The Leader Newspaper Edition 853 – 8 February 2021

No 853 Monday 8th - Sunday 14th February 2021

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Keeping people safe and informed for over 17 years - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

GALIANO RESIGNS “I will return to my job as a nurse at the Orihuela Costa Health Centre.”

he Orihuela Councillor for Health, José Galiano has resigned. He presented his resignation on Friday to the mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana.

T

clear that he is only resigning from his roles within the council, Health, Statistics, Parque Móvil and Urban Transport, and that he is determined to retain his position as a municipal councillor.

However, the councillor made it quite

He told the mayor that he is stepping

down until such time as the situation regarding the vaccination process is resolved, and those who have committed a wrongdoing in receiving a first dose are identified.

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FROM PAGE ONE GALIANO RESIGNS ADVERTISING SALES

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Galiano said that he had offered to resign from his council responsibilities on a number of occasions since criticism of his vaccination was first published in the media, but until Friday, when he spoke to the mayor once again, they had all been refused.

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wise, they go to waste, depriving someone of immunisation.

Ciudadanos leader and Deputy Mayor, José Aix, said that he welcomed the decision by Galiano.

Professor Heather Draper of the Warwick Medical School told the BBC that, "If we're talking about the Pfizer vaccine that can't be stored for very long, then obviously a decision has to be made about it very quickly, because it can't be kept, so It's much better for anyone to be vaccinated, rather than waste the vaccine."

However, he said that the situation is now beginning to have a damaging effect on many of his council departments, so he has finally decided to withdraw from them all until such time as the situation is resolved.

The councillor added, “I have a very clear conscience and I am sure that if there is justice and decency, this will soon show a satisfactory way because, I never asked to be vaccinated and I did not take the vaccine from anyone else. I was vaccinated by staff from the Ministry of Health, who were fully aware of the vaccination protocol at the time, and were about to throw away unused doses of the vaccine.”

He explained that the Autonomous Secretary of Public Health only specifically defined the protocol on 20 January, 14 days after the vaccine was administered.

Galiano’s withdrawal from his council responsibilities has proved a welcome relief for leader of Orihuela’s

Valencian Community to start mass vaccination program from April Community President, Ximo Puig, said on Saturday that the Valencian Community has been guaranteed 559,020 vaccines up to 31 March and that, assuming the shipment arrives, "as of April" a mass vaccination will get underway across the community".

Following a meeting on Saturday with the Vice President, Mónica Oltra; the Minister of Health, Ana

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With the current shortage in the supply of vaccines, particularly within the EU, every vaccine counts, even if only a small number are left over.

Ciudadanos Group, José Aix, who has been under some pressure from the party national leadership to ensure the termination and removal of powers from the councillor.

Speaking about the resignation Aix said that he welcomed the decision, which was “a step that has undoubtedly occurred as a consequence of the demands of Ciudadanos”.

Aix has also said that "from now on, we hope that the Ministry of Health will also clarify the other people who have accessed the vaccines, benefiting from their status as public servants. We must go all the way to clean up the image of the institutions before the people and make it clear that we are not all the same”.

Following his resignation Galiano has now returned to his role as a nurse at the Orihuela Costa Health Centre, which he will combine with his, now without portfolio, responsibilities as a councillor in the Orihuela municipality.

So why are there vaccines that are being left over?

There are, of course, a variety of reasons which could be as simple as a patient who was scheduled to receive a jab fails to show up for their appointment. That immediately creates a problem, because vaccines have a limited shelf life.

For example, the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine has to be administered within five days of the vial being thawed from sub-zero storage temperatures, other-

Barceló, other senior officials of the technical vaccination commission, Puig confirmed that the doses will be made up with 329,940 doses of the Pfizer vaccine, 40,000 doses of Moderna and 189,080 doses of Astra Zeneca vaccine.

He also pointed out that the Astra

In the Valencian Community the President, while calling on irregularly vaccinated public officials to resign from office, Ximo Puig, has said that none of them will receive a second dose of the vaccine. However since making his initial ‘ fire and brimstone’ statement a little over two weeks ago, in which he was quite clearly playing to the anger of the general public, he now seems to have gone very quiet on the matter relegating the subject to the bottom of his in tray as it is theatrically played out in the different municipalities of the Valencian Community. in Spain," he said that this "will open the possibility of the vaccine being used in other sectors."

Puig has said that the estimates received from the Ministry of Health and the European health authorities suggest that from April the arrival of vaccines will accelerate.

At the end of March it is expected that there will be more than 300,000 people vaccinated in the Community, with the two mandatory doses.

Puig said that the priority will be with the elderly.

The situation regarding such short notice vaccinations is pretty much the same across Europe but it only seems to be in Spain where the authorities are taking such a firm stance.

Zeneca vaccine "has different considerations" and "people over 55 years of age will not be vaccinated with it

A working group has now been established to plan this new phase and starting next week they will begin to identify suitable sites in the three provinces where the mass vaccination process can begin.

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V ACCINATION PASSPORTS JUST AROUND THE CORNER.

It

has been 11 months since Covid-19 began to restrict our freedoms in one way or another. We are now in a position where mobility between countries is almost nil, with airlines maintaining just 10% of their normal traffic.

The economies that are dependent on tourism have been so severely affected that in order to revive the sector, countries such as the United Kingdom, Spain, Malta, Greece, Denmark, Sweden and Estonia are already testing the idea of creating digital passports that will show whether people have been vaccinated against coronavirus. This would allow them to travel and ease some of the tough restrictions.

Such a document could also be used to help people get back to normal life: go to museums, restaurants or sporting events.

British Health officials had previously dismissed vaccination passports given the lack of evidence that coronavirus vaccines prevented transmission, as well as reduce serious illness. But enthusiasm for the vaccine document has been reignited after recent studies have shown that Covid-19 jabs do cut transmission.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has confirmed that it is in favour of these new vaccination passports. They say that tourism "needs urgent help." "Vaccines should be part of a broader and coordinated approach that includes certificates and passes for safe cross-border travel," said its secretary general.

Some countries have already started. In Poland the certification can be accessed in the form of a downloadable QR code after receiving the second dose of the vaccine for travel. Estonia began testing a "digital immunity passport" earlier this year, potentially to track those who have recovered from Covid with some immunity. In three months, Denmark wants to implement them in the same way: an additional passport that will be stored on the mobile.

Just last week the UK Government confirmed that it is 'working on vaccine passports' for British people to go on summer holidays amid signs that a number of countries will drop quarantine rules for those who can prove they've had the jab.

Such a move could be a massive lifeline for the tourist industry in many countries, not least of which would be Spain where the

pandemic has destroyed the sector with a staggering 77% decrease in tourism last year.

Unfortunately though, for every country and organisation that looks at such a move with positivity there others that are critical of the special privileges it will bring for vaccinated individuals.

The European Commission, which has been analysing all the proposed vaccination certificates, has said that, for now, such certificates should only be used for medical purposes.

The World Health Organization also has a clear opinion on this: it opposes for the moment the introduction of these certificates as a condition to allow the entry of international travellers to other countries.

"There are still too many fundamental unknowns in terms of the effectiveness of vaccines in reducing virus transmission, and vaccines are still available only in limited quantities," the committee said in its recommendations.

Security experts too are sceptical, saying that the fear arises that this type of document could be falsified. Europol warned a few days ago that the online production and sale of false certificates of negative in coronavirus tests is regularly being detected in airports and stations throughout Europe.

And of course there are also those who think that the introduction of these "safe conducts" could restrict the freedoms and violate the human rights of some social groups and impoverished countries that will take longer to have access to the doses, creating first and second class citizens.

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HEIR TODAY, IN JAIL TOMORROW The "illegitimate daughter of Franco and the king" arrested for fraud in Elche

Tarragona and Alicante, as well as in several European countries such as the Czech Republic and Sweden.

The woman is a 50-year-old "historical con artist" who claimed to be heir to great fortunes to attract new victims

According to the Civil Guard, the group searched the internet for real estate properties and offered them to investors as "a bargain, at approximately 20% of their market value." Those wishing to buy had to reserve the property immediately, without even paying it a visit.

Nine other people have been arrested in the operation

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he Civil Guard has arrested ten people in Guardamar and Elche and is investigating two others for defrauding over a hundred people who were cheated of more than four million euros following the sale of homes offered at a quarter of their value market, a fraud that is classified as a "pyramid scam."

Once a victim had been ‘hooked’, the criminal group reserved the property with the real estate agent or developer, to guarantee temporary ownership, while the victim paid them the total discounted price of property immediately.

The leader of the group was a 50-yearold "historical con artist" who posed as the illegitimate daughter of Franco or the former King Juan Carlos. She told her victims that she was she was an heir to great fortunes in order to gain their trust.

According to the police she has already served a prison sentence for previous scams.

The woman, who suffers from a physical handicap and is confined to a wheelchair, is now in prison having

The police also seized 60,000 euros in cash, jewels valued at 50,000 euros, as well as luxury vehicles and high-tech devices previously been convicted of many other scams in which she posed as the illegitimate daughter of the King Emeritus. Ten bank accounts used by the organisation to launder their funds have now been blocked. In the eight

months that the scam had been operating in the province of Alicante, almost a million and a half euros were laundered through bank transfers.

The police also seized 60,000 euros in cash, jewels valued at 50,000 euros,

two high-end vehicles and a large number of high-tech devices.

The operations centre of the group was a solicitor’s office in Guardamar del Segura although it operated in the provinces of Madrid, Barcelona,

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The price of the houses ranged between 25,000 and 40,000 euros and when the scammers had their money, the acquisition of the property did not materialize and they disappeared.

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The scammed buyers paid the majority with cash and part of the profits were then used by the network to acquire jewellery and other luxury objects.

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SAT Animal Rescue

110 inmates attempted suicide in Spain prisons last year.

110 inmates attempted suicide in the past year, according to data provided by the Spanish prisons.

She is an older dog but still acts like a puppy.

Although the number is less than 2018, it is still worrying. It is not yet known how many inmates died by suicide in 2020 because the report on mortality by prisons is published between April and June.

She is fully vaccinated with passport, microchip, sterilized and bloodtested

In 2019, 43 people took their lives and 14 of them were with the Suicide Prevention Program.

Dolly is a 10.5 year old, Dogue de Bordeaux who loves to play fetch.

Black rats that can attack humans spotted climbing trees in Madrid A large number of black rats have been spotted climbing trees in Madrid city, especially near the Mendez Alvaro station.

