The Leader Newspaper 16 September 2024 – Edition 1041
The start of the new school year in Orihuela and Torrevieja was marred by a significant shortage of school places, where over 900 local children were unable to begin or continue their education due to overcrowding in existing schools, and delays in the construction of new facilities.
In Orihuela the mayor, Pepe Vegara, chose to give the Orihuela Costa a ‘wide birth’ as the toured the municipality visiting classrooms where, according to educational sources, there were 200 children unable to start school because of the lack of space in the coast’s two schools, Los Dolses and Playas de Orihuela, which are both overflowing and cannot cope with the demand for places.
The situation was particularly dire in Torrevieja, where over 700 students were unable to enrol due to the lack of available places.
The lack of staff, inadequate facilities, and reduced educational support further compounded the challenges faced by students and teachers in both municipalities.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
EMPTY PLOT - In Orihuela Costa the new centre Number 20, was planned to open in September 2023
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 NEW SCHOOL YEAR
The conditions are not helped in either of the two neighbouring municipalities by the fact that planned new school buildings are not yet ready. As such, the situation remains concerning. The shortage of school places raises significant concerns about the long-term impact on students' education, mental health, and prospects.
It can also increase the risk of students dropping out of school later in their education, leading to further challenges and limitations. Students who are unable to start school on time may experience academic setbacks that can be difficult to overcome, potentially impacting their future academic success and career prospects.
In Orihuela Costa the new centre Number 20, which will be located on a plot of land in Calle Níspero, Los Dolses, and which was planned to open in September 2023, is still a long way from opening it’s doors, caused initially by the inability of the council to determine a site, and then to clear the chosen site that was being used as a municipal dump. We are now told that we will have to wait until January or February next year before it can finally open.
When it does so, the project envisages the implementation of a prefabricated school with a kindergarten and a primary school: two classrooms per level for about 300 students.
In Torrevieja the fact that the works at the CEIP Inmaculada began late has caused difficulties at this school, so the prefabricated classrooms provisionally used by its students have not been freed, which, when finished, would allow many students without schooling to use them in the future.
Torrevieja’s socialists also denounced the effects of the cuts in education that have been evident at the beginning of this school year, both in the lack of staff, where there is a lack of suppoort in caring for students with educational needs, counsellors, etc.), cuts in the number of hours available for action plans for improvement, which means the elimination of educational reinforcements for students who have a greater difficulty in learning and with a greater risk of dropping out of school, and an oversaturation of schools with student-toclassroom ratios above the rest of the community.
All these cuts result in a reduction in the quality of teaching, assuming a disadvantageous situation for Torrevieja students, compared to the rest of the community.
On a positive note, however, almost 30,000 students did return to school in Orihuela and Torrevieja
More than 13,000 students began the new academic year in Orihuela, with the mayor, Pepe Vegara, emphasising the city’s commitment to education while visiting the CEIP Virgen de Los Desamparados.
The councillor of Education, Vicente Pina, provided data on student enrolment in various educational stages, highlighting the shared responsibili-
ty of parents, teachers, and public administrations in ensuring quality education.
Provisional data for the 2024-2025 academic year in Orihuela:
- Kindergarten: 1,829 students.
- Primary: 4,012 students
- Secondary: 3.457 pupils/as
- Baccalaureate: 1,240 students
- Vocational Training: 1,560 students
NUMBERS UP SIGNIFICANTLY
IN TORREVIEJA
In Torrevieja meanwhile, as the mayor, Eduardo Dolon, visited a number of local schools he highlighted the implementation of free education from 0 to 3 years in the Valencian Community.
With over 15,000 students enrolled, Torrevieja has seen a significant increase in student numbers this year. The mayor also mentioned plans for a new IES 6 and ongoing assessments for the Virgen del Carmen school.
Data for the academic year in Torrevieja: 15,049 students:
- Infants: 2,087 students and 95 classes.
- Primary school: 5,288 students and 208 classes.
- Secondary: 3,878 students and 125 classes.
- Baccalaureate and Vocational Training: 1,982 students and 38 classes.
NEW SCHOOL YEAR AT CEIP ANTONIO SEQUEROS DE BENEJÚZAR
The CEIP Antonio Sequeros de Benejúzar welcomed its students for the new school year, 470 in total, where the occasion was celebrated with music and entertainment from the Musical Union of Benejúzar. The mayor, Vicente Cases, and the Councillor for Education, Patricia Rodes, attended the first day of school to welcome the students.
The school has undergone several improvements, including the installation of air conditioners, replacement of blinds, resurfacing of the playground, and installation of awnings. Additionally, the school has opened new inclusive playgrounds, which offer a variety of play options for children.
The mayor highlighted the substantial investment made in the school, which has improved both the educational environment and the facilities.
The school has also implemented a Morning Classroom service, which provides childcare for students aged 3 to 12 years from 7.30 to 9.00 hours.
This service was introduced last year and has been most successful in helping working families.
The mayor of Benejúzar, Vicente Cases, and the Councillor for Education, Patricia Rodes
The mayor and deputy mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon and Rosario Martinez
LA VEGA BAJA FEARS A REPEAT OF 2019 FLOODS
The mayor, councillor for emergencies and the local pedaneo at Media Legua, said to be Dana 2019 Ground Zero
As we mark the fifth anniversary of the DANA, storms that ravaged the region causing serious damage across the entire Vega Baja, the Orihuela council has demanded the completion of structural works necessary to avoid catastrophes such as those that we saw in 2019.
"Without the remedial measures we have been demanding since the flood of 1987, the Rambla de Tabala, Rambla de Abanilla and clearance of the river channels, we cannot be at peace because we are still no further forward," said the Emergency Councillor, Victor Valverde, from the tiny pedanea of Media Legua, which was considered to be ‘ground zero’ of the floods in September 2019.
Five years on "we still call for structural improvements from the competent administrations, because those that are still considered to be the most important have not yet been carried out," said the councillor.
Valverde did thank the Generalitat Valenciana, however, for actions undertaken. and for the planned investment of 7 million euros to carry out the dredging of the Segura River. Local pedaneo, José Francisco Navarro, remembered those days 5 years ago, where "we had to help each other to get out of the houses because the priority was to save lives, and we lost everything, because the water destroyed the houses and we had nothing left."
“But, thanks to all the help received from the Council, the security forces and others, our neighbours, and the solidarity of all the people, we were able to recover some normality withing a few weeks."
The mayor, Pepe Vegara, said that "everyone remembers, and that is why we are here commemorating those dark days, because every time the rains fall, we are afraid and that it all
going to be repeated again."
He added that "the way to avoid this fear is for the administrations that have responsibilities for the treatment of ramblas, rivers and flood protection to take the necessary actions," especially in reference to the Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS).
Vegara said that the City Council “will not stop demanding these measures. The Valencian Generalitat and the CHS both have commitments to us and those commitments must be carried out."
DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS SAN JAVIER
The Minister of Defence, Margarita Robles, visited the General Air Academy (AGA) in San Javier, to look at the example of cutting-edge training with the Integrated Training System Plan, highlighting modernisation, digitalisation, and infrastructure improvement as key for the Armed Forces in Spain.
