The Leader Newspaper 27 May 2024 – Edition 1025

Despite multiple requests, the urbanisation of Montezenia has still not been adopted by the Council and, fed up with the lack of support and maintenance, the residents have now decided to close the Av de la Luz, the through road between Torre Zenia and La Zenia, to all traffic other than urbanisation residents.

Montezenia will now join Las Colinas, becoming the second Orihuela Costa urbanisation with restricted access controlled by a private security company. The streets were never formally adopted by the Orihuela Council, an issue that has long rankled with the residents of this residential area in the interior of the Oriolano coast.

They have been expressing a recurring lack of maintenance on the roads, with cracks and large potholes in the road surface that are not repaired except at the expense of the residents themselves. The streets, in general, do not even have pavements, which represents an added risk. In fact, they say, traffic accidents occur on a regular basis.

After several attempts to get the Council to assume responsibility and take effective possession of the streets, finally the inhabitants, through their property manager, have decided to take responsibility and begin to assume the maintenance costs of the roads themselves. Thus, the paradox arises that, although these people pay their taxes to the municipality, they will only receive the waste/ garbage service, as they will provide the rest of the urbanisation upkeep at their own cost.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE

MONTEZENIA CLOSE THROUGH ROAD

For the Council to take charge of the maintenance of the roads, as already happened in the case of the Montepinar urbanisation, there would have to be a major investment, for example, in water channelling, as there are some roads that lack sewerage and even lighting.

CLOSED WITH A METAL GATE

The first step towards this 'independence' was taken this week which the Cabo Roig and Lomas Neighbourhood Association has announced on their social networks. The workers, as can be seen in the images, are erecting a gate on Avenida de la Luz, at its intersection with Calle Orihuela.

The council has accepted that the residents are

entitled to carry out this work, since, they understand, the streets are currently "private property."

Avenida de la Luz is the main road through the urbanisation that structures the entire residential area filled with single storey chalets with swimming pools. Future access to residents will by through an electrically operated gate via a remote control. At the moment, there are already signs prohibiting entry, to all except residents, but it is clear that this has never had the anticipated deterrent effect with the vast majority of drivers using it as a shortcut between Lomas de Cabo Roig and La Zenia.

The closure of Avenida de la Luz will now mean, according to the Cabo Roig Neighbourhood Association, a problem for those hundreds of residents of the surrounding urbanizations who use this road to travel by car from La Zenia and Playa Flamenca to Lomas de Cabo Roig or Lomas or Don Juan as everyone who wants to travel to these

places will be forced to make much

or

SEX MAD MURCIA

The Region of Murcia is second,along with the Balearic Islands,only surpassed by Galicia,as the community that uses sex toys the most when having relationships.

According to the results of the survey 'Spanish people and sex' by the company Control,eight out of 10 Murcians claim to use sex toys on a regular basis.Furthermore,15% admit to masturbating every day,a figure well above the national average (8%) and only behind that of Asturias (20%).

Sex toys have become another tool in maintaining relationships for eight out of ten Murcians.Some use them because they feel that they complete or improve sex,others to experiment with something different (36%) and a third claim that they increase the level of arousal and intensify pleasure.The favourite items among people who use them are lubricants (70%),massage gels (52%) and flavoured products (36%).

Masturbation and sexual relations tie with a seven on the importance scale for the majority of Murcians,according to this report.15% confess to doing it daily,placing it seven points above the average for Spain and only falling behind 20% in Asturias.Furthermore,the figure rises to 25% if the frequency is reduced from two to three days per week.

The condom continues to be the main barrier method among Murcians when practicing penetrative sex,since almost half (44%) always or almost always use it.The main reason is to avoid an unwanted pregnancy (63%).

According to the data,72% of Murcians maintain a stable relationship and seven out of ten state that it is essential to have a certain degree of trust when having sex with another person.This perhaps makes it clear that eight out of ten argue against using a condom because they trust in the state of their partner's intimate health.

This is a statement that directly clashes with the responses of those surveyed on the topic of STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection).21% do not know the other person's sexual health status before having sex and 28% have never seen a doctor for a check-up.

Finally,the Internet has become the main source of information on sexual topics for Murcians (53%).Only 11% acknowledge having resorted to audiovisual and pornographic content as a source of information.However,the Region of Murcia is the Spanish autonomous community that consumes the most porn,with 97% confessing to having watched it at some time for recreation or recreational purposes.

ëWILTED POPPIESí

By David Whitney c2024

The place was once a paradise

Of lush green trees and flowers

Now charred by recent bombings

And destroyed by bullet showers

Now the only sign of life

Amongst the smoking garden waste

Is a statue of an Angel

With a crack across her face

A symbol of a place of peace

Where people came to think

To meditate and ponder

With a picnic or a drink

A place where scented rosebuds

Filled the air with their perfume

A place where woodland flowers

Now shrink back within the gloom

Some still come to witness

Where their homes once proudly stood

Some scratching words of sorrow

On remaining slats of wood

Others just sit down and weep

Remembering the past

Recalling days of happiness

They thought would always last

The place where they grew up in

Where they once felt so secure

So safe and so contented

Breathing air so clean and pure

Now swirling smoke contaminates

Where once the children played

And a wreath of wilted poppies

Wither where they have been laid

longer detours through either Cabo Roig

Los Dolses. A notice warning of the closure is also displayed in La Zenia

LUCKY ESCAPE FOR COUPLE ON SAME BRIDGE WHERE ALMORADI TRUCK DRIVER LOST HIS LIFE

It seems that one of the five young people arrested for the murder of the Almoradí truck driver in Belgium, who are accused of throwing a manhole cover from a bridge, smashing through the windscreen of the truck, and causing the death of driver Gheorghe Tibil, had previously fired a compressed air gun at a parked tourist. This was shown by a video circulating on social networks and published by the Belgian media company Sudinfo.

According to the media company, L.M. was also the person who threw the sewer lid from the bridge above the E42, killing the truck driver, who minutes earlier had relieved his fiancée, also a driver, and who managed to stop the vehicle after the tragedy.

Currently, three 18-year-olds are being held in prison while L.M., 17, is being held in a youth detention centre in SaintHubert. The second minor from amongst the five detainees was allowed to return to his home, although he is subject to a family maintenance order.

B.V.'s mother, one of the three 18-year-olds who are locked up, says her son "is not a criminal." "He was in the wrong place, at the wrong time, with the wrong people," adding that "he didn't throw that lid."

According to information from an alleged judicial leak, L.M. reportedly challenged his friends to throw the sewer lid together from the bridge, although the minor now denies it.

The rural municipality of Andenne, where the teenagers live, is distressed. "These guys didn't pose a danger to anyone before," Donovan, a boy who says he knows all five well, told local media.

However, others say they have not been greatly surprised by their arrest: "Honest? This doesn't surprise us. Other village boys, colleagues of the arrested, don't paint the reputation of the five very well.

Another local girl doesn't draw a flattering image of the group's "leader." "He has already made some serious mistakes," she said, adding that "he is unbearable and also usually uses drugs."

On the night of the tragedy the five had been consuming nitrous oxide, known as the "laughing gas."

Two other youngsters have since been arrested, a minor boy and an 18-year-old girl, who were arrested last Thursday following another incident. Both allegedly participated in events similar to those that killed the Almoradí driver.

According to Het Laatste Nieuws, another trucker had also been the victim of a drainage deck thrown from the same E42

bridge, two days before the fatal accident of Gheorghe Tibil, although in his case there was only material damage to his vehicle. The prosecution quickly established a link between these two cases.

As part of the investigation into Tibil's death, Judge Marc Depasse, ruled that the three main suspects will remain in pretrial detention for another month.

After initially being described as a murder, the events were reclassified as malicious obstruction of transit with the circumstance that it caused one death, a similar charge to manslaughter.

On Wednesday, May 22, Fabio Marasti and Laetitia Joiris were lucky to escape injury. Their vehicle was hit by a rock while travelling on the E42 motorway, between Dison and Verviers, the same road on which Gheorghe Tibil lost his life.

"Be careful if you pass under the highway bridge between Dison and Rechain, towards Verviers," Fabio posted on her social media. "We wanted to raise people's awareness. They don't realize it. It's a game for them but it can cost others their lives," warns Laetitia Joiris, who was in the passenger seat at the time of the impact.

"We heard a huge boom, we didn’t know what it was," says Laetitia Joiris. "Pieces of glass fell on our heads and then we saw the hole in the sunroof. We didn't see anyone, we didn't have time to look. Everything happened so quickly. People told us they'd seen a number of young people running away."

The couple wants to raise awareness of the seriousness of the action. They say that they were the lucky ones. "A few seconds earlier, the stone could have hit the windscreen with far more serious consequences."

