Costa Blanca Leader Edition 673

No 673

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

Tel: 637 227 385

CABO ROIG OVERRUN WITH ILLEGAL TRADERS more and more visitors, tourists and holidaymakers, arrive in the area with the onset of the warm weather, and as the Orihuela Government continue to ignore what is becoming an increasing problem, the ‘Looky Looky’ men, who’s numbers are now swollen by dozens of other illegal street traders, are encroaching more and more onto the Cabo Roig strip.

Police presence is absolutely negligible and on the few occasions that officers are able to make an appearance they seem to have absolutely no interest in making arrests or confiscating the increasing mountain of illegal products from upwards of 40 or 50 vendors, their mission appearing

As

See page 4 for more info

only to be that of moving them on.

There are many who would argue that the ‘illegals’ add a bit of colour and fun to the occasion.

Continued on Page 2

2

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info From Page 1 Illegal Traders

Telephone

637 227 385 Property

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

Their mischievous grins and their calls of ‘Lovely Jubbly’ or ‘Looky looky’ can often be quite welcoming. But there are those also, who see them as being a menace and often quite intimidating toward holidaymakers, who are seeking nothing more than a quiet stroll, meal or a lazy evening out.

Torrevieja approached the situation head on with their attitude of zero tolerance. There were one or two beachfront confrontations at the time but now the problem has largely disappeared, with the traders having moved elsewhere, many it would appear into Cabo Roig, where the Orihuela authorities are largely turning a blind eye.

As a result there is nowhere on the Costa Blanca where it is anything like the problem that it has now become in Cabo Roig.

Would the mayor allow such a situation to play out in Orihuela City?

The sellers themselves can be divided into five groups. We have those who originate from the East and who, for the most part, wander from bar to bar dealing in fake CD’s and DVD’s. There are Sub Saharans who do very much the same but who trade in carved animals, watches and sunglasses. There is also an increasing number of Sub Saharan’s who have ‘gone static’ and who now occupy large stretches of the pavement and the road, selling trainers tshirts, football strips and the like.

We now also have an increasing

number of Spanish Nationals who have added to the problem by setting up market stalls outside unoccupied buildings and moreover, there are the North Africans who wander up and down the strip selling carpets, towels, hats and even ominous looking carving knives.

Indeed when I walked down Calle Cielo at about 9pm on Saturday evening I counted over 80 illegal traders who were selling their illegal wares with many hiding behind trees or turning their faces as I took photographs. Indeed one individual became quite aggressive and actually tried to snatch my camera from my shoulder.

Of course not only are the traders largely illegal immigrants who should not be in the country in the first place, but they are selling counterfeit items on which they are paying absolutely no taxes, and in so doing they are taking the legitimate trade away from those shopkeepers and vendors who are trading legally.

It has now got to the dreadful situation whereby a number of residents have now decided that ‘enough is enough’ with one group formally writing to the mayor of Orihuela to lodge an official complaint.

In the letter, which was translated into Spanish by a local Abogado, they describe “the nightly menace of unauthorized illegal trading, with as many as eighty trader's selling what appear to be counterfeit goods, having completely take over Cabo Roig strip.”

Although the authors of the let-

ter acknowledge that the local police force is at full stretch they have nevertheless asked for a permanent police presence on the Cabo Roig strip between the hours of 2100h and 2400h.

They also state that their previous requests have been ignored as was their appeal for a meeting with the Councillor to discuss this matter.

So whether you reside or you are simply you are holidaying in the area, and perhaps are tempted to buy any of these items that the illegal traders offer, you might want to consider a little about the menace that they bring to the area and the problems that they cause. The origin of the goods is extremely doubtful as is the quality of manufacture, even if you are willing to accept that the items for sale are clearly fakes.

The individuals who are selling the goods are also being exploited while the counterfeiters’ workers themselves suffer poor local working conditions and lack any occupational benefits.

We all jump up and down in protest when politicians rant about exploited workers in India and beyond so why do we then disregard Illegal Street trading when we travel abroad and we are able to witness it first hand?

Illegal trading is a menace, it is unlawful and it is prohibited, although no one seems to have told the police here on the Orihuela Costa, but I have no doubt that we would see a completely different approach from the authorities if the problem were moved into Orihuela City.

A number of residents have now written to the mayor having decided that ‘enough is enough’

Church Organist or Pianist Required

L

a Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja, is looking for someone to play its Church organ or Electric Piano.

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

If you are interested in becoming our Lead Organist or Pianist please contact Pastor Keith on 666 180 108 or just come along to one of our Services and introduce yourself. You will find La Siesta Evangelical Church on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja. Find out more by going to our website:- www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

Important political support in fight to save Cala Mosca CLARO Press Relase

T

he fight to save Cala Mosca received important political support on Tuesday 22 June when a majority of political parties in the Environment Committee of the Valencia regional parliament voted in favour of a motion to provide major additional protection to Cala Mosca in the face of a plan to build 1,500 new houses on this last unspoiled natural area on Orihuela Costa.

The motion was presented by the Vega Baja member of the Valencia Parliament, Antonio EstaĂą. The parties supporting the motion include parties in the coalition which governs the Valencia region. This is particularly relevant in the expected follow up to the motion. The only party which voted against was the Popular Party which, unfortunately heads the municipal government of Orihuela.

The Popular Party of Orihuela and its coalition partner, the Ciudadanos Party, have not lifted a finger to prevent this emblematic last green area of the Orihuela coast being covered in concrete.

They continue to approve new building projects which result in much additional revenue for the municipality but they do not invest this revenue in Orihuela Costa which is becoming a concrete jungle with a constantly increasing population but deficient services and infrastructure.

The important protections which the motion recommends include an independent environmental impact study to be carried out by the Valencia government. This was the principal recommendation of the European Parliament Petitions Committee at its meeting in February attended by C.L.A.R.O’S Bob Houliston and Marta Guillen of the Cambiemos Orihuela party.

The unanimous view of the Petitions Committee, which has given constant support to the efforts to save Cala Mosca since C.L.A.R.O. presented a petition supported by over 7,000 signatories in 2010, was that the environmental impact study carried out by the developer, although legally legitimate, could not be considered objective since

the developer’s interest is to justify the project to build 1,500 new houses.

Another recommendation in the motion of 22 June was a wider economic impact study to consider the consequences of adding up to another 5-6,000 or 20% to the population of Orihuela Costa with the need to provide corresponding services such as household water in an area where water is a scarce resource, sewage facilities which are not expanded and upgraded, adequate streets and pavements, as well as street cleaning, rubbish removal and park maintenance, which are notoriously deficient.

The motion also includes recommendations to increase the protection of the two endangered species which are present on Cala Mosca and to define the animal right of way which follows the coastline of Cala Mosca and has only been defined by the Developer. An official definition could reduce the area potentially available for construction.

There is good hope that these recommendations will be followed up by the regional Valencian government which is the political authority for deciding on the future of Cala Mosca.

C.L.A.R.O. and Cambiemos plus other political parties and groups and Associations such as the Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa have formed a very effective Platform to Save Cala Mosca. They will continue the campaign.

Their most recent initiative is a new petition to show public support for this important local cause. Already, in a few days the petition has received over 600 signatures. We urge maximum support for this initiative which should impress on the regional government of Valencia, as well as the local government of Orihuela, popular determination to save this last green area of our coast which has not yet been concreted over and never should be.

Follow the link for signing the petition at: www.theleader.info

3

4

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

Escape from San Miguel

TWO ARRESTED AT COMMERCIAL CENTRE DEVELOPMENT Orihuela Local Police arrested two people last Wednesday while they were stealing materials from a commercial centre that is currently under construction. The two men were caught red handed as they were removing parts of escalators and other iron materials.

The agents arrested the perpetrators when they returned for the materials they had earlier put to one side, as they fully matched descriptions provided. The pair were also carrying a backpack with tools used to commit the robbery.

Both of the detainees have previous criminal records.

ADVERTISING FEATURE Copyright Martin Bentley

M

ost of us have experience being locked out, but Locked In Escape Rooms in San Miguel reverses that activity and provides a uniquely new experience where you are actually “locked in”. The themed and interactive activity is an ideal Family, Friends or even Corporate activity to have fun. A Team can be anything from Two to Eight people. No special skills are needed, but gamers, puzzle book aficionados and quiz teams will have a distinct advantage when solving the puzzles as presented.

Some of the Puzzles can be easy to solve individually, with others needing a team approach. You will always be in touch with the Game Master, via walkie talkie, and hints can be given if wanted.

But don’t worry, you are assured of having fun whether you escape or not.

will have to solve the puzzles so that you can advance from room to room with your team, whilst a blend of eerie and awesome music accompanies your progress!!

So, what is the Theme in San Miguel. Its Helter Skelter, and attributed to the notorious Charles Manson. You will be “locked” in a Room and you will have just 60 minutes before the notorious Manson returns to get you. During that time you

You do not have to do that because we have our own Locked In Escape Room right here in San Miguel de Salinas – so why not give it a try – you only have your freedom to lose!!

The San Miguel Locked In Escape Room is operated by a Family concern and they will be on hand to help you and make your experience a really memorable one. With just one Escape Room at the moment there are plans for another Room later in the year.

Locally there are Escape Rooms in Alicante, Murcia, Cartajena and Barcelona. People will literally travel hundreds of miles to experience a different theme. They are so popular now that many people take weekend City Breaks just to experience an Escape Room.