The visit also included a tour of the Pilatus PC-21, the new go-to training aircraft at the academy, almost 3 years to the day when the first were delivered, replacing the iconic C-101. Spain’s military institutions are somewhat ahead of addressing the balance of equality, a journey which began long before the introduction of the new Parity Law this year, legislation which forces businesses and institutions to, in general terms, follow the 60/40 rule for male and female allocation of positions of power, and although there is still a long way
for the military to go to achieve balance where possible, the current intake at San Javier of 483 students are made up of 75 women.
The General Air Academy (AGA), an example of cutting-edge training for the Armed Forces thanks to the Integrated Training System plan, and so the centre was proud to welcome the Minister of Defence, who has been able to see first-hand this flight training model of the 'Pilatus' aircraft with which future pilots of the Air and Space Force are trained.
The AGA is currently undergoing one of the most important modernisation processes in its history. Within the framework of the Ministry of Defence's commitment to the digitalisation and modernisation of the Armed Forces, the academy is an example of the adaptation and implementation of the most cutting-edge tools
that allow for cutting-edge training, combining the highest quality and optimisation of learning times.
The Integrated Training System (ITS) implemented in February and based on the 'Pilatus' aircraft has improved the capabilities of the academy where 120 flight courses were held last year with 8,200 real hours and 3,500 through simulation.
During her visit, the Minister of Defence was able to learn more about the simulators, highlighting the importance of technological adaptation in the training processes of the Spanish Armed Forces, of which she expressed her deep pride in their work.
She dedicated a few words to the students to congratulate them, first of all, for their choice of life, emphasising "the importance of serving the country and its citizens, as well as the training they receive in values and skills."
Barbara Castle
Alicante to charge entrance fee to Santa
The City of Alicante confirms that it will charge for access to the castle of Santa Barbara, in addition to the entrance to the municipal museums. It is a payment that, according to the local government, "will value cultural heritage" and will contribute to improving its "maintenance, improvement and modernization."
The city could earn between one and three million euros from tickets for the castle.
The castle, the historic monument with the most visitors across the entire Valencian Community, received more than 800,000 people last year
U3A BACK AFTER SUMMER BREAK
The start of the new season for the Torrevieja U3A is finally here after an extremely hot summer break.
The association also went international this week when the UK's Channel 5 programme, "BargainLoving Brits in the Sun," featured the Torrevieja U3A “Costa Blanca Morris Dancers” as it also started its new season after the summer break. The troupe leaders, Jean and Dave Tonge put the troupe through their paces in Campoverde at a local fete to demonstrate their dances whilst also trying to encourage new members to join up. The Morris Dancing tradition goes back years and this group are doing their best to keep the tradition alive.
This week also saw the return of the Petanca groups that meet on Wednesdays and Sundays. Similarly The Ramble group took its first walk of the season, starting off
from the Bar 222 at the north end of Torrevieja and then proceeding along the boardwalk and promenade through to the vibrant and busy promenade and finally along the Dique de Levante walkway to the lighthouse situated at the end. A great photo opportunity looking out to sea.
Anybody interested in finding out more about what the Torrevieja U3A has to offer its members and how they can apply to join the association need only to search online for the Torrevieja U3A website to find out more. torreviejau3a.org
P O E T R Y
C O R N E R
ëDOES ANYBODY CARE?í
By David Whitney 2024
The UK Old Age Pensioners
Must feel they're obsolete
Targets of the government
Who don't care if they eat
Who don't care if they live or die
In homes they cannot warm
Because the cost of heating
Has gone way above the norm
It's like they've served their purpose
Paid their taxes now they're done
No use now that they're elderly
A burden every one
Washed up and not required now
Left to cope with winter chills
No food upon the table
Only piles of unpaid bills
What a disgrace that old people
Have to live in such despair
Some wondering why they live at all
Does anybody care?
The announcement made to the press at the La Zenia Emergency Centre less than 3 months ago.
ORIHUELA COSTA POLICE ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT DISBANDED JUST 3 MONTHS AFTER FORMATION
Less than three months after it was formed the Orihuela Costa Environmental Police Unit (UMAD), the ‘Green Patrol’, has been disbanded.
Staffed with an Inspector and eight officers, after being announced with a great fanfare last June, by the Councilor for Citizen Security, Monica Pastor, and the Councillor for the Costa, Manuel Mestre, in a bid to combat the incessant dumping of building rubble across the coast, the council has failed to give any explanations as to why the unit has now been closed down.
A spokesman for the Residents Association, AVCRL, said, “Just when the residents of the coast thought they had seen it all in relation to the constant failings of the Mayor of Orihuela and his team, they show that they are still capable of surprising us. What will be next?”
The Association advises that complaints and relevant information about illegal dumping or rubble, pruning or household goods should now be directed to the phone numbers: 649 900 304 (phone and whatsapp), the local police on 965 300 204 or by email to : policiacosta@orihuela.es
Woman accused of killing her husband in Orihuela Costa will remain in jail
The Provincial High Court of Elche has dismissed the appeal against the decision of the courts of Orihuela which ordered detention without bail for the woman accused of killing her husband in front of their children, 6, 8 and 10, in an isolated house on the Oiolano coast.
It insists that there is a risk of escape that follows from her lack of roots in Spain, particularly as she has relatives abroad and financial solvency.
It also argues the seriousness of the murder crime for which she is being investigated and the penalty that could be imposed (between 10 and 25 years), so it is necessary to ensure her presence in the oral trial.
LOS MONTESINOS BIOWASTE PLANT FINALLY CANCELLED
The planned construction of a biowaste plant in Los Montesinos sparked significant controversy among local residents. Despite the council's approval of the project, which would have converted organic waste into compost, the community raised numerous concerns regarding its potential environmental impact and proximity to residential areas.
Residents expressed frustration with the lack of transparency surrounding the project, claiming that they were not informed about the plans until the news was publicly announced. This led to a sense of distrust and a desire for more information and involvement in the decision-making process.
The residents' concerns centred on the potential environmental effects of the plant, including the possibility of odour emissions and negative impacts on air quality. Additionally, they raised concerns about the proximity of the plant to residential areas and its potential impact on property
values and quality of life.
In response to the proposed project, residents formed the "No to the Garbage Plant" platform to organise and express their opposition. They held demonstrations and attended city council meetings to voice their concerns and demand answers from local officials.
Due to the strong community opposition and the challenges associated with addressing their concerns, the city council ultimately decided to cancel the biowaste plant project.
This decision marked a victory for the residents of Los Montesinos, who successfully defended their community and prevented the installation of the controversial plant.
Emergency plan to prune palm trees in Orihuela Costa
The Orihuela Town Hall has announced that, with a budget of 170k, work will begin "imminently" on the pruning of palm trees on the coast after a palm tree fell into a residents garden last week.
CRIMINAL GANG TARGETS TOURISTS IN TORREVIEJA
A criminal gang in Torrevieja has been targeting drunken foreign tourists. The gang lures victims to secluded locations under the guise of selling drugs and then robs them.
The Civil Guard launched an investigation after noticing suspicious behavior and apprehended the three suspects with the help of a German police officer.
The gang's residence contained a large quantity of stolen goods and various drugs.
The detainees face charges of criminal group membership, drug trafficking, violent robbery, and illegal occupation of property.
