The Leader Newspaper Edition 846

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Monday 21st - Sunday 27th December, 2020

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

NEW CHRISTMAS RESTRICTIONS FOR VALENCIAN COMMUNITY he hospitality industry is up in arms after Ximo Puig, the President of the Valencian Community, announced the introductions of new restrictions to battle coronavirus over the Christmas period.

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Following a meeting of the Valencian Consell on Thursday evening, and as a

result of increases in excess of 27% in the number of coronavirus positives being seen in the community, which on Thursday had exceeded 2,000 cases for the fourth consecutive day, Puig announced the introduction of new, and even more restrictive measures for the coming holiday period, starting on Monday 21 December.

He said that movement across the Community border will be tightened and the maximum number of people that may now gather in a group, from no more than 2 households, is restricted to six both in and outdoors. He also brought forward the overnight curfew by an hour to 11pm.

Continued on Page 2

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Continued from Page One There will, however, be exceptions to the curfew for the nights of December 24 and 31, which will remain at midnight on those days.

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The new restrictions come into effect on Monday, December 21 and remain in place until January 15.

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Speaking about the border closure Puig said that the general public may only enter the Valencian Community to return to their usual place of residence. Therefore, people from other provinces will not be allowed to enter the Region to spend Christmas with family relatives or close friends.

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He said "it is painful to restrict Christmas even more due to the virus but this is absolutely necessary because of prudence, security and

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responsibility". We do not want to risk the welfare of our citizens over Christmas, so prevention must be at a maximum during this period".

As a result of the new regulations many local bars, restaurants and venues have already cancelled their New Year’s Eve entertainment and events with diners and partygoers demanding their money back.

Popular entertainer Stevie Spit told the Leader, “I got a call from the Emerald Isle on Friday cancelling the Jersey Boy’s gig. Fortunately we have been able to reschedule our show which we will now hold on New Years eve afternoon at Los Cucalos in MonteZenia with Nikki G and Kylie Nurgazzi. Many other acts, however, are not as fortunate, so once again it will cost the entertainment and hospitality industry another pile of money.”

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.

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Vaccination against covid in Spain will begin 27 December Minister Salvador Illa has confirmed that the first doses of the Pfizer vaccine will arrive in the country on December 26 and as such, the program of vaccination covid start the next day.

The first doses of the Pfizer vaccines will reach all the communities at the same time, between the 26th and the 27th. After a first batch, doses will then be received every week.

The Ministry of Health still does not know the exact detail of that first shipment, they are waiting for the European authorities to provide confirmation.

The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced on Thursday that the planned dates for the start of vaccination in the European Union will be December 27, 28 and 29.

This is subject to approval from the European Medicines Agency, the meeting of which has been brought forward to the 21st.

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Queen Letizia delivers 120 tons of aid to Honduras

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ueen Leticia made the symbolic delivery to Honduras of 120 tons of emergency aid, donated by the people of Spain following the recent tropical storms Eta and Iota.

Wearing a characteristic red vest showing Spanish cooperation she visited a destroyed school and a refuge that shelters dozens of people who have lost their homes as a result of the tragedy where she handed out much of the aid.

"greatest pain" was that there was no school. "My heart is happy because now they we going to have it again," she said.

From the school, the delegation moved to the Instituto Patria, also in La Lima, where classrooms have been converted into a shelter for about 150 families who this week received mattresses so that they no longer have to sleep on the floor.

One of the victims showed the queen what she was able to rescue from her house, a microwave and a few dishes, while another occupant of the classroom thanked her for visiting those who "have no voice." Another woman, with three children, who has also been staying in the shelter for a month and has no prospect of returning to her home said, "My house Queen Leticia there is flooded in stagnant water.”

During her visit to the municipality of La Lima, near San Pedro Sula, one of the areas of the 'ground zero' of the storms, Letizia was accompanied by the president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, and the first lady, Ana García.

They explained the devastation caused by hurricane Eta and, two weeks later, Iota, which destroyed much of the country with their heavy rains and floods that left streets and houses covered in mud and 100,000 relying in hastily built shelters.

consoled 14 year old Jeremy, as she

"Every year there are floods, but this has been worse than Hurricane Mitch," said a Spanish priest who has been in Honduras for 41 years.

rested her hand At the institute there are nurses who test for coronThe queen first went to the Colonia Flores de Oriente avirus, although contagion is not the main concern of school in La Lima, one of the many that have been on his shoulder. evacuees. "We are afraid, because we do not have a devastated across Honduras. There she spoke with home," said Kenya, who complained that many famifour students, to whom she expressed her confidence lies had been abandoned by the authorities. that, thanks to the help of Spain, they will be able to return to classes in February, when the resumption of the school yearis The Honduran president stressed the importance of "making visischeduled. ble what has happened" and for the international community to be The queen consoled 14 year old Jeremy as she rested her hand on aware that Honduras is "one of the three countries most impacted his shoulder. He said that it was very scary to see the school delby climate change" and by increasingly destructive storms. uged in mud. "It's disastrous. This is where we had fun," he said.

Hernández asked Felipe VI and the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, to "become his voice in the process A woman from the community also approached the queen saying of consolidating cooperation" towards Honduras in the "crusade" that she lost her home and all of reconstruction. her posessions, but that her

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S PA I N A S K S E U F O R " C O O R D I N AT E D R E S P O N S E " TO U K T R AV E L B A N

rench President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have spoken with other EU leaders to agree on a common response to the new strain of coronavirus detected in England. The Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Austria and Ireland have already suspended flights with the United Kingdom.

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Italians."

The Elysee Palace has contacted the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen , and the President of the European Council, Charles Michel. Macron also called a meeting of the Sanitary Defense Council on Sunday afternpn.

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, explained in statements to the VRT chain that flights and also trips on the Eurostar train are suspended despite the fact that the new strain is still being studied.

"We do not have a conclusive answer", he said.

The Spanish Government has also asked that Von der Leyen and Michel provide, "a coordinated community response" after hearing the announcement that several countries had suspended their flights with the United Kingdom as a result of the new coronavirus strain.

The Belgian president has also announced preventive road checks stating that travellers from the UK will be closely monitored to ensure they comply with quarantine rules. "We will provide very clear information to all newcomers about what is expected of them," said De Croo.

In a statement, Moncloa said that the objective is "to protect the rights of all community citizens by coordinating a response and avoiding unilateral action." In this sense, the Spanish Government has indicated that it expects a "rapid response" from the European institutions, but has also said that "if there is no response, it will act in defence of the interests and rights of Spanish citizens."

The Italian, Belgian and Dutch authorities have already announced the suspension of all flights to and from the United Kingdom in response to the detection of a new, more contagious strain of coronavirus, with special incidence in London and the southeast of England. France is "seriously considering taking a similar plan of action."

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs headed by Deputy Prime Minister Luigi di Maio said on Facebook, "The United Kingdom has raised the alarm about a new form of covid that is the result of a mutation of the virus. As a government we have a duty to protect

"For this reason, and after having notified the British Government, we are working with the Ministry of Health to sign the provision to suspend flights with the United Kingdom. Our priority is to protect Italy and our compatriots," he reiterated.

