Costa Blanca Leader 716

No 716

Monday 14th - Sunday 20th May, 2018

Tel: 637 227 385

Wait goes on for Torrevieja Rail Link

n 7 April 2016 the deadline for the feasibility study of the Torrevieja railway station was met. Since then, for over two years, the Ministry of Development has continued to maintain its silence on this important issue, even despite the constant demands of the City Council.

O

Those two years have now

elapsed, without either solutions or answers from Madrid.

As such Mayor JosĂŠ Manuel DolĂłn has once again made contact with the Ministry, this time through an official document, requesting information on the current status of the project.

The Ministry originally proposed three options, but the City Council considered them all unworkable.

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Monday 14th - Sunday 20th May, 2018 Torrevieja had a railway line that was introduced to the city in 1884. It finally disappeared, along with its station, in the late 1970’s Images courtesy of losverdestorrevieja

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Continued From Page One Torrevieja Rail Link It is unacceptable, there is a clear lack of will on the part of the Government, otherwise, we would have seen some progress, "Dolón told the media, "It is a small investment that would mean a lot to our municipality."

Although the Ministry proposed the three options to bring trains back into Torrevieja, the City Council considered that they were unviable due to their high cost and environmental impact. One of them involved using the old line while the others required the construction of new lines along routes bordering the Natural Park of Las Lagunas and La Mata.

"The train has been justified for decades, but no government has been able to suggest a viable plan," said Javier Manzanares, the Socialist councillor for transport.

The Torrevieja council has proposed an alternative option to those of central government which would see Torrevieja station taken away from the town centre. "The important thing is that we are connected to the national rail network, it is not so crucial that the station is six kilometres from the urban core. It will still be in our municipal district, and we will maintain it’s control," said the councillor.

The idea is also to share the railway connection with the neighbouring municipalities, Rojales and Los Montesinos. "Our old station is now completely out of date, today it is only worthy of being a museum" says Manzanares.

train the town deserves.

"I understand that everyone wants to have an AVE stop on their doorstep, but you have to be realistic.

Today it could only be a pipedream to expect that we bring the high speed train to Torrevieja," says Manzanares.

The Socialist councillor says that he is more in favour of approaching the matter step by step and start with a branch line. "But It would be a branch that linked us with the train line between Alicante and Murcia."

Many residents also routinely demand a rail connection with Cartagena, especially since the AP-7 that connects with that city is a toll motorway.

In the meantime both the mayor and his government team assure the local public that they will continue badgering the Ministry until their demands are heard. In the last official response received by the City Council, it was noted that the Ministry of Development said "it is still analysing the socioeconomic impact of the project".

Torrevieja had a railway line that was introduced to the city in 1884. It finally disappeared, along with its station, in the late 1970’s coinciding with the decline of the salt mining industry. The line came into the old train station which was built in the late 19th century, along the 7km track now occupied by the ‘Via Verde’ (the Green Road) that starts at the edge of Los Montesinos.

The councillor also pointed out that by using this project it would hardly be necessary to expropriate land, and that the environment and the urban fabric would be much more respected.

It has been felt for some time that as a result of the thousands of national and international tourists that come into the area every year, plus the high volume of foreign residents that are living in the city, that Torrevieja would benefit once more from being linked by rail to other destinations.

There is almost complete accord among politicians, residents, traders, restaurateurs and businessmen in Torrevieja who all agree the need for the railway to finally connect one of the most popular tourist areas in Spain. However, some disagree on what kind of

At present, the airport is over 50km distant, the bus system is limited and the railway system non-existent, so any improvement to the transport network would be seen as a major boost for both Torrevieja and also for the surrounding region.

Caledonia Lodge Ladies Night Recently, the Master of Caledonia Lodge, W.Bro Sid Formby and his wife Bernice welcomed eighty-nine Brethren and guests to their Ladies’ Night at the restaurant, Casa Antonio, Formentera. This event is mainly to thank the wives and partners of the Masons for all their help and support throughout the year. Among the very special guests this year were the Assistant Grand Master of Spain, R.W.Bro Barrie Mansell and his wife Julie and the Provincial Grand Master of Valencia, R.W.Bro Michael Shilan and his wife Muriel.

Following a very pleasant reception in the beautiful gardens of the restaurant, guests enjoyed a delicious meal accompanied by singing from “It Takes Two”. The loyal toast was given by WBro Formby, the toast to the ladies by Bro Ian Bullock and the Ladies song was sung by W.Bro David Turner, ably assisted by the Lodge Wardens. Mrs Bernice WBro Sid Formby and his Formby responded to the toast and also made presentations to the Ladies wife Bernice. who had assisted with organising the event.

During the evening raffle tickets were sold and raised an amazing seven hundred and twenty euros for the Master’s charity, which for this year, is the Butterfly Children. This will be presented at a later date. The evening concluded with dancing to It Takes Two and all agreed that it had been a very successful event.

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New Pilar Medical Centre to finally become a reality area, pediatrics and midwives, primary care and three consultation rooms for specialists. including traumatology, rheumatology.

The centre will occupy 600 square metres of floor space on a 2,000 metre plot that will also include an area for parking.

Work will get underway on the new medical centre this coming week

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welve years after it first gifted the land to the Conselleria, the new health centre in Pilar de la Horadada is about to become a reality.

Construction work will get underway during the next few days and should be completed within about eight months, after the million euro contract was finally awarded to the Madrid based company Imesapi SA last

week.

The new building will be constructed on the parking area adjacent to the current Health Centre. It will have a basement and a ground floor.

Most of the basement area will comprise of staff accommodation and storage areas while the main ground floor will have all the usual facilities as well as a 24 hour emergency

During the first construction stage both buildings will remain in operation and the road that separates them will be pedestrianised.

However, the Councillor for Health, María Teresa Valero, said that, if required to do so, the new centre will also be able to expend in the future with the addition of a 2nd and 3rd floor.

As she criticised the Ministry of Health for over two decades of delay, the councillor added that the new centre is long overdue.

“With a population of 25,000 people the current infrastructure is totally inadequate despite the three satellite installations in Mil Palmeras, La Torre and Pinar de Campoverde, where, in summer the population can reach 90,000 people.”

Meanwhile the local government has also awarded the contract for the construction of the new overpass on the Rambla and Calle Mayor at a cost of 411,742.43 euros Approval for the work, which will take eight months to complete, was given at Tuesday’s Plenary and will include the elimination of the existing speed bump, and preparation of the ravine so that the floodwater that is so often a problem during heavy rainfall, will better drain away and resolve the problems of flooding along that area of the main road.

Following completion of the project the whole area will be made good with additional amenities and gardens.

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Vega Baja awarded 25 Blue Flags

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t a ceremony in Madrid last week, the Vega Baja was awarded 25 blue flags for it’s beaches by the ADEAC, the representatives in Spain of the International awarding body, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). This is four more than the region achieved last year, two of which are on the Orihuela Costa at Cala Cerrada and Mil Palmeras as well as those at Cabo Cervera (Torrevieja) and Playa Puerto (Pilar de la Horadada).

ditions, safety, accessibility and the provision of lifeguards, so it might come as somewhat of a surprise that, despite the suspension last month of the Chiringuito contract, the Orihuela Costa has actually increased it’s share of accredited beaches from nine last year to eleven.

Blue flags are awarded to those beaches that meet demands on issues such as hygiene, sanitary con-

By locations, Orihuela has been awarded blue flags at Punta Prima, Cala Bosque (La Zenia), La

Not such good news, however, is the loss of the blue flag at the Cabo Roig marina, which is now under private management, although that at the port of Dehesa de Campoamor has been retained.

Cala Estaca beach, Playa Flamenca, on the Orihuela Costa at the weekend

Caleta (Cabo Roig), Cala Capitán, Aguamarina, Campoamor, Barranca Rubio, Cala Estaca, Cala Mosca, Cala Cerrada and Mil Palmeras.

In Torrevieja, Cabo Cervera, El Cura, Los Náufragos, Cala Piteras, Los Locos and La Mata (Sur).

In Pilar de la Horadada, Mil Palmeras, Jesuitas, Conde, Higuericas and Puerto Beach.

In Guardamar del Segura, La Roqueta, Las Playas Centro and El Moncayo.

All of the Mar Menor beaches have been excluded from the list because of their water transparency meaning that there will be no blue flags flying in either San Javier, San Pedro del Pinatar, Los Alcázares or Cartagena.

Travelling north however, blue flags have been awarded in Elche at El Altet, Arenales del SolSur, La Marina, Carabassí and Les Pesqueres-El Rebollo while in Santa Pola the flags will fly in Calas del Este, Varador, Llevant, Tamarit and Calas Santiago Bernabeu.

In Torrevieja, the councillor for beaches, Javier Manzanares said that the addition of Cabo Cervera “is good news at the town now becomes the third city of the Valencian Community with the largest number of blue flags especially after difficulties we have had to re-establish the beaches following the storms. It has taken a great deal of hard work and for that I appreciate the commitment and dedication of all the people who have contributed with their efforts.”

With a total of 590 blue flags awarded to its beaches this summer, Spain will once again safely hold onto its title in 2018 as the country with the most blue-flag beaches in the world. Spain, therefore, can once again say officially that it has the best beaches in the world While the number of flags decreased slightly in 2016, this year there will be 12 flags more flying than in 2017.

In addition to the flags awarded to its beaches Spain also won blue flags for 101 marinas and five cruise ship ports, three in Mallorca and two in Malaga, meaning that the country will be able to fly a total of 696 blue-flags along its coast line from the beginning of June.

The region of Valencia can boast the greatest number of quality beaches with 132, (three more than 2017) while Galicia has achieved 109, Catalonia 101 and Andalusia 97.

The complete list of blue flags awarded in Spain can be found at:www.theleader.info

Fine dining in June on the Orihuela Costa Fine dining in June on the Orihuela Costa The third edition of Quality Gastronomic Competition will take place on the Orihuela Costa next month. Six local restaurants will take part, all of which are recipients of the SICTED ‘Quality Management Accolade’.

The competition launch was announced last week by the Orihuela Councillor for Tourism, Sofía Álvarez, together with Matilde Medina, manager of the Hotel Montepiedra and representative of the participating restaurants and establishments.

Each of the restaurants will offer a special menu throughout the week, at a cost of 35 euros, in which they will each use only locally sourced ingredients. Álvarez said “These are some of the very best restaurants on the Orihuela Costa. They will be preparing and serving the very best food from the very best ingredients with which they will showcase high quality speciality dishes”.

