The Leader Newspaper Edition 810

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U RG E N T ACT I O N P LAN FOR S MALL B U S I N E SS E S

n an attempt to counter the terrible consequences of the Corona virus pandemic, in addition to the measures adopted by the central and regional governments, many municipali-

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ties are implementing policies to help the small businesses which are the backbone of the economy and have suffered serious and direct consequences of the crisis.

The Orihuela local government have announced some important and necessary social measures. Now is the time for our municipality to follow the example of many local governments in Spain and to adopt an urgent action plan to help

small businesses, in particular those in Orihuela Costa which have been closed or seriously affected by the confinement policy.

Continued on Page 2

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Plan for small businesses ADVERTISING SALES

637 227 385 sales@theleader.info PROPERTY

637 227 385 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info Journalists 600 228 616 office@theleader.info The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.

The Orihuela government should urgently mobilise resources to finance urgent measures. These should include:

There should be an emergency fund to finance actions to assist small businesses to pay continuing expenses such as electricity, water, telephone and internet.

There should be subsidies to help pay the municipal rates and vehicle taxes. Some municipalities have offered subsidies equal to 25% of these taxes.

The local tax for street cleaning and rubbish removal should be suspended for small businesses or at least adjusted to reflect the reduction in the services actually carried out The local tax on the occupation of terraces should

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devoted to small businesses, less than half of the budget for fiestas, many of which will obviously not take place this year. In a crisis expenditure should be diverted to essential activities.

We estimate that in Orihuela Costa there are some 750 small businesses, mainly bars and restaurants.

They represent thousands of owners, workers and families. They need urgent help to supplement the actions of the national and regional governments.

Approval of a new municipal budget with a marked accent on social and economic actions. It is incredible, no doubt because of differences between the PP and Ciudadanos coalition partners, that Orihuela still functions on the 2018 budget renewed annually since then. This budget is patently incapable of taking into account the radically changed circumstances of today.

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PRESS RELEASE also be suspended.

C.L.A.R.O. firmly believes that we need our small businesses to survive the crisis and resume their activities as soon as possible. We urge the Mayor and the governing coalition to adopt an urgent action plan to introduce these proposed measures and no doubt others which will help save our small businesses and the families which depend on them. They are essential to our way of life and the health of the local economy.

Hidragua, the municipal water company, should expand its social subsidies to compensate the small businesses and families affected by the crisis.

The operating licences for new businesses should be suspended to encourage economic revival once the crisis is over.

Town Hall offices both in Orihuela and Playa Flamenca should be equipped with a service to provide all information relating to aid at national, regional and local levels available to individuals and businesses to confront the crisis, including these new measures C.L.A.R.O. believes these proposals are necessary and affordable. The table featured belowshows the small percentage of the current Orihuela budget

Looking forward to seeing you all again once the ‘lockdown’ is lifted.

Keep safe!

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Deaths rise again on Easter Sunday although number of new cases fall fter three days of declines, deaths from coronavirus in Spain have once again increased.

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There have been 619 more deaths recorded in the last 24 hours, bringing the total deaths to 16,972. Daily infections have also increased to 166,019 although with 4,167 new cases the figure shows a reduction of almost 800 from the previous day.

The Community records 263 new cases of coronavirus and 20 more deaths on Easter Sunday The discharge of patients continues to increase, with 335 more than yesterday (2,624 in total).

Since the pandemic began, there are now 8,841 positive cases, with 1,447 people admitted to hospitals across the Community, 320 of them in the ICU Valencia has registered 263 new cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours, 20 deaths and 335 patient discharges since the last update on Saturday. Easter Sunday, record the number of infections at 8,841 (1,476 of them health workers), with 838 deaths and 2,624 discharges .

The figures were released this Sunday by the Conselleria de Sanidad Universal, in her daily statement to the press.

The data issued this Sunday shows 263 new positive cases have been

detected, bringing the total number to 8,841, of which 1,447 are in hospital and 320 of them in ICU .

Of the 263 new positive cases, 35 are in the province of Castellón, 140 in Alicante and 88 in Valencia. Thus, of the 8,841 total positive cases, 1,089 are in the province of Castellón (232 hospitalized, 41 of them in the ICU), 3,133 in Alicante (420 hospitalized and 121 of them in the ICU), and 4,614 in Valencia province (795 hospitalized and 158 of them in the ICU). In addition, there are five cases that have not yet been assigned.

The number of Healthcare professionals who have tested positive in total is 1,476: 182 in the province of Castellón, 591 in Alicante and 703 in the province of Valencia. 385 people have already been discharged.

Until this Sunday, there have been a total of 838 deaths in the Valencian Community, 20 more than those confirmed on Saturday : 103 in the province of Castellón, 331 in Alicante and 404 in Valencia.

There have been a total of 2,624 discharges, 335 more since Saturday's update: 246 in the province of Castellón, 990 in the province of Alicante and 1,388 in the province of Valencia.

In nursing homes, there are currently positive cases in 101 centres (14 in the province of Castellón, 24 in the province of Alicante and 63 in the province of Valencia). 1,138 residents and 267 workers have tested positive.

Additionally, 259 residents have died.

A total of 18 residences of the Community are under active surveillance of the Ministry of Health: four in the province of Castellón, five in Alicante and nine in Valencia.

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e look forward to seeing our loyal customers once again just as soon as the government restrictions imposed because of COVID-19 have been removed.

Until then, please keep safe Paul and Dawn

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Madrileño arrested for threatening to spread coronavirus in Torrevieja The Civil Guard has arrested a 62-year-old man for filming a video that was uploaded to social media in which he said that "four thousand residents of Madrid" were moving to Torrevieja to spread the coronavirus.

The man claims to have just arrived in Torrevieja from Madrid managing to bypass the restrictions of the state of alarm and that, despite being infected with Covid-19, he has arrived especially to spread the coronavirus in the city over Easter holidays.

The detainee is, indeed, a Madrilenian, but it seems that he has been a resident in Torrevieja since last January, coming into the town well before the state of alarm was introduced on March 13.

Following his arrest, officers said that he only claimed to be joking and that he is sorry, although he has still been charged with a hate crime.

However health sources have said that the 61-year-old detainee suffered frequent attacks of schizophrenia, so it is believed that

Orihuela offers 36 empty houses in Villamartin for people asymptomatic with Covid19

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th April, 2020

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he recorded video whilst suffering one of the attacks.

637 227 385 The 61-year-old is said to suffer frequent attacks of schizophrenia

In the video, which quickly spread on social networks (although it has now been erased), the detainee is sitting on a sofa, stating that he had just arrived in Torrevieja together with another "4,000 people from Madrid" to spread the coronavirus pandemic.

He insults, and is very disparaging, to the people of Torrevieja, something which has generated great annoyance in the city and fear among its residents, who have asked that the perpetrator be identified.

Among the statements made in the video, which is about 40 seconds long, he claims that recent arrivals have devastated the stocks of a supermarket next door to the central bus station, in order that the people of Torrevieja would starve.

On social networks, there was a great deal of outrage at his comments which saw the identification of his home, as well as aggressive responses at the individual himself and against the possible movements into the area by people from other municipalities.

Since the detainee claimed in his video to be infected with Covid-19, he has been arrested and is undergoing medical tests to confirm or deny this claim. He is currently being held by the Torrevieja Civil Guard.

Wh i c h n o n - e s s e n t i a l s e r v i c e wo r k e r s c a n re t u r n t o wo r k o n M o n d ay ?

The properties are understood to be at Calle Otela, Pau 8, Villamartin

This Monday, many employees in the non-essential services sectors, whose activities were suspended by the government as part of the measures of lockdown, will be allowed to venture back into their places of employment, although the Ministry of Health has asked for extreme precautions calling for the continuation of social distancing After a two week interval, those workers considered non-essential may now return to their activities, as the Government reactivates those tasks that cannot be carried out by teleworking.

JOSÉ AIX, THE DEPUTY MAYOR OF ORIHUELA, held a video conference with Mamen Peris, the Ciudadanos deputy in Las Cortes Valencianas this morning, to consider some of the measures that can be carried out by the different Administrations as an effective response to the COVID-19 crisis.

One of the main items discussed was the request from the Prime Minister at the weekend to the autonomous communities for a list of accommodation in which the can isolate those people who are asymptomatic with coronavirus.

Aix said that "the Generalitat has a block of thirty-six homes located in Villamartin, Orihuela Costa, understood to be at Calle Otela, Pau 8, where this type of individual could be housed with the maximum medical guarantees. They could also be used by medical personnel, who currently shoulder a higher risk than the rest of the population”.

He said that these apartments are in a strategic location.

Peris, who is also the spokesperson for Ciudadanos in the Infrastructure and Housing Commission, will make the offer at the meeting of the commission scheduled for today and will also request, from Minister Martínez Dalmau, precise information on the number of autonomously owned homes, the distribution by municipalities and their current status.

"These homes can be part of the solution to the request made by the Central Government, especially in those municipalities that lack adequate public facilities and where there are not enough hotel beds.

In addition, using this resource available to the General Directorate of Housing Emergency, we are avoiding the mobility of carriers and, therefore, the risk of new infections, "the deputy added.

For the most part the relaxation will be in the industrial and construction sectors, with more than four million people expected to return to work.

Some non-public facing services that were closed on March 30, such as gestorías, management companies that deal with bureaucratic paperwork and tax returns for their clients, will also reopen.

Thus, workers in the industrial and construction sectors, which encompass more than four million people, will have to return to their jobs.

However the Minister of Finance and government spokesperson, María Jesús Montero , has said that, despite the fact that many nonessential service workers may be returning to work, confinement will continue to be "fully effective" for the remainder.

Keep safe and we will see you all again when we have beaten the virus. At the moment we are closed until the end of April

As such you will only be able to go out onto the streets to go to work, in the event you cannot carry out teleworking, to buy food, to the pharmacy, to tobacconists or to newsagents.

The Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has announced that the Government will distribute ten million masks during the next week as a complementary security measure for those people who will be returning to work.

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Torrevieja health area registers 34 deaths and 298 cases of coronavirus since the crisis began The incidence of the pandemic is much less pronounced in the interior of the Vega Baja with 8 deaths and 97 positives in the department of Orihuela.

The Generalitat Valenciana has launched an updated service which now provides coronavirus data in each health area of ??the Valencian Community. It shows that the region covered by the Torrevieja Department of Health, with a population of 186,000 people, on Friday evening, had recorded 34 deaths and 297 positive cases The website launched by the community shares graphs, global data and the mortality rate with a information mirrored on that created by John Hopkins University in the United States.

