Toreadors and had a fine win 12-2 with an aggregate of 128-80, winners were L Harris F King R Ede 23-10, A Ede R Fooks S Cheetham 21-9 M Foulds T Harris E Bennett 21-12, V Cameron B Foulds P Cresswell 24-12 S Adams D Close A Burns 19-14 Today brings to an end of the winter games on Monday and Friday and to all of the players who have given their all a great big thank goes out to you It just leaves the Winter league and Fed4s to complete

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The Apollos went into their final league fixture away at San Luis Romulans with the runners-up spot in their sights. A tight match saw the Apollos gaining a 7-7 draw winning the overall shots by 110-97. The winning rinks were Dawn Taylor with Mike and Florence Edwards by a convincing 26-13 whilst Dave Davies, Norman Adcroft and George Richardson recorded a 20-12 victory. It was left to Beryl Styring. Jack Cooper and Alex Morrice to pick up the final point with a drawn match 17-17.The wait was then on to see how other matches had turned out. The good news was that runners-up spot was achieved by the narrowest of margins, equal points but a better shots average. Well done as this should mean promotion next season.

The Pioneers entertained the Vistabella Eagles and achieved a 12-2 win which enabled us to overtake them in the final League Table to finish in a respectable fourth place. The winning rinks for La Siesta were Ken Stringfellow, Ron Sheldon and Johnnie Ryder 27-11,Joe Kocsis, Tony Campbell and Tony Dalton 20-12,Penny Porter, Jean Hepehi and John Clarke 20-13,Jean James, Val Dalton and Sid Gallup 22-19 and Hilary Clarke, Molly Russell and Rab Logan 19-16. The overall shots being 123-98.

In the Fed 4’s the Parakeets had Montemar Picadors as visitors. La Siesta won on all rinks, thereby picking up the full 8 points, the total shots being 61-36.The winning rinks were Irene Mangan, Alex Morrice with Trish and Pat Reilly who won 23-8,Joy and Brian Gardiner with Tony Campbell and Jean Cooper 19-10 and Irene and Dave Laverick with Pat and Brian Harman who won 19-18.The Hoopoes visited Emerald Isle Shamrocks in a close match separated by only 3 shots the Hoopoes came out with a 52-49 win getting 6 points to their opponents 2.The winning rinks for the Hoopoes came from Ann Edgerton, Tony Dalton, Bill Jordan and John Ball 18-16 and Barbara Cooper, Jean Hepehi, Vic Mahomet and Sue Jordan19-17 whilst Val Dalton, Rod Edgerton and Florence and Mike Edwards lost by a single shot.

FEDERATED 4’S LEAGUE An exciting end to the Fed 4’s League going into the final round of the season with the top two facing each other in all 3 Divisions.

In the top Division San Miguel Cherokees travel to Quesada Panthers although their 7 point advantage should be enough to see them home.

In Division B the one point lead of San Miguel Mohawks over Quesada Leopards is much more precarious as the pair also meet on Quesdada soil while in Division C leaders San Luis Bazas go into thir final fixture holding a 3 point lead over their visitors, 2nd placed La Siesta Paraketes

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th March, 2017

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Vistabella Bowls Club with Lynne Bishop

Monte Mar Bowls Club

We'll start with a good result, Wednesday's winter League. An incredible result at Benitachell ended their two year run of undefeated home games, well done Vistabella! L Bishop, P Tomkins, B Dunn & I Kenyon 22-10. J Chaplin, M Foulcer, B Norris & E Bishop 18-11. S Burrows, C Watkins, C Thorpe & B Pain 14-13. O Ratcliffe, B Brown, M Regan & G Thorpe 17-17. VB 80 (9) - 72 (3) BBC. The Berleen team also had a big win, B Regan, S Kirk, S & D Jenkins 28-12.

Enterprise league Albatrosses, the ultimate game, shame it didn't end in style, at home v MonteMar Matadors they only picked up three points, at least they kept off the bottom of the league table. K Hardy, S Burrows & A Brown 24-8. T French, C Watkins & B Pain 16-16. VB 98 (3) - 114 (11) MM. The Drivers did so much better at home v San Luis Trekkers. F Barclay, L Barber & G Thorpe 23-15. S Whitehall, M Foulcer & P Rafferty 20-16.