These rats can attack humans, dogs, cats and other species and also can reproduce at a fast rate.

They may also carry dangerous and infectious diseases. A video captured by a group of residents alerted the authorities and now the Madrid City Council is inspecting the region.

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RN VET STEPS FORWARD

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive

'I've helped people who are lost - living here through Covid. It's about a sense of community. We're all in this together'.

Elche RN Vet Andy Rayner: Offered help in fight against Covid.

Andy Rayner in an exclusive interview with The Leader, said: "I have spoken to certain parties about helping, as an Ex-Navy Vet, at an age and fitness that could be useful."

Peterborough born Andy, 53, who formerly worked in the Electronic Warfare in the Royal Navy, said: "I've also given them my services in translation at the Police and Hospital here in Elche, as we get many English speaking patients and it can be awful for them.

Maintenance work in the Plaza del Embarcadero de La Mata has finally been completed, consisting of the replacement of park benches and waste bins, all of which were in poor condi-

tion.

The councillor of beaches said that as a result the image of the town, particularly in the Plaza del Embarcadero, has been greatly enhanced.

from family members in hospital, or worried about work, making payments, etc., due to Covid. I've helped quite a few out.

"We have to do our bit. We want to be part of our communities, and maybe the Spanish haven't thought about us?

"I'm convinced retired British medical workers, ex-forces here would want to contribute, but

don't know how, or who to contact.

"I'm lucky. I live in a pure Spanish City and my friends include police, surgeons, lawyers, tax inspectors, nurses, teachers, etc., so I can reach out.

"I've helped people who are lost - living here through Covid. It's about a sense of community.

We're all in this together."

INTERNATIONAL WORLD CANCER DAY

Bargain Booze

"Spain doesn't allow for nonmedically trained people to administer jabs. But I felt that there is more to offer than that, including organisation and analysis of the numbers.

"I am desperate to use my Spanish, combined with my English, to help anyone needing English in such terrible worrying circumstances.

The Torrevieja Civil Guard is looking for the victim of a robbery of numerous sealed bottles of spirits, presumably in the Vega Baja area or surroundings.

If you have any information that might to help locate the rightful owner (s), please contact the Torrevieja Civil Guard: 96.571.01.13 ext. 18 or by mail to: a-ppl-torrevieja@guardiacivil.org.

"Elche is not a typical English harbourer of our countrymen, it is not a given that people speak English. So I've offered directly through contacts to be of service or comfort, or support for anyone in need.

"In all cases of offers, I have had thanks and gratitude, but still wait for them to develop.

"I have helped people worried,

About 4,000 Covid-19 variants, says UK Minister Zahawi UK vaccines minister, Nadhim Zahawi, said there are roughly 4,000 variants of Covid-19 around the world and the British government was storing the mutations so that it was better prepared to update vaccines when needed.

The minister also said manufacturers including Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna and Oxford/ AstraZeneca were looking at how they could improve their vaccines to be ready for any variant

Spain open to use Russian vaccine Sputnik V

Andy added: "I have reached out to people who I know, who have connections at the hospital, Police and other organisations to offer my services in what form that would be.

"I think I could help with anything connected with vaccinations, mainly to do with my military background.

A trial has been launched in the UK to evaluate the possibility of using different vaccines for the initial 'prime' vaccination and the follow-up 'booster' vaccination.

The study is expected to help understand whether mixing of different vaccines could increase flexibility of vaccine rollouts.

"I can't sit here doing nothing."

New b enches and waste bins in La Mata

UK plans to mix vaccines

It will be led by the University of Oxford and run by the National Immunisation Evaluation Consortium.

Royal Navy veteran, Elche based Andy Rayner, has come forward in helping the cause after The Valencian Regional government put out an emergency shout to all retired healthcare employees interested in helping with support tasks in the fight against Covid-19.

Doctors, nurses, dentists, chiropodists and veterans aged under 70-years, are currently being sought.

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Spanish health minister Carolina Darias has opened the door to Russian coronavirus vaccine Sputnik V.

Last Thursday, 4 February, was International World Cancer day.

Due to the Covid restrictions displaying this banner outside our office in Playa Flamenca was the only way we were able to recognise day.

Unfortunately, for the first time in 11 years, due to the current restrictions the Pink Ladies/Panthers couldn't even get together to mark the day.

Every tear it's a very emotional day for the many people who have lost someone to this heinous disease cancer. Normally we would hold an annual event at the La Zenia Boulevard with the support of its management, and all our supporters and many of the coasts fabulous artists performing on stage.

So, we remember all those currently fighting and those that unfortunately lost the battle to this evil disease cancer, Hopefully we can get back to some sort of normality very soon and continue to raise funds for the AACC´s early detection program and all the research so that one day7 we will beat cancer.

The Pink Ladies and Panthers office is open Monday to Friday between 10.0hrs and 13.00hrs where people are able to book early detection screening tests for anyone concerned, they may have a problem or if they are now due a test.

Screening tests can also be booked on line at www.pinkladies.es or by telephone on 965 329 841

However, she said that Spain would wait for the vaccine to be approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

She asserted during her first speech in the Congress as Minister of Health that Spain will eagerly receive any vaccine that has been approved.

Spain spent least in Europe handling Covid crisis A report by European Central Bank (ECB) has shown that Spain spent the least amount of money in Europe handling the coronavirus crisis.

The ECB report is based on data provided by the countries to the European Commission and shows that Spain spent 1.3% of its GDP on fiscal stimuli last year.

This is the lowest percentage in the eurozone.

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BITES No medical, psychological tests for sex change for trans people.

The Trans Equality Law draft, which the Ministry of Equality is currently working on, proposes that members of the LGBTI community should be able to change their name and legal sex without medical or psychological tests and reports.

This means that transsexual people will no longer be required to go through an drawn out process of psychiatric and psychological consultations that often last up to two years.

Ancient Roman ivory fan found in Seville is biggest in the world A Roman fan made of ivory, believed to belong to a woman back in the3rd Century AD, was found in northern Spain and is estimated to be the biggest one found till date.

The fan is bigger than anyfound elsewhere and measures around 30 centimeters.

It was discovered by a student from the University of Seville.

Catalonia struggles to man polling stations on 14 Feb

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Hoteliers ask Valencian Courts to suspend closures As SOS Hostelería take their case to the courts Valencian hoteliers say that they can't take it anymore.

On Thursday the association presented an appeal against the resolution introduced by the Comunidad on January 19, 2021, "establishing exceptional and additional measures in the area of the Community Valenciana, as a consequence of the worsening of the health crisis situa-

tion caused by Covid-19”.

However, in the opinion of the hoteliers, the Generalitat's resolution "is contrary to the law and seriously damaging to the interests of the hoteliers and restaurateurs as a group.

The Association president, Fidel Molina, said “if the requested precautionary measure is not granted, it will result in serious and harmful consequences for the industry”.

EU propose to label wine as harmful Vox has denounced the European Union for what it considers to be a direct attack on the wine industry.

They denounce the fact that the European Commission intends to introduce labelling on wine in the same manner as tobacco, with the ultimate goal being for wine bottles to have dissuasive photos similar to those used on cartons of tobacco, highlighting the dangers of cancer.

Vox has said that "coinciding with World Cancer Week, the European Commission, together with the

Parliament’s Commission to Fight Cancer, has published 'Europe's Beating Cancer Plan', a report that establishes the steps to intensify the fight against the disease, some points and conclusions that criminalise the wine sector, defining consumption as carcinogenic”.

They say that the report identifies wine as a carcinogenic food, and that that the EU intends that wine bears labels that identify it as harmful, similar to those used with tobacco. "All without any scientific basis".

Protection of Punta La Glea Micro-Reserve Work has recently been carried out in the Aguamarina area to protect the Microrreserve of flora at Punta La Glea.

Aparicio with a member of the the Natura 2000 Network

As well as discouraging the crossing of people into the Microreserve in order to protect the vulnerable species, information signs have also been erected, warning of trespass and the risks of falling into the sea below.

At least one-quarter of the people summoned to work at the polling stations for the upcoming Catalan elections have officially requested to be excused, according to the Catalan High Court.

The perimeter wall has also been repaired filling the gaps with metal rails.

Most have cited medical reasons or not wanting to expose their vulnerable family members to coronavirus as their reason.

Councillor for the environment, Damaso Aparicio has asked the public "not to cross over the wall and walk through the area which would cause damage to the flora and fauna in this place of special protection."

The Catalan govt. has promised to provide PPE kits to those manning at polling stations.

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S

Spain will share vaccines with poor countries despite the lack of doses

pain has joined the program to deliver vaccines to poor countries despite the enormous lack of doses in its own national health system and the existing problems of supply.

The Spanish contribution has not yet been specified because the agreement itself recognises "the difficulties in precisely determining the types of vaccine, their availability and the deficit that many countries have themselves."

For this reason, Spain's commitment states that the "plan must be updated in real time, as the information in these key variables develops." But, what is clear is that the Government will give vaccines and money to buy doses to a large group of countries.

The commitment is the so-called

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'Universal Access Plan. Sharing vaccines against Covid-19. Solidarity vaccination'. The agreement was formalized on January 18.

Despite the lack of vaccines in Spain, it is justified as follows: “The pandemic due to the coronavirus disease 2019, which has infected more than 90 million people, and already cost more than 2 million lives, represents the greatest challenge that the international community has faced since World War II, and requires a concerted response on a global scale, which includes elements of solidarity, bearing in mind that we are facing a global public health problem.

According to the document, "we are, finally, at the beginning of the end of the pandemic as far as health is

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concerned." "As the Strategy foresaw, the crisis can only be considered to be at an end when the chain of transmission is broken as a result of a sufficient percentage of the world population having been immunised," it says.

Although the figures for Spain are not specified it is understood that the objective initially set by the European Union would be to channel 5% of vaccines to humanitarian needs to, initially, vaccinate health workers in low-income countries (16 million people).

The news comes after Spain confirmed the delivery of 30,000 vaccines to Andorra, a country where there are almost 14,000 possible voters that are able to take part in the Catalan elections on February 14.

Barceló says that the British strain is "minimal" in the Community

Valencian Community to receive another 270,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine in March

The Minister of Health, Ana Barceló, explained on Tuesday that the British strain of coronavirus has only a minimal presence in the Community.

The Valencian Community will receive 272,610 doses of the Pfizer vaccine in March, according to the Minister for Health, Ana Barceló.

