The Leader Newspaper 13 March 2023 - Edition 962

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

The Ars Creatio Cultural Association, in collaboration with the town hall, are organising a series of events to mark the 1829 Torrevieja Earthquake, which occurred on 21 March 1829, with tours given by costumed actors and seismologist, Nahúm Méndez Chazarra, from the University of Granada, who will be giving a talk about the devastation and how it served to improve anti-seismic protocols.

Whereas we can only imagine the devastation that the 1829 earthquake caused, we have seen the death and destruction that the 7.8 earthquake caused in Turkey last month, killing at least 53,000 people, and destroying more than 200,000 buildings. The Torrevieja earthquake of 1829 had an estimated magnitude of 6.6 and killed 386 people, with 2,965 houses totally destroyed.

Although commonly referred to as the Torrevieja earthquake, the devastation affected the entire Vega Baja, but it wasn’t the first earthquake in the area. In fact, since the National Geographic Institute (IGN) started collecting records, three of the 27 major earthquakes that have occurred in Spain have occurred in the province of Alicante.

Prior to the 1829 disaster, we need to go back to 1048, when the Orihuela mosque was destroyed. The second was on 19 June 1644 with its epicentre in Muro de Alcoy, where several houses were destroyed. Both are listed as "intensity VIII", which was the old measure (before the 20th century) to assess the importance of earthquakes, although what it really reflected was the amount of destruction caused.

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The registered intensity IX or X was the highest. In fact, the IGN has only documented two other earthquakes with this level in Spain: on 1 November 1755 in Cabo San Vicente, which produced a tsunami almost 15 metres high, and on 25 December 1885 in Arenas del Rey (Granada), with 4,400 buildings destroyed and more than 13,000 damaged.

The third earthquake is the one that is best documented. It happened on 21 March 1829 in the Torrevieja area, and affected three other municipalities, Almoradí, Benejúzar and Guardamar, that had to be completely rebuilt.

That tragedy left 389 dead and 377 injured. According to the chronicles, the decade between 1820 and 1830 was one of those with the greatest seismic activity in the province of Alicante. The intensity increased until, between 13 September 1828 and 21 March 1829, some 200 tremors occurred.

The last one was recorded around 6:15 p.m., with an estimated magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter scale, with the epicentre in the towns of Benejúzar, Rojales and Torrevieja.

The catastrophe left hundreds dead and injured, in addition to 2,965 homes completely destroyed and 2,396 damaged. The bridges that crossed the Segura River in Almoradí, Benejúzar, Dolores and Guardamar also collapsed.

In addition to the municipalities located at its epicentre (which had to be completely rebuilt), the earthquake also affected the towns of Almoradí, Algorfa, Rafal, Torrelamata, Daya Vieja, Guardamar, Dolores, Redován, San Fulgencio and San Miguel de Salinas.

In fact, half of the deceased were from Almoradí, due to the narrowness of its streets. In this municipality, every year its inhabitants take San Emigdio, who is the patron saint of earthquakes, out into the streets and pray in memory of all the victims, a routine also celebrated in other towns, including Torrevieja.

Could something like this happen again? Well, in principle, according to the experts, yes, because two areas of the province of Alicante, l'Alacantí and the southern regions, are susceptible to having earthquakes of intensity 6 on the Richter scale.

The observation was made by the professor of the Department of Seismic Engineering and Geodesy of the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), Paco García, who stressed that, of the three geological domains of the Valencian Community, "the

P O E T R Y C O R N E R

by Peter Craig

most prone and most active" is the so-called Bético, in the south of Valencia and Alicante.

"We expect earthquakes of large magnitudes, from 6 up on the Richter scale. If the previous ones have been of great destructive quantity, why couldn't they be repeated if they are the same faults," he said. "Active quaternary faults are the ones that are of most concern."

García also pointed out that earthquake prediction is "in its infancy" because "we do not know where they will occur, in the areas where there is more probability, yes, but not when".

He also pointed out that new buildings are constructed with earthquakes in mind, and so the destruction should not be as intense, although we have seen from Turkey, for example, it could still be catastrophic. What he did completely ruled out, however, is that the Valencian coast could suffer a tsunami, because "the magnitude of that earthquake will not reach a 6 or 7 and we have a highly developed continental shelf and the depth is very small, 200 or 300 metres", unlike that, which occurs, in the Gulf of Cádiz or the coast of Malaga, Ceuta, Melilla and the Moroccan and Algerian coast.

King to Visit Volkswagen Battery Factory on Friday

King Felipe will be in the Valencia region on Friday to preside over the opening ceremony of the start of construction of the battery gigafactory in Sagunto. The battery company, PowerCo SE, owned by the Volkswagen Group, was founded in July 2022.

It is located on a 130hectare plot of land, about 25 kilometres north of Valencia, where the Group's second cell factory will be built in Europe, which will be connected to the Group's network of gigafactories in 2026.

The gigafactory in Valencia has an annual production capacity of 40 GWh per year and will supply battery cells to the Volkswagen Group's car plants in Martorell and Pamplona.

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Rain! Not pitter-patter, dingle-dangle spring rain, but rushing, racing, drain-the-sky pale rain.Not drizzle or mizzle but raging rain, flashing and dashing out of the mist, splishing and splashing around my head. Our father said it would ‘refresh’the parched land.

But more refreshments poured down to slake that land, soaking the streets like a surging spring, spraying us all like a screw-loose showerhead. Sluicing each tub, bucket, barrel, and pail, it crashed and plashed, and narrowly missed drowning our poor pet dingo secured by his rein.

Then father declared the land right as rain, but the clouds didn’t care and crashed down to land, turning the bush to a bog, shrouded in mist. Billabongs conjoined, spawning brand new offspring, sweeping away fenceposts, pickets and pales, and all the damned rivers burst out of their heads.

So, we squished and squelched our way ahead,

cloyed and clogged in the runnels of rain, as buildings collapsed and conspired to impale anything adrift on the spongy swampland. Then father’s nerves twanged taut as a hairspring, so he drained a wee dram of his Highland Mist.

Flotsam and jetsam ebbed and flowed through the mist, a chair, a table, an old bedhead, an inflatable doll, a mattress spring and a bust of the Queen (what a sad end to her reign). Would we ever again put our feet on dry land? (No longer a question beyond the pale.)

Then our father prayed, looking pious and pale, eyes clouded over in a supernal mist, picturing ‘boats, beasts and a flight from the land’, while a still, small voice of calm in his head forewarned about, ‘FORTY DAYS AND NIGHTS OF RAIN.’ So, like convicts in a get-out-of-gaol spring …

With paddles and pails and a makeshift masthead, we sailed out of the mist, away from the rain. Farewell to Queensland.G’day Alice Springs.

To see your poem published on this page send to: office@theleader.info

The start of production is scheduled for 2026.

After last month’s approval by the Congress of Deputies, the new Animal Protection Law has now been approved by the Senate, with a majority of just a couple of votes. If the law had received just one more objection, it would have failed.

The more than 6,000 allegations and 450 amendments presented summarise the misgivings that the law has raised. For months, Unidas Podemos maintained pressure on the PSOE to open up to returning hunting dogs to the protection guaranteed by law as it came out of the Council of Ministers.

The Socialists managed to include during the debate in the commissionthanks to the support of PP, Vox and other parties such as the Basque Nationalist Party and the Canary Islands Coalition - an amendment that left out dogs used for hunting, as well as those used for grazing, guarding, those which participate in sports activities and other professional dogs such as State security forces and bodies.

Minister Ione Belarra, during her speech

in the plenary session of the Senate, apologised for the law leaving out hunting dogs. "I repeat my apologies to the people who see the consequences every day, at the end of the hunting season, when many hundreds of dogs are abandoned, or because there are puppies buried in quicklime," she said, linking the hunting sector - there are some 750,000 hunters in Spain — where animal abuse is still present.

Of all the amendments presented, the amendments propose to eliminate the concept of "begging" in the article that prohibits the use of animals as lure, and another that eliminates the obligation to microchip and sterilise stray cats. Likewise, the eight partial amendments of the PSOE have also been approved, the majority of a technical nature. Specifically, they seek that people who have animals that are prohibited by law as pets must notify the authorities within six months of its entry into force, which will adopt the necessary measures for their intervention, and making them available to centres of pro-

tection of wild animals, zoos or animal protection entities.

While in the modification of the Penal Code in relation to animal abuse, an amendment has been supported that proposes that the future of confiscated animals be resolved, taking into account their protection and well-being in order to avoid "unwanted" situations, such as the return of abused animals to their abuser after the period of disqualification.

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION

Both laws will be approved by Congress in the coming weeks after the incorporation of the amendments. They will then be published in the Official State Gazette (BOE), although for their entry into force it will be necessary to wait another six months, and even longer for aspects with a moratorium. Once again, we must now wait for the 450 amendments to be added to the text of the law, and for the publication, before we know exactly the full implications, but one thing we do now know for sure is that the bulk of the law has been approved, affording more protection to animals.

Do you support the new bill which, because of lobbying by hunters, still excludes hunting dogs and ignores bullfighting? Email us with your view at: office@theleader.info

Important purpose of car windscreen black dots

Amotoring expert has revealed what black dots on car windscreens mean. It turns out they actually have a very important purpose. So do you know what they mean?

Awindscreen repair expert has revealed why car windshield have small dots around them - and according to reports, it is a little-known reason. It seems that while the marks are always

present, many motorists know little about them.

Some drivers have even gone years without even noticing them let alone knowing what they are for. However, one curious person took to Reddit to ask fellow users why the dots were there, saying simply: "What are those little black dots that surround my windshield for?"

It turns out they actually have a very important purpose. The Mirror reported that without them, driving would be extremely dangerous.

Confirming the purpose, a statement on Autoglaze reads: "The black dots, or dot matrix, actually help distribute temperature evenly to lessen optical distortion or lensing. This happens when the frit band (the solid black one) heats up much faster than the windscreen's glass, creating an optical distortion that makes either straight lines look curved or bowed inwards toward the centre.

Those 'gradually sinking' black dots help lessen this phenomenon by dissipating the heat and spreading it out evenly."

And there is another reason they are there, it seems. According to the report, they also help "preserve the urethane sealant used to bond the glass to the frame", meaning your windscreen stays firmly glued in to place.

The statement adds: "They serve as a contact point between the

glass and car frame. They create etches on the surface, making them rougher so the adhesive can stick better to the glass.

"Frits are also there for aesthetic purposes. If you look closely, the contrast between the dark band and the transparent glass can look too obvious even when viewed from afar.

"Creating a halftone pattern or dot-matrix allows a gradual decrease in size, making the transition much more subtle and easier on the eyes." Commenting on the revelation, one Reddit user said: "That is brilliant and simple. So simple that it isn't believable but so believable that it can't be that simple!"

Another user added: "OK, that makes sense. But why is it on the windshield, rear windshield, and quarter glass, but not on the operable windows?" Athird user said: "I am stunned at the amount that I have learned about frit today."

