The Leader Newspaper Edition 776

No 776

Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019

Tel: 637 227 385

Serving the community, in print and online, for over 15 years - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

Imserso tourism delay puts 12,000 jobs at risk As we enter the month of August, Costa Blanca hotels are warning that there is still absolutely no information on the Imserso (Institute for the

Elderly and Social Services) tourism program for the elderly, on which they rely during the low season.

They say that unless the government acts quickly they will be putting up to 12,000 jobs in the hotel industry at risk, 30% of which, almost 4,000, would be in Benidorm, one of the

main destinations of for users of the program which is used by 900,000 retirees throughout Spain.

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FROM PAGE ONE Imserso Holiday Scheme delay ADVERTISING SALES

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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.

The discounted holiday scheme, which provides a great deal of occupation to many hotels, should begin in mid-September with the arrival of the first retirees, business that allows hotels to remain open in Benidorm, Guardamar, Torrevieja, Altea, Calpe and Dénia.

Hotel staff now say that they see their continued employment in danger because many hotels are considering closing as, according to Hosbec, the delay can cause them to miss the season.

The president of the Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation, Juan Molas, said that hoteliers are outraged by what they consider "the greatest accumulated delay in the history of the Imserso vacation program."

September), the Public tender has not been able to release information regarding hotels, quotas and other conditions for the accommodation and transport offer that is included in this holiday program, that administers the largest winter operation in the national market.

Hoteliers warn that it has never previously been awarded so late or accumulated so many delays and as such, in view of this administrative paralysis, many are beginning to make alternative plans which could mean that the Imserso program does not go ahead.

Under normal conditions, the first clients of the program would start arriving at the hotels from 15 October but in the current uncertainty the nervousness is beginning to set in with the staff of many hotels seeing the continuation of their jobs through the winter in real danger.

Just 45 days before the start date for ordinary sales (marketing usually gets underway between 14-20

Appearing before the media on Thursday Juan Molas, said that he was confident that this week the Government will award the packages for the program which will allow trips to be marketed on their usual date, September 15, for the first users to arrive in October.

SPANGLES features in Corales en el Mar concert

even busier, with several public and private concerts booked, especially around the Christmas period. If you’d like to catch one of their concerts, here is a list of current bookings:

Spangles Ladies’ Harmony Chorus featured amongst the choruses and choirs taking part in the XIX Corales en El Mar concert in Los Alcázares last weekend. “This is one of the favourite concerts on the Spangles calendar and we feel honoured and privileged to take part each year” remarked Musical Director, Wendy Grant.

Spangles delighted the predominantly Spanish audience by performing some songs in Spanish: Eres Tu, La Bamba, Cuando Calienta el Sol, as well as their signature piece, in Maori, Pokare Kare Ana. Mayor of Los Alcázares, Mario Ginés Pérez Cervera, presented Spangles with a commemorative plaque after their performance.

Macmillan Fundraiser - Friday, 27 September – 12.00, La Torre Golf Resort, 30709, Roldán,

In 2015, the program wasn’t introduced until late July, which meant that the first groups of elderly tourists didn’t arrive until January 2016.

Established in December 2004 with just five ladies, Spangles now numbers more than 40 members and is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year with a gala dinner dance. It’s been a busy year so far for the chorus and the rest of 2019 is

ADAPT Private Concert - Saturday, 2 November - 11.00 - Hogar Del Pensionista de Lo Pagan Costa Cálida Chronicle Exhibition, 20th Anniversary - Saturday, 9 November - 11.00 Sheraton Hacienda del Álamo Golf & Spa Resort, Christmas Lights Ceremony - Sunday, 1 December - 20.00 - Spanglish, Balsicas Spangles 15 Anniversary Dinner Dance – Thursday, 5 December – 19.30 – Hotel Traiña, San Pedro del Pinatar Cruz Azul Fundraiser - Saturday, 7 December 11.00 - 12.00 - Overseas Supermarkets/Iceland, San Javier Spangles Christmas Concert - Thursday, 12 December - 16.00 - Sala Anne Wolf, Las Claras, Calle Helena, Los Narejos, Los Alcázares

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Suffering Noise from a Bar? Tell Them First If you feel you are suffering the nuisance of noise from a bar or club, your first instinct might be to call the police, but thanks to a court ruling you might be wasting everyone´s time if you haven´t raised the issue with the bar first.

The case which has now been ruled on relates to a case filed in Nov 2018, dating back to the initial report in 2015, where the complainant stated they had suffered as a result of the noise created in the bar.

The complainant stated that they were unable to sleep in their apartment, and so called the police so that they could make the appropriate checks of the sound levels.

In 2017 another complaint was filed and the police attended the venue and found that noise limiters were not working.

The police followed up the complaint and sought to prosecute the venue owner under Article 325 of the Penal Code, considering noise pollution to be so severe it warranted criminal proceedings.

The defendant admitted to owning the bar, but stated that no complaints had been made, either in person or from the community of owners, and as far as they were aware there were no inhabited premises in the vicinity.

The court determines that the crime of noise pollution requires proof of damages, and that the burden of proof lies with the complainant, who must provide evidence of the knowledge of the damage caused.

Because the complainant hadn´t raised the issue with the bar owner, then the owner, in defence, stated that they were not aware of any damage or inconvenience, and, as the bar was fitted with acoustic testing and noise limiting equipment, which they believed that to be functioning correctly and so the noise levels could not reach those above what is permitted.

Moreover, because the bar owner, the defendant, was not present when the noise tests were carried out by the police, then there is no proof that the owner was aware of the problem even at this stage.

As a result, the court ruled that the owner was innocent as they were not aware of the noise being emitted, despite the police registering levels in the complainant's bedroom of 98 decibels (a motorbike emits around 100 decibels, as does a handheld drill), triple the maximum allowed of 30 db (the equivalent of a whisper), and therefore issuing a fine of 5,000 euro, nor was there any proof that the owner was aware of a problem with the noise limiters.

The case was therefore dismissed and the defendant acquitted of any offence.

Of course, the ruling doesn´t give bar owners a free pass to break the law, it just means that a process has to be followed in order for the police to ensure a successful case when a complaint is filed.

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OC Avanza adds weight to calls for removal of AP7 tolls This weekend OC Avanza, business organization in Orihuela Costa added its voice to that of Eduardo Dolón, mayor of Torrevieja in calling for the abolition of the AP7 tolls at La Zenia and Los Montesinos.

Raymond Kearney, president of OC Avanza points out the return journey toll cost to Alicante Airport is almost 16€.

The not-so-popular alternative is to spend a long time in traffic jams on the N332, this is quite unbearable in the summer heat and coupled with the long queues at check-in and at security checks. The whole stress element of travelling to or from Orihuela Costa from Alicante Airport is turning people off holidaying or buying property in Orihuela Costa. To add to the congestion many vehicles travelling on the AP7 leave the motorway between Quesada and Campoamor clogging up the N332 every day.

Most Orihuela Costa businesses rely on tourism. The many excellent restaurants and bars need tourists to keep their businesses afloat and to give their staff work continuity. Six years ago, OC Avanza organized a petition calling for the abolition of the toll at La Zenia.

Over 7,000 people signed the petition and it was presented to the then mayor of Orihuela. Political party CLR presented a motion at the Orihuela Town Hall Plenary meeting, the motion was approved by all political parties except Claro, who voted against the abolition of the toll.

Visitors from our 5 closest neighbouring cities Cartagena, Murcia, Orihuela, Elche and Alicante are put off by the expensive or difficult journeys to visit Orihuela Costa. Most residents

Raymond Kearney, President of OC Avanza of these five cities rarely travel to Orihuela Costa to shop, eat out or even to spend a day on the beach. AP7 tolls from Girona to Alicante will end this year but the two tolls in a 10km stretch that effects businesses, residents and visitors to Orihuela Costa are set to continue for a further 28 years.

Kearney said “Orihuela Costa’s commerce and hospitality sector are badly effected by these abusive tolls as well as residents who have to face traffic jams every day on the N332”.

We are grateful also to the Orihuela Chamber of Commerce president Mario Martinez for publicly speaking out over the weekend about abolishing the AP7 tolls. Likewise, the Cabo Roig Business Association whose very livelihood is under severe threat from up to 100 illegal traders selling illegal goods on a daily basis also whole-heartedly support the removal of the AP7 tolls.

A spokesperson for the association said “We are under fire on all fronts, we pay our taxes, we employ hundreds of people but the local authorities don’t support us, we hope they listen soon”.

Guardia Civil swoop on late night bingo Expats and visiting holidaymakers were left stunned when the Guardia Civil launched a full-scale raid on Camping San Javier last Friday and ordered them to stop playing bingo.

Agents, who were accompanied on their late night swoop by Inspectors from the Regional Tax Agency, told more than 100 people, most of them tourists from the

UK, that playing Bingo was illegal and seized all the prize money and the equipment.

closed down the activity claiming that the necessary official documentation wasn’t in place.

It was half past ten at night when two inspectors from the Regional Tax Agency (ATRM), accompanied by agents from the Civil Guard, stormed the San Javier Camping facilities, located on la avenida Balsicas in the Marmenorense municipality, as an allegedly irregular game of bingo was being held.

In total, six people who were involved in the organisation of the bingo session, were identified, along with the person in charge, as well as four parents who took part while accompanied by their children.

