Costa blanca leader edition 678

No 678

Monday 7th - Sunday 13th August, 2017

Tel: 637 227 385

ORIHUELA COSTA DEMANDS FAIR DEAL

esidents turn out in force on Friday in front of the Playa Flamenca Town Hall to demand a better deal for the Orihuela Costa.

Organised by the Association of Residents and Merchants

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"Movimiento Ciudadano La Zenia" over 150 coastal residents took part in a peaceful demonstration in support of “A fair deal for the Orihuela Costa.�

This is the second time that such a demonstration has been held in recent years.

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Organiser Felix Arenas unfurling one of the banners From Page 1 Orihuela Costa Demo The previous one in July of 2014 saw over a hundred residents protesting on the roundabout in front of La Zenia Boulevard, demanding better services for the people of the Orihuela Costa.

Friday’s demonstration was held for essentially the same purpose, to once again insist that the City Council recognise the Orihuela Costa and its growing number of residents, particularly when making budget allocations.

Association President, Félix Arenas, said on the Town Hall steps that he was delighted to see such a positive turnout.

“People are tired of hearing the same promises and the same excuses from Orihuela politicians, who are denounced virtually every day on social media sites for the lack of importance they place on the coast. Our Facebook page is full of photographs showing the deplorable state of the coastal area which the authorities constantly ignore.”

Residents claim that there is an unfair and disproportionate distribution of the municipal budgets regarding the Orihuela Costa, and a lack of transparency in councillors responding to the letters and complaints that are regularly submitted.

As well as deploring the state of cleanliness on the coast they also demanded better safety measures and pedestrian signalling at the crossings along the Villamartín Ctra., the completion of the emergency centre in the Orihuela Costa, the removal of the toll on the AP-7 as it passes through La Zenia, and the replacement of the bus stop previously removed in La Zenia.

Following speeches in front of the Town Hall the protestors moved inside, grateful to be out of the sun, where they took up residence for over an hour in the salon, and where speeches continued from rally organisers.

The arrival of the mayor, Emilio Bascuñana, was greeted with booing from some members of the audience, but when he put down the microphone and threatened to leave, all went quiet. Most of what he did say put the blame on previous governments, but he stated that resi-

dents on the coast would see improvements with the approval of the 2017 budget.

One further assurance he gave was the construction of a Multicultural centre which he said had already been allocated 50,000 euro. He also confirmed the reinstatement of the bus stop in La Zenia and completion of the Emergency Centre, which he said would shortly be put out to tender.

A voluble Spanish resident was clearly unimpressed as he stood and left the salon shouting ‘Blah, blah, blah,’ presumably his non too inspiring opinion on what the mayor had to say!

Coinciding with Friday’s demonstration was the press release from the Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa (FAOC) demanding a better deal for the Coast in the 2017 budget, which is still to be approved

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But having analysed the provisional budget allocations recently announced by the council FAOC say that it is clear to see that the coast will continue to suffer a significant deficit, which will be reflected in a lack of policing, cleanliness, refuse collection and road safety as well as the in the funding allocated to celebrations and fiestas.

They state that the staff operating from the Town Hall in Playa Flamenca will be unable able to ad to their number as is required, and both the maintenance and the infrastructure will remain at a level which is well below requirements.

There is also concern and disappointment that such important matters as the collection of waste and street and urban cleaning, will continue to deteriorate, given its low funding, so that residents will continue to suffer from the inadequacies tcaused by a lack of municipal employees on the coast, from machines and containers, as well as the inadequate system for the collection of garden waste and bulk rubbish, regularly seen scattered across the streets of the coast for long periods of time.

Similarly the budget for Beaches is totally insufficient to undertake the necessary investments that are required with regards to access, particularly for the infirm and disabled, beach furniture and cleanliness, in order to

Demonstrators flood into the town hall

by the Orihuela Council. They say that the element allocated to the coastal region falls far short of its needs.

The Group adds that it does not intend to enter into debate about how much should be allocated to the coast, nor of the comparative grievances with regard to the allocation as it is divided up, but what it does insist upon is that the council must cover the needs of each, and in so doing they must also recognise the very different needs of the Orihuela Costa.

FAOC also highlight the debacle regarding the increase in IBI, Property Tax, where the residents of Orihuela pay one of the highest tax rates in the area (0.75%), compared to Torrevieja (0.425% ), Pilar de la Horadada (0.517%), San Pedro del Pinatar (0.690%) and San Miguel de las Salinas (0.65%).

keep them at the same level of quality as our neighbours.

Nor is there funding available for the construction of the frequently promised Multicultural Centre, staff to manage the Citizen Participation Centre (former reading point), so that it can be opened and the local population encouraged to use it, and the too few sports areas on the coast which will remain abandoned and unavailable to the local youth, as will the council’s promises of the construction of a football field and a skate park.

The section covering Coastal Investment also treats the Orihuela Costa very badly, where, of the additional income for 2017, a total of almost 14 million euros, all of it derived from the sale of public land on the coast, only 2 million euros, or 15% of the total, will be allo-

cated to the coast, to be used for the refurbishment of the seafront (500,000 euros), tarmac roads (the 500,000 euros allocated is far below the amount required), improvement of Contracts for maintenance of parks, gardens (300,000 euros), and other areas.

All these observations and requests, which still remain unresolved, were presented to the mayor in September of last year prior to the preparation the 2017 Budgets. Now it is clearly evident that this was nothing more than a marketing operation by the Ayuntamiento.

FAOC and its associates, through this statement, wish to The mayor addressing the protesters

make public the voice of the coastal communities, who feel betrayed by the budgets that, far from reducing the historical deficit that they constantly suffer in services and infrastructures, will only enlarge the gap between the city and the coast.

However, it seems now, that at long last, the Coastal Assns are beginning to come together which can only be good for the residents of the coast as they strive to secure a fair deal for the Orihuela Costa, and the fact that the mayor was able to see the strength of feeling at Friday’s demonstration should certainly see him thinking hard when making future allocations!

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Safeguard your SIP Card If your Padrón is not up to date you could lose your entitlement to local services including FREE HEALTHCARE

By Raymond Kearney

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any expats living in Spain have SIP (health) cards and are entitled to free medical treatment and medicines at drastically reduced prices. The Spanish medical system is first class, far better than the Irish system and the British NHS. But did you know that there is a direct link between SIP cards, the padrón and NIE numbers. Central government have now decided that expats who received medical treatment, but whose padrón is out of date, will be invoiced for that medical treatment.

Sofia Álvarez, the Orihuela councillor for foreign residents, together with the councillor for health and statistics, Noelia Grau, explained at a recent meeting with community leaders, that by law, EU citizens must renew the padrón (census) every 5 years and non-EU citizens every 2 years. Simply go to the padrón office in the Playa Flamenca town hall, with an hour to spare, and take a ticket. You will need your passport or identity card and something to prove that you are still living at your address, for example a suma, electricity or water bill, and your padrón will be renewed, and this automatically renews your NIE as well.

Every October our local town hall must send the padrón list to the National statistics office (INI) in Madrid. The town hall gets much of its funding based on the number of people on the padrón. Sofia Álvarez pointed out that greater numbers on the padrón mean greater services in this community.

Each year the INI send approximately 5,000 names back to our town hall with instructions to send the local police door to door to

Noelia Grao and Sofia Alvarez, councillors for Health and International Residents, emphasised the importance of the Padrón

establish that each of those names actually live at the addresses specified. If the property looks deserted, if nobody is at home or a neighbour says that the named person does not live there, then that person will be removed from the padrón. Normally the names checked are the ones that have not been recently renewed.

Many, who do not want to be tax resident outside their home country, assume that signing on the census (padrón) requires them to become a tax resident. This is not correct. Once you are on the census for three months you are required to become a resident (Residencia), which is not the same as a TAX resident. Although you can obtain a SIP card once you have signed on the padrón, the SIP card is technically only valid for three months until you obtain “Residencia”. This is why a SIP card can be cancelled if the padrón is not renewed.

Besides health care, other benefits of being “in the system” include the right to vote in local and European elections and also there are large inheritance tax discounts available to residents. On the subject of Brexit, Sofia Alvarez expressed the opinion that British owners of Spanish property, who are properly registered on the padrón, will get preferential treatment over those who are not. So don’t delay, register or renew your padrón today.

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Las Filipinas says no to Mosque Mar Menor complaints actioned within 48 hours T were able to act quickly”.

Boats at anchor on the Mar Menor

On Monday the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Javier Celdrán, chaired the second meeting of the Committee of Social Participation of the Mar Menor, where he reported that his department had received 30 complaints about the salt lagoon in the last 20 days.