DISTINCTIONS FOR ORIHUELA POLICE
The annual distinctions ceremony for Orihuela Local Police was a significant event held on Sunday. Several individuals and institutions were recognised for their outstanding contributions. These distinctions highlighted the dedication and hard work of those who have played a vital role in protecting the community.
Amsterdam to Barcelona night
train delayed by a year
The European Sleeper night train from Amsterdam to Barcelona will likely start running in 2026, and not 2025 as initially planned. The company is having trouble negotiating with the French railway manager SNCF Réseau and is also waiting for more carriages. European Sleeper co-founder Chris Engelsman is optimistic about the new connection to Barcelona. “Things are improving step by step.” he said.
‘STICK IT UP IN THE ATTIC FOR NOW!’
‘An attic is a great thing to have in a house’, they told me back in the day. I gullibly (well if there was no such word, there is now … and I’m in no mood for arguing) took the advice and we always had a ‘bit of an attic’ in every house we lived in. ‘Utilise your space’, everyone said; and so, when we built our dream home in Graftonstown, I finished up with an attic the full size of the house. It got better; we floored and shelved the entire area, and people even took photos of it. I had created a prototype.
You know where this one is heading, dear reader. It started off in an orderly and civilised manner. Boxes nicely stacked with labels instructing what was inside. The first small sign of what was to follow was when the word ‘Miscellaneous’ began to appear on boxes. Anyway, small furniture got moved up there; lamps, candles and enough Christmas decorations to set Mullingar on fire; TVs, computers, VHS players, pictures, picture frames, files, filing cabinets, 20 suitcases, souvenirs, trophies, a rocking horse, kids’ stuff, pub stuff, winter clothes and summer clothes … and that is before all control was lost. For 22 years anything I didn’t know what to do with, I shifted up to the attic. Mrs Youcantbeserious was just as guilty, but she took the harm out of it for herself with the words ‘for now’ added; the full directive being, ‘stick that up in the attic for now’. We never intended leaving that house before the day a crowd of you and Gene O’Donnell would escort us, one at a time, down to Killulagh Graveyard. The thought did occasionally occur to me as to the job our children and grandchildren would have ‘clearing’ the attic. I swore I would tackle it someday –but I never got around to it. That was until, ‘events my dear boy
DON’T FORGET
For only the third time in the 17 years of YCBS, I am availing of this privileged platform to ask for your support; not for me, but for The Irish Hospice Foundation. There is hardly a family that doesn’t know what the hospice does – so no need to explain that one.
Last year a group of us did a sponsored ‘Camino Challenge’ and in doing so, we raised e72,928 for the Hospice Foundation. On 24th September, a week after my 80th birthday, I am walking another sponsored section of the Camino, from Estella to Burgos.
…events’, and I evacuated Mrs Youcantbeserious and myself and we set about moving into the equally beautiful location of Irishtown. This move was in the arena of downsizing – and I want you to keep that thought in mind. The attic had to be cleared and the stuff moved!
Now, I don’t wish to bore you senseless or embarrass myself further. Like Johnny Cash with the car. ‘one piece at a time’, the full attic load went up one piece at a time and now had to come down in a hurry … and I’m not the man I was when I put it up there, ‘one piece at a time.’
Whatever else I am, I am not a jealous sort of person, but with all my heart, I came to envy the people I know who don’t have an attic. Meanwhile, I had to get on with the job … a one man job!
The Charity Shop got mentioned several times a day … and night. But first thing, everything had to come down … through a hatch where I wondered how it ever got up there. One piece at a time, I maneuvered it down and out to the big shed for sorting.
Under the stewardship of Mrs Youcantbeserious, three piles formed in the shed: one for charity, one for keeping and one for Lynch’s Recycling. The charity man came twice and eased the load - but now a fourth pile had formed; the ‘leave it for now and we’ll see’ pile.
Then we were out of there and our new house wasn’t vacant. So, all the piles became one and got moved to be stored in a vacant pub. Are you still with me?
All was safely stored in the pub until we could move it to Irishtown - along with other furniture.
Thank God, a big shed came with the new house … just what we need. Everything got moved into the shed before we officially got
In asking for your sponsorship, it is important that you know I am paying all my own expenses, so that every cent donated will go to The Irish Hospice Foundation. You can help bring a smile to someone’s face during their last days! No amount is too small because; ‘through small and simple things, do great things come to pass.’
If you are kind enough to sponsor me; you can either give me your money directly, or donate on line to:
www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/ BernieI H F2 02 4
possession, thanks to Richard, the vendor. Then the moving in commenced ….
Smaller house, different shape –and some furniture and fittings just weren’t right. The fourth pile got bigger and bigger – even after our friend, the charity man, had again done his best for me.
At this juncture can I give some advice to any of you thinking of putting down floorboards in an attic. For your own sake, I beseech you to take out those planks and burn them before she gets ideas in her head. Repeat after me … ‘a house is for living in – not for storage space’.
We are now five months in this house we
have come to love, just like the last one; fantastic neighbours and just a walk from the lake or the centre of town. The only stumbling block are the piles of ‘miscellaneous’ in the shed. Three of the bundles have shrunk considerably, but the fourth pile, ‘the wait and we’ll see’, has grown significantly.
A problem shared is a problem halved – and the solution has just come to me…. I’ll stick the whole shebang up in the attic …’for now!’
DON’T FORGET
If you want to show your wife who is the boss … just go and buy her a mirror.
Bernie stepping out on the Camino Challenge in 2023
COUPLE ARRESTED FOR ATTACK ON HOSPITAL ANAESTHETIST
Two people were arrested for assaulting an anaesthetist at the Vega Baja Hospital. The couple, parents of a child who had recently undergone surgery, attacked the doctor after a dispute. The victim sustained serious injuries and required medical attention. A protest rally was held at the hospital to show solidarity with the victim and to raise awareness about the issue of violence against healthcare workers.
ALCOHOL LEVEL TO BE REDUCED FOR DRIVERS
The Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has supported the introduction of parliamentary procedures to lower the blood alcohol level, considering that "Spanish society is mature" enough to accept this change and further reduce road traffic incidents.
The announcement was made at a Forum Europa Information Breakfast and sources from the Ministry of the Interior have explained that the intention is that, assuming the proposal of the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), the general rate will be reduced to 0.2 grams per litre of alcohol in the blood, compared to the current 0.5.
Ocean Race Europe to stop in Cartagena next year
The Ocean Race Europe is returning in 2025, but with Cartagena as the only Spanish stopover. Alicante, which hosted the event in 2021, will not be included in the second edition.
The 2025 race will be held between August and September and will feature up to five ports of call, including Cartagena.
Cartagena is excited to host the event, which will boost tourism and showcase the city's cultural and historical offerings. The mayor of Cartagena and the President of the Region of Murcia expressed their delight at securing the stopover.
H&M CLOSING MORE STORES
The Swedish fashion chain H&M has announced the closure of its Orihuela and Elche stores in Alicante, following the closure of its Torrevieja store. This is part of a wider plan to cut jobs and close stores in Spain. The closures will affect around 50 employees in the province. The CCOO union
WOMAN USES $1 MILLION AMBER NUGGET AS DOORSTOP
An elderly Romanian woman unknowingly used a 7.7lb amber nugget, valued at over $1 million, as a doorstop for decades. The stone, one of the largest known amber nuggets in the world, is estimated to be between 38.5 and 70 million years old and has significant scientific value. Its discovery has captivated the world and sparked interest in the study of amber.
is negotiating with H&M to mitigate the impact of the layoffs. The company has stated that it is adapting to changing shopping habits and that Spain will account for 17% of its worldwide store closures.