“We have a commitment in Orihuela to maintain our position as a quality tourist destination this event will help us to do particularly in the area of food, wine and gastronomic tourism in particular”.

The event will get underway at Restaurant Zenia Lounge on 12 June, before moving to Restaurant La Barraca (13 June)

where Spanish brewery Estrella de Levante will present their new VERNA beer, Restaurant Los Angeles (14 June), Restaurant Las Villas (15 June), Restaurant Montepiedra Hotel (16 June) and Los Cúcalos Restaurant (17 June).

If you wish to take part in this exclusive event it is by reservation only, with participating diners urged to make their bookings as soon as possible.

The SICTED initiative is a methodology which provides a quality management system in the tourist destination which is focused on the continuous improvement and development of the destination's resources.

FREE OF CHARGE, it offers the member companies/tourist services a training plan, technical assistance visits by the officially approved consultants, collective workshops, work teams which develop improvement proposals for the destination.

The entire process culminates in the achievement of the distinctive Tourist Quality Commitment which is a recognition of the effort and commitment to quality and continual improvement. More information at your local tourist office.

Councillor for Tourism, Sofía Álvarez, together with Matilde Medina, manager of the Hotel Montepiedra

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Many of the exhibits will be from private collections and on show for the very first time

A taste of auto history at IFA Alicante Salón Internacional de Automóviles, Motocicletas y Recambio Antiguo y Clásico.

The IFA Exhibition Hall close to Alicante Airport will be the venue for the Annual Classic Car Motor Show next Saturday and Sunday, the 19th & 20th of May, where visitors will be able to enjoy one of the largest showcases of vintage cars and motorbikes, privately owned vehicles, model cars and classic toy collections that the region has ever seen.

Many of the exhibits will be on show for the very first time and will include classic vehicle brands from private collections across Spain.

It is sure to be a weekend of enjoyment for the enthusiast and will include a complete range of entertaining activities, including displays by many Spanish Automobile Clubs, exhibits of Classic Motorcycles & Trucks, and many Unique

Collections which have been such an attraction in previous years.

The fair will be open on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Cost of entry is 8 euros to the general public or just 6 euros when presenting the discount voucher that can be downloaded from the IFA website.

The entrance for clubs and associations is 5 euros per person on presentation of membership cards, for groups of at least ten people 4 euros while accompanied children under are free.

Limited parking is available in the visitors‘ car park for 3€.

More information is available on the IFA website at: www.feria-alicante.com or on Facebook by searching for anticauto.

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Did the earth move for you on Friday?

Earthquake measuring 3.4 magnitude shakes Pilar de la Horadada

vehicle hitting a building. The house shook and then a strange quietness followed by a smaller aftershock.”

Exactly 7 years to the day since the devastation 5.1 magnitude earthquake in Lorca many people on the southern Costa Blanca said that "the Earth most definitely moved for them" when the latest tremor hit the area at 19.26 local time on Friday evening.

Another resident of Torre de la Horadada wrote “Sitting watching the News when there was a sudden loud rumbling and the whole house shook. Shaking was of short duration, maybe 2 to 3 secs. I was in Turkey in Izmit, near Istanbul, just prior to the last big earthquake there, and this was similar to some of the pre-shocks that we experienced.”

Measuring 3.4 magnitude, the epicentre of which was 10km off the coast of Pilar de la Horadada, lots of people took to Twitter in the minutes following the quake with some reporting their homes and apartment blocks shaking for about 4-5 seconds.

The earthquake was felt in municipalities as widespread as Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Rafal, Bigastro, Almoradi, Dolores, Callosa de Segura, Guardamar and Jacarilla, even in Elche, Alicante and Novelda, according to many Leader readers.

In Torrevieja hundreds of residents ran into the street until the alert has passed while many stores, supermarkets and other establishments actually evacuated their buildings.

Hundreds of residents took to social networks immediately after the quake telling how ornaments had moved and furniture and windows had vibrated. Others identified the earthquake more because of the noise caused by the seismic activity, especially in Pilar de la Horadada, the epicentre, and Orihuela Costa.

David from Orihuela 32 km NW from epicentre, was another conrtributor to the site writing “The neighbours all came out. It was the worst earthquake we had experienced here in Spain. It was so loud and it felt like it was directly underneath the house. It was frightening.”

According to a spokesman from the National Geographic Institute (IGN) “Many of these slight tremors occur in the area every year.

This particular one lasted several seconds and was more “noisy” than dangerous.”

The emergency services said that they received several calls from concerned residents but there are no reports of damage or injury.

magnitude January 12, 2012: A 1.7 magnitude earthquake, Torrevieja, Pilar de la Horadada & Orihuela Costa February 5, 2012: 3.0 magnitude shakes Torrevieja &Vega Baja June 18, 2012: La Vega records a number of minor tremors June 13, 2013: Two earthquakes in less than 10 hours in the Vega Baja are felt in the Baix Vinalopó July 2, 2013: A low intensity earthquake in the sea off torrevieja June 11, 2014: Minor earthquake in Torrevieja June 26, 2014: An earthquake of magnitude 2.0 is felt in Pilar de la Horadada, Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja January 2, 2015: Torrevieja earthquake of 1.6 magnitude August 22, 2016: A 2.4- magnitude earthquake shakes Torrevieja March 10, 2016: A magnitude 3.0 earthquake rattles Torrevieja May 30, 2017: Earthquake of magnitude 2.4 wakes up Vega Baja November 7, 2017: 2.3 magnitude south of Torrevieja

PREVIOUS EARTHQUAKES IN THE REGION March 21, 1829: Almost 400 dead in Torrevieja and surrounds, 6.6

Mary Eagle from Blackburn in Lancs, told the Leader: "I was in that only really half-awake state fumbling round the house and watching television and I thought for a moment that a big tank had driven past the front gate.

"Then I realised that was unlikely, it was only after a few minutes I realised it might be an earthquake. It was a rumble and a vibration rather than a physical wobble."

People who witnessed the quake at the Queen Victoria pub in Cabo Roig were in no doubt as to the cause of the shake. “The side of the building actually trembled” said one customer. “It was certainly one of the most scary few seconds I have witnessed in recent years although thankfully I didn’t lose any beer.”

One resident of Entrenaranjos contacted a site that records local earthquakes writing “Experienced our first earthquake. There was quite a large rumble which sounded like an explosion or a large

Alcampo contribution to healthy living habits

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lcampo La Zenia has been supporting Club de Fútbol C.F. Racing Playas de Orihuela through its Youth Foundation for several years but at a ceremony outside the store on Wednesday the links between the two organisations were further strengthened when the La Zenia supermarket presented a donation of 11,400 euros in order to improve the football club

facilities.

shops that will be organised throughout the year.

The donation will allow the Orihuela Costa Club to provide changing rooms and mobile toilets, thereby improving the training facilities for its 150 young members.

Since its launch in 2013, the Club's football academy has proved to be an important sporting influence in healthy, local leisure, whose philosophy is to educate the children in important values such as teamwork, effort, respect, trust and good nutrition.

In addition to the endowment Alcampo will also be promoting the acquisition of healthy eating habits for the children through different work-

The Alcampo Youth Foundation supports non-

profit organisations that promote the welfare of children and young people through projects that are linked to good nutrition and health.

Since its launch in 2012, the Fundación Alcampo por la Juventud has supported 52 projects, to which it has contributed € 566,940 helping to improve the quality of life for more than 9,600 children and young people throughout Spain.

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Spain resident calls for Expat MP’s in UK Parliament It’s by no means the first time that such an appeal has been made but Alastair Stewart, an Expat teacher who currently resides for a large part of the year in Almeria, is the latest individual who is calling for the introduction of MP’s for British expats who are living abroad.

The 30 year old teacher from Edinburgh has launched a petition to get expats representation in the UK parliament which has already attracted over 1,150 signatures.

Stewart, a former Press Secretary in the Scottish Parliament, says that many expats feel absolutely powerless following the EU Referendum. “Brexit has shown that when things go foul you need someone to represent you in the halls of power.”

The number of UK citizens living outside the UK is estimated to be as many as five million, or greater, 1.3 million of whom live in the EU. This is more than the populations of Wales and Northern Ireland combined and approximately the same as Scotland.

The only representation that they have is their constituency MP back in the UK. “That is 650 members of parliament scattered across the country and 650 different ways to waste their time,” said Stewart who believes that there should be British MP’s representing expats in each foreign country.

“We all have the same issues and the same concerns but at the moment there is no map for representation,” he added.

In France there are currently 11 elected MPs representing nationals living overseas while Italy has had expat MPs since 2006, with MPs holding their surgeries online across their constituencies while many use Skype for one-on-one interviews.

One suggestion made recently is that any country with an expat population in

excess of 67,000 should be allowed their own MP, just one per country, not a representative MP selected from sitting MPs, but one who is voted for and elected from the expats who are resident in those counhttps://petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/216611 tries. Smaller expats competitions/216611 munities could amalgamate their voting numbers with neighbouring countries to Meanwhile Gibraltarian, Augustine reach the required number of residents for Berllaque, who’s father fought fascist dictatheir single MP. tor Francisco Franco during the Spanish This would ensure the five million plus expats living outside the UK would have real representation in Parliament, instead of what they have now, which is absolutely nothing.

civil war, is calling for representation in the House of Commons for the 35,000 people of Gibraltar with their own MP. Currently Gibraltarians as Full British Citizens have no say in their Mother Parliament.

Mr Stewart’s goal, however, is to get 100,000 signatures by 6 October, which is the number required to force a debate on the subject in the House of Commons, but he will have to do rather better than the two most recent petitions from Londoner Peter Johnson, who achieved just 2,400 signatures back in 2013 and Sarah Smith, the editor of The Connexion, who achieved 3,900 a year later.

“As long as we have a Governor in Gibraltar, it makes us a colony and the problems that we have with Spain will continue,” he says. “We must have representation in the House of Commons. Who then will be able to tell Britain to give Gibraltar back to Spain?

If you would like to support Alastair in his bid to gain parliamentary representation to can sign his petition “Introduce MPs to represent the interests of British citizens living abroad” at: https://petition.parliament.uk/

The call for a dedicate MP for Gibraltar has been supported for many years by man British politicians including Sir Simon Hughes, Dennis Turner, Andrew MACKLEY, Andrew Rosindell, Linsdsay Hoyle, Andres Flook, Tim Loughton, D Ruffley, Geraldine Smith, Acting Attorney General, William Cash and David Heath and several others.

One hundred not out for Networks Theatre H

ave you heard of Networks Theatre in Orihuela?