The number of cases and deaths on the Vega Baja coast is much higher than in the interior. The Orihuela health department has recorded 8 deaths in the Vega Baja Hospital in Orihuela (San Bartolomé) and 97 positive cases..

The department of Orihuela, with a population of 168,000, covers Orihuela city and its districts -with the exception of Torremendo, Entrenaranjos and Orihuela Costa, Callosa de Segura, Bigastro, Almoradí, Albatera, Daya Nueva, Daya Vieja, Redován, Cox, Granja de Rocamora, Rafal, Jacarilla, Dolores, Algorfa, Catral and Benferri.

At least eight patients are still in the ICU and more than twenty are being cared for in the Vega Baja Hospital.

The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, revealed on Friday that 19 people had died in the city from coronavirus since the health crisis began, almost a month ago, and there hadbeen 219 confirmed infections in the municipality. That was the first official data on deaths and cases in Torrevieja that had been provided since the start of the outbreak.

Residents who have lost their lives to the disease are between 70 and 84 years of age, according to the first mayor.

"Yesterday there were less than 50 people on the ward, emergency room and ICU", at the University Hospital of Torrevieja, "according to the mayor, who made public the data through a video on social media."

Hospital patients have been back in "individual rooms for quite a few days", after, during the peak, the hospital had to resort, for the first time in its history, to doubling some of the patients up.

Municipal sources have said that most of the infections are concentrated in the city, more than 70% of the total. This could be explained, however, by the fact that all of the patients without a health card in the municipalities supported by the hospital are attributed to Torrevieja, and there are a considerable number of patients displaced from other communities who are not registered.

Among the cases recorded are those that have been confirmed in the care homes in Torrevieja, however the lack of information remains very marked. Neither the Department of Equality, which manages public residences, nor Health, have provided the number of cases in each centre. We do know, however, that there are several positives in the private care home Santo Hospital Inmaculada (80 residents) and at least one in the public care home of the Third Age (170 residents).

The Torrevieja health authority currently supports Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Pilar de la Horadada, Guardamar del Segura, Rojales, San Miguel de Salinas, San Fulgencio, Los Montesinos, Formentera del Segura and Benijófar which the Generalitat puts at a population of 186,000 people.

Just a few weeks ago the health department, managed by Ribera Salud, said that the number of health cards that had been issued amounted to about160,000, a substantial difference in data, especially when calculating death rates and positive cases with respect to the total population.

The mayor of Guardamar, José Luis Sáez, said yesterday that there were 95 residents in the town who were isolating at home with the assistance of the health centres throughout the department.

The Mayor of Torrevieja has given his condolences to the families of the deceased. He also wanted to thank the work of the officials of the Department of Social Services of the City Council.

In the province of Alicante 310 people have died from the infection since the outbreak began. The number of deceased in Torrevieja represents 6% of the total.

We look forward to seeing all of our loyal customers again, once the state of alarm and restrictions put in place by the authorities, due to the coronavirus, are lifted.

In the meantime keep safe and healthy..

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JOIN DUCATI : Winner to receive Hypermotard 950 with special livery Over 155,000 Ducatisti involved confirming the strong sense of belonging to the brand

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winner was drawn from all participants, to whom a Hypermotard 950 with special livery will be delivered

Other similar initiatives that will involve Ducati motorcycle owners enrolled in the 'My Ducati' program scheduled for the coming months The 'Join Ducati' contest has come to an end. To participate to the special initiative, organized by Ducati to reward the loyalty of its customers, the only necessary requirement was to own at least one Ducati motorcycle.

The 155,000 members of the 'My Ducati' program, the reserved area in which customers can manage their garage by accessing all the information on their bikes, update their profile and personal preferences to take part in initiatives of their interest and receive exclusive content, have responded with massive enthusiasm.

Participants in the competition uploaded the registration document of each Ducati motorcycle currently owned in the Borgo Panigale motorcycle manufacturer's website area dedicated to 'Join Ducati'.

The most prestigious prize is a Hypermotard 950 with a special livery, an exclusive replica of the concept presented at the 2019 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, which immediately met with the approval of the fans, generating numerous articles and shares on the web and on social channels throughout the world.

Ducati has decided to make it available to its community, transforming it from concept to prototype.

A unique piece, featuring graphics created by the Ducati Design Centre and inspired by the graffiti of the metropolitan area, created only for the contest and personalized with the autograph of Andrea Amato, the designer of this captivating livery.

The lucky winner of the motorbike is a passionate Californian Ducatista, Jose Carlos Sagarminaga, 34 years old, already owner of a Hypermotard SP that he also uses on the track and member of the DOC of Sacramento, who will soon see delivered to him this exclusive and beautiful motorbike, which is already on its way from Borgo Panigale to the USA. The competition also offered 3 Ducati MotoGP Experience, an invitation for two people during one of the next European race weekends (to be defined once the 2020 calendar has been confirmed), which includes, in addition to accommodation, access to the most exclusive areas of the circuit and a meet and greet with the Ducati Team MotoGP riders.

Also assigned are fifteen 1: 8 scale reproductions of the Hypermotard 950 Concept and 10 Redline B2 backpacks made by Ogio exclusively for Ducati.

Given the success of 'Join Ducati', the initiative will be repeated in the coming months.

To receive information and access the next competitions, it is sufficient to be registered with MyDucati. https://my.ducati.com/ww/en/register/ducati

RACING CLASSIC MOTORCYCLES – First you have to finish!

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ABOUT THE BOOK

A personal account of a life racing classic motorcycles

The story of a classic motorcycle racer who was fortunate enough to be able to ride many of the best classic machines between 1976 & 2016, at the highest level, and on many of the most famous road racing courses in the world.

The thrills of racing on some of the best classic motorcycles in the world

There are tales of success, friendships, and the loss of racing pals. Machine preparation and mechanical failures feature heavily, and the story recounts the author's frustrations and joys.

Follow the author’s journey from sixties rocker to racing sponsor An in-depth account of the well-known characters on the scene Includes all aspects of racing, both human and mechanical

Andy Reynolds maintained and built many of the bikes he raced, and ultimately retired from riding to become both a machine scrutineer and a sponsor.

Features many famous circuits across Europe and the UK

All aspects of motorcycle racing are covered in the author's easy-to-read and entertaining narrative. Altogether a fascinating adventure story for any motorcycle enthusiast.

Demonstrates the dedication of the author to race preparation, and his attention to every detail

Come into the world of Classic Racing Motorcycles – but bring your cheque book and

An easy to read autobiography that will appeal to anyone with an interest in motorcycle racing

An honest look at the financial sacrifices necessary to compete at this level

Highlights both the successes and the dangers associated with motorcycle racing

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Following complaints from several residents Guardia agents, found a bar in the town that continued to run its hospitality business, clandestinely, letting customers through half open shutters.

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Noting the nervousness of staff in the grocery, the Police became suspicious

Councillor Luisa Boné wih the Chief of Police

The agents confirmed it’s operation after they saw an elderly man, who was walking his dog, stop at the front door and, after looking around to make sure no one was watching, kicked the door twice with his foot.

The door was opened, the man disappeared inside and the shutter was lowered to the floor.

Ten new Local Police officers for Orihuela

The uniformed officers then entered the premises, where they found the man drinking beer. As a result, both the owner of the bar and the client of the same have been sanctioned.

At two other locations in the town police have also found a second bar that was operating illicitly under the guise of being a grocery shop, and a gymnasium

Civil Guard closes unauthorised bar and gymnasium in Torrevieja Given the nervousness of the staff the Guardia further inspected the site where they found 10 doses of cocaine, 45 blister packs of Viagra, various notebooks recording the details of drug transactions, 1,358 euros in cash, drug making equipment and DNI cards deposited by buyers as insurance for future payment.

As a result of the discovery the Civil Guard arrested an 18-year-old woman, a national of

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the Dominican Republic, who was subsequently charged with drug trafficking.

Also in Torrevieja, a 40-year-old Spanish man has been sanctioned for an alleged crime of serious disobedience, having continued the activities at his gymnasium. The Civil Guard alerted by neighbourhood complaints and suspicions that this gym was being used by members behind closed doors.

As the agents watched the unit they saw

people arriving with bags and sports clothes remaining there for about an hour. The shutters were always closed, but there was a code that allowed them access to the building.

When the Civil Guard entered the building they found that the clients did not carry any type of sanitary security measure, gloves or masks. They have now been charged for breaching the containment measures and the premises have been sealed.

Councillor Luisa Boné, announced the appointment of ten Local Police officers who will join the staff of the Department of Citizen Security in the next few days.

The cost of their employment amounts to € 420,816 and the addition of 8 more officers is currently being processed.

Boné said that "one of the objectives that my colleague, councillor Ramón López Cabrera and I had when we assumed our respective positions, was to increase the staff of local police officers in our municipality following its previous year on year reduction. Over a period of approximately six years officers who have left the force, either through retirement or changing jobs, have not been replaced so a large vacuum has been created which we now need to fill.

The interim police officers have been engaged for a maximum period of two years. There are 18 vacancies in total.

Boné said that “the investment made for the engagement of these first 10 police officers amounts to € 420,816 although the total figure, which included the addition 8 officers, is 757,470 euros.

In January the councillor said that the Orihuela Costa will have a greater police surveillance with the Council planning to create a new coastal unit of Police officers who will be responsible for beach surveillance and improved security in the Orihuela Costa. She said that the six new agents would be recruited and in place by May.

Pilar de la Horadada asks the government for 50,000 masks The Mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, José María Pérez has sent a letter to the Prime Minister asking for a consignment of face masks for the local population.

The Council has so far been able to provide 20,000 masks for distribution among health, police and civil protection officers, in addition to coordinating the delivery of 400 protective screens and 300 gowns.

In the unwritten manual on how municipalities must cope with the coronavirus pandemic, the next stage, after demanding that the public complies with the state of alarm and confinement, is to provide face masks for all residents, especially now that the government is saying how important it is that they be worn by everyone who ventures out in public.

Small towns such as Bigastro and Redován in the Vega Baja, have already been able to provide this "supply" from the outset, with a production of volunteers and donations from local companies that have enabled them to meet their objective. Others, with more limitations, have given priority to those who are "on the front line" fighting against the virus - health workers, pharmacies, policemen and other at risk groups, especially the elderly.

But for the bigger towns and cities, and their large populations, it can be very difficult. That is why Pilar de la Horadada, with it’s 22,000 residents, is asking for help from central government. Mayor

José María Pérez has gone straight to the top and asked the Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, for 50,000 masks to protect the local population. He did say that the municipality has enough resources to assume its cost and will pay for any consignment.

In his letter to the Prime Minister, the mayor uses a tone of ‘institutional loyalty’

In the municipality, which has a large community of foreign residents and residents with second homes, there have been 12 infections with coronavirus and one death.

