Costa Blanca Leader Edition 709. by The Leader

No 709

Monday 26th March - Sunday 1st April, 2018

Tel: 637 227 385

ORIHUELA COUNCIL CONTINUES TO PUT RESIDENTS LIVES AT RISK

ith permission now granted by the authorities, residents of Lomas de Cabo Roig and neighbouring urbanisations are planning to hold a march next Saturday morning, 31st MARCH, to protest about the lack of government action in building the pedestrian bridge over the AP7 motorway.

The road connects over 5,000 people, residents and holidaymakers from many different communities in the Lomas area, with the Orihuela Costa medical centre, bus services, beaches and the leisure areas of Campoamor and Cabo Roig. Continued on Page 2

Monday 26th March - Sunday 1st April, 2018

www.theleader.info Continued From Page One AP7 Pedestrian Bridge

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This work has been pending with the Orihuela Municipal Council for more than 6 years, despite the fact that they hold a bank guarantee from the developer for 1,200,000 euros, which could, and should, have already been used to undertake this essential project. Even though a Ciudadanos motion was presented to, and approved by, the Municipal Plenary in 2015, demanding the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the AP-7, the City council has still failed to carry out any action. Numerous approaches to local councillors and to the City Planning department have all been met with empty promises, although they do seem to have no problem at all in finding the funding for superficial projects such as the refurbishment of the Orihuela Plaza de Toros, while the residents of the Orihuela Costa continue to take their life in their hands every time they walk, to the beaches, the Medical Centre or the local pharmacy. The only route that residents and visitors can take if they wish to use these facilities is across the AP7 bridge that has no hard shoulder and is completely unlit, so those many people that do have to make the journey on foot, in wheelchairs or with their baby’s and pushchairs, risk their lives, and those of anyone who might be with them, every time they venture out. Since the beginning of this legislature the residents and associations of Orihuela Costa have made it quite clear to the city council that this is one of the single-most important projects essential to the area. They have submitted numerous requests in writing as well as canvassing three different Town Planning Councillors.

The subject has also been raised in the Municipal Plenary, it has been extensively publicised in the regional and the local media, on social networks and the construction has also been requested through the participatory budgets in 2017 and 2018. Despite all this effort, to this day, the City of Orihuela council and it’s mayor, Emilio Bascuñana, continue to ignore this crucial neighbourhood demand. According to municipal planning guidelines "the carriageway over the AP7 should have a 15 metrewide road as well as two pavements, one on either side of the road, and each two and a half metres wide. At the moment there is absolutely nothing of the like so this is a work of vital importance to eliminate the serious risk of pedestrians being run over by one of the numerous vehicles, many of them heavy, that circulate on the road, which is currently increasingly busy in an area of the coast in which there is incessant construction. It is not understood just why the Council has not been able to give any indication of the work being carried out. Residents say that they are absolutely disgusted by the municipal neglect, and if there are any accidents they will hold the mayor and his city council completely responsible. The Association of Cabo Roig and Lomas residents, together with the other member associations of the Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa (F.A.O.C.), will thereby be organising a protest next Saturday, starting at the new BP Garage at 10am. They intend to march to the roundabout by the Farmacia in Cabo Roig and would encourage all residents of the Orihuela Costa to join with them in showing their disgust at the municipal inaction with regard to the construction of this essential project.

Stepping out with U3A

Yet another relatively busy week for some of the many Torrevireja U3A sections. On Mar 16th the Easywalkers section had 33 of its members, plus leaders, taking an enjoyable walk of about 8km duration along the coastal pathways around the beaches of Campoamor and the surrounding area before eventually reaching the oasis of a welcome bar for a well-earned refreshment break. By contrast, a small team from the Walking group carried out a reconnoitre of the area leading up to the crosses overlooking Orihuela city. What seemed like a fairly straightforward walk proved to be a far more difficult climb than anyone had anticipated, and as the muscles of a couple of the members were still testifying to a couple of days later!! Nevertheless they all made it to the top and enjoyed the marvellous views that were visible from up there. Somehow I do not think this particular event will be on the general itinerary of the group anytime in the near future!! For the less adventurous fellows of the U3A, about 74 members of the monthly lunch club gathered at the Portico Mar restaurant near Guardamar where they were all served a tasty 3 course Menu del Dia which included wine and coffee afterwards, served up by friendly, helpful waiting staff all dressed in traditional German garb. The meal appeared to have been enjoyed by all attendees and they are no doubt looking forward expectantly to the next one!. If anyone is interested in joining in any of these activities, then visit our website torreviejau3a.org/groups.html where details of this, and many, many more activities can be found.

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Half a million expected for June Airshow

Thousands of cameras and mobile phones in the Mar Menor will all be pointed to the sky on the weekend of June 9 and 10, the date of the San Javier Air Festival, when it will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of the General Air Academy. Already displays have been confirmed by the world’s largest aerobatic display team with ten aircraft, the Frecce Tricolori, the Tricolour Arrows, the demonstration team of the Italian Aeronautica Militare. They will be joined by the Patrouille Acrobatique de France, in it’s 87th year and one of the oldest display teams in the world, and of course Patrulla Águila, Eagle Patrol, the aerobatic demonstration team of the Spanish Air Force who are based in San Javier. The three aerobatic teams will each perform their spectacular displays on 9 June, all no doubt trying to outdo each other, after which the airbase will be opened to the public for a static exhibition of air-

craft. The following day, on 10 June, the public will be treated to helicopter and parachute displays from Aspa and Papea based locally in Base Aérea de Alcantarilla, Sangonera, who will again demonstrate their skills over the beaches that border the lagoon. In announcing the Festival alongside the Regional President and the mayor of San Javier, Colonel Director Miguel Ivorra said that the event promises to show the very best of the AGA, "the birthplace of the Air Force in Spain." In one of the historic hangars at the base, the Commander spoke of the thousands of young people who have passed through the airbase to become officers in the Air Force, more than 10,000 trained officers who between them have accumulated 935,000 flight hours. The Chief of the General Air Command, General José Alfonso Otero Goyanes, said “We are lucky to have such an extraordinary team of professionals and teaching staff at the Academy who all reside in the area. The officers of the Air Force also are all children of the Region of Murcia, because they eachspend four years of their life here which is why I, too, feel that this area is my home," "We have expensive resources, such as the Eurofighter aircraft, the best transport aircraft, the A400, and aircraft that are digitized to the maximum, but they have no soul. The soul of the Air Force is in it’s men, for whom it is now time to show the society that gives us so much, just what they can do".

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Orihuela Costa beaches spruced up for Easter

n a statement issued by Luisa Boné "The Department of Beaches has been working hard to ensure that they will have all the services in place and ready to receive the thousands of tourists and visitors who are expected to flock into the area during the Easter holiday period." All of the beaches will have a lifeguard service working from 10am to 6pm every day and which will end on Easter Monday. There are a total of 27 staff employed in the team consisting of two lifeguards per beach, a service coordinator, two paramedics and a rescue boat hand.

Campoamor (La Glea) beach will have a jet ski and there will be an ambulance located at Cala Bosque beach (La Zenia) to attend to any possible incident that may arise. The councillor for beaches also announced the introduction of 11 new surveillance chairs with roofing for members of the lifeguard service. Boné said that "the chairs that were previously in use were in very poor condition and did not have a roof to protect the lifeguards from the sun, an absolute necessity for the attendants who sit out watching the beachgoers for many hours every day.

For many weeks the departmental staff have been carrying out maintenance work (clearing, cleaning) footbridges, footbaths, lifeguard booths, beach bars and toilets so that those who use the beaches in the holiday period will find them in a far better condition. Boné also reminded residents and holidaymakers of ‘The Winter Beach’ activities that are held on La Caleta (Cabo Roig) beach every Sunday. She said that there is an extensive programme available to entertain all ages, details of which can be found on the municipal website and Facebook page.

FAOC increases membership to seven associations The Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa (FAOC) has added the Neighbourhood Association of Cabo Roig and Lomas de Cabo Roig to its ever increasing list of members. The new addition increases the number of residents associations in membership from six to seven. A spokesman for FAOC said, "We have now grown from six to seven member organisations which means that we have increased our borders. This will allow us to place additional focus the requirements of the very important areas of Cabo Roig, Lomas de Cabo Roig, Aguamarina and a number of other adjacent urbanizations of the Orihuela Costa". The Board of Directors of the Federation of Associations are grateful for the trust placed in their efforts by the members of Cabo Roig and Lomas, and reaffirm their objective "to always work toward identifying the needs, with the sole objective of improving the municipal services that Orihuela Costa justifies ". FAOC now adds Cabo Roig and Lomas to its list of member associations, Villamartin, Las Filipinas Dehesa de Campoamor, Altos del Pinar, Playa de La Glea and Calas de Campoamor. FAOC is a non-political group that works on behalf of the people of the Orihuela Costa. It strongly feels that there is a need for vast improvements to be made to the municipal services (street

cleaning, rubbish collection and gardens etc) AND the coastal infrastructures (road and street maintenance, pavements, street lightning, cultural centre etc), in order to meet the real needs of its residents. They say that by standing together, residents of the Orihuela Costa are far more likely to achieve a level of services and infrastructures that they need and deserve. In strength they say that the area will be in a much better position to demand that the Town Hall in Orihuela delivers on its promises and obligations. The FAOC will advise residents on the associations that are currently available in the area, which they might wish to join, or alternatively, simply provide information about the procedures required to form your own association. You may direct your queries to: info@faoc.es

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Schools in Torrevieja refuse to implement Valencian Language Last week’s march in Torrevieja "against the imposition" of Valencian in schools.

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BUS SERVICE TO ORIHUELA DURING HOLY WEEK If there are a minimum of 20 people, there will be a bus service from Orihuela Costa (5.40 euro) and Entrenaranjos (2.70 euro) on the days and times shown below. Holy Monday 26th March: 8pm - 00.00h Holy Tuesday 27th March: 8pm - 00.30h Holy Wednesday 28th March: 5pm - 00.30h Holy Thursday 29th March: 8pm - 1am Good Friday 30th March: 4:30pm - 1am Easter Saturday 31st March: 5:30pm - 10pm www.semanasantaorihuela.com/index.php/portfolio/procesiones Further info at the Tourist Office in the Orihuela Costa Town Hall (96 676 00 00 ext 32) or in Orihuela City (96 530 46 45 or 96 530 27 47). Email: residentes@orihuela.es

‘Sir, Where’s ’Toilet?’

Six

of the twelve schools in Torrevieja have refused implement the Valencian Government demand to introduce lessons in the Valencian language in their classrooms, according to the opposition councillor Rosario Martinez. The councillor has said that the voting on this issue has been carried out by all the school boards, none of which were attended by either the mayor, José Manuel Dolón, or the councillor of Education, José Hurt. They sent a municipal adviser who voted on behalf of the City Council, in favour of the system by the Ministry to introduce compulsory lessons. Sccording to the PP this was done without the consensus of the Plenary or the educational community. For these reasons, the Partido Popular will now

present a motion to reject the stance taken by Dolón y Hurtado. The councillor has criticised the local government for not promoting any debate within the educational community or carrying out any field in Torrevieja prior to the decisions made in Valencia. Martinez said that the Popular Party is going to present a motion to the Plenary Assembly so that "both José Manuel Dolón and José Hurtado be reprimanded for their attitude and bad management , for delegating, authorising, deciding, fixing the City Council's position and for voting in favour of the imposition of the Valencian language without previously consulting with the Municipal Corporation or with the Municipal School Council, in a matter in which they are fully aware that the majority of the Plenary does not agree".