They’ve produced 100 shows in 18 years which is a tremendous achievement by any standards. The theatre, founded in 1999, is part of the prestigious Networks English Studies. Of the 100 shows, incredibly 55 of them have been written by Artistic Director, Nick Moore.

“It started out as an educational activity to help kids learn English and it just grew and grew. After several flying visits to direct Nick moved here in 2001 with his husband Dennis Carpenter. “We’re lucky.” He adds, “I write and direct and Dennis creates the stage designs and makes amazing costumes.”

He outlined their year. “We have public shows and plays just for parents. Our year starts in October with rehearsals for our November pantomime. Each year we produce one and our next, Dick Whittington, will be our 17th. They always get amazing audience reaction.” He continued, “we have 2 theatre courses for our students in December and June, then a big musical in March and a smaller show in May. That is our basic output and we have other events when we can.”

The theatre has played to 1000s of audience members across the years. They are easy to find in the heart of Orihuela in Calle San

Agustin, next to La Lonja Concert Hall. You can see their website for the next show at the end of May. Nick’s hilarious comedy, Welcome to Sweetville. Visit www.networkstheatre.com or phone 967 74 02 051.

Orihuela scooter ban backfires It might well have passed you by, but the Policia Local in Orihuela introduced a controversial ban of mopeds last week, in several streets around the central area of Los Andenes. The ban was instituted unilaterally by the chief of police José María Pomares, after complaints from local residents about the noise.

But following even more complaints the measure has now been rescinded by the councillor for Traffic Management, Mariola Rocamora.

The councillor said that measure had been adopted by the Local Police Headquarters unilaterally and admitted that it has now been repealed due to the commotion caused by residents and merchants.

Signs that prohibited the circulation of mopeds were introduced to the city centre a few days ago in Avenida Teodomiro (Los Andenes) in the direction of the train and bus station, and at the start of Avenida de la Vega, as well as in some of the surrounding streets.

The objective was to reduce neighborhood complaints of the noise caused by these vehicles, but the measure has generated a backlash that has forced the authorities to do a u turn.

Rocamora is now saying that the measure was adopted "as a test because they did not know the consequences it’s implementation would have to residents and to businesses in the area."

Meanwhile, José María Pomares, the Chief of Police, who introduced the measure explained that the reason for having adopted the ban was the "large number" of complaints from residents about the "excessive noise made by mopeds."

He said that it justified that these vehicles and not motorcycles should be prohibited because they are driven "mainly by youths under 20 years of age; young people who, due to their age, do not realise the noise that they cause when travelling through residential areas."

When asked if any moped drivers had been sanctioned during the few days that the ban had been in place neither the councillor or the Chief of Police was able to provide an answer.

The councillor has now asked the Local Police to intensify the controls in the centre of Orihuela to counteract noise and check that these vehicles comply with current regulations so that they do not exceed the permitted number of decibels.

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Hotel food poisoning scam goes to court L Orihuela doubles sanctions for depositing green waste Orihuela Council aims to put an end to one of the main complaints that they regularly hear from residents of the coast: the excessive build-up of illegal garden waste just sitting around and rotting in the streets.

The local ordinance prohibits the deposit of such waste on public roads which is punishable by a fine, but until now there have been very few sanctions imposed because of the difficulty in catching offenders.

Not only does the practise present a bad image, but as the prunings gradually deteriorate and rot on the sides of the roads they also present a risk to health.

But we are told that it is all about to change, thanks to the collaboration between the Department of Street Cleaning and the Local Police.

Since the beginning of the year two agents have been especially dedicated to the task of keeping an eye on the streets of Orihuela Costa, looking out for any garden waste. The police have also introduced specific controls, especially in those areas where they know that waste is regularly abandoned, either by residents or by garden maintenance companies.

This greater control is already producing results which, in the first 4 months of the year, have seen sanctions doubled and, for fear of being caught, the amount now deposited in the streets of Orihuela Costa has been generally reduced.

There are currently 23 disciplinary proceedings being processed for infringing the Municipal Urban Cleaning Regulatory Ordinance, in addition to which 7 further complaints are currently being investigated. This is twice as many as last year, when there was a total of 15, and almost triple that of 2016, when there were just 12.

The majority of sanctions are for depositing garden waste and pruning on the public road although other sanctions include 3 for spraying graffiti and dropping litter; 2 for urinating on public roads; and 2 for depositing building materials. Of these, 17 have been imposed on the Coast and 6 in the urban area.

Penalties for violating the ordinance range from 750 euros for a first or a minor offence which can rise to 1,500 euros for repeat offenders and 3,000 euros for those offences that are considered to be more serious.

At the moment, the Local Police are only fining those who are depositing large quantities of garden waste but they are also warning those residents they catch leaving lesser amounts.

The neighbourhood collaboration has also increased enormously since, in addition to the offenders hunted by the agents, many members of the public assist by photographing the vehicles of the offenders, mostly maintenance companies, and sending them to Street Cleaning.

aura Cameron, the Mallorca businesswoman who is accused of masterminding a major food poisoning fraud on the island which saw dozens of British tourists submit false insurance claims against their hotels appeared in court on Wednesday where she admitted to collecting personal data from tourists which was later sold on to marketing companies.

She told the investigating judge in Palma, María Pérez, that she had regularly collected personal data from tourists to sell on to three companies specialising in complaints and marketing in the United Kingdom. She has denied, however, that her or her employees tried to convince travellers to claim compensation from the establishments by faking illness.

Cameron, who was arrested last September along with six of her agents said that she received €5,600 for every thousand names she collected, but denies ever having ever spoken to any of the tourists about faking illness.

She said that the names and telephone numbers were purchased by the marketing companies “just in case the tourists suffered any incidents, including food poisoning.”

According to the Civil Guard, Cameron was in contact with a number of British solicitors which only requested the proof

Cameron denies speaking to tourists about faking illness.

of purchase at a pharmacy in Mallorca of a antidiarrheal drug before processing the food poising cases and given the high cost of a legal battle, tour operators would more often than not offer to settle with the costs passed on to the hotels.

On Tuesday Cameron offered her first evidence in the case after previously refusing to answer questions put to her by

the police.

In court she only answered questions asked by the judge and her lawyers and declined to respond to the lawyers Carolina Ruiz and Jaume Campaner, who were representing the Mac Hotels chain and the Hotel Federation of Mallorca.

The Civil Guard said that the scams had started in 2014 and carried on until 2017, during

which period they assessed the loss to hoteliers of more than 60 million euro nationwide.

However Cameron stressed that she only collected data from tourists between the end of 2016 and the spring of 2017 insisting that she “absolutely did not” encourage tourists to file foodpoisoning claims.

The case is expected to continue this week.

14

Monday 14th - Sunday 20th May, 2018

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 7 Irate; 8 Prudent; 9 Elector; 10 Charm; 12 Referendum; 15 Omnipotent; 18 Slain; 19 Refrain; 21 Feigned; 22 Adieu.

DOWN: 1 Licentious; 2 Eager; 3 Beat; 4 Sparse; 5 Luncheon; 6 Veranda; 11 Memorandum; 13 Exponent; 14 Inhabit; 16 Tirade; 17 ACROSS

Valid; 20 Foam.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 7 Hoard; 8 Aquaria; 9

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

QUIZ ANSWERS

Decorative (10)

8.

Sensible (10)

3.

Poke (4)

Manacle (8)

4.

Ripen (6)

10.

Fastener (4)

5.

Money-chest (6)

15 Green salad; 18 Tasks; 19

12.

Entertain (6)

6.

Guard (8)

Compact; 21 Showers; 22 Token.

14.

Cure (6)

7.

Assist (4)

DOWN: 1 Shipwright; 2 Tarry; 3

15.

Powerful (6)

11.

Sign (10)

17.

Madness (6)

13.

Choosing (8)

18.

Conspiracy (4)

16.

Tittle-tattle (6)

19.

Saintliness (8)

17.

Solitary (6)

Canister; 14 Pension; 16 Accuse;

21.

Annalist (10)

18.

Tool (4)

17 Hacks; 20 Mate.

22.

Rarefied (4)

20.

Grass (4)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which word can mean any form of transport

12. Leonato is the main character in what

and the legal term for the transfer of property by

Shakespeare play?

way of deed?

2. What is the name of an auction, where the auctioneer starts at a high price, then comes

13. What was the name of the shepherd that got Tremponina Pallidium?

down until he gets a bidder for the goods?

14. What sport was called Harpastum by the

3. In which Australian state is Alice Springs?

ancient Greeks?

4. Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia is

15. What is a dhoti?

the fear of what?

16. Which drink was designed as a malaria

5. C17 H21 NO4 is the chemical formula for what?

cure?

6. LOT is the national airline of what country?

17. In 1929 the first what happened on an air-

7. Bill Medly was part of what group?

craft?

8. Where was the first Miss World contest held

18. Where was Freddie Mercury born?

in 1951?

19. What is the three dimensional image creat-

9. Which unit of weight shares its name with the alternative name for a snow leopard?

10. Why was Clark Kent rejected military serv-

ed by laser beams called?

20. Which film star did Madness sing about?

ice during World War II?

21. Which of the Beatles was the first to have a

11. What is the worlds most widely eaten fish?

solo Number 1 hit?

Ounce, 10. Failed eye test. He was rejected when his x-ray vision mistakenly forced him to read an eye chart in another exam room. 11. Herring, 12.

Much ado about Nothing, 13.

Syphilus, 14. Football, 15. A garment worn by male Hindus, consisting of a piece of material tied around the waist and extending to cover most of the

Solution on Page 23

2.

1. Conveyance, 2. Dutch Auction, 3. It is the third-largest town in the Northern Territory of Australia and is situated roughly in Australia's geographic centre, 4. The fear of long words, 5. Cocaine, 6. Poland, 7. Bill Medley is an American singer and songwriter, best known as one half of The Righteous Brothers. 8. London, 9.

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Pageantry (4)

9.

Crouton; 11 Petrol tank; 13 DOWN 2. Presumably not the sort of textile that is whiter than white! (10) 3. Draw a portrait of a member, we hear (4) 4. Advocate any rot should be put right (6) 5. As a lathe operator, he’s an artist (6) 6. The hobbies of father’s days (8) 7. Therefore depart after a little hesitation (4) 11. They’re qualified to provide what’s needed by those taking physics (10) 13. Hospital report: Missile not yet removed (8) 16. The colour of one wild dingo! (6) 17. Order used to keep the hose in place (6) 18. Some of the supercharged dynamos keep whirling round (4) 20. Naturally in Lower Egypt it’s seen initially (4)

1.

