The Leader Newspaper Edition 768

No 768

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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Serving the community, in print and online, for over 15 years - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

Orihuela begins compulsory purchase of the Paseo Bellavista

he Orihuela government has begun the expropriation of the stretch of the promenade that runs through the Bellavista 1 urbanisation of Cabo Roig.

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Acting Deputy Mayor, Rafael Almagro, says that the City Council wants to reach a friendly economic agreement with the owners, in setting a fair price.

However the urbanisation residents continue to oppose the

measure, insisting that the council build a new pathway in front of, and under, the cliff face.

The 30 metre section that is under dispute, and which was opened by the council in 2015, following a public campaign

spearheaded by The Leader Newspaper, affects just 7 ground and 7 first floor apartments, all of which are only used on an occasional basis, purely as holiday accommodation.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE EXPROPRIATION OF PASEO BELLAVISTA

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A Community appeal in 2016 to the Contentious Administrative Court in Elche subsequently found in favour of the owners and against the council, nullifying the resolutions adopted when it was shown that the Paseo Bellavista I Residential was a private path, belonging to the urbanisation above the cliff, and was never in the public domain.

But next to involve themselves in the dispute was the Provincial Coastal Service, which in May 2017, announced that the land in Aguamarina is a coastal right of way and, therefore, could not be closed by the urbanisation, a situation that is still being contested in the Provincial courts today.

Now the Oriolan council says that it intends to reach an economic agreement with the owners of the urbanisation to execute the purchase of that stretch of walkway that runs in front of the 14 holiday apartments, and that has been used exclusively by them to access their homes for many years, before the demolition of the gateway and the wall that blocked public passage.

Almagro, who is also responsible for the Planning Department, explained that "I have already issued an order for the expropriation to be made, but I would rather an economic solution be reached so that this section of the seafront walkway can be brought into municipal ownership."

Until 2015, the 30 metre section of the Aguamarina and Cabo Roig walkway in question, remained closed to the public due to the installation of a wall, forcing anyone wishing to walk along the front or to the beach, a detour of about two kilometres.

One of the owners, Henrik Wiik-Hansen said that. "In the summer more than 2,000 people pass along the walkway each day."

Now the affected owners say that they continue to reject the expropriation and propose an alternative

solution that will require the authorities to build a pathway structure along the front of the cliff face, enabling their top pathway to remain in private hands.

They say that they have commissioned surveyors, who estimate the price of expropriation at 700,000 euros, while the estimated cost of building the walkway in front of the cliff, and which land they are willing to give free of charge, would be about 200,000 euros plus VAT. "It will cost the Town Council less to build a new section along the cliff face than to expropriate the private pathway, says Henrik Wiik-Hansen, spokesman for the residents of Bellavista I. The solution proposed by the owners is not accepted by the Provincial Coastal Service, however, according to Almagro. "We asked about that proposal but we were told that you cannot not build anything on the cliff face. It would not be allowed. So the suggestion has now been discarded and the only solution is to reach an agreement with the urbanisation or go ahead with the expropriation,” said the deputy mayor.

Henrik Wiik-Hansen said that the community of owners had commissioned a study by a technical architect and an expert appraiser who calculated a 30,000 euros decrease in value of the apartments if the expropriation of the path is carried out, or if the walkway remains open.

So according to my maths, if the owners accept their own expert appraisers valuation, the claim for the 14 properties should be rather less at 420,000 euros.

However on the occasions that I have visited the properties to question the owners, the apartments have all been locked up and uninhabited, so just how much of an inconvenience are they really suffering?

The question would appear to be, “Why should 14 occasional holiday apartment owners be allowed to hold hundreds of thousands of pedestrians, residents, holidaymakers and their families, to ransom over a 30 metre stretch of coastal walkway”?

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019 It will cost you 1200 euros for a photoshoot at “The Pink Lake”

A landscape that comes with a price Grupo Salins, the company that manages the salt lakes in Torrevieja, is cashing in on the appeal of the pink lagoon in advertising campaigns and photoshoots, charging potential photographers and production company’s one thousand two hundred euros for three and a half hours of filming.

This of course is just the basic fee and doesn’t include extras such as working in the evening, Saturdays, Sundays or holidays, or the number of vehicles that can enter the industrial complex.

That's what it costs to share the exclusive images of the pink lagoon and the huge mountains of salt in the foreground. It is the "rate" requested by the Grupo Salins for the use of land and facilities within the scope of its saltlake concession. A spokesperson said that the access prices reflect the interest of large companies wishing to use this singular landscape, of unquestionable value, for campaigns featuring their products or promotions.

The saltworks of Torrevieja, a coveted place for brands Who would have thought that the Salineros, who in previous times called the lagoon "el pudco", could charge such amounts for the 1,400 hectares of water, on which you can almost walk because of the buoyancy produced by the saturation in salt. In recent years the lagoon

appears to have become an icon for travellers and point of attraction for exotic baths, although in recent weeks they have been outlawed by the Generalitat.

However, the salt company seem reticent to confirm just how much additional income they are making from this new and lucrative opportunity. What we do know is that it is not an insignificant amount in a market, that of salt, where you have to fight for every penny in the international market.

And the pink lagoon is not only developed as one of the largest salt mines in Europe. This year - before the torrential rains in April, it was expected to produce 600,000 tons. Now, the saturation of extremophiles microorganisms, the only thing that can live in its waters, bodies that also turn the water pink, is beginning to be noticed by many of the big brands who are turning up in increasing numbers to use the images in their many campaigns. One such company is El Corte Inglés who have just released their Spring lines using images taken in the lagoon.

Grupo Salins is not new to the business of image and tourism, but in Torrevieja it really has hit the jackpot, having discovered this fairly new commercial diversification. In just 6 months it has also been able to attract more than 25,000 visitors with the tourist train, albeit they were recently suspended due to the rains, and with the new commercial initiative attracting production companies in increasing numbers, it now has an added windfall of with its audiovisual use of this unique pink lake scenario.

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Mayor José celebrates with Los Montesinos supporters

By Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE LOS Montesinos Mayor José Manuel Butron invited the people of the Vega Baja town to a celebratory party as a 'thank you' following the 2019 European and Local elections success.

The PSOE of Los Montesinos won the municipal elections in May with seven councillors, getting 63.56% of the votes.

Speaking to the audience on June 2 at the town's Social and Cultural club, José said: "Thank you for attending this evening and joining in with the celebrations."

The audience, which included dignatories, along with both

Presentation To Prostate Cancer UK Every year Alfie's Golf Society, La Ronda supports a charity selected by the Captain. In the season 2018 our then captain, Ian Ingledew, decided our support would go to Prostate Cancer UK.

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Alison Jolly, Helen Atkinson, Los Montesinos Mayor José Butron and Graeme Jolly.

Spanish and expats from the town, gave Mayor José a big cheer and round of applause.

Partygoers were entertained and joined in dancing, along with food and drinks being provided, in celebration of the election result, it being the PSOE's biggest percentage win in history.

Speaking exclusively to the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader newspaper, Mayor José said: "The evening was for the people of Los Montesinos.

"Thanks goes out to them for all their support in the local and national elections. I look forward to my commitment to the people of Los Montesinos for the next four years."

which is now also being used in the treatment for breast cancer.

John Brownless, who is one of the UK ambassadors for the charity Prostate Cancer UK, played golf with Alfie's on Thursday 30th May and we presented him with a cheque for €1,080.00 to this worthwhile cause.

Prostate cancer is now the largest cancer disease in the UK and now kills more people than breast cancer.

1 in 8 men will contract prostate cancer and if caught early enough can be cured 100%. The test carried out is a simple blood test which checks for levels of PSA.

The research which our donation helps to fund assists in drug development for prostate cancer

So gents if you have not been tested recently get in touch with your doctor.

The controversy continues to open historic wounds

Fuel Fixers Fined The Supreme Court has confirmed a fine of 22,590,000 euro imposed on Repsol in 2016 by the National Commission of Markets and Competition, for collusion in price fixing.

The highest court in the land confirmed the original ruling against the firm for “conducts consisting of coordination agreements and strategic information exchanges on the subject of prices in the fuel

Franco Exhumation Suspended The Supreme Court has this week suspended the exhumation of Franco, which was due to take place on Monday.

The Fourth Section of the Third Chamber of the Supreme Court unanimously decided to provisionally suspend the exhumation of the remains of Don Francisco Franco Bahamonde, on the

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grounds of potential harm and public interest.

The ruling states that the suspension is to “avoid the harm that would otherwise be caused to the appellants and, especially, to the public interests incarnated in the State and in its constitutional institutions, which would be seriously affected,” if the

remains would have to be returned in the future.

Francisco Franco Bahamonde was a Spanish general and politician who ruled over Spain as Head of State and dictator under the title Caudillo from 1939, after the nationalist victory in the Spanish Civil War, until his death in 1975.

sector in Spain.”

The appeal was raised with the technical defence that Repsol SA, who were the company cited in the case filed by the competitions board, “could not be considered the author of the infringement when the sanctioned facts were materially committed by Repsol Comercial de Productos Petrolíferos SA “, which is a subsidiary of Repsol SA. However, the Supreme Court states that “it is in accordance with the principles of personality and culpability, included in articles 24 and 25 of the Constitution, to sanction a parent company as the author of collusive behaviour constituting infringements of competition materialised by a company.”

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ARE YOUR SAVINGS STILL IN THE UK? Many people who have moved to Spain do not want to bring all their savings and investments with them to this country.

Spanish banks do not have a great track record and then there is currency question – Sterling or convert to Euros?

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As a Spanish tax resident there are a number or products offered by some of the worlds’ largest financial institutions specifically tailored to meet your investment needs.

Indeed, one such provider, Prudential International, have a Spanish tax compliant savings bond that outperforms the UK equivalent simply because of the taxation treatment.

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

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Cleaning the Sea The Habaneras shopping centre in Torrevieja has launched a poignant display, coinciding with World Environment Day, of a shark ingesting plastic litter.

Using the hashtag #YoSoyTorrevieja, the campaign aims at raising awareness of waste, particularly plastic, and the harm it does to the marine environment.

The Habaneras shark is made from wire mesh and is doubling us as a receptacle for plastic bottles, and once full, will seek to highlight the amount of deadly plastic marine creatures are investing, mostly thanks to poor disposal techniques of the planet´s human inhabitants.

