Costa Blanca Leader Newspaper edition 688 by The Leader

No 688

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October , 2017

Tel: 637 227 385

Santa Pola Starfighter pilot dies as family looks on Air Force Captain Borja Aybar was returning to Albaceteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Los Llanos airbase in his Starfighter, after participating in the 12-O military parade in Madrid in front of the King and Queen of Spain, when it appeared to plummet to the ground as it prepared for landing. According to reports, the

fighter jet crashed close to a large public park 'while his wife and their baby watched on.' There are no immediate reports of any civilian casualties on the ground and as air investigators try to piece the evidence together the exact cause of the crash is still unknown. Smoke could be seen billowing up from the crash site and access to the airbase has been cut off. Continued on Page 20

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Continued From Page One Santa Pola Fighter Pilot Death

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Relatives of the pilot believe that he did not eject from the aircraft while he attempted to divert the Starfighter away from public areas as, at the time, it was heading towards a built-up area with a large civilian population. Aybar was born in Puertollano (Ciudad Real) but he had lived, and was educated, in Santa Pola from the age of 12 when his parents moved to the fishing port for reasons of work. He lived there until he entered the San Javier Air Academy in 2005. Married, with a 4-year old baby, Aybar was an experienced pilot, having accumulated a total of 1,238 flying hours, of which 1,189 were in fighter jets such as the F-18 and 681 hours in Eurofighter. The jet was one of four Eurofighters that was on

its way back from participating in a military parade in Madrid to mark Thursday’s Hispanic Day, an annual national Bank Holiday commemorating the day in 1492 when Christopher Columbus set foot in the Americas. The news of his death spread quickly to the town of Santa Pola where he had attended the Virgen de Loreto school. The mayor, Yolanda Sev, said that, although the family was not originally from the town, they had quickly established themselves in the area and were well known and well respected amongst their neighbours. She publicly conveyed the condolences of Santa Pola and the townsfolk to his family adding that the council will be organising a formal tribute to the deceased in due course.

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.

Rocked at the Emerald Isle The 3rd of October 2017 saw the end of season show for ´One Vision´ at a packed Emerald Isle. Stevie Spit compared and did his usual suggestive humour along with some well known melodies which earned him a good round of applause. However, even his act was almost upstaged by a toddler who climbed onto the stage during Stevie´s singing and proceeded to clap and dance amusing both Stevie and the audience, possibly a star in the making? The West End show ran for over 12 years at the Dominion Theatre London and written by both Queen and Ben Elton, it was a fabulous success. I was privileged to go and see this many years ago and have never forgotten it, especially not forgotten is the whole Dominion theatre vibrating and jumping to the music. I have also seen ´One Vision´ in Benidorm and was impressed by their act, therefore when the opportunity came up to see them at the Emerald Isle I jumped at the chance. The band consists of

Mark Harty, David Wenzel and Joanne Lloyd who really deserve the applause they receive at every performance. They sang a selection of Queen music including Killer Queen with an impressive head dress worn by the ´would be killer queen ´. Pure head banging stuff invoking sing-a-long and clapping encouraged by the band themselves. The opening number ´One Vision´ gets the audience into ´Queen´ mode as the band appear on stage in a sea of black leather and dog collar studs. This is not only a tribute to Queen but also to the West End Stage show. The act is well motivated, rehearsed, choreographed and with excellent harmonies. ´We will rock you´ gave the band a standing ovation as it did when the act finished, a further curtain call brought the band out again for a final number. Freddie Mercury died, long live the Queen! By Scoop Carter

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

Spanish TV stars drop into Torrevieja Cllr Perez in the white slacks with Javier Gutiérrez and Pilar López to his right.

panish actors Javier Gutiérrez and Pilar López were both in Torrevieja last week shooting a 15 minute film called ‘Torrevieja’, the story of the meeting of two people who seek happiness in Torrevieja. The film was shot by the salt flats, in the town’s coves and beaches as well as the Sevillanas fair and round about the town itself. The Councilor for Culture, Domingo Pérez, met the director and actors on Friday when he presented them to the local press.

The director, Belén Verdugo, said that there is a real link between the actors and Torrevieja, she herself has spent 15 years living in the area, the actor and producer Carlos Mures is from Torrevieja and Javier Gutiérrez has spent many summers here during his childhood. Javier Gutiérrez has appeared in more than fifty films and is currently starring in the television series "Estoy vivo" while Pilar López received a Goya for her role as Queen Joanna of Castile in the film Juana la Loca, and currently features in the Antena 3 prison drama "Vis a Vis".

Mayors call for unity on Valencia Day Valencian Day was celebrated across the region last Tuesday with the two most notable ceremonies taking place in Orihuela and Torrevieja. In Orihuela the event was celebrated in the Plaza del Carmen where the mayor, Emilio Bascuñana, called for unity saying that 'The Valencian Community must show that it is completely united so as to prevent the work of separatists which is outside the framework of the law' Music was provided by the Gines Perez de la Parra choir and the orchestra of the municipal Conservatory of Orihuela The ceremony in Orihuela

In Torrevieja meanwhile, in front of a gathering that was largely made up of town hall officials, mayor Jose Dolon raised the Spanish flag whilst the National anthem was played by the Union Musical Torrevejense. Although the mayor didn’t refer to Catalonia by name he did say that it was a difficult time in another part of the country but here in Valencia people want very much to be part of the common cause which is Spain.

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Los Alcázares celebrates 34 years of independence Residents of Los Alcázares celebrated the town’s 34 years of independence from San Javier and Torre Pacheco on Thursday with a party on la playa de las Pescaderías (Fishmongers beach). Rather fittingly the celebratory meal took the form of a fish broth cooked in a cast iron pot by veteran fishermen from the port. Although it was only a small group that took to the beach one celebrant said that the same neighbours never miss their annual celebration on the Mar Menor. Every year they return to enjoy a relaxing sun and beach day in which they cook on typical cauldrons which they share with all the family. Although celebrated in October the beach itself was more typical of August with hundreds of visitors enjoying the facilities along the 5 kilometre stretch of the Alcazareña coast, and the terraces and beach bars unable to cope with the unexpected numbers.

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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Ryanair retains top spot despite cancellations Ryanair once again transported more passengers through Spanish Airports than any of its rivals. Despite the wave of cancellations brought about by a flight planning problem the low-cost airline maintained its position as the busiest carrier in airports operated by AENA here in Spain. The company, which is led by the compelling Irish entrepreneur Michael O'Leary, carried 3.67 million passengers through Spanish airports, 1.2 million more than its closest competitor Vueling, the second ranking airline in Spain, according to data provided by Aena. Ryanair actually increased passenger traffic in September by 10%. Iberia, with 1.27 million travellers was third, although if all the other customers who used the Iberia network, which includes its low-cost subsidiary, Iberia Express (486,189 passengers in September) and Air Nostrum (397,794 passengers) are taken into account, it would be placed second with 2.16 million passengers. However, if the data was ordered by company groups, and not individual brands, the IAG corporation – which comprises Iberia, Vueling and British Airways – comes out on top, having flown a total of 4.62 million passengers during the month. Of the other airlines, Easyjet transported 1.46 million passengers in September, well ahead of Air Europa (936,828 passengers), while Norwegian increased to 741,137 customers in Spain. Air Berlin traffic was down to just 24,324 passengers, following the company bankruptcy. AENA’s passenger numbers at domestic airports also help to confirm

Ryanair carried 3.67 million passengers through Spanish airports in September despite it’s first wave of cancellations Ryanair’s momentum on a global scale. The Irish low-cost carrier managed to increase passenger traffic last September by 10% compared to the same month last year. According to figures released by Ryanair itself the airline carried 11.8 million passengers, despite having to face the first of it’s three cancellation announcements totalling 2,100 flights from midSeptember to the end of October affecting over 300,000 passengers.. The company clarified on Tuesday that they have reimbursed or relocated on other flights or alternative routes 98% of the passengers that were affected by this first wave.

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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Improved Maternity facilities at Vega Baja Hospital The Maternity wing of the Vega Baja Hospital has completed the refurbishment of all its facilities to improve the comfort of future mothers in providing them with an improved and quality service. The work originally began in the summer and can now "meet the needs that expectant mothers have long been demanding," the press release says. The improvements have included the introduction of new cabinets and doors, replacement of much of the furniture, the improvement of the lighting and air conditioning systems. New baths have been installed that are adapted to meet the needs of pregnant women with additional handrails which will ensure that mothers will be better protected from the possible risk of falls. "In addition the Maternity ward has been completed redecorated which makes it a much warmer space," the statement said. The improvement and modernisation of all the rooms is part of the Health Infrastructure Improvement Plan 2016-2019. Women now also have delivery beds, with electric height and backrest adjustment, which provides support for mother, and functionality for nursing staff throughout all stages of the birthing process, which were acquired at the beginning of the works, and that also allow their independence particularly with the care of the baby.

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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severely malnourished pony stallion showing signs of physical abuse is now in the care of Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre in Rojales, Spain. Rescued from the streets of Algorfa in conjunction with Almoradí police on September 21, the pony known as Fudge is the sixth rescued by the sanctuary in five months, confirming an alarming trend of ponies being abandoned in public places. “When we started the centre nine years ago, we were rescuSue Weeding with the rescued pony ing animals that had been Photo: Álvaro Soriano Pastor locked away and left to “When we arrived to rescue him, he wouldn’t even lift his starve,” said Easy Horse Care co-founder Sue Weeding. “Now, head,” explained Sue. “Now he calls out to us and eats all day. I they’re literally being dumped in the streets.” The influx of ponies is putting the centre under increasing finan- think he believes he’s in paradise now.”

