The Costa Blanca Leader Edition 839

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ALIC ANTE AI R P ORT TO B E R E N AM E D AFTE R M IG U E L H E R NÁN DE Z

has now been con-

It

firmed that Alicante-Elche

Airport is to be renamed in honour of the Orihuela poet Miguel Hernandez.

The Minister of Public Works, José Luis Ábalos, announced on Friday that procedures are now underway to carry out the change of name by which the El Altet terminal will be renamed Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández.

The change of name was announced during celebrations of the 110th anniversary of the birth of the Oriolan poet that took place in el palacio del Temple de Valencia.

During a tribute to the poet the president of the Generalitat, Ximo Puig, read a poem as he

announced that today is a "day with Mediterranean sunshine with the news that Alicante Airport, the largest of the Valencian Community is to be called Miguel Hernández, 110 years after his birth ".

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637 227 385 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info 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.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE Alicante-Elche Airport In a video shared on his Twitter account Ábalos said that Alicante owes a tribute to the poet and that is why the terminal will soon carry his name to "value the contribution he has made to our culture and to increase the knowledge of his legacy."

The minister said that Miguel Hernández has an international reputation "and we are all very much in his debt as no country worth its salt condemns one of its essential poets to death and remains morally undamaged."

“Although many streets, schools and a university have already been dedicated to him, Spain owes him a national tribute if it is to repay a small part of the immense debt we have with him."

The change has come about after Unides Podem

presented an initiative in Les Corts requesting this tribute to the poet.

The mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana, has said that he too is delighted by the announcement, adding that “it is a great opportunity to pay tribute to the goatherd poet, especially this year and on this day in which we commemorate the 110th anniversary of his birth”.

The event was attended by the Minister of Culture and Sports, José Manuel Rodríguez Uribes; the mayor of Valencia, Joan Ribó, several councilors in addition to the president of the Valencian Council, Toni Gaspar, as well as the ambassador of Spain to UNESCO, the mayor of Elche, relatives of the poet and representatives of the world of Valencian culture and society, who recited many of his poems.

All were seasoned with a performance by a string quartet from the Banda Primitiva de Llíria Symphony Orchestra.

It's turned out nice again for George Formby author Quoting late ukulele legend George Formby 'it's turned out nice again' for the author of Formby's Lost Love, Andrew Atkinson, who will be presenting a talk about the ‘When I'm Cleaning Windows’ star in the new year, cancelled from last March due to COVID-19.

Los Montesinos based Andrew, scheduled to talk to the No Smoking Club in San Luis, Alicante, in 2021, said: "There remains a great interest in George Formby in the 21st century - legends are never forgotten."

A new date and venue will be announced soon. If you are interested in ordering a signed copy by the author of Formby's Lost Love (€10) contact Andrew Atkinson at: lancashiremedia@gmail.com

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H E ALTH P LAN S TO ADAPT R E SOU R C E S F OR COVI D HOS P ITALS

H

ospital pressure continues to intensify in the province, with an increase in admissions for coronavirus of 214% in a month. UMH researchers say that they expect in two weeks coronavirus infections will have increased by a further by 77.5% Hospital admissions as a result of covid have increased by 214% in just one month in the province of Alicante and the trend is that in the next two weeks the situation will continue to worsen due to the daily and sustained increase of infections.

Against this background, hospitals are now preparing to move ahead with their plans to adapt their resources and face this new peak of the pandemic, transforming themselves into covid hospitals. These plans include suspending non-urgent operations so as to free up beds and setting up ICU beds in other areas of the hospital, especially in the Anaesthesiology areas. Also, if the situation deteriorates further, they will refer patients to other health centres with less pressure.

Some hospitals, such as the General Hospital of Elche, Orihuela and Elda hospitals, have already had to resort to these measures, which has seen the suspension of operations, and in the case of Vega Baja, patients are already being referred to other hospitals.

According to forecasts made by researchers at the Operational Research Centre of the Miguel Hernández University through Ciovid.es, the first tool for monitoring the evolution of the coronavirus municipality by municipality, the curve of coronavirus contagions will continue to rise in the next two weeks in the province of Alicante.

According to these predictions, if the trend remains the same as in the last fortnight, coronavirus infections will rise in the province

by 77.59%, despite the introduction by the Generalitat of border closures.

"It is not expected that the effects of these measures will begin to be felt until two weeks after their introduction," explained José Luis Sainz-Pardo, a researcher at the CIO and professor at the UMH. The researchers are currently focussing their efforts on Dénia, as the town in which infections will increase the most in the next fifteen days. With an incidence of 90 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, infections in the capital of the Marina Alta have risen 81% in the last 2 weeks and an increase of 276% is expected in the next fortnight.

Ibi, Petrer and Bigastro will also have increases of over 200% and in Novelda the cases will increase by 188%. As for the towns that are worse off at the moment, it is not expected that the situation will change. In Elda cases will rise 78% in fifteen days; in Elche they will do so by 44% and in Orihuela by 31.5%.

According to their predictions about the behaviour of the pandemic, the province would be immersed in a third wave. "There was a very clear first wave, which reached its peak and fell to an almost zero value at the beginning of summer, it was as if the virus had disappeared," said Sainz-Pardo.

The second wave reached its maximum incidence in the province around September 6, before declining again, “although not as abruptly as the first wave”.

In recent weeks, the situation with the pandemic in the province has been much more complicated, "with an increase in cases in the last week that marks an almost vertical line."

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REMEMBRANCETIDE STILL TO GO AHEAD IN TORREVIEJA, GRAN ALACANT AND ORIHUELA COSTA

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s expected, Remembrance tide in the area will be very badly affected by Coronavirus with both the Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa and District Branches of the Royal British Legion having to completely change their plans.

In Torrevieja, however, despite initially stating that they would not support a Remembrance event, the municipal council have had a change of heart and have now authorised the use of the Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción church in Ramon Galud.

Please note, however, that the event will be held on Armistice Day, Wednesday 11 November with the service getting underway at approximately 10.45 am.

Members of the public wishing to pay their respects are all invited to attend, but must wear masks and must also be prepared to give names and telephone numbers before entering the Church.

The Ayuntamiento in Pilar de la Horadada are being much more cautious in respect of the Orihuela Costa and District branch, however, and will only allow a small socially distanced, private service of dedication which is to be held outdoors, also on Armistice Day, Wednesday 11 November just prior to 11am.

The service, to be held around the Garden of Remembrance, will be limited to just 20 people, but it will include the mayor, Jose Maria Perez, and the councillor for Tourism and Foreign Residents, María Belén Sánchez Tárraga.

The Garden will then remain open after the formal service to allow members of the public wishing to lay their own wreathes or poppy crosses.

The La Marina and Gran Alacant Branch service will also be on Armistice Day, 8 November but at 12 noon. It will be held at C/Luxemburgo 5, 03130 Puerto Marino with those wishing to attend mustering outside the Pub in Masa Square.

‘ALL SOULS DAY’ COMMEMORATED IN LA SIESTA

The Church of England in the Torrevieja area will be remembering those who have died with a special Requiem Mass today, Monday 2nd November at 1100 at La Siesta Ecumenical Church, Calle Granados.

Father Richard Seabrook said: “Each year the Church of England, along with the Catholic Church, has a commemorates All Souls´ Day on 2nd November when a Requiem Mass is celebrated for all those who have died and we affirm they are entrusted to God´s merciful love.”

This year´s service takes on an added significance as it comes during the Coronavirus Pandemic so there will be special prayers for those who have died from this terrible illness.

“In the Church we pray for the living and the dead so just as we pray for one another, we can also pray for those who have died that God may grant them eternal rest and peace”, stated Father Seabrook.

The Chaplaincy can be contacted at: @anglicantorrevieja on Facebook Website https://www.c-of-e-torrevieja.com/ Email frras@c-of-e-torrevieja.com

Banks charge for withdrawals at manned cash desks BBVA, Santander and CaixaBank are now charging their customers up to 3.50 euros for making cash withdrawals at the till.

The move has seen considerable concern among members of the public who feel that there has been little or no publicity surrounding the move.

Santander, BBVA and CaixaBank are just three of the banks that are implementing new or increased charges as they search for alternative ways to generate income and to make extra profit for their shareholders in the face of continuing low interest rates.

BBVA, is the latest bank to make the move, announcing that as of 1st January customers withdrawing money from their current accounts via manned cash desks will be charged 2 euros per transaction. However the charge can be avoided either by using automatic cash points.

Banco Santander has been charging a minimum of 3.50 euros or 4.5 per cent on each amount withdrawn since April, and CaixaBank are now also charging, albeit a rather lower amount, at 2 euros.

Punta Prima ‘Strictly’ Star Vincent Simone vows to help COVID charities

Vincent Simone with Leader reporter Andrew Atkinson and wife Helen

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive STRICTLY COME DANCING star Punta Prima based Vincent Simone has pledged to help the needy as the coronavirus situation sweeps across the world that has led to curfews in Spain and a new lockdown in the UK. "Nobody knows what the future holds with COVID-19. It is really a bad time for everyone," Vincent told The Leader.

"I would like to try and help those who have been hit hardest by the coronavirus - some can't even put food on the table," said Vincent.

classes on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11am at The Lakeside in Ciudad Quesada, starting this week.

Speaking about life in Spain, Vincent, whose dance partner is Georgia born, Torrevieja dancing star Katie Street, said: "I am concentrating on my life in Spain, to teach dancing classes. Everything will be done to the coronavirus health and safety guidelines.

"Social distancing. No partners (dancing together) it will be solo, with a maximum of 15 people. We will get through this, until the coronavirus rules change."

Italian superstar Vincent, 41, who resides on the Costa Blanca south with his wife Susan and two children Matteo and Luca, said: "I will try and help peoples' causes through charity events."

*The Leader Exclusive interview with Vincent Simone continues next week - talking about late legend Bruce Forsyth, former Dallas actress Stephanie Beacham and ex-politician Edwina Currie.

Vincent is setting up dance classes and will be doing twice-weekly

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MONTESINOS SUFFERS 10 CORONAVIRUS POSITIVES IN LAST 14 DAYS

By Andrew Atkinson The Conselleria de Sanitat de la Generalitat Valenciana notified on October 30 on its official website an increase of 10 positives for COVID-19 in the last 14 days in Los Montesinos.

The total number of cases in the municipality since the coronavirus pandemic began in mid-March is 26.

A spokesperson from the Ayuntamiento de Los Montesinos said: "We call on the joint responsibility of the population as a whole to continue to comply with hygiene and safety regulations, in order to prevent the spread of the virus.

"It is everyone's job. Under the health and safety guidelines a face mask must be worn, social safety distance undertaken along with hand hygiene sanitation and the avoidance of meetings."

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RUSSIAN INTERFERENCE IN CATALONIA INDEPENDENCE

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colleague of former President of Catalonia, Carles Puigdemont, proposed to the former Russian deputy that Catalonia recognize the annexation of Crimea in exchange for support for the independence process.

Víctor Terradellas was not exactly sparing in his telephone communications with the leaders of the independence process in Catalonia, particularly with his friend Carles Puigdemont, and with leading Catalan separatist David Madí and former ERC party leader Xavier Vendrell, both arrested on Wednesday in an operation carried out by the Civil Guard.

The substance of these conversations was released by the examining magistrate number 1 in Barcelona confirmed the scale of Russian support for the secessionist challenge in 2017, made to Puigdemont just days before the declaration of independence in October of that year, amounting to 10,000 soldiers and paying off all Catalan debt.

