The Leader Newspaper 20 March 23 – Edition 963

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Now in our 20th year of keeping people safe and informed - The Costa Blancaís oldest

In Cabo Roig, the first sign of summer arriving is not the swallows returning from their winter migration but the annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Of course, on that day everybody is Irish, no matter where they are from.

So, after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic and the weather, Cabo Roig’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade returned for 2023. From the excitement and run-away success of the very first Parade in 2011, last Friday we finally got to celebrate the tenth running of Spain’s largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

This year, the parade returned to its roots, with the event taking place along the Cabo Roig Strip, mid afternoon, on the day itself where, after three years of disappointment and restrictions, there were no such frustrations as the organising committee set about making it the biggest and best yet as, once again, Cabo Roig was finally made ready for a grand day of fun and festivities.

Although the parade no longer figures in the world’s top thirty, according to local police, there were still well over 10,000 people crammed into local streets and bars, as the event was led off by the excellent Torrevieja Pipes and Drums.

As one previous organiser told me “we put them at the front every year because they know the route and they know the pace that the parade should take,” but those of us that have seen a few know that it is much more than that. They set the standard that the following troupes and comparsas endeavour to meet, below which they would not dare to fall on such an important day.

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The bikers and classic cars did their traditional lap of honour after which the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums, followed by The Deputy Mayor and a handful of Ciudadanos councillors, joined one of Donegal’s all-time heroes, 1992 All-Ireland-winning captain, Anthony Molloy, who was guest of honour and Grand Marshal, at the front of the parade. Irish music blared out from every bar as large crowds filled the entire route with children of all ages from Footwork and Totally Dance Studios performing traditional dance as the crowd clapped

along in time.

As a lot of green energy ran through Cabo Roig, there were 20 different nationalities included in the the two-hour parade with over 20 groups, ranging from floats, dancing groups, bands, stilt walkers, drummers and Mickey Mouse cartoon characters. Particularly colourful were the many companies of comparsas with their wonderful plumed costumes, as they too danced along the route to the accompaniment of loud applause from the crowded pavements and terraces. There was also a large contingent of ex-Irish Army veterans marching along in time, followed by

drummers and musicians representing the commercial centre, Zenia Boulevard, and many of the local Irish bars.

Earlier in the day in Torrevieja, there was a service in the Parish Church, which was followed by the raising of the Irish flag and the national anthem, after which a group of women performed a traditional Irish dance.

The ceremony was attended by the Torrevieja mayor, Eduardo Dolon, the parish priest, Manuel Martínez Rocamora, as well as numerous Irish residents in Torrevieja. The flag raising was carried out by retired County Mayo councillor, Frank Durcan.

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PROPERTY

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The Plenary in Orihuela has approved the motion for the Council to approach the Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS) to apply an exception to the Regulation of the Hydraulic Public Domain, to allow them to build a Sports City on land which is currently designated as a floodplain.

Specifically, this clause allows municipalities with more than a third of the land located in flood-prone areas to carry out projects in areas declared as such, provided that the corrective measures dictated by the basin authority are complied with.

This was explained by the Mayor, Carolina Gracia, who said that "Orihuela does not have a single square metre set aside for sports land", presumably therefore unaware of the sports facilities in the municipality, such as the sports centre on the Orihuela Costa, and many more in the city. Gracia has confirmed that 30,000 euro will be spent on a Hydrological Plan to include the study of flooding of the municipality and of the areas that are

determined by the surveyors and that are suitable to host the future Sports City.

The Special Plan will define the necessary size of the land, as well as the characteristics of the plots so that the City Council can acquire them to locate the sports facilities. "We have created the opportunity so that, within two or three years, Orihuela can commission the real project for Ciudad Deportiva close to the city, tender it and build it", said the Mayor.

Gracia also insisted that "there is no need for a budget now" to undertake the construction of the Sports City. "Without today's procedure, there would never be a Sports City, even if we had 50 million euro to invest today," she added. “I am happy to initiate a real opportunity so that there can be a Sports City in Orihuela.

Deputy mayor, José Aix, added that the point approved today allows the City Council "to align itself with the CHS in order to begin the process of what will be the Ciudad Deportiva in the

future, so claimed for so many years." "These are facilities that have always been the subject of announcements, but empty of content", stated Aix, who is also responsible for Urban Planning. "We have worked for many months with the municipal surveyors, we have spoken with the Generalitat and with the CHS", he said, as he explained that the Hydrological Plan and the Special Plan "will be carried out with the support of the technicians, who have made their proposals and who will guide us in the steps we are taking”.

Floodplains, by their very definition, are areas of land prone to flooding, which act as a protective barrier to prevent the water from reaching other occupied areas.

No doubt any water which is planning to congregate on the floodplains in the future will be decent enough to divert itself elsewhere.

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION

The proposal has been approved with the votes of the socialist municipal groups, Ciudadanos, PP and Vox and the abstention of Cambiemos.

Do you support construction of a multi million euro Sports City in Orihuela at the cost of essential services for the coast. Email us with your viewat: office@theleader.info

The motion was passed at a Special Plenary held last week

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A A W W C C LLEE A A R R S S FFII N N A A LL

H H U U R R D D LLEE

NO ORIHUELA COSTA BEACH BARS FOR EASTER

When closing down the beach bars on 31 December, despite the Orihuela council promising that they would reopen for Easter, they have now said that the new contract will not be ready in time. This also means there will be no sunbeds, umbrellas or the offer of water sports. There will however, be a lifeguard service from April 1 to 10.

Indeed the council is now stating that because of the complexity of the contract they may not be ready for the start of the summer, just another example of the Orihuela council’s lack of interest in the coast.

Courts withdraw permission for construction of 300 homes in Orihuela Costa

The Valencian Superior Court of Justice has issued a ruling declaring the expiration of the program for the development of almost 300 houses, set back from the N332, adjacent to the Orihuela Costa Go Kart Track.

With all of the legal processes and amendments, now complete, the Animal Protection Law has taken another, and definitive step again this week, with the Congress of Deputies approving most of the changes presented by the Senate during their assessment.

With hundreds of amendments in the penultimate draft, the Senate presented twenty major changes to the law of which the deputies have approved a dozen.

The one thing that has not changed, is that hunting dogs still do not fall within the regulations.

All dog owners must pass a simple canine knowledge test. Carlos Alfonso López, from the RSCE veterinarian association, explains: “The test will have three parts, one on care and veterinary, another on animal welfare and another on legislation. The idea is that the documents can be downloaded and filled out online for free”. In addition, those who take care of a dog must have civil liability insurance for damages to third parties, a regulation similar to the one that already exists in communities such as Madrid and the Basque Country. According to industry estimates, for small dogs they can range from 20 to 50 euro a year, while policies for dangerous dogs — already mandatory— range between 50 and 100 euro a year; Many home insurance policies already include this type of coverage.

The ban on homeless people having pets is also removed completely.

Another important aspect is that the list of 8 potentially dangerous dog breeds (the PPP) is no longer abolished, which means once again certain breeds of dogs will have to wear a muzzle and be on a short leash when out and about. It was planned that the owners would be assessed, rather than the dogs, as classifying by breed seemed unfair to many. This attitude remains.

The ban on leaving a pet unsupervised for more than 3 consecutive days has been approved. In the case of dogs, this is reduced to 24 hours.

Those who have species outside the 'Positive List of Companion Animals' will have a period of 6 months to notify the authorities and adapt to the measures that are in place for their possession. This list is still to be confirmed.

The new law will expressly prohibit the "commer-

cialisation of dogs, cats and ferrets in pet shops, as well as their display and exposure to the public for commercial purposes." The sale of smaller animals will still be permitted in pet shops, and those shops can act as adoption centres. Likewise, practices such as "regularly keeping dogs and cats on terraces, balconies, rooftops, storage rooms, basements, patios and similar or vehicles" or "carrying animals tied to moving motor vehicles" are prohibited.

The new laws also include the introduction of mechanisms to control the breeding and sale of animals. In general terms, individuals will be prohibited from carrying out this activity, which can only be undertaken by "persons duly registered", professionals who comply with all the guarantees of animal welfare. Among these limits will be, for example, the restriction of the number of litters that each female can have. The fine for irregularly raising animals for commercial purposes will be that corresponding to very serious offences: from 50,001 to 200,000 euro. The use of wild animals in circuses is also prohibited throughout the national territory, as is already the case in many of the autonomous communities, and failure to comply with this precept will be considered very serious, also with a fine of up to 200,000 euro. Specifically, "the use of animals in prohibited activities, particularly in cultural and festive activities, in mechanical attractions, fairground carousels, as well as the use of wildlife species in circus shows" will be sanctioned, and, in the same way, "the use of animals in crib exhibitions, parades or processions" will be expressly prohibited.

These are some of the aspects that have been modified from the previous text. With the green light from Congress, the law is now ready for publication in the BOE and will enter into force in 6 months.

The developer, Marcos y Bañuls and the Orihuela City Council are currently evaluating whether they will present an appeal which they must do within a period of thirty days.

OFFICIALS ISSUE TRAVEL WARNING TO UK TOURISTS AMID PASSPORT CHAOS

Travel officials have issued a warning to UK residents planning to travel to Spain due to the ongoing passport chaos affecting Spanish airports. Over the weekend,around 1,000 passengers were affected at Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas airport due to long queues causing them to miss their connecting flights.

The ALA has warned a large influx of Brits could put huge pressure on passport controls.

CONSUMER PRICES RISE BY 6% IN FEBRUARY

Consumer prices rose by 6.0% YoY in February, up from 5.9% in January, driven by a significant rise in fresh food prices, up 16.6% YoY.

This final reading was slightly lower

than the flash estimate of 6.1% released two weeks ago, and in line with analysts' expectations. Although the govt approved a reduction in VAT on some basic food products in early 2023, food prices have continued to rise.

Two Years and Still no “Urgent” Expansion to Torrevieja Police Station

According to a report from the Los Verdes in Torrevieja, the “urgent” project to expand the Local Police station in Torrevieja, approved two years ago, has still not be processed, adding yet another failure to deliver by the ruling Partido Popular (PP) government, another example, they say, of the “mixture of ineptitude and disinterest in priority issues shown by the Partido Popular.

Easter Hospital Strike moved ‘For Responsibility’.