“They all come to us needing castration and with a whole host of health problems,” said Sue. “We pride ourselves on caring for them properly. We don’t just give them a bit of food to keep them alive.” The latest rescue, which has gained international attention, was found in a skeletal state, with a massive infection in one eye and showing signs of what could well be deliberate physical abuse. A visible scar on his neck suggests Fudge suffered a significant blow that left two of his vertebrae broken, causing him to walk with a wobbly gait.

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Easy Horse Care sanctuary rescues another skeletal pony

cial pressure as it looks to provide the medical attention and care each abused equine needs.

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Donations to help cover Fudge’s rehabilitation costs are gratefully received and can be made online. “This old boy is about 20 years old and it's absolutely heartbreaking to think what he’s suffered through,” said Sue. “It will be a time game for this fellow and we'll just take it one step at a time. Whatever the outcome, we will give him anything and everything he needs, and a whole lot of love on top.” Miniature ponies like Fudge can live well into their thirties, so once he’s had time to grow in strength, Fudge’s infected eye will be surgically removed and he’ll also be castrated. But in the short time since he arrived at the centre, he’s already shown remarkable improvement.

Fudge’s rescue takes the total number of equines at the sanctuary to 108. While Sue and her husband Rod Weeding continually work to re-home their rescues, they worry that without other options, the number of equines in their care will only continue to grow. “The situation is dire, because if we don’t take them, they’ll stay where they are,” said Sue. “And how can we, as caring people, say no when there’s no one else?” The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre relies entirely on donations to fund its important animal welfare work, including the feeding and care of the centre’s horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from abuse, neglect and abandonment. Donations of cash or items for the centre’s network of six charity shops across the Alicante province are gratefully welcomed. A pick-up service is available to collect large donated items such as furniture and each shop also offers a delivery service for large items purchased in-store. The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, located just outside Rojales at Partido Lo Garriga, 59, 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. For more details and directions, please visit the website www.easyhorsecare.net.

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La Mata Town Hall without drinking water or aircon The satellite Town Hall of the hamlet of La Mata, opened in July of 2010, has been over four months without air conditioning. It is a four-storey building with huge windows that allows maximum sunlight inside the rooms, so in summer it is essential to have air conditioning. However, according to municipal sources, in June a thunderstorm caused the breakdown of the entire air conditioning system of the building since which time the city officials have been forced to endure the suffocating heat of the months of July and August.

The town hall has been without drinking water and aircon for over 4 months

wo men were arrested last week for reckless driving along la calle Margaritas in San Pedro del Pinatar, according to the local police who were alerted to the incident by local residents at around 6.20pm.

The staff say that they are extremely angry that they have not had even the minimum conditions required by health and safety legislation in which to work. A spokesman said they were told that there was no money to fix the problem as it was all being used for local investment. To alleviate the heat they were provided with several fans, although the situation did not improve as all they did was to move the suffocating heat around the building. As of today the employees still do not know when this problem will be resolved. They say that now the summer is over, with the onset of winter, the situation will be reversed, with large open spaces becoming extremely the cold. And not only have the staff been without airconditioning, it appears that, for several months, they have also been without drinking water with the central shut-off valve closed almost all day as a result of which they say that they are forced to use local catering establishments in the area. They add that it is incomprehensible that a new building, which is only seven years old, is in such a dreadful state.

Torremendo - Orihuela bus to be reinstated Orihuela’s Councillor for Transport, Begoña Cuartero, has opened talks with a transport company to provide a bus service between Torremendo and Orihuela. The service will provide two daily trips, departing in the morning from the village and returning in the afternoon. The councillor is taking steps after learning of the withdrawal of the bus service between Orihuela with Pilar de la Horadada that passed through the hamlet of Torremendo, which is now left without any form of public transport. The decision to remove the service was taken by the concessionaire company,

Two men arrested in San Pedro for joyriding in a stolen car detail of their vehicle it was found to have been stolen in Águilas last August.

of the pair was carried out, both of whom

Two police officers eventually caught and detained the men, and on checking the

Subsequently the arrest and identification

with police records.

were said to be of Moroccan origin, and

Autocares La Inmaculada, and became effective last month. The company said that the service was losing money. The line also linked Orihuela with the coast which is also without public transport to the city. The residents of Torremendo voiced their indignation at the removal of the service according to the Cambiemos Orihuela spokesman, Karlos Bernabé. “Torremendo has an aging population who are now unable to travel by theiir own means to the city or to the Coast, for leisure, or more importantly, for their personal independence," he said.

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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Woman detained after setting own home on fire

Santa Pola arrest for Child Pornography

fficers from the Guardia Civil in AlmoradĂ have opened an investigation into the causes of a fire in Jacarilla which occurred in a third-floor apartment two weeks ago, following which five families had to be evicted to avoid personal injury. Their findings have now resulted in the arrest of a 45-year-old Spanish woman for deliberately setting fire to her own house and putting at risk the lives of nearby residents. After the fire had been extinguished the agents entered the house, accompanied by the Fire Investigation Team of the Civil Guard, to carry out an investigation into the causes. They said that in addition to the damage caused by smoke and fire, they found threats and insults to the woman which had been written on the main

door and in the kitchen. One of them said: "you have escaped." Everything indicated that the fire had been started intentionally. However, the investigations found that the fire had been set from within the property. In making further enquiries they examined the causes that would have led the woman to burn down her house and endanger the lives of other people. It seems that she had long had conflicts with the other residents and is thought to have started by spreading evidence suggesting that it was they who wrote the insults and set the house on fire. She has now been charged with an offense of deliberate arson together with the endangerment of other residents. She has also been admitted to a psychiatric centre for assessment.

Guardmar arsonist held

he arrest was made of an individual on Friday evening for the alleged arson attacks that have occurred in the Guardamar Pine Forests in the last fifteen days. The man was said to be a person of diminished mental capacity who had been living rough in the woods during the summer months. After taking a statement from the perpetrator and holding him in custody over the weekend he was finally released on Monday morning. However, following his release he immediately set another fire, the eighth in fifteen days, which was quickly spotted and extinguished. In collaboration with the Regional and Local Police, the Guardia Civil then arrested him once again, for the second time in three days, where he now remains in custody. Over last weekend, during the 72 hours of his arrest no charges were actually brought and after exceeding the legal period of detention, he had to be released. However, following the latest arrest and detention yesterday he will now appear before the courts where prosecutors will be asking for some precautionary measure to ensure that the man moves away from the municipality.

The National Police have detained one person in Santa Pola, another in Bizkaia and two more in Madrid for exchanging child pornography through the Internet. They allege that, in addition to having images of child pornography files, the individual arrested in Santa Pola had initiated electronic contact with several underage girls. Thanks to the prompt action of the police, he was arrested and the children were prevented from being sexually harassed. The investigation began when the police received information sent by a technology services company, which reported the use of its services to store and share child pornography in Spain. On investigating the matter the agents were able to identify four people as allegedly responsible for these activities.

Initially, a man was located and detained in Sestao (Bizkaia), where he stored a large number of child pornography files on a mobile terminal used exclusively for this purpose, and hidden for the rest of his family. A second individual was then arrested in Santa Pola, and in the course of the investigation, the agents found two further people in Madrid who were also be committing similar criminal acts. One of them, in addition to activities related to child pornography, had stripped his partner's sister naked without her consent, and subsequently distributed these images to third parties. The final detainee was a man, resident in the Madrid town of AlcorcĂłn, who stored pornographic material exclusively of girls between the ages of ten and fourteen.

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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The Availability of Spanish Welfare Services to Resident Expats T he saying that death and taxes are two certainties in life is one that we regularly hear on the Costa Blanca but perhaps the addition of old age and residential care to the phrase should also be considered for inclusion in ‘the definitive book of quotes’ the next time that a rewrite comes around.

There are 24 sheltered apartments available at the Casaverde centre in Pilar de la Horadada alone.

With that in mind and not knowing too much about residential care homes here in the local area, and also being of a certain age myself, I thought it was time that I found out. As such I recently took advantage of an invitation from Beatriz Lara, a Senior Care at Home Social Worker at Casaverde Homes, to visit the centre in Pilar de la Horadada, where I was pleasantly surprised. Although I met Beatriz in Pilar the group operates two further homes in Almoradi and Guardamar del Segura, all areas that stand out for the wonderful climate and the beauty of the local surrounds. Care for the elderly has been undergoing monumental change in recent years. Diminishing fast are the geriatric hospitals and wards of the past, whilst increasing apace are specialist residential care and nursing homes. Casaverde is one such group where health, quality of life and peace of mind matter most. All have 24/7 nursing assistance, daily care and multidisciplinary treatment, provided by a team of neuropsychologists, psychologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. There are regular leisure activities arranged by the centre’s staff, both internally and externally, which change on a regular basis …a whole range of pursuits to meet the needs of Casaverde residents. As well as the nursing home there are also 24 sheltered apartments on site with their own entrance alongside the main building. All apartments have a telephone and occupants are also provided with alarm buttons for assistance that is available to them within seconds. I was surprised to find that over 40% of those in the centre are English speaking expats, many of who originate from the UK. Coincidentally I bumped into one couple from Shrewsbury who are staying in a sheltered apartment and who couldn’t speak highly enough about the care that they receive. As the Care at Home Social Worker responsible for the Expat Community Beatrix was keen to tell me about her team of 30 staff that provide social care services to Expats in the privacy of their own homes. She explained that her responsibility lies purely with expat residents while her co-worker, Veronica Pertusa, operates a similarly sized team for the Spanish speaking community.

