Leader Newspaper Edition 794 - 9 December 2019.

No 794

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 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

Indignation after more flooding in L o s A l c a z a re s a n d To r re Pa c h e c o “This is the last straw” said the mayor. There is no more room for excuses,” he added, after yet another dark night had caused widespread flooding in the town.

What at first seemed to be a 'controllable' amount of rain toward the end of Tuesday afternoon, and with much less force than September, quickly became a new disaster, with muddy rivers running down the streets towards the town

centre in the direction of the Mar Menor Bay. The lagoon has again received many tons of mud that have intensified the brown colour of the water of which there were still traces from September.

“This is the last straw,” Pérez Cervera said, after the fourth flood in two years, “with many dozens of our residents still not back to normal after the floods we had in 2016.”

Continued on Page 02

2

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING SALES

637 227 385 sales@theleader.info PROPERTY

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.

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE MORE FLOODING IN LOS ALCAZARES The mayor said "there is an urgent need to divert the Rambla de Balsicas, which we have denounced and denounced time and time again, not only me, but also the former mayor."

The City Council activated emergency level 2 just after 1am when the falling rain was joined by the streams of water that came into the town from the interior loaded with mud and earth.

The Civil Protection services evacuated over a hundred people, from around the streets of Joaquín Blume, Los Luisos, Doctor García Guillén, Miguel Hernández, Adelfas, Girona, Granada, Barcelona, Valencia and Ourense. The families taken from their homes were temporarily transferred to the Mormon church in front of Los Narejos. Fortunately, by mid-morning on Tuesday, there were only half a dozen people left as the rest had moved to the homes of family and friends.

A driver was also rescued shortly before 5am from his flooded vehicle as he suffered from symptoms of hypothermia. Civil Protection officers provided him with dry clothes, a blanket and hot drinks. Down the Calle Los Luisos, Avda October 13, and many adjacent roads, there were streams of mud similar to the situa-

tion experienced two months ago. The streets that needed hundreds of volunteers from across the Region to get rid of the mud were once again submerged in a river of brown water.

There was hardly any movement of people or of vehicles, as all school classes and sports activities were suspended. Also in San Javier, where they were forced to cancel the planned holiday program on the occasion of the patron's day.

Only the mass took place in the parish church.

The streets of the Mar Menor and the areas surrounding the institute of Santiago de la Ribera are once again the areas where there has been the largest accumulation of water, so many of the streets have remained cut off throughout the morning. In addition to the rain there have also been strong winds, with gusts of up to 100 kilometres per hour. These have proved to be the main problem in La Manga, where street furniture and garbage containers have been displaced.

The municipalities of Los Alcazares and Torre Pacheco say that they will now will sacrifice other budgetary commitments to focus their economic efforts on repairing the damage caused by the two floods that they have endured this year.

There is no other choice they say. The munici-

Significant drop in Mar Menor tourists

By Andrew Atkinson The Socialist party (PSOE) have pointed a finger at the Regional Government after a significant shock decrease in the number of tourists visiting the Mar Menor.

The PSOE Deputy Carmina Fernández. Sra Fernández aired views, deeming not enough had been undertaken by the Regional Government after the September Gota environmental disaster that hit the Mar Menor.

Tourists visiting La Manga del Mar Menor hotels and apartments decreased by 59% in

October, compared to October 2018, said PSOE deputy Carmina Fernández. Sra Fernández.

"The Regional Government have taken no measures in solving problems arising from the September floods - and the environmental disaster at the Mar Menor," she said.

The Government acted within the Vega Baja hamlet towns, including Algorfa and Dolores, amongst many others, by announcing a €5million fund to help rebuilding needs, including commercial and residential premises.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

palities will request urgent financial aid so that they can deal with municipal-owned works that help minimize the effects of flooding in their regions. Both councils say they will sacrifice the budgetary commitments to other public services to focus their economic efforts on repairing the damages of the floods of September and November of this year and on the completion of works to stop the rivers of water.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

DGT brings in new legislation for electric scooters

W

hile there are an estimated 100,000 personal mobility devices in use here in Spain, many of them the fairly recent mania of electric bikes and scooters, there are no national rules yet on where and how they can be used, adding to the chaos on many city roads.

In some municipalities they are allowed the freedom of the highway whereas in others their presence on roads and pavements is strictly controlled.

However the General Directorate of Traffic has now published a new instruction on personal mobility vehicles in compliance with the "current traffic regulations" The new legislation states that it is prohibited for electric scooters to transport more than one person or to be used on pavements and in pedestrian areas at a speed greater than 25kmh.

The new rules were introduced on Wednesday via an instruction for personal mobility vehicles in response to their "increasing popularity in urban areas" and under a "series of clarifying criteria aimed at users of these vehicles, municipalities and traffic and police authorities”.

The DGT, in its document, states that the regulation at national level "is currently being processed, but this does not prevent this instruction which elaborates on their use within the current traffic regulations".

Meanwhile, in Alicante City, where there are said to be around 10,000 such electric scooters using the roads every single day, the council says that it also is in the process of introducing new legislation of its own in respect of scooter ordinance, which is expected to be approved by the end of January. The councillor of Mobility, José Ramón González, added that the local regulations will conform to the national ones, if they are in conflict at any point.

In the instruction issued by the DGT made public yesterday there are a number of issues that stand out but among the points in common, they advocate forbidding scooters to drive on pavements and in pedestrian areas, only authorise the transport of a single person on each vehicle, who also requires the use of a helmet. Likewise users are not allowed the use of a mobile phone or headphones whilst in charge of such a vehicle or scooter. In addition, the DGT states that scooter users have an obligation to "undergo alcohol and drug testing" and that the vehicle must be fitted with light and reflective elements.

But the DGT and the Alicante City Council do not agree on all aspects when regulating the use of scooters. For example, DGT argues that personal mobility vehicles "are not required any administrative authorisation to be used, nor compulsory insurance".

The DGT limits the maximum speed to 25 kilometres per hour, while in Alicante scooters are allowed, in general, to drive at up to 30 km/h. Neither does the DGT, according to the instruction published yesterday, require these vehicles to carry a bell.

Sources of the Department of Mobility in Alicante said that they will "study" the new instruction issued by the DGT without specifying whether the police will apply sanctions immediately or wait for the ordinance to be approved.

www.theleader.info

3

4

www.theleader.info

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

Two week wait to see a Doctor In some clinics there is a wait of up to 15 days to get a medical appointment As we approach the season of many ailments, particularly for members of an ageing population, It is said to be taking up to fifteen days to get an appointment at a health centre. This is the situation in which patients across the Vega Baja find themselves when

they need to be seen by their family doctors .

The greatest delays are said to occur in the centro de salud de la calle Gerona, close to the Alicante Port (15 days), San Blas (11 days) and Benalúa (8 days).

There is no mention in the report of Cabo Roig although when I attempted to see my doctor just a few days ago I was given an appointment 9 days hence.

The problem is said to be caused by a lack of cover for those many doctors, who are simply taking their unexpended holidays before the end of the year.

The Department of Health say that they will not provide replacements for doctors who are absent on leave with only alternative being to close their consulting room.

Meanwhile, in an effort to reduce the waiting period, Victor Pedrera, provincial secretary of the Medical Union, says that many of his members are seeing up to 50 patients a day.

Tourism prize for Pilar de la Horadada The Tourism office in Pilar de la Horadada has been awarded second prize by the jury of the 2019 Tourist Innovation Awards for their leisure project 'Children, the best hosts of Pilar de la Horadada' a scheme that provides education in local children's and primary schools in order to raise awareness about tourism hospitality and the concept of tourism as a sustainable development activity.

The general director of Turisme, Herick Campos presented the prize to staff from the Pilar de la Horadada office at the Tourist Info Conference that ended recently in Castellón.

The Award, which is celebrating its third edition, aims to promote creativity and innovation in the promotion of tourism amongst visitors to the Valencian Community.

The mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, José María Perez,

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

Orihuela turns on its Christmas Lights Orihuela City opened its Christmas Program on Friday with the turning on of its Christmas lights in front of the town hall. Following performances by the voices of the Ginés Pérez de la Parra choir conducted by Rosario Torres Salinas and the Wind Orchestra of the Municipal Conservatory of Music of Orihuela under the direction of Antonio Pujol the party moved to the Episcopal Palace, where the Mayor of Orihuela and the councillor of Festivities unveiled the Municipal Crib.

On the Orihuela Costa the lights will be turned on by the mayor in a ceremony outside the Playa Flamenca Town Hall next Friday evening, 13 December, at 6pm.

The following Thursday evening, also at 6pm,

In addition, the Department of Guardamar Festivities directed by councillor María Venerdi has already prepared the program of events for the period that will run to January 5.

“This is a program that has been organised with great anticipation and enthusiasm, where families are already starting to organise their own activities and to receive family and friends as well as attending many of the various events planned. Hence, in the preparation we have tried as much as possible to please everyone,”says the councilor.

Vernerdi highlighted the various groups that have assisted with the programming such as the ‘Association of Belenistas’ with their participation in the nativity scene

LEADER

CEIP Oleza student Valeria Pina reading the Christmas Story

along with local choirs, the Band of the Royal British Legion in Spain will be hosting a carol service in Zenia Boulevard. This will be the first such event ever held on the coast in which it is hoped to replicate the success that the Torrevieja carol service has been enjoying in for many years.

Guardamar Christmas lights to be turned on Thursday Guardamar del Segura will enter fully into the Christmas spirit on Thursday, December 5, with the illumination of its lights and the Christmas tree located in the Plaza de la Constitución.

is shown in the photograph congratulating staff from the tourism office, Menchu, Pilar, Sonia, Reme and Raúl for their efforts as he encouraged them to continue creating such projects, which he said "benefits all the residents of our town as well as it’s many businesses."

637 227 385

Councillor for fiestas Guardamar Maria Venerdi.

contest.

There will be a new location for the Santa Claus House in la plaza Porticada because its usual venue, la avenida de los Pinos will soon be refurbished. She also said that the end of the year party will take place in the Casino rather than on the ground floor of the town hall.

The councillor of Fiestas de Guardamar said that more than 20 different events have been programmed, with a main objective being, "to convey the joy and illusion of Christmas."

Note that after the lights on this Thursday, there will be many other events to follow, such as Christmas proclamation and inauguration of the municipal nativity scene (Sunday 8), the inauguration of the Santa Claus House (day 20) and the End of the year party.

The arrival of the Magi will take place on January 2 with the delivery of letters to them in the Porticada square on 3rd and 4th. Finally, on Sunday 5th January, the Three Kings' parade will take place.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

5

Overseas Supermercados proves essential to 2019 Poppy Appeal O

nce again the Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the Royal British Legion were welcomed into the San Javier branch of Overseas Supermarkets, where they were based for more than 3 weeks, collecting €2786 in the process, monies that will stay in Spain to help veterans and their families that may be in need.

It seems to be that people are now beginning to understand that it is not just the families of the “old people” from WW2 who need help,

but also the veterans from more recent wars, such as the Falklands, Iraq, Afghanistan as well as the troubles in N Ireland.

Coordinator Diana Wiltshire would like to thank the manager, David Jones, and all his staff, for their support, and also her “team”, Brian & Sylvia Tanner, Malcolm & Chris Cavendish, Walter and Sue Shatford, Jo and Denis Gill, Bernie Hall, and especially her partner, Patrice Satur, who did far more than his fair share of “shifts” and of course helped me to prepare and take down all the fixtures and fittings.

In addition to the collection point at San Javier, for the very first time there were volunteers also in place at the two other Overseas stores situated on the Orihuela Costa, both of them opened in the last year or so, Campoverde and Lomas de Cabo Roig.