The Torrevieja Hospital Working Committee has decided to delay the strike that it had announced for Easter "for responsibility",since they are aware of the "impact that it would have to hold it on Holy Thursday, so we moved it to Tuesday 11 April", explained Fran García,from CC OO. The announcement was made during the reading of the manifesto at the doors of the Hospital,where the workers who held a new protest demanded that the Ministry negotiate a new agreement.

Just a few kilometres along the road at

the Vega Baja Hospital,where the multi million euro extension plans were being unveiled,the Minister of Health confirmed that the objections to the agreement previously negotiated with Ribera Salud will be withdrawn although Yolanda Hidalgo,a member of the Hospital Committee said,"Until we see proof in the courts,they are just words,and the words are carried away by the wind,the strike will still go ahead,but a few days after Easter, when tourists have left the region which will have then returned to it’s normal numbers.”

Regarding the negotiation of that agreement together,they have said that they have no official record of that request for joint negotiation.Although they would be willing to enter into it, but they warn: It will have to be with the most advantageous conditions for all the departments (alluding to Alzira) and stating that the Torrevieja Committee must be included in the negotiations as they are the only ones legitimised to reach agreements that affect their staff.

TURNING IDEAS ON THEIR HEADS.!

We peel potatoes if we are the designated potato peeler in our family. Strangely, given the great variety of verbs in the English language and the great variety of potatoes, we never speak of 'fleecing' potatoes or 'skinning' potatoes, or even 'shaving' or 'flaying' them, do we? We prefer to remain in our comfort zone, so peeling it is.

Likewise, we rarely hear any of the great detectives announce that the butler didn't do it, or a reluctant person replacing horses with any other animal when telling us that "wild horses couldn't drag me to a dentist."

Wild tortoises just wouldn't conjure up a credible picture, would they? You should brush your teeth regularly. We always manage to see reason in the cold light of day, rather than the warm sunlight of a Monte Carlo casino, why is that?

Sometimes language seems to turn ideas on their heads, or bamboozle us completely.

For example, black holes in space have been described as pockets of non-existence, since no light or time survives there. Nothing to a Buddhist is also everything, since only nothing has any reality.

Are you beginning to see what I mean?

No, neither am I, but you see what I mean.

Many wrongheaded ideas have eventually succumbed to reason. H.M. Warner of Warner Brothers Pictures asked, "Who the devil wants to hear actors talk?" In 1927, a man called Ken Olsen expressed his opinion that "There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home."

Never heard of him? I'm not surprised. Throughout history, people and events have managed to turn the whole world upside down, sometimes almost literally.

In 1543, the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus theorised that the Earth and other planets rotated around the sun, and in no time at all -- well, 100 years later -people finally got around to believing him, far too late for Copernicus to say, "I told you that a hundred years ago!"

Apparently one of the most frequently asked questions of primary teachers of geography is, "Why don't people walk upside down in Australia?" Frankly, I still have trouble with that one myself. Perhaps it has something to do with the magnetic south pole, but don't quote me.

Newton changed our perception of the world when he used an apple to create gravity, Charles Darwin turned us into

very superior monkeys -- we would always be served before them in a restaurant -and Columbus invented America, although he always claimed he didn't do it deliberately.

Change is the only constant, the one certainty whose arrival and form we can never be sure of. My parents once took me to a circus, and having failed to have me taken on as an assistant liontamer, they insisted I demonstrate my tumbling skills, which mainly consisted of walking upside down as if I were an Australian. Talk about turning ideas on their heads. But at least I got a job as an apprentice clown. What goes around comes around, I hear you say.

The General Director of Tourism, Herick Campos, visited Orihuela on Monday, where, together with the mayoress, Carolina Gracia, he officiated at the opening of the new Tourist Info office, recently moved from its previous location to the ground floor of the Town Hall, with the aim of being able to offer a better service.

Quite how long it will remain there is unknown, as the spokesman for the Partido Popular, Rafael Almagro, has promised to move it back to itís previous location should his party be returned to government in the forthcoming Municipal elections. Nevertheless, just about every councillor turned out for the opening ceremony in itís new location, the Palacio de MarquÈs de Arneva, which Campos described as an "emblematic site that is also useful for the visitor."

PE PE TS IN SP TS IN SP AIN AIN

Benji and Shylar’s owner sadly passed away and they need a new home.

Benji is a pug cross, born in 2015, Shylar is a female beagle cross, born 2018. They are both chipped, vaccinated and sterilised. Both are

good with other dogs and very loving. Call: 645 469 253

Handsome Stanis, would love a forever home.

If you are interested in this 7 year old, then please contact the numbers/email below:

This brings the number of Tourist Information Offices in Orihuela to three, joining the offices located at the train station in the city and that on the coast at the Playa Flamenca Town Hall. For

Z e n i a B o u l e v a r d i n v e s t i n g

Zenia Boulevard

Shopping Centre is investing 18 million euros to renovate its facilities during the coming months.

The works, already underway, will improve the facades, the paved areas, the rest areas, the green zones and the catering areas, as well as the children's leisure areas.

With this ambitious upgrade, Zenia Boulevard intends to strengthen its position, improving the customer experience and attracting clients from other cities with in the area of influence. "With this commitment to excellence, we are increasing the quality standards that Zenia Boulevard has offered since its opening, consolidating itself as one of the best shopping centres in the province and in Spain," said Antonio Simontalero, CEO of CBRE Investment Management, one

of the centreís management companies.

Teresa Verdugo, general director of Nhood Spain, said "the general image of the shopping centre will be preserved in accordance with its original design, recreating a Mediterranean village atmosphere that, ten years later, will

LITTLE INCONVENIENCE:

Maintenance gets underway on Torrevieja beach front

By Andrew Atkinson.

Maintenance works are being carried out in Torrevieja ahead of the 2023 spring and summer seasons.

Staff from the Department of Beaches are busy removing graffiti, making repairs and repainting the walkways overlooking the beaches.

Repairs are also being carried out on the wooden promenade, along the coast in La Mata.

"Repairs have turned out very well. Now all that remains is to signpost the 'Bikes and Scooters Prohibited' in areas between La Mata and Cabo Cervera," said a spokesman. Torrevieja's 'salt pier' has also been highlighted as in need of more repairs, the jetty of the salt pier particularly, according to Miguel Monzo Lorente.

Power Cuts in Benijófar on Tuesday

see an improvement to its aesthetics and its infrastructure".

The intention is that the works will have the least possible impact on visitors, catering establishments and shops. Thus, so that the shops and restaurants will continue to be open normally and events,

concerts, workshops and promotions will continue to be offered.

Zenia Boulevard, opened in 2012, is the largest shopping centre in the province of Alicante. Located in Orihuela Costa, it enjoys more than 150 commercial premises.

Benijófar town hall is advising residents and businesses that the electricity supply will be disrupted across large parts of the town on Tuesday 21 March 2023.

Essential work is being carried out as part of the overall update to the electricity supply network in the area, and residents can expect disruption between 08:00 and 11:00 on the day.

Posters are being affixed to street structures such as lampposts in the affected area, and a telephone number is available if you have any questions, 900171171, or contact the town hall.

Much of the work will be carried out at night

1 8 m i l l i o n e u r o i n u p g r a d e

They are not ‘all the same’....

Ihave a massive interest in politics. It draws me in just like every other contest that I take a liking to. Even foreign election results coming in on TV – where I wouldn’t know the candidates or the constituencies; and if I turn on my TV at bedtime; chances are that I will stay up watching the unfolding drama until the early hours of the morning. I ran for Westmeath County Council in the local elections of 2009. I didn’t get elected (stop it, Lads) but I am so pleased I did it that once and it was one of the most invigorating experiences of my life. 890 voters gave me their first preference and that was the big consolation for me; the fact that 890 people believed I was the best man to do the job. I also accepted the fact that a better man got in – as he has since proved himself to be. I have gotten up close to a lot of politicians since I went out helping with my first canvass in the mid-1970s. There is one thing I want to tell you and it is something beyond all doubt: Politicians are not ‘all the same.’ In fact, I would rate it as one of the greatest insults you can offer an elected representative is to dismiss him or her with ‘yiz are all the same.’ Politicians are just like you and me and the people around us. They are a mixture of the good, the shapers and a minority of bad. But mostly they are good – and some that I know, not too far from here are spectacularly great.

Most people who allow their name to go on the ballot paper are idealistic and they set out with noble aspirations of making the world a better place. Sometimes they become somewhat frustrated or disillusioned with the slowness of trying to change things, but many of them beaver away, serving not only the voters who elected them, but their entire community. Yes, they are well paid for representing

NEWS IN BRIEF

Half of the population has had anxiety attacks

A study of 2,000 people by Spanish Mental Health revealed that 4 out of 10 people assess their mental health negatively, with young people being the most affected. Over 57% of the population feels worried, fearful, depressed or sad, with half of them experiencing anxiety attacks and nearly 19% consuming psychoactive drugs. 42% had depression and 14.5% had suicidal thoughts.

their people; but most people have no idea as to the hours a politician puts in ‘on the job’. It isn’t just during office hours, but there is hardly a night that your TD or councillor isn’t off at some meeting or function. And don’t forget the price that the politician’s family pays on your behalf.

Ordinary people putting themselves forward for election (or, as in my case, being ‘talked into it’) is the mainstay of our democratic system. If, for any reason, the best people don’t go forward, we are all in trouble. Democracy, with all its warts, is still by far the greatest form of government. You only have to look at Russia or Iran to see what the alternative might be.

But all is not well with democracy. We hear that some of our TDs are not going forward in the next election, due to the personal abuse they are being subjected to. Women especially have to endure all sorts of online abuse from faceless cowards. Yahoos protesting and chanting outside politician’s homes is a new and disgustingly low form of abuse –where children are being terrified. There is also an increased risk of physical attack on the street or at public meetings.

Since shortly after the Civil War in this country, our elected representatives have been able to move around freely and unhindered at funerals, sporting events and simply chatting the people on the street. This is how it’s done in Ireland. What a terrible tragedy it will be if politicians become ‘confined to barracks’ for their own safety and are therefore not as accessible to their people.

We read of cases where politicians have been subjected to unbelievable harassment – and of course those well publicised outrageous attacks on Anne Rabbitte and Ciaran Cannon.

Consumers paying €924 more for food than last year

Households are having to pay 924 more than last year for food products due to the rise in consumer price index.

