The Costa Blanca Leader Edition 732

No 732

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

Tel: 637 227 385

Court slams Torrevieja Police T he Administrative Number 1 in Elche has condemned the Torrevieja Police for labour harassment suffered for many years by a Policia Local agent.

The ruling has ordered that he be paid compensation of 95,816 euros for psychological and moral damages since the local administration at the time "did not intervene to prevent the situation of harassment from continuing." This was despite the fact that it was public knowledge "because of the numerous letters of complaint and denuncias presented by the officer to senior administrators and councillors", in the

Ayuntamiento presided over by Eduardo DolĂłn (PP).

This is the third judgement received by the City Council for similar events that have occurred within the Police Department and that the judge has taken into consideration in reaching his conclusion.

In his ruling he says that the council "despite being aware of all the facts" and also being aware "of the numerous legal proceedings for the same complaint, has acted with a total apathy and neglect when introducing measures to rectify this situation�.

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Continued From Page One Torrevieja Policia Local The agent began working in the city in 2010 and warned from the outset that there were irregularities and a lack of control in respect of the cash that was collected from fines.

other benefits, humiliating correspondence that was addressed to him was made public and according to several witnesses, he was subjected to degrading situations. He was also insulted almost daily by senior officers in front of his colleagues, and nobody did a thing.

He said that there were also repeated inspections in many leisure facilities while others bars and restaurants received none, despite existing unfavourable reports.

In the complaint initiated by the agent it was claimed that harassment had been carried out by a former mayor of Torrevieja, the Councillor for Police and Human Resources, Agustina Esteve, Inspector Manuel López Vera and Police Chief Vicente Gutiérrez, who were all listed as co-defendants.

The officer, together with two colleagues, reported these incidents and they were told that an investigation would be opened by an inspector and two agents.

However from that time the officers found that their shifts were regularly changed with little or no warning, they were denied holidays, shifts were imposed without a period of mandatory rest, The complainant was also denied extra pay and

In reaching his conclusion the judge said "We cannot forget that Vicente Gutiérrez and Manuel López Vera have already been found guilty of workplace harassment in two previous trials in which the City Council was forced to pay compensation of 48,500 and 23,450 euros.”

Journalists 600 228 616 office@theleader.info The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.

Age Concern Charity Shop, Torrevieja Age Concern has successfully operated their Charity shop in Calle Patricio Zammit 41, Torrevieja for many years and due to its central location attracts a diverse range of customers and donations.

Wilma, has tirelessly worked and managed the shop for 20 years and with her intimate experience of the area, and her customer base, she has built up a credible reputation of customer care and attention to detail.

It is refreshing for her, and her team of volunteers, to welcome customers from all over the globe including Scandinavia, the Commonwealth, Europe, Asia, Africa as well as the UK. It naturally follows that donations of clothes and household items that are donated originate from all over the world giving customers an even greater choice of international fashions and products.

Being in Torrevieja allows our volunteers to come

into contact with many cultures, languages and ethnicities, which makes for some interesting conversations.

The opening hours of this successful shop are Monday – Friday 10.00am – 14.00 and on Thursday an additional opening time of 17.00 – 19.00. Success breeds success and so additional volunteers are required to work any of these days and times.

Ladies or gentlemen of any age or nationality would be welcomed and it is preferred along with speaking their own language English is spoken also. No two days are ever the same and you would be working alongside an extremely friendly team.

To apply, why not pop into the shop and meet Wilma and the team or telephone Age Concern Centre on 966 786 887.

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“San Miguel will not become a Dumping Ground” S

an Miguel Councillor, María José Costa, has told the Spanish press that, "I do not want my San Miguel Councillor for the town to be the dump of the Vega Baja, the Environment, construction of a waste plant is unfair" María José Costa She is the first councillor who has said loud and clear that she will work to prevent the installation of the proposed plant in the municipality To achieve this she has undertaken a crusade in which he seeks neighborhood support. She is currently making door-to-door visits to alert the residents, many of who are already hanging banners in protest against the project. Banners which say “No garbage here,” and “No to the garbage plant,” are also adorning many roads and buildings in the area.

Meanwhile, the Vega Baja still has no facilities to treat its own waste. sen location as completely unsuitable.

A Lawyer by profession and councillor "by conviction", María José Although the objections being raised originate largely from San Costa (UPyD) has become the new thorn in the side of the Vega Baja Miguel, of the 29,000 square metres of occupation space required for Sustainable Consortium. As was previously the case in Cox, Granja the necessary facilities, which are located in the area of the Villa and Albatera, the councillor is building a neighborhood movement in Antonia-Lo Timor farm, around 7,000 square metres are located in San Miguel de Salinas to boycott the project that, she says, would the municipality of Torrevieja. bring ruin to the municipality.

“The arrival of the plant would create far more problems than many There are many reasons why she says she is against the project, the people imagine. There would be the incessant noise of heavily ladeeconomic destruction of businesses at all levels, the collapse of serned trucks, arriving day and night, carrying tons of waste from the vices, hospitality, construction and the tourism sectors which, as a most populated municipalities, and this with the emissions of pollusecond-line beach town, it needs to survive. ting gases to the environment, plus the discomfort of the smell. The smell of waste would be evident across the municipality as an easThe possible location would be less than two and a half kilometres terly wind generally predominates. It would be impossible to live from the town centre, adjacent to agricultural fields that are being near the waste plant and I would almost dare to say in the town,” used by farmers year round, houses that are inhabited all year round, said Cllr Costa. businesses and even a nearby hotel, bordering with the Natural Park of the La Mata and Torrevieja lagoons which should render the choCurrently the town’s PP government and UPyD are against the project. At the last plenary meeting the mayor said “I have always been suspicious of this project. I do not want my town to become the dump of the Vega Baja”.

Meanwhile, consortium managers are studying the viability of the project and, if it meets their requirements, the construction and operation of a waste treatment plant would be opened to public tender, although according to Pineda that does not mean that it will definitely be built or installed in San Miguel, since the companies that enter the tender programme will have to propose the location.

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Severe flood risk in seventeen municipalities

W

eather experts have said that there are seventeen towns in the province that have a serious risk of flooding every time that it rains and that with the onset of Autumn and Winter many are still not adequately prepared as required by the General Plans of Urban Ordinance (PGOU).

In total, the areas most at risk of flooding in Alicante province, have increased from 42,645 hectares in 2003 to 104,461 hectares this year.

The Consell says that the Territorial Action Plan (Patricova) shows a total of 17 municipalities with high risk of flooding. In ten the threat is serious. In particular, Alfaz del Pi, Almoradí, Callosa de Segura, Calp, Catral, Dénia, Dolores, Elche, Orihuela and Pilar de la Horadada. Those in which the risk is high are Alicante, Elda , Finestrat, Formentera del Segura, Rafal, Rojales and San Fulgencio.

Much of the increased threat is as a result of the urban disorder that Alicante suffered during the construction boom, between 2000 and 2007, with the surface likely to be flooded in the event of torrential rains growing by 145% in the last 15 years.

Orihuela, with almost thirteen thousand hectares, is threatened with submergence every time that it rains torrentially. It is the most affected municipality. During the years of building development a lot of land was transformed for urban-residential use, and many hazardous spaces were occupied, such as the ravines that previously channelled the heavy rain into the sea. The issue is particularly worrisome in the coastal municipalities, where the real estate "bubble" was concentrated.

In the province of Alicante, according to Jorge Olcina, President of la Asociación Española de Geógrafos, the plans only map those areas that are in danger of flooding, while the natural risks are many more. “There should also be mapping of those areas where there are particular seismic risks, landslides, areas of likely coastal storms and much more. Municipalities should be required to strictly comply with the Law when preparing new Urban Development Plans,” he says.