"Most of them," he said, "were related to the quality of sand,

water or the marinas and were resolved, or at least acknowledged in less than 48 hours."

Celdrán spoke of the mobile phone application, CONECTAmbiental, which was being used by the public to notify of these incidents "making a very simple tool available to both residents, in order to make their complaints, and to the administration who, as a result,

Also discussed during the meeting, was the state of water quality in the salt lagoon, which, according to scientific monitoring data provided by the Ministry "indicated that chlorophyll and water turbidity were at their lowest level since August 2016, although the average water transparency is displaying ??much better values than those in August last year when it was about a meter. It is currently placed around the four meters mark ".

The group also debated measures to be introduced that will combat the irregular moorings on the Mar Menor thereby preventing damage to this natural area.

Celdrán also reported on the results of the work carried out by the special cleaning brigades, which since 21 April have removed 430 cubic meters of algae waste from the beaches and natural spaces of the salt lagoon and a further 142 cubic meters of other non-organic waste.

The removal of algae has also been carried out on the beaches from Playa Honda, Mar de Cristal, Islas Menores, Los Nietos, Estrella de Mar, Los Urrutias, Punta Brava and Cavanna , among others.

“Many of these environmental activities are purely voluntary, helping to better maintain the natural areas of the Mar Menor.

They also make people aware that they must respect our natural spaces and beaches and leave behind no waste. The first-class state of the Mar Menor is a matter for us all, "concluded the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment.

he residents of Las Filipinas de Alhama have collected over 1300 signatures in opposition to the construction of a mosque which is due to be built in la calle Isla Cebú The place of worship would replace an old carpentry workshop said the deputy mayor, Diego Conesa, with money that has been donated from the Muslim community itself. Conesa also confirmed that "The town Council has not provided any subsidy, or help to this group," despite the claims of some residents.

Whilst he appreciated the displeasure shown by many residents he added that he intends to mediate between the two groups in the hope that a satisfactory outcome might be found.

The council official emphasised, however, that there is no municipal regulation excluding this type of facility. "If all the requirements are fulfilled, we cannot refuse to provide an opening license," he said.

At the moment, the Muslim group has only Residents have collected over 1300 signatures against the mosque

requested a certificate of habitability for the warehouse where it could be located.

The councillor insists on the need to "build a bridge for coexistence," words that he hopes will be will seriously considered by both the Muslim group and local residents in the coming days.

The residents have resurrected their neighbourhood association that had been closed for some years, in order to prevent the installation of the mosque close to their homes.

"We will do whatever it takes to keep the mosque from being put here," said Isabel Serrano, who owns the house that adjoins the warehouse. The neighborhood believes that if the mosque is buit in the area they will have no more peace. "At the moment we already have more than 1,300 signatures that support our stance, and we are collecting more and more each day", she said.

Diego Conesa says that he has received assurances from the Muslim group that the daily attendance will not exceed 20 or 30 people, except during Ramadan.

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Seven months guarding the Callosa Cross The custodians of la Cruz de los Caídos, the Cross of the Fallen in Callosa del Segura, have now maintained their vigil for 7 months.

After the depths of winter they are now having to endure the oppressive heat of the summer as they maintain their presence by the iconic monument, situated in Plaza de España, directly outside St Martin’s church, so as to prevent its removal by the town council.

With rosary beads in one hand and their mobile phone in the other they say they will not allow the monument to be moved from its present location as they continue with their peaceful resistance. As they share moments of prayer one member of the group said that “the cross represents their Christian values. We have to remain vigilant at all times in case we have to raise the alarm and call in neighborhood reinforcements.”

They fear that at any moment the cranes will return to try to take the Cross away, something that the municipal government wants to do,

based, they say, on the Law of Historical Memory.

After almost a year and a half the debate is still as heated as ever with opinions as still wide as they ever have been.

Mediation meetings to address the whole issue are currently in deadlock, however it is hoped that they will resume in September.

Meanwhile the Generalitat of Valencia has said that it supports the removal of the Cross even though although it no longer bears Francoist plaques and as such the General Directorate of culture and heritage has given the go-ahead for its move to ‘a more appropriate place’.

The cross has long been a focal point for demonstrations organised

by Spain’s fascist movement, the Falange (“Phalanx”), who, for many years have demanded that it remains in place in the centre of the town.

However those demonstrations took place while the cross still carried Commemorative engravings and plates in support of the phalanx, removed in 2016, as well as a carving which alluded to José Antonio Primo De Rivera, who formed the organisation in 1933.

The Generalitat has now confirmed, however, that the cross would be better situated in the town cemetery. The Directorate of Culture and Heritage says that the council is within its rights to move the cross and has its full support.

Mayor, Fran Maciá, has indicated that the council will continue with its plans to do so.

He said that a technical commission of experts has proposed two alternatives, either the town cemetery or the museum

San Fulgencio Coastal Clean Up Volunteers from San Fulgencio and Guardamar filled about 35 sacks of rubbish last Sunday as they spent the morning cleaning a section of the coast from the Costa 21 restaurant in Urbanisation La Marina, Camino del Rebollo, to the Segura estuary.

The event was organised by a holidaymaker, Kai Engels, who has lived in San Fulgencio for 23 years.

Kai also has a holiday home in the south of France where she was the founder of the French Association Natur'Ille, for the protection of Nature.

Having rounded up her grand-daughter and a group of ten friends the group set about their task to be joined during the course of the morning by volunteer youths from Guardamar who were spending their Sunday morning doing exactly the same thing.

Kai is also an ambassador of the Eco Organisation FriendSeaWorld, a world-wide organisation that are committed to combat the scourge of human pollution on the beaches and seas of the planet.

She told the Leader that the morning was spent cleaning in the name of both organisations and that

she intends to do the same again when she is back in the area later in the year.

If you would like to join Kai when she next takes to the coast to collect waste you can contact her by email at: kaimarja@hotmail.com

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Woman escapes sword attack

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man has been arrested in Torrevieja for attempting to kill his partner with a catana, a ceremonial sword, causing injuries to her face as well as deep cuts to her arms and shoulders.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when the Guardia Civil responded to an emergency call made by a neighbour. A 25 year old man, of Columbian nationality, was arrested at the scene.

When the patrol arrived at the house, the woman who made the call was waiting for them at the entrance to the apartment. On entering the accommodation the agents then found a young man who was holding a woman in the hall. Both were covered with blood, and as the agents moved into the building the alleged attacker was quickly separated from the victim.

The woman, who was the subject of several injuries, was transferred to Torrevieja hospital while the man was remanded and charged with attempted murder. She is said to have deep cuts to her cheekbone with an already bulging bruise, and

deep wounds on the left forearm and right shoulder.

The neighbour who made the emergency call, a friend of the couple, told the Civil Guard that she had seen the man repeatedly stabbing the victim with a catana. Her statement was later corroborated by the victim. Although covered in blood, the man himself is said to have had no wounds.

The agents said that on entering the house the attacker offered no resistance. He was immediately restrained after which the victim was rendered first aid. The catana, said to have a 21 cm blade, was located at the scene which was said to be steeped in blood The Guardia have since confirmed that the individual was previously arrested last March for another assault on his partner. At the trial, however, the woman did not want to charge her partner, so the case was dropped.

The attacker is currently being held by the Guardia Civil and is expected to be remanded in custody when he appears in court in the coming days.

The AP7 toll at La Zenia

Demand for motorway toll subsidies Until such time as the tolls are removed from the AP-7 in January 2020 the Generalitat has told the Government that drivers across the whole of the Valencia Community should be entitled to the same level of subsidies on their toll roads as is currently the case in Catalonia.

The Director General of Public Works, Carlos Domingo, believes that the Catalonia-Government agreement "once again demonstrates the discriminatory treatment applied by the Mariano Rajoy government to the citizens of the Valencian Community, by not including the Valencian sections in the scheme that carry the very same charges." He said that there is even more of a case for subsidies to be introduced in the Community as the N-340 and the N-332 are two of the most dangerous state roads in Spain, and subsidies on the AP7 would provide more motorists with a far safer alternative."

Domingo has insisted that "Valencians and users

of the AP-7 should receive exactly the same treatment in terms of investments and subsidies, so we ask that Central Government respects and treats the Valencian Territory on an equal basis".

The Mediterranean motorway, or AP-7, is a route that connects all the Mediterranean coast from the border with France down to Algeciras. This motorway is part of the network of European Highways known as E-15 and has a number of toll sections although most of it is free.

The first section of the motorway was openedin 1969 between Barcelona and Granollers. Five concessionaires manage the operation of the toll sections on the motorway: Abertis from the French border to Alicante, Ciralsa around Alicante. Ausur for the CrevillenteCartagena section. Aucosta for the section between Cartagena-Vera and Ausol for the section Fuengirola-Guadiaro.

