The Leader Newspaper Edition 725

No 725

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

Tel: 637 227

Controversy increases over Torrevieja beaches for dogs

After 15 years of publishing The Leader Newspaper on the Costa Blanca we are going to take a week off.

round a hundred bathers and residents of Cala del Moro (or Mal Paso) gath-

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ered together on the beach on Thursday morning to demand that the City Council modify its decision to turn the area into a beach for dogs.

against the area being used as a canine beach but they maintain that the organisation has been a complete “fudge" that does not benefit anyone.

The residents, the vast majority of them first line apartment owners, say that they are not

Spokesperson Maríia de los Ángeles Córdoba, said that the residents have never been con-

sulted. Most of them, who are residential tourists from other areas of the region and the country, learned that the canine beach was going to be introduced by the council after the decision had been taken.

Continued on Page 2

Thankyou for support during all that time.

Please note that the next edition will be out on the streets on

Monday 30 July

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

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

Continued From Page One Torrevieja beaches for dogs La Cala del Moro is one of the least known beaches of Torrevieja, situated between Cabo Cervera, south of La Mata and Los Locos beach. It is a very quiet area with access, for the most part, necessary by car. It is a small cove with sand, with a wide stretch of rocky coastline that is accessible to the sea.

The residents said that, for many years, pet owners who arrive with dogs have used this rocky area for their pets to bathe "without any problem". Now the whole beach, including the sandy cove, which is predominantly used by the homeowners, and the rocky area, has been assigned to the canine beach.

According to Córdoba, Councillor Javier Manzanares told them that it was a matter of getting used to it and that the introduction of a canine beach would attract tourism and beach bars, however, “We do not want tourism and chiringuitos, we want to remain peaceful and quiet," she said.

Córdoba also asked why the dog beach was not proposed "in Cabo Cervera, in front of the which has lifeguards and daily cleaning that we do not have.

Both in Cala del Moro and Punta Margalla the authorisation for canine beaches is provisional, but with the signs that indicate its use for dogs disappearing people still do not know what the current situation is. But while the signs have disappeared the dispute certainly hasn’t with further protests, but this time from supporters of the canine beaches, planned to take place today, Monday 16th July.

Playa Escollera Norte, Dénia. The area is about 100 meters long and 25 meters wide.

Mar y Montaña Beach, Altea – Difficult to access due to the large number of private developments around. If you go by car, it is best that you park in Villa Gadea.

Cala del Xarco, La Vila - A small beach of gravel and rock located south of the city.

Cala del Barranc d'Aigües - Near to an area of great beauty, the Lloma de Reixes, at the foot of the watchtower, is protected by a small cliff.

Punta del Riu Beach, Campello - Located between the two most important sandy areas in the municipality, Muchavista and Carrerlamar.

Agua Amarga Beach, Alicante - The first "DogFriendly beach" in Spain that allows dogs bathing during the summer and offers.

Caleta dels Gossets, Santa Pola - It belongs to the group of Calas del Cuartel , located next to the Natural Park of Cabo de Santa Pola, a stone and sandy beach.

Cala del Moro, Torrevieja - It is at the southern tip of Cabo Cervera, near residential areas , and combines sand with a low cliff.

Punta Margalla, Torrevieja - Almost a kilometer of coastline.

So if you have a dog that you want to take to the beach in the local area where can you legally go?

Well the coast of Alicante has nine areas where dogs are allowed and where you will find the necessary support services. services

Dear Editor, We wanted to inform you of a newsworthy event that will take place every Sunday during the months of July and August and that may be of interest to you.

For several years and throughout the year, surfing has been practiced on the beach of Cala Cerrada (Orihuela - Alicante) despite the fact that a Municipal Ordinance of its City Council prohibits it.

In low season this sport can be practiced with total normality even counting on the permissiveness of the Local Police, something for which we are very grateful.

The problem begins in high season, july and august, when bathers arrive. Although surfers and sunbathers share the beach with normality and respect, there is always somebody who is disturbed by the presence of boards, calls the Police and, as is their duty, goes to order surfers to go out water and remind them, one more year, that the practice of surfing is prohibited, according to the aforementioned Ordinance.

All this creates an annoying situation and difficult to understand even for some bathers who see surfing as a sport and a pleasant spectacle to contemplate. And, above all, it gives rise to a very difficult situation to explain to children who have to get out of the water and contemplate how their

parents argue with the Police for defending the sport that their children love and that these children, today, do not They can practice in conditions of legality and safety.

We ask, therefore, to ALL COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA interested, you support us to raise in the Town Hall of Orihuela the revision of a clearly unjust and outdated Ordinance in force that prohibits the practice of Surfing, so that bathers and surfers we can share the beach, enjoy the sea and that this sport practice is carried out in conditions of legality, security, good coexistence and respect for those who do not practice it.

Thank you very much Sincerely, Juan Ceron Dear Editor, I was hoping that you could help, I had an accident on Saturday evening in Punta Prima near the roundabout and hotel. I was crossing the road via zebra crossing and got knocked over by motorcycle I would appreciate it if you could pass on via your newspaper my sincere thanks to the Spanish lady who looked after me until the ambulance arrived, she was very reassuring and put me at ease telling not to worry whilst checking my injuries Also I would like to thank the other Spanish people who contacted the ambulance as Dee who was with me did not speak Spanish well enough to phone and give our location again I am very great full for those that were there to help thank you Regards....Hep Kinnear

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Lopez Bas insists that he is the man for Orihuela

Carolina Gracia announcing the motion of censure

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he PSOE and Cambiemos opposition parties in Orihuela, that comprise a total of 10 elected councillors, visited the notary in the city on Wednesday where they signed the motion of censure against the mayor of Orihuela , Emilio Bascuñana.

The spokesperson for the group, Carolina Gracia of the PSOE, explained that this is a necessary preliminary step to formalise the motion, since it is necessary for a notary to authenticate the signatures. The document has been deposited in the notary with the ten signatures where it will remain until July 23, the deadline offered to 3 Ciudadanos councillors, after which it will then be submitted to the municipal registry of the City.

Gracia asked the Ciudadanos councillors to reconsider their decision and join with them because the current coalition government which they are trying to maintain is unsustainable. She said that be signing the motion of censureship “they will once again allow the dignity and good repute to return to the mayor's office of the city ".

However Ciudadanos leader, Ignacio Lopez Bas, who is currently a member of the coalition government led by Emilio Bascuñana, has said that he will only consider joining with the PSOE and Cambiemos councillors and toppling the PP council if they promise

that he will then be elected as mayor, a move that was rejected by the two parties in question.

Indeed it is Gracia herself who is the candidate proposed in the motion of censure, who they stress possesses “the responsibility, ethics and all that is necessary to fill the mayoral office."

But with Lopez Bas saying that he will not deliver the Mayor's office to the socialists and that it is he who should lead the local Orihuela government as the mayor, the possibility of the current mayor being removed from office any time soon seems increasingly unlikely.

The argument put forward by the leader of the Cs is that they are the centre party, closer to the political sensitivity of most of the city's residents. They also insist that it is they who have been directly involved in the Government responsibilities, active participants in the preparation of the 2018 budgets and the important and necessary investment execution plan agreed by the current government team, Lopez Bas insists that he is far better suited to step into the void that will be created with the removal of the present mayor.

The censureship motion was brought about following publication in eldiario.es of a story, that brought into doubt the work that the current mayor, a doctor by profession, carried out on behalf of the Department of Health from 2007 to 2013, for which he was paid in excess of euro 55,000 per annum.

Bascuñana didn’t have a fixed position during the period, and is accused of drawing a salary without carrying out any work.

However he insists that he has documentary evidence showing that he carried out advisory and administrative duties for the Ministry which involved him effecting consultations in a number of health centres. The Ministry of Health has, nevertheless, opened an investigation into the matter

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Work begins on two rainwater drains in Pilar de la Horadada T

he Councillor for Infrastructure, JosĂŠ Francisco Albaladejo, visited the start of two major works that are now underway in the urban area of Pilar de la Horadada.

He began at the western end of the rambla where it meets with Calle Mayor, and where the corrective work is expected to last between six and eight months.

With a budget of 414,742 euros, Calle Mayor will increase between 30 and 40 centimeters in height, with a bridge about 14 meters wide and 30 meters long.

The newly installed passage under the Rambla will be two meters high, which will enable the water, during periods of heavy rainfall, to runoff more efficiently and no longer cause problems with waterlogging.

The Councilor said that this work will improve the infrastructures and avoid future flooding in the area and has a completion date of December 2018 or January next year.

In September the traffic will be diverted from Calle Mayor so that the work can be carried out safely. Snr Albaladejo asks for patience and understanding from affected residents and drivers.

The second location is in Avenida de la Venta where the work is being jointly financed, 60 percent by the Provincial Council of Alicante and 40 percent by the City of Pilar de la Horadada. The project will cost 594,419 euros with additional improvements a further 84,880 euros, which once completed will see both Avenida de la Venta and Calle Vista Hermosa completely paved.

In addition, the work will include the elevation of the pedestrian crossing to prevent water and mud from flowing into the adjacent streets, with the rainwater pipes buried undergoround.

During the work, traffic will be through Calle Cristo Adyacente, Infantes, and Avenida Los Villenas.

Once again, Albaladejo has asked that the residents understand the need for the work to be carried out and the requirement for additional caution when driving along Avenida de la Venta. The works are scheduled to finish in about six months.

Image: www.vegabajadigital.com/Google maps

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6,6 million euros to the improve Gary to ‘Brave the shave’ sewage treatment on Orihuela Costa On 29th July, at a venue yet to be decided, Gary Walsh (aka Gary the painter) from Algorfa, will be taking part in the “Brave the Shave” event to raise much needed money for Macmillan Nurses in the UK and the Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer, here in Spain.