Los Alcazares author John Meadows has recently published his third book, ‘Sir, Where’s ’Toilet?’ in paperback priced £9.99, e-book £4.99 (and very soon in audio book format) on Amazon. The book completes a trilogy of anecdotal light-hearted true stories and travel adventures. It is intended as a fun, holiday read whilst you relax on your sunbed during the long summer evenings. His intriguing tales are spiced with lively encounters and astute observations, full of humour and wit. His fascinating historical facts are particularly enlightening, and will have you saying, ‘Really? I didn’t know that.’ Each story will leave you wanting more: Teachers’ ghostly prank with a bizarre twist. Sampling local whiskey at a village distillery on the fabled Mekong river in Laos. Two cultures collide when Russian rugby league players invade Wigan, and to complete his experiences, he was proclaimed Emperor of China. John spends most of the year in Los Alcazares, and the rest of the time he travels around the UK and Europe in a motorhome. John is age 68, married, a retired teacher, graduate of Leeds University, Reading University and Master’s Degree from Manchester University. You can contact him at: john.meadows@outlook.com

Take a trip by boat to La Manga Extra services are are laid on during the summer but always check the website for current current timings.

s the weather improves and we start, once again, to venture further afield, a pleasant ferry trip across the Mar Menor, from Santiago de la Ribera to La Manga and back, might be something to consider, punctuated of course by a couple of hours wandering around ‘The Strip’ during which you could partake of a leisurely lunch. Although the ferry service operates all year round, Monday to Friday at the moment, it now becomes a far more attractive proposition with the arrival of the better weather and, of course there are regular bus services up and down ‘The Strip’ if you want to venture further afield. It stretches for approximately 18 kms so there is certainly a lot to see and explore.

The crossing is usually very pleasant due to the generally calm waters of Mar Menor and takes around 35mins. The return trip is a reasonable 10 euro and if you opt to take a bike, which would give you that additional flexibility at the other end, you can do so for an extra 1 euro. From Santiago de la Ribera – Departures 11.30, 13.30 and 17.30 with an extra service on Wednesday at 15.30) From La Manga Puerta Tomas Maestre – 10.30, 12.30 and 16.30 with that extra Wednesday service at 15.00) Extra services are laid on during the summer but always check the website for current timings. www.marmenorferry.com

The Almoradi Monday Club The "Almoradi Monday Club" meet every FIRST and THIRD MONDAY of the month at 4PM. Our meeting place is in the "Centro Social Rooms", Plaza San Andres, Calle Antimo Illescas, off Calle Comunidad Valenciana, in Almoradi. (Calle Comunidad Valenciana is the road that the " Cortes theatre" is in. With the theatre on your left, continue along Calle Comunidad Valenciana and the Plaza is opposite the 7th turning on the left, before you get to the school crossroads. Once you are in the plaza "San Andres" the "Centro Social Rooms" are on the right hand side, opposite the Library, and entry is via a door next to "The Bar" with blue awnings outside.) The idea of this modern and progressive club is that people who speak ENGLISH and live in Almoradi or the surrounding area can meet one another on a regular but informal basis to talk together and enjoy life in this Spanish community. The club activities will include social events, club lunches and evening meals in and around the local area, with guest speakers at meetings and entertainment when possible. We will also try to associate ourselves with other local clubs that hold other events including coach trips and anything that may be of interest to members. If you are interested and would like to have a wider circle of friends then come along to one of our meetings. For more information contact davedanie@gmail.com or on facebook under Almoradi Monday Club like us and join. The Almoradi Monday Club is an ENGLISH speaking club and is open to people of every nationality living in or just visiting Spain. There are no meetings in July and August and also no meetings on Red Days or Bank holidays if they fall on a First or Third Monday!!!

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obin Hargrave is known to most of us as the man who holds up the ‘poppy collection total’ at the District North Annual Conference every January. He is currently in his final year of office as the District Poppy Appeal coordinator, a role that he has occupied since 2011……but there is rather more to the man than many of you might first imagine because, until he moved to Spain, a little over ten years ago, he was a music hall and cruise ship entertainer, working alongside a whole host of household names. Robin announcing the 2017 Poppy Appeal total in Benidorm

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Roger Cooke, who, with Roger Greenaway, went on to write dozens of hit songs for the likes of The Fortunes, Cliff Richard, The Hollies, Gene Pitney, Cilla Black, Andy Williams and many more. Life after Butlin’s, and it was back to the fairgrounds as a bingo caller before moving on to manage Smethwick bingo hall with Top Rank and then back to Bristol where the round of clubs began all over again. Still serving with the RNVR Robin was also managing to get in his 17 days of annual service which included taking part in several NATO exercises. In 1971 Robin began to work for Bristol local television channel Associated Rediffusion where he presented a pub quiz programme which included an element of darts. The station unfortunately closed down and Robin pitched his show, without luck, to HTV. Ten years later, however, Central introduced a similar show with Jim Bowen as the host. They Called it ‘Bullseye’. Since those heady days Robin has also appeared in Dr Who and Northanger Abbey, for both of which he still receives royalties. He also presented Radio shows on BBC Radio Bristol where his guests included local personalities, such as Tony Blackburn. But it was a phone call in 1977 that really did change Robin’s life. Cunard were looking for a DJ to join a world cruise in 3 days time. “My feet didn’t touch the ground as I wrapped up my affairs in Bristol and flew out to join the ship in Genoa,” said Robin.

Robin was first hooked on the theatre as a young child following an involuntary appearance in a Christmas Panto at the Leicester Opera House. When his family moved down to Bristol he became a member of a local church group which saw him regularly take centre stage as a tap dancing, banjulele playing reciter of monologues.

It was a career that took Robin through to 1991 during which time he rose to Senior Cruise Director, meeting and working with such personalities as Norman Collier, Max Bygraves, Hermione Gingold, Dame Alicia Markova, Reg Varney and Pearl Carr and Teddy Johnson “with whom I spent many happy days in absolute hysterics.”

Robin eventually moved out to his holiday bolt hole in Santa Pola He was captivated by variety and went along to the Empire theatre at when he finally retired in 2004. He quickly joined the RNA in which every opportunity, doing anything he could to earn the price of a he served as Chairman and President and then The Royal British ticket. Tony Blackburn guesting Now performing with the Mary on Robin’s BBC Bristol Reynolds Juvenile Dance School, his first venture into the ‘big time’ came at radio show the age of 12 when the Juveniles appeared live on BBC TV during Saturday Prime Time, on the Charlie Chester Show. Following the divorce of his parents, the adoption of his mother’s maiden name of Brailey, Bob, as he was now known, performed his way through a multitude of concert party’s and dance troupes, even working at a local fairground during the summer holidays. Having left school in 1958 with the intention of joining the Royal Navy Robin couldn’t convince his father to sign on the dotted line. In those days a mothers signature was not enough so his only alternative was to join the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve at HMS Flying Fox. As a trainee accountant and a member of the RNVR Robin began to appear in local clubs, telling a few jokes, singing and performing magic tricks, with his first residency as the regular Sunday night compere at the Bristol Rovers FC Supporters club. Following some success in local clubs and at talent shows Robin was invited to appear at the Lord Mayors Variety Command Performance where he was billed as Bob Brailey, Bristol’s Teenage Comedian. That gave him the confidence to audition for Wally Goodman at Butlin’s where he was taken on as a Redcoat Entertainer the following year, working alongside

Robin at a gala dinner to celebrate 50 years in showbusiness with Roy Hudd Legion of which he is currently Chairman of Gran Alacant and La Marina Branch as well as being a member of the District committee on which he is serving out his final year as Poppy Appeal coordinator. The RBL and the Poppy Appeal is something that Robin passionately supports. “When I declared the Appeal total in 2011, my very first year, the total raised was € 134,131.20. When I made the announcement at the Annual Conference at the beginning of this year, I’m delighted to say that the figure had increased to € 169,622.40.” In increasing the figure to the near 170k mark Robin has built an excellent relationship with Alicante Airport as well as growing the number of ‘independents’ such as The British School and St. George's Church in Barcelona, Shankly's Bar in Salou and two branches of A Taste of Home British Supermarket in Salou and Barcelona. There are of course many more independents which Robin hopes to add to, following the publication of a map showing the large expat population areas, by the Embassy in Madrid. “They are such an important part of our annual appeal and I can only thank them all for the part that they play in supplementing our poppy totals. I think that they genuinely enjoy being involved and as the District coordinator I am so very pleased, as I see them all work so very hard to raise the extra funding that can make such a big difference to our annual collection.” “I now look forward to handing over the mantle to Esther Navarro who will become the new coordinator following the 2018 Appeal. I know that she too is committed to the cause so during the coming months as we work alongside each other with a number of new initiatives and ideas, I know that I am handing over to somebody who will be just as dedicated as I have been during my 7 years in post. I would like to thank everyone who continues to support a Charity which is almost 100 years of age. The funding that you provide really does makes such a big difference to those veterans who live with us here in Spain.” You don’t need an Armed Forces background to attend a Branch event. It is a great opportunity to make new friends. So to find a local Branch, please visit our website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north. For assistance and information please either ring 676 45 17 80 or email assistance.rbl.dns@gmail.com

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Strong retail figures provide boost to pound Rates at 12 noon on Friday 23rd March GBP/EUR 1.144 (up from last week) GBP/USD 1.413 (up from last week) EUR/USD 1.235 (up from last week) The pound had a lift this week for a couple of reasons. Even though the Bank of England left interest rates at 0.5% they indicated that more interest rate rises might be on the way as 2 of the 9 committee members voted for an increase so we expect a rate rise in a couple of months. Also, there were stronger than expected retail sales figures. Meanwhile the euro dipped on disappointing figures and traders are wondering whether growth in the Eurozone has peaked. The US dollar weakened in spite of the US Federal Reserve raising the base rate. It probably had more to do with Trump’s liberal hire and fire policy and aggressive trade tariffs. He discussed the theft of intellectual property by Chinese companies and his mission to address America’s massive trade deficit with China. Meanwhile positive data is expected to strengthen the Canadian dollar next week. Caveat Emptor The pound may be climbing but never be complacent when you need to exchange large amounts of currency. Right now there are huge risk factors our there, any of which has the capacity to signifi-

The Murcia Community President, Fernando López Miras, has announced investments totalling 18.7 million euros in the strategic project 'La Manga 365' which will provide "a new boost to investment in the infrastructure that La Manga needs and deserves to face new challenges and make the most of the opportunities of this unique tourist reserve.

cantly affect exchange rates at a moment’s notice: Brexit announcements, UK/Russia diplomatic row escalating, even a single Trump tweet. Set up an account with a specialist broker and let your dealer know your timeframe. She can then discuss your options such as simple hedging strategy and keep you informed of any dangers out there. www.thecurrencyexchange.co.uk Saving you time, stress and money when buying currency.