Meanwhile, the widow of Almoradí's trucker who was killed by the vandals in Belgium said, "I will be traumatized for the rest of my life."

Mestre promises no more band-aids

Following a meeting of residents held on Friday evening to explain the new Orihuela Costa Budget, Manuel Mestre left knowing that he still has a lot to prove.

Residents have already seen many councillors pass through the Playa Flamenca Town Hall and, after years of unfulfilled promises the distrust was clear to see that promised investments and improvements to many basic problems, such as the lack of maintenance of roads and gardens and, most especially, the poor garbage and refuse collection service, are still a long way from being met.

The neighbourhood meeting took place just a few hours after the plenary session gave its final approval to the new budgets, the first in six years. Mestre said that he wanted to instil the idea in to his audience that the new accounts will be the touchstone on which to undo, one by one, all the grievances of which the coastal residents feel they have been victims for many years.

He explained that the successive budget extensions overseen

by the previous PP-Cs and PSOE-Cs councils have generated a series of problems, such as many services without a contract, the absence of investments and an inefficient internal structure. He also spoke of many contracts expiring without remedy, causing delays in payments, late payment interest and underwhelming services.

Faced with the neighbourhood feeling that the PP-Vox government team has done nothing since arriving in power over 12 months ago, Mestre tried to make the residents see that the executive, although it has not concluded many files, has managed to keep many of them in operation. He also spoke about the foundations they are laying to try to improve both garden maintenance and the garbage collection service.

Regarding the parks and gardens, he boasted of unblocking a tender undertaken by the previous municipal government, defending the decision to throw out the public tender and municipalise the service through the municipal company Ildo, which already carries our similar work in the districts. He said that at this time, the government is working to strengthen this municipal company with more machinery and personnel. New job offers have already been advertised, in parallel, with the approved budgets, they are currently buying more machinery.

Despite the previous lack of a meaningful budget Mestre went on to highlight achievements that have so far been made including his daily presence in Orihuela Costa.

He said that, If Ildo's entry is expected at the end of this summer, Surpal's arrival still seems distant. Mestre explained that the company has been reactivated and has updated its accounts after many years of inactivity, but it is still a few months away from being fully operational.

On the subject of investments, the councillor said that he recognised that they will not be immediate. Although the new budgets will come into force this coming week, and despite

the endemic bureaucratic slowness of the Council, he hopes to accelerate several deadlines this summer.

The first thing will be to put out to tender the subscription of a banking operation, a loan or "line of credit" worth more than 40 million euros with which it is planned to finance all investments charged to the budgets. Thus, it is not expected that, at least until September, investments will be put out to tender. Meanwhile, Mestre assured, progress is being made with permits and the drafting of the different projects.

Of all these investments, the Councilor of the Coast focused on four: the pedestrian extension of the bridge over the AP-7 in Lomas de Cabo Roig, the new civic centre and auditorium, the refurbishment of the football field in La Ciñuelica to host federated matches and the reopening and redevelopment of the promenade to be expropriated between Cabo Roig and Aguamarina, That he hopes will be open by the summer of 2025

Mestre also highlighted the new drinking water tank for Orihuela Costa as being one of the most notable investments.

STUDIO32 DONATE TO ALZHEIMERS ASSN IN SAN FULGENCIO

To all those involved with the Pajama Game: cast, crew, helpers, all the ticket outlets and audiences, Thank You! S32 were able to give a donation to the Alzheimers Association San Fulgencio on the 21st of May.

Accepting the cheque for 1,000 from Lonee Hopwood and Linda Daniel was Beatriz Fernandez Barraquel the President of the Association of Families of Alzheimer patients. The cheque was received with thanks. Also in the photo is Mayor Jose Maria Ballester, Paulino Herrero and Councillor for Social Services Beatriz Sanchez Hidalgo.

S32 are getting prepared for the winter show, A Broadway Christmas and invite you to join them for an open day on Thursday 25th June at Casa Contenta, Rojales from 7pm. All past, present and new members are welcome. For the winter show S32 are looking for a Musical Director to work with the cast during rehearsals. If you want to find out more about the role, why not come along on the 25th June or send an email to lindad413@gmail.com

Resignation of PIOC Vice President

Peter Houghton

Statement by Peter Houghton Former Vice President of PIOC

Following what was a chaotic day Thursday 23rd May, I thought that I should not resign from the party, but speaking to my wife and son it now seems to be the best option, WHY? The simple fact is that PIOC has gone from a democratic party to a dictatorship because of the actions of the President.

He said, and I quote “Neither the vice president nor the secretary general may overrule the president” then without consulting the committee, the extended committee and membership, he went and deleted me from the PIOC group chat and from the executive group chat, even though I was legitimately elected as vice president at the AGM.

He also did the same thing to my wife while we are out of the country. That is not democracy in action.

The friction between the President and my self-started at the beginning of 2022 when I was begging him to start the paperwork to become a legal party, but I was constantly dismissed.

He finally started very late in the year but knowing how Spanish bureaucracy works he should have realised that it would take much longer than envisaged

and as such, when we did become legal towards the end of September 2022, it left us very little time to gain memberships. We were close to a disaster. When the time came to put our candidate list together, because we were very short of members we had to ask family, friends, friends of families even those who lived way up in the north of Spain to be our candidates. When that was sorted, Norah Bond asked for a working group to help with the elections, but the President turned it down. I asked for representatives from the party to be at the polling stations on the day of the elections. He turned that down also and we were visibly missed.

What turned out to be a success for us in the elections as due the hard work and effort by myself and Priscilla, being out there every day, holding clinics, meetings etc. We delivered just under 1,400 votes, just short of a councillor.

The problems between Roman and I really started shortly after the elections. He spoke to me privately, he then started to take screen prints of issues and published them on our executive chat, my grammar, spelling etc, which I saw as an effort to undermine me. I didn’t know what his problem was. Could it be that we did far better in the elections than he really expected, did he feel threatened, jealous. I wish I knew! Then came the elections for the district boards. Yet again, because of the hard work by Cilla and myself, 5 candidates, all members of PIOC, were elected on to the boards.

The deletion of messages and of members who have an opinion, which may not be in line with his own, is an act of a dictator.

Once you silence any opposition you can distort the truth to suit your own agenda. Instead of debating the issues, the person who is on the losing side of the argument shuts down the opposition.

HOW IS LIFE FOR YOU IN TORREVIEJA?

Leader

of the PSOE in Torrevieja, Barbara Soler.

Torrevieja has had a bit of bad press in the UK recently, and although there are problems, the comments in the mainstream media were a little unfair, but we thought we would ask you.

What do you think about Torrevieja? What do you like? What do you not like? And what would you say to those who could actually

change things for the better?

Although you can say anything, the last question is particularly important, because as a result of the media interest, The Leader has been speaking with Barbara Soler, the head of the PSOE in Torrevieja, and currently opposition councillor, and she would like to know.

Moreover, if your question warrants it, she

would like to raise your concerns with the local government, and not only get answers, but also work towards finding solutions to any real problems that do exist.

So, it’s over to you. Send your questions, comments, criticisms, or praise, to office@theleader.info, and we will compile them over the next couple of weeks, and present them to Barbara in a conversation

LET US HAVE YOUR OPINION OF LIFE IN TORREVIEJA

Email us at: office@theleader.info and let us know what you think.

you will also be able to listen to as a podcast, and read about in The Leader Newspaper.

THE PEOPLE WON’T BE FOOLED …

‘You can fool some of the people some of the time and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time.’ This remark from Abraham Lincoln demonstrates a deep understanding of skepticism, human nature and the limitation of lies and deceit. The point is that sooner or later the people will figure it all out.

My late brother, Willie, (Bill in his professional career) was one of the good guys. A dedicated politician and public servant, he became one of the shrewdest judges of people I ever knew. Willie had some excel-

lent words of summaries and advice. When somebody came forward presenting platitudes and promises; the Irish mayor of a Canadian city responded with; ‘don’t tell me – show me!’

An awful lot of people wade through life trying to pretend to be something that they are not – and very often this feeds into the jealousy gene.

In the hope of raising themselves up, instead of embracing a work ethic, the focus is to pull down those they see doing better than they. They may get away with this façade ‘some of the time’, but in the

final analysis the people cannot be fooled.

There is no such thing as the perfect person. We all have defects and individual weaknesses. A minority of people can overcome defects and change for the better – but unfortunately these are few and far between.

As we have mentioned here more than once, one of the beauties of the old traditional Irish pub was that everybody in the pub was accepted in that forum for being the way they were.

That doesn’t mean that the people weren’t wary of the thief and the

liar among them and this would regularly be summed up by some person saying; ‘he is the way God made him.’ That’s it … there are 8 Billion people in the world; no two are the same; they are what they are because they were either born that way or made that way.