On 1 March, the pharmaceutical company will send 52,650 doses of the vaccine, with the remainder arriving during subsequent weeks.

This vaccine will be aimed at groups of people over 80 years of age.

AstraZeneca has confirmed that it will send a total of 1.8 million doses to Spain during February, although the distribution through the autonomous communities has not yet been finalised.

Meanwhile, next week Moderna will deliver 8,700 doses to the Valencian Community, where they will be destined for health personnel.

With it’s current stock Barceló said that the Ministry should be able to administer second doses to those people who received their first vaccination three weeks ago, while picking up the pace with the vaccinations of both public and private health staff.

The forecast for Care Homes and homes for those suffering with functional diversity is that all will have received at least their first dose during the next week.

So far, the Valencian Community has received 182,690 doses of the vaccine, of which 174,501 have been

Authorities expect to have 300,000 people vaccinated in the Valencian Community by the end of March

being seen at the moment by Health.

"We are on a plateau" This information was provided on the same day that the Community registered the highest number of deaths in the entire pandemic, 106.

However, in recent days there has been a decrease in cases, something that is "a good indicator": "Based on the data we have, in terms of hospitalisations, the numbers of patients we have in ICUs are slowly dropping, it is a good indicator".

Barceló said, we are on "a plateau" for the number of positive cases.

Easter restrictions?

In an appearance to update the situation in the Community and to report on irregularities in the vaccination of politicians and officials who were not in the priority vaccination groups, the minister explained that the British strain is not influencing the number of infections that are

The minister has also ruled on the suspension of Holy Week and the upcoming holidays and, when asked if there will be restrictions to prevent movement during these dates, she said that "it is too early to make an assessment" and they will look at the situation closer to the dates. " We will see what effects the current measures have, it is too early to make an assessment."

Prosecutors Office investigates irregular vaccinations The Alicante Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation against the 6 politicians in the province of Alicante who were vaccinated against Covid-19 without being on any risk list.

Those being investigated are the PP mayor of La Nucía and provincial deputy, Dr Bernabé Cano; the councillor for Health in Orihuela, José Galiano, who resigned on Friday; the married mayors of the PSPV of El Verger and Els Poblets, Ximo Coll and Carolina Vives; the councillor of Health in Benejúzar, socialist José Antonio García; and Cristina Morera, who has also recently resigned from her position as the Denia councillor of Health and Social Welfare after her case was made public.

The complaint filed by the Alicante residents against the vaccinated councillors has apparently been the main reason why the Public Ministry decided to open its investigation who have said that inquiries to determine and clarify the circumstances that led to the supply of the first doses to each of the recipients will be carried out on a case-by-case basis.

administered, representing 95.5%.

Ana Barceló said that with the increase in shipments by pharmaceutical companies "we will reach the goal of 300,000 people vaccinated by the end of March in the Valencian Community".

However, with a population approaching 5 million people, many politicians are now demanding a larger share of vaccines and a speeding up of the vaccination process.

Madrid considers to include waiters in priority group for vaccination Madrid’s President, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, said that she will consider making waiters and others, who work directly with the public, a priority group for Covid-19 vaccination.

She listed teachers, waiters, taxi drivers and other groups as those working in highly exposed sectors.

However, she confirmed that the first priority is to obtain vaccines for the most vulnerable groups.

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BITES Unemployment rises by 76,216 people in January The number of unemployed people in Spain rose by 76,216 in January. This took the total number of unemployed people in the country to 3,964,353.

In Social Security, the number of affiliates also fell by 218,953 in January.

In the same month, 739,000 workers registered for the ERIE furlough scheme - 35,600 more than last year.

Cancer diagnoses drop by 12% in 2020, 38% in first wave in Catalonia 12% fewer cancer cases were detected in Catalonia in 2020 as compared to 2019 and diagnoses dropped by 38% during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

This highlights the impact that the pandemic had had on other areas of medicine. During the first wave, many health centres were converted into wards for coronavirus patients

Govt approves aid of €400 per child to reduce gender pay gap The Council of Ministers approved a compensatory aid to reduce the gender pay gap.

As per the new order, the aid is fixed at €400 per child and around 30,000 women will be able to access it in 2021.

The aid will compensate for the losses faced in the professional career after having a child.

Men can also apply for it, but only if they have proof that having a child affected their career.

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Spanish Residents must always carry valid documents

By Andrew Atkinson UK nationals who were resident in Spain, prior to exiting from the European Union, should not have their passport stamped, nor be subject to routine questioning upon entry, exit and transit, through the Schengen border.

If you are resident in Spain, you should always travel with both your valid passport and proof of

your residency status: • Residence document: the green paper EU certificate or the TIE. • Certificate of application for residency in Spain, • Other documentation that shows you were resident in Spain, prior to the end of the transition period (December 31) Latest info on travel: www.gov.uk/ foreign-travel-advice/spain

Ministers use Party Employee as a Nanny The former head of Compliance in Podemos, Mónica Carmona, has written to the judge in the 'Neurona' case accusing the deputy Prime Minister, Pablo Iglesias, and the Minister of Equality, Irene Montero, of using party resources for their "personal benefit", specifically pointing to the use of an employee from Podemos as a nanny.

Carmona responded to the request for information made by Judge Juan José Escalonilla after her testimony as a witness last October She identified the person as Teresa Arévalo, saying that she accompanied Montero and her daughter on a trip that took place on October 20, 2019 to the city of Alicante, to participate in an electoral campaign and that Montero left the girl in the care of Arévalo while she was involved in it. The former lawyer has even provided an invoice, dated November 18, 2019, showing the expenses of this trip.

The lawyer said that they were "serious" facts, as such behaviour, "is contrary to the most elementary ethical norms, and an act of the illegal use of a Podemos employee.

Knifepoint robbery foiled in Torrevieja The shopkeeper managed to overcome the attacker

The Civil Guard has arrested a 45-year-old man for attempted robbery with violence and intimidation, after using a knife to try to rob a shop in Torrevieja.

The shopkeeper managed to overcome the attacker and force him out of the store. She said that he demanded she open the cash register and give her all the money. However, she confronted the robber and managed to kick him out of the establishment after a struggle between the two.

The investigation found that the man, who was quickly identified from security cameras, has a long history of fraud, threats and attacks on law enforcement officials.

In fact, a member of the Civil Guard recognised the man who he had recently arrested. He is now languishing in the cells at the Torrevieja Guardia barracks.

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Frontline workers and our last line of Defence…

I

read recently where somebody said; ‘if there are angels in heaven, they are all nurses!’ Any of us who have ever spent a night in hospital will certify to this.

As well as clinically doing their job, it is the incredible kindness and empathy shown to their patients that all medical staff and health workers are remembered for. This same ‘mega thank you’ applies to our local GP’s and their staff.

The medics and health-care workers are the ones who first spring to mind when the word ‘frontline workers’ come up – but there are others. This hellish pandemic has placed an inordinate additional burden on all those wonderful people out there who keep us safe and serviced.

Can you just imagine all the extra time and effort that goes into rigging out in protective clothing – and how much more awkward it is to work wearing protective gear?

The Gardaí are out there doing their job – and mostly with good humour and great patience in this surreal world of today. The Fire Service (not sure if you can say ‘fireman’ these days!) can be called upon to do just about anything and they never balk, whatever the task up ahead.

Postal workers (I nearly said postman!) continue to deliver a vital service – as do all retail staff. Shop workers are really at the coalface and their Covid contraction rate is higher than any of the above. I hope that their valiant service will be remembered when the next pay-talks comes up!

But there is one group of frontline workers that I haven’t heard mentioned at all. When the applause and plaudits are being dished out, these men (I can say ‘men’ this time!) seem to be overlooked: And in the final analysis, they may be most important of all. Theirs is the most demanding of jobs and more often than not, the man is on his own.

The more tragic the situation, the more he is needed. It is probably also the loneliest job in the country. I refer to the parish priests and their fellow clergy of all denominations.

The priests I know today are all wonderful human beings. A priest friend, of a friend of mine, quietly spent his entire Christmas Day

Foxglove flowers grow on stems, rea-

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feeding the homeless in Galway City. Yes, I agree that it wasn’t like this up until the recent past. Too many of them were pompous authoritarians and that was even before we get to talking of the bad priests.

The wonderful priests of today are as much the victims of that gang as are those lay people who suffered through it.

Strangely, we don’t judge doctors on Dr Shipman, nor any other profession on their worst ones – but we blame all clergy for all their ‘Judas’s?

The good priests I know, ask for very little from anybody, but give much to their people

Like I say, the parochial house must sometimes be a lonely place. Most of the flock only contact the priest to do one of three things: “Match, Hatch, and Dispatch.”

(Marriage, Baptism and Death. The last one is where we need him most … the last line of defence for us!

If we picture where I live as the centre of a triangle, I know three great priests at each of the three points. Father Donnelly is in Collinstown.

Pat is only a young fellow, but blessed with the energy of his father, he does the work of two people and is always there when needed; and with holiness and compassion – as well as practicality.

Delvin’s Father Heaney runs the largest parish in the diocese and does so with great dignity, goodness and serenity – and never a complaint.

Father Monks is in St. Camillus Nursing Centre – and if there was a ‘Westmeath Person of the Year’, (why don’t we revive that??) he would be in contention every year.

The Lads would have a good laugh about me being a ‘Fidei Defensor’, but we must give due credit to our greatest frontline workers and comforters.

A friend of mine took his ailing brother to live with him when the brother became terminally ill. Sean was anti-church and could quote text and scripture all day to dispute and contradict everything

Foxglove attracts hummingbirds into your garden The Foxglove - Digitalis purpurea - are tall and stately biennials that have long been included in garden areas, where vertical interest is desired.

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ching up to 6 feet in height, depending on the variety, making them beautiful cut flowers.

Clusters of tubular shaped blooms makes up the Foxglove flower, in

colours of white, lavender, yellow, pink, red, and purple.

Thriving in full sun to partial shade to full shade, depending on the summer

the church stood for. He had no time for priests and hadn’t spoken to one for forty years. ‘I’m cutting out the middleman’ he would tell my friend every day.

Three days before he died, Sean asked to see a priest! ‘There are no agnostics in the trenches!’

The good priests I know, ask for very little from anybody, but give much to their people. So maybe next time you see a clergyman in the supermarket, buying a small sliced pan and a packet of sausages; why not go up to him and ask, ‘how are you today, Father?’

They are our frontline workers – but also our last line of defence!