Volunteers in Pilar de la Horadada, through Civil Protection, have already produced 20,000 masks, 400 3D printed protective screens Makers and 300 sanitary gowns. But it's not enough.

José María Pérez, in his letter to the Prime Minister, uses a tone of institutional loyalty "to thank the effort that the Government is making to control the pandemic. He asks him to send 50,000 masks to cover the entire population, “since we are preparing a distribution plan so that they can reach all the residents who do not have them."

Pérez says that the solidarity among the people from Pilar "has been overwhelming, but it is impossible for us to provide everyone in the entire town with material. The residents do not stop day or night. They are sewing homemade masks for their relatives, neighbours and friends, but it is not enough.

Civil Protection volunteers are disinfecting and distributing them, prioritising basic municipal

social services, security forces, citizen service personnel, and health personnel. The City Council has also boughta number of masks, but it is still not enough. "For this reason, he says in his letter that it" requires "the support of the central government to be able to supply" all the residents of the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada with masks

as a preventive measure.

In a footnote the mayor wrote, "Awaiting your news, and the arrival of the long-awaited masks for the entire population, I remind you that you have us at your entire disposal in everything that we can contribute to improve the situation and reduce the impact of this crisis."

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‘SOS’ button added to ‘AlertCops’ Upgrade of Mobile phone app ‘AlertCops’ introduces ‘SOS Button’.

ALERTCOPS is the citizen security alert service that enables the Spanish Law Enforcement Authorities (Policia and Guardía Civil) to provide you with assistance in risk situations.

It is a complementary application. You can send

alerts with images or videos to the nearest emergency centre, chat directly with a support agent or receive security news and notifications sent by the public security services. The government says that you will receive a faster and more efficient response.

You can also share your position with anyone you wish or with the public security centre that provi-

des the service.

In it’s latest upgrade the Ministry of the Interior has launched an 'SOS Button' to boost the protection it can provide to victims of gender violence.

The new function of the AlertCops app will allow the identification and location of the victim and will record ten seconds of the events that are taking place in the immediate vicinity in order to obtain an immediate response from the Security Forces. This was announced by the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, on Tuesday.

AlertCops is a service provided through a free application on mobile devices, which provides a direct link to the State Security Forces. It allows geo-positioned calls and alerts for immediate attention and enables a direct WhatsApp chat with the nearest National Police or Civil Guard centre, which also allows users to send photos or videos of any situation and receive help.

HOW THE 'SOS BUTTON' WORKS The new service became active on Tuesday and can be downloaded or updated free of charge for both Android and IOS. With it, and in case of need, both medical staff and victims of gender-based violence may discreetly request the immediate assistance of the State Security Forces.

To do this, they simply press the "SOS Button" on their mobile phones at least five times in less than 6 seconds and, immediately, the system will automatically send the alert to the nearest police centre. Additionally, it will record 10 seconds of

audio and will also send it as an attachment to the alert so that police officers can assess the urgency of the situation.

HEALTH PERSONNEL

Grande-Marlaska said that he appreciated the help of the Ministry of Health in the entire process of including protective measures for health personnel, as well as the advice with the specific design and development in the health area. Health personnel who wish to install the new function of the "SOS Button" must identify themselves as health personnel in the "My Data" section of the application with the code "APSA" and with their DNI or NIE. VICTIMS OF GENDER VIOLENCE Female victims of gender violence will also be able to use the new "SOS Button" within the AlertCops application. In this way, in situations of risk or need, they can discreetly contact the security forces who will be alerted and be able to respond to their situation immediately.

There are currently well in excess of 100,000 installs in Spain and, in addition to its original purpose, it is now in regular use to report crime.

This is one of the elements implemented in the framework of strengthening protection for victims of gender-based violence, which now has reinforced protection in the new capabilities of this application, since it incorporates greater ease of use for them and, with it, a more agile and effective way of requesting the Security Forces and Corps the help they need.

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It is better to only bite off what you can chew

doing the most harm; it is the fear of tomorrow: So as the old people around here used say. ‘It is better to only bite off what you can chew.’

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If you carry your entire burden with you every day, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, you won’t be able to manage it.

hen I did a bit of squash coaching in another life, I always reminded the players that the hardest thing to do is to maintain concentration on the moment and the first thing you lose when you become tired is that same concentration.

The secret in a game of squash is to relax back on your heels and rest, even for a few seconds when the ball is not in play and be alert for the next ball.

Nothing to be gained from being tensed up when you don’t have to be at that particular moment; so relax and then concentrate on the next play and only think of the rally you are playing.

Living life is no different in many ways from playing a game of squash – or football for that matter.

You give it your best when the ball is running for you, but when the play is away from your end, you need to learn to relax mind and body so that you have the full power of fresh concentration to bring to bear on your next move. In the game of life, you need to be able to leave down your burden for a short respite and only pick it up again when it has to be carried.

We all tend to worry too much about what might happen in the future. This automatically puts us on our toes, crouched, tensed up and concentrating on some battle that we envisage around the next corner.

A man or woman carrying tomorrow’s burden is a tired player today, and similar to a squash game, fatigue will affect your concentration of the moment. It is not the problems of today that are

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As the old people around here used say. ‘It is better to only bite off what you can chew.’

When I was given the job by a [misguided!] editor of submitting a weekly column and had he told me then that it would entail writing over a thousand different articles from then until now, I would have inevitably turned it down and said I wouldn’t be able to come up with that: But by only biting into one column at a time, that is how it turned out.

You go shopping and come away with a few bags of groceries The person with you says, ‘let me help you with that’, but your reply is, ‘not at all, it isn’t heavy’. And you are right, the absolute weight doesn’t matter and you can carry it without any effort.

Five minutes and still no bother, but if you have to carry the bags for an hour there's an ache in your arm and the bag feels a ton weight. Carry it all day – and tomorrow you won't be able to lift a cup with the pain in your shoulder.

Remember it is the second mouse that gets the cheese because number one rushed in too soon.

Don’t Forget

This is how it is with the burden-bag of life we carry around in our head. Sooner or later the weight will become too much to carry for too long at a time. The secret is to leave down the bag until you have to move it again. Relax and rest the mind. Go back on your heels and don’t worry about any ball until it has to be played.

In sport, players have good games, where they are ‘up for it’ and off-days when the ball just won’t run for them and they can do nothing right. The game of life is just like any other contest where you can be ‘on a roll’, or ‘not able to hit a ball’ – so pick your good days to deal with the heavy tackle. Life deals all of us those different days.

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com

During these horrendous days we are currently living through, it is vital to leave tomorrow’s burden down and forget about snatching at it too soon.

Some days you are the madra and some days you are the lamp post. Be patient, stay safe and one day soon the ball will hop right for you again.

Lost hope is the undertaker's best friend. *Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

Bernie has published four books; ‘If Ever a Man Suffered’, ‘The Best of Bernie’, ‘The Team’, and ‘Just Between Ourselves’. Bernie’s books are available at half price, on sale from ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info.

Orihuela Establishes Subsidies Office for COVID-19” The Mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana, announced the creation of the “Office of Information, Aid and Subsidies COVID-19”, this afternoon in order to “make available to residents a service where they can find all the information available from the many different administrations, whether at the local, provincial, autonomous or state level ”.

This service, which opened its doors on Wednesday, April 8, enables the council to "bring the entire administration closer to the people of the municipality, who have been affected by this crisis and who need help, either of a social or a business nature, self-employed, businesses and SMEs, or any other area that requires such subsidies ”.

The opening hours of office are from 9:00 a.m. to

The Mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana 2:00 p.m., Monday - Friday.

Valverde highlighted the importance a WhatsApp line "so that people can quickly resolve their doubts."

The contact information for the service is by email, WhatsApp or telephone, deatails of which are listed below: Email: ayudacovid19@orihuela.es WhatsApp line: 696-42-87-13 Telephone number 96-607-6100 Ext. 1142.

The mayor said that the service will be staffed by people from Social Welfare, Development and

Employment, Commerce, Health, Emergencies and Citizen Security.

Bascuñana said that the initiative will be able to "explain and clarify the plethora of information that exists and the many different types of aid and subsidies.

Response to the queries will be is immediate or for complex cases on the same day.

Much of the information is available at www.orihuela.es/infocoronavirus, as well as on the social networks of the Orihuela City Council.

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Monday 13th - Sunday 19th April, 2020

We spend billions on weapons but dont have enough masks!

Quote: 'We don’t have enough supplies or ventilators - but countries spend millions on just one warplane' - Cardinal Tagle

By Andrew Atkinson ould the coronavirus COVID-19 crisis lead to a 'jubilee', a forgiveness of debt, so that those who are in the tombs of indebtedness can find life?

Those are the words of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and president of Caritas Internationalis, in a Mass in the sacristy of the Pontifical Filipino College in Rome.

Preaching about the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, Canon Tagle looked at a variety of ways people can be in 'tombs' - and in need of light, fresh air and new life.

Citing specifically the coronavirus pandemic, Canon Tagle said people are losing their jobs especially daily wage earners - a lack of resources, and that poverty could be one tomb right now for many poor people.

“Could those who could afford to go to those tombs and release the poor people who owe them money, release them from their debt?”, said Canon Tagle.

"Could rich countries do the same for poor countries," he said.

Calling for a forgiveness of foreign debt, so that impoverished nations can use the few resources they have, to fight the virus.

And help their people, rather than making huge

C

Vatican ‘Golden Boy’ Cardinal Tagle, widely tipped to become Asia’s first pope. interest payments.

The Catholics' 'jubilee' is in relation to the Church’s Holy years - special times of prayer and pilgrimage - with a focus on forgiveness of sins.

From the Book of Leviticus, which prescribed an observance every 50 years, that included solid promises to restore property to the poor, forgive their debts and release them from servitude.

The International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and wealthy countries, are looked at to suspend debt payments for poor countries, so they can bol-

ster healthcare; offer a process for debt to be eliminated for developing countries; make it easier for all countries to restructure their debt; and provide aid and financing to all countries.

This, so they can survive the growing health and economic crisis.

The world’s poorest countries need total relief NOW, so they can bolster health care and survive the economic crisis that is being created by the coronavirus pandemic.

It will go down in history as the greatest financial

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11

crisis, since the Great Depression.

Governments, including Spain and the UK, have ensured there are stimulus financing packages, that protect the most vulnerable, as an ensurance that workers continue to get paid, at least in part.

In his homily Canon Tagle looked at where nations spend their money, citing that 'we don’t have enough masks when there are more than enough bullets'.

"We don’t have enough supplies or ventilators but countries spend millions on just one warplane," said Cardinal Tagle.