Another brother of mine, Camillus, put it very succinctly when he remarked about a close relative; ‘you can’t blame a cripple for not being able to walk!’

But the people that Abraham Lincoln referred to, each living in their own community, know who is who and what is what. The human is the most complicated animal on the planet. Yes, and every last one of us, from pope to pauper has a ‘secret life’ – as in stuff we don’t want the people to know about. They say that if we could each read one another’s mind, no two people would be speaking to each other! Every person is a ‘mix’, but the mix is not equally proportioned.

Those who specialise in lies and negativities play to the smallest audience, because only people like themselves want to listen.

‘Begrudgers’, because they are so ridden with jealousy are the most unhappy group of all. Whilst the rest of the ‘average person on the street’ gets on with their work, their friends, and their leisure activity; the unfortunate fake folks engage with each other to ‘improve’ on the last lie one of them circulated.

Sadly we live in a time when spreading falsehoods seems to matter little. Even when found out, something like; ‘I wasn’t there, but

POPEYES OPENS IN TORREVIEJA

The popular and trendy fast-food chain Popeyes,specialising in chicken and operated in Spain by Restaurant Brands Iberia, has expanded its presence with the opening of its first restaurant in Torrevieja.

Since its arrival in Spain at the end of 2019, Popeyes has extended its offering of Louisiana-style crispy chicken throughout the country,now adding 129 establishments. With the recent opening in Torrevieja,the chain operates its ninth restaurant in the Alicante province and its 20th in the Valencian Community.

The new opening has generated 30 new jobs

that is what I was told’, is expected to clean the slate. But when the people hear who made it up in the first place …they know!

Ideally, you should totally ignore the bad stuff said about you; not easy, but remind yourself of the goodness and the fairness of the majority of people; ‘the people who cannot be fooled all of the time.’

The answer to being the object of targeted begrudgery is to continue just being yourself.

I think I told you previously of something I learned from Georgie Best in his book. (no, not how to kick a ball!) George was a troubled genius and overly sensitive regarding begrudgery.

That was until one morning, lying in bed (probably with a hangover) it came to him that the reason he was being bad-mouthed was because they were jealous and knew they couldn’t be like him. That was the end of begrudgery bothering Best!

There are exceptions to every rule and for this reason a sprinkling of spiteful skelms will manage to evade Lincoln’s law, and ‘fool some of the people all of the time.’ You don’t worry, just be yourself and the people will know.

Karma has a funny way of leveling the pitch – and if that fails, there is talk of a higher power and a judgment day!

DON’T FORGET

The person who thought of putting the ‘S’ into ‘Fast Food’ is a marketing genius.

and is located in the Torrevieja Commercial Centre (Carrefour to you and me),with modern facilities such as a drink refill system,self-ordering,free Wi-Fi,takeaway service,the option to pick up orders from the car and a home delivery service managed by the company itself to ensure quality and complete control of the process,from the kitchen to delivery to the customer.

Los Dolses de Orihuela School asks to cut classes due to lack of space

As the Ministry continues to drag it’s feet regarding the construction of the new prefabricated school our children are being taught in the library, the staff room, as well as in drafty corridors.

The lack of educational infrastructure in Orihuela Costa continues to put the situation of schools in a difficult situation. Last week the School Council met. On the table was a decision about the local holidays for the next school year as well as the Ministry's proposal for the number of classrooms that each centre will have.

While the general trend is for directors to ask for more classes to reduce ratios, the Los Dolses

school was demanding that at least one classroom to be reduced. The reason, according to director, Isaac Bonafé, is that there is simply no more space.

The Orihuela Costa’s first school has been suffering from problems with housing its students for a few years now, to the point that, for some considerable time, they have had to sacrifice common areas such as the library, the staff room as well as teaching classes in corridors.

The school was established to provide 27 units for 675 students but currently over 800 are enrolled. Despite this the Department of Education continues to demand even more, proposing that the school now has 33 units, one more than last year due to this continuous increase in unexpected students, that is, those who arrive outside the enrolment period. Indeed,

there were 20 new children enrolled into the school on 20 May, according to a post on the school website.

Meanwhile, the Playas de Orihuela school, requires four more units to meet the demand. With this situation, the directors of schools on the coast are urging the Orihuela Municipal Council to urgently adapt the planned plot on Calle Níspero to erect the new prefabricated school and allow the expansion Los Dolses. It has been dragging it’s feet for far too long.

In Orihuela, while in the city the supply of places is in line with demand, the reality of the districts is different. The drop in birth rates sees centres like La Matanza and La Campaneta fight to avoid losing resources, despite the loss of students.

DIFFERENT HOLIDAYS

In the case of holidays, there are different holidays in the town and on the coast. Orihuela has been differentiating holidays in the town and coast. In the city and in many districts the holidays fall more in line with Holy Week and other local celebrations, while on the coast they are concentrated on other dates that are more deeply rooted and celebrated by foreigners. The coast, thus, has requested one day for carnivals and another two for the St Patrick’s Day while in the districts more days are spread across December, Carnival and Easter.

Bomberas extinguish fire on Orihuela Metal Workshop

Firefighters have extinguished the fire at a metal workshop in Orihuela on Saturday. Although there was a risk of fire reaching other parts of the building, the rapid response of the firemen has ensured that the flames were not able to spread.

The fire broke out in the paint drying tunnel, but the fire and smoke were controlled so that it would not reach the rest of the building. No details have been notifies about the cause of the flames although the consortium did confirm that there were no injuries.

Baby saved in Pilar after heart stops beating

Medical services were able to save the life of a baby in Pilar de la Horadada on Saturday after its heart stopped beating.

The resuscitation was made by the parents, who received instructions from medical staff by telephone.

After stabilisation by SAMY Paramedics the two-month-old baby was flown from the Ikomar football stadium in a medical helicopter to the Doctor Balmis Hospital in Alicante where it remain in a serious condition.

PLAINCLOTHES POLICE TO FINE PEOPLE BUYING FROM MANTEROS

It looks like the Torrevieja council will once again take the easy option of fining those members of the public who purchase goods from manteros rather than going after the looky looky men themselves.

Last summer, the Council tried to stop the 'top manta' problem by threatening fines of up to 200 euros. Looking ahead to the upcoming summer period, the City Council is once again issuing another warning, using the

Torrevieja ordered to pay compensation after fall

The Contentious Administrative Court number 1 of Elche has sentenced the Torrevieja City Council to pay compensation of 21,526 euros to a resident who

REFURBISHMENT

Mestre wants to put the building into operation as soon as possible

suffered injuries after a fall in the Molino del Agua park in 2019.

The 70 year old man, of Spanish nationality, was walking

same philosophy of going after the buyer. This year, however, the sanctions will be issued by plainclothes police officers. This was one of the measures discussed on Friday at the meeting of the Local Security Board.

along a path that connects the pine forest area of ??this municipal natural park with the dunes and La Mata beach. The poor condition of several tiles on the path, which were loose above ground level, caused the "inevitable" accident.

TORREVIEJA BEGINS INSTALLATION OF PUBLIC TOILETS

Abala Infraestructuras has begun the installation of public toilets on the seafront of Torrevieja in a contract awarded by the City Council with an investment of 318,000 euros.

The self-cleaning facilities will be located on Paseo Vistalegre,at its southern end next to la Marquesina,Plaza de Waldo Calero and Paseo de Juan Aparicio at its junction with Calle Ramón y Cajal.

Two others will be located in the Doña Perfecta park and the Encarnación Puchol square in La Mata.The investment has an execution period of two months.

OF THE RAMÓN DE CAMPOAMOR CIVIC CENTRE

The Orihuela Council has already drawn up the project to refurbish the Ramón de Campoamor Civic Centre but, according to the councillor for the coast, Manuel Mestre, the cost of making it structurally safe will amount to 294,000 euros.

The objective of the Department of Citizen Participation, led by councillor Ana Isabel García (Vox), is that, in the June Plenary Session, the financing of the project will be submitted for approval, so that the project can then be put out to tender.

The Neighbourhood Association of Cabo Roig and Lomas, AVCRL, has already proposed the inclusion of a budget item for this purpose, but this was rejected, along with all other recommendations from associations, unions and individuals.

Previously the council led by former mayor Emilio Bascuñana (PP) tried unsuccessfully to make the company that originally constructed the building bear the costs for, he said, hiding "hidden vices." The current government did not clarify whether that option is ruled out. For now, they want to put the building into operation as soon as possible, once they have the credit on which they are relying for all other investments.

