The Costa Blanca Leader Newspaper

No 731

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

Tel: 637 227 385

Bouhanni claims maiden Vuelta victory in San Javier

a Vuelta rode into San Javier on Thursday evening where the French cyclist Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis) claimed his very first Vuelta win.

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A nervous stage 6 saw Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis) dominate a very tight sprint ahead of Danny Van Poppel (LottoNLJumbo) and Elia Viviani (Quick-Step Floors). The Frenchman claims his first Grand Tour victory since he took two on the Spanish Grand Tour in 2014. Rudy Molard (Groupama-FDJ) managed to

finish in a 50-man bunch to retain the red jersey.

On a day highlighted by many, as one of the few opportunities for sprinters to shine, three riders attacked from the start: Polka-dot jersey wearer Luis Angel Mate (Cofidis), Australian star Richie Porte (BMC Racing Team) and Spanish talent Jorge Cubero

(Burgos-BH). They already enjoyed a 3’20’’ lead at km 5, before Elia Vivianis’s QuickStep Floors and Giacomo Nizzolo’s Trek-Segafredo got into action alongside Rudy Molard’s Groupama-FDJ to control the gap around 3 minutes.

Continued on Page 2

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Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

Continued From Page One La Vuelta in San Javier Luis Angel Mate took the KOM points atop the cat3 Alto del Garrobillo, 93km away from the finish.

The peloton took it easier in the climb and the gap rose to 3’48’’ at the summit. But sprinters’ teams brought it back around 2 minutes with 80km to go.

Mate also summited first the cat-3 Alto Cedacero.

The gap was then up to 2’30’’ with 53km to go.

The pack maintained a tight leash on the attackers and their hopes of succeeding at San Javier were very slim with a gap down under 1 minute as the race under the last 45km. Jorge Cubero tried to go solo with 33km to go but he was reeled in only 4km later, as a nervous pack accelerated through the wind. A crash involving Fabio Felline (TrekSegafredo) split the bunch with 25km to go.

Thibaut Pinot (Groupama-FDJ) was at the back.

And Wilco Kelderman (Team Sunweb) suffered a mechanical 6km further.

Pinot and Kelderman’s teammates united their strength to try and limit the losses behind a front group reduced to about 30 riders. The gap was up to 1’40’’ with 8km to go and stabilised until the finish line, where Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis) edged another half dozen sprinters.

As we go to press on Sunday evening, at the end of stage 9, and prior to Monday’s rest day, Manchester’s Simon Yates enjoys a narrow 1 second lead in the general classification over local favourite Alejandro Valverde.

Meanwhile the exciting announcement last week that La Vuelta 2019 will start from Torrevieja. The Spanish Grand Tour will get underway with a time

trial although the exact routes of two further Costa Blanca stages have yet to be decided.

"It’s an area with very varied terrain and there are lots to choose from," said Vuelta director Javier Guillén during the press conference in Málaga at which he was accompanied by Eduardo Dolón, vice-president of the province of Alicante, and Juanjo Castelló, the deputy for sport.

“La Vuelta is not only about promoting sport, it is also a unique platform to display our most spectacular resorts to the whole world,” Dolón said. “We want to make the most of one of the most powerful tools that exists in the promotion of tourism. We can anticipate an economic benefit of around three million euros, taking into consideration all the preliminary events and the three stages,” he said.

Front page and image above: Lavuelta.com Image below: Gomez Sport. Words: Lavuelta/KR

trade-in/resale values will drastically plummet as nobody will want to buy them!

HERE WE GO AGAIN!!

Dear Editor, According to a newspaper article that I have just read this week, yet another pack of lies in the guise of 'Saving the Planet' is about to be inflicted on motorists in Spain. Apparently the Spanish government is planning to rip off owners of diesel engine vehicles with a tax increase to the tune of about 28% in the new year. How does anybody in their right mind honestly think that putting prices up produces significant reductions in usage? For example, if a worker needs to travel say 200 km per week to go to work, this isn't going to reduce.

It will still be 200kms!! Still the same amount of fuel!! Just more expenditure!

Changing over to a petrol engine will be extremely costly, especially as the amount of diesel engine vehicles that could suddenly be offered for trade-in to the dealerships would be enormous and the

Diesel engines use far less fuel than petrol engines. My own diesel car averages about 70mpg (25k/l); roughly double the amount a petrol engine would produce. I should think that the amount of particles my car is distributing is therefore probably no more than its petrol engine alternative as it uses lee fuel.

Then of course, we have public transport; buses, trains and most taxis as well as just about every lorry on the roads. All of these transport methods use diesel as it is the most efficient of the 2 main types of fuel. I assume that these vehicles will not be exempt from the proposed increases? If the prices also increase for them then it is fairly obvious that the costs to the general public will escalate to compensate the companies running these fleets.

I feel it is fairly safe to say that motorists use only a fraction of the total amount of diesel consumed so the savings. So the only 'winners' will be the government with all the extra tax money.

Yours Barry Weston

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Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

Row continues over Torrevieja Canine Beach T

orrevieja’s Local Police had to intervene on Sunday morning to calm down a confrontation between the users of the Cala del Moro Mal Paso canine beach and local residents, who continue to object to the use of their community beach by dogs.

Although the use of the beach was authorised by the city council, and confirmed by Elche courts, only last week the residents continue to protest at the decision stating that, as the occupants of adjacent properties they only come to the area in the summer season, and they are being deprived of the use of their beach.�

Following the court order that was published in accordance with the requirements of article 36.3 of the Beach Ordinance a large signpost was established on the beach declaring its authorisation for use by animals but as quickly as the signboard was erected it was just as swiftly torn down.

As such, on Sunday morning, members from the community of residents called the Local Police to complain that there were many users with dogs who were using the beach without authorisation.

According to eyewitnesses, the officers spoke to bathers who were accompanied by their dogs, while a number of the residents shouted abuse and threats toward the bathers.

It seems that neither the decree issued by the mayor in early summer, nor the imminent end of the holiday season, and not even the court ruling can prevent the conflict from continuing almost every day.

However the court has made it clear that, for now, their decision

The police say that they are unaware of the limits of the Canine Beach must be upheld, at least until the end of the high season in September when the merits and the arguments will be discussed by all parties once again What also continues to complicate the mediation work of the police is their ignorance as to the limits of the dog beach. In the case of Cala del Moro is it the whole stretch?

On Sunday, to avoid further conflicts, the police re-reserved that part of the beach area with sand and footbaths specifically for regular users and for the residents of the area in the hope that they could avoid any further conflict.

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Fire destroys forest close to Guadalest Firefighters and forest brigades have managed to stabilise many of the forest fires that threatened several towns in the Marina Alta and Baixa on Wednesday night, although almost 5 hectares of forest is said to have been destroyed, in the area between El Castell de Guadalest and Beniardà.

Now under control, at one point, three brigades from the Benidorm park and one from Benissa, as well as seven forest brigades with six fire engines from Benitatxell, Relleu, Xixona, Parcent, Torremanzanas, Tibi and Benissa were tackling the blaze. They were joined by two aircraft and a helicopter, all of which concentrated their efforts in the difficult to access municipality of Beniardà.

All of the outbreaks were in very steep areas where access on foot was far more difficult.

The initial fire was first reported in Beniardà, a small municipality very close to Guadalest. The mayor said that there were two outbreaks in the upper part of the mountain and far from populated areas in the Serrella and l'Aixortà mountain ranges.

The origin of the fire is unknown, although the fact that they occurred a distance of 3 kilometres apart suggests that they may have been caused intentionally.

Neglected state of Torrevieja athletics track

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ouncillor Miguel Cano Peña (PP), has publicly denounced the state of the municipal sports track saying that it has been completely neglected and abandoned by the current town council.

He said that he did not understand how "the municipal government, led by José Manuel Dolón, has let such outstanding facilities, which were once the envy of athletic clubs at a national level, “deteriorate to their current forsaken state, without appearing to care in the slightest."

The facility and its condition was previously denounced by the Partido Popular two years ago since when it has deteriorated to a state whereby it is now a danger to the athletes who use it - the poor condition of the artificial track, dirt and rubbish that can cause injury to athletes, broken glass, cracked and much, much more.

Photo: Alicante bomberos Twitter

The statement, which the PP sent to the media with more than 30 photographs, comes at a time when the government team plans to award a contract valued at more than 700,000€ for the complete renovation of the artificial turf of two of its football fields and the athletics track. According to the Councillor for Sports, Víctor Ferrández, the contract is close to being awarded so work should get underway in the next few weeks.

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Changing the clocks to be a thing of the past says EU President "People want it to happen so we will do it," said the EU President on Friday

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ean-Claude Juncker, the President of the European Union, said on Friday that the European Commission (EC) is to propose an end the change of winter time in the EU after analysing the results of a public consultation in which "millions" of people asked to maintain summer time all year round, "Millions of people have said that they do not want to keep changing the clocks, so the EC will do what they ask," Juncker said through the Twitter profile of one of his chief spokespersons, Mina Andreeva, Bulgarian Mina Andreeva is the chief spokesperson for the EU President

adding that the Commission will now present a legislative proposal.

Andreeva echoed the statements of the Luxembourg politician today on the morning program of the German public television station ZDF, in which he stated that he will defend the elimination of the change of time before the Commission.

"People want it and we will do it," he added.

"Millions of people have responded to the consultation and are of the opinion that summer time should remain in force in the future all year round, and so it will be," Juncker stressed. “What does not make sense is to ask people what they think and then not take their views into account�.