The black dots, or dot matrix, actually help to distribute temperature evenly to lessen optical distortion.

This 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.

This week, we will talk about the padrón, and next week, residencia.

It is important to note that we are talking specifically about Torrevieja, and whereas many of the rules and procedures apply nationally, local functions can differ from town hall to town hall, so it is important you check with your own local office.

Firstly, it is crucial that all residents are registered on the Municipal Register, most commonly known as the padrón, as proof of this is necessary for so many administrative functions, such as registration or renewal of education or health services, functions attached to social security, some vehicle administrative procedures, and residencia and TIE, amongst others.

In order to be registered on the padrón, you need to apply at the town hall. Once issued, a padrón certificate is normally only valid for 3 months, after which, if you need to present it again, you will have to return to the town hall.

The good news for Torrevieja residents is that this can now be done automatically online, and very quickly, avoiding the need to physically present yourself at the office. However, we must stress that the three-monthly renewal is ONLY necessary if you need the document to present at an administration, otherwise, you do not need to renew it every 3 months.

That said, every 5 years, your status on the register MUST be renewed, so you will have to present

yourself and your documentation to do this. Some residents have lost their status on the padrón, without even realising. If you receive a letter from the town hall, you must act on the instructions they send to you in order to renew your status.

One other key point about being on the padrón, which has only changed recently, is that you must be a resident, or about to become a resident. If you own a holiday home, for example, you no longer qualify. You do not have to own the property however, you can be registered if you are renting.

If you are planning to leave the country, you must deregister yourself from the padrón, and then your residencia. The padrón can be cancelled at the town hall, and residencia at the National Police office in Torrevieja.

Gitte concludes by pointing out that her department exists for the benefit of international residents, and if you need help or advice, you can contact them. Of course, they cannot influence your application for residencia, for example, or speed up the appointment process, but they can help guide you in the right direction.

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 direct, at pangea@torrevieja.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. You can also visit them in La Mata town hall, or the office in La Siesta, calle Paganini, again, by appointment.

Finally, on Thursday, the Councillor for International Residents will be joining the N332 Road Safety group when they give a talk to local residents in Dominos Bar in Punta Prima.

Everyone is welcome to the talk about changes to traffic law in Spain, and you can speak to Gitte after that. The talk starts at 4 p.m.

POLICE WARNING TO PIRATE TAXIS

Elche Local Police say that they are continually clamping down on so-called “pirate” taxis who are using AlicanteElche Airport.

The law states that it is illegal to carry passengers in exchange for money, unless the vehicle is licenced as a taxi or VTC vehicle. Even taking a “friend” to the airport for money is not allowed, even if that money is “just towards petrol”, for example, and the “friends” excuse is frequently used. Hefty fines are regularly awarded with the vehicle, inevitably, being immobilised.

Pure vandalism is how some have described the unfortunate image captured and shared on the MeteOrihuela Twitter account recently. The video, which quickly went viral, showed a pair of electric scooters "stranded" in the Segura riverbed in Orihuela, close to the Levante bridge. The colour of both means they are likely belong to a private electric scooter rental company, which suggests that it could be an act of vandalism..

Orihuela Costa park maintenance co claims e2 million

The company,Actúa,which has provided the park maintenance service without a contract for six years,is demanding that the Orihuela council pays it’s outstanding invoices.

It has sent the City Council two letters in which it claims the local administration owe an amount close to 2 million euros for unpaid bills,late payment interest and cost overruns.This situation is causing serious economic damage,the documents state.

FREEMASONS SUPPORT FOR MURCIA FOODBANKS

Nearly 30,000 people depend on the food banks for their daily needs in Murcia, and their number is increasing with 850,000 kilograms of basic foodstuffs distributed in the last 5 months, an increase of nearly 40% on the amount used last year. Murcia is also the home for 145 freemasons spread over 6 Lodges, and the Provincial Grand Master, Terence Pierce, has opened an initiative with Luz de Murcia Lodge #91, who meet in Los Alcazares, donating 1,000e worth of food and grocery items to assist the town’s social services.

Two electric scooters dumped in Rio Segura in Orihuela

Illegal felling of pine trees bunkers Campoamor golf greenkeeper

The Civil Guard has carried out an inspection of land affected by illegal felling of trees,adjacent to a golf course in the municipality of Orihuela.The head greenkeeper is now being investigated for an administrative infraction relaying to the illegal felling of pine trees and the storage of the wood generated, as he failed to seek authorisation.

At the end of January,the Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) of the Civil Guard,was told of the felling of trees by a concerned member of the public.

A patrol from the Orihuela SEPRONA team went to the location and confirmed the felling of Mediterranean pine trees (Pinus helepensis),as well as the accumulation of all the wood that had been chopped down.

The land,of around 200 square metres, near the special protection areas of Sierra Escalona and Dehesa de Campoamor,was partly within the facilities of a golf course,so inquiries were made to identify to the person responsible for felling.

The person was identified and located but was unable to produce the neces-

sary administrative documentation required.

Due to the seriousness of the events and the consequent risk of disease and fire that could be generated by the uncontrolled accumulation of wood,the agents informed the City Council and the Ministry of Agriculture,Climate Emergency and Ecological Transition. The matter will now be pursued through the courts which could result in a fine that could reach up to a million euros.

a fine of up to a million euros.

A GUILTY VERDICT could result in

And Now for the Bad News.!

Watching TV news makes me feel quite normal at times, which is at least an improvement. The usual news is awash with failure, and success is often wiped from the headlines by celebrity scandal and political fiscal gloom.

Why does news reporting in the media frequently choose to emphasise negative events? Perhaps it is still partly influenced by the old editorial adage, "If it bleeds, it leads."

In other words, if there is a film of the red stuff -- metaphorical red stuff, we hope -being spilt on the pavement (still metaphorical) this is what will be the leading news item. Which is not to say that editors aren't capable of causing real blood to be spilt during circulation wars. Bad things can happen quickly, good things can sometimes take longer than a day. Plane crashes always make the news, car crashes seldom do, despite the fact that they kill far more people. This is why so many people suffer from fear of flying, while few suffer from fear of driving, unless they have been in the passenger seat of my car.

Tornadoes -- I feel another figure of speech coming on, I think this one's a simile -- are like the celebrities of weather forecasts, they make for much more spectacular images than, say, a downpour in Manchester, where it rains on 205 days each year, now you know why that summer holiday you just booked was so cheap. TV news also promotes the fiction that (a) we are all interested in politics and (b) we like a sprinkling of depressing news about price rises at breakfast time, which makes us return half of our cornflakes to the packet.

Try to escape the bad news, and what do we see? Modern television has become more or less wall-to-wall so-called 'reality' shows, except those that take place out-

doors. People chase other people in fake parodies of better-acted TV dramas with real actors instead of ungifted amateurs. Versions of dating shows must surely be exhausted soon -- I know I am, by constantly changing channels. Boy meets girl in jungle/on an island/somewhere without the contestants being able to see one another until they eventually (!) fall in love and get married. Instant food I have no objection to, but instant wedlock with an

unseen person? Call me Doubting David. Couples don't ever buy the properties they view on property shows, but at least they get to see them in advance of not fancying them, without the need for a subsequent expensive divorce. Anyhow, you'll be glad to learn that I have now reached the end of this particular rant about the behaviour of news broadcasters. So at least that is some good news for you.

Writing in February, Valentine¥s Day was on the 14th. Of course, ìGod is Love and the one who lives in love lives in God and God lives in Him.î Go on ñ you sang that didn¥t you!

For those in love this is a fantastic day; for others it can be a day of untold loneliness and heartache. We thank God that He IS Love and that He never changes, is never moody, never moves the boundaries and loves us unconditionally. Our God is a constant.

Did you make Pancakes on the 21st? Are you trying to do some fasting during Lent? Next week we have St Patrick¥s Day on the 17th! This Irish person will be celebrating for sure?? Trinity Sunday is not until June but the shamrock is always a reminder of the Godhead: Father, Son & Holy Spirit.

2 Corinthians 13:14 ìMay the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you allî as we prepare during this time of Lent to remember why God sent His Son to die for us - for you and for me. Goodness, by the time the April issue comes out, Easter will also have been and gone. He is Risen. Hallelujah!

Is Jesus your Lord and Saviour? He is mine ñ in this I am secure. Are you?

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: Thursdays from 12:00

ñ 13:00 Pat Jarnet, a qualified & experienced Fitness & Dance Trainer will do Movement to Music classes at PCCC for those of us who want more limber muscles & joints, to be able to breathe with more ease, to have fun and get some gentle ñ or not so gentle if you¥re fit & active ñ exercise. 5Ä per class. She will cater for mobility limitations.

PM - Pilar Christian Community Church. Calle Canalejas 3, Pilar de la Horadada. English service every Sunday at 11am. Contact by email: phil.molloypccc@gmail.com

For Movement to Music please contact: Hazel Hodges Campoverde 634 164 654

Handsome Stanis, would love a forever home.

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

Mil Palmeras bridge finished by summer

The pedestrian walkway that connects the promenades of Mil Palmeras & Torre de la Horadada was washed away by the DANA in September 2019, but finally, having been granted building permits, the work has finally begun with a budget of e290,000.

The new walkway will be made of wood, a single span of 36.66 metres and a width of 3.50 metres, resting on the existing concrete abutments.

The walkway will be built as an arch-shaped wooden truss without intermediate piers to comply with the requirement of the Segura Hydrographic Confederation and the Territorial Coastal Service to improve the river's drainage capacity.

The council confirmed it will be finished prior to summer of 2023.

With the problems of ecological damage in the Mar Menor still not resolving as quickly as environmentalists might hope, the Spanish Government has published a tender for the creation of a network of sensors to gather information in real-time in six areas of the coastal lagoon.

The 1.49-million-euro tender includes the purchase and installation of a monitoring network with buoys, sensors, seamounts, weather stations or current profilers, capable of issuing continuous and realtime information on the state of its waters.

To date, the monitoring of the Mar Menor was done with specific samplings carried out from boats that do not allow detection of live knowledge of physical-chemical and biological anomalies, related to the different symptoms of the

eutrophication process, that are critical for the state of the ecosystem and its recovery, such as phytoplankton proliferations and harmful species, anoxia phenomena, light limitation, heat waves or microbial activity.

There is also a buoy located by the Smart Lagoon project, financed by the EU, and which will be integrated into the oceanographic observation

infrastructure of the state of the lagoon and the dynamics of exchange with the Mediterranean Sea, carried out by the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO), a state body that will also manage the new network that has been put out to tender.

The new system is included in the Framework of Priority Actions to Recover the Mar Menor (MAPMM), endowed

ROJALES PANTO GROUP KEEP ON GIVING.

with 484.4 million, and which dedicates 15 million to the line of improvement of knowledge and monitoring.

The locations planned for this network will be the north and south basins, the central platform, the headquarters of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography in San Pedro del Pinatar and the golas of Estacio and Marchamalo.