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he Ministry of Agriculture, Environment, Climate Change and Rural Development has approved an allocation of more than 6.6 million euros to carry out long overdue improvement works to the sanitation network of the Orihuela Costa. This has been one of the main demands of residents for many years due to the appalling sanitation status servicing many of the coastal urbanisations, which generally quadruples its population during the summer months.

The Consell Plenary gave authorisation for the work on Friday which will now enable the Public Body of the Saneamiento of Residual Waters of the Comunitat Valenciana (EPSAR) to issue tender documention to companies which are able to take on the work. The project has a total base bidding budget of 5,506,703.33 euros, plus 1,156,407.70 euros in VAT. The increase in sanitation is necessary for both the capacity of the Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP) and the pumps that serve them. Even though they have long

All monies raised will be split 50/50 between both charities.

He will be having all the hair on his head, including his eyebrows, razor shaved off, not only to support and show solidarity with all cancer suffers everywhere but also to raise awareness.

Gary served 22 years in the Royal Fusiliers from 1984, reaching the rank of WO2. He served in South Armagh, Cyprus, Germany, Egypt, Iraq, Bosnia and Croatia.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths around the world, 1 in every 8 deaths is cancer related and 1 out of every 2 people will be affected by cancer, in some way, throughout their life. Many of these cancers can be avoided by merely changing your lifestyle eg give up smoking (he´s an ex-smoker of 30 years) changing your diet or simply applying the correct factor of sunscreen.

There are also plenty of tests available, for the more common cancers, you only need to ask your doctor or health centre, for more information, or just ‘Google it’. been operating at maximum capacity they have been unable to meet the needs of the area as is painfully obvious in many locations where the smell of excretion is all too obvious.

The circumstance is also aggravated by the overflowing sewage drains that are caused by the rains in the area that, although not very frequent, they continue to pose a big problem. The planned works have been classified by the Consell as "of

Researchers believe that more than half of all cancer deaths can be prevented or treated, if caught early enough. So come on “lets beat cancer”, don’t die through ignorance, there’s plenty of information available out there. If you would like to support him, then please donate through his ‘Profile Page”: https://bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/gary-walsh.

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Fiesta takes on road 400 mtrs underground The new Fiesta ST shows what it can do – in a salt mine The performance prowess of the new Ford Fiesta ST is demonstrated by a new film that features an amazing driving location – 400 metres below ground in one of Europe’s largest salt mines.

Shot at a secret location with World Rally Championship driver Elfyn Evans at the wheel, the Fiesta ST is seen slipping, sliding and jumping in the dirt. The sound of the 200PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine is amplified by its surroundings as it tackles a high-speed drop through the narrow entrance tunnel.

“The salt is actually like fine gravel to drive on, quite slippery to be honest, especially on road tyres,” said Evans. “You expect it to

be claustrophobic but actually it’s quite the opposite, a great place to really enjoy the new Fiesta ST.” Ford chose the secret salt mine location for new TV advert ‘Undertrack’ that sees the car put through its paces within the mine’s 60-kilometre network of tunnels, where temperatures are a constant 16 C and safety precautions required that a skeleton crew was used for the three-day shoot amid strict safety precautions.

Watch the clip in the mine: https://youtu.be/tI6xLRwr_hA Watch the ‘Undertrack’ advert: https://youtu.be/6HuAHLToqvg

Born again bikers in call for skills boost Ride smarter this summer

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is keen to ensure motorcyclists put safety first on rides this summer. At the heart of this call, according to GEM, is a focus on rider skill for those who may be back into biking after a lengthy gap.

There were 319 motorcycle fatalities in 2016 (the most recent available figures) – down from 365 in 2015. However, 5,553 riders were seriously injured, an increase of 10% on the previous year. Additionally, regional data show that ‘born again bikers’ (males aged between 40 and 60) are overrepresented in collisions GEM road safety officer Neil Worth comments: “There’s a lot of satisfaction to be gained from riding a motorcycle with skill and precision. That’s why we’re encouraging riders to give themselves a ‘skills MOT’ which will help ensure they reduce the risks they face on journeys.”

Follow GEM’s simple ‘lifesaver’ safety tips and reduce the risk of being involved in a collision: Invest in a refresher day with a training professional. Search online for motorcycle training days or consult your local club or advanced motorcyclists’ group.

Motorbikes have got faster, and if you’re back into biking after a lengthy gap, then your reactions are likely to have slowed down.

Typically a 55-year-old’s reactions will be almost a third slower than those of a 25-yearold.

Ensure self-preservation is your priority. The predominant cause of motorcycle crashes is the failure of car drivers to detect and recognise motorcycles in traffic.

So wear high visibility clothing on all journeys, and ride in a way that gives others a better chance of seeing you.

Please invest in the best protective equipment you can afford.

For example, your helmet should be comfortable and fit correctly (for details of ‘SHARP’, the national helmet safety scheme, visit sharp.dft.gov.uk).

Choose boots that are sturdy, well-fitting and above ankle height. Remember, nearly one fifth of all hospital admissions for motorcycling injuries involved broken bones in the lower leg1, so providing protection for ankles and feet is vital.

On a ride, don’t go beyond your comfort zone, especially if you’re riding in a group. If your friends are cornering too quickly

for you, let them go and join them at the next junction.

Try not to dwell on your errors as you go along. Plan 10 to 15 seconds ahead, anticipate the next hazards. When you stop for a break, reflect on anything that didn’t go to plan, ask what you have learnt and how you can reduce the chance of the same thing happening again

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HOPI EAR CANDLING WITH BODY HARMONY Thermo-Auricular therapy (Hopi Ear Candles) What are Hopi Candles?

Hopi Ear Candles are hollow tubes made of cotton, soaked in beeswax, honey and herbs. When lit, the candle acts like a chimney, causing warm air inside it to rise and creating a vacuum at the bottom.

This vacuum gently stimulates the ear, facilitating removal of excess wax and impurities It is important to note that the candle does not suck wax out of the ear. It stimulates the ear to eliminate the wax naturally, ensuring maximum safety How are the candles used?

The treatment should be carried out in a relaxed, draught free atmosphere and the patient should lie in a comfortable position on his/her side with their head supported on a pillow.

A small cotton towel should cover the hair. The lit candle is inserted into the outer ear and the flame is allowed to burn down to within a short distance of the marked red line, when the candle is then removed gently and extinguished in some water.

The practitioner then massages gently around the ear, using draining movements towards the neck.

The procedure is repeated on the other ear, and then the patient lies

on his/her back for a gentle drainage massage on the face.

It is then important for the patient to have a drink of water and lie still for at least 10 minutes before he/she stands up What are the benefits?

Hopi candles can be used for many conditions including deafness caused by excess wax, congested sinuses, irritation in the ears, ringing or noises in the ears, helps with tinnitus, glue ear, colds, flu, headaches and migraines.

As their action is so gentle, this treatment is particularly suitable for children What are the effects?

In most cases the treatment is extremely soothing and relaxing, leaving the patient with a sense of well-being and reduced pressure in the ears or head.

A little warmth is felt, and hissing and crackling noises are heard, with a little popping. Most people say that it is a very pleasant experience!

The initial effect can be an improvement in hearing or freer nasal breathing and an improved sense of smell. However, improvements can continue occurring for a day or two.

Safety I use BIOSUN Ear Candles which are medical products Class IIa according to medical device directive 93/42/EEC, and are regularly tested by independent institutes. You can therefore be confident that the candles are made of the highes quality and safety standards.

COURSE IN HOPI EAR CANDLING Body Harmony offers a one day course in learning Hopi Ear Candling which will enable you to offer treatments to others. With this course you will get a certificate, and a comprehensive manual.

When should candles not be used?

Use of the candles is contra-indicated if: *The ear drum is perforated …...(perforated ear drums can heal up) *Grommets are in places *The ear is infected *The patient is allergic to any of the candles components ..e.g. beeswax

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT OR ANY FURTHER DETAILS ABOUT TREATMENTS OR COURSES, PLEASE CONTACT CHRISTINE QUINLAN AT BODY HARMONY. The telephone number is 966 795 103 or email: bodyharmony44@gmail.com.

The website is: bodyharmonytherapies.co.uk. BODY HARMONY IS BASED IN LA MARINA

Torrevieja Queen of Salt candidates selected T

hree candidates were selected last week who will now compete at the end of the month for the prestigious position of Torrevieja’s Queen of the Salt.

The contestants were presented to the press last Wednesday aby the councillor for Fiestas Domingo Pérez.

Following their introduction each was then required to provide brief details giving the reasons that have led them to apply for the position together with what they expect from their reign that will begin on 31 July.

As the press corps moved to their next assignments the three young ladies then spent the afternoon in interviews with the jury composed of the journalist Melania Sala, the president of the Carnival Association of Torrevieja, Francisco Pizana, the director of the dance academy Soul Dance, Óscar Torregrosa, and the councillor himself, although he doesn’t have a vote.

Perez has stated that, in his opinion, the Queen of the Salt "is the

representation of the Torrevieja woman, but of a current woman." He also wished them all luck and assured them that whatever position they are placed in "they will each will enjoy being part of the salt court".

The act of coronation will take place on 31 July at 10 pm in the Eras de la Sal which will be accompanied by a performance from Cristina Cámara on piano, sax player José Vicente Fernández and soloist Conchita Pérez.

It will also be the farewell for the current Queen of the Salt, Tania Ñíguez Andréu, and that of her bridesmaids, Rosi Ros Martínez and María Rozados Madrid, who have represented Torrevieja during the last twelve months.

The three contestants are 19 year old Alba García Carrasco, 25 year old Cira Gualdo Prades and Carmen Maciá Gómez who is also 25 years of age.