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Conselleria refuse aircon for San Miguel School not to fit air conditioning units into the nursery and primary classrooms as "erroneous and arbitrary."

She said that she deplored the "unjustified refusal" of the Territorial Directorate of Education, which was undoubtedly made from an air-conditioned office, especially as she was told that the request raised by the School Board would be treated sympathetically. The councillor questioned "why, having processed all the documentation requested by the Department the children have been denied.”

San Miguel council have said that the decision not to install air-conditioning into the infant/junior school, Colegio Gloria Fuertes de San Miguel de Salinas is ridiculous and it must be urgently reconsidered.

In a statement to the local media the councillor for education, Maria Jose Costa, called the decision

Costa said that the request was an absolute necessity since "during the months of September, October, May and June there are unacceptably high temperatures in the classrooms.". She said that in other similar facilities the installation of aircon has been authorised so why the Conselleria refusing the application from San Miguel.

In responding the refusal the councillor demanded that the conselleria reconsider their decision which she said was “erroneous, arbitrary and unmotivated” and not in the best interests of either the children or the staff.

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The San Miguel de Salinas council has asked the Provincial Fire Department and the Department of the Environment to make permanent the allocation of a Fire Tender which is made during the summer months to Pilar de la Horadada.

They say that the allocation could serve equally the three local towns of Pilar de la Horadada, San Miguel de Salinas and the Orihuela Costa. The close proximity of the Sierra Escalona, an important Natural Park and environmental resource, is another reason why the permanent deployment should be made.

Currently the Consortium of Firefighters provides

Sierra Escalona

T

he Green Card or International Insurance Card is an internationally recognised document that proves the holder has the minimum compulsory insurance required by law of the country visited. It helps facilitate the movement of their vehicle across international borders. It also guarantees that victims of road traffic accidents involving foreign registered vehicles are compensated in the country of the accident.

The Green Card System The Green Card System comprises of over 40 countries. National vehicle organisations within the Green Card System including the EU, the EEA, Switzerland, Russia and several countries around the Middle East and North Africa.

However, a Green Card is not required to travel through the EEA, Andorra, Norway, Croatia and Switzerland.

The Green Card Bureau Each Green Card Bureau is responsible for handling and guaranteeing the settling of claims arising from traffic accidents caused by visiting motorists.

If you are travelling outside the European Community to one of the countries listed as requiring a Green Card, you will need to ask your insurance company to issue you a Green Card beforehand.

Road accident If you’re involved in a road traffic accident in a a fire tender to Pilar de la Horadada from July 15, for the months of August and September which is located with the Policia Local. On days with a high risk of fire the fire truck carries out fire prevention tasks across the neighbourhood.

San Miguel defibrillators

San Miguel council has said that in September it will provide courses to all residents on the correct use of defibrillators Last week’s Plenary approved the acquisition of two mobile defibrillators that will be provided for the Centro de Deportivo and as a mobile unit which will be given to the Local Police.

The Consistory will then make available a workshop, which open to all residents, who wish to learn how the devices should be used.

The Department of Health say that in due course they want to see defibrillators in place in all municipal buildings as well as all centres of education.

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International Insurance Card

Travelling outside the EU

Calls for Horadada fire tender to be made permanent

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country requiring a Green Card, make sure the police are called to the scene of the accident. You will need a copy of the police report. If you don’t understand what you’re being told, request an interpreter. We also advise that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible, whether you want to make a claim or not. Make notes of what happened. Take photographs of the accident, including plates of vehicles involved. Exchange insurance details as you would in Spain. Take down the names and addresses of any witnesses.

Never admit liability or apologise.

We hope the information provided in this article is of interest.

If you would like to contact Linea Directa please call 902 123 139 More information about Linea Directa online at www.lineadirecta.com

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Santa Pola Police Chief finally suspended Its been over four weeks since he was first arrested but the mayor of Santa Pola has now formally suspended her chief of police, José Miguel Zaragoza, and two agents, for their alleged involvement in a case in which they are currently being investigated by the Economic and Fiscal Crime Unit (UDEF).

The mayor and councillor of Public Safety, Yolanda Seva, has finally suspended the Chief

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NEW ROJALES SCHOOL READY FOR SEPTEMBER TERM After more than a decade of promises, students in Rojales who are hoping to attend the newly built school, CEIP Poeta Miguel Hernández, previously called the Principe de España, should finally get their wish as the mayor, Antonio Pérez, said that the Ministry of Education estimates that the main building will be completed on August 21.

The investigation is with regard to the purchase of uniforms and Material for the Local Police and Civil Protection during the years 2013 to 2016 in which they are alleged to have defrauded the Santa Pola Council.

Assuming there are no last minute setbacks, the Department of Education and the School Board will then take over the building.

First they will thorough cleaning the building after which they will then transfer the educational material and furniture that is currently stored in the old building. It is expected that the new centre will then be able to open its doors to students in time for the start of the new school term on 11 September.

The mayor and councillor of Public Safety, Yolanda Seva, said that four disciplinary files have been opened on the three individuals in which they are allegedly involved "of prevarication, fraud, misappropriation of public funds and documentary falsification".

Although the students of the school - the only one in Rojales - are expected to begin classes in the new classroom accommodation, the work will continue on the site over the next few months. The old building has still to be demolished and, once the debris has been removed, the sports courts will be built on the site.

The mayor said that "they will continue to receive the basic salaries and specific supplements" guaranteed by the law in these cases. "We are talking about suspending part of their salaries, they will not be left with a zero balance in their accounts."

"These crimes, " explained Yolanda Seva, "are a disservice to local government and to the residents of the municipality, so we cannot

allow these people just to continue their service as though nothing has happened.”

They will also be required to hand in their issued weapons.

She added that the lack of personnel within the Local Police, will be dealt with as needs arise and if additional recruiting needs to take place it will do. In the meantime, while the case continues and Zaragoza remains on suspension his duties will be carried out by his deputy.

Pupils in the first to fourth years at the Colegio Poeta Miguel Hernández, were able to move into their new accommodation after the Christmas break. Phase two of the project now contains a further six classrooms for the fourth, fifth and sixth years, as well as a dining room, with a capacity for 300 students in two sittings, and school offices.

Redovan to have own skate park

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edován will soon have its own Skate Park.

This has been confirmed by the town’s councillor for Sports, Ramón López, who has said that the park will be built in the plaza Comunidad Valenciana. He added that construction works will begin in the middle of August and are expected to be completed in early October.

The park is being built in response to the demands of the youth of the municipality.

The work to be carried out will see the construction of a 276 sq mtr concrete track for the interior installation with six multipurpose modules, for the use of 'Skate boarding', roller skating,' BMX bikes' and 'Scooters'.

The budget for the work is € 21,900 and it is

being provided in response "to the many children and young people who follow these types of sport in Redován,” said López. He added that he did not rule out an extension to the facility if the demand is higher than initially expected.

The Skate Park will join the Road Safety Park and the football field, both of which already exist in the Plaza Comunidad Valenciana, making this part of the town a multipurpose area that can be enjoyed by children, youths and adults alike. It also has the added security of perimeter fencing.

Redován joins other municipalities in the region with similar facilities, such as Cox, Los Montesinos, and Santa Pola and in future will all enthusiasts to practice their sport without having to travel long distances to do so.

Guadalest fire cause by electrical fault Agents from the Guardia Civil have confirmed that a short circuit caused the Guadalest fire which devastated more than 20 hectares of the pine valley, just below this well-loved tourist destination.

They explained that a pine tree fell onto an electric line which caused an initial spark with the flames then spreading rapidly throughout the rest of the forest. There was no human involvement in the incident.

The Park in the Plaza Comunidad Valenciana

The report was made by Seprona, the environmental arm of the Guardia, who say that they were able to find the actual pine tree that fell over. They stress that these are only their initial conclusions and there are still many answers that they need to find.

The short circuit occurred when overhead electric cable came into contact with each other causing sparks which then ignited local vegetation causing the pine to burn quickly.

The flames then spread throughout the valley with great intensity and it was only the firebreaks put in place during the winter months, prompt action by firefighters, firefighting aircraft and helicopters, as well as the forest brigade that stopped the fire spreading even further.

The 20 or so families that were evacuated from their homes as the fire raged on were able to return during the latter part of the evening.

This was the first major fire suffered in the province during the current summer.

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Is time running out for Cabo Roig Market?

Residents say they are fed up with the noise and disruption

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arket traders in Aguamarina are being told by the council that they must clean up their act, as residents continue to complain at the disruption being caused to the local `population and the large amount of rubbish they are leaving behind every Thursday afternoon.