The collectors were supervised by Mo Davin and Eddie Coleman respectively with the appeals at both stores expanding the local total.

The amount collected at Campoverde was 845 euro while 1991 euro was donated by RBL supporters at Cabo Roig.

A further 2189 was collected at the Torrevieja Branch while in Javea RBL supporters donated 435 euro, bringing the final total contributed at the five stores to 8246 euro, a massive amount that will bring real benefits to those veterans who need our assistance here in Spain.

District North would like to thank all five managers for the hospitality and support they provided to RBL collectors during the period and to the Head Office in Benissa for welcoming our volunteers into their branches.

Volunteers in Torrevieja

6

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

Priests of Rock to perform in Orihuela for DANA T

he musical group 'The Voice of the desert', known as the Priests of Rock, returns to the stage next Sunday, 15 December. The concert will be from 7.30pm in el Aula Cultural de la CAM (the Cultural Hall of the CAM) in Orihuela.

Tickets are currently on sale through the General Board of Brotherhoods, Brotherhoods and Stewardships of Holy Week in Orihuela, with all proceeds from the concert to be donate to those affected by the DANA last September.

A spokesman for the group, three of the seven members of which are practising catholic priests,

said “When they contacted us to sing at this concert, we had no doubts. We saw the torrential rains and the many people suffering on television. That is why we wanted to add our small contribution for the benefit of people and families affected by DANA. As Jesus Christ tells us in the Gospel: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself'.

This will be one of the last concerts given by 'The voice of the desert' in this year 2019, the first of which saw their participation in World Youth Day in Panama last January.

It will be the fifth time that rock priests travel to America. During the remainder of the year they will also continue to give concerts in different cities across Spain.

There, thousands of young people from all over the world met Pope Francis.

The group was formed in the Madrid city of Alcalá de Henares and has been playing and singing pop rock music for 15 years.

The rock priests gave eight concerts in nine days, two of them on the central stage from which the Pope spoke.

The band has already published six albums. The last one entitled 'Your face I will look for' was produced by Santi Fernández, drummer of the popular group Los Secretos.

The group is currently made up of three priests and four lay people whose objective is evangelization, that is, to speak about Jesus Christ to the whole world with their songs.

They are now looking forward to next year in preparation for a concert tour that will take them to several cities in the United States.

'The voice of the desert are followed by many thousands of people through the internet thanks to social networks with some of their music, such as the song "Mi Fortaleza" (My Fortress) exceeding 200,000 views on YouTube .

PROTECT YOUR HOME Finding an emergency plumber to fix a burst pipe in the early hours of the morning can be a stressful experience.

Damage can run into the thousands.

Most home insurance covers water damage from leaking pipes. But what is covered and what is not, can be confusing.

GUARANTEED PROTECTION Home insurance from Línea Directa covers your property 100% against any water damage, which means we will guarantee the insured contents for their full base value.

Our policy also covers accidents, unforeseen spillage and leaks from neighbouring properties. Our policies also cover flooding, mudslides or an accidental diversion on the ordinary course of water flow in channels, ditches or

sewage flows.

DISCOVER A LEAK If you discover a leak, turn off the stop valve to stop the flow of water. Then turn off the mains electricity supply.

Place a bucket under the leak to catch as much water as possible, while turning on all the taps to reduce the system pressure.

Take photographs of any damage and retain any possessions that have been damaged. These may be needed in the event of a claim.

If you would like some further advice on this matter, please call our English speaking customer service on

902 325 325.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

7

8

www.theleader.info

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

Family of missing Brit vow to continue search The felled trees are said to be a fire hazard

The family of Kenny McPherson, the British man who went missing from Torrevieja Marina on Saturday November 23 say that they are concerned that the Guardia Civil are beginning to scale down their search a little over a week after he first disappeared.

Inspections are scheduled to get underway this week

Aberdonian Kenny McPherson, 62, went missing whilst holidaying in Torrevieja having last been seen in his lime green kayak sculling around the area of the port.

pality, with special attention to the coast, where more irregularities, he said, have been identified.

“If people wish to preserve their right to have access to their garage they must pay the fee, otherwise the signs will be removed,” said Aix He added that, starting next week, as the Police travel around the municipality, they will also be gathering information on the use of terraces, the placement of tables and chairs by bars and restaurants, saying that he intends to regularise the situation.

The Regional Government removed a plethora of Eucalyptus trees from the Natural Park, due to being invasive, underlined as a potential fire hazard.

The family is concerned that the search is being scaled down They say that although they have been told by Spanish police that they are conducting land, sea and air searches, it seems as though the investigation has been scaled back. They fear he may have been carried out to sea by strong currents and they say there is little more that they can possibly do.

Wife Alexandra and children Anna Mitchell, 22, and Alexander Mitchell, 27, flew to Costa Blanca hours after being informed of his disappearance.

When they arrived, they found his apartment had been left as if he had "just popped to the shops".

The Eucalyptus trees will be replaced, with over 38,000 native plants, including trees and bushes in La Mata/Torrevieja Natural Park.

'Grand Prix' of Choral singing,

By Andrew Atkinson Carols promoting the 'Grand Prix' of Choral singing, to be held on December 14 at the Municipal Theatre Capitol de Rojales, and the concert of the Tabaquera Choir of Alicante, on December 13, were highlighted at Rodearte.

Hundreds of visitors visited the ancient caves on the first weekend of December, with music and dancing, stalls and artists' showcasing, along with Marta 'Martuja' in attendance, promoting her book 'El Alcasil'.

Anna said "We've been putting up posters, speaking with locals and travelling to areas where people may have seen him, but without any success. We're trying everything we can think of to trace his whereabouts. All we want is for him to return home safe.”

Visitors enjoyed the environment of the Eco Museum and the variety of Craftsmanship of the 15 caves.

'We don't want the search to stop or people to forget he's still missing. We're most definitely not giving up."

Orihuela’s Department of Urban Planning say that they will remove hundreds of ‘Vado Permanente’ signs that are fixed to walls and gateways across the municipality. A council spokesman said that although the right to stop parking adjacent to the sign may well have been paid for when it was first obtained there are far too many people who continue to use the privilege but who fail to pay the annual fee.

Mr McPherson, whose full name is Kenneth Dallas McPherson, is described as 5ft 11 inches tall and of medium build with a white goatee beard and short greyish white hair.

La Mata Lake felled Eucalyptus trees to be replaced

By Andrew Atkinson Felled decade old Eucalyptus trees sitting on the shores of La Mata Lake - deemed invasive species and potentially a fire hazard - are to be replaced.

Contractors felled Eucalyptus trees - that had grown as big as 18 metres on the shore of the Lake - previously considered part of the Natural Heritage of the protected park.

"It is a real shame that the Eucalyptus trees are no more," one unhappy resident, echoing the feelings of dozens of people, told The Leader.

Education launches App for local schools The Torrevieja departments of Education and Innovation have launched a phone app which will allow school staff to instantly report incidents and necessary repairs in the town’s education centres.

The councillor, Ricardo Recuero, who is also a local headmaster, said that this APP will allow schools to communicate far more quickly and directly.

The APP that works on both a computer and on any mobile device, will allow the management of Torrevieja schools to report any incident or necessary action, not only in writing, but also by sending photographs or a video.

Once the Department receives the notification, the processes necessary for its repair or and relevants action will be initiated.

Recuero said that the directors of the schools in Torrevieja will then receive regular notifications on progress from the moment the incident is logged until it is completely resolved.

He added that the new process is far simpler and less time consuming than the procedures that it will replace.

Orihuela starts check of all ‘Vado Permanente’ signs

The council say they have received numerous complaints from residents, especially in Orihuela Costa, where there are many ‘Vado Permanente’ plates affixed to garages, thereby reserving the adjacent parking space, but where the license fee has not been maintained.

The councillor for Urban Planning, José Aix, has announced that his department will carry out inspections of all such license plates through the Local Police who will check every one of the authorities issued in the munici-

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada - Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday 12th Dec at 7pm Saturday 14th Dec at 5.30pm

GOLDEN YEARS Fate, the pensions crisis and a steadfast refusal to accept the injustice of old age have contrived to force law abiding, retired couple, Arthur and Martha Goode into a life of crime.

Starring: Bernard Hill, Alun Armstrong, Phil Davis, Simon Callow, Una Stubbs, Lily Travers, Sue Johnston, Virginia McKenna.

Dur: 1hr 36 min Genre: Comedy. Action | Heist Film. Old Age

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

The sorry state of the Orihuela Costa needs more than promises PRESS RELEASE It is not just the current Council but also the previous administrations, their lack of investment here on the coast, and also their lack of foresight.

The missing foot bridges, and the council’s useless ultimatums to the Developer.

The incomplete Emergency Centre which has been standing as a concrete shell in La Zenia, an eyesore for over 10 years

Our first step to achieve Independence is by first achieving Financial Autonomy. When we achieve that, it’s just a small step to Independence.

When we achieve Independence, wouldn’t it be fantastic if our first Mayor was not only a resident of Costa Campoamor but also a Woman.

The future of the coast is in our hands to fight together, BUT other parties and individuals won’t make it easy for us, they will put obstacles in our way.

The CDM Sports centre closed for over 6 months, because of a badly drafted contract, which has to be rewritten.

Pilar de la Horadada, with only a population 3000 at the time they began their campaign for Independence, were united and never gave up and eventually achieved their goal.

Where is our Cultural Centre?

That is our incentive, our goal, to be Independent.

Similarly, the CC Ramon de Campoamor building at Lomas de Cabo Roig, closed for the last week, is also a great cause of concern, particularly in view of all the structural problems caused by heavy rainfalls.

We are developing at a fast rate, in roughly 7 years time we will be twice the size of the city of “Orihuela”.

Every year it’s the same story here on the coast when it rains.

Then come the floods, then the damage, then it’s the repairs.

We may have had different Councils, but the excuses and the lies are still the same. You, me…we own this coast!

Politicians are employees of ours, we pay their wages, so when somebody does not do their job properly, and we let them go, obviously!

The time has come, where Costa Campoamor has to start planning for the future in the same way as our neighbours, Pilar de la Horadada, Guardamar, Bigastro, San Miguel, Los Montesinos etc., and unite as one voice for the Independence of the coast.

We have just over 3 years of planning, to break through the apathy that is here within the coastal community, encourage people to register on the Padron and become Residents and then exercise their right to be on the Voters list, be heard, have their say.

But this time we will be voting for a bigger issue than some other parties manifesto’s and agendas.

We can do this together, one step at a time”

9

10

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

Dying to make the stupidity Awards

H

ands up all those of you who know what a ‘Darwin Award’ is? Ok … for the benefit of the rest of the class I shall explain and give you a few random examples. This lesson is not for the squeamish – and any reader objecting to splattered blood should at this moment move on to ‘The Leader’s’ entertainment or fashion page.

The Darwin Awards celebrate both the height of stupidity and poetic justice of a manner. The awards have been in existence since 1985 and are bestowed on a man (88.7% are men ... and the sisters will be happy at this one) who has done something so massively stupid that he died and thus removed himself from the human gene pool. The theory being that the winners have removed themselves from the world’s gene pool and by their idiocy have protected humanity!

The best thing I can do at this stage is to give you an example. This is the first Darwin Award that I heard of a few years ago. A gun-toting bank robber rushed into a bank, shouting at customers and staff to hand over all the money. The terrified customers were already throwing their purses and wallets to the floor and the cashiers were rooting in the drawer.

To ensure they stayed scared, our worthy winner decided to fire a warning shot into the ceiling, to show this was serious business. He pulled the trigger but nothing happened. Surprised and now feeling a tad disadvantaged, he looked down the barrel and tried again. It worked the second time. Got the idea?