Dutch Health Minister Hugo de Jonge previously announced the suspension of British communications with the Netherlands. "An infectious mutation of the covid-19 (sic) virus is circulating in the United Kingdom. It is believed that it spreads easier and faster and is more difficult to detect," he explained.

In Germany, an order from the ministry of transport said planes from the UK would not be allowed to land after midnight on Sunday, although cargo would be an exception. Health Minister Jens Spahn said the UK variant had not yet been detected in Germany.

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Bah Humbug!

Orihuela’s CHRISTMAS Message to the Costa – The much anticipated program of Christmas activities was published by the Orihuela Council on Thursday using the slogan ‘Christmas in Orihuela’. It lists a total of 28 cultural events including the arrival of Santa Claus (Wednesday, December 23rd) and the Three Kings (Tuesday, January 5th), which in recent years have both been held in Orihuela Costa.

Now, however, they will only feature as ‘static’ events in Orihuela City, the only access to which, certainly for Orihuela Costa’s children, will be a letter box in the Playa Flamenca Town Hall.

The press release was four pages long in which the Council listed the 28 children’s events and concerts, workshop’s, exhibitions and other events. All are taking place in Orihuela City at a number of different venues, including the Palacio Episcopal, La Lonja, Auditorio de San Bartolome, Teatro Circo, Centro Cultural Santo Sepulcro, Glorieta Gabriel Miro, Biblioteca Maria Moliner, with not a single activity scheduled to take place on the coast.

Former President of CLARO, Helene Akerman, wrote on Facebook, “Unbelievable! They don't even try to hide their disregard. It's right there in their Christmas Program,” while local activist Liam Kiley wrote, “We are only worthy of 2 letter boxes.”

Austria is also planning a ban on flights from the UK, with details currently being worked out, Bulgaria suspended flights to and from the UK from midnight Sunday.

AVOCA’s spokesperson Tomas Moreno, meanwhile, has called on the Councillor for Festivities, Mariola Rocamora, to provide a public explanation of the reasons why similar events cannot be held on the coast, although at the time of writing there has been no response.

However the European action may be a case of ‘too little, too late’ as the World Health Organization (WHO) says the same mutation has also been detected in the Netherlands, Denmark and Australia.

Meanwhile one FB post simply said “How can they put on events in the coast. We don’t have anywhere to hold them! We will have to rely on the Zenia Boulevard once again as we always do.”

Aeonium true growing season is winter through to spring Aeonium is a succulent plant, originally from the Canary Islands, which have an unusual appearance ranging from long, arching stems and rosettes of leaves that can reach from 5-6 feet, to 5-inch stubby rosettes.

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through to spring, when temperatures are cool and damp.

Aeoniums don't like extremes in the weather, hot or dry, and don't require excessive watering, except in extreme dry conditions, noted when their leaves curl preventing water loss.

Aeoniums have a shallow root system, as they store their water supply in their leaves and stems.

They require very little pampering and unlike other succulents prefer moist, but not wet, soil. Make sure roots do not dry out and give a little

feed during the growing season, with a half-strength balanced fertiliser monthly.

They can produce roots along their stems, which if the plant gets pot bound or the stems fall off and touch the soil, the stem will root and new plants will grow.

Leggy branches tend to fall over and snap off from the weight of the rosettes.

If this occurs re-plant the broken stem.

Most Aeoniums are monocarpic, which means that the mother plant dies after flowering. If the plant has produced side shoots, shoots will live on.

During winter water whenever the top inch of soil dries out. Too much moisture or allowing them to sit in wet soil will cause root rot.

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Christmas C ar ols in L os M ontesinos with Crescendo

By Nancy Klein, choir member and choir publicist

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rescendo International Choir members sang Christmas carols together on Saturday, December 12th at the outdoor patio of Rincon de Miquel, a lovely restaurant and bar in Los Montesinos. Choir members dressed up in holiday costume and sat together in a socially-distanced manner. We wore masks and sang a variety of popular Christmas songs and carols.

Despite operating under the current pandemic restrictions, we still enjoyed ourselves. Near the end of our singing, choir members stopped to say a fond farewell to founding member Mary Priddle.

Mary helped start Crescendo Choir back in 2004. She has now decided it is a good time to return to her native England. Mary received a gift and flowers from the choir and said thank you to all the members, with much emotion in her voice.

Twenty six of the members stayed afterwards for a four course meal at Rincon de Miquel. This restaurant has a great menu del dia

for 10 euros. It includes fresh-baked bread, a mixed green salad, a choice of delicious starters, choice of tasty main dishes including meat, fish and pasta, choice of lovely desserts, coffee and half a bottle of wine. Such a great value. Never in million years would you get such a deal in the US, where I am from.

Crescendo Choir plans to start singing again outdoors at Miquel’s restaurant starting Saturday the 23rd of January at 10:45. If you are interested in joining us, please see the Crescendo website at www.crescendo-choir.com/index.html for details.

We are especially seeking men to join us. As long as pandemic restrictions are in place, we will sing outdoors, with masks on and sit in a socially-distanced manner. So please come join us if you are looking for something to do and like to sing with others. Our choir is made up of sopranos, altos, tenors and basses. We sing a wide variety of songs ranging from musicals to spirituals, from pop to classical, in English, Spanish, Dutch, and Latin. When we give concerts, the money we raise goes to local charities.

Mary Priddle with Crescendo President Mary Mitchell

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ALBATERA: From Francoist Concentration Camp to Museum The Consell has said that it intends to turn the camp where the Franco regime locked up 20,000 Republicans in subhuman conditions into a museum The archaeological investigation finds human remains and the campsite, but does not locate any mass graves.

ed in its first phase, in which he has been trying to locate a mass grave that, according to testimonies, is where an undetermined number of Republican prisoners who were shot were buried.

Hunger, disease, torture and executions characterised the Francoist concentration camp in San Isidro close to Albatera, where 20,000 Republican prisoners were interned for almost seven months, between 6 April 1939 and 27 October of that year, many of them having previously occupied important government positions in the Republic.

Although this has not yet been achieved, Mejías is happy with the findings, among them, human remains, a tibia and the occipital bone of a skull, buried a metre deep, which he says is evidence that one or more mass graves will be found on the site.

There were also members of the military, journalists, trade unionists and artists who were all captured in the port of Alicante when they tried to leave Spain on the British coal ship SS Stanbrook just days before the end of the civil war.

It was the most important concentration camp of the postwar period, and now the Department of Democratic Equality intends to turn the area where the settlement was into museum, a memory centre where one of the most important chapters in Spanish history can be seen and explained, the tragedy of the Civil War, and the appalling conditions in which prisoners were kept.

The plan, of course, is long-term, with the main stumbling block being that the land, virtually all of which was ploughed up after the dismantling of the concentration camp, is private.

The San Isidro City Council, the town which currently administrates the land in which the plots are situated, intends to acquire them through a grant.

