The Leader Newspaper Edition 843

D O YOU WANT TO S E LL YOU R P R OP E RTY? NO SALE - NO FE E Tel: +3 4 617 537 8 6 6 No 843 Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020 Tel: 637 227 385

or email: property@spanishrivier ahomes.com

Keeping people safe and informed for over 16 years - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

P R OM I S E OF M U LTI P U R P OS E C U LTU RAL C E NTR E F OR OR I H U E LA COSTA

This was the headline of the Información newspaper following the council meeting at which C.L.A.R.O. requested a commitment to provide Orihuela Costa with a cultural centre with Library, rooms for cultural and social activities and an auditorium fit for a population of between 30,000-

50,000 depending on the time of the year.

Only in this way, argued C.L.A.R.O., could the coast benefit from the annual culture budget of some €2 million.

Since there is no suitable indoor facility on Orihuela Costa for cultural and social

activities of any significance, what is offered from the annual culture budget are activities in the open air which cannot take place in the winter months and, even in the summer, are subject to the vagaries of the weather.

Continued on Page 2

A MAJOR OUTCOME of the Plenary meeting of Orihuela Town Council on 26 November was the firm promise that Orihuela Costa would at last have a Cultural Centre with an auditorium fit for a resident population of a third of the populace of the municipality.

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Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020

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Continued from page one Cultural Centre for Coast ADVERTISING SALES

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

Otherwise social and cultural activities in Orihuela Costa take place on private premises, mainly in bars and restaurants, for which participants must pay out of their own pockets.

park for the Commercial Centre without any form of agreement with the Town Hall and without any payment to the public coffers on the part of the owners of the Boulevard.

In effect the taxpayers of the coast are subsidising a hugely successful private, commercial enterprise.

Orihuela city, with a population similar to that of the coast, has several municipal venues for social and cultural activities and even the smaller inland villages with populations of a few thousand at most have such facilities.

Providing the money for the centre will be the next step after finalisation of a hopefully ambitious plan based on detailed suggestions already advanced by residents in meetings with the responsible councillor.

In the plenary meeting the Mayor acknowledged that it was justified that the coast should have culture and that they were working on solutions.

Choice of the municipal land adjacent to La Zenia Boulevard for the location will enable considerable cost savings since the land is already levelled, tarmacked, with drainage, illuminated and all the access roads in place.

C.L.A.R.O. has been campaigning for such facilities for a decade or more. In 2017 there was provision in the budget for drawing up a project but nothing has been done since. Now it is promised that a project will be ready by the end of the year.

The front page image shows the proposed location of promised Orihuela Costa social-cultural centre on municipal land adjacent to La Zenia Boulevard CLARO PRESS RELEASE

Fortunately, the location of such a centre should not constitute a problem. The obvious location is on the municipally owned land adjacent to the La Zenia Boulevard Commercial Centre which is used at present as a supplementary car

PSOE asks that tax exemption for terraces be extended At last Thursday’s monthly plenary the PSOE councillor María García proposed that the municipal council extends the suspension of ‘terrace tax’ beyond the end of the year. She also asked that the charge for attending municipal markets be reduced by 50% for all market traders.

Proposing the continued abolition of the terrace tax Garcia said that "many other municipalities have already announced whether or not the exemption will continue into 2021,” so it is only right and proper that the council

makes the decision now so that restaurateurs and bar owners are able to better plan their budgets for the coming year.

Moving on the pitch fees paid by market traders the councillor said that "the charges paid by merchants in Orihuela represents one of the highest in the area." She asked, therefore, that "the City Council reduces the charge to 50% since currently many traders are not able to afford their attendance at markets for the entire month."

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S PAI N U NVE I LS P LAN F OR CORONAVIRUS VACCINATION P RO G RAM On Tuesday, Salvador Illa, Spain's Minister of Health made public details of the country’s coronavirus vaccination plan, with an optimistic note that the entire Spanish population could be vaccinated within a year.

According to the information released by Illa, the minister said that he expects the first vaccinations to begin in January.

The plan also establishes three stages: a very limited initial one between January and March, a second until June and then a third programme, in which general vaccination will be carried out.

As was widely expected, the first people to receive the vaccinations will be elderly residents and workers in nursing homes.

They will be followed by the rest of Spain’s healthcare workers and then disabled people who need intense levels of support but “who are not institutionalized”, he said.

Priority groups make up around 2.5 million people, who he would expect to be vaccinated by 1 June.

BioNTech, Johnson & Johnson, Sanofi and GSK and CureVac. It is also in the process of agreeing an order with NovaVax. The vaccine from Moderna, Oxford AstraZeneca, Pfizer and BioNTech, are currently being evaluated by the European Medicines Agency and could be approved within weeks.

Illa said that Spain is set to receive 140 million vaccine doses for 80 million people this year, even though the country’s population is only 47 million.

“We’ll have enough doses to vaccinate of 100% of the population this year if development continues to go well,” Illa said.

“Residents and workers in nursing homes, followed by healthcare workers & disabled people to be 1st in line.”

He explained that the country’s vaccine committee had divided the population into 18 groups based on “the risk of serious illness and death; the risk of being exposed; the risk of socio-economic impact; and the risk of transmission”.

However, when he was asked, Illa refused to outline which groups will be prioritised after the first four.

He said that as part of the EU’s vaccine strategy, Spain is dealing with six vaccine companies -- Moderna, Oxford AstraZeneca, Pfizer and

He also explained that the excess doses will be sent to countries outside the European Union under principles of “solidarity”.

The vaccines will be carried out free of charge at around 13,000 centers which are already equipped to vaccinate the public. Despite the president of Galicia saying last week that people could be fined for refusing to get vaccinated, Illa said the program will be voluntary across the whole country.

Spain is busy developing its logistics capability to be able to deliver the more complicated vaccines such as the Pfizer product, which needs to be stored at minus 70 degrees Celsius.

A registration and follow-up strategy for vaccination is also being planned, as all three currently undergoing the approval process require two inoculations if they are to be effective.

“This vaccine will be just as safe as any other vaccine we provide in Spain,” said Illa.

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Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020

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Search gets underway for Orihuela Mass Graves

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Marina Bar Christmas Fayre for Help at Home charity Despite being in the middle of a pandemic the Marina Bar Christmas Fayre on Sat 21st November turned out to be another resounding success.

This time raising money for the charity "Help At Home".

Experienced fund raisers David and Loraine Whitney were thrilled to bits with the takings of 1285.70 Euros surpassing their expectations during this trying time.

Work is now underway in the search to find a mass grave containing the bodies of 17 men who were shot dead 6 months after the end of the Spanish Civil War in October and November 1939 for "defending the Republic and Freedom".

With Tombola, Raffle, Mini Auction, Name the Bear and various other stalls people were able to enjoy this afternoon in a safe environment.

The bodies were buried in the Orihuela Parish cemetery, although the exact location in not known. Nevertheless the presence of grave is marked with a memorial, erected by Vientos del Pueblo SocioCultural Athenaeum, that has stood in the cemetery since 2008.

Carols played by the Phoenix Band added to the ambience and once Father Christmas made an appearance the children seemed to pop up out of nowhere to give him their wish lists and receive chocolate Santa's.

The Minister for Transparency, Rosa Gijaro, visited the Cemetery on Tuesday where she received a briefing about the works that are in their initial phase. She said, “we know that after so many years it will be difficult to find the remains but we will continue looking as long as there are clues as to their whereabouts".

Many of the relatives of those who were shot have also visited the site. They say that they continue to live with "hope" as this moment that they have been waiting all their lives.

This is certainly the case for Mari Carmen Lorenzo Roca, whose grandfather, Francisco Roca, from Orihuela, was shot and is in the common grave. "We are excited and want to find out his whereabouts so that we can take his remains and bury them with his wife," she explained to the media, with tears in her eyes. She says that a friend of her grandfather had told her that the trial was unfair, after which he was taken away and shot.

The first dig has been carried out by Drakkar Consultores SL, but has not yet yielded any results.

There is documentation on the executions of these 17 men, but there is no record of where the mass grave is located, which, until now, is thought to be in what is currently the area furthest from the entrance to the cemetery, although in this first dig nothing has been found.

What they do know of is the wall where it is proven that the executions were carried out but in terms of the site of the mass grave the work is being undertaken on the basis of oral testimonies from family members, much of the detail of which has been lost over the years.

Many of the testimonies of families are similar and relate to the area where their mothers, aunts or grandmothers laid the flowers for their loved ones years after the executions.

