The Costa Blanca Leader Newspaper

No 753

Monday 18th - Sunday 24th Febuary, 2019

Tel: 637 227 385

TWO ARRESTED FOR HENRY RANSOM FRAUD THE CIVIL GUARD has detained two people for trying to defraud the mother of Henry Alejandro Jiménez Martín, the 20 year old man who disappeared from his home in the Orihuela Costa on New Year’s Day. The couple, a 49 year old Spaniard and a woman, a

Colombian aged 23, were arrested for fraud after demanding 2,000 euros from the mother, in exchange for the return of her son.

Henry was reported missing by his mother on 2nd January after he walked out of his home during the early hours of New Years morning following an altercation with a friend. His disappearance

was publicised across the area via social media as well as hundreds of posters that were posted by his family who also appealed for information regarding his whereabouts through the local media.

Hundreds of volunteers joined the security forces, helicopters and specially trained dogs, to search the beaches, gulleys, forests and ravines, but despite

their efforts over many days there were no further sightings of Henry However, two weeks after the Henry’s disappearance, a young Columbian woman contacted Henry's mother by telephone, using a blocked number, to tell her that she knew where he was.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE HENRY RANSOM FRAUD ADVERTISING SALES

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The caller then demanded 2,000 euros from the mother in exchange for information about his whereabouts.

The Guardia Civil were informed and as they tried to identify the owner of the phone number a meeting was arranged in a public place to carry out the exchange, but on two occasions the woman didn’t appear.

Just last week, however, the Guardia were finally able to identify the owner of the phone line and on Tuesday the team in charge of the case, the Judicial Police of the Civil Guard of El Pilar de la Horadada, arrested two people in Torrevieja, as the alleged per-

sons responsible for the crime of attempted fraud.

The man was released after he made a statement at the police headquarters while the woman was held in police custody before appearing in court. She was later released from police custody but her passport was retained.

Although there have been no positive results in the 7 week search for Henry the Guardia insist that they will continue to analyse every scrap of evidence until he is found.

Henry is 1.81 cm tall, he has curly brown hair and wears a tattoo on his right forearm featuring the face of a tiger.

Anyone with any information about his whereabouts is asked to call in confidence 062 or 112.

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

Anyone with any information about Henry’s whereabouts is asked to call in confidence 062 or 112.

HELP Vega Baja DAFFS Supporting family and friends of people with drug and alcohol addictions

Someone’s drug or alcohol addiction can impact on the health and well-being of family and friends, as well as their own.

People close to a drug or alcohol user often find themselves caught up in the trauma of addiction; helplessness, isolation and feelings of desperation are very common. Addiction is sometimes referred to as a “family disease” as a family member’s addiction often affects the entire family unit.

Family and friends can get so caught up in trying to help and care for the addict that they forget to care for themselves.

It can be difficult for loved ones to reach out for support, but it is one of the most important things families can do not only for themselves but also for their addicted loved one.

HELP Vega Baja’s new support group – D.A.F.F.S (Drug and Alcohol Friends and Family Support) aims to support family and friends. The group

offers a safe place for support and encouragement for those who are on the same journey.

It is an opportunity to meet others to share experiences, learn and grow in understanding of how to support each other including the people who are addicted whilst at the same time remembering to look after everyone’s wellbeing.

The meeting is informal and everyone attending understands that everything discussed remains totally confidential. No-one is judged. In addition to the group, a member of the CONNECTIONS Team is also available for one to one emotional support, if needed.

Anyone who feels they may benefit from becoming part of the group, can find out more information by calling 693 594 798.

Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 2pm in the HELP Vega Baja San Miguel Centre.

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Orihuela Refuse Compound

Archive Photo

Is it safe for Orihuela police to carry firearms?

ORIHUELA’S LOCAL POLICE have not carried out any weapon handling drills for over 12 months, yet they continue to carry firearms on our streets. They also continue to reject a proposal by the Councillor for Security, Mariola Rocamora, to travel to the Shooting range in Elche.

Indeed, according to reports in the Spanish press, since the closure of the Orihuela Range over a year ago, Local Police Officers in the city have not carried out any live firing exercises whatsoever, despite being called upon to carry their weapons on a daily basis.

Anywhere else in the world this would raise serious doubts about their safety and their abilities to operate their weapons without presenting a danger to the public, but in Orihuela that seems not to be the case, as the Security councillor pushes forward with measures that the police unions continue to reject.

Police unions, UGT, SPPLB and CSI-F, have repeatedly told the councillor that they will only use the range in the Orihuela police station, but the facility remains closed because of her refusal to pay for liability insurance.

They say that the councillor intends to spend 6,000 euros to send the officers to the range in Elche, a move which the unions say is illegal in so far as any practical or theoretical training must be carried out by the corre-

sponding Local Police Department, which in the case of Orihuela has it’s own firearms Director and 4 instructors, so the training cannot legally be done by any other personnel.

Currently regulations require that firearm practice must be carried out by all officers twice a year but during 2018 there was none at all.

However, unions continue to insist that the training must be carried out exclusively on the premises of the Local Police Station in Orihuela, in the shooting gallery that is currently closed.

In refusing to carry out such mandatory training it would seem that Orihuela Local Police Officers are putting the lives of the public at risk.

Experts say that firearms training needs to be relevant and realistic: It must also be conducted regularly, so as to assist the officer in making proper deadly force decisions. With the semiautomatic pistols that officers now carry they recommend that firearms training takes place at least four times a year.

Re your article of 11 January.

It was stated that this was to be a temporary compound (now some many years ago). It is totally unsuitable for a residential area where new houses are being built at regular intervals.

The road around is a complete mess, lamp posts askew, lorries unable to access the compound and parking on the road side, sometimes as many as 10 vehs.

It was recently reported that Orihuela had gained 14 Million Euros from the sale of land in Los Almendricos (Pau 26 ) where the compound is based.

Surely a new site could be found away from this Residential area, and with better facilities for the workers. It would not be acceptable in other Orihuela Costa areas.

The councillor for this area should pursue this matter with great urgency.

D&S Wilkinson, Entregolf.

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CLARO Press Release

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Campoverde Theatre Group, Benidorm!

Valentine’s Special CAMPOVERDE THEATRE GROUP is well into rehearsals for their latest supper show “Benidorm! Valentine’s Special! ” which is our take on the very popular television series “Benidorm!”.

The supper show will again follow our popular format of one course meal followed by an evening of laughter and song.

Battle for Cala Mosca not yet lost IT IS A GREAT DISAPPOINTMENT that the Valencia regional government has approved the environmental impact study, prepared by the Developer, Gomendio, which opens the way for the construction of 1,500 new housing units on Cala Mosca and the destruction of Orihuela Costa’s last piece of virgin coast.

However, CLARO is convinced that this is not the end of the story. The European Parliament has been a supporter of preserving Cala Mosca since CLARO presented a petition with over 7,000 signatures in 2010.

After the last meeting of the Parliament’s Petitions Committee in 2017 the President expressed “deep concern” about the building project proposed for Cala Mosca and stressed the importance of “an independent impact assessment” of the project.

Valencia has not heeded this concern and has not carried out an independent environmental impact study.

CLARO will continue the fight to save Cala Mosca. We will seek to maintain the support

Free TV in hospitals The Department of Universal Health and Public Health is now providing a free television service in the 20 directly managed public hospitals of the Valencian Community, including hospitals for chronically sick people and long stay.

The measure will cost close to 1.2 million euros, in terms of the management of the service itself and the comprehensive maintenance of each of the 5,584 terminals involved, including any accessories (controls, batteries) and the installation necessary for its provision.

In total, the ministry will guarantee free TV on almost 5,600 terminals: 2,231 in individual rooms of, 2,749 in double rooms, 318 in family waiting rooms and 286 in waiting rooms.

of the European Parliament.

We will continue to work with the Cambiemos Orihuela political party, the only Orihuela based party to have shown an interest in the problem, to find solutions which prevent the massive urbanization of this last piece of natural coastland.

There are still unanswered questions concerning the supply of domestic water, connection to the sewage system, the consequences for traffic on the congested N332 road, as well as irregularities in the planning procedure.

And of course there is the consequence, as a result of building 1,500 new housing units, of adding up to 5,000 new inhabitants to Orihuela Costa, nearly a 20% increase, making much worse for the population the present inadequate municipal services and infrastructure.

It is regrettable that governing Popular Party and Ciudadanos coalition has not lifted a finger to safeguard Orihuela Costa’s environment or to protect the interests of its citizens.

We will be performing once again at the Olympia Restaurant at Mil Palmeras that has proved a very popular venue for our shows.

Important dates for your diary are Thursday 28th February, Friday 1st March and Saturday 2nd March.

The Solana Hotel has decided to cash in on St Valentine’s Day and the usual group of guest have booked into the hotel to enjoy this new highlight to the yearly calendar.

Joyce Temple Savage has her usual ideas of grandeur that are monitored and challenged by the down to earth deputy manager Janey.

Jacqueline the swinger is still trying to get little intimate parties in her suite, Mateo is still

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showing his pulling power with the ladies whilst Madge and Michael are still at their bickering best.

The show is full of funny lines that the television series was famous for plus a funny storyline with a twist that is truly original to the Campoverde Theatre Group. Music and cleverly worded songs add to the storyline and the production.

Tickets are 10€, which includes a one course meal. Tickets can be reserved by calling 626 772 256. Tickets can also be purchased at the Library / Reading Point at the Community Centre, Ramon de Campoamor, Calle Cipres near the old / disused Aldi or go along to the Olympia Bar and Restaurant in Mil Palmeras. Book early to prevent disappointment.

Are you liking them too?

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Do you know how your pension is invested?

Do you have an old workplace pension but haven't a clue about how your money is invested or have old pensions that you've lost track of?

Many people therefore choose to open a self-invested personal pension - a Sipp - that offers them a much wider choice of funds and other investment options.

If so, you're not alone.

Put simply, Sipps are a type of do-it-yourself private pension that allow savers to cherry pick from thousands of investments to create a portfolio tailored to their individual appetite for risk and investment objectives.

Most people worked for a number of different employers over the course of their careers and, as a result, end up with several different pension pots.

However, left in an old employer's pension scheme, your money is at risk from high charges and poor performance.

If you’re not comfortable tackling big decisions on your own, then this is where Seagate can help you.

An obvious remedy to this is to consolidate your old pensions into one easy-to-manage pension.

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

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San Javier municipal budget with parents being told that work at the Nuestra Señora de Loreto school in Santiago de la Ribera will not be carried out until 2020.

According to the General Director of Educational Centres, Remedios Lajara, during his visit to the municipality, the Ministry of Education has said that it will include 400,000 euros in the 2020 budget specifically for this purpose.

