The Leader Newspaper Edition 799

No 799

Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

Tel: 637 227 385

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

First two defibrillators handed over in Cabo Roig The first two defibrillators raised through funding from the Cabo Roig Appeal were presented on Thursday night to the proprietors of the bars, Smiling Jack’s and The Cabo Roig Inn, the two

establishments where they are to be sited for future use.

Following a number of unfortunate tragedies in the area the defibs have been purchased for the benefit of both the local

resident population and the many visitors who come into the area, particularly during the summer months.

However, before Cabo Roig can become a safer place the bar staff in the two popular

venues will be required to attend a period of training.

This has now been arranged to take place in the coming days with local trainer Jeff Knoxx, a former paramedic.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE CABO ROIG DEFIBRILLATORS

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Jeff kindly volunteered his services following an appeal put to him by Help at Home Costa Blanca, who also helped the Cabo Roig Appeal Committee identify and procure the defibrillators themselves.

The appeal was only put together at the end of October and already over 3,000 euros has been raised through the generosity of local residents which has enabled the purchase of these first two machines.

This has been achieved with organised quiz afternoons, karaoke and a Hair and Nails fundraiser which was held toward the end of last year.

Organisers Patti, a member of Abba Elite, and Cabo Roig resident Breda, hope that the amount will be substantially increased on Sunday afternoon with 4 hours of music and fun at the popular Bushwacka venue.

Hosted by Stevie Spit BEM the event will feature The Jersey Boys, Abba Elite and many

more Costa Blanca superstars who are all providing their services absolutely free of charge.

The event gets underway at 12.30 and it really should be a wonderful afternoon.

With tables going fast anyone intending to attend th event should reserve now to avoid disappointment.

The Group Founder Breda told me “It is our belief that defibrillators should be as common as fire extinguishers, cared for, and be readily available, with suitably trained individuals on hand in every bar. The two that we have presented this evening will be the first of many that we hope to provide.”

Patti said “The support we have achieved to date has been marvellous. Everybody has been so generous, showing just what a wonderful community spirit there is in Cabo Roig.”

Once the relevant bar staff have been trained further instruction will be made available to local residents on a first come, first served basis. Information will be published on the Appeal Facebook page which can be found by searching for Cabo Roig Defibrillator Appeal

SAMARITANS IN SPAIN LOW SELF ESTEEM Self-esteem should be viewed as a high, medium or low

Phone 900 525 100 Email: pat@samaritansinspain.com Or Send a Message to 634 325 906 to organise a WhatsApp call.

We are SAMARITANS IN SPAIN You Talk We Listen.

When considering self-esteem it is important to note that both high and low levels can be emotionally and socially harmful for the individual.

Indeed, it is thought an optimum level of selfesteem lies in the middle. Individuals operating within this range are thought to be more socially dominant within relationships.

Research has shown key differences between individuals with high and low self-esteem. For example, people with high self-esteem focus on growth and improvement, whereas people with low selfesteem focus on not making mistakes in life.

Low self-esteem has been shown to be correlated with a number of negative outcomes, such as insecurity, anger, poor self-image, non-risk taker, and depression People with low self-esteem are more troubled by failure and tend to exaggerate events as being negative.

For example, they often interpret non critical comments as critical. They are more likely to experience social anxiety and low levels of interpersonal confidence. This in turn makes social interaction with others difficult as they feel awkward, shy, conspicuous, and unable to adequately express themselves when interacting with others.

Furthermore, low self-esteem individuals tend to be pessimistic towards people and groups within society.

Low Self-Esteem in Teenagers Self-esteem certainly exists during adolescence (particularly girls). Researchers explained this decline to body image and other problems associated with puberty.

Although boys and girls report similar levels of self-esteem during childhood, a gender gap emerges by adolescence, in that adolescent boys have higher self-esteem than adolescent girls.

Girls with low self-esteem appear to be more vulnerable to perceptions of the ideal body image perpetuated in western media (through methods such as airbrushing models on magazine covers).

Also, Research has also shown that low self-esteem is linked to an increased risk of teenage pregnancy.

Should you identify with any of these issues and want to talk to someone in complete confidence then why not give us a call.

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Valencia, We have a problem!

Over 20,000 people demonstrated in Orihuela city centre on Saturday in protest at the imposition by the Valenciana Generalitat of the Law of Autonomous Multilingualism, the new regulations on teaching Valencian in schools, introduced by the Minister of Education, Vicent Marzà.

Protests also took place in many other towns and cities across the Community including Valencia, Alicante, Elche, Castelló, Requena, Utiel, Villajoyosa, Villena and Elda where a further 75,000 people are estimated to have been on the streets.

The demonstrators included Parent/Teacher Associations, many organisations representing the general public as well as Mayors, councillors and representatives of the Partido Popular, Ciudadanos and Vox including Isabel Bonig, Emilio Bascuñana and Eduardo Dolón, in addition to the mayor of Alicante, Luis Barcala.

Orihuela hosted the main march, convened by the Federation of Student Parent Associations (FAPA) Gabriel Miró of Alicante, under the slogan "For the right to choose our language", which, according to Local Police sources, was attended by about 20,000 people.

People say that they are fighting for linguistic choice in schools and centres of education and the imposition of the curriculum in the Valencian language in such institutions does not respect the wishes of parents, who want their children to be educated in Spanish.

In a statement read out to protesters in front of the Orihuela Town Hall, the spokeswoman for parents, Sonia Terrero, demanded the

repeal of the Multilingualism Law for the teaching of Valencian in the educational system, which is scheduled to be introduced during the coming school year.

The statement went on to say that “the right of article 27 of the Constitution, which recognises freedom of education must be applied, and which is also recognised by the United Nations Organization, stating that parents should have the right to choose the type of education of their own children”.

President of the PP in the Valencian Community, Isabel Bonig, again reiterated her offer to parents to make available the legal services of the PP. Social unrest in the region is growing day by day. And with it, the feeling of abandonment and isolation.

First it was the torrential rains of DANA during September and October, which devastated lives, properties, agriculture and many livelihoods, then came the Government’s water policy which fears the closure of the Tajo-Segura transfer, and which will lead to shortages of water in the region, and now, the multilingual decree that greatly affects an area where there is half a million people of Spanish-speaking predominance.

Many people now say that the feeling of abandonment prevailing in the Vega Baja will spread across other regions and provinces if President Ximo Puig does not succeed in stopping it. And that cannot be done with promises alone, only with a change in attitudes, especially that of the current Minister of Education.

But while the protest was not the massive turnout expected by organisers, it was still the largest demonstration that has taken to the streets, in opposition to the government, in recent years, and to ignore it would be a serious mistake.

Valencia, we have a problem!

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Public Payroll unsustainable in Spain H

ere’s something to get you thinking. The Spanish State maintains more people on it’s payroll than the number employed in the private sector.

Including the employed, the unemployed and state pensioners, the government is responsible for salaries and social payments to 700,000 people more than all of those who are employed in private commerce and industry.

This is a situation that has gradually developed in the last ten years when the situation was just the opposite, but the effects of the ongoing crisis and the aging population have caused the figure to be turned around.

And with over 8,100 self-governing municipalities, all of which employ an overabundance of town hall staff, it seems likely that the situation is not going to change anytime soon.

Castile y León in northern Spain is the autonomous community with the largest number of municipalities (2248) while the region with the smallest number, 45, is Murcia.

The largest in terms of population is Madrid with 3,123,463 while the smallest is Illan de Vacás in Toledo that has just 6. Indeed 84% of municipalities have less than 5000 inhabitants but only 13% of the population actually lives in them.

What also made me chuckle was an interesting article that I read in El Pais a couple of years ago that stated “Spaniards sleep fewer hours and work longer days than their European neighbours, largely because of the 2 hour lunchbreaks, but they are less productive.

However, despite all this, because of the climate, the food, the

healthcare and education systems, and the way people interact with each other, Spain is a great place to live but it is still a terrible country in which to work.”

Fortunately the vast majority of expats who reside here in Spain are either semi or completely retired so we are not generally affected by such working practises.

Nevertheless, as a semi retiree, what I do find exceptionally bizarre, particularly in a country where 65 percent of exports go to EU members, is that, despite numerous studies recommending a change to working hours, bringing them more in line with the rest of Europe, Spanish executives and managers are still returning from their lunch at 4pm or later to find that in the rest of Europe many of their equivalents are getting ready to go home.

I can’t help thinking that even now, Franco, who switched away from GMT, still has a lot to answer for, almost 50 years after his death.

Reg no. CV-01-057624-A CIF No. G42533349

Baby abandoned in Orihuela Doorway The National Police are looking for the mother of a newborn baby who wss abandoned on Friday afternoon on la calle San Isidro, wrapped in little more than a plastic bag.

Sources say that the baby was either newly born or just a few days old.

Police say that it is difficult to understand how the baby could be abandoned without anyone seeing the individual who placed it in the doorway as the street in question is a busy pedestrian thoroughfare linking Plaza Nueva in the city centre to Plaza de San Sebastian a little more than 300 metres away and to Avenida de España. In addition, there are many busy offices, an educational academy, a hairdresser and a beauty salon.

The baby was actually found by two such pedestrians who heard the cries and then saw the movements of the baby inside the plastic bag.

The immediately informed the Emergency Services and the Police and the baby was transferred to the Vega Baja Hospital where she was medically examined and said to be in good health.

The police also took away several more bags from the site containing clothing for the child which police are now examining, along with Social Services, in an effort to trace the mother.

It is understood that enquiries include making contact with hospitals as far afield as Alicante and Murcia, at which they will check recent births. They are also checking the baby’s DNA with known samples.

The most recent abandoned baby was found in Alicante in September but In this case, the child's body was found lifeless inside a rubbish container. The autopsy revealed that the child had died a few hours before being found. Forensics found no sign of any violence on the baby.

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Organised Social activities and lunch for veterans

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Sex offender arrested 10 years after rape of 81-year-old woman

The Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa Branch hosted a “social day” for Veterans in the area. This new initiative, including a free lunch for all in attendance, is being funded by the Royal British Legion from monies raised in Spain through the Poppy Appeal.

Three events are planned for January, February 5th and March 4th, 12-3 at El Nacional Restaurant, Punta Prima.