This is also the case for Sarmiento Mateo who remembers how his mother, who was five years old when his father was shot, told him that as a child she took flowers to the cemetery. Today he is excitedly waiting for the remains of his grandfather to be found so that they can rest in peace with other members of his family. "My mother has

David & Lorraine Whitney and the bar's Rita and Dave Monaghan The presence of a mass grave is marked with a memorial that has stood in the cemetery since 2008. been through Calvary for many years and we would like to give her the pleasure of being with her father," he explained, visibly moved.

The councillor Rosa Gijaro, assured everyone that the recovery of these mortal remains is a priority set by the Government of the Generalitat Valenciana “to recover our the dignity. A country that continues to be full of mass graves is not as dignified as it should be”. "The families have gone through ‘hell’ for more than 80 years," she said.

When the common grave is located, the mortal remains will be exhumed immediately and then genetic tests will be carried out so that we can return them to their relatives.

Irises - the Greek goddess of the rainbow IRISES - named from the Greek goddess of the rainbow - will attract butterflies and hummingbirds into your garden and make lovely cut flowers.

Irises come in two types, the bearded or crested beardless type.

So-called bearded, due to the soft hairs

along the centre of the falls. In crested Iris, the hairs form a comb, or ridge.

Iris flowers begin to bloom in late winter to early spring, in shades of purple, blue, white and yellow and with a plethora of hybridised versions that are multi-colored.

Plant in a sunny position, keeping the top of the rhizome exposed, as they need the sun and air to keep the rhizome dry.

A drought tolerant plant, they will benefit from occasional watering during the winter

Rita and Dave, proprietors of the bar together with their loyal staff were once again on hand to ensure the afternoon was a success, also serving up delicious food and drinks. David, Loraine, Rita and Dave, were amazed at the generosity of people who gave gifts and donations of money and want to thank everybody who donated to the success of this event.

Next on the calendar is the ever popular event "Mingle Bells", a Christmas lunch with quiz, raffle and spot prizes on Friday 11th Dec at 2pm. again at the Marina Bar with donations again going to the charity "Help at Home".

Bookings are already being taken for this and as space is limited you are advised to reserve your places as soon as possible, please telephone 965 705 907 for further details.

months.

During the summer months, water consistently and deeply with a weekly general fertiliser and dead-head spent flowers.

Iris are abundant multipliers, and divide the rhizomes in the winter to guarantee continued blooms.

Once the plants become crowded, the Iris flowers will be fewer, or none existent.

Upon blooms fading leave the foliage to yellow, before removing, as with many spring flowers the foliage is feeding nutrients to the rhizome for next year’s flowers.

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Sabadell to sell off Trustee Savings Bank in UK The Sabadell bank has announced that it will seek a buyer for its British subsidiary and will in future focus on the national market. The announcement was made following the breakdown of the talks for a merger with BBVA The group has said that it will redeploy in the domestic market to improve profitability, following the breakdown of talks for a possible merger with BBVA. This was stated on Friday by the Alicante-based entity, which for the first time has publicly acknowledged that it is seeking "strategic alternatives" for its international business, "including the sale of TSB." In other words, the bank has decided to pursue the search for a buyer for its British subsidiary, a task that Goldman Sachs is already be working on, which the Sabadell hired last summer to analyse its different alternatives for the future.

The President of Banco Sabadell, Josep Oliu

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Dogs poisoned in Los Balcones

A

dog has died and others are in a serious condition fighting for their lives following despicable poisoning at Los Balcones in Torrevieja.

Animalistas Torrevieja have put out a warning to pet owners after the incident.

In a statement they said: "Alert. There is a killer on the Balcones. There are three poisoned dogs.

Keep your dogs on the leash. Deposit area of Los Balcones. Help us find the killer."

Poisoning of cats has also been undertaken on Flamingo beach.

The public in general are outraged by the poisoning incidents, call-

ing for stiff sentences and fines if the perpetrator(s) are caught: "I hope they rot in hell," said one.

Two dogs are being cared for after being poisoned in the incident.

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ride away, amongst pine forests, citrus groves, and olive trees. The views from this tiny village are superb from wherever you look.

BY LIN DA BENT L EY: Looking down to the re s e r v o i r f rom Guadalest Castle

Normally Guadalest would also have had hordes of people visiting it through the summer but not this year, so a day visit here would give them some support.

There are nine unique museums, a Salt and Pepper shakers museum displaying 20,000 different shakers from around the world. Museum of torture instruments to name just a couple.

You can visit the restored house of the Orduna family which is fascinating as you get an idea how it was to live in ancient times. The exit from the house takes you for a short walk outside behind the old buildings, where again the views are just stunning.

There are many shops selling souvenirs and unusual gifts, giving the chance to purchase a different kind of Christmas gift.

The village is split into two and they join through a 15-foot tunnel in the rocks. It is uphill although not too steep but be aware.

Just here on the right is the white bell tower of Penon de la Alcala which is perched high up on the mountainside.

Enjoy time a wa y while sta ying close to home O

rihuela Costa is like living in a bubble as Covid doesn’t seemed to have hit us as hard as it has other places.

Alicante Marina at sunset

I do know that it has deeply affected some people here and I feel for all those people that it has caused sadness to.

Another place for a night away or a day trip is Alicante. It doesn’t seem to be having the same problems as Benidorm as it is a city so still many people around, if you want to have the atmosphere of a busier area then Alicante could be for you.

The old town is fascinating to stroll around and imagine how it would have been many years ago to have lived there. There are museums, monuments, and beautiful churches to view amongst the old town.

There are numerous good tapas bars to take lunch either in the back streets or along the beautiful Paseo de la Explanda. There are museums, monuments, and beautiful churches to view amongst the old town.

There are a couple of cafes for coffee and maybe a brandy set amongst centuries old trees. A wondrous setting.

Or wander over to the marina area with its array of small and huge boats sitting bobbing in the water and sit in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

You cannot go to Alicante without visiting the castle set high above the town.

Most places here are functioning, albeit with fewer customers, and most are doing alright in these Covid times.

A visit to Benidorm will show you that we are lucky and that Covid is devastating some areas of tourism, with many places closed and those that are open seeming to shut at 2pm and not reopen for the afternoon. I was told that over half of all restaurants, cafes and bars are now closed.

With borders shut maybe you are thinking that this is not a good time to take a break away, but some might just fancy a change of scenery and a night away, there would be no hussle or bustle of people here. The point is though you would be supporting businesses that are struggling to survive in this hard and difficult time.

Benidorm once a hectic, packed resort which had plenty to offer the hordes that descended on it is now resorted to a few. So if the thought of wandering around the Old Town of Benidorm with bargains to be had in some hotels on the sea front, and a visit to the wonderful restaurant owned by

From the very top of the village there are views of the glorious blue lake and surrounding picturesque valley and mountains.

El Castell de Guadalest the 2 Ians situated in the Old Town, for a special evening meal, then Benidorm is for you.

I found everywhere to be very strict with their Covid restrictions and hygiene.

Maybe pick up some unusual Christmas presents then sit quietly enjoying the sea breeze with a drink in hand.

Driving 10 minutes out of Benidorm it’s surprising to find that you are in lovely hilly countryside and the Town of Guadalest, just a stunning short

It is reached either by walking up a steep hill or by a lift deep in the middle of the hill the castle is set on. This is reached by walking through a long tunnel, then the lift takes you up to one of two levels.

At the top on a clear day you can see for miles and the scenery is spectacular.

With many people suffering mentally in these Covid times an overnight stay or day trip to somewhere close by and familiar might be able to give you a lift and bring more positive thoughts.

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CROWDS FLOCK BACK TO TORREVIEJA AS TEMPERATURES SET TO DROP

By Andrew Atkinson in Torrevieja Crowds flocked back to the seaside on the Costa Blanca south before the winter temperatures are set to drop - with forecasts for rain looming.

As temperatures hit 27 degrees in late November in Torrevieja thousands of visitors arrived at the Playa Los Locos promena-

de that was a ghost town - hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic - at times this year.

Tourism dived due to a number of restrictions imposed, including 14 days isolation for UK holidaymakers, amid COVID-19 global travel bans.

A border curfew and border closures between Alicante and Murcia were also put in place, due to COVID-19.

Filming took place on Los Locos Torrevieja beach in the winter sun - with six people dancing wearing white gowns - and a female singer wearing a red traditional Spanish dress.

Temperatures are set to plunge to 19 degrees, with forecasts of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

On November 30 there is a 40% chance of showers; December 1, 40% scattered showers; December 2, 30% scattered showers. December 3 forecast is for sun/partly cloudy.