At the moment, the Zenia Boulevard store does not appear to be in the firing line.
Valencian bullfighting clubs to sue the Minister of Culture
Valencian bullfighting clubs are threatening legal action against the Spanish Minister of Culture following the recent cancellation of the National Bullfighting Awards.
They argue that the decision is arbitrary, politically motivated, and contrary to both Spanish law and the Constitution.
Situated some 35 kilometres from the sea, the Palacio Episcopal de Orihuela will host the 7th Alicante Costa Blanca Tourism and Cruises Association Conference, an event that will highlight the city's great potential as a destination for cruise tourism, a booming sector, and which will take place on November 14.
CHILD PROSTITUTION SCANDAL IN MURCIA
Seven influential businessmen admitted to paying for sex with minors,aged 15-17.A network of women recruited vulnerable girls from schools and coerced them into prostitution.
Despite initial harsh sentences,the businessmen received significantly reduced sentences through an agreement with prosecutors. The scandal was uncovered by the National Police in 2014. The case exposes the pervasive nature of child exploitation and the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable children.
Despite initial sentences of up to 25 years in prison,an agreement with prosecutors at Murcia’s Provincial Court,significantly reduced their sentences to five months per offence.
Due to the length of the case and the relatively short sentences, these businessmen will likely avoid prison
TORREVIEJA INCREASES
CONTROL OVER TOURIST HOUSING
The council will be able to impose penalties and conduct inspections on these properties
NEW VEHICLE FLEET FOR COUNCIL EMPLOYEES
The Orihuela City Council has published a tender for the financial leasing of 54 vehicles for its fleet.
The contract, which aims to provide mobility for public employees, will last for 60 months with a budget of 3,223,430.32 euros.
Concillor Mónica Pastor explained that this contract includes passenger cars, vans, trucks, all-terrain vehicles, police vehicles, motorcycles, garden vehicles, and a fleet of passenger vehicles.
The contract is divided into 11 lots, with the police vehicles having a shorter duration of 48 months.
The mayor of Torrevieja,Eduardo Dolon,has announced plans to strengthen local control over tourist homes in the city.The council intends to delegate authority from the regional government to impose penalties and conduct inspections on these properties.This move comes in response to the recent approval of a new decree law regulating tourist housing. The city has a high percentage of non-main residence housing,making tourist accommodation a significant sector.The new decree law allows municipalities to request competence in initiating sanctioning proceedings for minor,serious,and very serious infringements related to tourist homes.
Previously,municipalities had limited authority in controlling tourist accommodation,making it difficult to enforce regulations.The new decree aims to address this issue by granting municipalities more power in initiating and resolving sanctioning procedures.
Police vehicles will be changed every 4 years
The trial at Murcia's Provincial Court
A LIFE IN ROCK ‘N’ ROLL
We’re fortunate in this area that over the last 15 years we’ve had the opportunity to witness first hand some of the world greatest guitarists, Bo Diddley, George Benson, & Gary Moore to name just three.....Well, in the coming week, you will be able to add another name to that list.
If I say that he’s shared stages & toured with the likes of Bon Jovi, Thin Lizzy, Meatloaf & more... performed at most of the world's biggest festivals including Knebworth & Reading.......... .....................And is now widely regarded as Ireland's greatest living guitarist you must have guessed that I’m talking about Pat McManus.
Yes, that’s right, the Pat McManus of Mama’s
Boys & Celtus fame.
The Pat McManus Band will be performing three exclusive shows at Paddy’s Point on Fri 20th, Sat 21st & Sun 22nd of September.
Pat, A maestro of the guitar & fiddle will be joined on stage by Bass player Plunkett McComb & Drummer Paul Faloon (a regular visitor to these parts) for a series of shows that have attracted interest far & wide.
So, do yourself a favour & get down to Paddy’s Point on 1, If not all 3 of the nights & experience the unique blend of Celtic Blues Rock that is the Pat McManus Band.
PS, A big heads up to Hazel & Rory for pulling out the stops on these gigs #paddyspoint25years
ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Court of law; 7 Tried; 8 Poetess; 10 Sheerest; 11 Pair; 13 Renege; 15 Misery; 17 Tart; 18 Aircraft; 21 Hearing; 22 Upset; 23 Dead centre.
DOWN: DOWN: 1 Chile; 2 Under age; 3 Typist; 4 Fred; 5 Average; 6 At a stretch; 9 Sorry state; 12 Discount; 14 Narrate; 16 Single; 19 Aisle; 20 Kind.
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
6.It?s a struggle to study before the examination (7)
7.Current cause of amnesia upsets Ethel (5)
9.Board to make progress (3,2)
10.Badges allowed among the members (7)
12.What is withheld from the booking (11)
14.In wigs, these could show importance (11)
18.Sending in an account for advertising (7)
19.They happen when people buy strong drink in a ship (5)
21.Sieved food is not contaminated before starting to eat (5)
22.They take part in raids and in scraps (7)
DOWN DOWN
1.It?s baser to appear threatening (5)
2.Aserious illness for an oarsman (6)
3.Something added on one Greek letter (3)
4.To laze in this way, you need a fan! (6)
5.Piece of furniture that now has been refashioned (7)
8 & 17Dn. Could they be trials of golfers? ability? (7,5)
11.Disturbing the game, but being victorious (7)
13.It?s dreadfully boring outside (7)
15.Kind of slave working in the kitchen? (6)
16.Mixed drink - the last of the vermouth in ginger (6)
17.See 8 Dn.
20.Blade used for decapitating a pig (3)
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
Solution on Page 19 CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?
LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page
1. The name for which cocktail stems from the Tahitian word for "good"?
2. Wenceslas Square is the most expensive property in which country's version of Monopoly?
3. What is a proette?
4. Since the introduction of the 'Open' era in 1968, four players have won both the Boys' Singles and the Men's Singles at Wimbledon. Can you name them, or at least take a guess? One point for each correct answer.
5. Which former Prime Minister was once an entertainer on cruise ships? a. Tony Blair b. Pierre Trudeau c. Tony Abbott d. Silvio Berlusconi
6. The recently completed '1915 Canakkale Bridge' is now the longest suspension bridge in the world. Which famous strait does it span?
7. On average, how many seconds does light from the sun take to reach the earth? Plus or minus 20 seconds.
8. The following are the first words to which 1996 movie? "Choose life. Choose a job. Choose a career. Choose a family. Choose a f***ing big television."
9. The 'Sun of May' (Sol de Mayo) is found in the centre of which two South American countries flags?
10. The following lyrics are from songs with the name of a city somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? a. There's a church bell ringing, hear the song of joy it's singing. b. Blacker than night were the eyes of Felina, wicked and evil while casting a spell. c. Go play your hand you big talkin man make a big fool of yourself. d. He's the hairy handed gent who ran amok in Kent.