Both offers were rejected, however the judge goes on to say that had Carles Puigdemont accepted the offer from Russia, the consequences would probably have been tragic, including armed conflict on Spanish soil and the loss of many human lives.

On Wednesday morning the Guardia Civil, acting on the orders of the judge, arrested 21 people, many of them members or former members of Puigdemont’s inner circle, advisers both in Catalunya and in Waterloo (Belgium), where he fled Spanish justice.

Those arrested, and many other still under investigation, will face

charges that will include the misuse of public funds, influence trafficking, money laundering and the disruption of public order.

The shadow of Russian interference over the independence process extended over the same years that it did over the 2016 American elections, in which Donald Trump beat Hillary Clinton after she had seemed to be well ahead.

It is no secret that the Kremlin is interested in the weakening of its strategic adversaries in the USA and the European Union (EU). The Minister of Defense at the time, María Dolores de Cospedal, said during a meeting of the European People's Group in March 2018 that such interference, "is not a myth, it is real."

BOOM-TIME AT MONCAYO AND BENIDORM MARKETS

By Andrew Atkinson After the downturn in footfall amid COVID-19, markets throughout the Costa Blanca are booming once again.

Moncayo market in Guardamar is bustling with crowds and stallholders - with brisk business and bargain shopping prices to boot whether it being antiques or fruit and veg!

The popular Benidorm market is back in business in the wake of

the coronavirus pandemic in Rincon de Loix closing, re-opening once again.

Zoco Sunday market in Los Montesinos is continuing to attract crowds, although numbers have dropped since the coronavirus second wave outbreak and last Thursday in Cabo Roig the weekly market was at its busiest for some time as shoppers enjoyed the Autumn sunshine to search out early Christmas bargains.

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TORREVIEJA MAYOR DISAPPOINTED AT LACK OF FUNDING FOR N332 WIDENING

The mayor of Torrevieja said he is extremely annoyed at the lack of any funding for the widening of the N332 in 2022-24 National budgets.

When the 2021 General State Budget Project was presented with great fanfare by Pedro Sánchez and his Vice President, Pablo Iglesias, only 100,000 euros was shown as relating to the doubling of the N332 in Torrevieja, while in the projection for the years 2022, 2023 and 2024, there is not a single euro.

He said that it is not acceptable, especially considering that more than a year has passed since he met in Madrid with the Minister of Public Works, José Luis Ábalos, mainly to try to unblock this very important and urgent service for the city of Torrevieja.

He confirmed that since the meeting with Minister Ábalos, there have been numerous requests for further meetings with the Secretary General for Infrastructure, without there being any response.

Dolón said that now he understands why there has been no response, and why he has not been received in all this time by those responsible for the Ministry. The mayor says that he now urges local political leaders from the PSOE and Los Verdes to come out in support and claim this necessary infrastructure that has been ignored by the Government of Spain.

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Attempts to uncover San Isidro’s dark secret Archaeologists and experts are once again searching for mass graves and human remains in the Francoist concentration camp situated in Albatera, one of the largest that was in use in Spain after the end of the Civil War.

will try to accurately locate the boundaries of the camp, which could have been about 700 metres long and 200 wide, and expose the mass graves that are believed to exist within the perimeter of the enclosure, to then recover the human remains and try to identify them.

The work, that began last Monday, is financed by the Generalitat The search goes on for Valenciana, and will last for several human remains and weeks. mass graves at former

Just two weeks ago an information panel was erected but already it has At one time brim- site of Albatera already suffered its ming over with Concentration Camp first act of vandalmore than 25,000 ism, and now bears prisoners, other than a recently graffiti with the initials VOX. erected signboard, there are curThe Minister of Participation, rently no traces of the camp, Transparency, Cooperation and which today lies in fields to the Democratic Quality, Rosa Pérez east of San Isidro railway station Garijo, has condemned the act of In was initially established as a vandalism saying that "in addilabour camp in 1937, where pristion to an attack on public poperoners were put to work, but by ty, acts like this are intended to 1939 this had developed into a offend the memory of all the vicfull-on concentration camp where tims who suffered persecution it is estimated 25,000 people and death by Francoist authorities died. Looking out over the fields in the immediate postwar peritoday it is hard to contemplate od." the horrors which occurred at this location.

Albatera concentration camp, considered to be one of the hardest that existed in Spain at the end of the Civil War and this project, directed by the archaeologist and historian Felipe Mejías,

She reaffirmed the will of the Generalitat to "investigate and dignify these spaces of memory" and guaranteed that "stating that no type of intolerance can prevent the Valencian people from learning about their history."

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CRUZ AZUL LEND SUPPORT TO STREET CATS CHARITY

Cruz Azul Murcia is a registered charity and exists to provide veterinary care for the sick and injured pets of people in need and to promote responsible pet ownership.

Call 693 017 616 or visit www.cruzazulmurcia.com CRUZ AZUL MURCIA is collaborating with cat charity, Dejando Huella, as part of their ongoing campaign to manage street cats in a humane and caring way. Dejando Huella is a small group of volunteers taking care of cat colonies and injured and abandoned cats in the Torre Pacheco area.

Dejando Huella started with just five volunteers covering a very wide area. The Association now co-ordinates a team of around 25 authorised volunteer managers for their feline colonies in different areas and districts throughout the Municipality.

Working closely with Dejando Huella, they help manage and feed these colonies with food provided by the Association, keeping those neighbourhoods clean and healthy.

They alert Dejando Huella when there is an emergency, so that they can attend to them.

many cats as possible in the Torre Pacheco municipality.”

The Association is responsible for all vet fees for the cats that they rescue and, as they spend most of their time taking care of the cats and finding them homes, they don’t have sufficient resources to raise funds to help cover their costs, so they contacted Cruz Azul for help.

In order to help with funding, Cruz Azul will sell donated items on behalf of Dejando Huella at their Donation Centre in San Javier, Murcia, next to Yorkshire Linen.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Dejando Huella” said Cruz Azul President, Lyn Baines. “Although they have few volunteers, their care of the rescue cats and colonies is second-to-none.

Cruz Azul has long advocated the management of cat colonies, in a humane and sensible way, and this new initiative will help as

They also offer some snazzy, animal-themed face masks, made by a Dejando Huella supporter and will be collecting cat food for them, so do pop in and help this worthy cause.

The Cruz Azul Donation Centre is open Monday to Saturday, from 10.00 until 14.00, offering a wide range of clothing, household goods and furniture. Large items can be delivered and all donations are welcome.

Eye-scream: Experts warn of novelty contact lens dangers It is hoped that those of you who dressed up this Halloween took the precaution of looking after your eyes in order to avoid an unexpected sight-mare.

Specsavers warned revellers to ensure they didn’t play a trick on their eyes through costume lenses and make-up and instead treat them to the care they deserved however they choose to celebrate last Saturday.

While novelty contact lenses may seem like a perfect costume addition, they can cause damage to eyes – especially if not handled correctly.

Not knowing how to wear or care for them can also result in numerous minor eye conditions - such as red eye, infections and scratches - as well as more serious complications that can, in severe cases, lead to sight loss.

Giles Edmonds, Specsavers clinical services director, says: ‘Novelty contact lenses have become incredibly popular over the last few years; however, consumers often are not aware of the risks associated with misusing contact lenses.

‘In particular, if a wearer hasn’t had a proper consultation with an optometrist beforehand, they probably haven’t been taught how to wear or

care for their lenses correctly.

The results can be nasty and range from mildly irritating complications, such as blurry vision and conjunctivitis, to potentially sight-threatening conditions such as fungal infections like microbial keratitis.’

Mr Edmonds continues: ‘If you do start to notice any discomfort, irritation or pain during or after wearing Halloween contact lenses it is important you visit an optician immediately.

Many of our Specsavers stores now offer eye health clinics where you can receive treatment for a range of minor eye conditions without needing to visit your GP or hospital.’

It is also important to ensure any spooktacular make-up is properly removed before going to bed. Mr Edmonds adds: ‘Leaving your eye

makeup on when you go to sleep – particularly eyeliner and mascara – will increase your chances of getting bacterial and oil build up around your eyes or even inflammation.

Make sure you always gently remove beauty products to reduce infection and keep your eyes clean.’

How to avoid a frightening mishap with novelty lenses.

Seek guidance from your optician before using novelty contact lenses Avoid purchasing cheap products online Clean and store your lenses properly to avoid infection Do not fall asleep in your lenses Never share contact lenses with other people.

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IT'S STILL ROCK AND ROLL TO ME! Andrew Atkinson talks Exclusively to Irish born musician and vocalist, Campoamor star Benny Conway 'The Piano Man,' whose Sir Elton John and Billy Joel tribute concerts continue to rock the Costa Blanca.

Benny (left) with reporter Andrew Atkinson BENNY Conway - known as 'The Piano Man' - has been thwarted to sail the seas - due to COVID-19 as the latest coronavirus outbreak has lead to the country being placed on curfew.

"Prior to the coronavirus lockdown in March I was in talks to work on the cruiseliners throughout Europe with the Princess Cruise Company, P&O and Carnival," Benny told me over a coffee in Los Montesinos.

"Hopefully, when things get back to normal the cruiseliner gigs will come to fruition," said Benny.

"Also, due to the COVID-19 situation in Spain all my scheduled plans are on hold for the moment," said Benny, who grew up in Magherafelt, where his late parents Hugh Brendan Conway and Anna ran a Drapery shop in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

Benny, who emigrated to Campoamor on the Costa Blanca southern Spain in 2006, who has made a name for himself doing Sir Elton John and Billy Joel tribute con-

certs, said: "One of my earliest gigs was at The Bog Road Irish bar in Cabo Roig.

"I've also played a few gigs at the La Magna Club in Murcia - on a large Grand piano - people were sitting on and dancing on the piano - while I played!," laughed Benny.

Benny, who quit his Government job working as a manager in Social Security, said: "I quit - and decided to study for a Diploma in Music.

"I had plans to get into script writing for films, while studying music, which gave me a new lease of life.

"I even built a studio at home in Magherafelt. At the time I met my wife to be Sonia, who also became a singer in the local bars and clubs, including the Windsor, and RAF clubs.

"The Windsor Snooker Club in Lisburn Road holds fond memories, where late snooker star Alex 'Hurricane' Higgins frequented, in the latter part of his life. It was a shame to see him like that."

Benny also reflected on playing with Irish music legend Brendan Quinn: "I did a tour with Brendan, taking in four shows, that included Cricklewood, Scotland. Brendan's son Stephen remains a good friend of mine.

"We put a band together - in Brendan's shed - to put a show together for a new Elvis Presley impersonator show, in an all-Ireland competition.

"Brendan got myself and Stephen working on the harmonies, etc. When the band were ready to commence, the guy who won the Elvis show came to see us, but did a uturn and decided to go solo.

"We were happy enough though. The guy who came second in the Elvis impersonator show came along, who was married to my wife's sister at the time!

"My wife came to a concert in Ballymena and saw a good

looking guy - me! - on stage. We met through music," quipped Benny.

"At the Elvis Presley Fan Club of Ireland event, staged at Leopardstown, people who came included many from America; and we were the back-up group.

"It was good, good fun - people impersonating actually thought they were Elvis!," said Benny.

"Another gig was at the Four Winds Inn, in Belfast, where celebrities including Eamon Holmes and Norman Whiteside attended.