Long-time dweller Mary Surtees told the Leader that from her apartment she can often see stallholders disposing of their rubbish over the cliff face, as they race to clear their pitches and get away at the end of the day.

“They don’t want to take the old cardboard and plastic packing away with them, and there are not enough bins, so they simply toss it over the seawall when they think that nobody is looking. It’s simply not good enough. On the better run markets there are council superintendents who make sure that sort of thing doesn’t happen. I’ve yet to see one walking round in Aguamarina”.

Of course it is not only the traders that cause the mess. Because of a lack of waste containers along the seafront paseo, and in the area in general, rather than find a bin, it’s often easier for visitors to do the same, as a result of which the seafront cliff face and walkway is littered with plastic cups and bottles, which the council then have the task of clearing away.

The council directive comes on the back of the increasing number of local residents who say they have had enough and want the market to be moved on.

Locals say that they have to walk in the road as pavements are often blocked by market delivery vehicles, illegally parked vans and cars that cause a hazard and make life difficult. They complain of blocked entrances and garages as well as early morning noise as the market traders set up their stalls and switch on their generators. With the absence of chemical toilets, particularly during the early hours, some traders have even been seen relieving themselves along the sea front prior to the opening of the bars and the arrival of the general public.

And now the FAOC, the Federación de Asociaciones de Orihuela Costa-Alicante, are saying that at the very least the subject merits

further discussion.

For many years the market was held on the esplanade in front of the urbanization "Pinar de Campoamor." It was moved to Calle Fuego in Aguamarina about 3 years ago. This was done at the request of the traders who said that the Campoverde site was dying.

There were few people visiting and the number of stallholders were reducing week by week.

They said that the market would only survive if it were moved to a new site where it could attract the public in greater numbers, especially during the winter months.

And now, on balance, although there are weeks when the market doesn’t trade because of high winds and heavy rain, the new Aguamarina site has been emphatically welcomed by the traders.

Opinion amongst the residents though is deeply divided, with many concerned by the points that they raised above. They say that the market should be moved to a site that is better equipped to hold such an activity, somewhere like the main car park directly in front of La Zenia Boulevard where there are the facilities and parking in abundance.

The car park is council owned and it is more than adequate as far as size is concerned and it would also allow the traders to park alongside their pitch, making life far easier with regard to setting up, re stocking and packing up at the end of the day.

So with the two sides currently at odds, what comes next for the market and its traders? Whatever it might be it certainly can’t be rushed. It needs to be thought through with both sides sitting down to discuss its future.

When the market was first moved to its present location there was a complete lack of involvement of any residents. There was zero consultation. The council must now get themselves down to the site and take more of an interest in their views and the problems they currently face and if they can’t be resolved an alternative site will need to be found.

In the meantime, however, and until the authorities can decide on the future, which might include a more appropriate site, there are a number of areas that must be addressed: A market manager must remain on site at all times, from initial setting up to the end of the clean-up operation. He must ensure that traders are made fully responsible for their own waste.

Additional containers must be provided for waste, especially for cardboard and for plastic. The number currently available falls far short of what is required.

Chemical toilets must be installed for traders, so that appropriate standards of hygiene are maintained. No one must be allowed to relieve themselves at the side of the road as has happened in the past.

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 7 Avenue; 8 Canter; 10 Torment; 11 Radio; 12 Rock; 13 Leant; 17 Delay; 18 Toil; 22 Amass; 23 Crowded; 24 Benign; 25 Fringe.

DOWN: 1 Pasture; 2 Terrace; 3 Outer; 4 Vagrant; 5 Study; 6 Brood; 9 Utterance; 14 Message; 15 Mordant; 16 Pledged; 19 Maybe; 20 Taint; 21 Hoard.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 7 Occult; 8 Turn to; 10 Scuttle; 11 Lathe; 12 Nora; 13 Stone; 17 Wring; 18 Open; 22 Orate; 23 Latvian; 24 Cathay; 25 Repeal.

DOWN: 1 Cousins; 2 Acquire; 3 Sloth; 4 Outline; 5 Unite; 6 Romeo; 9 Sentinels; 14 Arsenal; 15 Sprites; 16 Inanely; 19 Force; 20 Parts; 21 Steep.

ACROSS 1.

Vegetable (9) 8.

--- de Janeiro (3) 9.

Disastrous (11) 11. Go before (7) 12. Scottish landowner (5) 13. Churchman (6) 15. Light wind (6) 17. Speak slowly (5) 18. Get rid of (7) 20. Incompatible (11) 22. Fuss (3) 23. Proof (9)

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

10.

11.

14.

16.

19.

21.

Expanse of water (3) Frilled lace (5) Hot spring (6) Alike (7) Group of islands (11) Supporter of Cromwell (9) Fear (11) Fanciful plan (4,5) Canvass (7) Handsome man (6) Middle-Eastern country (5) Vase (3)

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

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Solution on Page 22 CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

QUIZ ANSWERS

c. Back in the USSR (Beatles). d. Sunshine Superman (Donovan). e. Pride (U2). f.

Black Coffee (All Saints). 11. Estonia. 12. A wife. Maritorious means being fond of one's husband. 13. Arrack. 14. Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. 15. Greta Garbo. 16.

Electric Bus, trolley bus or trackless tram.

17. Fahrenheit 451. 18. Knives (Different kinds of knives). 19. Dwight D Eisenhower.

DOWN 2. I've gone out to compete (3) 3. Thus Ian upset a girl (5) 4. Car for a certain area of buildings (6) 5. Three-dimensional scene showing ten in the play (7) 6. It is a girl to decorate with delicate stuff (6,5) 7. After midnight heard it shone (9) 10. A trick in Who's Who, perhaps (4,3,4) 11. Singing girl accompanying Heather (9) 14. Ties with loud assent, anyhow (7) 16. Sweet way to tee off? (6) 19. The measure of crime (5) 21. A couple of Clint Eastwood films? (3)

Night swimming, beach walking, always silent, never talking 11. Which EU country is bordered by the Gulf of Finland, the Baltic Sea, Latvia and the Russian Federation?

12. Who can be MARITORIOUS? 13. The name of which alcoholic beverage, often made from the sap of coconut palms, stems from the Arabic word for 'SWEAT'? (yes that is sweat) 14. Which two boxers exchanged blows in the so called 'Thriller in Manila'?

15. Which beautiful silent film star was given the nickname 'The face'?

16. In 1882, German Inventor Ernst Werner von Siemens began operating his Elektromote. The Elektromote was the world's first example of what?

17. Which novel begins with the words "It was a pleasure to burn"?

18. Puukko, Kirpan, Kris, Athame and Sgian Dubh are all examples of what?

19. Who said "The eyes of the world are upon you" on June 6, 1944?

20. What was the complete name of the band Chicago in the late 1960s?

21. Chablis and Cote d'or are both appellations in which famous French wine region?

22. The very expensive Kobe beef is a product of Japanese Wagyu cattle. Other than living on beer feed, the farmer has a hand in doing what to pamper these cattle ?

23. What is exobiology ?

24. What does the rhyming slang “Hampsteads” mean.

25. What does the organisation EXIT promote the use of?

1. Puff the magic dragon. 2. Orson Welles.

3. They are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites (in Europe). 4. Burberry. 5. Monokini.

6. Ants (different kinds of ants). 7. a: Mantra. b: Swastika. c: Thug. d: Shampoo. e: Mugger (named after the Indian Marsh Crocodile). 8. Rockatansky. 9. "the once and future King". 10. a. Surfin USA (Beach Boys). b. Seasons in the sun (Terry Jacks).

ACROSS 1. Somehow proves at the finish it's blue! (9) 8. I will shortly be unwell (3) 9. Perhaps I find it's one of many in a dictionary? (11) 11. Study diplomacy with an acquaintance (7) 12. Mature commercial shown last month (5) 13. Give formal consent if a try works out (6) 15. Wet two enclosures (6) 17. The French journalists in Yorkshire? (5) 18. Mollusc out to do cop (7) 20. Are cheats of use in getting a good card (3,2,6) 22. The man returns to show assent (3) 23. He can see new aspect to the rocky hill (9)

1. Which magical creature played "along the cherry lane"?

2. Which scary man and Oscar winner was the voice of Robin Masters in Magnum P.I.?

3. Belfries of Belgium and France, the Palace and Park of Versailles, the Town of Bamberg, Mount Athos, the Piazza del Duomo in Pisa and Hadrian's Wall. What connects all of the aforementioned places?