Parleys; 10 Plump; 12 Act the goat;

Edge; 4 Basset; 5 Subpoena; 6

ACROSS 1. Twofold praise on return (4) 8. One skilled with the needle (10) 9. A common weed the colonist put in a stretch of level l and (8) 10. A bit of a pungent odour will cause a fuss (2-2) 12. The lad needs transport for a chemical container (6) 14. Being negligent, I’m put back in the reserves before the start of the season (6) 15. It’s hot and cold, one hears (6) 17. Petrol suppliers in the U.S.? (3-3) 18. Gradually get closer - that will give you the advantage (4) 19. This state can’t be treated lightly! (8) 21. Sounds like a pretty girl who’s taking the plunge! (6-4) 22. Otherwise it’s part of a chapel service (4)

DOWN

legs. 16. Benedictine, 17. Birth, 18. He was born on 5 September 1946 in Stone Town, Zanzibar (now Tanzania), 19. A Hologram, 20. Released in 1984 "Michael Caine" spent 8 weeks in British charts, peaking at number eleven. 21. George Harrison with "My Sweet Lord", in January 1971.

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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.

The Journey of Life

I

t has often been said that travel broadens the mind, which is one of the many reasons why young people particularly are encouraged to travel. I still remember, in vivid detail, the journey that I took to Germany as an insecure and impressionable thirteen-yearold. This is one incident from my childhood that I value greatly, and I will always be grateful to my parents for having the wisdom to encourage and to allow me to participate in what was at that time a new and experimental project designed to encourage post-war unity and understanding.

The journey that I experienced was part of a school twinning project, with myself and others from my school living individually with a German family, which we had no prior contact, for two weeks. One year later, the visit was reciprocated in the UK with our newly acquired German friends staying with us. For myself and many others, the visit was a huge success, and the friendship that I developed with the German boy, whose home I shared during those two weeks, was one that I greatly valued and continue to this day through emails and occasional visits.

I still recall an unpleasant night-time ferry journey from Harwich, a train journey through the Netherlands, fierce Dutch and German security police checking passports and tickets, and a combination of languages, before we finally embarked in a new and strange country that was to be my home for the next two weeks.

Nowadays, this kind of journey seems mild and quite ordinary, but at

that time, the entry into post-war Europe was akin to entering an alien and potentially dangerous world. This early experience fed and nurtured my interest in countries, people and languages outside the United Kingdom, and eventually encouraged me to make a new life in another European country. It taught me much about people from outside the narrow confines of my daily life and routines in a Lincolnshire village, and nurtured my understanding of what it is to be truly European, and not simply British or English.

15

b y Bar rie Mahoney

The European Commission has set aside 12 million euros for free rail passes

How times have changed, with children visiting Spain, France and Italy, and often whilst babes in arms. Overseas travel has become both easily available and affordable for many people. However, not all are able to benefit from this new freedom. Although many young people have plenty of time on their hands during the long summer holidays, they often lack the financial resources to do anything particularly worthwhile, and most do not have the funds to undertake travel that could enrich and broaden their minds.

Despite the low cost and ease of accessing other countries by using one of the cheap airlines, often the best way to see Europe is to travel by train. This is the reasoning behind an important European Union scheme for young people that is frequently ignored in the UK, which is a free Inter-Rail Pass to allow teenagers a full month of free travel around Europe.

The European Commission has set aside 12 million euros for between 20,000 to 30,000 teenagers from all over Europe to collect a free rail pass for use during the long summer holidays. The pass will allow students from the present 28 member states to ride on trains, buses, trams and ferries to visit any corner of Europe that they wish, and all free of charge.

The idea behind the initiative is to encourage young people from all backgrounds to connect with other Europeans to develop a European identity. What better way to see the sights whilst travelling relatively slowly, and absorbing the cultural idiosyncrasies of a variety of nations. Chatting to other people and sharing experiences whilst they travel will often create friendships and memories that could last for a lifetime.

I suspect that this early induction will lead to a lifelong addiction to rail travel, which is something that I doubt low cost air travel will ever achieve. Travel is a rite of passage into the world and I sincerely hope that, despite Brexit, government-funded European travel projects will continue in some shape or form. This is life education at its finest.

Available in paperback from Amazon, Waterstones and all good bookshops, as well as on Amazon Kindle.

Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

16

Monday 7th - Sunday 13th May, 2018

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Stagestruck tickets going fast other larger than life characters.

Joan, Margaret and Ronnie

As the show progresses through 4 years, we see changes to the characters and the surroundings. The lead roles of Harry Grimes and Daphne Brown are played by Jim Speakman and Jenny Dexter who are ably supported by 21 other cast members.

The audience will experience love, disappointment and bags of laughs in this story of triumph over adversity.

If you're a fan of 1960s music, you don't want to miss Stagestruck's next production 'From a Jack to a King' coming soon at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre on the 17th, 18th and 19th May. This original script is a musical comedy set in the East End of London in the late 1960s. The show opens in the Hope Pub, a place that's seen better days where you'll meet the local pimp and his tarts, Danny and Tommy, the die-hard regulars and Johnnie Bigg who is initially mistaken for a stripper, among

At only 8 euros a ticket, you can't afford to miss it. Proceeds from ticket sales go to local charities, the main beneficiary being the Torrevieja Alzheimer's Association.

Tickets are on sale at The Post Box, Quesada, The Post Room, Benijofar, The Card Place, Benimar, Cards and More, La Marina, Kennedy's Supermarket, Montesinos and Leaf's (Formerly Marabu Lounge), Quesada.

Alternatively you can reserve tickets by calling Leigh on 679679584 or emailing leigh.humphries58@gmail.com.

Chicago’s wrapped up in cellophane Long-suffering husband Amos Hart is played by Andy Kirkwood, who only recently joined the company

1st Aid refresher attracts 16 students A 10 hour programme comprising 2 number 5 hour sessions, that was designed to spread the basic knowledge of First Aid, took place during the period of 3rd/4th May and was held in the Centro Civico Ramon de Campoamor, Calle Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, which is operated by the Orihuela Costa town hall.

The purpose was to train a group of 16 people on how to deal with a vast variety of medical conditions.

Of the 16 attendees, 14 were from the Torrevieja branch of the U3A. This is a part of the U3As aims to improve its services to its members. The course was run by Barry

Robinson, a fully qualified First Aider, with over 30 years experience, the last 4 years of whichhave been in Spain. He was ably assisted by Little Anne (3rd from left in photo) in the section relating to CPR. The course was well presented and was enthusiastically received by all concerned. This was the first course to be run by the Red Cross in this location, and it is generally hoped that it will to be their permanent home in Orihuela Costa and that they will be able to offer their services to many other organisations to improve the safety facilities on the coast.

HELP’s day out at Golf Delux

I

All have vowed to return and defend titles next time

t’s only a few weeks to go to STUDIO32’s latest sizzling musical theatre venture it’s the Broadway spectacular “Chicago”, a raunchy musical vaudeville set in the 1920s.

Based on real life events the show revolves around a group of women in jail awaiting trial for murder, most notably Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart. Roxie’s long-suffering husband Amos Hart is played by Andy Kirkwood (pictured), who only recently joined the company for their last production “White Christmas”. Amos is tired of Roxie’s lies and demands for money and a better life, and refuses to provide an alibi for her when she shoots her lover. But will they be reconciled, and will Roxie be set free? To find out get your tickets now and make sure you don’t miss this wonderful show!

The show features some impressive dance routines and wonderful songs, including “All That Jazz”, “Razzle Dazzle” and Amos’s moving ballad “Mr Cellophane”.

As with the film version the stage show does contain content of an adult nature, and the company advise that it is not recommended for children under the age of 12.

Show dates are Wednesday May 30th to Saturday June 2nd at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio, all performances start at 7.30pm. Reserved seating tickets are now on sale, priced at 10 euros, and can be obtained by calling 744 48 49 33, or by emailing tickets@studiothirtytwo.org Tickets are in great demand for this show - the Saturday performance is sold out and there is only limited availability for the Friday performance. So be sure to book your seat now for what promises to be a spectacular evening’s entertainment!

The last Friday in April saw members and friends of HELP Murcia Mar Menor and friends take part in the Charity’s annual golf contest at Golf Delux. The weather was kind, sunny with just a gentle breeze and the four teams had great fun completing the 18

hole course.

There was a fair amount of fishing to retrieve lost balls from the many water obstacles and also three holes in one. After the presentations everyone enjoyed a nice alfresco lunch at the complex.

Pictured are Men’s winner Peter Cunliffe, Women’s winner, Yvonne Brannigan, winners of the wooden spoons for the highest scores Peter Croft and Barbara Fullalove.

All have vowed to return and defend titles next time.

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Torrevieja opens beaches for use by dogs T

he beaches of Las playas Cala del Moro and Punta Margalla will be open for the use of animals from the middle of June, according to the councillors for Beaches, Javier Manzanares (PSOE) and Citizens participation, Víctor Ferrández (IU) but, at this stage, only as provisional locations during the coming months.

Las playas Cala del Moro

The final decision will be made by residents themselves in the 2019 municipal elections where there will be an opportunity for the public to have their say with regard to the final location.

Both councillors indicated that the initiative will allow the continuous use, throughout the year, of these coastal stretches throughout the summer. In the case of Punta Margalla, it is a coastline of rocks and stones, to the north of the town, between the Curva del Palangre and the monument of Las Columnas.

Cala del Moro beach is at the southern tip of Cabo Cervera, near residential areas, and combines sand with low cliffs. Quite small in size and little known, it is one of the best beaches in the city.

The councillors explained that this provisional agreement has reached the consensus of the coalition government group, in addition to the opposition formations of Sueña Torrevieja and Cs.

New San Fulgencio mayor to be elected on Wednesday The nonsense that has seen the demise of San Fulgencio politics this year will largely be resolved on Wednesday when councillors meet to elect a new mayor at an extraordinary Plenary Session, following the resignation two weeks ago of former leader, Carlos Ramirez, after his disqualification from public office by the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office.

The session will get underway by first confirming in post two new councillors, Briton Mark Lewis (APSFU) who replaces Mariano Martí, and Juan López, who takes the seat relinquished by Ramírez.

Mark Lewis is no stranger to local politics having once been San Fulgencio mayor himself when, back in 2008 the mayor, deputy mayor and four senior councillors were all taken into police custody following allegations of real estate corruption.

The favourite to be elected as mayor is councillor

Cllr Manuel Gomez

Manuel Gomez, the one PP councillor who was not expelled from the party, who will try to form a municipal government with the support of his 5 dissident colleagues and new arrival Juan López.