Seprona dismantle illegal taxidermy workshops

municipality the health care they deserve". He added that the current situation is unsustainable, "Several doctors are having to share consultation rooms as there is not enough space”.

Despite being relatively new, the current Almoradi Health Centre is very small, far too small to meet the needs of the region’s patients, so the only possible solution is to build a new one.

The new centre will be located just five minutes away from the current one and in an area with plenty of parking.

Ana Barceló said that "the need for this new centre is more than

She said that the works that will be carried out progressively, following an established protocol that will determine the priority among the five centres that are currently affected.

Lajara said that money is currently available, however, to completely renovate the two toilets located in the oldest building of the school followed by refurbishment of two other bathrooms in the Infant building. The deterioration of the building that accommodates the youngest students has been one of the long standing complaints of parents at the centre, which is one of the oldest in the municipality.

San Pedro traders unhappy about town centre renovation "San Pedro del Pinatar is a battlefield. Shopkeepers are losing money hand over fist,” said the Ciudadanos spokesman, José Luis Ros, as he criticised the town council for dragging out the remodelling works of the town centre which has crippled trade in the town since last September.

The Nature Protection Service (Seprona) of the Civil Guard based in Alicante and Monóvar has dealt a heavy blow to the illegal trafficing of protected species with the dismantling of three illegal taxidermy workshops and the seizure of more than 200 examples of naturalised protected species, including African lion, white rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, hippopotamus, African crocodile and giraffe.

Operation "Taxideralia", which is part of a plan against the trafficking of wild species, has been investigating local activities since May last year focussing their attention on six people. Four of them, residents in Elche, Alicante, Aspe and Villafranqueza, have been accused of a crime against wildlife, while the other two, residents in Alicante and Murcia, have no criminal liability but they have been charged with administrative infractions.

Of the 400 specimens studied by the authorities it is said that more than 200 of them are of protected species.

evident as, having just visited the old one I can see how inadequate the facilities are. Attempting to build an extension at the present site would not be possible so the only answer is to move”.

Removal of asbestos from Loreto school has to wait The five schools in San Javier that still have asbestos in their ceiling spaces will have to wait until funding can be found in the

Wildlife trafficking is a serious criminal activity, which ranks fourth on the world scale, only behind drug trafficking, counterfeiting and trafficking in human beings. The United Nations and Interpol estimate that this traffic of wild species is worth about 90,000 million dollars a year.

The Regional Minister for Health, Ana Barceló, announced that the procedures for the construction of a new Health Centre in Algorfa are now firmly in place. The Generalitat's Budget for 2019 includes it as a budget item and the Town Council has confirmed that it has a suitable site.

CINEMA PILAR

English Language Cinema in Pilar de la Horadada - Calle Canalejas 4 Thursday 21st FEB at 7pm and Saturday, 23rd of FEB at 5pm

The house with a clock in its walls A young orphan named Lewis Barnavelt aids his magical uncle in locating a clock with the power to bring about the end of the world.

Cast: Owen Vaccaro, Jack Black, Cate Blanchett, Dur: 1hr 34min Genre: Adventure | Haunted Houses. Magic.

Witchcraft

As pedestrians are still having to climb over ditches, walk round fencing and evade construction machinery, it seems as though the public have voted with their feet and decided to shop elsewhere. The footfall has dropped enormously since the work first got underway almost six months ago.

"We did not think they would last so long," says the spokesman of the Business Association, José Luis Oliván, who says that both the Christmas and Three Kings campaigns were the worst of recent years. "Having the works in December has affected sales a lot, because access was very difficult," said Oliván. “We have asked the council for tax credits or a reduction in the charges for terraces,” he said, “but they simply continue to ignore our demands.”

New Health Centre for Algorfa

Manuel Ros, the Algotfa mayor said, "This is good news for all the residents of Algorfa. We will have a new Health Centre with the capacity and necessary facilities to offer the residents of the

José Luis Ros says the council should resign

Lajara with the president of AMPA and the school headteacher

The councillor of Urbanism, Pedro Sanchez, responded by justifying the disruption saying that "it is a large project and the work is very necessary despite the inconvenience and delays."

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Drop in passenger numbers at new Murcia Airport Well Im not too sure what to make of the new Murcia International Airport, having travelled through it in both directions last week.

The facilities on the public side amount to a coffee bar and a couple of vending machines while, airside, a single vending machine is expected to cater for those awaiting flights. There are not enough seats at boarding points with many passengers required to stand for long periods and if your flight is delayed you could be a very tired individual by the time that you are called forward.

Ryanair loading at Corvera

But the flights are rather cheaper than Alicante-Elche which saw an 11.2% rise in passengers during January while in Murcia, the first data published by airport management company Aena since the

changeover from San Javier, shows an 8% fall.

This is the first year-on-year fall in passenger numbers since September 2016, and comes despite the number of flights increasing from 374 to 428.

The reason for this could be that the new location at Corvera is a less attractive destination for those flying into the southern Costa Blanca or Costa Calida although I found the journey from the Orihuela Costa rather easier to Corvera than that to Alicante-Elche. Nevertheless the switch could take some time to prove a success.

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Travellers increase at Alicante Alicante-Elche Airport registered 784,938 passengers during the month of January, which represents an increase of 11.2% over the same month of the year 2018.

The increase of travellers on flights within Spain saw an increase of 20% and 116,661 registered passengers. International traffic also grew with 666,990 passengers resulting in 9.7% more In terms of operations, the Alicante-Elche Airport managed a total of 6,012 flights in January, which represents an increase of 11.8% over the same month of 2018.

Are you considering transferring your Pension?

A PENSION TRANSFER is not for everyone and there will be many factors to weigh up before making the decision to transfer from an existing scheme into a QROPS, SIPPs or other structure.

However, a great deal of doubt remains about the longterm viability of the nation’s defined benefit plans, with the high-profile collapse of a number of such schemes leading many to question their reliability and suitability.

These doubts have only been increased by the recent revelation from Mercer that during 2017/18 the accounting deficit for the defined benefit plans of the UK’s top 350 FTSE organisations increased by 28% to £41 billion, mainly because of a £19 billion drop in asset values (from £766 billion to £747 billion).

The figures were calculated as part of Mercer’s 2018 Pensions Risk Survey and were drawn from the FTSE companies’ corporate accounts.

Partner at Mercer Andrew Ward commented in a press release on the firm's website*: “2018 was a record year for premiums paid to insurers for buy ins and buy outs, with more than £20 billion of DB obligations being insured. We forecast nearly one third of a trillion pounds to be paid by UK private sector DB pension schemes over a three-year

period, from 2019-2021.”

For some time now there have been questions about the ability of defined benefit plans to weather any significant shocks to the market. The pertinence of these questions has only been augmented by the uncertainties of Brexit.

Now, perhaps more than ever, it is important that defined benefit plan members sit down with their financial advisers and examine the suitability of their pension for reaching their financial and retirement goals and, fundamentally, whether they have confidence in the long-term viability of their plan.

Nevertheless, it is important to remember that fluctuation and volatility is an inherent part of financial markets, including those that affect defined benefit pension schemes.

And although it is true that the FTSE organisations finished 2018 in deficit, they remain in much ruder health than they did following the 2016 Brexit referendum.

Defined benefit schemes were once thought of as being the gold standard for pensions in the UK. However, in the twenty-first century they face many funding challenges with even some of the best-funded schemes now seriously underfunded.

If you have pension benefits and are considering a transfer, Blacktower can help you make sense of your options and, as a fully regulated firm, can help you decide whether a transfer is suitable for your circumstances.

The local Blacktower office address is:

Pinatar with easy parking.

120 Avenida Dr. Artero Guirao 2C. San Pedro Del Pinatar, 30740, Murcia, Spain.

If you want more information or wish to make an appointment to discuss your own situation then call 657 684 094 or email keith.littlewood@blacktowerfm.com

Our office suite is easy to find on the main N332 through road of San Pedro del

Blacktower Financial Management (International) Limited is licensed by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission. Licence 00805B. Blacktower Financial Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

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QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS QUICK ACROSS: 1 Clip; 3 Hermetic; 8 Nick; 9 Precinct; 11 Intemperance; 13 Casual; 14 Simple; 17 Dissociation; 20 Wheedled; 21 Fane; 22 Retiring; 23 Mess.

DOWN: 1 Convince; 2 Incites; 4 Earned; 5 Mechanical; 6 Tonic; 7 Cite;

10

Ambassador;

12

Keenness; 15 Private; 16 Screen; 18 Inept; 19 Ewer.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC

See 11 Down

9.

Unsealed circular letter to write (4)

10. Functions Steven rearranged (6) 12. Inside the gate the rope is a restraining agent (6) 14. A track that climbers may find arduous (6) 16. To go over to the enemy side is a fault (6) 18. Heather without a boy (4) 20. Is it used for printing the floor-covering? (8) 22. Presents a single team - reserves for future use!

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

Breaking up (13)

Ramp; 9 Artesian; 11 Men of affairs;

8.

Deprecate (8)

13 Steven; 14 Stable; 17 Flame-

9.

Detail (4)

thrower; 20 Entitled; 21 Pike; 22

10.

Sundry (6)

Landsmen; 23 Leas.

12.

In plenty (6)

DOWN: 1 Foremost; 2 Romance; 4

14.

Intelligent (6)

Tariff; 5 Ale-tasters; 6 Drier; 7 Mint;

16.

Browbeat (6)

10 Aftermaths; 12 Peerless; 15

18.

Goad (4)

Bowline; 16 Athene; 18 Latin; 19

20.

Dismally (8)

Well.

22.

Perfidy (13)

Volition (4,4) Kindle (6) Propensity (4) Force (8) Ad lib (2,4) Drill (4) Contend (8) Without a home (8) Truth (6) Advent (6) Summit (4) Expel (4)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. In 1958 Cliff Richard had his first hit single with which record?

2. In which year? The film Grease was released and Kate Bush had a UK No. 1 with Wuthering Heights. 1976, 1977, 1978?

3. Which character did Harold Sakata play in Goldfinger?

4. Mum and Dad are better known as Posh and Becks, but can you name the three young Beckhams?

5. In which country are the Apennines?

6. In which county is Glastonbury?

7. In which country is the site of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor?

8. Kirsch is a spirit made from which fruit?

9. The Society of Friends are now better known as what?

10. Who wrote the songs for the Wombles?

11. When in season, which type of vegetable does one associate with muskat, spaghetti and butter nut?

12. The world's shortest war in history lasted just 38 minutes. It was fought in 1896 between Zanzibar and which European nation?