The display has gone a step further and is promoting cycling as a more eco-friendly means of transport, and the use of bags for life, rather than disposable plastic. In addition, the centre is launching “Shark Patrol”, a group of volunteers who will take to the beaches and the sea and collect litter, although you don´t have to be a part of a group to do that, each and every one of us can do our bit by picking up or taking away just a single piece of litter each day, as well as our own of course.

The effects on the marine eco system may not seem to be on our doorstep, but the human destruction is going far deeper than

plastic waste disposal, for an environment that needs to be so delicately balanced.

At the moment, chemists in the area are stocking up on jellyfish sting treatments in preparation for another invasion of the coastline this year. These creatures would not normally come so close to the beach, but as overfishing is reducing their natural food supply they are forced to move to different areas, and inevitably find themselves increasingly close to the shore.

We might feel that there is nothing we can do to help Mother Nature, but just the simplest f tasks can make a difference.

Picking up litter, checking before you plant any new species that they are not invasive, shopping local to reduce our transport-based carbon footprint, using reusable bags, or not using any bags at times. Ask yourself, for

Promoting Shopping in Torrevieja example, do I really need a plastic bag for those bananas which already come with their own, natural, biodegradable packaging.

Every little helps and we can all play our part, meanwhile, go and visit the shark in Habaneras, ad remember that these beautiful creatures also live on our coastline, we don´t want to interfere with their home, any more than you would probably want them to interfere with ours.

Live from the Opera House On Tuesday, the IMF Cinema in Torrevieja will be screening a very special performance, Romeo and Juliet - Live From The Royal Opera House In London.

Shakespeare's everlasting love story is known throughout the world. Since its premiere in 1965 with The Royal Ballet, Romeo and Juliet by Kenneth MacMillan has become a modern classical ballet.

The choreography captures the emotions of the young couple when they fall in love, despite the barriers that finally trigger the tragic end of the story.

Each replenishment provides opportunities for new dancers to interpret the illfated lovers.

The whole company brings the colour and action of the Renaissance Verona, where a busy market leads too quickly in a fight with swords and a family dispute gives way to a tragedy for both the mountains and the capulets.

With music by SERGUÉI PROKÓFIEV and choreography by KENNETH MACMILLAN, this unique experience in the plush cinema is one for all the family to enjoy, although it is over 3 hours long, so might not be suitable for the littlest ones.

The show starts at 20:15 and tickets are available from the cinema.

Torrevieja is Best for Tapas A recipe deeply rooted in the Vega Baja, prepared by a restaurant in Torrevieja, is the best tapas in the entire Valencia region, according to the judges ot the regional competition, Mejor Tapa MadeinCV. The dish consists of gallo pedro, otherwise known as Zeus faber, from the Zeidae family, a deep sea pelagic fish with a laterally compressed body, served in a pot-based creamy stew and Jaime Rosell extra virgin olive oil, and was prepared by chef José Luis Cases from the Rincón de Capis de Torrevieja.

The competition, which officially closes on Sunday, is intended to “promote the culture of the Valencian region through gourmet products made with local produce.”

A total of 32 small bars and restaurants took part in the final of the competition, from a total of 60 that were shortlisted.

Second place went to a restaurant in Alicante, thanks to chef Carlos Quintillán from Restaurante El Suquet de Castaños, and third place went to Valencia, with a dish prepared by Rocío Landete from Bar Jera.

It is only the second time the competition as been held and with many of the finalists coming from the cities of Valencia and Alicante, for Torrevieja to place was credit to the skills of the chef alone, but to win puts the chef in the same league as last year´s

champion, Alejandro Platero, from restaurante Saor in the regional capital.

The jury featured a combination of Michelin star-rated chefs, and gastronomy and tourism experts.

If you fancy sampling the dish from the winning chef José Luis Cases then you might have to book, as he will shortly be leaving for The Hague to participate in the World Tapas Competition, which will be held on June 27.

Despite many local retailers suffering from the domination of the likes of the Habaneras and the Zenia Boulevard shopping centres in recent years, there has been a new revival of local stores in Torrevieja, and now, a major bank is getting behind small businesses with a campaign to promote their use.

“We believe in Torrevieja”, is the reassuring slogan of the campaign promoted by the Sabadell bank chain, an institution that took over the local favourite CAM bank, and others, following the financial crisis.

Now, through this campaign, they are offering prizes to shoppers just for using the local stores in the town.

For the whole of June, if you shop in any of the participating stores, you get the chance to enter a prize draw where you can win 3,000 euro to spend in the local shops. This campaign benefits everyone, the local businesses who get the chance to promote their local goods, and the shoppers who could win big, which in turn then helps the businesses again.

The shops participating in the event will display a sticker near the door, so keep a sharp eye out for them. Once you make your purchase or purchases you need to keep the receipt, as that is what entitles you to enter. You then have until the end of September to submit as many receipts gathered during June for the chance to win big.

It´s also a competition where no one leaves empty handed, as you get a specially commissioned shopping bag, featuring iconic imagery of Torrevieja, just for taking part, so long as you´re one of the first 1,000 to enter.

You can get more information from one of the participating stores, of on the dedicated website, creemosen.com/torrevieja

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Of 13 council seats the PSOE won six councillors

OVER 60 COUNCIL EMPLOYEES TOLD TO REFUND SALARY OVERPAYMENT

The objective is to encourage the reorganization of the sector

64 municipal employees, hired by the Orihuela council within employment programs, and subsidised by the Generalitat, have been overpaid, by up to 3,000 euros each, over the last eight months and now they have been told that the money must be reimbursed.

The employees are workers from two employment training programs lasting a period of 12 months, and subsidised by the Generalitat to the tune of one million euros.

also be a meeting between all three leaders to finalise the agreement.

However the three formations have already confirmed that they are delighted to be working together.

The error was detected by Ciudadanos leader Jose Aix during a check of Council salary payments for the month of May. The

Of 13 council seats the PSOE won six councillors, PP four, Adelante San Miguel won one seat and IU also won one and while the PSOE only required the support of one of the two parties they have actually reached an agreement with both.

The total number of votes cast in the elections for all parties was 1919, a turnout of 60.69%. the sum is provided as a support subsidy in order to promote the professional activity within the sector and the contribution that it provides to tourism in the municipality.

The objective is to encourage the reorganization of the sector, to better enable its adaptation to the current situation and contribute to the diversification of its activity within the Mar Menor and the surroundings of La Manga as the drivers respond to the new challenges that will arise with the arrival of the tourist season.

Some employees will be left with as little as 100 euro per month in their pay packet because of the blunder Councillor for Human Resources, Rafael Almagro (PP), said that none of the affected workers realised they were being overpaid although according to the local Spanish press several of the employees did report the matter to their department.

However each of those overpaid will now have their salaries dramatically reduced with some now receiving only 100 euros per month.

The councillor said that the overpayment was due to human error.

Aix said that the budget, which was meant to last a year, has been exhausted in a little more than eight months. He denounced what he considers to be a lack of organization and internal checks within the City Council that "we have been suffering in Cs since we joined the municipal government in February 2017".

MURCIA GOVERNMENT COMPENSATE SAN JAVIER TAXI DRIVERS The 18 taxi registered taxi drivers in San Javier will receive 180,000 euros from the Murcia Community in compensation for their loss of earnings following the closure of the airport.

Murcia says that as one of the services most affected by the closure,

CINEMA PILAR English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada - Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday 13th June at 7pm and Saturday, 15th of JUNE at 5pm

THE FAVOURITE Early 18th century. England is at war with the French.

Nevertheless, duck racing and pineapple eating are thriving. A frail Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) occupies the throne and her close friend Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) governs the country in her stead

Cast: Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz, Nicholas Hoult, Joe Alwyn, Dur: 2hr 01min Genre: Drama. | Black Comedy. 18th Century Find us at https://goo.gl/maps/kS56en98KXF2

The Minister of Development and Infrastructure, Patricio Valverde, and the Mayor of San Javier, José Miguel Luengo, signed yesterday the collaboration agreement that includes a series of actions to support the sector and prevent their interests from being affected.

Patricio Valverde, the Minister of Development and Infrastructure, said that San Javier is a municipality with a great future, so "we continue to offer our full support to taxi professionals to undertake, expand services and also to make it easier to offer and expand."

Among the proposed actions will be the creation of a computer application, available for mobile phones, which will be promoted to facilitate the direct contracting of their services from the telephone of potential clients.

FIRST PSOE MAYOR FOR 16 YEARS IN SAN MIGUEL San Miguel de Salinas will have its first left PSOE led government for 16 years when the new council is sworn into office on 15 June.

The mayoral candidate for the PSOE and winner of the elections, Juan de Dios Fresneda, says that he has reached agreement to form a coalition with Adelante and IU and all are very much looking forward to the next four years of their administration.

Fresneda said that during the last week he has held separate meetings with the lawyer Noelia García, number one on the Adelante list and with Bienvenida Campillo, councillor of the IU. This week there will

IV REGIONAL TOURISM FAIR IN LOS MONTESINOS Los Montesinos are to host the IV regional tourism fair 2019 during September, showcasing heritage, cultural and history.

"We are delighted to host within the municipality of Los Montesinos this important showcase of tourism," Los Montesinos mayor José Manuel Butron told me.

The IV Feria Comarcal de la Turismo de la Vega Baja will take place during September 20-22, that will also feature live music.

"The participating municipalities of the Vega Baja del Segura will showcase the richness and heritage, cultural and history," said mayor José.

"Festivals and traditions, gastronomy and many other events, with activities from the different municipalities, that make up the Comarca, are offered both to the local and foreign public," said José.

The fayre will take place September 20-22

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‘You can’t take the bog from the man …’

Today I got the smell of freshly cut turf in my nostrils and I was very much taken aback by the effect it had on me. It’s been a long time! Suddenly my head was immersed in a flurry of vivid memories going all the way back to my childhood. The sensation was intense – but that’s what a smell can do to you.

The occasion was the John Keane inspired ‘Drumcree Bog Fest’. I had only gone along to support John and those involved in a local initiative.

Having been born no more than a stone’s throw from Drumcree bog, I am familiar with just about every inch of it. My earliest memory is of our own bog and accompanying my mother as she ferried bottles of tea and food to my father and whoever was toiling with him at the turf. Those idyllic days were short-lived, as from an early age my brothers and I were conscripted for duty. Tossing, footing and clamping of turf was to be our lot. Next, my brother Willie and I were promoted to ‘barrow-men’ – a much sought, ego-serving title – but back-breaking work nonetheless.