Pope Francis formally endorsed the call of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a global ceasefire, to enable nations to focus on battling the coronavirus pandemic.

In the present crisis it is shameful that some countries have large reserves of weapons, but lack medicines, masks, protective equipment and basic food.

The Cardinal said: "This crisis could become a ‘kairos’ - special moment - for peace and reconciliation if we, as one human family, have the humility to accept that discrimination, prejudice, domination, violence and misplaced spending priorities are folly.

“In other words, the pandemic could teach us to review our priorities as individuals, nations and one human family.

“This emergency urges all of us to help save lives.

Our common foe is the infection. We are not each other’s enemy.

"My hope is that after the COVID-19 pandemic is over - hopefully soon - the ceasefire would continue as a global way of life.

“Pope Francis has already granted the plenary indulgence to those infected with COVID-19, to health workers and others working and praying for an end to the pandemic.

“Can we follow his lead - when it comes to individual - and national debts?” said Canon Tagle.

14

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 809

ACROSS 3.

Dare (9) 8.

Vanquish (4) 9.

Sue (9) 10. Character (6) 11. Curt (5) 14. Forefinger (5) 15. Flank (4) 16. Youthful (5) 18. Page (4) 20. Speak (5) 21. Artless (5) 24. Recess (6) 25. Gladly (9) 26. Sensible (4) 27. Save (9) CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 1.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

9.

11.

12.

13.

17.

19.

22.

23.

24.

Maxim (9) Curator (9) Charter (4) Beam (5) Shun (6) Entrance (4) Deputy (5) Beast (5) Invented (9) Injured (9) Ravine (5) Dropped (6) Poison (5) Record (4) Charity (4)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Face; 3 Sprinkle; 8 Gale; 9 Sonorous; 11 Transcendent; 13 Veered; 14 Inhale; 17 Presumptuous; 20 Intrepid; 21 Comb; 22 Frontier; 23 Byre.

DOWN: 1 Fugitive; 2 Collate; 4 Phoney; 5 Inordinate; 6 Known; 7 Else; 10 Assessment; 12 Feasible; 15 Apology; 16 Umpire; 18 Ratio; 19 Tiff.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Ruth; 3 Together; 8 Team; 9 Platonic; 11 Oxford Circus; 13 Accent; 14 Castle; 17 Pay attention; 20 National; 21 Less; 22 Garotted; 23 Stud.

DOWN: 1 Rational; 2 Traffic; 4 O'clock; 5 Entertains; 6 Hindu; 7 Rich; 10 Bring about; 12 Red-nosed; 15 Trident; 16 Strafe; 18 Actor; 19 Snug.

ACROSS 3. Reproduce an appropriate entrance, I hear (9) 8. Flat excavations (4) 9. Hurrying to get the gins an' mixers (9) 10. Raid in the street (6) 11. A wanderer? On the contrary, insane (5) 14. A sense of spectacle (5) 15. Incline towards being thin (4) 16. Help for Northern Ireland gets misdirected to Asia (5) 18. A pledge made in the boathouse (4) 20. Knock over the firelighter (5) 21. Agree about being keen (5) 24. Choose the best (6) 25. Complete dismissal of a cockney's charity (3-3-3) 26. Examine love of prohibition (4) 27. Medical man consumed to a higher degree (9)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which country was the first to give women the right to vote?

2. How many points for potting all six colours in Snooker?

3. On which day did God make the Sun the Moon and the Stars?

4. What are the 4 sources of renewable energy?

5. What are the four planets with rings?

6. What is the year 2009 when written in Roman Numerals?

7. What is the name for a beavers home?

8. Which is the only vowel not found on a standard keyboard top line?

9. George W Bush was the President of the USA. What number was he?

10. What does the term Prima Donna literally mean?

11. What was the Beatles last Album called?

12. How many prostitutes did Jack the Ripper Actually kill?

13. What would you probably do if you got pepper in your proboscis?

DOWN 1. Access to a confession (9) 2. Sum needed to get garage built (9) 4. Study article carried by Communist (4) 5. An area of occupation (5) 6. Angel I found to be pleasant (6) 7. Nurse in attendance (4) 9. Leaders having an interesting time in a Caribbean republic (5) 11. Drain out at the lowest point (5) 12. Handed over an organ indeed (9) 13. Rising prices discovered by Ian in loft conversion (9) 17. An impasse, too, could involve an advantage (5) 19. Have not heard of a Hampshire town (6) 22. The Spanish and the German are senior (5) 23. Writer Victor shows love after an embrace (4) 24. Fit costume (4)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 14. What was Fred Flintstones child’s name?

15. In which county is Stonehenge?

16. Name the date of St Georges Day. 17. How is Rubella better known?

18. What is name of the French port where over 300, 000 Allied soldiers were evacuated from in May/June 1940?

19. What is the name of the dog in Enid Blyton’s Famous Five books?

20. Name the 6 items used to murder the victim in the board game Cluedo.

21. What is the Maximum Score in a game of 10 Pin Bowls?

22. What is the height of tennis net at the centre?

23. What is the highest finish in Darts?

24. Yorkshire CCC play home games at which English Test Ground?

25. How high are the goal posts in a standard football goal?

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Hospitals receive hundreds of goodwill drawings

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th April, 2020

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LEO SAYER FALL OUT Saville Row - Top Of The Pops - America interest for Torrevieja's Lee ............................................................

By Andrew Atkinson Leo Sayer's hit 'One Man Band' was the misfortune of Lee Howard who lives on the outskirts of Torrevieja - after the singer-songwriter-entertainer did a u-turn on the release of the song.

Strength, unity, affection, encouragement and energy are some of the most repeated words in many of the hundreds of messages of support sent for patients who have been admitted to the Ribera Salud hospitals after contracting the COVID19 virus There is so much support for the patients for their bravery and their fight against a virus that, in addition to the physical difficulties which also force isolation; and to the medical staff for their dedication, their self-sacrifice and their courage as they attempt to stop this pandemic.

Camaraderie is a rising quality and it has spread faster than the virus itself. That is why Ribera Salud has opted to group all actions related to this global health crisis on a single web page.

"These messages brighten our day and make us feel very encouraged during these weeks of hard work," say the staff at Ribera Salud.

The rsc.riberasalud.com website also gathers all the good wishes from individuals, groups and organisations for the staff of the Ribera Salud hospitals as well as with the patients

"I had a record contract with Chrysalis Records and 'One Man Band' was given to me by Leo Sayer and Adam Faith. I recorded it at Decca Studios, Tollington Park in London in 1973, produced by Thin Lizzy's producer Nick Tauber," Lee told me.

"The arrangements were given, under the proviso by Faith that Leo Sayer wouldn't bring the song out as a single," said Lee, who has radio shows on BigFM and RTI in the UK. "My version of One Man Band was released, which picked up plays on the 'Beeb' (BBC).

"However a week later Adam Faith 'phoned me at my mum's house, informing me Leo was now also going to release the song.

"Leo Sayer's version went up the charts - and mine went down," said Lee, who had a fall out at the time with Leo and Faith.

"We fell out at that time - but we're okay now," said Lee.

"My mum was gutted about 'One Man Band'.

But that's the music business," said Lee.

"Adam Faith's 'phone call gave me the bad news. He was going to drive Leo back to Brighton, where Leo lived.

"I was promised another record - but I went more into the record industry side. Chrysalis went on to play a big part of my life.

"The funny thing is, I had a special suit made in Saville Row - to go on Top Of The Pops. And the American side came over to the UK to meet me.

"They wanted to release the track in America - but thought a name change would be a good idea. Robert E Lee," said Lee. Sayer, 71, who revealed in 2019 he lost £5m in the music industry, in a career spanning over four decades, is an Australian citizen, resident in Plainlands, Queensland.

Just A Boy at 70 Tour 2019.

Sayer's manager Adam Faith, singer-actor, sadly died following a heart attack, aged 62, in 2003.

"I'm now thankful, as I'm still involved in various projects, both in europe and even more so in the UK," said Lee. Lee recalled his 'phone call from Adam Faith - and the response from his mother: "My mum was gutted about 'One Man Band'. That's the music business," added Lee. LEO SAYER One man band ‘U-Turn’

Sayer's first manager was Adam Faith who signed him for Chrysalis (UK) and Warner Bros (USA) in 1973.

One Man Band went to No.6 in the UK charts in 1974.

Sayer, You Make Me Feel Like Dancing Grammy Award winning star, staged

Romeo and Juliet ’ postponed at Auditorium The ballet 'Romeo y Julieta', scheduled to take place at the Torrevieja Auditorium on 16 May has been postponed to July 18. The Moscow Ballet will put on the performance when the state of alarm ends.

‘Romeo and Juliet’ is one of the most emblematic works of the Moscow Ballet repertoire. Based on the work of William Shakespeare and with music

by Sergei Prokofiev, this is undoubtedly one of the most popular ballets in the world.

It is a story of two young people, Romeo and Juliet, who fall hopelessly in love while their respective families, the Montescos and the Capulets, maintain a bitter rivalry in Verona. Amid

the family brawls the young lovers plot to escape together, heading to their tragic final destination.

The tickets that were purchased for the original performance are valid for the new dates. Alternatively, if not convenient, clients may request a refund.

16

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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.

Meetings are currently postponed during the current crisis.

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 Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If you think you can help call into our centre at C/Paganini

s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887.

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

Badminton in Pilar de la Horadada.

Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs.

10-12.30 pm. Call John on 634 658 506 ...currently postponed Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966716274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1966. ...currently postponed Royal Air Force Association Costa

Blanca Branch. The branch meets at Restaurant El Nacional, Punta Prima, on N332, on the third Tuesday of the month at 2.30 pm. You do not have to be an ex-member of the RAF to join this friendly Association. For further info please contact the Chairman on 634 368 833 or the welfare officer on 615 048 892. www.rafa.org.uk/costa-blanca HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes, short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

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

Curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain? Have a few hours a week to help with the charity shop, fundraising or admin? Come and join us for a chat at our Centre in the Punta Marina Shopping Centre.

Volunteers are unpaid but expenses are met. Email: spainsamsrecruits@outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15

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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.

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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 Linda. Blonde mature lady.

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GARDENING Amaryllis - Blowing your own Trumpet!

A

maryllis are the classic forced winter flower, providing a dazzling display and much needed colour, but naturally, they flower in the summer months!

The word Amaryllis comes from the Greek word amarysso, which means 'to sparkle' - which they certainly do!

Bulbs were introduced in Europe in the 1700s and have been known to bloom for up to an astonishing 75 years.

Amaryllis flowers range from 4-10 inches and can be either single or double flower heads.