The award for the year 2000, was unanimously (all the awards have to be verified and found to be factual) taken by an Iraqi terrorist by the name of Khay Rahnajet. Mr Rahnajet was a genius in the manufacturing of all types of bombs. He made the dinkiest letter bomb you ever saw and mailed it to where it was sure to result in a huge loss of life. The only mistake this zealot made was to apply insufficient postage on the packet and the bomb was returned to sender. He opened it...! You want more..?

A 33-year old knife-happy Leicester man was found stabbed to death in his own house. There was no indication of a struggle. The mystery was solved when it was discovered that Darren had boasted that

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

evening of having located a stabproof jacket. The inquest established that he went home that night and went about testing the abilities of his new Jacket, whilst wearing it... naturally.

If you are going to rob, it pays to do a bit of research and choose your cash cow carefully. This advice was comprehensively ignored by a Washington man in 1990. He knew they did great business and that the cash register would be loaded at ‘H&J Leather & Firearms’. Yes, my friends, a gun shop.

Despite the gun shop being full of customers, including a uniformed police officer – with the police car parked at the door; the would-be armed robber stuck stubbornly to his plan. He announced his intention and fired into the air to hurry things up a bit. Predictably, the cop drew his weapon immediately. So did the store owner and several of the customers. Now there was only one likely outcome – but at least the loser got the Darwin Award for 1990.

You don’t have to be one of the bad guys to win an award, as long as you are not lacking in the stupidity department. Two university students were competing for the heart of a certain lady. They decided to settle the dispute between themselves by playing a game of ‘chicken’ on their motor bikes.

Both rode at each other to determine which one would flinch.

Neither one chickened as they rode towards each other at 50 mph.

They became joint winners of the award that year. And to really cap the award, the lady at the centre of the contest said that she hadn’t really been interested in either of them! Is that gratitude, I ask you?

Anyway ... that’s women for you! Ok so ... just one more: Two Kentucky pals were having a few beers out in the back yard – a good few, like. The neighbours could not help but overhear Larry

insisting that his buddy re-enact the famous William Tell trick of shooting the apple off the top of his head – only he was going to use a can of beer instead. Larry placed the beer on his head and insisted that Joseph shoot. And shoot he did. He was three inches low with his first and only attempt. And we have a winner...!

Don’t Forget It’s bad enough to act the fool, but it’s worse when you’re not acting.

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.

Flood Research Centre proposed for Vega Baja

T

he Vega Baja is to establish a research centre devoted to flooding in the region. The initiative was outlined in the "Plan Vega Ren-hace" presented in Orihuela by Minister Arcadi España on behalf of the Generalitat Valenciana

address climate change following the damage caused by the devastating cold drop in September. "We are obliged to turn this catastrophe into an opportunity to promote a resilient environment that favours regenerative economic and social development for our land and our people," explained España during the presentation.

This plan intends to become a turning point by bringing together international flood experts to address the problem and agree on solutions for the region.

Minister of Public Works Arcadi España.

The original announcement was made a few days ago by the regional president Ximo Puig, and presented in detail in Orihuela by the Minister of Territorial Policy, Public Works and Mobility, Arcadi España.

The post-emergency plan aims to find solutions to a meteorological phenomenon that is becoming increasingly common, to rebuild the region and prevent the catastrophe from last September repeating itself.

The Consell wants the Vega Baja to become an icon of how to

“The objective is to develop and adapt an economic model in the region from the recognition of environmental weaknesses, promote the construction of infrastructure and resilient facilities to ensure the well-being of the residents of the Vega Baja and all this through dialogue and consensus among all administrations and social agents, ” he added.

So far, the Valencian government has allocated a total of 93.3 million euros in direct aid to the Vega Baja for essential goods for individuals, to the town halls, for rent, for employment, for damage to homes and for repair of road infrastructure, education, health and waste management.

Once the emergency phase is over, the Consell plan seeks to promote the economic and social development of a region that will take a long time to recover, but which must find solutions to avoid the same damage in the event repeating itself in the future.

"The Consell is aware that any territorial development action that is sensitive to the environment and that prepares us for future episodes of storms must go hand in hand with the economy and all productive activities of the region."

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

Guardamar Residents say their pledges have been ignored

Anglican Chaplaincy of St Peter and St Paul, Torrevieja

By Andrew Atkinson IN the wake of September's Gota Fria dredging got underway this month at the River Segura channel mouth - a decade since the Government said they would act.

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS SERVICES

SAN FULGENCIO

In addition to the normal Services (see Footnote) the following special Services are planned over the Advent and Christmas 2019 period:

Sun 15 Dec 19 Ecumenical Carol Service

LA SIESTA Mon 9 Dec 19 Ecumenical Carol Service

6:30 pm

The devastation caused in September's Gota Fria were aided - by blockages in the Segura River.

Tue 24 Dec 19 11:30 pm Midnight Mass – Holy Eucharist

And other promises were also flagged up - over THREE decades ago: “Following the great flood in November 1987 a flood defense plan was launched.

LOS BALCONES tems, via mobile technology, were suggested, along with promoting risk management, with realistic flood maps.

"2019, and the River Segura continues to overflow," a reader, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Leader.

The Professor, who conducted the report, warned Spanish authorities: “In a few years, we may return to report a new disaster, possibly worse than this. So you have to get to work.”

Calls have been made to re-route the River Segura - moreso in Orihuela and Rojales - alongside other areas.

Another concerned reader told The Leader: "They have to dredge much more than only the mouth of the River Segura.

A report from 1987 warned about the ongoing effects future Gota Fria flooding could cause - and prompted action.

"There are so many areas with a lot of weed growing in the middle of it."

Advice was given to install large capacity collectors; rain tanks and flood parks.

It was deemed the population needed educating, for situations of risk and emergency.

Also, the implementation of personal alert sys-

6:00 pm

LAGO JARDIN

The Guardamar Beach Residents Association have flagged up pledges made a decade ago - after concerns the river would to burst its banks in future cold drops.

"At the time assurances were given - that it would never occur again.

11

www.theleader.info

Concerns were also aired, regarding the release of water from the Santomaria Reservoir, in September's Gota Fria flooding.

"No mention that water from the Santomaria Reservoir being released did most of the damage," they added.

Sun 15 Dec 19 Christingle Service

10:30 am

Mon 16 Dec 19 6:00 pm Traditional Nine Lessons and Carols Service with the RBL Band Wed 25 Dec 19 10:30 am Christmas Day - Holy Eucharist CAMPOVERDE Thu 12 Dec 19 6:00 pm Nine Lessons and Carols with Coro Pilar Sun 22 Dec 19 Carols at the 'Rusty Nail'

6:00 pm

Tue 24 Dec 19 8:30 pm Christmas Eve - Holy Eucharist Sun 29 Dec 19 Christingle Service

6:00 pm

Wed 18 Dec 19 Chaplaincy Holy Hour

4:45 pm

Wed 18 Dec 19 6:00 pm Carol Singing outside Lago Jardín – (followed by Tapas) Thu 26 Dec 19 Holy Eucharist (St Stephen)

12:00 noon

LA MANGA Tue 24 Dec 19 6:00 pm Christmas Eve – Holy Eucharist (St Teresa's, Las Lomas Village) FOOTNOTE: For more info on the Chaplaincy and other activities and events go to: www.c-of-e-torrevieja.com/wp/ The specific location of the various Churches and their normal Services can be found here: www.c-of-e-torrevieja.com/wp/where-we-are/ Also follow them on their Facebook pages too: www.facebook.com/anglicantorrevieja/ The Anglican Chaplaincy extends a very warm and friendly welcome to all denominations who live in or are visiting our area and our Church Centres

14

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 793 QUICK ACROSS: 1 Incur; 4 Develop; 8 Forlorn; 9 Liner; 10 Nile; 11 Describe; 13 Brim; 14 Stag; 16 Sanction; 17 Sago; 20 Melon; 21 Ravioli; 22 Lessens; 23 Digit.

DOWN: 1 Infinitesimal; 2 Carol; 3 Riot; 4 Denied; 5 Velocity; 6 Longing; 7 Perfectionist; 12 Pittance; 13 Bangles; 15 Courts; 18 Along; 19 Avid.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Samba; 4 Molotov; 8 Orphans; 9 Toxic; 10 Tide; 11 Honolulu; 13 Slug; 14 Rake; 16 Trinkets; 17 Rule; 20 Norma; 21 Elation; 22 Earldom; 23 Loser.

DOWN: 1 Short sentence; 2 Moped; 3 Alan; 4 Mascot; 5 Littoral; 6 Texture; 7 Vacuum cleaner; 12 Junkyard; 13 Stirrer; 15 Stream; 18 Units; 19 Fall.

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

Scorching (7) Instruct (7) Fracture (5) Fate (7) Acute pain (5) Sharpen (5) Equivocal (9) Originator (7) Pledge (7) Disturb (7) Revile (5) Representative (5) Art (5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which group 'jumped' to number three in the UK Singles Chart in 1984 with their hit "We all stand together"? From which animated film was the song lifted?

2. What necessary item never appeared in officially issued photographs of US President F. D. Roosevelt during World War II? 3. Although each song was totally different in lyrics and melody, which song title connects each of the following? Pink Floyd, Leo Sayer, Queen and Drop Dead Gorgeous 4. An animal of the order Squamata often used in religious or mythological context, a recidivist felon in the Simpsons and the nickname of an American professional Wrestler.

5. Which two women have each won 20 Wimbledon Championships? (singles, doubles and mixed) 6. Controversial general and the family responsible for a popular 'slight depression'.

7. One Liners. We give you one line from a very famous hit from 1969. You have to give us the name of the song and the artist that had a hit with that song in 1969 (So for songs earlier than 1969, we want to know who covered them and had hits in 1969): a. You never close your eyes any more, b. across my big brass bed, c.

I have someone who needs me, d. Attracts me like no other lover, e. When Jesus washed He washed our sins away

8. In literature, who was the shadowy infamous character aboard the ill fated ship Demeter?

9. Michael Jackson filed US Patent 525 54 52 in 1993. It was for a method and means for creating what kind of illusion?

10. In which sci-fi novel do all the women of child bearing age in a small town become pregnant at the same time?

11. There were seven children in The Sound Of Music. Can you name them. One point for each correct answer 12. Which two planets in our solar system spin in the opposite direction as the Earth?

13. Between 1793 and 1805, Messidor, Thermidor, Fructidor and Germinal were examples of what?

14. For which popular card game did Edmond Hoyle codify the rules in 1742? Five Letters.

15. The heraldic Anglo Saxon Fylfot Cross closely resembles which other cross which ironically means "well being"?

16. Which profanity did many Frenchmen use in the 100 Years War and for centuries afterwards to describe Englishmen?

17. Who made up the foursome known as 'Sgt. Pepper's Band' in the 1978 Hollywood flop Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band?

18. The flags of which four official countries contain the Southern Cross? (Brazil excluded)

Dionne Warwick (The Righteous Brothers, 1965), b. Lay Lady Lay - Bob Dylan, c. For Once In My Life - Stevie Wonder, d. Something - The Beatles, e. Oh Happy Day - The Edwin Hawkins Singers. 8. Dracula (Bram Stocker's Dracula). 9. His anti-gravity lean. 10.

The Midwich Cuckoos (John

DOWN 1. A gift for the moment? (7) 2. Dog in lapse (7) 3 . Short fibre (5) 4 . Oration in Canada (7) 5. Prisoner’s room has nothing in the way of an instrument (5) 6. Try to get a seat, paradoxically (5) 9. State of being prepared for literacy? (9) 14. Support the wrong forecaster (7) 15. One goes into it backwards (7) 16. Set of bars that irritate (7) 19. Music for twenty instruments? (5) 20. Saw if stray children appeared (5) 21. It’s obvious the French get in the vehicle (5)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

9.

