Costa blanca leader edition 710

No 710

Tuesday 3rd - Sunday 8th April, 2018

Tel: 637 227 385

WEEKEND OF PUBLIC DEMOS ON THE ORIHUELA COSTA

emonstrators flooded the the Orihuela Costa in public protests over the weekend, calling for the construction of a footbridge and pavement along the stretch of road cross the AP7 motorway linking Lomas de Cabo Roig with the Pharmacia, Medical Centre and other

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facilities and services in Cabo Roig itself.

In the most ambitious show of strength yet, over 600 people representing many nationalities, walked along the route in what was largely a festive atmosphere.

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www.theleader.info Continued From Page One Public Demonstrations

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Led by members of the Association of Residents of Lomas de Cabo Roig (AVCRL), and the Federation of Associations of Orihuela Costa (FAOC), a large banner read in German, Spanish and English ‘For pavements on the AP7 Bridge’ and while many protesters chanted slogans such as "Bascuñana, the bridge is for today and not for tomorrow", "We are fed up with your excuses, we do not want to die ", many others held banners stating " We want a pavement now"," Cars and pedestrians, do not mix."

Several of the protesters were in wheelchairs and electric buggies holding messages of their own saying “How do you expect me to get to the Medical Centre or the Pharmacia.”

They accuse the mayor and his government of having a total lack of concern for the safety of pedestrians and drivers, especially those people who take their children in pushchairs or those who travel in wheelchairs or electric buggies.

Before the march got underway, the President of the neighborhood association, Carlos González, a resident of Lomas de Cabo Roig and the spokesman of FAOC, Tomás Moreno, addressed the protesters in Spanish, English and German, to expand on the reasons for the march.

They were supported by three councillors from Orihuela, who the organisers thanked for their participation, Sofía Álvarez who is currently the councillor for Tourism, Víctor Ruiz of the PSOE and Karlos Bernabé of Cambiemos. Also in attendance were CLARO leaders, Román Jiménez, Bob Houliston and Paul Piccio.

On Sunday morning, although much smaller in number, an equally determined group of protesters

gathered at the site of the Emergency centre in La Zenia calling for its completion as a matter of urgency.

They too carried placards and slogans in Spanish, German and English saying “Still no emergency centre”, “Emergency centre WHEN”?

CLARO President Román Jiménez spoke to the protesters highlighting the importance of the proposed centre and criticising the Orihuela government for their nine years of delay in its construction.

The third public demonstration was held on Monday evening at the site of the children’s play area in C/Nicholás de Bussi, Playa Flamenca, where local residents called the action in removing the memorial to murdered Norwegian teenager, Shila Bigdely, in 2004, shameful and disrespectful.

The memorial was removed a month ago by the deputy mayor, Juan Ignacio López-Bas, who ordered it to be replaced by an Olive tree. Residents say that the parents were not aware, neither was there any public consultation, and they feel let down by the fact that they were not informed.

So over a weekend where the rest of the world was celebrating Easter, on the Orihuela Costa, residents were conveying their message to the municipal government that they will no longer be ignored.

One protester said “The Orihuela government must now listen to the voice of the people on the coast.

They can no longer ignore our wishes and they must start attending to our problems with greater urgency and effectiveness. There will be new municipal elections in 12 months’ time and the government will pay the penalty if we see no improvement because now, the people of the Orihuela Costa are working together"

d n CLARO an Bob Houlisto E, O PS z, ui Victor R emos bé of Cambi Karlos Berna

The message is simple enou gh, even for the mayor.

Demonstrators on Sunday morning at the unfinished La Zenia Emergency Centre

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Easyjet takeoff aborted at San Javier airport In order to keep birds away, the Wildlife Management Service at San Javier regularly uses 12 hawks to patrol the vicinity of the airport runway

after their holidays. The aircraft will now remain at San Javier until it is repaired.

The airline easyJet confirmed the actions of the pilot to abort the manoeuvre, which he attributed to a bird that was sucked into the engine with the plane on the runway.

"This procedure is completely standard in these situations and our crew is trained for this type of situation," said a spokesman. "The safety of our passengers and the crew is our top priority," he said.

A plane bound for London had to abort its takeoff at San Javier airport yesterday afternoon after problems with the starboard engine which occurred as a result of seagulls being sucked into one of the turbines.

There were no injuries to any of the crew and the 120 passengers on board did not suffer any injuries and the aircraft did not make the flight.

The incident occurred at around 5:00 pm, when easyJet flight EZY8552 was taxiing for take off with 120 passengers on board.

Sources of the Aena press office said that the aircraft moved onto the runway but did not take off. The pilot aborted the manoeuvre when an engine caught fire so he promptly turned round and returned to the aircraft pan.

Most of the passengers were British tourists returning to the UK

The travellers "all disembarked in an orderly fashion and returned to the terminal building", and easyJet scheduled a flight on another aircraft which eventually got away at 21.45 hrs.

He added that passengers were informed of the situation at all times and that food vouchers were provided at the airport terminal. "The company apologised for any inconvenience that the delay may have caused," he said.

An incoming flight from London was diverted to Alicante while the main runway was cleaned up of the engine debris caused as a result of the aborted flight.

In order to keep the seagulls away from the airport vicinity the Wildlife Management Service at San Javier regularly uses 12 hawks which patrol in the vicinity of the airport runway from dawn to dusk, where they 'sweep' the air space for the presence of other birds that may hinder aircraft takeoffs and landings.

The birds had been operating earlier in the afternoon but are thought not to have been in use when the easyjet incident occurred.

According to Aena sources, "falconry is a very effective system and operates at almost all airports, but like everything else, it is not 100% infallible and these incidents can occur from time to time."

In fact, the manager of the Spanish network of 46 airports and two heliports considers the use of hawks as the most effective system to scare birds away from the vicinity of the runways allocating 3.5 million euro every year to their falconry service.

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Campoamor’s gift to future generations leaders and local councillors, the area was turned into an habitat that will now be cared for and developed in the future.

Councillor Luisa Boné with young supporters

The shrubs were all paid for by local estate agent Moreno Schmidt who bought the trees and commissioned commemorative t-shirts of those attending.

There were also presentations to Daniel Robles, the proprietor of the local news sheet Campoamor.com for his work in the community and to Carlos López Bernal, in recognition of his dedication in maintaining the first trees that were planted in 2015, and the one local individual who selflessly helped to turn the project into reality.

After a short speech by Matías Moreno, the General Manager of Moreno Schmidt, the councillor of the coast Luisa Boné thanked everyone for coming along. She spoke of the importance of the project saying that trees are absolutely vital. “As the biggest plants on the planet, they provide us with oxygen, store carbon, stabilise the soil and give life to the world’s wildlife.”

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ather than allow a disuse plot in Campoamor to further deteriorate, almost 150 residents got together on Friday evening to turn the area into mini nature reserve, with the reforestation of almost a hundred trees.

Organised by the leisure magazine Campoamor.com, and through social net-

works, the residents of Campoamor flocked to the area in droves.

The plot was toward the top of C/ Saavedra Fajardo. It was in extremely poor condition, covered with debris and completely unloved and unused, but in the space of less than an hour, with the joint efforts of local residents, children and adults, as well as community

She said that “it is critical that woodlands, and trees in urban settings, are planted, preserved and sustainably managed and the small steps made this day in Campoamor will prove of great value to the area in the coming years.”

Following the speeches the trees were handed out to individuals who spent the following 30 minutes planting them across this previously abandoned plot.

Torrevieja uses unmarked cars to identify uncivil behavour

Elections to the Orihuela District Boards The Councilor for Citizen Participation, Sabina-Goretti Galindo, has announced the publication of the provisional lists of candidates for the elections to the Orihuela District Boards.

They can be found on the coun-

The mayor of Torrevieja, José Manuel Dolón (Los Verdes), has announced the introduction of a local police unit to address the problem of illegal dumping and a number of other community concerns that he described as ‘uncivil activities’.

These all relate to events that affect the everyday life of the general public but which don’t currently attract the attention that they deserve in such a large residential area.

As well as the uncontrolled dumping of pruning and debris, other items include the cleaning and fencing of private lots, faults with public lighting and traffic lights, dog droppings on pavements and a lack of maintenance in public parks.

Dolón assured that the unit is already producing very encouraging results that are beginning to be visible with the public, "with a subsequent decline in uncivil activities."

The patrol has three agents and its base is located in the La Siesta urbanisation La Siesta, in a municipal location that was previously used by the GRO. The agents are using unmarked, usually old vehicles that have been seized but remain to be

claimed.

The patrol began its work with a single agent who was later joined by a second officer, in addition to a third policeman who performs support functions.

Although the main function of the patrol is the control of fly tipping and the illegal dumping of green waste, they also monitor green areas and public parks, as well as a review of infrastructures related to the lighting, pavements or asphalting, street furniture and traffic lights.

They are also carry out checks of fencing and cleaning of private lots, abandoned vehicles, animal droppings as well as sanctioning people who walk dogs without a chain or muzzle where such attachments are required.

They also try to meet with the representatives of associations in order to advise on security, and Immigration or residency.

The patrol is also handing out key-rings and cards with the telephone numbers of where they can be reached and their presence "is achieving a decrease in uncivil behaviour," the mayor said.

cil website at the following link: http://www.orihuela.es/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/candidatos_jdistrito2018.pdf The elections have been convened to elect representatives from resident’s organisations and neighbourhood representatives in Districts across the municipality. They will be held on Monday, 9 April from 2:00 pm to 8:30 pm at the polling stations set up in each district.

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A question of priorities!

I understand the residents frustration at lack of action by the council, what I do not understand is the amount of time and money that it has taken to create a roundabout in Los Dolses, does the council have any idea of priorities?, the school in Los Dolses is falling down around the children's heads, but hey let's build a lovely roundabout.

We frequently use the road on the way to Cabo Riog market, and try to give pedestrians a wide berth, not always easy if another vehicle is approaching in the opposite direction.

The roads are full of potholes, some roads looking like they are a testing ground for tanks, but let's tinker about with the hours shops can open instead of doing something really useful.

Really? Is it not about time the council pulled it's collective fingers out and do something useful, or ship out and let someone who is prepared to do something take over.

Jane Pritchard Montegolf.

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Orihuela Council overrun by objections to new coat of arms It looks as though the controversy that arose in Orihuela following the approval of the new municipal coat of arms could be having an effect after the local government opened the door to further changes to the initial proposal.

