The Leader Newspaper 17 June 2024 – Edition 1028

Very many congratulations to Maria Wilson of the Orihuela Costa Pink Ladies and Panthers on her recognition in the Birthday Honours list issue by King Charles on Saturday.

Maria, who is the President of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the Asociacion Alicante Contra Cancer, Alicante, has been awarded a British Empire Medal by the King for services to Charity Fundraising in Spain.

Following her surgery for breast cancer, Maria and a group of her girly friends set up a fund-raising group to help in the fight against cancer. They called the group Maria and the Pink Ladies and in June 2010 just a few months after her surgery they organised their first “Walk for Life” along the sea front in Torrevieja, Maria completed the walk in a wheelchair pushed by husband Carl.

Due to the success of this they continued to organise events throughout the Orihuela Costa and soon became well known locally for their fund raising, to date they have raised almost e600,000, which has all been donated firstly to the AECC (Associacion Espagna Contra Cancer) but since 2015 the AACC (Associacion Alicante Contra Cancer).

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

BEM FOR MARIA WILSON

Due to Marias early detection of her breast cancer her passion has been to impress upon the people (mainly ex pats) of Orihuela Costa the importance of early detection and the fact it can save your life if cancer is detected early enough.

Maria and her group of volunteers push the AACC¨s “Early Detection Program at all their events, their office, their web site, facebook page and at a weekly stall at Zenia Boulevard. They organise early screening tests for many different types of cancer but mainly Breast, Cervical and Prostate and book on average 50 tests every month for men and women, and so are probably responsible for saving many lives, if we accept that EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES.

Maria told the Leader, “I feel really privileged to be nominated for this award. It is a real honour. But, of course, it is not just about me, it is about all the many volunteers that have worked with the wonderful Pink Ladies/Panthers, raising very nearly 600,000 euros over the last dozen years. And of course, the general public who have been so generous with their support. It really has been a team effort.”

Congratulations from us all.

Treading the boards with Las Ramblas Players

It’s a little-known secret that Las Ramblas golf course is also the home to the acting troupe known as “The Ramblas Players”. Whilst there are golfers amongst them – their attention was turned for one weekend to providing a night of fun and laughter for packed audiences, indeed, both nights were a sellout – a testament to their fame amongst the locals. Just to add some extra spice to the event, the 15 entrance fee also included wine and paella! Does it get any better?

And so it was – treading the boards under the directorship of Jacs Boswell (Broadway next ???) - the actors treated us to a highly entertaining evening relating the story of how Bottingham police station was saved from closure by some ace detective work smashing the (now notorious) Ditchford gang. The rehearsals clearly worked

Main Torrevieja Pumping Station

overrun Torrevieja’s main pumping station couldn’t cope last week discharging thousands of Liters of rainwater mixed with sewerage into the sea.

The storms, combined with the heavy rain,

as there was only the odd amount of adlibbing here and there as the actors played their parts to perfection. Jacs had them well drilled! This was local theatre at is best. A great time was had by the audience and by the look of it the actors too. Well done to everyone who took part – hats off to Madam Director and we all look forward to the next production which is already being worked on. Remember the name –The Ramblas Players.

Director - Jacs Boswell, Sound Bruce Boswell, Compere George Cumming, Wardrobe Carol Webb, Prompter and courier Andrea Warren.

caused the discharge from the sanitation network on the Juan Aparicio seafront. A spokesman said that the volume of water overflowed the station of the Hombre del Mar sanitation works, briefly but with a strong intensity, however, the company that manages the concession, Agamed, has said that the problem has been going on for fifteen years.

ëNO CONFIDENCEí

By David Whitney c2024

Election manifestos

Always promise many things

But promises get broken

Once new government begins

They promise this They promise that They fool us with intention

Joe public votes haphazardly And many choose abstention

A new term starts

We're full of hope

That this time things will change

But pockets still are empty With prices out of range

And mortgages a struggle

And National Health a mess And taxes squeezing everyone To absolute distress

Then scandals rock foundations Corruption rears it's head And those who should be helping us Help their own life styles instead

The rich still getting richer

The poor remaining poor

You wonder why You took the time And what your vote was for?