14.

15.

16.

19.

20.

21.

Answers. 1. Paul McCartney and the Frog Chorus 2. His wheelchair. 3. The Show Must Go On. 4. Snake 5. Billie Jean Moffit King and Martina Navratilova. 6. Haig. Douglas Haig WWI general and Haig distillers producers of Haig Dimple whisky. 7. a.

You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling -

ACROSS 7. Bit of news about wine (6) 8. Put money into underwear (6) 10. Genuine because half-real (7) 11. Exhausted - nobody went out (3,2) 12. He has one out before fifty (4) 13. He gives editor the victory (5) 17. The first doctor to be a non-worker? (5) 18 . Expensive letter-opener (4) 22. Applaud about 1000 - it holds things together (5) 23. Entails being outstanding (7) 24. Plunders for guns (6) 25. Graduate’s backward boy had great strength (6)

ACROSS 7.

Bear (6) 8.

Stature (6) 10. Win back (7) 11. Dance (5) 12. Observe (4) 13. Titan (5) 17. Popularity (5) 18. Boast (4) 22. Commence (5) 23. Tousled (7) 24. Vocalist (6) 25. Cupboard (6)

Wyndham). 11. Gretl, Marta, Brigitta, Kurt, Louisa, Friedrich and Liesl. 12.

Venus and Uranus. 13. Months in the French Republican calendar. 14.

Whist. 15. Swastika. 16. Goddams, 17.

The Bee Gees and Peter Frampton, 18. Australia, New Zealand, Samoa and Papau New Guinea

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

15

I couldn't afford not to work. My husband was unwell, and unable to work and we both needed to live in Spain, for our health and well being.

BACK TO 60

are unfair - deeming 4 million women were not given adequate time to make arrangements for six additional years, without a pension, citing a pension loss of up to £47,000.

Female ex-pats await promised pension windfall as UK General Election looms Today she believes the Government sees 1950s born women as a 'burden' on society.

The activists appeared in the High Court in London on October 3. The case was dismissed, on the grounds the legislation does not treat women less favourably than men in law.

She is not alone. The Leader interviewed ex-pats, who say that, after working hard all their lives, in moving retirement from 60 to 66, feel 'robbed'.

The UK General Election is set to take place on December 12: "I hope these women vote for Labour - who say they will try and fix it.

Labour announced a £58bn compensation plan - to pay back what they deem the historic 'debt of honour' to women.

One woman had to sell her house - and now lives in a caravan - she says, due to the womens' pension age retirement extension.

"Not that there will be any spare cash - for any of these pledges - if we leave without a Brexit deal," said Gill.

Sharon Dillon-Topham told The Leader: "I’m 63, and will be paying my UK pension until 2022. I will have lost approximately £40,000."

"The increase from retirement at 60, to 66, for women born in the 1950s did affect me," ex-pat Gill Stevens told The Leader.

"I've spoken to three women in the last few days who have been affected, in moving retirement from 60 to 66," said Gill.

"Despite it only affecting me by 18 months, it has still cost me approximately £8,000," said Gill, who has lived in Spain for over a decade.

"I have a friend in Callosa, who is in the same predicament - just one of many who I would think are affected here in Spain," said Gill.

Retired Nurse, Christine Egan from Torrevieja, born in 1952, said: "I thought I would be retiring at 60 years of age. My husband and I always planned to retire to Spain.

Sharon, who found out about the increase from 60 to 66 for UK womens pension payments via the media, said: "Some of my NHS colleagues have died - having had to wait until they became 66.

"It is not on. We have paid into the system - so they should pay out. It’s not a benefit.

"I did know about it - I worked in Financial Services - so was on top of stuff like this," said Gill.

"Women planned their lives - and budgeted for retirement at 60. I read one woman had become homeless," said Gill.

"I had to wait another two years before I could do this, having worked in the NHS towards the end of my Nursing career, where I really struggled."

"I also had Pension forecasts done from the DWP, but again not everyone bothers," said Gill.

On Labour promises, one woman said she will receive £31,000 of the thousands 'owed', based on what she has lost, due to the Government 'moving the goalposts'.

By Andrew Atkinson Millions of women born in the 1950s, whose retirement age was increased from 60 to 66, are set to get a financial windfall - if Labour win the UK General Election this month.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said those women affected could receive up to £31,300 in compensation, depending on their age.

PM Boris Johnson previously pledged to consider the impact of the policy, but now reportedly says he cannot promise he can 'magic up' the money.

The Liberal Democrats are committed to providing compensation - with reportedly no detailed plan or costings.

One Conservative voter said she will never do so again, due to having worked and planned her finances for retirement.

She is now forced to do gardening - to keep her head above water - despite being riddled with arthritis.

The General Election pledge is deemed by some that Labour will borrow the money - and future generations will have to pay for it.

Many women have had to turn to food banks, and cannot afford housing and utility bills, in the wake of the UK pension debacle.

A Hight Court case brought by Backto60 in the UK, to challenge the 1950s women pension age increase, was lost in October.

The retirement age for women rose to 65, bringing it into line with men, and will go up to 66 by 2020, and 67 by 2028.

Backto60 campaigners say proposed age changes

Christine added: "I changed to working part-time -

"My husband, who is three years younger than me, doesn't get his pension until he is 66."

On Labour's pledge of promising womens' pension cash windfall, if they win the General Election, Christine said: "I would be thrilled, if we were compensated.

"Even if we got what we lost financially - we will never get the additional time we worked back."

"Where is our money? They don’t get a reduction in any of their (Government) finances."

16

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1996.

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

Car Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2016 Ford Kuga petrol which is on Special Offer priced at just 16,900 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

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

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

637 227 385

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 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 La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. For info see www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in

FESTIVE FRAILES The annual Christmas Street Market was held in the centre of Hondón de los Frailes last Saturday.

The weather was warm and sunny and people came from far and wide to visit the stalls, 35 in all.

There were all manner of food items including pies, cakes, preserves, as well as warming mulled wine and, being St Andrew’s Day, there was Scottish Tablet (fudge).

The multi-national stalls offered a great variety for Christmas gifts including soaps, candles, bottle lights, jewellery, crochet items and upcycled wine cork decorations.

A number of local charities were also present and the musical entertainment came from the local vil-

lage band and Suzie G. There was a great atmosphere and in the warm weather the local bars and Restaurants were buzzing.

The organisers were Simone and Marcus from Restaurant Veintiocho.

Simone said she was delighted to see so many people enjoying the market and said that revenue from the hire of tables will be donated to a local project. Simone also said she would like to thank all those who attended and in particular Victor at the Ayuntamiento and Sue at the Community Shop for their help.

The whole event was a great start to the lead up to Christmas with a number of other events planned locally..

LEADER

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.

Torrevieja blonde lady, massage, erotica, speaks English 604 382 799

“The event was a great start in the lead up to many more Christmas activites that are planned

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

‘X’ marks the spot on TREASURE ISLAND.

Marvin Gaye soul inspiration for James

A pantomime by Ben Crocker

By Andrew Atkinson SOUL singing artiste James Peterson, who is appearing in Los Montesinos this month, turns to late legend Marvin Gaye for inspiration: "Marvin Gaye was the Prince of Motown and Prince of

Long John Silver, and his faithful old bird POLLY, need a pirate crew to sail on the Squire’s ship, The Hispaniola, to the Caribbean to find the buried pirate treasure and he tasks Seadog Sam and Seaweed Willy to find him a dastardly crew.

The very talented dancing group, THE CRAZY LADIES will be joining the Rojales Pantomime Group for this amazing pantomime TREASURE ISLAND at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre on the evenings of January 30th, 31st and February 1st at 7.30pm.

The Rojales Pantomime Group raised around

Sheffield born James, who resides in Los Montesinos, Alicante, performs songs, including Classic Soul hits by Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, Four Tops, Billy Ocean, and Luther Vandros.

James, appears at The Courtyard, Los Montesinos, Calle 6, San Lucas (just off the Square) on Saturday, December 14 at 8.30pm (Tel: 637132454).

What will Long John’s reactions be when he meets his new crew, who are more at home baking cakes and knitting, but who now find themselves pirates in a panto??

There’s going to be some swashbuckling audience participation – OH YES THERE IS, along with silly slapstick comedy with the panto Dame, as well as lots of yo ho ho type songs for everyone to join in with.

Soul", said James, appearing at The Courtyard special night Christmas Party on December 14.

James also performs Reggae, including hits Red, Red Wine and Kingston Town, by UB40 and pioneer of Reggae, the legendary Bob Marley.

They accidentally bump into the ladies of the Smugglers Cove WI at Bristol dockside who are on an afternoon outing, and decide to recruit them.

Come and see for yourselves all the mayhem and fun that ensues on their quest for the treasure.

17

3000€ from their last pantomime, which was donated to various local charities and they are hoping to raise even more from this next hilarious production.

Tickets are 8€ adults, 5€ children and can be purchased fromCard Place, Benimar; Post Room Benijofar; Post Box Dona Pepa; Redz, Quesada; Chimes Bar, Los Montesinos; Bargain Books, San Miguel; Serenity Insurance, Entre Naranjos; The Xmas Shop, La Siesta.

If you would like to reserve tickets please contact Christine on 678 212 034 or email shimserv.gmail.com.

James is available for bookings. Tel: (inc. Wotsap) +44 7702 340 744 and 615 427 630.

Christmas at the ASOKA animal rescue centre

ACADEMY, Calle San Agustin 1, 03300 Orihuela.

There will also be a donation point for any dog/cat food, or much needed blankets and bedding to keep the abandoned animals warm on cold nights. Any questions please call 692 747 685.

It’s Christmas at the ASOKA animal rescue centre in Orihuela and to celebrate they are organising their 9th Annual Christmas Concert, STAR. “It’s not ex-pats singing all eleven verses of O Come All Ye Faithful!,” says Nick Moore the concert’s creator. “Star is an event with uplifting and emotional songs that reflect the passion with which ASOKA rescue over 800 animals a year.”

It is truly a special event and even more so this year after the tragedy of the September floods.

The concert has projections, photos and videos especially created with wonderful images of their volunteer work plus videos that accompàny the songs of the happily homed cats and dogs that have been adopted across Europe in 2019.

The concert is in LA LONJA Concert Hall, Calle Aragon, Orihuela 03300. (Near Telepizza and Networks Theatre.)

It starts at 7pm. Tickets are 5€ and can be bought on the night (get there early) but are also available in advance from NETWORKS ENGLISH

Campoverde Theatre Group Donate to the AFA Alzheimers It was a very nice surprise to receive a telephone call from Graham Haywood of the Campoverde Theatre Group.

He was ringing David & Loraine Whitney, fund raisers for the AFA Alzheimers Torrevieja, to advise them that they had a donation of 300 Euros for the charity.

With recent fund raising events the generosity of people has been amazing and at present David and Lorraine have now raised 2000 Euros for this worthwhile charity. With another event just around the corner (Mingle Bells at the Marina Bar, Calle de las Rosas on the 13th Dec) it looks to be a very successful and rewarding time of year.

The photo above shows Graham Haywood in the middle flanked by fundraisers David and Lorraine Whitney together with members of the Campoverde Theatre Group.

18

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

C.C.'s extended their lead at the top of division two after their comfortable victory over second placed Milos.

Ward (4 x 100, 120) to give them a short-handed draw.

MATCH RESULTS WEEK 9 - 5TH DECEMBR

Meetings between these two sides seem to go the same way of late – El Capitan allow the Toppers an early lead then wake up and marmalise them in the latter stages. Well this match was no different.