"After the gig Northern Ireland and Manchester United soccer legend Whiteside came back to my brother's house to a party. Many thought it was surreal," said Benny, whose biggest influence in his music career is Van Morrison, along with Billy Joel and Sir Elton John. *In Part 2 of a Leader exclusive Benny Conway talks about his and wife Sonia's 'Side By Side' shows, Live Lounge Costa Blanca, Larry's Piano Bar, Belfast, childhood memories, visiting back home; and tutoring music in Spain.

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A friend …

‘A FRIEND IN NEED IS A FRIEND INDEED – OR ‘A FRIEND IN NEED IS A DAMN NUISANCE’ … take your pick, but a person who doesn’t have a friend in the world is the poorest of the poor.

I was at the wedding of the son of close friends a few years ago and in his speech, the father of the groom gave the newlyweds this heartfelt advice. He told them that the most important lesson he had learned from life was the value of friends and his number one message was to cultivate and cherish friends.

This is what you have to do so. What do you get in return? Well, in a perfect world, the same. This is not a perfect world! If your friend fails to live up to your expectations, you must still carry on being their friend, being forgiving and supportive. But the most important part of being a friend is just being there.

Next we should have a ring of acquaintances with whom we get on really well and then a wider circle of people we like to say ‘Hola’ to, or chat when we meet from time to time. All of the above we call ‘our friends.’

You will tell your friend not to worry when you are sick with worry yourself and together you pull through. You will be there when other friends didn’t turn up and when you would rather be some where else.”This too shall pass” you tell him or her- and so it shall.

A Northern Ireland man bought a farm up the road a few years back and after a few days when a neighbor called to welcome the newcomer to the locality, he was asked; ‘What are the rest of the neighbours like around here? ‘What were they like where you lived last?’ answered the local man.

A friend will make you laugh, even when you are down in the dumps. Once I was asked in a newspaper interview; ‘what quality did I admire most in people’? Without hesitation I answered; ‘the ability to make me laugh’. Friends make us laugh.

You must be sociable; there isn’t much point in being friends if you cannot socialise ¬– but always remember your friends are not clones of you and they will do many things differently. The difference in people is what makes for great entertainment when friends socialise.

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Yes, you have to be confessor, counselor, helper, comrade and above all, be able to keep a secret. You must offer interest, enthusiasm and drive.

One way I judge a friend is whether or not I can go see them, or walk into their house, without having to give a reason for being there. A friend should be there when you are going through ‘the grinder’ and not just for the happy days. At times of trouble and stress, be it in the middle of the night with endless cups of tea - that is when you value that friend most.

Being a friend carries a responsibility. The first criteria is loyalty. A two-faced is friend is much worse than no friend. Honesty is a must, but maybe not brutally honest all of the time! Sincerity, dependability and openness are also required.

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You should be a good listener. We have two ears and only one mouth. The person who has to talk all the time is not popular in company.

There are different tiers of friendship. If we have two, or even one ‘best friend’ we are blessed. Then again, if we are lucky, we will have a handful of close friends, whose company we enjoy, and more importantly, in whose company we are totally at ease, for long or short periods alike.

‘OH they were an awful shower, you couldn’t get on with any of them – that is why I moved down here.’ ‘I’m afraid you will find them exactly the same round here’, offered the native. The point made, that in order to have friends, you must be a friend.

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Don’t tell somebody you are their friend if you are not. Remember what I said about it being a tremendous responsibility. I knew a man who addressed everybody as ‘my friend’. A more two-faced, badmouthing man you would not find!

Before Covid put the brakes on our mad rush forward, it seems harder and harder to find time for our friends. We are always ‘going to do it.’ ‘Tempus fugit’ and a friend passes on here and there while others are filed away in memory or nostalgia. Would that friend like to hear from you now? To-day? Now when we have the time …do it!

Write that letter or pick up the phone before this day ends. You will make two people happy. A friend is worth their weight in gold and old friends are best!

Being a friend carries a responsibility DON’T FORGET With money you can buy all the friends you want, but those ones are never worth the money Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com *Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

Bernie has published four books; ‘If Ever a Man Suffered’, ‘The Best of Bernie’, ‘The Team’, and ‘Just Between Ourselves’.

Bernie’s books are available at half price, on sale from ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info.

Winter flowering pansies give a beautiful pop of colour

WINTER flowering pansies, which can be planted out in late October to November, are a hardy species that will flower for most of the winter season and on into spring.

Pansies are often confused with the Viola, as they look and act a lot like violas, however, pansies have a much larger flower and leaves.

Another difference between the two is that pansies usually only have a few

flowers at a time, whereas, violas have a smaller flower - but a lot more blooms.

where Lord Gambier and his gardener, William Thompson, began crossing various Viola species.

The name Pansy comes from the French verb Penser, which means ‘to think’. People believed that the pansy, with its head hanging down, resembled a face that is deep in thought.

The blooms, which are flattish with five petals, come in a wonderful range of colours, patterns and colour combinations.

The origin of the pansy began in Iver, Buckinghamshire, in the early 1800's

You can grow them in the borders beneath taller shrubs, in containers or

even on a window sill, where you can admire them from inside the warmth of your home.

Pansies like to follow the sun throughout the day, therefore, try to plant them where you look at them, with the sun behind you. The flowers will be facing you.

They will also grow well in partial shade, meaning that even in the darker months they will give you a beautiful pop of colour.

Easy to maintain, by deadheading regularly, which keeps them coming back again and again, throughout their season.

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11

COVID 19 IN THE MOUNTAINS It would be my guess that everyone is sick and tired of the Corona Virus, but please let me try to put a different slant on it.

There is a sizeable part of the population in the UK and elsewhere, that does not take this attack on the very core of our existence at all seriously. Isn’t it strange the Western world seems to be most affected by this disabling illness? Are we and the people who run the country missing a point about it’s origin, perhaps the truth is too distressing?

How can that be, left wing newspapers do not normally support the Government – that is understandable? But, in my view, why is the media, which normally follows and agrees with the current party in administration being exceedingly critical of the way this virus is being handled? Are they being influenced by … who knows?

It is also my view that all of the media should be promoting the fight against this invader and then perhaps the population would start to take it seriously and would help in the battle against the virus.

As soon as the latest figures are announced, there is an immediate chorus of the statistics being misleading and a comparison with more people dying from flu and other terminal illnesses, almost as if it a game of bingo or the lottery results, I suppose in some way it is? But surely the reason the numbers do not compare with others is because of the lockdowns and the other restrictions against the attacking unseen enemy The impression with the broadcast of the figures is that fatalities from Corona do not matter. But surely that is not the point!

No matter how a person has left this world it is another that is added to the total and a greater need to try and prevent the reasoning behind their demise.

In my opinion this virus is not about people dying it is also about people being put in isolation. Laying in a bed with no family or friends around them to give support during their time in a sterile situation whilst plugged into a ventilator.

It is also an illness that damages the body’s functions and can have long term effects, even after the disease itself has been dispelled from the patient.

This virus, according to reports, is spreading fast and I believe what we are being told.

Since the start of the pandemic in the early part of the year, those of us who live in the mountains have been free of the curse. However, the villages around us are now seeing, for the first time, confirmed cases with small towns going into lockdown.

Despite the fact that these villages have taken from the very start of

this attack on the very way we live, very seriously with social distancing and the wearing of masks.

The implication of Lockdown or other measures are only one way of restricting the spread of the disease. Not one of the reasons for curtailing movement or other lone measures is a curer. None of them, when introduced singly, will eradicate the virus, but they will all help in preventing it from spreading, or at least they will lower the rate Percy Chattey - www.percychatteybooks.com

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LEADER

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 838

ACROSS 3.

Gloomy (9) 8.

Smooth (4) 9.

Mixture (9) 10. Outcome (6) 11. Wielded (5) 14. Cleave (5) 15. Close (4) 16. Grating (5) 18. Assemblage (4) 20. Audibly (5) 21. Digress (5) 24. Item (6) 25. Abandonment (9) 26. Pulsate (4) 27. Thwart (9) 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.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 1.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

9.

11.

12.

13.

17.

19.

22.

23.

24.

Tedious (9) Unending (9) Jeer (4) Banish (5) Diminish (6) Location (4) Duster (5) Faction (5) Devastated (9) Gullibility (9) Harbour (5) Emphasis (6) Change (5) Cherished (4) Dullard (4)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Desk; 3 Agrarian; 8 Nice; 9 Comprise; 11 Maiden voyage; 13 Tongue; 14 Lissom; 17 Supernatural; 20 Outdated; 21 Disc; 22 Faltered; 23 Next.

DOWN: 1 Dynamite; 2 Suction; 4 Groove; 5 Asphyxiate; 6 Icing; 7 Need; 10 Recuperate; 12 Implicit; 15 Service; 16 Inhere; 18 Until; 19 Loaf.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Lids; 3 Sterling; 8 Fast; 9 Initiate; 11 Housebreaker; 13 Lassie; 14 Stench; 17 Small mercies; 20 Capitals; 21 Sham; 22 Eldorado; 23 Wren.

DOWN: 1 Left-half; 2 Discuss; 4 Tenure; 5 Retractors; 6 Inane; 7 Grey; 10 Legislator; 12 Chessman; 15 Neither; 16 Smiled; 18 Moped; 19 Acne.

ACROSS 3. Order treatment before the writer (9) 8. In such a car, a rear window is unusual (4) 9. Attacker makes idiot suffer before worker (9) 10. Does one have to be marred to get a return, then? (6) 11. Cut verse (5) 14. Dispense with a view (5) 15. A tear for the letting? (4) 16. She is not quite of the usual standard (5) 18 and 20Ac. Car loader at the end of carriageway repairs (4,5) 20. See 18 Ac. 21. Allowed to go round because smallest (5) 24. Wartime leader found bent nail on street (6) 25. Sneer at poor diet range (9) 26. Many in the sale (4) 27. Can use gin without stopping (9)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified its first gold album in 1958. The album title was a US state. Can you name the album title?

2. Which unusual device was used in the James Bond film 'Thunderball', Superbowl I, and the opening cermonies at the summer Olympics in 1984 and 1996?

3. Which one of the following is the name of a traditional Sicilian hat? a. Coppola b. Scorsese c. Tarantino d. Capra 4. Which bridge was 'built' between 24 June 1948 and 12 May 1949?

5. Which towering savant with a great back heel captained the Brazilian national football team in 1982?

6. The basis for the Italian bitter aperitif known as Cynar is what? a.

Asparagus, b. dandy lion, c. Pomegranate, d. artichoke 7. The name of which fantastic automobile is also a ribald song once sung by Allied soldiers in WW I? 8. The tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere (standing at 328 metres / 1,080 ft can be found in which country? A bonus point for the name of the city.

9. What was the name of the world's first commercial jet airliner?

10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the word 'cat' in the song title. Can you name the song? a. I'm a ladies cat, a feline Casanova. b. Little Boy Blue and the man in the moon. c. I hear the click

DOWN 1. Vexed utterance is a puzzle (9) 2. Capital sum for the college head (9) 4. Flower got bigger (4) 5. A test for the country (5) 6. Wave or wave-maker? (6) 7. Run away to find somewhere to sleep (4) 9. Foreign article contains untruth (5) 11. Traps mackerel-catcher (5) 12. Revolting beast rising (9) 13. Severity at the back? (9) 17. Sharp accent (5) 19. Pollute a narrow valley (6) 22. Types one is not very well out of (5) 23. Incline to be the reverse of fat (4) 24. Stupefy some of the most unlikely people (4)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) clack of your feet on the stairs, I know you're no scare eyed honey. d.