All monitoring platforms will send the information from the sensors in real time through the GSM/GPRS system. This will allow downloading of historical data, generate automatic reports and grant access to third parties.

The contract also includes devoting 229,000 euro to spare parts for the stations, so that, if necessary, the buoy, the weather station, the multiparameter probe, the current profiler or the seamount can be replaced.

1000E was recently donated to San Fulgencio Cáritas, proceeds from the pantomime Treasure Island. The donation will go to help the needy of the parish buy food and help with lighting and electricity.

John Fagg, the Group’s Chairman, presented the donation to José Sampere Ballester, San Fulgencio Mayor and Ramón Belda Diez, Parish Priest and Cáritas President at San Fulgencio Town Hall. The Group’s next Panto will be Snow White and The Seven Christmas Elves. Auditions are to be held at the end of March, with rehearsals starting at the end of April. Email: rojalespanto@yahoo.com

M a r M e n o r i s t o b e n e f i t f r o m n e t w o r k o f B u o y s a n d s e n s o r s

The Framework of Priority Actions to Recover the Mar Menor has been promised 484.4 million euro

The Blacksmith who forged a lasting memory of lent ...

Jimmy ‘Blacksmith’ McCabe was the much loved blacksmith in the village where I grew up. He was such an integral part of our community that I thought he had always been there and that Jimmy and his forge would remain a constant cornerstone of the village.

But as George Harrison lamented on his deathbed, ‘nothing lasts, and by the time I had lived a generation, both ‘McCabe’ and his forge were just a memory.

‘Blacksmith’ McCabe never changed an iota over the time that I knew him. A small, hardy, rather weasand man, Jimmy wore the badge of his trade on his leathery face. He is remembered, not only in the village, but across the Midlands for being a great character, a farrier without equal and an exceptional human being.

‘Half-deaf’ from a lifetime of pounding his anvil, you had to shout to be heard around the forge, as Jimmy shouted back in an even louder voice!

Those were the days when the power on the land wasn’t John Deere, Zetor, or Lamborghini: No, the names you heard on the farm were, Irish Drought, Clydesdale and Belgian; some of the most common workhorses of the day.

Jimmy McCabe was a genius with horses. Even the most nervous or ‘fidgety’ animal stood calmly and allowed him lock the horses leg between his knees, as he firstly pared the hoof before nailing on the red-hot iron shoe. The Gentry came from all over with their hunting horses, but whether it was one of their prize jumpers, or Malone’s ass, (I used ride Malone’s ass to the forge) all animals and their owners were treated equally and with equal respect.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Photographers let loose in Torrevieja Salt Flats

Proyecto Mastral El Tiempo Torrevieja accompanied a group of photography enthusiasts through the Torrevieja salt flats and La Mata lagoon.

"Such activities are part of our objectives, so that we can make make people aware of what we do and so that photographers can visit as part of their hobby," said a spokesperson.

My father took our big Clydesdale mare to the forge as soon as she ‘lost a shoe.’ Now, it wasn’t every bill that Daddy would pay on the day, but he never went to the forge without having the money for the shoeing.

It was only in later years it dawned on me why he always had to have the cash up front for McCabe. As soon as the job was done, and the five shillings handed over, the two friends adjourned to Bartley’s Bar (then run by Cavan couple, Tommy and Rose Smith) where they drank the proceeds!

How Jimmy survived would defy medical science today. Bent over the searing hot coal fire, not only inhaling the smoke, the dust, and all the mixed fumes of the unventilated forge (apart from the open door and the gaps in the galvanise) ‘Blacksmith’ was never without a Woodbine cigarette between his lips! After every job, Jimmy and his customer

Diplomas for Foreigners Learning Spanish in Torrevieja

The Department of International Residents in Torrevieja, has presented diplomas to successful students following the III edition of Spanish courses for international residents. Around 100 students, once dominated by British, received their awards, but now largely Ukrainians, Russians, Romanians, Moroccans and Algerians, received the diplomas from Jean Paul Mulero of (OARI).

adjourned to the pub for a pint ….or two! He would enjoy a good few pints of “porter” every day and one of the many nice things one can say about the village’s favourite son, is that he was still the same Jimmy … and the same gentleman, no matter how many customers he had that day!

We could go on about this wonderfully exceptional character … but would you believe, I sat down here to write something on Lent for this week’s column! Lent doesn’t matter much to a lot of people nowadays. It wasn’t always thus – and the following is an account of what Jimmy McCabe thought about Lent …

Jimmy ‘Blacksmith’ McCabe rode his bicycle to mass on Ash Wednesday morning. From then until midday on Holy Saturday, he never smoked a cigarette or took a single drink. Just think about that one: Jimmy, a bachelor,

3000 YEARS OF ALICANTE WINE CULTURE

The mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, opened the outdoor exhibition "3000 years of Alicante wine culture", which shows the vast wine-growing tradition of the area, through illustrations in both Spanish and English.

The "Alicante" brand for wines has always associated with quality and style.

The exhibition will be on Paseo Vista Alegre until May 8.

who’s only pleasures were his daily pints and a fag, gave up both for Lent. So what a remarkable sacrifice that this good man was willing to endure for the forty days of Lent. He still went to the pub as before, where he consumed copious mugs of tea.

Easter Saturday arrived. The blacksmith would make his grand entrance to the pub and have a strong mug of tea around 11.30 and then he waited … and he waited! The assembled few in the bar (including myself when I started ‘taking a drink’) waited and watched as well … At 11.50 Johnny started filling a slow pint of ‘porter’. McCabe ordered a ‘large Woodbine’, which he took the paper off, pulled a cigarette forward half an inch … and continued his wait!

Bartley’s clock was always ten minutes fast, but Jimmy wouldn’t be fooled by this. He took out his pocket watch and placed it on the counter. The creamy pint was now sitting invitingly in front of him. At one minute past the hour he made his move. Jimmy lifted the drink to his mouth and with the same efficiency as the bellows in his forge, he started to suck. The pint was half gone in that first movement.

Everyone in the pub now had a match lit to give the hero a light for his first ‘drag’ - as Johnny or Dympna started filling pint number two.

Whenever I hear anybody ask; ‘did you give up anything for Lent? – I think of Jimmy McCabe. That this good man could deny himself his daily pleasures for seven weeks, says everything about our blacksmith, his character, willpower, and his faith. I hope that Jimmy is as happy every day up there in heaven as he always was two minutes after midday on Holy Saturday …

DON’T FORGET

Faith is something like electricity. You can’t see it, but you can see the light.

AVE low cost Alicante - Madrid with prices from 7 euros

Avlo, Renfe's low-cost high-speed carrier, will open a route between Alicante and Madrid on March 27 with tickets available from today. This new service will offer four daily journeys, two in each direction, which will mean 1,436 seats are available each day. The trains will stop in Albacete, Cuenca and Villena. Tickets will cost from e7 per trip, e5 for children under 13, and sold in a single class.

IT’S “THE GOOD LIFE” FOR PUNTA PRIMA STAR VINCENT!

Spain based Vincent Simone took time out of his 2023 'Tango Passions' UK tour with a visit to London's West End to watch 'Noises Off',meeting members of the cast.

"I absolutely love this show,the gorgeous Felicity Kendal and Matthew Kelly," said Vincent. Actress Felicity Kendall CBE,76,who appeared in 'The Good Life' as Barbara Good,headlines star studded show Noises Off,alongside Kelly,Jonathan Coy, Alexander Hanson,Katherine Kingsley,Joseph Millson,Hubert Burton and Pepter Lunkuse.

Kendal,born in Olton,Warwickshire,lived in India with her family,aged seven.Her father was an English actor-manager who led his own repertory company on tours of India.

She contracted typhoid in Calcutta,aged 17.In 1975 she had her big break on TV with the BBC sitcom 'The Good Life',starring alongside Richard Briers. Felicity made her London stage debut in 'Minor Murder' in 1967; now starring as Dotty Otley in the London revival of 'Noises Off' at the Phoenix Theatre. Stars In Their Eyes host,Kelly,72,appeared in TV shows 'Game For A Laugh','You Bet!'; and series 'Benidorm' as Cyril Babcock.

Strictly Come Dancing,I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here,and West End star Vincent,based in Punta Prima,said: "It was also lovely meeting the beautiful Kat Kingsley at the Phoenix Theatre,West End Show."

PIOC Clinics

Municipal Elections 29 May 2023

From Monday the 20th PIOC will holding clinics at venues around Orihuela Costa about Voting in the May elections.

Please make the effort to come along,listen,and hopefully we can answer your questions.

The more votes = more representation from the coast = the more PIOC can achieve and quicker.

VOTE = it makes sense

Monday 20 March 1pmD.STEPHANOS

Tuesday 21 March 2pmLime Bar

Tuesday 21 March 4.30pmLucky Lion

Wednesday 22 March 2pmRumours

Friday 24th March 2pmLeeson Street

PIOC - Partido Independencia Orihuela Costa

Email: community@pioc.es

Torrevieja Finally has a Socialist Candidate for Mayor

After months of being unable to find a “suitable” candidate, the socialist PSPVPSOE group finally has a the person they hope will win the electorate round to mass voting when they take to the polls.

Bárbara Soler, who graduated in Law, but is currently an English teacher, is the face chosen by the PSPV-PSOE to lead the list of socialists for the Torrevieja Mayor's Office.

Despite her low profile, Soler is known in her professional field, as a lawyer, sharing an office with another colleague, on calle Ramón Gallud in the centre of the town. Currently, she works as an English teacher in a public institute in Torrevieja.

The Valencian Socialists, except for an extension, needed to have their candidacies approved before Saturday, March 10, when the national committee was to ratify them.

DETACHED VILLA WITH PRIVATE POOL

Totally refurbished 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, villa with large southfacing terrace.

Airconditioning and heating, all new windows, completely insulated. Underbuild with 2 additional rooms. Garage and access to seperate garden area, part of which is used for bed and breakfast.

The Good Life: Vincent and Felicity Kendal.

Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE

Arts & Culture &

A man and his cat rocks THE HONDÓN VALLEY

For two days, the theatre in HondÛn de los Frailes was rocked by the sound of audience participation as songs were sung, evil was overcome to the chorus of ëOh yes he willíand ëOh no you wontíand from the flood of compliments received, it was clear that the DIVAs production of ëDick Whittingtoníby Peter Denyer and directed by Stephen Kilgallon was a great success. This was the first pantomime produced by this amateur drama group and from the cheers that greeted the opening number to the applause and thanks following the finale, it may not be the last.

Everyone knows the story of Dick Whittington and his faithful cat who travel to London to seek their fortune and how his dreams were cruelly shattered by the intervention of the evil Queen Rat

Of course, love triumphs in the end and our hero Dick (Greetje Mulder-Kok) marries Alice (Marilyn Hill) to the cheers of all as Queen Rat (Pam Jubb) is despatched to work for good under the watchful eye of Sarah the Cook (Barbara Colclough).