The purpose of these events is to highlight the work of the Royal British Legion in Spain, and also to reduce social isolation or loneliness that Veterans and their families often experience.

“The event is open to all. You do not have to be a member of The Royal British Legion, simply a Veteran of any service or nationality, or a family member.”

The first event was held last Wednesday 8th January at the El Nacional Restaurant, Punta Prima. Veterans and their families enjoyed an hour of “gentle exercise” expertly managed by Fitness Professional Crecia Wilding. Following this was a relaxing lunch, with excellent food and refreshments supplied by El Nacional.

Everyone enjoyed chatting and getting to know each other.

After lunch, various social activities were enjoyed, including learning how to make cards at the craft table. Also how to play bridge and a variety of other card games.

Any Veterans or family members are welcome to attend on 5th February and 4th March. There is absolutely no requirement to be a member of the RBL and neither is there any commitment to join.

Activities will be similar to those held in January, however, additionally there will be information available on health/social services, items of military interest & history as well as the support work of the Royal British Legion here in Spain for Veterans.

If you wish to book for February or March please contact by email: sandysandy1979@outlook.com to ensure your place is reserved. You do not have to be a member of the Royal British Legion, simply a Veteran of any service, or a family member.

Civil Guard agents have arrested the alleged perpetrator of a sexual assault committed in January 2009 to an 81-year-old woman in the vicinity of the Alginet cemetery (Valencia).

The man, who was arrested on 8 January, is 41 years of age and following his appearance in court he has been remanded in provisional detention. The arrest took after the gathering of a DNA sample collected from the victim.

The alleged rape took place in January 2009, in the town of Alginet, when the victim was returning home, after her daily visit to the local cemetery.

The perpetrator approached the woman, in an orange orchard, forced her to lie on the ground, where he threatened her with death before tearing off her underwear and committing the rape.

Following the attack the victim walked back to her house and asked her neighbours for help.

At the time the agents obtained the victim's underwear, from which the aggressor's DNA was extracted. His profile was entered in a database, but it was only at the beginning of this year when positive were shown.

On January 3, the Department of Biology of the Civil Guard Criminalistics Service reported that the male profile identical to the samples had been identified. Five days later, the EMUME team of the Organic Judicial Police Unit of Valencia arrested him as the alleged perpetrator of a crime of rape.

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Make sure your eyesight goes beyond 20/20 this year ROAD SAFETY organisation GEM Motoring Assist is reminding drivers and riders of all ages to make an appointment for an eyesight test this year. This, according to GEM, would make a significant contribution to reducing collisions and injuries on the UK’s roads.

The organisation is once again warning that our driver eyesight regulatory system is no longer fit for purpose and needs to be updated urgently.

GEM road safety officer Neil Worth comments: “What better time than the year 2020 to get your vision checked properly and ensure the risks you face as a driver or rider are as low as possible?

“You should only drive when you’re sure you can see properly. After all, poor eyesight is linked to more than 3,000 fatal and serious injury collisions every year. We continue to be concerned that there are too many people driving whose eyesight has deteriorated to a dangerous level. This puts their own safety at risk, as well as the safety of others sharing the same road space.

“A detailed professional eye examination will mean any problems

can be identified and – in the vast majority of cases – corrected, meaning the risks are reduced considerably.

“So many people are staying behind the wheel into their eighties and beyond. This, coupled with the greater volume of traffic and an increase in distractions, both inside and outside the vehicle, points to the clear need for more regular and detailed eyesight testing.”

The eyesight test was introduced to the driving test in 1937 and has only been amended in minor ways over the years to reflect changing number plate sizes. It is the only eyesight test drivers are required to undertake until they reach the age of 70.

According to GEM, the test is crude and outdated, as it only measures visual acuity (sharpness). It could also quite easily examine a driver’s field of view, as is done in many US states, to check whether motorists can see and react to what’s happening around them.

beyond clarity of central vision.

“Asking someone to read a number plate at 20.5 metres (67 feet) cannot on its own be a measure of their fitness to continue driving. A proper eye test will also measure peripheral awareness, eye coordination, depth perception, ability to focus and colour vision.”

GEM believes all drivers should have an eye test every two years, just to ensure there are no safety concerns about their vision and to deal with any issues at an early stage.

The organisation is also calling for every new driver to produce evidence of a recent eye test when first applying for a licence, and to obtain a mandatory vision test every 10 years in line with licence renewal.

Neil Worth adds: “So this year we are encouraging drivers to ensure their eyesight goes beyond 20/20. After all, 20/20 is only an expression of normal visual acuity, but the requirements for safe driving go

Get your vision checked properly and ensure the risks you face as a driver or rider are as low as possible

GPS GEOLOCATOR WILL FIND YOU INSTANT VEHICLE LOCATION Drivers don’t choose where to break down. In some cases, getting stranded on the side of a main motorway with nowhere safe to wait for help, can be a worrying experience.

A speedy response to an emergency roadside assistance call is crucial and that’s why we’re proud of our GPS Geolocation technology. This exclusive addition to Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance service means dispatchers can pinpoint the exact location of the vehicle and send the closest available driver to assist.

MORE PEACE OF MIND There is nothing worse than being stranded with no indication of when help will arrive. With GPS Geolocation

you can be assured that a recovery vehicle will reach you in record time, even if you don’t know your exact location. GPS Geolocation is included in all our car and motorbike insurance policies. It is simple and safe to use and there is no extra cost for using this service.

NEED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE? If you need a tow, you’ve ran out of fuel, or you’ve had a flat tyre, then call our Emergency Roadside Assistance number on freephone 900 120 123. You’ll receive an sms message on your mobile phone. Simply click on the link to access the Geolocator website to authorise Línea Directa to pinpoint your location via satellite. Once authorised, a breakdown recovery vehicle will be dispatched to meet you.

If you would like some further advice on this matter, please call our English speaking customer service assistants on 902 325 325.

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burglaries and thieves have been ongoing within La Herrada urbanisation - and surrounding areas.

In December burglaries took place, in both house break-ins, and garage/shed thefts - with three houses burgled in Calle Chumbera alone.

The Leader reported one household on La Herrada being ransacked by burglars last year - having used a car-jack to rip out a security window grill.

Campoverde Theatre Group Donate 300€ to the Alzheimer's Society Torrevieja

The Los Montesinos Policia patrol La Herrada, but thieves remain on top of the game - as crimes escalate - with car break-ins also occurring.

Following the very successful supper show, Supper on the West End the Campoverde Theatre Group were delighted to present a cheque for 300€ to the Alzheimer’s Society, Torrevieja. David and Lorraine Whitney accepted the cheque on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society, a charity close to their hearts. Campoverde Theatre Group is all too aware of the devastation Alzheimer’s disease has not only for the individual but also on their family, friends and support groups.

"Things seem to be getting quite bad around here lately," Geraldine McIlroy told The Leader.

La Herrada resident Geraldine, burgled within four months of arriving in Los Montesinos, said: "I don't feel safe anymore. "It's getting out of hand - I often don't feel safe. Hopefully the children will get their bikes back."

Moncayo Market cafe-restaurant razed to ground in blaze Mateo was convicted of corruption Pérez Garijo has described as "unacceptable" the fact that these commemorative plaques continue to be displayed in many public spaces.

The city of Torrevieja has them located in public buildings, many bearing the name of Pedro Hernández Mateo, who was convicted by the courts of corruption, subsequently spending 3 years in prison.

David and Lorraine Whitney accepted the cheque on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society The members of the Campoverde Theatre Group are very busy rehearsing for their next production, Crazy Little Thing Called Love which will be staged at the Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras on 20th to the 22nd February. The show takes a light hearted and humorous look at love from teenage crushes to meeting that right person to relationship tensions, finally concluding that the phrase Crazy Little Thing Called Love is totally correct. The story of love is portrayed through song, dance and some very funny sketches. The show has great music that will have the audience singing along to, and Jo Rich has again penned some very original sketches that highlight the funny side of relationships.

"We cannot allow in our fight against corruption, that our villages and towns continue to display plaques that pay respect to people who committed corrupt practices, and who did while holding institutional positions," said Pérez Garijo.

Crimes escalate in La Herrada - despite Los Montesinos Policia patrol Two young children have been left heartbroken - and in tears - after their bicycles were stolen in Los Montesinos.

The Minister of Transparency for the Valencian Government, Pérez Garijo has described as “unacceptable” the fact that man public spaces and buildings in the city display commemorative plaques with the name of the disgraced mayor Pedro Hernández Mateo The minister has now sent a letter to the mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, in which she urges the City Council of Torrevieja to remove the plaques throughout the city that bear the names of people who held public office and who were subsequently convicted of corruption cases.

The incident occurred on Sunday - 24 hours after thousands of people visited Moncayo - where there is a weekly Saturday market.

The fire started after a electrical short-circuit engulfed the outdoor cafe-restaurant - leading to an explosion of gas bottles.

Leader news and chief sports reporter Andrew Atkinson, his wife Helen, and John Fisher, from Los Montesinos, regularly visit Moncayo Market.

"We had a bite to eat and a drink on Saturday at Moncayo Market at the destroyed cafe-restaurant," said Andrew.

"There were hundreds of people at the market on Saturday. The fire has completely razed the cafe-restaurant to the ground. "Thankfully there were no stalls trading on Sunday when it happened at 2pm," said Andrew.

"The consequences could have been horrific - if it had happened 24 hours earlier," said Andrew.

Moncayo Market weekly Saturday trading is during 7.30am-3.30pm.

Following our popular formula, Crazy Little Thing Called Love will be another supper show where patrons can enjoy a one course meal plus an evening of entertainment. Don’t miss out, tickets can be reserved by phoning Maureen on 966 789 587 or mobile 603 273 364 or calling in to The Olympia Bar and Restaurant Mil Palmeras.

Consell urges Torrevieja to remove name of convicted mayor

A POPULAR cafe-restaurant at Moncayo Market, Guardamar, has been destroyed in a fire - that saw three gas bottles explode in the height of the blaze.

The bikes were stolen from a bar close to Dialprix "The children are heartbroken - as the bicycles were presents from Santa," Colette Hills told The Leader.