Teachers Strike to Prevent Education Cuts

On Thursday, teachers across the Valencia region took part in strike action, after unions came together to try to prevent cuts to the education system being implemented by the PP and VOX regional government. Just ten months after the PP and VOX government took over in Valencia, the teachers have had to protest a number of changes, including the new educational freedom law, which will allow parents to vote on the "base language" in each course at each centre and which, in practice, returns to a system similar to the double line in Spanish and Valencian, and is considered a "death blow to Valencian", which is one of the pledges of VOX, to remove all other languages from existence.

Another reason is the entry into force of the single school district, which will allow families to choose any centre in their locality instead of being limited by the point system to the schools in the neighbourhood in which they reside. Several studies by the OECD, the University of Valencia and Save The Children conclude that this model increases the gap between rich and poor students, benefits charter schools and creates "ghetto schools", which is why the platform calls for its withdrawal.

PP LEADER IN ELCHE

The leader of the PP, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, and his head of the list for the European elections, Dolors Montserrat, opened the campaign for the European elections in Barcelona, and on the first official day of the campaign, Friday, visited Elche.On Monday, in the week that the Congress of Deputies approves the amnesty law, Feijóo will be in the city of Cádiz and in the afternoon, at a rally in Jérez.

Benejúzar to have dog park

Benej˙zar will soon have a new dog recreation area in the vicinity of the industrial estate. The Council has started the bidding process for the works which, according to the Councilor for Animal Welfare, JosÈ Antonio MartÌnez, ìwill soon be able to be used by those who have pets and need a place conditioned where they can release their dogs safely, while minimizing possible inconvenience to the rest of the general public.î

It will be built on a municipally-owned plot located in the La Cer·mica industrial park, between Calle General GutiÈrrez Mellado and Avenida de la Gloria.

Guard Civil finds two bodies in Xixona area

On Saturday the Civil Guard found the bodies of the German couple that they had been looking for since April 27 after a dog had found a woman's arm. Next to the man's body there was a shotgun, so the main hypothesis that the Civil Guard is considering at the moment is that the 61-year-old man shot his 48-yearold wife, and then shot himself dead.

The bodies were in an advanced state of decomposition. It is believed that the crime occurred last January, shortly after the couple, who normally resides in Mallorca, arrived in the area.

Their rental car was found close by in the Ciudad del Turrón industrial estate (Espartal II) in Xixona.

United at The Movies

band

The Costa Blanca International Concert Band, together with the Melody Makers, gave a concert to a capacity audience of over 200 people last Friday evening 24th.May at the Salt Church, Los Montesinos.

The theme was 'A Night At The Movies' and the concert band played music from such favourites as Disney, Great Movie Adventures from John Williams, James Bond, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Mamma Mia and the list goes on.

We were very pleased to be joined for the first time by the Melody Makers who, under their Musical Director David Robinson, were very enthusiastically received. They sang a good selection of songs includ-

ing Saturday Night At The Movies,' Annie's Song, Honey Honey and a wonderful rendition of You Raise Me Up. The concert finished with an encore Songs of the Sea and a standing ovation from the audience.

The Salt Church is an excellent venue in which to give concerts and we would like to thank them for all their help in staging this event, we look forward to another concert here later this year, watch this space for more details.

The band is totally international with musicians from the UK, Spain, Norway, Germany and Switzerland. We are always looking for more players to join us, contact Graham on 34 711056343, alternatively just come along to one of our rehearsals. We rehearse every Friday downstairs at the library in San Miguel from 4.30pm until 7pm, you will be made very welcome.'

The

with Melody Makers in the inset

The Councilor for Animal Welfare, JosÈ Antonio MartÌnez

Orihuela Plenary to approve private additional work for Family Councillor

The Family Councilor, Carmen Portugal (Vox) will be able to breathe a little easier after the next plenary session as Human Resources has confirmed that it does not see any incompatibility in her teaching activity and will fully approve the paid activity that she wants to add to her public salary, which he receives as a councillor on a full-time basis.

The legal report was signed last week by the head of Human Resources and the councillor,Agustina Rodríguez (PP),who considers that it is a "marginal" activity.

Ms Portugal will receive 50,752 euros per year from the Council to which,according to Human Resources,another 6,437 euros per year will be added from her role as a professor at the UMH.

Improvements to accessibility at Torrevieja Yacht Club

2025 Following an assembly at the Real Club Náutico last week,members gave their approval to allocate the necessary budget to undertake accessibility works in the clubhouse,some of it highly anticipated,especially among the older members.

According to the new president,Carlos Carmona, the work would consist of the location of ramps in those areas where there is only access by stairs and, by far the most expensive, that the three floors of the club building are connected by an elevator.The elevator would have its main access through the first floor,where it would be located in the hallway in front of the meeting room.

SAN JUAN FIESTAS TO BE CELEBRATED IN ORIHUELA COSTA

The La Costa Party Commission, with the collaboration of the Orihuela Council, is organising a number of activities and events in honour of San Juan. For the first time in Orihuela Costa there will be a varied agenda with celebrations being carried out across the whole of the Orihuela Coastline.

The celebrations will get underway with a spectacular lighting of the central compound in Zenia on 21 June. It will then continue until the end of June with an extensive program of activities including Music, Sport, Folklore, Crafts, Gastronomy, a set of activities aimed at young and old.

A stage will also be erected in the municipal car park, directly across from the southern entrance of Zenia Boulevard, where music and dance will feature every evening, between 7pm and 1am, during the entirety of the festival. More information will be published in the coming weeks.

Jason Derulo to perform at Brilla Torrevieja

The American artist Jason Derulo has joined the lineup at the Brilla Torrevieja festival where he will present 'Nu King',his latest album,on Friday,August 2,in a concert in which he will also sing many of his greatest hits. The Torrevieja festival,which will take place from July 27 to August 11,will offer an exciting musical,gastronomic and leisure event and has now added to the lineup of its fourth edition with the great musical confirmation of Jason Derulo.

ORIHUELA COUNCIL ASKS FOR PRIORITY APPROVAL OF AP-7 BRIDGE

The councillor of Urban Planning and Major Projects, Matias Ruiz, held a meeting with the head of Demarcation of State Highways of Alicante, Jesus Redondo, in order to address issues related to the municipality as well as its relationship with the State roads that run through the municipality.

One of the main topics discussed was the footbridge project over the AP-7 in Orihuela Costa, connecting La Regia with Lomas de Cabo Roig, with which he emphasised the speed of granting permission when the final Project for the Works is presented. However, there are still a number of hurdles to be overcome before the project can be even considered, the foremost being the approval of the 2024 Orihuela budget. Thereafter tasks to be undertaken include: Drafting of the definitive Works Execution Project.

Approval of the project by the Ministry of Development - Alicante Roads Department.

Tendering, awarding and execution of the work, which is included in the 2024 Budget.

Also included in the discussions between the two officials were the processing of the Special Plan for the Orihuela Business Park, since one of the main conditions for the development of the park is its access to the A-7 highway and the project for the section of the third lane towards Murcia from the Orihuela junction-exit.

Other issues included the layout of the National Highway 340 as it passes through Orihuela, and the aesthetics of some existing traffic islands.

CRESCENDO INTERNATIONAL CHOIR RAISES FUNDS FOR BENIJOFAR FOOD BANK

Crescendo International Choir gave a free concert at Casa de Cultura in Benijofar on Saturday, May 18, raising 230 euros for the Benijofar food bank. The business sponsor for the Benijofar concert was Rincon de Mateos, a local bakery, who supplied coffee and biscuits to concert attendees in exchange for donations.

The theme of this concert and three more it will perform in the next few weeks is movies and musicals. Some songs featured are Sound of Music medley, (this popular film is called Sonrisas y Lagrimas in Spanish), Memory from the musical Cats, Unchained Melody from the movie Ghost and City of Stars from the movie La La Land.

The choir’s next free concert will be held at La Siesta

The choir is keen to welcome new singers

Evangelical Church in Torrevieja at 18:00 on Thursday, May 30. This is a relatively small venue so make sure to arrive early to get a seat.

On Saturday, June 1, Crescendo International Choir will perform a free concert at 18:00 at The Salt Church in Los Montesinos, a much larger venue with plenty of seating. At the Salt Church we will also be holding one of our grand raffles!

Then on Sunday June 16, the choir will be performing for the first time at Palau de Altea, a performing arts theatre in the lovely seaside town of Altea. The choir is also gearing up for its 20th anniversary concert on October 26 at the Salt Church in Los Montesinos, so mark your calendars

New Coffee Morning at La Siesta, Torrevieja

Coffee and Tea will be on offer outside La Siesta Church, Calle Granados, Urb La Siesta every Wednesday from 29th May between 1030 and 1230 for anyone who would like to go.

The Chaplaincy of Ss Peter and Paul, Torrevieja which celebrates Mass at the church each week has decided to offer a new ministry of hospitality for those on the Urbanisation at La Siesta in Torrevieja and beyond.