See main ad on front page.

Briton charged with Campoamor stabbing Orihuela’s Court of Violence against Women has remanded 53 year old Briton David James Grundy in custody, having now been formally charged with the attempted murder of his partner, Nicola Houghton, who remains in Torrevieja hospital.

Grundy appeared on Wednesday morning at the High Court of Justice of the Region of Valencia (TSJCV) where the charges were put to him.

Although not required to make a plea he was remanded in custody without bail until his case can next be heard, which could be some weeks or months.

Grundy is alleged to have stabbed Ms Houghton in the back following a heated argument last Tuesday and then fled the scene leaving her for dead. She was found lying in a pool of blood by her daughter later in the morning.

Grundy was subsequently arrested in Benidorm earlier this week having been on the run for five

days. He was found with almost 5,000 in his pocket with which it is thought he was preparing to flee the country.

A spokesman said that Grundy worked as a taxi driver and a part time gardener for friends. It was in their car that he fled the scene after the alleged attack. He added that there was no previous record of violence and that both had resided for some time in the urbanisation in Campoamor.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

Disgraced Former Torrevieja Mayor to be released from prison next month

GOING DOWN - The mayor entering Murcia prison in 2014 The former mayor of Torrevieja Pedro Ángel Hernández Mateo (PP) will be released from prison on July 28 after serving three years for fraud relating to the award of the city’s refuse contract, worth approximately 100 million euro, back in 2004. He was also disqualified from holding a public office for 7 years and fined 10,500 euros Mateo entered the prison of Campos del Río (Murcia) on 30 of July 2014 in, nine months after the Supreme Court rejected his appeal for clemency. At the time there were 45 of his fellow PP members of the Valencian Parliament who supported his bid but it was still rejected by the Valencian Superior Court of Justice.

There is no doubt that Mateo has enjoyed a privileged status whilst in Murcia prison, indeed in recent months, the, 69 year old former mayor has been enjoying a regime of semi-liberty with regular stays in Torrevieja with his family.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

5

6

www.theleader.info

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

Torrevieja poorest city again!

The Torrevieja council say that they are tired of repeating the fact that the INE statistics and reference points used to calculate the average household income in Spain are completely off the mark and consistently fail to take into account the large number of foreign nationals who receive pensions from other EU countries that are not included in the registers.

They say that it is not an inconsiderable percentage which has a weighty bearing on the final calculation.

And once again their concerns have been largely ignored as the INE statistics, for the 3rd consecutive year, list Torrevieja in 126th position, the very final place.

According to the figures released by INE the average annual income of torrevejenes households stands at 14,462 euros.

Pozuelo de Alarcón (Madrid) is the city with the highest average net income, at 73,014 euros, 15,000 euro more than second placed Majadahonda (Madrid), and four times the income of Torrevieja.

Good news for Benidorm, however, which leads the list by employment rate in the

The mayor says that the reference points used to calculate the average household income in Spain are completely off the mark

services sector and is the third city of Spain in tourist overnight stays (more than 15 million a year), only behind Madrid and Barcelona The INE says that the average annual income figure is constituted by "all the income received by them after deducting the taxes and social security contributions that have been paid".

According to the figures submitted to the Ministry of Economy, Fuengirola (€

18,225), Sanlúcar de Barrameda (17,222) and Torrevieja (14,462) are the three Spanish cities with the lowest income.

Elda is ranked first in the country with the highest proportion of employees in the industrial sector compared to its population (35.9%), while Benidorm, along with Benalmádena and Melilla, boast the lowest number of employed in this sector with just 1.6%.

‘Gongs’ for 5 Police Officers On 11 July five agents of the Orihuela Local Police Service are to receive awards from the Valencia Generalitat.

Three will be rewarded following their actions back in January last year following the fatal stabbing at a bar in Villamartin. The initiative they displayed and the speed at which they acted resulted in the arrest of three people who were fleeing the scene in a vehicle.

Two other agents will receive commendations after they intervened at a house fire in the hamlet of Escorratel in March 2016, their prompt action leading to the rescue of the occupant after she had been overcome by fumes. The agents rescued her from the fire and removed her to a place of safety where she received first aid.

The Councilor for Citizen Security, Mariola Rocamora, congratulated the officers saying "The officers showed a great deal of professionalism and skill in dealing with both situations. They put themselves in danger for the good of the public at large, and they are to be highly commended for their actions.”

The councillor then went on in extending her congratulations to the rest of the agents for their good work at the forefront of our security and the well-being of all Oriolanos

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

Three to dispute Presidency of Orihuela PP Councillor Damaso Aparicio (photo) will be standing against Cllr Victor Valverde and the former Valencian Deputy, Andres Ballester

With the deadline for submitting nominations for the Presidency of the Popular Party in Orihuela closing at lunchtime on Tuesday there are just three candidates for the position, the election for which will be held on 3 July.

The first candidate to present his nomination was the former councillor and ex Valencian Deputy, Andres Ballester, who on Monday handed his papers in to the Headquarters in Alicante, where, because of the lack of a current Party HQ in Orihuela, the applications are processed.

On Tuesday morning Ballester was followed by the current President, Councillor Damaso Aparicio, and Councillor Victor Valverde.

Along with his candidacy, each of the aspiring presidents was obliged to present the composition of his board of directors as well as being upto-date in the payment of membership fees.

After the presentation, Aparicio wanted to thank "all those who have encouraged him to take this step and those who work every day to make the PP an open, democratic organisation to which everyone who wants to contribute is made most welcome".

Meanwhile Andres Ballester said that the party "can do better things in the future". He said whichever of the three candidates is elected will do a good job and regardless of the result he invited the other candidates to work for the PP, promising them his full cooperation.

The process of election of the new President of the Orihuela PP is facing a series of unknowns not least of which will be the location of the new Party Headquarters.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

7

8

www.theleader.info

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

‘Noche de Habaneras’ returns on Saturday

D

omingo Soler, the Vice President of the Board of Habaneras, has announced that the 'Night of Habaneras', which will be held next Friday June 30 at 10:30 pm ill return to its original location in Paseo Vista Alegre, where the first Contest of Habaneras of Torrevieja was held 63 years ago.

The evening will feature the Coro Brea y Sal, a direct copy of the Choir Ricardo Lafuente has not been heard in 25 years. The choir, formed by a dozen male voices, will be accompanied by piano, guitars and accordion, and will selection of present habaneras through the ages, but with modern arrangements.

Brea and Sal will be followed

by Pipo Prendes and his group.

This will be the first time that the Asturian, who’s Havanans are interpreted in a very personal way, will perform a work that he has dedicated to Torrevieja.

Soler said that the presenter of the 'Noche de Habaneras' will be the Torrevejense journalist Marga Torregrosa, who has already presented the twentyfourth edition of 'Habaneras on the Beach', the last Habaneras Contest for Soloists and the

contest phase of the Habaneras Youth Competition during its last two editions.

He also announced that the TVE journalist Elena Sánchez will present the main International Contest which will be held from 17 to 23 July adding that Ms Sánchez "has a lot of experience and will do very well."

'Noche de Habaneras' will be presented by the Torrevejense journalist Marga Torregrosa

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

Samaritans Annual Summer Fayre On Saturday 17th of June, Samaritans in Spain held their annual Summer Fayre and Fashion show at their Torrevieja branch, located at Punta Marina Comercial Centre. Despite the high temperatures the region experienced at the weekend, there was a good attendance of visitors who enjoyed entertainment by The Dayamante Singers, The Rascals and Sunshine FM while browsing through the variety of stalls and watching the Fashion Show which was organised by the Volunteers. Visitors were also free to visit the drop-in centre, enjoy a complimentary hot beverage and talk to members of the Charity.

Samaritans in Spain would like to thank everybody for their kindness and generosity in making this a successful event. Funds raised from the event will help to strengthen the Samaritans network in Spain, and to be able to have the necessary equipment needed to ensure a seamless service across Spain.

Samaritans in Spain operates 24 hours, seven days a week and provides a listening service for any English-speaking person who may feel lonely, distressed or would like to talk confidentially. Samaritans in Spain can be contacted on Freephone 900 525 100.

Terri Hovarth Morris Dancers

The Terri Hovarth Morris dancers have just finished for the summer.

Their last dance out was a charity event at La Siesta for Help at Home, for their Fiesta Fun day where many people were enthralled with the Dance routines offered by the Morris Dancing.

The Morris team had also danced out recently in Algorfa. This event was a charity lunch organized by Amigos de Algorfa to raise funds for the village school. The amount raised on the day was €413 this was added to a growing fund which so far this year has raised well over €1000.

The Terri Hovarth Morris Dancers Perform at many venue's, mainly charitable events, or for requested performances and Fiesta's etc.

The Morris Dancing consists of many kinds of English Traditional dances for any age, from North Western to Molly and many other mixed Dances, and the group is always looking for more dancers, with or without prior experience.

If you would like to find out more about the Morris group, Dancing etc. or inquire for booking performances for your venue.

Please contact:- Sue Walters at:suzi.inspain@gmail.com

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

9

10

www.theleader.info

Rajoy: “Theresa May tries hard but needs to do better.”

Prime Minister Mariano Photo Rajoy broadly welcomed @marianorajoy the British Government’s statement on ‘the rights of citizens’ made in Brussels

by Theresa May on Thursday evening which he described as being ‘a priority for Spain.’ He said that the proposals were a positive first step but ‘they could be better.’