13. The following words are the last words of

the Kidne I took from one woman and prasarved it for you tother piece I fried and ate it was very nise. I may send you the bloody knif that took it out if you only wate a whil longer....signed.... Catch me when you can Mishter Lusk . 17. Carrying the canoe, 18. A chronometer - a maritime clock. 19. Silvia's Mother Said Doctor Hook. 20. Masturbation

(4,2,3,4)

7.

famous song titles, the missing words are names of someone. Complete the song titles: a: ____ said, b: _____ 's waiting, c: _____ the killer, d: ____ and America. e: _____ Martin and John 14: The Air France Concorde that crashed in Paris narrowly missed another plane on which a famous person was travelling. Who was travelling on the other plane?

15. What is the biggest export of North Korea?

16. Who infamously addressed one of his letters to the London police with the words "From Hell" ?

17. If you PORTAGE a canoe, what are you doing?

18. What type of clock did Harrison invent?

19. The following lyrics come from which famous song?

'And the operator says, "forty cents more for the next three minutes".

'Please Mrs. Avery, I gotta talk to her I'll only keep her a while' 20. What is the more common word for IPSATION?

Committee, received a three-inchsquare cardboard box in his mail.

Inside was half a human kidney preserved in wine, along with the following letter. Medical reports carried out

by Dr. Openshaw found the kidney to be very similar to the one removed from Catherine Eddowes, though his findings were inconclusive either way. The letter read as follows: From hell. Mr Lusk, Sor... I send you half

8.

DOWN 1. In the vaults you’ll find four volumes of public records (8) 2. Alternative choice - could it be a soft one? (6) 3. More than one tea container runs out! (4) 4. Declared a dessert should be varied (8) 5. I’m getting a job – here’s the tax (6) 6. Girl, we hear - subjected to coercion (4) 11 & 8Ac. Resolving a debatable point and placating the children (8,3,5) 13. Mischievous venture leads to flight about the present time (8) 15. Do some boxing! (6) 17. Thief round the south could become an obsession (6) 19. Complete defeat when the way remains unfinished (4) 21. Women in evening-dress will reveal the figure (4)

ACROSS: 1 Fort; 3 At random; 8

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

11.

13.

15.

17.

19.

21.

1. Move It, 2. 1978, 3. Oddjob, 4.

Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz, 5. Italy, 6.

Somerset, 7. The Ukraine, 8. Cherries, 9. Quakers, 10. Mike Batt, 11. Squash / Pumpkin, 12. Great Britain,13. Five answers: a: Jackie Wilson, b: Robert Di Niro, c: Cortez, d: Elvis Presley, e: Abraham. 4. Jacques Chiraq. 5.

Weapons. 16 Jack the Ripper .....On October 16th George Lusk, the president of the Whitechapel Vigilance

ACROSS 7. Gets the fare ready (8,1,4)

ACROSS

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‘Letters from the Canary Islands’ Barrie Mahoney was a head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands to launch and edit a new English language newspaper.

He enjoys life in the sun as a columnist and author, and continues to write a series of popular novels, books for expats, as well as designing mobile apps and websites to promote the Canary Islands.

LAST BOTTLE STANDING ONE OF THE MANY DELIGHTS of living in the Canary Islands and Spain is the enjoyment of a huge range of wines that are readily and cheaply available. Although wine snobs will disagree, bottles of good quality, drinkable wines are always readily available for less than five euros.

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b y Bar rie Mahoney

As well as a growing selection of excellent Canarian wines that I always enjoy, but my reliable standby, particularly when visiting the UK, is always a Spanish Rioja.

The Spanish region of La Rioja is the largest wine growing region, in terms of volume shipped to the UK, in the entire European Union.

According to the Spanish Wine Market Observatory, Spanish wineries sold 32 million litres of Rioja to the UK in the first nine months of 2018, which is one third of their entire global export. It is clear that British drinkers love their glass of Rioja.

In order to ensure that British wine drinkers continue to receive their fair share, Spanish vineyards have been working hard to ship as much Rioja as possible, just in case the UK leaves the EU without a deal.

Forecast sales for the first six months of 2019 have already been shipped, so there will be no immediate crisis for lovers of Rioja in the UK. Potential problems, such as the depreciation of sterling, the UK becoming a ‘third country outside the EU’, the possibility of no customs agreement and higher duties have led the Spanish wine industry to look to other markets to sell their product, including Russia, Canada and Brazil where there are already appreciative and interested markets waiting.

There are a few other problems too for Rioja lovers, including the decision of the outspoken owner of a major group of UK pubs to no longer stock any European wines and many European beers. It appears that lovers of Spanish, French, Italian and German wines will have to find a new outlet that will serve their favourite tipples once the UK leaves the EU. Favourite beers, such as Jägermeister from Germany, the Czech Republic’s Staropramen and Denmark’s Tuborg are

also being axed. Apparently, the Belgian lager Stella Artois, is currently irreplaceable and will remain on tap, at least for the time being. Encouraging and supporting British breweries and vineyards, as well as extending customer choice is no doubt a good thing, but the restriction of consumer choice based upon political and divisive dogma may be less than helpful in a market where consumers can readily vote with their feet.

Wines from the US, Australia, Chile, Argentina and New Zealand are currently being imported by the pub chain to fill the void, whilst sparkling wines from England are intended to replace both Italian Prosecco and French Moet champagne. No more Prosecco? Well, good luck with that one!

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at my websites: http://barriemahoney.com and http://thecanaryislander.com or read my latest book, ‘Living in Spain and the Canary Islands’ (ISBN: 9780995602724).

Available in paperback, as well as Kindle editions. Join me on Facebook: @barrie.mahoney

16

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Monday 18th - Sunday 24th February, 2019

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

Car and Vehicle Sales The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2015 Ford CMax Diesel which is on Special Offer priced at just 15,499 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 The next monthly meeting of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Royal British Legion will be on 21 February at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras starting at 7.30pm. All are welcome.

RNA - The Royal Naval Assn meet at El Paraiso Restaurant behind Carrefour in Torrevieja at 3pm on the first Weds of every month.

Contact Margaret Forshaw, on 966 92 1996 Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Residential Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a

coffee. If you think you can help call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887.

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

Badminton in Pilar de la Horadada.

Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs.

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

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

HAH CB need you to help us help those in need in their own homes,

short or long term medical conditions of all ages and nationalities.

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

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

Volunteers are unpaid but expenses are met. Email: 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 including music, language classes, drawing and Much more. Info available at: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

Churches and Services La Siesta Evangelical Church hold services each Sunday.

Our 11.15am Services are held every 2nd and 4th Sunday in the month (and on the 5th Sunday, if this applies.) On the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s our Services are at 9.30 am. Our choir sings at our 11.15 am Services and there is also a Sunday School, Stepping Stones, on these Sundays. For info see www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org or phone Pastor Keith on 666 180 108 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,

Local Services Section TRANSLATOR. SPANISH with University Degree in English.

Medical visits, NIE, Spanish taxes,etc. Also Spanish Classes, individual or groups, from Alicante to San Pedro del Pinatar. 696 693 696 AWNINGS, VERTICAL-VENETIAN Blinds. Roll-up insect screens. Quality, economic prices. From Alicante to San Pedro del Pinatar & surrounding areas. BLUE SEA SERVICES. 619 704 398 NEW AND REPLACEMENT Windows and Doors, Conservatories. Quality and economic prices. From Alicante to San Pedro del Pinatar and surrounding areas. BLUE SEA SERVICES. 619 704 398

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Diner, Utility room. Private pool and jacuzzi. Solarium with panoramic views. walking distamce to restaurants and bars. €185.000 604 152 124 or 672 921 851 The following is a small selection of the properties currently available with Spanish Riviera Homes. If you would like additional info on any of them please call +34 617 537 866 or Email: property@spanishrivierahomes.com

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3 bed quad house in sought after Pinada golf, close to Villamartin Plaza and Golf Course. Ref: 000996 Price: € 119950. Call +34 617 537 866

Los Altos townhouse. 2 bed, 1.5 bath. Not overlooked. Parking space. Communal swimming pool. Close to bars, shops. Sold furnished. More photos on www.idealista.com. Ref.: 83666784. Call Colin on +44 772 693 7419 to view.

2 bed 2 bath Newly Built Ground Floor Apartment, in the luxurious Oasis Urbanisation in La Florida, Orihuela Costa.

Ref: 000995 €140,000

Affordable three bedroom detached villa for sale in San Miguel de Salinas Ref: 000028 Price: € 119950 Call +34 617 537 866

3 bed, 2 bath semi detached duplex, 2 terraces in Blue Lagoon, secure urbanisation with communal pool. Ref: 000997 Price: € 118000 Call +34 617 537 866

Two bedroom ground floor apartment in prestigious Panorama Park community in Punta Prima. Ref: 000979 €159,950

Two bedroom, two bathroom semi-new townhouse for sale in Villamartin. Ref: 000959 Price: € 174950. Call +34 617 537 866

Personal

New on the Orihuela Costa

Camaron

Sexy figured French beauty. Very discreet and private. All Services.

For appointment please call:

603 143 881

Sexy, elegant Spanish lady. Playa Flamenca. Punta Prima. Private house. Erotic massage. All services. From €40. Call Ana on 657 603 495. Speak English.

Torrevieja. Shirley. 34 years.

Tanned beauty. Great figure, big breasts. Sweet face. Discretion.

Appointment only. Tel. 655 677 738

Property for Sale Spacious townhouse on La Marina Urb. 3 double bedrooms, 3 Baths, fully-equipped kitchen, lounge and dining room. Terrace, balcony and solarium with superb views. Full a/c. Quiet location.

104/175 m2. 140,000 Euro.

Email daviddixon4@sky.com for photos. (1/5) Villamartin Pau8 Penthouse Apartment, gated community, 2 bed, 2 bath, lounge / diner, kitchen, air-comditionimg, Sthfacing balcony. Communal pool, and solarium. Off-road parking. €115.000. Tel: 604 152 124 or 672 921 851 Blue Hill. Luxury detached villa.

2 bed, 2 bath. Kitchen, Lounge,

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Monday 18th - Sunday 24th February, 2019 The following is a true story (name changed).

SAMARITANS IN SPAIN

DEPRESSION

Do you identify with these thoughts?

‘The change in you that is brought about by depression is incredibly confusing’, says Roger 'there is no let up, no reprieve, just withdrawal, locking you into the way you feel by isolating you from people who care about you the most.’

Roger noticed changes in the way he felt in his second year of university.

As a student, he was used to rising to the challenges of university, however, as his mood sank lower and lower, he began to react very differently to pressure: ‘I have always been hard working but somehow, academic challenges seemed overwhelming.

My grades and attendance record remained strong, but I constantly felt I was falling behind and was totally preoccupied with thoughts

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17

of failure.’

The real you quickly becomes the old you and all of a sudden you feel deeply uncomfortable with yourself and doubt everything you do.