Orihuela is threatened with flooding every time there is heavy rain

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Threatened species of waterfowl attracted to San Pedro Salinas

E

xperts say that there was a total of 1,802 nesting pairs of waterfowl in San Pedro Salinas regional Park this spring, across 14 different species, which shows an increase of more than 200 pairs of birds compared to 2017.

Of these 14 species, nine are uniquely relevant species which require special protection measures. Among them is the Audouin gull, a species classified as threatened worldwide and of which this year 180 pairs nested in the Park, representing about 2% of the world's nesting population.

In addition, the presence of six other species has been identified as being of special relevance by the European Union, such as the common avocet, the black-footed plover, the black-footed boar, the common tern, the little tern and the black-footed tern.

Among these the presence of 56 pairs of black-footed plover is highly significant, as it is a species that is disappearing worldwide, the number representing between 5% and 6% of the entire Spanish nesting population.

The 165 pairs of Pagaza piconegra, meanwhile, account for between 2% and 3% of the national total, while the 203 pairs of common terns that have bred in the area represent 6% of the Spanish population and 1 % of the entire EU. Murcia’s General Director of Environmental Affairs, Consuelo Rosauro, explained that from this month the Consel will start actions to improve the natural park. "This is an area of enormous importance

for bird nesting and conservation, in which other activities such as traditional fishing or salt exploitation coexist," she said.

As such the authorities will carry out tasks of conservation of flora and fauna, especially waterfowl, and dunes, and the delimitation of passage areas; the construction of 1,800 meters of new salt mines and the improvement of the circulation of water in the pond of Coterillo.

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Leave a Positive Vision Behind: Tips from IAM Roadsmart Over time our eyesight deteriorates and previously strong vision can become poor. If eyesight problems are left unaddressed they can often lead to poor reaction times to unexpected hazards or the behaviour of other road users. Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards provides advice on eyesight and driving.

Book regular check-ups. Eyesight can deteriorate over time without you noticing. If you are having to move closer to the television to read the titles clearly or have noticed even a slight deterioration with your eyes, we recommend a visit to the optician for a check-up; this should be done on a regular basis (every two years) and it’s free for the over 60s Take a break: eyes get tired too. If you are travelling for long periods of time, you should take a break every two hours or every 100 miles, whichever is sooner. This will refresh you and your eyes, keeping you alert Driving at night can be the most problematic area as our eyes age.

No matter how eagle-eyed we may think we are, it is a scientific fact that as we get older our eyes become less sensitive to light. Avoiding night time driving is a wise precaution if you are starting to struggle

to see clearly after dusk Keep a pair of sunglasses in the car in all seasons; low sun on a wet road will make you wish you hadn’t packed them away after the summer

correction prescribed for driving make sure you use it, not having your glasses is a poor excuse when you have had a crash. And how often do you clean your glasses? Even a pristine windscreen will seem dirty if the lenses are covered in fingerprints.”

Know the law. You must be able to read (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) a car number plate made after 1 September 2001 from 20 metres. To find out more information on this visit the government’s driving eyesight rules page here Use this to test yourself, if you struggle to read it get checked out straight away Stay hydrated. Water is very good in keeping you hydrated and is also good for your eyes.

With the added bonus of helping you maintain concentration while driving and riding Richard said: “Deteriorating eyesight can often be a sign of other health problems so a check-up is a good idea. If you do have eye

Coil Sprung Models 1970 to 2007 For anyone interested in the coil-sprung Land Rovers that have served (and still serve) with the British armed forces, this book is a must.

It covers first-generation Range Rover and Discovery models, as well as the One Ten, Ninety and One Two Seven, their Defender successors and, of course the Wolf XD derivatives. Coverage deliberately ends at 2007 to respect current military sensibilities.

This unique and extensively illustrated book describes and illustrates British military use and adaptations of these vehicles, and also contains comprehensive vehicle lists and contract details.

The book is a sequel to British Military Land Rovers, the leaf-sprung models, by the same two authors (published by Herridge & Sons in 2015).

Land Rovers in British Military Service - coil

sprung models 1970 to 2007 by James Taylor ISBN: 9781787112407, UPC: 6-36847-01240-3 AVAILABLE NOW! £37.50 (UK) BULLET POINTS Brief description of all coil-sprung models used by the British armed forces Exhaustive lists of serial numbers Contract details Special variants Includes (some) non-operational prototypes Extensively illustrated Includes Army, Navy and RAF purchases Much new information Written by two leading experts Overview of operational uses and users

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La Mata Market moves to it’s new site O n Wednesday morning there was a change in the location of the weekly La Mata market to its new location along la avenidas de Francia and Inglaterra.

The councillor, Javier Manzanares, said that his staff were on site from 5am placing the 169 traders onto their new pitches so that the market could open at its usual time "with normality and good atmosphere among the vendors."

Manzanares said that he was also on site from very early in the morning checking the locations and all the other preparatory work that was being carried out. He said "we have made sure that everything will run smoothly and the composure among sellers at this time of change was very much appreciated, changes always generate fear, but we are convinced that this will be a change for the better. Both the police, and

myself, together with market staff, have collected suggestions, many of which we have implemented with a view toward improving the location, something that we will build on in the coming weeks. During the morning we have seen the great influx of visitors and we have also seen a normality that is appreciated."

He added that" we are clear that it is a decision that will not please everyone, but we will work to show with facts and results that it has been the right decision. This is something that should have been implemented years ago."

Following the announcement of the new site over 50 traders said that they would not move to the new location. The councillor stated, howeCouncillor Javier Manzanares ver, that the vast majority did move and the in the white shirt opening was a huge success.

"Cafés Preventivos" launched by Orihuela Health

T

he Councillor for Health, Noelia Grao, will be running a series of informal presentations across the Orihuela Costa, the project "Cafés Preventivos” that will take place from Tuesday 11 to Friday, 28 September.

"They will be held in collaboration with hotel establishments (pubs, cafeterias, etc.) and will take the form of informal debates with specialists in emotional intelligence and education for health and the prevention

of addictive behaviour".

On 11 September, the first debate will take place at "Alameda del Mar Civic Center Cafeteria" starting at 6:30 p.m. and then on the 18th at "Cafeteria Concierto" (Playa Flamenca) where there will be a bilingual presentation at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday 19 September will see it move to Cafeteria CDM Orihuela Costa at 18:30 hours. It will continue on the 25th of September in "The Abbey Tavern" at 6:30 p.m

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Benidorm Palace Variety Show

O

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.

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.

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.

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, Jean Heald on 630 280 899 or by email: orihuelacosta.chairman@gmail.

Irish comedian, and former Butlins Redcoat, Jimmy Cricket will be providing the humour on theis charity

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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Minister orders Guardia Boss to withdraw smoking ban The Association of Civil Guards threatens to appeal new regulations to the judiciary.

meeting on Monday of a working group created to discuss the new regulations.

The Interior Minister, Fernando Grande- Marlaska, has ordered the General Directorate of the Civil Guard to withdraw the draft general order with which he intended to regulate the attire and behaviour of civil guards which will, among other measures, prohibit tattoos and smoking whilst on duty.

The issue that generated the most debate was that of tattoos, the insistence that they be covered and not visible whilst in uniform. If the regulation is approved the guards will either have to cover them or undertake to have them removed within three months.

Marlaska, according to sources within his ministry, has requested that the new regulations be amended, but only with the majority agreement of the Associations of the Civil Guard.

They are also being told that agents with tattoos must register them in a database with the characteristics, place of the body where it is, and a photograph of the tattoo itself.

The association that represents the officers said on Tuesday that they could appeal to the courts in order to stop the draft text in which, among other measures, prohibits the exhibition of tattoos and smoking whilst in uniform.

The interpretation of the agents is that the new regulations also imply "a standard hairstyle for men and women" and prohibits the wearing of jewellery, other than a ring or a small bracelet".