Basic products, such as sugar, butter, milk, olive oil, sunflower oil, eggs, fresh vegetables, flour, rice, and potatoes, have seen increases of up to 52.1%, making it difficult for many households to afford.

Cheese, poultry, pork, beef, and bread have also seen increases of around 14%.

Some politicians I know are so talented that they could make more money in business or in their profession than they do as TDs. We therefore have to believe that a majority of elected representatives are there out of a genuine commitment to public service.

Anybody can yell abuse and it doesn’t take much courage to put an anonymous lie up on social media. That we have people excusing this behaviour with, ‘that’s what politicians sign up to’, is the start of the slippery slope if we are not careful. We see how the far right has orchestrated a foothold in America and

Imports of Russian LNG rose by 84% since its invasion of Ukraine

Spain's imports of Russian LNG have risen by 84% since early 2021 following a falling out with Algerian gas suppliers.

Russia's LNG exports to Europe have increased by 30% since it reduced natural gas exports to the region via pipeline.

Spain has emerged as the top buyer of Russian LNG in 2023, having spent $1bn on Russian oil and gas.

Brazil.

So, it couldn’t happen here …? Wrong! Today it’s a ‘protest’ throwing eggs and breaking windows. Tomorrow it’s petrol bombs … and the day after …?

We need to respect all of our elected politicians whatever their hue; and no, ‘they are not all the same!’

DON’T FORGET

Our politicians have thought of just about everything to help the farmer, except to leave him alone so he can operate his own busi-

CROWN PRINCESS LEONOR TO BEGIN MILITARY TRAINING IN SEPTEMBER

Spain's Crown Princess Leonor, who is next in line for the throne, will undergo three years of military training starting this September.

This will include attending the army's General Military Academy in Zaragoza, followed by a year each at a navy school in Galicia and an air force school in Murcia.

It is seen as important for the future monarch to receive military training, as her father did.

PIOC INVITATION

Municipal Elections 29 May 2023

INVITATION TO THE ORIHUELA COSTA BUSINESS COMMUNITY.

P.I.O.C.extends an invitation to all the businesses of Orihuela Costa to our meeting on the 27th of March at the Emerald Isle,11.30am,WHY?

As we are edging closer to the elections in May and as the only party on Orihuela Costa to fight for your rights, we are heading towards a confrontation with the powers in Orihuela who do not value the contribution that businesses make towards the wealth of Orihuela.

P.I.O.C.,the only party on the coast for the coast,this is a challenge we relish with enthusiasm, with the continued growth of Orihuela Costa, Orihuela is on the road to be defeated,but they do not understand or accept by their own arrogance.

What P.I.O.C achieves today

will pay dividends to the businesses tomorrow,we know about the fear factor on the coast from the Town Hall for speaking up,how English speaking bars are treated differently,but it only takes one person to stand up and openly support us then others will have the confidence to join us.Orihuela has more to fear,more to lose.

We welcome all business Owners to a P.I.O..C.presentation on 27th March 11.30am at The Emerald Isle La Florida.

Email: community@pioc.es

Dear Editor

Your article concerning Torrevieja railway station park remodeling interested me. The railway line to Torrevieja closed in the late 1970's and at that time, there was little housing development in and around Torrevieja.

The nearest railway station then became far from Torrevieja.

Since that time, however, Torrevieja has expanded enormously together with many other towns nearby and I understand that the population is now many times that of the 1970's. In the circumstances, it seems clear that a railway link to

Message from National Police

Taking a bottle of water with you to clean your pet's pee doesn't cost you anything and it makes you bigger as a person and citizen. Respecting each other makes us all a little happier.

Ref: 001562 e425,000

Torrevieja should now be reopened, as potential demand has increased enormously.

If this is not a link to the main line, then a light rail link for all the coastal towns along the coast south from Alicante and the airport can be constructed in a similar way to the link north of Alicante to Benidorm and Calpe. This would also do much to relieve the severe congestion now almost constant on the N332 coast road.

Perhaps The Leader can campaign for this?

Regards - Frank Emm

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Arts & Culture &

DOLLY COMES TO TOWN

If you are looking for a great night of musical theatre, look no further than Studio32’s forthcoming production of ‘Hello Dolly’, coming to the Cardenal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio from Wednesday 31st of May until Saturday 3rd of June, doors open at 7:00pm curtain up 7:30pm.

This show is guaranteed to make you laugh and put a spring in your step with a very funny story line, great musical numbers and energetic dance routines.

Pictured are some of the cast who are looking forward to making this a performance to remember. To book tickets online for our show please visit our website www.studiothirtytwo.org . Alternatively you could email tickets@studiothirtytwo.org or call Linda on 679 062 272

For those of you unsure of how to use our

system you can call into The Post Box in Dona Pepa, or Quesada Tech where someone will be on hand to assist you with booking tickets.

You could also come along to one of our rehearsals at Casa Contenta, Rojales, Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7:30pm and 9:30pm where someone will be available to assist you.

If you have experience in Musical Theatre in the areas of singing, acting and dancing we would like to hear from you.

Also anyone who is interested in taking part in the show ensemble, working backstage or have experience working with the production of stage props, lighting and sound. If you require any further information, contact Linda on 679 062 272 or visit our facebook page at Studio32 Musical Theatre Company.

New Rojales mural dedicated to family of flamenco artists

Antonio Fern·ndez, EncarnaciÛn Fern·ndez, and Antonio MuÒoz Fern·ndez celebrate their new found fame

By Andrew Atkinson

The presentation of the mural on Calle Cuevas del Rodeo, Rojales, dedicated to the family of flamenco artists Antonio Fern·ndez, Guitarist, EncarnaciÛn Fern·ndez, singer, and Antonio MuÒoz Fern·ndez, guitarist, took place this month.

The family was originally linked to this street by their presence at cultural events related to the Caves and the Cante de las Minas de La UniÛn International Festival.

The painting exhibition "De una mine de La UniÛn" by Pedro Juan Rabal was also opened, with a flamenco concert by Antonio MuÒoz Fern·ndez on guitar and Sebasti·n Contreras on vocals. (pictured).

See Bob Dylan live in Spain, but leave your phone at home!

Bob Dylan is returning to Spain in June with 12 concerts featuring his 'Rough and Rowdy Ways', his most recent album, in Madrid, Barcelona, Donostia, Seville, Granada, Alicante, Huesca and Logroño. However, although you will be able to see and hear one of the most famous musicians of the 20th century, you will have to leave your mobile at home, because the concerts will be "phone free." Telephones will not be allowed in the hall during the concert. It will be the first time that Dylan has visited Spain since 2019. The tour will begin in Madrid, where the singer-songwriter will play two nights opening the Noches del Botánico, on June 7 and 8, tickets will go on sale on March 15 and, according to the Madrid festival page, the cheapest ticket will be at 85 euro.

Then Dylan will take his band to Seville, Granada and then in the 15th to Alicante. The tour will continue in Donostia, Logroño, and will end on 23rd and 24th in Barcelona at the Gran Teatre Liceu.

You will be prohibited from using your mobile phone during the concerts. When you arrive at the venue, Yondr (the company contracted for these concerts) will help the audience store their phone in a closed and secure case, which they will have to carry with them throughout the evening.

If someone in the audience had an emergency, they could unlock their phone pocket at any time by going to a specific, signposted area designated for phone use. If there are any doubts, it is best to ask someone from the Yondr staff for help.

It's something that will make some people nervous but it's non-negotiable (although medical exemptions are made for those who rely on their phone for treatment).

Photos: Goio Vilanueva

‘Hello Dolly’, coming to the Cardenal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio

The mural is dedicated to the Fernández family of flamenco artistes

Brit Arrest in Torrevieja Cannabis Raid

The Guardia Civil arrested of four people in Torrevieja, believed to be part of a gang dedicated to drug trafficking in premises registered as cannabis associations.

Following investigations, people could be seen from the public highway consuming narcotic substances inside, following the illegal purchase by customers of substances such as hashish, marijuana and hallucinogenic mushrooms. Searches of the premises were carried out, resulting in the arrests of two men, one British and the other a Spaniard, aged 24 and 28, and two women, one Spanish and the other Romanian, of similar ages.

HEALTH OFFERS RETURN TO WORK FOR 249 RETIRED DOCTORS

Valencia’s Ministry of Health has contacted 249 Family doctors who have passed the legal retirement age of 66 years and four months, but who are still under 70 years, to offer them, what they term as, active retirement.

The invitation allows these doctors to continue working or return to work, full-

In addition, the police seized 1,600 grams of marijuana, 590 grams of hashish, 24 joints prepared for sale, 20 doses of cannabis derivatives, dosing bags, 5 precision scales, 2 brass knuckles, 4 daggers of large dimensions and 7,000 euro in cash.

For clarification, the consumption of marijuana and its derivatives inside cannabis clubs, being private and closed premises, are under the legal protection of LO 1/2002, of March 22, which regulates the right of association, but the act of cultivation, preparation or illegal trafficking of narcotic and psychotropic substances, or that otherwise promote, favour or facilitate the illegal consumption of toxic drugs, as well as possession

Cost of marrying in Spain

Spain is the second most expensive country to get married in with couples spending an average of almost e22,000 on weddings, second only to the US among the 14 countries analysed, despite lower average salaries compared to other countries.

The average price of a wedding has risen by e1,000 since 2019.

and consumption on public roads, is totally prohibited. Following their appearances in court the four individuals were all released on bail.

Primary Care Paediatrics, that meet certain criteria, voluntarily, to be able to reconcile their remuneration with a part of their retirement pension.

time or part-time, while simultaneously receiving 75% of their pension.

This possibility is brought about because of the modification of the Social Security Law approved on December 28 and allows the staff of Family Medicine and

So far the Ministry has received 33 requests for an active extension, and 2 for reinstatement after retirement. Another 31 professionals who are going to retire this year could also apply for active retirement.

The measure, seeks to encourage the prolongation of the working life of these professionals to respond to the needs of the National Health System.

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 962

QUICK

ACROSS: 1 Drug; 8 Accomplish; 9 Disprove; 10 Gown; 12 Squirt; 14 Embody; 15 Dismal; 17 Grease; 18 Thin; 19 Puncture; 21 Mountebank; 22 Eddy.

DOWN: DOWN: 2 Relinquish; 3 Gasp; 4 Accost; 5 Impede; 6 Eligible; 7 Shun; 11 Widespread; 13 Imminent; 16 Lopped; 17 Genial; 18 Tame; 20 Take.