From my early teens, my ambition was to ‘get out of the bog.’ I succeeded; swopping the soft feel of bog dirt to go drilling into hard rock 2,000ft under the frozen wilds of northern Canada. Today I realise the wisdom of the old saying; ‘you can take the man from the bog- but you can’t take the bog from the man’. You can’t take the bog from me!

Today I left my car at Reilly’s gate and walked 500 metres along the road before turning left in Malone’s boreen. Johnny Fitzpatrick was directing traffic into the bog. Johnny knew I didn’t need any advice – and I was glad. Most of the people going in would not know they were on Malone’s road. If I had a sod of turf for every time I walked in that boreen, I would never have to buy another drop of oil. Once upon a time, there would not be a blade of grass on the gravel road at this time of year such was the traffic to and from the bog.

As I walked towards the crowds and the action, I found a new realisation of the beauty of the bog and especially the colour of the flower and fauna. Nature does not pause or wait to see what man’s next move is going to be.

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

FAOC, the Federación De Asociaciones De Orihuela Costa, have written to the Orihuela authorities demanding Improvements to the operation and control of the Cabo Roig Thursday Market.

Following a meeting with a group representing the market traders, representatives of the Cabo Roig y Lomas Neighbourhood association, and FAOC, they say that the Microrreserva of Punta La Glea is suffering serious deterioration, much of which can be easily fixed with the cooperation of the municipal council.

They claim that much of the waste that occurs during, and remains following the market closure, is blowing off the site and onto the

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It was like old times on the bog – with the added pleasure of background music!

Groups of neighbours could be seen in huddles everywhere; talking, telling yarns and laughing a lot. I engaged with old friends and former neighbours: people like Neddie Nolan. Neddie is great company and our respective fathers were best friends. Nolans came from the other side of the bog – but we used the same path. Neddie and I exchanged stories of a generation long since gone – and not all of them ‘bog stories!’

And then I got that whiff of sleane turf. The smell got me. I was transported back into short trousers, running into Malone’s house, where Madge always came up trumps with a slice of bread loaded with home-made blackcurrant jam. Nostalgia can be a bittersweet emotion.

On my way back out, I felt compelled to go in and view what remains of Malone’s cottage. The entire area is so overgrown now that I had difficulty finding the road gate. Rusted and warped, the gate rejected my weight as I sought to climb in. In what was once the garden – and where my father opened potato drills for his friend with a one-horse plough, I battled through furze, ferns and briars, determined to reach the walls of the house.

Nature has taken back its entitlement: Whitethorns, sally, birch and massive briars compete for space where once John Malone would be out with his hedge clippers. The door is gone. I used my arms to part branches as I crouched inside. The roof slates are gone too. The rafters rely on over-grown ivy to hold their position. The frame of a kitchen table and a couple of rusty chairs lie there undisturbed for a generation. The singing of the birds and the festival music endeavour to lift my mood, but nothing can shift my temporary feeling of sadness. I am reminded of the last words George Harrison spoke on his deathbed; “nothing lasts” I say a prayer for John and Madge and further along, I murmur microreserve and that bags, paper and other waste is scattered across the area as a result of gusts of wind.

FAOC demand Council action at Cabo Roig Market

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In the meantime the traders have already introduced their own actions to ensure that each stall holder gathers up his own waste, in order to prevent it from spreading across the area but they say that now is the time for the City Council to do its part also, as a result of which they want the local police to ensure that the correct legislation is applied to the use of plastic bags, and sanctions applied to those traders failing to do so.

They are also asking for the installation of 2 chemical toilets for the use of traders and members of the public, stating that the absence of such a basic service means that the microreserve is often used as a public latrine. They remind the council that this has been requested on several occasions during the last 4 years, without any result.

They also want a significant increase in the number of waste containers, especially for plastics and cartons, to cover the needs of merchants and they want a preliminary clean of the market site before the start of the day as they often arrive at the site

'The most peaceful place on earth' - an Irish bog! another one by the cross of my brother’s best friend, Ronan Conlon who got killed there. God rest all of them.

Things have changed greatly around Drumcree during my lifetime, but some things never change. The smell of freshly cut turf will never change – nor will the fact that ‘you can’t take the bog from the man’!

Don’t Forget Keep your face to the sunshine and you will never see the shadows.

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’. ernie’s books are available at half price, on sale from ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info. to find it littered with waste and debris.

They have also requested that the local police assign an agent to the market throughout the day in order to deter thefts from market stalls and illegal trading by ‘looky looky men’ with the consequent economic loss to the merchants who are paying a site fee in order to carry out their trade.

The FAOC demands were sent to the councillors for Markets, Security and the Environment, Dámaso Aparicio, María Dolores Rocamora and Miguel Ángel Fernández

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

The consummate entertainer Stevie Spit, the singular entertainer, helps raise 1000 euro at the Concert in the Park What a wonderful evening was had at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras last Saturday night in support of the Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the RBL Poppy Appeal.

Four hours of wonderful entertainment was led, once again, by our great champion Stevie Spit who just seems unable to say no, particularly when it comes to a charity event.

The event, labelled ‘Concert in the Park’ was attended by 150 supporters who enjoyed a chicken and chips supper, along with early evening music from the American opera singer Valerie Lynch.

Valerie was accompanied by the RBL Concert Band in Spain as, together, they set the mood for an extremely successful evening.

Val was followed by Francisca Samper and her amazing flamenco dancers who, unlike many attending, just seem to get better with age.

The silky tones of the Costa Blanca’s very best crooner, Al Joel, then took centre stage as we sat back and reminisced. It was almost as though Perry Como, Frank Sinatra and his ‘Rat Pack’ colleagues were in the room.

Al was then usurped during one number by his lovely wife, who we found out later was singing in public for the very first time. I’m sure that it won’t be the last.

Our very own Valerie Lynch once again serenaded the audience, this time with a selection of wonderful classics before Cindy Fitzpatrick, who is a very welcome "ever present" at our events, took to the stage with her popular ‘Country mix.’

Finally of course, and eagerly awaited by many, Stevie himself brought Broadway to the Olympia

in what was the climax of a wonderful evening’s entertainment. We found out later that, in between time, this supreme entertainer had rushed back to La Florida where he had performed a set at The Emerald Isle. Quite where he gets his energy and enthusiasm from I really don’t know.

Thanks to organisers Jean Heald and Eddie Coleman, and of course Santi and his staff at the restaurant, the event raised over 1000 euro to the RBL Poppy Appeal. Thankyou to everyone involved.

And to really top it all we found out during the evening that Claire and Adam, a young couple on holiday from Sheffield, had become engaged. A very memorable night for them both as Adam proposed to Claire over a warm salad.....and she accepted. They are pictured with Stevie who wished them well from the assembled gathering.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS:

1 Disconnected; 7

Allot; 8 Miser; 9 See; 10 Different; 11 Reduce; 12 Recess; 15 Uttermost; 17 Spa; 18 Least; 19 Imply; 21 Apprehension.

DOWN: 1 Disastrously; 2 Oil; 3 Notify; 4 Competent; 5 Ensue; 6 Protestation;

7

Ahead;

10

Decorator; 13 Essay; 14 Boyish; 16 Tramp; 20 Pen. CRYPTIC CRYPTIC

Balearic location where a friend takes mother (5)

8.

It is placed in an entrance to arouse feeling (7)

9.

What the man who buys untreated timber gets? (3,4)

10. Took part as a wayward cadet (5) 12. State in which one may be caught napping (10) 15. Servants to wait upon social workers (10) 18. The fish that's nearly six yards long (5) 19. One who gets the fish following the fly sometimes (7) 21. Shockingly enraged (7) 22. Prone to be misrepresenting the facts (5)

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

7.

Lift (5)

8 Mamba; 9 Emu; 10 Start back; 11

8.

Developed (7)

Ostend; 12 Option; 15 Out of play;

9.

Inkling (7)

17 Ace; 18 Ratio; 19 Vague; 21

10.

Rogue (5)

Dead on target.

12.

Paternity (10)

DOWN: 1 False colours; 2 Ink; 3

15.

Completely (10)

Genial; 4 Time to pay; 5 Rumba; 6

18.

Boats (5)

Lack interest; 7 Taunt; 10

19.

Bill (7)

Sangfroid; 13 Image; 14 Eleven; 16

21.

Withdraw (7)

Tithe; 20 Goa.

22.

Pursue (5)

Portent (10) Boundary (5) Believe (4) Quest (6) Rooster (8) Airman (7) Jeopardised (10) Disciples (8) Faithfulness (7) Cheerfulness (6) Essential (5) Immorality (4)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Everyone knows the Google logo, in fact many of you are visualising it now. Write down the colours of the logo in the correct order.

2. What have the following in common: Elston Gunn, Blind Boy Grunt, Lucky Wilbury, Elmer Johnson, Sergei Petrov, Jack Frost and Jack Fate?

3. The Davis Cup in Tennis has two terms not used in other competitions; Tie and Rubber. A tie is not a draw, it is a round of the competition.

What is a rubber?

4. Absolute Zero is zero degrees on the Kelvin scale and -273.15 degrees in Celsius. What is it in Farenheit (to the nearest ten degrees)?

5. Armenia shares it's borders with four other countries. Name them.

6. Which drink originated in the Netherlands in the 17th century and was created by the physician Franciscus Sylvius?

7. Which country's name literally means "Land of Silver"?

8. The following TV shows are or were all spinoffs from another TV show. Identify the original show: a: Ponderosa. b: Kate Loves a Mystery. c: The Facts of Life. d: Mork & Mindy. e: Beverly Hills Buntz. f: Lewis.

9. Which freshwater lake sits at 395m above sea level and is Central Europe's third largest?

10. Which country of the EU has the largest continuous forest / woodland?

11. Which was the first British football club to sign a shirt sponsorship deal?

12. In which book do the characters holly, dandelion and fiver appear?

13. In which country do the following tribes or races originate a: Maoris. b: Basques. c: Sherpas. d: Aztecs. e: Tamils. f: Picts. g: Aborigines. h: Gauls. i: Incas. j: Magyars.

14. Yves Camille D?sir? Leterme holds what title currently (May 2008)?

15. The Romans called them "Punica granatum". What do we call these fruits native to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran now?

16. A vegetable that comes in white, black and green varieties. They are considered a popular but expensive seasonal delicacy in northwest Europe and are locally nicknamed "white gold".

What?