They were supported by a full cast of actors and back stage supports, too many to mention here, a full list of whom will be published on the DIVAs Facebook page. We are looking for extra people to join us and further information can be obtained from our Secretary on: hondondivas@gmail.com

ST PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

As well as the hugely popular St Patrick’s Day Parade taking place on the Cabo Roig strip from 3pm,the IrishinTorre group will celebrate St Patrick's Day with a bilingual Mass (English,Spanish and a bit of Irish) on Friday 17 March at 10.00h in the Church of la

WOMBERANG DEBUT FOR CATS

Campoverde Amateur Theatrical Society (CATS) have performed their first production, a comedy play by Sue Townsend called ‘WOMBERANG’. The performance took place in ‘The Madhouse’ situated in Tiro de Pichon near La Fuente Orihuela.

The play is set during the 1970’s in a Gynaecology Clinic of a General Hospital.

4 of the cast are multi talented Sonrisas Harmony Chorus members: Susie Wyatt (Rita Onions), Cheryl Jenkins (Mrs Lovett), Lorraine Daw (Lynda) and Penny Hawney (Mrs Cornwallis)

As well as starring in the play Susie Wyatt also directed this production. She was helped greatly by Annie Williams as Producer, Pete Wyatt as Stage Manager and David Lang as Stage Crew. The play begins with an assortment of patient’s sit-

ting in the grim hospital waiting room when Rita Onions breezes in with her long suffering friend Dolly, played by Jacs Boswell.

Rita’s verve and energy, combined with a complete lack of respect for authority, gradually spreads an infectious, joyous anarchy throughout the patients. As she demolishes officious hospital staff and generally sorts out the patients’ personal problems. Dr Riley played by Bruce Boswell, poor man, was totally oblivious to the mayhem in his waiting room.

This play is well worth seeing if you get the opportunity, this was a sell out, so watch local press for details of the next production, or if you would like to join CATS , please contact Susie by email on susiebabieq@hotmail.com for further details.

Inmaculada which faces the main square of Torrevieja,Plaza de la Constitution.

Afterwards,there will be a short celebration in Plaza de la Constitution with the permission

of the Ayuntamiento de Torrevieja.

They will raise the Irish flag,sing the anthem and enjoy some traditional Irish music.Enquiries to irishtorrevieja@gmail.com

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 961

QUICK

ACROSS: 7 Occur; 8 Explore; 9 Violent; 10 Creed; 12 Phlegmatic; 15 Escarpment; 18 Trail; 19 Lenient; 21 Excused; 22 Cleft.

DOWN: DOWN: 1 Convenient; 2 Actor; 3 Urge; 4 Mettle; 5 Specimen; 6 Modesty; 11 Decapitate; 13 Harmless; 14 Scratch; 16 Melody; 17 Jewel; 20 Nick.

CR CR YPTIC YPTIC

ACROSS ACROSS

1.Dope (4)

8.Achieve (10)

9.Refute (8) 10.Robe (4) 12.Jet (6) 14.Incorporate (6) 15.Dreary (6) 17.Lubricate (6)

18.Slender (4)

19.Burst (8)

21.Charlatan (10)

22.Whirlpool (4)

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

2.Give up (10)

3.Pant (4)

4.Stop (6)

5.Hinder (6)

6.Suitable (8)

7.Avoid (4)

11.Far-reaching (10)

13.Impending (8)

16.Hewed (6)

17.Sociable (6)

18.Domesticated (4)

20.Receive (4)

ACROSS: ACROSS: 7 Abeam; 8 Sea-room; 9 Drought; 10 Dates; 12 Never again; 15 Variegated; 18 Realm; 19 Western; 21 Clearly; 22 Class.

DOWN: 1 Maiden over; 2 Aesop; 3 Smug; 4 Tsetse; 5 Mandrake; 6 Postbag; 11 Singleness; 13 Evermore; 14 Breaker; 16 Always; 17 Cedar; 20 Sack.

1.Prima donna is eager to come back (4)

8.Inane fellow on the motorway is a cricketer (5,3-2)

9.Make less of changing his mind about one (8)

10.Manage to put on a priest's cloak (4)

12.Put an end to the drink (6)

14.Room for a car (6)

15.Iron only ordered for a crime (6)

17.Hotel employee's drink (6)

18.Let it stand the test again (4)

19.Jane's disaster (8)

21.Fellow countryman has to camp out at the disturbance (10)

22.Consumes some cold-meat sandwiches (4)

DOWN

2.Being tactless, I enter oddly without a record (10)

3.Wine has some lasting effects (4)

4.His leg was broken on a toboggan (6)

5.Epidemiologist finally gets pushy about discovering a disease (6)

6.Round letter ... (8)

7.... formerly seen on a church (4)

11.Calvinist in favour of examination for the worker (10)

13.Stewpot's newly-discovered dances (3-5)

16.Shy cat is upset by boats (6)

17.Pale-faced friend took cover (6)

18.Blow with foot (4)

20.Friend reorganised the team (4)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on page 23)

1. According to the US postal service and the Citizen's Stamp Advisory Committee, what kind of person shall not be honoured on a US postal stamp?

2. Onychophagia is a common habit particularly for many near the end of a sporting event. What is it?

3. What was John Steinbeck's travelling companion Charley?

4. In film, the inventive Major Boothroyd is simply known under which other name?

5. For some beginners, Pratt, Shelby and Windsor can be confusing examples of what?

6. The following words in different languages all mean what? Gehve, Qahwa, Sourj, Koohii, Kape

7. What colour stick does a manicurist use?

8. Which actor has been nominated twice for an Academy Award for playing a US President?

9. Other than English, what are the four most spoken languages in Australia?

10. George Jung and David Tsung are both credited with the invention of which after dinner success?

11. Rex Harrison's son Noel, Edward Woodward, Alison Moyet, Sting, Terry Hall, Petula Clark, Jose Feliciano, Vanilla Fudge and the Muppets have all covered which Academy Award winning song?

12. Which infamous warrior's title loosely translated meant Ocean Ruler?

13. In the TV series Star Trek, how many crew members were aboard Capt Kirk's USS Enterprise? Plus or minus 20.

14. Named after shipwrecks and the bleached bones left on the shoreline by whalers in days gone by, the Skeleton Coast is still found today off which continent?

15. Which former ward attendant in a psychiatric hospital wrote 'One flew over the cuckoo's nest'?

16. Ira Hayes is one of the five struggling men in which famous photograph?

17. The name of which playful mammal stems from the Greek word for womb?

18. The word 'dinosaur' stems from the two Greek words 'deinos' and 'sauros'. Sauros means reptile or lizard. What does deinos mean?

19. Which artist had a 'Blue Period' and a 'Rose Period'?

20. The shape of a 'Torus' is often compared with which popular North American calorie bomb?

ACROSS ACROSS

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

WARM MEMORIES OF SPAIN FOR JIMMY CRICKET

You need to get a balance in this business. I started to take my children to school - Jimmy Cricket.

SPAIN has played a major part in legendary comic Jimmy Cricket's 50 years in Showbusiness with appearances at the famous Benidorm Palace.

"I played Benidorm Palace twice with Gerry and The Pacemakers, including in Gerry Marsden's 'You'll Never Walk Alone show' in 2017, " said Jimmy, on a whirlwind visit to Spain.

Asked about his biggest achievements in life, Irish, Belfast born Jimmy, 77, said: "I would say managing to get a TV series 'And There's More' with Central Television. We gave big breaks to Rory Bremner, his first appearance on TV; Brian Connolly and Shane Ritchie - all young fledglings."

Jimmy added: "I also had my own radio series for BBC Radio 2, called 'Jimmy's Cricket Team', in the 1990s".

On the biggest disappointment during a career spanning five decades, he said: "The biggest disappointment was when Central Television curtailed the 'And There's More' series."

Jimmy, married to May, with their four children, Katie, Frankie, Dale and Jamie, and four grandchildren, said: "That meant I went back to my family. "You need to get a balance in this business and I started to take my children to school."

On his own schooldays, he added: "It was subconscious. At the age of 2, I moved to Belfast, the family having lived in Cookstown.

OBITUARY: JOSÉ JUAN ALBENTOSA GÓMEZ

Former Racing San Miguel footballer and referee official José Juan Albentosa Gómez has sadly passed away.

A statement from the club said: From Racing San Miguel we deeply regret the death of a hero of the sport of our region.

Former colleague José Juan Albentosa Gómez, a great person always linked to the values of football, who last summer received a warm tribute at the local futsal tournament for his career and his willingness to collaborate in any initiative. Rest in peace, Albentosa.

"My father bought a shop and I recall taking a tram to Ardoyne - to buy a Mars bar! "I also remember when we moved to Belfast in the early fifties, it was awash with cinemas. "The Theatres began to close, when television came out, and people became unemployed."

Jimmy also remembered his early years, reflecting on the past he recalled: "Laurel and Hardy visited Cork."

Jimmy has worked alongside a plethora of stars, including Scottish comedy duo The Krankies, Bobby Davro, Frank Carson, Paul Daniels, The Osmonds, and Little and Large; appearing in numerous Royal Variety Shows and The Good Old Days, Bullseye, and Comic Relief, during an illustrious career.

He returned to Spain after the heights of the Covid-19 pandemic, appearing at The Emerald Isle to a sell-out audience; in Orihuela, Mazarron and Benidorm during his 50 Golden Years Anniversary tour in Showbusiness.

"I kept in contact with my good friend Stevie Spit BEM during Covid-19. I love Spain and it was lovely to be back on stage here," said Jimmy.

Stevie Spit compered Jimmy's shows in Spain. Jimmy, who lives in Rochdale, said: "Stevie deservedly got the BEM for the amount of money he has helped raise for charities - he's a complete all-rounder."

Awarded a Papal Knighthood in 2015 for his charity work, Jimmy, who toured with Leah Bell in 2022 in the 'Right Royal Knees Up Show' for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, joked: "Do

A statement from the Delegation of Orihuela Referees, said: Vega Baja football is in mourning following the death of José Juan Albentosa Gómez.

José was a colleague to the Delegation of Orihuela referees for more than a decade.

The Almoradí referee leaves a long personal legacy in the municipalities that make up our region for his personal values and passion for sport.

During last summer and the start of this season, he received heartfelt tributes from clubs such as CF Rafal and the San Miguel de Salinas Town Hall.

you ever have difficulty getting to sleep at night?.

"If you do, you should try sleeping on the edge of the bedyou'll soon drop off!."

Speaking to Jimmy in his dressing room after the show at The Emerald Isle, using his famous line 'There's More', he said: "My Mammy wrote me a letter: 'Dear son, your father's been to see the doctor and the doctor said he's got alcoholic constipation - it means he can't pass a pub!' ".

On that note I'll raise a glass on behalf of everyone to Jimmy Cricket, in celebrating 50 Golden years in Showbusiness!