On a morning from a Bogart movie. e. It's like trying to drink whisky from a bottle of wine 11. The name of which Mediterranean country stems from the Semetic word for 'white'?

12. Which film takes place on board the space ship Auriga 200 years after the central characters suicide?

13. 'Mothers ruin' or gin is called Genever in Holland. What does it mean when translated?

14. Which English actor was seriously considered for the role of Vito Corleone in the Godfather but was too ill to play the part?

15. The Royal Navy's midget X class submarines were first used in an attempt to sink the Bismark's sister ship. What was her name?

16. From the following list, choose the two which are actually Australian table wines. a. Chateau Chunder. b. Hobart Muddy. c. 7 Good Reasons. d. Dead Arm Shiraz. e. Cote du Rod Laver 17. What are the oldest scriptural texts of Hinduism called?

18. Maleficent is the main antagonist in which Walt Disney classic?

19. What are the first seven words to the song 'Runaround Sue'?

20. The 2010 Winter Olympics concluded in Vancouver after victory in the men's ice hockey gave host nation Canada a Winter Olympic record of how many gold medals? Plus or minus 2

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TURBULENT TIMES FOR RYANAIR

An item of good news for Ryanair this week following recent announcements of job cuts and a reduction of 64% in passenger numbers as the low cost airline details of a new route between Alicante-Elche airport and Tenerife.

The opening of the new route will coincide with the start of the winter season, connecting Alicante with Tenerife through a link with the Tenerife North Airport - City of La Laguna. The route will have three weekly flights that will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Earlier in the week Chief executive Michael O’Leary had announced that it would only maintain up to 65 per cent of its route network between November and March.

It will close its Irish bases in Cork and Shannon, as well as Toulouse in France, during the five-month period. With routes that survive being served with a lower frequency of flights than normal.

O’Leary also added: "Our focus continues to be on maintaining as large a schedule as we can sensibly operate to keep our aircraft, our pilots and our cabin crew current and employed while minimising job losses.

“It is inevitable, given the scale of these cutbacks, that we will be implementing more unpaid leave, and job-sharing this winter in those bases where we have agreed reduced working time and pay, but this is a better short-term outcome than mass job losses.

“There will regrettably be more redundancies at those small number of cabin crew bases where we have still not secured agreement on working time and pay cuts, which is the only alternative.

Monday 2nd - Sunday 8th November, 2020

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IBERDROLA INSTALLS THREE ELECTRIC CHARGING POINTS IN SAN FULGENCIO

Iberdrola has installed three new recharging points for electric vehicles in San Fulgencio, located on Calle Mar Tirreno, 2.

The facilities consist of two double fast chargers, 50 kilowatts (kW) of power, and another double 22 kW semi-rapid charger, which will be available 24 hours a day and will allow the charging of up to four vehicles simultaneously.

The mayor of San Fulgencio, José Sampere visited the charging points together with councillors and

Iberdrola executives in the province, who were able to explain and demonstrate the operation of the units during the commissioning act.

The project is part of the agreement reached between Iberdrola and the San Fulgencio City Council in the fight against climate change and the promotion of sustainability.

The council has provided the land free of charge, while Iberdrola has provided the equipment and installation, which it will manage for ten years.

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ELCHE REMOVES THE TERRACE TAX FOR THE WHOLE OF 2021 The plenary session has reduced or eliminated seven public taxes, confirming also that it will freeze many others during the next fiscal year.

Elche is the first municipality in the Valencian Community to fully approve the abolition of the ‘Terrace Tax’ for all of 2021.

The measure was agreed unanimously yesterday by all municipal groups resulting in a loss to the municipal budget of approximately one million euros .

The ‘Terrace Tax’ is one of the seven rates or public payments that will temporarily disappear or fall due to covid for the next year.

A number of other taxes will be frozen: the Real Estate Tax (IBI), the Economic Activities Tax (IAE), the Mechanical Traction Vehicle Tax (IVTM), the Construction, Installations and Works Tax (ICIO) and the Tax on the Increase in Value of urban land or capital gains.

16

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CAR SALES The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2017 Ford Ecosport petrol which is on Special Offer priced at just 15,500 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

SOCIAL AND CLUBS The Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch has put future meetings on hold because of the

current Covid situation in accordance with advice receiived from the Generalitat. The situation is being regularly reviewed. Call Jean for info on: 630 28 08 99.

The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch - Meet the second Friday of the month at Casa Ventura, San Luis starting at 7.00 p.m. New members are always welcome. You do not have to be ex-services. For more infor please contact:gill.burden20@gmail.com Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for

Monday 2nd - Sunday 8th November, 2020

the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If you think you can help call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Almoradi Meal Club. If do you fancy a meal out and meeting new friends, come and join our English speaking club. We have twice monthly meals at various restaurants in and around Almoradi. For info go to FaceBook or email: davedanie@gmail.com.

Badminton in Pilar de la Horadada. Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs. 10-12.30 pm.

Call John on 634 658 506 ...currently postponed Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE

LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1966.

Royal Air Force Association Costa Blanca Branch.The association supports the welfare needs of ex-members of the RAF and their dependents.

Due to covid-19 restrictions we cannot hold General Meetings at the moment however, we were able to comply with regulations and hold a Battle of Britain Service and a Dinner Dance (without dancing)! We also provide a social hub for members and hold lunches every month. To fund Welfare we raise money through the Wings Appeal. To find out more contact Chairman Tony at tony.elaine.cuenta@gmail.com . For Welfare contact David on 615 048 892. For general information on RAFA visit www.rafa.org.uk.

HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities. Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or email: charitycentrehelpathomecb @gmail.com.

Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising

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or admin? Come and join us for a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre. Volunteers are unpaid but expenses are met. Email: spainsamsrecruits @outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Info at: oc.communitycare @gmail.com

CHURCHES AND SERVICES La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

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. For info see www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org SALT CHURCH (formally Torrevieja Christian Fellowship) Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. Sunday Service 10.30 am. Wednesday Bible study 6.00 pm. We are a lively, friendly church and look forward to meeting you.

(Covid-19 aware) 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..

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International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11a.m.

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

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17

GARY LOWE - A MASSIVE LOSS TO US ALL

By Andrew Atkinson Lo Crispin based former Manchester City player and ex-Curzon Ashton and Hyde United manager Gary Lowe who died suddenly in Spain, aged 61, on October 23, is remembered for his character within football and by family and friends.

Gary was step-father to Zoey, and most recently granddad to Gio, whom he had met on Facetime, and loved so much.

Gary played for Crystal Palace, aged 15, part of the squad that won the FA Youth Cup, twice.

Manchester City manager Malcolm Allison signed Gary from Palace in 1979.

Journeyman Gary joined Hereford and later moved to Hong Kong, where he played at Caroline Hill.

After five years away from football, upon his return home Gary joined Woodley in the Manchester league, prior to moving to Curzon Ashton, gaining promotion and reached the semi-finals of the FA Vase, during his 11 years spell as manager.

In a statement Curzon Ashton said: 'Everyone at the club is coming to terms with the devastating news about the untimely death of our former manager Gary Lowe.

Another legend gone too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.'

During his managerial career at Hyde United Gary took the club into the top tier of non-league football when being promoted from the Conference North Division to the Conference Premier in the 2011-12 season.

Hyde United said in a statement: 'The football club are saddened to hear the news of the passing of former manager Gary Lowe.

Gary will forever be remembered by the football club and its supporters for taking the club into the top tier of non-league football by

San Javier star Marta Falconara debut win

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive

San Javier Football School prodigy Marta Penalver

City of Falconara... 3 Cagliari.... 0 San Javier born womens football ace Marta Penalver played a big role in her new club Falconara's 3-0 win in Italy against her former club Cagliari on her 2020-21 seasonal debut.

"It's finally started - how much emotion to step on the parquet again," Marta told The Leader.

Under COVID-19 regulations, 192 spectators were in attendance to watch futsal women's Serie A 5-aside football at PalaBadiali.

Spectators had reserved and numbered seats, at the entrance had their temperature measured and were social distancing, with a mask. Players and referees also covered noses and mouths, with the players not shaking hands, at the start or at the end of the game.

The teams last played in February, due to last season's cancellation, amid the coronavirus pandemic in mid-March.

The expectation of the supporters was highlighted - with almost 25,000 viewers of live streaming on the Pmg Sport Facebook page.

Isa Pereira, a livewire in midfield, deflected Pato's corner behind Mascia.

For the Falconaresi, Pato and new signing Marta, had a good understanding between themselves from the outset.

Pato, aided by Taty in the middle of the area, with back to the goal, lifts and turns in spectacular overhead-style to net an extraordinary goal, sending the PalaBadiali crowd crazy.

Marta Penalver went close to scoring, with Gasparini saving on the line. Pato punished the goalkeeper in the final seconds, to clinch a 3-0 win.

"We started with a hard-fought victory against a Futsal Femminile Cagliari, that once again proved its worth. Now we continue with the next game," said San Javier Football School prodigy Marta.

winning promotion from the Conference North Division to the Conference Premier in the 2011-12 season.

The football club will pay a fitting tribute to Gary in the coming weeks. Our sincere condolences to Gary’s family.'

After his football career Gary, father to son Benito, 20, went to live in Spain, where he co-ran the La Hacienda bar in Lo Crispin, Algorfa.

A statement said: 'La Hacienda bar and grill, Lo Crispin, regrets to inform all customers and friends that at 10am on October 23 our good friend and colleague Gary Lowe passed away peacefully.'

Ashton-under-Lyne born Gary attended Ashton-under-Lyne Grammar School and pal, fellow Mancunian, Los Montesinos based Rob Ratcliffe told The Leader: "I had known Gary for a long time.

"From his days managing Curzon Ashton, and when he won promotion in his first season at Hyde United.

"About five years ago he decided to move to Spain and worked for me at The Oasis for a while. Prior to coronavirus lockdown in March he went into business with Ray and Maggie at The Hacienda bar in Lo Crispin, and was really enjoying it.

"A few weeks ago he became a granddad for the first time and was over the moon. Gary was a lovely gentleman, very welcoming and never had a bad word to say, about anyone.

"He loved to reminisce telling stories about his time in football. Gary will be a massive loss to us all."

Paying condolences Bury AFC said: 'Sending our love and condolences to everyone affected by the passing of Gary Lowe.'

Matlock Town said: 'Our love and thoughts go out to the family and friends of Gary Lowe at this incredibly sad time.' *The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader send Condolences and our thoughts go to Gary's family at this time. RIP.

Fire station BW beat Fire station GW 7-2 in Torrevieja Winter pool League - By Andrew Atkinson

Fire station Black Watch defeated Fire station Green Watch 7-2 in division one of the 2020-21 Torrevieja winter pool League.

Santana A chalked up a 6-3 away win at Iglesias Aces, with Brittania A gaining a 6-3 home win against Dubliners.

In division two Brittania B edged a 5-4 away win at Mi Sol, with Marie's Rendezvous chalking up a resounding 8-1 return against Friendly Bar A, and The Courtyard A defeating Marina Bar 6-3.

In division three Hacienda bar defeated The Oasis 6-3, with Charlie's Sports Bar defeating

The Courtyard B by 6-3.

RESULTS, WEEK 3: Division 1 Iglesias Aces 3 Santana A 6,Britannia A 6 Dubliners 3, F/station (gw) 2 F/station (bw) 7, Murphs 1 Terreza 8, CCS v Iglesias Bulls (p).