The inspectors sealed the bingo machine along with the tickets, which were being sold for 50 cents each, or 3 for a euro, the money and the prizes.

Among the hundred or so people, many of them foreigners, who attended the bingo session on the private holiday site, there were a number of families with their children.

Inspectors

It is understood that Camping San Javier could now face an administrative fine in excess of 3,000 euros.

However the company that owns the site, says that that they have total “peace of mind” because they have all of the necessary permits to hold all kinds of leisure activities such as the one that was being played. They also deny that there were minors playing bingo, while they insist that they will not make any assessment on the performance of the Regional Tax Agency.

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Early morning fire on La Herrada, Los Montesinos

By Andrew Atkinson

Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019 stopped traffic driving near to the blaze, diverting traffic.

A neighbour, whose new casa is next door to the fire, currently not lived in, arrived at the scene.

"The Bomberos and police soon arrived after the blaze broke out, with two fire engines dousing the flames," said Helen Atkinson.

A FIRE broke out on La Herrada, Los Montesinos at 7am on Friday morning - with local Police and Torrevieja Bomberos attending the scene.

The Guardia Civil also attended the scene.

The fire at the junction of Calle Chumbera, was in situ near to new building developments on La Herrada, with properties valued beteeen 260,000300,000 euros.

La Herrada, Los Montesinos, Alicante, is booming with approximately 10 new construction developments at present.

There was no one injured in the fire, with the billowing smoke seen in nearby Quesada and surrounding areas.

Smoke bellowed into the sky, as the fire took hold, with members of the local Police first on the scene.

A policeman entered the area, risking injury, as what sounded like multiple containers exploded.

Two fire engines attended the scene, as police

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Business owners are critical of the Orihuela council which they say has done absolutely nothing to satisfy the waste requirements of this multi million euro centre.

A new Commercial Centre is still without refuse containers 2 months after first opening. The centre at Lomas de Cabo Roig has contacted the town hall department, led by Councillor Dámaso Aparicio, on several occasions, but still their appeals have been ignored.

The new facility comprises of 27 outlets, many of which have already been filled with restaurants, cafes and bars, and all of which generate large amounts of litter, foodstuffs and other waste, but despite their arrival, the hundreds of customers they serve on a daily basis, and the thousands of addition euros the units generate in taxes, the department has not placed a single additional container to cover the needs of the new businesses.

Business owners are wondering why they have spent many hundreds of thousands of euros in bringing their business to the Orihuela Costa when their basic requirements are ignored by the municipal government.

Currently there are just 2 refuse containers and 2 glass containers, belonging to an adjoining commercial centre, that are now shared by the two comcentres and by a large urbanisation with around 100 households, so what it inevitably means is that waste of all kinds is deposited on the pavements and the road alongside the existing bins, both attracting vermin and creating a major eyesore as well as an enormous health risk, adjacent to this brand new development on the Orihuela Costa.

In their frustration the Asociación de vecinos Cabo Roig y Lomas has now called on Cllr Aparicio to sort the problem out and to do the job that he is paid for.

One local resident said to the Leader “It’s not as though the councillor can blame the fact that the government has only recently been reformed, as he was also in charge of waste in the previous government. His responsibilities have not changed.

But neither has he got any more efficient”.

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No surprise as PP and C’s approve Orihuela salaries At an Emergency Plenary meeting held in Orihuela Town Hall on Wednesday both the Partido Popular and Ciudadanos have approved the salaries of the mayor, his councillors and their political officers, for the next four years.

The mayor, Emilio Bascuñana, will be paid 61,537 euros per year, while the deputy mayor and leader of the C’s will take home 52,000 euros-annual gross.

euros, and the Board of Spokespersons 100 euros.

Confirmation was also given of councillor responsibilities: • Emilio Bascuñana Galiano: Institutional Relations.

• Rafael Almagro Palacios: Finance, Heritage and Communication.

In addition to their salaries they will also earn a further 3,000 and 1,500 euros per year, respectively as remuneration for the presidency and vice-presidency of municipal commissions, although to date they have not yet been designated.

• Víctor Valverde Sáez: Emergencies, Rural Development, Employment and Agriculture.

The proposition was exactly the same as that thrown out two weeks ago by Aix and the PSOE, led by Carolina Gracia, but now that he is a member of the coalition with the PP Snr Aix felt it prudent to ensure that he and his councillors are now paid.

• Dámaso Aparicio García: Transparency, Environment, and Road Cleaning.

In voting through the salaries, all of which are increased from those earned during the previous mandate, both the PSOE and Cambiemos opposed the motion while VOX abstained.

Multi million euro commercial centre still without bins 2 months after opening

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It is understood that councillors without government responsibility will earn 12,500 euros per councillor while a maximum of 25 government will earn between 46,000 and 28,000 euros gross per year depending on their seniority.

There will also be extra payments for attendance; plenary 200 euros per session, Government Board 100 euros, Permanent Commissions 100

• Sabina-Goretti Galindo Benito: Recruitment, Large Projects and New Technologies.

• Mariola Rocamora Gisbert: Fiestas, Tourism, Protocol and International Residents.

• Mayte Sánchez Cánovas: Social Services, Immigration and Equality.

• Víctor Bernabéu Gutiérrez: Sports, Commerce, Markets, Industry and Energy.

• José Galiano Moreno: Health, Transportation, Mobile Park and Statistics.

• José Aix Egío: Planning.

• Luisa Boné Campillo: Human Resources .

• Mar Ezcurra García: Culture and Youth.

• Ángel Noguera García: Infrastructure, services and maintenance, Parks and Gardens, Water and Public Lighting.

• Ramón López Cabrera: Security, Beaches and Education.

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a daily basis, in the case of Valencia coinciding with the week of its Fallas and in Madrid, both in its underground railway and in its tourist offices, as well as on the web and corporate social networks.

Mariola Rocamora, the Councillor for Tourism and Festivities, says that receiving this type of aid is always beneficial "and we will continue to request it every year for holidays and anything whatsoever that is declared to be of tourist interest."

Prisoner killed following argument over snoring in Fontcalent

The simulation on La Mata beach

A prisoner in Fontcalent prison killed his cellmate on Monday morning after an argument about the snoring of the aggressor.

Opposition groups ask for space in Montesinos town hall

The murder took place after midnight in a cell in Fontcalent prison to which the National Police responded at one o'clock in the morning.

The opposition groups in Los Montesinos have never had offices in the Town Hall where they are able to deal with the concerns of their constituents.

La Mata beach. The craft, with skipper, lifeguard and towed stretcher, moved from its base to the scene of the accident while on shore lifeguards assembled necessary equipment, including semi-automatic defibrillator, oxygen and first aid kit.

The prisoner remains in police custody According to the information released by prison staff and by police investigators, the aggressor, a 37-year-old Spaniard, had an argument with his cellmate, a 57-year-old Algerian, because of his snoring.

The verbal dispute ended with blows following which the Algerian inmate died. The aggressor notified the prison officers but they were unable to save his life.

Several blows to the head are thought to have been the cause of death although this is subject to confirmation by an autopsy that is currently being carried out.

Following the death, agents of the Provincial Brigade of the Judicial Police and the Provincial Brigade of the Scientific Police, as well as the judicial commission, took over the cell where they collected data and carried out a thorough inspection.

The inmate has been transferred to a police cell where he will provide a statement following which he will be made available to the courts.

La Mata Beach Emergency Drills Torrevieja’s Councillor for Emergencies, Federico Alarcón, was on hand on Monday to see an emergency drill carried out on La Mata Beach, during which a surfer lost consciousness in the water after being struck by his board.

The accident was first attended by a lifeguard who was patrolling in front of the Pura Vida beach bar. After quickly assessing the situation the lifeguard activated the protocol established by UTE SALVAMAR. The accident was some distance from the shore, beyond the buoy line, so the rescue had to be carried out with a jet ski that is based on

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada - Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday 8th Aug at 7pm and Saturday, 10th Aug at 5pm

FISHERMEN’S FRIENDS Ten fisherman from Cornwall are signed by Universal Records and achieve a top ten hit with their debut album of Sea Shanties.

Cast: Tuppence Middleton, James Purefoy, Christian Brassington, Daniel Mays, Dur: 1hr 52min Genre: Comedy. Drama. Musical THE CINEMA WILL CLOSE FOR THE LAST 2 WEEKS IN AUGUST

The grant for the promotion of the beaches will be used to produce a catalogue in two languages ??providing all the information, services and images of each of our beaches, as well as their awards and quality certificates.

Since the municipality segregated from Almoradí, almost 29 years ago, the PSOE have maintained a firm grip on government, with successive majorities, and in all that time they have resisted the provision of office space for the opposition parties.

Now, however, the opposition is demanding that space be provided that would allow them to do their jobs. The councillor for IU-Unidad Trabajadora, Alfonso Paredes, describes the lack of accommodation

Simultaneously the coordinator of UTE SALVAMAR notified the emergency health services.

After pulling the victim from the water and assessing his condition, it was found that he had suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest. The rescue personnel then assemble the oxygen kit and the defibrillator and activated the CPR protocol.

On their arrival with the ambulance, the health services from UTE SALVAMAR took over the resuscitation tasks from the lifeguards.