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New production of Cirque Du Soleil in Alicante

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he greatest show on earth is coming to Alicante this week with the iconic and unmistakable white tent of Cirque du Soleil now being erected at the Rabasa fairgrounds where it will remain from July 20 to August 19.

The Cirque du Soleil has now been coming to Alicante for 7 years and the city on wheels is now back in the city once again with its new production TOTEM TOTEM premieres next Friday, July 20 and will be in the city until August 19. Bringing to an end a tour of Spain that began last November in Madrid and that has also taken him to Seville, Barcelona and Malaga.

The company's stay in Alicante cannot be extended beyond this date because it then

has to move on with with its European commitments, its next destination being Zurich.

The Grand Tent has a capacity of more than 2,500 people and takes 60 people 8 days to erect, since not only the erection of the Grand Tent needs to go up but also the many other elements of the city on wheels: the artistic tent, the ticket office, the administrative offices and the kitchen must all be constructed.

The dimensions of the Grand Tent are 19 meters high and 51 meters in diameter with each of the 4 masts measuring 25 meters in height. 550 pegs (1.5 metres each) will secure it firmly to the ground. The Grand Tent, the VIP area, the entrance tent and the artistic tents are all air conditioned with the whole operating moved in 75 trucks, carr-

ying around 2,000 tons of equipment.

The show itself, TOTEM, has a cast of 46 artists, actors, musicians and singers, and brings together a wide selection of spectacular acrobatic feats, comedy, daredevil acts that thrill and stunning special effects.

TOTEM stands out for the use of spectacular scenery and effects that change in real time with the rhythm of the artists' movement.

Even many of the photos taken by Guy LalibertĂŠ during his Poetic Social Mission aboard the International Space Station have been included into the show.

More than 4.8 million people have seen TOTEM since its world premiere in Montreal 2010. It is the 28th production of Cirque du Soleil and the fourteenth show performed in the massive white tented city.

Thirty years ago, Cirque du Soleil was a dream. The dream of a small community of street artists who would do anything to share their love for theatre and for circus. The family grew and is now made up of thousands of dreamers - creators, artists, technicians and mime artistes. The dream has become a symbol of pride for Quebec, an international company that has created 35 great shows, 20 of which are still being performed.

More than 150 million spectators from more than 400 cities on six continents have seen a Cirque du Soleil show since its founding in 1984. The company, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2014, currently employs more than 4,000 workers.

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Local roads face another summer of gridlock

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otels and tourist apartments on the Costa Blanca are not the

vehicles causing significant congestion problems on a daily basis.

only ones that will be over run this summer as they prepare

These will be further aggravated during peak hours and weekends, due to the massive influx of visitors to local beaches. The current road network does not have the capacity to absorb and more vehicles, so the drivers have no choice but to allow extra time to comple-

to display their ‘full’ signs. The Province’s roads, with 2,621

kilometers of highways, motorways and ‘B’ roads, will also be completely gridlocked during July and August with the "saturation" of

te their journeys and to be extra patient as they travel along at a much slower pace.

The A-70 and the N-332 through Torrevieja, Altea and the stretch from El Altet to Santa Pola are the four most congestive areas for the buildup of traffic during the summer period.

The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has introduced a campaign that includes reinforcements of traffic agents during certain dates, specifically at the beginning and end of the months of July and August, as the fortnightly changeover of holidaymakers will intensify the traffic on local roads.

Throughout the country 89.3 million trips will be made in July and August - 2 percent more than last summer - of which 21% will be recorded on the roads in our Community, Murcia, Cuenca and Albacete..

The saturation of road traffic in summer will particularly affects the N-332 that runs along the Alicante coast in the areas where there are access roads to the beaches .

According to the DGT, the four busiest stretches in the province during the special operations of the summer will be the 31.2 kilometers of the A-70 -the bypass around Alicante- and three sections of the N-332 road: From El Altet to Santa Pola (from kilometer 95 to 86,500); Torrevieja (from kilometer 49 to 55) and Altea (from kilometer 157 to 159).

In Alicante, Avenida de Denia, Playa de San Juan and Plaza del Mar are the three areas where there will be a considerable increase in traffic during the summer.

The rest of the access roads to the capital will also present specific periods of congestion during peak hours in the working day.

Orihuela announces imminent award of beach bar contract Councillors Luisa Boné (Beaches) and Francisco Sáez (Recruitment and contracts) have confirmed the decision of the Administrative Court that rejects the claims made by two local companies with regard to the procedure that is adjudicating the tender documentation for the beach bar contract and that have forced a delay with its processing.

Sáez said, "the decision shows that the work done by the municipality is correct and that there are no irregularities in the process, as the appellants claimed." The councillor has announced that the two other appeals lodged by the same appellants will also be dismissed by the Local Government Board, taking into account the legal reports that are already contained in the file.

With this news Boné has said that the final process

of evaluation which will consider the economic offer of the bidders and the proposal of adjudication will get underway this coming week so that the services could be awarded before the end of the month.

"We hope to be able to provide all the services as soon as possible, once the confirmation of the legality of the procedure has been formally received."

For us and for the Oriolans we have done what we had and we have done it well ", Boné has added.

I think, however, that the vast majority of coastal residents might have a rather different view with many calling for it to be reflected at the next municipal elections.

Lazy residents continue to use burnt out bin The authorities were called to Villamartin at the weekend to extinguish a fire that had broken out in a refuse container situated on Calle Manuel de Falla.

It is not known how the fire started although a spokesman did say that arson was one aspect being considered but no sooner had the flames been doused than local residents, rather than use an undamaged bin a little further down the street, were once again using the burnt out container in which to deposit their rubbish.

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Police threaten to take their children into work With local residents associations claiming that only one local police patrol is dedicated to the Orihuela Costa overnight the commander of the Guardia Civil in Pilar de la Horadada is alleged to have described the area as a ‘paradise for criminals’ in a recent discussion with neighbourhood watch groups.

being attended with the security of coastal residents being put seriously at risk. More worryingly, agents who patrol the coast at night are not allowed to carry tasers, which they describe as extremely useful in dealing with aggressors, unlike their colleagues on daytime patrols.

He is reported to have said that there is more crime on the Orihuela Costa than any other neighbouring town and during the holiday season, when the population increases by five fold, it will get much worse.

Not only are the police unions calling for more trained officers and better equipment which they claim is acutely under resourced, they are now stating that officers are being refused their rest days and holidays as a result of which, during the Moors and Christians Fiesta many were threatening to take their children into work with them.

Meanwhile in Pilar and Torrevieja the number of patrols watching over the towns during the night is said to vary between four and six.

As a result of this appalling lack of resources many incidents are not

Orihuela’s Local Police unions (CSIF, SPPLB and UGT) announced last week that they would take legal action against the councillor of security, Mariola Rocamora, if she does not withdraw the express order for the head of the Local

Police to grant leave or rest days during the period July 15 to 21, during La Reconquista and Moros y Cristianos festivals. They have been told that they must work for 8 consecutive days with some agents announcing their intention to take their children to work if they are prevented from resting during that time.

The agents consider that the councillor for Security is violating their human rights, so they are considering taking Mariola Rocamora to court.

Some of the policemen have said they will go with their children to work if they are forced to cancel their rest days. They will submit a signed document objecting to the order, and they will leave their children in the headquarters.

In addition, they announce that they will not escort the Oriol Bird, the city mascot, on 17 July for the first time in history.

Driver arrested for 20,000 euro insurance scam

T

he Civil Guard have arrested a Torrevieja man for trying to defraud his insurance company of more than 20,000 euro.

The man reported that his vehicle had been stolen.

It was eventually found completely burnt out but on investigation the incident the police found that he had moved and incinerated the vehicle himself with the intention of claiming replacement costs of the vehicle from his insurer.

He has now been charged with attempted fraud and the crime of arson on his own property.

The agents examined the vehicle in detail, as they always do in such cases. As they did so a spokesman said that a number of small, but significant and suspicious, details appeared.

Meanwhile, the alleged victim was making numerous visits to his insurance office, requesting compensation for the loss of the vehicle, becoming increasingly forceful and aggressive and even banging the insurance agent's table on one occa-

sion.

The Civil Guard continued with their investigation and, when they had gathered together their evidence, they summoned the owner of the vehicle to the police station to make a statement. As he did so the owner began to make numerous contradictions, as a result of which the officers were able to prove that an insurance fraud had been committed with the perpetrator hoping to benefit to the tune of 20,000 euro.

The owner of the vehicle, a Spanish man of 66 years of age, was arrested as the perpetrator of a crime of simulation and fraud for the attempt and crime of setting fire to his own property.

The attempt to defraud the insurance company has already proved expensive for this man, because the vehicle was valued at more than 20,000 euros, although that cost could now be increased since this type of crime bears the option of either a prison sentences or a large fine.

12

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Not All Fish and Chips and Lager

M

ention Benidorm and for some people the image of fish and chip bars and the lager louts of the 1970’s and 1980’s is conjured up. However, look beyond that and Benidorm itself will mean something entirely different.

Located on the northern part of the Costa Blanca, Benidorm, almost more than anywhere else, symbolises the growth of the Spanish tourist industry but the history shows us that this town, which is found just off the N-332 to the north of Alicante, had very different origins.

Since the time of Christ a settlement has existed on Tossal de la Cala, the hill above Cala de Benidorm. However, it was not until 1325 that the town was officially recognised when the Lord of the Baronia de Polop gave the town its charter. During the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries Benidorm suffered the same fate as many of the towns and villages along the coastline of the Mediterranean and was constantly threatened and attacked by Turkish and Barbary pirates and although a castle was built to help repel these attacks, sadly it was destroyed during the peninsular wars and nothing now remains of this stronghold.