"We want to improve the opportunities and do so with the most absolute care to the natural features with total respect to the ecosystems, ensuring their sustainability," said the president. “This is a project that will allow numerous improvements to infrastructures and services between 2018 and 2023. He explained that it is a European project, 80% of which will be financed from the Feder funds, in line with the Strategy for Sustainable and Integrated Urban Development (Edusi). The remaining 20 percent will be provided by the Community, which will develop the investment in close collaboration with the municipalities of Cartagena and San Javier. López Miras reiterated that "our commitment to La Manga is absolute so that we can advance it as a Region."

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Razzle and Dazzle ‘em with the Studio 32 production of Chicago STUDIO32 are preparing to thrill audiences with their latest musical theatre venture, the Broadway spectacular “Chicago”. Based on real life events the show revolves around a group of merry murderesses, most notably Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart. Both women have been convicted of killing their husbands and are on death row, but help is at hand in the form of a famous publicity-seeking lawyer - Billy Flynn. The show features some impressive dance routines and wonderful songs, including “All That Jazz” and Billy’s big number “Razzle Dazzle”. The role of Billy Flynn is being played by

experienced actor Bill Nicholson (pictured). Bill has been with STUDIO32 for some time, and has played many lead roles over the years both here and in the UK. Show dates are Wednesday May 30th to Saturday June 2nd at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio, all performances start at 7.30pm with doors open 7pm. Reserved seating tickets are now on sale, priced at 10 euros, and can be obtained by calling 744 48 49 33, by emailing tickets@studiothirtytwo.org, or from the following outlets: Cards & More, La Marina 966 790 954 The Card Place, Benijofar 966 713 266

The Hondón Valley (Legion) Poets

embers of The Hondón Valley Branch of The Royal British Legion met on a very cold, blustery March night to watch Pathé Newsreel footage of the Great Pilgrimage of 1928. This consisted of Veterans from WW1 and War Widows visiting the battlefields of the Somme and Ypres before marching to the Menin Gate on 8 August. This year two members will represent the Branch for GP 90 (Great Pilgrimage 90 years on) This will be the biggest TRBL membership event for a generation. Following this video members were entertained by the reading of poems written by members in recognition of World Poetry Day. The poems varied from the emotional –Remembrance. Funny – reflecting on the Branch activities and Thoughtful – looking at the Smartphone and its effect on our lives. Members’ favourite poem was written by Chris Pedley. Each winner was given a notebook in order to write more poems! All the poems will shortly be available on the Branch website www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/hondon-valley. An Armed Forces background is not necessary to take part in Legion activities so for more information about the Branch events, please contact the secretary on hondonvalley.secretary@rbl.community. Poets Chris Wyatt, Neil Pavitt, Carol Wealleans, Chris Pedley and Peter Broadbent For information and assistance enquiries, please ring 676 45 17 80.

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Charities raise over 1000 euro at the Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle the Help at Home Costa Blanca fundraising day took place on Saturday, coinciding with St Patrick's Day, at the Emerald Isle restaurant, La Florida where a total of 800 euros was raised by the charity for its funds. Also on hand were members of the Orihuela Costa Branch of Royal British Legion with their membership, book and merchandising stalls. Non-stop entertainment was provided by Cindy Fitzpatrick, Melissa Fanning, Lady Jazz, Kylie Burgazzi, Stuart Sinclair, Rainnadh O'Connor, The Honeys, Total Dance Studios and the Crazy Ladies dance group. Charity volunteers manned a number of stalls selling cakes, sausage rolls, scones etc., and ran a large raffle and tombola. Fund-raising also took place for the Tasha appeal.

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Garcia-Legaz reported current progress as being extremely satisfactory

irectors of Aena had a double session last week with unions and with the regional business association CROEM during which they hope to tie down the opening of Corvera airport to the first half of January 2019, which is the new estimate with which the state concessionary is now working.

Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a January opening for Corvera Airport

As he brought the unions and business leaders up to date, Aena boss, Jaime Garcia-Legaz, who himself hails from Murcia, said that he is currently in discussions with four airlines, Ryanair, EasyJet, Iberia Express and Volotea, regarding their possible use of

the new airport and that approaches have also been made to a number of other airline companies offering them facilities at Corvera. Garcia-Legaz has said that he is now extremely confident that the airport will open to meet next winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flight schedule with the middle of January being his current estimate. He said that progress to date is extremely satisfactory and that the decision had been taken to hold back the opening of Corvera until

after the Christmas holiday period so that any likely teething problems could be dealt with during a quieter period for the new airport.

He confirmed that his staff were also in communication with local bus companies regarding routes to local destinations although the timetables cannot be decided at this early stage. The Aena boss also confirmed that most of the company employees at San Javier Airport have agreed to transfer to the new facility although the situation regarding ancillary companies and their services is still to be determined.

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Objective; 8 Run; 9 Drive insane; 11 Decoder; 12 Prior; 13 Piracy; 15 Negate; 17 Reign; 18 Appoint; 20 Unemotional; 22 Rod; 23 Tasteless. DOWN: 2 Bar; 3 Creed; 4 Ignore; 5 Example; 6 Trepidation; 7 Underwent; 10 Incertitude; 11 Departure; 14 Content; 16 Famous; 19 Price; 21 Ass. CRYPTIC: CRYPTIC: ACROSS: 1 Battle-axe; 8 Ova; 9 Chamberlain; 11 Charles; 12 Stole; 13 Lahore; 15 Edison; 17 Story; 18 Dickens; 20 Ill-tempered; 22 Ass; 23 Yesterday. DOWN: 2 Ash; 3 Libel; 4 Arrest; 5 Elapsed; 6 Connoisseur; 7 Sauternes; 10 Anachronism; 11 Celestial; 14 Royalty; 16 Adders; 19 Copse; 21 Era.

ACROSS 7.

Moody (13)

Largish (8)

Sea-eagle (4)

10.

Intermediate (6)

12.

Interior (6)

14.

Persist in (6)

16.

Exertion (6)

18.

Mistake (4)

20.

Dependence (8)

22.

Eternally (13)

DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 11. 13. 15. 17. 19. 21.

Zenith (8) Disseminate (6) Dingy (4) Idiot (8) Except (6) Daybreak (4) Outside (8) Immediately (8) Meaning (6) Parade (6) Adore (4) Tardy (4)

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

Solution on Page 19

12. Udon and soba are both tasty examples of what? 13. Which nickname was given to enormous Hughes H-4 Hercules aeroplane? 14. There is a village in France near the Somme which has a one letter name. Which letter is it? 15. Name the seven Brad Pitt movies with a number in the film title. (Please note, the following non credited roles, voice parts and television series are excluded: Less than Zero, Happy Feet Two, Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas, 21 Jump Street) 16. What is a Pademelon? a. an Italian musical instrument. b. an exotic fruit. c. a small marsupial. d. a straw hat worn by gauchos 17. The name of which troubled country in the Horn of Africa is the Greek word for the Red Sea? 18. Name the five Germans who have won the 'European Footballer of the Year' award. 19. How many candles does the The Hanukkah menorah have? 20. What do both Vito and Michael Corleone have in their hands moments before they die?

Luther. 6. A Bonfire of the Vanities (Italian: Falò delle vanità) is a burning of objects condemned by authorities as occasions of sin. 7. a. 1984, b. The Shining. 8. a. El Condor Pasa, b. La Isla Bonita, c. Viva la Vida. 9. Myanmar (Burma). 10. Camera. 11. Cul-de-sac. The earliest example was unearthed in the ElLahun workers' village in Egypt, which was built circa 1885 BC but it was in the UK that the cul-de-sac street type was

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

of street means 'the arse of a bag'?

1. 2005 (February). The service was created by three former PayPal employees. Google bought the site in November 2006 for US$1.65 billion. 2. The Eiffel Tower (for the extra point, The Washington Monument). 3. Allied landing beaches on D-Day. List of landing sites: Juno, Sword, Utah, Omaha, Gold (some Historians also include "Pointe du Hoc" in this list too). 4. The International Committee of the Red Cross. 5. Lex

ACROSS 7. Valuable memoranda from the Chancellor of the Exchequer? (8,5) 8. Financial statements of a hundred noblemen (8) 9. See 18 Across 10. In the flower-stalk a little chemical substance is present (6) 12. Right piece mixed up in what the chef uses (6) 14. Resent being miscast as the author of “Tristram Shandy” (6) 16. Reason to speak about money being returned (6) 18 & 9Ac. Shows anger about a current measure and rushes about wildly (8) 20. Fragrant product to sell in real assortment (8) 22. A fatal combination of words (5,8)

1. Video sharing website YouTube debuted in which year? DOWN 2. The pyramids excluded, what was the tallest 1. One piece of jewellery or two permitted (8) man made structure in the world in 1889? (For 2. The temple of one worshipped in Pennsylvania (6) an extra point, what was the tallest man made 3. Go round as a music hall act (4) structure in the world in 1886?) 4. Styes are unpleasant to look at (8) 3. Juno was one of the five what? 5. Describing the Jewish law that fits together into a 4. Name the only three time winner of the Nobel pattern (6) Peace Prize. 6. Yield from what is planted, we hear (4) 11. He seeks perfection, but it’s different after I do business (8) 5. Which fictional character, played in film by 13. Game for which Gilbert and Sullivan were responsible (8) Kevin Spacey, Gene Hackman and John Shea 15. In here put explicit public opinion (6) among others, is said to own Beethoven's 10th 17. French town will make Ann strangely upset (6) Symphony, a full-body portrait of the Mona Lisa 19. They are available in continental estaminets (4) and the Venus de Milos' arms ? 21. Producer of much bottled fruit! (4) 6. In 15th and 16th century Europe, objects that were considered sinful were often burnt in public places. What name was given to this show of destruction? 7. In which films are the following rooms a hellish place to visit? a. Room 101. b. Room 237 8. Name the hit song from each of the following with a Spanish song title. a. Simon and CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Garfunkel. b. Madonna. c. Coldplay Fill in the grid so that 9. The Irrawaddy is the longest river in which every row, every column, and every 3x3 box conAsian country? tains the digits 1 to 9. 10. The name for which popular portable device stems from the Latin word for "vaulted room"? QUIZ ANSWERS 11. Literally translated, the name for which kind first legislated into use, with The Hampstead Garden Suburb Act 1906. 12. Japanese noodles. 13. Spruce Goose. 14. Y. 15. Seven, 12 Monkeys, Seven Years in Tibet, Oceans 11, Oceans 12 and Oceans 13. 12 Years A Slave. 16. c. a small marsupial. 17. Eritrea. 18. Gerd Müller, Franz Beckenbauer, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Lothar Matthäus, Matthais Sammer. 19. Nine (Four on each side and one in the centre). 20. An orange

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

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

he Virtual Spanish Hotel

Our first holiday in Spain some years ago was not a great success. We had booked into a major tour company’s “flagship hotel”, as it was described, only to find a bed containing the residue of its previous occupant, a couple of cockroaches and the distressing remains of a previous night’s curry in the toilet. Needless to say, we complained and were moved to another room. It was not the best introduction to our first holiday in Spain. What do you look for in hotel or self-catering accommodation? I have always maintained that if I am going to spend hard-earned cash on holiday, I require the standard to be at least the same, if not better than our accommodation at home. Like many visitors, I dislike those narrow, uncomfortable, wooden beds and thin mattresses that are so popular in most Spanish and Canary Islands’ budget hotels and bungalow complexes. Insufficient hot water, no kettle, and ineffective air conditioning are all areas that are likely to generate a negative review on Trip Advisor. Nowadays, my demands also include free Wi-Fi, and not just a pathetic signal in reception, but one that I can actually use in the hotel bedroom, without an additional charge. I have this at home, so why not on holiday? Sadly, even some of the four- and five-star hotels on these islands rarely offer this facility and is a source of constant complaints from guests. According to a recent tourism fair in Spain, much of this is about to change. How about a hotel room that automatically adjusts to the needs, language and nationality of its guests, virtual reality headsets instead of brochures, as well as facial recognition instead of a key card to enter

your room? Once guests’ personal details and preferences are logged into the system, the room will automatically change the digital pictures in the room from Picasso to Monet, monitor the room temperature and adjust the lighting to personal requirements.