19)
e. Well I just got into town about an hour ago, took a look around, see which way the wind blows
11. Nicknamed "Cross-roads of the world", what is the name of the airport in Newfoundland that was an important refuelling stop for transatlantic flights in the 1950s and 1960s?
12. What is the title of the 1910 novel and a 1986 musical in which Christine Daae is the female protagonist?
13. What is the very well known Urdu word for "palace"? Five letters
14. Thimphu and Phuntsholing are the two largest cities in which Asian country?
15. The AFI (American Film Institute) has a list of the "50 greatest film villains". There are eight females in the top twenty. The following are a few of those female villains. Can you name the films in which they play a sinister role? a. Nurse Ratched. b. Annie Wilkes. c. Queen Grimhilde. d. Regan MacNeil. e. Alex Forrest
16. The car featured in the original TVseries Knightrider was named KITT(Knight Industries Two Thousand). Which actual car make and model was KITT?
17. Which American pop artist's most famous works include "Whaam", "Look Mickey" and "Oh, Jeff...I love you, too... But"?
18. Alexander Waverly was the head of which fictional crime fighting organisation?
19. According to Forbes Magazine, what are the three most valuable NHLfranchises? One point for each correct answer.
20. Arbat Street is the most expensive property in which country's version of Monopoly?
New British Ambassador Alex Ellis arrives in Spain
Sir Alex Ellis has arrived in Madrid,where he takes over from Hugh Elliott in the service of His Majesty King Charles III as the British Ambassador to Spain and Non-Resident Ambassador to Andorra. Alex Ellis will present his credentials to His Majesty King Felipe VI in a ceremony that will take place in the coming weeks.
“I am honoured to represent His Majesty Charles III and my country as Ambassador to Spain and Andorra,” said Ellis.
“Our countries enjoy a close and enduring relationship across so many areas: between our citizens,our cultures,our armed forces and across the world of academia,science and commerce.I am looking forward to supporting this relationship to become even stronger.”
This will be Ellis’ second posting to Spain,a country he already knows well from his role in the British Embassy in Madrid in the early 2000s.
ADAPT detectorists remove over 600 kilos of rubbish from Torrevieja’s Los Naufragos Beach
Last week the ADAPT metal detecting club was involved in an official Beach and sea clean-up at Los Naufragos beach in Torrevieja.
The "Asociation Hippocampus" had been granted permission to clean up the local beach and sea of offending polluting items lurking in the sand and sea with the ADAPT metal detecting club tasked to scour the beach and shallow surf looking for any invisible metals using their specialist metal detectors beneath the sand and shallow surf.
The specimens were collected in a special container where they will now be documented and weighed.
The Hippocampus group also had specialist scuba divers going into the sea looking for the similar items but on a larger scale. This exercise not only helped make people aware of the amount of waste that is thrown away but also the damage it causes to natural wildlife and the environment we live in.
Many people do not dispose of their beach waste in the appropriate waste bins, simply leaving the waste for the council to pick up once a day.
This official beach clean-up is ongoing along the coast and the ADAPT metal
ADAPT Detectorists being briefed on the task ahead
detecting club which have been going for 14 years are very proud to be part of this project and others.
The Torrevieja clean resulted in 424 pieces of rubbish gathered, weighing 631.5 kilos.
Thank you to all the volunteers, including the GISED colleagues from Elche and the ADAPT colleagues, who have made a great effort to help with the project.
In Partnership the San Pedro de Pinatar museum, the ADAPT metal detecting club promotes the hobby for responsible metal detecting on the sand and in the sea In Partnership with San Pedro Del Pinatar Museum. It also sponsors the ADAPT Theatre Group giving financial help to worthwhile causes.
Roderick Toms
Sir Alex Ellis arrived in Madrid last Monday
The new Historic Vehicle Rules in detail
The Council of Ministers approved a new Regulation on Historic Vehicles that updates a rule that is already three decades old to adapt it to current European legislation and standardise the treatments and benefits that will be provided to vehicles classified as historic in different countries.
The new regulation, promoted by the Ministries of the Interior and Industry and Tourism, aims to prevent the Spanish regulatory treatment, which is unequal with respect to other European countries, from encouraging the removal or loss of historic vehicles to places outside of Spanish territory.
The new regulation, which will come into force on 1 October, urges local councils, in exercising their powers to regulate the use of urban roads and to restrict the circulation of certain vehicles on said roads for environmental reasons, to establish formulas in their municipal ordinances that allow circulation to those owners who make sporadic or nonhabitual use of their historic vehicles.
Historic vehicles over 60 years old are exempt from periodic ITVs, while mopeds classified as historic are completely exempt, although in both cases the owners of such vehicles have the option of opting for voluntary ITV.
The introduction of the Technical Services for Historic Vehicles is noteworthy. These entities will evaluate the vehicles that are intended to
be classified as historic and will issue technical reports and certificates in the cases provided for in the regulations. These new entities will carry out work similar to that currently carried out by official laboratories at regional level.
Historic Vehicles Must Be 30 Years Old
In order for vehicles to be considered historic, similar to current regulations, they must meet at least one of the following requirements:
They must have been manufactured or registered for the first time at least 30 years ago, their specific type must have ceased to be produced and they must be in their original condition, without having undergone any fundamental changes in terms of their characteristics or main components. They must also be in a correct state of maintenance and conservation.
Those included in the General Inventory of Movable Property of the Spanish Historical Heritage or declared of cultural interest and those of special interest for having belonged to some relevant personality or intervened in some event with historical significance.
The new Regulation removes the possibility that so-called collector vehicles can be classified as historic.
New Procedures
Two new procedures are regulated for the
classification of historic vehicles: one that could be called "abbreviated", which can be used by vehicles registered in Spain that are at least 30 years old, that are in circulation and have a valid ITV (Group A), and another procedure to be followed by those vehicles that do not meet these requirements, which will be somewhat more complex, eliminating in any case the cataloguing phase because it has been proven unnecessary (Group B).
Speed Limits, Children and Seat Belts
The new Regulation also regulates traffic rules for historic vehicles. It establishes a speed limit of 80 km/h for historic vehicles that are not designed to have seat belts in the front seats and prohibits minors of height equal to or less than 135 cm from travelling on interurban roads in historic vehicles that do
not have seat belts or in which it is not possible to install child restraint systems.
Historic Vehicles Cannot Be Used Frequently
The use of historic vehicles will be occasional and in no case as a daily means of transport in order to minimise their environmental impact, and the use of historic vehicles for public transport of passengers or goods and for agricultural activities or works and services is generally prohibited.
The new regulation defines ordinary registration to specify that it includes mopeds and agricultural vehicles, among others. It also defines “occasional use” as the circulation of the historic vehicle that does not exceed 96 days per year.
The Church of JESUS CHRISTof Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733
Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain.
Facebook SaltChurchSpain
International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11 a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org
The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is an attractive 2019 Ford Ecosport at just 21,900e Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See page 5. We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN
AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENTGROUP.
Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887. Everyone is welcome. Los Alc·zares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details.
COMMUNITYCARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a programme of English speaking activities, support, information and advice with the support of Orihuela Council. Anyone wanting to join CCAsocial activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm. More info from Eva or Norah. in the cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com
Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help with well being for the over 50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home
Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre in La Siesta , ring 966 786 887 or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373
The RAFACosta Blanca RMG is a social group of
caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.