Sue Maude, the congregational warden at the church said: Whether you are out for a walk, would like some company, fancy getting out, are going to the nearby health centre, or just fancy a cup of tea or coffee, we will be delighted to welcome you.

The church offers refreshments after Mass outside at weekends and has decided to extend this ministry to Wednesday mornings. Father

Richard A. Seabrook SSC, the priest at the church, said: The area outside the church with the trees is a pleasant little oasis so itís a delightful place to have cup of coffee. Anyone is welcome!

The lovely white church will also be open for private prayer at the same time for anyone who wants to some quiet time or even just wants a look inside.

Father Seabrook added: So often people walk past the church during the week and it is locked. I hope by opening it on a Wednesday morning and by offering tea and coffee it will become a place that people can come along for a chat with each other. They can also go inside and talk with God if they should so wish!

Mass times for La Siesta are listed on the noticeboard outside the church.

now!

Choir rehearsals take place at Rincon de Miguel in Los Montesinos between 17:30 to 19:45 every Thursday. For more details about the choir, see crescendo-choir.com. You can also follow the group on Facebook at Crescendo Choir. If you have questions, Email: info@crescendo-choir.com.

The choir would be delighted to welcome new singers. Our current choir includes people from England, Scotland, Wales, the US, the Netherlands, Germany, and Scandinavia, among other nationalities. Our Music Director, Irene Oliva, and pianist, Antonio Guillen, are accomplished Spanish musicians.

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ACROSS ACROSS

6.Prove superior (7)

7.Sweeping implement (5)

9.Used to be (3)

10.Disentangle (9)

12.Goods (11)

15.Teasing (11)

17.Diplomatically (9)

19.Tin (3)

21.Squander (5)

22.Fertiliser (7)

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

1.Inflict (5)

2.Climbing plant (3)

3.Hoodoo (4)

4.Former (9)

5.Competition (7)

8.Fractures (6)

11.Impoverished (9)

13.Hue (6)

14.Mad, commonly (7)

16.Not true (5)

18.Weaving machine (4)

20.Primate (3)

ANSWERS Week 1023

QUICK QUICK

ACROSS: ACROSS: 7 Strikebreaker; 8 Abnormal; 9 Rant; 10 Bonnet; 12 Facade; 14 Uneven; 16 Clammy; 18 Oval; 20 Exciting; 22 Incarceration.

DOWN: DOWN: 1 Stubborn; 2 Disown; 3 Seem; 4 Prolific; 5 Fabric; 6 Mean; 11 Tendency; 13 Dominion; 15 Vulgar; 17 Astute; 19 Vend; 21 Care.

CRYPTIC YPTIC

ACROSS: ACROSS: 7 Marriage lines; 8 Hardship; 9 Mole; 10 Pistol; 12 Morose; 14 Sea-dog; 16 Manors; 18 Bran; 20 Together; 22 Co-belligerent.

DOWN: 1 Parasite; 2 Credit; 3 Mash; 4 Keeps mum; 5 Firmer; 6 Seal; 11 Light ale; 13 Surgeons; 15 Danger; 17 Notary; 19 Rook; 21 Gags.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS ACROSS

6.Thoughtful writers I have cut down to size (7)

7.Returned dug-up material (5)

9.Consumed most of the pate (3)

10.Not the longest section of an aggressive speech (9)

12.Name for ship in a Gilbert and Sullivan piece? (3,8)

15.Are they no more than moon-starers? (11)

17.Aboxing belt could be the end of the joke (9)

19.Draw the match (3)

21.Intends to have the wherewithal (5)

22.Greed for caviare, perhaps (7)

DOWN DOWN

1.Takes up with a poet (5)

2.Enquire about a small ruler (3)

3.Claim it's a rave-up (4)

4.Truce changing Eire's face (9)

5.The panto girl left after the fire (7)

8.Ban miners from the circus musical (6)

11.People involved in cameras? (9)

13.They are bolted together to create planes (6)

14.Certain animal getting awfully rude (7)

16.Field a throw (5)

18.Star with former county backing (4)

20.Give weapons to a member (3)

LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ (Answers on

1. Established in 1963, which feverish line of communication was used for the first time during the Six-day War?

2. Acreepy film character and the nearest red giant to our Earth which will one day explode as a type II supernova.

3. Which singer songwriter recorded '52nd Street', the first album to be released on CD?

4. Measured in flight distance, which one of the following is the longest trip? a. London-Capetown, b. London- Bombay, c. London-Rio De Janeiro

5. According to the King James version of the Bible, what ripe age does Methuselah reach? (plus or minus 10)

6. Which actress played the blonde that King Kong fell in love with in each of the following film versions? a. The 1933 film King Kong, b. The 1976 film King Kong, c. The 2005 film King Kong

7. Which form of transport is sometimes used as a collective noun for bees and wasps? a. bus b. train c. bike d. plane

8. The K in the mountain known as K2 stands for the first letter of the mountain range in which it is located. What is the name of the mountain range?

9. Which European country invaded Mexico in the so called 'Great Pastry War' of 1838-39?

10. The following lyrics are all from

page 19)

songs with the word 'Sky' somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? a. Did you, did you see the frightened ones, did you, did you hear the falling bombs. b. Follow her down to a bridge by a fountain where rocking horse people eat marshmellow pies. c. Hey you with the pretty face, welcome to the human race. d. He blesses the boys as they stand in line, the smell of gun grease and the bayonets they shine

11. Which European country was known as the Republic of the Seven United Provinces between 1581 and 1795?

12. During the Cold War there was a military doctrine known as MAD. What did the letters M AD stand for?

13. With "some honey, and plenty of money", which two poetic characters "went to sea in a beautiful pea-green boat"?

14. What is the name of the prestigious award for best film at the Cannes film festival?

15. Plus or minus 5, in which year did Tom Marvolo Riddle die?

16. Which parallel is more or less the demarcation line between North and South Korea?

17. There have been seven Formula One World Driver's Champions whose last names begin with the letter 'H'. Can you name them?

18. Which prolific American singer songwriter's autobiography was titled 'Bound for Glory'?

19. Plus or minus 5 min, what was the RMS Titanic's ship time when it collided with the iceberg?

20. Who was the first person to refuse the Oscar for Best Actor in 1970?

NEW MANAGER OF ORIHUELA CULTURAL THREATENS LEGAL ACTION

The new manager of Orihuela Cultural,Nuria Masip, has denied the "false" accusation of "workplace harassment" levelled,she says,by the PSOE councillor and Member of the board of Directors,Aynara Navarro,in a press conference and during a public statement. The manager reiterates the fact "that she has never harassed any worker at work,since such conduct is outside her daily work," adding that she will take legal action against anyone who repeats such accusations.

Vandalism closes Orihuela School

An act of vandalism forced the City of Orihuela to suspend children's education classes at CEIP Fernado de Loaces and Josefina Manresa for three days last week following the theft of copper pipes.

The theft, over the previous weekend, led to a leak of 2,000 litres of diesel from the pump room into one of the children's education classrooms.

The Councillor of Education, Vicente Pina, said that "we have acted immediately and adopted as an emergency all the measures necessary to restore normalcy in both centres."

W W ARNING FOR DRONE USERS ARNING FOR DRONE USERS

Orihuela Local Police have taken to their social media profiles to remind everyone that a drone is not a toy, it is an aircraft. The use of drones, even as a hobby, must comply with safety regulations. There are stricter rules for those who use them for commercial purposes.

The police also warn that the unauthorised or reckless use can have consequences, with penalties ranging from 60 to 225,000 euro.

Rocking it out in San Fulgencio

San Fulgencio will be hosting the next edition of Rock Arena on the same day, but this year in a new venue, the Cardenal Belluga Theatre Campus. The event will take place on 20 July 2024 starting at 5:00 p.m. and, like so many editions in the past, it will be with free entry.

Headlining this year are the likes of OBÚS and O'Funk'illo, and Ankhara with their anniversary tour of Dueño del Tiempo, and Opera Magna who will be presenting their brand-new album Heroica.

Unlike some countries, all drones irrespective of size are governed by the regulations, and must comply with certain rules, including registration and mandatory insurance, amongst others. The operator must also be qualified and registered.

WARNING ABOUT CHECKPOINTS CAN LEAD TO SANCTIONS

Afew years ago, the French police published a video on their social media channels, in which a police control was taking place, a checkpoint, and a motorist shared

the information publicly so as to warn others of the presence of the police.

However, as the story unfolds, we are shown how a child had been kidnapped, and that was the reason

for the checkpoint, and although the offending driver got perilously close to being caught, and the girl rescued, because of the timely warning of the presence of the police, the kidnapper was able to

avoid the area and continue the terrifying ordeal for the young victim.