Roger’s friends and family encouraged him to seek help, which started with a trip to the doctor.”I spent hours and hours alone and stopped socialising almost completely. Not knowing who to speak to I turned to the Samaritans. They helped me more than I thought they could. They listened, understood and supported me through my time of need.’

Samaritans helped Roger when he felt depressed. Although the answer to managing depression is different for each person, he feels having a listening ear helped him understand the way he was feeling and prompted him to take action to improve his mood: A visit to the Doctor also became part of the recovery process. ‘I now have a strategy to cope when I am finding life difficult. I can spot the warning signs and take steps that I know will improve my mood. I don’t have a ‘silver bullet’ or ‘magic panacea’ but I can stop my mood sinking lower and lower.’

Reflecting back on his experience, Roger thinks that having someone to listen to him had a huge impact on his life: ‘I wouldn’t want anyone who was struggling to cope to end up feeling alone or isolated.

Do you sometimes feel like this? If you can identify with this story and need to talk to someone in complete confidence, then contact SAMARITANS IN SPAIN – You Talk We Listen.

Phone 900 525 100 Email pat@samaritansinspain.com Or Send a Message to 634 325 906 to organise a WhatsApp call.

18

Monday 18th - Sunday 24th February, 2019

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LEADER

Greenlands Bowls with Dave Webb

La Siesta Bowls Club by Rod Edgerton

San Miguel Bowls Club - by Barry Jones

In the Voyager Division, the Chestnuts were at home to Emerald Isle Saturns. Final score - 90 - 100. 2 - 10.

Winning rink was D Field, M Cassidy, skip D Thompson, 39 - 7.

Over in the Discovery Division, the Maples continued their successful advance to the top of the league with another good win over Horodada Falcons. Final score - 101 - 69. 10 - 2. Best winning rink was R Wattley, V Sale, skip L Rudge, 27 - 12.

The Sycamores were away to San Miguel Dalmations, final score was - 89 - 81. 7 - 5. Best winning rink was B Tomlin, V Duchart, skip J Wilcock. 23 - 10. In the Winter League we were at home to La Siesta. Final scores were 96 - 68. 10 - 2.

Best winning rink was C Rudge, D Giddings, L Rudge, skip M Brown. 25 - 9.

In the Fed 4s the Beech were at home to Country Bowls, final score 53 - 49. 6 - 2. Best winning rink was R Hart, Z Wilcock, J Wilcock, skip D Webb. 19 - 16. This was a crucial game for us to win, just one rink needed to win to secure the top spot in the league, so congratulations are in order.

Meanwhile in adjacent rinks the Ash were playing against Monte Mar Lords, Final score was 57 - 38. 8 - 0. Best winning rink - S Cordell, V Sale, R Cordell, skip D Sale. 24 15. In the Southern league Div C. the Cedars were away to E, Isle Roundheads, final score was 111 - 63. 12 - 0. Best winning rink was L Morris, A Butterworth, skip T Hill. 24 5.

The Oaks were at home to La Marina Ospreys, final score 83 - 68. 10 - 2. Best winning rink was A Toozer, D Toozer, skip R Lee. 20 - 11.

For enquiries please contact Chris Dewar on 698 418 987 or visit our web site greenlands-bowls.wixsite.com/greenlandsbowlsclub

In the Enterprise Division The Apollos entertained Quesada Diamonds and managed to win on four rinks, overall shots 125-58 picking up 10 pts. Best winners were Dave Davies with Florence and Mike Edwards 39-6 whilst Pat Harman, John Taylor and George Richardson won 28-10.

In the Voyager Division both the Pioneers and the Sputniks travelled to El Rancho The Pioneers drawing with the Palaminos with good wins from Doug & Fay Beattie with Alan Mawer winning 35-9 and Jo Elkin with Derek Smith and Rab Logan winning 19-10. Not so good for the Sputniks losing by 108-67 with the winning rink coming from Gary Randell, Shelia Millward and Jim Eastwood 16-12.

In the Winter League v Greenlands welost by 96-68, winning rink for La Siesta was Doug Beattie, Fay Beattie with Bill and Sue Jordan 18-16.

In the Fed 4’s the Parakeets drew with San Miguel Apaches losing the overall by a single point 48-47. Winning rinks were Brian Gardiner, Derek Smith, Pat Harman and Jean Cooper 25-11 and Ros Stockell, Brian Harman, George Richardson and Jenny Bowman 14-13.

The Hoopoes lost at San Luis by 54 shots to 45 picking up 2 pts from the rink of Sheila Millward, Pat Moore, Sue Jordan and Val Dalton 23-13.

A good day’s bowling for all 3 La Siesta teams. In Division A the Blues visited San Luis Lions and had an excellent win by 7 points to 5 with the match tied 81 shots each. Winners for Blues were Pat Harman, Derek Biggs and Alex Morrice 20-11, Dave Davies, Brian Gardiner and Irene Mangan 19-10 and Trish & Pat Reilly with George Richardson 19-16.

In Division B the Golds home to San Luis Leopards won picked up 10 points winning the match by 105 shots to 63,Best winners for the Golds were Tony and Val Dalton with Rab Logan winning 25-5 whilst Barbara Cooper with Irene and Dave Laverick won 26-12.

In Division C the Silvers achieved a whitewash against El Rancho Rangers picking up all 12 points taking the shots by 102 to 45. good wins for all rinks with the best coming fron Kathleene and Noel Morrisoe with Joe Kocsis winning 32-9 which should help the Silvers move up the table.

San Miguel Pointers were home to San Luis Vulcans, winning 10 2, (104 shots to 67). The best winning triple for the third week running were Anne Young, Dave Young and Stuart Hemmings, 32 - 8. San Miguel Alsations were away to San Luis Trekkers, winning 10 - 2 (105 shots to 74) The best joint winning triples were Marilyn Shatwell, Paul Hayward and Alan Booth, 23 - 9; and Anita Brown, Tom Dalgliesh and John Marshall 22 - 8. San Miguel Beagles were away to San Luis Klingons, loosing 7 - 5 (84 shots to 74), the best winning triple were Margaret Patterson, Brian Miller and Lin Miller, 18 - 11. San Miguel Dalmations were home to Greenlands Sycamores, loosing 7 - 5 (89 shots to 81), the best winning triple were Bob Nesbitt, Dave Champion and Barbara Scotthern 21 - 14.

La Marina Bowls Club I would like to start the report by apologising to both our members and to the Leader newspaper who do a grand job supporting bowls in Spain.

We now have a correspondent Chris Bould who will start as soon as she is back from Holiday next week.

I have no league reports, I will leave this to Chris, but as captain I like to report on the last 2 weekends social events.

Saturday Feb 2nd saw the official start of our 30th Anniversary year.

It started with a Captain's versus President's game that ended in a very exciting finish with the Triple of Hilary Cronk, Margaret McLaughlin and Peter Parsons scoring a 5 on the final end, securing the Match for the Captain – also winning top rink.

This was followed our charity donation of 400 euros to our local Red Cross organisation.

The day finished with a Dinner/Dance at Paco's that was thoroughly

with Dave Hadaway

enjoyed by all who attended where once again Peter Parsons won 1st prize in the raffle.

Our thanks go to all those that arranged the day, especially to Jean Tregoing our social secretary.

The following Saturday Feb 9th we played for the Barclays Properties Trophy with a generous donation of Prize Money. The game consisted of 2 sets of 9 ends with the maximum entry of 12 teams. It really was a very close game with only 3 teams winning the 2 sets.

However the winning trip of Hilary Cronk, Phil Pape and Bill Jones had perhaps our biggest ever margin of plus 30 shots. My thanks go to Barclays Properties and Santi (in the bar) for finishing these events with his regular Saturday Paella (3.50 euros) If you have not tried it yet you really should.

Finally my thanks go to the Red Cross for all their efforts on behalf of La Marina Urbanization and indeed world wide.

In the Winter League, San Miguel were home to San Luis, loosing 8 - 4 (82 shots to 69). The best winning rink was Brian Miller, Brian Allen, Carol Broomfield and Steve Cantley 22 - 8.

In the Fed 4’s San Miguel Mohawks were home too San Miguel Cherokees loosing 5 - 3, (45 shots to both teams), the best rink for the Mohawks were Alan Booth, Shiela Booth, Jan Farmer and Derek Farmer 20 - 11. The best rink for the Cherokees were Noel Davis, Carol Bloomfield, Gail Willshire and Fred Willshire 19 11. The San Miguel Apaches were away to La Siesta Parakeets sharing the points at 4 - 4, (47 shots to 48) The best winning rink was Anita Brown, Reg Cooper, Ron Nairey and Allen Campbell winning 24 - 8.

On Friday San Miguel Boxers were home to Country Bowls Geekos, winning 10 - 2 (100 shots to 82), the best winning trio were Bob Nesbitt, Anne Young and Barbara Scotthern winning 28 - 16. San Miguel Bulldogs were away to Emerald Isle Claymore winning 11 - 1, (90 shots to 62). The best winning trio were Alan Booth, Bill Brownlee and Mike Douglas 23 - 7.

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 965 72 0461, or the Secretary Gail Willshire on 965 020 492.

Vistabella Bowls

With Lynne Bishop.

Sponsored by TV Choice & Venture Fleet.

SAL ENTERPRISE League Albatrosses were away to MonteMar Matadors, they did well with wins on three rinks, a drawn rink and just one defeat.

Shots, VB 96(9) - 86(3) MM.

El Rancho Bowls Club On Monday morning the Palominos were at home to La Siesta Friday morning found the Mustangs at Quesada playing the Swallows Pioneers and had a good day, drawing the match 6 points each, their hard work is showing benefits.

and despite playing some good bowls came away with just one rink, but we were up against a strong team who played well.

The Pintos were away to Emerald Isle Moonrakers in the afternoon, who took advantage of local knowledge of the mat, with Pintos coming away with just the one rink. But it was a good match played in the best of company.

The Rangers were away to La Siesta Silver, putting in a good effort, one man short. But alas Silver proved too strong on the day with the home advantage and won all four rinks, but it is only a game and we bowl for fun.

Meanwhile the Raiders entertained la Siesta Sputniks and had a very good match taking 4 of the rinks and the overall shots. Val Ryder, Bob Easthope and Henry Ryder 18-17. Barbara Jones, Marion Haynes and Geoff Jones 21-12. Emma Walsh, Ann Taylor and Jim Taylor 38-6. Judy Foley, Liam Foley and Dave Haynes 19-16. Maria Wilkinson, Gill Bartlett and Rob Clark 12-16.