ROBBERS STRIKE FOR SECOND TIME AT LA HERRADA CASHPOINT

By Andrew Atkinson Lightning has struck twice as an ATM cash machine was stolen overnight outside the CC Monte La Herrada bar in Los Montesinos last week, three months after thieves first struck in August!

Police are once again making enquiries about the latest cash haul robbery on the outskirts of Los Montesinos.

The ATM was first stolen on August 19 with an appeal made by CC Monte La Herrada bar for information.

Following the latest raid it is not known how much

money was stolen from the ATM. Following the robbery on August 19 only the concrete base was left behind.

The Guardia Civil made arrests during ‘Operation Confina’ following robberies within the Vega Baja regions and Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa and La Mata, that included a search in Los Montesinos, which discovered equipment used in burglaries and robberies.

The gang were using industrial estates within Alicante as storage for professional equipment to carry out raids, including that of safe robberies.

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Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020

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To ‘snap’ – or not to ‘snap’…?

V

ery rarely does this column ever return to a topic covered the previous week. Today, you are about to receive one of those exceptions. For those of you whom these articles do not leave a lasting (or any) impression; allow me to remind you that last week we exalted the benefits of making ‘snap decisions’ - as against procrastinating about what you should do next. In the interests of fairness and balance, we are about to demonstrate two examples; one showing when a snap decision should have been taken; and number two, when a snap decision was the wrong thing to do!

This is all about ‘equal time’, after I received an email from a reader who told me how wrong I was by encouraging people to make snap decision. I do know the man – and I am not going to mention his name because … how shall I put this … he is still married!

So … we shall leave Andrew (if I called him ‘Andy’ it might blow his cover) out of this and I shall just proceed to give you the two perfect examples of when to make a snap decision – and when not to!

My brother Fehin (I am banking on him not reading this – as he claims that YCBS is a ‘load of s###e) had at that time a wife and a four year old daughter. (He still has both, but different age). Fehin’s mother-in-law gave the child a present of a budgie in a cage. That was grand, until my brother read that a budgie is dangerous to have in close proximity to a child due to a harmful dander the unfortunate bird was alleged to transmit to children. Fehin relayed his concern to his wife … and let’s just say the parents were of differing opinions as to whether or not the budgie would cause harm to their daughter.

Where the bird and cage came from in the first place would have had a bearing on the argument!

Fast forward and Fehin came in late one night a week or so later.

Everybody else was in bed, but the budgie was wide awake. Nobody in the kitchen but himself and the child-killing bird. The brother then made a snap decision. He remembered how our mother used ‘stretch the neck’ of the turkeys at Christmas. This was the answer: The budgie would be found dead on the cage floor in the morning, under the perch he fell off … and death would be attributed to ‘natural causes!’

Now, I do know that most ‘Leader’ readers are animal lovers. If you

Pope advances case for sainthood of 127 Spanish Civil War dead

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are one of these – or if you cannot stand the sight of blood … please look away now!

There used to be an advertising slogan. “GUINNESS FOR STRENGTH”, and maybe this had something to do with it; but anyway, Fehin ‘stretched the neck’ and in the process ‘snapped’ the head completely off the budgie … and budgies do not lose their head due to natural causes. This is one example of when a person should not have made a ‘snap decision!’

Next we have a man who didn’t make a snap decision – and should have.

Back when I was an able bodied man, my friend Joe Mulhare and I worked underground for a time at Silvermines, Co Tipperary. Thanks DIFFICULT DECISION: The junction to some hefty bonus cheques, Joe where my friend, Joe Mulhare, went off and purchased a new car. brought his car to a halt, on its roof.

He had driven very little previously and had dispensed with driving lesroof, in the field at the mouth of the ‘Y’! sons nonetheless. Let’s call a spade a spade here; Joe was a terrible driver when sober.

A ‘snap decision’ would have been totally in order here!

We lived in a ‘camp’ on the mine site – about two miles from the village of Silvermines. One evening after work, Joe was enjoying a couple of quiet pints in Peggy Gleeson’s Pub, when an office party of gorgeous girls entered the lounge. Mulhare made the snap decision at the wrong time in this story. He decided he would drive back to base and change into his best suit. (Just in case!) Which he did – and added an extra dollop of ‘Old Spice’ for good measure.

Don’t Forget Choice, not chance, determines destiny.

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com

On the way back into the village, there is a ‘Y’ in the road - meaning you could hit the main street from either the top or the bottom of the small village. Joe approached the ‘Y’ and it was decision time. Here are his own words to describe what happened next:

*Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie

“What else would I have been thinking about – but the girls in the pub? Suddenly there appeared in front of me the ‘Y’. I didn’t have sufficient time to think and I couldn’t make up my mind which road to take – so I deferred the decision and the car came to a halt, on its

Bernie has published four books; ‘If Ever a Man Suffered’, ‘The

The pope also recognised the heroic virtues of Spanish Fr. Andres Manjon, who founded the schools of Ave Maria in Granada.

He was born in 1846 and died in 1923.

Pope Francis has announced his recognition of the martyrdom of Fr. Juan Elias Medina and 126 priests, religious and lay men and women from the Archdiocese of Cordoba, who were all executed because of their faith between 1936 and 1939, during the Spanish civil war.

Declared martyrs, they will now be beatified.

Details of the decrees were published on Tuesday following a meeting with Cardinal-designate Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Congregation for Saints' Causes, according to The Vatican.

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Fr. Juan Elias Medina

Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

Best of Bernie’, ‘The Team’, and ‘Just Between Ourselves’.

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

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Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020

Murcia opens the door for up to ten people to meet at Christmas

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Driver dies in a vehicle collision in Torre Pacheco Emergency services were unable to save the 36year-old woman's life

The Ministry of Health has said that up to ten people will be able to meet over the Christmas holiday period, in line with procedures already announced in a number of other communities, providing that the accumulated incidence rate and infections continue to decline in the Region.

However everything is conditional on how the epidemiological situation is on 20th December.

This was announced on Wednesday morning by the spokesperson for the Covid-19 Monitoring Committee in the Region, Jaime Pérez, during his appearance to report the coronavirus situation in the Community.

The epidemiological situation in the days immediately before Christmas "will determine the real risks of celebrating Christmas with the family, whether we ease the situation with regards to social gatherings or we are more discreet,

with much less social interaction," Perez acknowledged.

He said that "if they had asked us this question three weeks ago, we would have said that these easing measures could not be taken, but given the forecasts that the incidence may continue to decline, we think that there may now be certain measures that could be made more flexible.''

Pérez added that, on many

occasions, six people - the maximum number that can come together in the Region with the current measures - "is just a family nucleus," and that at Christmas time there could be an exception made so that more people can gather with at least one more family nucleus.

In this sense, the epidemiologist stressed that the Region is "on the right track”, since the measures adopted so far are "saving lives", but he said that

the Community is still "on knife edge and at any moment the situation could turn around ".

He concluded by appealing to members of the public that they continue to act responsibly, to use masks and to maintain safety distance, hand washing and ventilation, so that the possibility of us being able to ease restrictions over the Christmas holiday period would be more likely.

A woman died this Thursday morning after being involved a traffic accident on the RM-F36 road in La Palma (Torre Pacheco).

The Emergency services were quickly on the scene but were unable to save the 36-year old woman’s life after her car had collided with a second vehicle.

The Number 112 received calls reporting the accident at 7.40 a.m. indicating that, following the collision, a woman was unconscious and trapped in one of the vehicles.

A Mobile Emergency Unit (UME) was despatched to the site with paramedics from the Emergency Management and Health Emergencies 061, as well as firefighters from the Murcia Region Fire Extinction and Rescue Consortium.

Despite the efforts of the emergency services, the 36-year-old injured woman died at the scene.

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Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 842

ACROSS 7.

Drone (5)

8.

Purify (7)

9.

Bother (7)

10.

Smell (5)

12.

Fawning (10)

15.

Pirate (10)

18.

Shatter (5)

19.

Uncompromising (7)

21.

Conflict (7)

22.

Caper (5)

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

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

11.

13.

14.

16.

17.

20.

Fighting (10) Permit (5) Snatch (4) Plan (6) Determined (8) Disclose (7) Elasticity (10) Infancy (8) As (7) Exaggerate (6) Trivial (5) Rip (4)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Salacious; 8 Ill; 9 Impecunious; 11 Current; 12 Sabre; 13 Manure; 15 Bridge; 17 Arras; 18 Augment; 20 Half-hearted; 22 Obi; 23 Erroneous.