The point of the video was to advise everyone, through a potential real-world situation, of one of the reasons why you should never warn anyone of a police control, and moreover, in Spain, you could land yourself in a lot of trouble if you do so.

The fact is, whether it be the police or Guardia Civil, any of the security services for that matter, these checkpoints aim to focus the attention on those committing offences, and, as such, if you are doing nothing wrong, you have nothing to worry about. Moreover, for the majority of those law-abiding citizens, you will be sent on your way in the minimal amount of time.

Reporting a police check can be considered among many drivers as a sign of camaraderie and belonging to a group to avoid sanctions.

But it is also possible to become an infraction for collaboration in possible crimes and even for using images and personal or professional data of authorities or members of

the Security Forces and Corps, which is strictly prohibited.

Sanctions and repercussions are set to get harsher too, as the DGT is already working on ore measures to deal with the sharing of such information, which is often done through WhatsApp and similar applications.

However, action is being taken now, even before these harsher penalties. In Galicia, for example, a company which managed an application where information was shared has been sanctioned. It’s not only companies however, the individual administrator of a WhatsApp group with 15,000 members has also been sanctioned.

So, for the good of your own wallet, never warn of checkpoints, and, more importantly, for the ethic reason that these checkpoints are designed to catch out those who are doing wrong, and whereas a child kidnapping might be an unusual activity, even stopping those who have consumed alcohol or drugs makes the roads safer for all.

The prior warning of a checkpoint in France saw a kidnapper with a young child evade arrest.

Keeping up with regular visits to your doctor is an important part living well with a health condition. Here are the best tips collected for Health Experts about how to make each appointment as productive as possible.

1. PREPARE BEFOREHAND.

Write out a list of questions you want to ask so that you remember them during your appointment.

2. KEEP A HEALTH RECORD BETWEEN VISITS AND SHARE IMPORTANT DETAILS.

Tell your doctor how you have been since your last visit. Be specific. For example, instead of telling your doctor that you "aren't yourself," describe the exact symptoms, such as "my legs ache during the night." If needed, bring copies of past health information, such as discharge summaries from previous hospitalizations.

3. UPDATE YOUR DOCTOR ON YOUR MEDICATIONS.

Bring a current list of every prescription, over-the-counter medication and supplement you take.

4. BE UPFRONT.

If you have a question about a delicate

topic, such as sexual function or bowel movements, be honest when communicating with your doctor. Also, always ask questions if you don't understand something or need more information. Speak up about any concerns you have.

5. BE PROACTIVE.

For example, the Diabetes Association recommends that patients remove their socks and shoes during an exam to remind the provider to check their feet.

6. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TECHNOLOGY.

Ask your doctor whether he or she is happy to communicate via email. Messaging between appointments can help make your visits more efficient. Ask if you can use a digital recorder to tape your conversation. No recorder? No problem. Invite a relative or friend to accompany you. He or she can help you remember details later.

Are you having trouble talking with your doctor about your health condition? Look it up in the National Health Service website, www.nhs.uk/. You'll get easy-to-understand information to help you spark a dialogue.

The Church of JESUS CHRISTof Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733

Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain. Facebook SaltChurchSpain

International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11

a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org

The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is a very attractive 2019 Ford Focus ST-Line Hybrid at just 21,900 euro. Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and

activities, support, information and advice with the support of Orihuela Council. Anyone wanting to join CCAsocial activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm. You can register between 1pm & 2pm on those days, in the Cafe area where you will find Eva or Norah. email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See page 7.

We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENTGROUP.

Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887. Everyone is welcome. Los Alc·zares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details. COMMUNITYCARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a programme of English speaking

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 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 Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar, Quesada. For more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373 The RAFACosta Blanca RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact with the RAFAand the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

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FOR Silent Business Partner for small Private Care Home. Invest 10K and get 20K back in 14 months. Call 747 438 225

CONSTRUCTION AND GENERALBUILDING. For all building works large or small, phone 604 152 124 for quotes. We also specialise in pool leaks and repairs. (1012) Law Services: PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR, Solicitor, Debt Collections, Bad Tenants. 747 438 225

Ildo's advertising for staff prior to taking on Costa Parks Maintenance

After more than seven years of a minimal maintenance service that left many of the costa’s parks virtually abandoned,the residents of the coast are anxiously looking forward to the assumption of the new service by the municipal company Ildo.

The public company,which already manages gardens in the districts,plans to start operating in the coming weeks,after the Plenary gave the green light last February to the municipalisation of the service.

A staff of 30 employees was contemplated although the council's goal is to reach 40 staff,

But,first,the government team has proposed that the staff be increased with new workers for what will be the largest assignment that Ildo will face.Thus, the Council has published details of positions for an administrative assistant and another two additional gardeners for the coastal area.

The reversion to public management of this contract was the solution reached by the PP-Vox coalition government to an ongoing tender,valued at 10 million, which led to a crossroads of complaints

between officials and local applicants.In fact,the company that was considered to offer the best value,according to the only technical report issued,STV-Evocivil,has now appealed against the closure of the tender to the Central Administrative Court of Contractual Resources.The City Council has said that it will only compensate the three companies that replied to the tender with e500.

Ildo is a public company that is dedicated to the employment of people with functional diversity.To expand its number of workers,the Council has already enlarged this range of employable labour to people and groups in vulnerable situations.

In the suspended tender,it was said that the previous contract barely covered 40% of the green areas on the coast where it was estimated that there were about 7,000 palm trees and an area of 2.5 million square meters in 213 parks and gardens.

A staff of 30 employees was contemplated although the executive's goal is to reach 40,including the more than 10 who will be taken on from the previous contract.

QUIZ FROM P 14:

1.Hotline (the hotline between the USA and the USSR).2.Betelgeuse or (pronounced "Beetlejuice").3.Billy Joel.4.Answer a.LondonCapetown (9,634 km).The others are LondonRio De Janeiro (9,249 km), London-Bombay (7,204 km).5.969.6.Three answers.a.Fay Wray, b.Jessica Lange, c.Naomi Watts.7. Answer c.bike.8.Karakoram.9.France.10.Four answers.a.Goodbye Blue Sky (Pink Floyd), b. Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds (Beatles), c.Mr Blue Sky (ELO), d.Sky Pilot (Eric Burdon).11. Netherlands.12.Mutually Assured Destruction. 13.The Owl and the Pussycat (nonsense poem from Edward Lear).14.Palme d'Or or Golden Palm.15.1998.16.38th parallel (north).17. Seven answers.Lewis Hamilton, Damon Hill, James Hunt, Denny Hulme, Mike Hawthorn, Mika Hakkinen, Graham Hill.18.Woody Guthrie. 19.11.40 pm or 23.40.20.George C Scott (for his role in Patton)

SUDUK SUDUK O SOLUTION O SOLUTION

I CAN’T DO IT....

BY JOHN MCGREGOR

´It’s the only time I go anywhere these days – I look for ward to it every year…´.

To see everyone again, to relive all those great times is just wonderful…´

´I was so upset last year, I was diagnosed with cancer two days before and they kept me in hospital, so I missed it…´

I´m just back from two weeks in the sunny UK – well, it was some of the time. My wife and I were busy up and down the country seeing all the family like you do, but one of the main purposes of the trip was my RAF reunion, held now every year since 2012 apart from a Covid break. Sorry if I’ve told you this before, but the reunion came as a result of a book * wot I rote in 2010 about my five years serving Her Majesty in the late Sixties, down on the south coast.

After publication I came over to the UK to do some P/R in the area, doing four Waterstones book-signings, a number of newspaper articles and an interview on BBC Radio Solent.

Amazingly some of my old mates (and a few old ladies) heard and read about it, the word went round and as a result we had our first reunion in 2012.

Unbelievably over sixty souls attended. It was expected to be a one-off but it went so well we´ve now had eleven. Although the majority of our members come from various places in the UK some come from the USA, Thailand, France and Spain.

The reunion venue was our old RAF station at Thorney Island, next one along going east from Hayling Island and Portsmouth (the home of that minor branch of the Services, the Royal Navy.)

Thorney closed as an RAF station in 1976 and has since changed military hands several times. It´s now run by the army and so to get onto the island for our reunion at the Sailing Club I need to let the army know in advance who’s coming.

Everyone must bring their own photo ID and let me know beforehand their car details. The barrier we used to have to man on a Sunday afternoon to keep the public out is now a full guardroom protected by spotty Pongos (army bods to you) who have guns and look about fourteen.

My greatest friend in life Martin and I

planned the reunion together in 2011. Very sadly he later died in 2019 but today with a little help from others we have carried on.