The clock change from summer time to winter time takes place occurs every year on the last weekend of October with clocks turned back one hour in all European Union (EU) countries.

Some 4.6 million Europeans from the 28 countries of the Union made their contributions through an online questionnaire. In the consultation, they were asked if they were in favour of eliminating the time changes that occur twice each year and, if so, if they would prefer to retain a winter or a summer schedule.

The purpose of the survey was to check whether the time change should take place, since the Commission received requests from Belgium and Germany that rejected the change altogether.

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Bluebird back home after Scottish Trials

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Following successful trials in which Bluebird K7 has hit speeds of around 150mph during tests in Scotland the record-breaking hydroplane is now back in its workshop in North Shields.

Engineers were testing Donald Campbell's Bluebird on the Isle of Bute, in which lead pilot Ted Walsh pushed it to around 150mph, however project boss Bill Smith said any attempts to break speed records would have been “incredibly foolish” given the boat’s history.

It’s taken over fifty years for Bluebird to return to water, after it flipped into the air and crashed into Coniston Water in 1967, killing Sir Donald Campbell, but with nothing further to prove the engineers called a halt to the tests after 11 days.

“We just wanted to know that she wasn’t filling up with water and about to land on the bottom with her tail fin sticking above the surface. “That’s all we wanted to see. We couldn’t wait to get it back out again,” Smith added.

He hinted that the historic boat could become a regular visitor to the island, now that the test runs are over.

“I’d come back and do it every year,” he said.

Jaguar Land Rover’s virtual eyes Intelligent pods make ‘eye contact’ with pedestrians to signal intent Jaguar Land Rover has fitted ‘virtual eyes’ to intelligent pods to understand how humans will trust self-driving vehicles, as research studies suggest that as many as 63% of pedestrians worry about how safe it will be to cross the road in the future.

The friendly-faced ‘eye pods’ have a vital job: helping work out how much information future self-driving cars should share with users or pedestrians to ensure that people trust the technology.

As part of the engineering project, Jaguar Land Rover has enlisted the help of a team of cognitive psychologists to better understand how vehicle behaviour affects human confidence in new technology. The trust trials form part of Jaguar Land Rover’s government-supported UK Autodrive project.

The intelligent pods run autonomously on a fabricated street scene in Coventry, while the behaviour of pedestrians is analysed as they wait to cross the road. The ‘eyes’ have been devised by a team of advanced engineers, working in Jaguar Land Rover’s Future Mobility division. The pods seek out the pedestrian - appearing to ‘look’ directly at them - signalling to road users that it has identified them, and intends to take avoiding action.

Engineers record trust levels in the person before and after the pod makes ‘eye contact’ to find out whether it generates sufficient confidence that it would stop for them. Previous studies suggest as many 63% of pedestrians and cyclists say they’d feel less safe sharing the road with a self-driving vehicle*.

Safety remains the number one priority as Jaguar Land Rover invests in self-driving technology, becoming automotive leaders in autonomous, con-

nected, electric and shared mobility. The trial is aligned with the brand’s long-term strategic goals: to make cars safer, free up people’s valuable time and improve mobility for everyone.

Pete Bennett, Future Mobility Research Manager at Jaguar Land Rover, said: “It’s second-nature to glance at the driver of the approaching vehicle before stepping into the road. Understanding how this translates in tomorrow’s more automated world is important.

“We want to know if it is beneficial to provide humans with information about a vehicle’s intentions or whether simply letting a pedestrian know it has been recognised is enough to improve confidence.”

The trials are part of a wider study exploring how future connected and autonomous vehicles can replicate human behaviour and reactions when driving. As part of the study, more than 500 test subjects have been studied interacting with the self-driving pods, designed by UK Autodrive partner Aurrigo.

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‘ Tw i t t e rs f ro m t h e A t l a n t i c ’ 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.

It’s a Crazy, Crazy Expat August

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he usual August madness has swept across Spain with a vengeance. First of all, it was ‘refreshing’ to see that the reliable Swedish emporium of all things good and wholesome, namely Ikea, haven’t lost their sense of humour in marketing a lavatory brush given the appealing name of ‘Farage’.

Sadly, Ikea has since disassociated itself from the toilet brush story and claims it is ‘fake news’, but all is not lost since they are selling a doormat under the name of ‘Borris’, which is the name of a small town in Denmark.

It is a great pity about the loo brush though, since I rather like the idea of turning the name ‘Farage’ into a verb and would quite enjoy “faraging” the loo. Forgive me, but I am having an August moment, and I promise that I won’t mention the table (strong and stable) sold under the name of Theresa… Whilst we are on the subject of Ikea, I just wish one could get a decent cup of coffee there and not a mug of luke-warm sludge that appears to have been left over from the weekend. Yes, I know it is cheap, but I really shouldn’t have to strain it through my teeth...

There was the amazing and heart-warming story of the British expat living in Spain (now given the name, ‘Eileen Dover’) who ‘fell off’ a cruise ship during a spin across the Adriatic and spent ten hours in the sea. I will dare to ask the obvious question that BBC reporters carefully omitted from their interview, but everyone really wanted to ask. Was the poor woman so tanked up with gin and tonics that she just slipped off the edge of the ship, or was she pushed? Sorry, it may seem an indelicate question, but I just need to know.

In any case, despite thinking that after ten hours bobbing around in the Adriatic she would look rather like a prune, she looked in remarkably good condition and seemed to be very perky when chatting to the press. Maybe I shouldn’t suggest that she looked as if she had returned home after a really good night out with the girls, but I will. Anyway, I am delighted that she was rescued and appears to be making a good recovery from her ordeal. Clearly, she kept well away from sharks.

Some Spanish resorts are so fed up with British holidaymakers that they are posting advertisements and Twitter posts urging tourists to jump off balconies. “Balconing is Fun” the posters declare.

Balconing involves jumping into a swimming pool from a hotel or

apartment balcony, or climbing from one balcony to another.

These sick posters and tweets mock the deaths of tourists engaging in a sport that is apparently growing in popularity amongst some mainly young and impressionable British holidaymakers. This activity often results in an unpleasant death or very serious injury, so is a very unkind way to get the message across.

A different approach to unthinking and inebriated holidaymakers is currently being considered by the regional government of the Balearic Islands. The good people of Mallorca, Ibiza and Minorca are so fed up with the chaos that many British tourists bring to their beautiful islands, that they are proposing to ban ‘all inclusive’ drinks, which is a thoughtful alternative to suggesting that holidaymakers jump off their balconies. Maybe this will help to curb Brits from being over enthusiastic drinkers during their holiday?

Somehow, I have my doubts that this will work, but it is a kinder alternative.

The story of the elderly British holidaymaker staying in a Benidorm hotel also hit the headlines this month. This holidaymaker did not enjoy her sea, sun and sangria, and reportedly complained that the hotel had too many Spanish holidaymakers staying there and why couldn’t they holiday somewhere else? “I’m not a racist”, she firmly declared. Surprisingly, the tour operator gave her a refund; personally, I would give her a map and point out that Benidorm is in Spain and not the UK. Maybe she had lost her glasses and had planned to holiday in Blackpool instead?

Ryanair also deserves a mention, since an Irish holidaymaker, frustrated following a four-and-a-half-hour delay from Spain, refused to pay for a small tub of Pringles and a bottle of water for his stressed and over tired five-year-old daughter, and was threatened with arrest when they landed.

The passenger was entitled to a compensation voucher that would easily have covered the cost of the water and Pringles if he had remembered to collect it from the departure lounge, but he was more concerned about his young daughter. An announcement was made to

tagestruck, has been running very successfully for a number of years, but in the last 12 months their Director, Leigh Humphries, has been poorly, and although she has made a good recovery, decided it was time to step down.

‘I am honoured to be taking on this group of love-

At first it seemed the group might fold, but a few weeks ago Suzanne Stokes stepped into the breach, and now the Christmas Pantomime is back on track.

of fun, and although this is a more ‘adult’ panto,

Suzanne, who has a lifetime of theatre experience and started Dramatic Licence back in 2005, rewrote the script for Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood to bring it up to date, and now rehearsals are underway.

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by Barrie Mahoney ‘Going Large’ with Kevin and Perry in Ibiza

One tragic incident took place this month when a 20-year-old British holidaymaker tried to “take a poo” over the edge of his balcony before plunging six floors and landing on his head. At the time of writing, the young man remains in a critical condition.

Stagestruck under new management

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ly people and delighted at the talent they are displaying at rehearsal’ said Suzanne. ‘Watching The Sherriff of Nottingham sing Elvis Presley’s Trouble was priceless. Already we are having a lot all the elements are there. So if you want to see Theresa and Boris as the Babes, and Merkela (call me Angie) as the wicked witch, watch out for more publicity in the coming weeks.’

Stagestruck make massive donations to the Alzheimer’s Associations from all their shows at the Teatro Cardenal Belluga in San Fulgencio

the entire cabin that police would deal with him upon arrival. The airline rightly commented that they “do not tolerate unruly, disruptive or unlawful behaviour”. Ryanair, please remember to apply this edict on my next Ryanair flight when I am surrounded by abusive and inebriated passengers.