Benidorm’s profile was enhanced during the 18th century when 2 major religious happenings occurred. The first was when work began to create the parish of St James (Jaime the Apostle) the second happening was somewhat more miraculous. In 1740 an abandoned ship was found by the town’s people on the Playa Poniente beach.

Although they searched they could find no trace of the captain or crew. It so happened that also at that time there was great fear in the towns and villages of the plague and as this ship had mysteriously appeared without a trace of human occupation it was assumed that the crew had been stricken with the plague and in their panic the people set the ship alight. When it was totally destroyed and the ashes cool they found a statue undamaged by the fire. The statue was that of the Virgen del Suffrage and from that day she was honoured

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as the patron saint of the town.

Although the harbour is too shallow for the more recognised fishing the history of the town has always been linked to the sea and perhaps more than anything else perhaps the growth of the town can be attributed to the skills of the fishermen once being famous as the most skilled in the Mediterranean who were therefore granted the largest number of almadrabas, which is a type of tuna fishing using a complicated system of nets a system used since Phoenician times. This won the town international acclaim increasing both population and prosperity.

However, it was at the time of the post war prosperity and confidence that the birth of the tourist industry really began with the boom in cheap package holidays and with the perfect micro-climate of the area it became popular for people from across Europe.

Often symbolised by high rise hotels, Benidorm eitherlions a love or Swim with theis sea hate destination with many not even taking the trouble to pay a visit at Rio Safari Park to the town before making up their minds which side they are on.

Like so many things the truth is more that this town is misunderstood and it has actually retained much of its individuality and Spanish outlook, and although many British tourists visit Benidorm, so do people from right across Europe and the atmosphere therefore is more international than is realised. In fact the beauty of Benidorm is its diversity with a huge range of accommodation to

suit all budgets it has entertainment to suit all ages, and is one of few places that can genuinely cater for the whole family.

Winter or summer this town will provide a warm welcome for the visitor or if you are able to take a day trip to discover for yourself just how much this city, which had only 2,000 inhabitants at the beginning of the 20th century, has grown to provide a resort which truly does have something for everyone.

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday, 19th July at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, 21st July at 5:00 p.m.

Loving Vincent 'Loving Vincent' is the world's first feature length painted animation, with every shot painted with oil paints on canvas, just as Vincent himself painted. The painters have hand painted 56,800 frames, inspired by the style and the hand of van Gogh.

Stars: Douglas Booth, Helen McCrory, Saoirse Ronan Dur: 1h 35min | Animation - Drama - Biography

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13

Autumn program released for the Torrevieja Auditorium

Local towns coordinate beach security

Councillors and staff from Torrevieja, Orihuela and Pilar De La Horadada met on Wednesday to coordinate safety on the beaches. They were joined at the meeting by agents from the Marine detatchment of the Local Police and the biologist from the City council of Torrevieja.

Amongst the items discussed were the recent appearance of jellyfish which shut many beaches down at the start of the holiday season and the nesting of sea turtles.

Torrevieja councillor, Javier Manzanares, explained that the group was hoping to reach agreements on issues of general interest and safety on the beaches.

"The implementation of joint actions between these three municipalities must serve to improve measures to act on illegal sales as well as coordination

The Autumn program for the Torrevieja Auditorium will feature, for the first time, a strong line up of jazz concerts, including international artistes Roberto Fonseca, Kyle Eastwood, son of actor-director Clint Eastwood and Robin McKelle.

Fans are promised that this will be the foundation of the future of jazz in Torrevieja and the benchmark for jazz lovers throughout the province of Alicante.

In addition, the program has two concerts by Antonio Orozco, the play "5 and Action" with Carlos Sobera and Marta Hazas, the Russian national ballet with ‘The Nutcracker’, the Imperial Russian ballet with ‘Swan Lake’ and the Moscow Ice Palace with ‘Beauty and the Beast’ which will feature a purpose built-in ice rink.

In addition, opera fans will be able to see ‘The Magic Flute’ and there will also be a tribute to Spanish singer Rocío Jurado, who won the prize La voz del Milenio for best female voice of the

between first aid services and local police in the different towns, "he said.

One of the outstanding issues discussed was the "more than possible arrival of turtles that choose local beaches to lay their eggs”. The importance of everyone knowing that 112 must be called immediately to activate the protocol established for such cases was reiterated.

“Collaboration is essential to preserve something as important as it is a fact of these characteristics, "said the councillor.

The representatives of the three City Councils have agreed to hold new meetings to follow a joint work plan that will speed up collaboration between the neighboring administrations.

More fake goods seized

by GRO in Torrevieja

20th century. Rocio Jurado sold more than 25 million records, receiving 150 gold discs and 63 platinum discs. The concert has been authorised and will be overseen by her daughter Rocío Carrasco.

The prestigious Film Symphony Orchestra will also present an evening of music by John Williams. Tickets for all the above events are now on sale at www.auditoriotorrevieja.com Since it first opened in November last year, the International Auditorium, managed by Sonora Productions, has featured a total of 51 events of which 24 have been organised by the Generalitat, including the hosting of three congress events.

In addition, a further 22 shows have been held by different organisations, associations, companies and the City Council itself.

These 47 events have seen more than 30 thousand people pass through the doors with concerts exceeding more than 58% of its capacity.

More than 58% of capacity has been reached with the last 47 events

The Local Police Operative Reinforcement group (GRO) has confiscated nearly 1,000 counterfeit products valued 10,000 euros on the local market.

The operation got underway last Sunday when the GRO arrested two people, said to be the ringleaders of a group of men who were selling the counterfeit goods. Just after midnight the police then sent patrols out onto the streets where they seized the counterfeit products including handbags, shoes, trainers and clothing.

During the summer season, the Group will have a special taskforce which will focus on the street sale of counterfeit products in order to prevent unfair competition with those traders who operate legally.

The work carried out by the GRO is widely praised in the city and as well as continuing to perform security and traffic duties in the municipality, there will be greater control in the area of tourist protection.

The unit that operates from El Alto de la Casilla is focused on the management of large human concentrations, walks, markets, shows ... standing out in recent years for its effectiveness against the street peddling of illegal products in which, unlike those on the Orihuela Costa, it has achieved excellent results in curtailing street vendors.

14

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Fake; 3 Scabbard; 8 Rota; 9 Daffodil; 11 Wedding dress; 13 Ledger; 14 Thence; 17 Confidential; 20 Answered; 21 Thai; 22 Test tube; 23 Arch.

Down: 1 Farewell; 2 Katydid; 4 Change; 5 Beforehand; 6 Aides; 7 Dull; 10 Side effect; 12 Well-nigh; 15 Neither; 16 Adverb; 18 Oasis; 19 Cant.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC Across: 1 Ruth; 3 Together; 8 Team; 9 Platonic; 11 Oxford Circus; 13 Accent; 14 Castle; 17 Pay attention; 20 National; 21 Less; 22 Garotted; 23 Stud.

Down: 1 Rational; 2 Traffic; 4 O'clock; 5 Entertains; 6 Hindu; 7 Rich; 10 Bring about; 12 Rednosed; 15 Trident; 16 Strafe; 18 Actor; 19 Snug.

Mussolini, 22. Sugar Ray Robinson,

12.

Skates, 20. Cosi fan Tuti, 21. Benito

birds' small intestines, 8. Agent, 9.

Arabia, 18. Tintoretto, 19. Roller

Bowie, 6. Bolivia, 7. Fried animals,

Paul Newman, 17. T E Lawrence of

ning, 5. Marc Bolan and David

Adam Cartwright, 15. The Violin, 16.

Rudyard Kipling, 4. From the begin-

Mongolia, 13. King of Diamonds, 14.

1. Camel, 2. Hydrofluoric Acid, 3.

QUIZ ANSWERS

18. Italian painter Jacopo Robusti is better known as who?

19. What were volitos, first demonstrated in Soho London in 1823?

20. Which Mozart opera is subtitled School for Lovers?

21. Whose only novel was The Cardinals Mistress?

22. Jimmy Doyle died during a title fight in 1947 who was opponent?

23. In 1900 Persian soldiers were paid with what?

24. In Islington in London it's a ÂŁ50 fine for sleeping where?

25. Dr Deidrich Knickerbocker invented which famous character?

26. What occupation would use a dibble?

27. Which group of people first used gold fillings?

28. Name Alice's pet cat?

29. In the siege of Mafeking who led the defenders?

30. Beethoven's fifth piano concerto is nicknamed what?

Small,

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.

1. What did Aristotle claim as the most delicate of table meats?

2. Which acid dissolves glass?

3. Who wrote The female of the species is more deadly than the male?

4. Musical terms - what does De Capo mean on a score?

5. Who recorded as Dib Cochran and the Earwigs?

6. In what country is Tiahuanaco?

7. What exactly are chitterlings?

8. What was Winston Churchill's codename during WW2?

9. There are 4.5 gallons of ale in what container?

10. Of what did the poet John Milton die?

11. The musical instrument piccolo means what in Italian?

12. In what country could you spend a tugrik?

13. All the pictures of which king are always shown in profile?

14. Pernell Roberts played which character in a TV western series?

15. Which orchestral instrument can play the highest note?

16. Who was the runner up in the 1979 Le Mans 24 hour race?

17. Airman T E Shaw in World War II was better known as who?

11.

Solution on Page 23

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

Gout,

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Conclude (3) Black bird (5) Heart, commonly (6) Dependent (7) Very good-looking (9) Thoughtful (9) Favoured pupil (8,3) Vanish (9) Stringed instruments (7) Colony of rabbits (6) Elementary (5) Unit of weight (3)

10.