Yes, we have steadily lost members but somehow others have joined in over the years to keep the numbers up: two weeks ago forty attended. Food and beverages are laid on and there is a bar to keep everyone happy. The Club is a lovely spot looking over Chichester Harbour, and boats come and go from the club all day.

After a few introductory words of welcome from me, my friend Joe takes over to instigate the raffle and then we go outside for a special tribute to those no longer with us.

This is run by our man for all seasons, Pete.

In his normal Remembrance Day uniform he hoists the Royal Air Force ensign up the flagpole to the RAF march and poppy wreaths with a picture (made by Pete) are laid at the foot for us to remember those who have passed away during the last twelve months. We stand quietly together and with Pete´s words - we remember them. We then return to the clubhouse and get on with our celebration of our great times together as we serviced Her Majesty´s finest – in our case the mighty Hercules transport aircraft.

However… to get personal for a minute, in the last few years I have had a few health concerns: chemotherapy two years ago and then radiotherapy last year for my Prostate Cancer, plus a few other irritating issues, but nothing compared to some people.

I am so lucky to have the wonderful Spanish health service to keep me safe with wonderful treatment. But during some down times I have wondered whether I should go on with running the reunion as it takes some organizing, especially with us living abroad, and exacting travel and costs playing a part. So it was with these thoughts in mind I approached this year´s reunion with some questions in my mind for the future.

As ever the big day of May 11th dawned

sunny and bright. My wife Anne has now helped considerably in the last few years and we arrived early to be greeted gratefully by the army at the barrier.

Apparently their printer had gone down and I dutifully supplied them with a copy of the list of attendees. Our official time is 12 noon to 6 pm, but we got set up by 11.30 with name badges ready and organizing the tables and chairs in the big lounge to our satisfaction. I was standing outside the main door of the club enjoying the weather and the stunning view, when round the corner from the car park came three of my old friends - early. Two of them I had actually written about in the book as they were both tremendous characters.

Last year I organized a birthday cake and celebration for one named Julian who I´d found out was to be eighty in a few days time. I

gently asked the eldest, Ron, 84, what the reunion meant to him.

He lives in the Midlands and as above told me it’s the only event he leaves home for today. Later I saw him splitting his sides with laughter in a small group. Other relevant heartfelt comments are as above.

So, in conclusion they answered my question fully to a man. I have to keep our reunion going, as long as I have men like these as true friends – good men who want to come every year - and it would be very churlish, if that’s the word to deny them.

Per Ardua Al Astra (RAF motto meaning ´Through Toil To the Skies´).

*´Fairy Tales of an SAC´ 2011 and ´Fairy Tales Come True´ 2015 by John McGregor Both available from Amazon

Ron, Terry and Julian

Sue Cash, John Eade and Brian Hoare

Pete

SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB

Monday 20th May the San Miguel Christians were away to Quesada Lancasters where they finally managed a win, 8-4, 81 shots to 71. The highest winning triple was Dave Sceal, Sheila Booth and Rab Harvey who won 23-12. The Moors were at home to Quesada Blenheims managing a 6-6 draw, 87 shots to 82, keeping them at the top of the table. The highest scoring triple was Anita Brown, Jan Farmer and Derek Farmer winning 27-11.

On Wednesday in the VCL had two teams in action. The Sheriffs were away to San Luis Hawks winning 8-4, 93 shots to 83. The best win came from the rink of Allan Patterson, Sue Gell, Steve Parr and Gail Willshire who won 24-10. The Marshalls were at home to another San Luis team, The Kestrels but unfortunately did not fare so well. They lost 2-10 with the shots 56-93 and the win coming from Rab Harvey in the singles winning 21-9. The Deputies had a bye.

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.

After the game on Wednesday 20th December the Wasps will close for the Christmas break and re-start on Wednesday 10th January 2024

We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique clubwe 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

By Mary Whitelock

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB

The second game of last week's report for whatever reasons did not make the paper, so I would like to start with that. Wednesday (15.05.24) in the Hurricane Division and we are back at Quesada with yet another fine win 8 points to 4.

Our winners were singles Janet Parsons 21-6, Garth Slater 21-17, our pairs of Peter Parsons & Don Fowkes drew 1414, and our trip of Anne Stone, Barry Roberts and John Rae drew 13-13. Our fours had a loss of 14-18, all very tight games but we got the extra 2 points for a shot difference of 83-68 in our favour. This result lifted us off the bottom of the table in this league with hopefully more to come with the remaining home games.

There was no game Monday, so we are straight into Wednesday's Hurricane game against Greenlands, but it is not as encouraging as last week's game even though we were at home. We lost 10-2, with our points coming from Anne Stone, Barry Roberts and John Rae in our trips winning 2612, we lost the overall shots 75-99 – I must admit that Greenlands are a very strong team.

This week we celebrated a 65th birthday at the club which used to mean you were celebrating retirement with a pension, but like the old bingo call of “7 & 6 was she worth it” it appears that 65 pension and retirement is no longer relevant, goodness knows where it will all end.

New members and visitors are always welcome, pop down to the club by the swimming pool (no charge) where there are invariably members around to introduce you to some of the facilities and history of the club.

Dave Hadaway

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB BY SHEILA CAMMACK

South ALC Harrier

Div: Monday 20th

SLHercules, home v Country Bowls Bluebirds, had a very close fought game 6 points-6, 79 shots-88.

Winners: Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Vic Mahomet 21-8, Kevin McKenna, Jane & Stewart Hamill 1513, Sue Kenyon, Tony Ferreira, Ian Kenyon 17-16.

Spitfire Div: SLWellingtons BYE.

VCLSouthern Div B: SLHawks, Wednesday 22nd at home v San Miguel Sheriffs, had a good battle in the different disciplines, winning both singles matches;

Jane Hamill 21-16, Dave Webb 21-9 and just missing out in the triples match by 1. Points 4-8, shots 83-93.

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS CLUB

Vulcans started the week visiting our local rivals

Greenlands Gladiators and they slipped to a 2-10

Aggregate of 55-107. D Jones

N Prior D Mooney 14-11

Victors were at home against Greenlands Warriors, and they got beaten 4-8, Aggregate of 78-82

D Taylor R Stockell J Taylor 22-7, G Dyer K Barber P Willicott 17-16

Dukes played Quesada Lions in VCL, and they had a fine win 10-2, Aggregate of 9974. M Dyer 21-17, D Jones 21-10, N Prior D Mooney 22-19, S Kavanagh M Harley

B Kavanagh R Marks 19-10

Earls played against Greenlands Titans, and they got a great win 9-3

Aggregate of 95-68. P Willicott 21-15 B Eldred K

Jolliffe 15-15, R Stockell K

Barber M Odell 21-10 A Pridmore G Inwood G Dyer

M Willicott 26-7

Lords played at Country Bowls Eagles in Friday league, and they were beaten 2-10 Aggregate of 7196. V Cameron N Prior D Mooney 22-16

SAPS is in at 13-15 on Saturdays

ELWYN MORRIS

Div C: SLKestrels had an excellent result away v San Miguel Marshalls, 10 points-2, 93 shots-56.

Well done to the winners: Barbara Louis, singles; 21-4, pairs; Fran & Neil Cox 17-13, triples; Judy Carroll, Gordon Paton, Dave Blackie 20-10, rinks; Chris Phillips, Ken Stringfellow, Derek Briggs, Keith Phillips 26-8.

Div A: SLFalcons BYE

2 Bowl League Friday 24th SL Cobras re-arranged match at home, v Greenlands Goannas, unfortunately had a bad day at the office, points 012, 48 shots-116.

Sometimes, no matter what you do the opposition are just too strong; as happened today, and the monitor lizards overcame the snakes!! At least this league allows players to practice with just 2 bowls, which we normally only get to do if we are able

to play in Winter League matches. Hopefully, whatever the result itís good for improving our focus & skills.

San Luis is a friendly club, but we are also competitive - with teams in all divisions, summer & winter. We welcome new players - either those who have played in the leagues and want to continue, or those who have been trying out this ìnewî sport and are now ready to get involved and above all enjoy the game.

If you want to find out more about bowling or San Luis, please come along to watch on match days or we currently have an open ìchicken & eggî competition on Wednesday afternoons (1:30/2:00), or an open ìroll upî on Saturday mornings (9:30/10:00).

Come and meet new friends.

One of Scotland’s hottest stars sparring in Elche

Prior to his defeat of Christian Lopez Flores at the Beach Ballroom in the Granite City last week the rising undefeated Aberdeen boxer Gregor McPherson, 19, was in Elche where he sparred with the reigning EBU European super-featherweight champion Juanfe Gomez

McPherson racked up 12 rounds with Gomez in preparation for his bout against the Mexican Christian Lopez Flores, 32, who fought on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s heavyweight win over Francis Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in March.