Andrew Atkinson's Jimmy Cricket Exclusive Part 4

Jimmy, wife May and Stevie Spit BEM at The Emerald Isle.

Photo: Helen Atkinson

WHAT’S YOUR NAME?

In 1865, two hundred years after Rob Roy reigned, a young Scot named John McGregor and his wife Janet bravely sailed to the other side of the earth.

Together with their baby son on the good ship Resolute from Glasgow to New Zealand they began a new life, as far from their roots and family as is humanly possible.

Life was tough for those early settlers, especially when they arrived amid a very harsh winter. The first house they built was soon smashed to pieces by a violent storm.

Long hours of hard back-breaking work, and improvisation was essential to survive. This John McGregor, my fatherís great grandfather tragically died in a mining accidentat the age of only thirtyseven after fathering 7 more children.

In the ten years from landing in Auckland he had built the family a substantial home and a life for them in that young country, which his resourceful children then maintained. There is a family book written on our history from that period*.

This austere background of the New Zealand settlers, starting from nothing was handed down through the subsequent generations. Dad told me how as boys they built their bikes from re-cycled bits, illustrating his wonderful gift of improvisation.

In the early eighties I moved into a modern home and decided on a new kitchen, although the existing one there was quite adequate. In the space of two weekends Dad dismantled our old one and reassembled it in a completely differently shaped kitchen in my parentsíhouse. It looked as new and functional in theirs as our new one did in ours.

One of Dadís lifetime hobbies was clocks, and I inherited his love of them, I have them all over my house. One of my most treasured possessions is a clock that Dad made from the circular control column of the Boulton-Paul Defiant he crashed in. It is small but quite heavy and on the round handle of the column it has a safe/fire button which was used to action the forward machine-gun.

After the war Dad made a circular brass face for the clock, with black hands. It has pride of place on my mantelpiece, and keeps perfect time. It always reminds me of my Dad, my hero.

In the four years before his plane crash in West Africa Dad had packed in a great deal.In 1941 as an eighteen year-old good, loyal Antipodean he had left his widowed mother and siblings to sail from Auckland to the UK to join the Royal Navy.

In Portsmouth he passed an intensive course to be offered a commission as a

Part 2

By John McGregor

pilot in either the RAF or the Fleet Air Arm. Being a Navy man it was no contest. My father then fulfilled a promise to his NZ boyhood pal, to contact the mateís penfriend while in the UK. Dad did much more than requested, he married my mother in 1943 and my big sister was born the following year.

There being a war on, immediately after the birth Dad was posted to West Africa for the last two years of the war, where he was then demobbed straight back to New Zealand.

Following the end of the war, Mum and my sister joined Dad in Auckland. But through a combination of poor work prospects there and serious family illness in the UK they returned in 1948, I was born the following year. After various jobs, Dad eventually went back to fly in the Navy for four more successful years. The first ten years of my life were always on the move, I went to seven different schools and my big sister thirteen.

Am I my fatherís son? Cossetted in upbringing in comparison to my father and our predecessors, after a promising start to my adult life and with a young family and a good job I experienced a few difficult years in my early thirties.

An acrimonious and costly divorce left me with no capital, compounded with leaving the company I loved after eleven successful years, only to make a disastrous sideways career move. Alone in a scruffy flat, only seeing my children at weekends, unhappy in my work, drinking too much and with several thousand pounds of family debt hanging over me I was at a low ebb in my life. But what was my name?

Eventually I snapped out of my situation: this time I made a good career choice, stopped drinking, paid off my debts, and re-married. Subsequent years proved much happier and more productive. I am on very good terms with my two children today and have four lovely grandchildren.

Ruellia - wild petunia - terrific attractors for butterflies

Ruellia - commonly called wild petunia - is an easy to care for evergreen perennial shrub that is great for use as coverage and are terrific attractors for butterflies.

Ruellia flowers from mid-spring through the first frosts of autumn, with purple or blue funnel shaped blooms on low drooping branches with linear serrated leaves in a purple hue.

In an incredible echo of our great grandparentsíemigration from Scotland, over a century and a half later my own son took his wife and baby daughter to live in New Zealand in 2004. Lower wages in NZ and family illness meant that the young family returned to the UK after three years, wiser and much more experienced with life. My son displays his grandfatherís characteristics: mental strength, integrity, resourcefulness: he invites respect from others.

Dad tragically died in 1988, aged only sixty-six. He had retired, fit and healthy eighteen months earlier, with a richlydeserved period of his life to look forward to. Almost immediately, a growth in his cheek revealed throat cancer, a legacy of Naval pipe smoking. It was the beginning of the end.

Still demonstrating his customary mental and physical strength, between intense periods of debilitating radio and chemotherapy treatment Dad took Mum back to New Zealand for five months. Here he was re-united with his family and old friends he had not seen for forty years, before returning home to the UK to sadly lose the one battle he could not win.

The mark the man left on me was a responsibility for myself and to others, a self-reliance, a hugely practical commonsense attitude to life that Dad always displayed. There is still much to do to emulate my father, in truth an impossible task, but Iím trying - whatís my name? McGregor!

*Leslie Wylie McGregor, SEED OF A COUNTRY, 1988 , Privately Published

PS My Dadís personal account of his aircraft crash in the West African forest in 1944 and how he survived is too large for a newspaper article.

But if anyone would like to read it and see the pictures please contact me by e mail on mcgregorjaw@hotmail.co.uk

An ideal location for growing ruellia is with full sun exposure. Although ruellia flowers are highly adaptable and may do well in shade, expect fewer blooms, due to the lack of sunlight.

They appreciate regular water, but can withstand drought conditions.

You'll need to think about the location of ruellia plants, as it aggressively self sows and care should be taken to contain the plants, along with trimming rampant growth.

You can also propagate by seed, cuttings, or by root divisions.

However, due to its self-sowing, the plant makes an ideal container plant, serving to impede the rampant spread likely to occur when directly planted in the garden.

Dad in New Zealand, 1988

MATCH RESULTS FOR 9 MARCH 2ND HALF OF SEASON WEEK 1

DIVISION 1

CC´s Bees6-6Mind the Gap

Hub Hyenas8-4El Capitan

Tipsy Toad Toppers7-5CC´s Flyers

DIVISION 2

Danny´s Bar7-5Fallen Angels

CK1 Lads8-4Leeson St Trotters

Milo´s6-6Freakie Taverners

DIVISION 3

Domino´s Desp11-1Hub Hellraisers

Pint Depot Queens3-9Ck1 Ladybirds

Angel Delights5-7Tipsy Toad Tiaras

LEAGUE TABLES

DIVISION 1 P Pts Legs

Hub Hyenas128

Tipsy Toad Toppers127

CC´S Bees116

Mind The Gap116

CC's Flyers105

El Capitan104

DIVISION 2 P Pts Legs

Ck1 Lads128

Danny's Bar127

Freakie Taverners116

Milo´s116

Fallen Angels105

Leeson Street Trotters104

DIVISION 3 P Pts Legs

Domino's Desperados1211

Ck1 Ladybirds129

Tipsy Toad Tiaras127

Angel Delights105

Pint Depot Queens103

Hub Hellraisers101

MOST 180´S: Dave Rowlinson CC`s Bees x 5. THIS

WEEK: Paul Christopher CC´s Bees 2, Simon Bantleman CC´s Bees 2, Dave Rowlinson CC`s

Bees, Mark Ellis Hub Hyenas, James Brown Mind

The Gap, Gordon Cowan Mind The Gap, HIGHEST FINISH TO DATE: 154 - Mario Garcia -

Freakies. THIS WEEK: Gordon Cowan, Mind The Gap 130, T20-20-Bull, Fabian Alcaraz 120 - T20-20D20. James Brown Mind The Gap 122, 18-T18-Bull.

Dario Sierra Hub Hyenas 110 T20-18-D16. Hugh Galloway Tipsy Toppers 100, T20-D20. Ray Hayes Domino´s Desperados 95, T19-D19

DIVISION 1

C.C. BEES V MIND THE GAP

Back in December l tipped Bees an outside bet for the title and on this form don't ignore the advice. Early days of course, but 5 maximums from Bees and 2 from the current champions indicate a real battle ahead, the leagues 180 award budget blown apart.

Bees were ahead after the 3's, Dave Rowlinson

3x100,180 and D16, Reg Christopher 140, D8, Gap responding with a James Brown 140, 2x100 and a 69 out. ln the pairs Brown followed with a maxi and 46 out partner Gordon Cowan a D16 plus 3x100. Bees Paul Christopher wacked in 2x100, 2x180 and 2 outs in the 2nd pairs for 3-2. Rowlinson finished off the discipline with 2x100, 121 and a 77 out partner Liam Lumb 120, D16 for 4-2. Cowan 180 and a 130 out beat off the Bruce Admiral 140,125, 88 out challenge to take the 1st single, Christopher 2x125 taking the 2nd. Brown needed a 15 darter to see off Simon Bantlemans 2x180 for 5-4.

Rowlinson responded with 3x100,137 and a 70 out against Carlos Escansiano, now 6-4. The remaining 2 matches going the way of Gap via Che Liam 100,125,2x140 and Paul Moody nicking the draw on D16. Fantastic match. POTM - BantlemanCowan.

HUB HYENAS V EL CAPITAN

Hyenas ensured a result in the 1st half by taking 5 of the 6 available legs. Caps struggled to find their usual form, just a lone D8 from Arold Klimonis. Pete Spence 2x140, 3x100 and Yuri Mauric 100,123,140, excelling for Hyenas.

As expected Caps livened up in the 2nd half, sharing the 6 singles, but unable to claw back Hub's 1st half advantage.

Arold K. and Vycka Bobinas reduced Hub's lead to 5-3, Jay Wilkinson, then Mauric getting Hub over the line and 2 points.

Mark Ellis closed the match wanting D8 for a 13 darter, ending up needing a further 8. POTM - EllisBobinas.

TIPSY TOAD TOPPERS V C.C. FLYERS

56 tons or more in this belter, Toppers just reflecting, the overall score with 29 of the total. Paddy Winterbourne 100,D5 and Andy Rutter 135, with a 79 finish just outdoing a Matt Smith D2.

Rutter added 3 more tons and both doubles for a 31 advantage. Suso Madrid 2x100,140 and Andy Flavell reduced the score to 3-2, before Graham Solomans and John Rodford shared 5 tons or more, the latter finding D4, for a 4-2 lead.

Jesus Madrid and Smith levelled the score for Flyers, Suso 3x100,140 just edging out Solomans 2x100,2x140, now 4-5.

Lee Maiden took 2 of the 3 legs against Charles Pritchett for 5 apiece, Hugh Galloway got the better of Chelsea Campbell 2-1, the match poised at 6-5 with one to go.

Who better to have than John Rodford as the last man, just 2 legs required to take both points on D8. POTM - Rutter - Campbell.