The Broncos were at home to Quesada Swifts, seems some were confused yesterday and were at El Rancho for a practice, results must be important to some after all. But the Broncos took 2 of the rinks, not a bad result. For further membership information contact Sheila Cox at micksheilacox@gmail.com or Brian Taylor on 965077093 or at: elranchobowlsclub@gmail.com

Horadada Bowls Club

By Irene Graham On Monday in the Discovery Division we were at home to Greenlands Maples.

Although it was yet another lovely sunny day, the weather didn’t help the result for Horadada.

We really need some positive results to keep us from relegation. In saying that, we were playing the team who are top of the division.

We did manage to win on one rink and that

was: Irene Graham, John Goddard and Terry Hucknall 15 – 12. The final score was 69 shots for to 101 against giving us 2 points to 10 points against. Let’s hope we can play to our form against Montemar next. Keep going Falcons.

Friday was another home match for the Royals this time but I’m afraid the final result was not any better for the home team.

Montemar Matadors were too good.

We did, however, have two winning rinks so very well played to those team members.

The third rink was very close but the Royals

just got pipped on the last end.

Our winning rinks were: Jenny Davis, Les Davies and Roy Thomson 23 – 15 Mick Kirby, Wayne Jackson and Bryan Eatough 20 -19.

The match was played in good spirits with lovely people.

Keep em bowls a rollin’ Team Horadada.

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

The Drivers also travelled north for a game at La Marina, playing the Explorers they only had one win with another rink narrowly missing out by one shot. Shots, VB 79(2) - 117(10) LM. In the DISCOVERY League the Eagles were at home to MonteMar Toreadors. Unfortunately not fielding a full side so they paid the penalty, they went on to have one win and a draw. Shots, VB 64(3) - 80(9) MM. VOYAGER League Buggies were at home against Country Bowls Flamingos. A A windy start was a leveller but the Buggies really got going in the second half to win another full house. Shots, VB 111(12) - 65(0) CB. WINTER League. Another week, another win, playing at the Emerald Isle three results went in our favour, the other two didn’t but we took enough shots to win the long game. VB 99(8) - 67(4).

Well done to our Berleen team for their win...on rink six!

Vistabella top of the league...well done everyone.

SOUTHERN League. Div A Lanzadores away to San Luis Tigers, only one win which was a disaster or a revenge match as we won twelve - nil at home! Back on track next week please. Shots, VB 85(2) - 103(10) SL. Picadors were home to Emerald Isle Cavaliers also only winning on one rink...a bad day in the office for them too. Shots, VB 67(2) - 105(10) EI. Div C Swingers got it right playing San Luis Pumas at home, they achieved four wins, the only losing team lost by one shot! VB 110(10) - 57(2) SL. Conquistadors down in the campo playing Country Bowls Cubs had a great result away from home, three wins plus shots. VB 84(7) - 74(5) CB.

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SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB A mixed week, unfortunately there seems to have been more downs than ups but hopefully we'll bounce back again next week..

SA League Monday 11th Klingons home v SM Beagles, useful points; 7pts-5, 84shots-74.

Winners: Colin Jackson, June & Keith Jones, 2610, William Holtham, Sabrina & Russell Marks 15-12, Ray Clarke, Neil Morrison, Ian Kenyon 17-17.

Trekkers home v SM Alsations, hard work for 2pts-10, 74 shots-105. Winners: Kevin McKenna, Marina Beardsall, Barry Edwards 23-21. Vulcans a tough match home v a strong SM Pointers team; 2-10, 67shots-104. Winners: Cas Blay, Kevin Hull, Phil Hasler 16-15. Romulans BYE. Wednesday 13th Winter League: as expected a hard fought match, away v San Miguel, but a great result; 8points-4, 82 shots-69. Winners: Pam Lockett, June Jones, Peter McEneany, Keith Jones 22-15, Jan Pocock, Drew Russell, Sabrina & Russ Marks 15-13, Shirley Verity, Ray Pollock, Jo & Jules Pering 27-2.

FED 4’s League: Thursday 14th Condors v Ospreys had a real ding-dong battle with Condors, after an incredible come back, winning: 6pts-2, 60shots-59.

Condors Winners: Mags Haines, Ray Watmough, Les Bedford, Brian Pocock 27-26, Ros Holmes, Peter Fuller, Barry Edwards, Neil Morrison 20-10.

by SHEILA CAMMACK

Ospreys Winners: William Holtham, Janet McEneany, Ann Holland, Peter McEneany 2313.Bazas home v LS Hoopoes, had a good result; 6pts-2, 54 shots-45. Winners: Pauline Johnson, Chris Jackson, Pat Barnes, Ralph Jones 21-9, Sue Ross, Bob Bruce, Steve Rossiter, Lyndon Johnson 20-13.

Southern League: Friday 15th Lions home v LS Blues, had a close battle, shots 81-81, 5pts-7.

Winners: Kath Reid, Pam Lockett, Ian Kenyon 21-13, William Holtham, Keith Phillips, Neil Morrison 23-10.

Tigers, a great result home v VB Lanzadores, 103shots-85, 10pts-2, only just losing the final game by 3 shots. Winners: Kevin McKenna, Mags Haines, Barry Edwards 25-22, Shirley Verity, Jo & Jules Pering 21-15, Ros Holmes, Jan & Brian Pocock 20-16, Judy Carroll, Marina Beardsall, Derrick Cooper 21-13.

Leopards away v LS Golds, hard fought: 2pts-10, 63shots-105. Winners: Ray Watmough, Dave Tilley, Malcolm Ayton 18-12.

Pumas, away v VB Swingers, a hard day at the office: 2-10, 57shots-119. Winners: Pauline Johnson, Chris Lythe, Ralf Jones 18-17.

WE WELCOME NEW BOWLERS - For club information, check THE SLBC website: www.sanluisbowls.byethost7.com or contact June Jones, Club Captain: 691 903 773.

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS CLUB Firstly well done to M Elliott J Gregory J Mulloy for getting a hot shot at San Luis on 8th Feb Monday took the Titans to Quesada Pearls and they drew 6-6 aggregate 62-78, J Smyth P Coffey G Odell 17-11, S Johnson K Jolliffe D Gerrard 1310, S Kavanagh C Smyth B Kavanagh 15-13 Neptunes played at home against Quesada Rubbies and won 8-4 aggregate 105 -65, B Doran C Thomas MThomas 31-6 A Brown C Parsons P Heaney 25-8, C Ayling B Eldred D Donovan 27-11 Moonrakers had a great win against El Rancho Pintos 10-2 aggregate 108-64, L Harris P Willicott R Clive 29-9, M Breen J Loughran E Bennett 239, G Dyer L Freeman M Willicott 22-8, V Cameron T Dix G Ponsford 23-17 Saturns travelled to Greenlands Chestnuts and had a great 10-2 aggregate 100-90 win, C Selby R Fooks E Shepperd 27-7, A Gower L Bath L Smith 25-13, J Horne B Taylor T Roche 27-15 Tuesday saw the Prem 20 KO semi final played against Quesada and the Emerlad Isle came out on top of tough games with an aggregate score 9-7.

HOME P Heaney J Mulloy 27-6 D Jones R

Monday 18th - Sunday 24th February, 2019

by ELWYN MORRIS

White I Brewster drew 14 -14. AWAY C Lindgren 21-20, R Clive D Gerrard 26-19, P Rhodes C Smyth J Smyth 21-13. We will play San Luis in the Final Emerald Isle played Vistabella in winter league on Wed at home and slipped to a 4-8 aggregate 67-99, winners were J Pooley J Mulloy J Smyth I Brewster 23-14, R Clive D Leeming D Close P Coffey 19-12, Berleen got beaten 19-12 Cavaliars travelled to Vistabella to play the Picadors and Won 10-2 aggregate 105-67, winners were S Johnson J Pooley C Lindgren 25-10, P Rhodes D Leeming M Odell 3-13, S Kavanagh P Coffey B Kavanagh 21-10, B Taylor C Smyth J Smyth 2-16 Claymores played at home against San Miguel Bulldogs and were beaten, 11-1 aggregate 62-90 B Doran C Thomas MThomas 15-15 Outlaws played at La Marina Merlins and lost 210 aggregate 75-118, winners were T Capewell G Ponsford P Dix 16-15. Roundheads were at home against Greenlands Cedars and went down 0-12 aggregate 63-111

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Quesada Bowls Club

by Dee Stephenson After being postponed last week due to high winds, the mixed pairs final match in the Quesada Bowls Club Championships resumed on Saturday morning. The winners were Jacqui Highland and Graham Phillips. Congratulations to them and well done to the runners up Violet Campbell and Fred Roberts.

In the South Alicante Winter League, Quesada Pearls hosted Emerald Isle Titans in a very tight match which was reflected in the scores - 6 points each. The shots were 78 Pearls and 62 Titans. The Pearls retain their 3rd place in the league.

However, in very windy conditions it was not a good day for Quesada Diamonds away to La Siesta Apollos. The Diamonds lost on 4 rinks and won on 1 rink so the Apollos enjoyed a win of 102 points and 126-58 shots. Meanwhile the Rubies also had a tough game away to Emerald Isle Neptunes, who won the match 8-4 points and 10565 shots.

In the Southern League it was an excellent week for the teams. Quesada Swifts enjoyed not only a

COUNTRY BOWLS CLUB By Jo Richardson Monday saw the Flamingos away to the top club Vista Bella Buggies.

Unsurprisingly the Buggies did the business and the Flamingos lost on all rinks.

There were a few games that were close up to the halfway mark and then the wind changed direction and we disappeared.

The Flamingos have slipped to third place behind the Buggies and San Miguel Pointers.

It’s been a good season and hopefully they will hold on to this position.

On Friday, Country Bowls welcomed the Vista Bella Conquistadors on a cool & cloudy morning.

Sitting close to each other in the league there was everything to play for.

Vista Bella got off to a great start winning on all but one rink and then by half way it was levelling up.

Great bowling and a great atmosphere followed with laughter, team play and of course serious

19

good match against the El Rancho Broncos but also a win - unusual on the testing El Rancho green! The result was Quesada won 8-4 points and 100-76 shots, keeping the Swifts in 2nd place in the league. The Swans also enjoyed an excellent win when they hosted La Manga Crusaders, finishing with all 12 points and 116-48 shots. Finally in this league, Quesada Swallows had a very good win against El Rancho Mustangs with 10-2 points and 111-63 shots. Well done to all 3 teams!

In the Winter league, Quesada hosted La Marina and won the match 10-2 points and 98-68 shots, while the Quesada Panthers had a bye this week in the Federated 4’s.

Just a reminder that 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 bowls.

The final outcome was shared on the rinks 5 – 5 with Vista Bella taking the shots by 10.

Overall score 7 – 5 to the Conquistadors.