Division 2 Mi Sol 4 Britannia B 5, Marie's Rendevous 8 Friendly Bar A 1, Friendly Bar B 2 Sports Bar 7, Santana B 6 Racin Toast 2 3, The Courtyard A 6 Marina Bar 3.

Division 3 Hacienda 6 Oasis 3, Charlie's Sports Bar 6 Courtyard B 3, O'Brien's 8 The George 1, Laguna 7 Micky's Bar 2. Thirsty Boot (bye).

CUP DRAW Due to coronavirus curfew restrictions the draw has been drawn by leagues not almalgatated.

4/11. Division 1 preliminary: F/station (bw) v CCS, Iglesias Bulls v Murphs. 16/12 Round 1: Dubliner v winner F/station/CCS; Britannia A v winner Iglesias Bulls/ Murphs; Iglesias A v Santana A; F/station (gw) v Terreza.

Division 2 preliminary: Friendly B v RT2; Courtyard A v Marie's Rendevous.

Round 1: Mi Sol v winner of Friendly B/RT2; Marina Bar v winner Courtyard A/ Marie's Rendevous; Santana B v Friendly Bar A; Sports Bar v Britannia B. Division 3 preliminary: Micky's Bar v The George. Round 1: Thirsty Boot v winner of Micky's/The George; Hacienda v O'Brien's; Laguna v Oasis; Charlie's Sports Bar v Courtyard B. The draw was overseen by Keith, from Hacienda bar.

18

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GOLF COURSES AND COVID - 19 Here on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and resident alike and with this in mind we have secured the services of Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services to provide a weekly round up of local golfing events and topics and in conjunction with us at THE LEADER will provide discounted golf prices to all of our readers and run our golf comps.

Golf and COVID 19 - An Update Just about every country in the world is now wrestling with the 2nd wave of the Covid-19 corona virus with France and Germany now We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us: The deals shown in the table are some of the best POST COVID19 PRICES currently available to you: Course Alenda Altorreal Bonalba Campoamor Don Cayo (Altea)

Price €98 €120 €100 €157 €45

Comments Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Single Green Fee + buggy

Under such powers the Murcian Community has closed it’s borders to other communities so golf courses there are off limits for at least a few weeks to golfers who travel from other communities including the Valencian Community which includes the Alicante province 2 Green Fees and buggy from 1pm Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees and buggy Single Green Fee Two Green Fees and buggy Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees & buggy Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees and buggy Green Fee after 2pm Two Green Fees and buggy Two Green Fees and buggy Two Green Fees and buggy

In addition to these travel restriction measures and in advance of these border closures I had been informed that following instructions from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport to play golf course in Murcia golfers must complete and sign a declaration that they are not Covid-19 positive and also to take a temperature check in the pro-shop before playing.

This could a sign of things to come for golfers and we will keep you informed of this situation but as normal the health and safety of all is the priority.

Mar Menor €48 Single Green Fee New Sierra Golf €82 Two Green Fees & buggy Puig Campana €124 Two Green Fees & buggy Roda €115 Two Green Fees & buggy (after 2pm) Saurines €48 Single Green Fee Villamartin €172 Two Green Fees & buggy Vistabella €113 Two Green Fees and buggy from 3pm *Deals of the week: Villaitana with two green fees and buggy on the Levante course for only €70 and €50 on the Poniente course.

La Manga North and South with two green fees, buggy and lunch for only €150.

For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

T

here were some moments of high drama together with light heartedness as we kicked off the 1st round of this year’s Pairs Match Play Knockout.

The orangetree golf society played at El Valle on a beautiful sunny day yet again.

The wind was kinder to the golfers than last week but still came into play on a fair few holes, making many of them seem a longer than they looked.

Bryan Neal and his playing partner Hendrick Oldenziel had to play the 18th hole no less than four times before finally overcoming Liz Robertson and Mike Mahony!

The course was set up well with the tees forward on a few holes which showed in the scores. The par 3's proved to be reachable with all four obtaining close to the pin shots, and even two two's were obtained on them.

The pairs competition was won by Steve Thorpe and Kedric Rhodes, getting a great score of 44 points.

Well done to Steve and Kedric.

Mike Probert talks Golf

Las Ramblas Golf Society Results for w/c 26.10.20

The Orangetree Golf Society

The prizes were presented by club secretary John Flemming.

Spain has announced a state of alarm valid until the 9th June 2021 which allows local governments of communities to announce,control and change the rules of restriction and with the whole country under a curfew throughout the night hours.

€98 €59 €90 €48 €206 €53 €126 €50 €134 €118 €45 €152 €100 €154

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In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs where many of our readers live.

on full lockdown and the other major countries operating under some form of severe restrictions.

El Plantio El Valle Font Del Llop Hacienda Del Alamo La Finca La Galiana La Marquesa La Sella La Serena La Torre Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lorca Lo Romero

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Prizewinners from El Valle

Whilst that was going on Marja Oldenziel was giving a pretty good demonstration on how to putt whilst forgetting she still had her ball in her pocket! Although Trevor Pullyblank and Joyce McClusky went out to Reg Akehurst and Nigel Price 3&2, Joyce kindly provided the beers after her ‘hole in one’ on the 6th.

Mark Western and Marleen Billen were looking in good shape after knocking out Graham Murray and AnneMarie Weisheit 4&3 as were Lindsay Forbes and myself after our 6&5 win over Alan Douglas and Mike Brentnall.

We’ll be up against the Scottish duo of Tom Hardie and Ken Robertson after they overcame John Shervell and Mike Chapman in a closely fought match 2&1.

Pulse rates were racing (which is probably not

a good idea for most of our members) when it came to quarter final day.

This time it was Paul Brown’s and Petina Murray’s turn (against Reg and Nigel) to have to play the 18th four times before a result was reached.

Having been 5 down at the turn Reg and Nigel finished victorious and will face Dave Pulling and Friedel Knebel (who went through on a bye) in the next round. Lindsay and I managed to beat ‘The Proclaimers’ Tom and Ken 4&3 to book our place in Friday’s semi-final against Mark and Marleen who knocked out Bryan and Hendrick 3&2.

In a closely fought contest myself and Lindsay overcame Mark and Marleen 3&2 and will find ourselves, in next Friday’s final, up against Nigel and Reg (the man to watch) who saw off Dave and Friedel 5&4.

With a nett score of 60.3 it was Ken & Liz Rbertson together with Graham Murray and Pete Dunn who cleaned up in the ‘Texas Scramble’ played by all our other members.

Pues hasta la semana que viene, Peter Reffell

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NOT MANY GOLFERS have the chance to play at Augusta National. However, Covid permitting, you could always head for Buxton in Derbyshire instead. The Cavendish Golf Club, designed by Dr. Alister McKenzie, offers the next best thing. Regarded as the inspiration for Augusta, many holes mirror those of the hallowed Masters course.

Opened in 1925, eight years before Augusta, it plays over undulating moorland terrain, with valleys, deep hollows and well thought-out hazards.

The river Wye flows across both the 10th and 11th holes and winds it's way towards the Georgian spa town of Buxton.

Senior course architect Jonathan Gaunt says: “Much of what golfers love about Augusta can be discovered at Cavendish, almost untouched for 90 years, and still a challenge.” No magnolias, but at least you could afford a drink in the clubhouse.

THE FATHER/SON CHALLENGE started as an annual golf tournament for pro golfers and their sons, but after several daughters entered they renamed it the PNC Championship. Played over two days, the 20 teams compete for the Willie Park Trophy.

Monday 2nd - Sunday 8th November, 2020

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who should play.

Jack Nicklaus's sons used to take it in turns. Gary Player's grandson was so keen he offered to pay his own fare, but then found he had spent all his pocket money so Gramps had to cough up.

ALLAN ROBERTSON, who died in 1859, was regarded as the finest golfer in Scotland. ‘A Brief History of The Open reveals: “When Robertson died no one knew who the best golfer was, so The Open Championship was held to find the Champion Golfer of the Year, and perhaps as a memorial to Allan Robertson himself, the first man to break 80 around the Old Course at St Andrews.”

The Cavendish Golf Club, designed by Dr. Alister McKenzie

Willie Park, Sr. and Jr. were the first father and son Open Champions.

Willie Park Snr. started out as a caddie and entered the inaugural Open Championship at Prestwick in 1860.

The crowd favourite in the field of eight was obviously the home club's professional, Tom Morris, Sr. However, Park won the Championship by two strokes. Park won the British Open four times, his brother Mungo won in 1874, and his son Willie Park, Jr. won twice, in 1887 and 1889.

The fathers need to have won either a Major or The Players to be eligible for entry. The juniors range from school age up.

Young Willie also wrote the first book on golfing by a professional, which is still in print. He was noted for his amazing putting skill.

In December last year Bernhard Langer and son Jason fired a second consecutive round of 60 (12) before clinching victory over Team Goosen and Team Lehman with a 16ft eagle by Jason on the first hole of the playoff at the Ritz Carlton Club, Orlando. Sons and daughters fight over

Combined with Young Tom Morris’s unrivalled feat of four straight Open Championships, the Park and Morris families won 13 of the first 15 Opens ever played.

WHEN JOEL DAHMEN'S PUTT on the 18th at the 2019 Wells Fargo put him in 2nd place with

Lo Crispin Golf Society at Las Ramblas On 29th. October 38 members and guests competed in an individual stableford competition at Las Ramblas. In recent years when the Society has played there we have mainly had team competitions, in view of the difficulties associated with playing the course e.g. many holes which require long drives over ravines and other hazards.

an additional $158,000 towards his $853,200 runner-up cheque Joel said: “It’s ridiculous what I won today, it's just silly.”

The DP World Tour Championship, December 1320 on the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates is the final tournament of the European Tour’s Race to Dubai and hosts the top 60 golfers on the European Tour.

This year it will still carry a bonus pool for the most successful player, but the prize pot will be smaller. Smaller means a $5 million cheque for 2nd place. It just gets sillier.

This year’s winner was Tony Moore with 22 points.

Geoffrey also provided refreshments on the 10th tee, which was much appreciated as it was another warm day.

2nd. Place - Dean Astley 24 pts. off 15 3rd. Place - Gordon McGregor 22 pts. off 18 Silver Division 1st. Place - Mike Ellson 26 pts. off 27 2nd. Place - Keith Rennison 23 pts. off 22 (on count back) 3rd. Place - Scott Blair 23 pts. off 28 N.T.P. on Par 3s, Hole 6 - Dean Astley, Hole10 - Dean Astley, Hole 12 - No one managed to reach or stay on the green, Hole 14 - Paddy Shea The 2's 'pot' was shared by Brian Coultate and Pete Childes.

Finally, the Free Game Draw was won by Ray Pownall.

The next game, another Individual Stableford competition is at Alicante on 11th. November.

Steve Harrington (Handicap and Membership Secretary)

Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475.

The morning started at 9.30 with a shotgun start on the par 3 course, where 9 holes were contested for the first of the day’s Trophies.

I, like many who played, may have regretted this decision as low scores were common. That said however the weather was perfect for golf and the course was in good condition.

1st. Place - Pete Childes 25 pts. off 14

Until next time: Happy Golfing.

The event of the year on the La Marina Golf Society’s calendar is Captain’s Day, El Plantio was the venue.