What about those ghastly wooden beds and thin mattresses? Well, new ones will have sensors built into the mattress, which will monitor movements and sense when the occupant awakes, and will notify staff to bring a cup of coffee and croissant to get the morning off to a good start. However, I am not sure that guests will approve of bed sensors monitoring the time, quantity and speed of their lovemaking. Needless to say, the main benefit of these new systems is not always for the guests’ benefit, but to improve “productivity”. If, for instance, a large number of British guests are due to check in, additional quantities of bacon, black pudding and eggs will be ordered automatically to cope with the copious demand for those much loved ‘English breakfasts’. Virtual Reality headsets are currently being used, both in Spain and Morocco, to present hotels to tour companies instead of brochures. Travel agents can take a virtual tour of the bedrooms, pool area, restaurant and other facilities, which will give a much

Colon cancer is ages favour the one of the few tumours growth of the cells of that can be diagnosed the mucosa of the early before symptoms colon, giving rise to the become noticeable. manifestation of polyps. Doctors at the Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja say that it The vast majority of colon cancers are sporadic. People can be detected with a non-invasive test like the fecal with a close relative who is suffering with cancer have a occult blood test, a check that looks for blood in your higher risk of suffering from it. It is also believed that the poop, or feces. danger increases with age: 90% are diagnosed after 50 Colorectal cancer is the most frequent malignant tumor in years and, and as people get older, the risk increases. Spain with the second highest rate of mortality, both in Stool analysis is as effective as colonoscopy in detecting men and in women. In Spain, 32,000 new cases are diagcancer nosed every year which results in the death of more than Dr. José Farré Alegre, chief of General Surgery and a spe14,000 people cialist in Oncological Surgery at the Hospital But despite its incidence and mortality, it is explains that, "in terms of early detection, one of the most approachable and, if diagthere is consensus that all those without nosed in time, curable cancers in more specific risk factors should be tested than 90% of cases. from 50 years of age. There are severAccording to Dr. Pedro Bretcha, al types of tests: a colonoscopy President of the Spanish Society of every 10 years, a CT colonography Surgical Oncology (SEOQ) and a every five years, a sigmoidoscopy specialist in surgical oncology at every five years, or a blood test the Hospital Quirónsalud every year which has proven to be Torrevieja , it is possible to as effective as other diagnostic reduce or eliminate risk factors , tests. especially those related to food, to In contrast, those with an alcohol, tobacco and physical exerincreased risk should enter a procise or lifestyle. gram at a younger age and take the Dr. Pedro Feeding: diets rich in animal fats tests more frequently. People who Bretcha, of (red meat) and low in fibre can have a close relative under 60 with the Hospital increase the risk of colorectal cancer. colon cancer or two close relatives of Quirónsalud Physical inactivity: a sedentary life favours any age, should have a colonoscopy from the risk of this disease. 40 years and thereafter, every five years. Tobacco use: increases the risk of suffering from Those whose close relative is diagnosed over the age polyps, which are usually the precursors of this tumour. of 60, or who have two or more affected close relatives, Consumption of alcohol: it seems that alcoholic bevershould have a colonoscopy starting at age 50.

Early diagnosis of Colon cancer

b y Bar rie Mahoney

How about a hotel room that automatically adjusts to the needs, language and nationality of its guests, virtual reality headsets instead of brochures.

Hotels will be able to provide a facility whereby guests can order a pizza in 40 languages; why one would want to do this is open for discussion, but I guess it is a nice gesture to while away an hour or two. Room locks will also be ‘intelligent’ and will open and close according to the WhatsApp settings on a guest’s smartphone.

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more realistic indication of likely customer satisfaction.

In some hotels, there will be beacons and sensors fitted in rooms that will make use of guests’ smartphones to monitor at what time they visit the pool, how long they stay in their rooms and how vigorously they brush their teeth. Maybe it will also monitor how much toilet paper is used on ‘curry and lager’ nights and order additional quantities according to need? Complicated algorithms will be able to monitor their guests’ habits in order to sell additional products and services, as well as special offers to encourage them to return to the hotel. The system will also be able to determine whether guests arrive with their usual partner and children or with someone else - in which case, if the guest does not eat in the dining room, a special meal will be sent to the hotel room, complete with a bottle of champagne. Is all this going a little too far, do you think? Few of these new services will be able to operate without considerable intrusion into the personal data of guests, which I suspect many will be unhappy about. As much as I love gadgets and applaud some of the new technology, and particularly improved beds, I suspect that most visitors will be content with a clean room, a comfortable bed, a kettle and good quality Wi-Fi. Available in paperback from Amazon, Waterstones and all good bookshops, as well as on Amazon Kindle. Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

The eyes are affected by the UV rays of the sun in a similar way to the skin, and even short term exposure can cause problems with your vision and increase the chance of developing serious issues such as cataracts, macular degeneration and eyelid cancer. The effects were revealed in 2017 after a woman looked directly at the sun during the eclipse for just six seconds and permanently damaged her retinas. The images of the damaged photoreceptors and a lesion caused by this brief look at the sun show just how powerful the sun is and the extreme damage that can be done to your eyes by UV rays.

glasses and deciding when to use them, as they are with applying sun cream and ensuring that skin is protected.”

The importance of 100% UV resistant sunglasses

Lisa James Store Director of Specsavers Opticas in Torrevieja and Guardamar commented, “Most people don’t think of sunglasses as a way to protect the eyes. We hope that seeing the damage caused by looking at the sun for six seconds did to someone’s eyes, people will make better choices and realise that they need to be as vigilant when choosing their sun-

In a recent study of 10,000 people by The Vision Council it was revealed that less than half of people surveyed wear sunglasses when they should and that most people are more interested in comfort and fashion than protection for their eyes. This is a concern to experts, especially in countries such as Spain, where the sun is very strong throughout the year and children and adults spend more time outside. Lisa James from Specsavers explained; “You need to make sure that eyes and skin are protected from all 3 types of UV radiation (UVA,UVB and UVC) throughout the year and take particular care when you’re in wide open spaces and on the beach or on the ski slopes where UV rays are reflected from the sand, sea and snow. By choosing sunglasses with 100% UV protection, large or wraparound styles and combining with a hat you will get maximum protection from UV related eye problems.” Specsavers Opticas have just launched their new sun range for spring/summer 2018. This includes 8 new clip-on sunglasses with polarised lenses to offer 100% UV protection. View the full range on their website www.specsavers.es

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Lucy Stanhope selected for England as Proud Grandparents celebrate in Los Montesinos Grandparents George and Brenda Stanhope are thrilled that teenage gymnast star Lucy Stanhope has been named in the England 2018 Commonwealth Games team. “We couldn’t be prouder,” said George, 79, from his home in Los Montesinos, Alicante, after City of Liverpool Gymnastics Club ace Lucy, 16, was selected to represent England in the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia. The 2018 Commonwealth Games takes place in the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia in April: “Lucy will be the youngest member of the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics team,” said Brenda, 77. Lucy, who has been performing huge upgrades to her routines, is a talented artistic gymnast from Warrington, who has made on-going impressive progress in her young career. Lucy, who became interested in gymnastics aged four, who trains five days a week, became eligible for junior events in 2014, including the European Championships, Commonwealth Games and European Youth Olympic Festival. Lucy was the 2014 British Espoir Beam Champion, and represented Team GB at the 2015 European Youth Olympic Festival in Tbilisi. In 2015, Lucy had a successful year as a member of the GB High Performance Squad; the Sportsaid-supported gymnast also competing in the Espoir British Championships, winning four medals, taking gold on beam, floor silver and vault bronze, along with all-round silver. Lucy won an English Championships title, international debut gold with Team GB at the Rushmoor Rose Bowl Invitational, and Team GB gold at the Olympic Hopes Cup. Lucy, who attends GB sessions at Lilleshall National Sports Centre, missed out on the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, due to being under age,

Meet their rescued puppies at the Pets in Spain Easter Fayre

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Lucy was a member of the British Silver medal winning team at the Junior European Championships. Inset: Her proud grandparents aged 15. This year Lucy has competed in the English Championships, British Championships, and the Stuttgart World Cup in Germany in March. Lucy, who also participated in the 2015 European Youth Olympic Festival, has seen her career highlights to date in competing in the 2016 Junior European Championships team, winning silver, and in the 2017 English Championships, winning beam silver. “Lucy is a powerful gymnast and excels particularly on vault,” said coach Claire Duffy.

“As a junior she had success at English and British level, before helping the British team to silver at the Junior European Championships,” said Claire. In 2018 Lucy finished all-round fourth in the British Championships, that followed her success in the 2017 English Championships beam, winning silver. Lucy, who competed in the 2016 Junior British Championships vault and uneven bars, has trained alongside 2012 Olympians Rebecca Tunney, Hannah Whelan and Beth Tweddle. Lucy said: “It feels amazing - I’m so excited to be competing for Team England. I’m also

The Pets In Spain animal charity has organised Easter Fayre events at both charity shops on Easter Saturday with an invitation for people to meet recently rescued mothers from a ruthless puppy farm breeder. In recent months, and in collaboration with other animalista groups in Spain, they have rescued 70 puppy farm mothers and fathers. Tallulah is one of them, a Shih-Tzu with an old untreated injury, a broken jaw. She must have endured constant pain even while mothering her puppies, all of which were sold by the ruthless breeder whose only interest was the thousands of Euros raked in from sales.

really proud of myself and just so happy to be involved in such a big event. “I was dreaming about being selected and thought I was thereabouts and now it’s real it feels incredible. I’m really excited to go to Australia, to wear the Team England kit and to compete. “I competed at the European Youth Olympics in 2015 and junior European Championships in 2016 but this is another level. “I think I’m going to be really nervous but really excited once I walk out in to the arena.”

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday, 29th of March at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 31st of March at 5:00 p.m.