Don’t Forget Do unto others as though you were the others.

Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com *Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

Bernie has published four books; ‘If Ever a Man Suffered’, ‘The Best of Bernie’, ‘The Team’, and ‘Just Between Ourselves’.

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

heat, to give Foxglove their optimum performance.

Foxglove grow best in a rich, moist, well draining soil. By not removing the flower heads, foxglove will easily reseed themselves abundantly, and produce

blossoms in their second year.

Ensure to keep children and pets away, as all parts are toxic if consumed.

The nectar of the Foxglove flower will attract hummingbirds and other nectar loving insects into your garden.

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ORIHUELA COSTA ROAD WORKS CONTRACT SCANDAL

A

scandal has been revealed concerning the contract for vitally needed road repair and maintenance works in Orihuela Costa.

The company responsible for the execution of the contract for this work has alleged publicly that it is being sabotaged by the Councillor in charge of Infrastructures.

He has withheld payment for works under the contract for the past 4 months, equivalent to over a quarter of a million of euros, and consequently much needed repair and maintenance work is under threat.

The contract was awarded to a company, despite it not winning the tender in the first place.

The initial decision was challenged legally and a court reassigned the contract to the

company which now finds its execution being sabotaged by the Ciudadanos Councillor for Infrastructure.

Although the lamentable state of road and pavements in Orihuela Costa would require much greater expenditure, the contract is for the significant amount of €825,000 annually, for an initial period of 4 years.

The company has complained publicly and directly to C.L.A.R.O. that the Councillor for Infrastructure has been blocking payment for the last 4 months of work, despite the fact that the work has been inspected and approved by Town Hall technicians.

Furthermore, among other complaints, it claims the Town Hall is not supplying material for the works, for which it is responsible, in the quantity or quality necessary.

Las Clarisas nuns face a fine of one hundred thousand euros for not returning works of art The Mula Council has asked the nuns to return the dozens of treasures that they took to Elche The Councillor for Culture and Historical Heritage of the Murcian town of Mula, Diego Boluda, has said that the General Directorate of Cultural Assets, has taken out sanctioning proceedings against Las Clarisas nuns of Elche for taking with them many dozens of items, said to be of cultural interest, from the Real Monasterio de la Encarnación a la ciudad ilicitana without the required authorization from the Directorate.

Diego Boluda said that he regretted the situation and insisted that “it is necessary to remember that the Mula Council continues to reach out to the nuns so that they can quickly solve the problem and return the pieces to their rightful place.

BITES International dance star, Torrevieja based Katie Street, Leader Exclusive

Part 1 of a two-part EXCLUSIVE interview - only in The Leader during February.

Whatever the reason, Cambiemos and C.L.A.R.O. will denounce this situation at the next full council meeting and seek to ensure that the residents of Orihuela Costa are not being deprived of the maintenance and repair of their streets and pavements which are in such a deplorable condition.

The mayor of Mula and the Councillor for Culture have met with the sisters on four occasions in Mula with the abbess and in Elche with the mother superior of their new convent where the works are now housed.

The nuns took dozens of pieces with them when they were forced to move from their convent in Mula a year ago: an ivory Christ, several sculptures of the Child Jesus (including one by Roque López) and valuable paintings including portraits

Having danced in Georgia, Katie has showcased in the UK, UAE, Spain, France, Australia, Sweden, Italy, Greece, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Bulgaria.

Legally, this would probably be to the company originally proposed by the Infrastructure department.

of King Felipe V and Queen María Luisa from Savoy, as well as many religious-themed canvases.

Their actions constitute a serious infringement of the Law on Cultural Heritage, for which the penalty exceeds 100,000 euros.

INTERNATIONAL dance star, Tbilisi, Georgia born Katie Street, who lives in Torrevieja, talks to Andrew Atkinson in a Leader Exclusive interview.

It is speculated that the motive behind these efforts to frustrate the execution of the contract is to force its renunciation by breaking the company financially, through denying payment for work carried out, or to provide grounds for declaring breach of contract and consequently, by whichever means, enabling it to be reassigned again!!.

Example of the deplorable state of roads in Orihuela Costa.

TOURISM DESTROYED AS ARRIVALS FALL BY 77% The pandemic has destroyed Spain's tourism industry with 19mn arrivals registered in 2020, down from the near 84mn visitors in the previous year.

The staggering 77% decrease in tourism marks the end of a decade-long run of annual increases.

The data by National Statistics Institute showed that foreign tourism dropped in 2020 to just €20bn in 2020, 79% less than the €92bn recorded in 2019.

It would seem that there is no short term likelihood of any improvement either, with the President of the Generalitat, Ximo Puig, saying last week that Easter holidays have already been 'written-off' due to the ongoing battle against the coronavirus.

Spain's tourism minister, Reyes Maroto, has already written off Easter for any tourist revival.

nal for relaxation - doing so at this time would be very negative," he said.

His words were echoed the following day by the Minister of

Tourism, Reyes Maroto who stated, “ National trips cannot recommence at Easter. We are still in a very serious situation there can be no message of relaxation."

"The situation is still very serious and we cannot give any sig-

Spanish researchers find evidence of last Neanderthals who lived in Burgos A team of researchers have found evidence of the last Neanderthals in the province of Burgos in a Prado Vargas cave.

Since 2016, the team has been working on this area to understand and study the life of the Neanderthals who lived in this area.

It is believed that Neanderthals occupied this territory 45,000 years ago, based on a study of animals fossils, stone and bone tools that have been found.

Spain reports only seven cases of flu so far this winter The national flu monitoring service in Spain has reported that at the end of January 2021, the country has registered only seven cases of flu this winter.

The cases have been reported in Navarra, Castilla La-Mancha and Aragon.

The restrictions due to coronavirus have helped reduce transmission of the flu virus, which would have otherwise added extra burden to the healthcare system..

You can find our full menu online at www.spudmurphysflamencabeach.com on our Facebook page or at our App

OPENING HOURS Tue - Thur 2pm to 7pm Fri & Sat 1pm to 7pm

Tel: 965 325 334 WhatsApp: 630 986 357

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NEW ALDI STORES OPEN IN SAN FULGENCIO AND ORIHUELA COSTA ALDI consolidates its position in Alicante by opening its first store in San Fulgencio and a new store on the Orihuela-Costa The new store in San Fulgencio, will open on February 8 and will be located at Calle Mar Tirreno, 3. It will have a commercial area of 1,250 m2 and will employ 14 employees The ALDI in Orihuela Costa moves to Calle Ontario, 2 and expands its commercial area by more than 350 m2 compared to the previous supermarket With 34 stores, Alicante is now the third province with the most ALDI supermarkets, only behind Madrid and Barcelona ALDI reinforces its presence in Alicante and on 8 February it opens its first supermarket in the municipality of San Fulgencio. Located at la Calle Mar Tirreno 3, the new supermarket will have a 1,250 m2 retail space and will employ a staff of 14 personnel.

With this new store, the company now has 34 establishments in the province of Alicante, the third Spanish province with more ALDI supermarkets, behind only Madrid and Barcelona. In the whole of the Valencian Community, ALDI now has a total of 58 establishments.

With the aim of offering a better service to its customers, the supermarket chain has also opened a new ALDI in Orihuela Costa on Calle Ontario, 2, a store that takes over from the previous establishment located on Calle Panticosa. The new supermarket has more than 1,250 m2 of commercial space, which represents an expansion of more than 350 m2 compared to the previous facility, and will employ 12 staff, 3 more than in the previous store.

The supermarket chain has shown that it trusts Valencian suppliers to source its establishments. In fact, in total, about 10% of ALDI providers in Spain are from within the Valencian Community. Specifically, the company works with suppliers in Alicante especially for fruit and vegetables.

Reinforcement of safety and hygiene measures

Local businessman has the community at heart.

Andy, along with his partner Laura, are both known in the area for their fundraising efforts for various local charities.

Andy decided that in 14 days, he would take on a 500km run/cycle challenge.

On Wednesday 3rd February, Andy completed the last day of his challenge with an 80km Duathlon starting with a 15km run from Villamartin to Cabo Roig via La Zenia beach, and back again, a 50km cycle around the Torremendo lake, and another 15km run with Laura by his side for some of the journey.

To date €592 has been raised with a target of €2,000. Well done to Andy and Laura.

If you wish to donate, you can do so via gofundme.com and search for Flamenca Beach Defibrillator.

Andy Corbett of The Lansdowne Bar, with his partner Laura.

Alicante Province can now boast 34 ALDI stores

As such, the company recommends that its customers maintain the recommended safety distance of one and a half metres between people and prioritise payment by card or mobile device for hygiene reasons.

ALDI is one of the most important food chains and supermarkets in the world. Its origin is German and it belongs to the ALDI Nord group, which has almost 5,000 stores across 9 countries. ALDI entered the Spanish market in April 2002. It currently has more than 320 establishments and more than 5,200 employees in Spain.

ALDI focuses on what is essential: the comfort and functionality of its establishments, the high self-demand when providing the best products and the training of its employees. One of ALDI’s values is the quality of its products, which it obtains by buying from the best local, state and international suppliers, as well as offering its

By Julie McCracken

In January, when it was announced that bars & restaurants across the Costa Blanca would have to close their doors for at least 2 weeks, local businessman Andy Corbett took it as an opportunity to set himself a new personal goal, whilst at the same time deciding to raise some money for a much need defibrillator in the Playa Flamenca Commercial Centre.

His plan was to raise enough money to have a defibrillator placed into The Lansdowne Irish Bar, which he manages, for everyone to avail of, not just in the centre, but for surrounding areas also.

Due to the current situation, ALDI has also increased safety and hygiene measures in all its establishments in order to guarantee the health of customers and employees, following all the legislation and protocols defined by the health authorities.

own brands, such as El Mercado de ALDI, El Oven de ALDI, Special de ALDI, Table de ALDI, Esselt de ALDI, Milsani, GutBio, Biocura, Mildeen, among others.

For more information: www.aldi.es

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D L O

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 852

ACROSS 1.

Dispute (11) 9.

Foolish (7) 10. Repose (5) 11. Clergyman (5) 12. Biased (7) 13. Careless (6) 15. Bowman (6) 18. Gratify (7) 20. Facade (5) 22. Clear (5) 23. Secret laugh (7) 24. Mimic (11) 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 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

14.

16.

17.

19.

21.