At least EasyJet had the good sense to cancel a flight to Spain at the last minute when they decided that their Belfast crew was too tired to fly to Mallorca. Right, let us all remember that in August, if we are too tired, it is OK not to turn up for work. That goes for doctors, nurses, supermarket staff and hotel receptionists. Clearly, they are sensible people at EasyJet. Francisca (centre) with There is never a dull moment when watching the Brits at play in her wonderful troupe Spain during the month of August. Spain is the number one choice for holidays for many Brits and it is easy to see why. The carefree lifestyle, relatively cheap flights and accommodation, easy and cheap access to alcohol and drugs (if you must), beautiful beaches, endless sunshine and friendly locals all add up to a winning combination.

The behaviour of Brits on holiday is often hilarious, sometimes embarrassing and occasionally very sad. Soon, August will be over and we can all get back to normal.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at my websites: http://barriemahoney.com and http://thecanaryislander.com or read my latest book, ‘Living in Spain and the Canary Islands’ (ISBN: 9780995602724). Available in paperback, as well as Kindle editions. Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

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Benidorm Palace Variety Show

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n Sunday evening, 23rd September, The AECC and The Royal British Legion will be presenting The Palace Variety Show, live at the Benidorm Palace.And what a superb lineup

will be on display.

Former Prison Officer, Sam Bailey, the winner of the tenth series of X Factor tops the bill. Since winning the show, during which Gary Barlow described her voice as “incredible,” Sam has had a Christmas Number One single, supported Beyonce on her UK tour, appeared as Mama Morton in the UK tour of Chicago and even released her autobiography “Daring to Dream.” Next year she will be taking over from Toyah Willcox in the cast of Vampires Rock, the most successful classic rock show ever.

Sam will be supported by another X Factor finalist, Jake Quickenden who also went on to finish as the Runner Up in “Im a Celebrity” 4 years ago, before winning “Dancing on Ice” earlier this year.

Irish comedian, and former Butlins Redcoat, Jimmy Cricket will be providing the humour on theis charity show. People dont appreciate just how much charity work that Jimmy does, so much in fact that in 2015 he was actually awarded a Papal Knighthood by Pope Francis.

And of course there will be no shortage of local talent on the show that has been put together, and will be compered by another great supporter of local charities, our own Stevie Spit.

Tickets for the show are 33 euros, including chicken or fish and chips, but if you don’t want to drive The Royal British Legion will be laying on a coach which will depart La Zenia Boulevard Car Park at 4.30 pm on the 23rd, returning directly after the show. It will also pick up and drop off at selected venues around the local area.

The cost of the RBL coach, including ticket and meal, which is open to anyone at all, is 45 euro per person. Seats can be booked by calling Kevin Reardon on 600 228 616 or by email: orihuelacosta.chairman@gmail.

If you already have your ticket you can still reserve the transport and join us on the coach for just 15 euro pp.

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Alicante School Year School will get underway once again in Alicante Province next Monday, September 10. The year will run through to Thursday June 20, 2019 for children in Primary and Infant, and Tuesday June 18, for those in Secondary and Vocational training.

Students of Infant and Primary will have a total of 180 school days and those of Secondary, ESO, Bachillerato and Vocational, 178.

The Christmas holiday period will be from December 24 to January 6, both days included while the Easter holidays will be from April 18 to 29, again, both days are also included.

Further public holidays on October 9, October 12, November 1, December 6, March 19 and May 1.

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The ‘Black Widow’ detained in prison Murdered after just two weeks of marriage Conchi, the wheelchair bound woman and her carer, who were both detained last week in Alicante for the murder of her husband of just 2 weeks, have been remanded in custody by the Alicante court of Instruction number, 8 subject to their appearance later in the year at the Superior

However, this version does not appear in the official proceedings where she simply accepts her right not to testify.

It is understood, however, that the 69-year-old pensioner's wife told two women with whom she shared a cell in Fontcalent prison, that there were economic interests behind the crime because he had won on EuroMillions. One of he cellmates further stated that when they were in the police cells Conchi told her "keep what we have talked about to yourself".

Sources close to the investigation have said that the victim's wife recently took 25,000 euros from the bank, 10,500 euros of which was loaned to the

The murder took place less than 2 weeks ago when the 69 year old victim went to Alicante after being invited to a "romantic dinner" by his wife, but in reality it was an assignation that cost him his life.

The pair had been married for just two weeks.

He was stabbed to death by his wife, Conchi, a 45year-old wheelchair bound woman, and her carer,

a 58-year-old man, but the assault was witnessed by an off duty national policewoman who ran to the pensioner’s aid whilst calling for police assistance. Agents from the Motorcycle Group of the Provincial Civil Security Brigade were quickly on the scene where the couple were overpowered and subsequently arrested.

At the court appearance on Tuesday the lawyer for the family, Aitor Prieto, said that the motive for the murder remains unclear, but he was confident that it will be established by the police and the court.

In addition, he said that the family has several lines of research and in the end they will know the truth. He added that the family of the victim is "hurt and dismayed because they have lost a loved one and they want justice."

Join Campoverde churchgoers at the Rio Seco

On Sunday September 9 at 6pm Campoverde Church will be holding their regular Sunday service in the Rio Seco Chapel. The Rio Seco in Campoverde is the most beautiful of settings and in the little open air chapel you can’t help but feel closer to God. Having the opportunity to join with others in singing, praying, listening to the Word of the Lord and sharing Holy Communion all goes to make the experience even more special. The service will be conducted by Father Richard Seabrook and music will be provided by Mike Shail. Everyone is most welcome to join with Campoverde Church in this celebration. Further details from maggieruthdew@hotmail.com.

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Counillors and council staff outside the Orihuela Town Hall

Bulgarian Partner confesses to Orihuela woman’s murder T

Neither of the two accused was prepared to give a statement and clarify the motive of the murder.

However, Conchi, 45, did say before leaving the courthouse that her husband owed her money, referring to a euromillions ticket which she then refused to clarify.

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deceased, an account that the family and the friend of the victim who lent his van denied.

Conchi being carried into the court by officers prior to her hearing

Court of Justice.

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he 60-year-old woman died on Tuesday when she was strangled, allegedly at the hands of her partner, in a rural district of Orihuela. When he eventually called the emergency services, in order to confess to the crime, sources say that she had been dead for at least 8 hours.

The alleged murderer is said to be a 57-year-old Bulgarian, and although he reported his partners’ strangulation by phone, on the arrival of police, and during his arrest, he refused to make any further statement.

The call was made at approximately 7.45pm and although it was thought that the woman had only recently died, the forensic examination determined that the

woman had been dead for more than eight hours.

The murder took place in a twostory detached house located in the village of La Buena Vida in the hamlet of Orihuela de Desamparados, and when the agents and the ambulance arrived, it was only possible to confirm the woman’s death.

Investigators believe that the woman had said that she was considering a separation from the man, with whom she had been living for 20 years, although she was not currently in a position to do so, because she was suffering from an illness and had no work or financial resources.

The alleged perpetrator has been

detained in custody prior to his appearance before the Orihuela of Instruction 2 of Orihuela, which deals particularly with violence against women in the city.

The deceased had not filed any previous complaint against her partner, and neither had neighbours had heard fights or raised voices. The death is the first sexist violence of the year in the Valencian Community, and the 28th in the country in 2018.

Following on from the death, on Wednesday, members of the Orihuela Council turned out, together with municipal employees, to pay their respect with a minute’s silence on the steps of the council offices in Orihuela City and Playa Flamenca.

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30,000 farmers unable to use water from Torrevieja Desalination Plant With a production capacity of 240,000 m3 /d the Torrevieja Desalination Plant is the largest facility among the planned desalination plants in Spain’s “Plan Agua” as well as the largest in Europe and the second-largest in the world using osmosis technology

A

lthough the government has spent 350 million euros on the infrastructure of the Torrevija desalination plant, over 80% of the flow serves farmers in Murcia

In September 2004, Zapatero's government presented the desalination program as the great alternative to the transfer of water from the Ebro. The plan was aimed at achieving an improvement in the management and reuse of water, contributing to a better quality of water, as well as the associated ecosystems and increasing the supply of water resources.

Fourteen years later, the macro-desalination plant in Torrevieja still cannot supply water to more than 30,000 farmers in the Alicante province.

The recent announcement by Red Eléctrica that it is now in a position to equip the desalination plant in Torrevieja with energy to treat 80 hm3 of salt water from the sea will hardly have an impact on the agricultural sector of the province, because the plant has no pipeline connections with 80% of farmers, including the ‘Community of Irrigation of Levante’ that farms over 30,000 hectares that manages 20,000 farmers, as well as another 10,000 farmers from other communities.

At the time the Ministry of the Environment did not connect the pipeline from the plant to the Crevillent reservoir, into which the water from the Tajo's transfer arrives.

Four years after its eventual start-up and after a cost of 350 million euros, the desalination plant is only able to send irrigation water to the Cartagena area, to Orihuela and to two small communities in the Segura.

Amongst the farming communities that cannot receive water from the Torrevieja plant are those in Elche, Alicante, Santa Pola, San Juan, El Campello, Crevillent and Mutxamel, which, although it has its own desalination plant costing 93 million euros, can produce 18 hm3 per year, but only of drinking water.

Until now, the ‘Community of Irrigation of Levante’, with it’s headquarters in Elche, has been able to weather the storm thanks to a special authorisation from the Confederation of Júcar that allows it to buy desalinated water from Agua Amarga, the plant owned by the Mancomunidad del Taibilla. However that authorisation will expire on 30th September at the end of the hydrological year.