17. Which large French city likes to think of itself as the silk capital of the world and a centre for fashion?

18. What is the current name for the company known previously as Nippon Sangyo which means "Japan Industries"?

19. Staying with companies, which Asian electronics giant and car manufacturer's name means "Great Universe"?

20. Which country borders Liberia and Guinea to the west, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south?

silver. 8. Answers: a: Bonanza. b: Columbo. c: Diff'rent Strokes. d: Happy Days. e: Hill Street Blues. f: Inspector Morse. 9. Lake Constance (Known locally as 'Bodensee'). 10.

France - but only because French Guyana is officially part of France. 11.

Liverpool. 12. Watership Down. 13.

Answers: a: New Zealand. b: Spain. c:

7.

DOWN 1. Does this provide a ghostly light? (6-4) 2. The shortcomings of loud acts (5) 3. Plucky animals in the chase (4) 4. The first of the farmers to let fields lie thus (6) 5. He's not satisfied with one match at a time (8) 6. They provided light cloaks (7) 11. To cause depression, record how old we are! (10) 13. Experience some deficiency and fail to reach the tape (3,5) 14. The charge for keeping stock could be so great (7) 16. Raced madly round a covered passageway (6) 17. It's linked with a kind of gang (5) 20. Provide some information, William (4)

ACROSS: 1 Falling stars; 7 Token;

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

11.

13.

14.

16.

17.

20.

1. Blue (G) Red (O) Yellow (O) Blue (G) Green (L) Red (E). 2. Bob Dylan: They are all names or aliases that Bob Dylan has used. 3. An individual match. 4. -460F (-459.67F exactly). 5.

Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran to the south. 6. Gin. 7. Argentina. Ag argentum - is the chemical symbol for

ACROSS

ACROSS

Nepal. d: Mexico. e: Sri Lanka. f: Scotland. g: Australia. h: France. i: Peru. j: Hungary. 14. Prime Minister of Belgium. 15. Pomegranate. 16.

Asparagus. 17. Lyon (Lyons). 18.

NIsSAN. 19. Daewoo. 20. The Ivory Coast, or Cote d'Ivoire as it is now officially known.

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Health considering Bascuñana prosecution The Ministry of Health is considering passing to the prosecutor the file relating to payments taken by the Orihuela caretaker mayor between 2007 and 2013 despite carrying out no work.

The file, opened by the department of Ana Barceló, concluded in February that the politician had flagrantly failed to fulfil his labour obligations. The internal investigation, which included a statement made by Bascuñana himself, concludes that the politician did not process a single report in 6 years that he worked as an advisor in the department.

But despite the revelations about the work life of Bascuñana, the file on the mayor was closed last February "after finding administrative irregularities.” However, the department now says that the administrative file has been referred to the Directorate General of the Ministry of Health who are considering whether the absence of Bascuñana at his workplace, whilst earning a full time salary could be a criminal offense.

If the officers’ consider that there

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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has been some type of criminal irregularity they will send the file to the Anti-Corruption Public Prosecutor.

According to Spain newspaper eldiario.es, three internal staff reports have concluded that Bascuñana was a 'zombie' worker during the period in question. There are no records of holidays or illnesses, and neither is their any evidence that he processed a single file or a report between 2007 and 2013.

Recently, Bascuñana has argued that he worked as an adviser to the territorial authority and that he held numerous positions during the time. In addition, he carried out a work in many different health centres in Orihuela and there should be records PP Party Deputy Leader Teodoro García Egea and Emilio Bascuñana

Former San Fulgencio mayor sentenced to 18 months in prison The Criminal Court 3 of Orihuela has sentenced the former mayor of San Fulgencio, Carlos Ramírez (PP), eighteen months in prison for a crime of fraud in which he employed a member of the PP as a caretaker through a company without going through any selective or employment procedures.

It is understood that the individual in question actually stood as a PP candidate in 2004.

The individual was employed for in the La Marina Sports facility for three years during which time the company received 87,859 euros.

In addition, the court imposed a penalty of 7 years disqualification from public office. As the prison sentence is less than two years it will not be carried out.

The manager of the gaining company was also sentenced to one and a half years for fraud, and to 3 years of disqualification. The ruling states that the employer benefited from Ramírez's decision.

In terms of civil liability Ramirez and the manager of the firm must compensate the City with 16,695 euros.

Ramirez was the mayor of San Fulgencio until forced to resign over accusations of fraud in February 2018.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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SAMU ambulances stop covering emergencies in rural areas Ambulances from the Urgent Medical Care Service (SAMU) will no longer respond to urgent calls from rural areas that it considers are difficult to access according to the CICU, the Urgent Information and Coordination Centre of the Generalitat Valenciana. Instead, Primary Health care professionals, doctors and nurses, will be the ones who will first attend patients or injured in such locations.

The measure has been imposed by the Ministry of Health through the Remot Plan, although the Nursing Union, (SATSE) say that they have lodged their dissatisfaction with the scheme to the Labour Inspectorate.

The Ministry intends that, in future, doctors and nurses will leave any consultations they are dealing with in health centres or auxiliary offices, abandoning patients with appointments, or those who are sick, without assistance, and attend to those who have placed the urgent call in outlying areas.

And as the authority will not be providing any means of transport to move through rural roads and mountainous areas, they must do so by their own means - car, motorcycle, bike or walking – carrying med-

Health Card does not give automatic rights – Supreme Court A specialist department hearing a case at the Supreme Court has resolved a discrepancy on the right to public health care in Spain, affirming that the granting of a health card (SIP) does not imply the automatic existence of the right to health care.

The case was first brought to the courts by a Spanish citizen who regrouped her moth-

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ical equipment weighing 20 kilos, According to the Remot Plan, on their arrival at the incident the health professionals will then assess the severity of the sick or injured, notifying the CICU if there is a need to send an ambulance.

But what seems to have escaped the notice of the bureaucrats is that they will be prolonging the health response time in cases of vital emergency.

"Nobody needs reminding of the fact that the sending of a SAMU ambulance, properly equipped and with staff trained to deal with emergencies, is vital for the survival of the sick," says the regional officer of the nursing union, SATSE. Francisco Martínez also warns that "the Remot Plan does not only seriously endanger the health of the residents of interior areas, but it also contravenes the regulations relating to the Outpatient Emergency Department of the Ministry of Health.

The measure effects all rural areas of the Valencian Community but will be applied in phases, the first of which is restricted to 13 small towns in the region of El Comtat: Benilloba, Alcoleja, Balls, Benasau, Benifallim , Facheca, Benimassot, Famorca, Gorga, Millena, Penáguila, Quatretondeta and Tollos; and 12 towns of La Marina Alta: Orba, Benigembla, Benimeli, Castell de Castells, Ráfol d'Almunia, Fontilles, Murla, Sagra, Parcent, Tormos, La Vall de

er - of Cuban nationality - who was granted the “temporary residence card of family member of the Union”, under the provisions of Royal Decree 240/2007.

The discrepancy arose over the need for private health insurance and the rights to public healthcare upon the issue of the card.

However, in its judgment, the Chamber confirms that the granting of the SIP card does not imply the automatic existence of that right, but rather, “the dynamics of the right, subject to the maintenance of the

requirement of its concession.”

The ruling continues to explain how it is made clear from article 7.1.b and 2 of Royal Decree 240/2007, which states that an individual must have sufficient resources not to become a burden for social assistance in Spain during the period of residence and so must make provisions for health insurance that covers the risks of regrouping in Spain.

The ruling includes a private vote of two judges who considered that the sentence appealed had to be confirmed.

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Laguar and Sanet and Negrals.

SATSE say that the plan will further contribute to the the depopulation of the rural zones as people move from the countryside and into large towns and cities However, what many people are unclear about is just how the authorities will distinguish between the need for a Samu response or one from Primary Care. One medical professional told me “I think this means that if I have an accident on the road they will send a SAMU ambulance, but, if I get a strong pain in my chest, I have to call the doctor who will come to my house, where he will determine if I have had a heart attack or it is an accumulation of wind. He will then decide whether to call an ambulance, by which time I could be dead, so an ambulance will no longer be required.”

Strictly Come Dancing Exclusive

By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive STRICTLY Come Dancing comes to the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader soon - with an Exclusive insight of stars of the BBC show - following their visit to Cartagena on the Ventura.

Katya and Neil Jones, Aljaz, and Dr Ranj Singh were amongst celebrities from Strictly Come Katya Jones Dancing who visited Spain.

"I really love cruises, as you are able to get face to face with the public, and hear what they think of Strictly Come Dancing," said Slovenian born Aljaz. *Only in The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader. Strictly Come Dancing Exclusive - coming soon! expenses are met. Email: spainsamsrecruits@outlook.com The Orihuela Costa Drop In Centre is in C/Cipres, Lomas de Cabo Roig, where we can offer you a full range of activities Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

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

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,

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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

Churches and Services Torrevieja Christian Fellowship (TCF) is no longer at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas. For the next two months we will be holding our Sunday morning service at 10.30 a.m. in the El Nacional restaurant which is in Punta Prima on the N332.

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

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

Playa los locos. 651 363 396 English blonde (in 30s). Attractive, sexy & fun.

Available Wednesday 12th – Monday 17th June. 603 232 872.

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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‘VARIETY’ is the spice of life……

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Variety is definitely what the Cardenal Belluga Theatre group will be providing for you in their brand new show for all the family REACH FOR THE STARS on September 26, 27, 28 at the Cardenal Belluga Theatre, San Fulgencio.

The group are busily rehearsing this fabulous family variety show which can be enjoyed by all ages at the cultural centre in La Marina where they are based but will soon take rehearsals to the theatre itself.

Big production numbers will be featured throughout the show commencing with a rousing opening number – Reach For The Stars – danced by the CB tappers. Enjoy songs old and new made famous by the stars you all know and love. Yvonne Brayford has choreographied lots of superb dance routies including line dancing, swing routines and tap which will be performed by a team of dedicated dancers, pictured here. Laugh at the comedy routines, including Ernie the fastest milkman in the west. There is definitely something for everyone in this brilliant new show directed by Katie Dell.

A great deal of money was donated to lots of charities from their last show and the Cardenal Belluga Theatre Group look forward to raising even more from Reach

For The Stars. Tickets will be available at many outlets in Benimar, Benijofar, Quesada, Los Montesinos and La Marina, details of which will be published in the press. If you have any enquiries please email devinelinda44@yahoo.com or telephone Linda on 966 712089.

HELP gives boost to San Pedro charity At the June meeting of ADAPT, the San Pedro based organisation, HELP Murcia Mar Menor's president Christine Baillie presented a cheque for €3000 to Begoña Rodriguez and M: Dolores Rueda from El Samaritano (San Pedro).