DOWN 2. Retiring from the company by the end of July (3) 3. Provide some recompense about wages (5) 4. Almost adoring different mode of church music (6) 5. Disunited parties make weary progress (7) 6. Unlimited scope for hen food (4-5) 7. Not much warning for brief commercial (5,6) 8. Absent from no function in any case (2,3,6) 12. He fights to earn a living (9) 15. Go more quickly but not in step (7) 17. When it comes from the pot, it's hot (6) 19. A feature of simple attire (5) 21. In class I respectfully address the teacher (3)

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

12.

15.

17.

19.

21.

Pin,

ACROSS 1. Very frightened by the corpse! (6,5) 9. It's crazy to put wire at the back of this (3) 10. The kind of way for making tracks (9) 11. Strange game of cards (5) 13. When father returns with cultured pearl, this is put on (7) 14. Northern shaft difficult to squeeze through (6) 16. A successful one will produce the happy medium (6) 18. Various letters providing support for the board (7) 19. See 21 Ac. 20. The fruit that follows the sea-food (4-5) 21 & 19Ac. Fixed part for elaborately prepared structure (3,5) 22. Wires pretty well sorted out for office equipment (11)

ACROSS 1.

Objects of infatuation (5-6) 9.

Elderly (3) 10. Be indecisive (9) 11. Carrying-chair (5) 13. Springy (7) 14. Invent (6) 16. Suffocate (6) 18. Exact copy (7) 19. Invoices (5) 20. Roget's book (9) 21. Neckwear item (3) 22. Arguments for and against (4,3,4)

Powell, 30. The Emperor.

Peru, 28. Dinah, 29. Robert Baden to make planting holes, 27. Incas of 25. Rip Van Winkle, 26. Gardener 23. Donkeys, 24. The Public Library,

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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.

There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch

I

winced when I read an account of a recent Garden Party hosted by the British Ambassador to Spain at his residence in Madrid in honour of the Queen’s birthday. The party was sponsored by a health insurer, an oil company, several banks, an accountancy firm and a communications company to name just a few. Products consumed at the party were supplied by a maker of pink gin, an ice cream manufacturer, a health insurer, an oil company, a restaurant chain, a producer of tonic water, fish from a Northern Ireland cooperative, a meat processor and a brewery. It made me wonder if the British Government (the taxpayer) had actually paid for anything; some will say that this is the point.

We are told that times are hard and the effects of the recession are still with us, but have you noticed that there always seems to be enough money around for those prestige projects? Then, of course, there is that “Brexit dividend” that we all keep hearing about; surely that would have easily have paid for a glass of cava and a cucumber sandwich without going ‘cap in hand’ to a range of British and Spanish businesses? Yes, I am fully aware of the argument that such events “showcase British drive and ingenuity” at a time when the UK needs to demonstrate to the world that, despite Brexit, it is still open for business, but is this really the way to do it?

I am concerned about the growing sponsorship deals by commercial companies intruding into what should be the business of the state.

Surely, we all know that there is no such thing as a free lunch.

Everything comes with a price tag and purpose, albeit often hidden.

15

b y Bar rie Mahoney

By accepting sponsorship of such events there is an assumption that the products and services provided by a company are endorsed and recommended by government and its agencies at the expense of others, which should not be the case.

Many years ago, I worked briefly as a civil servant, and it was always made very clear that any interaction between the government and the commercial sector should be at arm’s length to avoid being seen as bias in favour of one company at the expense of another.

Over the years, we have seen considerable erosion of such lofty principles, with blurring and, indeed, merging of commercial and government business.

A few days ago, the British Consulate asked if I could help to publicise an event for expats on the island. Ostensibly, it was to be about Brexit, which I am sure would be very helpful for those expats who have not yet left the island in a bid to escape the summer heat. It was only when I checked on Facebook, that I noticed that it was to be sponsored by a currency exchange company, albeit with a free drink and tapas. I realised that, once again, such sponsorship is potentially more about promoting the commercial activities of a business, rather than unbiased information for expats. I am aware of similar events for expats sponsored by a group of financial advisors; there is probably a chain of fish and chip restaurants and an online bookies already lined up to sponsor future events.

By allowing a private company to advertise and promote an event under the auspices of the British Consul, there is an implication that the UK Government endorses their services. The currency exchange company is probably staffed by perfectly splendid and honourable people with lofty company ideals, although I note that their exchange rates are nowhere near as advantageous as those that I currently get from two rival companies, who I guess were not asked to sponsor this event. As they say, there is no such thing as free tapas, which is probably the reason why their exchange rate is not as good as it could be.

No doubt my cynicism will be rewarded with a sharp exchange of views justifying commercial sponsorship of the event on the grounds of the shrinking size of Foreign Office coffers. Despite this, I know

that I am not alone in being concerned about the blurring of commercial interests and the public good. I can only imagine what my superiors in the civil service department that I worked for would have to say about that.

I have considerable admiration for the work of the Foreign Office, its embassies and consulates in its protection, advice and support for UK travellers, businesses and expats around the world. Much of its professionalism has been based upon impartiality, and an insistence upon being seen to do the right thing. Might I suggest a move away from freebies provided by commercial companies and instead to continue to focus with integrity upon providing unbiased advice and support to UK citizens and businesses during this disturbing period of Brexit fudge. The implied endorsement of a particular commercial activity is not the business of government and is certainly not the business of the Foreign Office and its consular services.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at my websites: http://barriemahoney.com and http://thecanaryislander.com or read my latest book, ‘Living in Spain and the Canary Islands’ (ISBN: 9780995602724). Available in paperback, as well as Kindle editions. Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

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David’s story - “I just wanted someone to listen”

A

fter a nervous breakdown, losing his job and then his girlfriend, David found it really hard to cope when someone gave him the Samaritans telephone number.

"I’d been struggling with stress in my job and in April 2007 I was signed off.

"Things gradually got worse and I suffered a nervous breakdown.

"In August of that year I lost my job. Then, when I thought things couldn’t get any worse, my girlfriend left me.

I didn’t want someone to tell me what to do, I wanted someone to listen, and that’s what the Samaritans Listener did.

“I really began to struggle. I had my family around me, but it was difficult to talk to them and I didn’t want to worry them.

my life out, I started my own catering business which was the best thing I’ve ever done. It’s been a success and I now employ 12 people.

"A psychiatrist I’d been seeing because of my breakdown had given me Samaritans number, so I gave it a try.

“With the help of medication and counselling, my depression is controlled. It’s only now that I have been diagnosed with depression that I realise how many people suffer from it and don’t talk about it.

My advice to people would be to not suffer in silence; talk to someone and get some help."

“It was much easier to talk to a stranger, which is why I called Samaritans. The volunteer I spoke to calmed me down and helped me see things more clearly.

"I didn’t want someone to tell me what to do, I wanted someone to listen, and that’s what the Samaritans volunteer did.

“In March 2009 I felt totally unemployable because I’d been off for 2 years. I decided I needed to sort

David’s story

Should you identify with any of these issues and want to talk to someone in complete confidence then why not give us a call. We are SAMARITANS IN SPAIN – You Talk We Listen.

Phone 900 525 100 Email: Pat@samaritansinspain.com

MAGNET’S Childrens Holiday Club

For the fifteenth year running Steve and Irene-Maria Campbell will be leading MAGNETS, a Holiday Club for children from four years and over at La Siesta Church, Calle Granados, opposite the Aquapark Flamingo in La Siesta Urbanisation. Started in 2004 with only three sisters in attendance, the Club has grown over the years with around 300 children having participated.

Beginning at 10.30am on Thursday 26th July and continu-

ing every Thursday until 23rd August, the two hour programme sees the children take part in activities which reflects the name: Memory verses; Arts and crafts; Games; New people to meet; Eats; Talk on a Bible story; and Singing.

The theme this year is A Whirlwind Experience, looking at the story of Elijah the Old Testament prophet. Children have been coming back year after year which means they enjoy it, but all are welcome and Steve & IreneMaria always love to see new faces along with the familiar ones. The Club is free and prizes are given out to each child.

You may contact Steve and Irene-Maria by phoning 966 70 2980 or 609 388 682.

It’s Showtime with the New Cardenal Belluga Theatre Group

T

he New Cardenal Belluga Theatre Group are putting on a new show called ITS SHOWTIME on the 19, 20 and 21st September 2018.

A variety show full of Dancing, Singing

and Comedy, a show for all ages. This year Totally Dance from Benijofar are performing and dancing to well-known tunes from The Greatest Showman. The children of various ages will also be doing a number from Oliver.

The group are very lucky to have excellent male singers and a chance to hear them singing is not to be missed.

Tickets are now on sale at 7 euro and are selling fast. To obtain these tickets, The Post and Card Shop in Benijofar. They can also be purchased from Urb La Marina Tourist office and council office, also Cards and More in the area of Lara Cars.

The other alternative is to telephone our ladies on the various numbers. Linda=966-712-089 or mobile 648 524 372. Pam= 966796-828 or Sue= 966-713-822.

Dont miss the opportunity to help the local community and raise funds for worthwhile charities.

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Studio32’s Chicago raises record totals for local charities

Studio32 are delighted to announce that their recent production of “Chicago” raised 4,500 euros for local charities, including San Fulgencio Alzheimer’s Association, Caritas, and the local school. Studio32’s chairman Philip Wilson is pictured at San Fulgencio Town Hall with Susana Ortuño, Paulino Herrero, Rosa Maria Mira and Ramon Velda Diez representing several of the charities who benefitted.

Philip explains the group’s history: “Studio32 was set up five years ago to bring high quality full-scale musical theatre to the Costa Blanca, and through doing so enable us to support local charities. Everyone in the

company worked extremely hard to make this show our greatest success ever - I’m very proud of them all. In just under 5 years we’ve raised almost 30,000 euros for local charities, an incredible achievement, and we will continue to support AFA San Fulgencio and local good causes in the future.”