Five associations (AUGC, AEGC, Union GC, ASESGC and APCGC) have signed this letter as well as a further missive addressed to the General Director, Felix Azón, following a

The Association says that they see sufficient reasons to reject the draft regulation and urge the courts if they do not opt for dialogue, to avoid affecting the fundamental rights and civil liberties of their officers.

Battle of Britain

April this year was the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force.

Saturday the15th of September is also the 78th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

The Costa Blanca Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association will be holding a Service of Remembrance at the La Siesta Church commencing at 11pm followed by the laying of Wreaths and crosses at that Memorial Garden adjacent to the Church.

The Collection will in aid of the Royal Air Forces Association Wings Appeal, from which many Ex-servicemen and Women living here in Spain have received assstance.

The service is open to anyone who might wish to attend and pay their respects.

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Make sure your tax affairs are in order by 30 September says HMRC From 1 October 2018, new, substantially higher penalties will apply for those who have failed to pay all the tax due on foreign income and assets.

HMRC delivered two talks in the Alicante province this week.

During their talks they reminded British Nationals, who live in Spain but have assets in the UK, or who are UK tax residents, that they should make sure they have declared all their overseas taxable income to HMRC. Those who don’t could face tougher penalties in the future.

The two events, held in Rojales and Teulada/Moraira, were well attended by UK citizens keen to know the latest legislation which may affect them. Attendees also had the opportunity to ask questions. The representatives from HMRC gave an overview of what kind of assets may need to be declared, such as income from renting a property out in the UK or UK government pensions received abroad, and explained how to start the declaration process. During the question and answer session at the end, HMRC also took the time to listen to UK nationals’ concerns around filling in tax returns whilst overseas and clarifying points around the Spain/UK double taxation agreement, which they committed to feeding back in UK. British Consul, Sarah-Jane Morris, who attended both events said: “I’m really pleased that HMRC has come to this area, where so many British Nationals live. The talks were very informative and I hope those who attended will help spread the word that it is impor-

tant to ensure your tax affairs are in order. More information can be found on the gov.uk website which I urge British nationals resident in Spain to check”.

As part of the British Government’s “Requirement to Correct” legislation, UK taxpayers must make sure that all their foreign income and assets, where they might be tax to pay, have been declared to HMRC before 30 September 2018.

From 1 October 2018, new, substantially higher penalties will apply for those who have failed to pay all the tax due on foreign income and assets.

The vast majority of people and businesses pay the right amount of tax. The new legislation is aimed at those who fail to pay tax on their offshore income or assets.

If you are concerned that you haven’t told HMRC about foreign income or assets, or that you have transferred income abroad without paying UK tax on it, you should notify HMRC before 30 September 2018. You could also consider taking independent professional advice before deciding what to do next.

Anyone who would like more information on the new “requirement to correct” UK law, can look online on the gov uk at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/requirement-to-correct-tax-due-on-offshore-assets To start the process of declaring overseas assets please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/worldwide-disclosure-facility-make-adisclosure

Two Britons stabbed in Torrevieja

T

wo British men have been seriously injured following a stabbing in Torrevieja during the early hours of Thursday morning. The events took place in the San Luis-El Chaparral urbanisation, a residential district on the outskirts of Torrevieja, where a row broke out between four couples, two British and two Romanian.

The two injured men were transferred by a SAMU Ambulance to Torrevieja hospital where both required emergency surgery.

The argument between the two pairs could be heard at around one am outside a bar located in la calle Rodrigo.

The argument soon turned to blows but one source said that the Romanians ran off, only to return with knives a few minutes later.

As the four men then continued their disagreement the two British men were both wounded. A 59 year old was stabbed in the back and in the thorax, while the other man of about 35 years was stabbed in the left armpit, very close to the heart. The

injuries caused them both to lose a lot of blood, which spilled onto street.

Officers from both the Policia Local and the Guardia Civil were quickly on the scene together with two SAMU paramedics and an ambulance.

The two wounded Britons received medical attention on the roadside where they were stabilised and later they were transferred to the Torrevieja hospital.

A Health source confirmed that both required surgical intervention after entering the Emergency Room. They were later said to be stable and out of danger although the pair will remain hospitalised whilst their conditions are monitored.

It is understood that one of the alleged aggressors lost his mobile as he fled the scene following the altercation. The device was recovered by the Guardia who have now identified both of the perpetrators, however it is not yet known if the pair have been arrested

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The Island Hideaway of Tabarca In Search of an Island Hideaway:

A birds eye view of Tabarca island

J

ust 4km’s away from Santa Pola’s bleached white sandy beaches is the small and tranquil Island of Tabarca with an interesting history which is today reflected in the historic and weathered architecture.

Once used as a hideaway by Barbary pirates and by the Spanish to house Genoese prisoners, the island has a chequered history, but today it is used by locals and tourists alike for its recreational facilities.

In the heat of a Spanish summer the milder climate of the island will be a welcome relief for the day. Tabarca is renowned for it’s fabulous clear waters, the sandy beaches, and it’s coves and cliffs which surround the island.

The surrounding waters of the 2km long island were declared a national marine park in 1986 and are a snorkeler’s paradise, with the abundance of marine life in the clear waters. Water sports rule the island with pedalo boats alongside windsailers and dinghies moored in the harbour next to large private yachts.

Everyone is in search of that small secluded bit of paradise and whilst you can see the mainland from Tabarca there is a feeling that an undiscovered treasure has been found, the only problem is that hundreds of other people have also discovered it and with several daily ferries from Santa Pola and Alicante, that long lost private desert island is no longer private or deserted.

During the 18th century the island became a refuge for Barbary pirates until the Spanish king, King Charles III, decreed the fortification of Tabarca to protect against the pirates.

The remains of the wall and the fortress are still visible, and they are one of the first sights you will see as you arrive at the island.

laid out in a square pattern, with narrow streets lined with old fishing houses.

Walking through one of the three monumental gateways built in the 18th Century, along with a walled settlement that was constructed to discourage pirates landing, is the village. The traditional Spanish settlement remains largely unspoilt and unaffected by the growing number of visitors during the summer months.

The only signs are the two souvenir shops and the large amount of restaurants scattered along the hilltops overlooking the sea and situated down quiet cobbled side streets.

The village, which occupies the western-most tip of the island, is

Fish is the dish of the day in most of the restaurants with it being freshly caught, and on admiring the view it is easy to understand why people travel across purely for a special meal overlooking the rocky coastline.

Local specialties include paellas and caldero (a type of Spanish fish stew). The cost of an average Menu del Dia is around €20.00 per person, slightly more expensive than on the mainland.

Another option is to take a picnic and enjoy al-fresco dining alongside nature. And as the island is nearly 2km’s long, you’ll always find a quiet location to lay down a blanket and open the cool box.

Through another gate to the tip of the island and people battle the slippery rocks and pebbles to scramble across the shallow water to a tiny little island for peaceful picnics and to watch the seagulls nesting by the shoreline. In certain parts the water is clear enough to see the marine life, almost close enough to touch.

The latest addition to the island is a museum, into which entry is absolutely free. The modern slimline building overlooks the harbour to the back and the beach to the front. Among the exhibitions are audiovisual shows that play several times throughout the day, giving visitors a welcome break from the sun and sea.

There are hourly ferries across from the mainland ports of both Santa Pola and Alicante to Isla de Tabarca. Trips are also available from Torrevieja. From Santa Pola the 25 minute crossing on a glass bottom ferry is approximately €13 return. From Alicante the price is €19 while from Torrevieja the journey is approximately 40 minutes and the cost €25.

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada Calle Canalejas 4 Torrevieja’s Kontiki ferry on the way to Tabarca

Thursday, 13th September at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, 15th September at 5:00 p.m.