J Chaplin, S Norris & I Kenyon 17-15. D Leggatt, J Neve & B Corbishley 19-18. D Stevenson, A Leggatt & B Norris 16-16. VB 109 (11) - 96 (3) SL. Voyager league Eagles suffered at La Siesta playing the Pioneers, they took just one win, thanks to the team of S Cox, A Kendall & D Stevenson 27-15. VB 98 (2) - 123 (12) L S. Fed 4's Vikings away at San Miguel with a win over top of the league Cherokees, well done F Barclay, B Ewart, A Brown & M Furness 20-16.

C Watkins, D Jenkins, E Bishop & G Thorpe 14-12. VB 50 (6) - 46 (2) SM. Southern league. What a fabulous way to end the season, all three squads had terrific wins, I haven't enough space to mention you all but I can praise everyone of you. The Div 1 Lanzadores were at home playing the mighty Lions from San Luis. Five winning Rinks, commiserations to the only losing team that had the short straw against Mr Jones! VB 107 (12) 94 (2) SL. Picadors away to Greenlands Oaks, wins on four rinks for a great result of VB 119 (10) - 98 (4) G. Congratulations to Quesada for winning the league...you can pay us later!

Div 3 Conquistadores were at home playing Greenlands Cedars and what a good result to finish on, five wins, that's excellent. VB 99 (12) - 85 (2) G. Good luck to all the club finalists in the forthcoming club championships over the next two weekends. AGM Tuesday 11.00 am, please be there.

Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad and Avalon Monday 6th March.

Monte Mar Toreadors v Emerald Isle Titans Good performance by the Toreadors in their last match of the season against the Titans who had already won the league. With both teams winning on three rinks and losing on three rinks but the Toreadors lost on overall shots. Points Toreadors 6 – 8 Titans.

Monte Mar Matadors v Vistabella Albatrosses.

Winning on four rinks and drawing on one well done to Sue Kemp, June Young, skip Brian Zelin 25 – 9.

Ethal Finan, Val Hignett and skip Tony Finan 23 – 17. Geraldine Fisher, Ken White and skip Gordon Fisher 19 – 15. Keith Simpson, Joe Ridley and skip Dianne Ridley 23 – 17. Ronnie Cairns, Dave Melvillle skip Bill Young 16 – 16 (after being 15 nil down after seven ends). Shots Matadors 114 – 98 Albatrosses. Points Matadors 11 – 3 Albatrosses.

Wednesday March 8th. Winter League Monte Mar v Greenlands.

Winning on three rinks and the overall shots. Well done to all the winning teams. Shots Monte Mar 93 – 90 Greenlands. Points Monte Mar 8 – 4 Greenlands.

Friday March 10th March. Monte Mar Matadors v La Marina Sharks. Winning on four rinks well done to Pauline Merry, David Eades skip Chris Merry. Keith Simpson, Joe Ridley skip Dianne Ridley. Ronnie Cairns, Val Hignett skip Roy Mercer. Ethal Finan, Bill Young skip Tony Finan. Shots matadors 99 – 85 Sharks. Points Matadors 10 – 4 Sharks.

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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Monday 13th - Sunday 19th March, 2017

PLAZA GOLF SOCIETY @ LA TORRE What a fantastic day all round. With the 2s pot being a double rollover, 270€ was up for grabs and with 6 par 3s on the course there was a good chance it was going to go today. Steve Higgins got two 2s, taking 108€, Spicer, Floody and Glenn Byrne got one receiving 54€ each.

The nearest the pins were sponsored by The Committee, all winners receiving 10€ bar tab, Liz Sully took hole 3, Barry Mitchell hole 5, Glenn Byrne hole 9, Phil de Lacy hole 11, Christian Attwood hole 15

and Bill Gillies hole 17.

Our Best lady saw Liz Sully win and her husband Phil Sully also won a prize coming in last place with an impressive 19 points, both winning a bottle of wine. Our guests saw Jim Hoyle coming in with 33 points collecting wine and balls and Linda Ottway scored a magnificent 34 points collecting wine and balls.

Our members saw Bill Gillies with his handicap of 17 score a great 33 points coming in 3rd, Steve Higgins scored 34 points from his handicap of 10 taking 2nd place and Tony Smale scored an impressive 35 points from his handicap of 12.

Well done to all winners.

Our next game is Roda on 24th March, with only 4 spaces left you need to get your name down ASAP, with just 3 games left for our golf year things are heating up on the order of merit.