A local based organisation El Samaritano helps those in need in the area who are unable to claim any support from the Government and are in dire need of funds It is HELP's policy to donate to other charities within the Murcia region each year money that has been made from the work of volunteers during the previous year.

This year once again HELP will be donating a total of

€12000 to help others, this the first donation of 2019.

If you have a few hours that you could donate to helping others come and join us. For more information call 963 570 059 or visit our office in Los Alcazares where one of our volunteers will be pleased to answer any questions you may have about the Charity.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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San Miguel Bowls Club By Barry Jones The week started well with both teams winning on Monday. San Miguel Moors were away to Emerald Isle Victors winning 10 - 2 (98 shots to 68), the best triple were Noel Davis, Bob Graham and Gail Willshire 24-10. San Miguel Christians were home to San Luis Wellingtons winning 8 - 4 (87 shots to 78), the best winning triple were Anita Brown, Ken Hope and Bob Donnelly 19-9.

On Wednesday San Miguel Sherriffs were home to La Marina winning 10 - 2 (91 shots to 72). Ladies singles, Carol Broomfield 21 - 11. Gents singles, Noel Davis 4 - 21. Pairs, Sue Milner and David Johnson 20 - 9. Triples, Gail Willshire, Lynn Greenland and Fred Willshire 20 - 16. Rinks, James Cutting, Brian Allen, Steve Cantley and

San LuisBowls Club with Sheila Cammack Another busy, sunny, week - fortunately the breeze has helped to keep us breathing more easily.

Wellingtons 3rd June, away v SM Christians, a hard morning’s work and not quite the result we hoped for 4-8, 78shots-87. Winners: Margaret Morrison, Sabrina Marks, Russell Marks 20-14, William Holtham, June & Keith Jones 17-16.

Hercules home v LM Pilots a great result, 99 shots-55, 10-2. Winners: Ros Holmes, Bob Bromley, David Blackie 25-13, Kevin McKenna, Roger Inwards, Lyndon Johnson 23-10, Mags Haines, Bill Webb, Derrick Cooper 21-8, Irene Everett, Vic Slater, Barry Edwards 18-9.

Mosquitoes a tough match away v El Rancho Buckskins, 2-10, 58 shots-81. Winners: Pat Tilley, Chris Jackson, Sue Ross 15-12. Fri 7th home v CB Badgers, hard fought match 4-8, 64shots-86.

Winners: Robert Hicks, Chris Jackson, Sue Ross 21-8, Dot Kocsis, Steve Rossiter, Joe Kocsis 19-15.

VCLeague 5th June, Falcons a close fought match away v VB Vikings 6-6, 81shots-75. Winners: Kath Reid 21-5, William Holtham, Sab & Russ Marks 24-13.

Stuart Denholm 26 - 15.

San Miguel Deputies were away to Greenlands Jasmines winning 10 - 2 (93 shots to 81). Ladies singles, Anita Brown 21-16. Gents single, Cliff Plaisted 21-12. Pairs, Bob Nesbitt and Dave Champion 18-16. Triples, Ian Hope, Paul Hayward and Eddie Cowan 22-14. Rinks, Jack Jackson, Linda Plaisted, Alan Campbell and Bob Donnelly 11-23.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1:30 for 2:00 - €5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and woods available to borrow. Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting at 1:45.

For further information on San Miguel Bowls Club please contact the President Stuart Hemmings on 965720461, or the Secretary Gail Willshire on 965020492.

0, 96shots-68. Winners: Ros Holmes 21-14, Bill Webb 21-15, Dot Kocsis, Dave Blackie 18-11, Mags Haines, Ralph Jones, Derrick Cooper 22-17, Kath Waywell, Joe Kocsis, Steve Rossiter, Bob Bromley 14-11.

HORADADA BOWLS CLUB by Irene Graham

are up against some better bowlers. Our pairs team just fell towards the end and only lost by 2 shots but we did have one winning rink and that was the trips.

I’m afraid it’s not good reporting for Horadada this week. On Monday in the South Alicante League, the Hawks were away to La Siesta Wasps. It was what you might call a disastrous result. However, we did come through good on one rink and our winners were:

Carol Linehan, Irene Graham and Roy Thomson 24 – 9. Very well played to our trips.

Peter Davis, Wayne Jackson and John Bailey 22 – 15. Well done Guys, you saved us from a total embarrassment. The final result was 77 shots for to 101 against giving us 2 points to 10 against.

On Wednesday in the VCL League the result wasn’t any better. We were away to Montemar Lords. Sometimes we just have to admit that we

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club VCL - June 5th - MONTE MAR V HORADADA

The final result was 63 shots for to 101 against giving us 2 points to 10 against.

All that remains to be said is we have to play better in the last 3 matches in the VCL. 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 659 139 129 for more information. gles) Lynne Armitage, Harry Dobson, Alan Ashberry skip Dave Melville, Sheila Roberts and Phil Goble who had a very hard pairs match.

Anyone who has played against SLBC, will know that we are a friendly club; competitive at all levels whilst still enjoying our bowling. Despite the recently agreed (LLB) change, that a side will comprise 6 teams, we are still determined and committed to playing 4 squads in both the Monday & Friday leagues. Next season we should have 2 squads in both Division A and Division C on both days. There will be plenty of games for everyone and opportunities for players of all levels of experience. We have an established open and fair selection policy for all divisions.

Emerald Isle Bowls Club with Elwyn Morris

Dukes played at home in VCL against Quesada and they lost 4-8, aggregate of 84-91, winners were P Rhodes 21-13, M Veale G Ponsford P Dix 20-17

The Victors played at home against San Miguel Moors on Monday, and they slipped to a 2-10 aggregate 68-98 defeat. Winners were C Ayling T Capewell M Odell 20-14

Earls played at La Siesta and slipped to a 4-8, defeat aggregate 68-120. A Miles 21--17 V Cameron B Taylor 18-16

Vulcans travelled to Greenlands Gladiators and they were beaten 3-9, aggregate of 64-80. Winners were C Thomas M Willicott D Jones 15-14 while D Leeming T Dix P Dix drew 12-12 all

Victors played at home on Friday against Quesada Blenheims and slipped to a4-8 aggregate 78-99, winners were M Riley M Whitelock S Watson 2113, S Kavanagh R Adams B Kavanagh 18-14.

If you commit to playing for us by joining on 1st August you will have 13 months membership to 31.8.20. We also have 7 months membership from 1.10.19-30.4.20.

Tuesday saw the High Jackers visit the Emerald Isle, the game ended 3-3 but the Emerald Isle finished winners with an aggregate of 109-78

SAPS is now Sat mornings 9-30 where, for 5 Euros you get Bowls Shoes and Tuition for 2 hours in the sunshine, followed by a nice beer.

Quesada Bowls Club Report by Dee Stephenson

that Vistabella won the match 8-4 but the shots score was close with Vistabella winning 75-68.

Quesada Lions played San Miguel and delivered another strong performance winning the match 102 points and 91-76 shots. This puts them in 2nd position in the league only 3 points behind the leaders - San Miguel Falcons. With only 3 matches left in this league this season, lets hope the Lions can keep up the good work.

San Luis BC welcomes new members.

Come along & bowl for free on any Sunday morning at 10:00am to try the game….ask at the bar.

Greenlands Bowls Club with Dave Webb

Russ Hudson, skip Roy Cordell, 22 - 17. The Cacti were at home to El Rancho, final score, shots - 96 - 76. Points 10 - 2. best winning rink, Richard Lee who won the singles 21 shots to 3.

After 2 weeks of inactivity, the league matches continue with The harrier Division. The Glosters were away to Vistabella Greeners, final scores were - shots, 83 - 77. Points, 7 - 5. best winning rink was June Whitworth, Vic Young, skip David Whitworth. 26 shots to 9. In the Hurricane Division, the Gladiators were at home to La Siesta Wasp, they stung us, winning on three rinks and getting the overall shots. final scores, shots 76 89. Points, 4 - 8. best winning rink - John Dowell, Russ Hudson, skip John Obrien. 21 shots to 11.

On Monday 3 June the Glosters were away to Country Bowls, final score, shots 90 - 86. Points, 8 - 4. best winning rink, M Inns, L Hier, skip J Hier.

23 - 11. In the Hurricane Div: the Gladiators were at Home to E Isle Vulcans, final score, shots, 80 64. Points 9 - 3. best winning rink, J Thompson, D Toozer, skip B Collins. 19 - 11. In the VCL the Cacti were away to Country Bowls, final scor shots 81 - 93, points - 4 - 8. best winning rink, L Hier, T Hodge, skip J Hier, 24 - 14. The Jasmines were at home to San Miguel Deputies, final score, shots 81 - 93. points - 2 - 10. winning rink were, J Thompson, J Dowell, R Hudson, skip J Obrien, 23 - 11. for all inquires please tel Chris Dewar on 698 418 987.

This week the club fished its Annual Pairs Match at the Embalse de Beniarres. The weather was excellent for the first half of the match but then

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Well done to all.

Hawks home v El Rancho, an excellent result 12-

Carp R Us Fishing News

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On a extremely hot June morning Monte Mar were at home to Horadada. It was a good result for Monte Mar winning on four rinks. Well done to Pauline Woodfine (singles) Keith Simpson (sin-

For further information please contact our Club Captain June Jones – 691 903 773 or Vice-Captain Ian Kenyon – 662 282 103. We look forward to hearing from you.

In the VCL League, the Jasmines were away to Horodada, final score, shots 87 - 89. points 6 - 6.

Best winning rink - Jean Thompson, Di Hudson,

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around midday a strong wind got up which made presentation more difficult. This didn't stop Neil McBirnie from catching a steady stream of carp to finish with 23.80kg and take the individual title. He finished a long way clear of Terry Screen who had 10.55kg and Alan Smith with 10.20kg.

Neil also collected the Pairs trophy along with his partner Ann Fowles with Alan Smith and Peter Boorman runners-up.

With a bye this week, Quesada Lancasters had a day off to enjoy the stunning blue skies and soaring temperatures.

Whilst the Blenheims, their sister team, enjoyed a convincing win 10-2 against Vistabella Fairways in the South Alicante Summer League Spitfire Division. The shots were 98-70 and this result puts the Blenheims in 3rd place in the league, with a game in hand. Lots to play for in the next few weeks.

Shots Monte Mar 101 – 63 Horadada Points Monte Mar 10 – 2 Horadada

Meanwhile in the VCL league, Quesada Tigers played Vistabella Saxons in a tightly fought match.