4. Which make of trenchcoat did Humphrey Bogart wear in the film Casablanca?

5. Another word for a topless bikini. Eight letters 6. Carpenter, weaver, pharaoh, army, bull, meat and honeypot are all examples of what?

7. Indian words used in the English language: a: The Sanskrit word for a 'holy message or text'. Six letters, last letter 'A'. b: The Sanskrit word for 'one associated with well-being' and 'a lucky charm'.

Eight letters, second letter 'W'. c: The Hindi and Sanskrit word for a 'scoundrel'. Four letters. d: The everyday Hindi word for 'KNEADS'. Seven letters, last letter 'O'. e: The Hindi and Urdu word meaning 'like a crocodile, which attacks stealthily'. Six letters, third letter 'G'.

8. What was 'Mad Max's' last name?

9. Complete the purported inscription on King Arthur's grave. "Here lies Arthur, ..."

10. The following beach lyrics are found in which songs? a. Redondo Beach L.A., all over La Jolla, at Wyamia Bay. b. But the stars we could reach were just star fish on the beach. c. Flew in from Miami Beach. d. We stood on a beach at sunset, do you remember when, I know a beach where, baby, it never ends. e. One man washed on an empty beach, one man betrayed with a kiss. f.

20. Chicago Transit Authority. 21.

Burgundy. Most wine produced here is either red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes or white wine made from Chardonnay grapes. 22. Massage by hand.

23. 2. The study of life in outer space.

(Literally exo -outside, study of life outside) 24. Teeth. 25. Euthanasia

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

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

The Work-Life Balance

G

etting the work-life balance right is not easy for many people, and for many juggling with earning enough to pay the rent or mortgage, food and other bills, there is often very little choice in the amount of free time available. Time to spend with families and friends is important, and I often admire the Spanish tradition of putting family life first whenever possible.

The Spanish Minister for Tourism and Technology was recently musing about the impact of technological changes upon society, and suggested that a three-day weekend was almost inevitable. The Minister spoke about fast moving technological developments in communication, public administration and education, and the 51.2 million mobile phones that are in use throughout Spain. With 40 million people having ready access to a mobile Internet connection, more people could work from home or ‘on-the-go’. He went on to say that this approach to work would have positive effects on health, productivity and public spending.

The Minister raises some good points, and his ideas are not new, since many claim that the traditional employment structure is bad for health. Time spent with family and friends is the most important part of life, and with work being the means with which we pay for it. In many ways, this ‘flexible’ and more relaxed style of living and working in the Canary Islands has been operating for many years.

Very few shops, and certainly no offices or banks, are open on a Saturday afternoon. The few shops that do open (unless they are situated in commercial centres or tourist areas) close their doors at lunch time on Saturday, and may or may not reopen on Monday

morning. Many Canarians take Monday off work, which is why shopping, banking and visiting Town Halls is never a good idea on Mondays.

Fiestas and family life are very important in the Canary Islands.

Most weeks are punctuated by a different fiesta in towns and villages across the islands. Often those living in neighbouring municipalities feel the urge to join in too, and close their doors early on the day before the big event to allow time to prepare food, shop and to dress up for the big day.

Schools close at the end of June for the traditional long, summer holiday and reopen again in mid-September. In many ways, this is necessary, because of the excessive heat in Spain and the Canary Islands at this time of the year; few classrooms enjoy the luxury of air conditioning. It is a time when children and their families can enjoy a long summer break together, and it is taken very seriously. For some children, sports, language and summer camps are an option, which some busy parents take full advantage of. However, these facilities do not come cheap and for many families the only option is for grandparents to share the load and for parents take time off work to be with their offspring. As a result, legal, financial, postal and most other services grind to a halt, since no one ever seems to consider staggering holiday entitlement or to appoint reserve and back up staff to cover the shortfall of workers.

Then there is the dreaded August 15th. This is the day when almost everything closes down (except in the tourist areas) for at least two weeks, and possibly more. Many of us are longing to get back to normal, which will happen sometime in mid-September, but definitely by October!

Despite such inconveniences, Spanish and Canarian workers do work very hard and for long hours. Most shops and offices open from about 08.00am, and closure at 10.00pm is not unusual, particularly in commercial centres. Most small shops close at around 1.30pm for the traditional siesta, and open their doors again at around 4.00pm. This is the time when Spanish workers traditionally eat their main meal of the day, followed by a siesta. However, in more recent times and with increasingly long distances to travel to work, few workers make it home for a family meal at this time of

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By Bar rie Mahoney The Spanish Government is giving serious consideration to removing the siesta

the day. The midday break is important, because of the heat, and it is time to cool down and relax away from the heat of the day.

Many Spanish and Canarian workers have two jobs, which again is why the mid-afternoon break is useful for workers to get from one job to another. I know a number of shop workers who start work at 08.00am, work until the siesta and then hastily drive to the tourist areas where they begin their evening shifts as waiters and bar staff, and usually finish their shift at 11.00pm or much later if it is bar work.

A revised working structure for the working week has been trialled in parts of the United States and Sweden, but it is unclear whether it will ever become a reality for Spain. However, the Spanish Government is giving serious consideration to removing the siesta, starting work later and finishing the day earlier.

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

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

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Financial struggles continue at EHCC On July 17, in conjunction with the Almoradi Police, the sanctuary rescued an abandoned pony

Veterinary inspections revealed the young pony has numerous health concerns, in addition to his skeletal state. He has an abscess or tumour that's pushing one eye out of its socket, a mouth infection, blood coming from his penis and is full of worms.

“For now, he just needs to eat, get a bit stronger and next week we can start to find the best way forward. He’ll definitely fit in here with all our other residents that have problems and disabilities, as he’s got quite a few," said Sue. Just 10 days earlier, on July 17, the sanctuary rescued an abandoned pony in conjunction with the Almoradí police. The pony showed severe signs of colic, but Sue and Rod were later shocked to find an enormous plastic bag in his manure.

T

hree equines rescued in past month as sanctuary faces financial struggles

Two pony stallions – one skeletal and near starving, the other with severe back wounds – are now recovering at the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre in southern Spain.

With the arrival of the two ponies, the Rojales sanctuary has now assisted police with three rescues in the past month alone after a young donkey was also rescued in mid-July.

Co-founders Sue and Rod Weeding are concerned about the escalating costs of caring for the 107 rescued equines now in their care, but couldn’t say no when contacted on July 27 by El Refugio del Burrito donkey rescue centre, which does not take ponies.

“He was tied to a tree in Lorca, almost two hours south of us here at Rojales, and abandoned without any food or water,” Sue said. “We were told this poor pony would simply be left on the street if we did not take him. How could we ignore such a terrible case of suffering?”

New Anglican Church website The Anglican Chaplaincy of St Peter & St Paul Torrevieja has launched a major revamp of their web site to showcase the activities of the Church and its work in the wider community.

The Chaplaincy, which brings together the eight Anglican Churches on the South Costa Blanca, East Costa Calida and Murcia is active in every part of the community and provides a full range of Christian services for local people.

The website overseen by Maggie Dew from Campoverde Church has now gone live at www.c-of-e-torrevieja.com and offers everyone the opportunity to interact with the Church at a level that suits them. Whether it is coming to Church on a regular basis, visiting occasionally, requesting one of the Churches’ many services for those major moments in life or just getting involved in the many social and fund raising activ-

ities. Father Richard, Chaplain, said, "Everyone is welcome and our new website means that everyone now has the opportunity to find out what is going on at their local Churches throughout this part of Spain".

You can also follow the Chaplaincy on their Facebook page or Contact Maggie Dew on 966 76 2264 or 693 513 678 or e-mail maggieruthdew@hotmail.com.

The Deadwood Stage Company

W

e are still alive and kicking and after a successful production of "Granma Mia" at the end of May, a well deserved rest was enjoyed. Now the members are preparing their autumn programme under the experienced direction of David Whitney.

Great fun is envisaged when the next show is finally cast but there are still a couple of char-

acters needed to complete the storyline.

Why not join members on a Wednesday afternoon at 3.00 till 5.00p.m. at The Porter House Bar at the Rioja centre near Dial Prix on the way to Villa Martin and see if you're just what they're looking for.

We want to welcome new members in whatever capacity. If you don't act now, who knows what might happen in the future. Can you help with backstage requirements, wardrobe, ticket sales, sound and lighting etc. etc.

Further information can be obtained from the Secretary, Mrs Vida Nelson on 966 77 4127

The Weedings now face financial struggles to care for their 107 rescued equines and called for sponsors to support their three latest rescues and donations of good-quality furniture for their charity shop. Sponsorship starts from just €5 a month and can be made online: www.easyhorsecare.net/donate/sponsor-a-horse.