Constellation (5) Lockjaw (7) Reside in (6) Mistake (5) Egotistic (7) Perceivable (11) Trial (11) Small quantity (7) Rowdy (7) Population count (6) Scoop (5) Should (5)

QUICK ACROSS: 1 Register; 5 Lira; 9 Deaf; 10 Athletic; 11 Bawdy; 12 Retinue; 13 Replenishment; 18 Marksman; 19 Rage; 20 Assegai; 21 Mixed; 22 Toll; 23 Undulate.

DOWN: 2 Elevate; 3 Infidel; 4 Extermination; 6 Intense; 7 Ancient; 8 Clutch; 13 Remnant; 14 Perusal; 15 Ensign; 16 Martial; 17 Neglect.

CRYPTIC Across: 1 Well-to-do; 5 Mini; 9 Agra; 10 Scotfree; 11 Balsa; 12 Naivete; 13 Penny-farthing; 18 Anarchic; 19 Ruth; 20 Inertia; 21 Deuce; 22 Ta-ta; 23 Nepotism.

DOWN: 2 Engrave; 3 Liaison; 4 Decontaminate; 6 Israeli; 7 Iceberg; 8 Strict; 13 Pianist; 14 Nearest; 15 Yachts; 16 Hardest; 17 Notices.

ACROSS 1. The upper classes have to account for the scary riot taking place outside (11) 9. Ring five times for a symbol (7) 10. Begin to organise a drinking bout (5) 11. Terribly inane musical (5) 12. Ill-feeling stems from the Franco-Uruguayan conflict (7) 13. Bird in a large quarry (6) 15. Pilot's new gun (6) 18. State that the girl's outside the boxing association (7) 20. Lean on a good article (5) 22. As a party member I have a defence (5) 23. Groups of pirates? (7) 24. Translate 'meet up' into Latin before the end (11)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which ancestor of Noah is also the name of an oversized Champagne bottle that holds six litres?

2. Which Apollo 11 astronaut did not set foot on the moon?

3. FC Liverpool's signature song 'You'll Never Walk Alone' stems from which musical?

4. Which cocktail, named after a city, was invented by the Raffles Hotel barkeeper Ngiam Tong Boon in 1915?

5. Spats Columbo is the bad guy in which popular black and white film?

6. Which James Bond theme song that starts with the words "Meeting you" was the only 007 theme song to reach number one in the US charts?

7. Which national team introduced 'Total Football' at the 1974 FIFA World Cup in Germany?

8. According to legend, which man rode horses named Llamrei, Hengroen and Passelande?

9. What is the Greek word for fire?

10. The following are the last words to UK number one hit songs from the year 1986. Can you name the song? a. I know I'm keeping my baby.

DOWN 2. Light fabric? (5) 3. Wrongly presume to be the greatest (7) 4. Large vehicles sought by film stars (6) 5. Birdman (5) 6. Was Prince Albert the right type? (7) 7. Oslo data Pat processed and made a meal of (6,5) 8. Sit or lounge around with a doctor (11) 14. Plainer mixture of nuts and sugar (7) 16. Intervening and not quite meriting a change (7) 17. Rolls of a favourite floor covering? (6) 19. Goodbye to commercial that is high class (5) 21. Fool returning to Amin (5)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) b. You better get ready. c. Buy a jumbo jet and then bury all your clothes 11. What are the five boroughs in New York City?

12. Which Dutch footballer earned the nickname 'Llama' after spitting on the West German striker Rudi Völler during a 1990 FIFA World Cup game?

13. Which anti-social television character does not like pickles?

14. In which five cities are the busiest airports in Europe located? (based on the total number of passengers each year) .

15. The rule of thumb or principle telling us that the simplest explanation is more likely the correct one is known as Occam's what?

16. In in which US state did the Battle of Little Big Horn take place?

17. Which British fashion designer does one associate with the invention of the mini skirt and hot pants?

18. The USA has formally declared war on five different occasions against ten countries. Can you name the first three countries?

19. What kind of orange is used to flavour Earl Grey tea?

20. Which 2007 film, the third in a series, was the most expensive Hollywood film ever made?

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PAGE 15

resistance and help you adapt both physically and mentally to ongoing stress.

The most recently-discovered is Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) which has been researched since the 1950’s in Russia.

In studies involving thousands of people, it has dramatically improved resistance to extreme working conditions, disease, the stress of surgery and the toxic drugs of chemotherapy.

Siberian ginseng is usually taken in courses of forty days at a time, with a two- to three-week interval.

Side effects are very rare, and usually only at high doses, but can include insomnia and anxiety.

An exceptional nerve tonic - one of the best remedies for stress

Trying to cut down on your caffeine intake? Try rooibos or red bush tea from South Africa.

It is caffeine free, great for the digestion, rich in minerals and loaded with antioxidants.

Here’s an idea for you…..

It has a slightly odd aroma, but a nice round rich taste.

Ashwaganda is a key herb in Ayurveda, the thousands-year-old traditional medicine of India, and since - unlike ginseng - it grows easily and happily from seed around the world, it has become increasingly popular with Western herbalists faced with deeply stressed patients.

An exceptional nerve tonic - one of the best remedies for stress,' says UK herbalist Anne McIntyre, who has big healthy green plants of it growing in her Cotswold herb garden.

'From my observation of patients taking ashwaganda over a period of four to six weeks, it certainly helps to enhance energy and positivity, engender calmness and clarity, improve memory and concentration, and promote restful sleep.'

Rhodiola, a little plant grown in the Arctic mountains of Siberia, is a relative newcomer to Western herbalists, but it has already made a name for itself as a great tonic for people in demanding, high-pressure jobs.

Comfortingly, you can drink it with milk like ordinary tea.

And while it works as a great pick-me-up during the day, it will help you calm down and sleep well at night-time.

What more could you ask of a cuppa?

Here's a rundown of what they - and others - can do to help you calm down and sort yourself out when things are really getting to you.

Herbalists prescribe oats - usually in the form of a tincture of both grains and the /gassy bits - for nervous prostration, exhaustion, depression: wonderfully nourishing for the nervous system.

It is often combined with passionflower which is wonderful for insomnia, easing you into restful sleep.

Skullcap is one of the most widely used nerve tonics, almost specific for severe nervous tension.

Limeflowers help relax you when you feel strung up, soothing those nervous jitters. And lemon balm is another great remedy for nervous tension, especially the kind that gets to your guts.

Prisoners, like commuters, are powerless people, but in one south London jail, according to a Times report, the staff were dishing out herbal teas instead of sedatives in the evening - to the enthusiastic approval of the inmates, particularly the women.

Working Wonders When you are wound up like a clockwork toy Worn out by your high-pressure life? Exhausted by the end of the day? Working till late into the night? Too tired to enjoy the weekend? Too wired to sleep?

Join the club; stress is the number one ailment of modern Wester-Style societies.

But don't turn to the classic pick-me-ups of caffeine or alcohol.

They may help you get through a rough day but they'll do nothing for your resistance and general health in the long run. Instead, try some great stress-busting herbs, with centuries-old reputations for helping you unwind.

If the stress is ongoing with little sign of any let-up, think adaptogens. That's the name coined in Russia for a small and highly specialised class of medicinal herbs -super-tonics that boost general

The two chosen varieties of tea, formulated by herbalist Dr Malcolm Stuart, contained top stress-busting herbs such as limeflowers, hops, passionflower, valerian root and skullcap, together with gut-calming fennel and yarrow, and sedative hawthorn.

Defining idea…

When you're tired, depressed and low in energy, rhodiola might be the one for you. It's been little studied in the West, but Russian researchers tested it successfully in exhausted young doctors working impossible hours and stressed students facing exams, among other subjects.

With any of these adaptogens, look for a reliable brand, and follow the manufacturer's dosage suggestions.

There are numbers of other herbs with a reputation for effective stress-busting: among them limeflowers, skullcap, hops, passionflower, lemon balm, valerian and oats. Any health-food shop will offer a range of tablets, tinctures or teas featuring these lifesavers in various combinations.

'You don't get ulcers from what you eat.

You get ulcers from what's eating you. '

VICKI BAUM, American writer

Next Week The aching brow

PAGE 16

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Monday 8th - Sunday 14th February, 2021

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.

There are no further meetings planned at this time. 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 starting at 7.00 p.m. New members

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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 Horadada. Mon, Tues, Wed

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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 Punta Marina Shopping

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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 will reopen as soon as we are able when we can offer you a full range of activities Info at: oc.communitycare @gmail.com

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Helping people in the community for 41 years!

HELP Vega Baja is a registered charity established over 40 years ago. Our aim is to support people in need and other likeminded charities. In “normal” times we offer several services in addition to the dayto-day advice and information we provide, which includes various friendship groups, support groups, talks and befriending service. Sadly, these have had to be put on hold until we receive the go ahead from the government.

From our office in San Miguel and helpdesk in La Marina we cover the Vega Baja area from La Marina down to Pilar de Horadada through to Orihuela inland. We also help people from further afield when this can be done either by phone or email.

Our San Miguel Centre is also where we have our charity shop and mobility equipment hire. We also offer a membership to the charity for just 10 euros a year which can be applied for online at our website, www.helpvegabaja.com or at either of our offices. This provides numerous discounts and free services from local organisations such as Quiron Salud Hospital who offer our members annual blood analysis, dental clean etc.

However, because of the Covid pandemic, our stall at the market has had to close, fundraising events are not permitted and sells in our shop have decreased considerably due to people (quite rightly) staying home.

Other benefits include 150 euros per annum free interpreter service which is a popular benefit for those attending their local doctor, hospital etc.

Three floods in two weeks and identification of rising damp has also left many volunteers feeling downhearted but as we always do here at HELP Vega Baja, we are all soldiering on!

Over the years we have done everything we can to support people and – as an example, when the floods hit the Vega Baja area in 2019, our charity donated more than 76,000 euros and much of this was directed towards those most affected by the flood disaster.

For us to remain in a position to support people we depend heavily on our volunteers, local businesses, and other supporters.

Fundraising events, sales from our shop and a market stall at Campoamor, usually bring in funds that we can then pass on to families experiencing difficult times.

The shop is now currently open on a Wednesday only to save costs on utilities etc. This has, and continues to have, a significant impact on the charity.

Our Elective Committee continues to work from home, and we are dealing with a huge increase in the requests for support from families affected from the pandemic with loss of work, many of whom are in debt for rent and utilities and with little hope of work soon.

tiatives as they are released that they may apply for and of course, having honest conversations about their future here in Spain where this is needed.