CR CR YPTIC YPTIC

ACROSS ACROSS

7.Indiscernible (13)

8.Nonplus (8)

9.Retain (4)

10.Talented (6)

12.Item (6)

14.Sequence (6)

16.Culminate (6)

18.Stray (4)

20.Greed (8)

22.Confirmation (13)

CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN DOWN

1.Idiot (8)

2.Portray (6)

3.Bitter (4)

4.Scattered (8)

5.Coupon (6)

6.Hint (4)

11.Define (8)

13.Idleness (8)

15.Unsteady (6)

17.Encourage (6)

19.Expectant (4)

21.Aperture (4)

ACROSS: ACROSS: 1 Diva; 8 Silly mid-on; 9 Diminish; 10 Cope; 12 Scotch; 14 Saloon; 15 Felony; 17 Porter; 18 Stet; 19 Calamity; 21 Compatriot; 22 Eats.

DOWN: DOWN: 2 Indiscreet; 3 Asti; 4 Sleigh; 5 Typhus; 6 Circular; 7 Once; 11 Protestant; 13 Two-steps; 16 Yachts; 17 Pallid; 18 Sock; 20 Mate.

7.After a blow I take a tumble, but show enjoyment (5,4,4)

8.Abuse by making it taller (3-5)

9.Sorceress loses her head and causes irritation (4)

10.Several who take the plunge (6)

12.Reg was ordered to make bets (6)

14.Anews broadcast gets the right response (6)

16.Energetic person many found back in the party (6)

18.Spoils the heavenly body (4)

20.Many miners dig up a mineral for us (8)

22.Refuse to take sides in fine contest he organised (3,2,3,5)

DOWN DOWN

1.Paint bird and animal concealing small head (8)

2.Attack articles on science (6)

3.Cupid's back is painful (4)

4.Given the greatest love, got married (8)

5.Throw around the youth leader and get airborne (6)

6.Record, I note, is in verse (4)

11.Right, see about tiny alterations to peace (8)

13.Party drink can give an odd blow (3,5)

15.Mods return to Mayfair revealing enlightenment (6)

17.Tended to get red sunset ... (6)

19.... within a dark recess (4)

21.Humble patient (4)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 23)

1. The following are all examples of what: The Dogs, Flag, Control, Smersh, Zep, Gag and The Owsla

2. From 1982-1996, who was the only woman tennis player to win Wimbledon other than Martina Navratilova and Steffi Graf?

3. Which illustrious ship, named after a Roman province, held the Blue Riband from 1907 till 1929?

4. Put the following wars or conflicts in order of estimated casualties, starting with the highest number: a: Vietnam War (1959 - 1975), b: Qing dynasty conquest of the Ming Dynasty (1616 - 1662), c: Russian Civil War (1917 - 1921), d: World War I (1914 - 1918)

5. According to BBC Radio 2, which pallid hit single from the year 1967 has been the most played song in public places in the last 75 years?

6. NATO gave the ultra modern Russian MiG-29 which pivotal codename?

7. Gary Oldman plays the following unsavoury characters in which films? a. Ivan Korshunov, b. Lee Harvey Oswald, c. DEA officer Norman Stansfield, d. Mason Verger, e. Jean Baptiste Emmanuel Zorg, f. Sid Vicious

8. Ilyena Vasilevna Mironov is better known as?

9. An appropriately named stern sail on the rear of an 18th century square rigged ship. 7 letters

10. The following are the national anthems of which countries: a: In Plenty and In Time of Need, b: Mawtini (since 2004), c: La Marcha Real, d: Kimi ga Yo, e: Schweizerpsalm

11. Plus or minus 20 years, when were the first time zones introduced?

12. How many countries border Switzerland?

13. The ramparts that surround which city are the only intact fortified city walls on the North American continent?

14. Who came back from a ban to score a memorable hattrick as Italy beat Brazil on the way to winning the 1982 World Cup?

15. Which rust free cars were built in Dunmurry, Northern Ireland in the late 1970s?

16. In tennis, which eight men have reached the finals of a Grand Slam singles tournament 15 or more times in the Open era? (Since 1969)

17. What name did Hitler wish to give his proposed new World Capital?

18. A capital city and a kind of steel. 8 letters

19. Which astro-physicist's belt surrounds the Earth?

20. What is Britain's oldest colony?

ACROSS ACROSS

Charity Food Bank Open Day

Cancellation of Torrevieja Feria de Mayo caused by Port reconstruction

The NGO, Alimentos Solidarios

Torrevieja, organised an open day on Saturday, to commemorate their 12th anniversary.

The day featured various artistic performances -such as the "Arantxa Blanco" dance centreand the tasting of gastronomic dishes, as well as a commemorative act to thank those people and institutions that have been fundamental in the history of Alimentos Solidarios.

Those needing to use the facilities during the week were also be treated to extra special meals as part of the Solidarity

Gastronomic Week.

The organisation’s headquarters are located on Calle San Pascual in Torrevieja, where you can visit if you are able to help them.

One of the main tourist attractions that brings people to the town, the Torrevieja May Fair, or Feria de Mayo, will not take place in 2023 due to construction work taking place in the port area, and will, instead, be replaced by a mini ìtributeî to the event.

Quite why the council has decided not to simply move the event to one of the other more suitable locations, the most obvious being the Parque Antonio Soria, which hosts plenty of outdoor events, or even the grounds of the International Auditorium, to name but two, is a mystery, but rather the choice is to hold the ìtributeî to the May Fair in the Parque de la EstaciÛn, from May 11 to 14.

The Department of Festivities is finalising the details to begin organising a ìHomenaje a la Feria de Mayoî, which will be held approximately coinciding with the dates on which the May Fair would have been held.

According to the Councillor for Fiestas, Concha Sala, this tribute to the May Fair will take place in the Parque de la EstaciÛn from the afternoon of Thursday,

May 11, ending in the early afternoon of Sunday, May 14. Seven small booths decorated in the Andalusian style will be installed "with the local groups that usually participate in the Fair and have wanted this year not to pass by without winking at this popular festival that is so deeply rooted in Torrevieja", Concha Sala pointed out.

In this sense, the councillor highlights the importance of the local scene of dance

STRIDING OUT WITH U3A

A recently formed group named 'Walk and Talk' is making great strides in offering a sociable gathering for members to meet up on a monthly basis for an informal chat and easy exercise.

The members take part in a leisurely stroll along picturesque and easily accessible areas around Torrevieja and its neighbouring areas.

The strolls vary in length but are not too strenuous, so anybody with mobility problems can usually still take part.

academies and schools that will be able to offer their fair assemblies and choreographies that they prepare every year. For this, a stage will be installed that will host the performances of the schools, "QK", "Arantxa Blanco", "Paya's", "Mery Dance Academy",

The Parque de la EstaciÛn will have the same musical setting that will give sound to the entire venue, as well as decorative lighting in keeping with this tribute.

The walks are normally held on Saturdays, starting about mid morning and include a comfort break along the way before concluding in time for lunch.

Fuller details of this particular groups activities, as well as all the other activities available to the U3A members can be found on the Torrevieja U3A Facebook page or the associations website torreviejau3a.org.

Opposition parties are demanding that the fair be moved to another location rather than be cancelled

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

La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja, a friendly, English-speaking church. We hold services at 11.15am on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month (and the 5th when there is one). For more info see our website at: www. lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org

Join us at the SALTCHURCH 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

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Los Montesinos - La Herrada

2 double bed/fitted wardrobes, bath/shower. South facing ground floor bungalow apartment, DialPrix Supermarket 2 mins away. Private tiled garden, double glazed Patio, Seperate kitchen, Galleria.

Close to all amenities - 35 min Alicante Airport, Priced to sell at E79,995

Tel: +34 634 383 099.Tel: +44 776 230 3798. Tel: +44 770 234 0744.

Cello Lessons required for mature student. Call David Last on 638 108 078

people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es

International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, TorreviejaEvangelical non-denominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11a.m. Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta ñ Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a 2016 Ford Grand C-Max Trend+ Diesel which is priced at just 17,500 euro. 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 page7. We can assure you of the biggest and best in the area for price, choice and quality.

ENGLISH SPOKEN

Experienced cook required for The Laughing Leprechaun, Cabo Roig. To apply call +34 651 135 687 or email CVto: laughingleprechaun23@gmail .com

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.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and

Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar/restaurant, 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 Association. Contact with the RAFAand the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

Walker Rollator, perfect condition. 55 Euros. Mil Palmeras, Tel. 628 110 078

Last week, following a visit to the National Police office in Torrevieja, the Oficina de Documentación, The Leader sat down with Gitte Lund Thomsen, the Councillor for International Residents, to discuss the importance of both the padrón, and residencia.

We discussed the padrón last week, and if you missed it, you can find it on the website, theleader.info, and this week we are looking at residencia.

Quite simply, you must become a resident if you plan to live in Spain.

Since Brexit, the rules for UK citizens travelling to the EU changed and are now considerably more restrictive. Becoming a resident removes many of these post-Brexit barriers, but only if you live, or plan to live in Spain.

There is a specific process for applying for residencia, a process which is different for those who were already in the country, but a process which must be followed in order to qualify. The administration of the residencia process is handled by a specific department of the National Police.

Although both the UK and Spanish Governments already offer advice on how to apply for residencia, you will most likely find it easier to appoint an expert to handle your application with you.

You are likely to have heard of the TIE, Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero, which is an identity card issued to foreign residents in Spain. This is a requirement now for living in Spain.

Many existing residents will have a paper based residencia certificate, and although this is technically still valid, you should really consider swapping it for a TIE, as there is an ever-increasing number of places and administrations who no longer accept the paper document. The good news is that this is one of the simplest processes.

The bad news is that although this process used to be carried out by the National Police office in Torrevieja, this is no longer the case, and you will have to go to either Alicante or Elche.

One process which is still carried out by the National Police in Torrevieja is the termination of residency status. So, if you now plan to leave Spain and return to the UK, you can attend the Police office in Torrevieja to have your residencia withdrawn. You can also do this without an

although you may have to wait to be seen, as the office is often very busy. Another function which can be carried out at the National Police office, again without an appointment, is to check your residency status.

So, if you have any doubts, you can visit them, although you will need a translator if you don’t speak Spanish.