DIVISION 2

CK 1 LADS V LEESON ST. TROTTERS

Trotters Amanda Skinner was outstanding in the 1st half, 140,100, 2x80+ but alas the only player to find a double, D10. Lads Kevin Wood, 116,121, Steve M.Dalton 100,140, Les Adams 132,3x80+ and John Crabbe did the necessary damage for a 5-1 lead at the break.

Adams, despite 125,125,135 went down 0-2 to Kane Hickman finding D20 twice. Steve Mullen similarly losing out to Yvonne Rouffignac. M. Dalton found the T20 with ease winning 2-0 and taking his team to at least a draw. John Crabbe had the pleasure of the match winner, overcoming Skinner on D20 for both points. POTM - M. Dalton - A.Skinner.

MILOS V FREAKIE TAVERNERS

This one was all square at half time, the highlight a nice opening pairs from Javi de Gea 125,135 and partner Fabian who closed the 601 on T20,S20,D20 (120). The following pairs going the way of Freakies Bryan Livesy 81,100 and Ernie Willis outing on 79 (S19,S20,D20).

Milos went 5-3 up, courtesy of Samuel Edwards and de Gea both winning 2-0, Livesy reducing the deficit on a 82 out plus a 140. Raul Rocamora blitzed Mitch Halliday 2-0, the 2nd leg 100,140,D10, for 6-4. Noel Kenny made it 6-5 on D4 leaving Mrs reliable Sharon Frain to save the day in a 3 leg decider, winning the 12th leg on D2 for shared points. POTM - de Gea - Frain.

DANNYS BAR V FALLEN ANGELS

Shared honours in the 1st six legs, but cracking

arrows from Dannys Steve Lumb 125,133,95 and Bob Smith 140,100, D14. From the Fallen ones Billy Dolling 2x100 and winning legs via Mike Tierney, Graham White and Joe Cuyt.

Simon Perryman 2x100,140 got the better of Tony Spiers 2x100 in a 3 leg 7th, Lesley Lumb 92,127 taking the score to 5-3, before POTM Dolling added 2 more tons in his 1-2 victory over Jean Randell. Bob Smith wrapped up the match with 125,100 and D8 for a narrow 7-5 result. POTM - RandellDolling.

DIVISION 3 ANGEL DELIGHTS V TIPSY TOAD TIARAS

Delightful Angel, Sue Frew (92, D5) got the Los Dolsians their opener, a wake up call for the Tiaras who proceeded to take the next 4 courtesy of Sue Hodgeson (98, D1), POTM Simone de Lacy (81, 2D2; 20-D10) and Elizabeth Cowan D3.

POTM Henni Oortwijn (83, D1) got things back for the home girls and Sue Frew another good finish 2D2 in her singles to whittle away at the Tiaras lead. Eliz Cowan struck again (92, 92, 81, D16) but Maria Ross (81, D9=) and Henni (80, D19) brought the scoreline to 5 apiece with 2 games to go.

Simone ensured at least a draw (86, 93, D8) and Tracey Simpson (98, D10) who would never be seen dead with a handbag, let alone a Tiara, did the dastardly for a close call win for the El Galanians.

DOMINOS DESP V HUB HELLRAISERS

A good start for Dominos, the match won after the 7th straight leg, Raisers Sue Spiers gaining the visitors sole leg, earning their POTM at the same time. Lesley Dolling their only 3 figure scorer with a ton. Kathy Wallbanks found D2 and both points for Despos, but it was Ray Hayes meriting POTM with 2 outs, one an excellent 95 (T19,D19). Not to be outdone Ash Panchal weighed in with a 140 and a 76 out. Graham Eagles and Steve Harding both with 2 game shots.

PINT DEPOT QUEENS V CK 1 LADYBIRDS

Lorraine Cox again put in a good shift for Queens, plenty of scores and 2 winning legs for POTM, Marie Cummins taking the hosts 3rd leg. Queens registered more top scores than their opponents, but Birds found hitting the vital outs a little easier. Gina Woods found D2 in the 10th leg for both points, but it was Angie Mullen deservedly receiving Birds POTM with 4 winning legs.

POTM Simone & Henni

POTM, Mark &Vycka

SOUTH SOUTH ALIC ALICANTE WINTER ANTE WINTER TRIPLES TRIPLES

QUESADABOWLS CLUB - Steve Hibberd

Skinner, PFarrell, G Skinner 23-17. P Bottle, D Conlon, ALinley 26-5.

WEEK

18 - FIN WEEK 18 - FINAL LE AL LEAAGUE GUE T TAABLES BLES

ENTERPRISE DIVISION ENTERPRISE DIVISION

Vistabella Albatrosses 82 (10)Emerald Isle Titans 66 (2)

La Siesta Apollos 71 (5)Country Bowls Flamingos 94 (7)

San Luis Klingons 88 (6) La Marina Pathfinders 75 (6)

Greenlands Maples 87 (6)Quesada Pearls 85 (6)

P P W W D D L L Dif Dif ff Pts Pts

Vistabella Albatrosses1649229241124

Greenlands Maples *1647231180118

Quesada Pearls 1643136213109

Emerald Isle Titans163953637101

San Miguel Dolphins16381414693

Country Bowls Flamingos 1636539-391

San Luis Klingons * * 16372412285

La Marina Pathfinders *1631346-35167

La Siesta Apollos 1629150-38567

* 2) deducted forfailing to field a full side

** 5) deducted forfailing to field full sides

DISCOVERY DIVISION DISCOVERY DIVISION

La Marina Explorers 96 (10)San Miguel Orcas 80 (2)

La Siesta Pioneers 81 (6)Country Bowls Seahawks 99 (6)

Vistabella Drivers 60 (2)Greenlands Chestnuts 88 (10)

Quesada Diamonds 114 (10)El Rancho Pintos 59 (2) P P W W

La Marina Explorers 164513471113

Quesada Diamonds*1647231125112

Greenlands Chestnuts1643037111106

Emerald Isle Neptunes*164113810299

Country Bowls Seahawks16401395999

Vistabella Drivers *16403375399

San Miguel Orcas*16363411387

La Siesta Pioneers1637043-21182

El Rancho Pintos1624353-32359

* 2) deducted forfailing to field a full side

VOYAGER DIVISION VOYAGER DIVISION

Monte MarMatadors 127 (10)Emerald Isle Moonrakers 61 (2)

Greenlands Beech 63 (6)Quesada Rubies 79 (6)

La Siesta Sputniks 90 (8)San Miguel Stingrays 71 (4)

Vistabella Eagles 86 (7)San Luis Trekkers 86 (5)

P P W W D D L L Dif Dif ff Pts Pts

Quesada Rubies1445322324117

Monte MarMatadors1439526231103

San Luis Trekkers1439130162100

Greenlands Beech *1435134-3885

Vistabella Eagles *1433433-3683

La Siesta Sputnicks1428339-21967

Em Isle Moonrakers #1426539-201 58

San Miguel Stingrays **1423245-22347

* 2) deducted forfailing to field a full side

** 5) deducted forfailing to field a full side on 2 Occasions # 3) deducted forreporting infringements

Emerald Isle Bowls

The Titans began the week at Vistabella Albatross and the home won the game 2-10, Aggregate 66-82, AM Gerrard S

Marks R Marks 18-9

Claymores played at San Miguel Navajos and lost 0-12

Aggregate of 43-119

Outlaws played at San Miguel Commanchos and were beaten 2-10 Aggregate of 61-90 J Forest C Selby C Wren17-15

22/23 HONOURS BOARD

Menís Singles - Drew Gerrard, Ladies Singles Mary Dyer

Menís Pairs - Julian Pering & Russell Marks,

Ladies Pairs - Sabrina Marks & Mary Dyer

Mixed Pairs - Sabrina Marks & Russell Marks

Mixed Trips - AM Gerrard, Drew Gerrard & Colin Lindgren

Mixed Rinks - David Jones, Mike Veale, Noel Davis, Mary Dyer

Luke Burke - Norman Prior

ELWYN MORRIS

The final week of the season proved highly successful for the boys and girls in blue and white. First off, in their Monday South Alicante league match, Pearls secured 3rd place in div 1, by earning a 6-6 draw at Greenlands. Against Maples, these 3 rinks did the biz - G Phillips, M France, Jason P

19-14. TMorgan, C Highland, PMorgan 2520. M Highland, C Dye, M Ward 19-13.

Although Diamonds beat El Rancho Pintos 10-2 at QBC, they were just deprived of the 2nd div championship by 1 point. Well done - K Gordon, D Collings, TVoisey 26-9. G Kershaw, C & K Lowry 30-10. C

Last Wednesday, M Sumner & M Ward beat D Collings & AReid, to win the club non c of c, handicap pairs event.

Finally, on Friday, Swallows were confirmed champions of Southern league div A, when they were victorious over Greenlands Cedars. On a sun soaked day at QBC, these 5 sets of trips recorded a scoreline of 11-1B Trinder, D Conlon, K Lowry 34-8. M & C Highland, PMorgan 16-16. G Carnell, V Campbell, F Roberts 19-12. TMorgan, C Dye, M Ward 17-14. G Phillips, M France, Jason P34-14. Swans had a bye in their div 2 match, but were anxiously awaiting scores from San Miguel, which would determine whether they were div B champions or not. Swifts had an afternoon match, and as I had to shoot off for a flight from Alicante, I was unable to include their scores in this report. So, make sure you pick up a copy of next weeks Leader, when all will be revealed.

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB) By DAVE HADAWAY

Last Friday our Seagulls beat Quesada Swans. Some will say it's daylight robbery, some will say very well done but when you give a team a 10 start and they are leading all the way through to the 17th end and then drop a 3 on the 18th make your own mind up. Whatever you feel Audrey Birch, Norman Ship and Garth Slater get 2 points for a 21-20 win, followed by Lorita & John Rae and Len Daniels wilt a 19-13 win and Reg Jackson, Trevor Hancock and Alan Birch with a 26-15 win. We came away with 6 points each and lost the overall with 80-105.

Monday 6th March and the last game of the season for our Explorers and Pathfinders. Last year our Pathfinders won promotion to the Enterprise Division and to be fair found it difficult. Today they were playing to keep off the bottom and perhaps maintain their right to stay. Today they played St Louis Clingons looking for vital points. They fared very well winning 3 trips and a fighting chance to keep off the bottom. Winners were Hazel Towers, Trevor Stemp & Irene Magnam 19-12, Lorita and John Rae with Christine Bould 14-12, and Roger Stacey, Dave McGaw

El Rancho Bowls

On Monday the Pintos played their last match of the season at Quesada, against the Diamonds. We played some good bowls, but only came away with just one rink. Ann Abbott, Dave Haynes and Bob Day 9-26. Lesley Day, Sheila Cox and Marion Haynes 18-9. Dave Baker, Judy Foley and Ron Greenstreet 5-26. Ria Dukker, Malc Sykes and Diane Yates 17-23. Tony Abbott, Sheila Millward and Jim Eastwood 10-30. Wednesday found our rinks team playing host to BBB and had an enjoyable match despite losing the three rinks by varying degrees. Sheila Millward, Dave Haynes, Marion Haynes and Jim Eastwood 14-17. Bill Johnston, Frances Johnston, Judy Foley and Keith Longshaw (replaced by Ria Dukker) 10-22. Sheila Cox, Pam Harris, Brian Harris and Mike Cox 10-30.