“It is important that we can now use the area, where there was once so much suffering, as a field of memories. The former site of the concentration camp is an ideal place, although it will not be the only one, since we want to establish similar places throughout the province in all of the areas that have played a significant part in our history, such as la Posición Yuste in Petrer, the El Poblet estate where the Government of the Republic was established, the last secret residence of its president, Juan Negrín, and the port of Alicante, where many of the exiles left and others were captured and sent to Albatera.

Key to the museum is the knowledge gained from the investigation directed by the archaeologist Felipe Mejías, which has just conclud-

"The extension of the area is huge,” says Mejías, who plans to continue with the second part of the work next spring, for which, through the City Council of San Isidro, he has requested a further subsidy, which will allow for the exhumation of mass graves. “My intention is to extend the investigation to the entire area that the camp occupied, more than a kilometre.”

Indeed, as one of only five countries across

Thought to be the old cookhouse

In addition to the human remains that give hope of finding one or more graves in future excavations, the exploration has found cans of sardines and lentils, the only thing that the prisoners ate and shared, bullet casings, coins and a pendant “that could all be displayed in the future museum”, says Mejías.

One more important discovery is the foundations of up to three barrack buildings, one complete with 21 pillars, a length of more than 60 metres. "In May we will excavate the area which will allow us to consider the future museum in the area," says the archaeologist proudly. Another of the buildings found is the one that housed the cookhouse.

Mejías, who is also a historian, plans to begin the historical study of the area next month, prior to the second phase of the work that will resume in May, where he will collect more testimonies to confirm Countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States have both been severely criticised for their handling of the pandemic but both trail Spain, in terms of the death rate, by quite a margin.

The United Kingdom currently shows data of 930 deaths per one million of population while in the United States, it is 882.

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Spain daily newspaper OKDIARIO has compared the mortality rate for the entire planet, which shows that Spain, with 1,687 deaths per million of it’s population, taking data from the National Statistics Office, INE, continues to have the highest mortality rate on the entire planet.

Archaeologist Felipe Mejías

The work, which have lasted for more than a month and which have been subsidised with 17,600 euros by the Department of Democratic Quality, has been carried out with metal detectors, with a powerful geo-radar and excavations with a backhoe.

Spain ends the year with the highest Covid mortality rate in the world pain’s leaders will hardly be able to boast about their management of the coronavirus this year. Indeed as one of the nations with a health system that is envied across the globe, it will be difficult for Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to explain just why the country has continued to sit at the top of the pile in it’s occupation of first position in the mortality ranking during practically the entire coronavirus pandemic.

The land currently belongs to private individuals

the entire planet with a rate in excess of a thousand, the death rate is an absolute disaster but still it is one which the authorities continue to brush aside.

The country in second place in the mortality is currently Belgium, with 1,526 deaths per million inhabitants, while the third position is occupied by San Marino, with a figure of 1,414 million. In fourth place is Peru, with 1,106 and we have Italy in fifth, with 1,035.

Everyone else is below the thousand mark, many by some considerable distance.

Meanwhile the average death rate in the European Union stands at 666 cases per million inhabitants, less than half that of Spain which almost multiplies by seven the death rate in Germany which has 251 deaths per million.

Current deaths, according to INE, are 78,626 people, so using it’s own forecast Spain will see more than 80,000 deaths by 31 December, a figure that makes grim reading as the government stumbles toward the end of it’s first full year in power.

Other countries that feature at the top of the mortality list include Argentina with 894 deaths per million, France 873, Mexico of 871, Brazil 845, Chile 825, Ecuador 784, Panama 761, Holland 582, Portugal 517, Austria 462, Canada 347, Israel 341, Greece 323, Tunisia 317 and Russia 306.

the existence of at least one mass grave.

"A resident has told me that his grandfather told him that, just at the opposite end of the area where we were digging, there were bones, at exactly the same spot where other witnesses tell us that it was the place where people were shot."

The archaeologist is also still waiting for the final results of the georadar study carried out by the University of Cádiz that is yet to be finished. He hopes that it will provide clues to the location of the grave and the layout of the site.

Mejías says that he wants to get away from controversy. “It is not about opening wounds, but about closing them; what family members want is to know where the bodies of their loved ones are, and that is called human sensitivity, not resentment, “he says.

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The Real Story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer A

man named Robert L. May, depressed and broken hearted, stared out of his drafty apartment window into the chilling December night.

His 4-year-old daughter Barbara sat on his lap quietly sobbing. Bobs wife, Evelyn, was dying of cancer.

Little Barbara couldn't understand why her mommy could never come home. Barbara looked up into her dad's eyes and asked, "Why isn't Mommy just like everybody else's Mommy?"

Bob's jaw tightened and his eyes welled with tears. Her question brought waves of grief, but also of anger.

It had been the story of Bob's life. Life always had to be different for Bob. When he was a kid, Bob was often bullied by other boys. He was too little at the time to compete in sports.

He was often called names he'd rather not remember.

Bob finished the book just in time to give it to his little girl on Christmas Day. But the story doesn't end there.

The General Manager of the T. Eaton Store caught wind of the little storybook and offered Bob May a nominal fee to purchase the rights to print the book.

They went on to print “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and distribute it to children visiting Santa Claus in their stores.

Bob, after completing college, married his loving wife Evelyn and was grateful to get a job as a copywriter at the Timothy Eaton Department Store in Toronto during the Great Depression.

Then he was blessed with his little girl. But it was all short-lived. Evelyn's bout with cancer stripped them of all their savings and now Bob and his daughter were forced to live in a two-room apartment in the poorer area of Toronto.

In an unprecedented gesture of kindness, the CEO of Eaton's returned all rights back to Bob May. The book became a best seller.

Evelyn died just days before Christmas in 1938.

Many toy and marketing deals followed and Bob May, now remarried with a growing family, became wealthy from the story he created to comfort his grieving daughter.

Bob struggled to give hope to his child, for whom he couldn't even afford to buy a Christmas gift. But if he couldn't buy a gift, he was determined a make one – a storybook!

By 1946, Eaton's had printed and distributed more than 6 Million copies of "Rudolph" tion of "White Christmas".

But the story doesn't end there either.

The gift of love that Bob May created for his daughter so long ago kept on returning back to bless him again

Who was the character? What was the story all about?

Bob's brother-in-law, Johnny Marks, made a song adaptation to Rudolph. Though the song was turned down by such popular vocalists as Bing Crosby and Dinah Shore, it was recorded by the singing cowboy, Gene Autry.

The story Bob May created was his own autobiography in fable form. The character he created was a misfit outcast like he was.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” was released in 1949 and became a phenomenal success, selling more records than any other Christmas song, with the excep-

Bob had created an animal character in his own mind and told the animal's story to little Barbara to give her comfort and hope. Again and again, Bob told the story, embellishing it more with each telling.

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The name of the character? A little reindeer named Rudolph, with a big, shiny nose.

By 1946, Eaton's had printed and distributed more than 6 Million copies of "Rudolph". That same year, a major publisher wanted to purchase the rights from Eaton's to print an updated version of the book.