The design of the new shield has been carried out by the municipal archaeologist, Emilio Diz, and by the Official Chronicler of Orihuela, Antonio Luis Galiano, with the new coat of arms now based on the different historical representations that the shield has had throughout history.

Despite the new emblem being unanimously approved by the city council its design has generated over 150 complaints from local groups and members of the public.

The Councilor responsible for the design, The current coat of arms was adopted in 1906

Mariola Rocamora, has now called for a further study on the issue saying that the first thing to do is to look at all the alternative proposals that have been sent to the City Council.

The main problem appears to centre around the basic design, in that the new coat of arms is split horizontally while the original is vertical. However it was noted that significant elements such as the bird and the bars of Aragon have both been retained.

Rocamora rejected accusations by the PSOE, stating that she had attempted to keep the matter private. She said that this was clearly not the case as she has previously sent copies of all the complaints to the opposition groups. In her opinion, what should be done initially is "to see just which of the proposed designs meet the regulations".

The creation of a new official coat of arms for Orihuela is required because the current one, which dates back to 1906, breaches the autonomic regulations relating to the design of such emblems, approved by a Consell decree in 2015.

The main problem is that the heraldic insignia used contains several elements that extend beyond the borders of the shield itself, such as the ornaments on both sides, while the Oriol bird, the emblem of Orihuela, is drawn with a crown on its head, which is removed from the design that was to avoid Duplicities of crowns.

The mayor of Algorfa, Manuel Ros (PSOE), has on five occasions, refused to purchase a breathalyser for the use of his local police.

The matter might seem quite trivial apart from the fact that in January Snr Ros was stopped whilst driving through Benijófar where he tested positive, being three times over the limit of alcohol allowed. He subsequently lost his license for a year, was fined 720 euro and, in order to keep his job, was made to apologise in a plenary attended by the socialist district secretary, Manuel Pineda

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Help Vega Baja closes Torrevieja office

The proposed coat of arms that has attracted so much criticism

HELP President Michelle Masson with the Torrevieja councillor of NGOs, Carmen Morate, last year

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t was a sad day for the HELP Vega Baja last week as it closed the doors of its Torrevieja Office for the very last time. The charity has now moved its main operating base to San Miguel de Salinas Calle at C/Lope de Vega 46, from which it continues to provide its services and operate its very successful charity shop every weekday until 1.30 pm.

It was a particularly sad day for the many wonderful volunteers who have worked at the Torrevieja outlet for many years although as the charity spokesperson said “we are thinking of the positives such as all those people that we have helped, all the wonderful volunteers that we have had as part of our charity and not least of all, those ladies who set up HELP Vega Baja all those years ago.”

But unable to sit on its laurels the charity say that they now move forward to a new chapter, the challenges ahead, and of course the many exciting times.

Despite moving from the office, HELP Vega Baja continues to be 100% committed to Torrevieja and the whole of Vega Baja and, of course, ALL other areas of the charity remain unchanged.

Rocamora said that it will take about six weeks to study all of the proposals after which a new commission will decide either to make additional changes or to approve the shield that has generated so much criticism.

Convicted mayor refuses to buy a breathalyser for Local Police

Algorfa Mayor, Manuel Ros

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But despite his show of contrition, according to union bosses, Ros is now failing to meet the demand of his agents who wish to be able to fight drivers who operate in the municipality whilst under the influence of alcohol.

Having recently declared an annual surplus of 800,000 euros following the closure of its 2017 accounts, the Council should not have too much difficulty in acquiring the breathalyser if the mayor ever changes his mind!

However the breathalyser is not the only request made by the CSIF union, who for some time have been asking for bullet and stab proof vests for their officers and an Animal Restraining Pole to catch and restrain potentially dangerous dogs.

But their main complaint is the appalling condition of their patrol cars, two of which are more than 9 years old and with more than 400,000 kilometres on the clock.

Agents say that they are fed up of seeing their patrol cars always in the workshop, in addition to the continuous breakdowns that they suffer. One officer said "We never know if we will be able to get to incidents because of the state of our cars,” remembering Christmas 2016 when the force was left without a patrol car having to borrow one from a nearby force.

Please note that membership applications are now available online at www.helpvegabaja.com For information and advice, please call the San Miguel Centre on 966 723 733 and outside of our normal opening hours, the 24 hour non-medical emergency helpline is available on the same telephone number.

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IAM RoadSmart poll finds Brits are unsentimental when it comes to naming their cars A survey by IAM RoadSmart has found that British car owners are a bunch of grumps with less than one-third of car owners having given their car a name.

The poll was carried out by the UK’s biggest independent road safety charity on its Facebook and Twitter channels – and the results revealed how unsentimental Brits are when it comes to their vehicles.

On Facebook in the space of 24 hours this week 703 people voted: some 469 people said their car did not have a name (67%), while 234 had given their car a moniker.

On Twitter 131 people voted. Some 69% said they had not given their car a name and 31% had.

Some names given to cars include a Hyundai i20 called Holly, a BMW called Brad, a Jeep called Dudley, a Volkswagen Beetle in yellow and black called Bumblebee and a Land Rover called Toby.

Other more individual choices include Gargamel (after the evil character in the Smurfs cartoon series), Black Dahlia, NATO Anti-Tank Vehicle (a Volvo 340!) and Dorcas (a Biblical character

known for her good works).

One very affectionate account read: “Mr Bimble, our Metro – 23 years old, still bimbling along, and left everyone standing in the snow!”

Two people chose to call their cars KITT, after the talking Pontiac driven by Michael Knight (played by David Hasselhoff) in the 80’s TV series Knight Rider. One of

these is a Tesla Model S. The charity’s survey also showed the love/hate relationships people have with their vehicles.

One respondent said his car is given a name “only when it doesn’t start and then it gets called all sorts of names!”

Another said: “A car is a machine to get from one place to another, not a pet. No name for my wagon, cars or motorbike.”

Sarah Sillars, Chief Executive Officer of IAM RoadSmart, said: “People seemed to enjoy our survey, and while they clearly have a lot of affection for their vehicles, giving them a name seems to be a step too far for the majority. But even some of the very best drivers remain more than happy to buck the trend and give their car a name.”

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Grounds for prosecution with Chirunguito contract I t seems as though Martina Scheurer, the former Los Verdes councillor for the coast, is one step closer to appearing in court, accused of displaying favouritism in the award of the chirunguito tender to a non-Spanish company back in 2014, although she continues to vehemently deny the accusations.

The Orihuela court of instruction Number Three has now completed its preliminary investigation and has said that there are possible grounds for the prosecution of Scheurer, along with the manager of Chiringuitos del Sol SL, Thomas Herteux. The pair both say that the accusations are absolute nonsense and motivated by jealousy.

However, although the contract has been in question for some time, the company still has the full confidence of the current council as it continues to manage the bars on the Orihuela Costa.

According to the judge, Scheurer and Herteux are said to have loaded the contract with a list of conditions that were designed to suit Chiringuitos del Sol, the main one being the inclusion of a requirement to have the "Q quality tourism" accreditation, which excluded the other two Spanish applicants from the tender.

The magistrate points out that Scheurer knew that only Chiringuitos del Sol had the "Quality Q" award and, with the procedure taking about 2 months to complete, neither of the other companies would have been able to obtain the accreditation in time to meet the 20 day tender deadline. Chirunguitos del Sol SL was awarded the accreditation just a few months before submitting their tender.

Now the matter is in the hands of the prosecutor who is yet to make a decision about any subsequent prosecution. However, on the basis

of its enquiries, the court has said that there is "a well-founded and rational suspicion" that the requirements included in the specifications "were written to ensure that Chirunguitos del Sol would be favoured by the outcome".

Despite the fact that the possession of a “Q quality tourism” accreditation is required for any similar awards throughout the rest of Europe, rather bizarrely, the investigation seems not to have considered this in making its judgement.

Neither, it appears, has the investigation considered the first class job done by the company in improving Orihuela’s beaches, and the image of Chiringuitos to the general public, during the term of their contract. Many of the initiatives introduced by the company have been well publicised and have also registered an enormous improvement in the customer satisfaction of the public at the beaches on which they operate.

Meanwhile Adrian Roberts, one of the founders of Chiringuitos del Sol, has recently passed away at the age of 58, after a long illness..

Adrian was one of the main driving forces behind the initiative to establish the company and the success that the company has achieved in recent years was due, in no small way, to his efforts. He was actively involved in its management until the very end.

The pair both say that the accusations are absolute nonsense and motivated by jealousy.

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Winter Beach activities underway

Winter beach activities for the whole family are now underway on the Orihuela Costa. The programme was introduced on La Caleta (Cabo Roig) beach on Sunday starting with sports events from 11 to 12 noon, running alongside activities and events for the children until 1pm Luisa Boné, councillor of the beaches, and Juan Carlos Redondo, manager of the company in charge of the children's workshops, held a press conference to publicise the activities where they announced the start of a full programme of activities and children's workshops, "The Winter Beach".

Boné, stressed that "workshops and games will be adapted to respect the environment. We want the child to be aware of their natural environment, as well as develop respect, and have more knowledge of conservation and protection of the environment while they also have fun. " Juan Carlos, said "that the activities are focused on children from 4 to 10 years old and include storytelling, games, gimkanas and many more activities to enjoy."

Boné, confirmed that activities are shown on the Facebook page of the Department of Beaches and the Orihuela council site although last wekend they didnt appear until Saturday afternoon.

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Raise a Smile and a euro or two for charity with ‘Blazing St Trinians’ Torrevieja RNAtie up at The Smile Charity Group is putting on a new show called 'Blazing St Trinian's' written by the late John Wallace, ¨Can the girls win the fight´.

The photo is of two new members Dawn Lovell and Julie Cartwright who are playing two of the´ old girls´.

You will be able to see the show at Marjal Camping Site just outside Guardamar on the 11th April, Casa Ventura in San Luis on the 12th April and 'The Club' Quesada on the 24th

April, The cost, which includes a meal, is just 10 euro's The Charity show then move to the Benijofar theatre in the Casa de Cultura on the 25th April where the cost will be only 5 euro's, but without the meal.

Tickets are also available from the venues or from our sponsor Oasis Benijofar, Postroom Benijofar. The International library has already sold out. So why not raise a smile with the girls and help a local charity into the bargain.