Although Casaverde Homes is a private concern Beatrix explained that a lot of her time is spent with expats, explaining to them the intricacies of the ‘Spanish Welfare System’. She helps with form filling and the processing of the paperwork, as a result of which many of her clients are able to transfer the financial obligation for their care to the Spanish State. Beatrix also provides support and advice to the many expat charities that help in the community with welfare guidance and assistance and I know that she is in regular contact with The Royal British Legion, a charity dear to my own heart. In fact tomorrow, Tuesday, in Benijofar, along with a number of other local groups and professionals, including Age Concern, HELP Vega

Baja, HELP at Home CB, the RBL, Alicante’s British Consul, SarahJane Morris, Beatrix and her Casaverde Foundation will be hosting a Workshop for local charities entitled “Working Together for better care” in which speakers will share their common experiences in navigating the Spanish system of Social Care and Support. So as many of us here in Spain approach the time in our lives when such care could become necessary the lesson would appear to be ‘talk to the people who are in the know’. Find out about the Social Care Services that are available to all expat residents and make sure that you sign up to them NOW before it all becomes too late.’

Do you want to be the person who makes a difference to others? Well you can! Have you a Nursing or Social Care Background? Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur operates Lifeline its Welfare Section for people who need assistance We urgently need volunteers who have a Nursing or Social Care background to help those who are most in need by: Making home visits and carrying out assessments Advise on where to get nursing care Liaising with social services and other charities Give advice on Care Aids Give information about Residential Care Homes Matching volunteers to beneficiaries(subject to availability of volunteers If you think you can help Age Concern call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or send your details to: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es

Volunteering can change lives – the lives of both those people receiving advice and support and the life of the person freely giving their time and effort to a charity such as ours. HELP at HOME Costa Blanca is run totally by volunteers and depends entirely on voluntary income from their donors and supporters in order to provide their vital services. Volunteers are required, office staff, drivers, carers and befrienders. Call 965-328-794 Please also support our weekly market which is held at The Emerald Isle in La Florida every Tuesday (11am-3.30pm) In addition, we are currently looking for a company to help us design and build our website. Call the number above if you can help.

HELP Vega Baja has grown over the past 35 plus years and to meet the needs of those we support, we are looking to increase our team of volunteers throughout the charity. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone interested in working in our charity shop, our front desk reception in San Miguel and Torrevieja and our 24 hour emergency helpline. If you would like to find out more, please contact Richard Garland (Charity Secretary) on 966 723 733, email office@helpvegabaja.com or visit our Facebook page We look forward to hearing from you!

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

Alicante Business concerns over Catalonia Independence

he business world has been watching with concern the separatist drift of Catalonia in recent years, and the escalation of tension in recent days, following the illegal referendum that was recently held and the images of the police facing down those people who wanted to vote, as well as the intention enter into negotiations leabing to independence by the Catalan leaders.

Mercadona President Juan Roig said that there must be dialogue between the politicians

Not surprisingly, as Valencian President, Ximo Puig has expressed his concern on numerous occasions as Catalonia is the main internal market for many Valencian companies, both when it comes to selling and buying. Uncertainty about the future of Catalonia, and the hypothetical scenario of a break with Spain or an eventual imposition of tariffs would leave 17% of the sales of Valencian companies up in the air. The president of the Alicante Chamber of Commerce, Juan Riera , said that there is a "deep concern" among the business community in the province, because "what we want is legal security and trust" to be able to carry out our work and to continue with our economic development. "If you do not have that scenario, it's difficult to operate because uncertainty is the biggest brake on investments." Thus, the main fear of the businessmen of Alicante is that the separatist drift puts their preferential commercial relationship at risk with their neighbours to the north. Francisco GĂłmez, president of the employers' association of

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Government refuses to open tax office in Torrevieja

Carles Mulet, the spokesman of Compromis in the Senate, has been told that anyone in the Torrevieja area who might wish to resolve their tax problems by a face to face meeting with a government official must continue to use the only tax office in the region, which is located in Orihuela city, despite the fact that an enormous, and largely-empty Social Security complex, has been operating in Torrevieja since it was built six years ago in 2011.

Mulet says that the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response is extremely disappointing Alicante, Coepa, and the association of family businesses Aefa, says that "we are very concerned about the issue, because we do not know how much we will be affected." The businessman points out that "capital is very sensitive, and situations like this can make you withdraw, and they will affect the economy very significantly" especially "when we were in a period of sustained growth". A very similar statement was made last week by the President of Mercadona, the Valencian Juan Roig, when he said that what companies want is "tranquility" in order to carry out their business and generate wealth. "The politicians have to solve this problem with dialogue and understanding," said Roig. " It's a very serious problem and you have to deal with it. As a Spaniard I feel ver worried and scared for the future."

Mulet put his question to the Senate: The City of Torrevieja has "a building which has been built to accommodate the AEAT (Agencia Tributaria) and although there has long been a project to move the agency in it has still not been set in motion. Torrevieja has more than 100,000 registered residents - actually 86,000 now - and yet it does not have a local tax office. What action does the government intend to take in this respect? ' Mulet says that the response "could not be more disappointing". The Government insists that "their commitment, through the Tax Agency, to new technologies, has reduced the need to visit their offices in order to resolve problems, and that people who are unable to travel to Orihuela should resolve their difficulties through the internet portal www.agenciatributaria.gob.es.

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D LY NEW RBISHE U REF

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

LAST WEEKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Quarantine; 7 Raise; 8 Sharpen; 10 Cherubic; 11 Tilt; 13 Crafty; 15 Mellow; 17 Orgy; 18 Composer; 21 Salient; 22 Trash; 23 Friendship. DOWN: 1 Quite; 2 Adequate; 3 Assail; 4 Thaw; 5 Nuptial; 6 Precocious; 9 Noteworthy; 12 Despatch; 14 Angular; 16 Sorted; 19 Scamp; 20 Fete. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Hotel suite; 7 Adder; 8 Clerics; 10 Spaniels; 11 Skit; 13 Denial; 15 Kernel; 17 Vega; 18 Daydream; 21 Railing; 22 Resin; 23 A great deal. DOWN: 1 Hydra; 2 Terminal; 3 Locale; 4 User; 5 Thicken; 6 Passed over; 9 Settlement; 12 Gendarme; 14 Nagging; 16 Caught; 19 Easel; 20 Fine.

ACROSS 6. Surprise (7) 7.

Hard-wearing fabric (5)

Urbane (5)

10.

University department

12.

Holding sway (11)

14.

Obsequious (11)

18.

Card game (7)

19.

Adhere (5)

21.

Timepiece (5)

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Shade of red (7)

(7)

DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 8. 11. 13. 15. 16. 17. 20.

Robust (5) Cowardly (6) Beer (3) Outcome (6) French wind (7) Spear (7) Clearness (7) Long-lasting (7) Posture (6) Essential character (6) Treaded fastener (5) Perform (3)

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

Protest about craftsmen (7)

Old coin found in educational establishment (5)

Cared about a tree (5)

10. Possibly shines a coarse fabric (7) 12. One French friend with a list of what's unacceptable (11) 14. Having seen day well out with cheese (11) 18. American politician involved in treason (7) 19. Meat Kate's cooking (5) 21. Belief that can be unnoticeably overturned (5) 22. Sharing out parsley, for example (7)

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

Equatorial Guinea, DR Congo. 8. Fender Stratocaster. 9. Pillars of Hercules. 10. Six answers. a. Piano man (Billy Joel), b. Roadhouse Blues (The Doors), c. Sunday morning coming down (Kris Kristofferson), d. Bruce's philosophers song (Monty Python), e. All I wanna do (Sheryl Crow), f. Tubthumping (Chumbawamba). 11. For cutting the heads of parking meters. 12.

