The Virtual Leader Newspaper Edition 766

No 766

Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

Tel: 637 227 385

We are delighted that author and leading columnist Bernie Comaskey is back with The Leader team. Read his commentary “You can’t be serious” on page 10

A study just completed at the UMH (Universidad Miguel Hernández) has found that suicide is the second leading cause of death in the Alicante Province among people who are under 30s years of age.

Experts say that this is a reality that has been ignored for many years, but one that increasingly worries the authorities as the numbers continue to rise.

The result was released just a week after a Malaysian teenager

S U IC I DE RATE S AMONG YOU NG STE R S AT AN ALL TI M E H IG H IN ALICANTE PROVINCE

asked on Instagram if she should take her own life, which she did after 69% of her followers answered ‘yes’.

This once again highlights just how important a part social networks are now playing in this problem according to the professor of Psychology of Health and director of the Aitana Group of the Miguel Hernández University of Elche, which studies the psychological problems in children and adolescents, José Pedro Espada.

Continued on Page 2

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Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

SUICIDE RATES Continued from Page One

children, situations of bullying that lead to helplessness and depression are also situations that can predispose to suicide.

He said that “Fortunately, here in Alicante we have not yet come across any cases of adolescents who express suicidal tendancies on social networks,” adding that the case of this minor "fortunately is very rare." However, it warns of the danger of teenagers being bullied, harassed or teased through networks, which can cause problems of self-esteem, anxiety and depression, especially among young people.

Depression is a disorder associated with suicide, although not all people who commit suicide suffer from it with Espada warning that in the case of children and adolescents it is more difficult to detect.

He also highlighted the risk whereby minors frequent Internet forums in which a vision of suicide is offered as a release, a freedom or as a romantic idea.

The coordinator of La Esperanza in Alicante, a charity similar to our own Samaritans, Germán Ricardo, said that last year they had 1,200 calls related to suicide. Of them, about 50 had a concrete plan to carry the suicide out, while three people were actually committing suicide at the time.

However the influence of social networks on suicides in adolescents has still not been sufficiently studied, but the National Institute of Statistics offers data of this harsh reality.

In 2017, 397 people committed suicide in the Valencian Community, of which 25, close to 6%, were under 30 years old. Two were under 15 years of age. In the Valencian province there were 147.

The previous year there were 336 people who died from suicide in the Community, of which 23 were between 15 and 29 years old.

As such, suicide is now established as the second highest cause of death in this age group, just below traffic accidents, which took the lives of 37 young people under 30 years of age in the Community in 2017.

The research group Espada states that Spain has the lowest suicide rates in Europe, but it also says that the results of their studies are alarming.

Of 221 secondary school students in the province who were questioned, 12.8% showed suicide risk. 13.8% had depression and 12.4% low self-esteem, a total of 39%. The relationship between depression, low self-esteem and suicidal risk "is clear," they say in the study.

That is why they have warned of the urgent need to implement preventive programs in schools, as well as carrying out studies with much larger samples which will enable them to better identify methods of early detection.

They add that, of the risk factors in young people and adolescents, family and couple problems are the most frequent causes. In younger

It can occur as a result of a psychic disorder but it is also prevalent in situations of abuse, serious problems at home and bullying.

La Esperanza “The telephone of Hope” has also been involved in the Prevention Plan launched by the Ministry of Health, one of the first to be implemented in Spain.

Unfortunately one other organisation “The Life Suicide Prevention platform,” which is driven by computer researchers from the University of Alicante (UA), say that their work has been halted due to a lack of funds. The principal investigator, José Manuel Gómez, explains that they have already proven their success rate, which is currently 74%, and would increase if they could continue with the work.

"It is proven that people use certain phrases or use certain words and that social networks are a very valuable source of information since most young people use them," he says.

The system they have devised is "very laborious because it has to learn and then be able to detect messages of risk, and many examples are needed. In addition, we do it in Spanish and English so that we are available to more people, "adds Gómez.

For two years they had funding from the BBVA Foundation, but it was cut last year and the researchers have been unemployed since last September. " He says that he is extremely disappointed that the project, which could help thousands of people around the world, has had to be shut down when only one more step remains before it can be successfully implemented once again.

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Police step up patrols in wake of burglaries

By Andrew Atkinson BURGLARIES are on the increase - with the summer influx of holidaymakers yet to arrive in Spain - with opportunistic thieves striking.

Scams, from that of 'huggings', to that of using fishing-rod like poles, to 'snatches' - where gold necklaces have been ripped off necks - have been rife in the past. Tactics being used again this year.

There are many, many, thieves that target 'most liquid' assets, including gold, silver, and cash, along with mobile phones.

Two robberies have taken place in La Herrada, Los Montesinos, Alicante, in the last week - one burglary targeting a property, while improvement works were being undertaken.

through camino road, linking Los Montesinos (La Herrada) to Quesada.

Fermin, right, pictured Shopping was also attempted to be taken from awith car inCiudadanos Los Montesinos.

Councillor Luisa Bone A car registration has been given to the Los Montesinos Policia Local, who will be looking into incidents, after taking statements.

Gold and jewellery are liquid assets easily to dispose of, as are computers, smartphones, tablets, laptops, digital cameras and gaming devices.

Also high on burglars' lists are documents, including identity cards, driving licences, credit cards and bank statements.

A thief entered the property - who had been disguising himself as being 'official' - with a clipboard and pen in hand, walking along Calles, awaiting for an opportunistic moment, before striking.

Burglar deterrents include security alarms. But many residents - and non residents and holidaymakers - fall into the trap of lack of security, including unlocked gates, doors and windows.

The said male thief, aged in his forties, entered a property and robbed pensioners of jewellery and cash.

Potential burglars are always on the look out for 'easy pickings'.

Simply by locking a garden gate is the first step of deterrent.

Days later another casa was robbed of mobile phones - the thief's 'cover' was that he approached people asking if they knew anyone who had lost a child's pink dress!

CCTV is another deterrent, although many burglars are prepared to rob - at any risk - no matter what security is in place.

It is said the thief placed the child's pink dress under a hat, then removing it, prior to starting 'work'.

Witnesses reported that they had seen the culprit being picked up on a

If you have a solarium, remember to shut windows and doors, and lock all gates, before using.

Burglars have struck on numerous occasions, knowing that owners are on solariums - and not in the house.

If you see anything suspicious report it immediately to the police. And inform relevant community Presidents, if on an Urbanisation.

Police are to step up day, along with night and early morning patrols, after burglars being seen within the Los Montesinos and Quesada areas.

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More than 47,000 voters eligible to vote in Orihuela while in Torrevieja the Council Secretary complains of lack of secrecy Early voting across the Orihuela Municipality was extremely slow.

avoid it entering into a coalition, however all the indications are that there will be no majorities.

Ciudadanos, with 3 council seats, have been part of the PP coalition during the current mandate. They now say that a similar pact with the PP in the future is unlikely as they too hope to at least double the number of seats that they enjoy in the municipal government.

Aix voted in el Centro Social de Desamparados The leader of Vox, José Manuel García Escolano voted in the hamlet of La Murada. Vox too is a party that is hoping to achieve its first council seat with indications being that it is likely to do so.

By the time you read this article we hope that the 47,000 people eligible to vote in Orihuela have all done so and that, whoever the winners might be, they have a strong mandate from the people of the municipality and are now able to work through their legislation from a strong base. However as I cast my vote on Sunday morning in Nautico Campoamor the turnout was decidedly low.

Nevertheless, with all of the party leaders bearing confident grins in front of their supporters’ cameras on Sunday morning, the one common fear they were able to share was the prospect of a low voter turnout.

As we go to press, however, the participation is of it not being very high, but all signs are that it will

increase as the day goes on, with the afternoon sunshine encouraging many to get out and vote.

Certainly the seven Orihuela party leaders were out bright and early with Comprimis spokesman Cayetano Portugués, the first to go through the polls. He did so at 9:45 at the Colegio de la Ocarasa, as his party seeks, for the first time, to win a council seat.

The PSOE candidate, Carolina Gracia, voted at 10.15 at el Centro Social de Correntías. The Socialists won 8 council seats in 2015 and are confident of expanding their representation to become the key force in the municipality.

At 10.45 it was the turn of the CambiemosCLARO- Unidas Podemos coalition, Carlos Bernabé who exercised his right to vote in the María Moliner library. The party currently has two councillors but is forecast to increase it’s share of the vote having teamed up with CLARO and UP. Indeed, whether visiting or voting, CLARO President Helene Akerman, was also in a buoyant mood as I met her at Club Natico.

At 12 noon the PP Mayor, Emilio Bascuñana, and José Aix, the leader who hopes to be soon filling his shoes, were both at their respective voting stations, Bascuñana at the María Moliner Library. The PP currently has 11 councillors and seeks to achieve an absolute majority that will

By mid afternoon voting was proceeding normally with almost 37% of votes cast by 2pm, although there were reports that the Vox ballot papers had been stolen from one polling station while the police were called to another following up reports that voters were being canvassed on their arrival.

There are currently 47,647 people who are eligible to vote in these elections, an increase of 300 from 2015.