May said that London will grant British status with rights to health care, education, social benefits and pensions – to any EU who has resided in the United Kingdom for five years.

However in a statement at a press conference following the European Council in Brussels Rajoy said that he felt the British Government needed to go much further in protecting the rights of those EU citizens who have made their homes in the UK for less than five years.

“I think it’s good that the first thing we talk about is the rights of citizens”, continued Rajoy, but “we would prefer to better regulate all people who have not achieved five years of residence, and that is a battle we will make”, he continued.

That is why May’s proposal “has not sounded bad, but it could have sounded better,” warned Rajoy, who also had an informal meeting with the Mrs May on Thursday, which he described as being held in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

Open Day at ‘Residents Drop In Centre’ Campoamor Orihuela Costa

W

ednesday 21st June saw Residents, local Associations and Businesses attending the Open Day of the new Drop In Centre being developed by Community Care Association at the Residents Centre Ramon de Campoamor Calle Cipres Campoamor Orihuela Costa after two Induction Open Days organised to recruit Members and Volunteers.

After 5 years campaigning President Norah Bond announced we have at last opened our doors to residents of Orihuela Costa, come along and join, have fun in the sun, we believe you matter and want to help improve your quality of life.

A great afternoon was enjoyed by everyone who were treated to refreshments and entertainment by Cindy, Mo, Juan Carlos & Bob supported by Wesley and Bethany who provided the PA system.

A big thank you to everyone, especially to those that donated food and their time for the event. Mike, Judith, Penny, Eva, Hazel, Angela and John really worked hard making cakes, pizzas, pasta & rice dishes, lovely sausage rolls and drumsticks, thank you all.

Councillor Sofia Volunteers with Cllr Alvarez Alvarez and Fermin Gonzales, Pedro Dominguez Crego of Cruz Roja, Kevin Rearden the Chairman of The Royal British Legion and Eddie Coleman, Julie and her friends from The Bikers Club plus many residents joined volunteers and members of the new Association music to help with mobility. who came to view the premises and find out We intend to organise First Aid courses by what will be on offer at the Drop In Centre Cruz Roja Orihuela and IT sessions to as from Sept 2017. include Tablets, camera and mobile phone Three rooms have been dedicated to offer use as soon as we have volunteers for these Social Creative Activities three afternoons a sessions. week, starting the second week of To register your interest in an activity with September. Arts & Crafts sessions including Community Care Association, pop along to Card making, Flower arranging, Sewing and the Drop In Centre any Monday, Wednesday Knitting. Painting in oils, watercolours and or Thursday between 1pm and 4pm during drawing. Games, Cultural, Discussion the remainder of June and throughout July. groups, Advice and Information.

The Membership Fee to join is €10 per If you enjoy music, you can join in the fun year. at the Music Therapy We will be closed throughout August but sessions where you open again September 2017. can sing along togethWe need Volunteers to assist with the seser, play your favourite sions, if you are interested, please contact us instrument, whether it by email at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com be percussion, pad or pop along to the Drop In Centre where drums, guitar, keyyou will be welcomed with a cup of tea or board or a rain stick coffee and a cake or biscuits. plus gentle exercise to

Pets in Spain Rescues 15 Dogs Pets in Spain achieved a new statistical record when they rescued 15 dogs in one day, with 14 of them from an illegal puppy farm. The dogs rescued were not puppies, they were the discarded mothers and fathers, forced over the years to reproduce many litters. Most of them were kept permanently in cages, some have old untreated injuries, including broken bones, one is blind, another has just one eye, and others are in ill health and diseased needing long term veterinary treatment.

A Pets In Spain fund raising event has been organized at AJ's bar on El Raso urbanization, located just off the Lemon Tree road near Guardamar, on Friday 30th June, from 12 midday to 3pm. A few of the rescued puppy farm dogs will also be making an appearance. See the full story at www.theleader.info

Screening of Madame Butterfly in Orihuela One of the events to feature in the bicentenary celebrations of the Teatro Real de Madrid will be a live countrywide broadcast of Madame Butterfly, by Giacomo Puccini.

The opera will take place at 9.30pm on Friday 30 June and one of the many venues that will show the transmission will the la plaza de Ramón Sijé in Orihuela.

The Department of Culture will erect a giant screen in the square, located in the heart of Orihuela Old Town, and there will be plenty of chairs so anyone who wants to go along and enjoy this magnificent Puccini work may do so absolutely free.

The Councillor for Culture, Mar Ezcurra, said that “It is an exceptional opportunity for Oriolanos to enjoy one of the greatest operas of all time and at the same time participate in one of the great cultural events of this year in our country, the bicentennial of the Royal Theatre.

Set in Nagasaki, Japan in the early 1900s, Madam Butterfly is one of opera’s most enduring tales of unrequited love. Puccini’s poignant score follows the tragic tale of Cio Cio San, a young Japanese girl who falls in love with American naval officer Pinkerton, with devastating consequences.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

11

Save Money Now and reduce your Electricity Bill by up to 20%

If

you live in Spain and you’re one of the many people on a standard electricity tariff, just 2 minutes of your time could result in substantial savings to your bill.

See the Siesta Energy main ad on the back page

We all like to save money, and following the recent liberalisation in the energy market, there are more and more companies that are now able to offer reduced electricity prices.

We all know that change can sometimes be scary, but it can often be a good thing too, and in the case of Siesta Energy there is no difficulty whatsoever to affect that change. In the time it takes to read this short letter, you could save yourself a few hundred euros every year – so do you want to find out more?

Many people, and particularly non-Spaniards, think they have to call every electricity supplier in Spain which is not nearly true. There is a much easier way to do it, and it’s all entirely doable from the comfort of your own home wherever you live in Spain.

There are no third party sites! You just sit back and save!

What do I need to do?

It’s all so very simple, you just send a copy of your last electricity bill, both pages (back and front), together with your contact details, to: info@siestaenergy.es and we will quickly inform you of just how much you could save. There is no cost nor obligation on your part, the comparison is absolutely free, and you are under no pressure to change. The savings could be as much as 20% of your current bill.

You can have a word with one of our advisers on the phone and we will be happy to explain the exact detail of any saving that we can make on your behalf. Thereafter, if you wish to make the change, you can leave it entirely in our hands and we will take all necessary action on your behalf.

Neither are there any additional costs or contracts but you will immediately start paying less. Siesta Energy only markets and distributes the electricity in exactly the same way as your previous supplier.

There is no need to install nor to change anything at all.

And how are we able to maintain such good prices? We have our team of analysts and engineers who carefully study the best available rates on a daily basis. This enables us to be able to offer the best supply at the lowest price, which is exactly what we do. We are not tied to any of the large companies. We simply shop around for the best price available at the time.

Staff in our La Zenia office will attend you in your own language either personally at the office itself or, if you prefer, by telephone or email. We will explain everything that you need to know in detail, thereafter you simply sit back and make the savings.

All the information is available on our website in your language at: www.siestaenergy.es. You can send your latest bill through the site or you can mail it direct to: info@siestaenergy.es. You can even WhatsApp the copy of your invoice to 647 500 100. Alternatively you can bring it into our office at La Zenia, in the commercial centre on the side of Consum Supermarket, and we will explain to you the savings that we can make on your behalf.

So what are you waiting for? Start saving now by calling 965 07 34 56 or by visiting Siesta Energy by Consum, in La Zenia.

12

www.theleader.info

D LY NEW RBISHE U REF

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

13

14

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Anvil; 4 Anaemic; 8 Lectern; 9 Strum; 10 Null; 11 Narrator; 13 Fond; 14 Peal; 16 Perceive; 17 Vain; 20 Exact; 21 Ravioli; 22 Endorse; 23 Drawn.

Down: 1 All in one piece; 2 Vocal; 3 Leer; 4 Annual; 5 Assorted; 6 Marital; 7 Comprehension; 12 Ancestor; 13 Forward; 15 Averse; 18 Aroma; 19 Avid.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC Across: 1 Steak; 4 Endives; 8 Genesis; 9 Norma; 10 Also; 11 Flamingo; 13 Port; 14 Etna; 16 Intimate; 17 Crib; 20 Unite; 21 Iranian; 22 Extreme; 23 Adept.

Down: 1 Signal failure; 2 Ennis; 3 Kiss; 4 Easels; 5 Dynamite; 6 Veranda; 7 Shadow cabinet; 12 Premiere; 13 Patriot; 15 Strive; 18 Rhine; 19 Gala.

ACROSS 1.

Leap (4) 8.

Duty (10) 9.

Comic (8) 10. Infant (4) 12. Spirit (6) 14. Nuclear (6) 15. Meal (6) 17. Pride (6) 18. Tie (4) 19. Unsafe (8) 21. Fortress (10) 22. Simple (4)

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

11.

13.

16.

17.

18.

20.

Unexpected (10) Prod (4) Floodgate (6) Schedule (6) Unyielding (8) Jealousy (4) Violent (10) Pulling (8) Pang (6) Sight (6) Touch lightly (4) Cipher (4)

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

Solution on Page 22

Bloody Sunday (U2). e. Saturday Nights All Right (For Fighting) (Elton John). f. Manic Monday (The Bangles). g. Wednesday Morning 3 AM (Simon and Garfunkel). h. Lazy Sunday (The Small Faces). i. Pleasant Valley Sunday (The Monkees). j. Monday Monday (Mamas and the Papas). 11. Onion. (Latin 'unio'). 12. USA (1991, 1999, 2015), Germany (2003, 2007), Norway (1995) and Japan (2011).