OVER 30 MIGRANTS WAIT FOR ASYLUM AT GUARDAMAR TOURIST COMPLEX
The tourist complex ‘Costa Blanca Explore’ in Guardamar del Segura, has been housing over 300 migrants transferred from the Canary Islands where they spend their days taking part in sports, workshops, and Spanish classes while waiting for asylum and work permits. The complex, which can accommodate up to 500 people, offers various facilities and activities for the migrants.
The migrants come from various African countries, including Algeria, Senegal, Morocco, Mauritania, and Libya. Many of them arrived in the Canary Islands by canoe.
The complex provides a safe and supportive environment for the migrants, with workshops, sports activities, and language classes. The staff at the complex highlight the good behaviour of the migrants and the positive atmosphere among them. They emphasise that the migrants are eager to work and build a new life in Spain. However, the bureaucratic process for obtaining asylum and work permits can be lengthy, causing delays and many challenges for the migrants. Despite this, the migrants remain hopeful and determined to succeed. They are grateful for the support and opportunities provided by the complex and the NGOs involved in their care.
SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION
The former Adventure Holiday Complex is currently home to 300 migrants.
QUIZ FROM P 14:
The complex continues to provide a temporary home and support for the migrants, while they await the opportunity to start a new chapter in their lives.
1.Mai Tai (Maita'i).2.Czech Republic.3.A female golfing professional.4.Four answers.Björn Borg, Pat Cash, Stephan Edberg and Roger Federer.5.Answer d.Silvio Berlusconi.6.Dardanelles Strait (or Strait of Gallipoli). 7.500 seconds = 8 minutes and 20 seconds.(Average distance between the earth and the sun is 150,000,000 km and light travels almost 300,000 km per second = 500 seconds).8.Trainspotting.9.Two answers. Argentina and Uruguay.10.Five answers.a.Is This The Way To Amarillo (Tony Christie).b.El Paso (Marty Robbins).c.Jackson (Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood).d.Werewolves Of London (Warren Zevon). e.L.A.Woman (The Doors).11.Gander.12.The Phantom Of The Opera.13.Mahal.14.Bhutan.15.Five answers.a.One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest.b. Misery.c.Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs.d.The Exorcist.e.Fatal Attraction.16.Pontiac Trans Am (1982 model to be exact).17.Roy Lichtenstein.18.U.N.C.L.E. 19.Three answers.In order:New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadians.20.Russia
PARENTING
We were shopping in Sainsbury’s (yes we are still in the UK) last week and my wife was horrified at what she experienced before her in an aisle.
A young mother was with her daughter, aged about two, who was in the front of her trolley. An elderly woman came close, trying to reach a display and her trolley accidentally touched the little girl’s leg.
“Mummy, mummy she has hit me” the little girl cried. My wife instantly intervened saying: “no she hasn’t, her trolley accidentally touched her leg.”
Thank goodness my wife saw what had happened and at a stroke stopped what could have developed into a very serious situation for the elderly shopper, who could easily have been accused of assault.
This is a sad example of what is going wrong with society today. No doubt the parents have told the little girl to beware of strangers and to shout out quickly if someone touches her.
All very well, but a child of two cannot understand the implications and know what is a pure accident. How sad it is that society has got to this level. Bad parenting, or over the top parenting? You choose.
SCHOOL ABSENTEEISM
Here is an example of very bad parenting. More pupils in England were off school without permission in the last week of the summer term than at any point in the academic year, official figures show.
The latest school attendance data shows 5% of pupils in England were off without permission in the week ending 19 July - around 450,000 pupils.
Nearly 400,000 penalty notices were issued to parents in England for unauthorised school absences during the 2022-23 academic year. That is much higher than prepandemic levels and unauthorised absences have remained at a similar rate over the most recent academic year.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says persistent absenteeism was “a big problem".
It’s sickening that a growing number of parents think it is more important to have a holiday than ensure their children get a good education. All they are doing is teaching their offspring that it’s acceptable to lie and pretend they cannot go to school because they are ill – or for another lying excuse. Educationalists, stating the obvious, say that
Tony Mayes Rant
poor school attendance can hit academic achievement, social development, and children's future prospects, and research has indicated that tests and exam results are showing the pandemic led to a widened gap between children from the highest and lowest income families.
Of course, the reason why parents take their children away from school to go on family holidays is because they are far cheaper in school time than holiday time. Research has shown that some fights and hotels double in price once school holidays start.
It’s a symptom of “dynamic pricing” which we have all heard about over the ticket costs for the up-coming Oasis UK tour next year. Those tickets doubled or even trebled in price because of demand.
The government has now raised fines issued to each parent from £60 to £80 per child, which will be doubled if it happens again within three years. And those with a third fine in any three year period will face prosecution.
Big deal! Parents interviewed say they will still be going on holiday in term time because it’s far cheaper – they can save up to £1,000 for a family.
I say people who are prepared to play fast and loose with their children’s education should think twice about having them in the first place. And if a government is going to introduce fines, then make them meaningful, fixing them close to any financial savings by holidaying in school time.
As for dynamic pricing, it’s another symptom of what is going wrong in society. It is simply based on greed.
Last year I tried to book a ferry crossing to get back to Spain and when I went on line I was given one price. I went onto another site to book hotel stops and returned to the ferry website only to find within half an hour the price had jumped by £50. What a world we are living in!
WINTER FUEL ALLOWANCE
What a load of fuss there has been in the UK over the past fortnight about most pensioners losing their £300 winter fuel allowance. The government have axed the allowance for all except those on benefits, claiming a black hole in finances caused by the past Tory government, and big savings must be made. Many of the people making the fuss have been middle class pensioners and I know of some who say it’s going to affect them – but they still manage to have a cruise or expensive holiday each year!
It’s sad that those who fall just outside the limit for receiving the benefit – those receiving around £12,000 will miss out and these will be the hardest hit. But it cannot be beyond the wit of government to ensure that these people – and those pensioners who should be receiving it and don’t apply, to get the money. How about giving it to those on
the lowest council tax band?
Also, I wonder how many millionaires handed back their £300 fuel allowance ‘gift’ over the years?
TUTTI FRUTTI
I’m going to go back to the trolley saga I wrote to you about before. Apparently in the UK there is a craze among singles when they go shopping. If someone fancies someone while shopping, and ‘accidentally’ bump into that person’s trolley and there’s a response from the other, then they are in business!
In Spain they’ve gone further. Apparently it’s all in the pineapple. If you buy a pineapple and put it in your trolley upside down, it means you are ‘available’ and of course, if you find someone else with an upside down pineapple in the aisle you could be in luck! Apparently, in some supermarkets there have been such a rush of pineapples it has caused a real problem! When we get back to Spain we will be taking a keen interest in what’s in people’s trolleys (ha ha!)
PARENT RESPONSIBILITY
No doubt many readers will have heard of the dreadful shooting in Georgia, US, when a
14-year-old teenager killed two teachers and two students at a high school. Nine others,one teacher and eight students were wounded in the shootings.
The teenager was arrested and charged, and, subsequently, the teenager’s father has been arrested and charged with two counts of second-degree murder.