Please don’t feel that life in our “charity world” is all doom and gloom currently!

Yes, things are difficult (as they are for all charities), but this is a time when we all pull together and I know that our supporters, many of whom have been with us for many years, will do what they can to help us as we go through our lean times to ensure that we can in turn help others who otherwise would have nowhere to turn.

As President, I am in a fortunate position that I can make that call to families when we are able to offer support and believe me the appreciation and relief that I hear is worth every additional hour we spend.

If you would like to support HELP Vega Baja by offering a donation, perhaps a standing order, however small, every cent will help us continue our work.

We offer food vouchers where possible to ensure that nobody goes without food (we have discovered several families who have been doing what they can to meet their commitments by missing meals).

Please visit our website at www.helpvegabaja.com for details of how you can support us or contact our San Miguel Centre by email to office@helpvegabaja.com

One of the most important things that we have been doing is to inform people of ini-

HELP Vega Baja - Helping people in the community for 41 years!

NATIONAL POLICE WARN THE ELDERLY OF VISITS TO BANK

V

alencia’s National Police have warned the elderly to take precautions when going to banks or cashpoints to draw out money.

Do not always do it on the same day or at the same time, change routes each time and try to be accompanied, are among the main recommendations they make.

They say that at the end of the month, there is usually an increase in thefts around banks, the victims mostly being elderly people who are collecting their pensions.

For this reason, they advise that people take a series of preventive measures when using ATMs, in order to avoid being a victim of possible thefts or scams.

In the first place, remember to be vigilant and aware of the people around you , checking that no one is paying particular attention to you as you withdraw your cash, or to the PIN num-

Membership For 41 years HELP Vega Baja has worked hard to support those people who have chosen to live or visit Spain.

In recognition of those who continue to support the association in this work, the committee has developed a number of benefits specifically for its members and becoming a member or renewing an existing membership could not be simpler!

The cost of an annual membership is just 10 euros.

Donating to Help Vega Baja HELP Vega Baja continues to support those in need through donations received, charity sales and holding events and activities.

If you wish to hold an event in support of HELP, please contact the San Miguel Centre.

Become a Volunteer The main areas where Volunteers are used are as follows; THE OFFICE AND ADVICE CENTRE HOSPITAL VISITING FUNDRAISING AND SPECIAL EVENTS / SALES

ber that you use at the ATM. Always cover it with your hand when you type it into the keypad, and look around again before you do.

They say that you should always reject the help of strangers at the time of any banking operation, since their objective may be to steal you money, passbook or card.

It is also advisable to avoid routines and not always go to the ATM the same days and times, and to return by a different route if you can, so that no one can follow. In addition, in the case of older people, it is recommended that you are accompanied.

The National Police also says that if you have any suspicion, do not carry out a withdrawal and they also recommend calling 091. In case of being the victim of a theft or scam, report it to your nearest Police Station.

Earlier in the week agents of the National Police arrested eight women, all of Bulgarian origin, in Valencia, as alleged perpetrators of the crimes of theft and fraud, after stealing money, as well as passbooks and bank cards from several people and subsequently making withdrawals at ATMs.

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All of the victims were elderly people, collecting their pensions.

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POETS THE TUNNEL

A

s we near the first anniversary of the original lockdown we are told there is light at the end of the tunnel, the only trouble it seems, the light is stretching away, two weeks at a time, and getting smaller.

CORNER Day to day habits are no more, or on hold, as we continue to change the way we live.

It brings us all together When the days are dark and long It brings a ray of sunshine So we all can carry on

The computer in the corner which was once there as an accessory to living, has taken first place in organising our lives, schooling and as a relaxation facility.

With conflicting views in the media, supposedly from some expert or other, where and when will all this end. Middle of February or maybe Easter, there have been reports of the summer.

During the period of restriction people will have come to terms with their spending and to appreciate some of the activities they used to be involved in, and the true cost of following them. The holidays to the far reaches of the earth, the weekly football match or the visit to the Bingo hall, realisation of how they affected the pocket.

Somewhere, hiding in the ether of space, the machine in the corner is supported by ‘Servers’ to bring some form of order, and as the online use has increased so the facility has become overburdened, and the capacity is strained to the ultimate limit.

Of course, shopping online is so easy and as more and more people use this facility, instead of walking around the shops or stores, we are now ordering many things by the use of a key board, groceries from the supermarket or even buying furniture.

There was something of a great feeling looking through and choosing from the colourful display and buying greetings cards, that is slowly dying as people can now select pictures on the computer or phone screen, and one can even add a photograph, and by pressing a few buttons it wings its way to the addressee.

However, the large organisations who provide the service and are the recipients of this facility, have without warning in themselves been

“I go naked because I like it, it is legal and I don’t hurt anybody”

I

t’s hardly surprising that 27 year old Alejandro Colomar is regularly stopped by police in his home town of Aldaia, to the west of Valencia, as he spends a good part of his time walking around naked.

Neither is it a surprise that he currently has 3 court appearances pending, one of them from the Local Police of Valencia, who told him to get dressed when he turned up naked at a police station to file a complaint against a third party.

As he refused to dress, he was charged for "serious disobedience to authority."

The other two complaints were made in the municipality of Xirivella, one of them following a "very unpleasant episode where a group of young people persecuted and insulted me," he explained.

"I have always liked to go naked,” said Alejandro. “I am a nudist and there is nothing wrong with it. It is not even illegal as exhibitionism is only illegal if you do it in front of children and with a clear intention, and that is not the situation in my case.”

(A poem inspired by the passing of Sir Captain Tom Moore)

by David Whitney c2021 Captain Tom inspired us all He surely earned his wings He lived his life and gave us hope And what commitment brings

Studying the subway wall, we are looking at our lives from so many different angles, not by design but because there is a need. Day to day habits are no more, or on hold, as we continue to change the way we live, shopping, work and the use of leisure facilities.

How life will have changed after twelve and more months of lockdown, traditions no longer available or discarded, will the small groups, in the knitting circle, the card players and many more will they resume?

“TOMORROW WILL BE A GOOD DAY”

swamped with orders, creating miss information or long delays currently we have been waiting six weeks for some books to be delivered.

There is the true story of the mother who was very excited when her daughter’s boyfriend made it known to her, as a surprise, he intended to take the girl out the following Saturday to a sumptuous meal, to propose to her and present her with a ring.

The mother in her excitement, and using one of the online postal services, ordered a congratulations card for the engagement to arrive on the Monday after the dinner event. But the server of the card ignored the instruction and delivered it on the Friday, a day before the dinner date. With the result the daughter telephoned mother and said, ‘Is there something I should know?’

As we all endure and stare at the dark walls of the tunnel, continually changing the way we live, habits, holidays and more, we are promised a glimmer of light at some far end and the potential of a vaccine to put things right has now become very real.

On the continent of Europe there are about eight hundred million people and counting – I wonder how long it will take to produce enough vaccine to satisfy this vast number of people?

‘Percy’s Ramblings’ are available in book form from Amazon & Kindle - www.percychatteybooks.com Alejandro refused to dress, and was charged for "serious disobedience to authority”

Unselfishly it makes us see That we are not alone It paves the way for progress In a world to us unknown With strength and understanding We can all conquer our wars Tom proved that age is nothing No deterrent to the cause So now that Tom has left us He expects us to be kind And to think of one another Now he's left us all behind To fight this fight and seize the day When all seems to be lost To battle on and win this war Regardless of the cost "No virus will defeat us" I can almost hear him say "Don't mourn for me remember this Tomorrow will be a good day" If you would like to see your poem featured in this column send to: office@theleader.info

“When the weather is good I go out onto the streets naked. I don't hurt anyone."

A computer scientist by profession, he has already accumulated four complaints for walking naked on the street. However, the first one has been thrown out by the judge, who sees no crime in his behaviour.

So the young man carries the court dismissal around with him (in a fanny pack due to the lack of pockets) so that he can avoid further sanctions.

"My family know that I go out naked and they are fine with it, my friends do too. I just want the pleasure of going naked when it's sunny, without hurting anyone.

I’m often naked at home, I always go to naturist beaches and I find it to be the most comfortable thing in the world.”

PAGE 20

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SPANISH HARLEM - STORY OF ‘THE BLACK SPARROW Andrew Atkinson reports on the remarkable story of jockey, boxer, soldier, pilot, spy, club-owner and musician, Eugene Bullard - known as 'The Black Sparrow'.

EUGENE Bullard died of cancer at the age of 61. All but forgotten in the 21st century. Bravest of men, nicknamed 'The Black Sparrow'.

Born in Georgia, his father was a former slave from Haiti, his mother full-blooded Creek. He ran away as a child, determined to fulfil his destiny in France.

He lived with a group of English Romani, learning the art of horsemanship - and working as a jockey.

His travels lead him to Norfolk, where he stowed away on a ship, bound for Scotland. In Glasgow he worked as a lookout for gambling operators, saving money, until he earned enough to travel to England.

Arriving in Liverpool he did hard labour, developing muscles, turning to boxing, and becoming part of a community of black boxers, some of the finest fighters having fled to Europe to find opportunities, denied to them in the USA. Fighting at welterweight, his CV was impressive, including fighting on the undercard of Jack Johnson bouts.

After his boxing career ended, having earned a decent amount of money, he headed to Paris.

In 1914 he joined the French Foreign Legion, training to fight in the 3rd Marching Division, sent directly to the front, along the Somme.

He became a Corporal, leading a machine-gun crew, suffering a facial shrapnel wound, and a near fatal thigh wound.

Decorated with the Croix de Guerre for his valour at Verdun.

He became the first Black American fighter pilot in history, flying a SPAD VII C1.

Following the Americans entering the war and Dr. Gros, a US Army Major with racist attitudes, it lead to the end of the Black Sparrow's career as a pilot.

He ended his military career with the Military Medal, Croix de Guerre, Volunteer Combat Cross, Medal for Military Wounded (twice), World War I Medal, Victory Medal, Voluntary Enlistment Medal, Battle of Verdun Medal, Battle of Somme Medal, and the American Volunteer with the French Army Medal.

When the Great War was over, he went to Paris in the 1920s, at the onset of the Jazz Age. He took up work as a sparring partner and fought once again, although this was unsustainable, due to his injuries.

a Navy ship to return to the US, in Manhattan, having fled decades before.

His two daughters were safe in America and moved in with their beloved father, in Spanish Harlem.

Louis Armstrong hired him as a tour manager and drummer. He unsuccessfully tried to recover his club and gym in Paris.