Complaints in Torrevieja In Torrevieja there were complaints from the City Council Secretary, as well as many members of the public, that the secrecy of an individual’s vote was not being guaranteed, as voting papers were

displayed on tables in full view of auditors and observers, enabling anyone in reasonably close proximity, and with a knowledge of how the ballot papers were laid out on the tables, to see a voters choice.

The measure of placing ballot papers on open tables and not in booths is based on a resolution of the Electoral Court, JEZ, but the Torrevieja Council secretary argued that their decision does not meet the criteria laid down by the European Parliament in that a voter’s secrecy must be guaranteed.

The same problem seems also to be widespread in other municipalities.

In previous years the ballot papers have been placed in curtained booths so that a voter can make his choice without the possibility of being overseen.

In their response JEZ has said that it is a problem that has been raised not only in Torrevieja, but also by many other municipalities and that the Central Electoral Board has subsequently sent an instruction insisting that observers and auditors must not be located near to those tables.

This newspaper has confirmed that many voters have complained at the polling stations because this arrangement does not guarantee the secrecy of the vote, with agents and controllers of all the parties aware of the votes being cast by voters.

In Torrevieja 44,000 voters are eligible to vote.

The turnout in 2007, 2011 and 2015 just about topped 50% and the indications on Sunday afternoon wer that it is unlikely to be much better this year.

Torrevieja mayor, José Manuel Dolón

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How to make a pension last a lifetime: The essential guide to financial success in retirement

The reforms, known as 'pension freedoms', gave savers unprecedented flexibility around how they spend their hard-earned cash in retirement.

While this is still an option — and for many people a wise choice — those who feel confident managing their own investments can instead now opt for something called drawdown, where you keep your money invested in shares and funds and take out an income as and when you need it.

But with that freedom comes a huge responsibility to ensure you do not run out of money and end up living on the poverty line in old age.

There is an alternative to managing your own funds, and that is where Seagate Wealth are on hand to help you make the right choices for you and your family.

Before the rule change, most people simply bought an annuity, which is like an insurance policy that guarantees to provide a set income for life.

For a free no-obligation chat with a UK Qualified adviser, call 965 704 338 or email: Contact@Seagatewealth.es

Four years ago, the Government brought in a rule change that had dramatic consequences for retirees.

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VIRGEN DEL CARMEN CULTURAL CENTRE LICENCE GRANTED

tenance work throughout all this time."

The Virgen del Carmen Cultural Centre in Torrevieja has finally been granted an opening licence, after all relevant compliances have been satisfied.

SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION OPEN Registration is now open for Torrevieja´s summer school with 300 places available in July and 163 in August, but if you want to sign your kids up you´d better hurry as the registration period closes next week.

The centre, which opened in 2005, had been operating without the necessary licence, which ensures safety and security protocols are in place, amongst other things, and suffered a closure to the public as a precautionary measure.

The councillor responsible for licence activities, Fanny Serrano, announced the signing of the document which allows the building to open as both an auditorium and training centre.

The councillor for Social Welfare, Fabiana Ibarra, announced the opening of the registration period for Summer School 2019, explaining that the deadline is 31 May.

The PSOE councillor, who is part of the coalition government who took over the municipal administration in the last elections, ousting the then stronghold of the PP, also pointed out that “most” municipal buildings had been allowed to operate without the mandatory licences by the previous governments.

The activities themselves will commence on 1 July and registration can be done now though and should be carried out through the PROP office in the town.

Registration is open to all children who, during the 2018-2019 academic year, have been enrolled in Pre-school or Primary Education, who are registered in Torrevieja or whose parents or legal guardians are registered in the municipality.

After discovering the fact through the municipal technicians, the current government restarted the procedures in mid-2016 to be able to grant the necessary opening licence.

In 2017, the local government approved the projects related to the management certification and completion of the facilities for the opening licence, as well as the emergency action plan and the acoustic audit, which were commissioned to adapt to the current urban regulations and enable the granting of the licence.

In November 2018, deficiencies were detected in the fire system which resulted in the temporary and precautionary closure of the property.

After its reopening, the processing of the opening licence continued and has finally been concluded.

Serrano noted that "it is much easier to grant the opening license to a building before its inauguration occurs than when you have to grant it when it has been in operation for many years where, in addition, the building itself has suffered wear and had been undergoing main-

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada - Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday 30th MAY at 7pm and Saturday, 1st of JUNE at 5pm

HOLMES AND WATSON There’s been a murder at Buckingham Palace. Four days from now, Queen Victoria will become the next victim. Clearly, only Sherlock Holmes and John Watson can solve the case and stop the dastardly James Moriarty from enacting his plan.

Cast: Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Lauren Lapkus, Rob Brydon Dur: 1hr 29min Genre: Comedy | Mystery | Sherlock Holmes Find us at https://goo.gl/maps/kS56en98KXF2

Pricing depends on whether the family is entitles to a subsidy, and whether the child requires dining services, and can be broken down into a fortnight of monthly subscription, with 100% subsidy available in some cases.

Ibarra explained that "the participants will enjoy a vacation where educational aspects prevail, developed in a natural and relaxed environment that prioritises the creativity and spontaneity of the children".

Any information related to summer schools can be obtained through the Department of Social Welfare, located in Calle Torrevejenses Ausentes, number 39, or by telephoning 96 670 66 66.

SURFING TORREVIEJA Torrevieja´s councillor for beaches, Javier Manzanares, has begun the process of amending the municipal ordinance to allow surfing in an area of the town.

An area of the beach at La Mata is destined to be allocated as a surfing zone following an agreement with local surfers and the surf school.

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The location is in the Avenida del Agua area, opposite a rocky area, and therefore not frequented by bathers, thus reducing any risks.

Manzanares said, "I have always shown that I am a man of my word and that I comply with my commitments, and this in particular was of great importance, since the practice of surfing is emerging in many places and is an impetus for the tourism that will have a very positive impact on our city".

WORLD NO SMOKING DAY The Orihuela councillor for Health, Noelia Grao, has announced that the Community Prevention Unit in Addictive Behaviours of Orihuela (UPCCA) will be installing an information table display in a number of Municipal schools to commemorate occasion of World No Smoking Day on 31 May. The group hope to raise awareness about the problems of consuming tobacco, lung health and the problems associated with smoking," the councillor said.

The information table will be at the IES Playa Flamenca on Wednesday May 22. Monday 27 it will visit the IES El Palmeral, Wednesday 29 at IES Tháder and Thursday 30 at IES Gabriel Miró.

In all of the schools there will also be theoretical and practical workshops held throughout the day which are expected to reach more than 500 students.

The UPCCAsay that according to the Survey on the Use of Drugs in Secondary Education in Spain (ESTUDES) from 2017, 34.7% of students between 14 and 18 years have used tobacco in the last year, while 8.8 % do it daily.

In fact, Spain still has as many smokers as it had before the anti-smoking law of 2005, despite the reduction following its toughening in 2010, which led to a significant reduction in the number of smokers.

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The Royal British Legion pays homage on retirement of Mayor Ignacio Ramos On Sunday, the day of the Municipal Elections here in Spain, Ignacio Ramos completed a 32-year career as councillor, 20 of them as mayor of Pilar de la Horadada.

When Ignacio first took office the municipality had about 9,000 resi-

dents - and only nine years had elapsed since its segregation, its independence from the municipality of Orihuela Now the population exceeds 20,000 people, many thousands of which are expatriates.

The Branch thanked the mayor for his support on his retireement from office

During his period a mayor one of his main achievements has been the diversification of the local economy into different sectors. During times of economic prosperity he has supported the construction of tourist housing on the coast, in Mil Palmeras, La Torre del Pilar, the golf course at Lo Romero and Pinar de Campoverde.

He has also played a very important part in the reinforcement of the very important greenhouse agricultural production in the area that is dedicated to international markets.

Hence two of the main reasons why the people of Pilar de la Horadada and its municipality enjoy such prosperity.

The mayor has always been a great

champion of the expatriate population in the town and in the last 10 years he has been a major benefactor of the Royal British Legion, instrumental in it’s use on Remembrance Sunday of the Capilla de las Mil Palmeras, an event that he has always supported by his attendance.

He was also instrumental in the creation of the Garden of Remembrance in front of the parish church to which he and has council have made regular improvements, completely refurbishing the area in the last 12 months so that it is now it is a place where people can sit quietly and remember their loved one’s in quiet reflection.

The Orihuela Costa and District Branch of The Royal British Legion is deeply indebted to Ignacio Ramos for the support he has provided during his tenure of office, and as a mark of appreciation a small presentation was made by members at their May meeting, of the Pulitzer prize winning book, The Guns of August, written by Barbara W. Tuchman, to thank him for his loyal an valuable patronage over the last ten years.

The photograph shows the mayor and his successor, Pilar Samper, along with Vice Chairman, Eddie Coleman, Membership Secretary, Walter Montfort and Branch member Louise Innes, who is also the Chair of the Mil Palmeras residents Association.