Nothing like a Dame A charming documentary bumped into a limited cinema release by popular demand is a fly on the wall chat between 4 old friends. The only thing missing is a bit of English rain, but not for long; they’re all soon sheltering in the home that Powright once shared with Laurence Olivier, her late husband.

Cast: Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Eileen Atkins, Joan Plowright

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NEW INSTRUCTION

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Euro 115,000

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 7 Orphan; 8 Temper; 10 Pontoon; 11 Force; 12 Ugly; 13 Pigmy; 17 Paint; 18 Fair; 22 Charm; 23 Trinket; 24 Legend; 25 Slogan.

DOWN: 1 Pompous; 2 Spindle; 3 Talon; 4 Perfume; 5 Spurt; 6 Breed; 9 Indignity; 14 Payment; 15 Package; 16 Pretend; 19 Scold; 20 Laugh; 21 Silly.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 7 Opener; 8 Gaffer; 10 Tadpole; 11 Ideal; 12 Rows; 13 Atlas; 17 Kayak; 18 Earl; 22 Hindi; 23 Launder; 24 Dorset; 25 Picnic.

DOWN: 1 Posture; 2 Meadows; 3 Tenor; 4 Capital; 5 Often; 6 Drill; 9 Meatballs;

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Marines;

15

Wardens; 16 Clerics; 19 Shade; 20 Inert; 21 Quail.

Holstein dynasty?

19. In France what take place at Auteuil, SaintCloud and Chantilly?

20. A Tiercel is the correct name for a male what?

21. An algophile loves what?

22. Who is the Roman Goddess of invention and wisdom?

23. What would you do with a celesta?

24. What would you do if someone gave you a Twank?

25. Which spice comes in hands?

26. What would you expect to see at Santa Pod? 27. What was Peter Blake, a pop art designer's most famous work?

28. Which 1960 film did Elvis Presley play a mixed race character?

29. What profession had Lemual Gulliver when he was shipwrecked?

30. In the Bible what was an adamant?

are courses, 20. Hawk or Falcon, 21.

18. Greece, 19. Horse Racing they

Richard III, 6. Hat, 7. The Old

Whale, 17. George Bernard Shaw,

of the Round Table, 4. Healing, 5.

Woodpecker,

1. Manchester, 2. Hamlet, 3. Knights

15.

Quakers,

16.

QUIZ ANSWERS

18. What country was ruled by the Schleswig-

Curiosity Shop, 8. Berry, 9. Sheep,

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. The Romans called it Mamcunium, what is this English city?

2. Shakespeare wrote "Cruel only to be kind" in what play?

3. Launfal, Pelleas and Tristram were part of what group?

4. Greek & Roman Apollo, Babylonian Marduk, Indian Vishnu, gods of what?

5. Which English King rode a horse called White Surrey?

6. Billycock, Wideawake, Gibus and Mitre all types of what?

7. Quilp (A Dwarf) is a character in which Dickens novel?

8. What word can be added to Fae, Fen, Black, Bil, Goose to make new words?

9. Caracul, Dorset, Urial, Mufflon and Jacobs are types of what?

10. What are Strength, Chariot and Hermit?

11. Belly, Block, Blout, Nut, Rib and waist are all parts of what?

12. Mauna Loa, Paricutin, Surtsey and Susya are all what?

13. BOZ was the penname if which writer?

14. What bird is sometimes called the Yaffle?

15. What organisation is known as the Society of Friends?

16. Balein, Boops, Fin, Grampus and Pothead are types of what?

17. Who wrote the play Androcles and the Lion?

Pain, 22. Minerva, 23. Play it, its a

Solution on Page 22

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

10. Tarot Cards, 11. A Violin, 12.

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Comprehensible (12) Pony (3) Deadly (6) Declaration (9) Watchfulness (5) Liking (12) Meadow (5) Interpret (9) Name (5) Price-list (6) Abyss (5) Curve (3)

percussion instrument, 24. 1. Drink

DOWN 1. Transport for a small charge (12) 2. The intention is to reach a conclusion (3) 3. Travel disrupted by the old rogue (6) 4. Holder of a record for spinning (9) 5. Maybe in the open, I think (5) 6. What he puts down is destined to be enveloped (6-6) 7. Being frightfully big, they make quite a bit of progress (5) 10. Trim craft form (9) 13. Criticise traditional roofing material (5) 14. Minister to search for liquid assets (6) 16. You'll find them wandering round a part of Leinster (5) 20 and 17 Ac. The main melody enjoyed by the Promenaders (3,3)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

10.

13.

14.

16.

20.

Volcanoes, 13. Charles Dickens, 14.

Ship's surgeon, 30. Diamond.

Peppers cover, 28. Flaming Star, 29.

Racing,

ACROSS 1 and 7 Ac. Planning edict the purveyor of pickles likes to get? (12,5) 7. See 1 Ac. 8. Erect or demolish, we hear (5) 9. Spoil the look of a tailless filly (3) 10. Confectionery and dessert coming before the joint (9) 11. Not expressed as United Nations' assistance (6) 12. He reviles a sailor in front of an employer (6) 15. Pacific agreement (9) 17. See 20 Dn. 18. In the boom, a happy city on the Missouri (5) 19. The children produce a publication (5) 21. At last he will improve your understanding (4,8)

ACROSS 1.

Not decisive (12) 7.

Battle (5) 8.

Wrath (5) 9.

Untruth (3) 10. Journeyed (9) 11. Apache (6) 12. Of teeth (6) 15. Endless (9) 17. Spasm (3) 18. Animal (5) 19. Picture (5) 21. Flaw (12)

27.

Beatles'

Sergeant

it - it's tea, 25. Ginger, 26. Drag

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

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

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

Getting to Know a Lizard

S

he rested silently on the dry, stone wall watching me with her black eyes, studying my every move with careful precision.

Her slender body soaking up every ray of the brilliant, warming sun. The long tongue flicked out of her mouth as she savoured every tasty morsel that came her way.

For a lizard, Clemmy is of diminutive size, and I am convinced that she has hardly grown over the three years that I have known her.

She only appears on hot, sunny days, when the sun’s rays hit the same spot on the wall of our garden.

She usually appears when I am pruning the roses, setting new plants or watering the garden. I talk to her and she appears to listen carefully to my every word; goodness knows what the neighbours think of our conversations.

Sometimes, I give Clemmy a small piece of fruit, which she enjoys, and there is always a little water dripping from a tap that needs a new washer, so I know that she does not lack liquid refreshment.

I am not an expert on lizards, so I am unsure as to what species Clemmy is, but these islands are home to some of the most impressive lizards on the planet. It is interesting to know that most of the Canary Islands have their own indigenous species and may best be regarded as a lizard paradise.

15

b y Bar rie Mahoney

The islands of Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro are home to some of the largest true lizards on the planet that can grow to around 80 centimetres long, so Clemmy has a very long way to go.

The Giant Gran Canaria Lizard (Gallotia stehleni) is a common sight all over the island if we are quiet and take care to look for them. Lizards are curious, nosey creatures that many visitors and locals simply do not see. Their disguise is superb and they can easily blend into their rocky surroundings.

Fortunately, they are a protected species by law and it is illegal to catch or kill lizards.

Sadly, giant lizards are either extinct or severely endangered on the other Canary Islands, since they have been heavily hunted over the years by cats and rats and other predators.

Sadly, the release of captive snakes in recent years by thoughtless pet owners has led to a reduction in the lizard population, since snakes find lizards to be a tasty addition to their diet.

the privilege to share an island with thousands of lizards that have made the islands their home long before man became the imposter in their lives. Lizards, like Clemmy, are the true Canarians and deserve to be free and to roam as they please.

The Giant Gran Canaria lizard is not to be argued with, since they have a very determined bite if provoked. Although they never attack humans, they do chase and fight their own kind. It is also true that lizards grow new tails if their original one gets damaged or bitten off by a predator.