The local PP leadership in the province has confirmed that it has given Gómez full freedom to negotiate.

Local Police rescue 19 newborn kittens

After being alerted by a local resident the Local Police of Pilar de la Horadada rescued a litter of 19 newborn kittens that had been abandoned in a cardboard box in the municipality.

The kittens were found in Mil Palmeras where they were first seen late on Saturday evening crawling around an overturned cardboard box in an obvious state of distress A police patrol attended the scene and recovered the abandoned kittens prior to handing them over to the Anguimar animal collection service, after which they were transferred to their Los Infiernos facilities The Local Police who attended the scene said they were disgusted by the abandonment of the kittens which has "moral, administrative and criminal consequences."

17

18

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whatsapp the missionaries on 667 533 597..

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja - Evangelical nondenominational church. All nationalities welcome. Sunday service 11.0 a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11.0 a.m.

Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30 p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta – Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. For other church matters: Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

Musicians Wanted Forming Royal British Legion Concert Band is seeking experienced musicians, especially French Horn, Trumpet and Cornet. Call MD on 638 108 078 for information.

Apartment for Rent Villamartin, Very large 2 Bed Flat, 2 Bath, Fully Furnished, Air Con, Sky TV, Com Pool, Very large Sun Terrace, 5 Mins walk from Plaza, €400pcm plus Bills, Call Dean 639 288 935

Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford CMax Diesel which is on Special Offer priced at just 15,499 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.

Clasicos Legendarios have the following used vehicles for sale: Jaguar XKR V8 2007 Black, with all the extras, 115,000 km for 35,000 euros, Jaguar XJS Convertible V12 1988, 159,000 km 17,950 euros, Lexus SC 430 2003, 165,000 km, 7,995 euros.

Visit our showroom in Redovan on Poligono San Carlos or call 965 030 924

Social and Clubs The next monthly meeing of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 17 May at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm. The Torrevieja Branch will meet at the Casa Ventura in San Luis at 7.30 pm on the 8 May. All are welcome to join us for an evening of camaraderie and good company. The La Marina/Gran Alacant Branch meets on the 1st Monday at The London Bar, behind Dial Prix in Gran Alacant at 6pm. All Welcome.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you. Our aim is to

assist with problem solving for the over 50’s and promote their well-being. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team.

You will visit people who live in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee either in a wheelchair or walking. If you think you can help Age Concern in this respect call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887.

Or you can email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Torrevieja Retired Activities Club meet on the third Wednesday in the month from 11-1pm at Marina Club Cafeteria, International Marina, Torrevieja.

We have a speaker at our monthly meetings, or quiz, etc. Enjoy an activity once a month such as petanca, mini golf, 10 pin bowling, and on the first Sunday of the month we organise a restaurant lunch. The joining fee is 10euros but you can attend one meeting or lunch before you join.

For info phone Sandy Hollywood, President 698 266 696 or Jill Hayes, membership Secretary 672 983 019.

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 Official Liverpool FC Supporters' Club, Costa Blanca. - Why not join us at Kennedy's Pub, Playa Los Locos, to watch the games?

www.lfc-spain.com.

Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Interested in becoming a listener? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? To find out more, come 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 expenses can be claimed).Email: spainsamsrecruits@outlook.com www.samaritansinspain.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities Monday, Wednesday and Thursday including music, language classes, drawing and painting, sewing, general information, bereavement advice and much more. Further info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11.15am 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 11.15 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 The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. You can phone or

Shelving Wanted The Reading Point, Ramon de Campoamor, is in need of shelving that can be used to expand it’s library. We still have hundreds of books that we are unable to display. Ideally the shelving should be delivered although we do have occasional access to a vehicle, so can arrange to collect if necessary. Please call Katalin if you can help on 671 457 865

Staff Urgently Required for Spanish Run Supermarket in Quesada 1 x Shop Director / 1 x Shop Manager Due to our continued growth, we urgently require one Shop Director and one Shop Manager for a Spanish run Supermarket in Ciudad Quesada.

The ideal candidate will be between 40 and 50 years old and will have British nationality. They should be able to communicate in Spanish to a good level as they will work with other members of the groups’ management team. They should be computer literate and have a minimum of 5 years experience in the supermarket / retail sector.

We offer a very competitive salary and good working conditions (no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays).

This is a full-time position with employment contract.

Immediate start.

Please send a covering letter and your CV (in PDF format) by email to: offer1092@jobsearchspain.com

Personal Torrevieja Brazilian mature lady.

The best massage, relax, tantra, anti-stress. I also do body and intimate waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial cleansing and rejuvenation. Me and my silky hands are the perfect combination. Call Victoria on 687 131 005.

Torrevieja. Shirley - the best massage. Tanned, young Latina beauty! Stunning figure, great breasts. I welcome you alone in my sexy lingerie. By appointment please.655 677 738 Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speak English.

Male and female Viagra, Cialis, Cialis Kamagra jellies mail order cash on delivery call 604 385 476 viagra4you19@gmail.com

Property for Sale For sale. Stunning detached villa. 3 bed, 2 bath, South facing, private parking, no community fees.

Former show home. € 149.900.

Tel. 611 307 574.

For sale. 100m from the beach. 6 bed, 3 bath refurbished townhouse. Just € 129.900. Tel. 611 307 574.

For sale. Modern luxury apartment. Close to La Fuente CC. 2 bed, 2 bath. Elegant furnishing.

4 x Shop Floor Assistants Due to our continued growth, we urgently require four new members of staff to help us on the shop floor and on the cash desks.

The ideal candidate will be between 25 and 50 years old and will have British nationality. They should be able to communicate in Spanish at a basic level. Experience preferred in the supermarket / retail sector but not necessary as full training will be given. They should also have basic computer skills.

We offer a very competitive salary and good working conditions (no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays).

This is a full-time position with employment contract.

Immediate start.

Please send a covering letter and your CV (in PDF format) by email to: offer1093@jobsearchspain.com

€ 110.000. Tel. 611 307 574.

Villamartin, gate enclosed topfloor apartment with lift. Two bedroom, two bathroom, large lounge / dine, kitchen, store room, large sun terrace, commu-

nal pool in well-maintained gardens, off-road parking, 800m to nearest bars / restaurant. Fully furnished.

Air-conditioning.

Roof top solarium with stunning views. € 110.000. Tel. 672 921 851 or 604 152 124. (705)

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Men’s Pairs semi’s and finals (Mon 7th May) Round Robin Semi’s: The Hub was where it was happening last Monday as three of the final four pairs faced a round robin shoot out to leave the last two pairs standing. Unfortunately, the fourth qualifying pair of Graham Solomons and Rob Hindle from the Tavern were unable to make the date due to Rob’s work commitments- Graham having to content himself with the Men’s Singles title instead.

Pair number 1 were Lee Maiden and Andy Rutter from the Junction Jackals facing father and son, John and Harvey Lane from Porter House Bees in the first of the Round Robin contests of 601, best of 5. Mummy Michelle Lane was there to spur on her boys having been through the pressure herself when winning the ladies singles title a few weeks back.

I think it is fair to say that the writing was on the wall from the very first leg as Maiden lead off with 3x 100’s and a 60 with Andy assisting courtesy of another 100 and a 70.

Harvey was finding his form with 70, 85, 80 whilst waiting for Dad to muck in but Maiden put the leg to bed 12-D6. Now our boy Rutter, or Trotter as he is fondly known, didn’t want to be outdone and scored 140, 80 in leg 2 and Daddy (2 x 60) and son Lane (83, 70, 76) continued to apply pressure but Maiden (81, 96) got the Jackals 2nd leg too, with D5. The 3rd leg also went their way Maiden (99, 60, 81) and Rutter stealing the glory with (81 x 2) and D20-D10 for a 3-0 victory.

In the 2nd round robin, the warmed-up Lanes were against Lee Walters and Adrian Buitekaht from Las Rosas. The pairs were matched a little more evenly this time and the match went to all 5 legs.

The first leg went to the Lanes, John scoring 76 and Harvey doing the harder yards with 79, 60, 81 and a super T20-D8 out. Walters settled in to some promising scoring (60, 81, 85) despite his dodgy throwing arm whilst Adrian reserved his talents for the 2nd leg with a couple of 80+ efforts. Daddy Lane chucked a 116 (t20-S20-t12) but it was Harvey’s T20-D4 that took them two ahead of the Rosas.

19

By Simone de Lacy

They hit the ground running for leg 3 with some good darts including a ton from Harvey but faltered at the finish allowing the Rosas lads a look-in with Adrian’s 8-D12 finale.

Sensing they needed to do a little more work, Mr B (100, 66) and Walters (85, 100, D1) made it 2 all and needing to bull up again for the 5th leg. The decider saw Harvey lane take them to the 3 points with another two dart out, 10-D16.

In the final round of the semifinals, a well-rested Maiden and Trotter put paid to any hope of the Rosas boys getting the leg they needed to keep them fighting in the competition. Maiden (100) and Trotter (9 -D8) took leg one and in Leg 2 Trotter was well on form with a 180 and 20-D10 check.

Walters offered a glimmer of hope in the 3rd leg with a ton but no match for Maiden’s 140 and Totter’s 83, 89 and D2.

Finals: Starting how they meant to go on, Mr Maiden collected his own 180 and a 100 to back it up with a good reply of 133 from young Harvey but Trotter saw the leg off 4-D2. With some nice darts from all 4 competitors in leg 2 it looked to be anybody’s game but eventually went to the Jackals by way of a D2 from Maiden.

The pair of Bees, perhaps sniffing the smoke of defeat pulled a 125 and 100 out of the hive but the Jackals but back with 3 x 100’s and a Trotter check of D20. Needing just one more leg, Andy threw 2 x 81 and a ton but Daddy Lane came up trumps with a 95, 85 and D6 to temporarily save them despite a false call of game, set and match for a very narrowly missed D10 for Maiden. In what was to be the last leg, both pairs gave it their all but another D2 clincher saw the

Jackals as this year’s winners.

A big thanks to all the supporters, volunteer markers (Terry Kirby and Simone) and also to the Hub for holding the event and feeding us!

Team KO Finals: Congratulations to El Capitan, winners of the team KO Cup! They beat the Junction Jackals 7-4 in a reversal of last season’s outcome.

This just leaves Las Rosas to play Porter House in the finals of the Auxiliary Team KO on Monday 14th May. All trophies will be awarded on Thursday 17th May, Las Ramblas golf club, 7pm start.