With convincing wins for the Tigers in the Mens singles and the Rinks disciplines, the pairs narrowly lost on the last end by one point. This meant

Anyone interested in joining Quesada Bowls Club we welcome both new and experienced bowlers.

We’re a friendly club with a mixture of competition, league and casual players. In addition to league matches and Club competitions we have our popular Saturday morning chicken drive which is open to visitors and we have free coaching for new members. So come along and see what we have to offer! Contact our membership secretary Angie Goddard newleaf2014@hotmail.co.uk

El Rancho Bowls Club

away, as we know, losing is no indication of bad play.

Monday found the Buckskins entertaining San Luis Mosquitoes on a splendid morning with just a slight breeze.

The home mat advantage can be considerable and it can take a while to adjust and those early point can be the difference in winning and losing. But it is always a disappointment to come away without a point, though none of the matches was a large loss.

The company was rather splendid too, as was the bowls with most rinks being very close right up unto the end. But as far as the scores went, the Buckskins took 4 of the 5 rinks and the overall shots, a good morning all round. Brian Gilham, Brian Harris and David Wright 12-15.

Adrian Ham, Debbie Ham and Keith Longshaw 15-10. Ngaio Baldwin, Pete Baldwin and Malc Sykes 16-13. Gary Dunstone, Ann Taylor and Jim Taylor 15-14. Peter Blackburn, Janet Wright and Ron Greenstreet 23-6.

On Wednesday our VCL team played San Luis

Ladies singles: Diane Yates 14-21. Gents singles: Bob Day 15-21. Pairs: Sheila Cox and Jim Gracie 11-18. Trips: Ann Abbott, David Wright and Mike Cox 17-21. Rinks: Tony Abbott, Paul Durham, Pete Baldwin and John Richards 11-14. For further membership information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com or Brian Taylor on 965 07 7093 or at elranchobowlsclub@gmail.com

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

2019 Campus Nautico San Javier Escolar de Dragon Boat race

Mike ProBert talks golf 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 August.

By Andrew Atkinson The 2019 Campus Nautico San Javier Escolar de Dragon Boat race took place in front of hundreds of spectators at Santiago de la Ribera.

The Greater Centre Santiago de la Ribera School Final 2019 Candle and Dragon Boat, organised by the Department of Sports, is an annual showcase event.

Also 800 young basketball players from 60 educational centre teams of the region competed at the Sports Centre..

In El Pescador beach, Santiago de la Ribera a Roller Derby match between Roller

Derby Murcia and Molly Hatchets took place, followed by the La Manga del Mar Menor, Km.12 In San Javier Municipal Sports Center the Final Regional Championship by teams of the CTA (Amateur Tennis Circuit) took place, between the Club Cordillera, of Murcia and the Tennis team of the Sports Center of San Javier.

30th Regatta Cartagena-Ibiza Estrella de Levante 2019 Classic

conditions at sea.

By Andrew Atkinson reporting from Cartagena LEADER EXCLUSIVE

The 30th Regatta Cartagena to Ibiza race is organised by the RCA of Cartagena, with the collaboration of the City of Cartagena.

CARTAGENA port saw the start of the 30th Regatta Cartagena to Ibiza Estrella de Levante 2019 Trophy get underway this week.

The boats will arrive in Sant Antoni, followed by the presentations of trophies taking place.

*Boats set sail from the port of Cartagena in the Regatta Cartagena-Ibiza 2019 race.

The Regatta Classic saw boats set sail out of the port of Cartagena, cruising from the area of the Mediterranean peninsular and the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.

The 170 miles journey will end in the Ibiza coastal town of Sant Antoni de Portmany.

The race demands the best of both the boats and their respective crews - with long hours of navigation - facing all weather

Photos: Helen Atkinson (c).

More great racing for SAAM With strong winds forecast from lunchtime onwards on May 26th, the Race Officer, John Down, decided to change the day’s format and run a 60 minute race and a 75 minute race back to back. With some of the regulars away there was a chance for some new talent to shine among the 13 competitors, sailing 8 boats.

Due to much improved sailing during this series with most boats getting good starts, everybody was warned that the officials would be watching out for boats ‘jumping the gun’.

However, after this praise, in a very light wind, the start of the first race was a disaster and it took more than 11 minutes for everybody to cross the line.

The race was very strung out and slow and the wind only lifted slowly during the last laps.

Everybody was glad to see the back of this race and had their eyes on the second as the wind had increased to 11 knots and was to eventually rise to 13 knots, which certainly tested sailing abilities.

The course was reversed and the second race proved much more competitive, with all boats crossing the start line in one bunch.

Handicap Systems I am old enough to remember the good old days of handicapping where you joined a golf clubs, took a series of lessons from the club professional and submitted 3 score cards from which the handicap committee determined your initial handicap.

Thereafter the handicap secretary would review your handicap based on the scores that you submitted in monthly medals and stableford’s but reductions in handicap were arbitrary and increases in handicap difficult to come by.

Then in the 1980’s the English Golf Union created a universal handicapping system taking into consideration the course difficulty on the day by creating a standard scratch score and competition scratch scores for the day and handicaps were adjusted on the day by decimal points as we all had two handicaps, a playing handicap and an actual handicap.

Then I moved to Spain in 2004 and soon discovered the joys of the slope handicap system developed by the European Golf Union and adopted by the Spanish Golf Federation.

Only then to discover that most golf societies ,where we all play our golf, all have their versions of the system making cross comparison of society handicaps almost impossible to do.

What a mess eh!

Anyway hold on to your hats because between them all the major golf unions and associations across the world have decided to introduce the World Handicapping System with the same system in operation across the world.

Special mention should be made of Julian on his Topaz, who was out on his trapeze, and Norman on his Laser, both trying to keep their boats level in the gusts, also the Sailfish crews who had some new members and first time racers aboard. It was also great to see Tug and Kerry, aboard the Omega, flying around the course lapping boats on numerous occasions. However the good winds meant all the boats performed well and this was reflected in the results with Mistral first, 2 seconds ahead of Rosita, herself 4 seconds ahead of the Radial.

A special thank you was given to all the volunteers who make sure the racing a success by taking the entries, manning the support boat, to the ‘Timing Team’ ladies who check the stop watches and record the lap times.

Photo, Julian Singleton, Natividad Rua and Ian Sinclair who won the second race on Mistral.

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19

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) I will keep you updated with these developments but it will be interesting to see how our local golf societies adopt these new handicapping rules.

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Price €116 €110 €120 €116 €88 €80 €92 €125

La Finca La Marquesa La Manga

€128 €36 €120

La Serena Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lo Romero New Sierra Golf Roda UGolf Courses

€40 €164 €104 €104 €68 €110 €86

Villamartin €110 Villaitana Poniente €57 Vistabella €92

Comments Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (El Valle, Riquelme & La Torre) Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee Two Players and Buggy (All courses from 1.06pm) Single Green Fee Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two and Buggy Two Green Fees and Buggy Two Players and Buggy Two Players and Buggy (Saurines & Hac. Del Alamo) Two Players and Buggy Sgle Green Fee and Buggy Two Players and Buggy

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

20

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE “THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON

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Presentation Evening

Top left: Ladies singles winner, Sonya Cooper, Btm left: Ladies pairs winners, Jan Hassal & Lesley Dolling. Top right: Division A runners up, centre: Team KO runners up, btm: Aux team KO runners up. seasons, also played in the UEFA Cup semi-final against Anderlecht in 1984. Forest lost 3–2 on aggregate.

Peter Davenport at Manchester United.

Davenport, capped for England in a 2–1 friendly against the Republic of Ireland in 1985, joined Manchester United in 1986

CLOUGHIE WAS BETTER THAN FERGIE

for £750,000.

SIR Alex Ferguson, Brian Clough and Bobby Robson, legends within football, thought well of Peter Davenport, the former Nottingham Forest, Manchester United, Middlesbrough and Sunderland star.

Old Trafford boss Ron Atkinson signed Davenport, as a replacement to Mark Hughes, who was on the verge of joining Barcelona.

Los Montesinos based Steve Booth recalls wizard Davenport - playing at grass roots level - before the big boys came knocking on his door.

"Opposition teams, hard men, rough and ready, the type that wouldn't think twice of 'putting one on you' couldn't even stop Peter from scoring goals," said Steve.

"Peter played on the Wirral in Sunday League Football, aged 15. It was while playing grass roots level that he was spotted by scouts from Nottingham Forest," said Steve.

Davenport came on as a substitute, with England chief Bobby Robson inadvertently saying to assistant Don Howe: "We better put 'Devonshire' on". Howe replied: "It's Davenport".

Davenport found himself playing under Ferguson at United in 1986, when Atkinson was sacked.

In 1987 Davenport finished the season as United's top scorer, bagging 16 goals.

Davenport joined Middlesbrough in 1988 in a £750,000 transfer, later moving to Sunderland.

Davenport went on to play at Airdrieonians, St Johnstone, Stockport County and Southport, where he was Caretaker manager, joining Macclesfield as a player - scoring his 100th league goal against Exeter in 1998.

Davenport played park football in the seventies, and Steve said: "Peter was an outstanding talent in those days."

Davenport, who went on to coach rugby and teach at St Anselms College in Birkenhead, said: "Playing for England was a proud moment - the pinnacle of my career.

Davenport, born in Birkenhead, was spotted playing for Cammell Laird in the West Cheshire league.

"Playing under Brian Clough 'Cloughie', who always called everyone 'young man', was like being with a father figure.

The 'fee' Forest offered Cammell Laird for his signature was a brand new football kit - which they accepted!

"Cloughie took me under his wing and was a big influence during my career. He desperately wanted you to do well. I'd run through a brick wall for him.

Davenport, who went on to be Forest's leading goalscorer for two

"I played under Alex Ferguson for two years, at the time he was rebuilding the United dynasty.

"Ferguson had an incredible drive - but for me Cloughie was the better manager. Under Brian Clough and Sir Alex Ferguson I had a fantastic enjoyable career.

"It was a privilege to wear the famous red of both Nottingham Forest and Manchester United - and proud to play for England."

Reflecting back to Davenport's early career Steve Booth, 64, born in Birkenhead, said over a beer in Montesinos: "Peter Davenport learnt his trade against tough teams, in park Sunday League football.

"He'd be scythed down - get up - and carry on to score goals! They simply couldn't stop him. He was scoring 30 goals a season."