Country Bowls scoring rinks; Keith Bolding, Derek Lewis & John Mallet Ann Barratt, Dave Smith & Bryan Kirk Chris Stevens, Craig Dyson & Andy Bryce Country Bowls Geckos visited San Miguel Boxers on the same morning.

The games were closely fought and fortunes changed throughout the game leaving the Boxers the victors on four rinks and the Geckos winners on one.

Congratulations to Graham Richardson, Pat Ray & Brian Ray on the winning rink with a score of 25 – 9.

The shot difference of only 18 shots over 5 rinks indicates how closely the game was fought.

Well done Geckos against one of the top 4 teams in the league.

For more information on Country Bowls please visit: www.countrybowlsmurcia.com email: grahamandjo7@gmail.com or tel 966 19 1552.

Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Monte Mar Toreadors v Horadada Royals The Toreadors had a hard victory at Horadada winning on three rinks and losing on two. Well done to the winning rinks of Val Hyman, Jean Chamberlain skip Les Bounds, Jan Soars, Ian Hamilton skip Graham Smythe, Rita Towle, Jan Gatward skip Mick Soars. Shots 101 – 9, Pts 8 – 4 Monte Mar Toreadors v Vistabella Eagles - It was a disappointment that the Eagles could only field four rinks which gave the Toreadors a ten shot and two point advantage. Nevertheless on a bright, windy and chilly afternoon the Toreadors had a well deserved overall win. Well done to the winning rinks of Jan Soars, Rita Towle skip Dave Eades, Jean Chamberlain, Phil Goble skip Rod Chamberlain and the drawing rink of Julia Hamilton Sue Bounds skip Graham Smythe. Shots 80 – 64, Points 9 – 3 Monte Mar Matadors v Quesada Swans

At home to the Swans the Matadors won on all the rinks, well done everyone. Points 12 – 0 Monte Mar Matadors v Vistabella Albatross At to a strong team from Vistabella the Matadors won on one rink and drew on one rink. Well done to Harry Dobson, Ronnie Cairns skip Dave Melville and the drawing rink Tanya Oliver, Danny King skip Jack Burrell. Points 3 – 9 WINTER LEAGUE - Monte Mar v Bonalba This week Monte Mar played at Bonalba and a lovely day was had by all. Although a couple of games were tight we only managed to win on one rink. Well done to Pauline Merry, Ronnie Cairns (Jean Chamberlain sub) Danny King skip Chris Merry.

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

El PLantio2 Golf by David Swann Illness and absences still tend to limit the numbers for El Plantio 2's planned Joker competition.

This time the 12 entries meant a team competition was changed to a Pairs Joker with 6 pairings of 2 players. The standard of play varied wildly with the winners finishing a massive 38

points in front of the sixth place.

Nearest the pins:Hole 4 – Rod Loveday, Hole 6 – Alistair Douglas Third place – Alistair Douglas, Ken Green – 64 points.

Second place – Alan Janes, Barry Walthall – 70 points First place – Brian Coupe, Chris Linathan – 71 points..

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 Ian Henderson on 966 716 616 or 636 116 230.

Pictured above from L to R: Barry Walthall, Alan Janes,Rod Loveday, Alistair Douglas, Brian Coupe, Chris Linathan, Ken Green.

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

Changes to Murcian Golf Courses Some ten years ago Murcia had 35 golf courses either existing or with planning permission but the finacial crisis of 2009 put paid to many of the planned golf courses and some courses such as La Peralaja,Corvera and La Tercia closed.

Polarisworld launched the famous Nicklaus Trail of golf courses such as Alhama,El Valle,Hacienda Riquleme,La Torre,Mar Menor and Saurines all located on large resorts and urbanisations.

While the construction side of things failed misearably the golf courses still remain but over the subsequent years have been managed by a number of different management companies such as Ola Golf,Nike Golf and GNK Golf.

GNK Golf still manage the courses at Alhama,El Valle,Hacienda Riquelme and La Torre BUT as from 1st January 2019 the courses at Mar Menor and Saurines are now managed by a different management company called Ugolf.

In addition to these two golf courses it has also been announced that shortly Ugolf will also take over the management of Hacienda Del Alamo.

Full details of prices for Hacienda Del Alamo are still to be announced but they are still making and honouring bookings at existing prices until new prices are announced.

All of the above course are well worth a game if you are visiting Murcia and I am sure that both management teams will try to ensure that the courses are all presented in excellent condition.

LAS RAMBLAS GOLF SOCIETY

Monday 18th - Sunday 24th February, 2019

(in assN with Costa Blanca Green Fee s vcs) 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 currently available to you until 28/02/19: Golf Course Price Comments Alenda €146 Two Players and Buggy Alicante €110 Two Players and Buggy Altorreal €120 Two Players and Buggy Bonalba €116 Two Players and Buggy Don Cayo (Altea) €88 Two Players and Buggy El Plantio €112 Two Players and Buggy from12pm.

Font Del Llop €134 Two Players and Buggy La Finca €176 Two Players and Buggy La Marquesa €47 Sgle Green Fee from 2pm La Serena €47 Single Green Fee Las Colinas €164 Two Players and buggy Las Ramblas €124 Two Players and Buggy Lo Romero €144 Two Players and Buggy New Sierra Golf €82 Two Green Fees and Buggy Roda €130 Two Players and Buggy Villamartin €142 Two Players and Buggy Villaitana Poniente €57 Single Green Fee and Buggy Vistabella €116 Two Players and Buggy Deal of the Week - Any La Manga Course 120 euro for 2 players and a 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

Dave Pulling

On Friday we competed a ‘1-2-3 Waltzer’. Taking the honours with a

LaMangaTorre CC take positives in 20-20 defeat against Pinatar by Andrew Atkinson LaMangaTorre CC

Pinatar X1 defeated LaMangaTorre CC in a 20-20 friendly match at La Manga resort on Saturday, with Pinatar returning figures of 128-3 to LMTCC 79-6 in the 20 over game.

Pinatar won the toss and elected to bat. Opening bowlers T.Rumi and S.Khan caused early pressure and two breakthroughs, with Rumi knocking the stumps over twice. After the first 6 overs, Pinatar were struggling at 16-2.

A change in bowlers saw R.Singh and C.Rumi come into the attack but some loose bowling saw boundaries come into the game.

Two overs later the same batsman was trapped LBW by R.Singh, having stood on top of the ball.

After 10 overs the score had escalated to 48-3. LMTCC were on top at this point - but the last 10 overs would proove costly - as a drop catch, and missed run out, saw no.4 H.Singh knotch up a fine 60 runs.

Some tight bowling in the latter stages were seen, but the damage in the middle overs was enough to push Pinatar past 100, and further on to 128. No.5 P.Henessey assisted with a good 24* not out.

modest 79 points (but great compared to any other team) were Dave Pulling, Tom Hardie, Nora Betts and Peter Wickham. As it was St Valentine’s day on Thursday, another quote sprang to mind; ‘When I die, bury me on the golf course so my husband will visit’.

It was a good performance from LMTCC's first fielding innings of 2019, with T.Rumi topping the bowling figures of 2-8, off three overs.

In the second half P.Fletcher and R.Maini opened the batting - but there was trouble from the start - as Fletcher was bowled for 0 in the first over.

Unfortunately Benedicte has been a little camera shy lately so you’ve got to look at ‘El Presidente’ instead!

C.Rumi was in at No. 3 and steadied the boat at 45-1 by the tenth over, an even score as Pinatar's at this point.

Pues, hasta la semana que viene - Peter Reffell

The partnership ended with R.Maini gliding the ball to point.

K.Wood entered at No. 4, but couldn't add to the score, when chipping the ball back to the bowler.

Ruby’s Golf Society 2018 was an excellent year for us with 50 or so assorted fun and trophy games, and culminating with our Christmas dinner held at Stan and Ollies which was attended by 54 members and their partners.

Presentation of the player of the year awards were given out during the evening with Theresa Wright being the runner up and "keeping it in the family", husband Nigel taking the top spot. And although our next Player of the year trophy games do not commence until March we are continuing to play competitive games every Friday.

The year started at Vistabella on the 3rd of January with Alex Bolten coming out on top with an excellent 40 points and an immediate handicap cut. Our next game was at the always good Alenda which was won by Martin Collins.

The weather continued to be kind to us and our next game at Altorreal was won by Vice Captain Dave Johnson. A fun game of texas scramble followed at Roda with the winning team of Captain George Marshall Dean, Dave Johnson, Helen Bailey and Theresa

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To end the dispute LMTCC captain Keiran Wood called the batsman back to continue his innings.

Our winners with 45 points were Marleen Billen and Hendrick Oldenziel, just edging out Dave Pulling and myself who scored 44.

Whilst being a very commendable score it didn’t come close to the record set by John Conway and Donna Campbell last year of 53 points.

Four ‘2’s today with Hendrick Oldenziel getting two of them (one of which was on the par four 11th)! For some of our players today I was reminded of a famous old quote; ‘Golf is a game in which you claim the privileges of age and retain the playthings of childhood’.

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LMTCC thought they made another breakthrough with a caught behind - which was given - but an argument from the batsman claimed he didn't hit the ball.

Results for w/c 11.2.19 The week started with a 2 ball better ball. Given the original draw, it should have been a ‘high playing with a low handicap’ but some last minute changes left a couple of teams a bit unbalanced.

Wednesday saw round one (4 out of 6 cards to count) in our Club Championship Stableford. Opening her account, with a terrific 40 points, was Benedicte Kruse. She was followed by Dave Pulling with 34 and Ron Percival who scored 33 points. Olga Douglas carded 32 to take 4th place, just edging out Peter Radcliffe and Lyndsay Forbes on countback.

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S.Khan followed, but was clean bowled. Chaos arose - as the middle order collasped rapidly.

C.Wood went in at No. 6. C.Rumi was dismissed, when some good work behind the stumps saw Rumi stumped, as his back foot slightly slipped out of the crease.

Debutant J.Tufano was caught at gully, as nerves saw some shaky shots come in.

Wright taking the honours in this one.

Altorreal followed, and with a very good score of 38 points Ray Batey won this fixture.

With a variety of winners and some excellent scores so far, this years trophy games are looking to be very competitive. We travel to Bonalba for our next fixture on the 15th of February, anyone wishing to play this, or any other game with us should contact at rubysgolf@yahoo.co.uk.

P.Harvey came in at No.8 with the score 54-6 in the 13th over. The two batsmen held their ground and looked to surviving the final overs. Some good shots in the process saw C.Wood hit a couple boundaries and a nice 25 run partnership grow, as the overs ran down to 20.

LMTCC captain Keiran Wood told The Leader: "A loss to start the 2019 season, but there were a lot of positives to take from the game".

LMTCC training will continue next Sunday February 24 in La Manga.