San Pedro Biker Invasion British Ambassador thanks Expat Volunteers The British Ambassador, Simon Manley, held an event at the Melia Hotel in Alicante on Tuesday 21st May to say thank you to all the Volunteers from different expat groups here on the Costa Blanca who, in his words “Have helped enable him and the consulate staff here in Spain to do their jobs.”

He had no idea what he would be doing next but was looking forward to a new challenge having enjoyed his life in Spain for the last five years.”

HELP has been asked many times by the British Consulate to help both expats and visitors to the Mar Menor area who have required our assistance and, thankfully, the Charity has always been able to give the support and assistance required and will continue to do so to the best of it’s ability.

If you feel you could donate a few hours a week of your time to help HELP please contact the office on 968 570 059 or visit our outlet at the Oasis Centre in Los Alcazares..

HELP President Christine Baillie and HELP Office Manager Joan Mitchell represented HELP Murcia Mar Menor at the event, and took the opportunity to mingle with the other charity workers whilst enjoying the drinks and canapes supplied on the hotel terrace.

More than 3,500 motorcycles invade La Ribera on the electoral weekend

Dados" and the Ukrainians "Scream Inc" a tribute band to Metallica.

Organised by the Murcia Hot Rally Cultural Association - MURCIA CHAPTER, in conjunction with the local town hall, last weekend saw the town of Santiago de la Ribera celebrate the most important gathering of custom motorcycles in Spain and one of the largest in Europe as the 16th Hot Rally-San Javier brought together some 3,500 motorcycles and more than 5,000 people, from all over the country and across Europe.

There was free paella on Saturday afternoon after which many of the bikers took a trip around the local area, including the Air Academy.

The genuine American biker atmosphere completely took over the town along the Barnuevo esplanade and Paseo Colón, which hosted these classic and retro twowheeled vehicles, most of which had been customised by their owners. There were numerous stalls selling wares ranging from spare parts, T-shirts and many other bike other related goods, which also attracted a large number of visitors.

With plenty of free concerts along the Barnuevo esplanade, the program got underway on Friday, with the local band "Celtas sin nozzle", the Spanish "Lucky

Saturday evening saw the Belgian group "The Galaxy's", open the show, followed

by The Hellhates, Pistones and the Ukrainian band "Blood Brothers" a tribute to Iron Maiden playing long into the night.

Sunday saw the bikers back on the esplanade where they bade farewell to the XVI Anniversary Rally with a barbecue.

As the bikers set off on their journey’s home, the mayor of San Javier, José Miguel Luengo said "During these days the town becomes the epicenter for lovers of custom bikes around the world. We are so grateful for the economic impact that the event has in San Javier which can be seen by the hotel reservations in the area, many of which are made a year of advance. We are already looking forward to celebrating the 17th Edition next year during the last weekend in May.

Simon Manley, who will be stepping down this summer, has represented the Queen here in Spain since 2013, was educated at Oxford and Yale before joining the British F.C.O., has a Spanish wife Maria Isabel and three daughters said “

HELP´s President Christine Baillie pictured with the British Ambassador

Boat explosion in La Ribera injures two men A 44-year-old male was transferred to the Los Arcos del Mar Menor Hospital on Tuesday following the explosion of a boat he was working on in an industrial warehouse on Santiago de la Ribera where his condition was said to superficial.

A second man, believed to be 50 years of age, was also injured in the explosion and moved to La Arrixaca where he was treated with severe burns.

One of the injured men is the owner of the family business boat repair

business, which has its main showroom on la avenida de la Estación although the explosion occurred in warehouse a short distance away.

However it was a company employee who was injured with the serious burns, as a result of which he was transferred to the Virgen de la Arrixaca Hospital in Murcia, where they have a Burns Unit. The owner, with minor injuries, was admitted to

the emergency room of the Los Arcos hospital following the accident.

Just after 10 o'clock in the morning, the emergency service 112 received notice of the explosion on an industrial estate located next to the airport road. The incident was attended by patrols of the Civil Guard and Local Police, firemen and ambulances with paramedics.

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“What are you doing with yourself these days …”

Dexter was known as ‘the poor man’s cow’.

I literally bumped into an old friend on the corner outside the new Cabo Roig Inn. I have known Sean and his wife Deirdre since we opened Paddy’s Point ‘in the last century.’

Mr Dexter had set out to breed a cow small enough to help feed a family with nothing more than a cottage garden. Today, the Dexter is prized in the four corners of the world. Ironically, the breed became almost extinct in Ireland in the 1970s – when we ‘got too big for our boots!’

‘What are you doing with yourself these days’, asked Sean - after the customary salutations. (This is an Irishman’s way of asking if all is well with you). ‘Come in for one’, suggested Sean. This is an Irishman’s way of asking if you would like a drink! I went in for a coffee and after we filled each other in on our respective wives and families I eventually got around to cataloguing ‘what I am doing with myself.’

‘I miss reading your column both here and at home’, my friend told me before I started on my story. ‘Well, sez I, ‘I have news on that front as well’, but we’ll leave that until I fill you in on my latest life chapter.

This is a rough translation of what I told Sean.

‘Like yourself, I was once a farmer in another life. Of all the jobs I have done, farming is the one that sticks in the DNA. I would still dream something about cows and calves about twice a year.

After I sold out all my business interests, I realised beyond all doubt that there is one thing I cannot do. That one thing is idleness. Then just at that critical moment – as often happened in my life; fate – or the hand of God stepped in and I found the perfect module to scratch my itch.

On a visit to Denmark I was introduced to a couple who had asked to see me. The man is a vet and the family owned two Dexter cows, two yearlings and two suck calves. They thought that because I came from a farming background in Ireland I would know everything about the beautiful Dexters. In actual fact I knew nothing about the Dexter breed, but I learned quickly and I came home in love with them.

The Dexter cow is the oldest breed of cow in Europe and also the smallest. Bred by an Englishman; a Mr Dexter, the cow originated in County Tipperary around 1760. Easily fed, hardy and resilient, the

Best foot forward for the Camino Girls 3 intrepid ladies are about to set off on a 116km walk from Sarria to Santiago as part of their “bucket wish list”. This walk is part of the way of The St. James Pilgrimage (Camino de Campostela).

Many will know of it from the film The Way. It will be over 8 days commencing the 7th June, allowing a little time for sightseeing. The “3 Camino Girls”, aged between 50 and 70, have decided to combine their wish with raising money for Help at Home Costa Blanca to support the work they do in the community.

They have been training for 10 weeks and have set a target of 1000€. They will do a “blog” of their journey to put on the Help at Home Facebook site.

Karen Palmer who works for Vincent´s Real Estate Agents and a member of Smile Charity Am Dram Group, Joan Bennett who is also a member of Smile Group and Heather Meston who is a member of Greenlands Bowling

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Oscar and Della ‘Shooting the breeze’.

Happily all has changed now and there are 170 Irish breeders registered with the Irish and British Dexter Societies. Nonetheless, the Dexter is currently classified in Ireland as ‘a rare breed.’

I don’t want to get any bigger than ‘hobby farming’ – even though I have a fairly large farm, which I rent out. I have fenced off sixteen acres around the house and this is our paradise. It contains a pond and a ‘fairy fort’. It is rich in colour and wild life – and I just love pottering around with the animals.

We have ten Dexter cows, and they are all individuals with their own names. Each one has a baby calf at the moment. There is nothing more therapeutic than to stand and watch the cows nuzzling and suckling their babies out in the field. I rear the calves, putting the heifers in calf and selling on the bulls. They are all pure-bred registered stock.

As you can gather from this, the cows and heifers keep me happy … but not nearly as happy as they make Oscar. Oscar has the best job on the planet! Oscar is the Dexter bull!’

‘As for the writing, Sean, I took a break after never missing a deadline for eleven years and writing four books as well. I am ready to do a column again, and you will be happy to hear that I am resuming ‘You Can’t be Serious’ and doing it exclusively for ‘The Leader’ newspaper out here.’

‘That’s great’, said Sean … adding the usual Irish wish ‘best of luck’. ‘But I’d like to learn a bit more about the Dexters?’ ‘Ok, I said; you can either come up to Westmeath and visit them … or you can read The Leader when you are here – and you’d never know what you might learn!’

Club met Joan and Jacky from the Quesada Branch of the charity who thanked them for their kind offer and wished them every success.

The Camino Girls already have pledges from Vincent´s Real Estate, Smart Currency Exchange, Seagate Wealth Management and the Smile Group but would welcome any other sponsors.

Don’t Forget Man is the only animal that laughs, but when you look at some people, it’s hard to understand how the animals keep from laughing.

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 ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info.

HUNTINGTON'S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

Sponsorship forms and collection boxes are available at Vincent´s Real Estates, Greenland´s Bowling, Seegate´s, Oasis Bar Benijofár, The Post Room Benijofár, HaH Furniture shop Cabo Roig or HaH Charity Shop Playa Flamenca or by Facebook Fundraiser Camino Girls Walk for Help at Home which gives a link to the donation page.

Nearly 70 people gathered together in El Banet (Almoradi) on Thursday evening for a Bar B Q and Sangria evening to raise awareness of HD. Chefs Jo and Sarah from T.J.'s restaurant in Benijofar cooked up a treat of sausages, burgers and chicken with delicious accompaniments, whilst local musician, Glenn Mills entertained everyone with his renditions of popular hits from the 60's, 70's and 80's.