And places 1 to 8 are constantly changing it's a close call to who will take which position. We also received thanks for The Little Pod for the 100€ we raised for them.

For more information on our great society, please email us at theplazagolfsociety@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page. New members always welcomed.

Paddy’s Point Golf Society - St Patrick’s Day Trophy El Valle was the venue for our St Patrick's Day Competition and despite the fire last week we all managed to get a buggy. It was a beautiful day so there were lots of legs on show, some whiter than others!

The greens were very fast and putting proved tricky, I think we should have held a 3 putt competition. Back at the pub we were once again well looked after by Hazel, Rory and their staff, thanks guys. Our next outing is our Captain's Day at Mar Menor on 12th April followed by our Annual Presentation Dinner at Las Ramblas.

NTP hole 6 Alan Scott, hole 9 Elsie Cowie, hole 12 Myra Coull, hole 15 Pat Foley. LONGEST DRIVE Myra Coull. The 2's pot was won by Terry Fitzgerald.

BEST GUEST Graham Murdoch 24 pts. 3rd Elsie Cowie 31pts, 2nd Terry Fitzgerald 33pts,1st Gerry McGhee 34pts.

Picture Shows Gerry McGhee receiving the St Patrick's Day Trophy.

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

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.

‘The Perfect Round’ Are you one of those golfers always in search of the perfect round of golf?

Well I have some bad news for you………it does not exist!

How can I say this I hear you say! It is not me telling you this but some of the best golfers in the world.

In the 1970’s an American golfer called Al Geiberger recorded a score of 59 on the USPGA tour but when asked later if it could have been better he said…YES. When in his prime, Jack Nicklaus claimed that in a score of 66 that he would only hit 4 shots EXACTLY the way in which he intended.

In the 1926 British Open the great Bobby Jones played what was called at the time the perfect round of golf with 66 shots made up of 33 shots and 33 putts. This type of scoring is commonplace on the professional circuit these days.

Incidentally, when Bobby Jones returned on the following day to the course he found that he had left his players badge in the hotel and a steward refused him entry unless he paid.

This he did and went on to win the British Open later that day BUT what a reward for playing the perfect round the previous day!

There you have it even the greats state that there is no such thing as a perfect round.

So why are you still attempting the impossible by chasing a dream that does not exist?

The key to successful golf at all levels is to accept what comes at you during each round, face up to it and make the best of it.

Try to make the best from the day that you can, play the percentages and do not attempt shots that you are not capable of making.

If you have a really good day, enjoy and savour it BUT if you are having a bad day do not let it de-generate into a really awful day by having higher expectations of your capabilities and developing a bad mood and attitude on the golf course.

Golfers chasing the perfect round of golf are like a dog chasing a motorbike, they would not get to ride it if they caught it..

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:

El Plantio 2 Golf Society

By David Swann The 'Waltz' competition on Tuesday, 7th March was attended by 19 players, of which 3 were 1st time guests. It seems that whoever is teamed with Penny Goujon in the team games has a very good chance of success as she has appeared in 3 of the last 4 winning teams.

Nearest the pins : Hole 4, Brian Coupe and Hole 9, Lawrence Wanty.

3rd Place - Mel Hope, David Swann, Mike Davies, 74 points adjusted for a 3 player team .

2nd Place - Ian Craig, Brian Coupe, Dave Southwell, Chris Linathan 76 points.

1st Place - Martin Rickman, Penny Goujon, Allen Robinson, Claude de Wamme, 79 points.

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

Golf Course Price Comments Alenda €118 Two Players and Buggy Alicante €102 Two Green Fees and Buggy (bf 9.30) Altorreal €106 Two Players and Buggy Bonalba €100 Two Players and Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €94 Two Players and Buggy El Plantio €112 Two Players and Buggy (after 12pm) Font Del Llop €122 Two Players and Buggy La Finca €148 Two Players and Buggy La Marquesa €48 Single Green Fee (weekends) La Serena €128 Two Players and Buggy Las Colinas €90 Single Green Fee Las Ramblas €110 Two Players and Buggy Lo Romero €35 Single Green Fee (after 1.30pm) Roda €100 Two Players and Buggy (after 2pm) Villamartin €126 Two Players and Buggy Villaitana Poniente €114 Two Green Fees and Buggy Vistabella €88 Two Players and Buggy (w/e) Deal of the week : New Sierra Golf 2 players and buggy for only €85 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 Hollow Tining Watch La Manga West - 13th-17th March Quotation of the Week “Hit it hard it will land somewhere” - Mark Calcaveccia

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Monday 13th - Sunday 19th March, 2017

‘Shot-shy’ Torry come unstuck against promotion chasing Alzira CD Torrevieja .............. 0 UD Alzira ..................... 1

easy and with the this ambitious club on the fringe of the promotion places they too would be scrapping for every point they could take.