Restaurante Rendevous

The Mar Menor Charity Walk for DEBRA On the 14th and 15th April DEBRA are holding a MAR MENOR Charity Walk. There is no entry fee but each walker has a donation form to hopefully raise a minimum €50 each.

The charity is producing a Wall Chart featuring photos of The Walk and asking businesses to sponsor for a fee of only €50.We hope to produce 5 Wall Charts for 5 areas of the MAR MENOR. There are currently over 50 walkers, including 3 who will do the whole 60kms in one day(see photo). This is a FUN WALK, so let's hope Phil, Sheena and Ian will still be laughing at the end of their 60kms. Putting their best foot forward for The Butterfly Children could almost be a headline?

10 other walkers will do 60kms, but over 2 days, and the rest 5-25kms on the Sunday.

There is still room for more walkers, more business sponsors, and of course people willing to donate to this worthwhile charity. As they say at DEBRA, your help gives us wings.

More information: 659 751 611.

Hot Chocolate treat for RBL Easter Members of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the RBL joined over a hundred residents and holidaymakers at Lo Monte Camping in Torre de la Horadada on Friday afternoon where they enjoyed a bbq organised by Ant Horadada (he must be on the run with a name like that) in the campsite where the star attraction was former member of Hot Chocolate, Greg Bannis, who currently resides in Fortuna.

Greg entertained the revellers with two sessions, each of about 40 minutes, where he had many of the crowd, including lots who were stood on the sidelines, on their feet, as they bopped to songs that he made famous during the 60’s and the 70’s whilst on the road with the popular British Soul Band.

Fortunately the rain arrived on the scene only as the partygoers were packing up so a thoroughly good afternoon was, for once, actually spared by the weather.

On Easter Sunday the branch took over YOLO’s Restaurant in Cabo Roig where over 40 members and guests were treated to a wonderful 3 course Easter lunch.

There was, of course the usual bonnet competition which, to ensure fair play, was judged by a member of the restaurant staff. But well done to all the ladies who were all rewarded with boxes of chocolates.

The Branch organises various events locally and has

More than fifty members of the Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch met at Restaurante Rendezvous last week for their March menu del dia and what an excellent lunch it was! Delicious food, well presented with friendly and efficient service – what more could we ask? As usual, we enjoyed plenty of friendly banter with some very quaffable wine to help it along!

Taking the P Out of Panto

This very friendly crew welcome new members at their meetings held on the first Wednesday of every month at 1700 hours in bar/restaurante El Paraiso near Carrefour in Torrevieja, and remember you don’t have to have served in The Royal Navy to become an associate member. For more information please contact Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1996. We look forward to meeting you soon.

Former member of Hot Chocolate, Greg Bannis visits to other areas as part of a very varied social programme. You do not need an Armed Forces background to join a Branch of the Royal British Legion.

It is a great chance of making new friends and enjoying a full social life in Spain. Anyone interested in finding out more is asked to email the secretary on orihuelacostarblsec@yahoo.co.uk or ring 630 280 899. The Branch website also gives further information about our activities, www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/orihuela-costa

Campoverde Theatre Group performed their latest production, “Taking the P out of Panto” to rave reviews from the sell-out audiences.

Patrons loved the supper show format and the intimacy of the venue.

This latest production had audiences laughing throughout the evening as this talented group of thespians took an alternative view of many traditional pantomime themes.

The evening consisted of a series of short, funny sketches that looked at what really happened to many well-loved characters for example Cinderella ended up divorced from Prince Charming who went off with a younger woman, Elsa from Frozen; Aladdin made one wish too many and ended up more destitute than he had ever been; Sleeping Beauty had aged so much during her years of slumber that she had turned into a hideous old crone.

All the sketches were accompanied by appropriate music that was very well received.

Special mention was made of the minstrel type format where many sketches were introduced

from well know rhymes. The only negative heard from the audience was that they had laughed so much that their jaws were aching!

Everyone wanted to know what the next production by the Campoverde Theatre Group would be, and the group are pleased to announce that rehearsals are already underway for “Supper on Broadway” which will be performed at the end of September.

The proceeds from the supper show were presented to the ‘Tasha Fund’ at the Emerald Isle on Easter Monday.

The group are always pleased to welcome new members whether they want to be involved in performing or helping backstage.

The group rehearse on Monday and Wednesday afternoons, starting at 2pm at the Community Centre / Reading Point, Ramon de Campoamor, Calle Cipres, which is situated near Aldi supermarket.

For more information please call Pat on 626 772 256 or Jan on 64 757 9068.

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Thirsty work for the Minister

T

he Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Isabel GarcĂ­a Tejerina, has announced that the Torrevieja desalination plant will triple its annual production to guarantee supplies to both the population and to local farmers. The plant that now produces 40 hectometres will increase its output to 120 hectometres thanks to an investment of 45 million euros from central government.

Torrevieja Desalination plant to triple output

The announcement was made during a visit to the Torrevieja desalination plant by the minister on Monday.

The increases will be carried out in two phases. The first, which will be completed during the summer, will take the output to 80

cubic hectometres this year. However there is currently no date for the additional increase to 120 cubic hectometres, although the minister said that it would be implemented as soon as is possible She said that "when this Government took office, the desalination plant was still unfinished. We finished it, and now we are working to deliver 120 cubic hectometres of capacity per year which nobody thought possible at the time" She also stressed that the action taken in Torrevieja is just "one of

the many that have been made by the current government to ensure the availability of water throughout the Levante region, where investment has now reached approximately

400 million euro.

Among the actions carried out in recent years, she highlighted the emergency works and openings of wells, the improvement of pipelines, connection of desalination plants with users, support for desalinated water and many exemptions from payment for irrigators. She concluded by saying "The irrigators know that without a government that is committed to rural areas, to competitive agriculture, this would have been impossible.�

14

Tuesday 3rd - Sunday 8th April, 2018

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 7 Temperamental; 8 Sizeable; 9 Erne; 10 Middle; 12 Inside; 14 Insist; 16 Effort; 18 Slip; 20 Reliance; 22 Everlastingly.

DOWN: 1 Meridian; 2 Spread; 3 Drab; 4 Imbecile; 5 Unless; 6 Dawn; 11 External; 13 Directly; 15 Import; 17 Flaunt; 19 Love; 21 Late.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: ACROSS 7 Treasury notes; 8

DOWN 1.

ACROSS 1.

Light shoe (4)

Sweat (8)

3.

Praiseworthy (8)

2.

Tower (7)

8.

Stave (4)

4.

Awaken (6)

9.

Baffle (8)

5.

Final (10)

11.

Waywardness (12)

6.

Depression (5)

tence.

13.

Rejoinder (6)

7.

Whirlpool (4)

DOWN: 1 Bracelet; 2 Pagoda; 3

14.

Steady (6)

10.

Sorrow (10)

Turn; 4 Eyesores; 5 Mosaic; 6

17.

Naughtiness (12)

12.

Horrible (8)

20.

Escort (8)

15.

Ill-mannered (7)

21.

Member (4)

16.

Crowd (6)

22.

Ruin (8)

18.

Silly (5)

23.

Footwear (4)

19.

Boat (4)

Accounts; 9 Ages; 10 Alkali; 12 Recipe; 14 Sterne; 16 Sanity; 18 Ramp; 20 Lavender; 22 Death sen-

Cede; 11 Idealist; 13 Patience; 15 Repute; 17 Nantes; 19 Ales; 21 Vine.

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

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Solution on Page 19 CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

QUIZ ANSWERS

1. Name the Hollywood films starring the following actors that were based on a John Steinbeck novel. a. John Malkovich, b. James Dean, c.

Henry Fonda 2. The name for which type of building or construction stems from both the French and Latin word for butterfly?

3. The largest known spider in the world is named after which biblical character?

4. Which Paul McCartney and Wings album title is also the name of a famous painting by Sandro Botticelli?

5. According to the Wikipedia rich list who is the wealthiest monarch in the world?

6. Which two footballers have been sent off twice while playing for England?

7. Which well known Order have been coined 'The Bankers of the Middle Ages'?

8. Which two bands had a hit with the song 'Dandy' in the 1960s?

9. What are the three main island groups in Oceania ending with the letters 'ia'?

10. Name the film in which Jeff Bridges played the following characters. a. Clu, b. Jack Baker, c. The Dude, d. Rooster Cogburn, e. Dr. Mark Powell,

11. What is the largest lake in the Tropics?

12. Which sport does James Bond take part in, in "Die Another Day"?

13. "Mine eyes" are the first two words to which famous war song?

14. In the Tour De France, what is the 'Lanterne Rouge'?

15. What are the five largest landlocked countries in the world?

16. Who were the first four men to have been awarded the title "European footballer of the year" two or more times?

17. Which are the only two South American countries that do not border Brazil?

18. Which US city is the gin soaked bar room queen from in the song 'Honky Tonk Woman'?

19. In which country is the southernmost inhabited community in the world?

20. Which famous German brand was known as "Dassler" back in the 1930s?

21. Which popular fruit; with variety names such as Bing, Lambert, Royal Ann and Empress; was apparently first introduced into England by Henry VIII? 22. What were the two most produced German World War II tanks named after an animal?

10. a. Tron, b. The Fabulous Baker Boys, c. The Big Lebowski, d. True Grit, e. KPax. 11. Lake Victoria. 12. Fencing. It was the fourth and final film to star Pierce Brosnan as the fictional MI6 agent.13.

The Battle Hymn of the Republic. 14. The last place rider. The phrase comes from the French for "Red Lantern" and refers to the red lantern hung on the rear vehicle of a passenger railway. 15.

Kazakstan, Mongolia, Niger, Chad and

DOWN 1. A number expelled could be downcast (8) 2. Make an effort to study with care (7) 4. Men known for insurance in the main? (6) 5. Chat like Jack Sprat's wife? (4,3,3) 6. Time to finish is what poets may need (5) 7. Depend on entirely, not half! (4) 10. It seems family man is involved in new play ... (10) 12. ... but new director still has to be paid (8) 15. Imagined myself in fear (7) 16. Air filter? (6) 18. Possibly three in that place (5) 19. Give up like a selected competitor, say? (4)

1. a. Of Mice And Men, b. East Of Eden, c.

The Grapes Of Wrath. 2. Pavillion. 3.

Goliath. 4. Venus and Mars. 5. Following the death of Bhumibol Adulyadej, the King of Thailand, it is now Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei. 6. David Beckham against Argentina and Austria and Wayne Rooney against Portugal and Montenegro. 7. The Knights Templar. 8.