CROOKED HOUSE:

Like all the others, Tallulah, age 4 years, was restrained in a filthy faeces covered cage and used purely as a puppy making machine. She needs three more surgical procedures on her jaw, also on her mammaries and sterilisation. Four adult chihuahua mothers, each just 2/3 kilos, have multiple scars from previous caesarian births. One of them is Oreo, and the reason for her health problems was revealed when the vets at the animal hospital in Guardamar operated on her last week. They discovered that during a previous caesarian procedure by person or persons unknown to extract puppies, her bladder, bowel and uterus were displaced causing twisted tubes, blockages and blood loss to her vital organs. At the animal hospital Oreo’s internal organs were realigned successfully and she has been sterilised. All the rescued puppy farm dogs needed veterinary treatment and some of them have since been adopted, the others, including Tallulah and Oreo, are in caring foster homes and still under veterinary supervision funded by the charity. The date for your diary to go along to show your support for the work the charity does and meet rescued puppy farm dogs at the Easter Fayre is Saturday March 31st at the Pets In Spain charity shop situated next door to the Hogs Head bar and grill, calle Francisco de Quevedo, urbanisation La Marina. Please take any items or other donations for the charity to use to raise funds. You can contact the charity on 645 469 253, or email info@petsinspain.com The charity’s YouTube channel features many live rescue videos: www.petsinspain.com

In Agatha Christie's most twisted tale, a spy-turned-privatedetective is lured by his former lover to catch her grandfather's murderer before Scotland Yard exposes dark family secrets.

Screenwriter Julian Fellowes (Novel: Agatha Christie) Stars: Glenn Close, Terence Stamp, and Christina Hendricks, Dur: 1h 55min | Mystery, Crime, Drama

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Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford CMax Diesel which is on Special Offer priced at just 15,499 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. Clasicos Legendarios have the following used vehicles for sale: Jaguar XKR V8 2007 Black, with all the extras, 115,000 km for 35,000 euros, Jaguar XJS Convertible V12 1988, 159,000 km 17,950 euros, Lexus SC 430 2003, 165,000 km, 7,995 euros. Visit our showroom in Redovan on Poligono San Carlos or call 965 030 924 CLK 320 Automatic 218 HP, Year 1998, 156.600km. Sun roof. € 3.950,00 ono. Call Mikel on 607 659 306

Social and Clubs The next monthly meeing of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 19 April at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm. The Torrevieja Branch will meet at the Casa Ventura in San Luis at 7.30 pm on the 13 April 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 Torrevieja Retired Activities Club meet on the third Wednesday in the month from 11-1pm at Marina Club Cafeteria, International Marina, Torrevieja. We have a speaker at our monthly meetings, or quiz, etc. Enjoy an activity once a month such as petanca, mini golf, 10 pin bowling, and on the first Sunday of the month we organise a restaurant lunch. The joining fee is 10euros but you can attend one meeting or lunch before you join. For info phone Sandy Hollywood, President 698 266 696 or Jill Hayes, membership Secretary 672 983 019. HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes in areas surrounding Quesada, San Luis, La Siesta Torrevieja, La Mata, Orihuela Costa, Villamartin to Campoverde, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities. Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or email: charitycentre helpathomecb@gmail.com. TORREVIEJA Official Liverpool FC Supporters' Club, Costa Blanca. - Why not join us at Kennedy's Pub, Playa Los

Monday 26th March - Sunday 1st April, 2018

Locos, to watch the games? www.lfc-spain.com. Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Interested in becoming a listener? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? To find out more, come and join us for refreshments and a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre, by the Punta Prima roundabout, on the N332. (Volunteer positions are unpaid but expenses can be claimed). www.samaritansinspain.com Email: janeatsams@outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities Monday, Wednesday and Thursday including music, language classes, drawing and painting, sewing, general information, bereavement advice and much more. Further info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome residents, visitors and children. For information see our website www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or phone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108 The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. You can phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 667 533 597.. International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja - Evangelical nondenominational church. All nationalities welcome. Sunday service 11.0 a.m.; Sunday

school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11.0 a.m. Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30 p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta – Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. For other church matters: Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

Personal Torrevieja Brazilian mature lady. The best massage, relax, tantra, anti-stress. I also do body and intimate waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial cleansing and rejuvenation. Me and my silky hands are the perfect combination. Call Victoria on 687 131 005. Torrevieja. Shirley - the best massage. Tanned, young Latina beauty! Stunning figure, great breasts. I welcome you alone in my sexy lingerie. By appointment please.655 677 738 Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speak English. Male and female Viagra, Cialis, Cialis Kamagra jellies mail order cash on delivery call 604 385 476 viagra4you19@gmail.com

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 Villamartin, gate enclosed topfloor apartment with lift. Two bedroom, two bathroom, large lounge / dine, kitchen, store room, large sun terrace, communal pool in well-maintained gardens, off-road parking, 800m to nearest bars / restaurant. Fully furnished. Air-conditioning. Roof top solarium with stunning views. € 110.000. Tel. 672 921 851 or 604 152 124. (705) Country Finca in Redovan - 2 buildings on a good size plot,

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each with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Plot size 500 sq mtrs. Excellent decorative order and is sold furnished. Beamed ceilings in lounge. Euro 170,500. Ref: 000076. Tel 617 537 866 San Miguel de Salinas - A really nice first floor 3 bed apartment in a very well looked after community, just a short walk to supermarkets, restaurants, and bars. Fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, main bedroom having walk in wardrobe. Euro 79,995 Ref: 000075. Tel 617 537 866 Detached Villa Torremendo - A fantastic 2 bed countryside home on a 5000sqm plot. Constructed from wood and in perfect condition with countryside and lake views. All modern services, connected to electricity, water, mains sewerage. Also a separate selfcontained cabin. Euro 149,995 Ref: 000074. Tel 617 537 866 This three bedroom, two bathroom mid-terrace townhouse is within walking distance of the lively La Fuente Commercial Centre 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 three bed, two bathroom detached villa is situated on a plot of 600m2. It has its own 10m x 5m private swimming pool and a separate garage with access to a rooftop solarium. The property is distributed

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

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Match Results for 22nd March 2018 A

Hub Hyenas

8-4

Las Rosas

Junction Jackals

9-3

Tavern

Angels

2-10

El Capitan

Wee Rockers

8-4

Porter House

Fire Station

6-6

Junction Jaguars

Ale House

11-1

Hub Hellraisers

Hen's Teeth

2-10

Porter House Bees

Amigos Misfits

5-7

Pint depot Queens

League Table

Pts

Legs

Hub Hyenas

El Capitan

Junction Jackals

Porter House

Angels

Amigos v Pint Depot Queens 5-7

Pairs 1. Steady scoring from Del, including 100, and John Eyre, 85, 81 not enough as Rosas chalked first win, Gledhill, 81 and Preston, 85, 85 and an unorthodox 44 finish (D12, D10) They all count!

Misfits then took the next three games with Sonya’s D1 aided by her teammates with Peter scoring 109, 70, 85. An on- form Sonya took the first pairs with a 92, 81and D10, teammate Paul, 85. Ronnie’s 83, 63,71and D13 took the second pairs although Marie challenged with 79 and 65. The Queens managed to pull back the last pairs courtesy of Pam McCutcheon’s D7 to make it 3-3 at half time.

P2 Townsend and Nikolov (now well into a bottle of tequila) lost convincingly to Montes, 100 and Buitkaat, 140. Montes hitting D8 finish P3 Miller and John Williams laboured in a completely uninspiring match to win with a D1 finish against John Spencer and Dave Knighton. H/Time 4/2

Chemie’s Wee Rockers

Las Rosas

Tavern Oldies

Result 8/4. Some great banter from both sides, a lot closer than the score, maybe nerves are creeping in! Report by Simon Williams

Junction Jaguars

Amigo's Misfits

Porter House Bees

Pint Depot Queens

Fire Station

Hen's Teeth

Hub Hellraisers

Chemie’s Wee Rockers v Porter House 8-4 Porter House took a hit in the Villamartin region this week when they faced the up and coming Chemie’s superstars, Jim Underwood D8 (1st triples) and T16-D16 (pairs); Alan Havelock’s D10 and 25D20in his singles and MOTM Captain James Mackay’s D10 in the pairs and T20-S18-D20 in his singles. The other two legs came courtesy of Stevie and Jack. Jeff Ward got two legs for the Porters, Ray Sanderson and MOTM Rooffie the other two.

180’s John Walker x 3 (El Capitan); Joe Miller (Hub Hyenas); Harvey Lane (Porter House Bees); Aroldas Klimonis (El Capitan), Eugene Gillespie (Tavern); Paul Durrant (Hyenas) Jeff Ward (Porter House); Andy Rutter x (Junction Jackals); Lee Maiden (Junction Jackals); Angela Garside (Tavern Oldies), Mark Todd (Junction Jackals), Eddie Klimonis (El Capitan), Alan Havelock (Wee Rockers), Phil Waller (Angels), Alan Preston (Las Rosas), John Spencer (Las Rosas); Adrian Buitekaht (Las Rosas), Del Lister (Ale House), Jimmy Grey (Ale House) Highest Check-out: Jeff Ward (Porter House) 147 [T20, T17, D18] Hub Hyenas v Las Rosas 8-4 A tight game at the Hub! In form Rosas were up against a full strength (if under par) Hyenas.

Ale House v Hub Hellraisers 11-1 It all looked so good for the lovely Villamartin ladies when Sarah Arnold, Gail Leatherby and Sharon Pearson’s D1 saw them ahead in the first triples. No mean feat when they faced Andre Wing, Phil Kennedy and wonder boy, Jordan Jackson. From then on in though it was Ale House all the way with every one of the lads contributing to the 11-1 drubbing, none more so than Karl Mallinson, who got a hat-trick of check-outs:- D6 in the triples, D4 in his singles and a very impressive 136-out (T20-T20-D8) with teammate Andre in the pairs. A mention too for Jimmy Grey (MOTM), who joins team mate Del Lister on the 180 rostrum, well done Jimmy (Hope someone helped you get the darts out!) Despite Sharon’s one and only finish for the Hellraisers, it was the diminutive and delightful Sarah Arnold who received MOTM for the girls.

Torrevieja Ladies Darts Organisation Macklins Dolly Mixtures Gap Ladies Friendly's Temps Black Dog Ladies

5-4 7-2 3-6 3-6

Primadonnas El Balcon Chicas Friendly's Chicas Wildcats at Macklins

Wildcats at Macklins Gap Ladies Friendly Chicas Macklins Dolly Mixtures El Balcon Chicas Black Dog Ladies Friendly's Temps Primadonnas

P 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

W 10 9 6 5 4 3 2 1

L 0 1 4 5 6 7 8 9

Pts. 30 28 22 20 18 16 14 12

This week’s Hot Darts Elaine Willis 140, Mitch Halliday 135, Gail Murray 134, Sharon O'Rourke 132, Margaret Boden 129, Eliz Cowan 116+114+102, Shirley Ward, Valk Miullar 112, Sue Cam 105, Patricia Wood 101, Jane Barnes 100x3, Bliss Wright 100x2, Lillian Thomson, Jenny Benfield, Tracy Simpson, Cynthia Jevons, Kim Fickling, Ellen Attwood 100 Highest Checkout 96 Sarah Grove.