Javier Berenguer, the President of Riegos de Levante, said "We now need a definitive solution that involves securing water from the Tajo's transfer, a concession of purified water from the Rincón de León plant in Alicante and, of course, a connection with the Torrevieja plant. However farmers from the Alicante Province continue to insist that they must first secure water from the Tajo with that from the Torrevieja desalination plant as a supplement.

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Seven kilometres north of Benidorm with the N-332 running through the town, is Altea, known by some as the artists’ capital of the Costa Blanca.

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The parish church, is dedicated to the Virgen del Consuelo (Our Lady of Solace)

The narrow winding streets of the Old Town of Altea are filled with galleries and workshops of the potters, artists and craftsmen who have found Altea’s peacefulness and tranquility a paradise in which to work and open their shops and stalls which are scattered throughout the Old Town and in the summer months there are nightly handicraft markets in the Plaza.

Altea itself is extremely picturesque with the blue and white dome of the church being one of the symbolic images of the Costa Blanca.

The town is situated on a hill and it is a good place to start a visit to Altea.

The parochial church, constructed at the beginning of the last century, is dedicated to the Virgen del Consuelo (Our Lady of Solace) and adjacent to the church is the Plaza which is located at the highest point. From there you can obtain views of the Mediterranean and the town’s crooked streets below. Altea is renowned as having the largest street market on the Costa Blanca and is sited on the promenade every Tuesday from 8.30am until 1pm and is certainly worth at least one visit.

During the time that the town was under Muslim domination it belonged to the Taifa de Denia and was conquered by Jaime I in 1244. The Alteanos who then left their primitive village, known today as the Old Town, sought refuge and protection in the tower castle and eventually they were re-housed in their present location at the top of the hill.

At that time the town was walled and parts of these old walls still remain. The charming Old Town offers the visitor a wonderful glimpse of its history as you wander through its narrow crooked streets flanked by whitewashed houses.

To the north of the town is the luxury development of Altea Hills.

On the edge of the woodlands between this urbanisation and the N332 you will find a huge Russian Orthodox wooden church bedecked in gold and built by a Russian entrepreneur in 2007.

The Church of Saint Michael the Archangel (San Miguel Arcangel)

can be visited every morning and in the early evening at weekends.

It is locked outside of mass times but you can still get a glimpse through the door if your timing is off. The iconography and magnificent gold work inside is something to behold.

Being by the sea Altea boasts not one but two ports or harbours.

One, the old fishing harbour also has facilities for the sailing fraternity. The somewhat newer port, is a Sports Harbour and is situated on the Calpe side of Altea, and one can often see a range of impressive yachts and sports boats at their moorings.

The palm lined promenade leading towards Albir village is a long and popular seafront venue with bars and restaurants stretching out on their open air terraces and here during the summer you can, if you wish, have a self portrait completed whilst you have dinner as it is here that many of the artists of the area sell their paintings and handicrafts.

Altea has a beach of approximately 6km with cliffs alternating with shingled bathing areas. The main beach, Playa de Cap Blanch, is located to the south and runs to join the beach at Albir. The Playa de Cap Negret, is a shingled beach ending in a small cove with black pebbles called the Cala del Soio and is to the north of the town.

The narrow streets are flanked by whitewashed houses.

The Church of Saint Michael the Archangel

Thirdly there is Lólla a popular beach situated opposite a small island of the same name. Altea ends in the Mascarat Point where more shingled coves are located.

Whilst there is a degree of new development in Altea it has not overtaken or destroyed its original charm and beauty.

Whilst in Altea a visit to the busy resort of Benidorm must also be on the cards and apart from the Terra Mitica theme park you may also want to visit the Aqualandia water park, its sister park the Mundomar Marine and Exotic Animal Park and also Terra Natura Animal Park.

For entertainment and shows Benidorm cannot be beaten and a huge range of possibilites are on offer, as would be expected for a resort that attracts over 4 million visitors every year and is now the busiest coastal attraction in Europe.

Other places to visit around Altea include - Calpe and its stunning rock formation Peñon de Ifach, Moraira a relatively unspoilt town, Denia, medieval Castell de Guadalest, the lovely Gallinera Valley, and the waterfalls at Fuentes de Algar.

Altea weather is generally sunny and warm with infrequent rainfall, hot summers and mild winters

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday, 6th September at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, 8th September at 5:00 p.m.

I, Tonya A funny and oddly affecting fresh take on an old tabloid tale.

Competitive ice skater, Tonya Harding, rises amont the ranks at the US Skating Championships, but her future in the sport is thrown into doubt when her boyfriend intervenes.

Cast: Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, Allison Janney Dur: 2h 01 min | Drama, Comedy, Sports

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000913:

000909:

NEW INSTRUCTION

NEW INSTRUCTION

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14

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Abstruse; 5 Sped; 9 Bald; 10 Wavering; 11 Major; 12 Dribble; 13 Consciousness; 18 Arranged; 19 Club; 20 Abolish; 21 Ledge; 22 Else; 23 Transfer.

DOWN: 2 Bravado; 3 Tedious; 4 Stand together; 6 Pliable; 7 Digress; 8 Remiss; 13 Charade; 14 Nervous; 15 Candid; 16 Nucleus; 17 Snuggle.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Evidence; 5 Acid; 9 Alas; 10 Spurious; 11 Curie; 12 Tripper; 13 General stores; 18 Absolved; 19 Scab; 20 Dormant; 21 Crate; 22 Dame; 23 Presence.

DOWN: 2 Vulture; 3 Despite; 4 Capital letter; 6 Cropper; 7 Deserts; 8 Artist; 13 Guarded; 14 Nostrum; 15 Reload; 16 Observe; 17 Elastic.

Melbourne Australia, 18. Dance,

in

English coins, 16. Brown, 17.

Coliseum, 7. Airports, Rome, Tel

China, 14. Full of Woe, 15. Old

page - Recto right page, 5. Rule, 6.

Argentina, 13. Pottery Porcelain

2. Spider, 3. Christopher Lee, 4. Left

MTB or MotorTorpedo Boat, 12.

1. Punch - originally 5 ingredients,

Alice

QUIZ ANSWERS

which city are you?

18. You have a foursome and a shag what have you done?

19. What peoples name literally translates as ordinary?

20. What are the Anatolian, Atacama, Nafud and Zirreh?

21. Who rode a horse called Lamri?

22. Hera in Greece, Juno in Rome, Goddesses of what?

23. In Japan what is an obi?

24. What is unusual about The lake of Monteith in Scotland?

25. Which tree is sacred to Apollo (Daphne changed into one)?

26. What are Blur Crow, Brimstone, Owl and Ringlet types of?

27. If a male ass is a Jackass what is a female called?

28. What are Luster, Moreen, Mungo and Nankeen types of?

29. In George Orwell's "Animal Farm", what type of animal was Muriel?

30. What does an icthyophage do?

8.

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.

1. What popular party drink gets its name from Sanskrit meaning Five?

2. What type of creature is an Orb Weaver?

3. Whose autobiography was called Tall Dark and Gruesome?

4. In publishing what is the verso?

5. The British Raj in India lasted 90 years what does Raj literally mean?

6. What ancient buildings name means "Place for a Giant"?

7. What links Ciampino, Lod and Waalhaven?

8. John Tenniel drew the illustrations for what famous book?

9. Only two north American Indian tribes with three letters Wea and?

10. Admiral Horatio Nelson lost his arm at which battle?

11. In WW2 what was the British equivalent of the German E-Boat?

12. International car registration letters what country is RA? 13. Of what are Bristol, Rockingham, Chelsea, and Minton types?

14. According to the rhyme what's the fate of Wednesdays child?

15. What are or were Tester, Royal, Mark and Noble?

16. Bistre, Sorrel and Vandyke are shades of which colour?

17. If you were watching cricket at The Outer in

Rotterdam,

Solution on Page 22

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

Aviv,

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Self-important (7) Shaft (7) Claw (5) Scent (7) Jet (5) Generate (5) Insult (9) Recompense (7) Parcel (7) Feign (7) Chastise (5) Guffaw (5) Inane (5)

they are types of dance, 19. Maori,

DOWN 1. The stance of various troupes (7) 2. Fields mowed as ordered (7) 3 . Purport to be a singer (5) 4 . Money at the top of the column (7) 5. Frequently decimal? (5) 6. Bore with repetitious training exercises? (5) 9. Food made from stale lamb? (9) 14. Servicemen sorting out the remains (7) 15. Air-raid people doing conflict studies? (7) 16. Churchmen going round in circles? (7) 19. It may keep light away from heads somehow (5) 20. I change the rent by not moving (5) 21. Cower when getting the bird? (5)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

9.

14.

15.

16.

19.

20.

21.

Wonderland, 9. Fox, 10. Tenerife, 11.

ACROSS 7. It may remove the cap of the first batsman (6) 8. The boss put the mistake right (6) 10. Creature found in old pate? (7) 11. Delia could be perfect (5) 12. Arguments concerning lines (4) 13. In which you'll find maps of the mountains (5) 17. Boat that rights itself when capsized (5) 18 . Some fearless nobleman (4) 22. Language of the Chindits (5) 23. Clean up Arundel? (7) 24. English county sorted out (6) 25. Instance of eating out? (6)

ACROSS 7.

Parentless child (6) 8.

Mood (6) 10. Bridge (7) 11. Compel (5) 12. Unsightly (4) 13. Dwarf (5) 17. Emulsion (5) 18. Just (4) 22. Amulet (5) 23. Bauble (7) 24. Saga (6) 25. Watchword (6)

The Goat, 30. Eats Fish 27. Jenny, 28. Material or fabric, 29.