Local residents and friends from the surrounding area got into the spirit by dressing in green and purple, the colours of the organisation and raised a magnificent 620 Euros for the local charity.

Photos show Supporters enjoying the evening; HD sufferers, Peter Barton and David Smith.

Chefs, Jo and Sarah and Musician, Glenn Mills.

Huntington's Disease, which is often called HD, is a hereditary disorder of the central nervous system.

It is a terminal illness, affecting both men and women, causing a very wide range of symptoms, including uncontrollable movements; loss of speech and the ability to swallow; incontinence and loss of memory function, as well as depression and changes in personality. There is currently no cure.

For more information visit www.hda.org.es If you would like to get involved by organising a fundraising event in your area, or know someone who is affected by the condition, please contact Marion Smith on 634 905 249, or email: marion.smith@hda.org.es

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Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

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LEADER

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Prevaricate; 9 Lie; 10 Conqueror; 11 Nadir; 13 Glacial; 14 Easily; 16 Belief; 18 Thought; 19 Elder; 20 Narrative; 21 Set; 22 Deferential.

DOWN: 2 Rue; 3 Vicar; 4 Renege; 5

Courage;

6

Terrified;

7

Clandestine; 8 Proliferate; 12 Discourse; 15 Luggage; 17 Attire; 19 Erect; 21 Sea. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 1 Breadwinner; 9 Add; 10 Horseless; 11 Sorts; 13 Tollage; 14 Hoists; 16 Assist; 18 Baffled; 19 Panda; 20 Carriages; 21 Col; 22 Dead as a dodo.

DOWN: 2 Rod; 3 Athos; 4 Warmth; 5 Needles; 6 Elevation; 7 Pass the buck; 8 Essentially; 12 Reinforce; 15 Tallied; 17 Adages; 19 Posed; 21 Cod.

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Solution on Page 23 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.

QUIZ ANSWERS

Unlawful (7) Acrobat (7) Entrance (6) Outside (8) Pass (6) Pressing (6) Grow (8) Caller (7) Hideosity (7) Rush (6) Refrain (6) A medicine (6)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Which country has 4 out of the 5 active volcanoes in Europe 2. In which sport would you see a Fosbury Flop 3. If Monday’s child is fair of face what is Thursday’s child 4. Dash in a real rush, hurry or else accident, is an aide to remember what.

5. Which republic of the USSR has the same name as a state in America?

6. What did Oscar Wilde refer to as "the unmentionable in full pursuit of the uneatable" 7. Apart from sharks and saltwater crocodiles what do the Queensland Australia coastguard warn bathers about 8. During the ice age the river Thames was a tributary of which European river 9. How many books in the bible refer to eve biting the apple 10. To the nearest £50 million, how much did the new Wembley cost 11. In which county is Betws-y-Coed 12. On which bay does Lyme Regis stand 13. What is the largest sculpture in Britain 14. Which city is the city of Dreaming spires

15. On which object will you see the inscription "standing on the shoulders of giants" 16. What does the suffix "sex" mean in a county’s name, Section, Saxon or Shire 17. If you take the London underground at Victoria and travel east for 26 stops at which station will you end up 18. What is traditionally smoked in Arbroath 19. Which is the nearest principality to England 20. Where in England according to Bram Stoker did Dracula first set ashore 21. What is the name of the famous hat that originated in Ecuador?

22. Which large south-east Asian country turns its flag upside down in times of war?

23. What is the well-known Malay word for "person of the forest"?

24. Which famous fictional character had a brother named Mycroft?

25. Name the two countries in the world that have a square flag. One point for each correct answer.

Oxford, 15. The outside rim of a £2 Coin, 16. Saxon, 17. Victoria (Circle Line), 18. Haddock (Arbroath Smokies...Kippers), 19. Wales, 20.

Whitby, 21. Panama hat (toquilla straw hat) is a traditional brimmed straw hat of Ecuadorian origin. 22.

DOWN 1. Snug agreement (7) 2. Gets boats in disorder (7) 3. Put the accent on nervous tension (6) 5. Adults have grown out of them (8) 6. Needing treatment in jail in Germany (6) 7. Broken screen may be used in church (6) 13. Furniture for big lads! (8) 14. I'm coming back to make a bet - here's the slip (7) 15. The first person with a certain dimension (7) 16. Tie up the dog and look around (6) 17. He cultivates a means of steering the craft (6) 19. Where the rivers could become salted! (6)

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

5.

6.

7.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

19.

1. Italy, 2. High Jumping (Athletics), 3.

Thursday’s Child Has Far To Go, 4.

How to Spell Diarrhoea, 5. Georgia, 6.

Fox Hunting, 7. Jellyfish, 8. Rhine, 9.

None, 10. £757 Million (Accept 707 to 807 Million), 11. Conway, 12. Lyme Bay, 13. The Angel of the North, 14.

ACROSS 4 & 10Ac. Take a sportsman out of the team - one without a handicap (7,6) 8. Circular tours arranged from the bistro? (6) 9. Not reluctant to be making a legacy (7) 10. See 4 Across 11. Mix up Eli and another Old Testament character (6) 12. A box for the cine star? (8) 18. It will explosively damage territory belonging to me (4-4) 20. Your humble servant! (6) 21. Criticises antiquated school equipment (6) 22. Not in to observe the prospect (7) 23. One with trained birds he hopes to persuade you to buy (6) 24. Communists hold reserves to provide compensation (7)

ACROSS 4.

Income (7) 8.

Inaugurate (6) 9.

Unfamiliar (7) 10. Badge (6) 11. Revolt (6) 12. Dislike (8) 18. Swiftness (8) 20. Collect (6) 21. Negligent (6) 22. Rumour (7) 23. Energy (6) 24. Sideboard (7)

The Philippines does not utilize a separate war flag; instead, the national flag itself is used for this purpose.

To indicate a state of war, the red stripe is flown upwards. 23.

Orangutan, 24. Sherlock Holmes, 25.

Switzerland and The Vatican StatE.

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Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

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Now recruiting for The Royal British Legion Concert Band in Spain IntroducingThe Royal British Legion Concert Band (Spain) under it’s Musical Director, Mr David LAST. David has vast experience in the musical world including as a boy soldier at the Home Counties School of Music and at The Royal Military School of Music in Kneller Hall while serving with the Queens Regiment.

He went to Australia and on return took up a position as Principal at Lyceum School of Music, Manchester. Had his own youth band.

Woodwind player with the Royal Artillery Band TA. Originally formed in 1996 “The Alpengold Show Band” later changed its name to “The Phoenix Concert Band,” and in 2018 it became The Royal British Legion Concert Band (Spain).

Day Celebrations.

We are available for all functions in at all branches of The Royal British Legion within Spain.

There are vacancies for musicians, in all sections, brass and woodwinds, percussion, these vacancies need to be filled BY YOU David is also changing the concept of the band by introducing a string section .

Already we have one violin player. In addition there is a vacancy for a keyboard player.

If you play any of these instruments come along and have a chat with us over a coffee or contact us by phone or email for further information.

We are a friendly bunch of mixed Nationalities and you will be made welcome.

OUR MOTTO: THE ONLY WAY IS UP

The band plays a wide variety of music, from songs from the musicals, marches, ballads, sing-a-long and Novelty pieces,

We rehearse every Tuesday 5.00.pm. to 7.00.pm at the Community Centre, Los Lomas, Cabo Roig.

We play Carols and hymns for special services and special occasions and at the end of the month, on 29 June, for the second occasion, will be playing in the magnificent surrounds of the Orihuela Cathedral at the Armed Forces

Contact: David LAST (MD) Tel: 638.108.078.

Email : last.david.1943@gmail.com Jean HEALD. (Sec) Tel: 630.280.899.

Email: orihuelacostarblsec@yahoo.co.uk

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Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

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ARREST AFTER BABY ABANDONED IN SAN JAVIER

Drugs Shoot Out near Elche

A 24-year-old Honduran national has been arrested in connection with the abandonment of a 3-day-old baby on a street in the town.

The woman, said to be the mother of the baby, was arrested in San Javier by the Guardia Civil on Thursday.

The baby was found on Wednesday afternoon by a member of

One victim was treated at the health centre in Monforte del Cid Two men were injured in a shootout between rival drug trafficking gangs near Elche.

One of the men suffered several shot wounds in the incident which took place between Elche and Novelda, after what investigators believe was the result of one of the gangs trying to steal drugs from the other.

According to the Guardia Civil, the shooting victim, a 30-year-old male of Algerian origin, was transferred to Alicante General Hospital from the health centre in Monforte del Cid, where he had been treated in the first instance.

The second victim, a 48-year-old also of Algerian origin, was initially assisted in the health centre at Crevillente and then evacuated to the Hospital of Vinalopó in Elche. Neither of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries.

The location of the shoot out is under investigation as officers only became aware of the incident when the men presented at the relevant medical centres. The search is now on for members of both the gangs, of Spanish and North African nationality, some of whom are said to have fled the scene in a van.