Maria celebrating with the Pink Ladies/Panthers on Saturday

Sandra Tuck. Jenny Wills, Sandra Steward, Michael Edwards, Paul Mabberley, Zoe Floyd, Jayne Cumming, Peter Mills

ORIHUELA COSTA BEACHES STILL NOT READY FOR SUMMER SE ASON

As summer approaches, Orihuela Costa braces itself for an influx of tourists and residents with second homes.

The local population swells from 30,000 to 100,000 during peak season.

However, the Association of Residents of Cabo Roig and Lomas (AVCRL) has identified numerous issues on the eleven beaches, raising concerns about their readiness.

In a letter to Manuel Mestre, the Councillor of the Coast and Beaches, the association criticised the overall state of the beaches and their amenities. They attached a detailed report with photographic evidence, highlighting the lack of proper maintenance. Key problems include:

Uncleanliness: Beaches are plagued by

uncleared algae, particularly Cala Capitan where a large pile has remained for over a year. General dirtiness is present on the walkways, with Cala Bosque singled out as being in a "pitiful state".

Broken Amenities: Over half (39 out of 70) of the foot baths are malfunctioning due to neglect. Many lifeguard stands lack proper maintenance and appear abandoned.

Accessibility Issues: Wooden walkways for disabled beachgoers are outdated and insufficient. The elevator at Punta Prima remains out of service.

Missing Beach Essentials: Chiringuito beach bars and toilets are still not installed on four beaches (Mil Palmeras, Cala La Mosca, Cala Estaca, Punta Prima) with no clear opening date.

The association finds the current situa-

tion unacceptable, especially considering that the beaches hold Blue Flag distinctions. They have given the Council one week to respond with a concrete action plan to address these issues before the tourist surge gets underway.

Two beaches face additional problems: Cala Estaca: Lost its Blue Flag due to "fuzzy pollution" and suffers from accumulating vegetation.

Cala La Mosca: Experiences continuous discharges of unknown origin, possibly from a natural aquifer, despite ongoing investigations.

The association urges the Council to take immediate action to ensure the beaches are in proper condition to welcome visitors and maintain Orihuela Costa's reputation as a sought after tourist destination.

Build up of Algae on Cabo Roig Beach Image courtesy AVCRL

Compensation refused for family of drowned bather

There are plenty of claims made on the Torrevieja council by members of the public. The majority are usually due to falls because of the poor condition of pavements. Many others result from damage caused to cars as a result of potholes in the road.

However, the case put before the executive body on Friday was rather unusual: a drowning that occurred in 2019, with the family of the deceased requesting compensation from the City Council of 92,000 euros. After collecting the pertinent reports though, the council has decided to reject the request for compensation for the death, which ocurred on Acequión beach.

Councilor-secretary of the Government Board, Federico Alarcón, said that the family alleged the bather died on the beach without any lifeguards watching. In response to the claim, he aadded that

Acequión, although it is called a beach and 'de facto' people go there to bathe, is not an authorised bathing area.

El Acequión is considered a port shore as it is located within the bay delimited by the Levante and Poniente docks in the only corner that was not concreted, therefore its sandy area remains intact. Alarcón explained that the family complained that the Council does not display signs warning that the area is not an authorised for bathing and therefore, it is not appropriate to have a lifeguard service.

He added that it is not considered necessary to signpost all those parts of the coastline that are not regulated bathing areas. He also described the Acequión beach as shallow with practically no waves. "The only problematic thing is the movement that occurs due to the entry and exit of ships from the port."

PARENTS SEEK JUSTICE AFTER SON’S DEATH

Daniel Donate's parents are suing the Bigastro health centre after their 26-year-old son died of a heart attack. They believe the doctor failed to properly examine him despite chest pain and a family history of heart problems.

An autopsy confirmed the heart attack but the parents argue a more thorough examination could have saved their son. They seek justice and to prevent similar tragedies.

TORREVIEJA’S HYPOCRITICAL MAYOR

Torrevieja's Mayor, Eduardo Dolón, criticised deforestation elsewhere in Spain, despite his own environmental record.

Critics point to his policies, like a poor recycling system, allowing construction in natural areas, and outdated polluting buses.

He's also overseen park destruction, lack of green transportation, and ignoring animal welfare laws.

While advocating for environmental protection publicly, his policies in Torrevieja seem to contradict his stance.