Lochs, 25. Laurel, 26. Butterflies, like a belt, 24. Only one, the rest are Childbirth, 23. A wide Sash worn 20. Deserts, 21. King Arthur, 22.

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¡Residencia! All your questions answered What is it exactly?

even a bus pass…

“Getting residencia” is when you register as a resident in Spain with the Spanish national police (extranjería or local police station).

During the process you will be assigned a NIE (número de identificación extranjero) in other words a foreigner’s ID number. You will also be given a green credit card size certificate that you will need to have on you at all times while in Spain.

And there are even more advantages.

If you have an A4 size green residency certificate, you have already registered as a resident. If you registered over 5 years ago, you can ask for permanent residency status. Permanent residents have more secured rights for the future, such as the right to access healthcare (please see here for information).

Do you already have a NIE, but it’s on a white piece of paper?

Sorry to say but you have not registered as a resident. You will need to register as such with the National Police as soon as possible if you are living in Spain.

When do you need to get it?

Spanish law states that you should do it within the first three months of having moved to Spain. If you haven’t done it yet, complete the process as soon as possible.

What do you need to bring?

For EU nationals, it is quite straight forward. You will need to bring proof of healthcare cover ( such an S1 form or confirmation of the convenio especial, or a work contract) and proof of income (e.g. proof of pension). Please go to your nearest extranjería or police office for the complete list of all supporting documents. You can also find this list on the Spanish Ministry of the Interior’s website here (information in Spanish).

Why do you need it?

Apart from it being the law, you will be asked for your NIE anytime you need to carry out official transactions such as registering for healthcare (e.g. S1 form), social security, getting a bank account, or

Having residencia secures your healthcare for the future. Did you know that when you have been registered as a resident for at least five years, you can then apply for permanent residency? Once you have that, you will always be covered for healthcare in Spain just like a Spanish resident. Please see residency-based healthcare for more information.

Is being on the padron the same or just as good as being registered as a resident?

No. Being registered as a resident means that you have secured your rights as a resident in Spain. You have registered on a national register.

Being registered on the padron means that you have registered with your local town hall and municipality. This means you have secured your rights to access local services. You have also secured funding for your council so they can provide those services.

You need to register on both.

How do I start?

Please be aware that you will probably need to make an appointment (cita previa) in order to register. In some areas there are month long waiting lists so please start the procedure as soon as possible. You

can make an appointment to apply for residency, or to move onto permanent residency here.

Does it seem complicated?

If you are worried about the process you can hire a translator, a gestor or get a Spanish speaker to go along with you. If you live in an area where there are many foreigners or other British nationals the town hall can help you out too.

If you have any further queries on the above, you can contact the team: healthcare.spain@fco.gov.uk

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Samaritans in Spain - Simons Story “As a man, it is difficult to open up about the way you feel.”

I

n 2003, Simon noticed changes in the way he was feeling. He had been struggling with depression. Worried about what people might be thinking of him, he avoided going out and meeting his friends.

His GP diagnosed him with agoraphobia and referred him to a mental health team. But he was still struggling to cope, Simon explains: As a man, it is still difficult to open up about the way you feel. It isn’t 'manly' to share your feelings. The trouble is, for men who are battling depression, this expectation can be damaging. If you carry on bottling things up, overtime they will overwhelm you.

"I spent the best part of a decade feeling alone with the way that I was feeling. I think this is part of the reason why I would feel suicidal. These thoughts and feelings lead me to attempt to take my own life on more than one occasion."

He says: "I heard of Samaritans and I knew that they were there to listen. But before I called them, I didn’t realise what a positive impact their support would have on my life.

"I explained that I was thinking about taking my own life. He wanted me to walk to the branch to meet face to face. The thought of this was so overwhelming - it took me everything just to leave the front

door.

Simon says that with hindsight, he should have reached out to Samaritans sooner.

"The volunteer remained on the phone with me until I was just a short walk from the front door. I was welcomed with a warm smile, before sitting down to talk about what was making me feel so down and depressed.

"Knowing that there is someone there, has improved my quality of life. I no longer feel alone, with nobody to understand. The day I chose to get in touch with Samaritans, I took back some control."

Simon says that with hindsight, he should have reached out to Samaritans sooner. He hopes that by sharing his story, fewer men will suffer in silence: "You can call them on any given day, at any time of day or night."

The RBL in Murcia

he Royal British Legion had a mixed recruitment and Community Support stand at a local fiesta at Camposol in Murcia which is near Mazaron.

T

As you can see it is not just about the Legion members now, but about having fun with the next generation of members. Snap rulers did big business!

Such a lot was achieved in four hours, over one hundred contacts with members of the public as well as 36 people donating funds to the cause.

Pam also got chance to promote TRBL on a local radio station and she is going to talk further on Community Support, including a breakfast club for veterans locally, poppy launch and what is happening locally with Steve the branch chairman.

Lots of information was given out to all who approached the stall about both the Branch and all aspects of Community Support.

Five membership joining forms were given out and the contact details taken of those people to keep in touch.

Two people offered to become Poppy Coordinators as the branch currently doesn’t have one, including a couple who were only in Spain for five weeks and were Poppy Coordinators at their last branch.

Lots of contacts were made locally and lots of information about the branch meetings were given out, the branch meets at both Camposol and Calasparra.

If you are interested in the Murcia Branch please contact; Steve Carne, Branch Chairman: murcia.chairman@rbl.community Lynn Symonds, Branch Secretary murcia.secretary@rbl.community If you wish to talk about help and assistance or just want a chat contact Pam on 676 451 780.

Outside of these hours contact the UK call centre 7 days a week 8.00-20.00 on 0044 (0)2033768080 (full rate applies) spainnorth.communitysupport@rbl.community Pamela Twissell-Cross District Community Support Coordinator

It’s SHOW TIME

Hi you theatre goers. Our production of SHOW TIME, starts on the 19th, 20th,and 21st of September 2018, a family show of dancing, singing and comedy, at the New Cardenal Belluga theatre, starting at 7-30pm.

Tourist Office & Council Offices on the La Marina Urb, Marina Cards & More, also The Post in Benijofar or call SUE: 966 713 822, PAM: 966 796 828 / or LINDA: 966 712 089/(M) 648 524 372. Tickets are 7euro and are going fast.

Tickets available at various outlets as follows:

Proceeds will go to local charities.

AECC back in business at Playa Flamenca The AECC office reopens after the summer break on Monday September 3rd, where the team are available from 10am till 1pm Monday to Friday, for booking appointments for check-ups, mammograms, smear tests, prostate checks and skin cancer examinations, and to help with any concerns or questions about Cancer.

The office is downstairs in The Playa Flamenca Beach CC, close to The Supercor supermarket and next to The Lansdowne Bar. The team also man an enquiry desk in The Boulevard every Monday from 12.00 till 2.00pm.

The office telephone number is 965 32 9841, and all information is available on our website: pinkladies.es There are lots of enjoyable and exciting events planned for the new campaign which will be announced in good time.

Maria and The Pink Ladies want to thank everyone for their continued generous support.

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Milk Allergy My grandson almost died this week.

He’s ten years old and he’s allergic to dairy products. This doesn’t mean he gets a few spots or a bit wheezy. It means full blown anaphylaxis.

He was on a day out in London with his Mum and some friends and they went into a restaurant they have used before.

My daughter had brought him a packed lunch, but he wanted a burger, so they explained his problem to the restaurant staff. But someone had clearly thought ‘Ah, a burger with no cheese’ and removed the cheese from the meat.

The result was catastrophic. He couldn’t breathe, he told his distraught mother he was dying – he went bright red, came out in a rash.

Fortunately the paramedics arrived in time to save him. He was rushed to St. Thomas’s hospital and kept under close observation until late evening.

Yes, normally they have an epipen with them, but as they had brought his food, and didn’t expect his to eat out, it had been left behind, though fortunately my daughter had liquid anti histamine.

So, this is my plea to all restaurant owners. If someone says they have an allergy, take it seriously.

It means they react to food at a molecular level. If you have handled cheese and then a burger bun, you will make them ill, or worse.

It may be a bit inconvenient to you, but think how it feels to live – or die - with it.

By Email Name and details withheld

Volunteer Tutors are wanted to teach English & Spanish Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced classes on Monday and Wednesday afternoons at the Drop In Centre to cover for our former Tutor who is in UK caring for her 94 Mother.

These classes are a great success and very popular.

The positions are voluntary but expenses are paid for travel to a from the Centre.

If you have a few hours a week to spare to help your International neighbours learn Spanish or English who are moving to Orihuela Costa, please contact by email to: oc.communitycare@gmail.com.

Classes could start from 10 September if we find a lovely Tutor to cover for two months or more, otherwise we will have to wait, but in the meantime, we have 60 plus Members all waiting and eager to learn Spanish Beginners.

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

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18

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Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford CMax Diesel which is on Special Offer priced at just 15,499 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

The biggest and best for price, choice and quality.

Clasicos Legendarios have the following used vehicles for sale: Jaguar XKR 2007. 115.000KM. LHD. Convertible.