Flowers come red, white, pink, salmon, apricot, peach, rose and deep

burgundy. Some Amaryllis varieties are bi-colour, purple and green, and have petals with a different edge colour.

Modern hybrids are termed giant or Royal Dutch amaryllis. Trumpetshaped flowers, in various patterns and sizes. Hybrids have also created striped or multicolored flowers, some with green centres, termed 'throats'.

Flowering during November-July, Amaryllis usually take between six to eight weeks to bloom, from planting, and are easy to grow in pots and containers.

Plant each Amaryllis bulb in a heavy pot, as it needs to support the weight of the heavy bloom, and place the pot in a bright, indirect light, watering sparingly until you see about 2 inches of new growth.

Thereafter water regularly, turning the pot to encourage the flower stalk to grow straight, with the flower bud appearing at the top. Prolong blooms, keeping the pot out of direct sunlight.

Amaryllis have yielded several substances with medicinal properties, including treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

GARDEN FELIX Los Montesinos.

We look forward to seeing all our loyal customers again, once the imposed movement put in place by the authorities, due to the coronavirus, is lifted. Keep safe. Felix, Garden Felix.

Amaryllis are prized for their exotic trumpet shaped flowers on 1 to 2 foot leafless stalks

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REIKI .. . The wonderful energy of our universe INTRODUCTION There are as many paths to enlightenment as there are people. Reiki is one of those paths and each person who practices it will walk the path in their own way. No one person owns it – it has been given to all of us as part of the essence of our human being.

Reiki is primarily perceived as a practice for healing the body, but it is also a method for healing the mind and spirit. Ultimately, Reiki has the power to reunite the trinity of Mind-Body-Spirit in their optimal state of harmony. All of us need to start the process of returning to that state of harmony. Reiki, with its power and simplicity and its methods for healing both the self and others, offers the way to start taking what I call the “the journey home” THE MEANING OF REIKI Reiki is one of the most ancient healing methods known to mankind.

It originated in Tibet and was rediscovered in the early 1900’s by a Japanese priest named Dr Mikao Usui. The tradition of Reiki is referred to 2500-year-old writings in Sanskrit, the ancient Indian language. The Usui system of Natural Healing, named after Dr Usui, has been passed down by Reiki Masters since that time and is today practiced worldwide.

As humans we have Universal Life Energy all around us and within us. The Japanese word Reiki consists of two syllables: “Rei” which describes the cosmic, universal aspect of this energy and “ki”, which means the fundamental life force flowing and pulsating in all living things.

This life force energy is given to us at birth. We bring with us a certain amount of “ki” to life, and we use it up in the business of ordinary daily life. We then have to create a daily supply of new energy. When we are unable to make up for the energy consumption for a prolonged period, we may become physically or emotionally ill.

If our supply of life force energy is very low and depleted, we suffer from physical, emotional and mental exhaustion, and tend to be much more irritable, bad-tempered and depressed than usual.

WHAT IS REIKI? Reiki is a natural and simple healing method which allows you to absorb more life force energy. The Reiki method vitalizes your life force and balances the energies in your body. This natural healing energy flows in a powerful and concentrated form through the hands of the Reiki healer.

The laying on of the hands directs the healing energy into the body of the receiver. The Reiki healer is used as a channel to conduct the Universal Life Energy.

As a result, no personal energy is drawn or drained from the healer, who is simultaneously charged and strengthened. (The Reiki healer does not remove energy to give them theirs. Reiki energy balances and harmonizes – when there is an imbalance, there is a potential for illness) WHAT DOES REIKI DO? Reiki usually helps healing of all kinds and relieves pains and acute symptoms very quickly. Reiki makes it way to areas of imbalance during a treatment. It also has a positive influence on spiritual growth as it works on many levels, Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being are all enhanced with Reiki energy.

After a treatment, you may feel mentally much clearer about things and experience deep insights into particular questions or problems you are facing. Reiki then can help you to make the right changes and decisions in your life, if that is what you need or want to achieve.

Reiki affects each person differently, but it always acts wherever the receiver needs it most. However, there are common effects that everyone experiences.

Energy used up in everyday life is replaced, so that when you feel exhausted or drained, the imbalance, which may adversely affect you physically, emotionally and mentally, can be put right.

If you suffer from stress, you may react with physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches, frequent colds, kidney pains and general disorders. These symptoms are the expression of excessive negative stress, accompanied by an imbalance of the energy system. To relieve these symptoms your energy needs to restored.

For example, a lowered immune system or a weak organ that is not functioning properly and needs recharging with extra energy. Reiki can balance the energies in the body, helping you to let go and relax, so reducing stress.

At the same time, it promotes the development of positive reactions to

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stressful situations. In other words, not only the symptoms but also the causes can be healed.

Reiki strengthens and harmonizes the immune system. We continually use up life force energy without replacing it. Reiki helps us to replenish and add to our energy and, in this way, helps to create a healthy body

Reiki is a simple technique anyone can learn. Most people experience a huge leap in personal growth after receiving the attunements. This feeling of such loving healing energy is a truly uplifting and empowering experience.

I WAS TOLD THAT REIKI WOULD CHANGE MY LIFE. IT DID. IT WILL CERTAINLY CHANGE YOURS

IS REIKI ALWAYS SAFE? The purpose of Reiki is to supply the body with additional energy which it can use for healing itself. Reiki can be used safely regardless of whatever illness the receiver is suffering from. Reiki makes no diagnoses and is intended to be used as a complementary healing method. In the case of acute disorders such as imflammations, influenza, colds, digestive disorders, gall or kidney stones, backaches and headaches, Reiki often acts very quickly and directly by easing the pain and accelerating healing.

Reiki can also be applied as first aid as it stops bleeding in open wounds and has a very calming influence on the nervous system, particularly when people are in shock after an accident. With Reiki, you can also provide relief from allergies, arthritis and other chronic disorders.

As Reiki supports and complements other medical and natural healing techniques, you can combine it with other treatments, for example with allopathic or homeopathic treatments, body therapies, counselling and speech-therapy and other psychological treatments. A Reiki healer is charged with energy and becomes a channel for Universal Life Energy. Reiki is a gift of the universe, and is available to us all.

A REIKI BREATHING EXERCISE If you want to experience a “taster” of Reiki before committing yourself to Reiki attunement or just to allow yourself to get an idea of what Reiki may feel like, try this exercise. The exercise will have the same relaxing effects as Reiki but without the added power and impact provided by the Universal Life Energy through attunement.

Make yourself comfortable, either sitting down or lying on your back and close your eyes. Pay attention to your breath and follow its rhythm. Notice how it flows in and out. Now take three deep breaths Now put your hands on your body wherever you feel drawn to or where you feel tension. Use your intuition to locate the spot in your body that needs relaxation the most.

Now direct your breath consciously and repeatedly to this place.

Imagine that your breath is the Universal Life Energy which flows through you. Let it collect and expand under your hands. Notice how a feeling of relaxation and peace gradually spreads from that place beneath your hands throughout your entire body After a short while (about five minutes) place your hands on another part of your body. Once again breathe into your hands during the whole exercise. You may find that your breath changes in some positions as the body stores memories and experiences which may now be awakened. It is not necessary to consciously probe feelings or initiate stronger breathing. Just allow yourself to let go and plunge into this feeling of flowing.

Move on to two further places on your body and charge them with energy Slowly open your eyes, stretch yourself, and return to your normal daytime consciousness. You will feel more relaxed, calmer and more centred.

If you would like to experience the wonderful energy of Reiki as a treatment, please contact CHRISTINE QUINLAN ON 966 795 103 or email me on bodyharmony44@gmail.com

THE EFFECTS OF REIKI In summary, Reiki is all-embracing in its effect. It involves your mind, body and soul and then attempts to set all these aspects of your being into a harmonious balance. Your personal energy, as a giver, is not transmitted to the receiver during a treatment, you are merely a channel.

If (without having attuned to Reiki) you try laying your hands on someone else, energy is still passed on, but at a much lower intensity than if you are attuned to Reiki. This is because Reiki is a highly powerful vibrating force, or light energy.

While the Universe Life Energy flows through you, as the giver, during the treatment, it is also fortifying and harmonizing you at the same time. You may also experience Reiki as a force which brings you more closely into contact with yourself, opening you up and allowing you to be more loving with yourself and with others. It is a unifying force which brings you closer to a condition of oneness and connection with the “whole” So let me summarise the many benefits: Balances the organs and glands and their bodily functions Releases blocks and suppressed feelings Promotes natural self-healing Adapts to the natural needs of the receiver Balances the energies in the body Enhances personal awareness and helps meditative states Relaxes and reduces stress Promotes creativity Strengthens life force energy Treats symptoms and causes of illness Heals holistically Strengthens the immune system Relieves pain Clears toxin

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Please keep yourself safe 'It’s bad enough here. It’s horrendous in Spain' - Craig Brown, former Scotland boss Quote: 'Covid-19 is not a black swan event. It was waiting to happen' - David McCoy, Professor of Global Public Health

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive

“I ran away from home aged 16 - father was too handy with his fists”.

In Part 2 of an tearful, heartwarming interview with Andrew Atkinson, Graham Stephen continues his childhood farm-life, running away from home, and turning to The Samaritans for solace.

FARMERS son Graham Stephen looks back on yesteryear and said: "If I could turn the clock back, I'd do it all again".

This, despite the beatings he took from his father, to sleeping rough, and turning to The Samaritans for solace.

"Today, the farm lifestyle of children is one not envied.

But I was privileged of life on the farm," said Aberdeen born Graham.

"We benefitted from farm produce - gifted from potatoes, eggs, and chicken," said Graham, proprietor of The Oasis Bar and Restaurant in La Herrada, Los Montesinos.

"I fondly remember and will never forget the farmer and his wife Mr and Mrs Gordon, who took great care and insuring we kept warm," said Graham, who lived in tied cottages with his parents.

"The temperature in the heavy winters lead to looking out of the window.

Beautiful, frosty patterns on the grass, in a room where a coal fire kept us warm," said Graham.

"We were six miles away from shops and the village.

And 12 miles from school but you thought nothing of it," said Graham.

"At the time electricity was just beginning to be installed into country cottages, and

washing was done by hand and a scrubbing board - rung out through a mangle.

"To think, now we live in nice homes, and drive nice cars," said Graham, 65, who lives in Los Montesinos.

"My grandfather, fondly remembered - anti-capitalist of Alf Garnet, of what Donald Trump‘s open-minded view is today. I think he's been resurrected!", quipped Graham.

Graham, who first left home at the age of 15, said: "I scooted off from home, owing to personal issues.

"My first job was a glorious wage of £8.50 - eight quid and ten bob! Then I became a mink worker, on a mink farm.