A boy's black and orange bicycle and girl's blue and white bicycle, along with their cycling helmets, were stolen outside a bar on La Herrada urbanisation.

The latest incident occurred after the bicycles were left outside a bar near to Dialprix Supermarket.

Chained-up bicycles have also been stolen from gardens.

During 2019, as in previous years,

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada - Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday 23rd Jan at 7pm Saturday 25th Jan at 5pm

WHIPLASH An ambitious, talented young drummer (Miles Teller) enters a prestigious music academy to fulfill his dream of becoming one of the greatest known drummers of all time.

Starring: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons, Melissa Benoist, Paul Reiser, Austin Stowell Dur: 1hr 45 min Genre: Drama | Music. Jazz. Independent Film

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Shameful Spanish bureaucracy lets down victims of DANA Four months on and two thirds of people affected by DANA are still to receive Government aid

Two thirds of those in the Vega Baja who were affected by the Gota Fria last September are still waiting for the direct aid they requested from the Generalitat Valenciana, four months after the devastation took place.

From a total of 8,451 requests submitted to the Consell for the purchase of basic necessities and appliances, an amount of 1,500 euros, but which could increase to 4,500 following a visit by a damage assessor, only slightly more than a third of the applicants have been paid, a total of 3,115 people, many of whom lost their entire homes and belongings.

The bureaucratic procedures are painstakingly slow, a situation that is recognised by the Valencian government, but despite which nothing has been done.

The Consell says that upon receiving the assistance, those affected can purchase replacement goods, new appliances and mattresses to replace those lost due in the storm, although quite how people manage in the meantime, while the bureaucratic wheels slowly grind around, is not something that they wish to comment on.

The 8,451 files that are being processed

Four months on and two thirds of people affected by DANA are still to receive Government aid

will involve a total grant of 13.5 million euros from the Generalitat. The management of these grants is centralised in the Prop Office of the Generalitat Valenciana in Orihuela, although there are small offices with staff in all affected municipalities.

They say that it is a priority for the Generalitat to deal with all people affected by the storm, although having just taken a 2 week break while many of those affected struggle along might not be seen as such.

However funding to municipalities and local government seems to be moving rather quicker than grants to individuals with 7.3 million euros already paid to 22 municipalities that have been affected

by DANA, from an allocation of 10 million.

Additional claims being processed includes the amount of 1.5 million euros for the replacement of damaged vehicles, which are authorised after a car had been declared a ‘write off’.

The Generalitat says that it is also processing housing assistance for those affected by DANA. In this case, three types of claim are allowable: for total destruction of the home, for partial damage and for damage to the structure of the home. The budget in this case is 30 million euros.

The Generalitat is processing about a thousand applications for aid for such affected homes, and applicants will receive between 4,062 and 15,120 euros, depending on the extent of the damage.

There are also grants available for rental assistance These monies are intended to compensate for the to people whose homes suffered serious damage. extraordinary and urgent expenses that the municiThe total grant is 500,000 euros, and 140 applicapalities had to make in the immediate face of the Club of Campoamor Costa floods.The official installation of the Inner Wheeltions have been submitted in to Orihuela date.

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One man’s barefaced trust in another …

M

y late uncle trusted me a whole lot; maybe not with his entire life … but close enough!

Trust is a central part of all human relationships. It is very enlivening either to be trusted by another person or to have that person trust you. Romantic partnerships are generally based on a foundation of trust – and that’s all we’ll say about that one!

If you don’t trust, say, your doctor or dentist then that relationship is doomed. Trusting people will usually be based on your estimation of probability of how they will behave towards you.

Mrs Youcantbeserious was watching ‘Dancing on Ice’ the other evening and she called me to watch one particular act. The artistry of the couple was spellbinding. The speed with which those intricate moves were executed was even difficult for my eye to follow.

The dependence of each dancer on the other was paramount in completing the dance. Breath-taking stuff - but when I tell you that the girl was blind you can imagine the level of trust she had to have in her male partner? Isn’t that a wonderful example of one human’s absolute trust in another?

In case you are about to flip the page – and before I lose you; I had better tell you how my eccentric old Uncle Paddy trusted me just about as much as did that lady dancer her partner.

By now an aging bachelor farmer … well actually he was always a bachelor farmer, but now he was aging; Paddy was beginning to make a very poor fist of shaving himself with his disposable razors.

‘Like a badly mowed meadow’, he said to me one day.

Soon thereafter, my ailing uncle placed his utmost trust in me. He trusted me to shave him! Not as simple as you might think: Read on please …

Trust was not a characteristic that the man possessed in any abundance. Paddy didn’t trust the government – irrespective of what party was in power. He totally mistrusted banks and any man in a camel hair coat – maybe even a sheepskin jacket.

Paddy was a great RTE radio 1 listener – but that didn’t mean he

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trusted everything he heard on the news: “Of course that’s not right”, was more often his concluding comment after some breaking story on ‘The news at One.’ His doctor was trusted – up to a point and only after it became evident that he couldn’t heal himself.

The parade, the nativity scene and the "traditional" events that have been ongoing in the city streets for a month will cost at least 316,568 euros.

The most costly events were those of the Three Kings parades in The Three Kings parades in Torrevieja and La Mata set the administration back 138,173 euros

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“All the world is made of faith, and trust, and pixie dust.”

JM Barrie, Peter Pan

The doctor was the only living creature who would ever be trusted to lay a hand on my uncle. Never a hug or a kiss for anyone … never! That isn’t to say that the man wasn’t kind, caring and fair-minded. He just didn’t trust anybody enough to allow them put a hand on him.

But then, for the last couple of years of his life, my Uncle Paddy placed the ultimate trust in his nephew by allowing me to shave him with a razor.

I don’t blame you, dear reader, for assuming we are talking here about an intimidating old cut-throat razor.

Not at all… We are talking a standard Remington electric razor which I bought in duty free on my way back from Spain.

Paddy had always liked to be clean-shaven and ‘respectable looking.’ As mentioned above, he hadn’t had a good shave for a while, due to his feebleness and the shake in his hand.

I could tell the uncle was as nervous as a bullock in a chute. He sat upright on a hard-backed chair. The razor was plugged in and started to buzz. I cradled the back of Paddy’s head in one hand and commenced the ‘topping’ of the ragged old face.

After a little while, and with no smell of blood and no pain in his face, the uncle relaxed until the job was finished and I handed him a mirror.

with three weeks beard on him!!

He only trusted one person to shave him and that person was me.

Nobody else was ever getting near his face nor could anybody else be trusted to handle that greatest of inventions – a duty-free Remington electric razor!

Don’t forget You always remember a kind deed – particularly if it was yours.

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com

The old man ran his fingers down the side of his face and across his chin. He smiled at his reflection saying; ‘Janey Mac, but it’s a long and many day since I’ve had a shave as smooth as that.’

*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.

Now, just wait until you hear the extent of that barefaced trust. At that time I was commuting quite a bit between Spain and Ireland. I could be as long as three weeks in Spain at a time. But when I got back, Uncle Paddy would be there watching me to shave him …

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.

TORREVIEJA CHRISTMAS COSTS LIKELY TO TOP €320,000 The bill faced by the City of Torrevieja for the organisation of Christmas events and street decorations in the town centre is almost as spectacular as the lighting.

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Torrevieja and La Mata which set the PP administration back 138,173 euros which had the company of José Luis Bernabeu running all the way to the bank, especially as neighboring Orihuela spent a similar amount with the same company.

The only tender submitted for the street lighting came from the local firm Radiluz who were duly awarded the contract which we are told cost 101,850 euros.

The third largest outlay was for the assembly and disassembly of the municipal nativity scene that has occupied a section of calle Maldonado next to the Town Hall for almost a month and a half: a mere snip though at 42.0000 euros. The tender process was put in place last November but it now seems that there is no trace of the award procedure although the contract went to the same company that has been providing the scene for many years.

Activities in Constitution Square, workshops, games and activities for children was handled

by Cocomun SL at a cost of 16,400 euros while a further 18.125 euros was paid to Lifestyle & Media for the gastronomic fair on the Vista Alegre promenade.

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Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 798

ACROSS 6.

Clot (7)

7.

Automaton (5)

9.

Freeze (3)

10.

Sheer drop (9)

12.

Difference (11)

15.

Approaching (11)

17.

Supreme (9)

19.

Cunning (3)

21.

Fashion (5)

22.

Reawakening (7)

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

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

8.

11.

13.

14.

16.

18.

20.

Bus (5) Ovum (3) Just (4) Grievance (9) Compound (7) Yell (6) In effect (9) Insect case (6) Fidelity (7) Dreary (5) Require (4) Toupee (3)

QUICK ACROSS: 7 Make the most of; 8 Coquette; 9 Item; 10 Random; 12 In gaol; 14 Barren; 16 Excite; 18 Fall; 20 Unstable; 22 Dissoluteness.

DOWN: 1 Panorama; 2 Refund; 3 Shut; 4 Imbecile; 5 Asking; 6 Robe; 11 Manfully; 13 Outclass; 15 Relish; 17 Chains; 19 Avid; 21 Site.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 7 Snookerplayer; 8 Released; 9 Tots; 10 Scraps; 12 Medusa; 14 Stroll; 16 Chorus; 18 Gait; 20 Sunbaked; 22 Again and again.

DOWN: 1 Undercut; 2 Modena; 3 Less; 4 Epidemic; 5 Halted; 6 Meat; 11 Salesman; 13 Souvenir; 15 Outfit; 17 Orange; 19 Alga; 21 Nods.

ACROSS 6.

Accumulated wealth in chief city (7)

7 and 9Ac. Apparently one can be too old for the nobility (8) 9.

See 7 Ac.

10. Concerning janitors seeing the press (9) 12. Sly when short of workers? (11) 15. Rare keys on inquisitive person (5,6) 17. Action for evening? (3,3,3) 19. Point back to 500 (3) 21. Mount and prosper (3,2) 22. Again poetry can result in a setback (7)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. In film, the submarine Proteus explored which body of water?

2. The Man... The Music... The Madness... The Murder...

The Motion Picture - which 1984 Oscar winning film about a composer?