So, what’s next for this talented musical theatre company? They have just announced their winter show, an updated musical based on the Wizard of Oz. “The Wiz” features all of the well-known characters but with some fabulous Motown, blues and soul music. The show will be performed from Wednesday November 28th to Saturday December 1st at

the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio.

Ticket bookings are already being taken, so book early to avoid disappointment – Studio32 shows are very popular and ticket sales are already high.

If you fancy getting involved the company are always keen to recruit more members, and not just on stage performing - they are currently seeking to expand their wardrobe team so why not get in touch to find out more.

Full details are on their website which can be found at:www.studiothirtytwo.org

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18

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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

Consultants Wanted For our expanding dating agency, we are looking for reliable consultants. Have a look at our w e b / s i t e www.transit50plus.com and if you interested and would like more information about working for us please phone 676 312 080 or 646 538 079

Items For Sale

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 19 July 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 13 July. 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 whatsapp the missionaries on 667 533 597..

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja - Evangelical nondenominational church. All nationalities welcome. Sunday

As new - twin double bed with mattress for 70 euros. (Please phone Peter on 684 277 265) Fishing Gear: two fishing poles (one new) plus extra fishing items for 50 euros approx.

(Please phone Peter on 684 277 265)

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. € 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-con. Roof top solarium with stunning views. € 110.000. Tel. 672 921 851 Country Finca in Redovan - 2 buildings on a good size plot, each with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Plot size 500 sq mtrs.

Excellent decorative order and is sold furnished. Beamed ceilings in lounge. Euro 170,500. Ref: 000076. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A really nice first floor 3 bed apartment in a very well looked after community, just a short walk to supermarkets, restaurants, and bars.

Fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, main bedroom having walk in wardrobe. Euro 79,995 Ref: 000075. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo - A fantastic 2 bed countryside home on a 5000sqm plot. Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. Also a separate selfcontained cabin. Euro 149,995 Ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866 This three bedroom, two bathroom mid-terrace townhouse is within walking distance of the lively La Fuente Commercial Centre. It is just a short drive to beautiful, award-winning Blue Flag sandy beaches. Access to lovely communal gardens and a large communal swimming pool. Euro 79,995 Ref 0057. Tel 617 537 866 Redovan - Surrounded by lemon groves and fields of artichokes and broccoli, this three bed, two bathroom detached villa is situated on a plot of 600m2. It has its own 10m x 5m private swimming pool and a separate garage with access to a rooftop solarium. The property is distributed on one level with a tiled patio area leads into the main living and dining areas. Private Pool, Fully Furnished, Stunning views, Private Garden. Euro 210,000 Ref 000058. Tel 617 537 866

Sierra de Orihuela - This fabulous detached property is on a plot of 1.900m2 and has breath-taking views of the Sierra de Orihuela mountain range. The total built area is 135m2 which is distributed across four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge / dining area, and a modern openplan kitchen. Covered car port, manicured gardens and a private swimming pool. Fully Furnished.

Private Garden. Kennels and a chicken coup. Euro 249,995. Ref 00059. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - Modern 3 bedroom house in the sought after area of Balcon de la Costa.

South facing and in a quiet area.

The house has been refurbished to a very high standard and ready to move into. Large paved patio with high walls for your privacy, ideal for barbecuing or just relaxing in the sun. Fully Furnished.

Private balconies.

Stunning views. Air-Cond. Euro 79,500 Ref 000060. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A nice ground floor apartment in the heart of San Miguel de Salinas. It has 2 good size bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. The 2nd bedroom has an enclosed galeria for extra storage. Good size lounge / diner and open plan kitchen. The family bathroom comes with a 4 piece suite and shower enclosure.

Popular Spanish village. Fully furnished. Communal Pool.

Large Terrace. Euro 52,995 Ref 000061. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo. 2 bed countryside home on 5000sqm plot.

Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. There is also a separate self-contained cabin. Private pool, fully airconditioned, part furnished, ideal for conservationist €149,995 ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

Corvera prices could be as much as 39% less than Alicante

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19

English Actually: 40 Years in the Wilderness 40 years of teaching English as a foreign language, mainly in Valencia, has been the challenge faced by Batchelor of Education Bob Yareham (Hackney North 1954), as he explains for what seems like the millionth time that “yes, ‘bare’ is pronounced like ‘bear’, ‘time’ like ‘thyme’ and ‘queue’ is no different from ‘q’.

Batchelor of Education Bob Yareham, has been teaching English as a foreign language for 40 years

Too, two and to are the same too my friend, and ‘if I were’ is not really the simple past, it’s the subjunctive, which inconveniently doesn’t actually exist in English.

A double negative is positive for the 30,000 the time, and I don’t care if Sir Mick Jagger can’t get no satisfaction.

Modest growth at Alicante as Corvera prices down by 39% The increase in passenger traffic at the airport Alicante-Elche showed almost zero growth in June to close with an increase of just 0.9% (ten points less than in the same month last year) with 1.4 million passengers.

The decline in the number of tourists originating from the United Kingdom is blamed on two main reasons, the disappearance of the airline Monarch, all of whose seats have not been taken up by other companies, and the recovery of the "sun and beach" destinations offering rock bottom prices in the Eastern Mediterranean.

However, according to Aena, in the first half of the year the airport processed 6.4 million passengers between January and June, which represents an increase of 2% compared to the same period in 2017.

Domestic traffic grew between January and June by 11.9% with 725,357 passengers while international traffic rose by 0.8% with 5,586,684 registered passengers. All this refers to data accumulated from January to June on commercial flights and compared to last year.

With international traffic broken down by nationalities, the countries with the highest demand for travelers during the first half of the year were the United Kingdom , with 1,944,301 passengers; followed by Holland, with 343,372 passengers; Germany, with 297,720; Norway, with 286,896; Belgium, with 261.782, and Sweden, with 194.660 passengers.

In terms of operations, the airport managed a total of 44,166 flights during the first six months of the year, a slight decrease of 0.2% compared to the same period of the previous year.

The most numerous flights were those that connected with the United Kingdom, with 11,942 operations; Spain, with 7,801; Holland, with 2,158 movements; Germany, with 1,896 operations; Norway, with 1,800; Belgium, with 1,782, and Algeria, with 1,206 operations.

However, looking forward to the coming schedules, airlines have more than 66,300 flights scheduled for the summer season from April through to October, representing an increase of 2.4 % over last year, but there is no guarantee that the figures will be met due to possible future strikes.

In terms of connectivity, the airport offers a total of 117 direct destinations including six new destinations: Bodo (Norway), operated by Scandinavian, Pardubice (Czech Republic), Ryanair, Stuttgart (Germany), Eurowings, Lyon (France) , of Volotea, St. Petersburg (Russia), S7 Airlines and Berlin (Germany), operated by Easyjet, which partially covers the loss of Air Berlin.

As Aena attempts to attract airlines to the new Corvera International Airport, sources said on friday that the rates are the same as those at San Javier, lower category airport to El Altet. However passenger fares, it is understood, will be up to 39% cheaper than traveling from Alicante.

Summer recess for Torrevieja U3A Torrevieja u3a has now settled into its summer recess for most of the group activities. It's now certainly too warm for most active outdoor pursuits and even for some of the more relaxed activities. So almost all group activities have come to a season close. There are still a couple such as 'Discussion Group' that are carrying on all the while there are sufficient attendees.

Our group coordinator and group leaders are now busy preparing for the next major event in our calendar which is the Groups Fair that will be held on September 25th at the usual venue, CMO building in Torrevieja starting at 11am.

With all the group leaders showcasing their individual group activities, this gives all existing members the chance to see and speak to group activity leaders first hand, put their name on the membership list for each activity and start to enjoy all the benefits of paying the €5 a year membership fee. It is also of great benefit to anyone wanting to know more about the U3A and possibly joining the many existing members.

New for this term will be a "cinema group", "food and cooking" and a "metal art" group details of which can be found on the website torreviejau3a.com.

English Actually explains the inexplicable with humour and sympathy for the thousands who have passed through Bob’s classes without harm or injury. It is his last gasp before retiring as an etymologist and pedagogue. It is not often that a book comes along that not only changes your life but which also makes you laugh. This isn’t such a book, but it’s also worth buying. The author, Bob Yareham has taught English in Britain, Italy and Yugoslavia, and since 1981, (the year of the coup d’état, for which he denies all responsibility) in Valencia, Spain.

The book is a series of essays about the etymology, grammar and teaching of English, mixed up with his futile attempts to make sense of wine, wives and students.

The author was the creator and presenter of an English language radio programme called “Help” on Onda Cero, Valencia, back in the late 1980s, and has participated in teacher training sessions throughout Spain and also Germany, where he has published various methodological books with a German publisher.

He has also published books about English language films Made in Spain and dragons in Valencian architecture, neither of which have assured him a decent pension.

The new book, English Actually, is a follow up to the equally unsuccessful English Beauty, and is a

series of essays on, among other whims, the origins of words, phrases and idioms.

For those who enjoy the English language, or for the vast majority who grudgingly accept its importance; this is the book for you.

English need no longer be a mystery; it can become a conundrum instead.

English Actually is available in paperback or as an e-book, and is published by the Valencian publisher Obrapropia: http://www.obrapropia.com/Obras/1796/ENGLISH-ACTUALLY The author is available for talks, and has a presentation originally entitled Back to the Future.

He can be contacted at bobyareham@gmail.com

20

www.theleader.info

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

Now the dust has settled after the summer leagues, it’s a chance to look back and as a club we’ve had quite a successful year. In the Southern League we entered 4 teams; San Luis Lions playing in Div A were runners-up but in Div B San Luis Tigers were winners, our Div C teams SL Leopards 5th & Pumas didn’t fare as well but fought hard every week.