"Here, I had another fantastic boss, who taught me many of my principles and values, regarding staff and working. So true were his words today."

Graham, married at 18, said: "Life plodded on. And made all the mistakes a young couple make."

Turning to his parents, Graham said: "Mother was a shoplifter - and father was in prison, when I was born.

"An uncle of mine is not my uncle, he is my brother. It goes on and on...and on."

Aged sixteen, Graham ran away from home - after suffering beatings: "The reason I ran away at 16, was

CRAIG BROWN “Keep yourselves safe.”

because father was too handy - with his fists.

"I couldnt do it anymore.

Where I went my dog went.

With my £8.50, it cost £8.10 shillings to keep me in Digs.

"With the help of the Samaritans, the cost was £2.50. I had slept in my car for three months, or more.

"Nobody knew - not even my workplace. I washed and changed every morning, in the public toilets nearby," said Graham

Former Scotland international manager Craig Brown CBE spoke to me about the coronavirus epidemic situation, in both Britain and Spain, as it sweeps across the world.

"I believe although it’s bad enough here, it’s horrendous in Spain," said Craig, 79.

"Please keep yourself safe," said Craig, Scotland National manager during 1993-2001.

I told Craig of the situation in Spain, on lockdown, with borders shut and airport closures across the country (commercial flights).

In the main only Emergency Services are allowed to go about their duties. All bars, businesses Restaurants, beaches, et al., are closed.

Almost 2m thrown out of work; only allowed to go to the supermarket for food (strictly only 1 person) and to the pharmacy, if need be.

Road blocks in place, throughout provinces. And lockdown extended until April 26, at present.

In ending Craig, a non-executive director at SPL club Aberdeen, said: "I thank you for asking how I am in the situation we all find ourselves in. All the best and keep in touch."

The Scottish Government issued a travel warning, criticising the irresponsible behaviour of people with second homes and campervans travelling to the Highlands, in a bid to isolate.

A similar scenario mirrors people travelling from Madrid and other areas to the Costa Blanca resorts - despite the lockdown laws.

Health Protection Scotland, a division of the NHS, warned in 2010 about the nation's ability to contain a long-lasting pandemic in a review of the nation's response to the swine flu pandemic.

The pandemic lead to the lives of 457 people dying in the UK in 2009.

HPS, who co-ordinates health protection in Scotland, warned Ministers improvements needed to be addressed - citing planning of mass testing and treatment facilities - including swabbing.

The UK and Scottish governments have been criticised in some quarters, after the coronavirus pandemic hit, costing thousands of lives. In Scotland the figure stood at 218 (April 1).

Mr David McCoy, Professor of Global Public Health at the Centre for Primary Care and Public Health at Queen Mary University London, said: "Covid-19 is not a black swan event. It was waiting to happen.

"The failure to prepare the NHS for Covid-19 signals how it has not been led, financed or organised as a public service to work in the public interest to fulfil its national health protection function adequately."

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

THE POWER OF THE MIND After nearly 4 weeks of lockdown due to the Corona Virus you will all by now have an idea of the power of the mind as in isolation we talk to ourselves, the fridge, the telly or anything else we think is listening and most of us only use a fraction of the potential of our minds and even then tend to concentrate on something negative rather than positive.

We are now bombarded with news from many sources such as news reports, social media or well meaning but ill-informed friends and we are all pre-programmed to reflect of experiences in our lives, most of which are negative.

For example we can all easily forget a good experience from last week but remember a bad experience from 20 years ago.

The outcome is that our minds become receptive to all things negative and we can all be drawn to the ‘dark side’ mentally.

By way of an example of the power of the mind if you can read the following test is your mind strange or normal?

I cdnuolt blveiee that I cluod aulacity uesdnatnrd what I was rdanieg.

The phaomneal pweor of the human mind,aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy,it dseno’t mtaetr in what oerdr the ltteres in a word are, the only iproamtnt thing is that the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae.

The rset can be a taotl mses and you can still raed it whotuit a pboerlm.

This is bcuseae the human mind deos not raed ervery lteter by istlef but the word as a wlohe.

Azanmig huh? Yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt!

Monday 13th - Sunday 19th April, 2020 If the human mind can work in such a powerful way with words then just think what it can do with a head full of negative thoughts BUT the good news is that YOU and only YOU are in control of your mind and you can choose to think positively and with imagination or negatively with a closed mind.

The Open cancelled in 2020, and will next played in 2021

By the way just give a thought for me because the spell checker on my computer has just blown a gasket proof reading this article!

Until the next time stay safe and healthy.

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 €158 2 Players & Buggy Alicante €146 2 Players & Buggy Altorreal €120 2 Players & Buggy Bonalba €136 2 Players & Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €120 2 Players & Buggy El Plantio €146 2 Players & Buggy Font Del Llop €138 2 Players & Buggy GNK Courses €150 2 Players & Buggy (El Valle, Riquelme & La Torre) La Finca €190 2 Players & Buggy La Manga West €75 Single Green Fee La Marquesa €60 Sgle Green Fee La Serena €52 Sgle Green Fee Las Colinas €108 Sgle Green Fee Las Ramblas €135 2 Players & Buggy Lo Romero €174 2 Players & Buggy New Sierra Golf €82 2 Players &Buggy Roda €150 2 Players & Buggy UGolf Courses €153 2 Players & Buggy (Saurines & Hac. Del Alamo) Villamartin €158 2 Players & Buggy Villaitana Poniente €67 Sgle Fee & Buggy Vistabella €130 2 Players & Buggy For Bookings and info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

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2019 winner, Shane Lowry The R&A has decided to cancel The Open in 2020 due to the current Covid-19 pandemic and the Championship will next be played at Royal St George’s in 2021.

It was due to be played in Kent from 12-19 July but it has been necessary to cancel the Championship based on guidance from the UK Government, the health authorities, public services and The R&A’s advisers.

This is the first time since the Second World War that golf’s original Championship, first played in 1860, has been cancelled.

Tickets and hospitality packages purchased for the Championship in 2020 will be transferred across to The Open in 2021 although purchasers who no longer wish to (or are no longer able to) attend in 2021 will receive a full refund.

Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “Our absolute priority is to protect the health and safety of the fans, players, officials, volunteers and staff involved in The Open.”

We have made this decision with a heavy heart.”

“We appreciate that this will be disappointing for a great many people around the world but this pandemic is severely affecting the UK and we have to act responsibly. It is the right thing to do.”

La Manga Ambassador CHAMP IONSHIP FOOTB ALL Sir Kenny Dalglish tests BEHIND CL OSED DOORS positive for coronavirus.

In a statement, Liverpool, for whom Dalglish was both a player and manager, said: “In keeping with current procedures, he was subsequently tested for COVID-19 despite having previously displayed no symptoms of the illness. Unexpectedly, the test result was positive but he remains asymptomatic.

“Prior to his admission to hospital, Sir Kenny had chosen to voluntarily self-isolate for longer than the advised period together with his family.

“He would urge everyone to follow the relevant government and expert guidance in the days and weeks ahead.”

Scotland international Dalglish, 69, who played for Celtic and Liverpool, was admitted to hospital on April 8 for a treatment of an infection which required intravenous antibiotics.

The statement added: “He would like to take this opportunity to thank the brilliant NHS staff, whose dedication, bravery and sacrifice should be the focus of the nation’s attention at this extraordinary time.

"He would also ask that they are given the space to do their jobs during what is an extremely challenging time for them and that his own family’s privacy is respected. He looks forward to being home soon.”

"We will provide further updates as and when it is appropriate.”

DALGLISH: The former Liverpool idol owns a property on La Manga Resort Dalglish has been visiting places including Cartagena, Spain, for over three decades and said the family 'really enjoy it'.

"It’s good for golf but a variety of other activities are also available. My children loved it, especially when they were young and growing up," said Dalglish in an interview.

I met and chatted to Sir Kenny in Cabo de Palos, near Cartegena, Murcia, where he obliged to having a few photographs taken.

"I've been fortunate enough to have been coming to La Manga for many years.

"My wife and I and oldest children came and bought a house. Now the grandchildren come," said Sir Kenny in a video courtesy of La Manga club.

Sir Kenny Dalglish is an Ambassador for the fivestar La Manga Club resort in Spain.

Quote: 'The EFL Board is currently working on the basis that end-of-season play-offs will take place across all three divisions as normal, with two-legged Semi-Finals and a Final'.

By Andrew Atkinson Chief sports editor LEADER EXCLUSIVE EFL Championship football plans to return to action - behind closed doors - with all clubs notified of the schedule, in the wake of the coronavirus lockdown.

“We currently estimate that the League will require approximately 56 days to complete the outstanding matches in the season - including PlayOffs," said EFL chairman Rick Parry.

In a letter to EFL clubs, Parry said: "We are committed to ensuring that clubs are provided an appropriate notice period, to ensure you are able to prepare operationally, given the scale and impact of the postponement in place.

“The EFL Board is currently working on the basis that end-of-season play-offs will take place across all three divisions as normal, with two-legged Semi-Finals and a Final, although no decision has

been taken on the likely venue as it will depend on the circumstances at play at the time.

“It is our working assumption at this stage that matches will be played behind closed doors, when we eventually return, and as part of our contingency planning we are absolutely mindful of the need to try and mitigate the cost of this to Clubs as best we can.

“Clubs should be advised not to recommence any training activity with players until 16 May at the earliest.

"How and when we return -including training - is clearly subject to change and any decisions will be taken in conjunction with the Government and relevant health authorities.”

EFL players have been given training programmes by their respective clubs to undertake - via video links - after the coronavirus lockdown was put in place.

Video links training programmes have been given to Premier League clubs players.

Racing San Miguel, who play in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8, have been using the video link training programmes, following Spain's lockdown on COVID-19.

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Equestrian support for NHS Andrew Atkinson reports.

Eventing World Champions Ros Canter and Zara Tindall, and Olympic Gold Medallists Carl Hester and Scott Brash, are backing Equestrian Relief, a major fundraising initiative launched by the team behind Bolesworth and Liverpool International Horse Shows.

"I am super excited that I will be taking part in Plankety Plank and Bake Off Easter Showstopper all in aid of Equestrian Relief," said Dettori.

"It is going to be great fun, however we are all very competitive so I can't wait to get started - so please make sure you support us!," added Flat jockey Italian superstar Dettori.

Royal Ascot could take place behind closed doors Royal Ascot to take place behind closed doors? *Meeting cancelled - due to coronavirus Quote: 'It may prove possible to run the Royal Ascot races behind closed doors'.

By Andrew Atkinson Breaking news Royal Ascot 2020 could still take place - behind closed doors - after it was announced on April 7 that the meeting has been cancelled, due to the coronavirus lockdown.