After about 10 minutes of rescussitation the victim was stabilised and transferred to the University Hospital of Torrevieja.

Local Police officers, alerted by 112 CV, also made an appearance where they maintained a cordon around the victim and emergency services whilst the surfer was being treated, until his removal to the Torrevieja Hospital. " Orihuela receives promotional aid from the Consell The Orihuela Department of Mariola Tourism, has received a grant from Rocamora the Valencian Tourism Community, for € 5,402.42 to promote fiestas and a further € 1,354.96 to promote the beaches.

These grants cover 50% of the expenses for promotional activities with regard to Semana Santa, declared of International Tourist Interest, over the Easter period.

The funding will be used to cover the costs of advertising on national radio and in the foreign press to reach both tourists and residents based in the province as well as in the airports and AVE stations of Alicante and Valencia, through which thousands of travellers pass on

Los Montesinos mayor has said there is no room as “a democratic abnormality" for a municipality of five thousand residents. “We should be treated as our neighbours in San Miguel, where all political groups have offices in the town hall building.”

“We are a municipal group that is in opposition, and one that has the right to have an office in the Town Hall where we can meet independently and receive visits from residents.”

According to Paredes, Mayor José Manuel Butrón has refused the request of the opposition's municipal groups claiming "that all offices are occupied." The mayor says that the offices are in a circular formation and scarce, with many officials having to use common areas. He says that technicians share very small offices and the plenary hall is used to conduct courses. It is a very small Town Hall and the space simply isn’t available.

However the IU believes that the PSOE, which has once again returned a large majority, has had 28 years to carry out the relevant actions that would allow the rest of municipal groups access to space in the town hall.

As such Paredes begs "a change of mood in the government and hopes for a positive response to his request."

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Who wears the trousers …?

In the words of my old friend, Brian Lalor, ‘I am on the horns of a dilemma ‘- and I don’t know which way to turn with this Comaskey crisis.

My ‘pressing’ (please retain this word) problem is that I have twenty-seven pairs of trousers at last count and I only have one pair of legs.

Now, dear readers, you should not jump to conclusions by thinking there is a simple solution like offloading my surplus bum-covers to a charity shop. Oh, If only it were that easy: And I do donate clothes to V de P and charity shops. The trousers we are talking about could not be presented to anybody else. They are what is known in our house as ‘working trousers.’ How we have so many pairs of working-trousers will be revealed in a moment. The problem is compounded by the fact that I don’t have sufficient work to keep up with the supply.

A long time ago, my wedding-suit-bar-one got wet at a funeral – with me in it. After it dried (into me) the legs of the pants were somewhat crinkled. On removal, (after I got home, I hasten to add) I took the iron, which happened to be sitting on an ironing-board, and I proceed to press the pants. It didn’t go well. The short version is that I put a scorch mark on the new suit and I was subsequently relieved of all ironing duty for life.

Mrs Youcantbeserious is an incredibly good ironer. She is very particular about ironing exactly on the crease of my trousers. This is why she would never allow another woman near my trousers. (Ah …

Lads, please; keep it clean.)

I am getting to the crux of the problem. Every so often, my wife will pause at the ironing board and hold up what to me looks like a perfectly good pair of pants. She will stretch it at arm’s length and eye level before announcing, “This one is now a working trousers.” A permanent marker is used on the inside of the waistband to denote that it is not up to the standard of being worn in her company when we are out. And that is that; it gets demoted to the ‘working trousers rail.’

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Holy God … I am not much in favour of work these days, but I would need to labour eighteen hours a day in the fields, seven days a week to make any impression on these lot. There are denims, corduroys, grey ones … blue, black brown, check and even white working trousers! There is one that has outlived the jacket of a dinner suit! I do manage to dump the odd one if I move fast – but it isn’t easy.

I have less and less room for good clothes these days. Everything else is getting packed in to make room for the growing number of working trousers. My shirts – which once upon a time had a hanger per shirt, are now four to a hanger. My jackets used to have a section to themselves, but now they have to share with sweaters.

The one son I have comes home regularly to visit. It is always great to see him, but bloody hell, I wish he would bring me something other than another working trousers. Every so often when he is packing to leave, he will hold up a trousers … which has seen better days I can tell you; and ask innocently of his mother; “Would Daddy wear this working?” Of course he would …!

I am becoming a nervous wreck over all this. We were at a wedding a few weeks back. I marvelled at myself in the full-length mirror, knowing I looked resplendent in my Eddie Murphy suit – waistcoat and all! Then I caught the eye of the wife in the mirror. “You need to buy a new suit this year”, sez she. That is fine and dandy, but this trouser chain means yet another working trousers!

Maybe if it was back in the days of the washboard a working trousers might not last as long, but these modern washing machines are unbelievable. Once a week Mrs Youcantbeserious does a ‘dirty wash’. (No – not me, you clown) Along with floor-cloths, dusters, beach-towels and sauna mat, in goes my working clothes. What happens next is nothing short of miraculous. The white working trousers

Wanted Brits Arrested at Airport

comes back out minus cow-dung, grease, grass stains … oh, and I almost forgot, sweat stains of course. You would need sun-glasses it’s so white.

This trousers has been here before. The arms-length-eye-level inspection takes place again and the verdict is; “You’ll get another turn out of this one…!”

And so it’s ‘”Hi Ho, Hi Ho and off to work I go …”!

Don’t Forget They say that hard work never killed anyone – but some of us don’t want to chance being its first victim …

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.

Guardamar to invest one million euros in Avda de Los Pinos Guardamar council has tendered the works with which it intends to provide a comprehensive makeover to of the most emblematic spaces of the city: la Avenida de Los Pinos, which runs between the town centre and the Reina Sofía Park pine forest , and connects with el paseo del Ingeniero Mira.

The men failed to turn up in court Five British men, aged between 30 and 32, were arrested on arrival on a flight from Manchester to Alicante-Elche Airport, wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant for an incident in Seville.

The men are alleged to have been involved in an incident when a hotel room was trashed in Seville in February.

They were arrested at the time by the police but failed to appear in court. The courts subsequently issued a warrant for their arrest.

According to the information provided by the National Police they are accused of having thrown stones at the facade of a hotel in Seville, causing damage to it, and knocking over several motorbikes which were parked nearby. After a foot

chase through the streets of Seville, the police were able to capture them.

At the time of the arrest, the report states that they "showed high resistance equally damaging a police vehicle."

In the absence of all of them in the trial, the magistrate issued an arrest warrant which apparently came as a surprise to the men when they were met on their flight from Manchester.

Benidorm´s hotel association, Hosbec, has called for the police to "strike hard" against the so-called "tourism excesses".

With magistrates now largely on holiday and many courts closed the men could be spending rather more time in Spain than they originally intended

This avenue is one of the areas that provides the greatest community and economic activity in the municipality, where there are a very high number of shops, restaurants and other service activities that take place along the road, taking advantage of the natural framework, playgrounds, space as it enters the Reina Sofía Park.

The tender - the administrative procedure by which companies submit their offers is now open, with a budget of 1,010,000 euros (taxes included) .

Interested construction companies have until 26 August 26 to register their proposals.

Apart from the remodelling that will change the appearance of the area, popularly known as “la calle del Chollo” because of the abundance of terraces and restaurants, the project calls for the free movement of pedestrians. It also requires "urgent improvements to the sanitation network and the adaption of new technical requirements that will reduce conservation problems".

In addition, the project requires the remodelling of

the entire Reina Sofía Park which will improve access, pedestrian traffic, and provide a much better image of the area.

The work, with an execution period of 4 months, although companies can reduce it in their bids, will also resolve accessibility problems.

The project will continue along almost half a kilometre in length. In addition to the water supply collectors, sanitation, storm drain and lighting services will also be renewed, with the installation of 37 new lighting columns of different models.

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Province spend 21k a year on unused lifeguard towers

Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019 The tower at La Glea lies empty

Torrevieja buys 22 "anti-terrorist" planters The company Actúa-STV have been awarded a minor contract to provide 22 new anti-terrorist planters at a cost of 17,600 euros. They have been purchased to replace the existing blocks that were installed along the Torrevieja front following the jihadist attack on the Barcelona Ramblas in 2017 and that cost in the region of 12,000 euros per year to rent.

The concrete blocks were installed to prevent vehicles from entering the main public areas of the city, used daily by thousands of people, along the seafront, from the Vista Alegre promenade to La Libertad, passing through the Juan Aparicio prom-

There are 31 lifeguard watchtowers in the province, which, with the exception of the 4 that are located in Alicante, remain completely unused.

They are extremely high, have little protection or shade, and there is no provision to fly warning flags. Neither, when speed is of the essence, do they allow a lifeguard to get to a potential victim quickly. They take far too long to get down and, despite the ongoing maintenance, with many suffering from broken rungs and steps, they take even longer to climb.

One lifeguard told the Leader “Being in close proximity to the sea and to the bathers who are using the sands is of the utmost importance.

Perched on top of one of the towers, often placed at the end of a beach, takes you away from them.

They might give you a higher view but when you are the only guard in the area they do not allow you to act quickly in reaching swimmers who are in danger, they no longer meet their purpose”

But only recently the Department of Conservation at the Diputación has awarded the contract for the maintenance of these watchtowers for 21,173 euros per year, extendable to another year.