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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21

Torrevieja Ladies Darts 16th Annual Presentation Dinner This year the Ladies of the League gathered at El Nacional Restaurante in Punta Prima for their 16th Annual Presentation Dinner.

The Presentation commenced with special gifts for Don Martin our photographer for the night, along with Kim York-Fickling and Simone de Lacy for their services and work in helping the Coordinator to run the League. Following that, Gifts for the men, that kindly mark at our main events during the season.

sented to; Lilian Wood, Maureen Skelton, Cath Carter, Linda St Lawrence and Pat Schofield.

The Highest Checkout went to Kim Fickling, and Least Darts jointly to Cynthia Jevons and Bliss Wright.

Our Ladies Pairs Chamions were Pat Schofield/ Lesley Eagles, with Bliss Wright/ Elly Kearns as Runners-Up, and Semi-Finalists; Ann McGivern/June Hawkins along with Elizabeth Cowan/ Sheerin Seedat.

Our Ladies Singles Champion this year is Beatty Powell, with Runner-Up Simone de Lacy and joint third Lin Cousins and Elizabeth Cowan. Not to be forgotten, our Quarter Finalists Sandra Crabbe, Annette Dobson, Pat Wood and Lorraine Veale.

Pictured above: Ernie, Nigel Bradley and Stan Veale who have become an essential part of the League this season.

Next we came to the Captain’s Cup, awarded by Captains for different reasons, to a player on their team: for the Black Dog Ladies it went to Marylyn Jackson, El Balcon Chicas -Sue Casey, Friendly's Chicas - Lin Cousins, Friendly's Temps - Sue Wade, Gap Ladies Tracey Simpson, Macklins Dolly Mixtures - Jean Keeley,

The two players who have won the most games on each team, throughout the season, are selected to take part in a Play Off. Players draw for the board they will play on, in groups of four.

They then play each other in a Round Robin format and the top player in each group go through to th Semi-finals, then Final, untll we get a winner.

This produces a Player of the Year for each team and an Overall Player of the year for the League. This year’s Player of the Year was won by Shirley Stephenson from El Balcon Chicas. Team winners are Black Dog Ladies - Noreen Dobbs, Friendly's Chicas - Sue Cam, Friendly's Temps - Sue Wade, Gap Ladies - Simone de Lacy, Macklins Dolly Mixtures - Selma Dyer, Primadonnas - Mitch Halliday and Wildcats - Groa Brindis.

During the evening, a Special Raffle and Auction was held for Jane Barnes, who is currently undergoing treatment for Cancer in the UK. We ALL wish Jane a full recovery and the best for the future.

New Season 2019 - 2020 Any new teams interested in joining the League should contact the Co-oordinator, Pam Horton, for Registration Forms, and further details. All new teams wishing to Register, need to return their Registration form along with Venue Form, photos and fee; on or before the 31st July 2019. This year, Existing Teams also need to provide new passport size photos, and a new form is being issued for this purpose. This Renewal Form also needs to be returned by the 31st July 2019.

This year, along with Flowers, envelopes were also presented to the Captains The contents of the envelopes was for Captains to distribute to Players on their team who had won various awards throughout the season, pictured above.

180’s & 171’s: Bliss Wright (180), Pamela Taylor (180), Simone de Lacy (171), Shirley Stephenson (171), Sue Casey (171) 140’s: Annette Dobson, Eliz Cowan, Lorraine McGrath, Pam Horton, Pamela Taylor, Pat Woods Bull Finishes: Kim Fickling, Beatty Powell, Annette Dobson, Mitch Halliday, Chris Greenwood, Cynthia Jevons, Pat Woods This was followed by the presentation of League Badges and League Certificates, awards that have been won throughout the season, a League Badge for Angie Jeffery.

Certificates presented to; Lesley Eagles, Jean Keeley, Karen Millar, Eileen Rood, Sharon Frain, Annette Dobson, Michelle Marsden, Kath Morgan and Lynn Cain Certificates and Badges were then pre-

Orihuela CF back in Segunda B

Primadonnas - Lisa Alsop and finally Wildcats - Groa Bryndis.

The Players Team of the Year went to the Black Dog Ladies. The Diana Lloyd Memorial Shield Champions are the Gap Ladies and the Runners up are the Primadonnas. The Highest Checkout of the tournament went to Pam Horton. (pictured above Primadonnas).

Pam Horton, 669 046 02, Dartess501@gmail.com

The Founder´s Format Champions are the Gap Ladies, Runners Up Macklins Dolly Mixtures and 3rd place went to El Balcon Chicas.

With the Wooden Spoon going to the Wildcats. Pictured top right: Gap Ladies.

The League Championship: Our Champions are the Gap Ladies, and the Runners Up El Balcon Chicas and 3rd Place Friendly's Temps. The Wooden Spoon was won by the Wildcats.

(Pictured across right Friendly’s Temps).

For this year’s Player of the Year a new system has been introduced.

At the end of the game the green of the turf was transformed to a carpet of as the fans invaded the pitch, surrounding the players and coaching staff, until they could be extracted some 30 minutes later.

And in the Glorieta Gabriel Miró, surrounded by palm trees, the party went on late into the night.

After an absence of six years ‘The Scorpions’ and back in Division Segunda B the third tier of the National football league. In front of over 4000 supporters. Goals from José We’re going up!

Carlos and Antonio were enough to secure a 2-1 home victory against Tarazona, to add to the 1-0 away win achieved last week.

Promotion puts the finishing touch to a spectacular campaign for Orihuela, managed by Miguel Ángel Villafaina, who finished the regular season at the top of their Tercera Group with a 16 points of advantage over the runners up in a campaign that saw them achieve a run of 23 consecutive games without a loss.

Now, on behalf of our Three Amigos, Kim, Simone and myself, we would like to thank everyone for your support throughout the year, and for our flowers and gifts at the Presentation Dinner. We look forward to seeing everyone at the next Captains Meeting and the AGM.

El Plantio2 Golf

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. The membership rates are very competitive, so call for more details. 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.

Eight members competed in El Plantio 2's Hidden Partners on Tuesday 4th, June.

This is a game where you can have a brilliant round and still not feature in the winning places due to your Hidden Partner not performing similarly. This happened to 2 of our members, who scored quite well but were unfortunate to draw Alistair Douglas, Ray Housley ,Paddy partners (who shall be O'Brien, Graham Blakeway. nameless), who performed less well. The winning duo did so by virtue of a superior last nine of 35 points to 33.

Nearest the pins – Hole 2, Alistair Douglas and 5, Graham Blakeway.

Second place, Alistair Douglas, Graham Blakeway – 69 points.

First place, Ray Housley, Paddy O'Brien 69 pts C/B.

22

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019

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Hats off to Frankie at Royal Ascot!

ROYAL Ascot 2019 gets underway on June 18 with the five day meeting spanning back to 1711 with the inaugural race Her Majesty's Plate taking place 308 years ago.

Italian ace jockey Frankie Dettori - who won on Stradivarius in the 2018 Gold Cup - his 60th Royal Ascot win, will once again be the punters favourite at the Royal Gala meeting in 2019.

The meeting gets underway on June 18 with three Group One races from the 18 Group races taking place, culminating on Saturday June 22, that includes The Queen Alexandra Stakes over 2m 6f.

Ascot’s history dates back to 1711 after Queen Anne viewed land at East Cote, with vision for a racecourse. On August 11, 1711 Her Majesty’s Plate took place, with a booty of 100 gns being the winner's purse.

Ascot, which celebrates its 308th year in 2019 - today known as Royal Ascot began with The Gold Cup, Ascot’s oldest race, in 1807.

Royal Ascot is also dominated by fashion, alongside top racehorses showcasing, with enclosures having their strict dress code. Top hats are mandatory in all enclosures, barring the Windsor Enclosure.

Handicap races at Ascot began with the Oatlands Handicap in 1791. In 1813 Parliament passed an Act to ensure that the grounds would remain a public racecourse, with a new grandstand opening in 1839.

Up until 1945 the only racing that took place at Ascot was the Royal Meeting, over four days.

National Hunt racing began in 1965, with the NH course established from turf used on Hurst Park Racecourse, following its closure in 1962.

Ascot racecourse closed in 2004, for a £185m redevelopment - funded by Allied Irish Bank. As owner of the Ascot estate, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, reopened the racecourse in June 2006.

In 2006 a £10m project of improved viewing from lower levels of the grandstand was announced.

Royal Ascot in June has become a 'Royal week', attended by Elizabeth II and other members of the British Royal Family, including The Prince of Wales, arriving each day in a horse-drawn carriage.

Pinatar 1st hit LaMangaTorre CC in 124 run win

By Andrew Atkinson LaMangaTorre CC played Pinatar 1st in a 1st division fixture - looking to maintain a winning streak - that ended in a heavy 124 runs defeat.

Pinatar 1st went in to bat, following LaMangaTorre CC skipper Kieran Wood losing the toss. Pinatar's first wicket partnership making 58 from 12 overs.

LaMangaTorre CC's breakthough came when S. Khan changed the bowling end and forced the opener Abbas to top edge the ball to Gully, where K. Wood took the catch. (15 overs 70/1).

Pinatar built a big partnership and by the 25 over mark had reached 146 runs. The 26th over saw the second wicket fall, when R. Maini bowled a short delievery that fell nicely to T. Rumi at deep midwicket.

R. Panchel and P. Hennesy continued batting (30 overs: 168/2). The two batsmen batted very aggressively - with boundaries - as the score

supassed 200, and onto 250.

Two quick wickets saw T. Rumi clean bowl P. Henessy, with a slow ball, and Connor Wood clean bowling the Pinatar no.5.

The Pinatar score from 40 overs, was the highest score in the league this season, (274/4) with R. Panchel 102*.

Kieran Wood opened the batting for LaMangaTorre CC, with J. Brook, putting on some early pressure that saw runs hard to come by. The two openers kept their heads down and forced singles.

Eventually J. Brook fell, after a shot played early, fell nicely to G. Singh at short cover.

C. Rumi came in at no.3 spot, with 40 on the board, after 12 overs. After 15 overs the score was 48/1.

After drinks LaMangaTorre CC reached the first batting point and again continued to build the part-

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The Royal procession takes place at the start of each race day, along with the raising of the Queen's Royal Standard.

Also in attendance are the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

Ascot hosts three enclosures attended by guests on Royal Ascot week, with the Royal carriages departing after The Queen's arrival.