Division 1 Hub Hyenas Ale House Lads Tipsy Toad Tiaras El Capitan

6-6 5-7 6-6 8-4

Las Rosas Bullies Chemies Loungers Trinity Pirates Tipsy Toad Toppers

Despite the absence of the Kliminises (or is the plural Klimini) the home side could still field plenty of fire power but after taking the first leg the Toppers struck back with three in a row – Graham Solomons and Lee Maiden to the fore. That was about as good as it got for the visitors and despite some plucky resistance El Capitan took 7 of the next 8 legs.

Division 2 Trinity Panthers Chemies Chicks Pint Depot Jesters CC's Flyers

7-5 8-4 4-8 8-4

Pint Depot Queens Ale House Chicks Hi Life Hi Ho Milos Bar

There were some good darts to report –in the trebles Graham Solomons hit 3 consecutive tons - in the doubles Nigel Justice hit consecutive 125’s on the way to beating Andy Gildea who himself just missed a 180 with 123. In the next leg Shane Denness did hit a 180 and the feat was repeated by Lee Maiden who also fired a 135 for good luck.

Inter-Division Match Hi Life Legends

10-2

Hub Hellraisers

Shane Denness 180, Lee Maiden 180 Shane Denness 152 check-out Jimmy Grey Bull Finish Division 1 El Capitan Hub Hyenas Las Rosas Bullies Tipsy Toad Toppers Ale House Lads Trinity Pirates Chemies Loungers Hi Life Legends Tipsy Toad Tiaras Division 2 CC's Flyers Milo's Bar Hi Life Hi Ho Pint Depot Jesters Trinity Panthers Chemies Chicks Hub Hellraisers Ale House Chicks Pint Depot Queens

P 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 9

9 9 9 9 9 9 8 9 9

F 84 68 62 57 55 49 40 43 22

84 69 69 58 55 44 35 30 30

A 24 40 46 51 53 59 68 53 86

24 38 39 50 53 59 61 72 78

Pts 17 14 13 9 8 7 6 5 1

18 13 13 10 10 7 4 4 1

MATCH REPORTS The Tiaras faced 5 Pirates and for the very first time, went ahead in the triples and pairs, going 4-2 up at the halfway stage as their captain had requested of them. Then the game plan was to take 3 of the 6 singles to get us our first win but is was not to be. The sparkly players for the Tiaras were Elaine Willis, Lesley Eagles, Elizabeth Cowan hit a 140 and got us the final leg of the singles and MOTM Pat Schofield who scooped our first point in the triples, T18-D18 and a 2-0 win against Brian Nash in her singles.

The Pirates, minus Captain Sid Cross, showed true grit and determination but it was co-captain Yvonne Rouffignac, of HMS Trinity that sailed away with MOTM clocking up 3 points on her own with help from shipmates Paul Cripwell (140, 2 x 100), Ray Hayes and Jeff

For his next trick, in the singles, Shane decided that a 140 was not enough and finished a leg off with a very fine 152 finish (T20, T20 ,D16) – it should be reported here that having hit two treble twenties two of his team mates decided to make a grand entrance down the infamous El Capitan stairs just as Shane was lining up his coup de gras. Having given them daggers and a couple of tuts, he calmly slotted the D16.

Not surprisingly Shane Denness won man of the match but was pushed all the way by the General and Ginge who both played very well. Graham Solomons won the honour for the visitors.

The Bullies visit to the Hub didn't quite live up to expectations. lt was an evenly balanced match, with spasmodic high scoring and a host of costly missed doubles from both sides. Del boy McGauley opened the scoring for the Hub on D10, including a tasty 121, Jem Gledhill contributing most of the visitors 701 points.

Paul Durrant made it 2-0 on D2, well supported by Simon Williams 95, 121, Antonio Garcia scoring heavily for the Bullies.Gledhill 2 x 100 finished the third in two, S13, D20, for 2-1. The Garcia brothers comfortably made it all square, Mario doing the scoring, Antonio closing on D10. Durrant and Joe Miller edged the hosts in front, the former managing a 125 plus D10, Gledhill 125 and Terry Brindley 114 on a double. John Bowden and Alan Charmain squared the match at the half time break.

Las Rosas took the lead for the first time after the opening singles, via Antonio Garcia 2x100 and a comfortable D4. A well behaved Alex Nikolov ( his sister is visiting ) figured next showing a little of his undoubted ability, at long last. Some powerful scoring and a first leg D20, S10, D5 was followed by a second leg S14, D20, D10, must have spent time practicing his doubles.

Mario Garcia gave the visitors a slender 4-5 advantage with a fine 70 out, then a D20 for the second, against a luckless Williams. The match was squared by Durrant 2-0 plus 4x100 against the wily Bowden, who rarely performs poorly. Brindley ensured the Bullies returned to San Miguel with at least a point, after confusing all with a treble, single and D3 out, the next leg a more straight forward T18, D16 for a 5-6 scoreline.

The final match went the way of the Hyenas, Miller, just overcoming Gledhill 2-1 in a tight free scoring tussle. Gledhill desevedly won the Bullies MOTM, Durrant the Hyenas.

LEADER

Debbie’s Deal of the Week

Two of the three triples Tumble Dryers went the way of the from Flyers, John McKay S16, 220 EURO D20 and Kevin Prockter D8 producing the finishes, Bliiss Wright 123, and Doug Adkin 140 providing the scoring.

Dennis Byrne D10 making it 2-1. Richard Pattison S9, D8 added a third for the hosts, Adkin S9, D8 making it 4-2 after Paul Anakin D6 closed the 501 for Milos second. McKay made it five for C.C.'s.

John Gilchrist hit some form for the visitors helping himself to 140, 115 and D2 reducing the deficit.

Adkin made sure of at least a point on an unlikely D3 leaving the very capable Bliss Wright to wrap up the match with a nineteen dart leg on D10 with a 125 thrown in. Byrne added a fourth for Milos, Gail Murray completing the match on D7, her opponent Bob Deamer managing a 140. Wright and Byrne were nominated MOTM. Only two 100+ scores in the Panthers v Queens match, from Marie Cummins and Rachel Broadhead, both unfortunately both insufficient as Panthers took them both. At three apiece at half time, through Cummins, D2,D1 and Lorraine Cox D5 for the royals, Liz Minto D2, David Minto D3,D1 for Panthers, the match looked destined for a draw.

Not so, Trinity closed out four of the next five singles, Pauline Nash making it seven and both points against a prolific Broadhead.

Cummins added a third winning double for the Queens against David Minto, Vi Turner completing the match for the visitors fifth leg, defeating a consistent Michelle Lane. Pauline Nash and Debbie Wright for her scoring prowess were voted MOTM.

Player Spotlight SIMON WILLIAMS Who doesn't know Simon Williams, the likeable fitness fanatic, who runs the successful Villa Martin sports bar “The Hub". Not only is he a member of every local gym, but regularly keeps goal on his Sunday morning gathering of soccer veterans.

Despite some difficulties with English, Simon is fluent in his adopted country’s language, practicing his skills at the Spanish eatery, El Gallego, in Pilar.

Originally from the Manchester suburb of Eccles, he honed his publican skills in Swindon before arriving on these shores twelve years ago, running the Hub for the past eight with business partner Cam McHardy.

Often seen at Manchester United European away exploits, the expat lists Zulu as his favourite film and of course Match of the Day is a must accompanied by chicken wings and any form of alcohol.

The forty three year old has been married to Leanne for seven years, daughter Layla, six, completing the family. His current ambition is to play for both Hub teams on a regular basis, most unlikely as there are no signs of improvement since his introduction to the game twenty five years ago.

His mentor and favourite dart player is Joe Miller, both can be seen glued to the 12 sports tv screens at the Hub every weekend.

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

Six National Records for CN Torrevieja Masters swimmer.

Three weeks later on 30th November in the Olympic 50m pool Esperanza Lag, Elche Beryl continued to smash more long standing records.

The 2019 – 2020 swimming season has got off to a fantastic start for members of the CN Torrevieja Masters swimming team. The Masters team has recently been re-established with the first three swimmers participating in the first two competitions of the season. Already 6 national records have been smashed by Beryl Altabas in the 75+ age category.

The 50m Butterfly record for the 75+ female category had stood since 2006 but Beryl knocked 3 seconds off the record with a time of 1:00:04 and continued to follow this with a further record in the 800m freestyle knocking 1:30 of the previous record set last year with a time of 15:29:40 and will also achieve a further record in the 200m freestyle for her time split from this race. Team mates Christine and Vicki again were placed 1st and 2nd in the races and age categories.

In the season’s first competition on 10th November, held in the 25m pool, Monte Tossal, Alicante 381 swimmers from 15 of the regions clubs competed across a range of races.

Beryl Altabas started with a new record in the 100m Individual Medley event with a time of 2:03:24.

The next competition is the two day Winter Regional Championships on 11 and 12 January 2020 in Castellon, Valencia.

She quickly followed this with a second record in the 200m freestyle event, 3:43:76, in which she also broke the 100m record with her time splits.

Colleagues Christine Johnson and Vicki Connolly also were placed first and second in their two races.

CN Torrevieja are hoping new members will join the team as the season progresses and for further information contact the club on 622 600 965

Ozone Bowling Wednesday Trios

El PLantio GS

4 December 2019 Week 12 of 33

Eight members braved a strong wind to compete in the annual Turkey Trot, but unfortunately, the game had to be changed to a Pairs Texas Scramble due to a last minute change in numbers.

S***T Happens Strike Force Los Diablos The Spares S.A.S. Sol Amigos 999´S Alley Gators Oily Balls Spare Bears Pin Pushers The Bandits

Men

Ladies

Pts 74 64 57 56 52 49 46 44 42 36 34 22

Games 26 24 21.5 23 19 18.5 17 16 15 14 14 8

Pins Scr 17962 15659 16222 14894 14706 17205 13678 15701 15846 15281 13828 13463

Pins HCap 19285 18635 18835 18377 18393 18732 18352 18722 18540 18278 18010 17777

Scratch Game Scratch Series Handicap Game Handicap Series

584 1659 621 1770

S***T Happens S***T Happens S***T Happens S***T Happens

Scratch Game Scratch Series Handicap Game Handicap Series Scratch Game Scratch Series Handicap Game Handicap Series

234 584 252 638 182 529 224 604

Dave Cartwright Dave Cartwright Dave Cartwright Dave Cartwright Eunice Letts Sue Walsh Jackie Lowton Sue Walsh

This left two of the strongest players paired up and they did not disappoint by winning by two shots and also scooping the nearest pins.

Nearest the pins – Hole 4, Helen Beddows, Hole 8, Brian Coupe.. Second place, Handicap 11.7, David Swann, Janice O'Brien – 46.3 shots. First place, Handicap 9.6, Helen Beddows, Brian Coupe – 44.4 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.

Frankfurter-cheese fish bait

By Andrew Atkinson El Bosquet Carp Fisheries proved fruitful for John Fisher and John McLoughlin, when landing a surfeit of carp. Los Montesinos angler John landed a 9.2lb carp, with San Luis resident John 'Mac' landing a 9.6lb carp - on cheesy sausage!

"Mac fishes on Frankfurter with cheese and has been catching fish with the sausage," said John.

19

20

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

Vistabella Bowls Club

By MonteStan Mondays games found the Drivers (Discovery Div.) take their revenge from last weeks loss at The Emerald Ilse beating the Neptunes 10 – 4 with 102 shots for and 94 against some very tight games but a really good atmosphere between both teams. The Eagles did well at home against the San Luis Galaxies winning 8 – 6 Wow! 62 shots to 62 now that’s a score !