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the public who alerted the 112 Emergency Coordination Centre just after 15:00. The caller reported that the baby appeared to be “newborn” and was accompanied by a written note.

The Local Police attended the scene and confirmed the baby was located on calle Las Cortes, followed by an ambulance who took the baby to the paediatric unit of the Los Arcos del Mar Menor University General Hospital, although the baby girl was in apparent good health.

The baby is now in the charge of the local social services department.

PRISON FOR BENIDORM DRUG MULE A 38-year-old man has been sentenced to six years in prison and fined of 38,000 euro for an offence against public health, in connection with a drug arrest in Benidorm in October.

The man was arrested by officers from the National Police in October, whilst walking down a street in the town. A rucksack carried by the man contained a large quantity of drugs, specifically 944 grams of MDMA, which had a purity of 82% and so a street value of 37,197 euro, and a small amounts of cannabis.

The defendant was remanded in custody from the time of his arrest until the trial began on 14 May, after which the prosecution and the defendant reached an agreement under which the latter assumed the sentence of six years imprisonment in addition to payment of a fine of 38,000 euro and the costs of the prosecution. spainsamsrecruits@outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services

Car and Mobility Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2017 Ford CMax Petrol which is on Special Offer priced at just 14,900 euro. Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers.

The biggest and best for price, choice and quality.

Social and Clubs Royal British Legion Orihuela

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

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

New members are always welcome. You do not have to be exservices. For more information contact:- gill.burden20@gmail.com

LEADER

RNA - The Royal Naval Assn meet at Restaurant Danmark, Plaza los Alcones 27, in Torrevieja at 5pm on the 1st Weds of the month. Call Margaret Forshaw, on 966 92 1996 Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If you think you can help call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887.

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

Badminton in Pilar de la Horadada.

Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs.

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

International Marina, Torrevieja.

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

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

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

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

Volunteers are unpaid but expenses are met. Email:

La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. For info see www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. You can phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 667 533 597..

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja - Evangelical nondenominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school;

Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11a.m. Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta – Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

Employment Pool maintenance person required, no experience necessary as full training given. Must be hard working, reliable, with a full driving licence of minimum 4 years. Immediate start. Training at 5€ an hour 4-5 days a week and then when qualified 50€ a day with company van and fuel paid for 4 days a week. Work guaranteed until mid to end of September. Enquires please contact: piscinascb@yahoo.com

Personal Transvestite Diana, blonde, new to Torrevieja. Great figure big breasts. Active and passive.well endowed. By appointment.

Playa los locos. 651 363 396 Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speaks English.

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300 Euro Donation for ‘REACH OUT’ Rojales Pantomime Group reached out and donated 300€ to a very worthy cause which was raised from their last pantomime performance of Camelot The Panto in Los Montesinos.

Reach Out provide basic food plus extras to families in need, together with lots of other essentials. A drop in centre provides, food, showers and laundry facilities for the homeless, in fact, they help anyone in need and our recent donation will provide over 100 breakfasts. If you want to get involved or have any items to donate

Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

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contact info@reachouttorrevieja.eu you too can get involved and make a difference to lots of peoples lives.

The Rojales Pantomime Group raised over 2500€ for local charities from their recent pantomime which was a huge success with audiences of all ages. Their next pantomime is TREASURE ISLAND with casting and rehearsals starting very soon for the performance in January 2019. To be a part of our very friendly group email rojalespantomimesecretary@gmail.com. Watch local press for further details.

Seen here receiving their donation from Mike Smith, President of the pantomime group, together with other members of the group is David Young of Reach Out, who conveyed his sincere thanks and gratitude to all our members.

STAGESTRUCK AT BRAGTON VILLAGE HALL The Stagestruck summer show Strictly X Factor proved to be a roaring success, and they have been overwhelmed by the reaction from audiences.

Written and directed

by Suzanne Stokes, the story of how the Bragton Village Hall Committee tried to save the building by raising money with a talent show had comedy, pathos and wonderfully professional singing and dancing.

The production numbers were astonishing

with exciting dance routines and special lighting effects by Robert Stokes, who travelled all the way from the UK to do the show. A video is being prepared and a link to YouTube will be available soon.

The show raised 3,500 euros for Alzheimer’s and donations will also be made to other local charities. This talented company are already making early preparations for Cinderella, their Christmas pantomime!

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Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

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Thrilling conclusion as 2019 Linea Directa Nationals come to a close The 2019 Linea Directa Spanish Nationals came to a conclusion on Saturday evening.

The weather had been good so all matches could be finished.

The Mixed Fours final was between Noel Davis, Gail Willshire, Lynn Greenland & Fred Willshire of San Miguel and Peta Rhodes, Graham Shoots, Caroline & John Smyth of Emerald Isle. The Emerald Isle quartet led by 3 shots. After 12 ends they still led 11-7 but the San Miguel team came back winning the final 6 ends to take the title 1811.

The Mixed Triples was an all San Miguel match. Val & Chris Collier with Mary Dyer against Cliff & Linda Plaisted with Steve Cantley. The former got off to a quick start & stayed in front, securing the title 17-5.

In the Mixed Pairs Graham Shoots & Ann Marie Robertson (Emerald Isle) took on Cliff Plaisted & Carol Broomfield (San Miguel).

This was an evenly matched game and came down to the Emerald Isle pair needing 4 on the final end which they were unable to score leaving the final score 21-13 to San Miguel.

Ladies Pairs saw Gail Willshire & Lynn Greenland (San Miguel) play Sally Cordell & Ann Eagle (Greenlands). The San Miguel ladies were always in control & took the honours 22-9.

Mens Pairs was Terry Morgan & Peter Morgan (Quesada) against Noel Davis & Fred Willshire (San Miguel). Unfortunately, the San Miguel pair never got into their stride & the title went to Quesada 15-7.

The first of the 2 premier events the Ladies singles was an eagerly awaited match, pitching last year’s Champion Mary Dyer (San Miguel) against the 2008 Champion Peta Rhodes (Emerald Isle). Both had already played a team discipline final in the morning.

The early ends were close with Mary leading 4-2 after 4 ends. Peta then picked up 9 shots

in 3 ends to lead 11-4. This gave her momentum & despite some great bowls played by Mary, Peta took the 2019 title 21-8.

The Men’s Singles was a great game to watch (and mark). Peter Morgan (Quesada) against Drew Gerrard (Emerald Isle). After 5 ends it was 5 all. After 13 ends it was 10 all and again after 15 ends they were all square at 12 all. Peter then took control and although Drew kept drawing close Peter always managed to produce the winning bowl each end until he became 2019 Champion 21-12.

Following the finals the Presentations were made by José M. Butrón Sánchez (Alcalde of Los Montesinos) and Ana Belén Juarez Pastor, (Sports Councillor Los Montesinos) to the winners of the Mixed Fours & Mixed Triples. Ruth Compton (Andalucian Delegado) presented the prizes to the Mixed Pairs. Justo (on behalf of the owners of Greenlands) presented the Mens Pairs while Neil Reardon, representing to tournaments major sponsor, Linea Directa, presented prizes to the winners and runners up in the Ladies Pairs competition. The Mens & Ladies Singles were presented by Lewis Mendel of Kameeleon who sponsored both events. Both Champions were presented with a gift by the owners of Greenlands Complex.

Competition winners with Peter Morgan and Peta Rhodes in the centre of the front row Margaret Morrison and Suzie Cooper

Bob Donnelly thanked both venues for allowing their greens to be used for the tournament. The coordinators at both venues who were presented with a gift of thanks. Carol Broomfield who was Assistant Competition Secretary during the event and finally Suzi Cooper (Competition Secretary) for all the work before & during the event.

The tournament was then closed with the playing of the Spanish National anthem & the lowering of the Spanish flag.

Greenlands complex laid on a buffet for players, officials and VIPs with live entertainment to complete the tournament.

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Sponsored by The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, Lounge D, Rogers, La Piazza and The Belfry.

Anne Marie Robertson and Carol Broomfield were opponents in the Final of the Mixed pairs

Social Club check out our website: www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com. We are also on Facebook

PHOTO Allen Bowen

In loving memory of Mr La Marina.

Phillip Aidan Morris Never to be forgotten From his loving wife Joan

Pauline and Barry Woodfine

La Piazza Day Thursday 23rd May saw our first La Piazza Day at Monte Mar on a very hot May day. Twelve teams of trips took part playing two games of nine ends, with an hours break in between.

After a competitive mornings bowling the winners were Sheila Roberts, Michael Williams skip Barrie Woodfine.

After the competition we all enjoyed a lovely meal and a few drinks at La Piazza. As Pauline and Barrie Woodfine are returning to the UK at the end of June the chairman Chris Harding presented Pauline Woodfine with a bouquet of flowers from the club.

Chris wished Pauline and Barrie good luck and thanked them for all the support they had given to the club over the years they had been members.