3. What was unusual about the Tyrell P34?

4. In which films were the following Germans bad guys? a.

Hans Gruber, b. Karl Stromberg, c. Dr Szell. d. Amon Goeth 5. Angel Falls, the worlds highest waterfall is how many times higher than the Niagara Falls? Plus or minus 3 6. The victory goddess Victoria and her horse drawn chariot which adorns the Brandenburger Gate in Berlin was kept in which city between 1806 and 1814?

7. In 1969, France, Holland, Spain and the UK all tied for first place in which contest?

8. The majority of the biological and chemical weapons

DOWN 1. Dance not appreciated by sun-bathers? (5) 2 and 3Dn. Wet rain dispersed by metal goods (7) 3. See 2Dn. 4. Exclude affectionate person serving drinks? (9) 5. One jury travel (7) 8. Bighead has different trouble (6) 11. Less than 12 inches being trodden on (9) 13. Formerly saucy specialist (6) 14. Have a discussion about one tree (7) 16. Lift one amid the throng (5) 18. Declare some grave results (4) 20. Colour up in 11 (3)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) from WWI and WWII have been dumped in which sea?

9. Fish and chips, Hamburger and fries. What do the citizens of Brussels love to eat with their frites? 7 letters 10. Which word can one associate with each of the following? train, Chartres, film and tooth?

11. On the outskirts of which modern city would you find the ruins of ancient Carthage?

12. Who won the Eurovision Song Contest with "Making your mind up"?

13. The Watusi or Batutsi tribe comes from Burundi in Central Africa. What is this tribe remarkable for?

14. In which book or film would you find the 'go west' Joad family?

15. According to Guinness the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at an auction was a 1787 Chateau what? (one word)

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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 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

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 Branch meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the Olympia Pool Bar and Restaurant in Mil Palmeras.

Everyone is welcome. Call Jean

for info on: 630 28 08 99 Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch - Meet the second Friday of the month at Casa Ventura, San Luis starting at 7.00 p.m.

New members are always welcome. You do not have to be exservices. For more information contact:- gill.burden20@gmail.com RNA - The Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanization, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1996.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team.

Almoradi Meal Club. If do you fancy a meal out and meeting new friends, come and join our English speaking club. We have twice monthly meals at various restaurants in and around Almoradi. For info go to FaceBook or contact me at davedanie@gmail.com.

Badminton in Pilar de la Horadada.

Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs.

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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 Torrevieja, Valentini, Brazilian lady, 35. Erotic massage with complete satisfaction. Good time guaranteed. 688 340 708

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Emerald Isle Bowls

LEADER MONTE MAR BOWLS CLUB

Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

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Bosworth, A Miles, C Smyth, J Smyth 15-10, J Pooley, H Rhodes, M Veale, C Lindgren 18-15. San Miguel won the Berleen 19-9 Cavaliers travelled to La Marina Sharks and came away with a fine 12-2, aggregate 130-72 win. J Pooley, C Warner, A M Robertson 25-5, P Heaney, C Smyth, J Smyth 22-8, S Kavanagh, K Jolliffe, D Gerrard 22-10, D Leeming, G Odell, M Odell 23-14, S Johnson, D Close, C Lindgren 20-16 Country Bowls Geckos played at the Isle and Friday and left as victors 12-2, aggregate 118-70. Winners were E Morris, J Westall, S Watson 16-15.

The Roundheads entertained the Outlaws at the Isle and the Outlaws won the game 13-1, aggregate 122-66. K Soderlund, S Simpson, J Simpson 23-8, I Fay, S Wickens, T Harris 23-11, L Harris, T Capewell, T Shoots 20-8, T Culpin, G Dyer, B Taaffe 21-10, K Holliman, R Fooks, A Fay got a 16-16 draw The Emerald Isle welcomed the Torrevieja Branch of The RBL back after the break and the visitors took the game 10-8 Aggregate 130-128.

SAPS learn to bowl. Play for 2 hours with shoes, coaching and bowls supplied, all for 5 Euros on Saturday afternoon at 1pm

with Elwyn Morris

Monday brought Quesada Pearls to the Isle and in a hard fought game the points were shared 7-7, The aggregate was 101-115 and the winners were: P Rhodes, C Smyth, M Odell 21-15, S Johnson, C Warner, D Gerrard 18-12, D Jones, A Miles, J Smyth 19-16, P Heaney, M Veale, P Coffey drew 2020 The Neptunes played at home against the Moonrakers and had a 14-0 (146-79) win. A Brown, L Vincent, G Ponsford 444, M Riley, J Westall, T Roche 22-12, L Freeman, B Eldred, E Bennett 24-17, C Thomas, C Parsons, M Thomas 20-14, H Rhodes, M Whitelock, S Westall 20-18, M Munroe, B Doran, S Watson 16-14 Bonalba visited the Isle on Tuesday in the Winter league and the home side came out on top 9-3 with an aggregate of 10866. S Bosworth, A Miles, C Smyth, J Smyth 28-8, L Freeman, M Whitelock, D Jones, M Odell 30-14, J Pooley, H Rhodes, M Veale, C Lindgren 22-9, D Leeming, S Watson, B Taaffe, D Close drew 14-14.

San Miguel played in Winter league on Wed at the Isle and they went away with an 8-4, aggregate 66-90 win. S

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Away to the Sycamores the Matadors started well with tight games on all rinks.

As play continued the Sycamores gradually took the lead on most rinks, the result after a tight game was a win for the Sycamores. Well done to our winning rink of, Mike Farrelly, Tanya Oliver skip Graham Smythe.

Matadors 98 – 107, Points Matadors 2 – 10 The first game of 2020 was a home match for the Toreadors against the Eagles and resulted in a very good win. Monte Mar won on four rinks and overall shots, well done to Val Hyman, Howie Williams skip Joan Harding, Sue Bounds, Cindy Bedford skip Keith Young, Julia Hamilton, Diane Horsington, skip Ian Hamilton, Colin Bedford, Dave Thomas skip John Hunt. We hope to keep this going for the remainder of the season. Toreadors 117 – 97, Points Toreadors 10 – 4 WINTER LEAGUE - At home to La Marina there was some tight matches across the board eventually La Marina took the lead. We won on two rinks and drew on one rink. Well done to Sheila Roberts, Colin Bedford, Don Cleeter skip Phil Goble, Pauline Merry, Diane Horsington, Steve Hindle skip Chris Merry and the drawing rink Paula Cleeter, Jean Chamberlain, Cindy Bedford skip John Hunt.

Shots Monte Mar 73 – 80, Points Monte Mar 5 – 7 Sponsored by The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, Lounge D, Rogers, La Piazza and The Belfry.

SOUTHERN LEAGUE 2019/20

El Rancho Bowls Club

San Miguel Bowls Club - Barry Jones

FINAL RESULTS AND TABLES

Our New year session started with a very chilly home match for the Mustangs, I for one found it difficult to get the body moving, but a good match entertaining La Marina Pathfinders. The Pathfinders always prove to be good company and challenging opponents.

In the end the Mustangs took 4 rinks and lost the other two by just one shot and three and I learnt to not trust my instincts and wear thermals anyway, for the rest of the winter. Ann C Taylor, Sarah Taylor and Bob Morgan 16-17. Judy Foley, Liam Foley and Jim Gracie 27-11. Bob Day, John Richards and Henry Ryder 27-9. Lesley Day, Malc Sykes and Bob Taylor 13-16. Irene Thomson, Jim Taylor, Eddie Thomson 30-9. Sheila Cox, Diane Yates, Richard Lee 23-13.

In the afternoon the Raiders played at San Luis against the Galaxies and came away with a good score in taking the rinks by 4 to 2 and the overall shots by a small margin.

Friday morning found the Mustangs playing at Vistabella against the strong Lanzadores, always a difficult fixture, but we played well despite coming away with just the one win, but it was a tough though fun match.

Meanwhile the Broncos entertained San Luis Jaguars, playing very well and taking full advantage of the home mat in taking all 14 points including a substantial shots difference. Gaynor John, Pam Harris and Brian Harris 21-17. Dolly Ford, Ann Abbott and Marion Haynes 28-11. Helga Schiffman, Chris Ziepe and John Ziepe 20-09.

Tony Abbott, Gary Dunstone and Dave Haynes 22-18. Peter Blackburn, Paul Durham and Keith Longshaw 31-07. Ngaio Baldwin, Pete Baldwin and Ron Greenstreet 25-09.

For information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com

The second half of the season got underway on Monday in the South Alicante Enterprise Division, where the second local derby took place, San Miguel Beagles were home to San Miguel Alsations, where the Alsations won 10 - 4 (109 shots to 102), the best winning triple for the Beagles were Cliff Plaisted, Val Hignett and David Johnson 24 - 12, the bet winning triple for the Alsations were Anita Brown, Ton Dalgleish and John Marshall 23 - 11.