The Winter League had a bye last week and this weeks match was cancelled due to the weather conditions. Sponsored by Laguna Tavern Entre Narajos.

Friday saw the Lanzadores (Southern Division A) at away to Quesada Swallows. The Swallows were swallowed 2 – 12 with shots 88 to 117. The Picadores at home to La Siesta Blues struggled losing 3 – 11 shots for 88 against 117. The score not showing how close some games were 3 with

San Miguel Bowls Club

By Gail Willshire A good Monday this week for all our teams. The Alsatians at home to Greenlands Maples managed to tie on shots, 98 each, but had the upper hand overall, winning 9 points to 5.

The highest win once again came from Pat McEwan, Mike Bayfield and Dave Greenland – 20:12. The Beagles, away to La Siesta Apollos, also had a win, 8 points to 6, shots 104 to 90.

The best rink belonged to James Cutting, Linda Plaisted and Gail Willshire who won 24:8.

Topping off a good day were the Dalmatians who, at home to Greenland’s Sycamores, bagged 8 points and were level on shots - 101 a piece.

Every rink was close, but the gold star belonged to Marilyn Shatwell, Barbara Scotthern and Frank Scotthern, who won 18:12.

The Winter League matches this week were all cancelled and those fixtures won’t be played until the New Year. Gonna be busy!

For the Friday matches we will start with the good news. The Boxers, at home to La Siesta’s

only 3 shots difference and one drawn. The Conquistadores (C) away to El Rancho Broncos and got a kicking 2 – 12 with 101 shots to 126.

That’s it till January. Happy Christmas and a Healthy, Prosperous New Year to everyone.

Vista Bella Bowls Club is sponsored by: Venture Fleet Services, TV Choice, Oneway Services, Serenity Insurance, Carpet Heaven, Benni Connect Travel Agency.

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

Also bowlers are most welcome, we have a brand new green and are looking for new members.

Please contact: Club Captain - David Jenkins pacadasu@yahoo.com or Charlie Watkins charlieatpathways@yahoo.co.uk.

Golds, won 12:2, with 112 shots to 73. This must surely help them retain their position at the top of the league. Marilyn Shatwell once again starred in the winning rink, alongside Pete Masters and Gerald Shatwell, who won 25:11.

The Bulldogs, however, were on the tricky green at El Rancho playing their Mustangs who deliverd a bit of a kick.

The team could only bring away 2 points courtesy of two draws, with the shots a horrible 69 to 141. The points came from Brian Allen, Cyril Medley & Lynn Greenland who drew 15 each, and Ian Hope, Tom Dalgleish & Alan Campbell who drew 12 each.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1:30 for 2:00 - €5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and woods available to borrow.

Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are now asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, at 1:45.

For further information on San Miguel Bowls Club please contact the President Stuart Hemmings on 965 720 461, or the Secretary Gail Willshire on 965 020 492.

La Marina Bowls Club by Barry Latham Start of the week seems very similar, two 10 – 4´s. One loss, one win. In the Discovery Div the Pathfinders lost at home to Monte Mar Matador.

Could that have been because they had seven ex-LM players?

Our two winners were John Rae, Dave McGaw and Mo Taylor 15 – 14 and Karen Kirt, Jeff Collins and Lorita Rae. Up the Rae´s. In the Enterprise Div La Marina Explorers trekked over to San Luis to play the Trekkers and won. Four rinks did well to give us the bonus points.

Mike Stone, Phil Pape and Ron Maiden won 22 – 17. Tom Spencer, Carol Smith and Anne Stone won 25 – 13. Cliff Rawlinson, Jim Reeves and Kathy Manning won 22 – 9 and best of all were Don and Jean Fowkes with Hilary Cronk winning 30 – 12.

Winter League was cancelled but the match against El Cid away has been rearranged for Tuesday, 21 January next year.

On to Friday and in Div A the Sharks swam over to San Luis to play the Lions and got mauled 12 – 2. There were some close games, Mike Smith lost by only two, Mike Stone lost by three and Cliff Rawlinson just by one on the last end. Don and Jean Fowkes and Ron Maiden had a good week winning 20 – 18 after being eleven nil down.

Someone said I wrote too much about the Seagulls. My answer was but they keep on winning and probably are top of Div C again this week. They took on San Luis Jaguars and out ran them to the tune of 12 – 2.

Sue Daniels, Stephen Syddell and Jean Tregoing won 21 – 14. John Morgan (limping well), David Taylor and Lorita Rae won 17 – 12. The other ray of sunshine, John led Dave McGaw (up Newcastle) and Reg Jackson to a 19 – 15 victory and what about these next two. Garth Slater, Paul Tregoing and Alan Wilcock a great 26 – 9 win and top of the shop, Oldy Dave O´Sullivan, Norman Ship and Mo Taylor had a magnificent 41 – 5 trouncing.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

La Siesta Bowls Club by “Rookie” Alan Carr The Blues in Division B suffered a home defeat to Country Bowls Geckos who are in great form at the moment but despite that still managed wins on two rinks, with all the teams playing well result 410 (Shots 87-118) winning teams were; Barbara Cooper, Norman Adcroft & George Richardson (18-16). Pat Harman, Brian Gardner & Jean Cooper (26-17).

Just a temporary setback, plenty of games are left to catch up with the leaders.

Also, Division B the Golds were away to Greenland's Cedars which ended 6-7, (Cedars having 1 point deducted for incorrect result sheet) the Golds almost took the overall shots which would have gained us another two points (Shots 92-93).

637 227 385

LEADER

Raiders and play on their home ground where the game ended with both teams winning three games apiece and the Pioneers getting a further two pts for the overall 8-6 (Shots 125-116). Those rinks were won convincingly by; Sheila Millward, Irene & Dave Laverick (38-18). Jo Elkin, Rod Edgerton & Alan Mawer (24-8). Ken Stringfellow, Pat Moore & Sue Jordan (27-10).

La Siesta Winter League had a bye this week.

The internal Christmas hamper competition has it's final day on Thursday, good luck to all of the teams.

Interested in joining this friendly club, all are welcome whether you are an experienced or new bowler you can play casual games and/or competitive League games, just call Jim or Lyn on 690 190 523 or pop in and talk to the President (George) or Club Captain (Sue) who will be happy to give you all the information required.

Well done to all players especially the rink winners; Bill Jordan, Noel Morrisroe & Jim Eastwood (20-12). Hilary Clarke, Sheila Millward & Alan Mawer (15-12). Catherine ENTERPRISE DIVISION Morrisroe, Ann Edgerton & Ken La Siesta Apollos 90 (6) San Miguel Beagles 104 (8) Dullaway (19-12). Two other Greenlands Maples 98 (5) games finished very close indeed. San Miguel Alsations 98 (9) Emerald Isle Titans 86 (3) San Luis Klingons 94 (11) In the Enterprise Division the San Luis Trekkers 89 (4) La Marina Explorers 119 (10) Apollos welcomed San Miguel Vistabella Albatrosses 113 (12) Quesada Pearls 91 (2) Beagles to La Siesta, where the P W D L Diff Apollos won well on three of the Diff Pts San Luis Klingons 8 33 1 14 164 83 rinks but due to unforeseen cir8 28 0 20 112 66 cumstances played one rink short, Vistabella Albatrosses San Miguel Beagles 8 25 3 20 36 62 so therefore forfeiting 10 shots La Siesta Apollos * 8 26 2 20 37 60 and 2 points hence losing 6-8 Greenlands Maples 8 24 1 23 46 56 (Shots 90-104); Quesada Pearls 8 22 1 25 -11 53 Rinks won by; Pat Harman, Brian Emerald Isle Titans 8 20 3 25 5 51 Gardiner & Mike Edwards (27La Marina Explorers 8 20 5 23 -16 51 16). Dawn Taylor, Tricia & Pat San Miguel Alsations 8 20 3 25 -122 49 San Luis Trekkers 8 12 1 35 -251 27 Reilly (22-14). Ann & Robert * 2) deducted for failing to field a full side Heath, & Vic Mahomet (21-17).

We are now placed in 4th posiDISCOVERY DIVISION tion.

Quesada Diamonds 105 (8) Emerald Isle Moonrakers 100 (6) The Voyager Division saw the Emerald Isle Neptunes 94 (4) Vistabella Drivers 102 (10) Pioneers travel to El Rancho La Marina Pathfinders 87 (4) Monte Mar Matadors 113 (10) San Miguel Dalmations 101 (8) Greenlands Sycamores 101 (6)

SOUTH ALICANTE WINTER TRIPLES Week 8 - Monday 2nd December

El Rancho Bowls Club

Monday found the Pintos with a bye, whilst the Raiders played host to La Siesta Pioneers, the result overall was close at 3 rinks each with just a difference of 9 in the shots. So although there were some large differences in rink results, it does not always reflect the play and was a pretty good result.

On Friday the Mustangs entertained San Miguel Bulldogs on an overcast and a little damp morning, which stiffened a few old bodies and brought about the odd ache or too. But people suffer much greater problems and we are lucky to spend our winters on the green in good company. The Mustangs having the home advantage appeared to find line and length a little sooner than a few of the Bulldogs, taking advantage of the home mat. The Mustangs took 4 of the rinks and drew the other 2, a good result against a talented opponent. Judy Foley, Bob Day and Jim Gracie 12-12. Lesley Day, Sheila Cox and Henry Ryder 26-15.

Barbara Jones, Malc Sykes and Bob Taylor 30-4. Ann C Taylor, Denise Morgan and Bob Morgan 33-9. Geoff Jones, Sarah Taylor, and Jim Taylor 15-15. Irene Thomson, john Richards and Eddie Thomson 25-14.

In the afternoon the Broncos were at home to Vistabella Conquistadors and put on a good show in taking 5 rinks and the overall shots by 126-101, very good encouragement to our newer bowlers and their supportive experienced players. Gaynor John, David Baker and Brian Harris 21-18. Janet Wright, Debbie Ham and Steve Ziepe 23-11. Bryan John, Gill Bartlett and Rob Clark 8-28. Brian Gilham, Gary Dunstone and Dave Haynes 29-9. Dolly Ford, Ann Abbott and Marion Haynes 2617. Sue Ziepe, Paul Durham and Ron Greenstreet 19-18. For further membership information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com

P W D L Greenlands Sycamores 7 24 3 15 Vistabella Drivers 8 26 3 19 San Miguel Dalmations 7 24 1 17 El Rancho Pintos 7 22 2 18 Monte Mar Matadors 7 19 3 20 La Marina Pathfinders * 7 19 2 21 Quesada Diamonds 7 18 0 24 Emerald Isle Neptunes 7 19 0 23 Emerald Isle Moonrakers # 7 14 0 28 * 2) deducted for failing to field a full side # 1 Point deducted for reporting infringement

Diff Diff 135 46 84 203 12 -108 -53 -83 -236

Pts 64 64 58 56 48 44 42 42 27

VOYAGER DIVISION Greenlands Chestnuts 108 (12) Monte Mar Torreadors 88 (7) Vistabella Eagles 62 (8) El Rancho Raiders 116 (6)

Emerald Isle Saturns 75 (2) Country Bowls Flamingos 100 (7) San Luis Galaxies 62 (6) La Siesta Pioneers 125 (8)

P W D Country Bowls Flamingos * 7 29 2 Greenlands Chestnuts 8 28 3 La Siesta Pioneers 7 21 3 Monte Mar Torreadors 7 22 3 Greenlands Beech # 7 20 1 El Rancho Raiders 7 17 1 Vistabella Eagles # 7 16 5 Emerald Isle Saturns * * 7 15 3 San Luis Galaxies 7 13 1 * 2) deducted for failing to field a full side # 1 Point deducted for reporting infringement * * 5) deducted for failing to field a full side

L Diff Diff 11 250 17 168 18 62 17 -80 21 -40 24 -81 21 -105 24 -30 28 -144

Pts 72 71 53 53 44 41 39 34 32

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

Monte Mar Bowls Club Sponsored by The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, Lounge D, Rogers, La Piazza and The Belfry.