So perhaps it was no surprise that this eagerly anticipated meeting fell far below the expectations we had with neither side able to put their foot on the ball.

W

hat once appeared 'Mission Impossible' now looks more like 'The Great Escape'. I´m talking about Torry´s massive 9 point haul from the last 3 matches, injecting not only a much needed boost to their moral, but putting them within touching distance of that once elusive 5th to bottom place (safety), currently held by Bunol.

Nine hundred tickets for this important game, against 4th place Alzira, were given to local schools in a bid to generate more atmosphere within the ground.

Back in October, Alzira inflicted a 2-1 defeat on Torry, and are currently one of the most in form div 3 sides. But success breeds success, and providing key players can stay free of injuries and suspensions, there´s no reason why the dreaded drop can´t be avoided.

Having said that, we all knew that Sunday’s fixture with 5th placed Alzira was not going to be

As we went into the half time break at 0-0, other than a very routine save by Jose Carlos from a Melo header, neither keeper had been called into action although the game did show signs of hotting up in the 2nd period following impetuous challenges from both sides as Elche referee Muresan worked overtime to keep a lid on the action.

Carlos the Guinea export did little to provide confidence to the Torry defence and whereas a more match-aware Buba would have been equal to a 60th minute header from Aloese the Torry sub keeper was left clutching at straws as the Alzira striker put his side in front on the hour mark.

It was then very much a case of ‘huff and puff’ from the home side and apart from a Molina head-

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er onto the post with 15 minutes left the Torrevejense had little to offer as they went in search of the equaliser.

What the match did show is that CD Torrevieja will have to earn their future points against fellow relegation candidates because once again at the Nelson Mandela they showed they are no match for teams that are pushing for promotion.

Next Sunday Torry are at home once again, a 5pm ko against rock bottom outfit CD Segorbe. Never a done deal, but unless we are treated to 3 pts and a goal feast against these relegation certainties, the ‘R’ word will once again be on everybody’s lips at the Nelson Mandela.

With Martin in the book for a silly foul in the opening minutes, following which he was responsible for at least two further reckless challenges, both of which were quite probably bookable on another occasion, we hoped it wouldn’t be Torry that would be sacrificing players following the break.

Fortunately both sides did manage to keep eleven on the park but this was more a reflection on the leniency of the referee than a let-up in the scruffy play produced during the 2nd half.

Again there was little pattern or method from either club but with the visitors the hungrier of the two sides this was reflected as the opportunities began to fall.

With a nervous looking Buba now between the sticks following the injury to regular keeper Jose

LAS RAMBLAS SOCIAL CLUB First of all my apologies for the lack of info on Friday's game which was a 3 2 1. The winning team were Brian Dent, Terry Field , Maria Oldenziel and Hendrick Oldenziel with a score of 82pts.

On Monday we played a Texas Scramble and the winners with a very good score of 57.1pts.

Were Geoff Biggerstaff, Ron Percival, Bryan Neal and Peter Radcliff.

Wednesday was our Caja Murcia Trophy Day and with the sun out and the shorts on, most people found scoring difficult on the fast greens, with the exception of Heinz Lei who came in with 38pts. to take the honours.

The results were as follows: 1st Heinz Lei 38pts, 2nd Ulrika Barth 33pts, 3rd Pete Dunn 32pts on countback, 4th John Dobson 32pts and 5th Jan Svendsen 30pts.

Well done to the 3 Category 2 players!

Nearest the pin for men on the 6th Lindsay Forbes Nearest the pin for Ladies on the 6th Olga Douglas Nearest the pin in 2 for men Tom Hardie on the 13th .

By Mike Mahony

Nearest the pin for ladies – no winner.

On Friday, in brilliant sunshine, what must be the hottest day of the year so far, we played The Counter Game and the team with the winning score of 92pts were Olga Douglas, John Collins, Terry Field and Geoff Biggerstaff.

The Picture shows The Presentation of the Caja Murcia Trophy to Heinz Lei

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