On Friday the Mustangs were at La Siesta playing the Blues, a very strong wind was bringing dust of the very large building site, next door. Play was difficult, hence the large heads, but the wind became less strong for the last half giving one the impression of being in control of the bowls. But as always there was a jovial spirit along with a little disappointment, in coming away without a point, although two rinks werenít far away. Frances Johnston, Ron Greenstreet and Adrian Ham 1822. Lesley Day, Dave Haynes and Marion Haynes 17-25. Sheila Millward, Kev Henry and Jim Eastwood 14-22. Ann Abbott, Tony Abbott and Malc Sykes 4-27. Bill Johnston, Judy Foley and Bob Day 11-21.

Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho, for further membership information contact Sheila Cox at: micksheilacox@gmail.com.

and John Morgan 19-18.

Our Explorers have been in the top 2 for most of the season, and a good win today will be necessary to gain that top spot, they were at home to the San Miguel Orcas and gained a magnificent win of 10-2 points our winners read Kath Manning, Marilyn Fryatt & Peter Parsons, 21-15, Anne Stone, Carol Smith and Tom Spencer 21-17, Margaret MacLaughlin, Mick Smith & Mike Stone 22-11, Barbara Forshaw, Jim Reeves & Alex Whyte 19-12 plus 2 points for the overall shots of 96-80.

When the results became known they were what we hoped for our Explorers win the league by just 1 pt, but what a point and hopefully promotion. The Pathfinders are off the bottom, same points as La Siesta Apollos but a better shot difference. Friday 10th the Seagulls were at home to Vistabella Picadors and ended the season with a resounding win, Lorita & John Rae with Irene Mangan 19-11, Dave & Lesley Joynes with Len Daniels 1913, Trevor Stemp, Dave McGaw and John Morgan 21-16, Hazel Towers, Norman Ship & Garth Slater 21-13 Shots 89-76.

LA SIESTA BOWLS (Members Run Club)

Division (B) - The Golds travelled to San Miguel and were hosted by the Navajos, where we managed to win really well on one rink by; Tracey Paffett, Pauline & Lyndon Johnson (29-9) to collect 2 points but were unable to leave with anymore. Result 2-10 (70-91).

Division (C) - An away game for the Silvers, Vistabella was the venue playing the Conquistadors, which resulted in good wins on two of our rinks but lost on the others. The game ended 4-8 (Shots 80-98) with the winning teams being; Lesley & Wayne Howlett with David Whitworth (26-13). June Whitworth, Oyvind Lund & Peter Ayres (219).

Enterprise Division - The Apollos welcomed Country Bowls Flamingoís to La Siesta, some of the rinks went very close which resulted in a draw on one rink by Skip Harold Charletonís team and wins on two others to end 5-7 (Shots 71-94). Winning rinks from; Joy & Brian Gardiner with Jean Cooper (18-14). Joan Inns, Ann & Jim Taylor (14-11).

Discovery Division - It was an afternoon home game for the Pioneers playing Country Bowls Seahawks, which ended in a well-deserved draw by winning on three rinks but losing out on the overall (Shots 81-99) for the game to finish 6-6. Rinks won by; Mags Haines, Derek Barker & John Skipper (29-14). Judy Carroll, Irene Laverick & Alan Mawer (17-12). Ann & Robert Heath with David laverick (16-15).

Interested in joining La Siesta members run bowls club there is always plenty of social activities, which include Tenpin bowling & Minigolf evenings followed by a meal, George¥s Chicken and Egg every Wednesday 1.30 for 2pm, and 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

Above - Mel Ward &Michael Sumner. Right - Southern League Champions The Swallows

Vistabella Bowls Club

Week ending 11th March, Brian Zelin

Saturday 4th March, we held our 2nd weekend of Finals, Men's Pairs Champions, Freddie Willey & Gary Thorpe, Ladies Champions, Lynne Bishop & Maggie Furness.

Sunday 5th March, Mixed Trips Champions, Mo Foulcer, Maggie Furness, Martin Foulcer.

Monday 6th March, Albatrosses Division A, were at Home to Emerald Isle Titans, Winning on 4 Rinks plus Shots. WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS, Well done to the Albatrosses in Winning the Division for the 2nd year running.

Sue Kemp, Barbara Brown, Brian Zelin 19-14, Mo Foulcer, Maggie Furness, Eric Bishop 1814, Martin Foulcer, Stuart Allman, Brian Dunn 18-9, Geraldine Fisher, Arthur Brown, Gordon Fisher 18-11, Shots 82-66. Points 10-2.

Vistabella Drivers Division B, were at Home to Greenlands Chestnuts, Winning on only 1 Rink, Hillary James, Jeff Neve, Alan Bannister 14-11, Shots 60-88. Points 2-10.

Wednesday 8th March, Vistabella in the final Winter League Match were Away at Javea,

Winning on 2 Rinks Plus the Shots, This result means Vistabella finish Second in the Winter League, Sue Kemp, Alan Bannister, Arthur Brown, Brian Zelin 20-16, Freddie Willey, Geraldine Fisher, Alice Howe, Gordon Fisher 22-11, Shots 57-46. Points 6-2.

Friday 10th March, Vistabella Lanzadores Division A, were at Home to San Luis Lions, Winning on 4 Rinks plus the Shots, Martin Foulcer, Stuart Allman, Brian Dunn 22-14, Richard Lee, Maggie Furness, Eric Bishop 1715, Geraldine Fisher, Barbara Brown, Gordon Fisher 18-13, Lynne Bishop, Arthur Brown, Gary Thorpe 22-17, Shots 88-79. Points 10-2. Vistabella Picadors Division B, Were Away to La Marina Seagulls, Winning on just 1 Rink, Ron Smith, John Goddard, Alice Howe 23-9, Shots 76-89. Points 2-10.

Vistabella Conquistadors Division C, Were Away to Greenlands Elms, Winning on 4 Rinks plus the Shots, Julia Clarke, Peter Westwood, Sheila Westwood 29-6, Rosemarie Savage, Ken Savage, Keith Black 23-7, Peter Cadwell, John Ridley, Paul Durham 16-13, Sandra Templeton, Alan Gordon, Freddie Willey 18-15, Shots 100-70. Points 10-2.

It’s the last week of the LLB winter leagues and pride of place go to our Panthers team winning Division 3 of the Friday Southern League in style, going to the seconded place team San Luis Tigers and winning 8 to 4. Winning rinks were Dave Belton, Jim Rennie, Kevin Store 22 to 8, Val Lever, Allan Lever, Steve Wailes 20 to 9, Liz Mildon, Nick Mildon, Dean Webb 20 to 12, overall 92 to 65.

Meanwhile at a very windy Country Bowls, the Geckos entertained San Miguel Bulldogs and finished off the season with a fine win 10 points to 2, shots 88 to 53. Winning rinks were Barry Evans, Clive Hoyal, Graham Richardson 15 to 9, Sheila Whitehall, John Jukes. Ray Robson 19 to 11, Alison Robson, Linda Ponsford, Gary Ponsford 28 to 9, Del Gunning,

Derek Lewis, Peter Whitehall 13 to 9.

On Monday both teams travelled to La Siesta, Flamingos had the early game and recorded a good win in their last game, 7 points to 5, shots 94 to 71. Winning rinks were Sheena Mallet. Alan Miller, John Mallet 30 to 11, Clive Hoyal, Trish Dix, George Burrage 22 to 11

In the afternoon the Seahawks battled hard and managed a creditable draw 6 points each, shots 85 to 79, winning rinks were Sue Hudson, Del Gunning, Peter Whitehall 30 to 14, Ben Noke, Dave Belton, Ray Robson 21 to 13.

A good winter season for the club, 2 team were promoted last season, finishing midtable and Panthers win League, a great performance overall.

Country Bowls Club with Peter Dix Panthers win Southern League Division 3

Albatrosses - Division A Champions

LEAGUE FORMATWEEK 10

Friendly Chicas9 - 13Tipsy Tigers

Dolly Mixtures7 - 14Ladybirds

Primadonnas10 - 12Gap Girlz

Wackey Allsorts9 - 14Friendly Temps

LEAGUE TABLE PPts

Gap Girlz10147

Ladybirds10131

Tipsy Tigers10116

Primadonnas10113

Friendly Temps10103

Friendly Chicas10102

Dolly Mixtures1090

Wackey Allsorts1079

In this week¥s featured match, Gap Girlz got a run for their money when they travelled away to face the San Miguel¥s Primadonnas. Atotal of 13 ton or ton pluses were hit, including a 3rd

San Luis Bowls

South Alicante League, Enterprise Div. (A); on Monday 6th the Klingons were home to La Marina Pathfinders. It was a close fought game right to the end; with the Klingons taking the shots 88-75, and sharing the points 6-6. Winners: Kath Reid, Caroline Smyth, Ian Kenyon 26-12, Giuseppe Galelli, June Jones, John Smyth 20-11.

Voyager Div. (C) Trekkers had already finished their league matches. Southern League (Div A) on Friday 10th, a very windy morning, the Lions were away at Vistabella v the

Greenlands Bowls

The final week of the season follows.

180 for Gap¥s Bliss Wright. The Primadonnas managed to get 10 legs from the league toppers, the closest score line yet. At Via Park III, local the derby of Macklin¥s Dolly Mixtures verses CK1 Ladybirds saw the birds get away with 14 legs, despite 3 new signings for the dwindling Dollies. The Tipsy Tigers clawed their way back to 3rd place with a reasonable win against the Friendly Chicas but bar-mates Friendly Temps slide into 5th place above their compatriots with a 14 ñ 9 rout at Wackey Allsorts latest venue, Jessie¥s bar.

HOTDARTS: Bliss Wright (GG) 180, Monique Edelenbos (FT) 177, 124, Tracey Simpson (TT) 140, Lynn Young (LB) 136, Donna Ralph (LB) 135, 117, Sharon Frain (PD) 130, 122, Diane Dane (PD) 125, 100 x2, Amanda Skinner (GG)) 125, 100, Lesley Justice (DM) 125, Gail Murray (GG) 121, 117,

Lanzadores. Unfortunately, although the shots were close; 79-88, it turned out to be a very tough day at the office, just taking 2 points-10.

Winning team: Neil & Sandra Burrows & Scott Malden 20-9.