FRIDAY 17 JANUARY

DIVISION A La Marina Sharks Mazarron Miners San Luis Tigers San Miguel Bulldogs Vistabella Lanzadores

72 112 94 123 126

2 Em Isle Cavaliers 12 10 Quesada Swallows 4 4 San Luis Lions 10 12 Greenlands Oaks 2 12 El Rancho Mustangs 2 P 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

San Luis Lions Vistabella Lanzadores Emerald Isle Cavaliers El Rancho Mustangs Quesada Swallows Mazarron Miners San Miguel Bulldogs Greenlands Oaks La Marina Sharks San Luis Tigers

W 36 38 38 28 29 27 23 23 23 21

D 5 3 1 4 4 1 6 0 2 2

L W in 19 9 19 8 21 5.5 28 6 27 4 32 3.5 31 5 37 5 35 3 37 2

Diff Diff 164 230 173 -41 78 -76 -110 -28 -208 -182

130 96 113 79 82 Pts 95 93 88 72 70 62 60 56 54 48

DIVISION B Em Isle Claymores Greenlands Cedars La Manga Crusaders La Siesta Golds Montemar Toreadors

70 116 147 73 79

2 8 14 2 2

C Bowls Geckos San Miguel Boxers Vistabella Picadors La Siesta Blues Montemar Matadors

P W 10 39 10 38 10 33 10 34 10 29 10 28 10 25 10 25 10 22 10 17

Country Bowls Geckos San Miguel Boxers La Siesta Blues La Manga Crusaders Emerald Isle Claymores Montemar Matadors Vistabella Picadors La Siesta Golds Greenlands Cedars Montemar Toreadors

D 3 2 3 1 1 3 3 1 2 1

L W in 18 9 20 7 24 7 25 6 30 5 29 4 32 4 34 3 36 4 42 1

12 6 0 12 12 Diff Diff 268 196 115 211 -69 -150 -38 -102 -154 -277

118 96 75 139 120 Pts 98 92 83 81 69 65 59 57 51 36

DIVISION C Country Bowls Cubs El Rancho Broncos Em Isle Roundheads Greenlands Elms Quesada Swans

109 147 66 111 118

Quesada Swans La Marina Seagulls Emerald Isle Outlaws Greenlands Elms El Rancho Broncos Country Bowls Cubs Greenlands Ash Em Isle Roundheads San Luis Jaguars Vistabella Conquistadors

12 La Marina Seagulls 0 14 San Luis Jaguars 0 1 Em Isle Outlaws 13 8 Greenlands Ash 6 12 Vbella Conquistadors 2 P 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

W 41 41 40 35 30 26 20 21 17 19

D 0 3 2 3 0 2 4 3 3 0

L W in 19 9 16 8 18 9 22 6 30 4 32 5 36 3 36 2 40 3 41 1

72 71 122 108 86

Diff Diff Pts 333 100 290 99 224 99 125 85 -67 68 -60 64 -200 50 -200 40 -246 40 -199 38

On Wednesday San Miguel were home to Emerald Isle winning 8 - 4 (90 shots to 66), the best winning rink were Allen Patterson, Val Collier, Carol Broomfield and Stuart Hemmings 29 - 10.

In the Berleen trophy, Tony Sansom, Linda Plaisted, Val Hignett and Lee Sinclair had another good game winning 19 - 9.

On Friday San Miguel Bulldogs were home to Greenland Oaks, where they had a good game winning 12 - 2 (123 shots to 79) the best winning triple were Anita Brown, Derek Farmer, Cyril Medley 31 - 10. San Miguel Boxers were away to Greenlands Cedars where they lost 6 - 8 (92 shots to 116), best winning triple were Daniel Verralls, Bill Reeves and Dave Champion 25 - 19.

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 asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting 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.

Greenlands Bowls Club by Dave Webb LA SIESTA BOWLS CLUB by Alan Carr In the Enterprise Division, The Maples were away to La Siesta Apollos. Final score - Shots for 95, shots away 109. Points for, 4, Points against, 10. Best winning rink were - Sally Cordell, Jeff Hier, skip Tom Hill. 22 shots to 11.

In the Voyager Division, the Chestnuts played their sister team Beech. Final scores on the doors, Shots for, 106. Shots against, 84.

Points for, 8 Points against, 6. Best winning rink were - Sue Sellwood, Ronnie Stansfield, skip Tony Hodges. 28 shots to 5.

In the Discovery Division, The Sycamores were at home to Monte Mar Matadors. Final score was - shots for, 107. Shots against, 96.

Points for, 12. Points against, 2. Best winning rink - Margaret Stephens, Carol Rudge, skip Len Rudge. 22 shots to 16.

In Division A, The Southern League, the Oaks had a bad day at the office going down to San Miguel Bulldogs shots 79 - 103, Pts 2 - 12.

Meanwhile also in the Southern League, the Elms were at home to our other team the The Ash. Final scores on the doors. Shots for 111, against 108. Points for, 8. Against 6. Best winning rink for the Elms were - John Dowell, Ronnie Stansfield, skip Tony Hodges. 31 shots to 13. Best winning rink for the Ash were - Jean Giddings, Carol Gray, skip Dave Giddings. 32 shots to 4.

The Cedars were at home to San Miguel Boxers, final score, Shots for - 116 shots against - 96. Points for - 8. Points against - 6. Best winning rink were - Jean Thompson, Sheila Cooper, skip Carolyn Harris. 26 shots to 9.

For inquiries contact club secretary Chris Dewar on 698 418 987 or our website - greenlands-bowls.wixsite.com/greenlandsbowlsclub

In the Enterprise Division the Apollos entertained Greenland’s Maples at La Siesta and started the year off nicely by getting the upper hand on four of the rinks winning 10-4 (Shots 109-95). Job well done by all the team especially the rink winners; Dave Davies, Norman Adcroft & George Richardson (25-8). Brian Harman, Dawn & John Taylor (21-12). Pat Harman, Brian Gardiner & Jean Cooper (28-13). Pat Malden, Jim Hudson & Mike Edwards (16-15).

The Pioneers (Voyager Division) started the second half of the season by traveling to play the Flamingos at Country Bowls hoping to achieve as many points as possible from a team which is presently top of the League, but found the home side to be too strong on four of the rinks which they won quite comfortably and that is reflected by the shot difference (Shots 83-129) losing 4-10. Rinks won by; Sheila Millward, Irene & Dave Laverick (17-14). Ken Stringfellow, Pat Moore & Sue Jordan (23-16).

In the Winter League La Siesta had an early morning start to play the League leaders Javea at their home ground. La Siesta knew if they were to gain a win the team would have to be at the top of their game, but the game ended 2-10 (54-119) having won on only one rink finding the home side had dominated the other four rinks to win the game. The winning team being; Pat Reilly, Ann Edgerton, Jim Hudson & Alan Mawer (22-15). After a long journey it was a tiring day for the whole team but managed to bring back 2 points.

Interested in joining this friendly club, contact Jim or Lyn on 690 190 523 or pop in and talk to the President (George) or Club Captain (Sue).

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Vistabella Bowls by MonteStan Happy New Year to everyone ! The Vistabella bowlers, I think, are still suffering from the effects of Christmas and the New Year celebrations as the results for Monday’s matches were a bit disappointing.

Southern league Discovery division : Vistabella Drivers were away to Quesada Diamonds and took a beating 2 – 12 with 90 shots for and 116 against while the Eagles in the Voyager division fairing slightly better were beaten at home to Monte Mar Torreadores 4 – 10 with shots 97-117 against.

The celebration hangovers were not apparent with Vistabella in the Winter league at home on Wednesday against El Cid they got a good result of 9 – 3 and a good shots difference of 100 to 68.

Sponsors Laguna Tavern Entre Naranjos Friday saw the Picadors away to La Manga Crusaders in the Southern league division B.

Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

All but two had never played on grass before which was reflected in the result 80 % of the team struggling to reach the jack 14 – 0 and 75 shots to 147 a bad day out.

The Conquistadores division C took a pounding also at home to Quesada Swans 2 – 12 with 86 shots to 118 against. Definitely a week to forget.

But all matches reported a good social attitude, it’s the enjoyment that counts.

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

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

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

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

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Country Bowls Club with Dennis Wade, John Mallet & Den Birkett The first match of 2020 was between the Flamingos and La Siesta’s Pioneers.

The morning started off a bit brisk but soon heated up and a glorious day was had by all.

A great atmosphere and a friendly match resulted in the Flamingos coming out on top.

Captain Dennis Wade and vice captain Alan Miller are very proud of their squad.

The score was 10 – 4 with the points 118 – 83.

Good job Flamingos.

The first game after the winter break at home for the Cubs started with brilliant sunshine and the chance to take on the top of the league team.

What a great result in the end, with the Cubs streaking away in the first half, only for La Marina Seagulls to show their skills in the second half.

Happily for the Cubs, they held out for a 12-2 win with 109 shot to 72.

Well done to all of you including the substitutes, a fantastic team coming together with a great result.

And last but not least, the Geckos.

Nobody with any sense goes to Emerald Isle

La Marina Bowls Club

by Barry Latham Vistabella players found it difficult to adjust to the grass at La Manga

San Luis Bowls Club

By Sheila Cammack The weather has warmed up during the day making it pleasant for bowling as the second half of the league season begins in earnest. South Alicante League, Monday 13th SL Klingons v SL Trekkers, a hard fought match but a good result for the Klingons; points 12-2, 137 shots78. Winners: Helen Hammond, Pam Lockett, Scott Malden 28-8, Kevin McKenna, June & Keith Jones 29-9, Margaret Morrison, Keith Phillips, Neil Morrison 20-16, Bill Webb, Drew Russell, Peter McEneany 22-14, Dave Blackie, Ray Clarke, Ian Kenyon 26-16. Trekkers winners: Joe Kocsis, Ralph Jones, Lyndon Johnson 15-12. SL Galaxies, home v El Rancho Raiders, useful points 4-10, 89 shots-96. Winners: Val Lever, Chris Lythe, Margaret Clarke 25-7, Chris Phillips, Cas Blay, Dave Tilley 26-11.

WINTER LEAGUE Wednesday 15th, away v Benitachell, some tight matches and good fightbacks; shots were close 85-76 but a great result 10-2. Winners: Ann Holland, Bill Webb, Pam Lockett, Scott Malden 16-14, Drew Russell, Sheila Cammack, June & Keith Jones 19-16, Shirley Verity, Ray Clarke, Jo & Jules Pering

Carp-R-Us Fishing Carp-R-Us fished the Rio Segura at Bigastro for Round Seven of the Winter Series. On a beautifully warm winters day 13 members fished but unfortunately only just over half caught fish. Running out winner with 9.48kg was Tom Marshall on peg 13 with Roy Dainty not too far behind with 8.58kg from peg 9.

Third was Terry Screen with 3.05kg and fourth Steve Collins with 2.88kg. The club would like to thank the members of the Lime

22-17, Jan Pocock, Keith Phillips, Irene Mangan, Peter McEneany 16-14. Ian’s team & our Berleen team put up a good fight but just got pipped.

Southern League, Friday 17th SL Lions v SL Tigers another close fought game with a few twists and turns in the last few ends but the Lions came out on top; 10-4, 113 shots- 94.

Lions winners: Margaret Morrison, Pam Lockett, Neil Morrison 19-13, Giuseppe Galelli, Peter McEneany, Brian Pocock 20-18, Kath Reid, Sheila Cammack, Ian Kenyon 23-9, Helen Hammond, Keith Phillips, Scott Malden 17-14.

Tigers winners: Shirley Verity, Jo & Jules Pering 20-15, Mags Haines, Les Bedford, Bob Bromley 20-19. SL Jaguars away v El Rancho Broncos had a tough day at the office, a couple of close games but unfortunately they lost 0-14, 71-147.