13. a. Alien or Aliens. b. Avatar. c. The Fifth

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

from groovin, they bang on the wall, i. The local rock group down the street is trying hard to learn their song, j. Every other day of the week is fine yeah 11. The name of which very popular vegetable takes its name from the late Latin word for a single white pearl?

12. Which four countries have won the FIFA Women's World Cup? 13. The following planets are found in which films? a. LV-426, b. Pandora, c. Fhloston 14. What are the plastic horns popular at football matches in South Africa called?

15. Fierce, Milk, Brown, Collet's, Tiger, Sea and Blind are all examples of what?

16. Which actor has played Rameses II and King Mongkut?

17. The first UN peace keeping mission in 1948 was sent to keep the peace between which two countries?

18. Bad boys at the football world cup. a. Which country has had the most players sent off since the inception of the football world cup? (10 in total). b. In a match between which two countries were a record four red cards shown during the 2006 football world cup?

19. Fescue, Rye, Bermuda, Buffalo, St. Augustine, Bahia and Zoysia are all examples of what?

20. Some football world cup songs are just inappropriate. For example, the England squad and Magnum Brass with 'Here we are, Here we are'.

In which year was this football ditty not a hit?

1. Cary Grant (no. 2) and Charlie Chaplin (no.

10). 2. The White House and Graceland. 3. The Indian players were not allowed to play their matches barefoot. 4. Set. (circa 464 definitions). 5. Names of professional football players. 6. a. Gianna Nannini, b. Ricky Martin. 7.

Throat. 8. Hold their testicles. 9. Pillbox hat.

10. a. I Don't Like Mondays (Boomtown Rats). b. Friday On My Mind (The Easybeats). c.

Ruby Tuesday (Rolling Stones). d. Sunday

ACROSS 1. Spaniards on the university staff (4) 8. Assembly that puts fellows in partial disarray (10) 9. Nevertheless she’s a member of the fair sex (8) 10. The French way to survive (4) 12. Everybody interrupting deplorable song (6) 14. Takes off for an excursion in the vessel (6) 15. Says tastes differ (6) 17. Leave a great deal of waste (6) 18. To sing after this request is enjoyable (4) 19. Repudiate Diana’s insurance demand (8) 21. You’ll need a taxi in case there’s heavy luggage (5,5) 22. The last character to break up a generation in the Old Testament (4)

1. The American Film Institute has a list of 'The 100 Greatest Male Stars of all Time'. In the top ten, two were born in England. Can you name DOWN 2. A feature of the Victorian room above the gas-fitting, we them?

2. Name the two stately homes which tourists hear (10) visit the most in the USA? 3. Part of a bridge nine inches long (4) 3. Although India qualified for the football world 4. Packed into a box car, maybe, with Edward (6) cup in 1950, they refused to take part. Why? 5. Strive to break the fasteners (6) 4. Which resolute word has the most definitions 6. What the beggar does could be simple or involved (8) in the English language?

7. Leave it in the waste tip (4) 5. The following are all names of what? Tungi Banjo, Norman Conquest, Quim, Danger 11. Excellent face-saving device for the foreman (10) Fourpence, Hulk, Chiqui Arce, Adigun Salami, 13. Playful philanderer left before Horatio got upset (8) Heavens Chinyama and Mansour Boutabout.

16. To quieten down when badly teased (6) 6. Who sang the following 'official' football world 17. In the event, the record is given to you and me (6) cup songs? a. Un'estate italiana (1990), b. La 18. Nibble a quantity of grain (4) Copa de la Vida (1998) 20. Enjoy showing a resemblance (4) 7. The hyoid bone is the only bone in the human body that is not articulated (attached) to any other bone. Where is the hyoid bone found?

8. Legend has it that when taking an oath Roman men would do what with their hands?

9. Which military accessory did Jacqueline Kennedy and designer Oleg Cassini bring back into fashion in the early 1960s?

10. The following words are from songs with a CAN YOU MASTER THE day of the week in the song title. Can you name SUDOKU CHALLENGE? the song? a. The silicon chip inside her head, b.

Fill in the grid so that Do the five day drag once more, c. Catch your every row, every column, and every 3x3 box condreams before they slip away, d. How long must tains the digits 1 to 9. we sing this song, e. It's seven o'clock and I want to rock, want to get a belly full of beer, f. By a crystal blue Italian stream, g. I can hear the soft QUIZ ANSWERS breathing of the girl that I love, h. They stop me failed to qualify) (Different types of grass). 20. 1974. (England "The

battle

of

Nüremberg.

19.

Grass.

Portugal vs Holland which became known as Israel and Palestine. 18. a. Argentina. b.

Commandments' and 'The King and I'). 17.

Snakes. 16. Yul Brynner. (in 'The Ten Element. 14. Vuvuzela. (or Lepatata). 15.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

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

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

What Are the British Well Known For?

T

he British used to be well known across the world for Shakespeare, Princess Diana and cricket. We like to be known for our infamous ‘stiff upper lips’, sense of fair play, tolerance and justice. Many, mostly older people, still like to revel in the days of Empire and the ‘enlightenment’ that it brought to the world, whilst conveniently forgetting the evils of slavery, repression and imposition of alien values upon people across the world. No doubt, we all have an image of what Britain and its people stand for, although younger members of society are developing rapidly different views, which is very welcome in a fast moving, modern world.

In the years that I have been living as an expat in Spain and the Canary Islands, I have come to a view, which many will regard as unreasonable and non-liberal, that British citizens should first pass an intelligence test and secondly a test in basic good manners before they are granted a British passport. Many expats like myself, and the majority of British holidaymakers, are appalled by the attitudes and behaviour of a small minority of British holidaymakers.

Over the years, we have become familiar with the chancers who claim to have had valuable items ‘stolen’ on holiday and attempt to claim the proceeds from their insurance company. It doesn't take a genius to work out that a family heading for one of the cheapest hol-

idays in Benidorm is unlikely to own a top-quality Rolex watch, the latest iPhone, diamond bracelet and expensive camera for each member of the family. Fortunately, the Spanish police are now much more rigorous in investigating such claims, and offenders are likely to be arrested and prosecuted for fraud. In addition, insurance companies are now much wiser to such scams, sharing databases of claims and identifying potential fraud. Despite this, we still regularly hear of such claims, although most are refused and the perpetrators prosecuted for fraud.

As many will have read in recent weeks, the latest British scam, and I stress that so far it is only the British who are involved, is false claims for food poisoning against hotels in Spain and the Canary Islands, even though the holidaymakers have not been genuinely ill. There are ‘legal companies’ in the UK, who are now presumably at a loose end following the completion of banking PPI compensation claims, and are now encouraging holidaymakers to claim for food poisoning.

Many claimants have received large sums of compensation from innocent Spanish hotels, because the hotels cannot afford the high costs of challenging such claims in the British courts, and have simply paid up without a challenge.

These ‘legal companies’ have been offering ‘no win, no fee’ arrangements to hundreds of British holidaymakers, costing Spanish hotels around 60 million euros, which is a situation that clearly cannot continue. Spanish hoteliers and the Spanish Government are now fighting back and all future claims will have to be heard in Spanish courts. Some hotels are now refusing to accept British guests, and those that are accepted are being carefully monitored, with the introduction of signed disclaimers, and in ‘all inclusive’ hotels, the quantity of food and drinks consumed during the supposed period of illness is being recorded. In addition, ringleaders will be identified and prosecuted.

It was good to read this week that two British people were arrested

www.theleader.info

15

By Bar rie Mahoney A sense of fair play

by the Guardia Civil in Mallorca for trying to persuade tourists to make fraudulent claims whilst staying in the resort of Alcudia. The couple were acting for a so-called legal company in the UK that is sending representatives to Spanish resorts to drum up more business, as they are clearly making massive profits. The main regions affected by these fraudulent claims are the Canary Islands, Costa Blanca, Benidorm, Mallorca and the Costa del Sol. Probably, my suggestion for a test of intelligence and basic good manners before being granted a British passport should be regarded as ‘tongue in cheek’, but it is worrying that a small minority of our fellow citizens are behaving in a manner that eventually has a negative impact upon all. I suspect that if the question is currently asked about what the British are known for, it will no longer be Shakespeare, Princess Diana and cricket.

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

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

16

www.theleader.info

Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2016 Ford Mustang GT which is on Special Offer priced at just 45,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

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

Social and Clubs The next meeting of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 20 July at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm. The Torrevieja Branch meets at the Casa Ventura in San Luis at 7.30 pm on the 2nd Friday while the La Marina/Gran Alacant Branch meets on the 1st Monday at The London Bar, behind Dial Prix in Gran Alacant at 6pm. Everyone Welcome.

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. Have you had experience in the press or advertising?

If so Age Concern are in need of a Publicity Manager to help us with our Press and Radio notifi-

cations We also need volunteer Drivers and 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 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 charity centre helpathomecb@gmail.com.

Girlguiding group for Orihuela Costa. The Orihuela Costa Rainbows and Brownies. This is a brand new Girlguiding group for girls aged 5-11 years.