DOWN 1. You'll find me in bed when this flies past (5) 2. Stress the melody (6) 3. A Royal Marines member (3) 4. Man getting first class return to the country (6) 5. Wire about father being competent (7) 8. Conflict among communists concerning prizes (7) 11. A man's terrible romance (7) 13. Somehow deserve to be cut off (7) 15. Frightens with wild caress? (6) 16. Talent becomes dormant (6) 17. Land that's hard on the planet (5) 20. Is capable of finding tin (3)

smells like a beer. b. Well I woke up this morning and got myself a beer. c. And the beer I had for breakfast wasn't bad so I had one more for dessert. d. John Stewart Mill of his own free will on half a pint of shandy was particularly ill. e. I like a good beer buzz early in the morning. f. He drinks a lager drink 11. Why was 'Cool hand Luke' sent to prison? 12. Who is the most infamous Seraph? 13. What are the two most populated cities in each of the following countries? a. Argentina, b. Pakistan, c. Vietnam 14. What is the number of the dreaded room in the book 'Nineteen Eighty Four'? 15. In which book and film is room 237 a frightening place? 16. What is the name of the 8mm colour film which records the assassination of JFK? 17. In song, where does Terry meet Julie? 18. In song, where does Gordon meet Julie? 19. According to the human rights organisation Freedom House, which two G8 countries have the least 'freedom of the press'? 20. An archaic expression of surprise or shock and a contraction of the term referring to the nails used in the crucifixion. Eight letters, second letter 'a', last letter 's'. 1. The wreck of the Titanic. Argo was Robert Ballard's unmanned undersea video sledge. 2. Godzilla. 3. Nelson Mandela. His birth name is Rolihlahla (trouble maker). 4. Jack Nicholson and Laurence Olivier. 5. Sri Lanka. 6. Coffee. 7. Starting with the most corrupt, they are in order: Somalia, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Afghanistan, Sudan, Chad, Guinea,

ACROSS

1. Which immense tragedy did the Argo discover in the early hours of September 1st, 1985? 2. Minilla is the son of which infamous heavyweight? 3. The actual first name of which Nobel Peace Prize winner means 'trouble maker' when translated? 4. Which two men have been nominated a record 10 times for the Oscar as best actor or best actor in a supporting role? 5. The word serendipity stems from the old Persian word 'serendib', which was once the name of which present day country with a lion on its flag? 6. Kopi Luwak sells for more than 100 US dollars per pound making it one of the most expensive examples of what in the world? 7. Based on the 2009 list from Transparency Int., name two of the ten most corrupt countries in the world. 8. Which famous guitar does one usually associate with Jimi Hendrix? 9. In antiquity, what name was given to the headlands that flank the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar? 10. The following lyrics are all beer related. Can you name the song? a. And the microphone

Satan. 13. a. Buenos Aires and Cordoba, b. Karachi and Lahore, c. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. 14. Room 101. 15. The Shining. 16. The Zapruder film. 17. Waterloo station. Waterloo Sunset'. 18. At the bus stop (outside the chip shop). 'Jilted John'. 19. Russia and Italy. 20. Gadzooks! (from Gods' hooks)

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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.

A Beacon of Culture

s regular readers may remember, I started playing the violin again last year. In fact, I became so enthusiastic that I started teaching myself to play the viola and cello as well. Sometimes it is a painful and painstaking process, and I would not inflict my efforts upon any listener. However, I do enjoy listening to stringed instruments, and in particular, being played by those who really do know how to make their instruments sing. Last week, I was fortunate to be able to attend a concert given by the Gran Canaria Philharmonic Orchestra. Most tourists, and indeed many residents, remain unaware that we have our own world class orchestra on this island. There are regular concerts advertised and I can highly recommend making the effort to travel to the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium in Las Palmas for the evening; it is a delightful and impressive experience. I particularly enjoy visiting the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium in Las Palmas. It has often been described as “A Beacon of Culture”, which it is in so many symbolic ways. Looking at the impressive building as it stands on Las Canteras beach is just a start. For me, the true magic begins inside the building when looking at the orchestra seated in front of a huge picture window with an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean outside. Visitors to the concert can watch waves crashing and lights twinkling on the water outside, which creates an evocative and memorable experience when listening to the music being played by this exceptional orchestra. The Alfredo Kraus

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By Bar rie Mahoney

The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium opera houses, singing with Maria in Las Palmas Callas, Joan Sutherland and other world-renowned sopranos. The last two years of Kraus's life were darkened by the death of his wife in 1997, which affected him deeply. A proud and strong-willed man, he eventually returned to the stage and to teaching, making the comment, “Singing is a form of admitting that I'm alive.” In 1991, Kraus was awarded the Prince of Asturias Award. In 1997, his home city of Las Palmas opened the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium in his honour. Kraus died on September 10, 1999 in Madrid, at the age of 71, after a long illness. The music of Strauss and Mahler soothed my ears and made me forAuditorium was built as a beacon for opera, music and ballet in the get the world outside. I felt inspired by watching the professionals playing their violins, violas and cellos with such enthusiasm and Canary Islands. However, who was Alfredo Kraus? grace. During my next practice sessions, I will try harder. Alfredo Kraus Trujillo was born in Las Palmas on 24 September If you are visiting or live on the island, I strongly recommend a visit 1927 - the son of a Spanish naturalised Austrian. Alfredo began to the auditorium and, better still, to experience a concert given by piano lessons at the age of four and after completing secondary eduthe Gran Canaria Philharmonic Orchestra. Link this to a good meal cation he studied industrial engineering. Soon after graduation, in one of the many nearby restaurants, and I suspect that you too will Kraus began to concentrate more and more on singing, which he have a most enjoyable evening that you will remember for a long studied in Barcelona, Madrid and later Italy. time to come. Alfredo Kraus made his operatic debut as the Duke of Mantua in Giuseppe Verdi's Rigoletto in Cairo, in January 1956. He then If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: appeared in La Traviata in Venice, Turin and London, and in 1958 http://barriemahoney.com and http://thecanaryislander.com or read made his first appearances in Rome and Lisbon. Kraus quickly his latest book, ‘Footsteps in the Sand’ (ISBN: 9780995602717). developed into a world class tenor, starred in a movie based on the Available in paperback, as well as Kindle editions. life of Gayarre, an early famous Spanish tenor, and became a fre© Barrie Mahoney quent and well-respected performer at the world's most prestigious

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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Soup and Sandwiches for Poppy Appeal If you happened to be at the Fundraiser for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal organised by June Williams this time last year then I am sure that you will want to go again. I’m told that her ‘Soup and Sandwich’ afternoon achieved a great deal of support and is

still spoken about to this day. Unfortunately the same can’t be said of her jokes! As even I can make a sandwich I can only assume that it was her jokes that actually achieved the notoriety. Nevertheless, the event is taking place this

Spain’s star studded dog Rodeo remains on the ‘danger zone’ after suffering life threatening injuries in a car accident

coming Friday 20th October from 1 – 5pm at No 25 C/Caliza in La Regia, which is just off C/Ortosa at the roundabout, 250 mtrs above Pizzeria El Gato in San José ll, Fase 1 All are welcome with more information and directions from June on 966 846 576.

Rodeo remains in danger By Andrew Atkinson Spain’s star studded dog Rodeo remains on the ‘danger zone’ after suffering life threatening injuries in a car accident that incurred a fractured leg and internal bleeding. “Rodeo is happy enough in himself - but he's still very anaemic and his red blood cell count is slowly on the rise,” said owner Emma Tytherleigh. Following the near fatal incident it was feared Rodeo would not survive leaving one of Spain’s top equine performers Emma in tears. “Rodeo is still very much in the danger zone - for now,” said Emma, who has entertained thousands of people in the ‘Flamenco and Horse Spectacular’ shows in Spain. Rodeo underwent an operation to repair the severe injuries - that has lead to ongoing veterinary costs – currently standing at 4,500 euros.

And ‘Circus Vegas’ star performer Emma remains concerned about Leishmaniasis along with the severe anaemia that Rodeo has. Rodeo is undergoing treatment for Leishmaniasis, that can invariably spread throughout the body organs. Renal kidney failure is the most common – which can cause death. The main organ systems affected with Leishmaniasis are the skin, kidneys, spleen, liver, eyes, and joints, along with a skin reaction, with lesions on the skin, and hair loss. “Rodeo has started a new treatment for the Leishmaniasis and we have to visit the vet twice a week - for the next six weeks,” said Emma. Over 2,200 euros has been raised to help aid Rodeo recover, and Emma added: “I'm so touched by kindness. The overwhelming

concern, donations and help has brought tears to my eyes.” It is expected that the veterinary costs will spiral to 6,000 euros and Emma said: “Rodeo will undergo an X-Ray - and with any luck – have the five pins taken out of his leg.” Rodeo has also touched the hearts of the riders and crew of EQUILA (Apassionata) of which the World Premiere of EQUILA is being staged on November 5, 2017 in Munich, Germany. “The riders and crew of Equila (Apassionata) have all rallied round,” said Emma. “I thank everyone for their support, friends, family, colleagues - even strangers - have donated money to help pay for his treatment,” said Emma. To donate to Rodeo's veterinary costs see: www.youcaring.com/rodeojack-958482

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Match Results for 12th October 2017 (points for win/draw) Junction Jaguars 5-7 Ale House (2) Hub Hyenas (2) 9-3 Tavern Hen’s Teeth (1) 6-6 Pint depot Queens (1) Porter House (2) 8-4 Porter House Bees Witherspooners W-0 Wee Rockers Angels (2) 9-3 Hub Hellraisers Amigos' Misfits 1-11 El Capitan (2) Las Rosas 5-7 Junction Jackals (2) W = Withdrawn from the league

Angels Hub Hyenas El Capitan Junction Jackals Ale House Porter House Las Rosas Tavern Oldies Wee Rockers Amigo's Misfits Hen's Teeth Hub Hellraisers Pint Depot Queens Junction Jaguars Porter House Bees