DOWN: 2 Aim; 3 Cycle; 4 Ornate; 5 Sponsor; 6 Disobedient; 7 Placement; 10 Partnership; 11 Companion; 14 Resolve; 16 Lather; 19 Grain; 21 Emu. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Disgusted; 8 Ole; 9 Sailing boat; 11 Bayonet; 12 Erect; 13 Abused; 15 Temple; 17 Holst; 18 Canvass; 20 Air Minister; 22 Ass; 23 Lipreader.

DOWN: 2 Ida; 3 Union; 4 Tights; 5 Diocese; 6 Potted plant; 7 Temptress; 10 If you please; 11 Beachwear; 14 Enthral; 16 Scrimp; 19 Naive; 21 Eve.

ACROSS 7. Solo rendered by egghead is lacking in control (5) 8.

Watch prospect (4-3)

9.

Admirable feature in the field? (4,3)

10. Requirements of necessity (5) 12. Temporary fashion to show every bit of violent anger (3,3,4) 15. Apparently having fun quite early (2,4,4) 18. A fitting comparison to hand? (5) 19. Not an egg-layer, but a crow producer (7) 21. Roars to make the fire roar? (7) 22. Ring for a sandwich (5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which very wise and enchanting fictional character's name is the Old English for any insect that flies with a loud humming noise?

2. What is the most eastern E.U. capital city and what is the most western E.U. capital city?

3. What kind of heavenly marriage is 'Hierogamy'?

4. There was literally peace on Earth at 06:00 UTC, March 23, 2001. Explain.

5. The following words are from which cult film? "Nobody's gonna hurt anybody. We're gonna be like three little Fonzies here. And what's Fonzie like? Come on Yolanda, what's Fonzie like?" "Cool?" "What?"

"He's cool" "Correctamundo" 6. The four Beatles we all know, George, Paul, John and Ringo were all born in Liverpool. The other two, Stuart Sutcliffe and Pete Best were not.

In fact, both were born outside of England. In which country was a.

Stuart Sutcliffe born and b. Pete Best born?

7. Which six letter word describes both a rupture and the leap out of the water made by a whale?

8. What are the first 4 words to both the Hippocratic Oath?

9. The following lyrics about money are from which songs? a. Always sunny in a rich man's world. b. Watch the greenbacks tumble, feel the Sterling crumble. c. New car, caviar, four star daydream, think I'll buy me a football team. d. I saw Captain Farrell and his money he was countin. e. I've got 40,000 French Francs in my fridge 10. The title of which extremely popular film is the Hindu word for a god or goddess that comes to earth?

11. The longest winning streak in sporting history, 132 years (1857-

DOWN 1. Animosity resulting from malaise, perhaps (3-7) 2. Injury closely wrapped (5) 3. Inventor one could ring? (4) 4. Trivial insult (6) 5. Ray of light with doctor on right track (8) 6. He is in charge right among the enemy (7) 11. Giles hired for Santa's journey (6-4) 13. Stray carton to put a horse in? (5-3) 14. Glib one becomes despicable (7) 16. Songster halves that hurry-scurry (6) 17. Clearly not a drink for slimmers (5) 20. Go back again to evil giant (4)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 1983), was the successful defence of the America's Cup by which club?

12. Fruit flies were the first animals to do what in 1947?

13. The title of which hit song from 1978, found in the Rolling Stone list of the '500 Greatest Songs of All Time', is a Queen in Welsh mythology "taken by the wind"?

14. Since the introduction of the Premier League in England, which ten players have scored the most goals? (Premier League goals only) 15. What was the name of the doctrine, jokingly coined by Mikhail Gorbachev in October 1989 as his Soviet Union 'faced the final curtain', that was seen internationally as Moscow giving permission to its allies to decide their own futures?

16. The following wrote books under which pen name? a. Eric Arthur Blair. b. David Cornwell. c. Richard Bachman. d. Mary Westmacott 17. What do the following places have in common: San Marino, Colombia, Bolivia, the Philippines, Israel, El Salvador and Bermuda?

18. Put the following lengths in order of size, starting with the smallest: a: equatorial diameter of the Earth. b: length of the Great Wall of China. c: diameter of the Moon. d: length of the Trans-Siberian Railway 19. The film Avatar cost around $237 million to produce. Official accounting sources state that three other movies previous to Avatar have cost more than this to produce. Name any one of these three?

20. Which dated word meaning 'nonsense' stems from a combination of the Dutch word for doll and an old English word for excrement?

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Ryanair Alicante-Elche airport New Year boost

By Andrew Atkinson Ryanair are set to launch a new route to Alicante-Elche airport giving oreviously cancelled flights to Spain due to COVID-19 - a major boost in the new year.

The company are also to return to Teesside in the summer of 2021 - with two routes to Alicante-Elche airport and Mallorca.

Both Alicante-Elche and Mallorca will operate two flights per week, commencing on June 1, 2021, as part of Ryanair’s British Summer 2021 schedule.

British travellers can book a summer break to AlicanteElche and Mallorca from June 21, up to October 2021.

Ryanair has launched a seat sale - £29.99 - for passengers travelling from June 1, until the end of October 2021. Flights must be booked by midnight Friday November 27, only on the Ryanair.com website.

“We are delighted to be back in Teesside with 2 new routes to Alicante and Mallorca, starting on 1 June 21.

"Both routes will operate twice weekly as part of our Teesside Summer 2021 schedule.

"Customers in Teesside can now book flights to Alicante and Mallorca and enjoy a well deserved Summer break.

"To celebrate these new Teesside routes, we are launching a seat sale with fares available from just £29.99, for travel from 1st June until the end of October 2021.

“It is wonderful opportunity for Teesside Airport. Having Ryanair, Europe’s biggest low-cost airline, backing Teesside and announcing they are going to fly from our region again shows that our airport has a great future and is in safe hands.

"Despite the coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having on the aviation industry, this shows that Teesside International is going from strength to strength and so is Ryanair. "It is fantastic to welcome

Torrevieja invest €1.2m storm tank Ryanair are returning to Teesside in the summer of 2021 - with two routes to Alicante-Elche airport and Mallorca.

Ryanair to Teesside and I am sure there will be plenty of excited holidaymakers looking to book flights, giving everyone something to look forward to next year," said Tees Valley’s Mayor Ben Houchen.

REVIVAL NIGHTCLUB FOR SALE

By Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE ONE of Europe's most popular former music venues Revival, based on the Costa Blanca south in Los Montesinos, Alicante, is up for sale - over seven years after it was forced to close.

Music ceased at Revival on February 9, 2013.

Top European DJs appeared at Revival, located in a specially protected area of the Natural Park of Las Lagunas de Torrevieja.

Revival opened in the late nineties and along with it being a dance club, it was also deemed a unique leisure venue in Spain.

The venue offered various leisure activities within the enclosure.

By Andrew Atkinson Torrevieja are to invest 1.2 million euros building a rainwater storm tank under a roundabout in a bid to prevent flooding.

Works are scheduled to commence in 2021 at the roundabout in the Torreta Florida urbanisation, where Calle Clarín ends, with a storm tank capacity of 2,000 cubic metres of water, preventing annual flooding.

The Infrastructure Plan is to be undertaken by the public private management company of the Torrevieja water cycle, Agamed, approved by its board of directors.

Torrevieja has suffered from flooding for decades, most notably in the Torreta Florida urbanisation.

It is understood a pocket of old villas in Torreta Florida could face demolition, due to the construction of the plant works.

Water stored will be used for agricultural irrigation of citrus fruits and golf courses, once treated.

16

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Monday 30th November - Sunday 6th December, 2020

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

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

CAR SALES

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

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

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

(Covid-19 aware) The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome.

Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 648 914 347

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

SOCIAL AND CLUBS The Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch has put future meetings on hold because of the current Covid situation in accordance with advice receiived from the Generalitat.

They will return in January on the 3rd Thursday evening.

Call Jean for info on: 630 28 08 99.

The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch - Meet the second Friday of the month at Casa Ventura, San Luis start-

ing at 7.00 p.m. New members are always welcome. You do not have to be ex-services. For more infor please contact:gill.burden20@gmail.com Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If you think you can help call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Almoradi Meal Club. If do you fancy a meal out and meeting new friends, come and join our English speaking club. We have twice monthly meals at various restaurants in and around Almoradi. For info go to FaceBook or email: davedanie@gmail.com.

Badminton in Pilar de la

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Horadada. Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs. 10-12.30 pm.

Call John on 634 658 506 ...currently postponed Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1966.

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

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

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

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

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Punta Marina Shopping Centre. Volunteers are unpaid but expenses are met. Email: spainsamsrecruits @outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, is currently closed.