We are a competitive but friendly club; you’re welcome to join in “Vic’s Hamper” 10:00/10:30 on Saturday mornings (check chalkboard outside the office & club calendar).

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

Here we go second half of the season. It didn´t start too well on Monday. The Pathfinders failed to find their way at El Rancho playing the Pintos as they lost 10 – 4 which leaves them in the bottom half of the Discovery Div. We had two winners, one won by one, that was Garth Slater, Geoff Halfhyde and Paul Tregoing and the other stars were Reg Jackson (from Lead to Skip), Norman Ship and Lorita Rae who won 16 – 13.

In the Enterprise Div the Explorers failed to shoot down the Vistabella Albatrosses and lost 9 – 5. Don Fowkes, Carol Smith and Hilary Cronk had a good draw 15 all. The Joker, Alex Whyte, Mike Smith and the Anne Stone had a 19 – 16 victory. The Captain Tom Spencer showed the way with a 25 – 17 win with great help from

Quesada Bowls Club

By Suzi Cooper Monday 13th was started start of the second part of the South Alicante League.

The Pearls were away to the strong side Emerald Isle Titans. Winning 2 of the trips & drawing 1 they also picked up the overall shots for 7-7.

Winning trips were George Carnell, Peter Farrell & Trevor Voisey 30-11, Terry Morgan, Colin Highland & Barry Armstrong 22-12, while Mel Highland, Mark France & Jason Prokopowycz had the honourable draw.

Anyone interested in joining the club should contact Steve Fell on 634379081 or through the website. The club fishes matches on a variety of venues in the Costa Blanca and Murcia regions and also organises the occasional social event. Anglers of all abilities are welcome.

At home the Diamonds were hosting Vistabella Drivers but on this occasion the Diamonds shone brighter picking up 12-2. Winning trips were Allen Bowen, Di Riley, Joe Brinton 32-13, Hazel Frost, Stella Jakeman & Tony Lale 18-14, John Cleal, Tina Brinton & Jim Donnelly 18-12, Doug Beattie, Peter Rees & Fay Beattie 20-13, Harry Johnston, Peter Bradbury & Jacqui Johnston 18-16.

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

On Wednesday the Winter League team travelled to Bonalba, picking up 3 points. 2 of the losing rinks lost by just 4 shots and the other by 2. Our winning rink, Brian Trinder, Di Riley, Colin

Bar Fishing Club who have worked hard to restore the pegs on this stretch after they were damaged by the floods in September.

19

expecting to have an easy game.

They are an excellent club with experienced and very capable bowlers in all of their teams.

Country Bowls Geckos visited the Isle today with the respect that is due to the Isle but also with the supreme confidence that their performance this season has given them.

Each game started slowly as the Geckos felt their way forward on the away green and scores were up and down for the first few ends.

The Geckos soon found the feel for the green and started to make inroads against some very strong opposition.

Emerald fought to the end but to no avail, the Geckos got the bit between their teeth and drove forward for the kill on all but one rink, which only went down at the very end by one shot.

So a well deserved and fantastic result winning 12-2 and 118 shots to 70 to the Geckoes. This increased their lead at the top of the division to 6 points and 72 shots.

Well done Geckos marching from strength to strength.

All in all, a very good week for Country Bowls.

Well done to all the teams.

For more information please visit www.countrybowlsmurcia.com Jean Fowkes and Steve Douglas. They also are in the wrong end of the table. Our Winter League travelled to Monte Mar and won 7 – 5 and still went to the bottom of the league. Funny old game. There was a great comradery in the team which is good. Must be strong in keeping the rest of the teams up. So well done to John Rae, Dave Taylor, Norman Ship and Mo Taylor who drew 18 – 18. Shirley Hadaway, Phill Pape, Mike Smith and the Anne Stone won 18 – 13.

Not to be outdone hubby Dave Hadaway plus Carol Smith, Mike Fitzgerald and Maureen Kidd (Happy Birthday) had a great win 26 – 9. And so it goes on with another resounding loss in Southern League Div A with this time the Sharks at home to EI Caverliers losing 12 – 2 but a lot of us had a lovely meal afterwards at Mel´s Kitchen. One winning rink by one shot was Don Fowkes, Phill Pape and Hilary Cronk. Well done you three. No other reports received.

Highland & Paul Parkes won by 9 shots, Terry Morgan, Sandra Heath, George Skinner & Peter Morgan got the honourable draw. Unfortunately, we lost the overall by just 1 shot.

Friday was the start of the second half of the Southern League. The Swans were at home to Vistabella Conquistadors picking up a great 122. Winning trips were Norma Lamberton, Mike Lamberton & Peter Bradbury 19-12, Allen Bowen, Chris Bowles, Fay Beattie 29-9, Ken Goardon, Tony Goddard & Joe Brinton 15-14, Jhn Cleal, Stella Jakeman, Tony Lale 19-13, David Gould, Jim Donnelly, Joe Riley 20-18.

The Swallows had the long trip down to Mazarron to play their Miners, only returning with 4 points from winning trips – Chris Brazier, Graham Phillips & Jason Prokopowycz 24-20, Cathy Skinner, Mark France & Sandra Heath 2411.

Quesada will be holding an Open Super 3 Singles competition on 2nd April. Just 1 day, but a different format. Prize money for semi finalists, finalist & winner and just a 5€ entry fee. If you would like an entry contact Suzi Cooper on 627 054 511 or by email to suzi.cooper57@gmail.com.

20

Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

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Eyre completed the match, 121, 135 and a D20 second leg victory over Rouffignac, was the Hubs consolation. Compliments to the Pirates result sheet recorder who detailed numbers perfectly and legibly. MOTM were Cross and Taylor.

The hellraising Hub girls just failed to get into the points this week in a close encounter with the Panthers. At five each the match looked poised for at least a draw, Lesley Dolling recording 100 and a 95 in the penultimate leg against the formidable Gilly Kirby. lt was however Kirby finding D4 first to take the eleventh. David Minto requiring 40 hit D1 with his first arrow and D19 with the second to take the twelth match and points.

MATCH RESULTS WEEK 13 FOR 16 JANUARY Division 1 Trinity Pirates Ale House Lads Hi Life Legends Tipsy Toad Tiaras Division 2 Hub Hellraisers Milos Pint Depot Jesters Chemies Chicks

7-5 5-7 3-9 2-10

Hub Hyenas Las Rosas Bullies El Capitan Chemies Loungers

5-7 P-P P -P 1-11

Trinity Panthers Hi Life Hi Ho Ale House Chicks C.C.S Flyers

The Electrical Shop : Blue Lagoon To celebrate our Ten Year Anniversary We are raffling a 50� JVC 4k Smart TV Tickets: 10euro a strip. Pop into shop or call 966 188 170 On Sale Now, Draw on Friday 6th March 2020

180 - Nigel Justice Division 1 El Capitan Hub Hyenas Las Rosas Bullies Tipsy Toad Toppers Trinity Pirates Hi Life Legends Ale House Lads Chemies Loungers Tipsy Toad Tiaras Division 2 C.C.'S Flyers Hi Life Hi Ho Milos Bar Pint Depot Jesters Trinity Panthers Chemies Chicks Hub Hellraisers Ale House Chicks Pint Depot Queens

P

F

A

Pts

12 12 11 11 12 12 12 12 11

111 89 72 71 68 61 66 58 28

33 55 60 61 76 71 78 86 104

23 18 15 11 11 9 8 8 1

27 42 42 54 77 85 80 91 93

22 17 15 12 12 9 6 4 3

11 11 11 10 12 12 11 11 11

105 90 88 66 67 54 52 35 39

El Capitan continue their unbeaten run with a straightforward victory over the Legends. The Hi Life boys found their feet after the break with three consecutive singles wins, but the damage had already been done, the league leaders 6-0 up at the interval.

Nigel Justice found his usual form early on with 140, 100 and the first double on tops for the first. Shane Denness made it 2 on D12, following a ton from Ed Klimonis. Denness, Justice and Klimonis were the chosen three in the third. Justice completed the 701 on D20 after throwing a maximum and a ton.

Legends ton scorers were Roger Phipps and John Crabbe. Vycka Bobinas made it four on a dodgy D1, Justice added a 135 to his already impressive ton tally, plus a closing D4. Geno Rouzee offered 100, partner Phipps 2x80+ not enough to prevent 0-5. lt was a tighter affair in the sixth, husband and wife duo of Sandra and John Crabbe not quite able to reduce the deficit against Denness and Ginge Lewis, the latter making it 0-6 on D7.

Lewis opened the singles, scoring 4x100 plus a 135, but unable to

take a leg, reliable John Crabbe taking both on D10 and some decent scores. Arold Klimonis went one leg better on D16 with 6x80+ and 121, opponent Barry Shingler hitting 6x80+ and a 133, setting up D4 and D16, to give the hosts their second leg. Bobinas went the same way, taking out D16, host Rouzee scoring consistently and closing on D20 and D5. A real Legend comeback.

Les Adams figured next for the hosts looking likely to make it four.

An impressive 3x100, 140 and 4x80+ scores plus D10 first leg looked ominous for visitor Denness, however a D1 to level, then an excellent scoring third leg, closing out on D8 gave the Caps their seventh leg and points.

Klimonis senior 5x100 made short work of a below par Sue Christie using D4 and D7 for the Caps eighth. Phipps gave Justice a run for his money, but the experienced former P.D.C. star 1x100, 2x140, making 8 tons for the night ( inc. a 180 ) comfortably found his way to D12 and D16 to conclude the evening. Barry Shinglar and Nigel Justice were awarded MOTM. Second placed Hub Hyenas always enjoy a close encounter and this was no exception, with the Trinity Pirates, usually coming out on top.Just! Not this time, a tremendous performance, particularly in the singles, gave the Pirates their first victory over the Hub. Joe Miller hit the required 18 points in the first, Bob Taylor did all the work with 126, 100. Paul Cripwell levelled on D11. Martin Hastings contributing 121. Sid Cross made it 2-1 for the hosts on D15, John Eyre recording a ton and Taylor yet again finding trebles easy to come by with 116, 140.