Black/ Magnolia leather. Extras including polybushes, milltek brakes and modified exhaust €27.500 Jaguar XFR. 29.000KM. LHD. White/Black leather. Very desirable car. Like brand new. €37.000 Jaguar XKR 2001. 27.000KM. LHD. British racing green/magnolia leather. Like brand new. €22.950 Jaguar XJS 4.0L 1995. Low KM. LHD. Convertible. €23.995 Jaguar XJS V12 5.3L. 1988.

159.000KM. RHD. Black/Grey leather. Rare collectable car. €17.995 Jaguar S-Type 2.5L V6 230.000KM. RHD. Anthracite (blue-grey). Impeccable condition. €3.000 Triumph TR4. Sold as is. For complete restoration. €7.000Visit our showroom in Redovan on Poligono San Carlos or call 965 030 924

Social and Clubs The next monthly meeting of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 20th September at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras start-

ing at 7.30pm. All are welcome to join us for an evening of camaraderie and good company.

RNA - The Royal Naval Assn will meet at El Paraiso Restaurant behind Carrefour in Torrevieja at the new time of 3pm on the first Wednesday of every month. For info contact the secretary, Margaret Forshaw, on 966 92 1996 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,

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

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.

Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Interested in becoming a listener? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? To find out more, come and join us for refreshments and a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre, by the Punta Prima roundabout, on the N332. (Volunteer positions are unpaid but expenses can be claimed).Email: spainsamsrecruits@outlook.com www.samaritansinspain.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 more. Further info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com QUESADA LADIES CLUB The Annual General Meeting of the Quesada Ladies Club will be held at the Cooper’s Arms, Dona Pepa, Quesada, on Tuesday 11th September 2018. This is for members only, and they will be admitted at 2.30pm.

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday and everyone is welcome. Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.)

On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our

Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. We welcome residents, visitors and children.

For information see our website www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or phone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108 The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. You can phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 667 533 597..

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja - Evangelical nondenominational church. All nationalities welcome. Sunday service 11.0 a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11.0 a.m.

Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30 p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta – Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. For other church matters: Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

Personal Torrevieja Brazilian mature lady.

The best massage, relax, tantra, anti-stress. I also do body and intimate waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial cleansing and rejuvenation. Me and my silky hands are the perfect combination. Call Victoria on 687 131 005.

Torrevieja. Shirley - the best massage. Tanned, young Latina beauty! Stunning figure, great breasts. I welcome you alone in my sexy lingerie. By appointment please.655 677 738 Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speak English.

Male and female Viagra, Cialis, Cialis Kamagra jellies mail order cash on delivery call 604 385 476 viagra4you19@gmail.com

Property for Sale Villamartin top-floor apartment in gated complex. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Lounge / diner.

Kitchen. Balcony. Lift to all floors. Communal pool in wellmaintained gardens. Roof solarium with fabulous views. € 115.000. Tel. 604 152 124 Villamartin. Second floor apartment overlooking pool and garden in gated complex. 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom. Large kitchen. Large lounge. Balcony.

Lift. Roof solarium with fabulous views. € 115.000. Tel. 604 152 124

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Below is a selection of just some of the properties currently available with Spanish Riviera Homes. If you would like additional info on any of our properties below Email: property@spanishrivierahomes.com or call: +34 617 537 866 Torrevieja First floor apartment, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 300m from the sea, terrace with open view, 50m2 living area. 94.000 euro. Reference: 000828.

Torrevieja, Fifth floor apartment, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 70m2 living area with 40m2 terrace, communal swimming pool, communal solarium, lift. 109.950 euro.

Reference 000881 Orihuela-Costa, Luxury SouthWest facing apartment, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 85m2 luxury apartment, sea views, 2 terraces (18m2 and 38m2), communal swimming pool, communal gardens. 320.000 euro, Reference: 000880 Rojales, Detached villa, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 98m2 living area, 225m2 plot, communal swimming pool. 184.950 euro.

Reference: 000879 Orihuela-Costa, South-facing apartment, 2 bedrooms, communal swimming pool, communal gardens, beachside N332, high quality finishings. 74.950 euro.

Reference: 000877 Rojales, Doña Pepa, Townhous, Two bedrooms, both with ter-

races, in a great location.

Refurbished throughout with fully fitted kitchen. Solarium.

Close to all amenities. 115,000 euro Ref: 000911 Torrevieja, Ground floor apartment, 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, close to beach, shops, bars, restaurants, bus station. 64.950 euro. Reference: 000876 Torrevieja, Ground floor bungalow, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom,

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dining room, American kitchen, conservatory, fully furnished with air-conditioning, off-road parking, communal swimming pool. € 94.950. Reference: 000912 Orihuela-Costa Ground floor bungalow, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, South-facing, large living room

with chimney, American kitchen, furnished, communal swimming pool € 144.950. Reference: 000916 Orihuela-Costa, Ground floor bungalow, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large corner garden, spacious living area, American kitchen, furnished, communal swimming pool. € 134.950. Reference: 000814 Fabulous 3 bed, 2 bath detached villa in El Galan. Lovely family home on quiet road. Low running costs. Fully furnished with aircon € 154.950. Ref: 000912 Top-floor bungalow, San Pedro del Pinatar. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, independent kitchen, terrace and solarium with stunning views, South-facing, furnished, communal swimming pool, communal parking. € 84.950. Reference: 000878 Orihuela-Costa, Quad, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, private garden / offroad parking, spacious living / dining area, American kitchen, balconies and solarium, communal swimming pool, communal gardens, close to beaches, shops, and restaurants. € 124.950.

Reference: 000890 Orihuela-Costa, Duplex, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, dining / living area, conservatory, communal swimming pool, € 114.950.

Reference: 000898.

If you would like additional info on any of our properties Email: property@spanishrivierahomes.com or call: +34 617 537 866

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Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

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Split Splat and best brush forward!

C

alling all Artists and Art Lovers! Wednesday 24th October brings the 10th Local Art Competition - always in the "Quesada area" this year for the second year running the Ray Scott Art Competition and Exhibition will be at the beautiful restaurant La Herradura in Los Montesinos.

La Herradura is a perfect setting for a fabulous day out and artists are invited to enter the annual competition or to just exhibit their paintings and offer for sale if they would like to. To enter one painting in the competition is €7 and for 3 paintings it is just €15.

Visitor entrance is FREE and doors open at 11.30a.m. all guests visiting The Ray Scott Art Competition and Artists who enter the competition and those who exhibit are invited to have a complimentary welcome Cava or Bucks Fizz courtesy of VINCENT REAL ESTATE who are our main sponsor for this event.

Visitors - please email sueinthesun@hotmail.co.uk for your FREE DRINK VOUCHER/S We have been very lucky so far we already have sponsorship for 7 off the 12 categories - our sponsors so far are Quesada Gym, Avalon, IBEX and Moneycorp - we would still like a further 5 sponsors to go on our advertising logo board.

Sponsorship of one category is €25 and if you would like to be a sponsor please email susinthesun@hotmail.co.uk Any artist who would like to exhibit a painting but not enter into the competition can do so for just €2 per painting. For full details you can email sueinthesun@hotmail.co.uk or see fb page Susan Jane Reader.

This year our panel of judges include Suzanne Stokes, Gloria Howes and Vivienne Shepherd and here is a short bio about each of them.

Suzanne Stokes – Suzanne Stokes has been teaching recreational art classes in the area for more than 12 years, with classes at PALS Social Club, La Siesta, at The Final Whistle Bar in La Marina and at Restaurante La Herradura in Los Montesinos. There is more information on her website www.suestokes.co.uk where you can also see a selection of her work. Suzanne is a professional artist and sells her work at La Herradura, both as original paintings and as fine art prints, and also undertakes commissions for portraits.

Painting and drawing are the most relaxing hobbies you can have,’ she said. ‘It’s good for body and soul – as well as a great way to make friends. Many of my students have health issues, but are still able to come along and produce the most amazing work´ and I am honoured to be asked to be a judge for the Ray Scott Art Exhibition 2018.

Gloria Howes – Born in Cardiff South Wales and grew up in Stoke on Trent. I worked at Spode as a free hand paintress which started my journey. I lived in South Africa from 1970 to 1992 where my love for animals and the wild grew but I only really started painting in 1999 in Florida where I experienced my first exhibitions displaying with a painting group.

I am totally self-taught, I have a terrible technique but it works! Lol Since moving to Spain 8 yrs ago I have done many commissioned animal paintings – faces only and I have won a place three times in this annual art competition and now am very honoured to be a judge in 2018. This year I qualified as a spiritual healer and my new path has led me to painting semi abstract angels - I have painted over 90 now - mostly commissioned.

19

World’s biggest food fight

Red pulp flooded the streets as 20,000 revellers threw tomatoes at one another during Spain's Tomatina festival last Wednesday. More than 30,000 pounds of tomatoes were used in Bunol for what's known as the "world’s biggest food fight".

Attendees wore goggles as residents boarded up, or covered, Vivienne Shepherd - I was delighted when my balconies and signs. son, Iain Alexander, demonstrated an amazing talent in art and sculpture but although he suppressed it, he began Then, at 11 a.m. the chaos erupted: An hour of constant pelting creating again, aged 34 years. Within a year he'd had began with an explosive start as several exhibitions inclusive of being a part of Queen six trucks carrying over-ripe Elizabeth's 90th birthday celebrations. Most of his work tomatoes rolled into the town. is by private commission The fiesta takes place each year but his diversification of on the last Wednesday of August styles and imaginative in Bunol, a town of some 9,000 concepts never cease to residents, but its origins remain astound me. My son supunclear.