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Campoamor Tennis Celebrations The Thursday afternoon tennis club session celebrated their yearly prize giving recently. The Thursday tennis session runs throughout the year from 3-5 pm on the courts at the Campoamor golf club.

Each week the winner and second placed player are awarded points, depending upon the number of players participating, more points are on offer if more players attend.

The venue this year was "Market Street" restaurant in San Miguel. The tennis group also participate in group padel training every Saturday morning and any non tennis playing padel players were invited to the meal as well. A total of 41 different players had been 1st or 2nd place during the year

and after totting up all the scores, the results were as follows.

5th = Lisa Mansfield and James O'Shea - 37 pts 4th Christine Reed - 41 pts 3rd Christine Claughton - 47 pts 2nd Kate Woods - 53 pts 1st Graham Bunker - 100 pts This was the third year in a row that Graham had won and his winning speeches get longer each year, luckily, they get better as well, managing to mention everyone and mimic most people. Graham will have to be handicapped this year. Congratulations to Chris Claughton, who took the second prize cup, as second placed, Kate, left for England at the end of the year.

Everybody agreed, the food, the company and the speeches were all really enjoyable and a great time was had by all.

If you are interested in joining the tennis at the Campoamor golf club, all ages, nationalities and standards are welcomed.

If anyone would like to take lessons with a 'pro' qualified tennis coach, you can contact club coach Steve Durie.

Tel 635 061 439, e-mail sdurie@hotmail.co.uk.

Graham Bunker receiving his Sessions are also run at the trophy from Steve Durie ISN centre in Almoradi.

Gold Cup radar for Nicholls 'Clan' Clan Des Obeaux shone at Ascot on Saturday for trainer Paul Nicholls when landing the Betfair Denman Chase over 2m 7f, ridden by Harry Cobden, with the Cheltenham Festival in March looming.

"We can't wait to go to Cheltenham - I think we've got a great chance," beamed Nicholls, eyeing success in the 2019 Gold Cup next month.

The Leader tip was a strongly fancied favourite, and jockey Cobden said of Clan Des Obeaux, part owned by Sir Alex Ferguson: "I wanted to keep hold all the way he had loads left.

"I'm delighted and our plan now is the Gold Cup in March. It's everything I've ever dreamed of - what dreams are made of."

The Leader tip Monalee was successful in winning the 60,000 euros first prize in the Red Mills Chase over 2m 4f at Gowran Park.

Trained by Henry de Bromhead and ridden by Rachael Blackmore.

Monalee, who beat Anibal Flyer, heads for Cheltenham, entered in both the Ryanair Chase and Gold Cup.

Clan Des Obeaux

The Leader each way selection Ramses De Teillee finished third at Haydock in the William Hill Grand National Trial Handicap, returning at 8-1.

Cyrname won the Betfair Ascot Chase over 2m 5f to bag the winner's booty of ÂŁ85,000, when thwarting The Leader's tip Waiting Patiently, who finished second.

"I'm impressed, it was phenomenal - a brilliant ride," said trainer Paul Nicholls, who is undecided whether to run next at Cheltenham or Punchestown.

"We will have to think about the Ryanair at Cheltenham - or go to Punchestown," said Nicholls.

Jockey Harry Cobden said: "I knew he was good - but not that good! It was some performance.

"Whether we go to Punchestown?

I'll leave that to the trainer to decide. To win races like this, it's

why you get out of bed in the morning."

Al Dancer returned to the winners enclose on Saturday and has been shortened to 6-1 for the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham: "He's very fast - jumps - and makes it easy," said jockey Sam TwistonDavies.

The Leader were also successful in winning selections First Link (6-4), Magic Saint (11-10), Sandhurst Lad (3-1) and Dahawi (4-6).

Leader selections Black Corton, If You Say Run, Dogon, and Sceau Royal, finished second; with Getaway Trump, Burrows Park (61), and Miss Green Dream (7-1) finishing third.

Always A Drama trained by Charlie Hills and ridden by Richard Kingscote was The Leader's EIGHTH winning selection when winning at 6-1 at Kempton.

Treacherous a 5-2 winning selection followed Dahawi's 4-6 winning tip, returning a trio of successful winners on Saturday evening.

Look out for The Leader’s Saturday Racing preview every Friday evening at www.theleader.info No. 1 on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida.

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Monday 18th - Sunday 24th February, 2019

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EURONICS THURSDAY DART LEAGUE

By Tracey

“THE ELECTRICAL SHOP” - BLUE LAGOON

Betteridge

Thursday 14th February - Results Week 15 Chemies Chicks 4-11 El Capitan Fire Station BW 6-6 Patti’s Pirates Hub Hellraisers 4-8 Junction Jaguars Junction Jackals 4-8 Hub Hyenas Patti’s Panthers 7-0 Peta’s Bar Pint Depot Jesters 2-10 Angel’s Arrows Pint Depot Queens 1-11 Las Rosas Bullies The Ale House 7-5 Chemies Lounger

El Capitan Hub Hyenas Junction Jackals The Ale House Las Rosas Bullies Patti’s Pirates Fire Station BW Junction Jaguars Chemies Loungers Angels Arrows Patti’s Panthers Peta’s Bar Pint Depot Jesters Chemies Chicks Pint Depot Queens Hub Hellraisers

P 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15

W 15 14 11 11 11 9 7 7 6 5 4 4 3 2 2 1

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

L 0 1 3 3 4 4 5 7 8 7 9 10 12 12 13 14

F 148 142 122 105 114 108 94 86 89 88 71 63 62 46 51 46

A 32 38 58 75 66 72 86 94 91 92 104 112 118 134 129 134

+/116 104 64 30 48 36 8 -8 -2 -4 -33 -49 -56 -88 -78 -88

Pts 30 26 23 23 22 20 17 15 13 13 10 9 6 5 4 2

Angels Arrows v Pint Depot Jesters A great evening of darts with a good bunch of lads that have all been on the darting circuit for a long team and have played with each other and against each other over the years. Ron got the home team off to a flying start with D16.

In the second trebles Dave Wright hit a 125 but unfortunately for them Alan Marlow equalised for the visitors with D6. The third treble went to the home team Paul D4.

In the doubles the home team took all 3 points with Paul, Karl & Ron getting 100´s and Martin with 104.

In the singles Martin hit a 133 and finished on D2, then Paul hit a 132 and finished on D4 for the Angels Arrows.

The next point went to Eddie the Jester who got D1 which gave the Pint Depot their second point in the match.

Dave Wright was the last man up for the home team and like the Wolves he´s been getting better n stronger of late and tonight he was on fire with some brilliant darts.

His "180" gave him this week’s well-deserved MOM title. The shadow made it look like his first dart was in D9 but it wasn´t, however there was no question over his next dart which flew in.

So, a 10 - 2 win to the Arrows.

Alan Marlow was MOM for the away team.

Pint Depot Queens v Las Rosas Bullies The Queens & Las Rosas always have a great evening when they get together for their annual darts match

Torrevieja Darts Ladies

The friendly banter flows and as much as the girls try to distract the boys, in fairness they still throw some decent darts!

As usual, most matches came down to the double with the Queens just struggling to get their arrows into the little wedge, Steph, Adrian & John knocked out a few hundreds whilst Marie, Maggie & Lorraine shot a few 80 somethings.

Adrian was given MOM for his consistent form although he was the only player to lose his singles to Queen Marie who shot D1 after Adrian bust in his previous attempt to finish - for this Marie received MOM for the night The score of 11 - 1 to the visitors was almost irrelevant .... It was a mere practice session for the Queens and a really FUN night for all, Junction Jackals v Hub Hyenas The Hyenas gave good account of themselves in the final match of the 1st half season, finishing with a victory over 3rd in line Jackals.

Friendly banter was the order of the night along with some great scoring Jackals: - 7 x 100+; Hyenas: - 12 x 100+ as would be expected from teams of this calibre. The Hyenas stole into the lead in the first two triples courtesy of S1-D15 from Joe Miller, boosted

by Alex Nikolov’s 98, 100, 105 and then D16 checkout from Paul Durrant in the 2nd leg.

The Jackals nipped a couple back courtesy of Andy Rutter, Lee Maiden (132, 110) and Graham Solomons (100, D9) in the 3rd triples and a D20 from Hugh Galloway in the first pairs. The most memorable leg was to follow when out of nowhere, Alex checked out T20-T20-D11 Boom!!

Meanwhile the rest of us were trying to work out if that was correct for 142 and leaving beardy boys Solomons and Maiden rather shellshocked. The diminutive Johnny Eyre (123, D2) took the Hyenas 42 up despite a rallying effort from Phil de Lacy (140) and Paul Miller (100).

Bob Townsend made it a sure win for the Hyenas in the first singles against Rutter who, despite four bites and the cherry, failed to find his finishes on the night. Once again Solomons and Galloway finished first in their singles giving them two apiece but Durrant (140, 100, D18), Miller (100, D4) and Eyre 132, D4) all secured their 2nd wins too, bringing the final score to 4-8.

MOTM: Graham Solomons (J) and Alex Nikolov (H).

Hub Hellraisers v Junction Jaguars It was the usual double trouble again for the Hellraisers as they took on the Junction Jaguars in their rearranged Valentines’s match. The Jaguars took the trebles; Wendy D16, Liz D16 and Lisa D1.

The first and 3rd doubles also went their way with a D2 from Wendy and D1 from Liz but Jan fought back for the Hellraisers with a D12 despite Simone’s 100.

The Jaguars continued their finishing ways with another D1 from Liz and D2 from Pat but Lesley stepped in with a D1 finish for the Hellraisers.

Wendy took the next single with a D2 but the Hellraisers finished the match in style with a D3 from Jan and a D2 from Captain Cheryl. Final score 4 for the Hellraisers and 8 for the Jaguars in a closely fought but very enjoyable night.

MOM Hellraisers Jan, Junction Jaguars Liz.

League Format - Week 5 Results: El Balcon Chicas 4 - 5 Macklins Dolly Mixtures Friendly's Chicas 3 - 6 Primadonnas Black Dog Ladies 3 - 6 Friendly's Temps Wildcats at Macklins *5 – 4 Gap Ladies *Yes- you read that correctly- very well done Wildcats!