From childhood, Bob was different and never seemed to fit in.

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and again.

And Bob May learned the lesson, just like his dear friend Rudolph, that being different isn't so bad.

In fact, being different can be a blessing. eh?

A true Canadian story ,,,

Police controls strengthened to ensure anti-Covid compliance

cant increase in the number of complaints for non-compliance in the use of masks, mainly over the weekend."

Similarly "an upturn in infections has been reported after the last weekend of November."

At a security committee meeting held by the Generalitat Valenciana, the Government Delegation and the FVMP have said that they will reinforce the monitoring of compliance with the measures against COVID-19, to combat the pandemic.

He confirmed that management meetings will be held between the local police, the Generalitat Police, the National Police and the Civil Guard “to ensure proper coordination, because we want to ensure that the restriction of mobility, as well as compliance with the antiCovid measures are effective during the holidays.

Ximo Puig, chaired the meeting held at the Palau, during which Minister Gabriela Bravo explained that from 20 December “Police will be increased by 50%, both in commercial areas and in hotel establishments. The extra officers will enable better control of capacity not only for nightlife, but also for bars and restaurants”.

Bravo justified the measures by saying, "we have been able to verify that over the last few days there has been a signifi-

He added "it is very necessary at this time that the public understand that the responsibility has to be everyone's in order to guarantee compliance with the rules and thus reduce mobility, which is a determining factor in reducing infections.

The Generalitat has also appealed to municipalities to reduce the number of events that are likely to draw crowds during the Christmas holidays He appealed to the "individual responsibility of citizens because the collective sacrifice of all is very important so that we can get ahead and control the contagion curve."

The RODEARTE de Libros Feria del Libro Rojales 2020 was staged on December 13 with the presentation and signature of local authors, both Spanish and English.

The third edition of the RODEARTE de Libros, took place in the Malecón del Soto, in contrast to being staged at the Cuevas del Rodeo with the participation of authors from other localities and from various Writers Associations.

The event was enlivened with the music of Juan el Avispero, the monologue of the Rojalero El Mindango, and the songs of rapper Tanaka.

"Many thanks to all of them, and to Silvia Cartagena, who, with her great sympathy and pleasure, presented them," said a spokesperson.

Los Montesinos author/journalist and Leader writer Andrew Atkinson was a guest.

Inma Chazarra on behalf of the RODEARTE de Libros, said: "It has been a pleasure to share this day with Andrew and I would like him to come back next year."

Andrew said: "It was an honour and pleasure to be at the RODEARTE de Libros Feria del Libro Rojales 2020."

Leading authors who attended, included Jose Gonzalez, Mark Durman and Manuel Fernando Estevez.

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Cartagena’s magnificent military museum T he Military Museum of Cartagena was opened as a Museum in 1997 in what, for over 200 years, had been the major headquarters and artillery base in South-East Spain.

It was one of a series of major depots dedicated to the storage of equipment, ammunition, repair and manpower and it played a major part in many of the conflicts dating back to 1786, when the Real Parque de Artillería de Cartagena was first built.

Simply being able to enjoy the architecture itself is worth the visit alone, with it’s beautiful vaulted ceilings, built with brick on spherical pillars, in a simple neo-classical style.

Dr Tony Fuller, a member of the Orihuela Costa and District Branch of The Royal British Legion, is a volunteer guide and researcher at the Museum. Tony also works with the Archivo de Cartagena, where he is helping to record the history of the British in the City, but it was in his capacity as a member of the RBL that he recently put pen to paper to write a brief on the history of the Military Museum, which subsequently appeared in the December edition of the National Magazine.

Seeing the story online, in the virtual edition of the magazine, the Comandante, Juan Antonio Martinez Sanchez, immediately set his sights on procuring copies of the printed edition, which led him, through Dr Fuller, extending an invitation for the magazine editor to visit the Museum.

The museum really does display a rich historical and military heritage which, as well as showing a respect for tradition, displays one of the very best collections of small arms, artillery and armoured vehicles in the country.

There are a multitude of side rooms housing displays of by gone battles and conflicts, together with models of Cartagena through the ages, all built by volunteers from the Amigos.

All of the exhibits are displayed in Spanish and English and all of the historical videos have English subtitles. It really is a military treasure trove.

This is undoubtedly a museum that any military

buff should visit. It has an extensive and varied content which includes the world’s largest private collection of military models. Entry is free and tours with an English speaking guide are available by prior appointment. Importantly, it is also wheelchair accessible.

St Barbara’s chapel

The city of Cartagena itself existed as a fortified city as far back as 250 BC, its sheltered port offering protection from the seas and in a strategic trading position which attracted exports from all across the region, so it has been fought over frequently, with the fortifications built throughout the centuries put to good use on many occasions.

As might be expected, much of the city legacy can be seen in the military museum.

Comandante Juan Antonio Martinez Sanchez couldn’t have been more welcoming

So with his authorisation to cross community borders in hand, Kevin Reardon drove down to Cartagena where he was afforded celebrity status during a morning which took in a 30 minute meeting with the Comandante and his senior officials, including Col (Retd) Manuel Roca Dorda, the President of the Cultural Association, ‘Amigos del Museo Historico Militar de Cartagena’.

During the meeting, after handing over copies of the RBL Magazine, he was presented with a comprehensive museum guide, which was then followed by a grand tour of the facilities by Col (Ret’d) Antonio Cortinas-Guntin, and a wonderful lunch.

There is so much to see in the museum

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Enjoy your ‘Best Christmas…’

B

ing Crosby dreamt of a ‘White Christmas - just like the ones he used to know.’ This humble scribe isn’t dreaming of a white Christmas. In fact, come to think of it, no white Christmas springs to mind – apart from those I spent in the Canadian bush.

Christmas is a time for nostalgia and ‘dreaming’ of times past – but like all of nostalgia, we will only remember the best bits.

This ‘Covid Christmas’ will be very different for most readers: But wasn’t every Christmas ‘different?’ Think about it … there were no two identical Christmases in your life! This is why this year will be your best Christmas - because it is the only one you have!

My mother spent the last nine years of her life in the fantastic St Camillus Nursing Home. She loved it there, but her regular visits ‘home for the day’ were the highlights of her twilight years. Here is the point: After every visit home, as I drove Mam back to her ‘new house’, without exception, she always made the remark; ‘this was the best family gathering ever!’ I like to think this is how it is with Christmas. The ones behind us are gone for good, and if there are more ahead, they don’t belong to any of us yet.

The only Christmas we have is this one – so let us all determine not to focus on its ‘difference’, but instead to concentrate on being happy with what we have and enjoy it. Remember a person can be as happy as they choose to be.

All Christmas Days are different. I vividly recall my childhood and not being able to sleep with the anticipation of Santa’s sleigh landing on our roof. Those were poorer times, when the sleigh was never overloaded – but the joy of Christmas was none the less for getting less.