The Oficina De Documentación De Españoles Y Extranjeros is located on calle Arquitecto Larramendi in Torrevieja. There is a noticeboard outside, which has lists of documents and procedures required for a number of functions they carry out.

Gitte would like to remind us that her department exists for the benefit of international residents, and if you need help or advice, you can contact them.

The International Residents Department in Torrevieja can attend to residents in English, as well as French, German, Scandinavian, Russian, Bulgarian, and, of course, Spanish.

You can email them, at: pangea@tor revieja.es, and you can make an appointment to visit them in person via the website, torrevieja.es, where you should look for the Residentes Internacionales Oficina Pangea, and you can visit them in La Mata town hall, or the office in La Siesta, calle Paganini, again, by appointment.

THE INADEQUACY OF THE BRITISH POLICE FORCE

ILFORD, EAST LONDON:

Astory to contradict the headline, we were lucky in the early part of our marriage to own a toy and cycle shop. One morning, in one of the rear doors, someone had cut a round hole in the glass, obviously with an attempt to enter the shop. Feeling a little vulnerable we went to Battersea Dogs Home and ëRowdyí, a full-grown black Labrador, joined us to protect the business.

We lived above the premises and Rowdy, after spending the evening with us, would retire on the command of ëgood nightíto the storeroom, to the rear of the shop. It was late and we were fast asleep when there was barking, crashing, and banging, where Rowdy, in his haste to get to the front, had knocked shop articles over. With my heart racing I jumped out of bed. The shop was a mess. Standing in it was a uniformed policeman, he had tried the front door as part of his duties and found it open, as I had forgotten to lock it, he wasnít moving as the dog was at his shining boots snarling with a low growl. Yes, it was at a time when there was a friendly policeman on the beat looking after the community.

GWENT, SOUTH WALES:

In Gwent, last week five people, after leaving a public house, disappeared on their way to Newport. The Police, it is alleged, did not put a lot of effort into finding them.

The report tells us a friend who was out looking for them noticed the tyre marks where they had left the road. Hidden in the trees they found three dead people in a car with their two badly injured friends. What were the police doing all that time, no doubt, as other reports state, looking through the internet for ëhate crimesí.

LANCASHIRE:

Alittle further north, on 27th January, Nicola Bulley, a lady in her forties, disappeared near the River Wyre while out walking her dog. The Police, after bringing in specialist teams, including divers, searched the river. Twenty-three days were to pass without any trace of her despite all the resources available to the constabulary.

The report said that people out walking, as stated, three weeks later, found her remains amongst the rushes on the side of the river, not too far from where she had disappeared. So, what were the Police doing in all that time, no doubt looking at their computers.

Helleborus attract bees into the garden

Helleborus - the Christmas rose - bear large round, white flat faced flowers, above low growing leathery, deep green foliage.

It’s perfect for growing in dappled shade, full shade, full sun and partial shade position.

PORTSMOUTH:

In the past in this column, I have written about the Police ineptitude and waste, for instance when they arrived mob handed at a nightclub after a man complained that a woman had touched his bottom. She was arrested and received one hundred hours community service. I may be old fashioned, but I thought that type of social establishment is where sexual overtones happen regularly.

HUNTINGDON:

In the following case it seems to me the Police and the courts have lost the human touch, or is it because the ëWokeíbrigade have taken control.

Disabled, Auriol Grey, whose brain was damaged at birth, is partially sighted, suffers from Cerebral Palsy, has a cleft foot, and walks with a splint. She was making her way along a pavement on her way to do some shopping in a Sainsbury store. Coming towards her was Celia Ward, riding a bicycle on the pavement. The video of the event clearly shows Auriol Grey waving to the oncoming Ward to get off the pavement and it is not until the cyclist is trying to pass the disabled person that she gestures more strongly and shouts. The bike riderís decision is to swerve around her onto the road where she was in collision with a car, which killed her.

Now it seems to me if you are walking along a pavement and a cyclist is hurtling towards you the natural reaction would be to wave your hands. However, the judge, after the Police decided to take this poor harmless disabled woman to court, decided the gesture was aggressive and sent her to prison for three years.

Not a thought by the authorities that a cyclist has the responsibility to take care of their own health. Perhaps the Police would be better employed with their real

job of nicking those persons that are aggressive, thieving, knifing, and attacking people.

WEST YORKSHIRE:

Going back, alright a long time, to the early eighteen hundreds, in Robert Peelís time, he was the founder of the Police forces, the idea was to catch criminals. That seems to me to have sadly changed. Gone are the public servants, the humane officer on the beat who would solve a problem with a few words of advice, but a shambles of uniformed personnel governed by a woke initiative where the control of the populationís thoughtsíare paramount ñ why else would the West Yorkshire Police charge a fourteen year old boy with a hate crime for dropping, what the lad says ëaccidentallyí, a copy of the Quran.

KINGS NORTON, BIRMINGHAM:

Not many people will have heard of Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, nor ëMarch for Lifeíñ no, nothing to do with the month, but an anti-abortion group of which Spruce is a director, in Kings Norton, Birmingham, where it seems it is acceptable to beg and sleep on the streets, and where there are plenty of sad people doing just that, as there are also in most cities. However, she, that is Isabel, a devout catholic, was arrested for praying in the street outside an abortion clinic. She was told that praying is an offence. The Police took her into custody not once but twice, the first time the court cleared her of any wrongdoing, but it would appear the Police were not satisfied so they arrested her again for the same offence of ëpraying in the streetí.

Take care.

www.facebook.com/percy chattey

Not too picky on soil type, as they will tolerate acidic, chalk, alkaline, clay, heavy. But for best results it needs to be moist, well draining.

They make an excellent cut flower, by simply floating the blooms in a bowl of water to display them.

Mulch annually with well rotted compost or manure, and cut back the old leaves as flowers and new foliage appear. Think about their final position, as they dislike being moved once established and should not be divided. Given the right conditions, it will self-seed to provide you with replacements.

They are well known for attracting bees, due to thier nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Note: Helleborus can be toxic to cats, dogs and humans.

HELLO HELLO! THE THIN BLUE LINE.

MATCH RESULTS FOR 16 MARCH

2ND HALF OF SEASON WEEK 2

DIVISION 1

CC´s Bees4-8Hub Hyenas

Mind The Gap9-3Tipsy Toad Toppers

El Capitan6-6CC´s Flyers

DIVISION 2

Freakie Taverners6-6Fallen Angels

Ck1 Lads6-6Milo´s

Leeson StTrotters7-5Danny´s Bar

DIVISION 3

Hub Hellraisers4-8Ck1 Ladybirds

Tipsy Toad Tiaras8-4Pint Depot Queens

Angel Delights7-5Domino´s Desp

LEAGUE TABLES

DIVISION 1 P Pts Legs

Hub Hyenas2416

Mind The Gap2315

Tipsy Toad Toppers2210

CC's Flyers2111

CC´s Bees2110

El Capitan2110

DIVISION 2 P Pts Legs

CK1 Lads2314

Danny's Bar2212

Freakie Taverners2212

Milo´s2212

Leeson Street Trotters2211

Fallen Angels2111

DIVISION 3 P Pts Legs

CK1 Ladybirds2417

Tipsy Toad Tiaras2415

Domino's Desperados2216

Angel Delights2212

Pint Depot Queens207

Hub Hellraisers205

MOST 180´S: Mark Ellis & Dave Rowlinson x 5.

THIS WEEK: Mark Ellis Hub Hyenas, Ed Klimonis

(2) El Capitan, Steve Monk Dalton CK1 Lads, Jesus Madrid CC´s Flyers, Paul Moody Mind The Gap, Chris Logan El Capitan

HIGHEST FINISH TO DATE: 154 - Mario Garcia -

Freakies. THIS WEEK: Dave Rowlinson CC´s Bees

137 T19-T16-D16, James Brown Mind The Gap 134

T18-D20-D20, Jay Wilkinson Hub Hyenas 116 20-

T20-D18, John RodfordTipsy Toad Toppers 111

D20-T13-D16, Andre WingHub Hyenas 110 T20-20-

D15, Che LiamMind The Gap104 4-T20-D20, Hugh GallowayTipsy Toad Toppers100 T20 - D20 Mark Farmer Leeson St. Trotters 96 20-T20-D8, Amanda

Skinner Leeson St. Trotters 90 1-T19-D16

DIVISION 1

C.C. BEES V HUB HYENAS

This match enjoyed some impressive "stats". 52

Cracking darts in the 2nd half, Brown opening with a 134 out (T18,D20,D20), Che Liam overcoming Winterbourne 2-1 with a 104 out, and a real corker from Cowan, 6 tons or more in his 2-1 defeat of Rodford 5 tons including a 111 out.

Graham Solomans and Hugh Galloway added 2 more legs for Toppers, before Paul Moody concluded the match 2-0 with a 180. lncidentally Rodford scored 10 tons or more, but figured in only 1 winning leg, a triple. POTM - Brown - Winterbourne.

EL CAPITAN V C.C. FLYERS

All square in the result, Caps just edging out Flyers in the 180 stakes, Ed Klimonis claiming 2, Chris Logan 1 for Caps, Jesus Madrid replying for Flyers. Three apiece at half time, Vycka Bobinas finding 4x100, Ben Kernahan 3x100, Arold K. 2 outs for Caps, Charles Pritchett 100,121,135 in response for Flyers.

Shared spoils again in the 2nd half, Andres "Limmo" hitting D16 in the 3rd leg against Chelsea Campbell, Suso Madrid knocking in 5 tons in his demo of Ed K. for 4-4.

Matt Smith got the better of maxi hitting Logan, Bobinas nailing D16 twice and 4 tons to level at 44. Kernahan got the better of another maxi hitter Jesus M. needing 3 legs, leaving Andy Flavell to make it a draw with 2x100's and D20. POTMKernahan - Suso M.

By Paul Durrant

via Livsey, Ernie Willis, Mario Garcia and Halliday, all 2-0. Steve Godwin and Tony Spiers saved the Angels day, the former taking out 91, Spiers closing on D10 and 2x100. POTM - Livsey -Godwin.