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

I am reminded that 14 August is World Lizard Day, and that I have

© Barrie Mahoney

16

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

Supper on Broadway

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Maria and The Pink Ladies and Panthers are looking for volunteers to join them in their fund raising fight against cancer.

The work involves manning the office in Playa Flamenca Mon - Fri (10 - 1pm) and the enquiry desk in La Zenia Boulevard Mondays 12 -2pm (both on a rota basis) to enable people to book appointments for mammograms, smear tests, skin

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cancer, and prostate checks.

Volunteers also need to be available to help out at events, often at weekends to help set up & man the tables, sell raffle tickets etc. If you have spare time and would like to join us raising more money to fund research and promote our early detection programme.

Please contact Maria on 633 487 595.

Appeal from The Pink Ladies

C

ampoverde Theatre Group will present their new supper show Supper on Broadway on 26th, 27th and 28th of September. After an absence on several years the theatre group are pleased to be returning to The Olympia Restaurant, at Mil Palmeras which had been the home of the group for many years. Again we are offering a one course meal and a memorable show, all for the price of 10€ Campoverde Theatre Group’s latest show will honour well loved musical theatre successes that enchanted audiences on both Broadway and West End stages. The group will remember famous shows such as My Fair Lady, Camelot, The Boy Friend, Carousel, Half a Sixpence, Les Miserable’s and will introduce to many people the musical The Blitz. Through short sketches, song and dance these famous musicals be remembered.

Campoverde Theatre Group is supporting the campaign for the provision of defibrillators in public buildings, sports facilities and with beach lifeguards. Before we even commenced rehearsals for

our latest production it had been unanimously decided that any money raised would go towards the defibrillators cause. This decision was further confirmed when one of our members had to be rushed to the local health centre where he received prompt and excellent treatment. Please come along and enjoy a great show and contribute to this excellent defibrillator appeal.

Patrons of Campoverde Theatre Group have said that they really enjoy the supper show format and feel that they can enjoy a great evening out. The meal will commence at 7.30 and the show will start when the meal is all finished and everything cleared away. Show dates are Wednesday 26th, Thursday 27th and Friday 28th of September.

Tickets are available from The Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras and The Community Centre / Reading Point, Ramon de Campoamor, Calle Cipres, which is situated near Aldi on Monday and Wednesday afternoons; Tel: 626 772 256 or 666 186 084, or contact the Ticket Line: ctgticketline@gmail.com.

Volunteer Tutors wanted

Volunteer Tutors wanted to teach English & Spanish Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced classes to Members of Community Care Association on Monday and Wednesday afternoons at the new Drop In Centre located at CC Ramon de Campoamor, Calle El Cipres, Lomas de

Cabo Roig, Orihuela Costa to cover for our former Tutor who is in UK caring for her 94 year old Mother who is having a major operation, we wish her a speedy recovery. These classes are a great success and very popular.

The positions are voluntary but expenses are paid for travel to and from the Centre. If you have a few hours a week to spare to help your Int 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 to learn Spanish Beginners.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

2019 Equine Calendar launched by EHCC T

welve stunning photographs of horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from abuse and neglect feature in a new 2019 calendar launched by Spain’s Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre this week.

The non-profit Rojales rescue centre – which has more than 120 equine residents and has saved 16 horses, ponies and donkeys this year alone – hopes the calendar sales will help raise funds to replace its deteriorating and costly internal fences.

“Our internal fencing is currently made almost entirely of electric fence tape held up by plastic posts. While this type of fencing is safe for our horses, the electric tape deteriorates rapidly in the hot Spanish sun, requiring constant replacement,” centre co-founder Sue Weeding said.

“Some cheeky horses have also learned to push over and snap the plastic posts. Each day, we replace anywhere from five to 10 broken plastic posts – and at €3 each, the cost quickly adds up.”

The centre hopes to raise €5,000 to complete stage one of its internal fencing replacement project. For every three calendars sold, the centre will be able to purchase an entire metre of strong and permanent Tornado Wire fencing.

The calendar features photos the centre’s horses, ponies and donkeys kindly taken and donated by photographer Elaine Warnock.

Said Elaine: “The 2019 calendar is a great way of raising awareness of how these animals have been previously treated and the photos are a testament to how they have been cared for and how beautiful they look today.”

The limited-edition calendar was designed by volunteer Koren Helbig, meaning almost every cent raised from sales goes straight to the internal fence fundraiser.

The calendar costs just €15 and can be purchased at Easy Horse Care’s monthly open day or online (for delivery or pick-up from the centre’s charity stores).

Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre relies entirely on donations to fund its important animal welfare work. Good-quality furniture donations are currently sought for the centre’s charity stores, which are low on stock. Anyone interested in making a donation or volunteering can call Sue on 652 021 980.

Located just outside Rojales at Partido Lo Garriga, 59, the Easy

Horse Care Rescue Centre opens to the public on the first Sunday of every month between 1pm and 4pm. Visit www.easyhorsecare.net and follow us on Facebook at @EasyHorseCare.

Donations can also be made directly to the internal fencing fundraising campaign here: www.easyhorsecare.net/donate/help-buildfences.

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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 10th - Sunday 16th 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

URGENT - In need of a loving quiet home Hello my name is Sebastian and I am a 9 year old male Norwegian forest cat. My owners are travelling to different countries and unfortunately I cannot go with them. I would love a home with no other cats (as I am very territorial) or dogs, (I chase them up the road).

I love tummy tickles and adore being brushed, I will give you lots of love in return. I am used to being in a quiet area with little traffic.

If interested please call Elaine on 636 929 869.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

The Emerald Isle Bowls Club - Vera Moran Trophy The Emerald Isle Bowls Club held their annual Vera Moran Tournament this year, between 3rd and 5th September.

12 rinks competed, 7 from the Emerald Isle and 5 from other clubs, who were, Greenlands.

La Marina. San Miguel. Vistabella. and Monte Mar.

Seamus Moran presenting the Winners’ shield to John Mullarkey

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.

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.

Beaten semi finalists were Vistabella and Emerald Isle

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.

Remember SAPS is still going on, taking place on Saturday morning. All players welcome, Shoes Bowls and Coaching all for 5 Euros for 2 hours

Quesada Bowls Club Report and Norma eventually won with Jackie and George gallant runners up.

The finalists in Quesada Club drawn Pairs Competition - Left to right - Terry Morgan, Norma Lamberton, Jacqui Johnston and George Carnell After the presentation members were treated to a hot and cold buffet kindly provided free of charge, by Ian and Marie, our hosts from The Club, Quesada. A lovely gesture, that everyone appreciated and enjoyed.

Next week its the semi finals and finals of the SABA competition which has been running thoughout the Summer.

Quesada will be represented in the Ladies Singles semi-final by defending champion, Carol Broomfield and in the Mens Semi-

Las Ramblas Golf Society

by Dee Stephenson

final by Terry Morgan. Good luck to both players Just a reminder that, open to visitors, our popular Saturday morning Chicken Drive is continuing during the summer months.

Anyone interested in taking part, please report to The Club, Quesada at 9.45am for a 10am start. Bowls and shoes are available free of charge if required.

For more information about our club, please contact our club secretary Angie Goddard at newleaf2014@hotmail.com or phone 966 716 936 New bowlers are always welcome and introductory coaching is available.

This week, Quesada Bowls Club would like to thank another of our sponsors, IBEX Insurance, Quesada -

Marching forward with Torrevieja Revival RC

Results for w/c 3.9.18 A good start to the week with a closely contested 2 ball better ball, lowest handicap out of the group playing with the highest.

Our winners today with 44 points were Bryan Neal (yawn…. this is getting boring!) ably assisted by John Shervell. A steady round from Bryan (again) who notched up 28 of those pts. Within a couple of shots and taking the podium in second place, were Dave Pulling and Geoff (first off) Biggerstaff.