The Kinks and The Herman's Hermits. 9.

Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia.

ACROSS 1 Get down from this? (4) 3. No danger signal? (3,5) 8. Vessel for rubbish (4) 9. Possibly violated a joint (8) 11. It's bound to appeal to the less affluent! (5,7) 13. Cause to be esteemed when earned, perhaps? (6) 14. Small boat that's easily damaged (6) 17. Far better than other paperboys? (7,5) 20. Net value in its final form (8) 21. Leave out some indomitable characters? (4) 22. All the singles? (8) 23. Rode around a river (4)

Mali. 16. Alfredo di Stefano 1957, 1959, Johan Cruyff 1971, 1973, 1974, Franz Beckenbauer 1972, 1976, Kevin Keegan 1978, 1979. 17. Chile & Ecuador. 18.

Memphis. 19. Chile (Puerto Toro). 20.

Adidas (Adi Dassler was it's founder).

21. Cherry. Cherries were introduced into England at Teynham, near Sittingbourne in Kent by order of Henry VIII who had tasted them in Flanders. 22.

Panther and Tiger.

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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.

ill or Cure?

K

An article about bee sting therapy caught my eye this week.

Tragically, a woman recently died in Spain after undergoing a bizarre form of therapy at a clinic that involved bee venom. The therapy is known as apitherapy, which involved the woman attending a session every four weeks for two years, which was designed to improve her muscular control without allergic reactions.

As a child, and as unlikely as it now seems, I remember attempting handstands on the lawn of our garden. Unfortunately, during this challenging activity, I placed my hand over a bee who was sunning himself quietly in the grass. The bee quickly let it be known that he was not happy with my gymnastic efforts.

I remember that the resulting sting was very painful and that my mother quickly removed the sting once she had realised what all the fuss was about. I also recall taking great consolation after I was told that a bee can only sting once, and then it dies. Several weeks later, I remember my father coming home from work, telling us that the young wife of a good friend and colleague had died from a bee sting that very morning.

I remember my parents being very upset about this tragedy, and after my event a few weeks earlier, I considered myself to be extremely On Wednesday the mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana, officially unveiled a new meteorological station, located on the roof of the Orihuela Costa Town Hall, which will gather more accurate information on the different atmospheric and meteorological conditions that occur in the municipality.

"This equipment will be very useful for Orihuela, offering us a greater ability to anticipate weather conditions," said the mayor. "In this way, we will be better prepared to face adverse weather such as heavy rains or storms with large swells," he added.

The unveiling was also attended by the Councilor for the Environment, Miguel Ángel Fernández, as well as the councillors for tourism and for the coast, Sofía Álvarez and Luisa Boné, respectively. The mayor was also accompanied by Juan José Alonso, manager of Hidraqua, and Pedro Gómez, director of Meteorihuela.

15

b y Bar rie Mahoney

fortunate, given the circumstances. Since that time, I have always treated bees with the utmost respect and until recently have had a somewhat cynical view of how bee stings can actually help to preserve and enhance life; I am now having some doubts.

Bee Sting Therapy claims to bring relief and healing for spinal, neural, joint and musculoskeletal conditions that includes gout, arthritis, tendinitis, shingles, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s, cancerous tumours, fibromyalgia, cramps, pulled muscles and many other Advocates of apitherapy make ailments. The therapy is based many claims for its health benefits upon the idea that bee venom stimulates the adrenal glands line was made available. The bee sting had triggered a stroke, the after a sting, which produces the hormone, cortisol, which has antipatient fell into a permanent coma, and sadly died a few weeks later inflammatory properties that jump starts the healing process. from multi organ failure.

This is not as unlikely as it sounds, since it has been reported for some time that venom from bees, as well as snakes, spiders, scorpions and sea urchins have the potential to work as the next generation of drugs that have the ability to effectively fight cancer. Needless to say, pharmaceutical companies are currently working hard to exploit the potential of these natural remedies to enhance their balance sheets and to impress their shareholders. The theory is impressive and I hope that current research bears positive results that will improve the lives of so many people suffering from a range of debilitating and life-threatening conditions.

This particular therapy involves holding a bee by its head and pinching it until the bee’s stinger emerges and punctures the patient’s skin.

Sadly, the poor bee always dies in the process, since they can only use their sting once. In the case of the patient in Spain; she suffered an anaphylactic shock, developed wheezing and lost consciousness.

An ambulance was called, a steroid was administered, but no adrena-

"An ability to provide an accurate weather forecast is fundamental to the life of the general public and the growth in economic activity," Fernandez said, " since, for example, it allows farmers to better determine the frequency of irrigation of their crops thanks to the data that we can provide."

Juan José Alonsosaid that "it is a tool that also enables Hidraqua workers, through rainfall records, to properly quantify the capacity of rainwater networks and prevent flooding in the municipality ."

The data collected will offer daily and historical records of temperature, humidity, rain, wind, UVA index or solar radiation, and will be available through the Orihuela council website at www.orihuela.es.

The introduction of this new station coincided with the commemoration of World Meteorology Day.

New weather station for Costa

The new equipment was installed on the town hall roof

Advocates of apitherapy make many claims for its health benefits, which remain largely unsupported by traditional medicine, but such cynicism has been faced by advocates of chiropractic, acupuncture and aromatherapy, amongst other therapies. Indeed, some therapies, previously regarded as ‘fringe’ by the established medical profession, have gained a reputation as effective therapies in recent years and are often used to support traditional medicine. This sad incident in Spain is reportedly the first case of death by bee venom. I will continue to do my best to keep an open mind about this and other therapies, but at the moment would prefer that my only contact with bees is through honey on my morning toast.

Available in paperback from Amazon, Waterstones and all good bookshops, as well as on Amazon Kindle.

Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

In order to cope with, and provide a better service to the anticipated influx of visitors over the Easter holiday period, Pilar de la Horadada moved two of its tourist information offices to the beaches at Torre de la Horadada and Mil Palmeras

mation points is necessary in order to provide a better service to the visitors and tourists who come to our town during the Easter holidays," adding that "they have been installed in strategic places that are frequented by visitors and tourists.”

They were located on the promenade in front of the Torre Vigía, and in the Plaza de Mil Palmeras where they remain open to the public until next Sunday, 8 April, from 10am to 3pm.

She said that all the main beaches of Pilar de la Horadada will have sun beds, beach bars and life gurad support at Higuericas, Mil Palmeras and Conde-Jesuitas, until April 8 from 11:00 to 6:00 p.m. In addition, the cleaning of beaches will also intensify during these days.

Horadada Tourist Info Offices moved to beach

The Councilor for Tourism, Pilar María Samper said that "the expansion of inforThe Councilor for Tourism, Pilar María Samper, checking out the offices

16

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Provincial Vice President promises action for CARE Group

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The Provincial Vice President and his team showed particular interest in the Elderly Isolation Project

By Sandie Rhodes

F

ounded by HELP Vega Baja, the CARE Group of Torrevieja (Communication and Resource Exchange), brings together charities and other organisations such as social services within the Vega Baja area.

At its most recent meeting held last week at Quiron Salud Hospital Chairperson Michele Masson, welcomed Sr. Eduardo Dolon, Vice President of the Provincial Council of Alicante and key members of his team. The meeting was also attended by the British Vice Consul from Alicante, a number of local councillors as well as linguist David Codegan who was carrying out research in order to open up a similar organisation in Valencia.

Over 15 organisations and charities were represented at the meeting, all of which introduced themselves and provided a brief overview of the services that they provide.

Sr. Dolon and his team showed particular interest in the Elderly Isolation Project which advised the group on the progress they are making and the funding being sought.

possible funding opportunities.

Attendance Allowance training is now being provided by Wendy Burton and Social Services forms training provided by Beatriz Lara, from the Casaverde Fundacion. It was reported that this session had been well attended and of great value with another now in the pipeline.

After the chairperson had described her experiences at the recent Expo Torrevieja Town Hall agreed to provide a stall at Torrevieja Market so that charities can promote their organization and services.

In winding up the event Sr. Dolon and his

Michele Masson then outlined the idea of a central database providing information of support services and Group/charities which is to be compiled on the Costa Blanca. She said that a volunteer has now been recruited and work will get underway next week. The Vice Consul said that the Consulate in Malaga had funded such a project in their area and will look into possible ways to assist locally.

Vega Baja confirmed that they are exploring the possibility of establishing up a support group for the carers of people with Alzheimer/Dementia. It is felt that the carers are often forgotten and need support.

Discussion covered options, funding and ideas. Michele said that she would report at future meetings as to their progress.

In response to a question put to him Sr. Dolon confirmed that charities could register at more than one town hall. He said that this was in order as well as outlining the benefits including local support and

David Codegan said that he had worked extensively with Carer Groups in the UK and offered various ideas in support.

Age Concern celebrates 20 years on Southern Costa Blanca

“Live long and prosper” so the saying goes and that is what Age Concern Costa Blanca does, care and support the over 50’s.

Formed in March 1998 and registered as a charity from day one, Age Concern is a household name both in Spain and the UK and goes from strength to strength.

From humble beginnings in a tiny house in Los Balcones, then onto an even smaller house in the Torretas to our centre in La Siesta, which started life as a derelict warehouse offered by the Town Hall.

After much fundraising our building was totally refurbished, decorated and fitted out and has become a social, administration and storage centre for all the mobility aids so often desperately needed for people who, either short or long term, want help. We have to thank former Presidents Avril Tilley, Angela Keay MBE, Rarfe Chambers Judy Ferris MBE, and our current President, Maureen Payne for their tenacity and vision to overcome so many obstacles to make Age Concern, and their good work, available to so many. We actively encourage integration between British, Spanish and other nationalities. We work with several caring associations and charities to benefit the not so young, frail or infirm to enhance their well being, environment and enjoyment of our life here in Spain.

team said that they had learnt a great deal about the organisation and the operation of charities and NGO’s in the area, adding that they were extremely interested in the services provided by the charities represented. He said that he looked forward to being involved in the group’s future development and progress.

If you would like information on any of the above, please email Michele at president@helpvegabaja.com or call 966 723 733 or contact charities in the Vega Baja area direct.