Hot Darts: Beaty Powell 140, Cynthia Jevons 138, Beaty Powell 131, Elaine Willis 127, Olwyn Goodall124, Liz Cowan 117, Eileen Rood 116, Jackie Tomkinson 115, Margaret Boden115, Shirley Stephenson 110, Cath Carter 105, Sue Wade 103, Groa Bryndis 102, Bliss Wright 3 x 100, Pat wood 2 x 100, Pamela Taylor, Simone de Lac, Lorraine McGrath, Jane Barnes, Mitch Haliday 100. 180’s and 171’s: Pamela Taylor 180, Simone de Lacy 171, Shirley Stephenson 171. Least Darts: Cynthia Jevons 22, Pamela Taylor 22. Highest Checkouts: Kim Fickling 107, Lin Cousins 104, Lorraine McGrath 100 (12/2) Well done birthday girl! Bull Finish: Kim Fickling, Beaty Powell

League Table Gap Ladies El Balcon Chicas Macklins Dolly Mixtures Friendly's Temps Primadonnas Friendly Chicas Black Dog Ladies Wildcats at Macklins

Pairs Competition: February 26th, Registration 7:45pm followed by the draw. Please let Pam know if you have a spare lady who needs a partner from another team as they will be paired up on a first come first served basis.

We are adhering to the ‘4-game rule, as agreed at the AGM and last Captains’ meeting but will revisit this at the next AGM. There will be a finger buffet on each team table so play can progress through the evening without a break.

We are hoping for a good turnout from teams and some great raffle prizes courtesy of the Friendly Chicas and Temps!

P 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

W 5 4 4 3 3 2 2 1

L 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5

Pts 16 14 14 12 12 10 10 8

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Ozone Tuesday Trios 12 February - Week 17 Splash X - Factor Los Bandidos Cruiserz Mixers Sunset Beach Cafetería Octubre Team Finland Handicap Team Finland Splash Cruiserz S***t Happens Med Bistro & Bar Cafetería Octubre Los Bandidos Los Diablos Mixers Sunset Beach Crazy Pinz X-Factor Las Guapas 999's

8-0 0-8 6-2 5-3 0-8 6 -2 6-2

The Phantoms S***T Happens 999´s Med Bistro & Bar Los Diablos Las Guapas Crazy Pinz

Pts Scratch 102 Team Finland 96 Cafetería Octubre 85 Splash 83 Cruiserz 78 Mixers Sunset Beach 78 Med Bistro & Bar 75 Los Bandidos 74 S***t Happens 72 Los Diablos 60 Crazy Pinz 59 X-Factor 48 Las Guapas 42 999's

Pins / Games / Av 28053 / 153 - 183 26363 / 144 -183 27893 / 153 -182 25986 / 147 -176 26925 / 153 - 175 26731 / 153 - 174 24604 / 153 - 160 24564 / 153 – 160 24106 / 153 - 157 22596 / 144 - 156 23828 / 153 – 155 21813 / 153 - 142 21177 / 153 - 138

Cadena Sunrise Bowling 13 February - Week 20 The Spares Sol Amigos Alley Cats Spare Bears Pin Pals 999's

0 0 4 6 0 6

Top Performers Ladies High Game

Men

-

8 8 2 6 8 2

Alley Gators Sunrise Colegias The Bandits Pin Pushers Strike Force S***T Happens

High Game Hcap High Series High Series Hcap

Irene Ireland Irene Ireland Eunice Letts Eunice Letts

193 243 540 642

High Game High Game Hcap High Series High Series Hcap

Terry Capon Diego Muñoz Terry Capon Tery Capon

201 219 558 606

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

P 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60

W D 51 1 45 0 44 0 43 0 43 0 42 1 42 0 42 0 34 2 33 1 31 1 27 0

L 28 35 36 37 37 37 38 38 44 46 48 53

Tot 32907 32665 33144 32962 32710 32286 33336 32952 32171 32413 32128 31772

Ave Pts 548 103 544 90 552 88 549 86 545 86 538 85 555 84 549 84 536 70 540 67 535 63 529 54

Anyone requiring merchandise/equipment from the pro Shop email Gary Walsh at gazzawalsh66@yahoo.co.uk

Carp R Us Winter Cup Carp-R-Us fished their Winter Cup on a little used stretch of the Rio Segura near Bigastro.

The river here is deep and fast flowing and is known to hold some decent sized carp. Certainly, when members of the club had visited the stretch before, fish had been caught. However, today they didn’t show with only two being landed.

This meant the Winter Cup was won by Steve Collins with 1.30kg, narrowly beating Tom Marshall who had 1.25kg.

The club membership year started 1st January, so now is a good time to join.

Further information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.comor on our Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca.

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Torry go down fighting vious club Castellon, and it does appear that all the warning signs were either ignored, or conveniently swept to one side. Adding further intrigue to the ongoing saga, is the return of former managers Kiko Lopez and Paco Guillen, who only a month ago resigned for personal reasons.

CD Torrevieja ......................1 Orihuela CF .........................2 When you consider that Torry´s side was 50 percent that of youth team players, and only 1 outfield player on the bench, then to only lose by the odd goal in 3 was some sort of achievement. It´s now 8 games since they recorded a victory, way back in early December at bottom place Villena, but against a strong physical Orihuela side, they came very close to earning the point they so richly deserved.

But it´s been more the off field events that have been headline news over the last week or so. According to Golsmedia sports, ex trainer Juan Calderon has made a denuncia against club president David Cruz and the club as a whole. Added to that, many more ex players and staff are expected to file denuncias, at a time when the club is deep in debt to the tune of many thousands of euros.

David Cruz has had problems at his pre-

Paco Guillen and Kiko Lopez are back in charge

They replace Moncho, who only last week was given the job on a permanent basis, but who himself has now seen fit to offer his resignation. So, having started the season with Manu Sanchez at the helm (looking good for promotion at that stage), Torry are now on the 4th manager of the season, and we are still only in February!!

Torry looked confident from the outset, and on 5 mins Julian was only a whisker from getting his header on target.

Orihuela counter attacked, and 3 mins later Torry´s defence did well to block a goal bound shot on the goal line.

Strong appeals for a penalty when Thales went down in Orihuela´s area on 15 mins were in vain, but from where I sat it looked a definite foul on the Brazilian. It all went horribly wrong on 24 mins, when Orihuela were awarded a penalty for a trip, which Abadia made no mistake with, sending Cristo the wrong way.

Not to be outdone, Torry fought back well as first Alex, then Thales, forced the

visitors keeper into making superb diving saves. A route one move found Orihuela´s big gangly striker Solsana, who coolly slid the ball under the on rushing Cristo, doubling his sides lead on the stroke of half time.

They came close on 85 mins when Alex brought off another top drawer save, then team match Julian received the same treatment from his goal bound effort in stoppage time.

It took only 5 second half minutes for the hugely impressive Alex to half his sides arrears, forcing home his rebound shot at the second attempt, his first goal for Torry.

All in all, returning managers Kiko and Paco can be pleased with their teams determined performance against a mid table side, who must have left Nelson Mandela Stadium relieved at nicking an undeserved 3 points.

Although Torry brought on their only outfield substitute, young Paquito could not find the magic necessary to draw his side level.

Next weekend, 2nd to bottom Torry make the short journey to Benferri, no doubt hoping to avenge the 1-3 home defeat back in mid October.

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Magpies held by CSKA at Pinatar Arena Newcastle Utd and CSKA Moscow played out a 1-1 draw at Pinatar Arena in font of over 3,000 spectators on Saturday.

Rondón opened the scoring for Rafa Benítez side who had their opponents under the cosh for long periods, however, just minutes before the break they were penalised when Abel Hernández equalised for CSKA during Moscow’s best period of the game.

Joselu, Manquillo and Ayoze had chances to take the game for the Magpies during the second period but CSKA held firm with an impressive defensive display.

SUDUKO SOLUTION

Monte late, late show

By Andrew Atkinson

Vaz made amends for his penalty miss earlier in the game

Brazilian star striker Vazquinho put on a late, late, show - netting a 93rd minute winner at Monforte CF - to ease CD Montesinos further away from the bottom sphere of the Valencia 1st Regional Group 8 table.

Vazquinho made amends with his dramatic dying stages winner against bottom club Monforte CF having missed a spot kick.

The Los Montesinos based side, who travel to Atletico Catral next weekend, picked up a valuable three points, taking them to 23 points from 21 games, to ebb up to eighth place in the table, with Monforte CF sitting bottom, on 15 points.

CD Murada maintained second spot with a 2-0 against CF Rafal, as the race for automatic promotion hots up.

AC Torrellano - amongst the chasing pack - on 43 points, sit in third place following a 2-0 win against Hondon Nieves, who sit fourth in the table on 39 points.

Sporting San Fulgencio defeated Atletico Catral 2-1 in a bottom half of the table encounter; with CD Altet defeating Santa Pola CF 2-0 to go 19th in the table, maintaining improved form in the second half of the season, that has seen the club's relegation fears diminishing.

Leaders Racing San Miguel suffered a shock 3-2 defeat against Callosa Deportivo B, a loss that comes on the back of a 2-0 defeat against CD Murada, reducing their lead at the top to just two points ahead of CD Murada.

Late goal - Montesinos' Vazquinho.

Howzat? Book find hit me for six!

I was perusing in a book section at a charity shop in Benijofar when a cricket book caught my eye.

I turned over the first page - and was hit for six - when seeing the Essex CC X1 first team's signatures were in it!

Players, including John Lever, capped 33 times for England, who played for Essex during 1967-89.

Lever, MBE, featured in Test matches against the West Indies, Sri Lanka, and India (76-86) bowling 4,433 balls; and played in ODI, with 1,152 balls bowled.

During his time at Essex cricket club Lever was deemed as the finest left arm pace bowler in the country, and entertaining in the dressing room.

Lever, accused of doctoring a cricket ball against India in 1976 on his debut tour, by rubbing Vaseline down one side of a ball, so it would swing better, was later cleared of any wrongdoing.

Lever was involved in the rebel tour of South Africa in 1982 during the apartheid era, and was banned from representing England for three years, returning to the fold in India in 1986, his final Test cap.

Brian Taylor, captain of Essex during 1967-73, who died in 2017, aged 84, played for Essex during 1949-73, recording 19,093 first class runs, with 1,294 dismissals.

Keith Fletcher, OBE, played 59 Test matches for England, and was nicknamed The Gnome of Essex - due to his wincklepicker shoes

being curled up at the toes, due to wear.

Fletcher, captain against India in 1981-82, later became team manager during 1993-95.

Other signatures include Ray East, Graham Saville, Brian Ward, and Stuart Turner, who won 4 Championship titles in 8 seasons, taking 821 first class wickets, spanning over 20 years.

David Acfield, at Essex during 1966-86, was also an Olympic fencer, taking part in the 1968 and 1972 Games. He was a Gold medal winner in the Commonwealth games 1970. Graham Barker, who made his Essex debut in 1954, scoring a century against a travelling Canadian side, scored 21,893 career runs. Barker also played for Southend United FC, during 1954-59.

The book Sing all a green willow by Ronald Mason was published in 1967 - 52 years ago - and still not out!

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