Wednesday’s stableford saw some action when Reg (the cat) Akehurst had to throw himself to the ground in order not to be hit by a bunker shot. At 89 though we had to help him to his feet again!

First place went to Brian Staines with 38 points, a snifter in front of Tom Hardie with 37. Third on countback was Dave Pulling with 37 points (nice to see someone playing off the yellow tees) and Olga Douglas took the fourth slot with 35. Three 2’s today; Nigel Price and the ‘blues brothers’ Bryan Neal and Tom Hardie.

On Friday we played a 6x6x6 (I’ve already explained how this is scored) The winning team with 84 points were Rod (yes I played 18 holes) Doel, Dave Pulling, Pete Dunn and Yvonne Phipps.

Did you know? In March, 1961, American Lou Kretlow hit the longest ever hole-in-one, sinking his ball from 427 yards at the 16th hole in Oklahoma.

Maybe I’ll be reporting something similar soon (not!)

By Peter Reffell

19

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

It was a feast of bowling for three days and the winning rink came from the Emerald Isle Cas Thomas. Sue Johnson. John Mullarkay and Brian Taylor who beat Anne Marie Stevenson, Dave Close, Drew Gerrard and Colin Lindgren 8-3 in the final.

This week members were involved in an exciting 2 day Club Drawn Pairs competition.

There were 32 entries in total and the competition was decided on shots. Members were drawn in 4 groups, and played all the group members in 8 ends or one hour matches.

Then the pair with the highest shot score overall in each group played in the semifinals, and the winners of the semi-finals battled it out in the final.

The semi-finalists were Dee Stephenson and Martin Richardson, Hazel Frost and Steve Hibberd, Jacqui Johnston and George Carnell and Terry Morgan and Norma Lamberton After a hard fought final Terry

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The new Rugby club Torrevieja Revival RFC is making excellent progress with regularly having 17 plus players training down on Naufragos Beach in Torrevieja for preseason fitness training ready for our pre-season friendlies. This also included 6 new players as well in recent weeks, of all nationalities. The club is becoming a very multi national club just as the sport should be.

These are taking place in September on15th and 29th, so look out on Facebook and the local press for more details nearer the time.

We have had on top of the local players training been lucky to have young Callum from Quinns academy, Nick from Sale

Sharks Academy and 2 Cheshire county players down training as well as a couple Irish juniors, so a great mixture of experience and new lads coming into the sport.

Locally we have 2 lads who are ex Valencian academy players, 2 brothers ex La Vila and the average age of the team is in the early 20’s with few experienced old heads in there that will for sure lift the level with the players around them, also a level 2 coach/ player from Dublin, Johan joining us at the end of August.

The season will be starting mid October so still plenty of time to come down and get your fitness levels up ready for the new season, we are also looking for new players, ex

players, coaches, volunteers, first aiders, etc, are also most welcome.

We also have half a dozen teams booked to come out on tour from the beginning of May juniors, ladies etc as well as at least one touch rugby team.

Also watch this space for some important news in October and reference sponsors for the club.

The touch rugby is also increasing in numbers down on Guardamar beach by the Red Cross place in front of the bars and restaurants. It will be great to see plenty more people down there training, also come down training and set up your own touch rugby team with a group of friends or local bars or business and get a league up and running with the support of the Valencian Federation.

You only need 12 players per team.

All being well in the next couple of weeks will be moving off the beach to our training ground and speaking to a couple of town halls to set up junior academies in conjunction with Torrevieja RC as feeders and set their own team up and receive touring teams as well.

For further information about the Torrevieja rugby club come down to Zoco Market on Sunday to Dutch’s Rugby Store 692 767 242 or contact the clubs co-ordinator Tony on 670 972 366 whatsapp.

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Four face jail for retrieving lost balls at La Manga Murcia’s Civil Guard, in conjunction with the private security company operating at La Manga Club has launched operation 'Boleros', an investigation that has culminated with the breaking up of a criminal group, four members of which have been arrested for theft and property damage.

Their crime was to recover a thousand golf balls that had been lost over many years at the bottom of the golf course’s artificial lakes, causing, according to the course operator, 44,000 euros in economic damage to their company, presumably relating to the losses that they have incurred with the sale of replacement balls.

The investigation began after the Civil Guard was alerted by the private security company, as to the presence of a group of people who, during the early mornings, roamed the outskirts of the Golf courses.

Agents, presumably with little better to do in La Manga, subsequently carried out a surveillance operation for two days which resulted in the arrest of four men, one of them a minor, who were traveling aboard a van which was ladened with 13 bags full of golf balls.

In the vehicle, the Guardia also found two handmade metal cages that were used to extract the balls from the bottom of the artificial lakes, where they would have remained, having been

lost by golfers over many years.

All those arrested were former residents of Malaga who had moved into the area specifically to work the golf courses in the Region of Murcia. The police say that some of them had backgrounds for similar crimes.

Agents say that this particular criminal activity is unusual in the Region but very common in other provinces, such as in Malaga, the place of origin of those arrested.

In order to recover the balls, many of which are probably mine, they drag the metal cages along the bottom of the artificial lakes which causes damage to their waterproof covers. They then move the recovered golf balls to other provinces where they sell them at prices that are much lower than market prices.

In many countries across Europe such criminals are called ‘entrepaneurs’, however considering the quality of the balls shown in the Guardia photograph I doubt that there would have been too many golfers queuing up to buy them.

I would be absolutely delighted though if, when the case comes to trial, the Cartagena courts simply tell the La Manga golf authorities to ‘get a life’ and stop wasting police time. I wonder how many of us who play the sport on a regular basis haven’t been guilty of trawling for lost balls ourselves!

Alfies Golf Society Las Colinas -Thursday 30th August 29 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to Las Colinas GC on 30th August.

Overall Winner Silver Division – Geoff Kite (R) Ian Ingledew (L)

The turnout was great despite the very warm temperature we had 21 members and 8 guests who are always welcome to play golf with us at Alfies. Most of the prizes in the competition and raffle were won by friends of our captain Ian Ingledew which as you can imagine went down very well with the golf society.

The course at Las Colinas is a popular venue at Alfies and despite the hot and humid temperatures all players enjoyed the day with some high scores being achieved.

The presentation was held back at Alfies’s bar where a buffet was enjoyed by all the players provided by Rose and Jim at Alfies Bar. Overall Winner Silver Division – Geoff Kite (R) Ingledew (L)

Ian

Winner Gold Division – Ian Ingledew- Captain and Treasurer at Alfies Golf Society Our winner of the day in the silver division was Geoff Kite with a great score of 38 stableford points Second place went to Gary Armstrong with a score of 36 stableford points.

The Winner of the gold division was Ian Ian Ingledew our society captain and treasurer with a score of 33 stableford points. Second place went to Derek Fleet with 32 points.

Due to our high number of guests playing we had 2 prizes for our valued guest players kindly donated by our Captain Ian Ingledew.

The winner of the Best Guest went to Gareth Roberta with a great score of 43 stableford points playing off a 13 handicap and second place went to Dan Jones with a score of 35 stableford points.

Nearest the pin on the 4th– Sponsored by ‘The Street Restaurant’ went to Rachel Lee Nearest the pin on the 7th– sponsored by ‘The Auld Dubliner‘ went to Bob Chambers Nearest the pin in 2 shots on the 11th - sponsored by ’The Celtic Drop’ went to Jim Dempsey Nearest the pin in 3 shots on the 18th – sponsored by ‘Alfies Bar’ went to Nick Lee

The Eurogolf Society Thursday 6th September By Barry Wilson The first game of the 2018/19 season was a Texas Scramble with 44 players.