The Pirates extended their lead through Yvonne Rouffignac on D5, Eyre recording a 140. Two more 140's from Miller and Paul Durrant set up the latter to hit D8 for 3-2. A lone Cross ton in the sixth was the highlight in the concluding pairs, Alex Nikolov making it all square on D2.

Brian Nash put up a good show against the in form Taylor who made it seven tons for himself on the night completing the seventh match on D6, D20. Hastings made it four apiece against Hyenas skipper Simon Williams. Cripwell really found his scoring boots hitting 3x100, 125 against Durrant 3x100 and 3x90+. The Pirate going one up on D16, Durrant making it 1-1 on a 68 out.

Cripwell had the edge in the third to go ahead by one. Another ding dong followed, Cross versus Nikolov, they shared 8 tons, 5 to Cross, including a 140, Nikolov hitting D20, but Trinitys Cross closing out on D4 for the sixth and a guaranteed point. With the Pirates on a roll , it was down to Miller to save the day. 3x100 and a D19 looked good enough, but Ron Chadwick had other ideas hitting the bull to level and 2x100, 129 and a third leg D20 for a deserved victory and both points.

Earlier Sue Spiers recorded the opening double for the hosts, Alan Sullivan D9, Harvey Lane D1, taking the remaining triples for the Panthers. Spiers D13 making it two all. Lane nudged the visitors ahead with his second double of the night, D19. Gill McCarthy D3, making it all to play for after the McGlynn Michelin style bistro break.

Lane made it three winning doubles in the first of six singles, Spiers equalling the feat with her third in the eighth leg. Liz Minto enjoyed an outstanding ninth leg with 111, 114 and the vital double for a narrow one leg advantage.

The experienced Ann Taylor, the other half of Bob, needed a win to keep the Hub in the race. A couple of tons, followed by S19, S16, D8 earned her the MOTM for 5-5. The remaining two went to the visitors for the win and both points. David Minto was MOTM.

Player Spotlight DEBBIE WRIGHT Featured " Spotlight "this week is none other than our Euronics league sponsor Debbie Wright. Boss of the Blue Lagoon electrical appliance showroom, for the past ten years, Debs slings her arrows down at the Pint Depot, along with the rest of the Queens. Prior to her 16 years in Spain, the Aldershot lass spent a number of years in the United States as a nanny, before returning to the U.K. to run a succession of pubs (8 in all ) finally ending up in Alderly Edge, Cheshire. Darts apart, Debs enjoys nothing better than eating out with husband of 7 years Dave, sipping a wine with a gin and tonic chaser. Dining out is prefered as the new oven is still in it's delivery packing. The couples passion is Formula 1 racing, having attended numerous Grand Prix, including Hungary, Russia, Abu Dhabi, UK and of course Spain. Debs mobile is full of pics of her chatting with favourite driver Fernando Alonso, but more recently Carlos Sainz, whilst Dave prefers the company of Lewis Hamilton.

Musically, Debs preference is the old rocker himself Brucie Springsteen and owns up to seeing him live at least 10 times.

Close friend and fellow Queen Lorraine Cox even arranged for the rocker to share a bed with the besotted Miss Mackleston on her "Hen Night ". Alas for the entrepreneur it was a Sprinsteen masked Mannekin. Ask to see the photo. When on rare occasions she relaxes, her time is spent doing " Jig Saws " 100's of them and more recently " Was Gij's ". Don't ask for an explanation, make an appointment with the Queen.

Coming up this March, is the Euronics showroom 10th anniversary and to commemorate the occasion a 50 inch J.V.C. 4k tv is up for grabs. See the ad across or pop into the showroom for details.

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El Plantio2 GS Joker Competition A welcome return to frost-free golf as the conditions relented to allow a prompt start for the seven members of El Plantio 2 Golf Society taking part in a joker competition. The proceedings were dominated by club captain, David Swann, who, despite

Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

being outscored on Stableford points, managed to come good on his nominated Joker holes and also picked up both nearest the pin prizes.

Mike Probert talks Golf

Nearest the pins – Holes 1 and 6, David Swann.

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.

Massaging Handicaps

Second place, Handicap 9, Ray Housley – 37 pts.

First place, Hcap 11, David Swann – 37 pts (C/B).

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.

Photograph from L to R. Ray Housley, David Swann.

SMGS at Alenda.

Colin Arkley Trophy Forty members & one guest, gathered at Alenda, for the 2nd time in 2 months, to play for the Colin Arkley Trophy, a tournament named in honour of a much liked and respected former Captain and President who remains in the thoughts of those who knew him back when he was a very important cog in the SMGS wheel. That wheel,thanks very much to recent Presidents, Captains and committee members, continues to increase in size, with some 190 members now listed.

The course was not in the excellent condition found during the society’s last visit back in November when its quality remained from a previously held European Tour Qualifying tournament, although the greens remained slick and smooth.

The time of year may have something to do with that, with some die back of the main grasses sown.

However, it was most probably the many difficult pin positions that were the main factor behind the day’s generally poor scoring. Whilst all Gold Category winners scored more than thirty points, only 1 in Silver and 2 in Bronze managed to do so.

The Colin Arkely Trophy winner came from the latter, with Mike Jordan winning by a margin of 4 points from his nearest rival. Quite surprising given his disastrous round in the President’s trophy back in November. Barry Roehrig was another to see his fortunes change, going from the Abacus two months previously to 5 th in Gold.

(In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs)

I am firmly of the belief that all golfers started to play for enjoyment but after joining a golf club or society you are allocated a handicap and the competitive juices kick in and sometimes the original enjoyment is lost and people start massaging their handicaps in trying to WIN..

We all have examples of golfers playing like a pro for 16 holes in a weekly medal only to protect their handicaps on the closing hole’s so they avoid a handicap cut before next week’s club major competition.

We had a member of our golf society who regularly played below his handicap and when we cut his handicap he left the society claiming we were victimising him and he now plays with another society off an inflated handicap.

However, the ‘Horses for Courses’ motto did ring true for some, with Ivan Hanak once again winning the Silver Category and Paul Kelsall continuing his liking for the Par 3 third.

Prize giving was held at the famed ‘Garage’ near Catral, meaning a number of wives could join, a lot less distance to get home for several following the usual post-round merriment, and a quick sprint down the motorway for others living further south.

And somewhat cheaper beverages!!

The day’s winning results, by category and in reverse order, were the following: Colin Arkley Trophy: Mike Jordan. Bronze Category: 5th Mick Roscoe (27), 4th Neil Oliver (29), 3rd John Rose (30), 2nd Norman Padmore (31) and 1st Mike Jordan with the day’s best score of 37 points.

Silver Category: 5th Chris Wren (27), 4th Mike Kaylor (28), 3rd Rob Fyffe (30), 2nd Kyrre Skarsmoen (31 on CB) and 1st Ivan Hanak, who won this category back in November during SMGS’s last visit, also with 31 points Gold Category: 5th Barry Roehrig (31), 4th Tony Smale (32 on CB), 3rd Mark Preston (32 on CB), 2nd Darren Strugnall (33 on CB) and 1st Dave Alderdice, also with 33 points Nearest the pins (Sponsored by Property Shop): Hole 3 Paul Kelsall (again), Hole 5 Scotty Philips, Hole 13 Barry Roehrig, Hole 16 Mick Seymour Abacus: Lee Eastman. Best (and only) Guest: Rock Loveday (32) Our thanks go to all Alenda staff for an enjoyable day. Next week we will be at Vistabella. Keep up to date with all SMGS matters by logging on to our website www.smgs.org or simply give Captain Phil de Lacy a call on 966 77 4197.

I can’t believe what I am about to show you but a well-known golf periodical recently published an article showing ways in which you can legally increase your handicap and these can be summarised as follows: Play STRICTLY to the rules of golf.

Play in BAD weather.

DON’T practice.

DON’T warm up.

Use cheap clubs unsuited to your swing.

Have an alcoholic drink before playing.

Play immediately after a lesson.

Fill you head full of swing thoughts.

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21

Try to hit the ball as hard as you can.

Play the new out of bounds rule to the limit.

I don’t personally condone any of the above and believe that if you reach this point you should pack the game in BUT it just shows you how the minds of some golfer’s work.

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

Course Price Comments Alenda €134 2 Players & Buggy Alicante €84 2 Players & Buggy Altorreal €120 2 Players & Buggy Bonalba €116 2 Players & Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €114 2 Players & Buggy El Plantio €84 2 Players & Buggy Font Del Llop €92 2 Players & Buggy GNK Courses €150 2 Players & Buggy (El Valle, Riquelme & La Torre) La Finca €150 2 Players & Buggy La Manga West €75 Single Green Fee La Marquesa €37 Sgle Green Fee La Serena €47 Sgle Green Fee Las Colinas €172 2 Players & Buggy Las Ramblas €112 2 Players & Buggy Lo Romero €136 2 Players & Buggy New Sierra Golf €68 2 Players &Buggy Roda €120 2 Players & Buggy UGolf Courses €100 2 Players & Buggy (Saurines & Hac. Del Alamo) Villamartin €130 2 Players & Buggy Villaitana Poniente €57 Sgle Fee & Buggy Vistabella €98 2 Players & Buggy For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blancagreenfees.com quoting the reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

22

Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

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Ex-FC Barca handball coach-Euro Cups winner Xesco Espar FFCV speaker SPORTS coach Xesco Espar will be the speaker at the XLIII edition of the Football Coaching Day, organised by the Technical Committee of Coaches of the FFCV. Espar, former coach of FC Barcelona Handball team and winner of four European Cups, will give a presentation entitled 'Planning and leadership: Mental and emotional control of the team'.

After the presentation, the Technical Coaches Committee will distribute the awards to the coaches, relating to the 2018-2019 season.

The Federació Valenciana de Fútbol is the Football Association that has organised football competitions in the Valencian Community, since 1909.

Places to attend the Espar conference are limited, until the capacity is completed, and registrations must be made via the website: www.ffcv.es

Lady Buttons has been entered to run at the Cheltenham Festival in March - in both the G1 Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase on March 11, over 2m; and Festival Mares Hurdle over 2m 4f, on March 10.