McPherson, nicknamed “Mean Machine”, has now racked up six victories in six pro contests as he extended his flawless record.

He said: “I got good rounds in Spain with the European champion Juanfe Gomez who was actually in camp as well as he is defending his European belt, and it was really good, competitive sparring.”

“Everyone has different styles and, with Juanfe, it was more the technical side, being in range, as he is quite elusive – so I had to be really sharp with him.”

Quesada Bowls Club

by Chrissie Edwards

Not a good week for Quesada on all formats,with just a few bright spots.

The Lancasters were home to San Miguel Christians,winning on two rinks but the overall results went to the Christians with 81 shots to 71 obtaining 8 pts to 4. Lancasters winners were,Stella Jakeman,Francois Houbrechts and Harald Olsen 16- 15,also Chrissie Edwards,Paul Kern and Karen Kirk 24- 12.

VCL Wednesday 22nd

The Tigers were at home to Country Bowls.A bleak day for the tigers only managing one draw from five rinks.The day went to Country Bowls 103 shots to 72 and gained 11 pts -1.

The draw came from Paul Kern and Peter Bottle 18-18. The Lions were away to Emerald Isle Jukes and the game didn't go according to plan.Only winning on one rink the Dukes took the match 99- 4 and by 10 - 2.

The winning team were George Carnell,Mark France and Carol Thorpe.

Don’t get despondent,keep trying and have a better week next week.

McPherson, who regularly attends training camps in Spain has also struck up a friendship with former two-weight world champion Kiko Martinez.

Spaniard Martinez, 36, held the IBF featherweight title from 2021 to 2022, and the IBF super-bantamweight title from 2013 to 2014.

“Kiko is a brilliant contact to have and I always learn something new when I’m in Spain.

“They treat me like I’m part of their club – its great.”

McPherson continues to be one of the

MONTE MAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by The Pub,Gran Alacant Insurances,Dialprix,The Belfry,Skippers,La Piedra,Santara Resort,The Reiki Room.

SUMMER SABA LEAGUE

Monte Mar Matadors V San Miguel Christians

At home to San Miguel Christians we had a good win,only losing on one rink by one shot.Well done to the winning rinks

Sheila Roberts,Paul Dodd skip Phil Goble 14 – 10,Gina Hindle,Steve Hindle skip Joan Harding 20 – 13,Sue Bounds, Les Bounds skip Ian Hamilton 17 – 14,Lynne Armitage,Steve Leatherland skip Barry Watson 17 – 15.

Shots Matadors 85 – 70 Christians.Points Matadors 10 – 2 Christians.

Monte Mar Matadors V Country Bowls Red Kites

Away to Country Bowls Red Kites we had a couple of close games but only managed to win on one rink.

Well done to the winning rink Sheila Roberts,Julia Hamilton skip Keith Young 20 – 6.

Shots Matadors 70 – 86 Red Kites.Points Matadors 2 – 10 Red Kites.

For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montmarbowls.com.We are also on Facebook.

hottest young stars in Scottish boxing, although his career nearly came to a sudden halt when he was hit with a setback last year.

After suffering a collapsed lung in October the teen had to withdraw from a scheduled fight due to the shock injury which required surgery to re-inflate the lung. However, in his first fight since recovering from the collapsed lung McPherson bounced back in style when stopping Tony Morton in the first round in Glasgow in January.

Greenlands Bowls Club

BY Pearl Houghton

The Gladiators started the week hosting Emerald Isle Vulcans a really played an excellent match winning 10 to 2 great result and well done the squad.

The Warriors played away at Emerald Isle and really achieved a great victory against a strong side and got a great result of 8 to 2 so well played the Warriors making the Captain very pleased The VCL league, played on Wednesday, saw the TITANS journey to The Emerald Isle but found the going tough and could only manage 3 points against 9 for the Isle so chin up for next week’s game and I'm sure the points will come. You have been doing well.

The Gonnas played host to San Luis and what a great result for them winning on every rink and therefore a 12 to nil victory Great bowling from all the squad CONGRATULATIONs. No game for Dragons this week.

Aberdeen boxer Gregor McPherson with two weight world champion

Kiko Martinez in Spain

RUNNERS UP SUCCESS FOR ESQUINA IN MOJACAR

Esquina Park Rangers from Quesada travelled to Mojacar on Sat 18th May to compete in the Los Amigos Annual Charity Cup.

Eight Teams were involved from the UK,Almeria & the Costa Blanca, Esquina being the holders for the past two years.

This year,after playing seven games, winning four,drawing two & losing one,we came up short by just one point,losing out to Cove Green from the UK.

It was a Great Tournament on a hot day,taking home the Runners Up trophy to Quesada to go alongside the vast array of Trophies accumulated over the past years.

Anyone interested in taking up Walking Football please email: esquinaparkrangers2018@yahoo.com

ORIHUELA TO MEET BARAKALDO CF IN THE PLAYOFF FINAL

Orihuela CF have been drawn against the Basque team Barakaldo CF in the playoff final for promotion to the First Federation.

The draw took place in Madrid on Monday afternoon. The first leg will be played at Los Arcos on Sunday kicking off at 7.30pm, with the final return match scheduled for next weekend, June 1 or 2.

Barakaldo have been one of the more fashionable teams in the Second Federation. The Basque team arrived as a newly promoted team and has had an outstanding season. They have only lost two games all season and eliminated Atlético Paso de Tenerife in the semifinals.

In the league they have spent much of the season fighting with Bilbao Athletic for first place. However, it was the young lions who earned the prize of direct promotion, with

SUMMER POOL LEAGUE

Bungalow Division Results Week 2 May 21st

Thistle & Rose Red 4 - 5 Echos

CC's 6 - 3 Bar Rambla Blue

Bar Rambla Red 6 - 3 Maschis

Tipsy Cow 2 - 7 Havana Habaneros

The One Bar 3 - 6 Thistle & Rose Blue

Barakaldo finishing as runners up and now is preparing for an exciting playoff final tie.

Nevertheless, having beaten playoff favourites Badalona Fitur in the semi finals Orihuela will be going into Sunday’s match full of confidence that they can beat their northern rivals, but unfortunatly too late to catch this edition of The Leader.

Sponsored by Your Dream Home

Penthouse Division Results Week 2 May 21st Courtyard A6 - 3 Mickeys Bar

Arianaz 2 - 7 Firestation Bluewatch

Firestation Redwatch5 - 4 New Tavern

Tipsy Toad 6 - 3 Kaceys

Sports Bar 9 - 0 Courtyard B

Torry Army announce details of their AGM

No sooner is the 23/24 football season concluded than the Torry Army have begun their preparations for the next, which brings with it promotion to Lliga À Punt Comunitat.

The supporters group has announced that their Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday 26th June at 11:00hrs.

The notice says that all members are welcome to join and have their input on agenda items which include: 24/25 Election of the committee, 23/24 Members overview, 23/24 Season Tickets, 23/24 Finances, Insurance, Stock, Social Media, AOB

Those intending to take part are asked to confirm their attendance, either by email or by Facebook, so that a suitably sized venue can be sourced.

Email: torryarmyfootball@gmail.com

CARP-R- US AT EL BOSQUET

By Roy Dainty.

Carp-r-Us returned to El Bosquet on Thursday 23rd May for match 9 of its Spring series. This was the first time back since a believed poisoning took place on one stretch of the venue a month or so previously. Fortunately, the water has since recovered.

Split across sections 1a to 7 and 26 -40 it was anyone's guess as to which stretch would fare best. In fact it was the latter with late comer, by only 5 minutes, Steve Higgins on peg 40 that won the match overall catching 22.28 kgs using pole and maggots. At the other end, Ian Brown on 28 came second with 17.12 kgs using feeder and maggots. With the strong wind directly in his face, Ian struggled to loose feed maggot. Fortunately he kept his mouth closed as the wind blew them back at him. Falling well short of where intended, once the wind dropped Ian recognised carp were feeding on his loose offerings. So, fishing much

closer than intended, Ian began to catch. Dave Hutchinson was third with 13.84 kgs from peg 26. Stretch 1a - 7 fished poorly by its standards. With no fish until gone noon, Alan Davies on peg 1b then began to catch good sized carp tight against the far bank on pole and maggots. He weighed 12.10 kgs. At the other end, Doug Hornblow renowned for catching mullet struggled until he changed tactics and ended up with 7.36 kgs of carp to win his section. Roy Dainty was third on this stretch with 4.88kgs on bread flake. Doug and Alan bade farewell as they return home to Wales for a couple of months; Hasta la vista. Earlier in the week several members of Carp-r-Us and Line Bar spent a morning on the Rio Segura clearing pathways of encroaching bamboo on Edens 2 and 3. Both stretches now have around ten fishable pegs. Both barbel and carp were seen spawning.