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

GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN

It goes without saying that the backbone of Age Concern rests safely in the arms of the 100 plus volunteers whether they be the drivers who daily transport beneficiaries to and from our centre, the volunteers in our two charity shops in Torrevieja and Los Montesinos, our friendly centre volunteer team who man the centre every week Monday to Friday from 10.00 – 1.30pm and a host of volunteers, never seen, but work tirelessly in the background keeping everything ticking over.

Our 20 years of service, in Spain, to the community and over 50’s culminates in a celebratory Gala Ball being held on Saturday May 19th at the Masa Hotel in Torrevieja. It promises to be a spectacular milestone event and tickets are now available, for just 25 euros per person, from either our charity shops or our centre in La Siesta.

Alternatively, you can email costablanca@ageconcern.org.es. A sumptuous 3 course meal, Cava reception and entertainment by the extremely popular Bella Luna will be an event not to be missed.

For any information required for help or welfare requirements, social activities held at our centre or details of our Gala Ball please telephone 966 786 887. We are always here to help.

A glimpse into the relationship between beloved children’s author AA Milne and his son Christopher Robin, whose toys inspired the magical world of Winnie the Pooh.

Director: Simon Curtis Stars: Domnhall Gleeson, Margot Robbie, and Will Tilston Dur: 1h 47min | Biography, Drama, 1940’s

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Staff Urgently Required for Spanish Run Supermarket in Quesada

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 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

1 x Shop Director / 1 x Shop Manager Due to our continued growth, we urgently require one Shop Director and one Shop Manager for a Spanish run Supermarket in Ciudad Quesada.

The ideal candidate will be between 40 and 50 years old and will have British nationality. They should be able to communicate in Spanish to a good level as they will work with other members of the groups’ management team. They should be computer literate and have a minimum of 5 years experience in the supermarket / retail sector.

We offer a very competitive salary and good working conditions (no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays).

This is a full-time position with employment contract.

Immediate start.

Please send a covering letter and your CV (in PDF format) by email to: offer1092@jobsearchspain.com 4 x Shop Floor Assistants Due to our continued growth, we urgently require four new members of staff to help us on the shop floor and on the cash desks.

The ideal candidate will be between 25 and 50 years old and will have British nationality. They should be able to communicate in Spanish at a basic level. Experience preferred in the supermarket / retail sector but not necessary as full training will be given. They should also have basic computer skills.

We offer a very competitive salary and good working conditions (no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays).

This is a full-time position with employment contract.

Immediate start.

Please send a covering letter and your CV (in PDF format) by email to: offer1093@jobsearchspain.com

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

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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

Musicians Wanted Forming Royal British Legion Concert Band is seeking experienced musicians, especially French Horn, Trumpet and Cornet. Call MD on 638 108 078 for information.

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

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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, 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

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON with a D5. Onto the pairs and Rosa’s Dave and John playing Angles Phil (100) and Paul but it was Dave’s D7 out that sealed it for them.

Match Results for 29th March 2018 A

B

Tavern Junction Jackals Las Rosas El Capitan Pint depot Queens Ale House Hub Hellraisers Porter House Bees

4-8 4-8 9-3 6-6 3-9 8-4 5-7 7-5

Hub Hyenas Wee Rockers Angels Porter House Junction Jaguars Fire Station Hen's Teeth Amigos Misfits

League Table Hub Hyenas El Capitan Junction Jackals Porter House Angels Wee Rockers Las Rosas Tavern Oldies

P 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Pts 36 32 27 25 22 20 20 13

Legs 34 34 23 20 17 27 22 15

Ale House Junction Jaguars Porter House Bees Amigo's Misfits Pint Depot Queens Hen's Teeth Fire Station Hub Hellraisers

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

21 15 12 12 7 6 5 1

35 30 31 23 16 18 26 12

Rosas were on a role as Jem and Alan Preston’s 180, D17 made light work of Steve and Martin in the 5th leg and Steph’s 121 and Cris’ D9 in the last pairs brought their score to a healthy 5-1.

Then it was supper time. Just imagine, homemade steak pie, chips, peas and onion gravy with baguette to mop up the last morsels! If you have ever had one of Elle's meals, you will know what I am on about.

Fortified by this feast, Angel Waller scored 100 and checked on D10 against Cris in the first singles. Steph’s (D9) pulled one back against Paul (100) in the 2nd and Dave’s D8 against Hickman the younger in the 3rd. Steve Hepple (D17) then turned the tables in the 4th despite some great scoring from Jem (129, 140).

Leg 5 was John v Martin, a good game with John getting a 100 and check of D10. The last leg was Alan vs Steve G. Another good game with Alan's check of D2. Man of the match for Angels was Phil Walker & for Rosa's Alan Preston. Good game played by all with top nosh! Report by Alan Preston Junction Jackals v Wee Rockers 4-8 This was a fine win for the Rockers to prove that last week’s win over Porterhouse was no flash in the pan. It was a rather lacklustre performance by the home side although it was 3- a- piece at half time and everything to play for. The Rockers had raced to a 2 – 0 lead before the home side won the next three – it was neck and neck in the early stages.

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), This Week: Alan Preston (Las Rosas), Lee Maiden (Jackals) Highest Check-out: Jeff Ward (porter House) 147 [T20, T17, D18] Las Rosas v Angles 9-3 In the first triples, Rosa's fielded Cris Montes, Jem & John Spencer against Phil Waller, Paul Gripwell & Steve Hepple.

The highest score of the game was Paul’s 129 who then got the leg on D1. In the 2nd triples, Rosa's played Dave Knighton, Steph Simpson & Alan Preston as Angles put in Martin Hastings, Kain Hickman & Captain Steve Glennon. It was a good game with Steph checking out D10 making it 1-1.

Onto the 3rd and Rosa's Steph, John and Alan faced Phil, Paul and Steve. Phil scored 100 & 121 but they could not stop John checking

The singles, however, were a different story, with Allan Havelock leading the way with a quick fire win over Hugh Galloway who was playing very well. This certainly seemed to inspire the rest of his team who took four of the remaining five legs.

The sole winner for the Jackals was Lee maiden who showed some fine form with a 140 followed by 180 – Graham White was left with little chance. Appropriately Rocker’s Captain Jim McKay beat the Jackal’s captain to secure the win. Most of the big scores came from the home team but it was no match for the consistent scoring and much better finishing shown by the Rockers. Report by Phil de Lacy Porterhouse Bees 7 - Misfits 5 At The Fire station the PH Bees were happy to play the Misfits especially after they declared that they only had 4 players tonight.

The Bees soon got stuck in at their home station by taking the first three triples, albeit with the second triple awarded as the forfeit.

Terry, Mel and baby Lane (D9) v the three budgies Peter, Paul and Dickie . In the third, Bees trio Snowy, Mummy and Daddy Lane (D16) took on Sonya, Paul and Dickie but, as usual, the finishes counted although it was a tight squeeze to the end. In the doubles with the third being forfeited, Myself and Daddy Lane faced budgies Peter and Dickie (no smugglers involved), with Dickie scoring a 75 then moved on to finish with 10 (D1).

With the singles approaching, the Bees quickly realised that there was some strength in their depleted opponents and needed some of Tracy's spicy chilli to keep their pecker up.

Torrevieja Ladies Darts Organisation Macklins Dolly Mixtures El Balcon Chicas Primadonnas Friendly's Temps

5-4 2-7 5-4 2-7

Friendly's Chicas Wildcats at Macklins Black Dog Ladies Gap Ladies

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

P 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11

W 11 10 6 6 4 3 2 2

L 0 1 5 5 7 8 9 9

Pts. 33 31 23 23 19 17 15 15

This week’s Hot Darts: Simone De Lacy 140+125+121, Ellen Attwood 138, Lorraine Veal 125, Sue Cam 120, Kim Fickling 119, June Hawkins 118, Angela Mullen 104, Sandra Crabbe 103, Bliss Wright 100x2, Mitch Halliday 100 Ladies Pairs Finals: 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 and we look forward to seeing you all then.

Pam Horton 96 571 0066 Email: Dartess501@gmail.com

Carp-R-Us Round six of the Carp-R-Us was fished on the Eden stretch in glorious early spring weather. The water level on this stretch is now about two feet below normal and this coupled with the lack of flow made fishing hard, although all the anglers present managed to catch something.

First, fishing his first match for some time, was Roy Butress with 3.68kg caught on pole and corn. Second was Tom Marshall, who always does well on this venue, with 2.46kg, third was Graham Ledley with 2.36kg and fourth was Andy Foden with 2.22kg.

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-RUs Fishing Costa Blanca.

19

By Simone de Lacy

Well the chilli did help a bit as Baby Lane took on Paul Lock who failed to open up his box of skills as Harvey beat him with a D6.

Daddy John was against Dickie who fought a close game but John, with a few high scores nailed 8 (D4) finish. Myself, I faced Sonya and remember only once beating her on previous occasions so psychologically I was on a hiding to nothing. We were both aiming down at 19's or in that direction then with no success I went up top.

Sneaky Sonya followed suit and started knocking out the high scores along with me too as she took her game with D5. Friends Michelle and Peter faced one another and this was no friendship as Peter stole the game from Michelle 13, D9. With the 5th fame forfeited Mel v Paul saw Mel fight a close game down to doubles but Paul signed off the evening with D8, D8 finish. Report by Gilly Kirby Pint Depot Queens v Junction Jaguars 3-9 With 5 players unavailable, the Jaguars realised they were going to be thin on the ground so they signed up a 6th player, Elaine Willis, to bring them to a full team against the ever-strengthening Queens and it was she that got us off to a good start in her triples with Patty Poo and Sneeze Green when she checked out, first dart, D18 against Maggie, Vi and Marie.

In T2, Simone, Lisa and Lesley’s (93, 79 and D13) saw them go two ahead. In T3, Elaine, Lesley and Simone (85, 79, D4) eventually got them their 3rd. Poo’s 140 and Lisa’s D10 gave then the first pair point against Deb and Rachel. Pairs finalists Lelly Bear and Sim (100) then faced the formidable Lorraine and Marie but Lelly Eagles’ brought us home with 85, 98 and D20.

Denise and Elaine’s D1 over Vi and Pam brought the score to an unimaginable 0-6 at half time. Onto the singles and Lynn Fozzard put up a good performance but Simone’s 3-dart finish S19-D13-D10 got them the all-important 7th leg for an assured win. Then Denise, still on a role from last week I think, got her first singles win on D1 against Maggie.