We hope to reopen in January when we can offer you a full range of activities Info at: oc.communitycare @gmail.com

PERSONAL Sexy, elegant, mature, pretty, and naughty lady will visit you at home or in a hotel.

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Email me at the address: dialadatemate@yahoo.com Transvestite Diana, blonde, new to Torrevieja. Great figure big breasts. Active and passive.well endowed. By appointment. Playa los locos.

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Private house. Erotic massage.

All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speaks English.

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Call 634 300 074 Torrevieja blonde lady, 59 years, gives erotic massage, happy ending, speaks English, 604 382 799 Torrevieja, Valentini, Brazilian lady, 35. Erotic massage with complete satisfaction. Good time guaranteed. 688 340 708

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Why wait until 2030? Affordable, practical, long-range electric MGs are here today!

Affordable, practical and long-range electric MGs available today 2021 projected to be MG’s tipping point, with over 50% of volume expected to be plug-in, all covered by brand’s famous 7-year warranty Iconic brand is perfectly poised to help people move to EVs now by making electric affordable for everyone Why wait until 2030? That’s the question from the UK’s fastestgrowing car brand as it encourages new car buyers to look at its affordable, practical and long-range electric cars which are available today.

The iconic brand – which has been a motor industry innovator for almost a century – is ahead of the curve with a range of affordable EVs for everyone, reflected by the fact that last month’s largest single shipment of MGs into the UK contained a 66% EV mix, made up of the company’s best-selling MG ZS EV, All New MG5 EV and MG HS Plug-in.

The company believes that 2021 will be the year in which its EV volumes will overtake petrol sales for the first time – and it believes that MG’s market presence and EV expertise will be critiThe current Qashqai first went cal in helping the government reach its ambitious CO2 targets. on-sale in Europe in 2014 MG had already predicted the evolution ahead of the government’s announcement that the ban on petrol and diesel sales will be brought forward by a decade to 2030 and is already prepared to welcome customers into showrooms and help them make informed

decisions about an electrified future.

Daniel Gregorious, MG’s Head of Sales & Marketing, said: “Customer acceptance and demand for EVs has grown as battery range has gone up and cost has come down, and we are proud that MG has become the go-to brand for affordable electric cars. Our recent sales results show that MG’s commitment to making EVs affordable for everyone is resonating with the car-buying public.

“The government’s announcement will serve to accelerate that growth and we’re delighted to be in a position where we can offer high quality, high-tech, well-equipped and efficient plug-in cars at a conventional and accessible price point as we increasingly become the brand of choice for inexpensive EVs.

“We believe that 2021 will be our tipping point, where at least half of the cars we sell in the UK will be electrified.”

The brand will be engaging with its 112-strong (and growing) dealer network over the coming months to offer reassurance to customers and help them make the most informed EV choice possible.

MG currently offers three plug-in models in the UK – the established MG ZS EV, the game-changing All New MG5 EV station wagon and the MG HS Plug-in, all backed up by MG’s incredible value, 7-year warranty and fast-developing dealer network.

At the end of October 2020, MG’s registrations were up 58.2% year-on-year with a solid market share of over 1%. For more info visit MG.CO.UK

October UK car production down -18.2% as sector awaits Brexit deal UK car production falls -18.2% in October with 110,179 units leaving factory gates.

Automotive sector calls for urgent Brexit agreement with details shared swiftly, and adequate time to implement the deal, to help companies prepare.

2020 UK CAR MANUFACTURING OUTPUT fell -18.2% in October, with 110,179 units leaving factory gates, according to the latest figures issued today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). This represented 24,490 fewer cars made than in the same month in 2019 with the impact of coronavirus and fresh lockdowns at home and overseas subduing demand in many key markets.

October’s decline was driven largely by falling exports, particularly to the EU and US, down 19.1% overall and equivalent to a loss of 21,569 vehicles. Shipments to the US fell by -26.0% and to the EU by -25.7%. Major Asian markets fared better, with exports to Japan and China up 57.1% and 9.7% respectively, reflecting less stringent lockdown measures, but this was not enough to offset losses elsewhere. Production for the domestic market also fell, by -13.6% to 18,629 units, with 2,921 fewer cars made for buyers in the UK than a year earlier.

October’s performance rounds off an extremely tough 10 months for UK car makers and suppliers, and production is now down -33.8% since January to 743,003 units – a year on year shortfall of 379,308 units worth some £10.4 billion.1

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “These figures are yet more bad news for an industry battered by Covid, Brexit and, now, the unprecedented challenge of a complete shift to electrified vehicles in under a decade. While the sector has demonstrated its resilience, we need the right conditions to remain competitive both as a manufacturing nation and a progressive market. Yesterday’s Spending Review recognised the need to invest in a green industrial revolution, but this must be at globally competitive levels and equal to the scale of ambition to keep this sector match fit. Above all, we must have a Brexit deal, one with zero tariffs, zero quotas and rules of origin that benefit existing products and the next generation of zero emission cars, as well as a phase in period that allows this transition to be ‘made in Britain’.”

The news comes as the sector eagerly awaits agreement of a UK-EU trade deal and with new figures revealing the incredible cost of trading with WTO tariffs long-term. In the event of ‘no deal’, production losses could cost as much as £55.4 billion over the next five years, and even with a so-called ‘bare-bones’ trade deal agreed, the cost to industry would be some £14.1 billion.2 For the automotive sector, Brexit has always been about damage limitation and, with a mere 35 days left until the end of transition, the sooner new trading terms are agreed and finer details communicated the better.

18

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On Her Majesty’s Service The UK Government has written to 365,000 UK Nationals living in Europe with advice on the actions they need to take to prepare for the end of the UK transition period on 31 December.

This includes 102,087 letters issued to people on DWP’s database in Spain.

The letters, sent to UK State Pensioners and benefit recipients, give advice on how to register for residency and healthcare, exchange driving licences and check new passport validity rules online.

It is one of the largest-ever mail outs by the UK Government to UK nationals living in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

The UK Government has also allocated £3 million for charities and community voluntary organisations across Europe to assist UK Nationals that may need additional help in applying for residency. This includes potentially at-risk groups, such as pensioners and disabled people and those living in remote areas or who have mobility difficulties.

In Spain, three charities – Age in Spain, Babelia and IOM – have received funding and by the end of September over 37,000 people had accessed their services. For details of how to contact them visit gov.uk/livinginspain.

It was in the early sixties. in a small public house in Mortehoe, North Devon.

One Dark Evening

By Percy Chattey The world we live in is a kaleidoscope of events and friendships as we pass through the years. Friendship! That wonderful feeling of knowing you are going to be close to a person when you first meet them. And this was where my thoughts were when we first met John Green It was in the early sixties. He was the Landlord of a small public house in Mortehoe in North Devon. It is a small community in the hills above Woolacombe, and close to Twitchin Holiday Park where we had a caravan for breaks away from business.

John was a happy go lucky fellow whose idea of breakfast was cider and honey. We both had the same make of car, a Triumph 2000, one of the first production vehicle with all round independent suspension, the only difference being that his was yellow and mine white.

Eventually John bought a small inn on Exmoor in the tiny hamlet called Challacombe, boasting a post office with a telephone kiosk a few houses and the public house, the ‘Rose and Crown.’ However, looking through its four hundred year old history he found that for a long time it had been called ‘The Black Venus’ so he returned it to the original name We stayed there frequently and became great friends.

One time we were picnicking in a cove at Combe Martin when the tide started to turn. John wasn’t fussed and told us not to worry. I did worry! The water got higher and our exit vanished. We were trapped. I could not see how we were going to get out of the cove.

Suddenly John stood up and did a perfect dive and disappeared under water.

We could not see where he had gone. My thoughts ‘what do we do now?’

About ten minutes were to pass and now we were in serious trouble, there was no sand left. Suddenly. John appeared around the corner rowing a boat and laughing.

Our friend decided it was time to remarry. His first wife had left him before we met. He had two women in mind, both were frequent visitors to the pub and flirted unashamedly with him. He thought it was a ‘hoot’ when he invited Jean and I to meet them on separate occasions so he could ask our opin-

ion on which should be his wife. We thought one was more suitable, but he chose the other.

It was the end of our relationship; it certainly was not a marriage with love in it and the new wife made it known we were not welcome … perhaps he had told her we had chosen the competitor.

I did call in there once in the seventies when I was travelling through, he was a shadow of his former self but as we chatted his wife interrupted, and that was that.

It was in the eighties and more than a decade since I had seen John on that brief visit. I had a business appointment in Cornwall for early on a Monday morning. So, I would be fresh for the occasion I left from Bristol the previous evening and very dark.