DIVISION 3

ANGEL DELIGHTS V DOMINOS DESPERADOS

Delights recorded their 1st win since October with a surprise victory over Despos, the likely Division 3 champs. Nikki Dean and Maria Ross nailed Delights 1st half points, the other 4 going the way of Ray Hayes, Graham Eagles, Kathy Wallbanks and Steve Harding.

tons and over, 67 scores of 80+, a 180 and a 177, plus 3 game shots of 100+, the best of which a 137 from the in form Dave Rowlinson (T19,T16,D16), the other 2 courtesy of Hubs' Jay Wilkinson 116 (S20,T20,D18) and Andre Wing 110 (T20,S20, D15 ). Rowlinson hit his 137 out in the 1st leg after Hyenas had missed with 5 arrows, Bees going on to win the triples 2-1. Mark Ellis gained his maxi in the 1st pairs and a 0-2 victory with partner Paul Durrant.

Paul Christopher found both doubles in the 2nd pairs, Dario Sierra 2x140 and Andre Wing taking the 3rd pair for a half time 3-3 score. Paul and Reg Christopher easily found the T20, in the 1st 2 singles, but both went down to Ellis and Wilkinson respectively. Rowlinson was the sole B's singles winner meriting his POTM, Ellis, Hub's POTM.

MIND THE GAP V TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS

DIVISION 2

C.K.1 LADS V MILOS

A case of bubbly for anyone predicting the finishing order in Division 2 (closing date 22nd March). Lads seemed to have the advantage at 6-4, but credit to Milos Raul Rocamora and Cain Garcia both hitting 2x100 and rescuing a point.

Steve M. Dalton hit 2x100,180 in his singles victory but found a winning double more difficult needing D1 for 2-0 and POTM. Darren Hurcombe put in a decent shift with 4x80+ and 3x100+.

Javier de Gea meriting Milos POTM with a nice 0-2 singles and 100,115,121,140 plus a 57 out.

LEESON ST. TROTTERS V DANNYS BAR

Trotters virtually had this game in the bag by the break at 5-1, Mark Farmer claiming 3 legs, Yvonne Rouffignac and Barry Shingler the other 2. Paul Robinson D5 replying for Dannys, skip Bob Smith contributing 135,139,140,2x80+.

Rouffignac 121,123,123,D8 got Trotters 7th and both points and POTM, Smith inflicted a rare defeat on Farmer 4x100,140 and a 96 out, Smith scoring 2x100,120,123,125 and D19 in the 3rd leg for POTM.

Doms could only add one further leg to their tally via POTM Paul Chick, as Angels bagged the 1st 4 singles, Winnie Mackay ensuring a point on D20. Deservedly Rita Carr gaining POTM by finding D2 for the match and 2 points.

TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V PINT DEPOT QUEENS

The pink-clad Queens could almost out-do the Hellraisers for their love of high heels, especially for reaching those difficult little places- even then, Alison Ward needed some assistance. All the Tiaras could muster up was a pair of mid-heel slingbacks.

They did however take a good and early lead, getting all but one of the first half legs. Queen Marie Cummings (102) and Tiara Sharon Crane (120), the only ladies to break the ton barrier. Another MOTM performance for Lorraine Cox this week who clobbered a D18 in her pairs, but credit due too to Debbie Wright (D8), Alison (D1) and Jeannette Crooks (85, 92, D1) in their singles.

Tiara Eillen Askew (80, 15-D8; 80, 1-D16) collected two double-dart finishes and Lisa (83, D3) and Simone (81, 95, D2) had one apiece. Outright POTM for the Tiaras - Pat Schofield who won all the other 4 legs (95, 81, D10; D1; D13; 81, 11-D8) - in the slingbacks no less!

HUB HELLRAISERS V C.K.1 LADYBIRDS

Gap returned to winning ways this week with a convincing victory over fancied Toppers. Just a Paddy Winterbourne out in the 2nd Triple and 5 straight tons from John Rodford were all Toppers had to show for a 5-1 half time score.

James Brown's 2x140,125,100 plus 4 outs, Gordon Cowan's 140,122,100, and Darren Sanderson's 2x140 and 5x81+ too strong for the visitors.

FREAKIE TAVERNERS V FALLEN ANGELS

Fallen Angels failed to capitalise on their 2-4 lead at the break, the score reversed by Freakies in the singles for an overall draw. Graham White found 3 of Angels 1st half outs Joe Cuyt the other. Freakies "Birthday Girl" Mitch Halliday and Bryan Livsey gaining the hosts points.

Freakies ensured a draw, taking the 1st four singles

Raisers early lead via Lesley Dolling on D8, was soon countered by 'Birds Angie Mullen D3 and Kirsty Green 100, D20. Skip Cheryl McGlynn levelled with a showboat D10,D5 out, Sue Christie 93, D2 regaining the visitors advantage. Gina Woods 83, D2, closing the 1st half for 2-4.

'Birds reeled off the 1st 3 for the match courtesy of Mullen D7, Sandra Crabbe D1 and Green 92,96,D8. Raisers added 2 more legs through Ali Scammell 80,D5 and POTM Sue Spiers recording 5x80+ scores. Birds - POTM - Christie 2x100+.

POTM, Mark &Dave

C.C. Bees squad

SOUTHERN LE SOUTHERN LEAAGUE GUE RESUL RESULTS TS AND FIN AND FINAL AL T TAABLES BLES

DIVISION DIVISION A A

GreenlandsOaks113(12)LaMarinaSharks(0)66

CBowlsGeckos88(10)SanMigApaches(2)53

QuesadaSwallows120(11)GreenlandsCedars(1)64

VbellaLanzadores88(10)SanLuisLions(2)79

P PWWDDLLDifDifffPts Pts

QuesadaSwallows1650525336133

GreenlandsOaks1646430227122

VistabellaLanzadores1649328118118

SanLuisLions164832995117

CountryBowlsGeckos1640634149109

EmeraldIsleCavaliers1643334128103

SanMiguelApaches1627647-20570

LaMarinaSharks1625352-32461

GreenlandsCedars1613562-52429

DIVISION B DIVISION B

EmIsleClaymores43(0)SanMigNavajos(12)111

LaSiestaBlues117(12)ElRanchoMíangs(0)64

LaMarinaSeagulls89(10)VistabellaPicadors(2)76

QuesadaSwifts86(8)LaSiestaGolds(4)76

P PWWDDLLDifDifffPts Pts

SanMiguelNavajos1650228306120

QuesadaSwans1645134185115

QuesadaSwifts1642335127107

LaMarinaSeagulls1641534-30105

LaSiestaBlues16411389894

EmeraldIsleClaymores1636341-591

VistabellaPicadors1636143-4489

LaSiestaGolds1637142-9187

ElRanchoMustangs1622355-54649

DIVISION C DIVISION C

SanLuisTigers65(4)CBowlsPanthers(8)92

SanMigComíches90(10)EmIsleOutlaws(2)61

GreenlandsElms70(2)VistabellaConqís(10)100

P PWWDDLLDifDifffPts Pts

CountryBowlsPanthers1447023289118

SanLuisTigers1442325196107

MontemarMatadors143742915397

SanMiguelCommanches143723111191

EmeraldIsleOutlaws1431336-12575

VistabellaConquistadors1427340-12560

GreenlandsElms1426242-18454

LaSiestaSilvers1422543-31550

WINTER LEAGUE SUCCESS FOR GREENLANDS IN 2023

With an initial field of 10 Clubs from the Levante area, the Winter League was always going to be a great event, and once again, it did not fail to provide some great bowling, bond some great friendships between LLB members, and maintain the only real league competition between clubs from the North & South.

It has now been running for 30 years (longer than any other league in Spain) and has always been the “Pinnacle” competition within our region. Over the Years of competition there have been 10 different club winners, with the most wins belonging to San Miguel, who have lifted the trophy on 5 occasions.

Northern Clubs have been successful on 8 occasions, with “El Cid” winning the inaugural league.

This Year Greenlands entered 2 teams “Gladiators” & “Warriors” with the Gladiators proving too strong for most clubs, being crowned as league Champions with 2 weeks to spare. This was the second win for the club, the last in 2008 when Club Captain at the time was Derek Toozer and Pete Bonsor was a player.

2023 Saw a reversal in roles, but both players were once again present in the Greenlands winning side. Congratulations to Vistabella for their win over the “Gladiators” on away turf! The Gladiators only loss for the season.

Greenlands Gladiators fielded a squad of 17 players, with 15 taking to the Green at some time during the season. Twelve of the squad were “First Time” winners enjoying the whole experience of playing “The Real Game of Rinks with 2 Bowls”

El Rancho were the new “kids” on the block, having never participated before. The format was all new to them and

although results did not go their way, their members told me they loved the Winter League and could not wait for the start of next season.

With rising costs of travel and an ageing demographic in our sport, it is understandable that many members no longer wish to participate in this event, but please bear in mind the dozens of bowlers out there that do want to play this league, twelve of them before this Year were at Greenlands. That choice should never be removed.

I have applied to be the Winter League Coordinator for the forthcoming season and will strive to ensure the league remains. Should you or your club have any ideas or suggestions to assist the further development of Winter League then feel free to contact myself. Ideas that have already been floated;

To include 2 Triples rinks and/or include 2 pairs rinks - Play sets - Return to 4 or 5

scoring rinks.

Personally, I think it should remain “Fours” and there should be 3 or 4 scoring rinks. Let’s see if we can get some feedback from the actual players who should have their say.

Please send any correspondence to: peteandlisabonsor@hotmail.com

The Warriors and Gladiators squads will combine on March the 22nd for the Final of the Premier 20 Knockout against local rivals San Luis. Greenlands are looking to “Push the boundaries” once again, by securing the “League & Cup Double” for only the second time ever.

The imminent Summer season will see Greenlands sporting their brand new club uniform, a “sublimated” sports shirt as seen on TV at many of the World’s top venues including “Potters”

GO GREENMACHINE

LA SIESTA BOWLS (Members Run Club)

Division (B) - The Blues welcomed El Rancho Mustangs to La Siesta, which required the team to pick up as many points as possible on this last game of the season. All of our rinks done a superb job by winning on all rinks with a bit in hand, result 12-0 (Shots 117-64). The winners were; Kathleen & Noel Morrisroe with Mike Inns (27-4). Joy & Brian Gardiner with Jean Cooper (22-14). Joan Inns, John Taylor & Harold Charleton (21-11). Les Bedford, Jim Taylor & Jim Gracie (25-17). Ann Taylor, Martin Harley & Karen Kirk (22-18).