Eurobowling Torrevieja Wins The National League For “Three-Peat” Madrid and Torrevieja, 7/5/2018 – The men of "EBT", Torrevieja’s international tenpin bowling club, have crowned a historic season 2017-2018 – in March they already won the King’s Cup – with gold medals in the National League's top category for the third time in a row, a feat never before achieved by any other club in the history of Spanish tenpin bowling. The last round took place at Madrid’s Chamartin Bowl (men) and at Torrevieja Ozone (ladies). EBT stormed into Saturday morning with a seven-point advantage, but couldn’t find their best form and so, at the end of Day 1, they were only one point ahead of Boliches and two points clear of Celta.

Sunday dawned and gave things a very different look. EBT won their first two matches 10–0, leaving on the scoreboard a new onegame record (6 players): a clean game, 1457 pins, average 242.83. It was no longer necessary to win the last match, just score a few points, but with a resounding 8–2 against Levante, the "Salt City Boys" confirmed their historic victory.

In the overall statistics of the season, four of EBT’s bowlers achieved an average of 200+: Mats Maggi (BE) 229.71; Mika Määttä (FI) 212.83; Ferico Tatil (ES) 209.21, and Artur Colomer (ES) 202.33. Also bowling were Kjell Monsen (NO, Captain), Lorenzo Quereda (ES), Juanjo Carral (ES), Alejandro Arjonilla (ES), and Marko Palomäki (FI).

In the ladies’ top division, the EBT team comprising María Jesús

Pérez (ES, Captain), Eva Sandgren (SE), Alberte Hubert (BE), Christelle Piccoli (BE), Peppi Konsteri (FI), and Heidi Thorstensen (NO ), already without options to fight for the medals, were able to comfortably maintain their 5th place. Ilicitano trundled on just like before, only losing 8 points. Their two Finns, Eliisa Hiltunen and Krista Pöllänen, were in a category of their own, averaging 217.71 and 215.62, respectively – simply a class act.

The top EBT scorer was once again the 14-year-old Finn Peppi

Konsteri, posting a final 42-game average of 198.24.

Jarmo E. Peltonen, founding president of Club EBT: "I am proud of our international club that has been able to conquer the highest tops of Spanish tenpin bowling. We are making great efforts to promote our sport. We have the support of the local authorities and – most importantly – the Ozone bowling centres. Our great annual event, the Open "City of Torrevieja", the second most important tournament in Spain, attracts to our city year after year dozens of athletes from many European countries. Our next Open is scheduled for the end of September."

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Vistabella Bowls

with Lynne Bishop

Vistabella’s Sue Kemp & Brian Zelin won through to the final of the El Cid 2 wood JJ Pairs, unfortunately finishing second but well done to them both.

VCL The Saxons were at home this week to the Emerald Isle Dukes, one win and one drawn game, our singles lady unfortunately pulled out through illness. Rinks Sandra Burrows, Barbara Brown, Stuart Allman & Arthur Brown 24 -10 and Pairs Del Gunning & Peter Whitehall drew 1616. Shots, VB 69(3) - 83(9) EL. The Vikings had a good away win at San Miguel against their Dukes team.

Ladies Singles Lin Watkins 21-5. Men’s Singles Barry Norris 21-15 and the Rinks team of Beryl Regan, Bill Corbishly, Jeff Neve & Mike Regan 21-17. Shots, VB 90(8) - 72(4) SM.

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Treatment for Stewart a step closer thanks to bowls community I was so sorry that I couldn’t make it over to El Rancho on Thursday but my hip wouldn’t have stood up to it. By all accounts it was a complete success and I must straight away thank El Rancho and in particular Stewart Hamill for in the main arranging everything. Brilliant, absolutely brilliant.

Thanks go also to all the people who turned up to it make such a success including Lynn Greenland and her cakes, Fred Willshire’s boat, Brian Harris, Carolyn Harris, Lesley Day for putting the raffle together, Sue Jordan and not forgetting, of course, Jane Hamill for helping our Stewart.

Thanks to all the people who made individual donations like the folk from Greenlands BC who raised 118 euros between them, thanks Hayley, and a special thanks to El Rancho BC for their donation of 200 euros.

There was no end of others who need thanking but whose names I haven’t got so thank you so much for whatever you did, like Mike Edwards and the International/Irish Team.Wendy and I are so thankful for all your support and kindness which raised, wait for it ………. 1654 euros.

The magnificent sum of 1654 euros was raised to help with Stewart’s costs

Opposition sought for RBL Bowlers A coach load of Torrevieja Branch British Legion bowlers, the Legionnaires, recently played Benitachell bowls team at Benitachell.

A great days bowling with lovely company with both teams agreeing to make it an annual event. The Legionnaires try to arrange a

friendly once a month and are willing to travel anywhere for a game.

If your club would be interested in playing us please get in touch with Allan on trbl3456@gmail.com.

Greenlands Bowls Club by Dave Webb In the VCL League we were at home to La Marina and following recent form we were kept to just one winning rink and very close in another. So the final scores were - total shots for - 64. shots against - 101. Points for 2. points against - 10.

Our only winning rink was the ladies singles, Mary Lockley. 21 shots to 15. The Trips lost out by only 2 shots but there is always next week to look forward to.

El Rancho Bowls Club With the Buckskins having a bye in the Harrier league this week El Ranchos first match was against San Luis Hawks at home, it was a tough old match with El Rancho just taking the pairs and losing the trips by just the one shot. So not a bad day against a good opponent, the sun shone and the company was good.

Ladies singles: Sheila Cox 14-21. Gents singles: Jim Gracie 11-21. Pairs: Jane Hamill and Richard Lee 20-12. Trips: Ron Edwards, Rob Clark and Shirley Edwards 17-18. Rinks: Diane Yates, Jean Bagwell, John Skipper and Stew Hamill 19-25.

What a splendid day thursday was, as most if not all will know, El Rancho hosted a fund raising match between a supplemented Ireland team and El Rancho.

The purpose to offset the cost of speech therapy for Andrew Latham, son of Wendy and Barry who are members of La Marina BC. Andrew had a massive brain haemorrhage in 2015 and was not expected to live, but survive he has, with most of his faculties. But alas the power of speech has not at this point returned, but it is hoped that expensive speech therapy will allow this to happen.

The activities provided with hard work by many, to extricate money from our pockets, proved to be very successful and I know such monies were given happily. The bowls match as you would expect proved to be great fun with much jollity and was enjoyed by both teams and the great numbers who had turned out to watch, support and spend their funds, a great day only marred by the necessity of the occasion.

So on to Friday were El Rancho played host to Quesada Tigers in their VCL fixture, many have had a lot of practice and fun of course, this week.

El Rancho had a splendid day taking 4 of the 5 rinks and also the overall shots. Ladies singles: Diane Yates 21-13. Gents singles: David Whitworth 21-19. Pairs: Sheila Cooper and Carolyn Harris 18-16. Trips: June Whitworth, Rob Clark and John Skipper 16-21. Rinks: Ron Edwards, Jean Bagwell, Shirley Edwards and Jim Gracie 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.

Emerald Isle Bowls

with Elwyn Morris After a great weekend away all the shoulders were put back in place after the Cabrera experience and the Emerald Isle returned to play on more usual surfaces The Dukes visited Vistabella Saxons and had a good 9-3 aggregate 83 -69. Winners were A M Stevenson 10-0, D Jones 21-15, C Thomas D Birkett D Gerrard 26-14, M Whitelock M Stacey drew 16 -16 The Earls played at home against La Siesta and had a good win 8 -4, aggregate of 96-84, the winners were B Kavanagh 21-17. B Doran P Heaney 18-13, A Brown C Parsons L Fisher 25-13 By the time this goes out the Nationals will have started at The Emerald Isle so good bowling there for couple of weeks to be seen, good luck to all taking part

Horadada Bowls

with Barry Evans On the playing front as very bad week for the Club.

Monday had us playing at home against a strong La Siesta team and we suffered from a bad case of Wasp stings!La Siesta won on four rinks and by 115 shots to105.Our winning rinks were Wayne Jackson,Ron Odell and Alan Miller 21 – 11 and Pat Patton,Margaret Odell and Brian Patton 23 – 11.Two of our other rinks only narrowly lost so it could have been a better result.

Many thanks to those replacement players who had to be drafted in at short notice.

In the VCL we were away at Country Bowls.Here we only had one winner,our rink of Les Davis,Roy Thompson,Jeff Hier and Alan Miller won 22 -10.We lost overall by 75 shots to 100.

We now have gap for the Nationals so lets hope we can pick up on our winning ways when the leagues restart.Good luck to our Nationals entrants.

There is a practice game arranged for Monday 21st,09.30 for 10.00,so please try and make it.

Horadada always welcomes new members and our roll-up days are Tuesday and Thursday.Please contact Fred Trigwell on 659139129 for futher details.

Country Bowls by Irene Graham & Gordon Dixon Country Bowls by Geoff Paylor & Gordon Dixon The ‘Badgers’ travelled to the ‘Hornets’ nest at La Siesta on Monday in search of valuable points after last weeks disappointment.

Alas, with the team cut to the bone in terms of players for selection we got what we deserved and came away with our tails firmly between our legs.

I don’t doubt for a moment that the team gave 100% effort but the ‘Hornets’ had just a little more quality and luck.

Scores are as follows; Linda Freeman, Derek Jiggins & Geoff Paylor. 26 – 8, Lynne Bryce, Peter Dix & Gary Ponsford. 20 – 18, Ben Nokes, Peter Robins & Andy Bryce. 17 – 17. 5 points for us with 9 to La Siesta. Shots Badgers 90 – Hornets 119 Many thanks to Dave Smith & Derek Jiggins for turning up at short notice.

On Wednesday, Horadada were the latest team to play at Country Bowls in the VCL. Early on all games were evenly balanced except the pairs where Country Bowls gained an early substantial lead.

In the singles Country Bowls gradually got on top and ran out worthy winners. The pairs were consistent and won rather easily and the trips had a titanic struggle but came up with a strong last end to triumph.

The rinks were put under a lot of pressure by a very good Horadada team who dominated the later ends to come out on top.

All in all a good win for Country Bowls 10 – 2 which lifts us from the bottom of the league, a very enjoyable and friendly mornings bowls played in the glorious sunshine.

Scores are as follows; Ladies Singles. Trish Dix. 21 – 2, Gents Singles. Peter Dix. 21 – 2, Pairs. Brenda Jiggins & Geoff Paylor.

31- 2, Triples. Salma Hempstead, Derek Jiggins & Phil Warrington.