In the South Alicante winter League we again entered 4 teams and in the Enterprise (A) League San Luis Klingons were runners-up but in the Discovery (B) League San Luis Trekkers were the winners, with our Div C Vulcans again 5th & Romulans still trying hard. In the Fed 4’s league it was our SL Condors who won Div B. In the Premier 20 Knockout competition we reached the final, unfortunately losing to Benitachell. However we finished the winter season with San Luis BC winning the Winter League for the 3rd year running; another super achievement.

Our Berleen team came 3rd.

Valencian Champions League, because of the format this is always a challenge (just 11 players each week) going head to head in the singles, and the pairs and rinks are a different type of game for many players. SL Falcons did a great job winning Div A and SL Hawks coming a creditable 3rd in the C Division.

In the South Alicante summer triples leagues, San Luis Wellingtons won the Spitfire (A) Div and San Luis Hercules, after a hard battle, came through to take 2nd place in the Harrier (C) Div. Well done to ALL our club members who contributed to their team’s success.

On a more individual basis we had success in the Champion of Champions tournament. Congratulations: Mixed Rinks Champions, Colin Jackson, Sabrina Marks, Keith Jones, Russell Marks. Men’s Pairs Finalists, Keith Jones & Russell Marks, Men’s Singles Finalist, Mal Hughes.

The Spanish National Championships in May was a showcase of great bowling and we were so proud that San Luis players were amongst the winners: Ian Kenyon, Men’s Singles National Champion and with Steve Simmons, are the Men’s Pairs National Champions.

We welcome new members, experienced or not, if you're interested in joining us talk to June or committee member(s) ideally before squad selection in early August.

For club information: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com or contact June Jones, Captain: 691 903 773.

Ian Kenyon and Steve Simmons, are the current Men’s Pairs National Champions while Ian also holds the Singles title.

Although the summer leagues have come to a close Quesada members have still been busy with social bowling events and coaching sessions.

Carol Bloomfield, the defending champion, is through to the semi-finals of the Ladies singles category.

Everyone has learned new skills in a supportive and fun atmosphere with thanks to Carol, Terry, Derek, Sandra and Mike for giving up their time - its been very worthwhile and much appreciated by both new and existing members.

For the next 4 weeks, Quesada and Greenlands BC will compete in the annual competition for the Friendship Cup. More about progress in this event in the next few weeks.

Meanwhile in the LLB South Alicante Summer Knockout Competition we still have players challenging in most of the categories: Carol Bloomfield, the defending champion, is through to the semifinals of the Ladies singles category.

An all Quesada match between John Stephenson and Terry Morgan will decide who will go through to the semi-finals of the mens singles category.

In the Ladies pairs, Mel Highland and Jacqui Johnston play Mary Whitelock and Ann Marie Stevenson from Emerald Isle to decide who goes through to the semi-finals.

Terry Morgan and Claire Dye are playing Gary Raby and Sue Milner for a place in the mixed pairs semi-finals.

Open to visitors, our popular Saturday morning Chicken Drive is continuing during the summer months. Anyone interested in taking part, please report to The Club, Quesada at 9.45am for a 10am start.

And in the mixed trips Mel and Colin Highland and Jacqui Johnston will play the Emerald Isle team of Ann Marie Stevenson, D Gerrard and C Lindgreen for a place in the semi-finals.

For more information about our club, please contact our membership secretary Joe Riley on 96 572 5787 or email joedriley@gmail.com.

New bowlers are welcome and introductory coaching is available.

Good luck to our Quesada players!

Quesada Bowls Club is sponsored by Spanish Life Properties

End of summer Sunshine Petanca League “Phew” as the summer starts to warm up the “Sunshine” summer petanca league comes to an end.

It has been a good summer season with a few interesting surprises for the teams!! After the league finished all teams were playing in a cup competition which has been played over the last few weeks.

The final was played in the morning of the Presentation on 27th June.

During the league season there were 2 divisions, Red and Blue.

The winners of the Red division were Domino McCoys, followed

by Pumas and Guardamar.

Blue division winners were Amigos Belgas, followed by Rocajuna and Rocajuna Lions.

The Presentation went well and a good fun day was had by all.

The penultimate round of the Carp-R-Us Summer Series was fished on the Embalse de Pedrera. This was a change to the scheduled venue due to the now extremely low water levels in the Eden stretch of the Segura. First equal where Dave Sutton and Mark Foden with 3.44kg. Mark had carp caught on the method feeder, Dave a large number of bleak caught on the waggler. Third was Steve Collins with 3.10kg, a single large barbel caught on meat with about 10 minutes to go. Fourth was Geoff Tempest with 2.30kg.

Every year a memorial competition is held for the founder of the Sunshine Radio Petanca League, Bob Hornsey who sadly passed away 3 years ago, this was held on 21st June 2018. The day was a lovely friendly day enjoyed by all, just as Bob would have wanted.

Many thanks to the people who turned up on Monday to clear the pegs on the Eden, it’s a shame that currently the venue is unfishable for matches and the club is very concerned about the dropping water levels and the effect this may have on the fish population.

The Winter League will start on or around the 3rd October 2018

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

LEADER

Supported by Carol Broomfield, Terry Morgan, Derek Toozer, Sandra Heath and Mike Lamberton, members have enjoyed a series of coaching sessions on for the past 4 weeks. Skills included the yard-on shot, length and weight control and reading the head. During the mid-session break the coaches shared tips and techniques with the group.

The winners were Rocajuna petanca club.

Carp R Us Angling Club

637 227 385

Quesada Bowls Club by Dee Stephenson

San Luis Bowls Club With Sheila Cammack

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If anyone is interested in playing petanca, you can look on the Sunshine Radio Petanca League website.

Jeanette Mapson

LEADER

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Busters Golf Society

By Barry Grinsell Last Friday 6th July we travelled through the morning sun that we knew would get hotter to play El Plantio and it was well worth it as the course was in excellent condition. T he day did get hotter but with the draft generated by driving the buggy from shot to shot did help to cool us down a little, the course was playing long and the greens were slow but the grass had been left to grow a little in order to protect the greens also the greens were consistently being watered, the twelfth-thirteenth and fourteenth that is El Plantio’s Amens Corner caught a few of us out but that’s what makes the course a bit different.

We left the course immediately after the game returning to Quesada’s Mini Golf bar close to the Quesada Arches to enjoy a couple of beers and snacks that were supplied by Rik and Lisa but prepared by the chef Keith.

As usual we were greeted by the bars very pleasant staff who had our tables ready and waiting with the drinks food standing by for our presentation.

Our BF9 was won by Martin Collins with seventeen points the BB9 being won by Barry Grinsell with sixteen points but only won by count back from Ian Allison who also had sixteen points both players received wine, our N T Pins were won by Nikki Ead on hole seven hole nine being taken by Bill Peters the fourteenth by Helen Kinsella with John Chatham winning the eighteenth all received sleeves of golf balls.

In third place with twenty nine points was Stephen ( Gilly ) Gilbert, Bill Peters and Helen Kinsella tied with thirty one points for first place with Helen winning by having a better back nine Bill took home white and rose wines with Helen receiving a bottle of Smirnoff Vodka, all eighteen of our players commented on the quality of the course although none of us beat it today. Our two’s pot is rolling over for the third week. The soccer card winner who selected Sunderland was Bill Peters.

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 .

La Finca Golf Society Formerly Elite Golf Society - week ending 7th July.

The course continues to improve after the recent changes.

Mondays roll up stableford of the yellow blocks was won by Raymond Bevan with 40 points and a cut.

Wednesday results was as follows, 4th, Doug Spiring (36), 3rd, Alex Duchart (36), 2nd, Jerry Coneybeare (41) and 1st, Ole Dibbern (41) on count back.

Nearest the pins were Mike Stott (3), Jerry Coneybeare (6), Raymond Bevan (13) and Jerry Coneybeare (16).

Great day Saturday for our medal, course in good condition apart from some of the new bunkers.

Results was as follows, 4th, Mick Elliot (75), 3rd, Stuart Tosh (73), 2nd, Barry Roehrig (72) and 1st, Joss Collignon (69).

Nearest the pins were Joss Collignon (3), Joss Collignon (6) Mike Stott (13) and, Stuart Tosh (16).

Three 2s today Jos on 3 and 6 and Alex on 3, hole 16 was drawn out, so another rollover.

Another new member joined today Scott Ramsey , welcome to La Finca GS Best dressed golfer today was one of our Irish members Des Crawford I think he set a new record today being over the ton.

Begorrah La Finca Golf Society meets every Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays at La Finca with first tee time around 09-00 am. Saturday is main competition day with various competitions which are Spanish Federated, to be eligible to play you need a handicap of 16 or less.

If you are interested or require more information give Barry a ring on 666694467 or 966731033.

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

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 NEXT RISING STAR? Here on the Costa Blanca we are blessed with a number of professional golfers who ply their trade on the worlds golf tours,namely Bradley Dredge from La Finca who has been as high as no 50 in the world and a member of the European Tour,Jordan Gibb and Pearse McMurray from Vistabella who have played on the Challenge and Euro-pro tours respectively.

Now there could be a new rising star on the horizon in the form of Craig Ross from Kirkhill, who along with his father Stuart play golf when in Spain with the Spanglish and Marabu Golf Societies and who turned professional earlier in 2018 and is now playing his golf on the Europro tour.

In 2017 Craig won the French and South African amatuer titles ,represented Scotland as an amatuer and would have played in the Walker cup this year against the USA. Still in his early twenties Crain won a Europro tour event at Mar Hall as an amatuer in 2014 but on Friday 13th July 2018 he won the €10000 first prize and his maiden professional win at Moor Allerton.

Craig has made 6 of 7 cuts in his first year and currently sits in 3rd place in the order of merit with the top 5 automatically qualifying for next years Challenge tour.