EL RANCHO BOWLS CLUB

With the winter league season having drawn to a close, though not a great season for results, we did however have a great season of bowls enjoyment and a sufficiency of good humour and friendship with both El Rancho and opposition bowlers.

We have now concluded our club championship and our club champions are Singles: Bob Taylor and Sheila Cox.

Pairs: Ann Taylor and Sheila Cox, Brian Harris and Keith Longshaw, Debbie Ham and Adrian Ham. Trips: Dave Baker, Pam Harris and Brian Harris. Rinks: Sheila Cox, Pam Harris, Brian Harris and Mike Cox.

The Golds travelled to Quesada and played the Swifts, hoping to accumulate enough points to stay in this division. We managed wins on two rinks by; Ken Stringfellow, Pat Moore & Ros Stockell (17-14). Anthony Pridmore, Derek Barker & John Skipper (16-13). Acouple of other rinks came close without winning and the game ended 4-8 (Shots 76-86). The club championship finals were held this week and the winners of the following disciplines were; Mixed Rinks ñ Jan Pocock, Judy Carroll, Martin Harley & David Blackie. Mixed Trips ñ Anthony Pridmore, Judy Carroll & Martin Harley. Ladies Pairs ñ Kathleen Morrisroe & Ann Taylor. Menís Pairs - Alan Mawer & Noel Morrisroe. Mixed PairsMartin Harley & Karen Kirk. Ladies Singles - Judy Carroll. Menís Singles ñ Martin Harley Mixed Singles - Sue Jordan. Thanks to all who entered this competition and congratulations to the winners. Interested in joining La Siesta members run bowls club, there is George¥s Chicken and Egg, every Wednesday 1.30 for 2pm, with Mike & Grahams roll up every Saturday 930 for 950 am. Just pop in or call the President George 865772498 who will be pleased to give you any further information you may require.

BYALAN CARR

Singles Champions: Sheila Cox and Bob Taylor

GREENLANDS GLADIATORS 2023 Winter League Champions

LAMARINA BOWLS CLUB

WITH DAVE HADAWAY

Our final positions for the Winter Leagues, Friday's top Division A, the Sharks came 8th of 9, and in Division B the Seagulls came 4th of 9, In the Monday's top Enterprise League the Pathfinders came 8th of 9 and in the Discovery League Explorers came 1st of 9. We will have to wait for next seasons leagues to see if the Sharks and Pathfinders maintain their positions but our Explorers will definitely be going up to the Enterprise League.

Last week was our finals weekend for our internal competitions and what a festival of bowling it turned out to be. We will start with the Mixed Pairs, Shirley Hadaway and Norman Ship versus Anne Stone and Len Daniels, unfortunately I have no report on the game but the final score was 22-17 in favour of Hadaway and Ship.

Mixed Trips next Margaret MacLaughlin, Margaret Finlayson and Alex Whyte versus Janet & Peter Parsons with Tom Spencer, this turned out to be a very exciting game at 10 ends Janet, Tom & Peter were leading 17-8, and by the 16th that had narrowed to 20-19 and on the final end the 2 Margarets with Alex picked up a 3 to lead for the 1st time and win the game 22-21. Very well done.

Mixed Rinks Garth Slater, Norman Ship, Irene Mangan and Alex Maurice versus Mike & Carol Smith with Shirley Hadaway and Mike Stone, at 5 ends Alex held the lead at 9-3 and at 10 ends he held the lead 13-7 and at the 17th and penultimate end the game was level at 17 each. Garth, Norman, Irene and Alex then picked up a 4 on the last end to win the game. Very well done.

Next we have the men's trips consisting of Len Daniels, Alan Birch and John Rae versus Garth Slater, Norman Ship and Alex Maurice at 5 ends Alex is leading 10-0, and at 10 ends with the same shot difference and at 13-3, at 15 ends it closed down to 2 shots 13-11, but Alex, Norman and Garth got 5 on the last end to secure a well earned victory 19-11.

You then have the Pensioner's urn, a very popular singles competition sponsored by our Vice President, John Morgan, and although there was no big scoring ends Garth Slater won a

PETANCA - LA SIESTA CHARITY MIXED TRIPLES

resounding victory of 21-4 over a very gallant Trevor Stemp.

Our Drawn Pairs is again a very popular competition sponsored by a ex member Mike Brain in memory of his wife Brenda. And our contestants were Carol Smith & Margaret Finlayson versus Norman Ship and Marilyn Fryatt After the 2nd end the lead never changed, on the 5th end Carol and Margaret were leading 8-7, on the 10th end 15-9 on the 15th 20-15 and they maintained their lead to the end winning 24-15.

Our men's pairs Peter Parsons and Mike Stone versus Len Daniels and John Rae again another game where the lead never changed on 5 ends Peter and Mike were 9-5 up and 10 ends 15-8, on 15 ends 20-10 and the game was conceded by Len and John after the 16th end 21-10.

The Ladies Pairs was played prior to the weekend and I am afraid I have no match report. The contestants were Kath Manning and Lesley Joynes versus Audrey Birch and Marilyn Fryatt with Kath and Lesley coming away as close victors.

That just leaves our 2 blue ribbon events the Men's and Ladies singles, I will start with the Men's where Alex Whyte got a early lead over Alex Maurice with a 9-1 lead at 5 ends, that stood him in good stead throughout the game, 13-6 at 10 ends 19-8 at 15 ends and all over after 19 ends when Alex Whyte reached his 21, and both are to be congratulated on a very busy weekend for the pair of them.

This just leads our ladies singles that was a battle royal to behold between Janet Parsons and

QBC ROUNDUP

BY STEVE HIBBERD

Swifts concluded their Southern League division B campaign, when they hosted La Siesta Golds.

A closely fought 8-4 victory, cemented 3rd place, courtesy of these 3 winning sets of trip - I Everett, V Slater, P Bradbury 19-15. K Gordon, D Collings, A Reid 22-13. S Johnston, B & L Miller 18-15. Alas, Swans dreams of division B championship were shattered, as news filtered through that they'd been pipped at the post by 5 points.

An end of season function featuring Swallows, Swifts, Pearls & Rubies, was held at The Club. There was lots to celebrate, especially with both Swallows & Rubies having won their respective divisions. Tributes were paid to Mike & Norma Lamberton, who after 20 years membership at Quesada bowls club, are relocating to Broadstairs, Kent.

All at QBC send them best wishes for the future.

Margaret Finlayson, I would just list some ends and then you can appreciate what a great game it was. 5th end 3-2 Janet, 10th end 7-5 Janet, 15th end 9-8 Janet, 20th end 12-11 Margaret, 25th end 15-14 Janet, 30th end 19-17 Janet, 32nd 20-20, 33rd end Janet secures her victory with 21 shots. What a game a real pleasure to watch and a very fitting game to be last off of our green.

Many thanks must go to Trevor Stemp for his enthusiasm and organisation to what proved to be some very successful competitions. Finally our entrants put forward to the Champions of Champions with all our best wishes will be: Janet Parsons – Ladies Singles, Alex Whyte – Men's singles, Kath Manning and Lesley Joynes – Ladies Pairs, Pete Parsons & Mike Stone – Men's Pairs, Shirley Hadaway & Norman Ship – Mixed Pairs, Margaret Finlayson, Margaret MacLaughlin & Alex Whyte – Mixed Trips, and Garth Slater, Norman Ship, Irene Mangan & Alex Maurice –Mixed Rinks.

The Las Salinas charity Mixed triples petanca competition was held Rocajuna petanca on the 11th March with pristine terrains and plenty of room for spectators! The competition was an astounding success, and the bar was kept busy providing refreshments, crepes, and sandwiches to the hungry players.

The weather was HOT as was the competition with 28 teams from 13 clubs most wearing their team strip. It was close games for the top slots! The top three teams were presented with medals and wine by the President of the Las Salinas league. The umpire of the day was John who ensured fair play and measuring!

The chosen charity for the Las Salinas league is the San Jose Obrero orphanage and we raised 300 on the day from the tombola with the assistance of Carol and Jane who persuaded the players to part with their money! Thank you, ladies, for your efforts! The amount for the charity is 580 as all registration fees are included in the total. The WINNERS ON THE day with 4 wins were

1st Mediterraneo 3 captain Yvan Jurcaba

2nd Evelyn Botias with 3 wins

3rd Rocajuna 3 captain Christian WELL, DONE TO YOU ALL

Costa Blanca Independent Pool League

El Raso Mixtures chalked up a 6-4 win against Cab Buddies in the Costa Blanca Independent Pool League division two.

Andy Trefry, Tony Bishop, Alan Perkins, Andy Flynn and Chris Lusty returned wins for El Raso.

John Tayler, Martin Burke, and Brian Pendlebury, won for Cab Buddies.

The Excellence top division one, ahead of The Young Boys, with Super Beer Monsters, third. The Pine Nuts defeated The Shakers 7-3. Anthony Dunn, Wayne Morrison, Peter Slater, and Andy Wilks chalking up wins for TPN.

The Rancheros returned a 7-3 win against Super Beer Monsters. Kenny Greenhow, Stev Gray, Josh O'Carroll, Colin McDonald, and Keith Oakes, winning for The Rancheros. The Almoradians defeated Hals Heroes 6-0.

Club Champions

The Ladies final was an absolute epic

TRIBUTES: Mike & Norma Lamberton

WINNERS: Mediterraneo 3 Captain Yvan Jurcaba

LEAGUEFORMATWEEK11

Tipsy Tigers11 - 9Wacky Allsorts

Gap Girlz16 - 2Dolly Mixtures

Ladybirds16 - 6Friendly Chicas

Friendly Temps10 - 12Primadonnas

LEAGUETABLE PPts

Gap Girlz11163

Ladybirds11147

Tipsy Tigers11127

Primadonnas11125

Friendly Temps11113

Friendly Chicas11108

Dolly Mixtures1192

Wacky Allsorts1188

With just 3 more matches to play, it is almost certain that the top two positions in the League Table will stay unchanged.

The real battle now is for 3rd place with contenders the Tipsy Tigers and Primadonnas going head to head next week.

Gap Girlz Gail Murray scooped a 180 and will join teammate Bliss Wright, Friendly Temp Sue Wade and Primadonna Di Dane on the podium to receive their awards.

Dolly Mixtures took a hit this week with just one game win, courtesy of new signing Lesley Justice who beat Gap Girlz Amanda Skinner in her singles, no mean achievement.