After a short break of coffee and snacks, the players headed off to the 1st tee of the main course, where the Captain, Geoffrey Ettridge presented all 28 players with a sleeve of commemorative golf balls.

Gold Division

AS IS CUSTOMARY, 2019 Masters winner Tiger Woods chooses the menu for this year's Masters Dinner and his fellow golfers will doubtless applaud his choice of steak and chicken fajitas, whatever they are, although deciding on Milkshakes for the beverage will probably get him banned for life in Scotland.

La Marina Golf Society

This year due to the truncated season, consequent to the covid virus we decided to play it as an individual stableford competition.

The greens were very fast and tricky. Following the game as usual we returned to Lo Crispin Tavern where the friendly staff served us Tapas and the prizes for the day were awarded.

2nd place at the Masters only gets about $800,000, but they do throw in a jacket.

The winner of the 18-hole Trophy was Jimmy Scott with 39 points, 2nd on countback was John Brastock with 36 points and 3rd also with 36 points was Vic Smith.

Nearest the pin winners were; on hole 7 Graeme Buchanan, hole 9 Alan Craig, hole 14 Mike Davies and hole 18 Gary Garbett.

All the members of the La Marina Golf Society would like to thank Geoffrey for a great day and wish him a very Happy Birthday!

Lo Marabu Golf Society In association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services

lows:

For this month’s meeting a group of 32 players visited the established course at Vistabella taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

2nd – Hugh Clydesdale – 36 points

Today was our Captains Day and Captain Michael Probert provided prizes for all and today we also included our Poppy Day Competition for the British Legion.

The winning scores on the day were as fol-

1st – Michael Rocharde - 37 points 3rd – Brian Smith - 36 points 4th – Gary Doyle – 36 points 5th – Graham Mason – 36 points Nearest Pins: Sue Bishop, Alan Templeman, Brian Prockter and Jack Fanning Football Card – Annie Pardoe After the game we returned to Edina’s Bar &

at Vistabella on 29th October 2020.

Grill which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada for a snack prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support.

Our next fixture is the interim day at Alenda on the 12th November 2020 followed by the Society Day at La Finca on the 26th November 2020.

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-blancagreenfees.com.

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Monday 2nd - Sunday 8th November, 2020

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Vistabella Bowls Club This week, again some interesting results, on Monday in the Voyager div. the Eagles at home to Greenlands Chestnuts lost 10 – 2 with shots 72 to 93. However the scores were very close which is not conveyed by the result. You’re getting there Eagles ! The Buggies continue their dominating run away to Greenlands Beeches winning 12 – 0 with shots 139 for and 52 against. In Discovery div. the Drivers away to Country Bowls Flamingos lost 5 – 7 however with shots 91 for and 79 against. An extremely close match, with a notable score of 31 – 7 for Alan Whitely, Jeff Neve and Pat Rafferty. In the Enterprise div. the Albatrosses won at home to Quesada Pearls 10 – 2 with 98 shots for and 73 against with a notable score for Lyn Watkins, Carol and Gary Thorpe of 29 – 4.

In the Winter League Vistabella at home to San Miguel won 10 – 4 with 101 shots to 87.

Fridays Southern League games had some cancellations but the Conquistadors at home in the C div.

to El rancho Broncos had their first win and what a win 8 – 4 shots for 117 against 69 with some cracking scores Pete Cadwell, Steve Parr and Sue Wilson 39 – 5 and Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage, Avril Kendall clocking up a 33 – 9. In the B div. the Picadors did not fare so well against a strong Emerald Ilse Claymor side losing 10 – 2 with shots 73 – 84 though there were some very tight games as the shots show.

Vistabella Bowls Club is sponsored by: Venture Fleet Services, TV Choice, Oneway Services, Serenity Insurance, Carpet Heaven.

How about coming and have a go at bowling we would be pleased to see you. We can arrange a free session and lesson . You could get hooked it’s a fabulous game and a very sociable one you’ll meet lots of new friends.

Also bowlers are most welcome, and we are looking for new members. Please contact: Club Captain –Neil Burrows neilburrows@gmail.com or Charlie Watkins Membership Secretary charlieatpathways@yahoo.co.uk.

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Popular bowler Harry Rhodes passed away last Thursday whilst in first round action in the Emerald Isle Men’s Singles Competition.

Harry was 10-1 up at the time against John Smith when he suffered a major heart attack in the middle of the green.

His funeral took place in Pilar de la Horadada on Friday evening.

Our sympathies go to Peta, his partner and wife of 17 years and of course his family back in York.

An ‘old school’ yorkshireman Harry had been a member of La Marina, Quesada, Greenlands and the Emerald Isle Clubs where he was active both on and off the gree,. He will be sadly missed by the entire bowling fraternity.

LA SIESTA BOWLS – The Apollos had a home game against Emerald Isle Titans in the Enterprise Division it was a very tough game which resulted with no rink wins for La Siesta, but Skip Brian Fraser's team got a draw (20-20) for a point, which ended 1-11 (Shots 73-101).

The Pioneers (Discovery Division) had a similar result of 1-11 with their away game at Monte Mar against the Matadors, the draw coming from Skip Alan Ralph’s team (18-18).

The points could have went to either of the teams, as most of the games went close which is reflected in the total Shots of 77-88.

Quesada Bowls Club

By Suzi Cooper Sponsored By Global Wealth

10. Triple Suzi Cooper, Brenda Rees & Kim Bowles had girl power & won 20-10, the other triple of George Carnell, Steve Hibberd & Sandra Heath won 18-13.

On Monday the Rubies were at home to El Rancho Raiders.

On Friday the Swans were hosts to La Marina Seagulls, the team who pipped them for top spot in Division C last year.

A good result with 10 points. Winning triples were Peter Kelly, Lesley Fedtschyschak, Steve Fedtschyschak 21-10, John Cleal, Hazel Frost, Ian Forbes 26-19, Cynthia Scott, Don McLune, Peter Bottle 17-14, June Moss, Stella Jakeman Tony Lale 17-12. The 5th trip lost by just a single shot.

The Swans won 7-5. Winning triples David Gould, Chris Bowles & Kim Bowles 19-14, Harry Johnston, Bryan Elliott & Jacqui Johnston 17-7.

Doug Beattie, Jim Donnelly & Fay Beattie had an honourable draw 17-17.

The Pearls travelled to Vistabella Albatrosses & came back with just 2 points courtesy of Dorothy Benson, Violet Campbell & Fred Roberts.

The Diamonds had a bye, likewise so did the Winter League team on Wednesday.

On Thursday we play our Premier 20(18) fixture against Greenlands & had a great result winning all but 1 discipline & only losing on that one by 1 shot. At home Terry Morgan won his singles 21-8.

The pairs of Melanie Highland & Trevor Voisey won 16-14.

One of the triples Chris Brazier, Mark France & Jason Prokopowycz won 29-8. Away at Greenlands Peter Morgan won his singles 21-17.

The pairs of Tony Lale & Colin Highland won 26-

The Swallows had a great result at El Rancho taking 9 of the points. Winning triples Terry Morgan, Claire Dye & Alan Barton 30-10, Melanie Highland, Mark France & Colin Highland 22-14, Peter Farrell, Pearl Houghton & Barry Armstrong 30-12. Linda Armstrong, Graham Phillips & Trevor Voisey drew 16-16.

The Swifts had an afternoon match away against Greenlands Ash. They also had a great result collecting 10 points.

Cynthia Scott, Joe Brinton & Peter Bradbury 25-8, Shena Barnes, Dave Barnes & Steve Hibberd 2714, June Moss, Stella Jakeman & Tony Lale 16-15, John Cleal, Hazel Frost & Ian Forbes 16-14.

A good weeks work.

El Rancho Bowls Club Monday found the Raiders at Quesada playing the Rubies with a strong gusting wind making the bowls a little tricky, but despite coming away with just the one rink, several others could have gone either way.

Meanwhile the Pintos played host to San Luis Klingons, who despite having a trip short, were in good spirit and enjoyed the match, battling against the inconsistent wind.

The Pintos took 3 rinks and a walkover to Klingons 1, with an

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who kept up with the opposition until they had a couple of bad ends dropping 7 shots behind by the 14th, Skip Mike then played a wood that picked up the jack which ended in the ditch but still in play to gain 3 valuable shots, then on the final end got the 2 shots required to win 24-23.

The Golds Division B travelled to Greenland’s for their game against the Cedars but found the home team to be too strong, only getting close on a couple of rinks with Skip Ros Stockell's team managing to pick up 1 point to secure a draw (16-16). The game finished 111 (Shots 68-112).

The Blues game to be rearranged due to border lock downs in Murcia.

In the Winter League La Siesta 1 had a bye, and it was an away game for La Siesta 2 who were welcomed by Monte Mar Green which saw some very close results on most of the rinks with the game ending 4-10 ( Shots 101109 ). The Rink winners being; Tricia & Pat Reilly 0who stayed in full control of the game winning 20 -12. Alan Carr & Mike Edwards

Anyone interested in joining La Siesta Bowls Club, run by the members, are welcome to call the Club President (George) or Club Captain (Wendy) who will be pleased to give you any information you may require to assist you in making that decision.

Greenlands Bowls Club

In the Winter League The Willows were away to Celtic Isle, final score - shots for 109 - 109, points 9 - 5.BWR were, G Fisher, G fisher, 26 15. The Poplars were at home to San Luis Belugas, final score - shots for 101 - 88. Points 10 - 4. BWR, J Dowel, G Mitchell, 20 - 6.

On Monday in the Enterprise Div, the Maples were at home to San Miguel, final score - shots for, 108 - 67, Points, 10 - 2. best winning rink were - C Stobbart, K McKenna, K Stobbart. - 28 - 13.

The Sycamores were away to San Miguel Beagles and in very windy conditions came away with a win on two rinks. final scor - shots for 78 99, Points 4 - 8.

Best winning rink were, C Cooper, R Farrington,C Harris. 26 - 16. In the Voyager Division The Chestnuts were away to Vistabella Eagles, final score, shots for 93 - 72. Points, 10 2.

Best winning rink were - J Whitworth, K Barber, D Whitworth. 24 - 15. The Beech were at home to Vistabella Buggies, final score - shots for, 52 137, Points, 0 - 12.

George Richardson 865772498 or Wendy Ralph 633068399

In the Southern league, the Oaks were away to La Marina Sharks. Final score - shots for, 75 - 85, Points for - 4 - 8. BWR were, K McKenna, G Fisher, G Fisher, - 23 - 12. The Cedars were at home to La Siesta Golds. Final score, shots 112 68, Points, 11 - 1. BWR, P Lockley, M Lockley, D Webb. 34 - 4.

The Ash were at home to Quesada Swifts. final score, shots for 78 - 90, points, 2 - 10. BWR were J Bowman, B White, D Fields. - 27 - -6.

For any information about joining Greenlands bowls club please contact the club secretary Chris Dewar on 698 418 987

enjoyable match in good company.

Sheila Cox and Mike Cox 12-30.

Friday morning found the Mustangs entertaining Quesada Swallows, who being a strong team, gave us quite a battle and proved to be a little too strong on the day.