I made my way down the A30, passed through Oakhampton and was feeling hungry. There was not a glimmer anywhere and being Sunday everywhere was closed.

Some way ahead I could see some lights, which, as I approached, I was chuffed to see was a public house. At least I thought they would have a bag of crisps if nothing more sustainable. It was very dim in the bar as there were not many lights on as it was just opening, I was the only customer.

A tall man came in from the back and stood behind the counter. He was dressed in a black suit with a same coloured tie. He stopped and we were staring at each other. I was mumbling about a pint of beer while my brain was searching through a catalogue of memories trying to put a name to the face.

Memories came tumbling into place, I recognised that he was a friend of John Green having been his best man. He knew me from the time he had a hostelry 'Queens' in Ilfracombe where John and I would visit for a giggle with the three of us.

I said something like ‘How is John I haven’t seen him for about twelve years?’

I was still waiting for the beer. He had not moved, he looked shocked.

Perhaps it was because I was the last person he expected to see that day.

Looking at me as if I did not exist, he replied ‘You don’t know then … I have just got back from his funeral.’ www.percychatteybooks.com www.fuentelargo.com

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “Supporting UK Nationals is one of our highest priorities. The organisations receiving funding to support British people with their residency are making a huge difference and, since 2017, we have organised nearly 300 outreach events. Whilst face-to-face events are currently limited by COVID restrictions, we continue to provide support through our Facebook Live Q&As. Our next session on residency is on 1 December, so please do follow us on BritsinSpain on Facebook to take part.”

The UK Government has been running a public information campaign featuring online, radio and newspaper adverts across 30 countries informing UK Nationals of the actions they need to take.

Ambassadors, Heads of Mission and Consuls General from across Europe have recorded a video message reminding UK Nationals of the actions they may need to take before the end of the Transition Period. You can view the video here.

UK Nationals can find the most up to date information on actions they may need to take at gov.uk/livinginspain and on www.facebook.com/britsinspain.

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Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Sponsored by The Pub, Avalon, Skippers, Gran Alacant Insurances, Rogers, La Piazza Dialprix and The Belfry.

The 23-year-old was recently awarded an MBE for his campaigning.

After a great morning's bowling the Chairman's team won on three rinks losing on two. The Captain presented the Chairman with the cup followed by a presentation to the best rinks in both teams.

UEFA will confirm the venue for the Nations League final

The Captain and Chairman expressed there thanks to everyone who played and in particular to Tanya Oliver and jack Burrell who sponsored the match, and Ted and Val Hyman who donated the prizes for the two best teams.

Chairman’s Team

After the presentations fifty one members retired to the Belfry for a very good lunch and a few drinks to round off a great Club day.

With Dave Hadaway Unfortunately there has been no bowling this week.

The major event should have been The Barclays Properties Trophy, this has been a major event over the last 7 years, thanks to Barclays sponsorship and has only been postponed not cancelled.

Barclays Properties Winter League.

No games this week, so I have taken the opportunity to talk to some of the captains, the game is played over 18 ends, with 6 ends of triples, 6 ends of pairs and 6 ends of singles.

The teams consist of 4 players (3 playing) and the captains have produced sheets showing when each member will play so as to have equal games or as near as possible.

The Bears however have taken it further than

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Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has praised the efforts of footballer Marcus Rashford in tackling the child food poverty in the UK by donating £2mn towards the FareShare charity for which Rashford is an ambassador.

Saturday 21st January saw the annual Captain v Chairmans match. So many members wanted to play that some members could only play nine ends.

La Marina Bowls Club

19

Sir Alex Ferguson donates £2mn to Marcus Rashford's food drive

CAPTAIN v CHAIRMAN

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website or email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook.

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UEFA Executive Committee will confirm the venue for the 2020-2021 Nations League final (the second edition) phase on 3 Dec. It will be played in Italy.

Italy, Spain, Belgium, and France are the final contenders.

The semifinals of the competition will be played on 6 and 7 Oct and the final on the 10th.

Motorcycle brand Rieju will compete in the elite category in Dakar 2021

Captain’s Team

Spanish motorcycle brand Rieju will be present in the elite category of Dakar 2021 rally. that and have not only shown games but have allotted positions, so every team member playes equally in each one. Ie: skip, 2 and singles, an interesting concept but perhaps leaving them at a dis-advantage to more dedicated teams.

Now some good news Dave O'Sullivan's quiz night on Monday brings the first Christmas Dinner of the season. Lorita has asked me to remind you to contact her or add your name to the notice board if you wish to attend the Club's Christmas Dinner on 18th December.

Don't forget Barclays Winter League and lunch on Wednesday.

Lastly and sadly for you older members Awesome Rex has informed us that Jim Sweeney (a retired long standing member) has recently passed away and at the marvellous age of 95.

What a wonderful, competitive character he was and a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

Carp-R-Us Angling Carp-R-Us kicked off their Winter Series on a new stretch of the River Segura upstream of the CV91 road bridge.

They day started of grey and blustery, but slowly improved but strangely, for most people, as the conditions got better the fishing got worse.

Clear winner, from the upstream end peg (peg 1), was Dave Hutchinson who caught 17.70kg using pole and bread.

At the other end of the stretch was Roy Dainty, who came second with 7.10kg on pole and corn.

Third was Graham Ledley with 6.86kg from peg 3 and fourth Jeremy Fardoe with 5.78kg from peg 2.

Membership for 2021 is now open. Anyone wishing to join the club can contact us through the website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or email stevefell@rocketmail.com.

Joan Pedrero and Oriol Mena will compete, while Marc Calmet will compete in Rookie category.

Rieju's participation will allow the company to have international projection through its three pilots. In this debut, the bikes are developed by FN SPEED, although Rieju plans to have its own designers in the future.

Spain to host 2021 WMRA Mountain Racing World Cup The WMRA Mountain Racing World Cup will be held in 2021, provided that the situation improves.

For the first time in history, Spain appears on the calendar with two organizing venues and four races: Canfranc (Aragon) and Zumaia-Gipuzkoa.

The World Cup is the most prestigious circuit in the world and been held since 1999.

It was supposed to be held in 2020 but was delayed due to the pandemic.

Napoli's San Paolo stadium to be renamed as 'Diego Armando Maradona' On 26 November, Aurelio De Laurentiis, president of Naples, confirmed that the San Paolo stadium will be renamed as "Diego Armando Maradona" in honor of the soccer star.

The Argentine legend joined Napoli from Barcelona in 1986 and won their only two Serie A titles - in 1987 and 1990 - along with the Coppa Italia and UEFA Cup. He scored 81 goals in 188 appearances for the club.

20

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

Golf equipment can be expensive and there are certain golfing consumables that you will purchase repeatedly such as golf balls, tee pegs and golf gloves.

We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us: The deals shown in the table are some of the best POST COVID19 PRICES currently available to you: Price €98 €80 €120 €100 €138 €45

These can be expensive these days and although you can get bargain gloves from outlets such as Decathlon and Sports Direct or from the internet, generally you get what you pay for.

Assuming you have paid circa €15 for a golf glove just how do you make it last longer so that you get your monies worth?

Golf Equipment - Gloves

Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Campoamor Don Cayo (Altea)

We have discussed which type of golf balls to use to suit your golf in previous articles but not yet discussed golf gloves.

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

Here are a few tips:

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Mike Probert talks Golf

In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs Store the glove flat and in a plastic sleeve when not in use.

Take the glove off between shots.

Wash the glove in a washing machine with other items of the household wash with a soft detergent.

Check the glove for ‘wear markings’ because if the wear pattern is on the palm you could have a problem with your grip or have handle of the incorrect size and if the wear pattern is under the thumb you could be gripping to hard.

Practice on the range with an older glove.

Just give the above a try and you will find it saves you a few hard earned pennies.

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

Mar Menor €48 Single Green Fee New Sierra Golf €82 Two Green Fees & buggy Puig Campana €98 Two Green Fees & buggy Roda €100 Two Green Fees & buggy (after 2pm) Saurines €48 Single Green Fee Villamartin €148 Two Green Fees & buggy Vistabella €98 Two Green Fees and buggy from 3pm *Deals of the week: Villaitana with two green fees and buggy on the Levante course for only €70 and €50 on the Poniente course.

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

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

€80 €59 €90 €48 €164 €41 €98 €50 €96 €118 €45 €126 €78 €136

2 Green Fees and buggy from 1pm Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees and buggy Single Green Fee Two Green Fees and buggy Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees & buggy Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees and buggy Green Fee after 2pm Two Green Fees and buggy Two Green Fees and buggy Two Green Fees and buggy

Las Ramblas Golf Society

THE ORANGE TREE GOLF SOCIETY

Lindsay Forbes

The Orange Tree Golf Society outing was played at Lo Romero on a lovely fresh winter morning.