The contract stated that the work would begin last June, but there has been no trace of any work being carried out, which would include repainting and the replacement of steps, along with other maintenance and repair work.

A spokesman said that despite maintenance work some of the towers have been out of service for many years because their condition is unusable.

Indeed many lifeguards don’t even want to use the old wooden towers, many of which are also in very bad condition, so as not to compromise the safety of bathers. He said that lifeguards prefer to watch on foot on the seashore, from where they can respond and reach anyone who might need their assistance very quickly.

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enade and Avda Los Españoles, on Cura beach.

Although fulfilling the same function as the current concrete barriers the new installations will improve the image of the frontline areas.

The blocks being placed in 2017

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Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 775 QUICK ACROSS: 1 Research; 5 Spur; 9 Comb; 10 Unctuous; 11 Diary; 12 Clement; 13 Unforgettable; 18 Ultimate; 19 Bind; 20 Proviso; 21 State; 22 Dust; 23 Asterisk.

DOWN: 2 Emotion; 3 Embargo; 4 Conscientious; 6 Proverb; 7 Rosette; 8 Street; 13 Usurped; 14 Fatuous; 15 Remain; 16 Arbiter; 17 Linctus.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Stocking; 5 Ammo; 9 Frau; 10 Stranded; 11 Guile; 12 Ragtime; 13 White elephant; 18 Regional; 19 Olga; 20 Tenders; 21 Sleet; 22 Deer; 23 Estimate.

DOWN: 2 Through; 3 Couplet; 4 Natural causes; 6 Madeira; 7 Oddment; 8 Hang-up; 13 Worsted; 14 Ingenue; 15 Erodes; 16 Hoodlum; 17 Neglect.

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Solution on Page 23 CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

QUIZ ANSWERS

8.

14.

16.

17.

19.

21.

Braid (5) Sherry (7) Company of actors (6) Dignified (5) Stain (7) Miscellaneous items (4,3,4) Translator (11) Latticework structure (7) Slight suggestion (7) Far-off (6) Musical drama (5) Condescend (5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Denise Van Outen got married in 2009 in the Seychelles. To whom?

2. The flu strain H1N1 is better known - or feared - by what name?

3. Zac Ephron co-starred in the movie "17 Again". With which Friends star?

4. Who created and voices the characters Peter, Brian & Stew in Family Guy? 5. From which English port in 1620 did The Pilgrim Fathers originally set sail on board the Mayflower to America?

6. DJ Jeremy Healy married which actress in early 2009 - her fourth musician-related husband?

7. Roger Hiorns (pronounced Highons), Enrico David, Lucy Skaer (pronounced Skyer), and Richard Wright were in the news in April 2009.

Why? 8. Prince Philip has taken the title of longest serving British Royal consort. But who had that title before him?

9. Which singer's children are called Ruby and Dexter Henson?

10. What is the name of Jamie & Jules Oliver's third daughter, a sister to Poppy Honey and Daisy Boo?

11. The record producers Dangermouse and hip-hop singer Cee-Lo Green are collectively known by what name?

12. Where in the UK would you land at St Angelo airport?

13. He died in 2008, aged 95. He was very famously linked with events 35 years previously. By what nickname was Mark Felt better known?

14. Despite losing approximately ?16bn in nett worth in 2008, who is still the richest man in Britain, according to the Sunday Times?

15. In the 2009 remake of Reggie Perrin (no comments please) Reggie walked past which company on his way to his job in Groomtech?

16. In which country is the headquarters of OPEC? 17. What was legalised in Ireland in 1997?

18. Science - what name is given to a distance of 3.26 light years?

19. In which Northern English town do Wallace and Gromit live?

20. The Island of Borneo belongs to what three countries?

George III) from 1761 to 1818. 9.

Charlotte Church's. 10. Petal Blossom Rainbow. 11. Gnarls Barkley (Brian Burton and Thomas Callaway respectively). 12. Enniskillen, however scheduled passenger flights ceased in 2006..

13. Deep Throat. 14. Lakshmi Mittal. 15.

Sunshine Desserts - the company RP worked for in the original series. 16.

DOWN 2. The physical effects of this could be cruel (5) 3. Cosmetic mother used to cover a blemish (7) 4. Equestrianism I had seen in the arena (6) 5. Is so mixed up about a lonely fertile spot (5) 6. It’s not altruistic to market sea-food, one hears (7) 7. They stick an advertisement among the accounts (11) 8. No more stars would certainly disturb them (11) 14. It could be a bad rule but it’s lasting (7) 16. Could he be a convict who’s admitted to the clique? (7) 17. Timber put in favourite window fitting (6) 19. Bustling atmosphere around the street (5) 21. In April I’ll explore French textile centre (5))

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

1. Lee Mead (Joseph). The couple split up in 2013 and she is now with long term boyfriend Eddie Boxshall. 2. Swine Flu. 3. Matthew Perry. 4. Seth McFarlane.

5. Southampton (forced to return to port when Speedwell took on water and later set sail from Plymouth). 6. Patsy Kensit.

7. They were the shortlist for the Turner Prize. 8. Queen Charlotte (wife of

ACROSS 1. Where those who aestivate are accommodated? (6-5) 9. Cut into various indices (7) 10. Leaves a deposit when the lists are revised (5) 11. Caterpillar right inside the mountain ash? (5) 12. Being more spiteful could result in tears (7) 13. Gold transaction becomes a testing experience (6) 15. Fungoid alga from N. Chile (6) 18. Two seamen get the last of the mayonnaise dressing (7) 20. Where males were implicated in a witch-hunt (5) 22. One working automatically produces nonsense about outside broadcast (5) 23. He tampers with a fruit tree we hear (7) 24. Minute-men (11)

ACROSS 1.

Chance (11) 9.

Spinning-top game (7) 10. Nobleman (5) 11. Fight (3-2) 12. Exact (7) 13. Idea (6) 15. Accident (6) 18. Ugly thing (7) 20. Light anchor (5) 22. Rummage (5) 23. Opening (7) 24. Property seller (6,5)

Formerly in Geneva, Switzerland, on 1 September 1965, OPEC moved to Vienna, Austria, after Switzerland declined to extend diplomatic privileges. 17. Divorce. 18. Parsec. 19. Wigan - seen when Gromit picks up the post in The Wrong Trousers. 20. Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia

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Los Montesinos Patron Festivities

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Two new motorcycles for Pilar Police The Mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, José María Pérez Sánchez accompanied by the Councillor for Citizen Security, Marina Sáez, Chief Inspector, José Antonio Hernández and Local Police agents, were on hand to take delivery of two new motorcycles that were incorporated into the mobile fleet last week.

The acquisition of the two motorcycles, both Suzuki burgman 200 cc, cost 11,956.78 euros, but will enable the service provided by the

Agatha Minquez Andreu with LUCIA Sanchez Cano far right

BY ANDREW ATKINSON LUCIA Sanchez Cano is the choice of Queen for the 2019 Los Montesinos Patron Festivities in October, with Ladies of Honour, Maria Teresa Samper Cano and Maria Jose Rodriguez Macia, with Child Queen Agatha Minquez Andreu.

The choices were made in front of hundreds of

15

agents to be improved.

The mayor said that “the Local Police had four motorcycles and with the acquisition of these two, new bikes they will have six, so that the available police transport now amounts to eight vehicles and six motorcycles”.

people in Los Montesinos' Sacred Heart square on Sat July 27, as the Vega Baja town celebrated 29 years of Municipal autonomy from Almoradi.

"Let the celebrations begin!," Los Montesinos Mayor Jose Manuel Butron, told me.

The XXIX Fiestas De La Segregacion, during July 25-30, featured a three hour concert by New Wave, a nationally and internationally renowned Spain pop-rock group, that sang hits from the 80s and 90s on Saturday - that had the people rocking and jiving the night away, until 1am: "Everyone is enjoying the live music," said Mayor Butron.

"The week long childrens activities, water and foam party, and a gala of sport, along with the tastings of local produce on Saturday, and a gathering of Antique bikes and cars on Sunday, are part of our celebration," said the Los Montesinos Mayor.

Hondón Valley Legion’s Summer Party Members and guests of the Hondón Valley Branch, The Royal British Legion, enjoyed a Summer party at El Fielato Restaurant at El Partidor (near Abanilla).

The shady surroundings proved ideal in the hot weather and the local area overlooks the Rio Chicamo, a favourite destination for walkers.

At this very popular cave restaurant, we enjoyed and extensive Spanish menu which was followed by entertainment from local singer Rob Sweeney and those who felt more energetic, got up and danced to the extensive selection of music.

The Branch will take time off during August with the next full meeting taking place on the 17th September.

Guests are most welcome and for more information please contact our secretary on: hondonvalley.secretary@rbl.community website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/hondon-valley

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Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019

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Car Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2017 Ford CMax Petrol which is on Special Offer priced at just 14,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

The biggest and best for price,

choice and quality.

Social and Clubs Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District BRnch meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the Olympia Pool Bar and Restaurant in Mil Palmeras.

Everyone is welcome. Call Jean for info on: 630 28 08 99 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 exservices. For more information contact:- gill.burden20@gmail.com RNA - The Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanization, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1996.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for 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 you can 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 contact me at davedanie@gmail.com.

Badminton in Pilar de la Horadada.

Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs.