Furniture pick-up can be arranged by contacting Sue at rescue@easyhorsecare.net.

The three most recent rescues suggest an unnerving trend to Sue and Rod. “Lately, nearly all our rescues are these miniature horses or donkeys. When we first moved to Spain, miniature horses became very fashionable and everybody wanted them,” said Sue.

“He truly is very lucky to be alive,” Sue said.

“We’ve obviously caught him just in time, as he almost certainly would have died without our intervention. Obviously, the water we were giving him helped push this major obstruction through.”

“We even saw them for sale in cages at pet shops.

They bred and bred these little horses and now it seems nobody wants them. I think that’s why we’re seeing them being dumped everywhere.

Isn’t that terribly sad?”

In addition to the intestinal trauma, the pony is recovering from painful, infected wounds on his back believed to be from pulling a cart. He also has infected hooves, slight infections in both eyes and is riddled with worms, requiring specialist farrier and veterinarian treatment.

The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre relies entirely on donations to fund its important animal welfare work. Located just outside Rojales at Partido Lo Garriga, 59, the centre opens to the public on the first Sunday of every month between 1pm and 4pm. Free horse tours run throughout the afternoon and refreshments are available in the café.

In line with the centre’s responsible horse care philosophy, both ponies will be castrated in autumn when the risk of infection is lower. In the meantime, their injuries will be treated and they will be made as comfortable as possible.

For more details and directions, please visit www.easyhorsecare.net or follow the centre on Facebook at www.facebook.com/EasyHorseCare.

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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 17 Aug 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. We need volunteer Drivers and paople 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 Please note that the Age Concern Centre will be closed for our Summer Break from 28 July to 4 September, although the phones will still be answered. Our shops in Torrevieja and Los Montesinos will be shut from the 28th July and reopen on the 28th August HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes in areas surrounding Quesada, San Luis, La Siesta Torrevieja, La Mata, Orihuela Costa, Villamartin to Campoverde, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

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

Girlguiding group for Orihuela

Monday 7th - Sunday 13th August, 2017

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 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 QUESADA LADIES CLUB The Annual General Meeting of the Quesada Ladies Club will be held at the Cooper’s Arms, Dona Pepa, Quesada, on Tuesday 12th September 2017. This is for members only, and they will be admitted at the usual time of 2.30pm.

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

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:

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000076. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A really nice first floor 3 bed apartment in a very well looked after community, just a short walk to supermarkets, restaurants, and bars.

Fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, main bedroom having walk in wardrobe. Euro 79,995 Ref: 000075. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo - A fantastic 2 bed countryside home on a 5000sqm plot. Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. Also a separate selfcontained cabin. Euro 149,995 Ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866 This three bedroom, two bathroom mid-terrace townhouse is within walking distance of the lively La Fuente Commercial Centre 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

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Furnished, Stunning views, Private Garden. Euro 210,000 Ref 000058. Tel 617 537 866 Sierra de Orihuela - This fabulous detached property is on a plot of 1.900m2 and has breath-taking views of the Sierra de Orihuela mountain range. The total built area is 135m2 which is distributed across four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge / dining area, and a modern openplan kitchen. Covered car port, manicured gardens and a private swimming pool. Fully Furnished.

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

South facing and in a quiet area.

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

Private balconies.

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

Popular Spanish village. Fully furnished. Communal Pool.

Large Terrace. Euro 52,995 Ref 000061. Tel 617 537 866

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Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad and Avalon CHICKEN RUN - Sun 29th July As it was a very hot morning it was decided to play fourteen ends in stead of the normal eighteen. As usual the competition was played in good spirit. The winning lady was Jan Soars and the winning man Mick Soars, both receiving a chicken. The man with the least shots was Harry Dobson and the lady June Young both receiving half a dozen eggs. This month the chickens were donated by Les and Sue Bounds and the eggs by Chris and Joan Harding.

Next competition Gran Alacant Mixed Competition on September 12th. There will be a practice session on 11th.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook.

By Pat McEwan

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Supermotoland off to a flying start

The first half of the 2017 Supermoto race season has seen Supermotoland's riders on the top step of the podium on more than one occasion. Anthony Ford-Dunn has had a fantastic start to the year with overall wins in both the Spanish and European Supermoto championships in the Smroad/S4 class.

With consistent podium finishes in the Spanish championships Anthony went to the 4th round in Pontevedre in North west Spain, and in mixed and tricky conditions he put in a dominant display of riding to win both races which moved him up to 2nd in the championship standings, only two points off the leader.

With only the final round of the championship in Baneza, Leon, in northern Spain to go, on the 10th September , Anthony is determined to finish off the year as Spanish champion.

The European S4 championship has already been decided with Anthony winning the Spanish GP in Albaida, Alicante, before travelling to Northern Italy for the final round of the championship in Busca. The racing was tight with 6 riders all battling for the lead in both races and Anthony finished a close 3rd in both motos to finish 3rd overall and once again stand on the podium at a European championship round. The championship points didn't work out quite so

San Miguel Bowls

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well for him though as he ended up 4th in the championship overall, just 10 points off the leader and 2 points from 2nd position, that's how tight the racing was. Slightly disappointed with not getting a top 3 championship position has only focussed Anthony's resolve to win the Spanish Title in September.

The teams other riders have also produced some great results with podium finishes in the SM2 class for 16 year old Loris Ford-Dunn as well as a great ride at Pontevedre that saw him beating a lot of the more experienced sm open and sm master riders in one of the races until a crash in the tricky damp conditions dropped him down the order. He currently stands in 5th place in the SM promosas youth class in the Spanish championships with one round left to go.

His Father Mat Ford-Dunn riding in the open class has had mixed fortunes with a podium finish at the start of the year but then suffering a broken fibula when his foot caught a trackside marker which has ruled him out for a while, but he hopes to be back in action in September.

With the summer break now in full swing the Supermotoland team that is sponsored by Advance Moves International Removals will be training hard to finish off the year on a high.

Vistabella Bowls Club hosts Councillor for Sport

The Wednesday 2 Wood Triples only have one game left to play.

There are 2 teams both on 6 points, and next week they play each other!! If the result is a draw, it will go to shot difference!! Good luck both teams. Alan, Brenda & Joe play Mary, Eddie, Tony and Peter (any 3 from 4). Lee Sinclairs team and Cliff Plaisteds team are both on 2 points, with Brians team bringing up the rear.

The final of the Saturday Australian Pairs was played last weekend with the winners being Tony Sansom and Bob Graham, with runners up Stan North and Paul Hayward. Well done guys. Thanks to Janet for organising this competition.

The sheets are on the board for both the Club competitions and the Valencian Championships. Get your names down, Closing date for the Valencians is 14th August.

The Fun Day and Hog Roast is on 6th October, not many places left!! The coach trip to Guadalest has been cancelled due to lack of interest.

Charlie Watkins, Joaquin Rocamora (Vistabella Management) Sports Councillor Victor Valverde and National Director Bob Donnelly.

For further details on San Miguel Bowls Club, please contact, the Secretary, Pat McEwan telephone 966714257.

GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB Greenlands bowls club has vacancies for members. If you are looking to play in the Winter Leagues, (Winter league, SABA and Southern) then consider joining this friendly club with arguably the best carpet on the Costa.

We are looking to consolidate our squads, don't listen to rumours. Contact Hayley at the club or give Chris (President) a ring on 698 418 987 for details, and get it from the horse’s mouth.

We recently had the pleasure to receive a visit of our Sports Councillor from Orihuela, Victor Valverde. We showed him the facilities we currently have at Vistabella Golf as well as the new initiatives with which we will develop Golf and Bowls among the kids and adults in Orihuela. We were delighted hat he came along to the club and we hope we can continue working together to achieve our goals.

This was very encouraging news from our President, let's be hopeful of some interest.

Meanwhile Vistabella are doing their own bit to recruit some new bowlers, experienced or complete beginners, tuition can be provided just come along to the Saturday morning roll up or call into the golf

shop where they will point you in the right direction.

The qualifying rounds in the South Alicante Knockout League have now all been finalised and Vistabella have a very good representation in the forthcoming finals to be held at Vistabella on the 8th Sept.

Our finalists and their opponents are, Men's Singles Martin Foulcer v Peter Morgan Q. Men's Pairs Martin Foulcer & Pat Rafferty v John Pooley & Dennis Birkett. E.I. Two Triples teams, Beryl Regan, Andy Leggatt & Mike Regan v Violet Campbell, Jacquie Johnson & Fred Roberts Q. Charlie Watkins, Maggie Furness & Arthur Brown v Deirdre Leeming, Jason Prokopowycz & Derek Sale Q. Go along and give your support and watch some quality bowling.