“For public health and safety reasons we have reached the difficult but unavoidable conclusion that Royal Ascot 2020 will not be able to take place as an event open to the public," said Guy Henderson, Chief Executive of Ascot.

"This will of course be a great disappointment for everyone planning to attend," he added.

However, under government regulations Mr Henderson revealed: "It may prove possible to run the Royal Ascot races behind closed doors, dependent on Government and public health policy

and the approval of the BHA for us to re-start racing."

Royal Ascot's five-day meeting, attended by Her Majesty The Queen, is scheduled to start on June 16. 300,000 spectators attend annually.

“Customers who have already paid for entry and hospitality at Royal Ascot will be refunded in full in the usual way as quickly as possible.

"We will start the process of communicating with them, initially by email, immediately. We thank everyone in advance for their patience and understanding in completing this substantial task given the challenging practical circumstances of the current national lockdown.

"Meanwhile, our thoughts are with all those grieving and suffering as a result of COVID-19. We offer heartfelt thanks to our wonderful NHS staff, key workers and volunteers for all their selfless dedication," said Mr Henderson.

Equestrian Relief is an urgent fundraising campaign to raise money and change lives, with donations going directly to support the efforts of the wonderful work being carried out by the NHS. Nina Barbour, Bolesworth Managing Director, said: "Our priority is to unite the horse world to support our health workers and our goal is to raise a sum of money that will make a real difference.

"All donations will go directly to NHS Charities Together Covid-19 Crisis Fund - supporting NHS staff and volunteers on the frontline as they work under pressure and in the most challenging of circumstances.

"We have already got some fabulous sponsors onboard - including long standing Bolesworth supporters Equerry, Equitop and Horse Scout - who have all made generous contributions to get us started."

Zara Tindall said: "It's a very challenging time for the equestrian community right now with so many people affected in so many ways.

"Being a high-risk activity, we also have a responsibility to minimise the impact on the NHS who are valiantly working to support the nation and save lives.

"Taking part in Equestrian Relief and knowing that donations are going directly to help NHS workers on the frontline makes it a no-brainer for me. I am happy to be part of this campaign and look forward to seeing just how much we can raise."

Scott Brash said: "All over the country we are coming together to support the phenomenal NHS staff during these very challenging times.

"As a strong equestrian community, we must stay united in the battle against Covid19 and we are hopeful that Equestrian Relief can make a huge impact in raising funds directly to support those who are putting their lives at risk to help others.

Ellie Orton, CEO of NHS Charities Together, said: "Every person on our team and NHS teams throughout the country, are playing a vital role in being there for others during this emergency.

"Please join in with the Equestrian Relief team effort by showing your appreciation, gratitude and solidarity for our NHS workers" To donate and for details of the Equestrian Relief campaign visit www.equestrianrelief.com

Death of Venice ‘Pappy’ Richards mirrors that of ‘Hurricane’ Higgins B The passing of Venice 'Pappy' Richards, Southern Caribbean jockey, mirrors former apprentice jockey Alex Higgins' death

By Andrew Atkinson

arbados born Venice 'Pappy' Richards, dubbed the greatest jockey in Southern Caribbean thoroughbred racing history, has passed away in Trinidad and Tobago, aged 78.

Richards, relatively unknown by most punters in the racing world in Britain, endured months of fading health and eyesight.

Richards' first Gold Cup win came in 1986, riding Bentom. Further GC wins followed on Sandford Prince in 1989, 1991 and 1992.

His passing hits home, mirroring that of former apprentice jockey Alex Higgins, who died a decade ago in May, aged 61.

Richards also won 85 races in the United States in the seventies at New England’s Rockingham Park and Suffolk Downs; and at Lincoln Downs and Finger Lakes.

Higgins, who I personally knew from covering snooker in the UK for 20 years during his heyday, died alone and destitute in Belfast in a flat.

The Caribbean’s all-time most successful jockey, Patrick Husbands, with 3,370 North American wins and accolades in Canadian racing, said: "I think he is the best rider in the Caribbean."

Destitute and alone, Richards, 76, also died in a room at the Hummingbird Stud Farm Stables, near Santa Rosa Park in Arima.

Richards, 5’ 4” tall, riding weight of between 110-112 lbs, received the Barbados Government National Award, the Silver Crown of Merit (SCM) in 1991. He was inducted into Barbados Racing Hall of Fame, and the racing Hall of Fame for Trinidad and Tobago.

Like 'Hurricane' Higgins, how could such an icon, a legend of almost 10 decades in Caribbean horse racing, suffer such an unbefitting exit?

Richards suffered diabetes and hypertension that left him thin, frail and partially blind.

Medical expenses became challenging, after his employment contract with the Arima Race Club (ARC) was not renewed in January.

Despite earning millions Higgins' snooker colleagues and friends rallied round to raise £20,000 for him to undergo dental treatment in Malaga. He was too ill to have it done.

Richards, who rode over 1,400 winners during an illustrious career, turned his back on becoming a trainer and committed himself to tutoring riders at Jockeys’ schools in his native Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

The passing of Jockey Venice 'Pappy' Richards mirrors former apprentice jockey Alex Higgins' death.

ries in the Midsummer Classic and four triumphs in the Cockspur Gold Cup, (now the Sandy Lane Gold Cup).

Richards, nine times champion in Barbados and T&T, completed the Triple Crown. The Guineas, Midsummer Classic and Derby in 1989 on Coo Bird. Richards won six Derby races in his career, four in Barbados and two in T&T. Five Barbados Guineas wins, four victo-

T&T’s ARC has a Benevolent Fund in place, to help former jockeys falling on hard times but unfortunately Richards did not appear to have been a beneficiary.

Andrew Atkinson will be featuring Alex Higgins, twice world snooker champion, who started out teenage years as an apprentice jockey, prior to becoming a legend of the green baize.

"Alex started off in life as an apprentice jockey - and up until his dying day - continued to hold racing close to his heart," said Andrew.

"I knew Alex during annual coverage of the Coral UK Championship in Preston over almost two decades.

"We both liked a drink - and a bet. And chatted about our love of horse racing. Including his time as an apprentice jockey," said Andrew.

ALEX HIGGINS - FROM APPRENTICE JOCKEY - TO WORLD SNOOKER CHAMPION. COMING SOON.

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Bernie Ecclestone to become a father at 89 years of age Bernie Ecclestone, the former president and "owner" of Formula 1, is set to become a father for the fourth time, at 89 years of age with his wife Fabiana Flosi who, at 41, is 48 years his junior.

21

The former chief executive of the Formula One Group made the announcement that the baby will be born in the summer, a few months before he turns 90.

"He'll be born in the summer," Ecclestone told Blick "Like all parents, we only have one wish: that the child be born healthy." And hopefully he never expresses the intention of doing something in Formula One," Ecclestone added.

Ecclestone has been married to his Brazilian wife since 2012. His eldest daughter, Deborah, is currently 65 years old.

Amir Khan: Coronavirus is a man-made thing to control the population In his home town of Bolton, Amir Khan, the former light-welterweight world champion has offered his £5million venue to the NHS to help fight the coronavirus outbreak.

The facility was meant to open as a wedding venue in August but Khan is now ready to hand over the keys, insisting the safety of the public takes precedence at this stage.

The 33-year-old wrote on Twitter: "I am aware of how difficult it is for the public to get a hospital bed in this tragic time.”

"I am prepared to give my 60,000 square foot 4 story building which is due to be a wedding hall and retail outlet to the NHSuk to help people affected by the coronavirus.

However Khan believes the coronavirus isn't a mere accident but that it is purposely being used to cull sections of the global population.

The British boxer went into detail about the conspiracy theory on social media, insisting that the official story isn't the truth.

“I don’t think it’s coming from China. That’s a lie, really. People are saying that they were eating bats and snakes and the poison mixed. What b*****t is that? Do you believe that? I don’t.

Coronavirus this, coronavirus that – you’re prob-

ably getting bored of it, as I am. Do you not think it’s anything to do with that 5G in these towers that are going up?

“It’s a man-made thing. It’s been put there for a reason – while they test 5G. It might be for population control – get rid of a lot of us, especially when they say that it harms old people. Look at these towers at night-time that have been put up, then telling people not to go out.” Meanwhile Khan has announced food for 10,000 Pakistani families amid the coronavirus lockdown.

A few days later the former world champion took to Instagram sharing his photo and writing, “I’m giving out food to the people of Pakistan.

10,000 families will receive aid.”

NBA contemplate cancelling season

He also shared a video from his Islamabad boxing academy, where ration bags were being prepared for distribution.

Amir wrote, “Seeing everyone suffer in Pakistan with food shortage due to the corona virus I have made bags which contain rice, flour, daal, chick peas, juices, water, powder milk, bars of soap.”

“I would like to thank the Pakistan Army for helping us distributing the bags. The bags will be distributed from Amir Khan boxing hall in Islamabad.”

Following the NBA's suspension of it’s fixtures on 12 March, bosses at the basketball league are now considering several options about how they can proceed in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

They have considered shortening the play-offs, playing in summer or hosting games in one city, but now they are said to be thinking about cancelling the season altogether.

One ESPN journalist who covers the sport revealed, the NBA and the players' union (NBPA) have begun conversations on how they could facilitate a shutdown.

The financial damage is already significant, but TV, sponsors and ticket sales money will be

lost if basketball does not return.

If the season were cancelled it is understood that National Basketball Association owners could get some financial relief in the form of returned pay in any compensation deal with players, according to multiple people with knowledge of the situation.

The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), the players’ union, has told agents that any compensation deal constructed by the NBPA and league owners will include refunds on all NBA contracts.

One NBA agent who spoke on condition of remaining anonymous believes the league may try to stop 50% of players’

remaining pay until the completion of the league’s 2019-20 accounts, which are expected in early July.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Basketball Association had suspended their league since January due to the coronovirus outbreak which hit the country hard.

American players returned to their teams because the competition was scheduled to restart in April, but it has been postponed again until May. Although life is going back to normality in China, basketball has yet to return and the NBA are considering that it might be impossible to get some action in the United States in the foreseeable future.

22

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Monte stalwart MonteStan Maccan sends and his Bias best wishes to fans on behalf of club Last week we covered a bit on bias so let’s continue on bias and see how this affects the art of bowling. Right we know the bowls have bias but how do we go about using this facility.

Racing San Miguel training programme - via video links With football amongst sports on lockdown in the COVID-19 crisis Chief sports editor Andrew Atkinson talks to CD Montesinos player Maccan and applauds Racing San Miguel in their training programme, via video links.

Andrew Atkinson with Maccan

"THE players, coaches and management are waiting for this coronavirus pandemic to be resolved," said CD Montesinos stalwart Maccan.