By Simone de Lacy

First triples saw Joe Miller, John Williams and Paul Durrant against Carlos Montes, Adrian Buitekaat and Jem Gledhill, only notable scoring being a 140 from Durrant, Durrant checking out on 46 (s6, s20, D10). Triple 2: Alex 'Tequila' Nikolov (100), Derek 'the Doc' and John Eyre (121) beat John Spencer, Alan Preston, David Knighton. Eyre Checking out, eventually in D2. Triple 3: Bob Townsend, Durrant and Eyre beat Gledhill, Buitekaat and Frederick, not a score over 100! the game finished by Townsend, after about 30 darts, on D1!

S: Alex, now struggling to hold, let alone throw a dart, lost convincingly to Preston, 100, 123, 85, D1 Finish. S2; Durrant 100, 100, D8 Beat Gledhill. S3: Si Williams 100, 103, lost tight game to Spencer, 95, 85, D11. S4: Eyre 117, 89, D8 finish beat Buitkaart, 81. S5: Miller, 140 D5 finish beat Montes 100. S6: Townsend 100, 100, D1 beat Knighton 85,85.

Ale House

Ladies Singles - The Ladies of the League gathered at El Balcon, in Los Balconies, and at Macklins Bar, in Via Park III, for their new Annual Ladies Singles play-offs. Thanks go to our host at El Balcon; Fernando and his staff, along with Colin Jeffery our marker for the evening. The Raffle was organised by El Balcon Chicas. Thanks also go to our host at Macklins; Stuart Macklin and his staff, along with Stan Veale and Barry Wheaton our markers for the evening. The raffle was organised by Macklin’s Dolly Mixtures. A good night was had by all. The Ladies that qualified at El Balcon were: Lin Cousins, Sandra Crabbe, Karen Christopher and June Hawkins. The Ladies that qualified at Macklins in Via Park II were: Ellie Attwood, Mitch Halliday, Sue Cam, Lorraine Veal and Beatty Powell. First Reminder: The pairs finals are being held at the Black Dog in Torrevieja, on the 3rd April. Registration is at 19.45 hours with a start time of 20.00 hours. The raffle is being organised by the Black Dog Ladies. Second Reminder: The Annual Presentation Dinner is on Saturday 26th May at Quesada Country Club (now called JR’s), so please put this date in your Diary. Thank you. Pam Horton 96 571 0066 Email: Dartess501@gmail.com

The Queens were away this week to the Misfits and they got off to a flying start, winning the first 2 games. Vi Turners’s D3 in the first triples, aided by Marie’s 73, Maggie’s 68 and 71 with Sonya scooping a 70 for the Misfits. In the second triples, it was Lyn Fozzard’s D1, again with good teamwork and scores from Rachel 122 and Pam 89, 117 and 72 but again facing opposition from the opposition of Ronnie 70, and Dickie 61,65 and 78 making it hard work for the win.

The second half was going to prove to be a great encounter between the two teams after the blind draw. Lyn and Peter up first and Lyn was on fine form tonight and another D1 (her second of the night). Pam and John next and Pam got off to a great start with scores of 68, 63, 81 and 76 whilst John managed a 70. Pam had the edge in the end and got D1. Next up was Marie and Sonya (they always like playing each other!). Sonya got D17 so made it 5-4 to the Queens. It was proving to be a tense night and anyone's match. Maggie and Ronnie played next and if Ronnie had not have busted his 103 it may have been a different story?! However, Maggie held her nerve and got D3 to now make it 6-4 to the Queens and at least we now knew we couldn't lose. So next was Vi and Sandra against each other with Sandra scoring a 76 and a 90 but Vi got D1 to take the pressure off Rachel as it may have been down to her win the last game against Paul. Luckily it didn't go down to the last game as Paul did beat Rachel with D1 scoring a 90 and a 112. Man of the Match Sonya for the Misfits and Pam for the Queens. Thanks for hosting a great evening Misfits. Report by Cheryl Sleath Hen’s Teeth v Porter House Bees 2-10 The home team commenced the match with a win in the triples: Mike, Jo and Dave who threw 8, D4. The Bees Trio Gilly, Michele and Captain Eddie levelled with D5 from Eddie. Bees Eddie, John and Michelle ( D12) took the triples lead. Mike and Henni took on Terry and Michelle but, despite Terry's 121, Henni took the score 2-2 with her D10 finish. After this the Hen's struggled to find their earlier form and tried hard to reach their finishes. Hen's had some good scoring with 100 from Mags and Dave, and Jan 108. Wins in the pairs for Mel and Eddie (D3), John and Gilly (D5), . In the singles Michelle, D4, Terry 10,8, D12, Mel D18, Gilly D6, John 16,D8 and Eddie D9. Man of the match for Hen's Teeth Henni and Eddie for the Bees. A friendly evening of darts with a great bunch of people at a nice venue with tasty seafood supper. Final score Hen's Teeth 2 PH Bees 10. Report Gilly Kirby

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Monday 26th March - Sunday 1st April, 2018

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Greenlands Bowls Club

Vistabella Bowls Club

Horadada Bowls Club

by Dave Webb

In the Winter League we were at home to San Luis, Two equally matched teams resulted in a very tight finish in the final ends. Winning on one rink, losing out by one shot on two rinks and by two shots on two rinks, it made for an exciting finish for both teams and spectators alike. Final scores were - total shots for - 82. shots against - 93. Points for - 2. points against - 10. The final score did not reflect the game as a whole so well done Greenlands for a superb effort. Winning team was - Jean Giddings, John Wray, Dave Giddings, Mike Kelly. - 18 shots to 16. Monday see's the start of the VCL season so good luck to the team playing at home to Horadada. For all enquiries please contact Haley on 966 84 4399 or visit our website.

with Lynne Bishop

Only one set of results this week as things wind down before the start of the summer leagues. The WINTER LEAGUE team were at home against La Siesta and they were happy with the outcome, four wining rinks on this occasion which was a great improvement on the last couple of weeks. Tony French, Penny Tomkins, Gary & Carol Thorpe 34-4. Lin Watkins, Neil Burrows, Eric Bishop & Peter Whitehall 30-4. Sandra Burrows, Les Barber, Stuart Allman & Brian Dunn 22-14. Lynne Bishop, Charlie Watkins, Barry Norris & Maggie Furness 21-13. Shots, VB 122(10) - 57(2) LS. The Berleen team of Sharron Kirk, Pete Tomkins, Bert Ewart & Jim Harwood won 22-14. Last game next week.

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No Club matches to report on this week. These restart within the next 2 weeks. Our Club competitions were finally finished with 2 games. In the rinks the winners were Barry Evans, Linda Hier, Jeff Hier and Wayne Osguthorpe who narrowly defeated Margaret/Ron Odell and Carol/Jack Linehan. In our non-winners singles final John Jukes defeated Fred Trigwell, and thanks go to Irene Graham for marking. Congratulations go to those members who have got their names on our honours board for the first time. We wish all our representatives at the Champion of Champions event the best of luck and know that they won’t let the Club down.

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club

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with Barry Evans John Jukes beat Fred Trigwell in the Men’s Singles Final, here with marker Irene Graham.

Country Bowls by Jo Richardson The weather stayed fine and dry for our weekend of club championship finals and a huge congratulations to all who played. The Champions are; Men’s 4 wood singles – Gordon Dixon. Runner up Keith Holliman. Ladies singles – Brenda Jiggins. Runner up Lynne Bryce. Men’s pairs – Les Turner & Ray Emmett. Runners up Gordon Dixon & Andy White. Ladies pairs – Brenda Jiggins & Linda Freeman. Runners up Lynne Bryce & Jo Richardson. Men’s 2 wood singles – Gordon Dixon. Runner up Graham Richardson. Mixed pairs – Gordon Dixon & Pat Emmett. Runners up Les Turner & Jean Turner. Men’s Singles Winner Gordon Dixon, Ladies Singles Winner Brenda Jiggins Country Bowls Team 2018.

Jan Webster and Mick Soars with chairman Chris Harding. Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, Lounge D and Rogers. Ladies Invitation: On Saturday 10th March Monte Mar Bowls club staged its annual “Ladies Invitation” day in memory of our first Honorary President Bernard Pearce. This years twenty teams took part and each paor played two games of ten ends against draw opposition. Following the four sessions of play the winners were Jan Webster and Mick Soars who achieved the maximum of four points from their two games with a shot difference of twenty four. Second were Jan Gatward and Dave Roberts who also got foir points but their shot difference was sixteen. After the event the club went to Rogers Bar for a lovely buffet provided by the club, the winning couple were presented with the Bernard Pearce Memorial Plaque. It was a lovely “Monte Mar” day much appreciated by all those who took part. Winter League: On Wednesday 14th March we played our friends from La Marina it was a lovely mornings bowling. Unfortunately we only won on one rink, well done to Lynne Armitage, Tanya Oliver, Jack Burrell and skip Colin Armitage. Shots Monte Mar 67 – 94 la Marina. Points Monte Mar 2 – 10 La Marina Visiting Teams On Friday 16th March we entertained our first visiting team from Driffield Yorkshire. We had a very

enjoyable morning having five games of rinks which were played in a extremely friendly manner. Monte Mar had a very good result overall but the scores don't really matter on these sort of occasions as everyone involved had a excellent mornings bowling. Tuesday 20th March - On a sunny but very windy day we hosted a Touring Team from Wales made up of members from different clubs in the Cardiff area. Despite the weather we had a enjoyable and competitive morning bowling with honours even with both teams winning on two rinks. Following the match we enjoyed a sociable drink together. Winter League - On Wednesday 21st March we played our last home game against Benitachell which turned out to be a good day for Monte Mar. winning on three rinks and taking the overall shots. Well done to our winning rinks of June Young, Pauline Woodfine, Ronnie Cairns and skip Barrie Woodvine. Lynne Armitage,Tanya Oliver, Jack Burrell and skip Colin Armitage. Sheila Roberts, Jan Gatward, Mick Soars and skip Val Hignett. Shots Monte Mar 94 – 81 Benitachell Points Monte Mar 8 – 4 Benitachell Well done everyone. For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook.

Mixed triples – Jean Turner, Brenda Jiggins & Les Turner. Runners up Gary Ponsford, Linda Freeman & Derek Jiggins. Mixed Rinks- Les & Jean Turner & Ray & Pat Emmett. Runners up Gary Ponsford, Linda Freeman, Derek & Brenda Jiggins. Also, congratulations to the two most improved players in our club Lynne Bryce & Geoff Eggleton. Well done. Thank you to the chairperson, competition secretary, umpires, markers and of course the spectators for making this a memorable weekend. We wish all the finalists in the Champion of Champions competitions the very best of luck. We held our AGM on the 7th of February and thanked our previous committee for their hard work throughout the year and also welcomed in our new officers. President - Joel Fernandez, Chairperson - Andy Bryce, Secretary - Ann Barratt, Club Captain Gordon Dixon, Treasurer - Dave Smith, Competition Secretary - Phil Warrington, Social Secretary & committee member - Geoff Eggleton and committee member Graham Richardson. Best wishes and good luck for the year ahead. Winter League – We finished 2nd with Friday Gecko’s and finished bottom half with Monday Flamingo’s. Fed Fours finished 2nd . Summer & VCL - we are all looking forward to playing some great games in the summer months ahead. For further details on Country Bowls ring 966 19 1552, email countrybowlsmurcia@gmail.com or visit our new website www.countrybowlsmurcia.com

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San Luis Bowls Club

Monday 26th March - Sunday 1st April, 2018

by Sheila Cammack

Another mixed week of chilly, very windy “spring” weather – just as the winter season is coming to a close and summer leagues are about to commence! Club Finals 18 - 20 March Winners: Runners Up: Ladies Singles: Suzi Cooper Kath Reid Men’s Singles: Mal Hughes Colin Jackson Ladies Pairs: Chris Lythe & Margaret Clarke Ann Holland & Pam Lockett. Men’s Pairs: Keith Jones & Russell Marks Colin Jackson & Mal Hughes. Mixed Pairs: Sabrina & Russell Marks Allen Bowen & Suzi Cooper. Mixed Trips:Chris Phillips, Walter Lang, & Steve Simmons, Sheila Cammack Keith Phillips. & Ian Kenyon Mixed Rinks: Colin Jackson, Sabrina Marks, Steve Simmons, Beryl & Mike Keith Jones & Russell Marks. Regan & Ian Kenyon. Drawn 2 Wood Pairs: Keith Phillips & Ian Kenyon Sheila Cammack & Suzi Cooper.