1st (60.7) Felix Mellon, Jeff Lynch, Steve Sayers & Ken Brett.

2nd (61.3) Colin Daye-Gretton, Jorge Martinez, Debbie Weedon & Tony Stanley.

3rd (61.4) John Barraclough, Vince Tocker, Gordon Bourne & Bev Evans.

‘NEAREST THE PIN’ hole (5) Glen Roberts, (11) Steve Yoxall, (15) Steve Yoxall, (17) Tony Stanley.

‘FOOTBALL DRAW’ (19) Stuart Allen, (69) Linda Lynch, (17) Gary Grierson, (23) Steve Sayers, (83) Jorge Martinez.

TOFFS SOCIETY played Tuesday 4th September 2018. First game of the season 2018/19, was the normal Stableford with 51 Players.

OVERALL WINNERS: 1st (39) Gordon Reed, 2nd (38) Lauraine Walker, 3rd (37) Alan Cowley, 4th (37) David Blanchette.

CATEGORY 1 Winners: 1st (35) Felix Mallon, 2nd (35) Gary Grierson.

CATEGORY 2 Winners: 1st (35) Margaret Perito, 2nd (35) Gerard McWilliams.

CATEGORY 3 Winners: 1st (35) Barry Wilson, 2nd (35) Claire Daye-Gretton.

NEAREST THE PIN: Hole (5) John Barraclough, (6) Glen Roberts, (7) Mike Gillett, (12) Ian Pegg, (15) Gerard McWilliams.

BEST FRONT NINE: (19) John Barraclough, BEST BACK NINE: (19) David Gregson.

FOOTBALL DRAW: (14) Alan Venables, (21) Jenny Cheetham, (66) Ian Pegg, (81) Dave Nicolls.

The Blind pairs was won by Steve Bicks and Brian Young.

A prize donated by Gary Armstrong for the longest walk went to Magnus Many thanks to our sponsors, our committee for their hard work in the background, and to Mike Probert from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services for arranging our day.

To Rose and Jim and staff at Alfies Bar for their continued support throughout the year for our buffet.

Big Thank you to Sandie Hall for organising the charity raffle and prizes.

And finally thanks to all the members and guests for supporting Alfies Golf Society. Our next outing is Hacienda Riquelme on the 27th September 2018 so get your names down early.

The photo shows some of the Eurogolf & Toffs Society winners who played on Thursday 6th & Tuesday 4th September 2018.

From left to right: Steve Sayers, Ken Brett, Linda Lynch, Jeff Lynch, Lauraine Walker, Colin Daye-Gretton, Tony Stanley, Debbie Weedon, Glen Roberts, David Gregson, Steve Yoxall and Barry Wilson.

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San Javier GS @ La Serena

By David Archer Sweltering humid conditions meant that several players wilted in the latter stages of the game today, with the notable exception being first placed in Division One, Kev Parker with 42 points. Second was Mark Pollitt with 36 and third was Doug Daughtrey with 35.

In Division Two the winner was Vice Captain Ty Williams with 36, just holding off Captain Dave Farrington in second with 32, followed

by Clyde Sandry, also on 32. Nearest the pins were won by Jim Moffatt, Ross Graham, Kev Parker and Jeff Belt.

The gross 2 (for 50 euros) was not claimed and will roll over to our next game. We have several upcoming games, the details of which can be seen on the calendar of our website. Full details will be emailed to all members.

For further information on our society, to play as a guest, or to join, please phone Barry Beale on +34 649 245 889 or look at our website at www.sanjaviergolfsociety.co.uk and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sanjaviergolfsociety Above is a photo of the Division One winner and top scorer overall on the day: Kev Parker.

El Plantio Texas Scramble

By David Swann

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

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

LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE Those lost souls amongst you that have followed and read these articles over many years will be aware that or Spanish hosts operate a seasonal pricing strategy which means that golf green fee prices vary at different times of the year with Spring and Autumn generally being the most expensive playing periods.

We will shortly exit a long and hot summer low season period and temperatures will begin to fall and we will see the usual influx of golfers from Northern Europe to the region for the Autumn and Winter months so courses will become very busy and as from 1st October 2018 all courses will be in high season with prices at their highest and they will stay that way until 1st December 2018.

Throughout the month of September prices will gradually move up to the high season threshhold as some courses make the move earlier than others.

Now before some of our older residents feel like they have to re-mortgage the house of sell the grand children to afford to play golf there are still some late summer deals still available on some courses until 30th September 2018 so go ahead and fill your boots while you can.

We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us.

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(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) 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 €120 €88 €112 €134 €128 €39 €39 €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 (From 12pm) Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee (from 1pm) 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 3pm) 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 Valle Del Este – 10/09/18 La Manga West – 11/09/18 Quotation of the week “The secret of missing a tree is too aim straight at it” - Michael Green

Ken, Adrian, Ivan, Tony, Chris, Steve, Norman, John and Kyrre.

Due to essential maintenance of the 9-Hole Course, El Plantio Management kindly allowed all the small course only members to play the full 18 Holes on the big course. All 12 members who had signed up for a Texas Scramble on the short course then lined up in 3 teams of four players.

Unfortunately one member was unable to play the full 18, so the competition was staged over 9 Holes. The winning quartet returned a very creditable one under par, whilst the other teams posted two over and returned almost identical cards.

First Place, Ray Housley, Lawrence Wanty, Henry Mellor, Helen Beddows.– 35 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 below shows L to R, Ray Housley, Lawrence Wanty, Henry Mellor, Helen Beddows .

San Miguel Golf Society @ La Finca It was good to be back at an old favourite this week, and although the greens were still recovering from their recent hollow tining, the course was generally in good nick.

Best guests

The weather was hot but also humid and this took its toll on one of our committee members who decided to walk. Nine holes was all he could muster before the ‘smell of sweat’ took over and he gave up.

Bronze division - 1st - John Trehy 33 2nd - Norman McBride 31 3rd - Brian Butler 29

Special mention here for our octogenarian Norman McBride (83) who not only completed 18 holes but scored a magnificent 31 points.

The scoring was a little down on recent weeks, perhaps reflecting that this is a long course – mind you no one told Krazy Kyrre our big-hitting, if somewhat erratic, Norwegian – his radar was obviously locked in today and not only did he better par (one of only 2 players) – he did it with 42 points.

There was some keen competition amongst a good field of 42 and scores were close at the top of the three divisions.

1st John Urqhart – 2nd Peter Webster

Nearest the pin hole 3 - Steve Higgins hole 6 – Kev Albright hole 13 – Chris Hamblett hole 16 - Adrian Roberts.

Silver Division - 1st - Kyrre Skrasmoen 42 2nd - Mike Kaylor 36 3rd – Brian Butler 29 Gold Division – 1st – Captain Smale 35 2nd – Ivan Hanak 34 c/b 3rd – Steve Higgins 34 c/b Our thanks to La Cascada Bar for their hospitality and very delicious refreshments.

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 Serena, Alenda and Las Colinas.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th September, 2018

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A haunting reminder of yesteryear or the re-awakening of a once famous club?

A

s it sits in the shadow of the magnificent Sports City, we have had many promises from the Torrevieja Ayuntamiento about the future of the ‘Once proud’ Vicente Garcia Stadium, the spiritual home of CD Torrevieja, as well as the future of both the stadium and of the football club itself. But, whilst successive governments want only to score political points, as they blame each other for a multitude of mistakes, both the public and the football club continue to suffer.

Unlicensed, structurally unsafe, and certainly well beyond repair, the main stadium grandstand suffered extensive fire damage in May last year. There was little that could be done, other than to rip it down and start all over again, the first part of which was carried out at a cost of 163,000 euro early in 2018.