10-12.30 pm. Call John on 634 658 506 Torrevieja Retired Activities Club meet on the third Wednesday in the month from 11-1pm at Marina Club Cafeteria, International Marina, Torrevieja.

The joining fee is 10euros but you can attend one meeting or lunch before you join. For info phone Sandy Hollywood, President 698 266 696 or Jill Hayes, membership Secretary 672 983 019.

HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

Contact our head office on 965 328 794 or email: charitycentre helpathomecb@gmail.com.

Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Have a few

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hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising 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 available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services Torrevieja Christian Fellowship (TCF) is no longer at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas. For the next two months we will be holding our Sunday morning service at 10.30 a.m. in the El Nacional restaurant which is in Punta Prima on the N332.

La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month

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(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 The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. You can phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 667 533 597..

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja - Evangelical nondenominational church. 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

Personal Transvestite Diana, blonde, new to Torrevieja. Great figure big breasts. Active and passive.well endowed. By appointment.

Playa los locos. 651 363 396 English blonde (in 30s). Attractive, sexy & fun.

Available Wednesday 12th – Monday 17th June. 603 232 872.

Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speaks English.

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"But I didn't think I'd be wealthy, or famous," said Sir Rod, who, according to the Sunday Times Rich List, is worth £180m.

beach in Brighton upon leaving school, rubs shoulders with Sir Alex Ferguson, former manager of his 'adopted' English team, Manchester Utd.

From trying his hand as a Screenprinter at a wallpaper manufacturer, to that of plumbing, and a grave-measurer, Sir Rod's music career has brought wealth.

Sir Rod paid a heart warming tribute to former Celtic skipper Billy McNeill, who died in April, following a long, brave battle with dementia.

SIR ROD Stewart gets his kicks out of football as much today, as he did as a youth, when kicking balls for fun in his schooldays.

Sir Rod, married to model wife Penny Lancaster in 2007, a husbandsupporting Celtic fan, one of the Bhoys, resides in Los Angeles, with their two children Alastair and Aiden.

McNeill - The Lisbon Lion - who lead Celtic to win the European Cup in 1967, is described by Sir Rod as a friend, and one of the best Celts ever.

"I still love football - as much as I did - as when I was a youngster," said Sir Rod, whose dreams of becoming a professional footballer fizzled out during his teenage years.

The Stewart's sold their Essex family 6 bedrooms Grade II Jacobean style Listed Mansion, for a reported £4.1m in May, to footballer Andy Carroll and his wife Billi Mucklow.

"Hail Hail Cesar! Farewell my friend, Billy McNeill. And Farewell to one of the best Celts ever", said Sir Rod, via Twitter.

"I tried to be a footballer - but wasn't good enough," said Celtic fan Sir Rod.

The Mansion has a full sized football pitch - with Celtic, Newcastle United and Liverpool players having trained there.

"After I realised that I wasn't going to be a footballer I went into music, where I felt I could make living," said Sir Rod.

"I couldn't be more happier," said Sir Rod, on a summer vacation on a chartered cruiseliner in France and Italy, during July.

“I still love football- as much as much as I did as a kid” Sir Rod Stewart By Andrew Atkinson

"Penny is great. I'm really fit, and enjoy the shows - but money can't buy you health and happiness," said Sir Rod, whose Los Angeles Mansion is called 'Celtic House'.

Sir Rod, who has a property in Palm Beach, Florida, and played guitar on a

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BOND will be back soon!

By Tony Matthews Chester-born actor Daniel Craig, now aged 51, has had an action-packed run as the MI6 agent James Bond 007 since his debut in Casino Royale some thirteen years. However, as all the Bonds before him, he simply cannot keep playing the same role indefinitely!

By Andrew Anderson

CHASING DREAMS! Emma J. Tytherleigh, world famous horse trick rider, talks exclusively to Andrew Atkinson in Part 1 of a two part interview.

"SO MUCH has changed since I left Spain full time, but I will return, eventually," said Emma, who starred in Flamenco shows for five years in Spain.

"I left Spain to chase my childhood dream - running away to the circus," said Emma, who joined Circus Vegas, an American theme show that travels all over the UK and Ireland.

"I perform as a Trick Rider and adopted a pony, Summer, that I trained to create a small dynamic liberty act," said Emma.

"Totally, out of the blue, I was given the opportunity to ride for Europe's best Trick Riding team, Academy Hasta-Luego, based in Nimes, France," said Emma.

"This team perform in the world's largest equestrian theatre show, Cavalluna, who have two different shows every year, one is on tour, the other is based in Showpalast Munchen (Munich, Germany) where I am stationed," said Emma.

"I watched this company perform when I was just 19 years old, with friends in the NEC, Birmingham.

"This was the ultimate dream job for me, the big one on the bucket list," said Emma.

"This really is the ultimate finale to my Trick Riding career - not that I will ever leave show business. But I will need to start slowing down, with this crazy sport, at some point!", said Emma, 34, promoted to Team Leader of the Trick Riding team by boss Erik Hasta-Luego.

"I am now fully responsible for the daily routine, care and training of 10 beautiful Lusitano stallions, and five very talented young Trick Riders," said Emma.

In 2017 Cavalluna premiered its first show in Showpalast Munchen.

EQUILA, a show that was based on the friendship between horse and human: "Our team played the role of ´FreeRiders´ brave and wild forest riders, crazy, intimi-

dating and loud, this character was total madness and so much fun to play. The big dream became reality!," said Emma.

Emma, currently on a summer break, said: "This is the time we rotate our horses on vacation, training and perform some mini shows for the guests of Cavalluna park, the worlds first Equestrian Theme park.

"Undertaken, before starting rehearsals for our new show 'Companion of Lights', due to premiere in November.

"This is super exciting, I love being in rehearsals and listening to ideas being swapped and changed about.

"No two days are the

same! I am excited to find out what ideas they have in stall for all of us, and what type of characters we will play next!".

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eight months later than first thought.

Two key female actors will be Cuban Ana de Armas and French lass Lea Seydoux, while Naomi Harris, OBE, will again play Miss Moneypenny.

Ralph Fiennes will be ‘M’ and Ben Whishaw ‘Q’ while Jeff Wright will play Felix Leiter and Roy Kinnear will be Bill Tanner. American comedian-actor Billy Magnussen will also be prominent in the film. Fact file: * Sean Connery and Roger Moore have appeared as Bond in seven films each. * There have been 58 romantic liaisons in the previous Bond films, with 17 involving Moore.

In the new film (Bond 25) featuring Craig - the title of which could be Eclipse or Shatterhand his final mission is said to involve genetic warfare, set in motion by the film’s villain character, played by Freddie Mercury actor Rami Malek.

* A total of 405 villains have been killed – 135

by Piers Brosnan and 90 by Moore.

British comedy writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge whose works include Fleabag and Killing Eve, joined the Bond project earlier this year – mainly to assist with checking out the script’s latest draft.

* The previous 24 ‘official’ Bond films have grossed a staggering overall income of $3,589,539,794, that’s €3.175 billion, or £2.83 billion.

In fact, it is believed, she was brought in to help make the film’s elaborate premise, regarding genetic engineering, be more accessible, enjoyable and indeed believable to worldwide audiences, young and old. Details of this were first released by the Daily Mail newspaper.

In fact, the female producer of the new Bond film - is Barbara Broccoli who told the site that it was Craig himself who insisted that Waller-Bridge joined the production team a couple of months or so ago.

Craig said “I seriously believe that her input of hilarious brand of wit and quirkiness will certainly add something extra to the film.”

Several actors and actresses have already said ‘yes’ to taking part in the film which is now expected to be released next February – some

* Moore was officially ‘Bond’ for a total of 4,348 days. Craig will beat that figure with 4,729 days as 007 when the new film is released next year.

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Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019 Britain award as Most Promising Artiste of the Year.

Jo Longthorne dies aged 64

Television specials in the UK and USA soon followed, and the rest, as they say is history.

A SPECIAL greatest hits performance was scheduled to celebrate more than 50 years in the music business for one of the industry's most dynamic performers with a slot at Venue Cymru later this month.

Longtime Costa Blanca favourite Joe Longthorne has died at the age of 64.

One of the nation’s most beloved entertainers passed away peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning at his home in Blackpool.

Joe died in his bedroom, laying in the arms of his devoted husband of 21 years Jamie, with his rosary beads clutched tight to his chest.

Longthorne's incredible career in showbiz began with appearances on TV’s Junior Showtime. His big break came in 1981 when he was a finalist on London Weekend Television's iconic Search for a Star.

with Bob Hope and The Talk of the Town. A

This led to appearances at the London Palladium

short time later, Joe received the Variety Club of

Jo Longthome MBE 1955-2019

Famed for an endless repertoire of the voices of the world’s top singers Joe commanding voice has seen a succession of gold and platinum albums that have sold in the region of 10 million records.

Declared “The finest talent. He is up there at the top” by legendary comedian Bob Hope, Longthorne was last on stage just a few days ago in Peterborough last night where fans tweeted “Great to see and hear Joe again although a little

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19

frail. Sending love and healing vibes your way.”

Joe had planned to perform at several gigs in the next few days, including an appearance at Viva Blackpool on Sunday 4 August.

Having battled cancer throughout his life, including blood cancer in 1987 which ended with a diagnosis of chronic lymphatic lymphoma two years later, the singer continued to work throughout his illness, but had to undergo a bone marrow transplant in 2005 when the lymphoma degenerated into leukaemia.