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Entirely my own fault – as the good English friends would have fed me; but I had partied the day before, not realising that no place was open on Christmas Day. As against this, I spent one in utmost luxury in Los Angeles and a couple more in salubriously extravagant far-flung places.

As mentioned above, a North American mining camp was where Santa failed to find me for a couple of years in a row – but I was among friends and we had some fun!

We have had wonderful Yuletide experiences in Spain – especially during the early years of ‘Paddy’s Point, but ’tempus fugit’, and as both Pamela’s mother and my mother didn’t have many Christmases left, we vowed to spend their remaining ones at home with them.

So … in this year of dramatic difference, Mrs Youcantbeserious and I will sit across the turkeytable with nobody else but the two of us. We shall simply be happy for being alive and healthy. This is back where it all started because on a Christmas Eve with a difference, exactly fifty years ago, we got engaged!

Yes, my friends; Christmas changes all the time – and so do we. The secret is to embrace that change and not to hanker after what it is we cannot have. Be happy in the ‘now.’

This year there are more of you out there. Make the best of the Christmas you have – because next year is coming … and every Christmas is different!!

DON’T FORGET

On Christmas morning we shall join in an online Mass. Then again, through the miracle that is modern technology, I shall once again be moved by the sparkle of children’s eyes, courtesy of ‘Zoom.’

Like most people who are parents, my warmest glow dates back to when my children were small and Pamela and I could live the magic of Christmas though the wondrous eyes of a child. Nothing stays the same, but, thank God, our grandchildren now play that role for us.

Next year will be different …!

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com

I want to wish all our readers a very Happy Christmas. Thank you for your messages throughout the year, your encouraging words – and especially for putting me right when I get it wrong!

*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.

Yes, this Christmas will be a different ‘best Christmas’ for me; but I could tell you some stories of my past Christmases of difference!

When I was 21, I ‘celebrated’ a Christmas Day hungover and hungry (in that order!) in a flat in England.

Over forty years of newspaper writing, my last word in the Christmas editions is always reserved for exiles who long to be home for Christmas, but cannot make it. I have been there and so can identify with you.

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 either Spanish Solutions or ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info.

Cartagena opens container route with the UK in face of 'Brexit' The port of Cartagena is opening a direct container route to the UK in anticipation of a ‘No Deal BREXIT’.

The route, linking Cartagena with Liverpool, will be operated by Containerships, who have been trialling the operation for the last 3 months.

The new route, which will take six days, will make it easier for the region and it’s companies to trade with the UK when it departs from the EU in three weeks time.

Yolanda Muñoz, who has just celebrated her first 12 months as the President of the Port Authority, said that the option that the new route will provide will turn any adversity around and provide a much more solid trading platform for manufacturers and far-

mers.

The UK currently ranks as number five on the list of countries receiving exports from Murcia and the introduction of the route should make it much easier to retain, and `possibly build on, the trade that is already in place.

Sea Freight already accounts for a large part of Cartagena’s economy, which operates well with a number of other Non EU nations, and it is hoped that one the current UK backlog is resolved in Britain’s ports the Cartagena to Liverpool route will prove an attractive option to companies well beyond the Murcia region

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Traffic at Alicante-Elche airport fell 88% in November start their operations again.

Alicante - Elche Airport served only 112,618

At stake, 50% of the province's foreign tourism with it’s annual turnover of four billion euros, which is what the British market means.

passengers in November while at Corvera just 1,966 travellers passed through the terminal

T

The United Kingdom also eases it’s restrictions on travel from this Tuesday, reducing the quarantine when returning from overseas from 14 to 5 days, and if the passenger takes a test and tests negative there will be no quarantine.

According to Aena's figures, the terminal served a total of 112,618 passengers last month , 88% less than November 2019, which saw the airport to drop five places in the state network, ranking tenth in Spain, behind Madrid, Barcelona, Gran Canaria, Palma, Tenerife North, Malaga, Tenerife aerodromes South, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

The British regulatory body (MHRA) also approved two weeks ago use of the coronavirus vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, making the United Kingdom the first country to authorise this treatment.

he tourist crisis brought about by the covid health scare continues to take its toll on the Alicante-Elche airport, which closed in November with the worst month of traffic since the de-escalation began in July.

In the first eleven months of the year, the airport has served 3.6 million passengers, 74.4% less than in 2019 and it now seems likely that the airport will not even reach four million passengers this year.

July and August were the best months following de-escalation with 422,000 and 480,000 passengers respectively, but since then traffic has plunged once again due to travel restrictions and the near closure of the United Kingdom.

Meanwhile the situation at Murcia’s Corvera Airport during November was even worse with just 1,966 passengers passing through the terminal building, as compared to over 40,000 passengers during the same month last year, a reduction of 95.2%.

The European Agency for Aviation Safety and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control have asked Member States to soften their stance on quarantines and also to consider antigen testing as a sufficient preventive measure to help restore the mobility of tourists throughout the Schenguen territory.

The EU recommendation coincides with the request of the Costa Blanca hotel industry, as well as Consell itself, who are both in favour of the antigen test replacing the expensive PCR test, which is currently priced at around 150 euros and requires the introduction of

a near impossible healthcare infrastructure at airports and hotels.

However, virologists at the Carlos III University of Madrid, chosen by the Ministry of Health to establish the rules for travel, consider that, for the moment, antigen tests (40 euros) are not reliable enough to determine if a traveller is infected with covid, especially in the cases of asymptomatic people. Hence, both restrictions and the economic crisis continue to slow down the movement of tourists.

Experts in the tourism industry hope that the position will start to recover by next spring, but if the situation evolves well, the risk of infections is reduced and the vaccine is effective, the start of the deescalation could get underway as early as February 2021, the month in which travel company’s such as Jet2 holidays and TUI plan to

14

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Monday 21st - Sunday 27th December, 2020

Christmas Carols with RBL Concert Band in Torrevieja and Pilar de la Horadada

putting together this event, under very difficult circumstances are to be congratulated.

For the very first time the annual Carols in the Square event took place in the Municipal Theatre, Torrevieja on Monday evening the 14th.December.

They were welcomed to the town by the Councillor for Foreign Residents, María Belén Sánchez, who introduced them to an audience of 200 or so people made up of all nationalities.

Because of covid restrictions the audience was limited by ticket only to 350 people.

The band played a selection of Christmas carols and songs for the best part of an hour which ended with generous applause from the very supportive crowd.

It really was an evening to remember, ably competed by Keith Nicol. The carol singing was led by Rebecca Holt and Shannon Campbell, accompanied by the Royal British Legion Concert Band under the musical direction of David Last with such festive favourites as Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Good King Wenceslas, White Christmas and Jingle Bells, the audience joined in with great enthusiasm.

The Asila Choir sang three Spanish favourites, Feliz Navidad, Fum Fum Fum and Las Campanas de Belen to great applause.

The popular Sette Voci Septet sang five numbers, including the traditional Silent Night, once more to enthusiastic applause.

The evening was a great success and all involved in organising and

And then last Saturday afternoon, in glorous Spanish sunshine,the RBL Concert Band continued with their busy Schedule at an Open Air Concert in the main town square in Pilar de la Horadada.