17 – 2, Rinks. Graham Richardson, Ben Noke, John Hassell & John Mallet. 10 – 0. Total Shots. 100 – 75 For information on Country Bowls please ring 966191552 or visit our website www.countrybowlsmurcia.com

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Linea Dírecta Nationals underway at Emerald Isle On Saturday morning the Emerald Isle Bowls Club was host to the Opening Ceremony of the 23rd National Bowls Championships, sponsored once again by Spain’s leading insurer Línea Directa.

Taking place in beautiful sunshine representatives of the competing clubs, many resplendent in their club colours, paraded at the venue decked out with National and Regional flags.

The ceremony was attended by senior representatives of the National Bowls Federation as well as sponsors Línea Directa and Avalon.

Following the parade of clubs, umpires and Spanish International players, he President of the Emerald Isle, Tony Capewell, handed the rink over to Spain National Director Bob Donnelly who then went on to welcome the bowlers and all of the guests and spectators to the championships. He gave particular thanks to the tournament sponsors Línea Directa who were supporting the championships for the third year. He said how delighted he was to have such a major international company endorsing the 2018 tournament.

He said that the only way that the relationship would continue in future years would be by bowlers supporting the sponsors or at least offering them an opportunity to compete when purchasing insurance or funeral cover.

Neil Reardon responded on behalf of Línea Directa by wishing all of the competitor’s success in their efforts, as everybody looked ahead to yet another successful tournament.

Following the National Anthem the sponsors delivered the opening bowls of the 2018 tournament.

Players, spectators and sponsors then retired for refreshments following which the first competitive action of the tournament got underway with the men’s triples event.

Now, at least for the successful competitors there follows an arduous ten days of bowling, while for those not so lucky there is always the opportunity to renew old acquaintanceships and to make new friends.

The tournament runs until 24th May at the Emerald Isle Bowls Club.

Entry is absolutely free with matches starting at 10am through to the men’s singles semi finals on 22nd May after which the draw will be made for the six finals. The presentations and the closing ceremony will take place on 24th May. The two Blue Ribbon events, the Gents and the Ladies Singles, get underway with Brian Robertson meeting Peter Morgan of Quesada on Thursday and Jacqui Johnston playing former Champion of Champions winner Ann Marie Stevenson on Friday.

Clubs on parade

Sponsors Línea Directa and Avalon with the National Director

Host Club The Emerald Isle

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club

Quesada Bowls Club

San Luis Bowls Club with Ros Holmes

Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, Lounge D and Rogers Monday 7th May - Monte Mar Torros v San Luis Hercules. Another tough top of the table match against the Hercules. At the half way stage it was looking difficult for the Torros as we were down on all six rinks.

However, a good fight back by the Torros meant both teams won on three rinks. Well done to the winning teams of Wendy Sheridan, Tanya Oliver skip Jack Burrell. Harry Dobson, Joe Ridley skip Diane Ridley. John Hunt, Chris Harding skip Joan Harding.Shots Torros 105 – 116 HercPoints Torros 6 – 8 Hercules Just enough to keep te Torros top of the league for now.

Wednesday 9th May - VCL League MM Lords v San Miguel Deputies As expected a tough game against the Deputies only we only won two disciplines. Well done to the winning teams of John Hunt and Jack Burrell and Tanya Oliver, Howie Williams, Joe Ridley and skip Diane Ridley.

Shots Lords 68 – 84 Deputies. Points Lords 4 – 8 Deputies BELFRY DAY On Thursday 10th May we held the second Belfry day. Twelve teams played a trips competition on three different rinks. The winners were the team that scored the most shots. Well done to the winning team of Sheila Roberts, Iain Sheridan skip Jack Burrell (below). In the evening all players enjoyed a meal and drinks at the Belfry.Further information at our website www.montemarbowls.com or email info@montemarbowls.com

with Dee Stephenson Its been a busy week with some good results.

On Monday the Blenheims were hosted by San Miguel Christians.

Some very close results on the rinks but the Blenheims dug in and came away with a very good result winning on 5 rinks with a draw on 1 rink. Overall points 13-1, shots 82-115. Quesada Lancaster’s were at home to San Luis Wellingtons who were on top form and achieved a resounding win of 14-0 and 155-74 shots.

On Wednesday there was a home draw between QBC Tigers and QBC Cheetahs.

The game was played in competitive but good spirits but Lancasters had a very good win 10-2 and 116 - 55 shots.

The Lions didn’t have the best of days at San Luis against the Falcons who are top of the league.

But well done Chris Brazier, Pearl Houghton and Graham Phillips winning against a team skipped by Russell Marks. Fortunately The Lions have still retained our second place in the league.

The Cheetahs played away on Friday against the San Luis Falcons. After a very tough match, there were some nail-biting results on some of the rinks. San Luis came through in the end to win 3 - 2 rinks but to show how close it was the shots were a draw at 74 -74, the Cheetahs best shots score for the season.

Points were San Luis 7 and Cheetahs 5.

Another busy weeks League bowling, with a less wind, thankfully, before the Linea Directa National Lawn Bowls Championships start (12th-26th May at Emerald Isle).

Monday 7th May: South Alicante Summer League: SL Wellingtons away v Quesada Lancasters: A reversal of fortunes this week, resulting in a comprehensive. Points :14-0. Shots: 155-74. Winners: Kath Reid, Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 22-14, Pam Lockett, June Jones, Keith Jones 21-19, Helen Hammond, Derrick Cooper, Scott Malden 27-12, Margaret Morrison, Sabrina Marks, Russell Marks 30-9, Irene Everett, William Holtham, Vic Slater 24-10, Bob White, Brian Pocock, Julian Pering 31-10 SL Hercules home v Monte Mar Toro: It looked at one point as if the Hawks were going to have a very good win. However, Montemar came back and picked up three rinks. Points: 8-6. Shots : 116-105. Winners: Audrey Ford, Terry Bayliss, Charlie Marigold. 24-11.Ros Holmes, Roger Inwards, Roy Cordell 23-13, Dennis Jackson, Bill Webb, Brenda Brown 19-16.

Wednesday 9th May VCL: SL Falcons playing yet another game against a Quesada team, the Quesada Lions, and another very good result. Points: 10-2. Shots: 98-53. Winners: Singles–Kath Reid 2111, Colin Jackson 21-10, Pairs- June Jones, Keith Jones, 21-8, Rinks – Helen Hammond, Pam Lockett, Scott Malden, Ian Kenyon 23-11.

SL Hawks away to El Rancho, always a difficult venue. An excellent performance by the Hawks. The trips were 15-2 down after 9 ends, but fought hard to go into the last end all square. Our skip played a do or die shot, and succeeded in taking the jack and his bowl into the ditch, winning the game. Points: 10-2. Shots: 97-71. Winners : Singles-Ros Holmes 21-14, Bill Webb 21-11, Trips- Dave Tilley, Ian Ross, Derrick Cooper 18-17, Rinks- Cas Blay, Ralph Jones, Barry Edwards, Roy Cordell 25-19, Friday 4th VCL: No game for the Falcons.

SL Hawks: A home game at last, versus Quesada Cheetahs: Good wins for the Ladies Singles and the Rinks. The Trips had a very tight game but managed to hold on and win. Points:7-5 Shots: 74-74: Winners: Singles – Ros Holmes 21-10, Trips –15-13, Rinks – 21-11.

Good luck to all our San Luis members who are playing in the Nationals, at Emerald Isle. I am sure they would really appreciate some vocal support from you, when they are playing !

Information:www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com or contact June Jones, Club Captain: 691 903 773.

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San Javier GS - The Roy Herbert Memorial Trophy’ Winner Mick Hardy, with Linda Herbert.

This report is regarding the San Javier Golf Society Inaugural "Roy Herbert Memorial Trophy" individual stableford qualifying competition at La Serena on Monday 7th May: A full turnout as expected for this new event on our calendar, to commemorate our ex captain and long-time member Roy Herbert, who was much loved and is very sadly missed. Roy's widow Linda donated the trophy and the prizes to the winner and runner up and was on hand to present them afterwards. She herself was presented with flowers by our president Barry Butterworth on behalf of the society.

There were some very high scores returned, most notably and very fitting, by Mick Hardy (a good friend of Roy).

The winners on the day were: in Division 1 First was David Archer with 40 points, second Paul Newman with 35 and third was Paul Matthews with 31. In Division 2: First came overall trophy winner Mick Hardy with 42 points, second Paul Hamlin with 39 and third Kev Parker with 38. In Division 3: First John McKay with 35, second Dave Farrington with 30 and third John Hillier with 29. Nearest the pins were won by Dave Furze, Paul Hamlin, Kev Parker and Sandra Twentyman. The Monkey was "won" by Chris Taylor. The gross 2 (for 50 euros) was not won and will roll over to our next game.

We have several upcoming games, the details of which can be seen on the calendar of our website.

Full details of games will be emailed to all members. For further information on our society, to play as a guest, or to join, please phone Barry Beale on +34 649 245 889 or look at our website at www.sanjaviergolfsociety.co.uk and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sanjaviergolfsociety Across left is a photo of the trophy winner Mick Hardy, with Linda Herbert.

Mike ProBert talks golf Here on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and residentS 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 Stableford competition on Tuesday, 8th May was for the Ray Baptiste trophy, donated in his memory by his wife. Ray was the former owner of Greenlands Golf Course and one of the founder members of what was to become El Plantio 2 Golf Society. Very much to the fore in this competition were new members Barry Walthall and Alistair Douglas.

Barry went away with 3 prizes - 2 for his second place and one for nearest the pin and was proud of the fact that he did not fail to score on any hole while Alistair won the competition on Count Back by virtue of a superb back nine of 22 points. John's 36 points would have been good enough to win the trophy (for the third time) on most occasions.

Nearest the pins – Hole 2, Barry Walthall

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) Not until the whole routine has been completed should you leave your ‘personal bubble’ and – with the smile of satisfaction from ’getting it right’.

Remember the target aiming routine: Composure – Relaxation – (time as needed) Mental Rehearsal – (time always the same) Concentration Steps and Swing – (time always the same)

Concentration and Target Airming 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.

The ability to control concentration is a requirement for being a champion and it has been said that champions are separated from others by the way they ’think’.

Golf Course Price Comments Alenda €142 Two Players and Buggy Alicante €120 Two Players and Buggy Altorreal €120 Two Players and Buggy Bonalba €120 Two Players and Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €110 Two Players and Buggy El Plantio €112 Two Players and Buggy (after 12pm) Font Del Llop €134 Two Players and Buggy La Finca €128 Two Players and Buggy La Marquesa €45 Single Green Fee La Serena €39 Single Green Fee (after 2pm) Las Colinas €99 Single Green Fee Las Ramblas €104 Two Players and Buggy Lo Romero €134 Two Players and Buggy New Sierra Golf €80 Two Green Fees and Buggy Roda €98 Two Players and Buggy (from 2pm) Villamartin €110 Two Players and Buggy Villaitana Poniente €48 Single Green Fee and Buggy Vistabella €106 Two Players and Buggy Deal of the week: VISTABELLA €200 for 4 players and 2 buggies.