He was then diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 but still vowed to continue performing.

A regular over many years at the Benidorm Palace, Joe has made many friends on the Costas over his many years.

He leaves behind sister Ann and brother John.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Jamie and all the family at this sad time.

All the queen’s ladies

Councillor identifies 400 outstanding public works in Los Alcazares María José Benzal, the councillor for public roads, parks and gardens in Los Alcazares, has said that in the first month of her tenure she has already implemented works within her municipal public highway department, for almost 400 repairs to be carried out as part of the Municipal Immediate Attention Service (SMAI).

The SMAI, a team made up of a foreman and two operatives, has been tasked with carrying out immediate repairs to all of the minor damages identified on municipality streets that can be quickly repaired.

The councillor said that not all of the maintenance tasks have yet been identified but stated that members of the public identifying such tasks can communicate them to the council through the municipal website Green Line (www.lineaverdelosalcazares.com) or in writing through the City Council Registry, addressed to Vía Pública.

These include the repair of pavements, signage, painting of pedestrian crossings, ramps for people

Happy Birthday to the DGT

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), Spanish postal company Correos has released a commemorative postage stamp.

The stamp, which was presented this week to the Director General of Traffic, Pere Navarro by the President of Correos, Juan Manuel Serrano, features the DGT logo and is symbolic of the road network.

The stamp is based on a solid black background, on which several lines extend as wakes that simu-

with reduced mobility, street cleaning, tree pruning, litter, lighting and suchlike.

She said that many of the tasks can be carried out at ZERO COST to the municipality, since they will be carried out by reusing and restoring materials that have been lying abandoned in the municipal warehouses for many years.

The councillor added that she would like to congratulate the SMAI service and the team of operators, gardeners, plumbers and painters who form a workforce of 12 staff for the way in which they quickly respond and solve the problems as quickly and efficiently as possible. late the roads, which thanks to the varnish applied on the stamp, have phosphorescent tones. The number 60 is also drawn with lines representing these roads where more than 40 million vehicles travel each year.

The stamp is a limited edition and will only have a print run of 180,000 copies, although you can buy one for the standard price of 0.70 euro per unit, according to Correos.

Correos has been investigating improvements to their collaboration with the DGT. Since the start of 2018, the post office was the designated collection point for the new eco-labels for vehicles, and since June of this year it is now possible for replacement driving licence applications to be processed through many main post offices.

Under the agreement, since 24 June, 2,400 post offices across the country can process applications for replacement licences in the event of loss, damage or deterioration.

Since 1959, the DGT has been tasked with ensuring safety on Spanish roads. As indicated by the motto of its 60th anniversary, ‘Advancing with Safety’, during the six decades, the DGT has been adapting to the needs of traffic in Spain, always ensuring the safety of drivers, pedestrians and other road users.

Queen Letizia and her daughters, Princess Leonor and Sofia, joined their mother in law and grandmother Doña Sofía at the Rívoli cinema, in the centre of Palma, yesterday where they went together to watch the film 'The Lion King' .

On their first day of the summer holiday on the island and after having attended the Palma yacht earlier in the day with King Felipe VI, the princesses and went with their mother and grandmother to enjoy one of the film successes of the season in the Rívoli Room.

Queen Sofia had already seen the film in the same cinema last Tuesday with her other granddaughters, Victoria Federica and Irene, daughters of the infantas Elena and Cristina, respectively. It is the first time this summer where the two queens have

appeared together with the princess and her sister, who are great enthusiasts of the cinema.

After leaving the room, the four of them, all smiling and relaxed, walked down Calle Blanquerna together until they reached a car that was waiting for them. Doña Sofía and the princess were in the centre, while the Infanta and Queen Letizia were on the flanks.

Their escape to watch the Disney animated film took place while Felipe VI was sailing in the regatta of the Copa del Rey Mapfre on the island.

Last summer, Letizia, her daughters and Queen Sofia wandered out together to a market in Palma.

They also went with the King and other relatives to a concert by violinist Ara Malikian and to a dinner.

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SMGS at Hacienda Riquelme With only 21 members making it to the start line this week, we were glad to see our numbers boosted by 7 guests and delighted that four of them subsequently joined our ranks full time. A warm welcome Ian, Darrell, Debs & Danny. Congratulations to Debs and Danny on taking first and second place respectively in the Guest category. Both scored well enough to have featured in the prizes in the member categories so the Handicap Sec will have to monitor these two closely!

Conditions for all players were a mix of challenge and reward. The challenge was playing in strong gusting winds, the kind which always seem to greet our visits to Hacienda Riquelme. However, the reward was a course and greens in very good condition, a layout which never fails to provide an enjoyable test of our skills.

The scores this week suggest that the course and the weather came out on top but those who persevered and maintained concentration to the end deservedly took the spoils. In Silver, Charlie Harkin (26 points) came fourth; Norman Cahill (31 points) was third and Mike Kaylor was pipped on countback for the second week in a row. His 33 points was matched by Chris Wren who took first place by just

one point on the back nine.

Fourth place in Gold division went to Mike Greatorex (26 points); Robin Eastman was third (29 points), another countback victim beaten to second spot by Gerard Magee. Captain Tony Smale kept under the wind - not difficult for him - to seize the winner’s spoils with 31 points.

At the other end of the scale, Brendan Toner got to have his photo taken in the Abacus hat and walked away with a quality bottle of red wine kindly donated by our Abacus sponsor, Mike of Mike’s IPTV. The nearest the pin winners - generously sponsored by Mick from The Property Shop - were Gareth Davies, Chris Wren, John Osborne and Neil Oliver. Considering the winds were at 90 degrees to every par 3, they did well to find the greens at all.

Our thanks to the Staff at Hacienda Riquelme for an enjoyable day.

Next week we’ll be praying for a calm day as we’re taking on the tight confines of Las Ramblas. There are still plenty of places available, so do sign up.

Silver: Mike, Chris, Charlie & Norman (Nice shirts lads)

Carp-R-Us The first round of the Carp-R-Us August mini-series was fished at Pedrera and for all concerned was a disappointing affair.

Although the weather was very pleasant,

the fish in the area used seemed reluctant to feed and only two of the seven anglers fishing caught.

First was our new member, Danny Kerkof who had 1.30kg caught on pole and paste and second was Richard Crawshaw with 0.65kg caught on feeder and pellet.

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

Anyone wishing to join the club should contact Steve Fell either through the website or on 634 379 081.

Nick Montgomery (left) with Ben Flint

La Manga Club Legends honoured with new tribute La Manga Club has paid a glowing new tribute to former owner Gregory Peters and ex-England women’s cricket captain Rachael Heyhoe Flint for their roles in helping to establish the resort as Europe’s top sports and leisure destination.

To recognise the pair’s lasting legacy, La Manga has named the two recently upgraded cricket grounds at its European Cricket Performance Centre in their honour, with the pitches being christened the ‘Gregory Peters Oval’ and ‘Rachael Heyhoe Flint Oval’.

American entrepreneur Peters was the driving force behind La Manga Club and opened the resort in 1972, two years after he first began work on the ground-breaking project in Murcia. Under his inspirational leadership, he oversaw the creation of extensive facilities including three 18-hole golf courses, a 28-court tennis centre, a four-star hotel and many properties.

Also responsible for attracting the likes of Spanish tennis legend Manolo Santana and golf superstars Gary Player and Severiano Ballesteros to the resort, Peters eventually sold the Club in the mid1980s. In his later years, he returned to America and died at his home in Las Vegas in 2014 at the age of 86.

Baroness Heyhoe Flint, who was also an England hockey international, was a familiar figure at La Manga Club for 40 years and played a key part in helping to establish the resort as a worldwide travel destination after retiring from competitive sport.

As well as being a resident for more than 30 years, she was also a long-term ambassador for the resort and worked passionately to promote its extensive facilities right up until her death in 2017 aged 77.

The naming ceremonies for the ‘Gregory Peters Oval’ and ‘Rachael Heyhoe Flint Oval’ took place in the build-up to this month’s firstever European Cricket League, and La Manga Club general manager Nick Montgomery believes the move is a fitting tribute to the pair as the resort prepares to host the exciting new event – billed as cricket’s equivalent of the UEFA Champions League.

ECL 19 FINAL WRAP

spokesperson.

Carim is an awards winner within racing, during a decade at Michael Dods, Denton, near Darlington stables.

Trainer Dods slams UK in scandal as ex-jockey sent packing to India!

Ex-jockey Carim Mohideen - known as 'Frankie' - is heartbroken after losing his right to remain in Britain.

"I want to stay as I love working in England - I have always worked hard," said Carim, 55, based at Michael Dods racing stables in Co. Durham.

Carim has returned to India, in the wake of an immigration issue, after being unable to pass a 'Life In The UK' examination, ruled on language barriers.

"All immigration applications are considered on their individual merits and on the basis of the evidence available.

“Knowledge and understanding of British values is vital for those who wish to make the UK their home,” said a Home Office

"I appreciate that there are rules - but there needs to be a degree of flexibility - and common sense,” said Dods.

During his time at Dods' stables Carim, who has a teenage son, has paid full taxes and National Insurance Contributions (NIC) and has never claimed benefits: "It’s a scandal," said furious Dods.