He also added they would be missed at Monte Mar and all the clubs on the Costa Blanca.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and

HORADADA BOWLS CLUB by Irene Graham No League matches again this week. Horadada Bowls Club had their Annual Presentation Lunch in The Chef at Mil Palmeras. Lovely restaurant with beautiful sea views. An excellent meal served by very friendly staff. All-in-all a great afternoon. A huge thanks goes to Tracey Paffett and Ken Barber for organising this event.

Runners-up: Rinks – Jenny Davis, Tracey Paffett, Peter Davis and Ken Barber, Triples – Carol Linehan, Jack Linehan and Bryan Eatough, Mixed Pairs – Tracey Paffett and Ken Barber, Ladies Pairs – Janet Jukes and Doreen Hartner, Mens Pairs – Les Davies and Mick Kirby, Ladies Singles – Debbie Perryman, Mens Singles – John Goddard

Winners: Rinks – Judith Simpson, Colin Simpson, Carol Linehan and Jack Linehan, Triples – Janet Jukes, Mark Jukes and Barry Evans, Mixed Pairs – John Goddard and Sheila Westwood, Ladies Pairs – Irene Graham and Margaret Odell, Mens Pairs – Alan Miller and Barry Evans, Ladies Singles – Carol Linehan, Mens Singles – Mark Jukes This year the Most Improved Player Reward went to Mark Jukes Very well done to all our winners and hopefully all the runners-up will be in the winning position next year.

Horadada offers a warm welcome to new or experienced bowlers, and provides the necessary equipment. Our roll-up days for this friendly club are Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings. Please contact Fred Trigwell on 659139129 for more information.

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Cadena Sunrise Bowling Wk 31 The Bandits Alley Gators S***T Happens Sunrise Colegias Strike Force

6 0 4 4 8

Top Performers Ladies High Game

-

2 8 4 4 0

Monday 27th May - Sunday 2nd June, 2019

Mike ProBert talks golf

Yvonne Rouffignac 199 Yvonne Rouffignac 259 Sue Walsh 520 Yvonne Rouffignac 680

High Game High Game Hcap High Series High Series Hcap

Gazza Walsh 198 Barry Hill 244 Barry Hill 541 Barry Hill 637

Men

Team Strike Force S***T Happens Sol Amigos Alley Cats Alley Gators Spare Bears The Spares Sunrise Colegias Pin Pals Pin Pushers 999's The Bandits

P 93 93 93 93 93 90 93 93 93 90 93 93

W 74 73 72 66 64 63 61 59 55 54 48 46

D 1 0 0 1 1 0 3 0 1 1 2 0

Carp-R-Us. Carp-R-Us fished round two of their Summer Series took place on the Eden stretch of the Rio Segura. Once more the level of water on this stretch is quite low and, at the moment, the surface is covered with scum, but the water is alive with fry, which is hopefully a good sign for the future. Fishing was quite slow but everyone ended up catching, with Dave Sutton running out winner with 2.15kg caught from peg 10 on the feed-

L 49 51 52 57 59 57 60 65 68 65 74 78

Tot 50945 51807 51425 50546 50127 50927 50042 50630 50198 50332 49616 49427

Ave Pts 547 149 557 146 552 144 543 133 539 129 546 126 538 125 544 118 539 111 540 109 533 98 531 92

er with pellet and corn. Second was Steve Collins with 1.85kg from peg 13 with Steve Fell third with 1.55kg (peg 12) and Tom Marshall fourth with 0.95kg from peg 11.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-rus.weebly.comor on our Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca. Anyone wishing to join the club should contact Steve Fell either through the website or on 634 379 081.

El Plantio 2 Golf Society Welcoming light rain greeted the eight members of El Plantio 2 as they competed in a Pairs Texas Scramble. Conditions improved but never reached the hot temperatures recently attained. The competition was very close with 3 shots covering the four teams.

Nearest the pins – Hole 1, Ray Housley and Hole 4, Mike Williams.

Second place, Handicap 7.2 - Ray Housley, Bryan Watson – 52.8 shots.

First place , Handicap 6.7 – Alistair Douglas, Janice O'Brien – 51.3 shots..

If anyone would like to join our Society, we play at El Plantio Golf Club every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. We use both courses - the Par 3 nine hole course and the main 18 hole course, so we cater for all abilities. Membership rates are very competitive, so call for info..

Anyone who wishes to play in the Society as a guest or join as a new member, contact David Swann on 865 779 983 or 648 476 752.

Pictured above from L to R: Ray Housley, Bryan Watson, Alistair Douglas, Janice O'Brien, Mike Williams.

19

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) it closed there were plans for an oil industry business to purchase the golf courses but this never materialised BUT I have been informed that there is work currently taking place on the golf courses and again will keep you informed of any developments.

Campoamor have for many years had repeated problems with their greens due to the ingress of other grasses and they have now decided to work on all the greens from the 5th August to 15th October 2019 and effectively the course will be closed for this period however from 1st September to 15th October holes 10 to 18 will have temporary greens which will be flags on the fairway.

Alley Cats The Spares 999's Sol Amigos Pin Pals

High Game Hcap High Series High Series Hcap

www.theleader.info

La Marquesa have decided to re-structure the greens on the 10th and 13th holes and this work will take place between the 13th May and 31st August 2019 but in preparation they have re-laid two good temporary greens which will result in limited disruption to the golfers round.

La Peraleja closed three years ago and there have been rumours that an offer had been made for the golf course, clubhouse and some land but as yet nothing has developed in this respect but we will keep you informed of any developments.

Golf Course Alenda Alicante Altorreal Bonalba Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio Font Del Llop La Finca La Marquesa La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero New Sierra Golf Roda Villamartin Villaitana Poniente Vistabella

Mosa Trajectum closed even earlier and was probably the hardest course to play in this area when it opened to the public in 2005. Before

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

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 available to you until 31 May. Around and About the Courses Periodically we keep our readers informed of things taking place at our local golf courses and below is a brief summary of these current activities:

Marabu Golf Society New Sierra Golf 23rd May In association with Costa Blanca Green Fee Services For this month’s meeting a group of 29 players visited the established course at New Sierra Golf taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

The weather was beautiful and the course in good condition and is developing well since the re-opening a few years ago and is well worth a game.

The winning scores on the day were as follows: Gold Division 1st – Anne Pardoe – 37 points 2nd – Tony Robson – 36 points Silver Division 1st – Steve Hanaway – 31 points 2nd – Morten Kristenson - 30 pts Bronze Division 1st – Jim Speakman – 31 points 2nd – Terry Moseley – 28 points NTP – Mason,Robson,Fanning Dog of a Day – Mick Martin Football Card – Rod Allen and Steve Mathers After the game we returned to Broadway Uptown Quesada, which is located at Pueblo Brava, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their continued support.

Next up is our annual away trip to Benidorm on the 10th and 11th June followed by the society day at Font del Llop on 27th June.

Price €146 €110 €120 €130 €114 €110 €134 €128 €42 €39 €99 €104 €144 €82 €100 €110 €66 €122

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Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee from 2pm Single Green Fee Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (from 3.30pm) Two Players and Buggy Single Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON Last Thursday saw the coming together of 180 players and guests for the EURONICS DARTS THURSDAY LEAGUE annual presentation held at Restaurant Los Cucalos.

The evening was organised by the committee, Chairman Alan Nash, Secretary Tracey Betteridge, Treasurer and sponsor Debbie Wright and Trophy and raffle organiser Gilly Kirby.

Simone de Lacy ran the blind darts competition, always popular on the night and Russ was our DJ.

Also, a special thanks to our many helpers on the night. After our three course dinner came the presentations to all the worthy winners detailed below.

A big thank you to our main sponsor Debbie Wright, Euronics, Blue Lagoon and Paul Lock 24 hour auto locksmith. A big thanks to the bar owners, some captain's and Cheryl McGlynn for their raffle donations.

The committee would like to thank all the teams for their participation this season and look for-

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ward to meeting you all again next time.

Division A – El Capitan /Runners Up – The Hub Division B – Chemies Loungers / Runners Up – Angels Bar Auxiliary Team – Chemies Loungers / Runners Up – Las Rosas Team K.O. – El Capitan - Runners Up / Hi Life Bar Men's Pairs – Hugh Galloway & Graham Solomon (Jackals) / Runners Up - Aroldas & Edmundas Klimonis (El Capitan) Ladies Pairs – Jan Hassall & Lesley Dolling (Hub Hellraisers) / Runners Up – Pat Schofield & Wendy Tranter (Jaguars) Men's Singles – Edmundas Klimonis (El Capitan) / Runner Up – Jordan Johnson (Alex House) Ladies Singles – Sonya Cooper (Petas’ Bar) / Runner Up Yvonne Rouffignac (Trinity Bar) Ladies Merit – Hennie Oortwijn (Chemies Chicks, Men's Merit – Jordan Johnson (Ale House) Team Merit – Jaguars, Most 180's – Nigel Justice 180'S – Paul Chick, Sid Cross, Ray Sanderson, Hugh Galloway, Graham Solomon, Andy Rutter, Lee Maiden, Paul Durrant, Barry Shingler, Owen Attwood, Jordan Johnson, Alan Havelock, Phil Husband, Adrian Buitekaht, Jem Gledhill, Jim Storey, John Walker,Eric Manders, Phil Waller, Dave Wright, Nigel Justice Auxilliary League Winners

EL CAPITAN also won the Team KO Cup

The JAGUARS won the Team Merit Award

180 winners

CD Murada (pictured) gained promotion to the Preferente over two legs after defeating La Eliana 2-1 (first leg) and drawing 3-3 (second leg) in the play off Ascenso Preferente (Vuelta) to make club history, having finished second behind champions AC Torrelana in the Valenciana 1st Regional Group 8.