P 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2 2 3 3 3 2 3 2

Pts 6 6 5 5 4 4 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 0

Legs 27 27 28 20 18 18 18 13 7 13 12 10 8 12 5

Ctte decisions on matches cancelled/rescheduled from weeks 1 and 2 :Wee Rockers 0-7 Angels Committee decision was to award Angels 2 match points and 7 legs for the unplayed match on 5th October as rules for cancelling/ rescheduling were not followed. Porter House R-R Tavern Oldies PH offered two dates to Tavern for rescheduled game and 17th October was accepted. 20 eu fine imposed on Tavern for late notification, food had already been prepared. Witherspooners 0-2 Pint Depot Queens (2) Witherspooners reported that they can only field 3 out of a possible 14 payers on a day other than a Thursday. A minimum of 4 players

is required for a game so according to the rescheduling rules, 2 match points and 7 legs were awarded to the Pint Depot Queens. Witherspoons were very unhappy with this decision and have withdrawn from the league. The table has been adjusted to take into account any points won or lost against Witherspoons to date. All teams that have yet to play them will have a bye for that week now and one team will have a bye in the first round of the Team KO. Las Rosas v Junction Jaguars 5 -7 (last season’s result 5-7) In a match that mirrored last season’s the Jackals took the first of the triples with a good defeat. Las Rosas then came back to make it 1-1 with Captain Alan checking out with his first dart at D12. After that Las Rosa's went downhill, losing the last triples and all the doubles to make it 5-1 to the Jackals. Then we ate! You see we need food to encourage us, after the break we put Cris on (man of the match) to make it 5-2, then it was Carlos & Adrian who played, all be it very well, but could not check out. making the score 7-2. Then we put on the last 3 players, in the order of John Spencer, Dave Knightly & Alan Preston, we all won, to make the final score 5-7 to the Junction Jackals, a fantastic come back but alas too late to get a draw or a home win. High scorers for the Jackals were:- Alex Nikolov100 x 4 140; Lee Maiden 140; Andy Rutter 100 x 3; Paul Miller 125. For Las Rosa's Cris, Carlos and John all got 100 a piece. The highest check out for the night was 88 by one of the Jackal but, the sheet was taken before I could record it, sorry. The second highest check out for the night was by David Knightly on 59. MOTM: Cris Montes and Andy Rutter. A game good time for everyone, well played Junction Jackals! report by Alan Preston Junction Jaguars v Ale House 5 – 7 (last season’s score 5-7) The Jaguars had a bare 6 players this week having signed on newbie Elizabeth Cowan for her debut match. Fair to say that none of the Jaguars shone in the opening triples or pairs until Patty Poo Schofield saved the day in the last of the pairs with a first dart out on D18. Mind you, the Ale House weren’t showing much better but at least they were hitting the doubles when it counted. Karl took the first of the singles giving the Ale House at least a draw but then the ladies rallied and took the next 3 singles, Patty Poo S1, D4; Queenie Liz D10 and eventually Capt. (Burpy) Sim on D2. Lisa nearly made it a fourth against Jim Grey – a man she could look straight in the eye! Our lovely Lelly then did her usual, scoring the only 100 for her team and then she finished the last single on D9 bringing the score line to 5 -7. We were clearly missing ‘Super Hilda’ this week

T.M.G.S. @ the ever improving La Marquesa 40 members “found” their way to this tricky little course nestled between Rojales and Ciudad Quesada. It’s not so easy to find and certainly do not rely on your sat nav! It can’t find it either. But when you do find it what a surprise you’ll have, forget all of that bad publicity of years ago; this course is defiantly on the up! It is a pleasure to play it. That having been said we are now in the “silly season” whereby all of the courses are flooded with too many players, so the 5 hr round is now the normality once again. Results: N.T.P.’s hole 5 K. Winton, hole 11 M. Kennedy, hole 15 J. Hettrick, hole 17 L. Holmberg. Two “2’s” winners this week each receiving €20 well done to Kenny Winton and Lars Jernberg. Best guest was Mrs. C. Martin. 36 points. Bronze cat: 3rd S. Twentyman 32 pts. 2nd L. Holmberg 34 pts. 1st K. Krog 40 pts. Silver cat:

3rd T. Roed 32 pts. 2nd D. Sullivan 33 pts 1st P. Boyling 35 pts. Gold cat. 3rd O. Rong 33 pts. 2nd K. Houpalahti 35 pts. 1st K. Winton 36 pts. Call Joe on 661 524 101 or follow us @TMGSGOLF or www.facebook.com/TMGSGOLF or www.tmgs.org

Bronze cat winners

By Simone de Lacy

and otherwise might have scooped a draw or a close win. Oh well, there is always next year. A great night was had between these wellmatched and fun-loving teams. MOTM Patty Poo and Jarl Mallinson. Angels v Hellraisers 9-3 (Last season 9-3) The Angels are on high and see themselves joint top of the leader board again this week thanks to a win over the blond bob-shells from the Hub and also a 7-0 match result awarded to them from the previous week against the Wee Rockers. Steve’s boys and Dawn Hepple took all the triples but Sue and Capt. ChezMac (D6) took the first of the pairs. The Angels took the other two courtesy of Wacky Waller and Minxy Martin. Ali Scammel of the Hellraisers won her single against Kain Hickman and Chezzles won the final single on D1 bringing the score to 9-3, also the same as last year! MOTM: Phil Waller and Cheryl McGlynn. Porter House v Porter House Bees 8 – 4 (last season’s score 7 -5) Some super scoring and finishing by Ray Hayes gave him MOTM this week and John Lane put up a sterling performance for the Bees collecting 3 out of 4 of their points. Considering the Bees are missing two of their best drones now, they put up a good fight. Hen’s Teeth v Pint Depot Queens 6 -6 (Last season’s score 7-5) An improvement this year for the Queens who were, no doubt, delirious with a hard-fought draw against the toothy cluckers. Brian was cock of the walk for the Hen’s finishing two of their games, as did Joe. Henni Hen also got them a point and George the final one in the singles. For the Queens is was Magnificent Marie and Radiant Rachel supplied two points apiece and Capt. Cheryl and pocket rocket Vi did the rest! 180’s and highest Check-out No reports of any more 180’s or higher check-outs than 128 this week so El Capitan’s John Walker is still the current holder of both! Team Knock-out draw Next week the committee will be doing the draw for the first round of the Team KO games on 26th October. Captains will be notified as to who and where they will be playing and also where the draw will take place should they wish to come and watch. Match Results and sheets Winning team captains, please ensure that you text me your score line by 10am the morning following your match as stated on the results sheet. Please supply me with a written report of the highlights of your match if you can as it is always more interesting than just a matter of fact report on who finished what. Also photo or send me through the results sheets so that I can keep a record of MOTM’s of the merit award at the end of the season. Many thanks for your observation of all the rules and your co-operation.

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

Orihuela Costa Brownies and Rainbows

Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford CMax Diesel which is on Special Offer priced at just 16,500 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.

Social and Clubs The next meeting of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 19 Oct at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm when Paul Cullen will be entertaining members post meeting. 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 people to join our

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

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 The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is now fully open in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday including music, language classes, drawing and painting, sewing, general information, bereavement advice and much more. Further info is available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome res-

idents, 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 Brazilian mature lady. The best massage, relax, tantra, anti-stress. I also do body and intimate waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial cleansing and rejuvenation. Me and my silky hands are the perfect combination. Call Victoria on 687 131 005. Male and female Viagra, Cialis, Cialis Kamagra jellies mail order cash on delivery call 604 385 476 viagra4you19@gmail.com

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 5 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: 000076. Tel 617 537 866

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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