In the afternoon the Broncos were at Vistabella playing their Conquistadors, playing well in taking two rinks and losing another by just 2 shots, a good away result. Dolly Ford, Ann Abbott and Marion Haynes 22-14. Tony Abbott, Brian Gilham and Ron Greenstreet 16-18. Ngaio Baldwin, Bob Easthope and Pete Baldwin 17-13. Peter Blackburn, Pam Harris and Brian Harris 5-39. David Baker, Gill Bartlett and Rob Clark 9-33. Bowlers of all levels are welcome. For information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com

But we did take one rink and drew another, sometimes you are just up against a better team, if only on this occasion. Irene Thomson, Bob Day and Eddie Thomson 14-22. Lesley Day, Geoff Jones and Diane Yates 16-16. Barbara Jones, Malc Sykes and Richard Lee 1915. Val Ryder, Judy Foley and Henry Ryder 10-30. Gary Dunstone,

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ALFIE’S GOLF SOCIETY El Valle- Thursday, 29th October 2020.

Gold Division and Overall Winner Ian Ingledew with 33 points.

Monday 2nd - Sunday 8th November, 2020

Emerald Isle Bowls Club with Elwyn Morris Emerald Isle took on La Marina in the Prem 20 competition and came out on top by 13 to 3, winners were HOME Jo Perrin Julian Perrin 22-14 ,S Bosworth G Shoots B Kavanagh 36-9 S Kavanagh P Coffey J Pooley 21-9, AWAY D Morrison 21-4, S Marks R Marks 24-11, A Miles C Smyth J Smyth 22-12 P Rhodes A M Robertson C Lindgren 14-14 Titans played at La Siesta Apollos on Monday and had a great 11-1 aggregate of 101-73 win, winners were L Freeman C Smyth J Smyth 24-11, S Johnson G Odell M Odell 18-11, S Bosworth S Marks R Marks 20-16, D Jones A Miles C Lindgren 19-15, P Coffey K Jolliffe D Morrison drew 20-20 Neptunes entertained La Marina Pathfinders and they had a close 7-5 aggregate 92-86 win with A Brown S Westall J Westall 28-11, J Bright T Dix S Elvin 19-15 M Riley B Eldred J Mulloy drew 17 -17 all Moonrakers were at La Marina Explorers where they lost 210 with an aggregate of 72 --101 winners were I Graham G Digby G Shoots 18-15

Our Memorial Cup was introduced a few years ago to remind us of members who have now passed.

We travelled up to Bonalba for Winter League game and had a brilliant 14-0 with aggregate of 146-67 winners were S Verity C Lindgren 30-6 Jo and Julian Perrin 27-8 C and J Smyth 24-7 S and R M arks 25-13 P Coffey A Miles2116 G Shoots B Kavanagh 19-17

It was also the day we handed over our annual donation to the Royal British legion for the Poppy Appeal, and Mick ‘the Grip’ Reeves was there to accept the donation. A big thank you to everyone involved.

Celtic Isle played at home against Greenwoods Willows and slipped to a defeat by 5-9 aggregate was shared at 109-109 winners were E Morris S Elvin 29-13 T Dix J Bright 19-15

The course at El Valle was in excellent condition, as was the weather, so no excuses and congratulations to our winners.

On Friday the Claymores travelled to play Vistabella Picadores and came away with a terrific 10-2 aggregate of 8473 win, the winners were E Morris J Taylor E Bennett 18-11, L Vincent C Thomas S Elvin 19-13, A Brown S Westall J Westall 19-15 M Riley B Eldred J Mulloy 16-14

27 members and guests from Alfie's GS travelled to El Valle GC for the October meeting and to compete for the Memorial Cup.

Runner Up in the Gold Division was Geoff Sinclair, with 31 points.

Winner of the Silver division was Steven Youngs, with 32 points.

Silver division Runner up was Ron Eaton, with 29 points.

Nearest the pin on hole 2 – Sponsored by ‘The Keg’N’Kitchen’ went to Geoff Sinclair. Nearest the pin on hole 9 – Sponsored by ‘The Avenue‘ went to Ian Ingledew. Nearest the Pin in 2 on hole 15 Sponsored by ’The Street Restaurant’ went to Ian Ingledew. Longest Walk went to Norman Howes.

Many thanks to our sponsors, our committee for their hard work in the background, and to Ben and Gary at The Keg’N’Kitchen for their ongoing sponsorship and hospitality on the day.

Our next meeting of the year is at Las Ramblas on Thursday, 26th November 2020.

Alfies Presentation to the RBL Poppy Appeal 2020

Due to the sudden passing of Harry Rhodes the home games on Friday were cancelled in respect to Harry and Peta and their family. Harry was a long standing bowler in the area, a true character and he will be sadly missed R.I.P HARRY

San Miguel Bowls Club - Barry Jones On Monday San Miguel Beagles were home to Greenland Sycamores winning 8 - 4 (99 shots to 78) Best winning triple were Alan Harris, Bob Nesbitt and Dave Champion 27 - 13.

San Miguel Alsations were away to Greenland Maples where they lost 2 - 10 (67 shots to 108) the winning triple were Meg Brownlee, Alan Booth and Bill Brownlee 18 - 10.

On Wednesday San Miguel were away to Vistabella losing 4 - 10 (87 shots to 101) The two winning pairs won by the same aggregate Bob Graham and Steve Cantley 16 - 14; Jan Farmer and Dave Johnson 15 - 13.

On Friday San Miguel Boxers were away to Montemar Matadors losing 4 - 8 (89 shots to 99) Best winning triple were Bob Nesbitt, Alan Harris and Dave Champion 27 -11.

San Miguel Bulldogs game was cancelled, this game will be played later in the season.

For further information on San Miguel Bowls Club please contact the President Peter Masters on 643 443 727, or Secretary Gail Willshire on 965 020 492

San Luis Bowls Club Last week's hamper was a feast of good bowling and in the best of spirits. The final resulted in a win for one of our visitors, James Cutting, and our own Lions team Captain, Derek Barker beating a keen team of Tom and Bob. The Klingons managed two points on a windy El Rancho green, whilst the Vulcans at home to Country Bowls managed three points, with some matches very close.

The Winter League Belugas were away at Greenlands and won four points, again with some well fought matches We are a friendly club and new members will be given a warm welcome.

Best wishes go to some of our members who are coping with hospital appointments and ill health.

James and Derek following their hamper win

was a great performance by all players.

Shots Matadors 88 – 77 La Siesta Points Matadors 11 – 1 La Siesta WINTER LEAGUE Monte Mar v La Siesta

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club

Monte Mar played host to La Siesta winning on four rinks. The game was tight and played in the right spirit.

Sponsored by The Pub, Avalon, Skipper, Gran Alacant Insurances, Rogers, La Piazza, Dialprix and The Belfry.

Well done to Pauline and Chris Merry 20 12 Colin and Cindy Bedford 18 – 13, Lynne Armitage and Neil Crawford 21 – 19.

Commiserations to Rod and Bill who lost by one shot. Lets try and keep it going!!!!

Monte Mar Matadors v La Siesta Pioneers The match against the Pioneers was played in excellent spirit from both teams and strongly contested on every rink.

Considering the very windy conditions it

Shots Monte Mar 109 – 101 La Siesta Points Monte Mar 10 – 4 La Siesta

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SOUTH ALICANTE WINTER TRIPLES Week 3 - Monday 26th October ENTERPRISE DIVISION Greenlands Maples 108 (10) San Miguel Beagles 99 (8) La Siesta Apollos 73 (1) El Rancho Pintos 102 (10) Vistabella Albatrosses 98 (10)

Vistabella Albatrosses Emerald Isle Titans Greenlands Maples Quesada Pearls San Miguel Beagles San Miguel Alsations La Siesta Apollos El Rancho Pintos Greenlands Sycamores San Luis Klingons * *

P 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

San Miguel Alsations 67 (2) Greenlands Sycamores 78 (4) Emerald Isle Titans 101 (11) San Luis Klingons 66 (2) Quesada Pearls 75 (2) W 13 11 9 9 9 7 6 4 5 1

D 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0

L Diff Diff 2 127 3 123 6 104 6 53 6 46 8 -34 8 -28 11 -83 10 -116 14 -192

Pts 32 27 22 22 22 18 15 10 10 -3

* * 5)deducted for failing to field a full side

DISCOVERY DIVISION Emerald Isle Neptunes 92 (7) La Marina Explorers 101 (10) Country B Flamingos 79 (7) Monte Mar Matadors 88 (11) Quesada Diamonds Bye

La Marina Explorers Quesada Diamonds Country BFlamingos La Marina Pathfinders Monte Mar Matadors Emerald Isle Mrakers Vistabella Drivers Emerald Isle Neptunes La Siesta Pioneers

P 3 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 2

La Marina Pathfinders 86 (5) Emerald Isle Moonrakers 72 (2) Vistabella Drivers 91 (5) La Siesta Pioneers 77 (1)

W 10 8 8 7 6 7 4 4 1

D 1 0 1 1 2 0 2 2 1

L Diff Diff 4 42 2 54 1 67 7 7 7 -53 8 -5 9 -35 9 -44 8 -33

Pts 25 20 19 19 18 16 12 12 3

VOYAGER DIVISION Vistabella Eagles 72 (2) Greenlands Beech 52 (0) San Luis Vulcans 67 (3) Quesada Rubies 95 (10) Monte Mar Torreadors Bye

Vistabella Buggies Greenlands Chestnuts Country B Seahawks Quesada Rubies Monte Mar Torreadors San Luis Vulcans El Rancho Raiders Vistabella Eagles Greenlands Beech

Greenlands Chestnuts 93 (10) Vistabella Buggies 139 (12) Country Bowls Seahawks 89 (9) El Rancho Raiders 70 (2)

P 3 3 3 2 2 2 3 3 3

W 12 10 7 6 5 5 5 3 2

D 2 1 2 0 1 1 0 2 1

L Diff Diff 1 202 4 72 6 39 4 -12 4 22 4 -6 10 -43 10 -107 12 -167

Pts 32 25 22 14 13 13 10 8 7

Carp-R-Us Autumn Series Round eight of the Carp-R-Us Autumn Series was fished at the El Bosquet complex. Despite it being a beautiful autumnal day, the fishing was hard, as it has been on many occasions since the revamp of the complex started.

However, it was nice to see the first and second places being taken by two of the longer serving members of the club. First was Geoff Tempest with 4.35kg from peg 36 and second was Graham Ledley with 4.00kg from peg 37.

Third and fourth came from the other end of the length with Dave Sutton on peg 26 weighing in 3.64kg to just beat Alan Priest who had 3.42kg on peg 27.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on our Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

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BAR SPOTLIGHT winner, not forgetting 7 televised nine dart finishes. lncidentally, his biggest reward for a 9 dart 501, a fairly modest £ 10,000, in the U.K. Open 2016. * Back in 1984 John Lowe MBE hit the 1st televised 9 darter in the MFI Championship and won an astonishing £102,000 for his efforts.

No matches last Thursday evening due to our Covid 19 " Circuit Breaker " suspension taking in Oct. 29th and Nov 5th scheduled matches.

* Going back even further Englishman Tom Barrett won the prestigious News of the World comp. in consecutive years 1964 and 65 but no cash prizes.

Subject to prevailing conditions, a decision will be made, week commencing Nov 8th, for a possible restart on Nov 12th. Should this not be the case and continued suspension is necessary, then January 7th is the likely restart date.

The format was best of 3, 501 and was played on an Elm board, where sometimes a knot in the wood determined if your dart scored.

To facilitate any government directives / curfew should there be a resumption on the 12th, then an earlier start will be implemented eg 8-00 pm ( or earlier ) .