Friday saw the Toreadors at home to the top of the division San Miguel Boxers, the Toreadors won on one rink and drew on one rink. Well done to Jan Soars, Bill Errington skip Neil Crawford and the drawing rink Colin Bedford, Dave Thomas skip John Hunt. Shots 75 – 111, Pts 3-11 Monday saw the Toreadors again at home to the top of this division Country Bowls Flamingoes. This time the match ended in a draw. Well done to Cliff Norris, Peter Tallantyre skip Howie Williams, Sue Bounds Cindy Crawford skip Keith Young, Jan Soars, Rita Towle skip Neil Crawford and the drawing rink Colin Bedford, Dave Thomas skip John Hunt.

Shots 88 – 100, Points 7 – 7 The Matadors were away to La Manga Crusaders on Friday. After the long journey to La Manga the Matadors had a good result, winning on three rinks. Well done to Harry Dobson, Jan Gatward skip Jack Burrell, Sheila Roberts, Steve Hindle skip Graham Smythe, Gina Hindle, June Young skip Phil Goble. Shots 64 – 175, Pts 6-8 Another match away for the Matadors on

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

Monday, this time closer to home at La Marina. Another good result for the Matadors winning on four rinks well done, Tanya Oliver, Steve Hindle skip Phil Goble, Lynne Armitage, June Young skip Ronnie Cairns, Mike Farrelly, Margret Finlayson skip Jack Burrell, Harry Dobson, Alan Ashberry skip Len Daniels.

Shots 113 – 87, Points 10 – 4 Message from Club Captain Chris Merry.

The last couple of weeks have been very difficult for Monte Mar Bowls Club with Captains and vice Captains of the Matadors and Toreadors trying to put teams together. I would like to thank all the members who stepped up to make their selves available.

Especially the squad that went to La Manga, I don't think any team has gone there and come away winning on three rinks. Unfortunately we could only field five teams so had two points deducted.

So once again I would like to thank all who made the effort to support the club.

www.theleader.info

21

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB

Terry Baylis 16-5, Chris Phillips, Chris Lythe, Neil Cox 15-13.

By Sheila Cammack

WINTER LEAGUE Wednesday 4th December, the match home v Quesada, was postponed to January due to adverse weather conditions.

Once again the weather interfered with matches this week when the "Gota Fria" struck with varying amounts of RAIN for the first 3 days, causing problems for people and homes all across the area.

South Alicante League, Monday 2nd December, SL Klingons away v Emerald Isle Titans, an incredible result considering the horrendous conditions for the afternoon matches; points 11-3, 94 shots-86. Winners: William Holtham, Sabrina & Russ Marks 16-15, Kevin McKenna, June & Keith Jones 18-11, Margaret Morrison, Keith Phillips, Neil Morrison 16-16, Bill Webb, Drew Russell, Peter McEneany 16-14, Dave Blackie, Giuseppe Galelli, Ian Kenyon 17-9.

SL Trekkers, home v La Marina Explorers, took 4 points-10, 89 shots-119. Winners: Kath Waywell, Ian Ross, Alex Morrice 16-11, Joe Kocsis, Ralph Jones, Lyndon Johnson 22-9.

SL Galaxies, away v Vistabella Eagles, only managed to play 12 or 13 ends each before the match was washed out, but it was a close fought match; 62 shots62, 6points-8. Winners: Pat Barnes, Mary Fromson, Margaret Clarke 10-10, Steve Harfield, Allan Lever,

Southern League Friday 6th December SL Lions, at home v La Marina Sharks, was close fought to the last end, shots 105-83, 12 points-2. Winners: Dave Blackie, Kevin McKenna, Drew Russell 14-12, Margaret Morrison, Pam Lockett, Neil Morrison 21-13, Kath Reid, Sheila Cammack, Ian Kenyon 19-9, Helen Hammond, Keith Phillips, Scott Malden 17-16, Giuseppe Galelli, Jan & Brian Pocock 16-13.

SL Tigers travelled a long way, unfortunately for 0 points -14, 64 shots-149 v Mazarron Miners. SL Jaguars away at La Marina had a tough fight v Seagulls; points 2-12, 76 shots-139. Winners: Oyvind Lund, Irene Everett, Tom Fromson 21-15.

We are a competitive but friendly club; you're welcome to join in "Vic's hamper" 10/1030 on Saturday mornings (check chalkboard outside office & the calendar).

For more information & calendar, see SLBC website at: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com We welcome new & experienced bowlers; for info contact June Jones, Club Captain: 691 903 773.

Chris Merry (Club Captain) For further info about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website or email us on info@montemarbowls.com We are also on facebook.

COUNTRY BOWLS CLUB with Dennis Wade, Den Birkett & John Burke On Monday the Flamingos flew up to Montemar to set about the Toreadors. It was a hard match and the team fought tooth and nail for a win.

4 of the rinks were having a hard time but they showed their strength and at the end of the day the scores were a level 7 – 7.

The Flamingos are still holding their top spot by 1 point.

Good luck in the next game and well done.

On Thursday afternoon the Country Bowls Geckos welcomed La Manga Crusaders to their club for a rescheduled match.

Emerald Isle Bowls

by Elwyn Morris Titans started the week off at home against San Luis Klingons and they slipped to a 3-11 aggregate 86-94 defeat. Winners were S Johnson M Breen D Gerrard 21-11, P Rhodes C Smyth J Smyth got a 16-16 draw Neptunes played at home against Vistabella Drivers and the away team took the spoils with a 4-10 aggregate 94-102 win. Winners were A Brown L Vincent S Watson 18-7 M Riley G Ponsford P Dix 19-16 Moonrakers were at Quesada Diamonds and they lost 6-8, aggregate was 100-105, winners were B Taylor G Dyer M Willicott 24-15, S Bosworth S Wickens T Harris 19-13, V Cameron S Simpson J Simpson 17-13 Saturns were at Greenlands Chestnuts and lost 2-10 aggregate of 75-98, G Digby J McGregor Yeo 20-15 Cavaliers played at home against Greenlands Oaks and

they slipped to a 6-8 aggregate 98-110 defeat, winners were S Johnson D Close C Lindgren 24-15, P Heaney C Smyth J Smyth 21-14, S Kavanagh K Joliffe D Gerrard 19-16 Claymores played at home against Monte Mar Toreadors and they had a very good 10-4 aggregate 125-85 winners were H Rhodes M Whitelock P Dix 34-10, A Brown L Vincent G Ponsford 22-8, L Freeman B Eldred E Bennett 23-16, J Westall S Westall S Watson 19-16 Roundheads were away at Country Bowls and they lost 10-4, aggregate 78-93, winners were N Prior J Bright G Smith 16-13 K John R Andrews P Creswell 17-14 Outlaws travelled to Greenlands Ash and had a fantastic10-4 aggregate 101-98 win, winners were B Taylor S Wickens T Harris 22-13, S Bosworth B Smith M Willicott 17-10, K Sodenlund S Simpson J Simpson 24-16, L Harris T Culpin P Willicott 15-14

The Geckos knew that a good result was really important and started the game with a serious will to win.

Greenlands Bowls Club

La Manga put up a good fight but the Geckos proved too determined and pushed the Crusaders further and further back in the fight for points.

by Dave Webb

shots for. 98, against 98. Points for 5, against 9. best winning rink - Jean Thompson, Joe Ridley, skip Diane Ridley. 23 shots to 12.

In the Southern League, The Maples were at home to Emerald Isle Titans. Final score, shots for - 88, against, 98. Points for 5, against, 9. Best winning rink were, Tony French, Kevin Hardy, skip Mike Reagan. 23 shots to 12.

The Sycamores were away to San Miguel Dalmations, Final score was, shots for 101, against 101, Points for, 6. against 8. Best winning rink were - Geraldine Fisher, Bert Ewart,skip Gordon Fisher. 23 shots to 14.

The Chestnuts were away to San Luis Galaxies. Final score - shots for 115, against, 95. Points for 10, points against, 4. Best winning rink were - Carol Stobbart, Norman Stephens, skip Keith Stobbart. 25 shots to 11.

There were no results from the Winter League.

The final result saw Country Bowls Geckos victoriously winning on 5 rinks and not quite getting there on only one rink.

So a creditable 12-2 win and points split 142 to the Geckos and 70 to La Manga.

Another great win for the Geckos putting them back on top of the league by 3 points.

Friday, a cold and cloudy morning saw the Emerald Isle Roundheads arrive at Country Bowls to compete with the Cubs.

A great match, with the Roundheads holding their own at half way point.

Unfortunately for the Roundheads, the young lions swept into the lead and managed a great score of 10 – 4 with the shots being 93 – 78. Well done Cubs. Victory!

Also on Friday Country Bowls Geckos had the long drive to Monte Mar to do battle with the Matadors. No team goes to Monte Mar and has an easy day!

The Matadors have a range of excellent bowlers and any result has to be earned.

The green was very damp when the game started which made it difficult for most of the Geckos to conquer the pace and line on most of the rinks.

They were off to a slow start and the Matadors started well and were ahead on all but two rinks early in the game.

But, the Geckos are winners! They dug in, got to grips with the green and started coming back. Games see-sawed one way and the other during a tough match but once again the Country Bowls Geckos showed what they are made of and ran out victors.

One of the Geckos teams, who had battled hard to get a good lead went into the last end 4 shots ahead and unfortunately dropped 5 shots on the last end!

Another team went into the last end leading 15-12 and dropped 3 shots to earn a draw.

Such was the standard of this match.

Final score: Country Bowls Geckos winners 9-5, shots were shared 105-96 in favour of Country Bowls Geckos. Another great win!!

What a fantastic week for Country Bowls. For more information please visit our website www.countrybowlsmurcia.com

The Beech were at home to Emerald Isle Saturns. Final score was, shots for 100, shots against, 115. Points for, 6, points against, 8. Best winning rink were - Jean Giddings, Carol Gray, skip Dave Giddings. 21 to 16.

In the Winter League, our opponents were La Siesta.

Final scores on the doors, Shots For- 86, shots against, 82. Points For, 6 against 6. Best Winning rink were, Barbara Farrington, Beryl Reagan, Mike Reagan, skip Barry Collins.26 shots to 11.

On Monday 2 Dec, the Chestnuts were at home to E. I. Saturns. final score - shots for 108, against 75. Points for - 12, against 2. B.W.R, Liz Richardson, Martin Richardson, skip John Dowel, 23 shots to 11.

Maples were away to San Miguel Alsations. final score,

Carp-R-Us Fishing Round two of the Carp-R-Us Winter Series was fished at El Bosquet. After the atrocious weather of the previous two days it was nice to fish in pleasant conditions with warm sunshine and only a light breeze. The match was won by Neil McBirnie with 18.52kg from peg 11, caught using pole and maggots with Alan Priest on peg

In the Southern League the Elms played Quesada Swans, final scoes were - shots for 92, against, 8. Points for - 6, against - 8. Best winning rink were - Doreen Watt, Diane Hudson, skip Graham Watt. 18 shots to 10.

The Cedars had to field a depleted team for their away match at La Manga due to illness and injury to a member whist in a game. Final score - shots for 32, against 117.

Points for 0, against 14.

The Oaks were against Emerald Isle Cavaliers in the southern League, Final scores were - shots for, 110 against, 98. Points for 8, against, 6. Best winning rink were - Geraldine Fisher, Tony French, skip Gordon Fisher, 27 shots to 12.