Councillor Sanchez said she was delighted that they had proved to be so popular with the Horadada townsfolk, confirming their availability with the Director of Music, David Last, for next year and promising much more support by way of printed song sheets, pa and event publicity.

The Royal British Legion Concert Band rehearses in Orihuela Costa but performs across the Southern Costa Blanca.

The band is always looking to recruit new members across the whole musical range and of all abilities. If you would like more information about how you can become involved in the band please contact Graham at: robinsongraham256@googlemail.com

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Monday 21st - Sunday 27th 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.

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Monday 21st - Sunday 27th December, 2020

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Carp-R-Us Carp-R-Us fished round three of the Winter Series on the Eden stretch of the Segura. This stretch can be very moody and today it was in one of its worst moods, as usually happens when there is no flow on the water.

Fishing was very tough with four dry nets and three other anglers only catching one or two fish. First was Dave Hutchinson who fished the pole with bread on peg 8 to take 5.60kg.

Second from peg 17 was Steve Collins with 4.22kg (pole and corn) with Richard Crawshaw on peg 16 third with 3.58kg (pole and corn) and Steve Fell on peg 15 fourth with a single carp weighing 2.28kg.

This is the last club match of the year so we would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and the chance to do more fishing in 2021.

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

The club fishes matches most Thursdays and this are competitive but friendly affairs.

Most weeks some members also go pleasure fishing where new methods are practiced and ideas exchanged. This is something we are looking to do more of next year.

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La Marina Bowls Club

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club

with Dave Hadaway

Sponsored by The Pub, Skippers,Gran Alacant Ins, Rogers, Dialprix and The Belfry

I was never an advocate of being on the same rank as my partner and then the semi finals of the mixed pairs comes in with all partners playing with each other the four semifinalist are the JOYNES, the STONES, the PARSONS and Alex WHYTE and Margaret MacLAUGHIN

Diane and Phil

John 3rd place

Let’s hope these relationships are strong enough in three cases to survive losing a semi and a final the results were. Alex and Margaret 19 Garth and Mo KIDD 17, Anne & Mick STONE 16 Alex and Irene 14 , Janet and Peter PARSONS 19 Len & Sue DANIELS 17, David & Lesley JOYNES 21 Martha and Tom SPENCER 10 some very tight results I’m sure you will agree.

The drawn pairs are interesting in the fact that our reigning Valencian Champions (Tom and Margaret) have been drawn together and have reached the semi-final stage so I would suggest making them favourites .

Gina, Colin, Des and John.

The results were. Tom SPENCER and Margaret McLAUGHIN 19 Terry PERCHARD and Irene MAGNUM 15 , Janet PARSONS and AlecMAURRICE 17, Dave McGAW and Mike SMITH 16 (this was decided on the extra end), Don FOWKES and Garth SLATER had an easier route with a walkover.

Two quarter-finals of the mixed trips were played which resulted in very exciting games with extremely close scores. Don and Jean FOWKES with Phil PAPE beat Mo KIDD, Barbara FORSHAW and Garth SLATER 16 - 15, and Irene Magnum, AlexMAURRICE and Marion FRYATT beat Len & Sue DANIELS with John RAE 16 - 14 These games close our competitions for 2020 and we look forward to them commencing again from the 11th of January.

RFEF block Racing Murcia signing of Lescott

Thanks must to Don FOWKES for getting these games played and if you have been following you must agree they have been very exciting results.

A Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year to all.

Joleon Lescott, the former Manchester City, Everton and Aston Villa central defender, who retired in 2017, did not sign for Racing de Murcia.

A club statement issued two weeks ago indicated that the club president would be bringing in the former England international for one game only, last week’s Copa de Rey match against la Liga side Levante.

However the Murcian Third Division club was stopped from making the signing by the RFEF, the Spanish Football Federation citing coronavirus.

As such, Club President, Morris Pagniello issued an official statement notifying the cancellation of the move and apologising to the fans.

The statement read: "Racing Murcia communicates to all its fans and followers that in the last moments, and after all the procedures have been carried out by the club to complete the signing, due to the impediments of the RRFE Federation it is impossible for Joleon Lescott to participate in the Copa del Rey match against Levante".

"The Club regrets informing the media of this extraordinary situation and sends its most heartfelt apologies to its fans."

“Racing Murcia tried to process Lescott's file but the deadlines established, based on the pertinent tests for the coronavirus (the player would have to have had a PCR seven days ago) prevented it from being executed in order that Lescott could play against Levante”.

The game nevertheless went ahead on Wednesday evening in Lorca with the La Liga side showing their class in a 5-0 victory.

Wednesday League Despite all the restrictions everyone enjoyed playing in the Wednesday league, played over five weeks.

The last match was played on Wednesday 16th December, after which Diane announced the winner and the runners up.

The winner was Phil Goble runner up Jean Chamberlain and Third John Hunt, each

Racing San Miguel Christmas cheer as fans return Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 Racing San Miguel gave supporters an early Christmas present with a 2-0 home win in front of 150 fans in Saturday's home fixture against CF Monnegre de Muxtamel.

Dominant Racing started the game with a clear chance from Dani O'Rourke, after Sergio's assist. It was O'Rourke who gave RSM the lead, when heading home.

Gabri netted Racing's second to seal victory and three points.

"We thank our audience for their exemplary behaviour during the game, complying with all the established security measures.

"And to the Civil Protection of San Miguel for their support, which made it possible to host 150 fans.

"After a week of hard work with the City Council of San Miguel de Salinas (Alicante) and Deportes - San Miguel de Salinas to guarantee adequate sanitary conditions, it was agreed to increase the maximum capacity to 150 fans for the match against Monnegre Mutxamel," said a club spokesperson.

All masked supporters had to occupy a place in the stands, defined by a white point on the step, with safety distance undertaken, regardless of whether or not attendees live together.

received a bottle of wine. After each match all players enjoyed lunch and drinks at the Belfry, thank you to Paul and his staff.

Thank you to Diane and John for organizing another enjoyable competition.

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.

Meanwhile CF Rafal went joint-top in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 following a 2-1 derby clash win against CF Popular Orihuela, who slipped to seventh place.

In what was Rafal's fifth consecutive win, the victory over CFP Orihuela Deportiva continues to see them climb the league table on 18 points alongside Aspe UD 'A', going into the festive break.

Bottom club UD Aspense 'A' gained a valuable point against eighth place Sporting Dolores CF 'A' in a 1-1 draw.

Torrevieja CF moved up to fifth on Saturday in the Valencia 2nd Regional Group 17 following an emphatic 5-0 victory over FB Redován C 'B', who drop down to seventh place.

CF Promescs de Rojales 'A' remain bottom after suffering a 3-0 home defeat against CF Inter Santa Pola, who move up to tenth place.

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GOLF COURSES AND COVID - 19

H

ere 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.

Christmas Presents for Famous Golfers We have all lived through a torrid year the like of which has not been seen for 100 years due to the Covid-19 virus and the uncertainty of Brexit so I thought it may be the time for some tongue in cheek humour.