Keep an eye out for this new rsing star and remember that you read it here first.

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21

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) 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 from 1 June.

Golf Course

Price

Comments

Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio Font Del Llop La Finca La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero New Sierra Golf Roda Villamartin Villaitana Poniente Vistabella

€114 €102 €90 €88 €88 €86 €88 €128 €39 €36 €144 €104 €96 €80 €86 €110 €47 €86

Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Single Green Fee (after 2pm) Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (from 1pm) Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

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

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK 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

Rockets GS July home game Short journey to Vistabella for our July home game for a 08 15am Tee off with a small field but some good scoring. I think the reason for the small field is some members going back to the UK to their families. Wall to wall sunshine , a slight breeze good course with not so slick greens and a good game was had by all.

RESULTS GOLD CATEGORY 1ST, A Billings 38 pts 2nd P Daggatt 37 pts 3rd R Swift 30 pts SILVER CATEGORY 1ST G Wild 34 pts 2nd h McKinnon 32 c/b 3rd P Mutter 32 pts

“I am not sure what I just did is within the rules” Phil Mickelsen before penalising himself two shots in a USGA event Only 2 nearest the pins greens were hit Hole 2 P Daggatt &Hole 8 A Stenning Longest Drive M Woods After the game we returned to St James’s Gate pub for presentation and Refreshments kindly provided by the management which received a good round of applause from all our members.

The Burger Chips and Salad was lovely. Our next game is at Lo Romero on Tuesday 24th July First tee 10.00am.

Anyone who would like to join our friendly society or play in any game whilst out on vacation give Rocket Ron a ring on 678 849 142 or you can emailhim at: sanmigron’gmail.com

22

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

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Lo Crispin Golf Society

By Steve Harrington Today the Society played an Individual Stableford Competition at Bonalba, with 29 members and guests participating.

We last visited this Course over 12 months ago and the consensus appeared to be that we should not seek to play it again any time soon, if ever.

The main reasons for this centred around inconsistent and woolly greens and poorly maintained tee boxes.

Further, around many of the green, but not all were rings of sand, which caused problems for those unfortunate enough to land in them.

Nobody from the Course appraised us of the above.

The hot weather also undoubtedly contributed to the low scoring on the day.

As customary we returned to the Lo Crispin Tavern, where the prizes were awarded and Tapas supplied to all who took part, also customary.

The prize winners were as follows : Gold Division 1st. Place - Rod Pullen 30 pts. off 6,, 2nd. Place - Brian Smith 27 pts. off 17 (on count back), 3rd. Place - Harry Wilcock 27 pts. off 15

San Miguel Golf Society at Alacante Only mad dogs and Englishmen and San Miguel Golf Society go out in the midday sun. To be fair, there was a notable absence of rabid mongrels on the first tee at Alicante golf course when the first group of 24 members and 4 guests teed off just before 11am.

NTPs on Par 3s Hole 4 - Alan Truscott (Guest), Hole 8 - Bill Croft Hole 11 - Bob (Guest), Hole 14 - Rod Pullen

Normally, around a third of our troupe walk the fairways but, given the heat and the considerable distance between greens and tees, everybody opted to avail themselves of buggies.

The Free Game Draw was won by Dave Norton. Nobody was able to claim the 2s pot. The best Guest was Bob (23 pts. off 9) The next main game is the Summer Cup at Campoamor on 25th.

July.

The next interim game on 18th. July is at Font Del Llop.

Anyone interested in joining the Society or playing as a guest, should contact any member of the Committee, whose details can be found on the Society's website.

Fairways were in good condition but the greens were very poor.

They were riddled with what appeared to be holes made during a recent hollow-tinning and most putting surfaces had more than a dash of sand on them. The ball bobbled as if it were on cobble stones. It was very disappointing, especially since the course has a wonderful lay-out and is highly rated by the membership.

Let’s hope that conditions improve by the next time we visit it.

Many tees were in forward positions, a factor that gold category players fully exploited. Top score of the day was John Osborne’s 40.

The day’s results, by category and in reverse order, were the following:

Gold category Derek Johnstone won this week’s Abacus prize – again – a bottle of red wine, sponsored by Gordon Wilson.

Silver Category: 3rd Ken Flaherty (33 on CB)), 2nd Brian Mulligan (33 on CB) and 1st Chris Hamblett (33 on CB)

In the semi-final of the Roger Pearson Doubles Knock-Out Cup, Hugh Reilly and Brian Mulligan defeated Robin Eastman and Phil de Lacey 4 & 3.

Gold Category: 3rd Ivan Hanak (37 on CB)), 2nd Darren Temple (37 on CB) 1st John Osborne (40)

Our thanks to the staff at Alicante for their contribution to the day.

Nearest the pins on the par 3’s went to Kyree Skarmsoen (x2), John Osborne, Ivan Hanak and Chris Wren Best guest prize went to Mark O’Neill.

Silver Division 1st. Place - Paul Carter 28 pts. off 27, 2nd. Place - Janet Candlin 25 pts. off 33, 3rd. Place - Paul Flanaghan 20 pts. off 23

Keep up to date with all SMGS matters by logging on to our website www.smgs.org or simply give Tony Smale a call on 628227687 to find out more about the society and its weekly golf get-togethers.

Next week we will be at El Plantio.

The Med Bar Golf Society, El Raso, Vistabella Our latest outing was a fun day competition at Vistabella in the format of texas scramble.

4 teams of four set off in the very hot conditions. The course is now taking good shape with the new holes making it an interesting course.

Results for the day: Winning team with a score of 6 under 66: Richard Jerome, Eric Owens, Buck Taylor & Alan sSnape Nearest the pins: Eric Owens, John Buckman, & andy trefry 2`s club winners Ray Muttock & Eric Owens team Football card winners: Ray Muttock & Dave Capper Thanks to Steve and his staff at the med bar and bistro for the buffet provided.

Anyone wishing to join our society is welcome and we can either be contacted by e-mail at: medbargolf2016@gmail.com or pop into the bar where all details can be left and we will get in touch with you

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

Promoted Elche keen to get underway CF Elche are now back in pre season training . The squad is scheduled to meet today, Monday, at 8:00 pm at the Martínez Valero Stadium although little more is planned to take place other than a welcome, meet and greet, session for the manager, Pacheta, his staff and the new players.

On Tuesday the training will get underway at 7:00 pm although earlier in the day the players will all be subjected to the physical and medical tests . The training plan for the first week of the Pre-season: MONDAY, JULY 16 : cll at 8:00 pm at the Martínez Valero stadium (no training session).

TUESDAY, JULY 17 : Medical tests starting at 9.00. Training session at 7:00 pm in the Annex.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 : Training session at 9.00 in the Annex.

THURSDAY, JULY 19 : Double session: morning at 9.00 and evening at 7.00. Both in the Annex.

FRIDAY, JULY 20 : Training session at 9.00 in the Annex.

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World cup winning ways

BY Steve Hibberd

SATURDAY, JULY 21 : Friendly: Elche CF - CF Intercity, at 7.30 pm, at the Manolo Maciá stadium in Santa Pola.

SUNDAY, JULY 22 : Friendly: CFI Alicante - Elche CF, at 20.00, at the Ciudad Deportiva Antonio Solana in Alicante

Touch rugby coming to Torrevieja There is a new team for rugby in Torrevieja, RIVAL RUGBY TORREVIEJA, which has been set in motion by the Spanish Rugby Federation in conjunction with the Valencian Rugby Federation, with the main committee been non Spanish and English people in order to eliminate the problems of the past, and an amalgamation of clubs in the area past and present.

To start off with we are setting up a mixed touch rugby team, at least one, but if we can set up more if different areas between Torrevieja and Gran Alicant, the more the better.

The idea of this is to get people involved in rugby and to get people back into the sport who can not play any more, maybe because of the type of work they do or of an injure that could get worse by doing full contact.

So everyone is welcome to join doesn’t matter your size, short, tall, slim, cuddly, with experience or not.

Training starts on Thursday 20 July on Guardamar beach in front of the restaurants just down from the municipal swimming pool. Also in Torrevieja on Naufragos beach, there are also plans to set one up in Pilar de Horadada and start in August, and if anyone would like to set one up in there area, please contacts us, contacts details below.

So looking forward to seeing plenty of people down there and spread the word.

So if you want to join a brand new progressive rugby club and get in at the beginning contact co-ordinator Tony on 670 972 366 whatsapp.

San Miguel Strollers Walking Football were also winners with the World Cup Football, when they were inspired to have a sweepstake on the World Cup with proceeds going towards a Defibrillator, (which the club hopes never to use) when the sweepstake went out to the players and families, the club were so surprised that it was oversubscribed by three times, they had to have 3 sweepstake's to cover the applications for this good cause.

They are now in possession of the Defibrillator, and players are having instructions on how to use it.

The San Miguel Walking football club meet at the San Miguel Stadium on Tuesday evening's at 6-45pm so if you you are interested in this modern game of football with or without experience please come along and enjoy or for more information contact the Manager Bill Whitehouse on :- smstrollers@gmail.com

Levante and Almeria back at Pinatar Arena Levante UD will once again carry out pre season training at Pinatar Arena. For the third consecutive year, the La Liga club will train at the 5-star La Finca facilities. They will use the centre from July 18 to 22.

Levante UD first came to Pinatar Arena 2 years ago in 2016 and that season they achieved the promotion to First Division. They are currently coached

by Paco López.

UD Almería will also arrive this week and stay in the area from July 16 to 20. The rojiblanco team will play at least one friendly preparation match.

UD Almería has been visiting Pinatar Arena every summer since it first opened in 2013 and is one of the teams that has most often used the Pinatarian facilities.

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See our article on page 16

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd July, 2018

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