SEPRONA INVESTIGATE ENVIRONMENTAL BREACH

Civil Guard's environmental arm is investigating a potential violation of environmental laws during construction next to a historic house in Orihuela Costa, Spain.

The construction allegedly damaged five swallow nests during their breeding season.

The owners, an Austrian family, has been trying to preserve the house for over two decades. Despite a request from the prosecutor's office to halt construction, a wall was built next to the nests.

An investigation is underway to determine if the construction violated environmental laws.

Acequion Beach close to the Pier de la Sal

SPAIN AIRPORTS SETTO INCREASE FEES

The Spanish airport operator, Aena, looks set to increase airport handling fees, which had previously been frozen.

The current plan is to increase rates by 4.09% this year, and again by 0.54% in 2025, this is after the rates had been frozen for a decade.

Aena is putting the increases down to the higher costs they are facing caused by inflation and also the higher expense derived from the higher expected volume of passengers.

Although airline operators object to the increase, rates in Spain are lower than in the rest of Europe.

The comparison of the large Spanish airports, Madrid and Barcelona, with the rest of the continent's large hubs reveals rates are 60% cheaper in Spain.

LA GLEA BEACH WALKWAY STILL NO FURTHER FORWARD

The legal wrangling over the reconstruction of the road adjacent to La Glea beach is returning to the Supreme Court.

According to the Councillor for the Coast, Manuel Mestre, Orihuela Council has confirmed that it intends to appeal the unfavourable ruling that was handed down last April by the Superior Court of Justice of the Valencian

Community (TSJCV).

The ruling, 'roughly' stated that the reconstruction works of the road and the promenade on public domain, according to current regulations, are prohibited and that, if they do exist, they need to be pedestrian, therefore Roadways are not permitted. Meanwhile, there has been no movement since the road was first broken up 8 weeks ago.

Firefighters rescue a 79-yearold driver in La Mata salt flats

Firefighters rescued a German man from fields between Los Montesinos and La Mata in the salt flat near the Torrevieja lagoon. The search began at around 6:20 p.m. on Tuesday . Drones were used, together with a police helicopter, to locate the man after he left the road with his vehicle, driving in to ‘a muddy field’.

The German driver became disoriented, got out of the car and ended up walking away. He was finally located from the air by the helicopter at 9:23 p.m., muddy, extremely tired and a distance from his vehicle.

Drugged Up Callosa drivers

Callosa de Segura local police have carried out more than a hundred positive drug tests on drivers in the last two months.

Since the beginning of April,there have been 102 positive results for the use of illegal substances such as cocaine,cannabis,hashish,and similar.

One of the areas in which the police were most concerned due to the high neighbourhood demand has been the Barrio de la Cruz, where the agents have been carrying out many different checks especially on night shifts,in order to detect drivers with the presence of prohibited substances in the body.

The penalties for driving under the influence of drugs amount to 1,000 euros and the deduction of 6 points from the driving license.

Delaying holidays will be rewarded by an additional three days.

Doctors to get 3 extra days for delaying holidays

One of the strategies of the Ministry of Health within the 2024 Holiday Plan has been to extend the period for health personnel to take their holidays.

They will now be able to do so until the end of November; it was usual for them to do so between July and September. The aim is to help to cover the health deficit, mainly doctors, and to ensure that health care in summer is "guaranteed." The incentive to do so will be "the granting of three extra days of vacation." In other words, delaying holidays this year outside the months of July to September will be rewarded by an additional three days.

New sports pavilion for Los Alcázares

In response to the requests of local clubs to have more room in which to enjoy sport the Los Alcázares Council will build a new pavilion in the municipal sports centre. The facilities will have areas for indoor sports such as rhythmic gymnastics, basketball, handball and indoor soccer.

The new centre will be financed with a municipal investment of 650,000 euros. The tender is currently being prepared but once awarded the concessionaire company will have six months to complete its construction.

FOOD PRICE RISE CONCERNS

The benchmark index for global food product prices increased for the third consecutive month in May (+0.9% compared to April), as higher prices for cereals and dairy products offset falls in sugar and vegetable oil prices. Despite the increase, this figure remains 3.4% below the value corresponding to the same month of the previous year and almost 30% lower than the maximum reached in March 2022.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLICE PATROL FOR ORIHUELA COSTA

In the wake of hundreds of complaints of ‘fly tipping’ from residents a new Environmental and Administrative Unit (UMAD) is to be established for the purpose of carrying out surveillance, control, monitoring and reporting activities that in some way disturb the well-being of the residents in Orihuela Costa.