The tradition dates back to the ports numerous charities 1940s, inspired, some say, by and his paintings have angry townspeople who threw raised huge sums at chartomatoes at city councilmen. ity auctions. I am honOthers claimed it began with a oured to be invited as a similarly friendly food fight judge for the Ray Scott between friends. competition.

20

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Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

La Finca GS W/E 25th August

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Bronze winners: Ron, Micky and Kyrre

Mondays roll up this week was won

by Derek Braid with 37 points.

Nearest the pins were Stuart Tosh (3) and (13).

On Wednesday we played a 3 man team game as we had to play the front 9 twice due to course maintenance, the winning team of Derek Braid, Brian Bevan and Eric Owens won with 98 points.

Nearest the pins were Mike Stott (3) & Eric Owens (6).

20 members and guests travelled to Hacienda Riquelme for our Summer Cup comp as La Finca had just under gone maintenance work on the greens. Some members found the greens to be slow with the Floridian type paspalum grass and lots of bunkers on a typical Nicklaus designed course.

This week was a Stableford competition of the Yellow Blocks. Results as follows, 5th, Alex Duchart (33), 4th Juan Niquez (33) 3rd, Derek Braid (35), 2nd, Ole Dibbern (38) and 1st, Mike Stott with 40 points.

Nearest the pins were, Juan Niquez (5),Mike Stott (7), Robert Macdonald (15) and Barry Reohrig (17).

Great score from our scratch member Mike well done, and only one 2

by Mike on hole 7 which was drawn out so he wins the pot.

Guest prize was won by Mick Cook.

Best dressed golfer today was our Irish member from Cork Will he did say he has to go back to work this week as his wine cellar in Spain is getting quite full.

La Finca Golf Society meets every Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays at La Finca with first tee time around 09-00 am. Saturday is main competition day with various competitions which are Spanish Federated, to be eligible to play you need a handicap of 16 or less.

If you are interested or require more information give Barry a ring on 666 694 467 or 966 73 1033.

Carp R Us Angling Club The fifth and final round of the CarpR-Us August Mini-series was fished at El Bosquet.

A clear first was Terry Screen fishing peg 2 with pole and pellet and weighing in 23.60kg, second using the same method to catch 9.13kg was Geoff Tempest on peg 12, third with 8.00kg was Alan Priest on peg 14 and fourth was Steve Owen with 5.78kg.

This means the series was won by Steve Owen, well done to him and all who fished the series.

Guests Sandra, Jaime and Anne.

San Miguel Golf Society at Hacienda Riquelme 29th August A quick check of the SMGS archives shows that scoring at Hacienda Riquelme is historically a challenge on this tough but beautifully laid out Nicklaus design course. Stray off the lush fairways and the ball-eating spear grass tufts of doom quickly kill off hopes of scrambling out of trouble. This is one of those tracks where it is almost a relief to find one of the many bunkers which line the way.

With no breeze and temperatures in the mid 30s, success went to the players who held up best down the stretch and finished with points on the daunting 18th hole.

The greens were firm but in pristine condition, although they seemed to slow a touch as the day progressed. Kudos to the greenskeepers for presenting the course in such great condition and thanks also to the clubhouse staff for much needed reviving refreshments at the 19th hole.

In the Bronze division, Ron Stenhouse finished on top with 31 points, followed home by Mick Roscoe on 30 points and Kyrre Skarsmoen with 27 points.

Third place in Silver went to Kev Allbright who lost out to Alan Macdonald on countback, both players scoring 32 points. Chris Wren was the winner with 34 points and he still had enough juice in his tank to take nearest the pin honours on the long par 3 17th hole. Nice shot, Chris!

Our Captain, Tony Smale, came third in Gold division with 31 hard-won points.

Best round of golf on the day was undoubtedly played by John Osborne, whose

score of 34 points off a 6 handicap was a quality performance. Unluckily for him, Mike Greatorex took full advantage of his handicap advantage to edge John out of first place on countback. Once again it was the final hole which apparently made the difference.

A sizeable field of guests were a welcome boost to our numbers and for the second week in succession, Ann Webster finished first with 32 points. Jaime Martinez del Castillo was second with 30 points beating Sandra Dibble on countback. Thanks for joining us, we hope to see you all again in the future.

Nearest the pin winners were Alan Macdonald (hole 5), John Osborne (hole 7), Norman McBride (hole 15) and Chris Wren (hole 17).

Mike Fearnehough was this week’s Abacus winner and deserves his bottle of wine (sponsored by Stenhouse flooring) for staying the course if not actually staying on it much.

Members will be relieved to learn that Ken Flaherty’s lengthy streak without winning anything was broken by a fortuitous payout from the ‘In it to Win it’ draw.

Well, a win’s a win, Ken, right?

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 628 227 687. The next three games will be at La Finca, La Serena and Alenda.

Fierce competition at El Plantio2 GS The last Tuesday of the month is always El Plantio 2's Monthly Medal and this one was the most competitive competition in the club's existence with numerous players posting scores that would have figured among the prizes on any other day and receiving a handicap cut for their troubles but with nothing to show for it.

Unlucky in another way was Alistair Douglas, who has finished second four times and third once in the last five competitions.

Better luck next time Alistair, it will come.

Nearest the pins – Hole 6, John Burke - Hole 8, Henry Mellor.

Third place, Handicap 3.2, John Wilby – 53.8 shots. Second Place, Handicap 8.5, Alistair Douglas – 53.5 shots. First Place, Handicap 8.7, David Swann – 53.3 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 The photograph L to R, David Swann, Alistair Douglas, Henry Mellor, John Wilby, John Burke .

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Las Ramblas Golf Society

By Peter Reffell We began our week with the popular ‘Waltzer 123’. One player to score on the 1st, two on the 2nd, three on the third and then repeated.

Close result yet again, but stepping into the spotlight this week, with a glittering 84 points, were Anton (du Bec) Douglas, Mike Mahony, Rachael Leckey and (much to his surprise) Andy McDonald.

Strictly’ speaking Andy was three over today! One over a house, one over a patio and one over a swimming pool… (Personally I’d rather get one over Claudia Winkleman!)

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

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21

Plaza Golf Society at La Finca Today the TPGS trotted over to La Finca where the newly hollow tyned greens proved troublesome for many! This was particularly evident for Aberdeen’s finest Barry “the mouth” Mitchell who came in with a frankly embarrassing 16 pts and so once again he claimed last spot and a fine bottle of wine.

There was €88 euros in the 2’s pot and the lucky winners all received €13 well done Mark Parry, Ronaldo Templeton, Rod Scott, Ron McCully, Graham Clark and Gary Gates.

Nearest the pins where sponsored once again by The Ale House all winners receiving a €10 voucher, well played Rob Clackson, Colin McWilson, Kenny Pherson, Rod Scott and Wazza.

We had 39 members and 5 guests playing another great turnout, best guest was Rod Scott with 37pts of his 10 hcap.

So into the main prizes Alan Carter came 3rd in Silver losing out on countback to Keithy Dalby both scoring 33 pts, Rob Clackson won overall and the silver Division with 37 pts. Warren Harris came 3rd in Gold with 35pts of 8 hcsp, Mark Parry 2nd with 36pts of 9 hcap (incidentally he donated all his prize money including 2’s pot to the forthcoming Neil Fyfe Foundation Charity Event 21st Sept at Vistabella, nice one mate) But the overall winner of Gold was Billy Wilson with 37 pts of his 10 hcap, well done all.

Our next event is on Friday 14th September at Villamartin and is nearly sold out, be quick and book yourselves on for this and all future events at www.theplazagolfsociety.com You know it makes sense and why wouldn’t you want to be part of the best golf society on the Costas!

Onto Wednesday’s stableford, which could best be described as more akin to the ‘D’ Day Landings’. (As is normal at this time of year), our greens are undergoing necessary extensive work and are covered with hundreds of tonnes of sand. Even though we played the front 9 twice, Ron (Furyck) Phipps landed ‘Gold’ with a very commendable 39 points to take this week’s spoils.

On countback, with 35 points, Mike Mahoney just edged out Alan Douglas whilst Tom Hardie and Olga Douglas were mentioned in dispatches as they both shot 34 points.

Also reported from the front line was that one of our troops went AWOL after 6 holes. It was OK though, we found him ‘tanked’ up back at HQ. Only two 2’s today, John Dobson and Bryan Neal. Well done to everybody under what were ‘The Longest Day’ of conditions.

Due to the maintenance work currently being carried out on the course, we did not compete on Friday.

So, I’m sure you’ll be heartbroken to learn that this is the end of this week’s report!

Pues, hasta la semana que viene

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

We have new owners who are completely refurbishing the whole Bowls and Golf complex.

With an anticipated opening of mid September we will have a brand new restaurant, cafeteria and bar, as well as an 18 hole minigolf course which will be an amazing experience to play.

There will also be a completely refurbished 9 hole golf course and driving range and a small swimming pool.

On the bowls front we are looking to consolidate our squads so why not give Chris (Secretary) a ring on 698 418 987 for details, and hear about our exciting new plans.

La Marina Golf Society Summer Cup The fourth round of the Summer Cup saw 23 players meet at the always improving Alenda golf course , with half a dozen members still in contention for the trophy. The format is the best two scores from 4 rounds and coming up from the pack was relatively "new kid on the block" Frank Cullen whose massive return of 41 points gave him a final total of 80 points ,winning by a country mile.

He obviously also took the silver award, and a nearest the pin.