This has resulted because it is alleged the father did nothing to prevent his son from accessing a weapon used in the killings.
It opens up a discussion into how much should parents be responsible for the illegal actions of their offspring. I think that because of the rise of crime being carried out by children and teenagers across Britain, parents should be held responsible and stand in the dock with their wayward children.
Perhaps if that happened there would be far less juvenile crime.
EARLY RELEASE
Finally, I am saddened that thousands of prisoners in the UK are being released from prison early because jails are full. What a state Britain is in. Stand by for a wave of additional crimes with all these out of work ex-prisoners on the streets with no money and no jobs.
FEW SURPRISES AS RINKS REACHES SEMI FINALS
By Suzi Cooper
After 3 days of the 2024 Valencian Championships the Mixed Fours have reached the semi final stage.
In the top half of the draw the El Cid team of Chris Salter, Stewart Beattie, Richard Warrilow & Jean McLaughlin will play against San Miguel – Fred Willshire, Lynn Greenland, Steve Cantley & Gail Willshire to earn a place in the final.
In the bottom half of the draw Greenlands Pete Bonsor, Lisa Bonsor, Peta Rhodes & Freddie Willey will play San Luis Ian Kenyon, Stewart Hamill, Jane Hamill & Sue Kenyon to earn their place in the Final. The semi finals have not yet been scheduled.
The Mixed Triples are down to the quarter finals. Country Bowls Kevin Storey, Derek Lewis & Jayne Storey play Vistabella Alan
Bannister, Martin Foulcer & Mo Foulcer. In quarter 2 Vistabella Sheila Westwood, Paul Durham & Peter Westwood take on Greenlands Pete Bonsor, Lisa Bonsor & Peta Rhodes. Quarter 3 sees Emerald Isle Derek Mooney, Sue Elvin & Martin Oakley play Quesada Peter Morgan, Violet Campbell & Mel Ward. While the last of the quarters has San Miguel Fred Willshire, Mike Douglas & Gail Willshire playing against Greenlands Dave Morrison, Andy Miles & Sue Bosworth. The Quarter finals are provisionally scheduled for Tuesday 17th 2pm at San Miguel.
The remaining disciplines are in the early stages so more on them in my next report.
Good Luck to everyone bowling and may all your bowls be touchers.
SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB By
Just a few days into the Valencian Championships and we already have some positive results.
Two of our players, Gordon Paton and Bill Webb, got through the preliminary round of the Men’s Singles, hopefully they will continue to progress.
Our other team success are the “super Fab 4”: Ian & Sue Kenyon and Stewart & Jane Hamill. in the Mixed Rinks. Travelling away
URBAN CARP MATCH GROUP (UCMG)
31st of August and 1st of September saw the UCMG have their first 2-day angling festival at the El Bosquet complex near to Catral. 14 Club members took part in the festival and split into 3 sections and section winners would receive one point, runner-up 2 points down to 4 points for those coming 4th or 5th in their respective sections.
The overall winners (top 3) were the ones with the lowest number of points and should there be a tie, places would be decided on section wins.
Saturday section winners were:
A section: Martin Fisher on B1 with 17kg 080 grammes - B Section: Neil “Bagger” Bomford with the top weight of the day from peg 15 with 31kg 520 grammes - C Section: Steve “Higgy” Higgins with 18kg 300 grammes from peg 23.
Sheila Cammack
to Bonalba, they played 3 matches in 2 days and somehow managed to survive the heat to win through to the semi-final. Over the weekend the Ladies and Men’s Singles will continue, up to the semi-finals. Next week it’s the turn of the Men’s and Ladies pairs and the Mixed Triples. We wish all our competitors the very best of luck for the rest of the tournament.
from Peg 12 and claimed another 30kg weight, with 30kg 100 grammes….only 20 grammes ahead of Bill “Cockerney”
Cannon! - C Section: John Waples with 16kg 160 grammes from peg 22.
There was no doubting the winner with 2 points, Bagger Bomford. John Waples took the runners-up slot with 3 points. There was a tie for the next three placings, all with 4 points, with Hutch taking the 3rd prize envelope with a better weight than Martin Fisher’s total.
Sunday section winner were:
A section: Dave “Hutch” Hutchinson with 30kg 620 grammes from the in-form B1 peg. Hutch’s weight was the best of the day too. -
B Section: Bagger Bomford made no mistake
SAN MIGUEL BOWLS
A polite reminder to visitors, there will be no WASPS Session on Wednesday 18th September, due to a prestigious tournament being held at San Miguel Bowls Club. Visitors are more than welcome to come along to watch the tournament, the bar will be open all day, and food will be available from midday onwards.
The winner of the ‘close but no cigar’ award went to Max De Groote Marnix, who also had 4 points.
Our main Sponsor –NTT Baits and Tackle - kindly donated 200 worth of tackle vouchers for the daily top 3, which were as follows: Saturday: Bagger, Higgy and John (Juggernaut) Havercroft. Sunday: Hutch, Bagger and the Cockerney geezer.
All the prizes for the 2 days were presented in our co-sponsors wonderful British styled pub, The Dog & Firkin pub in Catral where we all enjoyed a steak and kidney or steak and ale pie with chips, peas and gravy.
The tournament gets underway at Bonalba Image courtesy Bonalba Bowls Club
YOUR DREAM HOME SUMMER POOL LEAGUE
BUNGALOW DIVISION WEEK 17
Tipsy Cow1-8Bar Rambla Red
Bar Rambla Blue2-7Havana Habaneros
CC's6-3Echos
The One Bar4-5Thistle & Rose Red Thistle & Rose Blue3-6Maschis
LEAGUE TABLE P W Agg Pts
Bar Rambla Red **17155328
Havana Habaneros17145128
Maschis17144728
Thistle & Rose Blue **1710318
Tipsy Cow177-314
CC's177-1714
Bar Rambla Blue **177-1112
The One Bar175-2710
Thistle & Rose Red174-498
Echos172-474
** deducted 2 points (not adhering to league rules)
PENTHOUSE DIVISION WEEK 17
Tipsy Toad3-6Firestation Redwatch
Firestation Bluewatch9-0Kaceys
Arianaz2-7Mickeys Bar
Sports Bar3-6Courtyard A Courtyard B2-7New Tavern
LEAGUE TABLE P W Agg Pts
Tipsy Toad17165532
Firestation Redwatch17145728
Firestation Bluewatch17134126
Courtyard A17124124
Sports Bar176-112
New Tavern176-1912
Kaceys176-2712
Arianaz176-3112
Mickeys Bar175-3110 Courtyard B171-852
SUNNYCORNER GOLF
RBL/AACCCHARITY GOLF
Vistabella Golf. 12th September 2024
88 Players in 22 teams arrived to battle out the 15th running of this event. We were blessed with an almost perfect day for golf. It was an early day, 07:30 registration and 08:30 Shotgun Start.
The teams were split into 2 divisions, one for WHS players and the other for Society handicaps. They all played a Texas Scramble, 4 drives each with 10% of combined handicaps.
In the WHS Division the winners were Partee Animals (below), Chris Daw, Billy Thomson, Holly Thomson and Mark Palmer with 57.8, Clarkes Bar 1 were Runners up with 58.3 and Clarkes Bar 6, third, 59.