The Queen’s then rallied and took the next 3 legs on the trot: Debbie Wright with some great scoring and check on D4 against Elaine (86, 122, 95); Pam on D1 against Lisa (71, 720 and Marie’s D8-D8 against Pat (101, 89, 80). Lelly’s final effort of 100, 82, 77 and D1 against Rachel gave the Jaguars juegadores a joyful walk home down the hill. Thank you Queens for a lovely night.

Singles Quarters-finals next Thursday: The venue is The Tavern for the final 8 ladies:- Deb Wright, Marie Cummins (Queens), Michelle Lane (Bees), Sonya Cooper (Amigo’s), Henni Oortwijn (Hen’s Teeth), Yvonne Rouffignac (Porters), Pat Schofield and Simone de Lacy (Junction Jaguars). A great night of tough darts with 4 ex-champs in the mix.

Jackals Andy Rutter and Paul Miller are out of the country so the draw will see two lucky players into the semi-finals courtesy of a bye done by draw on the night.

The remaining 6 men will be playing at Chemies Lounge - Graham Solomons (Tavern), Lee Maiden (Jackals), John Lane (Bees), Cris Montes (Las Rosas), Bob Townsend and John Eyre (Hyenas).

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20

Tuesday 3rd - Sunday 8th April, 2018

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Greenlands Bowls Club

by Dave Webb

Good news to start the week off, in the first game of the VCL The Jasmines were at home to Horodada. final scores were .........Total shots for - 104. shots against - 70. Points for -- 10. points against -- 2. Winning rinks were - Ladies singles - Margaret Dewar. -21 shots to 14. Mens singles - Jim Wilcock. - 21 shots to 11. triples - Vic Young, Ronnie Stansfield, Tony Hodges. - 27 shots to 9. Rinks - Janet Webb, Ann Butterworth, Dave Webb, Chris Dewar. - 24 shots to 16.

Well we started the VCL League with a bang and we have finished the Winter League with the same result, We were at home to Quesada and the weather was very warm and sunny. Final score was - total shots for - 93. shots against - 68.

Points for - 10. points against - 2. So well done to all the members of the winter league who have improved the teams overall standing from this time last year.

On Good Friday we had our fun day and as usual players came in fancy headgear, there were many Guest players who all performed extremely well seeing they were not regular bowlers. The weather was kind to us and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, afterwards there was a BBQ and a game of Bingo, Our thanks go to Chef of the day Chris Dewar who done us proud with his sausages and Burgers not forgetting the onions. Also thanks to Haley for her hard work behind the bar and in the kitchen. Thanks also to Jill Collins for organising the bingo and John O’Leary for Calling the numbers.

Vistabella Bowls Club with Lynne Bishop WINTER LEAGUE. Playing Javea Green at home for the final match we had just one win but with enough shots to claim the long game and take four points from the opposition, Javea were in contention of winning the league if they could have achieved maximum points.

At half way it looked promising for a home win but Javea never up and made a good comeback...but we managed to hold onto one win, sadly for Javea they had to settle for finishing second in the league. Our winning rink was Lynne Bishop, Charlie Watkins, Martin Foulcer & Maggie Ferness 23-8. Two rinks lost by one shot and another by two. Shots, VB 85(4) - 80(8) JG. Vistabella finished 7th on the league. Thank you to Captain Charlie for his hard work.

The BERLEEN team enjoyed an outstanding win from the team of Sharron Kirk, Pete Tomkins, Bert Ewart & Jim Harwood 35-4..very well done. The team also finished mid table.

SAL SUMMER LEAGUE. The first game of the season saw our two teams the Vikings and the Saxons playing one another, the Saxons came out on top with four wins to one. Saxons winners were for the ladies Singles Maggie Furness 21-7. Men’s Singles Martin Foulcer 21-12. Pairs, Del Gunning & Peter Whitehall 15-11 and Triples Sandra Burrows, Stuart Allman & Brian Dunn 1510.

Winners for the Vikings were Tony French, Stan Dibble, Penny Tomkins & Gordon Fisher 39-12. Shots, Vikings 79(2) - 84(10) Saxons.

Horadada Bowls Club

by Irene Graham

A big thanks is due to Barry Evans for keeping our club in the news for the last season. I hope I can do as good a job. Thanks Barry.

The summer season has started this week with the Valencian Champions League. Our first match was on Monday and we were away to Greenlands Jasmine. Not a good start to the season for us as we went down by 70 shots to Greenlands 104. Congratulations to our only winning rink which was the Pairs – Wayne Osguthorpe and Jeff Heir who gave us our first 2 points of the summer season. Well done Guys. Both the ladies and gents singles matches were well fought but the opposition just pulled away at the end.

With no other matches to report this week. Onwards and upwards team.

Country Bowls by Jo Richardson Country Bowls Club had an early set off for the start of the VCL against Monte Mar played on Friday.

The weather stayed fine although the wind picked up as the morning carried on.

This was the first outing in the VCL for a few of the newer members of the club and to play a team as experienced as Monte Mar was indeed to be an challenge.

As the saying goes “it's a game of two halves” and that was certainly the case on this occasion.Strong leads had been gained for Country Bowls at the halfway mark with the triples and men's singles forging ahead, however, Monte Mar were ahead in the ladies singles and the spoils were shared across the rinks and mixed pairs.

Everyone fought hard in both teams to finally end up with a very close and well natured game. The final results were 2 – 10 in favour of Country Bowls.

Total shots were 70 – 94 in favour of Country Bowls.

Final results were; Mixed Pairs – Gordon Dixon & Pat Emmett 9 – 26 Triples – Graham Richardson, John Mallet & Andrew Bryce 16 – 17 Rinks – Linda Freeman, Derek Jiggins, Ben Noke &Gary Ponsford 14 – 9 Men's Singles – Geoff Paylor 14 – 21 after 21 ends.

Ladies Singles – Brenda Jiggins 17 – 21 after 27 ends.

Country Bowls would like to extend their thanks and good wishes to Monte Mar for the rest of the season.

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Línea Directa Champion of Champions 2018 By Suzi Cooper

T

he draw for this year Línea Directa Champion of Champions event was made on Monday 26th March at San Luis with a few interesting first round matches.

In the Ladies Singles last years Champion Ann Marie Stevenson (Emerald Isle) will take on Brenda Jiggins (Country Bowls). Last years National Champion Jacqui Johnston (Quesada) will take on a past winner of Champion of Champions Suzi Cooper (San Luis), whilst another past Champion Mary Cummings (Finca Guila) plays her first round match against Jenny Bowman (La Siesta).

being played at both Quesada & San Luis for the first 3 days, then from 19th matches will all be played at Quesada (subject to weather). The finals are due to be played on 22nd.

If you want to watch some great bowling come along to either venue & support your club Champions.

In the Mens Singles there are no returning Champions but some interesting matches to look forward to. Squad member Derek Eldon (Javea Green) will play against Geoff Dowson (Bonalba), Gregg Sperring (Benitachell) will play against strong local Richard Lee (El Rancho), while Mal Hughes (San Luis) plays David Wilde (Calpe).

Ladies Pairs will see ex National Champions Mel Highland & Jacqui Johnston (Quesada) playing Linda Freeman & Brenda Jiggins (Country Bowls) in the first round.

The Mens Pairs sees past Champions Keith Jones & Russell Marks (San Luis) against Les Turner & Ray Emmett (Country Bowls). There are many strong pairings in this discipline & it should provide some interesting & exciting matches.

The Mixed Pairs, triples & rinks also have some exciting matches to look forward to. It will be interesting to see how the results pan out.

The competition gets underway on 16th April with matches

On the right, 2017 winner of the Ladies Singles, Anne-Marie Stevenson, with runner up Helen Chambers

San Luis Bowls Club with Sheila Cammack WINTER LEAGUE WINNERS CHAMPIONS FOR THE 3RD YEAR What a difference a week makes. Wednesday 28th Winter League home v La Marina on an almost perfect morning, with warm sunshine and virtually no breeze..

We obviously had everything to play for and everything to lose and we knew La Marina would be fighting all the way. All we could do was focus, play and hope.

Gradually some of our teams pulled ahead and it looked like we might achieve a 10-2 result, which could just be enough to beat Javea. But La Marina were not going to make it easy and Barry (Mr Yellow-jacket) Latham kept us all on the edge and eventually pulled back shots over the last few ends to take that rink for La Marina and leave us with an 8-4 win, shots 111-64.

There was nothing else we could do but go off and enjoy a very friendly lunch and wait for the confirmation that we had indeed done enough.

Javea had beaten Vistabella 8-4 but we were still 1 point ahead 183 -182; rather closer than we had hoped but a win is a win and a great birthday present for our Captain Keith Jones, so the celebrations could begin. Winners: Shirley Verity, Ray Clarke,

Roy Cordell, Russell Marks 33-6, Sheila Cammack, Brian Pocock, Julian Pering, Tom Hill 25-11, Lynne Morris, June Jones, Peter McEneany, Keith Jones 29-10.

No Berleen this week but our Berleen team finished 3rd behind Benitachell and Javea. Congratulations and thanks to everyone who has played in the main team, Berleen team, or friendlies.

Thanks as well to our stalwart supporters who turn up week after week through wind, rain or sunshine; it’s good to know you’re there!

Friday 30th VCL: Falcons away v Emerald Isle Dukes, great result; 9-3, shots 88-69. Winners: Kath Reid 21-12, June & Keith Jones 17-10, Steve Simmons, Scott Malden, Ian Kenyon 22-11 Giuseppe Galelli, Sabrina Marks, Mal Hughes, Russell Marks 15-15.

Hawks home v El Rancho good start; 8-4, 99 shots-74.

Winners: Ros Holmes & Les Bedford 22-13, 3’s Dennis Jackson, Barry Edwards, Vic Slater 23-12, Ray Watmough, Cas Blay, Sheila Cammack, Roy Cordell 26-7.

Information: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com or contact June Jones, Captain: 691903773.

We were sorry to hear this week of the death of Brian Houghton (Quesada) our thoughts are with Pearl & family.

San Miguel Bowls Club with Pat McEwan Last weeks Winter League were away to La Marina picking up 4 points. Two winning teams, Allan Patterson, Lee Sinclair, Gail & Fred Willshire 17-9: Margaret Patterson, Val & Chris Collier, Lin Miller 16-10. Shots were 69 to 75.