Rainbows 5-7 years, Brownies 711 years. We will meet every Wednesday at the Madhouse in El Galan. Parents can find our more on our Facebook page -

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

Orihuela Costa Brownies and Rainbows Curious about 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). www.samaritansinspain.com Email: janeatsams@outlook.com

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

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

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

Personal Torrevieja. Shirley - the best massage. Tanned, young Brazilian beauty! Stunning figure, great breasts. I welcome you alone in sexy lingerie. By appointment please.655 677 738 MALE/FEMALE Viagra, cialis, kamagra available mail order viagra4you19@gmail.com 603255411

Items For Sale Why not use the power of the Leader to sell your unwanted goods or to advertise your business. Classified advertising is available on these pages from just 6 euro per entry. Email office@theleader.info

Vacancies Part-time bar maid / kitchen staff required Wednesday and Saturday for bar / restaurant in the Marina International, Torrwvieja. Please call Terry on 617 599 470.

Panache Hair and Beauty, Quesada, are seeking an Experienced Beauty Therapist / Nail Technician and an Experienced Hairdresser. Contact: Salon 966 716 690 or Mobile 645 445 249

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

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

Property for Sale Country Finca in Redovan Comprising of 2 buildings on a good size plot, each with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Plot size 500 sq mtrs. The property is in 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 condi-

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

tion 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 with its fabulous selection of bars and restaurants. It is also close to supermarkets and 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 000057. Tel 617 537 866 Redovan - Surrounded by lemon groves and fields of artichokes and broccoli, this lovely three bedroom, 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 open-

LEADER

plan 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. 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. 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

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

17

18

www.theleader.info

One

of the most important jazz festivals in Europe will be getting underway on Friday, the San Javier Jazz Festival, which will be held throughout the remainder of June and the whole of July featuring many of the world’s greatest acts, including the fabulous George Benson.

And it is worth going along even if you don’t like jazz, as the concerts that are held in the Parque Almansa in the truly magnificent atmosphere in an open-air auditorium, where you can enjoy the show regardless of the music that you follow.

The full programme will consist of 29 concerts which will take place over 17 nights between June 30th and July 30th of this year.

The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Enviroment, Javier Celdrán accompanied the Mayor of San Javier, José Miguel Luengo, the councillor of Culture, David Martínez, and the director of the Festival, Alberto Nieto presented details of the festival which celebrates its 20th edition and more than 400 nights of concerts which has included more than 2,000 elite jazz artist.

The General Director of the Instituto de las Industrias Culturales, Marta López-Briones, praised the San Javier Jazz Festival for its "investment in excellence and for being able to put San Javier and the Region of Murcia on the front row of Jazz festivals in Spain, with a modest budget." For the Minister, events like the San Javier Jazz Festival "also reinforce, the image as a quality destination of the municipality and the entire Region."

Alberto Nieto presented the latest news of the festival, which will begin on June 30th with the Mediterranean Jazz guitar of the Spanish composer Ximo Tébar who will present his latest album Soleo, alongside the singer Carmen Rodríguez. One of the most admired voices in Spain, Sole Giménez will be the second performer of the night to present her most recent album Los Hombres Sensibles. She will be joined by Antonio Carmona to pay tribute to Manolo Tena.

The Festival will begin on June 30th with the Mediterranean Jazz guitar of the Spanish composer Ximo Tébar

Saturday July 1st will feature a night of new discoveries with North American singer Charenee Wade, the new voice of Soul Jazz with a tribute to the poet Gil Scott-Heton. Chant Powell, trumpet player, singer, dancer and multi-faceted artist part of the new generation of musicians out of New Orleans will perform along with his band, a gig designed to get the audience out of their seats.

The New York singer, Allan Harris, among the top Jazz crooners in the world, will perform on July 5th with two giants of Jazz, guitarist Lee Ritenour and pianist and composer Dave Grusin, as they present Lee Ritenour's latest album A Twist of Rit. The Spanish presence will return on July 7th with a project sponsored by the San Javier Jazz Festival which joins Blues Express and

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

the great Spanish Blues musicians: Mingo Balaguer, Francisco Simón and Lluis Coloma, alongside Calfornia Blues singer Tia Carroll. The second performance of the night will feature pianist, composer and singer, Ivan Lins, one of the most prestigious Brazilian musicians in the world of Jazz and an old friend of Jazz San Javier.

North American singer Stacey Kent, one of the most respected voices in the Jazz world, will perform with her husband, British saxophonist Jim Tomlinson on July 8th, followed by Ramsey Lewis, one of the greatest Jazz pianists of all time and creator of Jazz-Funk, who returns to San Javier with his Electric Band.

Pegasus, a Jazz group formed in Barcelona in 1981, returns after their successful performance in Jazz San Javier in 2014, and for the first time they will include the voice of the American singer Monica Green to the instrumental Mediterranean sound. The night of the 14th of July will close with two great legends of Blues, guitarists Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo' who will present their new album with their band Tajmo: The Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo' Band.

The son of the great Thelonious Monk, drummer T.S. Monk leads a sextet on July 15th which will present a concert to celebrate the centennial of the great pianist, called "Monk on Monk: A Centannial of Thelonious S. Monk", with a special guest, the renowned vocalist Nnenna Freelon. The second concert of the night will star guitarist and singer John Pizzarelli, and pianist, guitarist and singer Daniel Jobim, grandson of the great Antonio Jobim, who will be remembered with a tribute to the album "Sinatra-Jobim" which is now over fifty years old.

The night of the 20th of July is reserved for George Benson, an icon of the San Javier Jazz Festival where he has performed on five previous occasions having received the love of the audience which awarded him the Festival Award during the XIII edition. Benson returns to Jazz San Javier with his band.

Percussionist Jorge Pérez leads the Fusion supergroup Patax which on the night of the 21st of July will present their intense Latin Jazz, Funk and Flamenco proposal also including special guest, American violinist Maureen Choi. On the same night you will be able to enjoy saxophonist Charles Lloyd, a living legend of jazz, who visits San Javier for the first time, where he will present his new album ‘I Long to See You’ accompanied by three great musicians, Gerald Clayton, Reuben Rogers & Eric Harland.

The programme for the 20th edition of the festival also includes the super group Fourplay who return eleven years after their first appearance at San Javier, with their well-known and admired ‘Fusion proposal’ which incorporated R&B and Pop to Jazz. On the same night of July 22nd, Texas guitarist Buddy Whitington one of the main figures of U.S. Blues and Southern Rock will perform with the Blues Rock musician from Murcia, Santiago Campillo, founder and ex-guitarist of M-Clan, and pianist Mauri Sanchís.

On the penultimate night of the Festival, July 29th we will see the Barcelona Big Blues Band with their energetic Blues, R&B, Swing and Jazz performance with special guests, saxophinist Dani Nel.lo and British tenor saxophinist and singer Ray Gelato. The night will

be completed with the most distinguished vocalist in Boston Blues, Toni Lynn Washington who will be accompanied by Italian Luca Giordano's superband with Sax Gorgon on the saxophone.

The closing night of the festival, July 30th will be dedicated to one of the European Jazz greats, Frenchman Michel Legrand, pianist, arranger, and composer of more than 200 soundtracks and songs which have become jazz classics. Michel Legrand, winner of 3 Academy Awards and 5 Grammy Awards, is the most important living French musicians and along with Charles Aznavour, the top representatives of the golden age of French music.

FREE OUTDOOR CONCERTS After last year's success, the San Javier Jazz Festival returns to the streets with free concerts in Santiago de la Ribera, La Manga del Mar Menor and San Javier. The first of the concerts will be on July 12th in San Javier's Plaza de España with Funkystep & the Sey Sisters, a band of six formidable musicians with a vocal trio formed by the three Sey sisters. On July 18th the septet of musicians from Murcia and Alicante, Zoot Suiters will take their festive Swing and Jazz to the Barnuevo boardwalk in Santiago de la Ribera. On Sunday July 23rd it will be Sammy Miller and the Congregation's turn, a band led by drummer and singer, Sammy Miller, with young musicians who perform a joyous and virtuoso jazz. Finally, on July 26th the Cuban pianist, singer and composer Lucrecia will in the Barnuevo Boardwalk in Santiago de la Ribera, "America cómo te adoro", a selection of her favourite Latin American songs, accompanied by great musicians like Cuban pianist Ramón Balle, bassist Yeltsi Heredia and German percussionist Nils Fischer.

TICKETS AND SEASON TICKETS Tickets and season tickets are currently on sale through the festival website www.festivalessanjavier.com and in the Festival Offices.

The price of the season pass will be 120€, which will not include the George Benson concert which will cost 40€, or Tajmo: Taj Mahal & Keb' Mo' Band which will cost 25€ and 20€ for season ticket holders.

The price of the rest of the performances will be 15€ for six of the nights and 20€ for the remaining five nights. The four concerts which will take place outside of the Auditorium will be free.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

19

20

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

Levante Bowls Presidents Cup

by Steve Hibberd

Quesada bowls club hosted the annual Levante Lawn Bowls Presidents Cup, 2 wood mixed triples tournament, from 17-19 June. Twelve teams from Bonalba, Horadada, Vistabella, Montemar, Greenlands, San Miguel and Quesada bowls clubs, were placed in 2 groups of 6. After 5 games in group A, Montemar just edged out Horadada on shots difference, whilst in group B, a Quesada team qualified in the same manner over Greenlands. In the final, Quesada eventually overcame Montemar by a margin of 3 shots, and were presented with the magnificent trophy by LLB president Bob Donnelly.