This new unit will be permanently made up of eight agents, on morning and afternoon shifts, who will be led by an inspector with a direct telephone number to answer all related questions (672210904), in addition to the general telephone number of the Local Police ( 965300204).

The measure was introduced following a meeting of the Security Committee

In this way, monitoring and reporting will be carried out by the Local Police with complete anonymity for those people who wish to collaborate. Special attention will be paid to the surveillance and monitoring of conflict points, particularly the disposal of different types of waste such as prunings, debris, household goods... while coordination with other municipal areas such as Cleaning will also be carried out.

I was totally useless in doing anything for myself as a result.

NOT BEING DEALT A GOOD HAND DIDN’T HINDER JOE.

You often hear the expression that somebody ‘was dealt a poor hand’; that life has thrown that person a ‘curved ball’, as they say in the States. But, just as in a game of poker, same as in life, it’s not about the hand of cards you are dealt, but how you play them that counts. This story is mostly about a boy I knew at school, who was dealt a bad hand, but boy, did Joe know how to play the cards he got!

The only hurling championship medal I ever won was with Ballinvalley N.S. We had a very talented team of young hurlers, coached and encouraged by Master Lawlor. In those days

of schools sports, there was no grading, it was winner take all and we became Westmeath county champions.

I scored in every match, including 3-2 in the final in Cusack Park. I confidently expected those goals and that medal to be the first of many; that was until, very regretfully, I took a fatal break from the hurling in order to indulge my drinking career!

The late and great Eugene Doherty drew to my attention several years later the fact that there was only one member of that team who didn’t emigrate, and Eugene always claimed that a senior championship was lost

to Delvin as a result of the exodus of so many natural young hurlers of that era.

I looked up a playing colleague from that Ballinvalley team last week and spoke with him by phone for the first time in 60 years. He was our outstanding corner-back. Nothing got past him ... ball nor man! His name is Joe McNiece from Scurloughstown. Joe had only one arm... Joe was my hero. ...

What prompted the memory of Joe to return was the fact that I have had my left arm in a cast for a couple of weeks and I was totally useless in doing anything for myself as a result. I thought of Joe and how he effortlessly got by each day and did stuff better than many of us with two arms.

Joe McNiece wasn’t the only one-armed person I knew at home. Mrs Mulvaney from Rangleborough was another heroine with only one arm, whom I knew in my youth.

This remarkable woman reared 15 children, rode a bicycle to do her shopping every day, dug the garden, changed nappies, cooked meals and coped with any type of obstacle that the day might throw up. And here was I, sort of feeling sorry for myself because an arm was out of commission for a couple of weeks ...

Pat Connell was the rate collector who called to our house when I was a child. I remember Pat as being a lovely man. Sometimes when he called, my father wouldn’t have the money. ‘Drop it down to the house when you have it’, Pat would advise casually. But he always came in for a chat, ‘so the neighbours wouldn’t know he didn’t get paid’, according to my father.

Pat’s jacket sleeve hung loosely, because he too only had one arm. He had modified the gear-stick so as to manage the driving – but Pat was more than an extensive farmer. He was a noted Collinstown hurler! I heard that he played for Westmeath a few times.

Pat passed on the hurling – as well as the

SUNDAY SHOPPING UNDERWAY AGAIN

Great news for the working population who find little time during the week to shop… Not so great news for those working in the retail sector who benefit from a weekend day off… SUNDAY SHOPPING STARTED AGAIN YESTERDAY.

In the Valencia region,shops can once again open on a Sunday right through until next year (just after the Christmas period).Of course,they may CHOOSE to close,but probably won’t.

There are one or two days between now and then when they will close for holidays,but not many to be honest,and we will tell you nearer the time,but again,as of yesterday,you can shop until you drop every Sunday.

‘nice-guy’ gene to his son Billy, who gave outstanding service to Lough Lene Gaels. Billy left us all too soon and may he too rest in peace.