Plus the board had to be kept in water when not being used (to prevent drying out ) and usually displayed a disgusting aroma when used. Tom was one of the first to give exhibitions, often using 6 inch sharpened nails, or to really take the mickey, beat you with drawing pins. Try it, but beware the nails if your contents insurance is out of date.

Face masks are obligatory when not seated.

Playing darts without a face covering ( over mouth and nose ) is NOT an option. lf this is not viable, then do NOT play.

Captains are reminded, nominations for their teams " Player of the Month "are now due (closing date 4th Nov), winners to be announced soon after.

Recipients will receive a Winmau dartboard courtesy of Matt Smith (OWS league sponsor).

SNIPPETS * Michael van Gerwen tops the 2020 P.D.C. order of merit earnings table (up to last weekends championship in Germany , with £ 1,428,750. * Sitting at no 30 in the same list is Keegan Brown, earning a not to be sneezed at, £ 158,250. Yes they've got travelling ex's, hotels and even tax to pay, but not bad for a sport that is open to all. * Congratulations to Portuguese star Jose de Sousa for achieving his first televised 9 dart 501 ( 180, 177, 144 ) in Oberhausen, Germany, he finished on D12. * Nearer home, Amigos star Michelle Lane, recorded her 1st 180 of the season against Bobcats. Son Harvey missing out on

Danny’s Bar

Michelle Lane celebrating her 180 Amigos vs bobcats the limelight this week. * Don't forget full OWS Thursday darts coverage available on Facebook. - " OWS Thursday darts " SNIPP-ETTES * Talking Facebook, forward your opinions on the best dart player of all time. Was it Eric Bristow, MBE, "The Crafty Cockney" collector of 5 Embassy world titles, 4 world cup singles, and 5 world masters. Plus he mentored Phil Taylor, commenting much later " l've created a monster " . * Or maybe Taylor himself, 16 world titles, 16 world matchplays, and 6 premier league titles. * What about Dutchman, Michael van Gerwen, current world no. 1, and 3 times world champ.and 5 times premier league

A new venue in the O.W.S. dart league Dannys Bar and Grill was taken over by Danny Curtis in April 2019.

Situated in Campo Verde, the huge sports and music bar enjoys upto 9 t.v.'s showing the requisite football, rugby and darts etc.

Regulations permitting live entertainment is featured several times a week, with many choosing to dine, the kitchen opens for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

For those willing to travel the 25 minutes ( aprox time from V.Martin ) the 3 course Sunday lunch is a must.

A pool table and two dartboards feature, plus a front and rear terrace for" al fresco" enjoyment. Regular golf throughout the year from the in house society is a further reason to visit Dannys.

Cockney". Having seen them " live " the Rolling Stones are the preferred listening choice of the Oldham F.C. fan, whilst Mick Jagger, Tommy Cooper and Eric would be his dinner guests given the opportunity, all serenaded ( not sure if this is the correct term ) by Freddy Mercury.

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT Bob Taylor An active bowls enthusiast, he plays Crown Green in the U.K., and Lawn bowls in Spain, Bob Taylor also throws a mean arrow for the Hub Hyenas. Married to Ann for the past 45 years ( corrected by Ann in this interview ) also plays but for the Hellraisers. The Taylors regularly split their time between the U.K. and Spain, having bought their place here 20 years ago. A former motor mechanic from Huddersfield, Bob set up his own driving school business, successfully running it for 35 years. Pressed on what learner drivers found most difficult to grasp, the driving expert responded with " Roundabouts, Traffic Lights and Overtaking ", blimey, did he

ever get anyone to pass.

Bob's arrows are 23g Durro, using them when appearing on Jim Bowen's " Bullseye " Sunday afternoon quiz, darts pro Eric Bristow strutting his stuff on the same show. Sadly he didn't win a half of a caravan or the starboard side of a speedboat but remembers fondly the banter with the "Crafty

The Yorkshireman, regularly turns out for El Rancho bowls club, Los Montesinos, winning the mixed pairs with wife Ann, even gaining an England call up twice last year in the Home countries event in San Luis. Also a footy fan of Elche, now doing well in La Ligue, Bob attends most home matches in his green and white finery. He couldn't or wouldn't however, differentiate between darts or bowls as his fave sport, responding to the question with fishing.

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VIRUS CASTS ITS NET OVER LOCAL SPORT he National Football Federation has introduced a new coronavirus protocol, effective from 14 November, which now means that any player or club official who has not passed a mandatory pcr tests within the previous 7 days "will not be able to play an official match in any of the state level categories"

T

Not all, of course, were suspended because of infections as games involving both Country Bowls and La Manga Bowls Club were postponed following the closure of the Murcian border. Neither club may now travel across the border so all fixtures against teams in the Valencia Community have been put on hold.

Appropriate documentation must be provided to match referees prior to every match.

Neither, of course are the two clubs able to entertain fixtures against teams from over the border.

It is now thought that following the lead introduced by the RFEF many other bodies involved in sport will introduce similar guidelines right down to grassroots level.

Two games at the Emerald Isle were postponed as a mark of respect to popular bowler Harry Rhodes who died on the green on Thursday.

Locally sport is already being badly affected across all of it’s genres with yesterday’s CD Thader fixture against Benferri being the latest Preferente match to be affected. It is understood that at least 2 of Thader’s players have tested positive for the virus with more results still to be declared.

Elsewhere, however, it is understood that there have been positive cases detected at Quesada and San Miguel Bowls Clubs.

The game between UD Petrelense and Santa Pola CF has been similarly postponed.

The world of local darts has also been put on hold with both the Torrevieja Ladies Darts League and the ‘One Way Services’ Thursday Darts League being suspended for two weeks, although here it would seem to more a sensible case of ‘cautionary measures’ rather than any knee-jerk reaction to the virus itself.

But the virus isn’t just affecting football as Friday’s Winter Bowls league was decimated with 7 matches being called off at short notice.

And likewise the popular local Crib league has also been brought to a halt just 3 weeks into the season with clubs and players refusing to play in the current virus conditions.

The team will neither be allowed to play nor to train for the next 14 days.

Vaz out of action with cruciate injury Carthy eyes ‘Vuelta

By Andrew Atkinson Racing San Miguel striker Vazquinho: Vazquinho is scheduled to Expects to return to action in the return to Valencia 1st Regional action in new Group 10 after being side- year lined with a cruciate injury.

"Hopefully I will be back within the next two to three months," Vazquinho exclusively told The Leader.

Vaz, who joined Racing from CD Montesinos, was left on crutches after surgery, prior to the 2020-21 season.

CD Montesinos suffered their first defeat of the campaign in a 32 away defeat against Hondon Nieves CF following promotion to the 1st Regional G10.

CD Cox and UD Asp. A were engaged in a six-goal thriller in a 3-3 draw.

CD Murada gained an emphatic 3-0 away win at Callosa Deportivo CF, with goals from Jony, Lewis and Jawed.

In the 2nd Regional G17 Bigastro CF thumped Atletico Crevillente 5-0, Sporting Saladar gained a 1-0 away win at FB Redován C 'B'; CF Inter Santa Pola suffered a 3-1 home defeat against visitors CF Atletico Algorfa.

Glory’ in Madrid

Prestonian takes 3rd following Stage victory in La Vuelta as he enters the final week

By Andrew Atkinson Hugh Carthy was victorious atop the Angliru in stage 12 of the Vuelta to take stage victory as he rode away from te GC favourites with just over a kilometre to the summit.

With the victory the Brit moved into 3rd position just 32 seconds adrift of race leader Carapaz.

"There's not going to be any stress, I'm not going to over-complicate things and we have good riders to do everything," said Carthy.

It could now be that the truncated 2020 Vuelta a Espana is set to be the lucky seventh Grand Tour of British, Preston born EF Pro Cycling star Hugh Carthy's career. "When I'm in good form I can do more than what people expect," said Carthy.

With the flat stages in the Netherlands cancelled the Vuelta a España has been condensed into 18 stages, opening with three hard stages in the mountains before finally getting some relief.

In the intense start to the last Grand Tour of the coronavirus-hit season, Carthy has found himself in a dream spot: "I'm feeling good, day-by-day I'm feeling okay," said Carthy.

"A lot of guys haven't ridden a Grand Tour all year, they're still looking for a team or trying to get a contract. There's never a Grand Tour where you have half the peloton wanting to climb off. It feels like a normal Grand Tour, albeit with slightly different weather.

"Coming into the race everything was in place, I felt good, I was healthy and motivated and I knew I was ready to do this."

Carthy has made steady progress since racing his first Grand Tour in the 2016 Vuelta, when racing for Caja Rural, and since joining the Slipstream Sports organisation in 2017 he's gone from being a climbing domestique to a main contender when the road tilts uphill.

In 2019 he won a stage in the Tour de Suisse and the mountains classification, and finished 11th overall in the Giro d'Italia. After supporting Rigoberto Uran in the Tour de France, he TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS the Cat (Al Stewart), e. now has freedom to Honky Cat (Elton John).

11.

FROM PAGE 14: ride for the best possi12.

Alien 1. Oklahoma. 2. The Bell Lebanon. ble result in the Resurrection (Alien 4).

13.

Rocket Belt (the one man jet Vuelta.

Juniper.

14.

Laurence propulsion device). 3. a:

Results Round-up and photos online at www.theleader.info

SUDUKO SOLUTION From From page 14

After Sunday’s Sunday’s stage win Carthy sits 32 seconds behind the race leader

Coppola. 4. d: The Berlin Air Bridge. 5. Socrates. 6.

Artichoke. 7. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

8.

New Zealand, Auckland. (The Sky Tower). 9. The de Havilland 'Comet'. 10. a.

Stray Cat Strut (Stray Cats), b. Cats in the cradle (Harry Chapin), c. Stray Cat Blues (Rolling Stones), d. Year of

Olivier. 15. Tirpitz. 16. c. 7 Good Reasons and d. Dead Arm Shiraz are actual Australian wines. The rest of course appear in the famous Monty Python sketch "Some people in this country poo poo Australian table wines" 17. Vedas. 18. Sleeping Beauty. 19. Here's my story it's sad but true. 20. 14

"Some climbs have been quite nice, just long enough to fit into my terrain, some are probably worse; steeper and have a bad surface, bumpier and pitchier, steep section then flat section, then steep section. Good climbs that I knew well.

"Similar to the Tour, the GC's been limited. There are good opportunities for breakaways and plenty of stage wins on the cards. There are some good teams to control, with a few strong riders in each team."

The Vuelta a España saw a dramatic day on stage 6 on October 25 after Slovenian Roglic and his team made a collective mistake on the penultimate climb of the Alto de Cotefablo.

With driving rain and facing a cold, wet descent before the final climb to Formigal, race leader Roglic eased up on the category 2 Cotefablo, after having problems putting on his rain jacket.

At the front of the peloton his rivals took advantage and accelerated.

When new race leader Carapaz, Soler and Carthy attacked with just a few kilometres to go, Rogli was forced on the defensive.

"Sometimes you win some and sometimes you lose some. The Vuelta is not over yet and we will continue to fight to Madrid” rued Rogli?.

This year's shortened, rescheduled Vuelta got under way in Irun, in the Basque Country, on October 20, and will run over 18 stages to Madrid, finishing in Spain's capital city on Sunday: "It's going to be an interesting week," said British ace Carthy.

"I’m not nervous, I’m past that point now. I’ve had a good ten days and proven myself at the top level, so I feel like I’ve lifted a weight off my own shoulders. "But there’s a long way to go and I really want to finish the job off and confirm it over the three weeks," said Carthy.

24

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