Vistabella bowls club The Vistabella Greener's won the Hurricane league in great style.

Congratulations to all the members of the Greener's team for their outstanding performance this season, there final game was away to the Emerald Isle Vulcans and despite knowing last week that they had won the league they still kept the pressure on and went out to finish on a high! Sheila Cox,

La Siesta Bowls Club

With Lynne Bishop Broadhurst & Brian Dunn 21-16. Beryl Sheila Whitehall & Les Barber 32-15. Ron Smith, Sue Jenkins & Dave Jenkins 23-14.

Regan, Dane Howard & Maggie Furness 16Jenny Chaplin/Del Gunning, Ken Savage & 16. Shots, VB 145(13) - 68(1) LS. Peter Whitehall 17-13. Mike Irwin, Sue VCL. The Vikings were away to La Marina Norris & Pat Rafferty 17-12. Frank Barclay, only picking up four points...quite disapPeter Cadwell & Barry Norris 16-16. Shots, pointing, but well done to the Ladies Singles VB 120(11) - 87(3) EI. Lynne Bishop for a 21-10 win and the Rinks Spitfire division Fairways still with a few team of Pauline Rafferty, Andy Leggatt, Pat games to play gained some important points Rafferty & Eric Bishop winning 19-12. from their home game Shots, VB 88(4) - 98(10) LM. against La Siesta Wasps, Tony French, The Saxons also had an off day, playing the Stuart Allman & Bill Quesada Lions at home they scraped Pain 38-7. Lin through with just one win from Mens Watkins, Mike Regan Singles Ian Kenyon of 21-13. Shots, VB & Eric Bishop 30-11.

89(2) - 120(12) Q. Olwyn Ratcliffe, Despite the heat we need to keep going so Geoff Paylor & Ken please everyone put your names down...you Cuthbert 24-8. Lynne will soon be able to have a well earned rest.

Bishop, Jenny Adiós.

Bowman & Ian Kenyon 16-10. Sandra Sponsored by Venture fleet, Rivingtons Burrows, StJohn Restaurant, One-way services & TV Choice.

By Rod Edgerton

The third match of the Ladies 4 wood pairs took place against Quesada and our ladies carried on the good work from last week and came away with a 5-0 win. Ann-Marie Stevenson & Pat Harman playing at home won 22-19 whilst Sue Mahomet and Sue Jordan were away and came away with a 15-13 win. With just two matches to go in this competition La Siesta are in a good position. Go Girls!!!

In the VCL League away against Vistabella Saxons the team only managed one win with Alan Barton beating Ian Kenyon in a nailbiting match winning by a single shot 21-20. Unfortunately this was our only win on the day but congratulation to our rinks team of Irene Laverick,Jean Hepehi,Dave Laverick and Jonnie Ball who managed 5 shots on the final end to cut the deficit in their match to 19-13.The overall result was a win for Vistabella by 106 shots to 73.

In the SABA League the Hornets were away to local rivals San Luis Hercules and the usual close contest took place. After 9 ends San Luis lead on 4 of the 6 rinks but a battling performance by the Hornets took the match down to the wire. Matches on 3 rinks being settled on the final end. For the Hornets the win by Ron Sheldon, Sid Gallup and John Ball being the most exciting and improbable as they were 5 shots behind with 3 ends remaining. Sid Gallup played excellent running bowls and skip John Ball held firm to turn a one shot deficit on the penultimate end to a win by 19-18 at the death. Liz Comstock, John and Dawn Taylor managed a 16-11 win but they only held a 1 shot lead after 17 ends. The star on the final end was Liz who bowled three exceptional lead deliveries to take the pressure off. The Hornets did not have it all their own way on the other close match where Robin Harker for San Luis bowled a great wood to beat the Hornets Triple by a single shot.

Other good results on the day for The Hornets was the trio of Penny and John Porter with John Lincoln winning by 19 shots to 13 and Jean James, Irene Laverick and John Clarke who won 24-15. The overall match result was a 10-4 win for La siesta by 109 shots to 92.

The Wasps were at home to Vistabella Greeners the best rink for the Wasps was the trio of Sue Mahomet, Jim Hudson (thank you for standing in at the last minute) and Brian Fraser?(first league bowls game for 2 years, welcome back) 22 – 10. Sheila Chorley,Vic Mahomet and Brian Harman won18-13 and our drawing rink Joy Gardiner,Irene Mangan and Sue Jordan 16-16. It was nip and tuck on 2 rinks , but overall a good performance. Shots 110 -106, Pts 7-7

La Marina Report by Barry Latham The hat trick was on and we did it by beating another of the top three sides, this time it was at home against Vistabella Vikings. More the pleasing as we are still at the bottom of the league. The score was 10-4. The Parsons couldn't keep up their romance and only Peter managed a win but it was 21-7. Dave Hadaway and Tom Spencer had a good win 19-9 after playing 21 ends. Barry Sadler, David Taylor, Roger Stacey and Dave O'Sullivan won a tight game by 1816. The most exciting ending was left for Captain Colin Armitage, Carol Smith and Lynne Armitage. Going into the last end one down, they picked up three to win by two.

So it is left in our own hands to see if we can come last but one in the final game. Seats are going quickly so please book yours now !!!

Last game for the Pilots at home to Quesada Lancasters who unfortunately, from our point of view, bombed us out of sight. We lost 10-4 leaving us, I think, in third place. A good enough season though so well bowled to everyone especially our two winning rinks this week.

Those of Mike Smith, Peter Bailey and Gina Hindle and Dave Hadaway, Arthur Cronk and Dave O'Sullivan who won 26-7. If you want a free pint ask Dave how his better half got on.

Emerald Isle Bowls Club Wed saw the Dukes playing at home to San Miguel and they had a fine win to become league champions well the Dukes they won 10-4 aggregate of 103-90 Winners were C Lindgren 21-13, P Parkes R White J Mulloy 20-12, S Wickens J Westall D Close M Odell 22-15, M Whitelock K Jolliffe M Stacey S Westall 17-11 The Earls travelled to El Rancho and came away with a very respectable 6-8 defeat aggregate of 90-95, the winners were M Foulds 21-19, J Jarvis B Eldred J Mullarkey L Fisher 23-10, R Adams P Creswell G Dyer E Shepard 15-12 Friday brought Vistabella Greeners to the Isle and they went away winners bu 11-3 aggregate of 87-120, winners were E Morris B Eldred J Mullarkey 17-15, and a draw for R Adams R Fooks F King 16-16. The Victors had a bye.......ELWYN MORRIS

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

San Luis Bowls Club

LEADER

by Sheila Cammack

Wednesday 21st June VCLeague SL Falcons were away v San Miguel Sherriffs; a close match right to the very end (which could have gone the other way), but even with Jules killing the last end so we could replay it, we couldn’t quite close the shot gap; 94-99, points 5-9. Winners: pairs; June & Keith Jones 21-10, triples; Margaret & Neil Morrison, Derrick Cooper 16-16, rinks; Shirley Verity, Sheila Cammack, Barry Edwards, Jules Pering 22-12.

Friday 23rd, Spitfire Division: SL Wellingtons were home to San Miguel Moors, and had an excellent result: shots 116-76, points 131. Winners: Carol Lowry, Les Bedford, Ray Pollock 17-14, Kath Reid, Ann Holland, Roy Cordell 27-7, Margaret & Neil Morrison, Derrick Cooper 18-16, Colin Jackson, Bill Webb, Mal Hughes 19-13, Bob White, Vic Slater, Keith Lowry 21-12, Judy Carroll, Jan & Brian Pocock 14-14.

SAN LUIS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS: Whereas some clubs may be considering reducing their entries for the coming winter season, San Luis Bowls Club is going back to 4 for the South Alicante league on a Monday and 4 for the Southern league on a Friday.

Being a competitive club does not mean that there is not room for everyone in ALL divisions to get at least one game a week. We will have 1 in Div A, 1 in Div B and 2 in Div C and it is as much the latter where we welcome players - either those who have played in the leagues and want to continue, or those who are now ready to test the water and get involved and above all enjoy the game.

Your commitment to joining San Luis BC would be needed BY 1st August with membership commencing 1st September. However by joining in July there would be no charge for August when bowling at San Luis.

For further information please contact the Club Captain - June Jones 966 188 920 or 691 903 773.

You can also check out: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com

San Miguel Bowls Club by Pat McEwan San Miguel Christians played San Luis Wellingtons at home last week taking 5 points to 9. Well done to Pat McEwan, Bob Graham, Gary Raby 21-12: Bob Nesbitt, Brenda Rees, Mike Douglas 25-15; Ken Hope, Brian Allen, Reg Cooper 17 across. Shots for San Miguel 100, against 122.

In the VCL, the Deputies were away to Emerald Isle, with only two wins. Ladies Singles, Anita Brown and in the Pairs, Pat McEwan and Ann Eagle.

This week the Christians were at home to Quesada Blenheims only managing 4 points. Well played by Peter Rees, Jim Jarvie, Noel Davis 21-17; Paul Hayward, Tom Dalgleish, Brian Allen 29-18.

Other games were all very close. Shots were close 106 to San Miguel - 108 to Quesada.

The Moors were away to San Luis Wellingtons only picking up 1 point. William Holtham, Bill Knight, Fred Willshire drew 14 all.