Leading the race for the gold award was Bill Stobo with 35 points and again a ntp.

Other ntp's went to Gerry McCabe and John Thompson. The 2's pot went to John "The

Singer" Milton.

Presentation was held at the La Marina Sports Centre where we were treated to an excellent meal and wine by Helena and her staff.

A belated mention for our Captain Elspeth who achieved a hole in one at Font del Llop , unfortunately not on a society day which would have resulted in a large drinks bill.

Our next meeting is at Las Colinas on 13th September when we shall be playing for the la marina master's trophy. Cost is e 60 with a first tee of 10.00. List is on the board as usual or contact Alan Craig on a100ac@yahoo.co.uk.

Med Bar Golf Society, El Raso, Altorreal Of we went to Altorreal where we had prior notice that they had been working on the greens and they were in a poor condition. To be fair, the management did offer us another date, but as everything was set up we decided to carry on with the original outing. The greens were not that bad all in all, but very slow to putt on with most members finding it hard to hit up to the hole. Not to mind we all had a great day out and thanks go to the management team of Altorreal

Nearest the pins: Tom Gallegro, Buck Taylor, John Goulder & Bob Mc Dermont

Results for the day

Thanks to Steve and his staff at the Med Bar and Bistro, our next outing is at Alenda on 12/9/18

Silver division & overall winner: Martin Morgan 37 points Silver division runner up: Alex Bolton 34 points Gold division winner: Eric Owens 35 points Gold division runner up: Alan Cronin 34 points

Best front 9: Ray Muttock 17 points Best back 9: Keith Smith 18 points 2`s club : Bill Martin X 2 & Buck Taylor Football card winners: Buck Taylor, Dave Capper & Marion Cronin

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

22

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Marabu Golf Society Alicante on 30th August 2018.

Monday 3rd - Sunday 9th September, 2018

Mike ProBert talks golf

For this month’s meeting a group of 20 players visited the established course at Alicante taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

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.

Despite the threat of heavy rain the day passed without us getting wet but the course have problems with the greens as a result of the hot weather conditions and the use of salt laden water on the greens which has left the greens in a poor condition and in fact there were two temporary greens in place, all of which reflected on the scores.

Alicante Golf is a Seve Ballesteros designed course based in the heart of the city close to the San Juan beaches and is a superb 18 hole course consisting of 6 par 3's,6 par 4's and 6 par 5 holes.

In association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services

The winning scores on the day were as follows: 1st – Morten Krsistensen - 33 points. 2nd – Ant Egan – 30 points 3rd – Steve Hanaway - 28 points 4th – Mike Probert – 27 points Nearest the Pins – Ant Egan, Jim Nicholson and Dave Bensley Dog of a Day – Mike Belsen, Football Card – Brian Smith 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 fixture is the interim game at New Sierra Golf on 13th September 2018 followed by the society day at La Serena on 27th September 2018.

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.

SUDUKO SOLUTION

ALICANTE GOLF COURSE - UPDATE

They have struggled for many years with problems with the greens caused, initially, when golfers from overseas brought a disease on the bottom of their shoes, which badly affected the greens.

Earlier this year they had considered totally re-seeding every green but following some hard work the greens were in excellent condition and such dramatic action was not needed.

Unfortunately the golfing gods decided to twist the knife just a little and they received a water delivery which was contaminated with too high a salt level and this again has badly damaged the greens.

Local golf courses spend circa €500k per year to water the courses and keep them in the condition we all expect, given the extremely high temperatures and lack of rain for most of the year.

They hope to recover the situation in a few weeks but at least three of the greens will need total re-seeding or re-turfing, namely greens on holes 2, 9 and 10 and until then they will have temporary greens on those holes.

They will offer a significant discount on green fees, until such time as the new greens are in play, and while not ideal the course is still worth a game, but don't expect it to be in the usual excellent condition 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 dis-

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(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) counted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us. The deals shown in the table are some of the best currently available to you from 1 June.

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

Price €114 €88 €90 €88 €88 €112 €72 €128 €32 €36 €144 €104 €134 €80 €98 €110 €62 €86

Comments Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee Single Green Fee (after 2pm) Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (from 1pm) Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 Hollow Tining Watch Campoamor and Puig Campana – 03/09/18 Villamartin – 04/09/18 La Manga West – 11/09/18 Quotation of the week “Procrastination is the thief of time” - Dale Carnegie

Indian Super league’s ATK at Pinatar Arena Although they have been in situ for almost a fortnight the Indian Super League team ATK still have another 2 weeks at the training camp prior to returning to Kolkata, West Bengal, where they play their football in the superb, 85,000 capacity, Salt Lake Stadium

Coppell sn’t the only Brit on the management and coaching staff where he is assisted at the club by Wally Downes, who was one of the original ‘Crazy Gang’ at Wimbledon and a previous manager of Brentford Town.

Managed by former Manchester Utd legend Steve Coppell, the club, which has only been in existence for 3 years, was previously owned by the Spanish La Liga side Atlético Madrid.

Spaniard Manu Lanzarote, who played for Eibar, Sabadell, Espanyol and Zaragossa, is just one player with La Liga experience in their ranks while English defender John Johnson moved to ATK following a lack of opportunities at Middlesbro

Recently, however it has been bought out by a consortium which included the former test cricketer and Indian cricket captain, Sourav Ganguly.

Having beaten Lorca by the only goal of the game last Thursday ATK face Real Murcia tomorrow evening (Tuesday) in a game that kicks off at 7pm and FC Jumilla on Thursday 13th, also at 7pm.

Both matches have free admission.

Coppell and Downes supervising a training session at Pinatar Arena

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23

A game of two ‘Jorge’s as Torry share spoils with Horadada I

don’t think that there has been so much anticipation at the start of a new campaign for some years amongst the fans of CD Torrevieja, but following the disappointments that they have had to endure over the last two seasons with this once mighty club, the arrival of new owners, a new manager in Manu Sánchez, coaching staff and a whole flock of new players, including two just last week, many supporters are looking forward to the season like no other in recent years.

CD Torrevieja .....................1 UD Horadada ......................1

One further addition to the backroom staff is the appointment of former Olympic Gold Medallist, Daniel Plaza, as Chief Executive. Let’s hope that he too can add a little bit of professionalism and determination to the Tory season.

Supporters arriving at Sunday’s match would have been well advised to pick up a teamsheet on their way in.

Gone are the vast majority of the players from last year with too many new names to mention. Suffice to say that all of those who turned out in a Torrevieja shirt for the opening game of the season would have been making their debuts.

While the new–look squad certainly brings a level of uncertainty, it also brings with it potential, possibilities and a renewed sense of optimism, certainly if preseason results are any indication.

And the opening day visitors could not have been better scripted either, local rivals Horadada who will also be facing the new season with enthusiasm and desire, following their promotion from the doldrums of Regional football.

Perhaps with ambitions not quite as grand as Torrevieja, hoping just to consolidate in Preferente after their shock relegation two years ago, going into the match it could just be advantage Torrevieja. And apart from an early scare, where the Torry stopper Juampe was called upon to make a smart save, that was very much the way that the opening 45 minutes went.

Torry looked assured at the back. Their build up play was promising.

But what they weren’t able to do was deliver that final ball, although quite whether Omar down the middle could have converted, had he been in a position to do so, was another matter.

At this early stage of the season his movement needed to improve.

Torrevieja applying the pressure Photo: Julie Day

The possession was all Torrevieja, although with excellent support from a healthy following inside the Nelson Mandela stadium, where there was a raucous and joyful atmosphere after too many years of frustration.

And if the home fans were enjoying the creative football they certainly enjoyed the first Torry goal of the season when it finally arrived. Pressure from Fran down the flank on 23 minutes resulted in a corner which Rulo delivered onto the head of Jorge with pinpoint accuracy. The former Elche man guided his effort onto the underside of the bar but with enough power to ensure that it bounced down inside the line.

There were no complaints from Horadada as referee Lopez immediately signalled a goal.

The home side continued to play the more assured football but with little more to show. Many thought that a foul on Revi just outside the Horadada area late in the half should have brough a free kick but the referee waved play on allowing the visitors a rare opportunity to break.

The final action of the half saw Torry’s Jesus, under no pressure at all, almost head the ball beyond his keeper which would have been a travesty for the home side had the ball not gone wide.

The second period proved to be a much more feisty affair with Horadada seeing much more of the ball.

Antonio tested Juampe 10 minutes into the half and but for an excellent save by the keeper the scores would have been levelled up.

Two yellow cards for Horadada’s Roberto saw the player inexplicably remain on the pitch, no doubt questions will be asked of that, but 2 cautions in less than 5 minutes saw the visitors reduced to 10 men when Alio was sent from the pitch.

Bookings galore, during which there were a number of confrontations needing the peacemaking skills of the referee as the game became extremely scrappy with tackles flying in from both sides.

But still it was the home side in the ascendency as the match went into added time. With the torry manager receiving a yellow when he asked where all the added time was coming from the very last kick of the game, a Horadada corner and probably only the 3rd occasion they had been in the Torry box, keeper Ros joined the fray and it was his shot that led to the equalising goal in the 9th added minute. Juampe pushed out the ball but only to the feet of Horadada’s Jorge who made no mistake from close range.

So as the visitors most certainly got out of jail Torrevieja will feel rather hard done by!

The second game of the campaign is against Villajoyosa CF next Sunday morning, kicking off at 11.30 am.

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