With Christmas Day quickly looming I have given some consideraWe 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: Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Campoamor Don Cayo (Altea)

Price €98 €80 €120 €100 €138 €45

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

Las Ramblas Golf Society Results for w/c 14.12.20 With a spring in their step, perfect upper body posture, not to mention 88 points (and putting the wrong date on their score card), it was Bryan Neal, John Shervell, Andrea Martin and ‘Albert’ who took home the Glitter Ball after Monday’s Waltzer 1-2-3.

Surviving the dance off, with 83 points and claiming second spot were Graham Murray, Paul Brown and John & Ellen Drakesmith.

Graham did ask me afterwards to refer to him in future as GRHM but I told him only if he could Rumba like HRVY. It was a ‘Joker Stableford’ on Wednesday. This is where two holes are nominated by each player before play commences and any points scored on those holes are doubled.

Sweeping the dance floor clean of all opposition, with 44 points and her first ‘perfect 10’, Yvonne Phipps was our winner (her photo

ORANGETREE GOLF SOCIETY

The Orangetree golf society played vista Bella on an extremely windy day, but luckily the sun still shone for the 16 players.

Playing pairs better ball was the order of the day with a mixed bag of scores coming in, but a few good shots managed to find the greens ,for the closest to the pin holes. The overall winners (pictured) were Tam and Derek who came into the "19th" with a great pairs score or 44!! Well done and enjoy your winnings.

Looking forward to Las Colinas in two weeks time.

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Mike Probert talks Golf In assn with Costa Blanca Green Fee Svcs

tion to what would be the ideal Christmas present for some of the worlds best players and came up with the following: Lee Westwood – A Major.

Rory McIlroy – His old confidence and putting stroke.

Patrick Reed – A copy of the rules of golf.

Tyrell Hatton – Some patience and calm.

Bryson Dechambeau – A side strain and character transplant.

Tiger Woods – Better Health.

Peter Alliss – A posthumous knighthood.

Sergio Garcia – Anger management course.

Bernhard Langer – A win on the regular tour.

Jon Rahm – First Major Win. Tommy Fleetwood – A new barber or hairdresser.

Dustin Johnson – A reduced major winning appetite.

Matthew Wolf – A snake wrestling contract.

Justin Rose – A few extra yards with the driver.

Luke Donald – A lot more yards with a driver.

Matt Kuchar – Membership of the Caddies Union.

Henrik Stenson - A new 3 wood.

Jordan Speith – A place in the world top 50.

Phil Mikkelsen – A Seniors pension.

European Team – The Ryder Cup

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

shows her debut appearance at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom).

She was followed by jiving Tom Hardie who scored 43. Four players then each attained 42 points!

After the judges results were in, and getting the nod from ‘Shirley’, 3rd place went to John Shervell.

Four ‘2’s today with Olga Douglas and Nigel Price getting one each whilst Andy Martin impressed the studio audience and managed two, (Gorgeous Darling).

Friday saw us play a 2 ball better ball. Upstaging everyone with 48 points (Just 20 more than GRHM I managed) were Andy Martin and Petina Murray. Olga Douglas and Reg Akehurst, performing the Argentine Tango, took second place with 44 points.

I’ll be taking a short break for the next couple of weeks so Feliz Navidad to you all and remember ‘keeeeep dancing’.

Pues hasta el ano que viene Peter Reffell

Don’t take any of the above too seriously it is all just a bit of fun and perhaps you have a few Christmas present ideas for the world’s greats yourself.

Thanks to all our regular readers and have the best Christmas possible given the circumstances and all the best for a much improved 2021.

22

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Monday 21st - Sunday 27th December, 2020

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By Paul Durrant

completed and finally, making sure the reindeer were ready for their long journey that evening, Rudolph was limping badly. A quick call to the vet was unsuccessful.

Santa returned to his house, totally dejected, insufficient toys, an unusable sleigh and his beloved chief reindeer, lame.

Santa in Elf Scare P.D.C. William Hill World Championship

The opening night may well be the only session played before a limited crowd. The event will take a Christmas break and resume on December 27th.

Peter Wright featured on the 1st night, as is traditional, entertaining both audience and viewers with his walk on, plus stage antics dressed as Christmas spoiler "The Grinch".

Full green outfit, beard, hair, furry gloves, even green flights and shafts.

Personally, he looked absolutely ridiculous, an opinion echoed by Raymond van Barneveld and fellow countryman Vincent van der Voort.

Both felt the elaborate fancy dress should be the crowds domain and not the reigning World Champions, citing, current and potential sponsors feeling it inappropriate. Whatever your opinion and l'm sure it will be split, it livened up opening proceedings. lt didn't however affect Wrights performance. Using new darts yet again, he comfortably breezed past Steve West, 3 sets to 1, without getting out of second gear. Daft outfit or not, he is a strong contender, expect him to at least make the semi's. ln his after match interview, he gave a pretty good rendition of "The Grinch"to wish everyone a

Danny's taking it easy.

Happy Christmas. What next?

Glen Durrant made short work of Diogo Portela (Brazil) winning 3 sets to 0, albeit with a fairly modest average of 89.07, the Brazilian managing just 2 legs from the 11 played. lt must have been a relief for the Englishman to get back to winning ways, after experiencing a nasty bout of Covid which laid him low for some time.

This was apparent when competing in the "Winter Series", where his form was dire, losing 4 first round matches, a far cry from his success in the Premier League and his outstanding average of 118 playing Simon Whitlock in the "Autumn Series" of darts.

What do you want" asked grumpy Santa. "Hi Father Christmas l've brought you this lovely tree" replied the rather shy Fairy.

He had just returned from his toy Grotto and was really concerned with what he had witnessed.

Frustrated and tired Santa had had enough and responded with "And you know what you can do with that", slamming the door in the fairies face.

Now with Covid behind him, he will be looking forward to a "run" in the Worlds, helped by tv pundit and darts guru Wayne Mardle, to assist in ironing out one or two deficiencies that have crept into his action of late. l cannot see Durrant putting his name to the "Sid Waddell" trophy this time round, but l can see him threatening the big 3 (MvG, Wright, Price) in 2021.

A debate has surfaced after references that Michael van Gerwen is the greatest

On checking his sleigh, he found repairs to the wooden runners were still to be

That accolade according to the Power goes to RvB or Barny as he's often known. Taylor cites his mentor the "Crafty Cockney", Eric Bristow above MvG (Eric has 5 world titles), Barny also has 5 and The Power has an unbelievable 16.

You can measure players on 9 dart games, averages, total 170 outs, head to heads, but it's titles that count and Taylor not only tops most of the preceeding categories, but most of the prestigious titles available, Worlds, World Machplay, Premier League etc.

MvG is undoubtedly the best player of recent times, but is now being pressed at each tournament and has shown a weakness in 2020 not seen before. l don't remember a bad year in Taylors career, MvG has a way to go, certainly 2nd place is well within his grasp, best ever, l doubt.