At the time, the Councillor for Sports, Víctor Ferrández (IU), said that the project would be completed by the end of August and that it would be followed by “whatever additional C D To r re v i e j a p l a y e r s J e re m y a n d M a rc o a t t h e work was necessary to ensure that p a d l o c k e d g a t e s o f t h e E s t a d i o Vi c e n t e G a rc i a the club was able to return to the stadium for the start of the new league season in September”.

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Club owner David Cruz and new Chief Executive Daniel Plaza are hoping to meet with the Council bosses to discuss the future of the stadium this week.

“I have asked the council if I can take control of the stadium in its present state. I will send people in to clean it up and make it safe. I will bring in experts to prepare the playing surface, but the Ayuntamiento have said no,” explained Cruz. “I don’t know what else I can do to speed things up, although along with Daniel next week, we will continue to talk to the authorities and see what further progress we can make.”

Meanwhile, a visit to the Vicente Garcia stadium showed the state of near abandonment that the

For the moment, however, the overgrown terracing in the Vicente Garcia is a poignant reminder of what has been, days that the club will never able to get back. But it does have fond memories and it could also have a future as now the time seems to be right for the reawakening of this once famous club.

But if it is to succeed once again, each of the different factions will be required to play its part. They must be prepared to work together to build a solid base, which includes the refurbishment of the Estadio Vicente Garcia and the return of the club to

The empty space that previously housed the main stand.

In places the grass is almost 2ft high

A second phase, which would run in tandem with the demolition work, would see council surveyors prepare the design and construction of a new covered grandstand and changing accommodation, intended to provide the stadium with modern facilities.

SUDUKO SOLUTION

However, well into September, there seems to be no sign of progress in respect of phase two.

There is certainly no word from the Torrevieja Ayuntamiento and rather surprisingly there seems to be little interest in the matter from the local Spanish press.

Indeed the only person who is attempting to keep the subject in the public eye is new Club owner David Cruz, the former President of CD Castellon.

ground is currentl in. The grass is over a metre high in places, the terraces covered by weeds, broken plastic seats, filthy stands, “but nothing that couldn’t be put right with a little bit of effort,” said David Cruz.

However, you would need to be a supporter of CD Torrevieja to have a real appreciation for the complications of the Council -spectator-club relationship.

When I talked with him on Wednesday he told me that he was hoping to meet Architects next week, along with new Chief Executive and former Olympic gold medallist, Daniel Plaza.

Since 2007, when the club was pipped for promotion to Segunda 2B in a last gasp playoff, and only just avoided folding because of excessive debts, there seems to have been little stability. Despite a dozen years in Tercera, the investment had been just enough to keep it afloat, with the standard of football gradually dropping off, along with it’s expatriate support, year on year.

Plaza takes up his new position at CD Torrevieja when he returns from a family holiday on 10 September and Cruz is hoping that, along with the former councillor for sport, he can start moving the process forward from the present stalemate in which it seems to be stuck.

Relegation to Preferente followed in 2017 after which the club was fortunate not to sink into the doldrums of Regional football. But now under new ownership, perhaps it is time to give CD Torrevieja another chance. The new President has the ambition, he certainly seems to have the funding and he is gradually bringing in a team, management players and backroom, staff that seem capable of restoring some, if not all of the former glory.

its spiritual home.

So it is up to the council, the management and the community to show just what can be achieved again, and who knows, in the not too distant future, CD Torrevieja could be climbing the divisions once again, restoring the former pride to this once famous club.

Although the councillor for sport, Víctor Ferrández, didn’t elaborate on the current situation with regard to the Ayuntamiento/Club/Ground situation he did offer to meet with the Leader Newspaper, and provide a complete update from the council point of view. Hopefully the meeting will take place in the coming days.

Death and rebirth seems to be what it is all about.

And so the cycle repeats itself.

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Rulo seals the win to show what a class act he is A

s a show of solidarity, CD Torrevieja directors invited a number of Torry Army members to travel on the team coach to the seaside town of Villajoyosa for Sunday evening’s match.

Manager Manu Sanchez must have been quietly confident of another good performance, following last week’s showing against Horadada, although how their near Villajoyosa CF neighbours stole a point is something only they know (and perhaps the referee!!). So CD Torrevieja far, so good, and in general terms the fans are liking what they see (with 1 or 2 exceptions - that´s players not supporters and it includes the bright red away strip!).

Villajoyosa, meanwhile, have had a poor start to a season in which they are amongst the favourites to do well. Finishing 2nd last season, they just missed out in the play offs, but against newly promoted Independent Alicante last weekend, they surprisingly went down 3-1.

It´s Villajoyosa´s 8th season back in the Preferente div, following 10 seasons of flirting between Divisions 3 and 2b, so in their first home game in front of their home supporters José Soler’s side were hoping to get their promotion push under way.

But the visitors had other ideas. Torry were in no mood to sit back as guests at Villajoyosa’s party as Seydina Omar gave Torrevieja the perfect start with a 9th-minute strike from the spot after centre back Ubeda brought him down in the area. As the last defender the Villajoyosa defender was dismissed, the home side down to ten men, with Omar sending Dani the wrong way to put the visitors in front.

And it was keeper Dani who was the busiest player on the field, saving well from Revilla and Rulo during the opening period. But he couldn’t stop a low strike from the former UD Ilicitana forward as Torry extended their lead midway through the half, Rulo quickest to a rebound from an Omar effort that the keeper could only parry.

.......................0 ......................2 The Elche born player was a major target for manager Manu Sánchez as soon as he got the Torrevieja job and at this stage of the game his industry and his movement were full justification for the manager’s confidence.

Two shots from Mañez in quick succession both rebounded off the Villajoyosa bar on the half hour mark before we saw the home side’s first real effort on goal, which Sergio really should have converted.

With Mañez then seeing his angled shot turned around the post by Dani the interval arrived none too soon for the home side although their resurgence toward the end of the first forty-five did give the visitors food for thought as the players trooped off for half time.

Sr Lopez Herrero missed a clear handball from Akapo, and things were clearly not going Villajoyosa’s way when, in the 6th minute of added time, Juan could also have seen red, having handled outside the box, with Meji and Antonio both in good positions to score.

But on balance the scoreline was about what the visitors deserved in an entertaining game where, with better finishing, the Torry advantage could have been much greater.

Torry also bossed the game during the 2nd period although they were rather more than fortunate with one or two of the referees ‘calls’.

Next Sunday Torry are at home to Redovan CF at the Nelson Mandela Stadium . Redovan have lost both of their opening games, are rooted just one place from the bottom of the table above CF Benidorm.

José Soler’s side were denied two penalty shouts, the first when Juan upended Meji on 50 minutes, the 2nd coming late in the game when

More of the same please Mr Sánchez and Im sure the ground will soon begin to fill up as the supporters begin to return.

La Finca Golf Society week ending 8th September Mondays roll up this week was won by Brian Bevan with 39 points. Nearest the pins were Alex Duchart (3) and Stuart Tosh (13).

On Wednesday we played a Stableford competition of the Yellow Blocks, results was as follows; 4th, Mike Stott (37), 3rd Alex Duchart (38), 2nd, Shaun Locke (38) and 1st, Brian Bevan (40).

NTP’s were Mike Stott (3), Jerry Conybeare (6), Shaun Locke (13) and Mike Stott (16).

Jerry Conybeare with (34).

Nearest the pins were Andrew Maidment (3), Stuart Tosh (6), Gavin Parke (13) and Mick Elliot (16).

There were no 2,s today. .

Back to The Corner Flag Bar afterwards for food and presentation thanks to Steve and his staff.

This week was a Stableford competition of the Yellow Plates.

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.

Results as follows, 4th Shaun Locke (30) 3rd, Mike Stott (30), 2nd, Mick Elliot (31) and 1st,

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

Saturday was a bit cooler and very wet with only 9 players finishing out of a field of 25, 19 members and 6 guests.

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