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Monday 7th - Sunday 13th August, 2017

LOCATED AT CRANS-MONTANA in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the spectacular Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club will play host from September 9-10th to the Omega European Masters. The tournament gives the 30 best Asian players the opportunity to challenge their European counterparts, and gives them all the chance to run round a mountain top singing “The hills are Alive!”

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The spectacular Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club will host the the Omega European Masters

“CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN” would have been the song for Jordan Spieth on the Sunday at Royal Birkdale, as he leapt up and down the hill on the 13th. For those last five holes, and for his round on Friday he earned the Claret Jug. Butch Harmon’s advice when the wind is off the Beaufort scale is to swing at 75 per cent, resist any temptation to try backspin and instead hit down on the ball, effectively trapping it against the turf. In the second round Spieth demonstrated this technique to perfection, despite looking as though he’d walked into a carwash.

FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS, from 1946 until 1994, with only 5 exceptions, every U.S. Ladies Open Championship was won by an American. At this year’s Women’s U.S. Open no American finished inside the top 10. South Korea took 1st and 2nd places, as well as 3rd 4th 7th 8th 9th and 10th.

South Korea have now won 7 of the last 10 U.S. Women’s Opens and taken 5 British Open titles. Why? Probably intense competition. Their coaches make sure they know if they don’t quite make the grade another 10 yr. old prodigy will step into their place. They will have set their sights on the Women’s Open at Kingsbarns on 3rd August, to regain the trophy lost last year to Thailand. The words of Confucius, (patience and persistence) still rule their lives, and Confucius obviously said somewhere: “You will go out and beat the pants off everybody.”

AROUND 2000 TONS OF ROCK fell from the cliffs at West Bay, Dorset, just seven yards from a greenside bunker on the 15th at the Bridport and W. Dorset Golf Club. The South West Coastal path is likely to be closed for some time. However, the club remains open for play. That’s the spirit!

NEVER MIND THE USPGA Championship on August 10thth at Quail Hollow. The Clash of Titans takes place on the Longcross course at Foxhills Resort, Surrey from September 15/17thth, when Gt. Britain & Ireland clash with the USA in the Ryder-Cup style PGA Cup. GB&I will be bidding to retain the Llandudno Trophy following their thrilling first triumph at CordeValle, California in 2015, when they grabbed victory on the last hole.

Ping driver. It also has improved aerodynamics and better acoustics. Acoustics? Apparently the sound frequency has been tuned to sound like a luxury car door closing, because, according to Ping, some drivers can sound like a crying baby. You couldn’t make it up. That crying sound was most likely a golfer who had just jumped on his driver after ending up in a bunker. The G400 didn’t help win the U.S. Open anyway, Brooks Koepka used a Taylor Made M2.

“Longcross is a very British course, great from a risk and reward point of view” says Captain Albert Mackenzie, head pro at Saunton Sands, Devon. “Plenty of trees and with huge emphasis on precision.

Length won’t be an advantage, players will need to be tactically astute, which I think will favour the home side.” Never underestimate the Yanks’ tactical astuteness Albert.

A GOLFER SLICED a ball into a field of chickens, killing one of them instantly. Feeling guilty, he sought out the farmer.

TWELVE PGA TOUR PLAYERS put the new Ping G400 driver in their bag at the U.S. Open. Ping say they have combined everything they know about forgiveness and distance in the G400, which has a smaller head than usual and, thanks to extended dragonfly technology, the lightest crown ever used on a

Alfies Golf Society at Hacienda Riquelme

25 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to the lovely Hacienda Riquelme Resort for our July monthly meeting. An early morning first tee time ensured a cooler start to the game; however it did become hot and sticky later in the afternoon.

The course to be honest was in a very good condition, with the exception of the greens, which were the slowest I have played in 10 years here on the Costa Blanca, being slow, the breaks as anticipated did not materialise, and for a lot of our players some struggled to two putt.

Off the course i.e. just off the fairway we were penalised by having too much pampas grass, with it being virtually impossible to find your ball should it have gone astray.

The conditions also helped to reduce our scoring potential, and for the first time this year no one beat

the course, our winning score being 36 points.

Our winner of the day was one of our sponsors from The Street Restaurant, Stevie Bicks with 36 points, well done Stevie Bicks.

The runner up was one of our Rochdale members Mike Fitzpatrick with 35 stableford points. Best Guest went to Roy Ainslie, playing off a handicap of 14 Roy managed to get 36 stableford points.

Nearest the Pin on the 5th – Sponsored by ‘The Street Restaurant’ went to Jim Dempsey. Nearest the pin on the 15th – sponsored by ‘The Auld Dubliner ‘went to Roy Ainslie. Nearest the pin in two on the 10th - sponsored by ‘Alfie’s Bar’ went to Mike Fitzpatrick. Nearest the Pin in 3 shots - sponsored by ’The Celtic Drop’ was not won and is carried forward to next month. The Blind pairs were won by Alan Connell and Mike Smith.

Many thanks to our sponsors and to our committee for their hard work in the background.

Thanks also to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services for arranging our day.

To Mike Morris, Jim, Rose, Sandra, and our new chef Rodger at Alfies Bar for their hospitality and fantastic buffet!!!

Thanks also to Sandie Hall for organising the charity raffle and prizes. Our charity fund so far this year has raised over 700€, well done to all our members and guests.

Our next meeting of the year is at Roda on August the 31st. Guests are more than welcome. Should you want to play, contact our Match Secretary Joe Murphy at matchsecretary.alfiesgolf@gmail.com.

Or on his mobile at (0034) 603276253.

Ian Connell – President

“I’m sorry,” he said, “my terrible tee-shot hit one of your hens and killed it. Can I replace the hen?”

“I don’t really know,” replied the farmer, mulling it over. “How many eggs a day do you lay?”

Until next time, Happy Golfing.

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

Las Ramblas Social Golf Monday we played Best 2 of 4 all count on 1, 9, 10, and 18. and the winning team with a great record breaking score of 105pts were Bryan Neal, John Conway, Brian Dent and Mike Chapman(who had a very useful 2 on the 6th).

On Wednesday we played a Stableford comp. and with limited numbers again there was only one category this week and the results were as follows. 1st Peter Reffell 38pts. 2nd Brian Staines 35pts. 3rd John Conway 34pts. and 4th on a count back Tom Hardie 34pts.

2´s Club: Once again, and so many were close, but nobody managed to produce the magic 2 so it´s another roll over for next week.

Friday we played another version of Texas Scramble called Florida! Where the chosen drive is not played by the person that hit it, and so on.

The winning score of 62.3 was produced by Lindsay Forbes, Mike Chapman, Brian Staines and Reg Akehurst, beating the second place by .1- can´t get much closer than that.

Mike Mahony

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Monday 7th - Sunday 13th August, 2017

TMGS Vikings raid Campoamor

A lightening raid of Vikings from Norway swelled our numbers to 40 for this month’s visit to Campoamor. The golf course was in excellent condition apart from the 6th green being a temporary. The original was rebuilt last year but it appears to have a little contamination in it, no doubt it will be ok for our next visit in September.

This however did not detract from the day’s enjoyment or competiveness. In fact the conditions were so good that a number of scores exceeded 40 points and most of those coming from single figure handicappers! Anyway back to the Vikings, I suppose that the weather isn’t too good up there in Norway as a number of them descended upon us this week, looking at the scores they were desperate to play which also may work against them when we play for

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.

‘IN THE ZONE’ In previous articles you will recall that I have discussed the need to enter your own personal bubble before you start your pre-shot routine.

The terms that you will have heard on the television is to be ‘in the zone’ or to be ‘focused’.

Why is this necessary?

This is not just about concentration but it is also a method employed to preserve your mental energy so that you do not feel so tired and weary after a game of golf.

Consider the following: Each shot requires approx 40 seconds of concentration therefore a round of 72 shots takes 48 minutes and one of 90 shots takes 1 hour.

However as it take 5 hours to play a game of golf here on the Costa’s, you need to be able to enter and leave the zone when required otherwise you will be mentally drained by the end of the round.

How do can I do this I hear you say?

Local experts such as Martin Glover advocate the use if anchors.

You need one anchor for getting into the focused state (the zone) and another for leaving it and returning to peripheral vision.

Make a note of your own personal anchors.

For entering the zone: e.g. Enter, Start, Begin, Soften, Focus, etc.

For leaving the zone: e.g. Leave, End, Finish, Relax, etc.

There are some mental exercises that you can practise both at home and on the golf course so that it becomes second nature.

Exercise 1 Close your eyes, focus on your breathing and relax.

Imagine using your anchor (i.e. a word or a sound), and being totally focused and ready to play your shot.