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level with a tiled patio area leads into the main living and dining areas. Private Pool, Fully Furnished, Stunning views, Private Garden. Euro 210,000 Ref 000058. Tel 617 537 866 Sierra de Orihuela - This fabulous detached property is on a plot of 1.900m2 and has breath-taking views of the Sierra de Orihuela mountain range. The total built area is 135m2 which is distributed across four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge / dining area, and a modern openplan kitchen. Covered car port, manicured gardens and a private swimming pool. Fully Furnished. Private Garden. Kennels and a chicken coup. Euro 249,995 Ref 00059. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - Modern 3 bedroom house in the sought after area of Balcon de la Costa. South facing and in a quiet area. The house has been refurbished to a very high standard and ready to move into. Large paved patio with high walls for your privacy, ideal for barbecuing or just relaxing in the sun. Fully Furnished. Private balconies. Stunning views. Air-Cond. Euro 79,500 Ref 000060. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A nice ground floor apartment in the heart of San Miguel de Salinas. It has 2 good size bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. The 2nd bedroom has an enclosed galeria for extra storage. Good size lounge / diner and open plan kitchen. The family bathroom comes with a 4 piece suite and shower enclosure. Popular Spanish village. Fully furnished. Communal Pool. Large Terrace. Euro 52,995 Ref 000061. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo. 2 bed countryside home on 5000sqm plot. Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. There is also a separate self-contained cabin. Private pool, fully airconditioned, part furnished, ideal for conservationist €149,995 ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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La Siesta Bowls Club by Rod Edgerton La Siesta began their preparations for the Winter League Season with a friendly triples fixture against local neighbours Greenlands in beautiful sunny weather. Four rinks being played at La Siesta and four at Greenlands. At La Siesta the home team won on 3 rinks and lost on 1 so it was up to the four rinks at Greenlands to see if La Siesta could maintain their advantage. With La Siesta winning comfortably on two of the rinks and finishing level on the other two the overall result saw La Siesta coming up tops. Members from both clubs now travel together for an away trip to Benalmadena to play matches in the Costa del Sol with no doubt some shopping in Gibraltar for good measure. Whilst members were away in the Costa del Sol a 3 rink match was played against Campsie Bowls Club who hail from Scotland. The match was a close encounter throughout and finished up with the shots score equal at 46 shots each. La Siesta winning on two rinks by 15-13 and 17-15 whilst Campsie won the other rink by 18-14.Norma Adcroft, skipping for La Siesta on the final end managed to get 2 shots with his final bowl to obtain his rink’s 2 shot victory. Our Winter League team commenced their season with an away fixture that is always tricky against formidable near neighbours San Luis. However, on this occasion La Siesta rose to the task and came away with victory by 10 points to 2.The shots difference being 82 to 64 which was helped by an outstanding performance by Joy Gardiner, Jim Hudson Dave Blackie and Jean Cooper who won by 20 shots to 6. The other wins came from Pat and Trish Reilly with Mike and Florence Edwards who won 14-11, Val Dalton, Derek Smith, Brian Gardiner and Irene Mangan who won 19-13 and Barbara Cooper, George Richardson, Sue Jordan and Brian Fraser who won 18-15. In the Southern League B Division the Golds entertained Quesada Swifts winning on 5 rinks and drawing the other gaining 13 points to their opponents 1 with a shots advantage of 109 to 82.The best winning rink was Sheila Chorley with Bill and Sue Jordan who won 25-10.There was a good win for Pat Moore, Dave Blackie and George Richardson 18-11.The remaining rinks were all close affairs with the biggest winning margin being 2 shots. In the Southern League C Division the Golds took the long trip to La Manga Crusaders to play their hosts on the grass surface which is always difficult for visiting teams. So it was no surprise that the Golds were well beaten the home side winning on all rinks gaining a 14-0 win by 179 shots to 51.Best triple for La Siesta was Hilary Clarke, Derek Smith and Pat Reilly who lost by 16 shots to 13.

Greenlands Bowls Club By Dave Webb Both our teams have started the new season in spectacular fashion I am pleased to report. In Division C of the Southern League, we visited El Rancho and came away with the following result. total shots for - 107. against - 91. points for - 12. against - 2. Winning rinks were - Dave Field, Joan Oliver. Tony Hodges. - 21 shots to 16. Janet Bliss, John Newell, Margaret Hirst. - 25 shots to 11. Pat Wray, Jim Mc lean, John Wray, - 19 - 15. Jean Giddings, Neville Pulfer, Dave Giddings. - 18 shots to 15. Terry Powell John Dowell, Mike Cassidy. - 16 shots to 13. Well done Everyone. In the B Division the Oaks were at home to Horadada Royals, A super game played in the right spirit. Final score was - Total shots for - 105, Against - 86. Points for - 10. Against - 4. Winning rinks were --- Rudy Watley, Jean Thompson, Chris Dewar. = 22 shots to 10. Heather Meson, Margaret Dewar, Dave Webb. - 17 shots to 15. Ann Butterworth, Val Duchet, Barry Collins. - 18 shots to 11. Janet Webb, Jim Wilcock, Mike Kelly. 20 shots to 15. For All inquires regarding joining fees etc, please telephone Haley on 966 84 4399 who will be pleased to help you.

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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San Luis Bowls Club

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by Sheila Cammack

Our 4-2-2 OPEN 8th-10th October was 3 days of hard play with some excellent bowling (mixed rinks, ladies’ pairs and men’s pairs). The winners of each group played off in the semi finals. Group A winners: Ian Kenyon, Maggie Furness, Martin & Mo Foulcer lost to group B winners: Keith Jones, Russ & Sabrina Marks & June Jones. Group C winners: Sue Kemp, Geraldine Fisher, Brian Zelin & Gordon Fisher beat Group D winners: Mal Hughes, Les Bedford, Sheila Cammack & Pam Lockett. In the final Gordon’s (VB) team just couldn’t keep a strong San Luis team at bay, with Keith’s team coming out as winners. Thanks to all the competitors, the supporters who kept the oohs! & ahhs! going, also to Quiron hospital for their health tests input; with a few surprising results. Wednesday 11th Winter League home v La Siesta, but it was not the start to the season we had hoped for, taking only 2 points-10, 64 shots82. Winners: Kath Reid, Neil Morrison, Scott Malden & Ian Kenyon 19-11. Well done to the Berleen team: Allen Bowen, Jo Pering, Suzi Cooper & Brian Pocock winning 17-11 to take the 2 points. On Wednesday afternoon we had a very enjoyable match against a touring team from Windsor Bowls Club, Penarth. The 7-0 result was good and the company was excellent. Friday 13th Southern League: Div. A SL Lions, home v EI Cavaliers had a good result 10pts-4, shots 119-102. Winners: Kath Reid, Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 24-12, Colin Jackson, Keith Phillips, Mal Hughes 24-18, Lynne Morris, Ray Clarke, Tom Hill 25-13, Bob White, Ann Holland, Roy Cordell 19-11.

Div. B SL Tigers, away v SM Cougars; a hard fought match with a good result: 10pts-4, shots 116-81. Winners: Allen Bowen, Peter Fuller, Suzi Cooper 17-16, Helen Hammond, Barry Roseveare, Scott Malden 31-7, Judy Carroll, Ray Robson, Derrick Cooper 17-10, Irene Everett, Bill Webb, Vic Slater 21-11. Div. C SL Leopards home v SL Pumas had a great result 12pts-2, 145 shots-70. Leopards winners: Marie Henley, Kath Waywell, Bob Bromley 32-11, Derek Barker, Kevin Hull, Ian Ross 18-11, Pat Tilley, Ray Whatmough, Brenda Brown 24-15, Audrey Ford, Margaret Clarke, Charlie Marigold 30-6, Dennis Jackson, Dave Tilley, Caz Blay 23-6. Pumas winners: Chris Lythe, Danny McErlean, Malcolm Ayton 21-18. For club info please check: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com or contact June Jones, Club Captain: 691 90 3773.

Vistabella Bowls Club

San Miguel Bowls Club

By Lynne Bishop A start of another bowling season and while some have taken a long break away from the greens others have been making a name for themselves in various competitions, only last week four of our new members Sue Kemp, Brian Zellin, Geraldine & Gordon Fisher claimed a place in the San Luis 4-2-2 Final, unfortunately they lost to Keith Jones team but very well done, that also goes to Mo & Martin Foulcer, Maggie Furness & Ian Kenyon who lost to Keith's team in the Semi final. I'd like to welcome all our new members who have just joined the club and wish them a happy & successful year. The first of the Winter League campaign kicked off on Wednesday at Quesada and the less said about it the better as they suffered a 12-0 defeat. The Berleen team also came second...better things to come! Southern League A. The first game saw the Lanzadores go head to head with our own Picadors, a friendly but competitive game with the Lanzadores coming out on top. Sue Kemp, Sandra Burrows & Eric Bishop 38-12. Geraldine Fisher, StJohn Broadhurst & Ken Cuthbert 21-9. Lin Watkins, Sue Norris & Brian Zellin 21-13. Olwyn Ratcliffe, Arthur Brown & Maggie Furness 18-18. Picadors, Kevin Hardy, Pat Ray & Carol Thorpe 19-17. Geoff Taylor, Dane Howard & Pat Rafferty 17-13. Mo Foulcer, Brian Ray & Martin Foulcer 18-18. Shots, Lanzadores 128 (9) - 88 (5) Picadors. Southern league C. Conquistadors away to Country Bowls Geckos. Two winning rinks & a drawn game. June Hitchcock, Stephen Guy & George Gandy 13-10. Rosemarie and Ken Savage & Avril Kendall 1615. Ron Smith, Russ Hudson & Jim Harwood 18-18. Shots, VB 74 (5)- 116 (9) CB.

WINNERS: Keith and June Jones, Russ and Sabrina Marks.

By Pat McEwan San Miguel Bowls Club held a Fun Day last Saturday followed by a Hog Roast, with various tests and trials, including a blow up doll (well may be not blown up so much as stuffed!!!!!!) There was a lot of hilarity and everyone had a great time. Thanks to Social Secretary Paul Thomas for organising the games and to Janet for organising the food. Thanks to Sue from Cheers Bar for putting on the disco. League games started this week, with the Winter League having a good result away to Monte Mar winning 10 points to 2. Well played by Dave Johnson, Gail Willshire, Chris Collier, Lynn Greenland 2211: Margaret Patterson, Reg Cooper, Allan Patterson, Cliff Plaisted 25-10: Brian Miller, Brian Allen, Dave Greenland, Lin Miller 16-13: Noel Davis, Carol Rudge, Don Whitney, Fred Willshire 17-16. Shots for 97- Against 77. Good start to the season. In the Southern league, the Jaguars got beat on all rinks at Quesada. Some very good bowling by both teams, but Quesada came out on top. Our friendly won, well done to Peter and Brenda Rees and Sheila Booth. The Cougars got beat 10-4. The Christmas Dinner is on 12th December at El Prado, with entertainment by Debbie H. Deposits are required, see Paul Thomas. Tickets are on sale for the Christmas Hampers. More teams are needed for the December Open Christmas MUFTI. Get your teams in! WASPS are proving extremely popular, come along for 1.30, places are limited. €5 for an afternoons bowling, use of shoes and woods, tuition if required. For further information on San Miguel Bowls Club, please contact the President, Rosamond Stockell, telephone 699232910 or Secretary, Pat McEwan telephone 966714257.