"She's an absolute star. The Silver Vase was a hot race - her best performance," said Philip, who has pencilled in Lady Buttons to run in the Opera Hat Mares' Chase at Naas, on February 8.

Stablemate, Top Ville Ben has been entered in the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup - on the back of winning the Rowland Meyrick Chase at Wetherby over 3m on Boxing day.

Ev erton and R oma among clubs inter ested in Elche midfielder

Advanced Information:On Tuesday 25th February the Ladies Pairs will be held at the New Tavern, in San Miguel. Therefore, please email your team’s names to the Coordinator by the 12th February latest. Registration will be at 19.30h on the night, and the Raffle is being organised by the Friendly’s Temps and Chicas.

Founders Shield Format - 14 January Wildcats at Macklin’s 4 - 6 Black Dog Ladies 4-6

Friendly’s Chicas Macklin’s D Mixt

Friendly's Temps Racing Toast

8-2 3-7

Lady Buttons has been well wrapped up during the cold winter nights Top Ville Ben has an entry in the Sky Bet Chase at Cheltenham, along with the Cotswold Chase and the Denman at Kempton. " 'Ben' has to back up the Wetherby success. He's going the right way - it's all coming together," said Philip, from Green Oaks Farm stables, Richmond, North Yorkshire.

"He will run, in either the Cotswold Chase or the Denman. If he holds his own, he’ll probably go and take his chance in the Gold Cup. "Failing that, we might have a Aintree Grand National horse for next year in Top Ville Ben," said Philip.

Courtyard A edge 5-4 win against Sackos By Andrew Atkinson

It is thought at this stage that Everton are still to make a firm offer

The Courtyard A, Los Montesinos, chalked up a narrow 5-4 win against Sackos in division two of the Torrevieja winter pool league. "It was a tough match, one in which all the frames could have gone either way," said Graeme Jolly from The Courtyard A. Vista came away with a 6-3 win at Brittania B, Iglesias B gained a comfortable 7-2 win against Pedro Negro, Terreza returned an emphatic 8-1 win at home against The George. Mi Sol (bye).

In division one, Fire Station Green Watch, went down to a 6-3 home defeat against Brittania A, Murphs suffered a 7-2 home loss against Casa Ventura, Santana A went down 6-3 at home against Iglesias A. Dubliners v Fire Station Green Watch (p) Sports Bar ( bye).

In division three The Oasis gained a 5-4 win at neighbours The Courtyard B, in a Los Montesinos derby fixture; JPs chalked up a 5-4 return at home against Mickys Bar, Marina Bar suffered a 7-2 loss against visitors Santana B. Porterhouse v RT2 (p). Irish Abbey (bye).

Everton are one of a number of clubs that has registered an interest in Elche 21 year old midfielder Gonzalo Villar. Others are said to be Roma, Atalanta and Juventus The youngster, who hails from Murcia, began his career in Elche’s youth system. He progressed to Illicitano, the Elche B team before moving to Valencia’s B side. Two seasons ago he moved back to Elche since which time he has eased his way into the first team having now made 20 appearances in the side in central midfield from which he has scored 0ne goal.

However with less than 18 months of his contract still to run Elche must now be considering about either renewing his contract or moving him on to another club for a fee.

The Spanish press reports that AS Roma have already submitted an offer.

That’s thought to be for around €3m, but Elche have a problem because of a ‘sell on clause’… Valencia are due 80% of any future sale price. They also have the right of first refusal.

It is thought at this stage that Everton are still to make a firm offer but with Elche unlikely to pick up very much more that 600k from any move, and hoping to push up the table from their 7th league position, it is hardly in their interest to let the youngster go unless the fee is substantially higher.

Torrevieja Darts Ladies Org

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Lady Buttons has been well wrapped up and under heat therapy lights during the cold winter nights at Philip Kirby racing stables.

Lady Buttons' battling display saw her gain a memorable win in the Listed Yorkshire Silver Vase Mares' Chase, ahead ot BetVictor Gold Cup winner Happy Diva and Grade 1 winner La Bague Au Roi.

Ex-FC Barca handball coach-Xesco Espar

637 227 385

The heat is on for 'Lady' ahead of Cheltenham Festival

"We will make a decision nearer the time," said Philip, whose stable star Lady Buttons won the Listed Mares' chase at Doncaster on December 29.

The Coaching Day will be held on January 24 at the Fundació Bancaixa de València Cultural Centre.

In his first season as coach of Barcelona’s Handball team, Espar won the European Cup, and went on to win the Spanish League, the Spanish Super Cup and the Spanish Cup.

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Primadonnas Gap Ladies

Highest Checkouts: Kath Morgan 102, Pam Horton 98, Lorraine Veale 98, Denise Groves 96, Sharon O’Rourke 72. 180’s Gail Murray.

171’s: Eileen Rood x2. Least Darts: Beaty Powell 17 Darts. Bull Finishes: Chris Greenwood and Sally Wright Hot Darts: Pat Schofield 140 + 100, Caroline Shepherd 133 + 127 + 125, Cynthia Jevons 133 + 116, Claire Greenwood 133 + 102 +100, Pat Wood 125 + 100. Jenny Benfield 105 + 102, Maz

Jackson 127. Sharon O'Rourke 122, Lorraine Veale 118, Denise Groves 115, Sue Casey 111, Tracey Simpson 110, Diane Burns 100x2, Mitch Halliday 100, Cath Walker, Sue Wade, Gail Murray LEAGUE TABLE Friendly's Temps Macklins Dolly Mixtures Gap Ladies Friendlys Chicas Racing Toast Black Dog Ladies Wildcats at Macklins Primadonnas

P 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

Prs 16 15 15 13 9 8 5 4

Sgle 4 5 5 7 11 12 15 16

Pts 16 15 15 13 9 8 5 4

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Monday 20th - Sunday 26th January, 2020

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23

Albatera 'A' take maximum points at Algorfa

By Andrew Atkinson Chief Sports Editor

CF Sporting Albatera 'A' push for promotion continues

CF Sporting Albatera 'A' gained an important 4-0 victory away at CF Atletico Algorfa on Saturday in the Valencia 2nd Regional - to go second in the table - as they push for promotion.

Kanales, A. Narva and A. Gomez got amongst the goals at the Polideportivo Municipal Juan Carlos, Algorfa, against seventh placed CF Atletico Algorfa in G14.

Bigastro CF got the upper hand against CD Dolores in a five goal thriller, gaining a 3-2 away win. Torrevieja CF maintained a top six place, with a 2-0 win at UD Horadada 'B'.

In the 1st Regional G8 second placed UDF Sax took a point away at sixth place CD Cox, in a 3-3 six-goal encounter.

CF Popular Orihuela, fourth bottom, ground out a point in a 1-1 draw at home against fifth place CF Esp. li-Ici. Callosa Deportivo CF, fourth bottom, held third place Hondon Nieves, to take a point in a goalless draw. In a

Pre-Season Cricket Camps get into Full Swing at La Manga La Manga Club will be the focus of English cricket in March when Warwickshire, Gloucestershire and Glamorgan head to the iconic Spanish sports resort for warm-weather training camps ahead of the start of the 2020 season.

The three counties will swap the British winter for Murcia sunshine as they use the resort’s European Cricket Performance Centre to continue their preparations for the opening round of Specsavers County Championship matches, which

begin on Sunday, April 12.

Organised in conjunction with sports travel specialists Sporta Group, the counties will not only have the chance to put their players through their paces at La Manga Club but also gain valuable match practice against firstclass opposition at the resort’s two cricket grounds – the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Oval and the Gregory Peters Oval.

Warwickshire will be the first side to visit in March, holding a four-day bowling camp before the rest of the first-team squad

arrive at La Manga Club for 11 days’ warm-weather training on March 10.

Gloucestershire, who held a preseason camp at the sports complex last spring, will head back to the resort on March 18 with Glamorgan, who also visited in 2019, returning to La Manga Club for more warm-weather training a day later.

La Manga Club’s European Cricket Performance Centre is the only one of its kind and has been designed to help international teams, counties, clubs,

SUDUKO SOLUTION

schools, colleges and academies, as well as assisting with the development of players and coaches.

Extensive facilities include six first-class grass pitches, plus 23 grass and five artificial net lanes – all with 25-yard runups – a specialist grass fielding, catching and wicket-keeping areas.

Matthew Jackson, Sporta Group’s managing director, said: “The spring weather in southern Spain, coupled with the close proximity to the UK, makes La Manga Club a very popular destination for professional and club teams for preseason preparation.

Having arranged cricket tours and camps around the world we have been very impressed by the professionalism and flexibility offered by our partners at La Manga Club.”

La Manga Club is regarded as ‘the home of cricket’ in Spain and will also have the honour of hosting the second edition of the European Cricket League (ECL20) this spring when the T10 event returns to the resort from May 31 to June 7.

1. The human body. From the film Fantastic Voyage. 2.

Amadeus (Mozart) 3. It was a 6 wheel Formula 1 race car. 4. a.

Die Hard. b. The Spy Who

Loved Me. c. Marathon Man. d.

Schindlers List. 5. 15 X higher.

6. Paris. 7. The Eurovision Song Contest. 8. Baltic Sea. 9.

Mussels. 10. Blue. 11. Tunis.

12. Bucks Fizz. 13. Their Height (The worlds tallest people). 14.

The Grapes of Wrath. 15. Lafite.

bottom of the table clash, second bottom Monovar CF and third bottom Alguena CF, drew 0-0.

Meanwhile on Sunday local football was decimated by high winds with many of the fixtures scheduled to be played in the afternoon postponed - due to the impending storms expected to hit the Valencia region.

"The fixtures are suspended, due to the temporary storms forecast, in the Federation of Soccer of the Valencian Community," a spokesperson told The Leader.

The FFCV spokesperson said they had closely followed the development of the storm - and decided to suspend fixtures, due to the worsening of the predictions made by the State Meteorology Agency.

Racing San Miguel, who play in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8 had their fixture against REFC Torrevieja postponed, scheduled for Sunday afternoon as did CD Altet, Atletico De Catral, CF Rafal, CF Castalla, Santa Pola CF and Sporting De San Fulgencio.

The CD Thader game in Preferente against top of the table Rayo Ibense was also called off along with fixtures at Ind Alicante and Villajoyosa

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