Exercise 2 Close your eyes, focus on your breathing and relax.

Imagine using your anchor (i.e. a word or sound or putting the club

the Viking Trophy this year and so far they haven’t won it. Due to these big scores they could be making it more difficult for themselves by lowering their handicaps or is it just a cunning plan by the Brits. The autumn matches will reveal all! It’s always welcome when a member appreciates what the Society provides for him; in this case our N.T.P. prizes were sponsored by Graham Smith oops!

Karen his wife told him to make it clear who paid for the wine, it was thought that she would deduct it from his pocket money but he had to explain that he didn’t get enough to buy 6 bottles of red, in that case Karen, the members thank you very much for your donation. Karen doesn’t play golf she’s just happy that he’s out of the house for the day and has indicated via Graham that it’s well worth the 6 bottles. Results: N.T.P.’s Hole 4 Fredrik Bjorling, Hole 6 Olga Haubner, Hole 10 John Kennedy, HOLE 15 P. Boyling, Hole 17 Brian McMenamin. The 2’s pot contained €60 and was shred out between Joe Dean, Kirsti Tucker and Fredrik Bjorling. Our best guests this week was a family affair father scored 41 points (7h’cap) son 15years old, (6 h’cap) scored 43 points well done T. & M Fyke. Bronze category 3rd C. Bellman 30 pts. 2nd M. Mahoney 32 pts. 1st J. Davidson 37 pts. Silver category, 3rd J. Hettrick 34 pts.

2nd R. Nilsen 35 pts. 1st O. Rong 40 pts. Gold category, 3rd C. Landaas 36 pts. 2nd R. Malmgren 37 pts. 1st F. Bjorling 41 pts.

Photo: Gold category winners. Further information about our Society can be found www.tmgs.org Facebook.com/TMGSGOLF @TMGSGOLF and now from our new mobile app. Or 661 524 101.

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SMGS at La Finca Round 4 of Presidents Stableford Nearly forty members and guests turned up in very hot weather, with the afternoon breeze being very welcome.

La Finca seems to me trying to put of societies from playing there as the course was set up to play so long with only 10 players breaking 30points and also there policy of no discount for those who prefer to walk and no societies welcome in the high season.

Prizes were as follows:NTP prizes went to Norman Cahill (3), Darren Hancock (6), Norman Cahill (13) & Tony Smale(16).

David Bryant 35 points securing him the top visitor’s accolade with John Humphrey second with 32 points.

Bronze Category Kyree Skarsmoen 3rd with 26points, Chris Hamblett with 28 points was 2nd and 1st with 30 points was KeithStevenson.

Silver category winners were Ken Flahertyt in 3rd 31points, Phil deLacy 2nd with 34 points and first was Norman Cahill with his 36 points.

Gold category winners were Graham Temple with 32 points, Tony Smale 2nd with34 points and 1st with 36 points Barry Roehrig.

The Abacus was won by Mick Roscoe as the two below him were not present.

Our thanks go to the staff at Cascada Bar for the refreshments after the game of which Norman and Keith really enjoyed!

Please feel free to visit www.smgs.org or give Barry a ring on 966 731 033 to find out any society business plus details of future Wednesday meetings…also watch out for all the details for Captain’s day and night in late September, remember to book early and visitors are always welcome.

(Sponsored by Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs). back in the bag) and coming back to peripheral vision.

If you use these techniques you will see an improvement in your ability to visualise golf shots and you will fill your mind with positive thoughts and images.

If you consider that this is a load of mumbo jumbo then ask yourself, why do all of the world’s best golfers employ these techniques and the services of golf psychologists?

Do they know something that you do not?

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.

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

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Beach Football at Campoamor (La Glea)

Monday 7th - Sunday 13th August, 2017

New look Torry start to rebuild

The II Beach Football Tournament for children "Chiringuitos del Sol", organised by the Football School Oleza and Fútboljobs, took place on Campoamor beach on Saturday. The competition was held in three categories: Alevín (10-11 years), infantile (12-13 years) and cadet (14-15).

In the cadet category, "Orihuela FDFOCDF", took the trophy from 2nd placed "URYULA". The infantile winners were "Los Angeles", 2nd place "C.D. Montesinos "and 3rd position for" Trollers ". In the Alevin category, the champions were the team of "Total Sport", 2nd position "The Gamers" and 3rd "Surfers JR".

The competition was extremely well supported by members of the public with the prizes presented by the Mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana, who was accompanied by the Councillor for Tourism Sofia Alvarez, and the Councillor of the Coast, Luisa Boné, along with officials from Chiringuitos del Sol, the School of Football and Fútboljobs.

The head of the School Oleza de Fútbol and sports director of Fútboljobs Pedro Meseguer, both said that they would organise the tournament again next year.

Sponsors included Chiringuitos del Sol and the City of Orihuela, as well as Decathlon Orihuela, Fresco, Numbar5, Frigo, Costa Blanca, Granini, Vera Mañogil Hermanos, SL, Infrimed, Elite Consulting and Cubi Playa.

BY STEVE HIBBERD

Verdu is a central defender from Pinatar FC

A

fter a very quiet summer spent licking their wounds, key signings have at last been made by manager Pedreño as Torry prepare for a new season in the Preferente division.

There´s still a lot of hard work to do, the majority of last season’s squad having left for pastures new, but at least 2 up and coming youngsters have remained.

Sheffield born Lewis Booker (19) plays in midfield or defence, impressing on the few occasions he featured last season, teams up with fellow midfielder Dani Salazar (19) who played regularly, often showing true grit and determination.

Pedreño has raided Murcian 3rd div side Pinatar FC for 2 experienced defenders. Fernando Verdu Hernandez (27), a Murcia lad, is a strong, uncompromising central defender, who played in 33 matches for them last season. Hopefully Verdu will become as firm a favourite with the fans as ex Torry hard man Jorge proved to be!

Left back Mario Vigueras (24), also from Murcia, was a regular in the team last season. Mario has the repu-

Montesinos put faith in youth By Andrew Atkinson

After a very successful season where the 1st team won promotion to the 1st Regional, and the Youth (Under 19´s) just missed out on promotion, the CD Montesinos Committee have not stopped working in the last few months.

Apart from strengthening the 1st team for the higher level, one of the biggest talking points in was the formation of a reserve side which would incorporate all of last season´s youth players, who are now over-age but perhaps not ready for the higher level.

With this in mind and always knowing the limitations of a small town like Los Montesinos, the Club´s Committee finally decided to go ahead and register a side which will almost certainly be called CD Montesinos “B” and play in the 2nd Regional Division.

Speaking to Club President Felipe Paredes, he was adamant that youth players would not have to

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leave the town to play their football, as has happened year upon year in Los Montesinos. “We have a good group of young players who are not yet ready to walk into the 1st team. However, they will only improve if they are playing regular football. In the past this has meant them leaving the town to play at other clubs.”.

“It will be a tough first season for both the players and the Club, especially financially. But I am sure that this is laying the foundations for us to be able to grow and not to have to rely on too many players from outside Los Montesinos”.

Pre-season training got underway on the 2nd of August.

Training takes place in the evenings at the football ground in Los Montesinos. The Club are looking for more players to join, especially for the newly formed side, so if anybody is interested in playing organised football at a good level, please contact

Zaragoza was signed from Caerau FC in Wales tation of being an offensive player, keen to overlap, also fast and good on the ball. Another new central defender is Vicente Zaragoza (27), signing from Caerau FC in Wales. Completing the new signings is Argentinian Ramiro, following his promotion from the Juvenile side.

The squad have been back in training at Nelson Mandela Stadium for over a week now, but alas vandals have been at it again over the road inside Vicente Garcia Stadium. Nets have been broken, dugout canopies ripped, and chunks of breeze blocks thrown onto the pitch, as security continues to be sadly lacking!

Although preseason friendly dates have yet to be announced, Torry´s first league encounter against local rivals on Sun 3 September is fast approaching. It appears that as the council is dragging it´s heels on making essential repairs to Vicente Garcia Stadium, early season (if not all) matches will be played at the much maligned Nelson Mandela Stadium.

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Carp R Us Fishing Club

Today the club fished the first round of its August mini-series on the Eden stretch of the Segura. Despite the soaring temperatures, the fishing wasn’t too bad, although most anglers were pestered by terrapins (Steve Collins had over a dozen). First equal were Mark Foden and Jeremy Fardoe with 4.16 kg, third was Roy Dainty with 3.52 kg, all three used pole and bread tactics. Fourth was Jack Burrell with 3.10 kg.

The club is currently looking for new members and anyone interested can contact us through the Facebook page, the website or calling the club secretary, Steve Fell, on 634 379 081.

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