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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Emerald Isle Bowls Club

El Rancho Bowls Club

Monte Mar Bowls Club

By Elwyn Morris

The leagues commencing today took the Mustangs to La Marina, to play the Ospreys, a first time in the A division for many of our bowlers. Coming away with 2 rinks is a good result in any away from home fixture. Judy Foley, Keith Cunningham and David Whitworth 6-33. June Whitworth, Henry Ryder and Richard Lee 19-17. Geoff Jones, Jane Hamill and Stew Hamill 1925. Barbara Jones, Sheila Cooper and Carolyn Harris 8-31. Ann S Taylor, Shirley Edwards and Jim Taylor 7-23. Irene Thomson, Jim Gracie and Eddie Thomson 21-9. The Broncos played at home against Greenlands Cedars and although took just the one rink, several rinks were quite close, with a few perhaps a little rusty from the summer break and looking good for the future. Pam Harris, Graham Day and Brian Harris 11-25. Gill Bartlett, Peter Blackburn and Rob Clark 16-21. Gary Dunstone, Bob Easthope and Barry Bright 15-18. Edward Elsam, Peter Bagwell and Jean Bagwell 21-8. Tony Robinson, Tricia Elsam and Keith Longshaw 15-19. Sheila Cox, Mike Cox and Gary Newson 1316. For membership details contact Brian Taylor on 965 07 7093 or at briantaylor_es@yahoo.co.uk or Carolyn Harris on 966 77 4316 or at

Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad and Avalon WINTER LEAGUE - Wednesday October 11th Our first game did not go as planned against a very strong San Miguel team. Two very close rinks but in the end losing on all but one. Well done to Jean Chamberline, Denise Ashberry, Howie Williams and Ronnie Cairns Shots Monte Mar 77 – 96 San Miguel, Points Monte Mar 2 – 10 San Miguel Friday October 13th - Monte Mar Toreadors v Quesada Swans A lovely morning greeted both teams for the first game of the new season. What a great start for the Toreadors winning on all six rinks, no easy feat against any team from Quesada. To many winners to name them all so congratulations to everyone who performed so well on the day. Only another seventeen matches to keep this up Toreadors!!!! Shots Monte Mar 140 – 66 Quesada. Pts Monte Mar 14. Monte Mar Matadors v Mazarron Miners. The first game of the season for the Matadors ended in each team winning three rinks. Well done to to the winning rinks of Lynne Armitaeg, Bill Judd and skip Colin Armitage. Keith Simpson, Mike Farrelly and skip Dave Melville. Jan Webster Bill Webster and skip Bill Young. Monte Mar 84 – 111 Mazarron. Pts 4 – 10 For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.comor email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook.

The Emerald Isle ladies played their annual game against San Miguel away and in a close game the home team came out on top 3=2, the Emerald winners were Linda Burns Christine Parsons Renata Mulloy Linda Vincent 15=9, Sheila Adams Ann Young Cas Thomas Barbara Doran 15=12. Hopefully they can reverse the result in next game at home. Wed saw the first Winter League game at home against Greenlands and the EI were held to a 6=6 draw winning on 3 rinks to two and the aggregate was 74=82, the winning rinks were P Heaney S Johnson D Birkett I Brewster 21=9, C Thomas M Veale M Stacey J Mulloy 16=11, S Kavanagh M Thomas R White M Odell 18=16 Friday the Cavaliers played at San Luis against Lions and were beaten 4=10, aggregate 102=119, winning trips were C Donnellan D Birkett J Rimmer 32=14, D Jones J Pooley C Lindgren 16=13 The Claymores played the Outlaws on Friday and came away with a 14=0 win, aggregate 148==72, winning trips were L Hawkins A Malcolm B Smith 29=5, C Ayling C Warner J Mullarkey 29=9, R Adams M Petty M Breen 23=13, M Shatwell L Fisher G Shatwell 23=15, L Burns D Rhodes A Burns 22=15, S Kavanagh E Morris B Kavanagh 22=15. Early days will take some

PROPERTY FOR SALE - LOS MONTESINOS Offers in the region of 65,000 euros

Glorious weather but where’s the wind John and Vernon

os Montesinos, Alicante, just 40 minutes drive from both Alicante-Elche and San Javier airports, close to the beaches at Guardamar, Torrevieja, La Mata, Cabo Roig, Salinas; and towns: Quesada, San Miguel, Rojales and Benijofar, is this 2 bedroomed, 1 bathroom, south facing, ground floor apartmentbungalow. Well established private gated path/garden areas; fully tiled/balustrades, separate door entrance to fully-glazed tiled terrace, with 3 sliding tinted windows, electric/water points fitted. Entrance to property: Security grills fitted to door/windows, large lounge, under stairs cupboard, fitted electric heater/cooler system, separate kitchen, leading to covered security grilled fitted UPVC Galleria/window. Two large bedrooms, security grills fitted; separate bathroom/wc/shower/bidet. Habitacion

certificate. Exclusive Community pool area; Los Montesinos Municipal Piscina/tennis courts/skateboard/football areas close by. Situated in the Vega Baja, Los Montesinos town has a picturesque modern square, situated in the centre of a popular area with a plethora of bars and restaurants, overlooked by the Church and Bell Tower. Town Hall/Police station. Facilities include Banks, Pharmacies, petrol station/Commercial businesses. FOR SALE, only because of another purchase in Los Montesinos. Please contact the owners direct for further details on: +34 7702 340 744 or email: lancashiremedia@gmail.com

For the fifth week running no wind and a flat calm Mar Menor greeted the SAMM competitors as they arrived for the racing on October 8th, so yet again the morning race did not start until 12 noon. In only 3-4 knots of wind seven boats started, and Julian Singleton, Topaz Duo, was soon in the lead which he gradually increased as the race progressed. The rest of the fleet followed and soon it was a procession of with only two changes of position when Di Hardwick/ Jack Moss, Gamba, passed Norman Vener, Laser Radial, during lap 2 and then Tim Wills/Tug Wilson, Laser 2000, also passed Norman during lap 3. Mick Burgess, Sea Hopper, retired after lap 2 as he was so far behind. The Race Officer shortened the race from 4 to 3 laps due to the time it was taking with Julian the only boat finishing in under an hour. The afternoon race started at 2.30pm by which time the wind had increased to a perfect 8 to 10

knots. This time it was Tug and Tim who took the lead closely followed by Julian and, although the lead changed from time to time, Tug and Tim always completed each lap a few seconds ahead. It was a great tussle to watch. A similar battle was taking place further down the field between the Gambas of Vernon O’Byrne/ John Down and Jack/Di, where again just seconds separated them as each lap was completed. In this race 4 boats finished 4 laps in just under the hour. Results after applying the handicaps were:Morning race; Julian Singleton, Topaz Duo; Di Hardwick/Jack Moss, Gamba; Julian Pering/Nick Novak, Sailfish 18. A great performance by the heavy Sailfish in such light winds. Afternoon race; Vernon O’Byrne/ John Down, Gamba; Julian Singleton, Topaz Duo; Jack Moss/ Di Hardwick, Gamba.

Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

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Rubys Golf Society Monthy Trophy At El Valle With the tricky El Valle course, our venue for this months Trophy game, and 6 or so players all within a few points of the top of the table, the day had much excitement in store. Despite some maintenance issues the course played well although a bit slow, however all went well and some good scores were returned, the results are as follows; Nearest the pin on the par 3's were Jim McCarthy, Roger Clarke, David Jones and Nigel Wright, who also hit nearest the pin in two shots. Best front nine was Brian Wilson and best back Tony Harrison, the gold division winner was Jim McCarthy, the silver and overall winner was Mike Thomas with a handicap cut that takes him back into the gold division, and he beat his wife at last !!! the two's pot was shared between Roy Stanley and Nigel Wright. Back at Rayz bar where we had a nice buffet, thanks for that, the luck kept coming for Jim McCarthy who also won the football card. Our next trophy game is at Alicante on the 20th of October where this years fight for the top spot continues. To contact Ruby's golf email us on rubysgolf@yahoo.co.uk

Gene Duffy with the winner Jim Wray.

Una Duffy Tournament Paddys Point Golf Society Mar Menor was the venue for the 3rd Una Duffy Golf Tournament. We had a field of 72 golfers (a record) and in spite of flight delays and cancellations all but two of the Irish contingent made it across on time. It was a beautiful October day and despite some bunker trouble we all enjoyed the course which was in good condition as always. Now, what can we say about Paddy's Point, well they certainly went over and above the call of duty .....breakfast bap, sandwich for the course and a lovely 3 course evening meal, we were well and truly spoilt. A massive thank you to Rory, Hazel and all their staff, you are a bunch of real troopers. Thanks also to all our sponsors, your generosity is very much appreciated. John Aird, Peter Callan, David Miller, Fergal Murray (despite putting with a 3 iron) and Patsy Winters shared the 2's pot. 5th place Ted Duffy 39pts c/b, 4th Gerard Moloney 39pts c/b, 3rd Philip Gervin 39pts c/b, 2nd Jimmy Kiernan 39pts and Winner Jim Wray 40 pts. Our next fixture is the Chairman v the Captain on Sunday 29th October at Saurines then on Wednesday 8th November we are at Alenda (by coach).