In 1959, via the French Embassy in New York City, he was made a chevalier (knight) of France. He said at the ceremony, 'My services to France could never repay all I owe her.'

He became an elevator operator at 10 Rockefeller Plaza, wearing his medals on his uniform, living the rest of his life in New York City.

He learned to play the drums and became a jazz musician, gigging and entered in a business partnership with a bi-racial American blues singer. He then became proprietor of nightclub Le Grand Duc. After his marriage to French born Marcelle, they had two daughters, prior to her leaving him, with their children.

He also became proprietor of the club, L’escradille, connected to a boxing gym.

Arthur Wilson 'Sam' of Casablanca fame, was part of the house band.

Charlie Chaplin, Fatty Arbuckle, The Prince of Wales, Fred and Adele Astaire visited, along with Cole Porter, Picasso and Hemingway, who also frequented, something the latter wrote about in 'The Sun Also Rises'.

He went to Bordeaux and into Spain which, although Fascist, had maintained official neutrality, and was tacitly allowing Allied rescue efforts on Spanish soil.

Receiving his first passport, he was put on

He appeared on The Today Show wearing his lift attendants uniform In 1960, General Charles de Gaulle, leader of Free France, visited Eisenhower and gave speeches to the Seventh Regiment Armoury. Eugene's presence had been requested.

After de Gaulle's speech, he looked into the crowd. The general left the podium and headed into the sea of faces to find a lone Black man, his chest gleaming with

medals.

The man stood at attention and saluted. De Gaulle returned the salute. The general stuck out his hand and, when it was received, pulled the old soldier into a massive hug: "All our country is in your debt," he said.

Crying, Eugene Bullard responded: "Merci, mon general. Merci beaucoup."

Not long after, he entered hospital with stomach pains.

Cancer was advanced. He turned 66 on October 9, 1961, and died on October 12.

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after shooting 2-under 70 in the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic. Twenty years after his first victory 43 yr. Old Casey admits he hasn't enjoyed the past year's golf. "It's been totally soul-less, playing without the fans, It's made me so happy just having some people beside the fairways.”

What's his problem? We'd be happy with sabre-toothed tigers beside the fairways if only we could play.

DUE TO LOGISTICAL CHALLENGES posed by COVID-19 the WGC-Mexico Championship will not be played in Mexico. The event will be held Feb. 25-28 at The Concession Golf Club in Southwest Florida, kicking off a four-week Florida Swing that also features the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the Players Championship and the Honda Classic.

The Concession is named after the memorable occasion when Jack Nicklaus conceded a 2ft putt to Tony Jacklin on the final hole of the 1969 Ryder Cup at Royal Birkdale, making it a tie for the first time in Ryder Cup history.

US Captain Sam Snead, who didn't actualy do sportsmanship, never really recovered.

DARREN CLARKE won his second straight PGA Tour Champions tournament at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship in Hawaii, after winning the TimberTech Championship in Florida in November, his first tournament win since the 2011 Open at Sandwich. Producing a sizzling 8-under 64 in a bogey-free round he finished two shots ahead of Retief Goosen. Jerry Kelly and Fred Couples were in third and fourth place.

"I love the Champions Tour, the guys have been really good to me out here, so welcoming,” Clarke said happily, oblivious to the gnashing of dentures behind him. “I'm setting my sights on the Open at Sandwich, maybe I could just do it again.” Steady On old chap!

The 15th hole, The Mine Shaft bunker A PAR-THREE COURSE for multi-millionaire golfers who love to gamble: The Bad Little Nine, at Scottsdale National Golf Club, Arizona, was the brainchild of PXG and GoDaddy founder Bob Parsons, who commissioned golf course architects Jackson-Kahn to create possibly the world's toughest par three.

While the course can be set up to be fun (so balls feed towards the hole) it's set up at it's hardest every Friday for the tempting prize.

A $1,000 prize is offered to the player who finishes under par when the flags are in their trickiest locations.

Unfortunately the Bad Little Nine is only open to members of Scottsdale National, which has a

The Bad Little Nine has holes varying in distance from 79 to 153yds on the 972 yd course. It also has massive boulders on the greens, putting surfaces the size of snooker tables, treacherous bunkers and wickedly sloping surfaces to funnel the ball into cracks and crevices.

$300,000 joining fee plus $60,000 annual subs. Members and guests play the main course, have a few cold beers then head over to the par three to gamble away loose change (probably enough for a semi-detached in Croydon.) All good fun.

Only one player has ever shot one under par on a Friday; James Hahn, but Parsons refused to hand over the cash as Hahn had been for a practice round earlier in the day.

PAUL CASEY LIFTED his 15th trophy on the European Tour

Pete Cowen - One of the most common faults is standing too far away from the ball, and having little control of the butt end of the club. If the butt travels too far back or forward when chipping and pitching, it causes the bottom of the arc to change, causing inconsistencies. Minimise the movement, it will improve consistency.

If you ever get the chance to play golf again, this tip may come in useful.

'MUSIC FOR TIRED GOLFERS,' an album by Larry Clinton and his Orchestra, was a big hit in the USA in 1957, and is still available on Amazon. It contained tunes like 'I talk to the trees,' 'I can't get started,' 'Just one more chance' and 'Little White Lies.'

Some things never change.

Until next time, Happy dreaming about golf!

Contact Mick the Grip. 638 859 475.

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.

Covid-19 Golfing Further pdate In the last few weeks our articles have concentrated on the impact of the increasing levels of corona virus infections locally and the impact on the golf industry here in Spain.

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: Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Campoamor Don Cayo (Altea)

Price €98 €80 €120 €100 €138 €90

Comments Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees & buggy

Now this is just a small piece of a very serious situation that impacts of the health and financial well-being of people across Spain and the whole world.

Unfortunately the infection rates continue to rise and the Valencian Community is now one of the worst impacted areas of Spain and add to this the very slow roll out of the vaccines across Europe and the unsavoury attack on the UK for once taking the lead with vaccination programmes and you can clearly see we are still in one hell of a mess.

Spain has vaccinated less than 2 million people while the UK are fast approaching 8 million but we are approaching the end of the flu and virus season and the summer months and high temperatures fast 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

€80 €59 €92 €48 €140 €41 €98 €50 €114 €118 €115 €114 €78 €136

2 Green Fees and buggy from 1pm Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees and buggy Single Green Fee 2 Green Fees & buggy (From 1.30pm) Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees & buggy (Saturday) Sgl Green Fee Two Green Fees & buggy Two Green Fees and buggy 2 Green Fees & buggy (From 1pm) 2 Green Fees & buggy (From 1.30pm) Two Green Fees and buggy Two Green Fees and buggy

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

approach and the virus doesn’t like high temperatures so some hope for the near future BUT not just yet.

The Valencian Government had previously issued rules closing bars, restaurants and sports facilities until 03/02/21 but over the weekend changed these rules extending the closure period until at least the 15/02/21 and all of us living under some form of restrictions, curfew or perimeter travel restrictions.

Let us all hope that things will gradually improve into the spring months but sorry to say that for now golfers have to put away their clubs and get out the paint brushes or gardening implements.

There are absolutely no positives to be taken in the current situation and to think that we thought 2020 was bad enough.

Mar Menor €48 Single Green Fee New Sierra Golf €68 Two Green Fees & buggy Puig Campana €98 Two Green Fees & buggy Roda €115 Two Green Fees & buggy (after 1.06pm) Saurines €48 Single Green Fee (temp closed) Villamartin €134 2 Green Fees & buggy (after 1.30pm) Vistabella €115 Two Green Fees and buggy *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

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ical form, recording gameshots of 158,150 and 148 at crucial points.

Clayton always seemed to be in command of the match, but it still went to 9-9 and a 1 leg shootout. Back to back 180's from Clayton in the decider and a missed bullseye for a 12 darter left S9 D8 for 14 and the match.

The challenge of James Wade in the quarters was an absolute blinder.

The Englishman won 4 of the 5 first session legs on a 99, and 2x121 outs, Claytons contribution a 160, 12 darter. Two 11's from Clayton reduced the deficit, but Wade still led by 7 legs to 3. The 3rd session went the way of Clayton to get within 3 of Wade at 9-6, but the latter only needing one leg from the remaining four. cheque, Clayton also won the 10th and last place available for the forthcoming Unibet Premier League.

An incredible finale followed, the man from Wales reeling off outs of 121 ( on the bull ) 62, 98 and 126, again on the bull, for the match winning 10th leg. Wade 104.2, Clayton, 105.41.

Having already dumped the World no.

2, the next in line was Peter Wright the no. 3.

Clayton quickly opened a 3-0 advantage, only for the Scot to reel off 3 x 14 dart legs to level. Clayton nudged in front to lead 6-4 after 2 sessions.

PRICE V KING SEMI FINAL Kings' route to the semi wasn't easy, tough opponents, but a comfortable three victories. 1st round, 6-1 v Glen Durrant, average 101.88, 2nd, 10-5 v Rob Cross, ave.

101.64, 3rd, 10-3 v Nathan Aspinall ave.

101.76.

Pretty impressive from the resurgent veteran. As expected the World no.1 was quickly into his stride winning the opening two legs, with a 180 and a 104 out, King in neither. A perfect set up shot of 162 to leave D10, put pressure on Kings' 60 remaining, unfazed it was completed.

A 116 out made it 3-1 before the gap was closed by King with 180 D10, to end the 1st session.

Ladbrokes punters could have made a small fortune last week, predicting the outcome of the Masters semi finals.

Odds on favourites, World Champion, World no.1 Gerwyn Price and World no.3, Peter Wright were drawn respectively against Mervyn King ( no.20 ) and Jonny Clayton ( no.18 ).

The bookies made it a Price / Wright final, with Price narrowly taking the final. How wrong can you be. Each were best of 21 legs and both went the full distance, King and Clayton victorious. lronically in previous years each of the finalists, wouldn't have even played, the field only open to the top 16, this year however the Masters was extended to 24 players.

Clayton took advantage of 1st throw, taking the opener on an unusual D3. The next two were shared, King appearing to lack a little of the confidence shown in earlier rounds and reflected in his scoring.

King settled to take the next two on a 96 out, followed by a 128 on the bull, giving him a 3-2 advantage after the 1st session.

3x180 from Clayton in the 2nd and a 136

out gave the Welshman 3 of the 5 legs, King responding with a maxi plus a fine 6 dart finish from 287, (177, 110). Making the score 5 apiece.