FISHY 'own goal'. A former foreign international and English club goalkeeper was concerned of a fishy taste in his mouth. When asked by his manager if he'd taken any daily health capsules, the goalie revealed he'd taken Cod liver oil. To which the manager and members of coaching staff burst into tears at the nonplused stopper!

RACING San Miguel are awaiting news from the Valenciana FA in the wake of players being allegedly unruly poached away from the Vega Baja town's club by opposition clubs, during the 2018-19 campaign.

ACADEMIC. An English football club manager told me the story when a player was wanted on loan by a club across the border in Scotland.

The manager made a telephone call to the teenage player's mother, telling her of the interest in her

All photos by Gilly Kirby

son joining Scottish club Hamilton Academical.

There was however concern by the player's mother, who replied: "I'm a little worried about him going there - as he's not very 'academical'!".

PAUL Gascoigne, the former England, Newcastle United, Spurs, Gers and Lazio star, is set to visit Spain this summer in an 'evening with' event.

Gaza, who celebrates his 52nd birthday on May 27, capped 57 times, who is appearing at Orihuela La Zenia Costa Resort on June 24, said: "Looking forward to Spain on my hollies. Love Gaza xxx".

CD MONTESINOS will hold their AGM at Bar Casa Pepe, Los Montesinos, on May 27 at 8.00pm.

The club are interested in hearing opinions at the meeting, with an announcement being made following the appointment of a new President and Committee.

The club also announced there may be alterations to the team and management staff for the 2019-20 season. A new astro turf pitch has been completed at the Municipal Stadium, following support from Los Montesinos Town Hall.

It is understood most of the existing 'Full Monte' Committee will retain their posts. However every

position is open for election or re-election, underlining votes being of upmost importance.

PAUPER footballers will be going 'cap in hand' this summer in the wake of hundreds of players from the lower echelons of English football being released by their relevant clubs in a players' annual clear out.

Players average wages in the EFL League 2 (not including appearances and bonuses) are £1,300 to £1,500 a week. In League 1 average players wages are £1,700-2,500 PW; with Championship average wages £7,000-8,000 PW. In contrast Premier League average wages are £50-300,000 PW, with top earners earning weekly pay packets reportedly of £400-500,000.

RAISING The Coffin (pictured) is a traditional burial/resurrection procession undertaken by fans of Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End, with a coffin lowered into a pub vault, when relegated; and risen again, upon gaining promotion.

The Raising of the Coffin dates back to 1948 following Blackburn Rovers relegation from the old division 2, when a local greengrocer packed a coffin with vegetables, and buried it.

CD MURADA

The last 'raising' took place in 2018 at the Trades Hall cellar, Bamber Bridge, Preston, when Rovers were promoted back to the Championship.

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Nothing is impossible for Zoe! Exclusive interview with Zoe Connelly ahead of the National Open Water Spanish Championships in Banyoles in June.

ZOE Connelly was successful in almost every sea swim she entered in the 2018 Open Water season during May and September.

"The last year has been extremely busy in my final year of Bachillrato," said Zoe, from Los Montesinos, Alicante.

"My swimming has been put on hold slightly during exams - but I managed to compete at different local, regional and some national level," said Zoe. Zoe, offered several Unconditional offers to study Law at Durham, Bristol or Nottingham University, and has accepted the offer from Durham.

"Hopefully I will be joining the Durham University Performance swimming squad, when it commences in September," said Zoe. After finishing third in the Junior category Oceanman 10km Benidorm in late April, Zoe will be swimming in National Open Water Spanish Championships in Banyoles on June 15.

"This last year has been one of the biggest challenges for me, trying to combine my continual Bachillerato examinations throughout the year, and now, intense study for my final year exams," said Zoe. "I have tried hard to combine this with my Open water, fins and normal swimming training and competitions.

"But at times my exams have had to take priority, which has proved valuable, as I have just accepted an Unconditional Offer to study Law at Durham University in the UK," said Zoe. "The course starts in September and will offer me an option to have a year studying in Europe as well," said Zoe. "Swimming is extremely important to me and I am still very dedicated. For the last four years I have travelled to Elche, 100 km a day, to get to training and have still found time for my studies," said Zoe. "However, this year has been a challenge trying to fit everything in! Yet I’ve still managed to qualify for Regional and National competitions as well as being selected for the Regional Squad," said Zoe. "Even though exams have interrupted my training I still feel ready for the upcoming open water season - summer 2019," said Zoe. "I have just started the 2019 season with 3rd place in the 10km Oceanman Benidorm competition, 3rd in the 5.5km Altea Mediterranean Challenge and 1st in the 1500m Isla de Mazarron Travesia," said Zoe.

LaMangaTorre CC suffer defeat against Madrid 1st

By Andrew Atkinson LaMangaTorre CC suffered a seven wicket defeat in their second T20 game of 2019 against Madrid 1st.

Captain Kieran Wood won the toss and elected to bat first, partnering C.Rumi in opening the batting.

LaMangaTorre CC went looking for an early attack, to avoid being pinned down early, with 32 being hit from the first four overs.

The runs slowed down, with overs going for three to six runs, with the first wicket falling when a full toss saw C.Rumi hit the ball well - but straight to mid on - for a simple catch.

A few glares for a no-ball call were made, the umpire raising a finger LaMangaTorre CC

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"My goal in the upcoming year is “Nothing is impossible” to improve upon my previous says Zoe achievements and try new disciplines if available to me at Durham University, to compliment my swimming," said Zoe. "I want to compete in the UK swimming circuit, both as an individual and as part of a team. I also want improve upon my personal bests," said Zoe. "I intend to continue swimming and wish to be an active part of the Durham University Swimming team," added Zoe. Zoe's best achievements in the ast year: 6th – 400m Bi-Fins Alicante 2018 - Spanish National Fins and Mono-Fins Championships; 3rd – Oceanman Junior 10km Benidorm 2019 – qualifying for the World Oceanman 10km final in Mexico Sept 2019.

2nd – Oceanman Junior 10km Tabarca Sea Swim 2018 – qualifying for the World Oceanman 10km final in Dubai 2018. Due to the cost Zoe was unable to go to Dubai.

3rd – Spanish National Open Water Circuit Junior category 2018. Selected for the Regional Valencian Absoluto Team Bi-fins swimming, 2018 and 2019.

Participating in the XXV and XXVI Spanish National Absoluto Fins Championships.

Selected for the Elche Club Natacion squad for the prestigious National “Copa de Clubs” in the Division of Honour 2018.

"Throughout the summer sea swimming season of 2018 I was placed in 1st or 2nd position in the 15 open water competitions I participated in across the south of Spain," said Zoe. "The distances I raced varied from 2km up to 10kms. I think now I prefer the longer distances and I am looking to try and get a place in the 12km Santa Pola to Tabarca Travesia 2020, but competitors are drawn by raffle and this year I did not get a place," said Zoe. "The diversity of these different swimming disciplines has given me the opportunity to improve many aspects of my swimming, personality and leadership skills," said Zoe. "Open water swimming has been a welcomed challenge - as I have proven to myself how much I can achieve with perseverance and dedication," said Zoe. "I have proved to myself nothing is impossible - if you try hard enough. And I want to continue this ethos at University," said Zoe.

to see the end of C.Rumi.

C. Gara came in at 3, and tried to tap the ball into gaps for singles, but three overs later tried doing too much, hitting the ball back to the bowler, for a catch.

G. Neve came in at 4 and got off the mark straight away, keeping the singles ticking with K.Wood.

Trying to go aggressive and up the run rate saw G.Neve caught at long on; and 3 balls later K.Wood was caught at long off (68/4 (12 overs).

Two new batsmen came in, with T. Knowles and P. Singh. The next over saw T. Knowles chipping the ball kindly to covers - bringing in P.Fletcher.

The 16th over saw the fall of P. Singh, falling victim to another full toss, caught, which was questioned for a no-ball - but ignored by the umpire, ending in P.Singh walking. C.Wood went in.

P. Fletcher took the spotlight with a nice display of hard hitting and quick running.

The last four overs went for 24 runs, with the last ball of the innings seeing P. Fletcher bowled, bringing the total to 109/7 (20 overs).

LaMangaTorre CC batting performance scores: K.Wood (34) and P.Fletcher (22).

LaMangaTorre CC had a massive change in tactics, as Madrid went in to bat. K.Wood turned his arm over in the first over, with Mr.Chairman H.James.

A costly couple of overs from K. Wood saw him quickly replaced for P. Singh, as he claimed a wicket through a top edge going high in the air and keeper T. Knowles getting under it and taking it. 32/1 (5 overs).

The new partnership grew gradually with H. James and P. Singh continuing the pressure.