Mike ProBert talks golf

Society Handicaps When we all played golf in the UK most of us were members of a golf club who maintained on our behalf our competition handicaps. Since the early 1980's these usually consisted of an actual handicap (to a decimal point) and a playing handicap (rounded to a full number). When we arrived in Spain we probably all discovered that the Spanish Federation would issue you with a handicap which can only be adjusted if you play in federated event and then any golf society with whom we play would issue and control your handicap when you play with them. If you then add to this mix the fact that many golf societies operate the slope handicap system then it is not uncommon for a regular player to have 2,3 or even 4 different handicaps with different societies. They then turn up on a society days and abuse the overworked and under paid society secretary because their handicap is not correct. Lets get this clear and to the point. It is 100% the responsibility of the PLAYER to keep all societies with whom they play updated with handicap changes in their name. If all else fails there is one rule usually built into the handicap rules of local golf societies which is “you play off your lowest handical wherever and whatever it is” Players should stop trying to put the onus on the secretary and take responsibility themselves for playing on a society day off the correct handicap.

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Wolfpack Captain’s Day - Alenda The big day had arrived, Captain’s Day. Sadly it was Captain’s Day without a Captain whose wonky knee still persists so he was relegated to spectator for this glorious day. A good start ! Dave Pope had been up since 3 am to make individual breakfasts for the travellers, he even provided the brown sauce. Many thought for a moment they were travelling Ryanair and reached into their pockets for a £10 note. It didn’t start well when the Captain upset the starter by kicking off the first fourball two minutes early. The fact the no-one had been seen on the first tee for 15 minutes before did little to placate him. Having tearfully waved his members off, a quick trip to the 3rd green allowed the Captain to tend the flag for anyone who hadn’t run out of shots before they reached the green. At the 10th, the Captain manned a “halfway house” more beverages were consumed as players contemplated the serious fade they would have to play if they had any chance of landing their ball on the fairway. Play continued, the Captain mingled, putts were missed, bunkers were hit and when the players climbed the hill to the 18th green, there was their leader to greet them. Not that many were smiling. A few had missed the water, a few got to the green with the odd shot to spare, and so the day ended. Back to the clubhouse, to tot up the scores then onto the bus for the trip to San Miguel for dinner. The list of prizewinners is as follows : Nearest the pin on 2 Ron Colclough. Nearest the pin on 5 Graham Moore. Nearest the pin on 10 Stephen Eno. Nearest the pin on 16 Bob Eno. The winner of the front nine was Denis Warren and the back nine winner was Nigel Cotton. Best Guest was Bill Humes. The two’s pot was not claimed and so the money will be donated to the RBL Poppy Appeal. In fifth place was Ron Colclough, fourth was Bill Humes. In third place was Vice Captain Ted Harris and in second Nigel Cotton. The winner of the Captain’s trophy 2017, was Graham Moore who played brilliantly on the day and amassed 39 points. Well done Graham ! Special thanks go to Dave Pope for his magnificent work to arrange the day and keep it running smoothly. A mammoth task which was executed to perfection.

Rockets Golf Society at home

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee svcs)

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

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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 until 30/11/17: 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 Poniente Vistabella

Price €120 €64 €106 €100 €94 €112 €134 €148 €44 €128 €90 €110 €148 €95 €100 €126 €57 €88

Comments Two Players and Buggy Single Green fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (after 12pm) Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee (after 1pm) Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players & Buggy (after 2.30pm) Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee and Buggy Two 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 Quotation of the Week Confusius DIDN'T say: “Squirrel that runs up womans leg will not find nuts”

Short trip to Vistabella for our October home game on a well manicured course. Greens in very good condition. Weather well what can on say!! Sun again. The sesults of the day were: Gold Category winner our Handicap Secretary Rodney Smith, coming in with 36 points. In second place was Seamus Martin with 35 points and Arfer Williams in Third place with 33 points. In the Silver Category Ken Hopkins came in with 36 points followed by new member Andy Stenning with 33 points and Rocket Ron in third place with 30 points Nearest the Pins were P Daggatt Hole 4 A Stenning hole 7 P Mutter Hole 16. Longest Drive was taken by Rodney Smith and gest guest wasC Johnson Next game on the 24th is for the Ivy Davies Perpetual Trophy. Ivy was one of the Founder members of the Rockets Golf Society and is sadly missed by everyone . Back to bar Patricia in Torreta 3 for Munchies and Presentation. If anyone would like to join our Friendly Society or just want a knock whilst on holiday give Ron a ring on 678 849 142 or email sanmigron@gmail.com

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Monday 16th - Sunday 22nd October, 2017

Amores steers Torry to joint top CD Torrevieja ................ 1 Benferri CF ................... 0

nbelievably, before start of play against struggling Benferri, Torry not only sat in 2nd place, but after 6 games were still unbeaten. But it could, and should, have been the leaders slot they occupied, for disappointing consecutive draws against inferior opposition has cost them four easy points. Benferri arrived at Vicente Garcia Stadium with only 1 win under their belt, whilst local manager Pedreño knew full well that a winning mentality had to be instilled into his men, if further shock results were to be prevented. As for the game itself, just one moment of

class was enough to see Torry go into the half time interval with a narrow lead, but it was one that they hardly deserved. With only ten minutes played a delightful through ball from Ramiro set up Manu Amores on the edge of the Benferri area. The winger still had a lot to do but he was able to trick his way through the box to steer the ball past Roberto and give the home side an early lead.

Against the side sitting 3rd from bottom we hoped that the floodgates were about to open but it was Benferri that took the game to their hosts as they looked to pull themselves level. A penalty claim by the visitors was quite rightly waved away by the referee on the half hour but in a scrappy opener, in which both sides had chances, Buyo in the Torry goal was by far the busier of the two keepers. If only the game could have started as it finished! It began as a slow burner but the teams went at each other hammer and tongs second half. Really good stuff after the break. The second half had everything some bits of brilliance, particularly by the two keepers - some mistakes, and probably a fair result in the end. Penalty shouts from both teams fell on deaf ears, as Alfonso was bundled over midway through the half followed by the upending of Torry’s Ramiro in the final minutes of the game. Goal scorer Manu Amores ran himself into the ground and was certainly the midfield workhorse and man of the match as the home side just about shaded the game. The Torry Army hope to run a coach to next week’s away match at Pinoso, who have also started off their season well, but more fans need to confirm seats to make it happen. Call the Torry Army office on 966 784 111, or Colin Lancaster on 966 731 172, if you would like to travel. The game seems likely to be played on Saturday but, as always, check the Torry website or call one on the numbers above for details.

La Marina Golf Society@ Font del Llop

Our biggest attendance of the autumn met at the magnificent Font del Llop course to participate in a stableford competition. It was enjoyable playing in slightly cooler weather without the normal strong wind associated with this course. Some excellent scores were recorded, but once again it was the usual suspects who took the main prizes. In the silver group it was Gerry McCabe with 38 points, and he is obviously heading for the gold group if he keeps up his performances for the rest of the year. Gold winner was secretary Alan Craig with 40 points and soon heading for a single figure handicap. Nearest the pins were won by Louvain Smith, Norman Pickett, Steve Warner and Bill Stobo. Our guest prize went to Lesley Cullen who, despite her initial

nervousness, returned a very creditable 30 points. We were pleased to welcome several guests and hope they enjoyed their day enough to take full membership. Our next meeting is captain's day at el Plantio on October 26th. The cost is 55 euros to include a 0930 start on the 9-hole course, bacon roll and coffee, a round on the 18- hole course followed by dinner at the la marina club. Contact Alan Craig on 634477788 or a100ac@yahoo.co.uk. An early reminder of our next quiz night on Tuesday 7th November, full details to follow. An unusual tale to finish with. One of our guests, Ron Duncan, has told us that by putting his name on the list for this meeting he had been contacted by an old friend he had not seen for several years and they have since renewed their acquaintance.

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El Plantio2 Golf Society Unfortunately, an un-notified withdrawal of the highest handicapped player from Tuesday 10th October's Texas Scramble, left the pairings being unable to be altered, leaving the two lowest handicapped players being backed up by a very competent third player. The fact that they had their combined handicap reduced did not seem to affect their scoring and they finished almost 3.50 shots ahead of the nearest competition. Nearest the Pins, Hole 1 - John Wilby, Hole 4 - Lawrence Wanty. 3rd Place, Handicap 5.32 - David Swann, Keith Smith, Bryan Watson 49.68 shots, 2nd Place, Handicap 5.12 - Martin Rickman, Chris Davies, Mike Davies - 47.88 shots, 1st Place, Handicap 3.60 - John Wilby, Lawrence Wanty, Lyn Young - 44.40 shots Picture shows all prize winners. If anyone would like to join our Society, we play at El Plantio Golf Club on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. We use both courses - the Par 3 nine hole course and the main 18 hole course, so we cater for all abilities. The membership rates are very competitive, so call for more details. Anyone who wishes to play in the Society as a guest or join as a new member, contact Ian Henderson on 966 716 616 or 636 116 230

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