HOTDARTS: Gail Murray (GG) 180, 113, 100, Ann Wharton (FT) 124, Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 121 x2, 100, Margaret Boden (WA) 117, Monique Edelenbos (FT)117, Chelsea Campbell (GG) 116, Sue Snook (FC) 115, Nicola Mosely (FT) 107, Helen Bushell

(FC) 105, Amanda Skinner (GG)) 100 x2, Lin Cousins (FC) 100, Sharon Crane (TT)100, Debbie de Grys (PD) 100, Angie Mullen (LB) 100, Sharon O¥Rourke 100, Bliss Wright (GG)

100

HIGHCHECKOUT: Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 98 (T20-D19), Bliss Wright (GG)88

ST ANDREWS GOLF Festival takes place between March 28th and April 1st each year in the town where golf has been played for six centuries. To stay at the Old Course Hotel and be ferried about in a courtesy Mercedes, with five rounds on the various St. Andrews courses plus one at Kingsbarns will set you back just over £4000 for the week. No refund if it's snowed up.

THE NINE HOLE par 3 course at Augusta was designed originally on boggy ground at the rear of the clubhouse and around Ike's pond, where the president used to fish for bass and bream. Seven of the greens are now situated next to a lake, and the 9th plays like a mini-17th at TPC Sawgrass. On the Wednesday before the Masters a lighthearted contest takes place on the par 3 course, which although by no means a doddle, provides fun for competitors and their families, who are sometimes allowed to take a shot. No player has ever won the par 3 contest and gone on to win the Green Jacket in the same year, so Scottie Scheffler, last year's champion, will be trying his utmost not to win the par 3. He'd better let the wife hit a few shots.

IN 2017 MAX HOMA was tempted to give up golf after sinking to 1,282nd in the world and missing 15 out of 17 cuts. The 32 yr. old from Burbank, California commented wryly: “Caddies are contacting me, they've heard they usually get weekends off.” This year however, Homa's 15-under total at the 2022 Wells Fargo Championship earned him invitations to this year's Players Championship and Masters, and this January he won the Farmers Insurance Open with a final round six-under par 66. Max is pleased, even if his caddy isn't.

IN THE 1950's, 60's and 70's Wilson golf clubs ruled the roost. With players like Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, and Billy Casper on board, they were the glory days. Now Wilson have re-introduced the Dynapower range, and tester Rick Shiels reviewed their two adjustable drivers. He reported that the Wilson Dynapower titanium driver has low and back CG, is high-launching with a slight draw bias, and with a higher MOI, extremely forgiving. Rick Shiels pronounced it 'Brilliant', loved the look, sound and feel, and was surprised at the distance he obtained. The carbon version is more suited to the lower handicap player; with low-spinning, low-launching, neutral-bias head. Shiels pronounced it a possible 'driver of the year,' and at prices far below their rivals a Dynapower driver won't risk quite such a volcanic eruption from your other half when she sees the bank statement.

AFTER EXPERIMENTING with various drivers, Patrick Reed now uses one from a Japanese firm called “Grindworks”. Perhaps, like Bob Hope and his golf balls, manufacturers pay Reed not to use their driver.

WHEN IT'S WINDY on the course we're tempted to hit the ball harder into and across the wind. The pro's say it's better to hit it a touch easier, like a second serve, to keep an element of control and not too much spin on the ball. So don't forget

the old adage: “Swing with ease into the breeze!”OS

ALREADY A THREE-TIME winner this year on Tour and the most likely challenger to Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm was unexpectedly knocked out of the Players with a mysterious stomach ailment. He would be advised to appoint a food taster, especially just before the Ryder Cup.

A GOLFER sliced a ball into a field of chickens, killing one of them instantly. Feeling guilty, he sought out the farmer. “I'm sorry.” he said, “my tee shot hit one of your hens and killed it. Can I replace the hen?”

“I don't really know,” replied the farmer mulling it over, “How many eggs do you lay?”

Until next time: happy golfing. Contact Mick for regripping and repairs. 638 859 475. or visit https://mickthegrip.blogspot.com

Diane Burns, top scorer this season for the Dolly Mixtures with 19 ton pluses and 14 singles wins out of 18 matches played. Gap Girlz Gail Murray gets a 180!

The Clubhouse, St Andrews

ARTETA LOOKING TO FOLLOW IN GUARDIOLA’S FOOTSTEPS

year coaching spell at Man City, Arteta was given the Arsenal managerial job in December 2019. Despite winning the FA Cup in 2020, Arteta’s first couple of years as Gunners boss was a mixed bag.

From breaking into the Barcelona youth setup as a player to turning Arsenal into a genuine Premier League title contender as a manager, Mikel Arteta has had quite the football career so far. But can the Spaniard guide the Gunners to Premier League glory this season?

Can Gunners Fend Off Man City?

The Premier League title battle is shaping up to be a two-horse race between Arteta’s Arsenal and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. To add extra spice to the battle, Arteta was Guardiola’s assistant at the Etihad Stadium for three years.

Guardiola was undoubtedly a great tutor to Arteta, but the Arsenal boss is looking to get one over on his former mentor. The City manager has won four Premier League titles during his time in Manchester, with two of those

coming while Arteta was his assistant.

Arteta’s Glittering Career in England

Barcelona gave Arteta his senior debut back in 1999, as the San Sebastian-born man was given a chance in the C team. He was promoted to Barcelona B before moving to Britain in 2004 to sign for Rangers in Scotland.

After a brief spell back in Spain with Real Sociedad, Arteta was subsequently loaned to Everton before signing on a permanent deal at Goodison Park in 2005. Arteta was popular in Merseyside but the move to Arsenal in 2011 was the biggest of his career. The Spaniard spent 11 years in the Premier League, racking up almost 300 Premier League appearances for Everton and Arsenal combined.

Arteta Proving His Worth at Emirates

After learning from the best during his three-

Carp-R-Us report

The second round of the Carp-R-Us Spring Series was fished at the El Bosquet complex.Pegs 17-25 were used for the first time in several weeks and it was hoped that the warmer weather would have stimulated the fish in this section into feeding,and so it proved with four of the top five weights coming from this stretch.

For the second week running the winner of the match was Roy Dainty who had 13.30kg on pole and bread from the much fancied peg 27.Second was the ever consistent Dave Hutchinson with 11.38kg from peg 17.Dave caught on both maggot and bread.Third,ably coached by his pet dog, was Doug Hornblow with 10.80kg caught on pole and maggot from peg 24 and fourth with 8.52kg from peg 20 was Tony Flett who used pole and bread.

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

After missing out on UEFA Champions League qualification on the final day of the 2021-22 campaign, Arteta’s time at the Emirates was at a crossroads. However, the London club has used that disappointment to kick on and have their best season since the glory days of Arsene Wenger.

They made an excellent start to their campaign and have not looked back. The London clubhas had a few disappointments along the way, but Arsenal has been incredibly consistent and has remained top of the table despite a serious challenge from current champions Man City.

Of course, there will no doubt be plenty of ups and downs along the way, with the battle likely to go to the wire, but Arsenal has given itself a terrific chance of getting its hands on the Premier League trophy for the first time since the 2003-04 “Invincibles” campaign.

Bottoms up for Balaton Crew

With the start of the SAMM race season looming, members of the Balaton boat share group worked hard to get their three 6 meter Sailfish 18 boats race ready. The project was led by group chairman Julian, helped by various members, Bob, Jurgen, Paddy, David, Jez, Willie and Rona, over the course of a week.

Starting with Sirocco, they sailed her to Los Urutias marina to be worked on. First task being to lift her from the water and remove the weed and barnacle growth from the bottom of the hull. This is excessive in the Mar Menor, probably due to the higher water temperature, and greatly reduces the hulls efficiency and boat speed. The easiest way to remove it is by a hot water jet wash as soon as the boat is lifted before the encrustations dry out then, after being allowed to dry, a quick rub down and a fresh coat of anti-foul paint can be applied. The upper hull and deck were then lightly sanded and repainted with epoxy marine paint and new decals applied. Finally a check was made off all the rigging and ropes before she was returned to the water.

One of Spain's top female football stars San Javier born Marta Peñalver has returned home after playing in Italy.

Marta,who began her career at Roldan FSF,talks to Andrew Atkinson upon her return to Spain in a Leader Exclusive interview next week.

QUIZ FROM PAGE 14:

and Arteta remain the best of friends

Whatever happens from now until the end of the season, Arteta has got Arsenal playing the right way again and has brought back the feelgood factor that was missing for so many years. Still, getting the better of Guardiola and guiding Arsenal to the Premier League title will be Arteta’s greatest achievement in football.

She was followed by similar work on both Vision before the first race day and Ginetta soon afterwards. They should now all sail well and give the smaller dinghies a run for their money.

Interested in the Balaton Group? Find details and contact information at www.facebook.com/thebalatongroup

secret police organisations (Dogs from Animal farm;FLAG from, Knight Rider;CONTROL from Get Smart;SMERSH from James Bond;ZEP from Tin Tin;GAG from Star Wars and The Owsla from Watership Down).2.Conchita Martinez (in 1994).3.Mauretania.4.Correct order:BDCA:b:Qing dynasty conquest of the Ming Dynasty - (at least 25,000,000), d:World War I - (between 15,000,000 and 20,000,000), c:Russian Civil War - (between 6,000,000 and 9,000,000), a:Vietnam War - (between 3,000,000 and 5,000,000).5.Procol Harum's "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" 6.Fulcrum.7.a.Air Force One, b.JFK, c. Leon (or The Professional), d.Hannibal, e.The Fifth Element, f.Sid and Nancy.8. Helen Mirren.9.Spanker.10.a:Barbados, b:Iraq (My Homeland), c:Spain (The Royal March), d:Japan ("MayYour Reign Last Forever"), e:Switzerland (Swiss Psalm).11.1883.By US and Canadian railways.12.Five:France, Germany, Austria, Italy and Liechtenstein.13.Quebec City.14.Paolo Rossi.15.De Lorean's.16.Novak Djokovic 33, Roger Federer 31, Rafael Nadal 30, Ivan Lendl 19, Pete Sampras 18, Bjorn Borg (16), Jimmy Connors (15) and Andre Agassi (15).17.Germania.18.Damascus.19.Van Allen.20.Bermuda

1.All

SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

fictional

Guardiola

SAAM members preparing for the coming season