The breakthough came in the tenth

over, when the bowling change of A. Court forced the batsmen to sky the ball to cow corner, where P. Fletcher made a nice catch, when sliding across the floor. 62/2 (10 overs).

Some big hitting saw the runs continue for opener J. Nicholas.

A. Court struck again, when a slower ball wasn't picked up, clean bowling J. Woodward.

The runs ticked along, with C. Wood coming on to bowl, to see if he could shine some light and lift the team.

However it was too little too late, as opener J. Nicholas hit a four to win the game and to bring up his 52*.

LaMangaTorre CC suffering defeat, by 7 wickets.

"LaMangaTorre CC took positive thinking in defeat, with some fine performances," captain Kieran Wood told The Leader. *Pinatar played Levante, with the former batting first in both games, putting on 181, only to have Levante chase the score on both occasions.

Man Utd keeper De Gea in Elche to meet boyhood hero David de Gea was in Elche at the weekend, although in the stands rather than between the sticks, as he attended the club’s 3-0 Segunda victory against Tenerife with his father and the United goalkeeper coach Emiliano Alvarez who is also a former Elche coach.

De Gea is a member of Elche CF supporters club, along with his father, and gets along to watch them whenever he can.

De Gea said that he was delighted to see Elche win and took time to have a photo taken with Nino - one of his boyhood idols.

At 38, Nino is still playing for Elche as he closes in on the 400 game mark with the club.

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San Miguel Golf Society at Vistabella Rubys GS In theory a shotgun start should begin with a big bang but 33 members and 8 guests fired off their opening tee-shots in eerie silence, an ominous sign that the Noise Abatement Society has a Spanish branch.

The Vikings conquered swathes of England, France and Russia (Scottish editor’s note: they lost to the Scots at the Battle of Largs 1263). To this list we can add Vistabella after our own Viking – Norwegian Kyree Skarsmoen – topped the scoring with a whopping 42 points. An incredible achievement but sadly 5 points shy of the All Bandit Comers record of 47, shot earlier this year.

Mick Roscoe’s 39 was wonderful too, especially noteworthy for churning out eleven 3’s on his card. Consistently scoring net par after net par has earned him the moniker “The Grinder”. Barry Lane’s impressive 38 seemed rather paltry in the circumstances but well done to him and the other prize-winners.

At the presentation, the ego of Gold Division players needed serious massaging after it emerged that none of them managed to get on the green at the par 3 11th. The pain of the elite was palpable (as was the sniggering of the lower orders).

Winning results, by category and in reverse order: Bronze Category: 4th Mike Jordan (35 on CB), 3rd Keith Wickham (36 on CB), 2nd Norman Padmore (36 on CB), 1st Mick Roscoe (39) Silver Category: 4th Rod Wilcox (34), 3rd David Gibson (35), 2nd Brian Mulligan (37), 1st Kyree Skarsmoen (42)

Ivie Davis Memorial Trophy day

Gold Category: 4th Hugh Reilly (32), 3rd David Alderdice (37), 2nd Denis Ryan (37 on CB) and 1st Barry Lane with 38 points.

Nearest the pins (sponsored by Property Shop): Hole 2 John Rose, Hole 7 Kyree Skarsmoen, Hole 15 Norman Cahill Abacus (sponsored by Mike Kaylor’s IPTV): Adrian Roberts Best Guest: Andy McDonald (38). Second Best Guest: Keith Little (33 on CB). Third Best Guest: Mike Jones (33 on CB) Our thanks go to all staff at Vistabella for their contribution to the day. Next week we will be at Altoreal, then on following weeks at Villamartin and Lo Romero. Keep up to date with all SMGS matters by logging on to our website www.smgs.org or simply give Captain Tony Smale a call on 628 227 687.

Young Sportsmen honoured by Orihuela City Two young sportsmen were welcomed to the Orihuela Sala del Oriol last week by the mayor Emilio Bascuñana, where they received institutional recognition by signing the Orihuela Book of Honour, José David Menargues Manzanares and Jesús Teruel Oltra.

José David, a member of the Under-17 Spanish National Football Team is from the hamlet of Desamparados. He has recently taken part in the European U-17 championship from which the team achieved qualification for the next World Cup to be played in Brazil.

He plays right and central side defence and was with CD Beniel from prebenjamín until alevín.

He then went to Real Murcia and currently plays for Valencia Club de Fútbol.

Jesús Teruel, meanwhile, is a national shooting champion. He has won the Sports Weapons Federation Cup, the Autonomic Championship and the Presidential Cup of the Valencian Federation, as well as the individual category of the Provincial Olympic Shooting Championship of Alicante.

The mayor conveyed his congratulations to both

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May 17th saw us travel to Font Del Llop for our monthly Trophy game and also to play for the Ivie Davis Memorial Trophy. The weather was fine and sunny but there was a very strong wind which did not make the golf any easier, however there was some surprisingly good scores returned.

The course was in excellent condition and 24 players pitted their skills against each other, the course, and the wind which was very testing. The results were as follows; Nearest the pin on the

athletes for their achievements "and for promoting the name of Orihuela in each their sports.”

Our next Trophy game is at Hacienda Requielme on the 14th June any one wishing to join us for this or any other game should email us at rubysgolf@yahoo.co.uk

The silver division winner was Gleny's Thomas and the overall winner on the day taking the Ivie Davis Memorial Trophy was Tim Goldsmith. Back at the

Las Ramblas Golf Society w/c 20.5.19 A waltzer 1-2-3 kicked off the week and in 1st place, with 88 points, were Nigel Price, Hendrick Oldenziel, Olga Douglas and a very in form Albert.

38. Four ‘2’s today with Ron Phipps getting two of them. The others went to Dave Pulling and Olga Douglas. My own claim to fame was chipping in for par two days on the trot!

You may remember I once wrote an article about Hendrick and his days as a footballer with Ajax in Holland. I was intrigued therefore to learn that Trevor Pulleyblank enjoyed a number of years in his youth as a professional goalkeeper back in the UK.

I’m sure once all the sums have been done I’ll be able to report on the final leader board although Mike Chapman is looking favourite.

Although never quite making the 1st team he was ‘on the books’ with (amongst others) Southampton, Brighton, Barnet, Wycombe Wanderers, Elgin City and in his own words, ‘anyone who would have me!’ After many hours of work from my research team we were finally able to find a picture of Trevor in action which we are pleased to publish across.

José David signing the Book of Honour

bar where we did the presentation the football card winners were Alex Bolton and Bill Peters.

par 3's were Steve Marsh, Tony Harrison, Bill Peters, John Geoghegan and Buck Taylor, nearest the pin in two ( hitting against the wind) was Bill Peters.

Wednesday saw the sixth and final round of our ‘Eclectic Joker’ Stableford. Today’s winner, with an outstanding 46 points, was Ron Phipps, followed by Annemarie Weisheit who managed to rake in 44. Third place, with 40 points went to Mike Chapman followed by Dave Pulling and Trevor (The Cat) Pulleyblank on countback with

Lady Buttons 'Oscars' TBA awards fantastic, says trainer Phil Kirby LADY Buttons has been honoured in the 2018-19 Thoroughbred Breeders Association awards after a successful season: "It is fantastic that Lady Buttons has received awards at the Thoroughbred Breeders Assosciation ‘Oscars’," said trainer Phil Kirby.

"Lady Buttons won the Best British Bred Mare Chaser of 2018-19 - and the Best British Mare Hurdler too!", said a delighted Phil, based at East Appleton, Catterick, in Yorkshire.

"It was a celebration of Lady Buttons Grade 2 win and two Listed wins - plus her superb Newbury Handicap win - and finishing second at Aintree, under top weight," said Phil, who moved to his purpose-built yard in 2016.

The yard consists of over 100 acres, has a self-built gallop and barns, which stable over 90 horses. The stables have a plethora of paddocks.

The gallops provide, both All-weather and turf gallops, along with National Hunt schooling fences.

Phil, who has held a training licence since 2006, and wife Pippa, have been

The best two scores from four and all on the par 3’s was Friday’s format. With a nice round 100 points our winners were Lindsay Forbes, Tom Hardie, Dave Pulling and that man again Ron Phipps.

Y por ultimo, in the words of Harry Vardon, ‘Don’t play too much golf. Two rounds a day are plenty’.

Pues, hasta la semana que viene, Peter Reffell

involved with horses all their lives.

Flat and National Hunt trainer Phil and Pippa, an accomplished horsewoman and professional artist, have had their most successful season to date during the 2018-19 campaign.

Lady Buttons - tipped by The Leader - won for the fourth consecutive time in a first Graded success in the olbg.com Yorkshire Rose Mares’ Hurdle at Doncaster in January, under conditional jockey Tommy Dowson.

"Lady Buttons has been a star," said Phil.

"Huge congratulations goes to Keith and Jayne Sivills’s, who bred Lady Buttons, as well as own her," said Phil, who resides on the premises with his family, along with some members of staff.

Lady Buttons with stable companions at Phil Kirby East Appleton racing stables.

Andrew Atkinson's racing news & tips Online at www.theleader.info

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