(Div C) the Tigers also had a close battle at home with Country Bowls Panthers on a very blustery morning, with the wind changing direction & speed almost every end to make fools of us all. Shots were 65-92, points 4-

8. Winners: Jane Hamill, Cas Blay, Stewart Hamill 19-14, Kevin McKenna, Sheila Cammack & Vic (the magician) Mahomet 17-16. We finished our Club Championships this week. The Ladiesí& Menís

Monday The Maples entertained a strong Quesada team and in a close well fought battle the result was a 6-6 draw, shots 87 - 85 to Greenlands. Best rink J.Jukes, J.Taylor and P.Bonsonr

Next up the Chestnuts took on Vistabella, winning 10 - 2 and 88 - 60. Best rink

B.Tomli;,B.Ewart and T.Hodges.

On Wednesday the Warriors were away to San Miguel in the Winter League and although they put up a hard fight, they succumbed to a 2 -6 and 39- 69 loss. Best rink

D.Donovan,V.Duchart,P.Houghton and J.Hier.

Friday saw the Oaks entertain La Marina and put in a great performance winning by 12-0 and 113-66, a great finish to the season. Best rink D.Donovan,D.Toozer and P.Bonsor.

The Cedars visited Quesada and had a bad day resulting in a 1-11 and 64-120. Our drawn rink was J.Kocsis,B.Ewart and T.Hodges..

Last but not least The Elms entertained a strong Vistabella side and there was no lack of effort on their part, but it was not enough and the result was 2-10 to Vistabella, 70-100. Best rink R.Hudson,C.Tepleton and R.Farrington.

If you enjoy a mix of competitive and fun bowling in a friendly environment at a wonderful venue, why not give one of us a call? Also coaching available either groups or individual, by fully qualified coaches. Equipment available.

Pete Bonsor (Captain) 711 02 08 46 - Keith Stobbart (President) 693 06 53 55 - Chris Dewar, Match Secretary 698418987

Joes roll up every Saturday morning 10 for 10.30, entry fee 1 euro. fantastic prizes, nonmembers welcome, green fee 6 euros. This is a great social event each week, food and drink available after. Just turn up before 10.00am.

There is also an adventure golf course available for the Husband or wife and children whilst the partners are playing bowls just book at the bar.

BY CHRIS DEWAR.

Lesley Eagles (TT) 116, 100, Selma Dyer (DM) 115, Elizabeth Cowan (TT) 114, Sheelah Cooper (PD) 111, Sue Wade (FT) 110, Barbara Bryce (DM) 109, Chris Greenwood (WA) 105, Carol Hurley (PD) 102, Kirsty Green (LB) 101,

Diane Burns (DM) 100 x3, Ellie Attwood (FT) 100 x2, Chelsea Campbell (GG) 100, Angie Mullen (LB) 100.

HIGH CHECKOUT: Sharon Frain (PD) 89 (T19-16-D8)) 100

Singles Finals were played on Wednesday (8th) between Kath Reid and Sheila Cammack and by Ian Kenyon and Neil Morrison (the current champion). Both games were very competitive with both matches lasting more than 23 ends.

The Menís final was very close all the way through with Ian starting well but Neil winning 5 consecutive ends to lead 13-12 after 13 ends and 17-12 after 17 ends. Ian bowled some very good draw woods to finally win the match 21-20 picking a three up on the 24th end.

The Ladiesísingles was equally competitive with Kath winning 8 ends on the trot to reach 14-4 after 11 ends.

San Miguel Bowls -

Barry Jones

On Monday San Miguel Orcas were away to La Marin Explorers losing 2 - 10, 80-96. The winning triple were Bob Hanton, Pete Masters and Frank Scotthern 25-13.

On Wednesday San Miguel were home to Greenland Warriors in the final game of the Winter League, winning 6 - 2, 69-39. The best winning rink were Margaret Patterson, Raymond Farmer, Hank Van Essen and Gail Willshire 32-11.

On Friday all three teams were in action for the final game of the season, San Miguel Comanches were home to Emerald Isle Outlaws winning 10 - 2, 90-61. The best winning triple were Pat Staden, Gunnie Sigurdard and Alan Harris 20 - 6.

San Miguel Apaches were away to County Bowls Geckos, losing 2 - 10, 53-88. Best winning triple were Pat McEwan, Gail Willshire and Fred Willshire 15 - 13. Due to the severe windy conditions this game was not completed

On Friday afternoon San Miguel Navajos were

Sheila fought back to 11-19 but unfortunately couldnít pull back this deficit and Kath picked up the two she needed to run out the eventual winner.

Avery supportive crowd, bathing in lovely sunshine, enjoyed both matches. Thanks to Sandra & Neil for marking and Keith for organising all the competitions so efficiently. Report: KVJ & SAC.

To find out more about San Luis BC, come along to Oasis San Luis & talk to members; weíre a friendly bunch and thereís the possibility of finding a new interest and making new friends!

Sheila Cammack

home to Emerald Isle Claymores, where they had a resounding 12 - 0 win, 111-43. Their winning triple were Meg Brownlee, Tom Dalgleish and Eddie Cowan 26 - 5. This result made the Navajos Southern League, Division B Champions, Well done to Bob Donnelly and his team.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pm - 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow. Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting at 1.45pm, by appointment ONLY. To book, please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508. We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique club we only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES.

For further information on San Miguel B.C please contact club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905 or club president Alan Campbell on 606 676 118

Bliss Wright hits her 3rd 180

Sharon Frain check-out on 89

Gap Girlz

Primadonnas

Dream CF A4-3 UDF Sax; CF Rafal 0-3 CF Sporting de San Fulgencio.

Valencia 2nd Regional Group 16: Santa Pola CF B 5-0 CF Sporting Popular Orihuela; Athletico Benejuzar A3-4 CD Horadada Thair A; CF United Elche A2-2 Bigastro CF. *Sunday's results round-up will be online at www.theleader.info

CF Sporting de San Fulgencio

San Fulgencio on tails of Pinoso and Torry in title race

CF Sporting de San Fulgencio (48 points) remain on the tails of leaders Pinoso CF A, 51 points, and SC Torrevieja 50 points, following a 3-0 away win at CF Rafal on Saturday.

CD Cox sit in 10th place with 26 points, after defeating lowly Racing San Miguel CF 2-0. Elche Dream Team CF Aand UDF Sax had a seven goals thriller, with Elche winning 4-3.

In the 2nd Regional Group 16, Santa Pola CF B shocked CF Sporting Orihuela Deportivo with a 5-0 thrashing. CD Horadada Thair 13th (18 points) bagged three points in a seven goals encounter at Benejuzar (14th) who have 18 points. Guardamar Soccer CD top the table on 56 points, ahead of Callosa Deportivo CF B (49), ahead of Sunday's fixtures.

Results. Valencia 1st Regional Group 8: CD Cox 2-0 Racing San Miguel; Elche

Carp-R-Us Spring Series

Round one of the Carp-R-Us Spring Series was fished on the Eden 3 stretch of the Rio Segura (upstream of the CV91 road bridge). Several members of the club had fished the stretch over the weekend and caught well and, with the weather predicted to be warm, a good days fishing was hoped for. However, neither the weather or the fishing turned out to be what was expected. Most of the day was overcast with a stiff breeze and the fish just didn’t seem to be interested in feeding. The winner of the match, it´s good to see he´s finally remembered how to catch fish, was Roy Dainty who had 4.94kg on pole and bread. Second, and continuing his good run, was John-Pierre van de Cruysson who managed 2.50kg on his ´winkle-picker´ and maggot. Third with a single carp of 2.12kg caught on feeder and bread was Graham Booth and fourth, again with a single fish was Jeremy Fardoe with 1.68kg.

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

La Marina Golf Society

This week’s game was at the El Plantio Golf Course,unfortunately the course was not up to its usual high standard.Nevertheless,32 members of the La Marina Golf Society did their best to compete for the Helena & Paolo trophy.Whilst the weather was a little blustery at times,the sun did eventually make an appearance and made for a great day’s golfing.

Helena and Paolo are the proprietors of the Sports Complex and were also the day’s sponsors,and our after game refreshments were very much appreciated.

The winner of today’s event was Danny Divers with 42 points,in second place on count back with 41 points was Alan Janes,in third place was Jeff Wiszniewski also with 41 points.

Our nearest the pin winners were Kicki Modin for hole 7,Goran Egerstad for hole 9 and Gerry McCabe for hole 18.

The twos pot was shared between Goran Egerstad and Jimmy Scott. Well done to all of today’s winners.

Sunny Corner Golf Society

Good days golf at New Sierra. It was back to Tshirt weather ??

The winners were: Alan Picket & Tommy Rhedin blind pairs, Sue Ford added par 3s, Dessie Shirley longest drive, George Gun highest score of day Well done everyone.

FANCY A FUN NEW ACTIVITY?

Come and try Petanca at a great new venue with new friends.

Peacocks Petanca Club would love to see you for a fun game of Petanca at Westvilles Country Club.

No experience or equipment required,just come along and we'll help you all the way.

We meet at 10.30 on Monday mornings with food and drink available.

Peacocks have 3 teams entered for both the forthcoming summer Wednesday Sunshine, and Friday Las Salinas leagues.

For more information,please visit WESTVILLES on Facebook or

www.westvilles.com or phone 966785651/666654202.

Westvilles are situated behind Guardamar park camping.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU.

SMILING JACK'S GOLF SOCIETY. El presidente

We had a great day at the beautiful Altaona golf village, this well turned out course with its thinking holes was in fantastic condition.

A big thank you to all at Altaona for making us feel so welcome and looking after our every need.

A big thank you also to Al and Lisa for looking after us this afternoon.

A special thank you to Julie who spent the day getting our lovely feast ready for our return.

Now to the scores: NTP on 3 was Jackie, NTP on 11 was Amelie, NTP in two on 13 was Slacky.

QUIZ FROM PAGE 14:

1.A living person.2.Nail biting.3.French Poodle.4.'Q' (Bond films).5.They are all examples of necktie knots.6.Coffee.7.An 'orange stick'.8.Sir Anthony Hopkins.In Nixon and Amistad.9.Mandarin – 2.7% (685,268), Arabic – 1.4% (367,154), Vietnamese – 1.3% (320,760), Cantonese – 1.2% (295,292).10. The Fortune Cookie.11.The Windmills of your Mind.12.Genghis Khan.13.428.14.Africa. (off the coast of Namibia).15.Ken Kesey.16. Raising the flag on Iwo Jima.17.Dolphin. From delphy's "womb".18.Found twice in the New Testament, the Greek adverb “deinos” means “vehemently,”“dreadfully,”“excessively.” 19.Pablo Picasso's Blue Period was followed by his Rose Period as his bout with depression gradually ended.20.Doughnut (Donut)

In 2nd place with a great score of 37 points was Steve Hunt, well done but no cigar.

After less than two years of playing golf we have a new winner. With a fantastic 38 points our champion is our very own Cheryl Isaac, fantastic achievement Cheryl well done. The famous Blue Johnny was won by Morten who was playing with an injury but the prize is still yours. With a special donation from the boss, Ger, we have the raffle for a free round of golf. The winner was Philly. Our next event will be again at Altaona on Thursday 6th April.

SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

SUDUK