Shots 76 to San Miguel and 116 to San Luis.

No other results received.

Club mornings still on, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 0945 for 1015. WASPS on Wednesdays 1.30pm, numbers are falling due to the heat, a friendly afternoons bowling for only €5, including use of woods, shoes and free tuition if required.

For further information on San Miguel Bowls Club, please contact the President, Rosamond Stockell, telephone 965329778 or Secretary Pat McEwan, telephone 966714257

Greenlands Bowls Club by Dave Webb There was no VCL match this week as it was a bye, in the Levante Lawn Bowls Men’s pairs competition Dave Webb and Phil Lockley won a hard fought game against Derek Jiggins and John Rimmer at Country bowls. It all came down to the 18th end with Greenlands leading by 19 shots to 17, country bowls were in contention holding one with a measure for two, the measure favoured Greenlands ! just.

Final score 19 shots to Greenlands 18 shots against, so they will now proceed to the the semi-finals on the 8th September, In the South Alicante Hurricane Division, Gladiators were at home to Monte Mar Torreadors. Final scores were - Total shots for - 104. Against - 95.

Points for - 8. Against - 6. Winning Rinks were --- Jean Thompson, Jean Giddings, skip Dave Webb. - 33 shots to 6. Sheila Stead, Mary Lockley, skip Jim Oliver. - 26 shots to 15. Vic Young, Dave Giddings, skip Dave Thompson. - 20 shots to 10. A very pleasant game was enjoyed by all and nice to finish our last match with a well deserved win.

If you are considering leaving your present club at the end of this season then why not come to Greenlands Bowls Club. You can be assured of a warm welcome by our friendly team members, and play on one of the best surfaces around, so why not find out more by ringing Haley on 966 84 4399.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

21

www.theleader.info

Spanglish Golf Society In association with Sapphire Properties and Costa Blanca Green Fee Services at El Valle on 21st June 2017.

COEUR D’ALENE RESORT COURSE, Idaho, claims the world's only floating green COEUR D’ALENE RESORT COURSE, Idaho, claims the world's only floating green, the 14th, which gets pulled in or pushed out each day. Golfers are ferried out and back in a gleaming mahogany and brass motor boat. A massage therapist awaits on the driving range to help them warm-up before they blast floating range balls at floating flags on the lake, afterwards gliding off with their caddies in de-luxe buggies complete with refreshments and heated seats. The course itself, a 6,803 yd par 71, is festooned with thousands of geraniums and carpeted in perfect bent grass. After the round and a 15setting shower in their suite, the five star restaurant awaits them.

Very nice. How much? If you have to ask, etc., EVEN TOP GOLFERS don’t want to play golf all the time. Luke Donald majored in art at University and is a whiz with a paintbrush.

Tiger Woods is into spear fishing and scuba diving, Nick Faldo loves a spot of fly fishing and Adam Scott heads for the beach when Surfs Up. Graeme McDowell has founded a brewery together with Keegan Bradley and Freddie Jacobson. Calling it the Golfbeer Brewing Co, they have each created a craft beer; McDowell’s is called ‘Celtic Pale Ale.’ Sound idea. If you want a hobby a brewery beats stamp collecting every time.

THE OLDEST WINNER of the Open Championship in modern times was Argentinian Roberto de Vicenzo, who captured the title at Hoylake in 1967 aged 44. Padraig Harrington (45) is hoping to beat that record at Royal Birkdale next month. In 2008 on the same course he successfully defended the Open title he had won the previous year at Carnoustie, when he beat Sergio Garcia in a playoff.

Wind and rain had buffeted Royal Birkdale all week, and on the Saturday 50-mph gusts had spectators and players alike struggling to stand upright. The Dubliner sealed the title with an eagle. Hitting a five-wood 273 yds on the par-five 17th, the downhill lie gave a low trajectory which would cheat the wind, and his perfect contact left the ball three feet above the pin.

Oddly enough, Padraig nearly didn’t play in the 2008 Open after

injuring his wrist hitting a beanbag the week before, and his participation this year was in doubt after an amateur (one of Sergio’s relations?) clouted him on the elbow with a driver. Coincidence? He could be worth an outside bet.

TWO-TIME MAJOR champion Greg Norman took a shot at golf commentators recently, remarking: “The commentators on TV are boring. The monotonous voices saying everyone’s hit a great shot and everyone’s got the greatest short game in the world. I turned the sound off with The Masters and just watched.” Could it be that Greg wasn’t offered the job.

Poor Sir Nick Faldo tweeted: “I think I need a hug.”

PHIL MICKELSON – “Whether its players, caddies, the media - we all want to build up the game and nobody built it up more than Tiger did. When I won the Tucson Open in the 90’s the entire purse was $1 million, first place $180,000. I remember thinking: ‘I wonder if someday we’ll play for a $1 million first place, probably not in my lifetime.’ Now every week there’s a million-plus first place cheque.

That’s due to Tiger.”

Mickelson has made over $80 million just on the course in his career, which is a lot of first places. Even his caddie (or ex-caddie) Bones is a millionaire.

THREE WEEKS OF TOP CLASS links golf kicks off on 9th July with the Irish Open at Portstewart, followed by the Scottish Open at Dundonald and The Open at Royal Birkdale. Portstewart has a spectacular front nine and is called a hidden gem (not another one!)

The welcome leaflet tells spectators that ”There is a short walk of about 300m to the Hospitality Tent, if you find it difficult to walk and are in need of assistance let us know.” The spectators might be able to walk there, but knowing Irish hospitality they may well need assistance walking back.

For this months meeting the Spanglish Golf Society and a group of 22 players visited the established course at El Valle taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

The weather was extremely hot and the course in good condition but scoring proved difficult for all.

The winning scores on the day were as follows: 1st – Brian Burnard – 33 points, 2nd – Jack Fanning – 30 points 3rd – Mike Probert – 28 points Silver Category: 1st – Morten Kristensen – 33 points Nearest the Pins – Birkett,Svensen,Burnard and Kristensen Best Front 9 – Jan Svensen – 17 points Best Back 9 – Mick Nelson -14 points, Football Card - Svensen After the game we returned to the Spanglish bar, which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada for a welcome snack prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their support and that of our sponsor Sapphire Properties.

Our next friendly day fixture is at Vistabella on 5th July 2017 and the monthly meeting is at Lo Romero on 19th July 2017.

If you are interested in joining the society call Paul Cawte on 966731223 or Graham Hall on 664 692 638 or better still pop into the bar.

Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at: www.costa-blanca-greenfees.com

Cadena Sunrise 10 - Pin Bowling Week 35 - 21st June Gi Gi's Hookers The Bandits Alley Gators S***T Happens Pin Pals

8 2 6 6 0

-

0 6 2 2 8

Sol Amigos Pin Pushers Alley Cats 999's Sunrise Colegas

Top Performers

Ladies

Gents

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

Sue Allen 168 Sue Allen 212 Sue Allen 437 Sandra Baker 614

Gary Walsh 224 Gary Walsh 244 Gary Walsh 575 John Fowles 644

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

P W D 105 88 0 105 80 1 105 79 0 105 76 2 105 75 1 105 71 1 105 70 0 105 58 1 105 53 0 105 47 0

Gms 105 105 105 105 105 102 105 105 105 105

L 52 59 61 62 64 68 70 81 87 93

Tot 79803 79608 79210 79856 78957 75016 78905 77341 77906 77087

Av Hi-G Hi-S 760 858 2431 758 881 2466 754 869 2402 760 901 2485 751 857 2418 757 881 2412 751 902 2472 736 823 2391 741 855 2424 734 823 2383

Pts 176 161 158 154 151 143 140 117 106 94

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

League Champions - Gi Gi's Hookers

ROCKETS GOLF SOCIETY - JUNE HOME GAME Short journey to Vistabella to play a Stableford with a good turnout.

Some decent scores we presented with A Williams taking the Gold Category with 33 points followed in Second place by R Chambers with 32 points, and in third place R Smith with 30 Points.

In the Silver Category Ken Hopkins scored 35 points to take First place with Rocket Ron Second with 30 points and Andy Billings taking third place with28 points Nearest Pins Hole 4 & Hole 8 Andy Billings, Chris Johnson, Hole 15 Longest Drive R Smith.

Our next game is at Altorreal on the 27th June first tee 10.00am After the game we returned to Bar Patricia for the presentation.

If anyone would like to join our friendly society give Ron a ring on 678 849 142 or email sanmigron@gmail.com The photo is of the Silver Cat Winners

Back row - John Skinner and Maurice Allen Front row - Eunice Letts, Margaret Collins and Sue Allen

22

www.theleader.info

Las Ramblas Golf Society On Monday we played The “Dusty Bin” and the team with the winning score of 92 were Bryan Neal, Mike Chapman, Han Van Loon and Peter Reffell.

Wednesday was “Captains Day” Pairs Comp. 2 Ball Better Ball and the results were as follows.

1st John Shervell and Peter Radcliff 45pts.

2nd Peter Wickham and Brian Dent 42pts on a count back.

3rd Ron Phipps and Mike Chapman 42pts 2´s Club, Only one, Olga Douglas.