Much better result in the last game of the season against BBC winning 8 points to 4. Shots were 98 to 88. Well done to Brian Miller, Dave Johnson, Dave & Lyn Greenland 26-12: Jan & Brian Allen, Stuart Hemmings, Stuart Denholm 19-15; Noel Davis, Linda & Cliff Plaisted, Gary Raby 25-13. The Berleen won 23-11.

The VCL started this week with the Sheriffs playing Quesada Lions, Mary Dyer won the ladies singles 21-16; Cliff Plaisted won the Gents singles 21-13 and Gail Willshire and Lyn Greenland won the pairs 15-10. 6 points across, and the Sheriffs lost the shots by one, Hard lines.

The Deputies didn't do as well away to La Marina, only winning the Gents Singles.. Well done Gary Raby 21-15. 2 points

to SM Shots were 68 to 89.

No other results received.

Starting this Wednesday, 4th April, the WASPS will be 1pm for 1.30pm start. Beginners should now join our resident instructors, Dave & Lyn Greenland on Tuesday afternoons 2pm till 4pm €10 for 3 lessons. The early start is due to games being played Wednesday evenings by the VCL. The Presentation Night on Friday 13th April is 6.30 for 7pm start at the Olympia at Mil Palmeras. Music by Andy Max. Further details from Paul Thomas.

Remember the Annual General Meeting Thursday 29th April 0930 for 1000 start. The green will be closed until the meeting has finished.

For further details on San Miguel Bowls Club please contact the President, Rosamond Stockell, telephone 965 32 9778 or Secretary Pat McEwan. telephone 966 71 4257.

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Rockets GS @ St James Gate at Altorreal Long trek down the Motorway to one of our favourite courses which was in pretty good condition considering the weather we have had. Scoring wasn’t that good but the weather was excellent. We had a 12.0’clock tee off time which meant we had the best of the days weather, Glorious sunshine.

In the Gold Category H/cap Secretary Rod Smith came in with 32 points on count back followed in second place

by P Wilkinson also with 32 points, and in third place was R O’Sullivan with 28 points.

In the Silver Category Graham Knight came in with 30 points followed in second place by Paul Mutter

with 29 points. And Rocket Ron in Third place with 28 points Nearest the Pins went to N Dempsey.

Rod Smith. Ged Dobson and Alan Brooker. Longest Drive Rod Smith, And Best Guest Noel Dempsey.

Because of the late start we did not go back to the St James’s Gate, so we had the presentation at the course.

Our next Home game is at Vistabella on the 10th April when we will be on our summer start time, which on this day will be 08.06am so be at the course no later than 07.45am so we can get all green fees paid in by 08.00 am

El Plantio 2 Golf Society The competition on the 27th March was the dreaded ´Medal.´ Fifteen members started in a shotgun start of 5 flights of 3 players. The eventual winner started her round with a drive of about a yard, followed by a second hitting a tree to rebound behind her, eventually scoring a one over net 6. However she recovered sufficiently in the rest of her round to win by 2 shots.

Nearest the Pins, Hole 2, Henry Mellor and Hole 8, Alan Janes.

3rd Place, John Burke, Handicap 8 – 58 shots.

2nd, Alan Janes, Handicap 7 – 56 shots.

1st, Maggie Edwards, Handicap 19.8 – 54.2 shots.

If anyone would like to join our Society, we play at El Plantio Golf Club every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. We use both courses - the Par 3 nine hole course and the main 18 hole course, so we cater for all abilities. The membership rates are very competitive, so call for more details. Anyone who wishes to play in the Society as a guest or join as a new member, contact Ian Henderson on 966 716 616 or 636 116 230 Photograph below: John Burke, Maggie Edwards, Henry Mellor, Alan Janes.

Tuesday 3rd - Sunday 8th April, 2018

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Emerald Isle Bowls Club On Saturday the Emerald Isle welcomed Sunderland Bowls club and on an extremely windy day the game went ahead but was badly affected by the adverse conditions.

The result saw E I winning 4 rinks and drawing one with an aggregate of 89-67. A great game all the same and lovely crowd of players Wed the Emerald Isle travelled to La Siesta in the final game of the Winter League Season and came away with a fine win 10- 2 and an aggregate of 108-60. Winners were: C Thomas J Westall M Odell C Lindgren 31-8, P Heaney S Johnson D Birkett I Brewster 31-9, D Jones M Whitelock J Mulloy J Rimmer 20-9, A Brown S Westall A M Stevenson D Gerrard 16-12. The Berleen slipped to a 11-15 defeat The VCL League began on Friday for the Earls at La Siesta and they came away with a very good draw 6-6, aggregate 78-88. Winners were P Heaney 21-14, E Morris B Kavanagh 17-15, C Ayling L Fisher D Close 17-14 The Dukes where at home against San Luis Falcons and got beaten 3-9, winner C Lindgren singles while the Rinks drew,15-15, R White M Riley J Mulloy J Rimmer

21

with Elwyn Morris

Pat Heaney delivering a wood in the Winter League match at La Siesta.

Terry Owen Memorial Trophy - ALFIE’S GOLF SOCIETY Las Ramblas -Thursday 29th March 2018 25 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to Las Ramblas GC for The Terry Owen memorial Trophy on March 29th. Terry was a much loved member of Alfie’s Golf Society and this is the 3rd year we played for the trophy that bears his name.

I am sure that Terry was looking down from above and wishing all the members the best of luck in their endeavours to win his trophy. The course was I very good condition and the greens were true and quick. The fairways were improving now that the warmer weather is here and it will not be long before the course is back to its very best. As ever Las Ramblas is a challenging course with the score being on the low side apart from the overall winner.

The presentation was held back at Alfie’s bar where a buffet was enjoyed by all the players, kindly donated by Alfie’s bar.

We continued with the 2 categories “GOLD” & “SILVER” but the performance of the day was made by Luke Branch.

Our winner of the day in the silver division was Luke Branch with a great score of 40 stableford points Luke was presented with Terry’s trophy along with the first prize golf vouchers and golf balls.

Second place went to Geoff Kite with 28 stableford points, another solid performance from Luke to compliment his last performances and he must be in pole position on the order of merit for 2018.

The Winner of the gold division was our ex-Captain Shaun Staplehurst who had a score of 37 points. Second place went to our current Captain Ian Ingledew who had 32 stableford points.

Best Guest went to Jim Brown with 25 stableford points.

Nearest the pin in three on hole 18 – Sponsored by ‘The Street Restaurant’ went Shaun Staplehurst Nearest the pin on hole 6 – sponsored by ‘The Auld Dubliner‘ went to Jason Reed Nearest the Pin on hole 14 - sponsored by ’The Celtic Drop’ went to Jack Brown Nearest the pin in two shots on hole 8 – sponsored by Alfie’s

Bar was won by Jim Brown The Blind pairs was won by our match secretary Joe Murphy and Georg Potters Many thanks to our sponsors, our committee for their hard work in the background, and to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services for arranging our day.

To Rose and Jim and staff at Alfie’s Bar for their support throughout the year.

Big Thank you to Dana Connell for organising the charity raffle and prizes.

And finally, thanks to all the members for supporting Alfie’s Golf Society.

Marabu Golf Society at Hacienda Del Alamo on 29th March 2018 Las Ramblas Social Club

by Mike Mahony

Monday we played the “Yellow Peril” and the winning team with a score of 116 were Benedicte Kruse, Mike Mahony, Donna Campbell and John Conway.

On Wednesday we had the 5th Round of the Eclectic Joker Competition and the results were as follows: 1st Benedicte Kruse 43 pts. 2nd Reg Akehurst 41 Pts, 3rd John Conway 40 pts, 4th Olga Douglas 39, 5th Terry Cullen 38 pts and 6th on a count back John Collins 37 pts.

2¨s Club, only one again this week, John Drakesmith.

Friday it was the Easter Egg Competition, 2 Ball Better Ball H & L. and the winners were Rod Doel and Nick Campbell with 42 Pts. 2nd Lindsay Forbes and Peter Reffell 41 Pts. 3rd Terry Field and John Conway 40 pts.

BOOBY prize went to Brian Stains and Nigel Price 31 pts.

Nearest the Pin on the 6th John Conway. NTP in 2 on the 15th Terry Field.

In association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services For this month’s meeting a group of 22 players visited the established course at Hacienda Del Alamo taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

The weather was more summer like and nearly all golfers wore shorts for the first time this year and the course was it's usual self, playing long with fast greens while still wearing it's winter overcoat all combining to make scoring difficult.

The winning scores on the day were as follows: 1st – Tony Ollier – 31 points, 2nd – Mike Probert – 30 points 3rd – Brian Elkington – 30 pts, 4th – Steve Hanaway - 29 pts Nearest the Pins – Mike Probert and Brian Elkington (2)

Dog of a Day – Gary Byrne Best Front Nine – Chris Pinder – 16 points Best Back Nine – Steve Hanaway - 15 points Footbal Card – Graham Hall After the game we returned to Leaf's Restaurant, which is located at Pueblo Brava, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support.

Our next interim fixture is at Vistabella on 12th April 2018 followed by the society day at New Sierra Golf on 26th April.

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

22

Tuesday 3rd - Sunday 8th April, 2018

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San Miguel Golf Society at Roda March 28th Warm sunshine and a light breeze welcomed 36 members and 7 guests to Roda golf course. As ever, the Roda track was in very good condition.

Scoring was generally on the low side, the exceptions being the three winners in each category who annihilated the opposition with shots to spare.

Ashen-faced Mike Inns must have feared he was on a hat-trick of Abacus wins, his meagre points score summed up by firing a great iron shot onto the wrong green. However his free golf lesson from Adrian Rudge saved him from ignominy. In the one singles matchplay game, Hugh Reilly beat the society’s skipper Tony Smale 2 and 1, the latter missing a 3 foot putt on the 17th. The captain went down with his slip.

The day’s results, by category and in reverse order, were the following: Bronze Category: 4th Ken Flaherty (31), 3rd Chris Hamblett (32), 2nd Brian Butler (33) and 1st Kyrre “el vikingo” Skarsmoen, (38)

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T.M.G.S. monthly visit to Alenda 28/3/18

Silver Category: 4th Hugh Reilly (30), 3rd Brendan Toner (32 on CB), 2nd Paul Tomlinson (32 on CB), and 1st Nick Spicer (39) Gold Category: 4th John Humphrey (29), 3rd Darren Hancock (31), 2nd Matt Taylor (36), and 1st Theo Boelhouwer (41) Nearest the pins on the par 3’s went to Nick Spicer (x2) Theo Boelhouwer, and Brendon Toner.