The Ash meanwhile were away to Emerald Isle Outlaws. final score - shots for 98, against, 101. Points for, 4, against 10. best winning rink were - Brian White, Peter Ayres, skip Dave Whitworth. 27 shots to 7.

8 coming second with 15.48kg caught on feeder and maggot. Third was Dave Sutton (peg 12) with 8.38kg and fourth was Terry Screen with 6.06kg from peg 16.

In general, pegs 11-16 fished much better than 1-10.

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

22

www.theleader.info

Mike Probert talks Golf (Sponsored by Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs).

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.

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

LEADER

over-seeding the fairways at a cost of €30k.

Hopefully they succeed in their efforts so all golfers playing locally see an end to perpetually increasing green fee prices.

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.

Lake Pedrera closed to fishing

The deals shown in the table are some of the best currently available to you:

GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE & COSTS For those of us that have lived here in Spain for a number of years will have seen the green fee prices start to rise significantly over the last few years after a period of relative stability following the economic crisis of 2009.

Unfortunately 2020 will be no different with most local courses increasing their green fee prices by approx. 7% to 8% and more in some instances.

For those that live in Spain on a reducing pension this seems too unfair but with most courses being full at even the most expensive high season periods there is no pressure on the golf courses to strategically work in any other way.

There are of course mitigating factors because as golfers we all want courses in tip top condition and for this the courses need good weather conditions, growing temperatures and good quality water.

Many of the local courses have been devastated by the storms and floods of April and September 2019 incurring significant repair costs and good quality water for golf course now cost close on €500k per year per course.

Golf Course Price Comments Alenda €134 Two & Buggy Alicante €84 Two & Buggy Altorreal €120 Two & Buggy Bonalba €116 Two & Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €114 Two & Buggy El Plantio €84 Two &Buggy Font Del Llop €92 Single & Buggy GNK Golf Courses €146 Two & Buggy (El Valle,Riquelme & La Torre) La Finca €128 Two & Buggy La Manga West €75 Single Green Fee La Marquesa €36 Single Green Fee La Serena €40 Single Green Fee Las Colinas €164 Two & Buggy Las Ramblas €104 Two & Buggy Lo Romero €144 Two & Buggy New Sierra Golf €82 Two & and Buggy Roda €130 Two & Buggy UGolf Courses €146 Two & Buggy (Saurines & Hac. Del Alamo) Villamartin €110 Two & Buggy Villaitana Poniente €57 Single & Buggy Vistabella €92 Two & Buggy

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive BARRIERS have been erected at Lake Pedrera, Torremendo, in an attempt to stop groups of bikers and cars using the winding roads as a race track - a move that has affected fishing clubs.

"Lake Pedrera is out of bounds for the foreseeable future - with a big kerb and wall being built across the access," a spokesperson from La Florida, Orihuela Costa Abbey Angling Club said.

Abbey Angling Club and Rods N Reels Angling Club have switched fishing from Lake Pedrera to El Bosquet: "All matches have been switched to El Bosquet, that were planned at Lake Pedrera," said the spokesperson.

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

In an Exclusive Leader interview with Grand Design House proprietor Jenni Rey, whose Casa overlooks Lake Pedrera, she said a fatality has occured - and has been the victim of speeding racers.

Spanglish Golf Society at Las Colinas 4th Dec 2019.

"They drive at incredibly high speeds. I have witnessed three accidents - wipeouts - due to high speed," said Jenni.

Many courses still look at ways to reduce expenditure costs and the likes of Vistabella, Font Del Llop and Bonalba now spray their fairways green in the winter months at a cost of €3k rather than

In association with Sapphire Properties and Costa Blanca Green Fee Services

"I know of one death - a local Spaniard," said Jenni, who said waterboard, Hidraqua have put in place a number of preventive measures, in a bid to stop the racing in the area.

For this month’s meeting the Spanglish Golf Society and a group of 29 players visited the established course at Las Colinas taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

"Hidraqua have erected barriers, in an attempt to stop groups of bikers, and cars, congregating and parking by the Towers," said Jenni.

Today was our annual Christmas Competition which was a better ball pairs stableford.

"The groups congregate at weekends, using the winding roads as a racetrack," said Jenni.

Unfortunately the weather was very poor and cold with heavy rain and buggies restricted to paths only but there were still some good scores despite this and most players enjoyed the day.

"They normally turn around at the bottom, by our road, and drive backwards and forwards, picking up speed, each lap," said Jenni.

The winning scores were as follows: 1st – Chris Knight and Mick Tooth – 40 points 2nd – Joe Valente and Tom McGinn – 40 points 3rd – Jim Speakman and Barry Dexter – 39 points 4th – Rudy Wattley and Gordon Neve – 39 points 5th – Andy Brown and Paul Cartwright – 38 points 6th – Mike Probert and Brian Elkington – 37 points Nearest Pins: Mike Probert, Raimo Hakuli, Chris Knight, Jack Fanning and Andy Brown Football Card: Barry Dexter The secret Santa style presentation as held at Edina’s Grill and Bar for their support and that of our sponsor Sapphire Properties.

Our annual Christmas Dinner and prize presentation will be held at Carmens’s bar on Friday 6th December 2020 followed by the pre-Christmas interim day at Vistabella on the 18th December 2019.

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

Las Colinas was the venue for Spanglish GS

"There is normally a driver/rider stationed at the Tower end, and another at the CV950 end, with radios - to warn about Police in the area," said Jenni.

"They also use it as a racetrack at night. The authorities have painted the road with a solid line, so there is no overtaking," said Jenni.

"They have also put a large sign at the beginning of the CV950, Vistabella side, with a speed limit of 60km - with a warning of cyclists," said Jenni.

"The high speed reckless drivers have endangered the lives of the many cyclists who use the CV950, for training and leisure purposes," said Jenni.

"Many years ago they also endangered my life, my daughters and my neice," said Jenni.

"Out riding the horses, along the road, motorbikes whizzed past us - at high speed - inches from my horses," said Jenni.

"I was terrified. To make matters worse, they turned around, and roared past us again," said Jenni.

"Fortunately, we are good riders and have amazing horses, but the outcome could gave been so much worse," said Jenni.

Following measures taken to stop the racers, Jenni said: "As residents we are extremely relieved that something has finally been done.

"It has been getting worse over the years. We have called the Police, on numerous occasions, but their lookouts have always warned them, or they have gone, by the time Police arrive.

"Notwithstanding the danger, the noise from the bikes, and cars revving engines on a weekend, is disturbing.

"Not so much for us, but certainly for the two Villas, built close to the road."

Jenni added: "There has been a number of breakins, smashed windows, of people who had parked their cars on the road, who had gone fishing.

"They are being pro-active, but as a consequence, access to the water edge is restricted."

LEADER

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

23

Ten man Thader flatter to deceive AC Torrellano...........4 CD Thader.................2

O

n the day of immaculate conception celebrations, Thader now find themselves requiring a divine intervention, if relegation is to be avoided.

Ok, there is still a long long way to go before the curtain comes down on 17 May, but every game must now be treated as a cup final. Make no mistake, there are no easy games in the Preferente division this season, but Thader must show the desire to match teams in every department.

For the 5th game in the row, Thader stormed into an early lead. Straight from kick off, an assist by Calderon was slammed home by Jose, much to the

delight of the travelling fans. Sergio pushed a goal bound effort for a corner on 6 mins, as the hosts took control. Midway through the half, a needless handball by Fran gifted Torrellano a penalty, from which Hucha sent Sergio the wrong way.

On the half hour mark, 3 times in quick succession, desperate defending by Thader prevented them slipping behind. With seconds remaining of the 1st half, a glorious cross from the right found an unmarked Hucha, who headed firmly inside the far post.

Parity should have been restored on 50 mins, but when Dani's shot was parried into the path of Cabrero, he shot wide of an open goal. A disallowed goal on 52 mins, was followed 2 mins later

by Sergio thwarting a 1 on 1 situation, as Torrellano were gaining in confidence.

When the cross bar came to Thader's rescue, it looked like lady luck was looking down on them, but unfortunately disaster was about to strike. A tangle of bodies close to the dugouts, resulted in Dani appearing to stamp on an opponent, then following his dismissal, appeared to throw a punch.

Once again, Thader were riding their luck, as goalmouth melees were becoming a regular occurrence. But on 80 mins, the inevitable happened.

An inch perfect cross found Hecho lurking

unmarked at the far post, requiring a simple tap in for his hat trick. Against the run of play, a well worked goal by Nino gave Thader hope on 82 mins. Brave keeping by Sergio, plus shocking finishing, kept Thader in the game, until sub Paco

Anfield want their trophy back

Not everybody was best pleased by Lionel Messi's Ballon d'Or win last week, his sixth win in all going back to 2009 when he first pipped Cristiano Ronaldo.

Since that first success the two have virtually gone head to head, with the exception of 2018 when Luka Modri? won it by a landslide.

This year the polling was much closer than ever before with just 7 votes separating 1st and 2nd in the poll conducted by football broadcasters, journalists, as well as coaches and captains of national teams, from each of the 176 voting nations.

The vote didn’t go down at all well in Liverpool where supportes thought Virgil van Dijk deserved the honour, so on Wednesday frustrated fans erected a sign outside Anfield ahead of Liverpool's Merseyside derby against Everton reading "Ballon d'Or stolen," complete with Van Dijk's image. "If found, please return to it's rightful owner."

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, didn't attend the Ballon d'Or ceremony

SUDUKO SOLUTION

scored a beauty on the stroke of full time.

Next Sun 15 Dec, ko 1130, Thader are once again at home on the artificial pitch close to their stadium. Visitors Ilicitana currently sit in 12th place, some 5 points ahead of Thader.

Defence is Barcelona's biggest problem Barcelona Conceded two in home win over Mallorca

in Paris on Monday night, instead opting to go to the Serie A awards gala, where he won the prizes for best forward and best player in the Italian league.

He didn't watch Lionel Messi receive his sixth Ballon d'Or and even stayed in his car until it was time for him to get his award in Milan.

In the women's game USA Superstar Megan Rapinoe won the Golden Ball having led team USA to a second successive World Cup win in 2019 while England defender Lucy Bronze finished second.

Bale back in training Gareth Bale took part in Real Madrid's training session with the rest of his teammates on Sunday (8 Dec).

The Welshman was sidelined for the game against Espanyol on Friday evening due to a hamstring injury, but he could be in Zinedine Zidane's squad for Wednesday's trip to Club Brugge.

Meanwhile, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vazquez, Marcelo and Eden Hazard continued with their respective recoveries from injury, though James Rodriguez worked individually.

The players who featured in Los Blancos' 2-0 home win against the Catalan side were not involved in squad training carrying out their own recovery sessions.

While the Barcelona forwards once again put on a show in Saturday’s 5-2 victory over Real Mallorca, there are still a number of question marks over the defence.

The backline was once again unable to keep a clean sheet and they've now conceded 18 goals in 14 league matches this season.

In fact, the Blaugrana have only kept clean sheets on three occasions in LaLiga this campaign - against Getafe, Sevilla and Atletico Madrid and worryingly, they've conceded at least two goals in five different games.

Fortunately their attack is managing to cover over these defensive cracks at the moment with Messi and his teammates notching up 41 goals so far this season.

Their German keeper Ter StegenMarc-Andre ter Stegen let in another two goals against Mallorca, and should have done much better with the second strike from Ante Budimir.

However, he did make a couple of important saves to keep the score down and he also proved his worth in an attacking sense,

24

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Monday 9th - Sunday 15th December, 2019

www.theleader.info

LEADER