CD Montesinos, relegated to the Valencia 2nd Regional G14 last season, were on course to return to the 1st Regional Group 8, topping the league at the time of football lockdown.

"We are awaiting to see what will happen to the soccer league - and how the Championship will be organised to end soccer games that could not be played," said Maccan.

During the coronavirus situation the Ayunmiento de Los Montesinos have been active in various measures, including spray disinfection of the town, in an attempt to keep the 5,000 inhabitants safe.

CD Montesinos have been one of the main focuses of the Vega Baja hamlet, when it comes to sport, with financial support in the construction of a new stand and playing surface, along with hundreds of fans attending fixtures at the Municipal stadium, with the Full Monte supporters club formed.

"We send our best wishes to the followers of the Montesinos soccer team," said Maccan.

"We convey their peace of mind, because the entire CD Montesinos team is waiting to finish the league - and return to the 1st Regional and move up the category. "A big hug goes out to all the supporters and to the people of the town," added Maccan.

Racing San Miguel first team play in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8, being one of a plethora of teams based in San Miguel.

"Despite the exceptional situation in which we find ourselves, due to the coronavirus situation, Racing San Miguel want to resume training as much as possible - aided by new technologies," said a spokesperson from RSM. "The youth teams have gathered (by video) to prepare for their return to training - and playing games. Soon the rest of the categories will also begin," said the spokesperson.

Captions: Racing San Miguel - training programme - via video links.

Maccan (left) with Andrew Atkinson: Best wishes to fans in COVID-19 lockdown.

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We look forward to seeing all our loyal customers again, once the imposed retrictions put in place by the authorities, due to the coronavirus, are lifted. Keep safe. Vivienne Shepherd Quesada Fitness Gym.

For one, if the bowls did not have a bias, the game would take on as an elongated form of skittles. You would be just bowling straight at the jack and as the game progressed the only way to get at it would be to knock opponent’s bowls out of the way.

Okay this is a rudimentary observation leaving rules of play and numbers out which I will come to later on. Having a bias to the bowl enables you to do the latter but also to come round bowls, come into the jack from the side or position your bowl behind it from either left or right. This makes the game more technical and interesting and requires good judgement and skill.

Okay you say I get that. But how do I know what side has the bias and if I am right or left handed how do I go about it?

All manufacturers mark their bowls on one side with their logos and also a personal identification logo with large rings on one side and normally a small ring including the technical specification and WB stamp, serial number and date of the bowl on other side.

This does differ from each manufacturer but generally they are all similar. They place their large data on the side so that when delivered by a right handed player when facing outwards towards the right, the bowl swings to the left (Forehand).

By reversing the positon with the large data facing out to the left the bowl will swing in to the right (Backhand). So you can see that by this way of marking you can, by just rotating the bowl, swing it either left or right to come into the desired position.

For left handed players the same applies, so by having the large data facing outwards to the left it will swing in to the right and inwards to the left. Sounds confusing, but it’s very easy to get once you have try.

Going back to marks on the bowls. Here are

some of the rules that cover the above: 52.1.8 The Controlling Body can supply adhesive (stick on) markings for players to temporarily fix to both sides of their bowls, or allow players to use their own markings.

When these are used: 52.1.8.1 They are part of the bowl for all purposes under the Laws of the Sport of Bowls.

52.1.8.2 They must not be put over the serial number and World Bowls Stamp.

52.1.8.4 All bowls belonging to players within a team or side must have these markings on them and the markings must all of the same design and colour.

However players may use markings which are a different size from those used by others in their team or side where this is necessary due to differences in sizes of either the manufacturer’s rings or distinguishing marks on the bowls.

On the light hearted side, and without going into rules of play at the moment, everyone, either at the top of the game or beginner, has sent a bowl down with the wrong bias.

If your just practising or playing with mates not a problem apart from shouts “It’s your round at the bar” or similar. However if

you’re in a league match or competition were rinks next to yours are in play the fun starts. Players start doing a modified version of the Creole Rain Dance or hop about like fleas on LSD shouting “stop that bowl” as the rogue ball heads towards their head at about 12 m.p.h. where someone hopefully grabs it before it plough’s in and destroys their “head”.

As mentioned there are some terms and rules that apply here but we will cover them later on. Bye for now!

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

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

Also bowlers are most welcome, we have a brand new green and are looking for new members. Please contact: Club Captain David Jenkins pacadasu@yahoo.com or Charlie Watkins charlieatpathways@yahoo.co.uk.

Spurs boss apologises after training session

BY ANDREW ATKINSON

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has apologised after taking a training session in a London park despite UK Government legislation in the wake of the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

"I accept that my actions were not in line with government protocol and we must only have contact with members of our own household," said Mourinho.

Mourinho and his "It is vital we all play our squad were pictured part and follow governin a Barnet Park ment advice in order to

support our heroes in the NHS and save lives," added Mourinho.

Former Real Madrid, Porto, Chelsea and Manchester United boss Mourinho was training after the government's social distancing guidelines, amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mourinho, 57, was pictured in Barnet.

Government guidelines are to be 2 metres apart.

Mourinho insists he remained the required distance apart during their training session.

A Spurs spokesperson said: "All of our players have been reminded to respect social distancing when exercising outdoors.

We shall continue to reinforce this message."

A government spokesperson said: 'Our advice is clear and applies to everybody: stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives."

The revelation comes amid a fall out between some Premier League clubs including Spurs - and politicians to furlough staff under government finance, despite being rife with financial wealth.

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FA CHAIRMAN WARNS CLUBS - AND LEAGUES - COULD BE LOST

By Andrew Atkinson Chief sports editor FIFA's recommendations of player’s contract extensions cannot be enforced under English employment law according to Nick De Marco QC. Out of contract players in England can depart their clubs on June 30, said De Marco, who has represented sports governing bodies, players, clubs and agents since 2002.

"Legally, they cannot be forced to continue to play for the club," said De Marco.

"Nobody can force them to do so; FIFA, the FA, the club or anybody else.

If they want to walk away, that's a matter for them.

"What you're most likely to see as a preferred option is probably very shortterm extensions of contracts based on existing salary terms.

"That won't suit everyone, and it can't be forced on anyone in England.

"If you're a lower league club, financially stressed, you won't be wanting to pay players beyond June 30.

"So, a one-size-fits-all solution isn't going to work. It's going to depend on

Premier League Players can 'simply walk away' HACKNEY MARSHES

each case. The key is going to be agreements," he said.

De Marco, advising the Professional Footballers' Association during the coronavirus pandemic, said: "If the players are out of contract then, so far as the law is concerned, they're no

longer employees and they're free to walk away.

"The real issue is, 'Do the players walk away or not?'. That will depend on the circumstances of each case.

"If the transfer window is closed, they may walk away and not be able to find

“I hope that the FA listens very carefully to the Premier League and the Football League,” said Nick De Marco

another club. Now they may have a legal claim in those circumstances, or they may just have to wait two or three months."

FIFA have said they will allow Associations to move the dates of this summer's transfer window.

"The bigger issue for all of us is obviously how long this coronavirus goes on for and when we can resume the season," he said.

"That will have the greatest effect on the transfer window and when the season restarts. What would happen if the season couldn't start until August or September, which is quite possible?

"If you didn't start the transfer window until after that, it could be very unfair to players, who are going to be out of contract in June, and don't want to sign the new contract.

"It could be very unfair to clubs who would be desperate, some of them, to release players," said De Marco.

"One possible solution that's been suggested is allowing players to sign precontracts," said De Marco.

"So, if a club wants to keep a player, but the player doesn't really want to sign a two-month contract because they've got an offer of three years somewhere else, they can sign the three years somewhere else, but it starts in two months' time.

"The problem with that is you have all sorts of integrity issues. I don't think we will really know what the solution is until we're closer to knowing when, and

Ronaldinho is released from prison after paying $ 1.6 million R

how, the season can resume.

"I think the most important thing we will see is the global economic crisis and, in particular, the squeeze on football finances means that it's going to be a very depressed football market," said De Marco.

"Not just in terms of transfer fees but, also, you'd expect that to have a knockon effect on players' wages.

"There are clubs who can afford to pay players' wages, there will still be those clubs, in the UK and in Europe. Those clubs will be competing for the very best players.

"It does mean that those very best players will still be able to maintain a high salary."

FA chairman Greg Clarke has warned that clubs and leagues could be lost as a result of the financial impact of the pandemic.

"I'd hope that the FA listens very carefully to the Premier League and the Football League.

"And also to the clubs and players about what they see is necessary to make the season work," said De Marco, speaking to Sky Sports News.

"It would make no sense at all for the FA to just enforce rules for the sake of it, if that doesn't help the season get going again or if it just leads to loads of disputes between players and clubs.

"The FA have to listen very carefully to what those on the frontline in the game say is necessary and I would expect they would do so," said De Marco.

SUDUKO SOLUTION Fr om page 14

onaldinho has been released from the Asunción prison (Paraguay) after more than a month in the cells. The Brazilian was put in jail after entering the country with false passports together with his brother Roberto. The pair have now been released after paying $ 1.6 million bail and is under house arrest in a $64 a night hotel in the Paraguayan capital

The former Barcelona, Milan and PSG star has spent a busy month behind bars, in a prison that also housed Paraguay’s former soccer federation chief and the ex-speaker of the lower house of parliament, and while celebrating his 40th birthday inside, the 2002 World Cup winner became popular among inmates and apparently took part in a futsal tournament.

His team was awarded a 15kg suckling pig for an 11-2 win, although there were conflicting accounts over how many goals and assists

Ronaldinho racked up.

Ronaldinho's lawyers argued that their client had been given the Paraguayan passport as a gift from a local sponsor, and was unaware he was doing anything wrong by using it. The pair are now awaiting trial for documentary forgery.

The former striker was the ambassador of

tourism for both his country and for Barcelona Football Club, ??although both of those functions, for the moment, have been put on hold.

This is just one of the problems in which Ronaldinho has been involved in recent years after being chased by the Brazilian justice system following the seizure of his bank accounts.

TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: 1. New Zealand, 2. 27, 3. 4th, 4. Wind Solar Tidal Hydro, 5. Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune. 6.

MMIX, 7. Lodge, 8. A, 9. 43rd, 10. Leading Lady, 11. Abbey Road, 12. 6, 13. Sneeze, 14. Pebbles, 15. Wiltshire, 16. 23rd April, 17. German Measles, 18. Dunkirk, 19. Timmy, 20. Candlestick Rope Lead Pipe Revolver Dagger Spanner, 21. 300, 22. 3 Feet, 23. 170, 24. Headingley, 25. 8 Feet,

24

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