In the Society Handicap Division the winners were Cheers Bar (below right), Lee Brown, Mitch Jordan, Mark Pollitt and Mark Jordan with 54. Runners up were The Pensioners with 58.6 and Third, Al Sims with 58.8. An enjoyable day was had by all.
The whole event was a great success raising €2000.00, this was split between the two charities, €1220 from entry fees, and the two ladies on Hole 15 Challenge raised over €280 included in the total, also €500 from the Raffle.
Many thanks are due to the following: Joaquim Rocamora and his team at Vistabella Golf for allowing us to use the
The Las Salinas charity Mixed triples petanca competition was held at Westvilles on the 7th of September 2024, the well-groomed terrains were spacious with plenty of room for spectators! The competition was an astounding success, and the bar and barbeque were kept busy.
Thank you to Jackie Lowton the competitions secretary for registrations and the organisation on the day. We had additional assistance from Maurice with the scoring as the results came in.
It was hot but we were provided with some shade from the trees and parasols. We had the same number of entries as our competition in March of this year. With 24 teams participating most wearing their team strip. It was only after a number of close games that the top slots were decided! The top three teams were presented with a prestigious cup which will be inscribed with the winners’ names. This will be retained for a year and will continue to have inscriptions for the forthcoming competitions. All three top teams were given medals and wine as recognition of their success. The
whole course for this event and also for his generous donations, yet again, the course was in excellent condition
Campoverde Car Hire sponsored the trophies, prizes and Par 3 challenge.
Local businesses gave prizes for the raffle, and numerous other individuals, thank you again for your continued generosity. A big thank you to all the players, without you these events could not take place. It is encouraging to keep getting this level of support.
Next Years's event is already booked at Vistabella golf for Thursday September 18th 2025 so book early to reserve a place by phoning Bob Smith on 693 788 661. There will also be the event in June, please phone Charlie Rogers on 618 181 703 for details.
umpire of the day was Vicky Robinson the registration/ Results secretary of the league.
The chosen charity for the Las Salinas league is the San Jose Obrero orphanage raising e485 on the day including the subscription fees and the tombola. The stall was run by the enthusiastic Jane and Vicky who were kept busy persuading people to part with their money! Thank you, ladies, for your efforts!
2nd La Marquesa - Claude Coulangeat, Jacqueline Triffet, Luc Keusters (4 wins + 22)
3rd Limonar 2 - Christian Larossa, Michel Diano, Nanou Trouve (3 wins ¨+ 32)
Thank you to all the participants and we look forward to organising another triples competition in March 2025
Norma Parkway
Agood day's golf at Vistabella with the Sunny Corner last week was enjoyed by all. Afew sharks showed their true colours. Food and drink was enjoyed at the Sunny Corner after. Overall winner was Trevor Pratt, blind pairs winners were Trevor and Mick Cook.
Cheers Bar Partee Animals
JITTERY THADER ALMOST THROW AWAY A COMFORTABLE VICTORY
Missing through either long-term injuries or personal matters, Thader could not field 3 senior players for this home Community league match,but the youngsters on display certainly did them proud.
replacing Fran as captain for the unavailable Lloyd.
In fact,both Pasqual and Pedro Juan could be out long term,and we wish them both best of luck in recovery from operations to knee and ankle.
Following on from a hard-fought draw in the season’s opening match over at Torrevieja,manager Raul Mora elected to go with a similar side from that match,
On 4 mins, Goodluck of Eldense could only watch as Chema just managed to tip his goal bound effort over for a corner.An impressive young talent by the name of Amine came up with the goods 10 mins later.Having collected a long ball out of defence,his first attempt at goal was blocked by keeper Fasardu,as was his 2nd from the rebound.Not to be outdone,he calmly slotted home the 3rd attempt into the far corner of the net.
The game then turned very scrappy,evolving into a midfield
battle.When Serhiy crossed to Tremino on 41 mins,it looked odds on that Thader´s young striker would score,but unfortunately his effort lacked direction. It was Tremino who was fouled on the edge of the box on 43 mins (the yellow card awarded for the offence,could well have been red),leaving Kone to hammer the resulting free kick into the wall.From the rebound,he then proceeded to slam the ball through a sea of legs into the net to leave the score at half time,2 up for the hosts.
Tremino had the ball in the net 2 mins inside the new half,but he was adjudged to be offside. Thader were going hell for leather,gaining no less than 5
IT’S TWO OUT OF TWO FOR MONTESINOS
C.D. Montesinos 3 - Benferri 2
CD Montesinos certainly know how to put their fans through it, with last Saturday very much a point in case. Leading by 3-0, with the ‘Monte Ultra’s’ in fine voice, and already celebrating victory, two quick goals from the visitors, in just 5 short minutes, completely changed the game.
With the team reduced to 10 men after Diego’s ‘harsh’ red card, Montesinos were now hanging on. The additional 7 minutes added by the referee certainly did nothing for those with a dodgy ticker, but fortunately the referee finally blew for full time and the points were secured for Monte.
Goal scorers for Monte were an own goal, Luis Carlos, with an absolute beauty, and an Abdul header. Match sponsor Alex Dunn chose Luis Carlos as the man of the match.
So it is now six points from the opening two matches, as the team now look ahead to next weekend and a trip to Alicante for an away match at Betis Florida. Please make an effort to support YOUR team by purchasing a Season ticket for just 40euro, which includes
a free team shirt, and perhaps by joining ‘The Full Monte Supporters Club’. More information from: thefullmonte2011@hotmail.com Vamos Monte!
corners within 7 mins of the restart.
Elios should have reduced the arrears on the hour mark,but his header lacked accuracy and the moment was lost.Straight up the other end,man of the match Tremino picked up a loose ball,before striking a shot which went into the net off the far post.
Thader´s giant centre back Kone headed just over the bar on 78 mins,before the game turned on it´s head.
On as an Eldense 2nd half sub, Losa went on a mazy run,before planting the ball just inside Chema´s far post.
Another Eldense sub had a glorious opportunity to further
reduce arrears,but Cayetano squandered his chance.
Deep into stoppage time,a comical defensive mix up between Thader sub Juan and keeper Chema,presented Losa with a simple task of side footing into an open goal.
Having almost thrown away a 3 goal cushion,Thader managed to hang on for the remaining couple of minutes,but they nearly gave their loyal supporters a mini heart attack!!
Next weekend,Thader are away to Hercules ´B´ in Alicante.At time of writing,it is not known when the game will be played, therefore it is advised to check out CD Thader Facebook page.
SCOTLAND U-16 TO CONTEST PINATAR SUPERCUP
Pinatar Arena will host four U-16 teams in a new edition of the Pinatar Supercup that will be played from September 16 to 23 in the main arena. Switzerland and Indonesia will play one semi final while Scotland and Faroe Islands will contest the other with the two winners meeting in the final on September 21.
All the matches will be played at the main field of Pinatar Arena and, once again, entry will be free of charge. The matches featuring Indonesia, will also be televised live.
Scotland face the Faroe Islands on Wednesday at 3pm
The event will generate about 1,000 rooms in San Pedro del Pinatar. In the coming days another new event will be announced involving national teams of lower categories that will use the facilities toward the end of September. 18/09 Switzerland U16 Indonesia U16 6pm