Emerald Isle Bowls

by Elwyn Morris

Ladies Singles Winner Suzi Cooper

Claptons Golf Society at Altorreal Golf on 16 March Here we are at one of the Society’s favourite courses. With a 10.00 am tee-off 18 members set off from Quesada at 8.15 am giving everybody time on arrival for coffee and a chance to go on the range if they wished. The course is in the midst of some changes so it was not in its usual immaculate condition but it was still a great day. The weather was chilly to start but got better as the day went on and there were some good scores for all the players. Once everyone had completed the course we headed back to The Club in Quesada where once again we were treated to a splendid buffet which everybody enjoyed and our thanks to the new owner Ian and his staff. The overall winner, Iain Ralph, fresh out from a very chilly England having played only three games in the last three months played very well in the glorious temperature of 17 degrees. Congratulations Iain. The full results are as follows:

Overall Winner: Iain Ralph - 37 points Gold Winner: Brent Hollings - 36 points Gold Runner Up: Tony Stead - 34 points Silver Winner: John Dodds - 35 points Silver Runner Up: Rick Drake - 32 points Best Front Nine: Andy Trefry - 18 points on c/b Best Back Nine: Gary Strowger - 18 points Nearest the Pins: 5th hole - John Dodds; 8th hole - Brian Simister: and 17th hole - Cameron Stewart. Twos: This was shared between Iain Ralph, Brent Hollings and Gary Strowger. Our next match on the 20th April will be at Vistabella – anyone interested in joining us as a member or guest please contact Kev Williams on 619 725 609 or via email at kevsta01@gmail.com.

TMGS at Altorreal Golf on 21 March

Emerald Isle captain, Colin Lindgren, sends a bowl out in the winter league match, against Quesada

Carp R Us Fishing Club A record turnout, for recent years, of 21 anglers fished round five of the Carp-R-Us Spring Series at the El Bosquet complex. Unfortunately, a sharp drop in over-night temperature had an adverse effect on the fishing and in many pegs the carp failed to show leaving anglers struggling to catch mullet. First was Dough Hornblow with 13.64kg caught on the pole using bread and maggots. Second was a new member, Garry Thornton with 11.72kg, third was Dave Hoare with 11.56kg and fourth was Alan Smith with 5.16kg The club is always keen to get new members. If you are interested contact the secretary, Steve Fell, on 634379081. Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on our Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

Mixed trips winners: Chris Phillips, Walter Lang, Keith Phillips with runners-up: Steve Simmons, Sheila Cammack, Ian Kenyon

Through the semi-finals and finals there was some excellent bowling and really close matches; even going to an extra end and it’s great that we have some new champions to celebrate. Well done to the winners and to everyone who took part throughout the championships. Thanks to Suzi for all her organisation, June for umpiring, the club members who marked the singles matches and ESPECIALLY to all the spectators who braved the cold and windy conditions to support the competitors – particularly through the Finals. Photos on the website. Wednesday 21st Winter League away v Greenlands, a chilly start; that changed quite rapidly into warm sunshine. Unfortunately in spite of attempts to remove it, the wind had already done its job, leaving a lot of dust, pollen and leaf debris on the green and “fur coats” on the bowls different!! The match wasn’t fluffy though; hard fought all the way through with the lead changing frequently, finally a couple of “about turns” in the last few ends to win 10-2, close on shots, 93-82. Winners: Lynne Morris, June Jones, Peter McEneany, Keith Jones 15-14, Pam Lockett, Neil Morrison, Scott Malden, Ian Kenyon 20-11, Ann Holland, Keith Phillips, Sabrina Marks, Mal Hughes 23-21, Irene Everett, Sheila Cammack, Brian Pocock, Tom Hill 19-18. No Berleen this week. With just one match to go we have reversed last week and San Luis are currently 1 point ahead of Javea. Who will take the final top spot? Mal Hughes with club President Vic Slater Information: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com or contact June Jones, Captain: 691 903 773.

The Emerald Isle played the local Irish team on St Paddies Day in an annual cup game. The Emerald won on 3 rinks and drew on 1 Ireland won on 2 and drew, but Ireland took the aggregate and won the game Wed in the winter league Emerald Isle travelled to Quesada and came away with a fine 8-4 win aggregate 83-72. Winners were D Jones M Whitelock J Mulloy J Rimmer 20-13, P Heaney S Johnson D Birkett I Brewster 19-9, P Coffey M Riley M Veale M Stacey 14-11. The Berleen lost 9-25 Our SAPS continue throughout the summer great couple of hours coaching and playing with Bowls and Shoes supplied all for 5 Euros

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After a couple of no shows (they will be dealt with) 46 members and guests made the hour long journey down the A7 to Altorreal to play a Stableford competition. Greeted by a bitterly cold wind one could have thought that they were anywhere in northern Europe but certainly not SPAIN! AS Altorreal is exposed to the elements at the best of times it was looking to be a hard day’s work instead of a pleasant round of golf. The course could be seen to be recovering from its winter hibernation with the fairways slowly turning back to green, no painted fairways here! The greens however were a little indifferent, some a little slow and others a little fast. Unusually the Bronze category players seemed to fair the best with the 2 players breaking par came from that category. Results: N.T.P.´s Hole 5 J. Hettrick, Hole 8 H. Steele, Hole 10 V. Brown and Hole 17 Mrs. T. Roed. The winners of the 2´s pot were H. Woerdemann and E. Sheridan taking home €19 each. Our best guest this week was E. Conduit with 32 pts. Bronze cat: 3rd G. Sorby 33, 2nd P. O´Dowd 37, 1st J. Dursley 39. Silver cat: 3rd B. Gillies 3o, K. Hunter 31, K. Houpalahti 33. Gold cat: 3rd H. Steele 32, 2nd H. Woerdemann 34, 1st S. Sonesen 35. Photo: Gold cat. Winners. Dates for your diary: 11/4/18 Captain´s Day, 28/29 May 2 day golf trip to Albacete. All information regarding these events and more can be found at www.tmgs.org or on our Facebook Page TMGSGOLF our secretary can be contacted on 661 524 101

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Monday 26th March - Sunday 1st April, 2018

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Lo Crispin G.S. @ Font Del Llop By Steve Harrington Today the Society played an Alternative Yellowball Competition at this welcoming, but always testing, off 'the beaten track' golf course. We called it the Alternative Yellowball competition as unlike the original, if a team loses the yellowball the team is out of the competition, we did not apply this rule, which meant that each team could at least return a score. We also decided that the best 3 scores would count and not two. Six teams of four teed off early morning, the first one at 9 a.m. when the temperature was only a little above freezing. In truth the temperature remained low, but at least the sun made a welcome appearance for long periods. I suppose it could be considered as curious as to why we don't expect cold temperatures on the Costa Blanca in winter. Perhaps because for a good part of the year they are the opposite! By the time most of the teams reached the 6th. hole the yellow ball had been lost! Possibly Font Del Llop is not the most suitable course on which to hold such a competition, given the number of ravines and difficult terrain on the course? Following the game most of us returned to the Lo Crispin Tavern and enjoyed the Tapas and hospitality that they always provide for us. Only one Team managed not to lose their yellowball and not surprisingly they won the competition by a handsome margin. Alternative Yellowball Comp 1st Place - Rod Pullen, John Henderson, Ian Fogarty and Ray Pownall. - 105 pts. 2nd Place - Adrian Aspbury, Alan Hunt, Janet Candlin and John Featherstone - 88 pts. 3rd Place - Brian Coultate, Steve Harrington. Margaret O'Brien and Padraig O'Brien 79 pts NTP's Hole 3 - Adrian Aspbury Hole 8 - Rod Pullen Hole 12 - Eddy Geerts Hole 16 - Margaret O'Brien Adrian Aspbury was the sole winner of today's 2s pot. Mike Cutts was the winner of the Free Game Raffle. Our next main game is closer to home at La Marquesa (Rojales) on 4th. April. We return to Font Del Llop for our next interim game on 28 March. Anyone interested in joining the Society or playing a game with us as a guest, should contact any member of the Committee, whose details can be found on our website.

Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club sports an 18 hole Championship course and a ‘fun’ par 3 course. The par 4 354-yard 17th and the 421-yard 18th skirt the boat-filled Dubai Creek. The Emirates Club boasts both the Majlis course and Faldo’s floodlit course. Majlis was the first grass Championship course in the Middle East when it was built in 1988, it hosts the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. Together with Jumeirah’s Earth and Fire Dubai is not short of world class courses. However, the tiny island state of Abu Dhabi is determined to outdo it’s glamorous neighbour. Although it holds 10% of the world’s oil reserves (92 billion barrels as opposed to Dubai’s 4 billion) it is trying to attract investment, offering exclusive golf packages including the 7 hr flight from Heathrow, and two new courses designed by Kyle Phillips and Gary Player. It’s a far cry from golf’s beginnings in the Middle East, when the greens were ‘browns’ consisting of oiled sand and players carried their own bit of Astroturf to tee off from. PAUL CASEY WON the Valspar Championship on March 10th, nearly 9 yrs after his first PGA tour win. Now ranking No. 13 in the world, he has rejoined the European Tour after relinquishing his card in 2015 citing family reasons for being unable to play both tours. Paul wants to play in the Ryder Cup. Although he was on the winning team in 2 of his 3 previous Ryder Cups Darren Clarke could not pick him for Hazeltine. However, this year Captain Thomas Bjorn is said to be anxious to get him on board, so now with Paul eligible, McIlroy on form, Justin, Sergio and Jon Rahm our chances of regaining the Ryder Cup are improving. We just have to dish up some dodgy escargots for the USA team at the Paris pre-match dinner. AT THE VALSPAR Championship Patrick Reed’s hopes of an outright win were dashed as his 45ft putt toiled all the way up the hill to the green then rolled all the way back down to his feet. Shame, couldn’t happen to a nicer bloke. RORY McILROY’S five birdies at Bay Hill were made with a Taylor Made TP Black Copper Soto, and Paul Casey’s Scotty Cameron 009 gave him six birdies at Valspar. (In case you wanted to treat yourselves.) IN 1900, THE BIBLE manufacturing district in Lower New York City was where preachers would stand on the sidewalk, shouting passages from the Bible, followed by a great many “Amen’s.” It inspired a jazz record: “Shouting at Amen Corner.” When Arnold Palmer won the 1958 Masters after extricating himself from difficulties on the 11th, 12th and 13th holes, it inspired sports writer Herbert Warren Wind to christen the holes by that name. BRANDT SNEDEKER’S WIFE, Mandy, busy organising a weekend birthday party for her daughter Lily, asked him to order a birthday cake and take it to the little girl’s