"Trainers struggle to find stable staff and we have Carim - an asset to the yard - who has paid his way," said Dods.

"Carim is being forced out - due to not passing a test - that many Britons would find challenging," said Dods.

The row over Carim's deportation has been flagged up to Sedgefield MP Phil Wilson: “There has to be a review of the system - in circumstances like this,” said Wilson.

Employment in India is difficult, underlined by Carim's financial support of his 16 year old son, planning to go to College, studying Accountancy.

Lawyers are working on behalf of Carim, in a bid to legally arrange a return back to the UK, with trainer Dods keeping his post open, with a guarantee of a job, if successful.

Taking place at La Manga Club’s European Cricket Performance Centre last week the European Cricket League (ECL19) saw the domestic champions of Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Russia and Spain competing for the chance to be crowned as continental Europe club cricket’s ‘Kings of Europe, Netherlands champions Rotterdam were crowned the kings of Europe after beating Findorff from Germany in an action-packed final of the inaugural competition.

Rotterdam's international openers Scott Edwards and Max O'Dowd produced a savage batting clinic, racking up an undefeated 222 off 10 overs - mullering the shell-shocked German bowlers to all corners and beyond in La Manga, Spain.

For more information on the European Cricket League, please visit www.ecl.cricket. www.lamangaclub.com

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Celts GS July Championship

Ana Belen crosses the finishing line in the 83km Andorra Ultra Trail.

Los Montesinos Councillor for Sports Ana Belen discovers the world of mountain racing

"I have completed the famous Fortresses of Cartagena a couple of times, running 24 hours in a row on the track," said Ana Belen.

LOS Montesinos Councilor for Sports, Equality, Tourism, Environment, Development, Employment and Economic Development Ana Belén Juárez Pastor, talks Exclusively to Andrew Atkinson about her mountain race enthusiasm in Part 1 of a two part interview.

"Because in the mountain ultras the rhythms are low, and it is convenient to run asphalt and other shorter runs, to catch 'spark'," said Ana Belen.

"I STARTED in the mountain world in 2013, hiking. I had always practiced some physical activity in the gym, but I had never competed, until I discovered the world of mountain racing," said Ana Belen.

"Since then I have been trained by professionals, initially adapting my body to the requirement of the mountain," said Ana, 47, who recently competed in the gruelling 83km race Andorra Ultra Trail, finishing fifth place in her category, taking 19 hours and 51 minutes.

"Progressively I have been intensifying the level of training, always according to the tests I want to perform," said Ana Belen.

"I have also done some asphalt at the Seville Marathon 2018; Half Marathon of Santa Pola, Orihuela; Duathlon of Rojales and Santa Pola," said Ana Belen.

"All of them focused on achieving other objectives, to achieve more rhythm, and resistance.

"I want to make it clear that the objectives are not always achieved. Last year I trained very hard and with great enthusiasm, to make the Camí de Cavalls 178 km, which goes around the Island of Menorca. "I got injured from the biblical ones. My legs, at km 115, they said 'here', and I left," said Ana Belen.

"Some year I will return - to try to finish it," added Ana Belen.

"We must have new projects, that excite us, to continue training and experimenting," said Ana Belen. "Like any mountain runner, I would like to go to the UTMB of Mont Blanc, which is a 100mile race that you enter by lottery and meeting some requirements," said Ana Belen.

"I just need to be lucky," said Ana Belen. *In Part 2 of Ana Belen's exclusive interview she talks about her plans to return to Andorra in 2020, her future race plans, and training in the Sierra de Orihuela and the lagoon of La Mata.

El Plantio2 GS A sadly depleted turnout, due to members returning to the dubious delights of the English Summer and others on flying visits, left only five competing for El Plantio 2's monthly medal. After two years of trying to win the coveted trophy, Barry Walthall was finally successful with a bogey free round.

Nearest the pins – Hole 5, Bryan Watson and Hole 9, Alistair Douglas..

Second place, Handicap 6.9, Alistair Douglas – 56.1 shots.

First place, Handicap 15.6, Barry Walthall – 53.4 shots.

If anyone would like to join our Society, we play at El Plantio Golf Club every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. We use both courses - the Par 3 9 hole course and the main 18 hole course, so we cater for all abilities.

The membership rates are very competitive, so call

for more details. Anyone who wishes to play in the Society as a guest or join as a new member, contact David Swann on 865 779 983 or 648 476 752.

Picture from L to R: Alistair Douglas, Barry Walthall, Bryan Watson, .

Last Sunday we played our July Championship game. The tournament was again well supported with over 80 players. The competitions committee on the day were marshalled by Philip, Kenny and Jane Knight.

The course is presented in immaculate condition although the greens are just a tad slow. To the staff in the pro-shop, Jean and Jose, thank you for your attention to detail and to Gloria, Maria and the Vanessas and all the kitchen staff well done as always, we were treated to some lovely tapas.

Our club captain James Hayes was on hand to present the prizes. He again made the point of thanking all the organisers and all those who stayed for the presentation to honour those good enough to win a prize. As it is Jim’s big day next month maybe we could all wear the club polo.

Results of the day, the NTP’s Carmel McShea, John Doyle O’Brien Sally Hopkins, Bob Smith and James Hayes.

We had one Crystal event during the month and the winners were, Kevin McBride 44, second

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Anthony Davis 42 and third Richard Nicol. The Monthly medals went to, Cat I Pauvla Serakova 69, Cat II Gordon Montgomery 71 and Cat III Terry Welsh 38 Just a little note, I do not keep track of those who collect your prizes on your behalf if you are not present Cat. III Myra Coull 39, Carmel McShea 38 andJohn Adlan 37. Cat II Ole Rong 37, Logan Nayager 37 David Cosson 35. Cat I. Andy Currie 40, Ian McMillan 35 and Denis McCormack 34.

The gross was won by John Doyle O’Brien 29.

Second overall with 40 Pauvla Serakova and the winner with 43 points and a cut of 2.1 of his handicap George Thomas.

We are really making good progress in relation to slow play again might I suggest that players please keep up with the group in front of them. Do not wait until it is your turn to play to start your routine, putting on or taking off your glove, marking and cleaning your ball, selecting your club, measuring your distance for your shot etc. all of these can be done in advance and this will help the smooth flow of the game.

We have a waiting list for membership at La Serena, however membership of The Celts is available. Information from 615 466 398 or johnobrienalicante@gmail.com The well oiled machine does it again

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Mike Probert Talks Golf (In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services) 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 available to you until 31 Aug.

Around and About the courses As reported previously for whatever reason many of the local courses have decided that this summer and Autumn they will restructure their golf courses in some way and we have covered these periodically over recent weeks.

In addition to this there are some recent changes to ownership at the highest level which may impact on course condition and prices.

Here is a summary of just a few of these changes: La Peraleja The course has been closed for nearly 3 years now and there have been repeated rumours that an organisation had made a bid for the golf course, clubhouse and some land however the situation remains unchanged and there are no signs of course re-construction.

Mosa Trajectum Some months ago we reported that the course at Mosa Trajectum which had been closed for 6 years had new owners and that the course was once again being re-constructed but as yet we have received no additional information but will provide you with an update when known.

Alicante Hot off the press I have been informed that Alicante have been purchased by the owners of El Plantio and we still await details of the prices for 2020 as a result of this ownership change.

La Manga The La Manga resort is probably the most famous of the golf resorts in this region of Spain being opened in the early 1970’s by the great Gary Player and one of the earliest golf tournaments was won by the legendary Arnold Palmer.

However for the last 10 years there have been reported financial problems for the resort. I can now report that the La Manga Club has new owners in the form of the Hesperia Investment Group and we will keep you informed of any changes as they arise.

Aussie Shane Warne offers help to Rumanian star in ECL 2020

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

Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio Font Del Llop GNK Courses

Price €116 €110 €120 €116 €88 €80 €92 €125

La Finca La Manga

€128 €120

La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero New Sierra Golf Roda UGolf Courses

€36 €40 €164 €104 €104 €68 €110 €86

Villamartin €110 Villaitana Poniente €57 Vistabella €92

Comments Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (El Valle, Riquelme & La Torre) Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (All courses from 1.06pm) Sgle Green Fee Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (Saurines & Hac. Del Alamo) Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

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

Florin earns his living as a professional body guard

By Andrew Atkinson SPIN bowler, Romanian Pavel Florin, has become a worldwide sensation after playing in the European Cricket League tournament at La Manga - due to his unusual style.

With Aussie cricket star Shane Warne offering to help in next year's event.

Florin, the first Romanian playing ECL cricket, said: "Maybe someone says my bowling is not beautiful, or not effective, but I don't care, because I love cricket."

Florin, whose deliveries lead to batsmen waiting for an eternity - before the ball arriving in their arc - said: "It's not beautiful, I know, everybody says it, but I'm a slow bowler."

Transylvanian cricketer Florin, whose bowling technique was initially criticised, is a professional bodyguard and player-President of Romania’s Cluj Cricket Club.

On Florin's critics, former Australia coach Darren Lehmann, said of Florin: “Love the way, you love the game”.

Cricket is not widely played in Romania, the country granted affiliate status in 2013, becoming an associate member of the ICC in 2017.