At this time you need to think about something but at the same time make your thought routine short because without pressure, you can mentally follow all of your swing movements but when the pressure is on it is almost impossible to do this and so a few thoughts only should be used at these times.

You must practise the method, which pressure dictates because it is no good practising a method, which can only survive on the practise ground.

Once you have decided on the line and length of your shot, you should select a target point (a point at the back of the hole when putting or a tree, etc in the distance) because it is ’impossible’ to line up to an area.

From the back of the ball, in line with the target, you should find a mark a few inches in front of the ball and take your address position by squaring up to this mark and then look at the ball.

The next thing is to breathe out and start the swing, remembering one thought on the back swing and one on the downswing.

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El Plantio 2 ‘The Ray Baptiste Trophy’

There are basic human qualities needed to deal with winning and one is the ability to concentrate, particularly when the pressure is on and it is important that you understand how to concentrate because at these times you generally play too quickly and get it wrong or extend your time over the ball and duff it in the confusion.

Concentration and your target aiming ritual are very closely connected because following a target aiming routine gives the mind something to do at a time when nerves could impede your normal routine.

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For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

and Hole 8, John Wilby (nearly hole-inone). Third Place, Handicap 6, John O'Brien - 36 points. Second Place, Handicap 23, Barry Walthall, - 38 points.

First Place, Handicap 14, Alistair Douglas – 38 points on C/B. If anyone would like to join our Society, we play at El Plantio Golf Club every 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 Photograph, L to R. John Wilby, John O'Brien, Alistair Douglas, Barry Walthall.

Busters Golf at Vistabella Our game this month was played at Vistabella, for most of our members it was the first time they had played the new course with its eighteen holes they were all pleased with the new seven holes that are now open and making the old eleven holes into a “proper” full golf course. We were greeted by Vistabella’s pleasant staff and enjoyed the bars sensible priced drinks and food before we teed off.

This month we had twenty-four players again this included our new members Eric, Bob, Tim, and Stephen, for our presentation, we returned to the Minigolf bar close to Quesadas Arches and enjoyed the food that Lisa, Rik and the staff prepared for us and after a couple of beers we had our presentation.

Our best front nine was won by Bill Peters with eighteen points and the better back nine being taken by John Rush both received red wine or Cava our nearest the pins were won by Ian Allison on holes two and eleven and Eric Lucas took the seventh hole both received sleeves of golf balls.

In the third place with thirty-two points and winning by means of a better back nine was Tim Goldsmith who took home a bottle of wine Stephen “Gilly“ Gilbert won second place with thirty-five points winning bottles of red and white wine but our winner on the day with thirty-six points was Larry Kinsella who received a bottle of Gordon’s gin, well done all of our winners. Martin Collins had generously donated the wines and Cava so than you Martin, Brian Jones won our soccer card selecting West Ham. Next month we return to Alenda which is always a pleasure to play.

Busters Golf Society is a small friendly group of like-minded people who play on the first Friday of the month, depending on the time of the year we generally have between sixteen and twenty four players, over the five years since we first formed the society some of our original members have moved on, either returned to their country of origin or have ventured to pastures new, so we are looking for a few more members to swell our ranks.

If you are interested in joining our society ( its free) then please email me Barry Grinsell at bustersgolfsociety@hotmail.com quoting your phone number and current handicap and I will get back to you within a couple of days .

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Torry Woes continue as defeats Octuply For the second consecutive away match, Torry played their preferente fixture on a Friday night. But alas, the match at the New Pepico Amat Stadium, also resulted in them losing for the 8th consecutive time.

We have been informed that as the old grandstand has been raised to the ground, a return to Vicente Garcia Stadium for the start of next season is the plan (cunning maybe?). Is that with or without a new grandstand? If the PP had not broken all their hollow promises time and time again, Torry would't find themselves in the dire straits they are now in, but mustn't get too political eh!

The 2nd half continued in the same vein, right up to to final 15 minutes of play. A delightful move on 75 mins involving Samuel and Maicol, saw the latter provide an inch perfect assist to Manuel. How Elda keeper Oscar managed to save the blistering shot from Torry's substitute is anyone's guess, but within a blink of an eye, disaster struck. Straight up the other end, a defensive mix up allowed Mario to fire home from close range.

To add salt into the wound, midfielder Valencia stupidly picked up a needless 2nd yellow card, and for the umpteenth time this season, Torry were down to 10 men. Within 10 mins it was 3-1, when an assist by Cristian was dispatched with venom by Aitor, who watched with glee as the ball eased inside the cross bar. reckless challenge by Ulises on Abraham inside the box on 89 mins, then saw the Elda front man dust himself off, before giving Cristobel no chance with the resulting penalty.

Let's move rapidly on to the match against Elda Industrial shall we?

OK, without sounding like a badly scratched long playing record, Torry started brightly, but faded badly!!

Next Sunday at Nelson Mandela Stadium (check club website for ko time), Torry face local rivals Thader Rojales in the final fixture of the season.

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Gold for local gymnasts

Elda Industrial ......................4 CD Torrevieja ......................1

A season that started so brightly, is now about to finish in total darkness, as long suffering fans despair as to what the future holds.

With one game remaining, had it not been for Calpe's expulsion from the league, a do or die battle would have been on the cards.

Elda opened the scoring on 28 mins, when Sevilla struck a peach The Vicente Garcia stadium on Friday of drive, culminating a move start- Photo: CD Torrevieja Twitter feed ed by Abraham then a headed assist from Aitor. Back came Torry 5 mins later, as Santi beat 2 players before passing to Silver, who from the edge of the box, struck the ball just inside the far post. On the stroke of half time, Santi squared the ball to Silver, then from distance he smacked the ball against the crossbar. Did the ball then cross the line before being cleared upfield? Without the benefit of video tv, ref Calero from Alicante gave the benefit of doubt to the defence, and waived play on.

Eurogolf Monthly Medal and Club Championships

On Thursday 10th May Eurogolf played their monthly medal off the plates. The top 4 scores were 1st Glo Manning 66 2nd Gary Grierson 68 3rd Albert Cook 70 4th Dave Nichols 71 Cat 1 1st Bob Buckeridge 74 c/b 74 2nd Tony Forbes 74 Cat 2 1st Pam Welsh 73 c/b 2nd Lee Hill 73 Cat 3 1st Jean Goodwin 73 c/b 2nd Monique Reeve 73 May Medal winner GloManning. Best front 9 Glen Roberts 34.5 Best back 9 Morag Turner 33.5 NTP´s 5th Karen Simpson 11th Morag Turner 12th in 2 Malcolm Foskett 15th Gary Grierson 17th Morag Turner Football draw David Blanchette John Kirkwood Barry Wilson Morag Turner and Eamonn Divine SOCIETY CHAMPIONSHIPS On Tuesday and Thursday 33 members took part in the annual Club Championships for the best scratch players and handicap players. Retaining his title for the best gross was John Barraclough with a total of 165 for the 2 days 2nd Jack Simpson 168 3rd

Tony Forbes 173. Handicap competition 1st Pam Welsh 139 2nd Gary Grierson 145 c/b 3rd Glen Roberts 145 Congratulations to all the winners.

TUESDAY TOFFS On Tuesday 8th May Toffs played their usual stableford competition but there was a reduced field as some players opted. to play in the Club Championship instead The results were overall winners 1st Eamonn Divine 36 2nd Clare DayeGretton 35 3rd Paul Manning 34 c/b 4th Angelique Berndt 34 Cat 1 1st Albert Cowley 34 2nd David Wickenden 32 Cat 2 1st Jim Weston 34 2nd Glo Manning 31 Cat 3 1st Liz Roberts 34 2nd Frances Buckeridge 30 NTP´s 5th Eamonn Divine 11th Paul Manning 12th in 2 Albert Cowley 15th No Winner 17th Colin Hobden Best front 9 Gordon Bourne 19 Best back 9 Jean Goodwin 16 Football draw Bev Fairhurst John Hill Arty Crammon John Holland and Chris Stanley

Last Saturday, the Provincial Phase of the Rhythmic Gymnastics Open Individual Championship was held at the Calpe Ifach Sports Centre where Torrevieja’s Jennifer Colino Club featured three of its gymnasts.

The club entered the individual category in the senior, infantil and alevin categories, where each of the gymnasts competed with three exercises, achieving the following results: In the senior category, Giulia Perelli got the Silver Medal in the Absolute General category after performing some exquisite and expressive hoop, club and tape exercises.

The Infantil category saw Lucia Leshan Cañas debuting at this level after finishing as runner-up in Spain last year where she managed to win the Gold Medal after performing some spectacular exercises with hoop and clubs in which she came in 2nd position. Followed by the tape exercise which she won.

In the Alevin category, the torrevejense gymnast Sylvana Muñoz, won the BRONZE MEDAL in the hands-free exercise and came fifth in the absolute general.

After these great results, the three gymnasts have qualified for the Championship of Spain, which will be held in Guadalajara next month.

Congratulations to all of them for the great work and good luck in June!

Paddys Point Golf Society at Saurines for ‘Drive-In’.

Thirty eight players set off for the Captain’s Drive-In at Saurines de la Torre but unfortunately one of our members took a scenic route via Murcia and missed his tee time (don’t rely on a Tom Tom ).

Despite his nerves our new Captain Eldon Carey boomed one down the fairway much to his relief. The weather was favourable and the course in good condition which led to an abundance of good scores, out comes the red pen. Thanks to Rory, Hazel and all at Paddy’s Point for once again looking after us golfers...we again enjoyed a very tasty meal, thank you.

Nearest the Captain’s Drive - Janet Bryan.

NTP - Shaun P Murphy, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Elsie Cowie & Geraldine Geoghegan.

LONG DRIVE - Jimmy Kiernan & Elsie Cowie. The 2’s pot was shared by John Shannon, Shaun P Murphy, Geraldine Geoghegan & Alan Cuddihy. BEST GUEST Ken Murphy 25pts. 3rd place Shaun P Murphy 38pts, 2nd Pat Foley 38pts c/b and Winner of the Captain’s Drive-in was Joe Adam with a magnificent 40pts.

Our next outing is to RODA on 13th June.

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