Mike ProBert talks golf Here on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and resident alike and with this in mind we have secured the services of Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services to provide a weekly round up of local golfing events and topics and in conjunction with us at THE LEADER will provide discounted golf prices to all of our readers and run our golf competitions. Golf Course Review – MAR MENOR This golf course is located only 15 minutes drive from San Javier airport and the beaches of the Mar Menor and close to the small town of Torre Pacheco on land that was previously a fruit orchard and includes a nine hole golf course that was designed by Dave Thomas. To find this course travelling on the AP7 motorway from the North (direction Cartagena) or from the South (direction Alicante) take exit 790 for Los Alcazares (centro) and follow the signposts for Torre Pacheco. Continue directly ahead on this road and over a few roundabouts and at the next roundabout turn right and follow the signs for the resort for which the entrance to the Resort is located on your left after approx 800 yards. The clubhouse and pro-shop are incorporated as part of the large and impressive hotel building and as you would expect the facilities are excellent with large changing rooms, toilet and shower facilities and stud bar and access to the El Olivo and AQVA restaurants. There is an adequately stocked golf shop where you can hire buggies, electric trolleys and golf clubs. The practise facilities are good with a driving range and a practise putting green with tuition available from fully qualified golf coaches. This course was originally opened as a 9 hole course designed by Dave Thomas later converted into an 18 hole course designed by the great Jack Nicklaus. The new holes were opened in 2009 and were easily integrated and combined with the existing holes resulting in a par 72 course of 5,801 metres (6,381 yards) which is relatively short by modern standards but with three lakes positioned on both ‘nines’ just to make things ‘interesting’. Without doubt this is an ideal resort or society golf course with an emphasis based on positioning the ball in the correct part of the fairway from the tee and then below the flags on the undulating greens. The four par 5 holes are reachable for the longer hitters with the 6th hole being the longest at 477 metres or 525 yards(yellow tees) and the par 3 holes are all medium to long in length with the 17th being the shortest at 140 metres or 154 yards (yellow tees).Some of the earlier holes can ‘lull’ you into a false sense of security but when you reach holes 13,14 and 15 all of which wrap themselves around a

school to be shared with her classmates. Brandt duly turned up at school with cake, but on opening the box he found the words engraved in icing: “Happy Birthday Billy”. As his wife said: “I gave him one job ………” THE VICTORIA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, Sri Lanka, is rated among the world’s 100 Most Beautiful Golf Courses. Sri Lanka, according to the travel agents, is the latest unspoilt paradise scheduled to be decimated (sorry, discovered) by tourists, after 20 years of civil war. Situated 90 miles from Colombo, and surrounded by tea plantations and jungle, the Victoria Resort has recently been taken over by industry leaders Troon International, and since they are also responsible for Las Colinas we can expect to see the Victoria Resort listed as Sri Lanka’s Best Golf Resort next year. SERGIO GARCIA and his wife Angela are the proud parents of a baby girl, and the reigning owner of the green jacket has chosen an Augusta-themed name for his firstborn, calling her Azalea. Poor kid, good job he didn’t win at Bay Hill, they had a lovely show of Geraniums. Until next time, Happy Golfing. Contact Mick for your re-gripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee svcs) man made lake, you are quickly brought to your senses. In particular the 15th hole will test your patience as the small landing ‘areas’ from the tees are well guarded by sand bunkers with one in particular running almost the entire length of the hole on the left hand side right up to the green and you can play this hole in a number of ways by letting the ‘big dog’ eat or play two medium irons from tee and then to green. This course is relatively flat and is ‘walkable’ for those that consider themselves ‘fit’ and should be enjoyed by all standards of golfer. We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us. The deals shown in the table are some of the best currently available to you. Golf Course Price Comments Alenda €120 Two Players and Buggy Alicante €138 Two Players and Buggy Altorreal €120 Two Players and Buggy Bonalba €120 Two Players and Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €110 Two Players and Buggy El Plantio €112 Two Players and Buggy (after 12pm) Font Del Llop €134 Two Players and Buggy La Finca €160 Two Players and Buggy La Marquesa €45 Single Green Fee La Serena €41 Single Green Fee (after 2pm) Las Colinas €99 Single Green Fee Las Ramblas €116 Two Players and Buggy Lo Romero €156 Two Players and Buggy New Sierra Golf €90 Two Green Fees and Buggy Roda €110 Two Players and Buggy (from 2pm) Villamartin €136 Two Players and Buggy Villaitana Poniente €48 Single Green Fee and Buggy Vistabella €106 Two Players and Buggy Deal of the week: Villaitana Levante €126 for 2 players buggy from 1pm. For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

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Torry in self-destruct mode as they snub loyal fans To say that Torrevieja are not having a good season would be somewhat of an understatement. Following relegation at the end of the last campaign confidence was high in September that Pedreño could build a squad capable of bouncing straight back, but following a run that has seen them pick up just 8 points since the turn of the year the manager has finally decided to wield the axe with some vigour, as he has cleared out 11 players in the last 2 or 3 weeks.

CD Torrevieja .....................0 FB Redovan CF ....................3 Match Abandoned

club. During a brief exchange with the manager prior to the start he was clearly very upset at the situation, but seemingly unable to do anything about it. Nevertheless the 10 men got the game underway with, unsurprisingly, the visitors applying all the early pressure. Jesus made a good stop in the opening minute while Redovan’s Joaquin blasted over moments later.

The Torrevieja boss has questioned the desire to play by many of his former players saying "In a team of 11 if you must have a minimum of six or seven players who are playing with responsibility and so far I have not been happy with many of the performances." For the fixture at home to mid table Redovan, Torry were without the services of Vicente and Walid, both unavailable because of suspension, so the senior line up had, once again, to be supplemented with recruits from the junior side. What we didn’t know, however, was that the offer to

provide those players was withdrawn shortly before the match. As a result Torrevieja started the game with just 10 men, with Eneko, who normally plays in goal, wearing the number 9 shirt. Off the field the only occupant of the Torry dug out was Pedreño, everybody else having seemingly deserted what appears to be a sinking ship and with none of the Directors prepared to make a statement we might all begin to fear for the future of this once extremely proud

On 15 minutes Nacho, who looked to be in an offside position, opened the scoring for the visitors from close range. Two minutes later we all thought that Josu had pulled it back, only to see his goal chalked off for a rather dubious foul. Redovan were two ahead on 18 minutes when Aleo slid home an effort that came back to him off the bar and then, what little chance that Torry might have had all disappeared in the space of 5 minutes. First it was Booker who had to leave the field through injury, only to be followed moments later by Ramiro, so Torry were now reduced to 8. To cap a miserable opening period for the home side the visitors extended their lead to 3-0 just prior to the half time interval.

player to fall to injury reducing the team to six at which point the referee abandoned the game with the visitors leading by 3-0. It might seem rather cynical but many of the 150 people that were watching the game felt that both Eneko and Josue had fabricated their injuries when it became clear that the game was going nowhere but whatever their situation the matter will now be referred to the Valencia Football Federation for their deliberation, one of the possibilities being a reduction in points. Quite where Torry go from here is anybody’s guess, with Club Director Graham Knight insisting that Vicente still remains in charge, while Jeff Scott is also said to remain on the Board. But whoever is in charge and whatever the reasons, the football club is in pieces, an absolute shambles, as collectively the gang behind the stand, whoever they might be, have completely ruined a once proud, and traditional football club. At this point there seems to be no way back for Torry!

With staff and supporters all checking the laws of the game to ascertain the minimum number of players Torry were reduced to that figure, just 7, when Eneko came off after 52 minutes. Prior to that, and during the remainder of the game, a further 8 minutes Torry were actually bossing the play despite their inferior numbers. On the hour mark a tackle on Josue saw him become the 4th Torry

Cadena Sunrise Bowling - Week 21 Gi Gi's Hookers The Bandits Sol Amigos Pin Pals Alley Gators Strike Force Top Performers Hi/Game Hi/Game+H/Cap Hi/Series Hi/Series+H/Cap

1 Pin Pushers 2 Sol Amigos 3 Gi Gi's Hookers 4 Strike Force 5 Pin Pals 6 S***T Happens 7 Alley Gators 8 Sunrise Colegas 9 999s 10 Alley Cats 11 The Bandits 12 The Phantoms

4 4 8 8 8 2

4 4 0 0 0 6

Ladies Sue Walsh 202 Mavis Riley 225 Janette Hurs 516 Mavis Riley 620 P 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63

W 54 54 53 49 49 46 42 41 40 37 37 0

D L 1 29 0 30 1 30 1 34 0 35 0 38 1 41 0 43 0 44 0 47 0 47 0 84

Spring Racing Season underway at SAAM

S***T Happens Alley Cats The Phantoms 999s Sunrise Colegas Pin Pushers Gents Edward Hopkins 207 Edward Hopkins 225 Diego Muñoz 543 Graham Dunnett 589 Tot 43095 43602 43913 43848 43478 44332 43368 43828 42331 43172 42883 32790

Gms 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63

Av 684 692 697 696 690 703 688 695 671 685 680 520

Hi-G 831 829 822 824 846 851 790 785 778 809 827 550

Hi-S 2234 2319 2359 2269 2337 2418 2193 2259 2142 2178 2245 1590

Pts 109 108 107 99 98 92 85 82 80 74 74 0

The first race day of the SAMM 2018 Spring Series on March 11th had to be cancelled due to the extremely high winds but was re-scheduled for Sunday March 18th. The day dawned cloudy and colder than of late with 10 to 12 knot winds gusting to 15/16 on occasions and this probably affected the turnout which was disappointing at only 6 competitors crewing 3 boats, two Gamba’s, Shoestring Uno and Cuatro and the Balaton Sailfish 18 Mistral. The Gamba crews, pictured left to right, were Cuatro Jack and John, Uno Jim and Julian; perhaps we should call them the “J” Class. On Mistral were Robert and Leon.

secs, but by lap 2 Uno was in front by 29 secs and increased this to a 2 minute 44 seconds lead at the finish.

In the first race, the Gambas, being faster, slowly pulled away from the Sailfish as they strongly contested the lead over the four laps. As very evenly matched boats and crews the correct tactics on the upwind beat leg was the deciding factor on who was ahead throughout the race Cuatro was ahead on lap 1 by 17

In the second 3 lap race these two boats again fought hard for the lead with Uno slightly ahead at the completion of laps 1 and 2. But they made the wrong tactical decision on the final upwind leg of lap 3 that allowed Cuatro to win the race by 1 minute 36 seconds.

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Because of the Easter Holiday the next edition of TH E LEADE R N EWS PAPE R will be published on T U E S DAY 3R D AP R I L