Nearest the Pin on the 6th Mike Chapman, 10th Olga Douglas, 12th Peter Radcliff, 14th John Shervell Ladies nearest the Pin in 2 on the 12th Ann Marie Weisheit Men nearest the Pin in 2 on the 15th Lindsay Forbes Drinks and snacks were available on the 10th Tee. Drinks and Prizes provided by the President Dave Pulling and the food was kindly provided by Alan & Olga Douglas. Julia Dobson volunteered to dish it out to a hungry and thirsty mob! Another successful day at the office!

On Friday we played a 4 Ball Texas Scramble and the winning team with a score of 59,4 were Terry Field, Bryan Neal, Pete Dunn and Brian Dent.............Mike Mahony

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

‘UNMENTIONABLES’ So what do you call them?

The J.Arthur Rank, the Lucy Locket, the socket or the shank.

Whatever it is, forget the top, the hook, the slice or the total miss because the shank is the most destructive shot in the golfers armoury.

Why is this?

Well the answer is simple not only does the shot ruin any chance that you have of having a good golf score on the day but it immediately impacts on your confidence.

Everyone that has had a shank will know the feelings that you have as a golfer when you try and play the next shot with an iron club.

This affliction is not limited to the amateur because you may recall that at a British Open Championship at Troon Darren Clarke hit a shank with a 2- iron on the second hole which ended up on the beach and he was leading the tournament at the time.

Similarly in the Volvo Masters at Valderrama in 1987 Sandy Lyle shanked his 3rd shot to the notorious 17th hole while also leading the event.

He did however go on to win the event after a play-off with Colin Montgomerie.

So what causes a shank?

Let us remove one misconception before we start.

It is stated that a shank is almost a perfect golf shot.

What a load of rubbish, there are technical reasons within your swing that causes you to shank the ball.

Let me get the technical bit out of the way first.

A shank is usually caused because the golfer is standing too far away from the ball and this has the impact of throwing you forward on to your toes during your downswing, especially if you are also throwing your shoulders at the ball and coming over the top.

The first thing to do is to stand a little closer to the ball and a simple method is to ensure that your shoulders are over your knees, which in turn are over your shoe laces.

Additionally there is a simple practise method, which involves playing a few shots with something under your left toe, a ball or a club shaft will do.

This will help you to turn through on your left heel because you can’t

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

637 227 385

LEADER La Marina GS President’s Trophy Med Bar Golf Society, El Raso

Unfortunately, due to illnesses of wives and pets, a slightly depleted field met in scorching temperatures to compete for the President's trophy at the incomparable lo Romero course.

The two runners up, Pete Wootton with 39 points and Geoff Ettridge with 37 points might, on another day, have been winners, but for the second year running, Sarah McCabe produced a handicap-busting round, accumulating 43 points to re-take the trophy. A brilliant round in difficult conditions.

Winners of nearest the pins were Norman Pickett and two to Graeme Buchannan.

Prize -giving was delayed until the excellent dinner/ dance at the la marina sports centre where a very tasty 3-course meal was served by Helena and her staff. Music was provided by the classy diverse duo and I’m pleased to report that some people fell over each other to reach the dance floor.

Our next meeting is at Vistabella on 6th July, first tee 0928 at a cost of 35euros. The list is on the board as usual or contact Alan Craig on 634 347 788 or a100ac@yahoo.co.uk.

(Sponsored by Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs). fall forward if you put your weight into your heel.

To overcome the mental problems cause by the shank you should start by having trust in the technique to overcome the shot and play with a positive intent and commit to all iron shots.

It is vital that you start to visualise shots flying onto the green and landing softly.

You must stay in the present and forget the bad shots that have happened and you will find that this bad shot disappears as quickly as it arrived.

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

The deals shown in the table are some of the best currently available to you.

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

Price €104 €82 €86 €90 €94 €112 €80 €110 €38 €92 €136 €94 €35 €70 €93 €102 €90 €62

Comments 2 Players and Buggy 2 Green Fees and Buggy (after 12pm) 2 Players and Buggy (from 9/6/17) 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy (after 12pm) 2 Players and Buggy (from 12/6/17) 2 Players and Buggy Single Green Fee 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy Single Green Fee (after 1.30pm) 2 Green Fees and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy (after 2pm) 2 Players and Buggy 2 Green Fees and Buggy 2 Players and Buggy (weekends)

For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 Hollow Tine Watch The following courses are hollow tining: Las Colinas and La Manga North.

Quotation of the Week “The more I practice the luckier I get” Gary Player

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

Las Colinas Individual stapleford An early start as we all met up on El Raso to make our way to Las Collinas at 7.30 in the morning, surprisingly, everyone turned up in time and we made it to the course in time for coffee before our 8.30 tee off As usual at this course, everything was set up and ready for us to enjoy the days golf with most members taking advantage of the free pyramid of range balls to hit The day belonged to bill martin, who, had an excellent day as you will see by the results listed below: Results for this outing: Gold division and overall winner was bill martin, runner up Ray Muttock Silver division winner was John Evans, runner up Buck Taylor Nearest the pins on par 3: Robert Litten hole 5 , hole 7 Laurie Woodroof, hole 10 Joe Mayne, hole 14 Andy Trefry and hole 17 Ray Batey Nearest pin in 2 on par 4: Bill Martin Longest drive hole 18: Bill Martin Nearest the pin in 3 on par 4: Bill Martin 2`s pot, 90 Euros, was split between Andy Trefry and Joe Mayne Football card winners: tony Roberts and Gary Goulder Once all golf was finished, we all had a small beer that was included in the price of the day in the lovely surrounds of the club house Once that was consumed, we all returned to the med bar & bistro in El Raso where we were joined by family and friends and all had a good time and enjoyed the buffet provided by Steve and his staff Many thanks to GLAM-R-US and staff on el raso for sponsoring the society on the day. Thanks to Steve and his staff at the med bar and bistro, our next outing is at altereal on 12 July.

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

Carp R Us Fishing News Round Six of the Summer Series was fished the Embalse de Pedrera on a very warm day, with a breeze that caused problems for those on the right hand side of the point.

The club welcomed new member Phil Steeper plus two members fishing for the first time this series after recovering from operations and injuries.

The match was won by the returning Andy Foden with 13.26kg of carp caught on feeder and pellet. And is the sixth different winner in the six matches of the series.

Second was Steve Fell with 7.94 kg of carp and bleak, third was Alan Smith with 6.92 kg and fourth Mark Foden with 6.80 kg.

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

SUDUKO SOLUTION

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

23

British success in Spanish leg of Supermoto World Championships This was the first time ever that a British rider has stood on the top step of the S4 European Supermoto championship rostrum.

British racer Anthony Ford-Dunn

The world Supermoto championship came to Spain over the weekend to Race at the dramatic Albaida circuit in the province of Valencia. Murcia based British racer Anthony Ford-Dunn was competing in the S4 road class against world class opposition and produced an outstanding display of hard racing to come away with the overall win and 4th place in the championship.

Anthony qualified in second position on the grid for the first of his two races on the Advance Moves International Removals sponsored Supermotoland.com machine. Whilst qualifying on the front row of the grid was a great advantage, Anthony had a disastrous start to the first race and after much jostling he emerged 9th from the first corner. Then the pressure was on and Anthony had to put some hard moves in to overtake other competitors as quickly as possible. The racing was tough with a few overtakes even involving running onto the grass but Anthony came through the pack

to finish in 3rd position at the flag.

The second race start was better with Anthony in fourth place and then fighting to second position but unable to catch the leader. However after the second race the leaders bike was found to breach technical control and he was penalised 2 positions which gave Anthony the race win and the overall win from the two races.

For the first time ever a British rider stood upon the top step of the S4 European Supermoto championship rostrum. Anthony was overwhelmed with the win and he is now looking forward to the final round of the championship in Italy during July.

With Anthony working as an instructor at the Supermotoland.com race school where he teaches others how to ride supermoto bikes whilst enjoying their holiday in Spain , he will have plenty of time to practice and hone his skills in preparation for his chance to take the European championship title.

T.M.G.S. @ Roda Golf 21/6/17 average scoring, however there were some who apparently thrive on such conditions with 3 members bettering their handicaps.

The course could certainly not be called to fault, it was in excellent condition.

Last week’s player with the best score, Sverre Sonesen, couldn’t match it today so has decided to make his way home to sunny Norway until October.

However a couple of Viking did manage to make a podium position and reduce their handicaps.

Results: N.T.P’s, Hole 2 J. Dean, Hole 7 K. Winton, Hole 11 R. Nilsen, Hole 13 Nada. Best Visitor Mrs. C. Markey with just 22 points. Bronze category, 3rd M. Kennedy 28 pts. 2nd G. Sorby 31 pts. 1st R. Nilsen 37 pts. Silver cat 3rd A. Rickers 28 pts. 2nd L. Jorung 35 pts. 1st D. Sullivan 39 pts. Gold cat, 3rd K. Winton 31 pts.

2nd S. Sonesen 32 pts. 1st J. Dean 34 pts.

Photo: Bronze cat. Winners.

For further info visit www.tmgs.org or @TMGSGOLF Facebook/TMGSGOLF contact our Secretary on 661 524 101

Bronze cat.

Winners.

Roda was in excellent condition for our Stableford competition, 32 members and guests trekked down the AP7 for 30 mins or so to arrive in time to tee off just a little after 9am.

It would appear that early starts don’t really suite everyone or could it be the high temperatures that affected the concentration resulting in some very

24

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 26th June - Sunday 2nd July, 2017

www.theleader.info

LEADER

10% off with this ad