The Royal Enclosure is the most prestigious, with visits from HM The Queen and Royal Family members, with access to the Royal Enclosure restricted, with high security

Jennifer Colino Club sweeps the board in the Provincial Championships The Club Rhythmic Gymnastics Jennifer Colino of Torrevieja, garnered excellent results last Saturday in Jávea featuring 10 of their gymnasts: one in Benjamin, four in the juvenile category, two in the children’s category, one in the cadet and two in the junior category.

In the juvenile category rope exercise, Claudia Ticehurst was proclaimed provincial champion. Ana María Rincón in the cadet category was also proclaimed provincial champion in the clubs exercise.

In category alevín, with the ball and rope exercises, Eva Zatsepilina and Jessica Pérez, also finished first as did Vera Tereschuk and Jaana Androsova in the children’s category.

In the youngest category Taisiia Sokolenko, and Inna Lukivska, won their two categories while at the Advanced level, there were silver medals for Merche García and Camila Martínez, in the junior category with the ribbon and hoop exercises.

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in place.

Dress code is strictly enforced, with women having to wear a day dress and hat code rules applying to the length and style of the dress, with no show of bare midriffs or shoulders. Mens' dress code is that of black or grey morning dress with a top hat.

300,000 people will be at the races during Royal Ascot week - Europe’s highest attended race meeting.

The Gold Cup - Ladies' Day - is on Thursday June 20.

In 2012, the Golden Jubilee Stakes was renamed the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

And in 2013, the Windsor Forest Stakes was renamed the Duke of Cambridge Stakes, with the Queen’s consent, recognising the new title given to Prince William.

The newly-created Commonwealth Cup became the eighth Group One race at Royal Ascot, replacing the Buckingham Palace Stakes in 2015.

Royal Ascot racing prizemoney runs into millions of pounds - over the course of the meeting - with the Prince of Wales's Stakes; the Queen Anne Stakes; the Diamond Jubilee Stakes and Group One races' prizemoney increasing annually.

In 2016 The Gold Cup was run as The Gold Cup, in Honour of The Queen's 90th Birthday. *Royal Ascot updated news and tips will be featured at: fromthehorsesmouth.tips

nership.

A change of bowler saw G. Singh come on and strike in his first over, as he forced K. Wood to edge the ball high to cover, where R. Panchel took the catch. R. Maini was in at four. C. Rumi was then bowled by the change of bowler, R.Panchel.

P. Harvey, in at 5, lasted two balls - when a short pinched ball kept lower than expected - bowling him out. G. Neve went in at 6 to continue his good form. The partnership lasted three overs for 17 runs, before R. Maini was caught. Score 94/5 (25 overs).

Disaster struck for LaMangaTorre CC as P. Singh went in at seven - and was out first ball - R. Panchel following with another short ball, again keeping lower than expected.

T. Knowles, in at 8, in a bid to erase bad form in recent weeks, being lifted when his first two balls were clipped through slips for two boundaries, bringing up 100.

The experience of G. Neve kept T. Knowles under control, the duo batting some valuable overs, before the partnership fell, with T. Knowles attempting a cut shot, but could only hit the toe of the bat, and was caught at covers. (120/7).

G. Neve batted, assisted by S. Khan, saw the run rate going at four an over, with the score at 137, before G. Neve attempted a sweep shot - missing as the ball hit him. An appeal from behind the stumps lead to the umpire raising his finger, giving him out. There was confusion around the ground, but with the decision made, he had to walk.

The collapse started, prior to S. Khan having a few swings of the bat and C. Wood sneaking in some singles, as the score climbed to 153, with three overs remaining.

Pinatar's J. Singh's yorker clean bowling C. Wood, and T. Rimi also bowled thereafter, to give Pinatar a victory.

"It was a crushing defeat. A loss by 124 runs - the first defeat in the league this season," LaMangaTorre CC skipper Kieran Wood told the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader.

Pinatar 1st took the full 20 points with LaMangaTorre CC taking 5 points: "There was a lot to take from the game.

"Many mistakes were spoken about after the defeat. A big team talk was had - to look at what could have been done differently," said Kieran.

"It was a long day - with quite a few fielding mistakes - we know where we went wrong," said Kieran.

"It is now up to us to improve - and come back stronger," added Kieran.

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Monday 10th - Sunday 16th June, 2019 that went terribly wrong, for a number of reasons.

"It was a high, in gaining promotion two years ago, and I have faith that the club have the capacity to bounce back."

Felipe has aired his views on attracting players to the club with bigger financially backed clubs proving difficult to compete

Monte can bounce back from relegation - talisman Maccan CD Montesinos talisman midfielder Maccan is predicting that the Los Montesinos, Alicante based club will bounce back from relegation after dropping out of the Valencia 1st Regional G8 in the 201819 season.

"I am hoping that the club can return to the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8 division at the first attempt," Maccan exclusively told me.

CD Montesinos suffered relegation in May - after a woeful season that put an end to two seasons in the higher echelons of regional football.

Relegation came as a huge shock to both the club and their loyal band of supporters, who had seen further progress on the cards, after winning promotion to the 1st Regional.

A summer of change is afoot at the club - with a new club President incoming in replacing outgoing Felipe Parades.

Felipe, at the helm of the Vega Baja outfit for four years, said: "My term has come to an end and a new President and committee will soon be in place."

Felipe added: "Hopefully the club can move forward, after a season

with.

And Maccan believes new signings are a must in the summer - if the club's ambitions are to bear fruit.

"During the summer hopefully we can sign six or seven new players - because I think that we need them," said Maccan.

"With the new President I think we will make the signings - and hopefully gain promotion once again," said Maccan.

Photo: CD Montesinos midfielder Maccan with reporter Andrew Atkinson.

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Cadena Sunrise Bowling Wk 33 Pin Pals Sunrise Colegias The Spares Alley Gators The Bandits Spare Bears

8 4 0 4 2 6

Top Performers Ladies High Game

-

0 4 8 4 6 2

Pin Pushers 999's Sol Amigos S***T Happens Strike Force Alley Cats

High Game Hcap High Series High Series Hcap

Lynne Ailsby Sue Walsh Lynne Ailsby Kath Wycherley

200 223 523 576

High Game High Game Hcap High Series High Series Hcap

Gazza Walsh Gazza Walsh Gazza Walsh Gazza Walsh

224 244 595 655

Men

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

P W 99 80 99 80 99 75 99 74 99 68 99 68 99 64 99 62 99 59 99 55 99 52 99 50

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

L 51 52 57 58 63 63 68 67 72 76 78 82

Tot 54192 54758 55094 54299 53784 53404 53884 53260 53356 53429 52729 52711

Ave 547 553 556 548 543 539 544 537 538 539 532 532

Pts 161 160 150 148 137 137 128 127 119 111 106 100

Mike strikes Gold – Twice!

Joaquin Gil and his club directors with the Thader Councillor for Sport

Preferente Division Roundup

BY STEVE HIBBERD It couldn´t have gone better for the 3 playoff qualifiers from Preferente division group 4.

Champions Intercity Alicante had a tough battle against strong opposition, for Utiel have spent many seasons in the tercera division. Having survived a goal less draw at Utiel, Intercity Alicante scored the only goal of the 2nd leg, to qualify for the finals.

Runners up Villajoyosa, also forced a 1st leg away draw (1-1), then beat Castallonense 2-0 at home in

SUDUKO SOLUTION

the return.

Finally, Hercules were made to do it the hard way.

They beat Colon Catarroja 1-0 at home, but although the away leg finished 2-1 to Catarroja, Hercules qualified by virtue of away goals rule.

In the finals, both Intercity Alicante and Villajoyosa are away in the 1st leg, whilst Hercules must start at home. So, it´s CD Wave v Intercity Alicante, Beniganim v Villajoyosa and Hercules v Ribarroja on 8/9 June, then 2nd leg ties are on 15/16 June.

Meanwhile, over in Rojales, there have been major developments for local football club Thader.

Although the board resigned en mass a couple of weeks ago, talks between club president Joaquin Gill and the local PSOE mayor and sports councillor, have produced a much welcomed u turn.

Gill has been president for over 22 years, but was not prepared to carry on, UNLESS the council provided his club with suitable guaranteed grants.

Now an agreement has been reached, all the board, except sports director Adrian Pastor, have agreed to return to their duties.

One item high on the agenda, must be finding a replacement for Jose Reina, who resigned as manager at the end of the season and is now with Redovan. With funds now available, the new man (whoever that may be) will hopefully be able to bring in good experienced players to the club.

Las Ramblas Golf Society - w/c 3.6.19 It was the first of the knockout singles match play semi-finals on Monday with Joyce McClusky easily overcoming Dave Pulling 7&6. She will meet either Geoff Biggerstaff or Ellen Drakesmith in the final after they have contested their match on Friday.

It was a best 2 scores from 4 with all to count on the par 3’s for the rest of us. I reported last week that Mike Chapman was getting a lot of mentions just lately. I don’t mind naming him again now, because with a combined score of 98 points he was in the winning team again along with me, Olga Douglas and Richard Connock.

Wednesday and it was the 6th and final round of our Club Championship Stableford. Winner of today’s round, with 38 points was (yes you guessed it) Mike Chapman. He was followed by

Olga Douglas on 37 and Nora Betts came in third with 35 points. Three ‘2’s today going to Dave Pulling, Ken Robertson and Nora Betts.(I think it’s more than just Nora’s hair that needs cutting!)

Taking the best four score cards into account, the winner of the Men’s 2019 Club Championship, with a score of 139 points, is Mike Chapman. Only two shots behind him was Ken Robertson and Dave Pulling took bronze with 133 points. Our ladies champion for this year, with a total of 145 points, is Nora Betts. In second spot was Joyce McClusky with 138 and in third place it was Olga Douglas with 134. Well done to you all.

Having returned from Japan, Alan Turing (aka Bryan Neal) worked his magic and not only broke the Enigma code but also calculated the results for this year’s Eclectic ‘Joker’ Stableford. With the best 5 scores from 6, the winner was (deep intake of breath) Mike Chapman! (Mike took the year off from golf in 2018 and some of us probably feel he should do so again!) Reg Akehurst had a great run and took second slot whilst Olga Douglas had another near miss and claimed third.

Ellen Drakesmith beat Geoff Biggerstaff by just one hole (managing a 30 foot putt on the last) to take her place in the final of the Singles Match play against Joyce McClusky next week.

Friday’s game was a long overdue 2 ball Texas Scramble. Our winners, with a nett score of 63.25 (just half a point ahead of the runners up) were Terry Field and Heinz Lei. Great fun!

Pues hasta la semana que viene - Peter Reffell

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