The ECL says it is committed to developing cricket in Europe, and in its first edition features eight teams, including clubs from Spain, Italy and the Netherlands, playing a 10-over version of the game.

Florin, 40, Cluj all-rounder, who took up playing cricket, aged 32, said of the ECL La Manga tournament: “It was not very good, in losing three matches.

"But we earn other things - good experience for us - and for our country."

Florin's bowling initially came to light during Cluj's game against French club Dreux in the European Cricket League on July 30.

On the La Manga ECL tournament former cricketer, New Zealand coach Dmitri Mascarenhas, said: "We should be celebrating this amazing tournament."

Aussie star Warne said: "Well done and congrats. I would love to check this tournament out next year.

If you need a helping hand, then hit me up."

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TPGS Las Colinas

The Plaza Golf Society ventured to a very hot and humid Las Colinas which was in superb condition, the course was enjoyed by most players apart from Ricardo Nash who propped up the field with a battling 14pts!!!

The 2's pot was shared by 2 players, Darrell Rose and Graham Temple.

Graham Temple figured strongly in the nearest the pins contest taking three of the eight on offer which included three extra prizes donated by our sponsor of the day Mosquito Blinds R Us owned

by Society member Warren Harris.

Other winners were Gareth Davies x 2, Kevin (9 fingers) Bird, Colin Wilson and finally Joost Boelhouwer.

Best lady on the day was Liz Thornton showing hubby Mike how to do it with 31pts off handicap 29.

We only had four guests at this event with second place going to Dennis Clarke 27pts behind Andy Jones scoring 33pts off 12.

On to the Silver division third place went to Jonny Gray with 34pts off 17, second was Dean Tracy with 35pts off 16 behind winner Theo Boelhouwer with 38pts off 13.

In Gold 1 handicapper Keith Crowley scored 36pts behind newly appointed Vice Captain Gareth Davies with 39pts off 10 just losing out on CB to best performance of the day Joost Boelhouwer off 8.

Our next event is on Friday 9th August at Villamartin which has 2 spaces, log on to www.theplazagolfsociety.com to register.

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Thomas Detry breaks Guinness World Records™ title in Spain •

New record was set at Real Club de Golf Guadalmina on the Costa del Sol

Thomas Detry sensationally set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the ‘Fastest hole of golf by an individual’, shaving nearly four seconds off the previous quickest time in the process.

The European Tour and Official Partner Hilton challenged Belgian Detry, along with American Sean Crocker, Ireland’s Paul Dunne and Italian Guido Migliozzi to break the existing record of one minute 33.37 seconds at Real Club de Golf Guadalmina, near Malaga, in the south of Spain.

Monday 5th - Sunday 11th August, 2019

Records book for Christmas and I guess my name will be going in it now which is cool!”

Guinness World Records Official Adjudicator Anna Orford, who also presided over Team France’s successful relay golf attempt at Valderrama in 2016, said: “As the Official Adjudicator for Guinness World Records, I was able to witness the four players give their absolute all to bring home the title, however Thomas Detry’s speed and shot-making secured the Belgian his Guinness World Records title for the Fastest hole of golf by an individual in a hugely impressive one minute 29.62 seconds. An officially amazing record breaking moment!”

This is the third time the European Tour has challenged some of its stars to break a Guinness World Records title, after a four-man team from England bettered a record set by a French quartet a year earlier for the relay-based ‘Fastest hole of golf by a team of four’ title.

The rules of the attempt dictated that the par five tenth hole had to play a minimum of 500 yards with each player required to finSean Crocker, Paul Dunne and Guido Migliozzi also ish the hole carrying the same took part in the attempts number of clubs they started with.

After some highly respectable – and often dramatic – attempts, it was 26 year old Detry who succeeded in breaking the standing record, going from tee to green in just one minute 29.62 seconds.

Following some exuberant celebrations, new record holder Detry said: “It was so tough but it was a lot of fun! As a boy I used to get the Guinness World

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Captain Lloyd stars as Thader entertain in friendly win A talented bunch of under 19 footballers from Kelme CF visited Moi Gomez Stadium last Friday evening, for the 2nd in a series of pre-season Thader Rojales friendlies.

Sponsored by sportswear firm Kelme, this youth club is a nursery for La Liga side Villarreal, and has high hopes of gaining promotion to the national youth league next season. Thader meanwhile, are still very much a side in transition, having lost their manager and the bulk of last season’s squad.

Jon Ortega has wasted no time in replacing old for new, the young manager keen to build a strong squad capable of mounting a Preferente division promotion challenge.

Having suffered a defeat at the hands of another under 19 side last week, national league Celtic Elche, Ortega elected to field a strong opening 11.

With their first attack of the match on 10 mins, Kelme seized upon a terrible defensive mix up to open the scoring. Parity was restored mid-way through the 1st half, courtesy of a ferocious 20 yard free kick by makeshift striker Lloyd. His precise strike rattled the far post, before ending up in the back of the net.

Playing in an unfamiliar position, Lloyd was again in the thick of the action on 35 mins, heading home an in swinging corner at the far post.

Thader were totally dominating proceedings, and

thought they had made it 3-1 shortly afterward, but alas the effort was ruled out for offside. With half time beckoning, Lloyd headed agonizingly over the bar, before Dani rattled the said object with a stunning strike.

Highlights of the 2nd half included Lloyd being denied his hat trick by that blasted bar, Dani forcing a fine save by the visitor’s keeper, plus Kelme´s one and only noteworthy effort being well saved. All in all, it was not only an entertaining friendly, but one where both sides treated it as a competitive fixture.

This was borne out by the number of crunching tackles, sometimes a bit OTT, forcing the match ref to request that certain players be substituted or he would take further action. Once again admission was free, and another goodly crowd enjoyed the night’s entertainment.

Next up at Moi Gomez Stadium is another friendly on Fri 9 Aug, ko 8pm, against tercera side Alcoyano. Only 24 hrs later, Thader make the short trip to San Fulgencio for their first work out away from home.

Hot from the press are next seasons Preferente div fixtures. First up for Thader is a trip to University Alicante, on probably Sat 31 Aug, with a late afternoon ko. The last fixture before Xmas break is an away trip to Benferri on 22 Dec, then on 12 Jan, Uni Alicante become the first team to visit Moi Gomez in 2020. Finally, Benferri are the visitors for the ultimate season’s fixture on 17 May.

Jesus to run rule over Monte in pre-season friendlies By Andrew Atkinson CD Montesinos will warm up for the forthcoming 2019-20 season in the Valencia 2nd Regional with a pre-season friendly at the Municipal stadium on August 10 against U.D. Ilicitana (KO tbc).

New manager Jesus Santander, who replaced caretaker Ruben at the Los Montesinos, Alicante based club, will also run the rule over new sigings, with pre-season friendlies against Orihuela CF B on August 17 at the Municipal stadium, Los Montesinos (KO 7.30pm).

Santander, who played at Real Madrid, Malaga and Real Murcia in his youth, represented the Community of Valencia (u15s-u17s) being the

SUDUKO SOLUTION

Las Ramblas Golf Society try a 4 shot Mulligan Spanish champions.

Santander, born in Murcia, who played at FC Torrevieja (CD Torrevieja) prior to injury prematurely ending his career, will also be casting an eye on CD Montesinos youth players during pre-season.

CD Montesinos will also play a pre-season friendly against Murcia 1st Regional team Cabezo de Torres on August 23 at the Municipal stadium (KO 8.30pm).

CD Montesinos will host San Fulgencio on August 28 (KO tbc) and host Thader B (KO tbc) on August 31.

CD Montesinos 2019-20 squad: Keeper Carlos, Manu, Morante, Dimitry, Fernando, German, Maccan, Josema, Carlos Lorente, Alfredo, Diego.

Luis Toledano, Alex Pamies, Pastor. Santos, Gonzalo, Manu, Nicolas Chupov, Lucas, Diego Barroso Pepe.

Instead of our normal team game on a Monday we battled it out in a ‘4 shot Mulligan’ Stableford. For anyone unfamiliar with this format it basically means you can mess up 4 times and play that shot again.

With an almost unbelievable score of 45 points our winner was Mick Bretnall (this equalled the record score set 5 years ago by Rod Doel, and Mick only used 2 of his Mulligans!)

Way back in 2nd place was Geoff Biggerstaff with 37 points closely followed by Petina Murray on 36.

It was good to see that Petina’s husband Graham had obviously been paying close attention to last week’s presentation on getting more distance from the shank!

Not to be outdone, this week’s golf clinic was provided by Mike Mahony, who gave us a very thought provoking insight into ‘How to relax when hitting five off the tee.’

After a three week break, Alan Douglas took 1st place in Wednesday’s Stableford with 36 points.

He just edged out Graham Murray who scored 35, beating Richard Connock on countback. ’Head in hands’ moment of the day though goes to Richard who, whilst taking a practice swing for his second shot at the 4th, managed to let go of his club only to see it disappear down the barranco!

(He did however retrieve it and subsequently birdied the hole.) Just the one ‘2’ today which came from Joyce McClusky, but you know the old saying Joyce, ‘You’ve got to be innit to win it!’ So a rollover for next week then.

Friday’s counter game (the version where you know beforehand how many players to score) was won by Bryan Neal, Dave Pulling, John Shervell and Mike Mahony with 88 points.

Pues hasta la semana que viene. Peter Reffell

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