The course was playing well which also reflected in some good individual scores.

Results for w/c 23.11.20 Firstly this week we offer a very warm welcome to two new members of our society, Andy and Andrea Martin. I’m sure you’ll be seeing their names quite often in the future.

Fourteen pairs took part in Monday’s ‘2 ball better ball’. With 44 points it was Friedel Knebell and John Shervell who took the top spot on the winner’s rostrum. Standing just below them, with 43 points, were Trevor Pullyblank and Mike Chapman.

I awoke early on Wednesday and managed to convince myself it was actually a Tuesday (it comes to us all in the end you know!) Resplendent in my ‘final round’ navy blue and white (sound familiar?) it was a mad dash to get down to the 1st tee for the 6th and final round of this year’s Club Championship. With the player’s best 4 cards to count, one good score could change everything! On the day it was Trevor Pullyblank who took the spoils with 40 points.

Graham Murray was a close second with 39 (and beating me on countback with 37) it was Lindsay Forbes who took the bronze. Best finish of the day for the

ladies went to AnneMarie Weisheit, again with 37 points. Two ‘2’s today which went to Mark Western and Graham Murray.

Lindsay’s final round score was enough to hang onto 1st place and with a total of 144 points be crowned this year’s champion. Myself and Trevor were hot on his heels with us both scoring a total of 141. After countback it was it was Trevor who got the nod to finish this year’s runner up.

The format for play was pairs better ball , so the scores were expected to be good and that

Lo Marabu Golf Society at La Finca on 24th November In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs

In the ladies section Olga Douglas’s final round score of 36 saw her take the overall title with 139 points.

Petina Murray fell at the last hurdle to take the runner’s up place with a total of 135 points and Joyce McClusky claimed 3rd with 132.

For this month’s meeting a group of 35 players visited the established course at La Finca taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

Aptly Trevor and myself, together with John Dobson and ‘Albert’, with a score of 86 points, made up the winning team in Friday’s ‘Change Partners’. Just one point behind us were Bryan Neal, Mike Chapman, Petina and once again ‘Albert’.

The course was in excellent condition and enjoyed by all.

Pues hasta la semana que viene Peter Reffell

The winning scores on the day were: Gold Division: 1st – Marcus Clements - 31 points, 2nd – Tony Robson – 31 points Silver Division: 1st- Colin MacDonald – 41 points, 2nd – Gerry Graves – 36 points

showed with three pairs achieving over 40 points.

The overall winning pair was Derek Willison, and Simon Sharples, who had a great score of 45 points.

Well done guys and enjoy the wine.

Bronze Division: 1st – Mick Martin - 28 points, 2nd – Paul Fairbairn – 26 points Nearest Pins: Mike Probert, Don Bishop, Gordon Neve & Danny Kenny Football Card – Jim Speakman After the game we returned to Edina’s Bar & Grill which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada for a snack prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support along with our sponsors Sapphire Properties.

Our next fixture is the Christmas Competition at Las Colinas on the 10th December 2020 followed by the Interim Day at Vistabella on the 24th December 2020.

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

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El Plantio Golf Resort to build International Football Complex EL PLANTÍO GOLF RESORT has published details of it’s bid to join the exclusive band of courses that can attract international sports clubs as it intensifies its commitment to sports in order to maintain profitable occupancy rates throughout the year.

Thus, apart from the facilities offered by it’s 18hole golf course, the Ferry family, is now developing a project in an area attached to the hotel with the purpose of attracting pre-season and mid-winter training visits by Nordic or British teams.

The proposal includes the construction of four football pitches on an area of 44,000 square metres. Two of them will be full sized grass pitches while the remaining two will be small sided with an artificial surface.

All four will be made available to the municipalities of Alicante and Elche, in the event that they could be used by local sports clubs or municipal schools during the periods that they are not required by international teams.

The project also includes the construction of four paddle tennis courts and six tennis courts, which The complex manager, Manuel Ferry, said, "We need to take advantage of the opportunities that we have, an unbeatable climate and first class accommodation with all the comforts and services, to attract sports teams that can bring more than 60 people with them for a minimum stay of 20 days".

The idea is to develop an unexplored opportunity in the province, "apart from the sports facilities that are in operation in La Nucía", added Ferry. "There are some similar complexes in areas such as the Pinatar Arena, in San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia), or the Marbella Centre, but there is nothing similar in Alicante, despite the fact that the entire sector agrees on the need to seasonally diversify and take advantage of sport as a resource to achieve it, "he said.

The proposal comes at a time when the events sector - another of the resort's strengths - has been affected by the restrictions currently in place as a result of the coronavirus protocols. Hence, it will provide another way of attracting visitors.

In principle, the intention of El Plantío is to start the works in the first quarter of 2021, as soon as

LA MARINA GOLF SOCIETY

The complex will have 2 full size grass pitches, 2 small sided pitches with an articicial surface as well as 4 paddle and six tennis courts the planning process is completed. For now, the land already belongs to the company that owns the resort and has planning permission that will allow construction but not including any residential development.

Today's venue was at the La Finca Golf Course, where the windy conditions made some holes quite challenging. The winner of the Gold Division was Vice-Captain Gerry McCabe with 29points.

The winner of the Silver Division with 32points and therefore, the winner of the Stamford Cup was Rod Loveday.

26th November - This week the members of the La Marina Golf Society were competing

Nearest the pin winners were, Gill Ludkiewicz on hole 3, Roy Harris on hole 6, whom both took a share of the two's pot. Jimmy Scott was nearest the pin on hole 13 with Rod Loveday on hole 16.

for the Stamford Cup, which was donated to the Society by one it's members, Peter Stevenson.

Whilst this has been quite an unusual year, with Covid and the various restrictions opposed upon us, We are all very grateful for the games we did manage to play this year and to our Committee for their time and efforts in enabling us to have some enjoyment on the golf course, We thank you.

The construction of the sports complex represents the second major investment of El Plantío since June 2019, when the Ferry family completed the purchase of the Alicante Golf facilities, in Playa de San Juan, from the hands of Sabadell.

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Now 12-10 many suspected de Sousa to buckle, including me. Definitely not, a maximum and 68 finish halted Wades progress momentarily, the "Machine" taking his 3rd leg of the session T20,D8. De Sousa wrapping up the 5th for 14-11.

Wade now needing at least 4 legs to remain in the match or a more unlikely 5 to win, missed a 64 out in the 1st of the 6th session, de Sousa also missing after 2x180, but keeping his cool to close on D4.

Now requiring just one leg, a magnificent 171 (on 19's) left 32 for the championship, the unflappable "Machine" completing the leg on D16.

Now needing the next 4 legs without reply, it was a bridge too far for Wade as the newcomer went out in style on 158 (T20,T20,D19) for the title and the coveted Eric Bristow trophy.

Match average de Sousa 99.95, Wade 94.26. a major final.

** Jose de Sousa's victory elevated him to 15th place in the P.D.C. Order of Merit and a seeded position in the Worlds at Ally Pally. ** Simon Whitlock beat the 180 record of Adrian Lewis, managing an exceptional 20 in the 28th leg of his encounter with de Sousa. ** Wade is now a 3 time Grand Slam runner up, previously losing to Scott Waites in 2010 after being 8-0 up, winning only 4 of the following 20 legs, to lose 12-16. ** Wades other loss in 2016 was to Michael van Gerwen. ** A former carpenter, de Sousa lives just outside Madrid, only earning his tour card 2 years ago. The 46 year old is the 1st Portugal player to reach

G

uaranteed a new winners name on this years Boyle Sports Grand Slam trophy, Jose de Sousa (Portugal) faced James Wade (England) in the first to sixteen legs final, at the Ricoh Centre Coventry, last week.

A glimpse of their respective pedigrees favoured Wade, a winner of 36 P.D.C. titles, 23 major finals and 9 tv victories.

Pitch that C.V. against newcomer de Sousa's 3 P.D.C. titles and 1 major final and you wouldn't bet your last tenner on the man from Portugal.

Stats apart, it was still a one sided affair in the Englishman's favour, who had also won both previous encounters.

The 46 year old de Sousa can also be a "Maverick" on the oche, his semi final combination bust of 126 playing Simon Whitlock and his refusal to go for a last dart Bull, opponent Dave Chisnall sitting on a double, good examples of what not to do.