And that my friends is how the Fairy now adorns the top of all our Christmas trees around the world, at this time of friendship and compassion.

Happy Christmas to all, Paul D. LOUNGERS in ‘PAR TY MOOD’ ‘PARTY

player ever, a statement vehemently dismissed by Phil Taylor who states, yes a wonderful player, but not even the best to come out of Holland.

lt's an argument l tend to agree with, MvG is likely to have more titles in the bag, he is still young at 31, but at present he is 2 shy of Bristow and Barny and 13 off Taylors' pile.

Rising wearily he trudged to the door and opened it to find a beautiful Fairy standing there with a Christmas tree. "

Twas the night before Christmas and things weren't going to plan for Santa.

The childrens' favourite was feeling particularly poorly with a heavy cold.

His Present making Elfs had not made anywhere near enough toys for all the children looking forward to the big day, due to poor Elf.

Only one night of play at Alexandra Palace in front of a live audience, before London went into tier 3 lockdown until at least December 23rd.

He sat down dejectedly, with his favoured Mulled Wine, wondering what on earth was he to do. Suddenly there was a loud "rat a tat tat" on the front door.

TOADS PA PAT, ANDY, ANDY, SIMONE.

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Magnifient Thader end year on a high M

ake no mistake, CD Thader Rojales are back.

With a bang! What better way to end such an awful year, than record back-to-back victories within 3 days of each other.

Ok, there's no denying that this sudden upturn in form has to be maintained for the rest of the season, but there have always been signs that a moral boosting victory would be the catalyst for a change of fortune.

CD Thader............ 2 UD Petrelense..... 0

G

oing into last Wednesday night's match against Petrel, Thader were in the unenviable position at the foot of Preferente division, whilst their visitors were 2 places above them.

This match was originally scheduled for 8 November, but covid issues forced a postponement.

Thader started brightly, having had 3 shots in the first 10 mins, although none were on target.

Rubo had the best effort of a scrappy half, his shot from outside the box, skimming the cross bar. Nino watched as his snap shot was well saved on 38 mins, then from the next attack, Fran shot across the face of goal, evading everyone plus the far post. Petrel failed to record a shot on goal in the first 45 mins, and appeared there for the taking.

It didn't take long for a chance to be converted, 5 mins into the new half to be exact. A delightful low cross from the left by the outstanding Villa, found Quino lurking at the far post. The big no 9 gleefully slammed the ball into the back of the visitor's net, much to the delight of team mates and fans alike.

Less than 5 mins later it was 2-0.

Nino pulled the ball back from the dead ball line, setting up an easy chance for Lloyd, who made no mistake from close range.

On the hour mark, Villa fancied a pop himself, his effort missing the target by a fag paper. Nino should

Following success at home to Petrelense

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Crossword and Puzzle Answers MUSIC OF THE SEASON: Winter Wonderland WORD WHEEL: 9 letter word – beautiful, 6 letter words – albeit, albite, tabuli, tubful, tubule, 5 letter words – beaut, befit, blate, bleat, bluet, built, table, tubal, 4 letter words, abet, abut, bait, bate, beat, belt, beta, bite, blat, tabu, tuba, tube

Big Fat Crossword have done better on 67 mins, his header at the far post failed to test the keeper, an area of his play that needs working on.

Petrel's first attack on goal arrived on 73 mins, even then it involved a goal mouth scramble which resulted in a corner.

I can honestly say that this was probably the most one-sided match I've ever witnessed at this level, but these are the type of matches that Thader have failed to capitalise on in the past. This welldeserved victory (the first since 25 Oct), leap frogged Thader over their opponents into 12th position.

CD Murada .......... 0 CD Thader............ 2

G

oing into this ultimate match of 2020, third place Murada took on 3rd to bottom Thader. You'd have got long odds for anything but a home win, but what do the bookies know eh?

This was Murada's first match for 3 weeks, having endured a similar covid situation of which Thader had earlier in the year. Due to work commitments, Quino was named as sub, his strikers role given instead to Kike.

To describe the 2 halves as being like chalk and cheese, is an understatement. Whereas the 1st half was almost void of incidents, the 2nd literally oozed in them. My 1st half notes consisted of 4 lines.

There was an early booking for a nasty looking challenge by a Murada hatchet man (the same player was involved in unsavoury incidents in the 2nd half, but more of that later).

Adrian did well to push aside a dangerous looking Murada 30-yard free kick on the half hour mark, as both sides failed to find any real rhythm to their play. A Rafa booking (no surprise there then!) was

Mayor Butron thanks Full Monte SC for donation

By Andrew Atkinson The Mayor of Los Montesinos Jose Manuel Butron has thanked the members of the Full Monte Supporters Club committee for raising €600 for charity this Christmas.

"Thank you so much for your collaboration. Merry Christmas and I hope next year is better than this," said Mayor Butron.

Supporters Club President Eduardo Cagigao met with Mayor Butron to present 60 vouchers worth €600, raised by supporters of Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 CD Montesinos, to be given to the needy of the town by the Social Services Department.

the last recorded incident, in what proved to be a fairly uneventful opening 45 mins.

When Fran powerfully headed against the bar from a corner on 56 mins, the rebound fell nicely for captain Lloyd to hammer home from close range. Queue celebrations - and how! But hold on, there was still a small matter of 34 mins still to go.

Murada then made numerous attacks down both wings, but Thader's magnificent defence held firm against all that was thrown at them. Dani Lucas produced an outlandish long-range effort on goal, but somehow Murada's keeper managed to keep it out of his net. Up the other end, a similar strike just eluded the frame of Thader's goal.

Yellow cards were being brandished left, right and centre, including one to recently introduced sub Quino. Shouts for a penalty on 77 mins were upheld, following a trip on Oscar inside Murada's penalty area.

As the culprit had previously been booked, a second yellow meant an early bath for him. Having missed a couple of penalties already this season, the task to rectify the situation was given to Rubo, who coolly sent the keeper the wrong way.

With time ticking away, it all kicked off! Thader sub Otman (who on his debut had an outstanding match), was racially abused

(black b*stard).

At this, he had to be refrained by team mates, as he was incensed (close to tears).

Team mate Juan was then shown a straight red card, because the assistant ref had heard him threaten to knock the racist's head off.

A lengthy delay ensured (10+ mins), as Thader considered taking their players off the pitch, but play eventually resumed.

Thankfully, this disgraceful incident failed to disrupt Thader's concentration. The rear-guard held firm, especially Adrian, who made 2 worldly saves in the dying minutes.

There could easily have been a 3rd Thader goal in stoppage time, but both Dani Lucas and Rafa squandered goal scoring opportunities.

So, as we enter 2021, Thader now find themselves in 10th position on 9 points, having played 9 games.

Next up for Thader is a home match at Moi Gomez stadium.

Make a note of Sun 10 Jan, ko 1130, when Thader welcome Redovan.

Apart from Juan, who will be suspended, Calderon, Borja and Cabrera will hopefully be free of their injuries, to become available for this match.

Sudoku (Easy, medium, hard)

24

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