Best guest prizes went to: 1st Phil Gunby, 2nd Gwilym Rudge.

The Abacus was won Bob Eyland who gratefully accepted a bottle of wine from our generous sponsor, Gordon Wilson.

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

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

Next week we will be at Alenda.

What a difference a week makes! Clear blue skies and temps in the mid 20´s and most notable was NO wind. Prefect conditions to enjoy good day´s golf.

The tee boxes are still under repair so many of the yellow tees were actually on the red boxes. This should have encouraged high scoring from our field of 40 but a las only one player managed to break par although Jim Imrie did manage 2nd place with his 35 pts. With his playing handicap of 4!

This however was not enough to win the Gold category because Viking Sverre Sonesen returned a very healthy 38 pts.

Another Viking, Ole Rong, by his own admission didn´t have a good day until he reached the short par 3 16th where he luckily chipped in for the only 2 of the day taking home a very nice €34 ( and

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

Golf Course Review – VILLAMARTIN The Villamartin course is part of the Grupo Quara group which also owns Las Ramblas and La Finca and is situated a short distance from

the sea close to Torrevieja on the South Eastern tip of the Costa Blanca.

The course is some 6,151 metres in length (white tees) of par 72 and the designer, Paul Putman, produced a course considered good enough to be used for the Mediterranean Open in 1994 which was won by Jose Maria Olazabal in a play off with Paul McGinley.

To find this course travelling from either North or South, leave the AP7 at the exit for La Zenia and immediately follow signs for

that´s a bad day?)

Results: N.T.P.´s Hole 3 O. Rong (oh yes Ole are you sure it was such a bad day!) Hole 5 C. Bellman, Hole 13 O. Cederberg. Hole 16 S. Dean.

Best guest this was M. Johnson 29 pts. Bronze cat: 3rd. L. Holmberg 30 pts. 2nd A. Goslan 30 pts. 1st M. Myhrvold 36 pts. Silver cat: 3rd. A. Rickers 30 pts. 2nd D. Sullivan 33 pts. 1st C. Bellman.

It must be noted that Viking member, Roger Nilsen showed his honesty by informing the committee of a rules infringement thereby ruling himself out of the top 3. It nice to see that integrity in our wonderful game still exists.

Gold cat: 3rd. O. Cederberg 33 pts. 2nd J. Imrie 35 pts. 1st S. Sonesen 38 pts.

Photo: N.T.P. Winners. If you would like to join our competitive but honest group please check us www.tmgs.org or our Facebook page TMGSGOLF

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee svcs)

Villamartin and the golf course but if you are travelling on the N332 coast road then again take the exit off the large roundabout at La Zenia signposted for Villamartin and in both cases the courses is located to your left just a few hundred metres from the commercial plaza.

that valued golf ball from your grasp or you may just find them disappearing into the gardens of the mansions lining the perimeter of the course.

In recent years they have extended the clubhouse which contains changing facilities plus the bar, restaurant and pro-shop and as you would expect you can hire clubs, trolleys, electric trolleys and buggies. The course offers a practise area, practise bunker, chipping green and practise putting green.

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.

This is an undulating course with the front nine holes being on the highest point giving excellent coastal and sea views and the back nine holes tend to run through the valleys with a number of 'barancas' (ravines) coming more into play and is a challenge to all standards of golfers.

Golf Course Price Comments Alenda €142 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 €80 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: VISTABELLA €200 for 4 players and 2 buggies.

There has been an increased amount of work on the course in recent months in an attempt to return the condition to that of the prestigious years of European Tour events. For the mere mortals amongst us the yellow tees are 5947 metres (6,541 yards) and the red ladies tees are 5,090 metres (5,599 yards) with tree lined fairways, dog-legs and blind shots all adding to the golfing ‘mix’ that is Villamartin.

The relatively short 7th hole is a good example of golf at Villamartin being a sharp left to right, cork tree lined, dog-leg hole of only approx 300 metres which can be driven if you give it a ‘belly wobbler’ but you can easily get into trouble trying to play too safe.

Water hazards are not as numerous as on the newly constructed courses so you may be tempted to get out that new ’Pro-V1’ but be wary because the designer has incorporated a number of features to ‘prise’

For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 Quotation of the Week “A hungry dog hunts best” - Lee Trevino

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Cetlts Golf Society - March Open Day

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The Med Bar Golf Society, El Raso Hacienda Riquelme 27/3/18 Off we set from El Raso a little bit later than usual as we did not have a tee time till 11.30. Weather was looking good and standing on the first tee it was a little bit breezy but by the fourth hole the wind had dropped and the rest of the day was perfect weather for golf lots of time was wasted searching for lost balls as was shown in the scores on the day. The course was in excellent condition and enjoyed by all.

Results for this outing: Silver division and overall winner, Buck Taylor Silver division runner up, Dave Capper Gold division winner: Ray Muttock Runner up: Bill Martin

Today we played our March Open Day at La Serena. Weather conditions were ideal for golf a mild 20 plus degrees, lending itself to good scoring. The golf course again was presented to a very high standard, with a couple of very tricky pin positions.

We must thank the very hard working green keeping staff under the guidance of Wayne, the course manager for all their efforts. Thank you to the staff in the pro-shop, Jean, Karolina and Paul for preparing the cards and the results. To our hard working competitions committee of Camillus Fitzpatrick and Philip Mountford, ably assisted by Terry our Captain, they are doing sterling work, with over 90 players on the day the gentlemen have the organisation of the competition down to a fine art, well done.

Can I again remind players to please return your cards as soon as possible to the shop on the open days so that they can generate the results on the computer and return the scores to Madrid. If you fail to return your card you cannot have your handicap adjusted and it also delays the presentation of prizes.

We would like to thank all those who were present to collect their prizes. Can I remind prize winners that we hold our monthly presentation of all prizes for the previous month at each of the Open Days, if you are not able to attend can you appoint a member to collect your prize on your behalf.

Our captain Terry Fitzgerald was on hand to present the prizes as follows; Crystal week 1, 1st Michael Sephton 40. 2nd Alan Woods 39.

3rd James McEnery 37. Week 2, 1st Thomas Warren 43. 2nd Gordon Montgomery 38, 3rd Steve Hopkins 36.

Category golf competitions. Cat. I. 1st Robert Smith 34. 2nd Eddie

Stapleton 34. 3rdJames Hayes 31. Cat II. 1st Nuala McEnery 41.

2ndCarmel McShea 30 (this was Carmels’ first ever singles prize).

3rdKjell Mundheim.

Our monthly medal competition, Cat I John O’Brien 70. Cat II Gordon Montgomery 70. Cat III Robert Hughes 76. Down to the results of the day. NTP’s John Aitchison, Pauvla Serakova, Savi Nayager, Robert Smith and Paul Wightman. Visitors prize Nial Murray 36. Cat III. 1stKevin McBride 38. 2nd Thomas McEwan 38. 3rd Elsie Cowie35. Cat II. 1st James Hayes 39. 2nd William Thomson 37. 3rd Bev Ellender 37. Cat I. Steve Hopkins 39. 2nd Denis McCormack 35. 3rd Terry Fitzgerald 35. Best gross went to John O’Brien with a 77. 2nd overall Dave Mullet 40. The overall winner with 40 points was Robert Smith.

Nearest the pin in 2 on par 4, Bob Day 2 `s club not won on the day so carried forward Football card winners: John Goulder & Andy Trefry Thanks to Steve and his staff at the med bar and bistro for the lovely buffet provided, our next outing is at Altorreal on 10/4/18 Anyone wishing to join our society is welcome and we can either be contacted by e-mail at: medbargolf2016@gmail.com or pop into the bar where all details can be left and we will get in touch with you

We played the second round of the International League at Vistabella last week in almost gale force conditions. I must say that the new holes are a fantastic addition and on behalf of the players and the federation I would like to thank Joaquin and his staff for the use of the fine facilities.

144 brave souls started the day and despite the conditions the matches were very competitive with many of the games going to the last hole. Just to remind teams that in Categories 2 and 3 the top four sides qualify for the semi-final playoffs, so losing a game or two is not the end of possibly qualifying.

We have a waiting list in operation at the moment for membership at La Serena, however membership of The Celts is always available. If you would like information on joining our club or entering a team in any of the federation events why not send an e-mail to: johnobrienalicante@gmail.com or call 615 466 398?

El Raso Golf Society at Roda

Twenty-three members and three guests travelled to Roda on 30 March to play our monthly Stableford competition. We have not played this course for a couple of years and what a nice surprise. Not crowded and in good condition it was a pleasure to play this challenging course. Even though the blustery wind proved rather testing later in the afternoon.

Results were as follows: Best guest with 27 points was Felix Mallon. N.T.P on hole 7 was Kev Bonser and hole 11 was achieved by Steve Sayers. As no one managed to reach holes 2 and 13 in 1, a decision was made on a card draw with Kevin

Nearest the pins on par 3`s were John Goulder, Dave Capper, Andy Trefry

Williams and Gordon Bourne bagging the prizes. The best front nine with 17 points was won by Pete Cleaver and the best back nine was won by John Fairhurst with 20 points. Third with 33 points was Kev Bonser, whilst Glen Roberts came second with 35 points. The winner today was our Captain, Steve Sayers with 37 points.

After the game we travelled back to the Olde 9th on Quesada for presentations and welcoming refreshments provided by Grant and his staff.

La Marina GS Committee Trophy A fine warm day, with a few members donning shorts for the first time this year, as we met at Font del Llop to play for the Committee Trophy.

There were many excellent scores recorded with second place going to Tim Ruse on 38 points on count back over Frank Cullen.

However, the winner was Barry Thorogood with a brilliant total of 39 points.

Nearest the pins went to Roy Harris, Frank Cullen, guest Colin Berry and Roger Honey.

The two's pot was split 3 ways between Frank Cullen, Colin Berry and Bill Stobo.

Our next meeting is at Altorreal on April 12th, first tee 10.00 at a cost of 40 euros. List is on the board at the La Marina Sports Centre or contact secretary Alan Craig on 634 347 788 or by e-mail at a100ac@yahoo.co.uk.

Many thanks once again to Helena at the Sports Centre for our after match victuals.

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