Fortunately for him, he capitalised on both, a situation not to be relied on. On the other side of the coin, Wade, is a meticulous counter, set up shots from 300+ points out are often made to leave 170 or under.

Bogey finishing numbers are avoided and the semi bull utilised where appropriate.

The bookies made Wade favourite and so it appeared as the more experienced player nicked the 1st, de Sousa missing 7 leg darts, then the 2nd, his opponent opening with 2x180, a further maxi in

The newcomer went out in style on 158 (T20,T20,D19) for the title and the coveted Eric Bristow trophy. the third insufficient as Wade took out 78 for 0-3.

Yet another 180,140 and D18, reduced the deficit, de Sousa now in his stride.

The 5th leg in the opening session was a 10 dart belter, 180,134,171,D8, five maximums, a 171 and still 2-3 down. lt was "tit for tat" in the next five, both recording 180's, the man from Portugal, levelling at 5 apiece with a 130 finish T20,T20,D5. The 3rd session was also de Sousas (3-2) now nerve free and showing some real class, to take the 13th with 180,180,109,D16 and then the 15th again in 11, 140,180,140,S9,D16, to lead 8-7 prior to the start of the 4th.

Wade only managed one leg in the 4th, a tasty 12 darter, 140,140,60,161, on the bull, the other 4 legs going to his

Wade was the bookies favourite

** De Sousas 49 tournament 180's fell just 3 short of the record 42 by Adrian Lewis. ** Fancy your chances of a pro dart career, then pop over to Wigan on January 16,17,18,19th and join 600 others at qualifying school aiming to achieve a two year tour card. Entry £450, small change if you're good enough, there'll be 28 newcomers looking to challenge the best.

Alternatively, Hildesheim, Germany, where there is less competition, (300), but only 8 places. ** Simon Williams (Hub) hit his 2nd 100 of his short 5 year career, last week.

Misunderstanding leads to arrest

Matters quickly deteriorated, voices raised, Arty not understanding the situation and becoming confused.

An old darting friend of mine Arthur, we all called him " Arty, "always shopped in an Essex Tesco store.

Attempts to placate the 18 stone gentle giant were to no avail, losing his cool he grabbed the cashier by the throat, strangling her.

He was well known, and every Saturday morning would buy £ 20 worth provisions and always the same products.

Security was alerted, but the same fate awaited both men. The police were quickly on the scene, overpowering a bewildered, distressed Arty, arresting and later charging him.

This particular day he was without his usual carer ( Arty suffered several debilitating issues ) venturing to the checkout as normal, with his shopping and a £ 20 note in his hand. opponent, recording a further 3x180 and the score now 12-8 and looking ominous for the Aldershot man.

The cashier greeted Arty and told him his bill was £ 21 as prices had increased that week.

"The Machine" immediately reduced de Sousas lead to 3 with a 92 out on D8, followed by a 120 on D20.

Arty argued it was always £ 20 and anyway that's all he had. A compromise of returning something to the shelf was refused.

Continued top right.......

** Wade has recorded two 9 dart televised finishes, one a double start leg in 2014 playing Robert Thornton (160,180,161). Remarkably, Thornton responded later in the match with yet another. Unusual to say the least.

The incident rapidly made local , then national newsrooms, resulting in the red top headline

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Elche move into top half after sharing spoils E

lche and Cadiz, two Elche CF........................1 newly-promoted sides to the Primera, Cadiz CF........................1 couldn’t be separated on Saturday afternoon at Estadio Martinez Valero as they drew 1-1.

Elche opened the scoring through Lucas Boye, who gave the hosts the lead in the 38th minute. He was then sent off on the stroke of half-time to ensure that his team had to play the second half with ten men.

Cadiz equalised ten minutes into the second half, with Alvaro Gimenez getting the Andalusian visitors back on level terms. Cadiz dominated possessions and got off more shots, but were ultimately unable to take all three points.

The result leaves Cadiz in fifth, two points behind Real Madrid in fourth. Elche are ninth, just two points behind Cadiz. Both are performing well above expectations so far, with most expecting them to be fighting for their lives to avoid relegation.

Next up for Cadiz is the small matter of Barcelona, who they welcome to the Estadio Ramon de Carranza next Saturday evening. Meanwhile Elche travel to high-flying Villarreal on Sunday afternoon.

Villareal, who currently sit 3rd in La Liga, are managed by former Arsenal boss Unai Emery who moved to the club in July.

The Basque manager said he wants to see continued improvement in his team. We are currently thirs but we want to continue improving. We havent reached our ceiling yet and we know that we are in a great league with some great teams but we have still got room for improvement ourselves.”

Joleon Lescott out of retirement to play for Racing Murcia

Goalscorer Lucas Boye, joined Elche from Torino on a 12 month loan deal in September. Photo courtesy Elche CF

Murcia green light for public at amateur sports

Lescott won 2 Premier League titles with Manchester City

Murcia’s Official Gazette, published on Friday, gives the green light for the start of regional competitions of both grassroots and amateur sports, as well as the presence of public at sporting events.

The Order says that "the presence of the public is allowed at any sporting activity or competition of an autonomous nature that is held in the Region of Murcia provided that the following requirements are met: mandatory use of a mask, temperature measurement (max. 37.5oC), registration of all those attending, all members of the public must be seated with the minimum distance of a seat between attendee ".

Real Murcia have announced that former Man City star Lescott will come out of retirement to play for them in their Copa del Rey clash with La Liga side Levante on 16 December at the Estadio de fútbol Municipal de Dolores de Pacheco.

However the two-time Premier League winner says he is not too sure as the thought that he was only agreeing to play in an exhibition match.

The last time that the former centre back played competitively was when he lined up for Sunderland in a 5-1 defeat to Chelsea three-and-a-half years ago so it now remains to be seen whether he makes himself available for Racing next month or if the Spanish minnows will have to make an embarrassing U-Turn.

SUDUKO SOLUTION From From page 14

Despite playing in Group 13, tier 4 of the Tercera Division, at a ground with a capacity of only 3,500 fans, the club is backed by UAE and Mexican investors. It signed Paul Pogba's older brother, Guinea international Mathias, in August and only recently failed in an attempt to bring ex-Chelsea, Everton and Barcelona star Samuel Eto'o out of retirement last week.

TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: 1. Dumbledore. 2. Nicosia (Cyprus) and Lisbon (Portugal). 3. A marriage between a god and a goddess. 4. The MIR space station hit the Pacific Ocean.

MIR means 'peace' or 'world'. 5. Pulp Fiction. 6. a. Scotland (Edinburgh), b.

India (Madras). 7. Breach. 8. "I swear

by Apollo". 9. a. Money Money Money (ABBA), b. Wall Street Shuffle (10cc), c. Money (Pink Floyd), d. Whisky in the Jar (Thin Lizzy), e. The Money Song (Monty Python). 10. Avatar. 11. NYYC (New York Yacht Club). 12. Go into space. 13. Rhiannon (Fleetwood Mac).

14. In order: Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, Andy Cole, Sergio Aguero, Frank Lampard, Thierry Henry, Robbie Fowler, Jermaine Defoe, Harry Kane, Michael Owen. 15. The Sinatra Doctrine (The name alluded to the Frank Sinatra

But they were ecstatic at securing the services of the Birmingham-born veteran, who won 26 caps for the Three Lions.

A Murcia statement said: “Our president Morris Pagniello, and Racing Murcia, are delighted to announce the signing of the English star Joleon Lescott.

“He will play in our Copa del Rey game against UD Levante.” song "My Way" - the Soviet Union was allowing these nations to go their own way). 16. a. George Orwell. b. John le Carre. c. Stephan King. d. Agatha Christie. 17. All named after people: San Marino (Saint Marinus), Colombia (Christopher Columbus), Bolivia (Simón Bolívar), the Philippines (Philip II of Spain), Israel (Jacob, alternate name), El Salvador ("The Saviour", Jesus) and Bermuda (Juan de Bermúdez). 18.

Correct order is CBDA, 19. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End ($300m), Spider-Man 3 ($258m) and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ($250m). 20.

Poppycock. Pop is Dutch for doll, Cack is old English for excrement.

In addition, all clubs that allow public access must first make an official request to the General Directorate of Sports together with an action protocol, which must also include a plan for entry and departure at the facilities.

The capacity will be limited to 75% if the incidence of covid is low, and to 50% if it is higher, according to the criteria established by the Autonomous Community.

For training and competitions at the grassroots and amateur levels, participants must always wear a mask. However the authorisation is currently at odds with the municipal border confinement, as many athletes belong to clubs in other municipalities.

Therefore, until 9 December, despite the new order, players may not, in theory, go to another municipality to train or play games.

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