Clayton upped his game in the 3rd session, winning the first 4 legs with some clinical finishing, 84,64,70, outs interspersed with a 177 and D12 next throw. King managing an 80 finish for the 5th leg, now 9-6.

The same score was achieved in the next, Price now leading 6-4. The highlights, 3x180 and a 110 gameshot to Price, King an 88 finish. The 3rd session was littered with missed doubles, King however reversing the trend winning 4 of the 5 legs available and now leading 7-8.

The World champ made it all square in the 16th, with a very nice 11 darter, 180,180,105, D18 in 2. Kings' response a 13 dart leg to include a 180.

The Englishman repeated his winning last leg for 9-7, Clayton replied using 3 darts for an 81 game shot, to include a maxi.

King was just about hanging in there, but not very convincingly, however a 70 out on D2, kept him in the match at 10-8. Needing all three remaining legs it looked ominous for King, Clayton requiring just the one.

A further 13 darter from Price made the score 10-10, one to play and King with the throw. Although managing a 180, Price was unable to prevent a 127 finish on bullseye and a final place for King.

Clayton 5x180, 104.1 average, King 2x180, 94.95 average.

Apart from a very useful £ 60,000 winners

Clayton returned a 104.89 average, outstanding considering he had 24 missed double darts. Wright 99.95 ave,

LADBROKES

MASTERS

Price adding two more maxis, but more importantly, King seeing off 2x112 outs.

Price answered with 140,140,140, somehow fluffing the ending but completed on D3, in 13, now all square again. Both recorded 180's in the 19th, King edging ahead with 121 on the bull.

Maximums from both, plus a 135 from King kept him in the match, unfortunately for him Clayton enjoyed the throw and hit a magnificent set up shot of 165 to leave D8.

King unable to finish could only watch as The Welshman found the necessary 16 points for a 12 darter and the Masters.

The next 3 legs were split for 8-5, Wright then produced a stunMervyn King ning mini run of 14,14 realises that and 13 dart legs to go the game is up! level at a crucial time.

The next 4 legs were shared, both recording 13's taking the match score to 10-10.

Clayton made good use of 1st throw hitting a maxi plus a 62 out for the match and a place in the final.

CLAYTONS' ROUTE TO THE FINAL Claytons' journey to the last two couldn't have been more stressful for his supporters, let alone for his own health. The Welshman edged out Grand Slam winner Jose de Sousa 6-5 in the 1st round with a 130 out in the deciding 11th leg, averaging 102.93.

His 2nd round challenge was just as close, opponent Michael van Gerwen back in typ-

** Clayton had only beaten Wright once in 7 previous outings, now twice but a Masters title in the bag. ** ln the Anderson / Lewis match, the 5 leg opening session took just seven and a half minutes. ** Highest match average goes to the popular Simon Whitlock on 105.9, in his losing 2nd round encounter with Wright. ** Price hit 3x11 dart legs on the trot v Cullen an incredible 136.64 ave. ** ln the Clayton / Wright semi, the latter required 80 and for some unknown reason ignored the T20, going for D20,D20. All 3 darts went outside for no score, Clayton win-

ning the leg. Absolutely dumb. ** Wright however can play a bit, illustrated by his opening 5 leg session against Chisnall.

13, 11, 12 ( T20,D20,D20 ) 13 and 15 for a 117.4 ave. ** Best checkout percentage achieved by the champion versus Wade, hitting 10 doubles from 11 darts, a 91% ratio. lncredible.lt dropped however to 65% in the final. Very inconsistent ????? ** Least darts - a 10 from Wright. ** Claytons 5 matches involved him in 89 legs of 501.

His overall tournament average was 102.87 per throw. Much more to come from the Welshman.

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BARCA EXPECTATIONS

By Andrew Atkinson Ronald Koeman has said expectations need to be reined in at Barcelona, claiming the Catalans are not in a position to win trophies at present.

Barca have won four on the spin in La Liga, going into the weekend's game, but remain adrift of leaders Atletico Madrid and will need to get past Paris SaintGermain in the round of 16 if they are to keep their UEFA Champions League hopes alive.

Koeman said Barca are in a transition phase: "I have said several times that this is a season where we are changing things, we are opting for young players.

"Barcelona are not about to win a lot of things right now.

We have to be realistic about where we've come from, the changes we've made.

"Not everything depends on one player. We always have to be ready to fight, but we have to be realistic. We know our situation in La Liga, it's complicated.

"Until the day it's no longer possible, we'll be looking to win. In the Champions League there are more teams.

There is no clear favourite."

Koeman has been frustrated during the January transfer window, told there are no funds available to sign players: "It's always important to have someone at the club working to improve our squad, if not in January for next year," he said, amid reports of Barca's €1.5billion debts.

office@theleader.info

Spurs keeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, will spend the rest of the 2020-21 season at Elche in his quest for more playing time The Argentine goalkeeper will help Elche in their relegation fight from Spain’s top flight, as the team currently sits in 19th place. Elche are currently two points from safety, and Gazzaniga will be hoping to stem the flow of goals for the team that has conceded 26 goals in 19 league matches this season.

Gazzaniga has not played a competitive match since March of last year, when he featured in a 3-2 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers. His playing time evaporated when Spurs were eliminated from cup competitions last year, but he then fell further down the pecking order when José Mourinho signed Joe Hart in August as Hugo Lloris’ primary backup.

Spurs did not confirmed if Elche have an option to permanently

Monday 8th - Sunday 14th February, 2021

Spurs keeper heads to Elche sign Gazzaniga at the end of the loan, but rumours of his departure have been around for months.

Valencia 1st Regional Group 10 CD Montesinos supporter, Erling Witzoe, has been caught up in flight cancellations as a result of the coronavirus situation, that has lead to him missing sponsoring a match in February - and the remainder of the season.

Paco, a player with Sanmiguelero DNA!

In a large part, they were brought on by Hart’s arrival but with Gazzaniga entering the final year of his Spurs contract in the summer a sale would seem to be fairly likely.

By Andrew Atkinson Racing San Miguel player Paco Fernandez Castillo, who celebrated his 20th birthday in January, has been praised after breaking through the Academy ranks into the 1st Regional G10 1st team this season.

The Argentina goalkeeper, who joined from Southampton in August, 2017, has made 37 competitive appearances for Spurs to date.

The 29-year-old was not the only departure from Spurs in recent days. Maurizio Pochettino, son of former manager Mauricio, joined Championship side Watford. will find first team football elseElche have also terminated the where. contract of Diego 'Ruso' Rodríguez who is hoping that he Meanwhile Mali international, Youssouff Koné, has moved from Elche to Hatayspor in Turkey and Elche's first two signings of the season have had their contracts Erling Witzoe rescinded by mutual agreement.

Photo: Full Argentines Juan Sánchez Miño Monte SC. and Jeison Lucumí are no longer

Full Monte supporter Erling, passionately known as the 'Bell Ringer' on match days, said: "The first booked flight now is May 21, fingers crossed".

Erling had sponsored CD Montesinos fixture against CF Sporting de San Fulgencio at The Municipal stadium on February 7, prior to fixtures in the FFCV being cancelled, due to the coronavirus situation.

Erling, who lives north of Gothenburg, has watched games, via live streams during the 2020-21 season, said: "Take care and stay safe, until we meet again. Vamos Monte."

TRIVEA QUIZ ANSWERS FROM PAGE 14: 1. Methuselah, 2. Michael Collins, 3.

Rogers and Hammerstein's 'Carousel'. 4.

Singapore Sling, 5. Some Like It Hot, 6. A View To A Kill (Duran Duran), 7. Holland, 8. King Arthur, 9. Pyro. 10. a. Papa Don't Preach (Madonna). b.

Caravan Of Love (Housemartins). c. The Chicken Song (Spitting Image). 11.

"Although he is one of the youngsters in the team, he is, importantly, adding to the number of local born players at the club - a footballer with Sanmiguelero DNA," said a club spokesperson.

Elche players.

The club can now recruit 3 players and is currently said to be looking for a right back, an offensive midfielder and a striker.

Former Espanyol, Valencia and Almeria player Pablo Piatti is currently without a club and thought to be one of those who could be joining.

"Paco this season has knocked the door down, assuming responsibilities and performing, wherever the coach puts him.

We are very proud that is part of our staff," he added.

A month in Campoamor for CSKA Moscow

"The flights from Gothenburg to Alicante that I had booked are cancelled during February and March/Easter-time," Erling from Scandinavia told The Leader.

SUDUKO SOLUTION From From page 14

PAGE 23

Gazzaniga has made 37 competitive appearances for Spurs in 3 years

Monte 'Bell Ringer' Erling misses season

By Andrew Atkinson

www.theleader.info

CSKA Moscow were welcomed to Real Club Golf de Campoamor last Thursday by the General Director of Sports of the Generalitat, Josep Miquel Moya, and two Orihuela councillors, despite the fact that they arrived at the facility over two weeks ago, where they are preparing for the resumption of the Russian League following the winter break.

The club have played four friendly fixtures during the two weeks beating AFE, a team of Spanish trialists by 7-0, Real Murcia on two occasions, 5-0 and 3-1 and La Union 6-2, all behind closed doors at the

Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn and The Bronx. 12. Frank Rijkaard. 13.

Dr Gregory House. 14. London (Heathrow), Paris (Charles de Gaulle), Frankfurt, Madrid (Barajas) and Amsterdam (Schiphol). 15. Occam's Razor.

16. Montana. 17. Mary Quant.

18. Great Britain (1812), Mexico (1846) and Spain (1898). 19.

Bergamot Orange. 20. Pirates of the Caribbean, At the worlds end.

A break in training at Campoamor Photo courtesy CSKA Moscow Campoamor facility.

staff.

The former Russian Army club, which currently lies in second place in their league, has a party of 55 people with them in Campoamor, including management, players and technical

They will return to Moscow on 17 February in readiness for the resumption of the Russian league four days later against SKA Khabarovsk.

Call for fans to stay home during lockdown

By Andrew Atkinson With the postponement of football fixtures by the FFCV, due to COVID-19, Athletic Club Torrellano have put out a call to its supporters: Stay at home.

"Now is the time for responsibility and being at home. Soon we will vibrate together again at Isabel Fernández.

Let's be responsible," said a spokesper-

son from the club.

The cancellation of training has also been extended by the Generalitat until February 15.

PAGE 24

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Monday 8th - Sunday 14th February, 2021

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