Joe McNiece came from a family of great Brownstown hurlers. I recall Joe as an impregnable defender - and he had more than one trick up his sleeve! Running shoulder to shoulder with his opponent, Joe would be ‘accidently’ slapping him in the face with the flapping jersey sleeve ... preferably a wet sleeve! And what referee would give that sort of a free against a player with only one arm! It wasn’t all ground hurling with Joe; a flick on a moving ball to deftly rise it and with half a swing the ball would land at the other end of the field. He had double strength in his good arm – and not surprisingly, Joe excelled at handball.

He left for England in his teens and last week was my first chat with him since those memorable days of long ago.

Joe McNiece is a wonderful example of triumph over adversity. He qualified as a service engineer and when John McDonald - another great hurling man from Gleniden, offered him a job maintaining mining machinery at McDonalds engineering works in Avoca, Joe returned to Ireland in the 1970s. Joe told me he tried several prosthetic arms over the years, but discarded all of them as ‘they were only getting in his way!’

Joe settled in Arklow. He lost his wife, Elizabeth, a few years back, but amidst the sadness, it is no surprise to be told that this remarkable man, ‘just gets on with life!’ What a wonderful role model are these three examples of getting on with life and making the best of it – no matter what sort of a hand you are dealt!

DON’T FORGET

It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.

Other regions,such as neighbouring Murcia,permit Sunday shopping throughout the year,but in Valencia there are restrictions.

HELEN’S TRUCKS CLOSES IN ON SILVER ANNIVERSARY IN SPAIN

Helen’s Trucks has been in business now for 22 years this May 2024 and is based in Crevillente and they specialise in Spain to UK and vice versa removals, moving goods between the UK and Spain Helen and Kevin who make up the team at Helen’s Trucks along with Barry and Trevor.

At Helen’s Trucks ,it is a personal, friendly, quality service their customers get. Helen and Kevin, both believe it is very important to meet their customers face to face even when giving those initial estimates. “That way we can find out what the customer really wants and needs,” said Helen.

If it is not possible to deliver customers items straight away, or you just need your items stored temporarily, then Helen’s Trucks have secure, containerised storage available at very good rates, for both short and long term. The warehouse is alarmed and insured also, for peace of mind. They also store cars, trailers and caravans.

Wrapping and packing can be undertaken by Helen’s Trucks but if you prefer then they can supply all the necessary cartons, bubble wrap and tape for you, to do the work yourself. All their removals are itemised and an inventory produced and the entire load is kept together and not split.

Helen has just recently moved to larger premises within Crevillente, as they are also dealing with freight forwarders

Euronics Opens in

San Fulgencio

The centro comercial Bahía de Segura in San Fulgencio, the shopping centre adjacent to the N-332 near Aldi and Mercadona, welcomed the latest addition in the form of a new Euronics store.

This new establishment offers the usual white and brown appliances, telephone, ventilation, heating, and air conditioning appliances, in a sspacious unit, supported by a 90 m2 warehouse nearby.

The company offers a service for the collection and subsequent recycling of old appliances, as part of its concern for the environment.

Euronics Gran Alacant currently has a total of four stores and a central warehouse .

from the UK who deal with their shipping containers and onward deliveries. They have just acquired, an EORI Number as of 2020.

EORI stands for“Economic Operators Registration and Identification number”.

Businesses and people wishing to trade must use the EORI number as an identification number in all customs procedures when exchanging information with Customs administrations. This is imperative now, as we there is a lot more paperwork involved in moving to and from Spain and we are on hand to guide you through the paperwork process, including the TOR1 online Government page ( Transfer of Residence, if you are resident in Spain , looking to repatriate your belongings ,to the UK ).

Having one common type of identification number across the EU is more efficient, both for economic operators and customs authorities.

It is also more efficient for statistical purposes and security purposes

Helen’s Trucks offer you the flexibility of being able to pick up at short notice and a personal service bringing that human touch to meeting your needs. Helen summed up the Helen’s Trucks philosophy saying, “It’s all about making moving easy and stress free.” (See our ad on page 3)

You can contact Helen’s Trucks on 965 400 616 or 667 815 081 and email at helenstrucks1@yahoo.co.uk. There is also a website at www.helenstrucks.com and on Facebook and Instagram at Helens Trucks

Helens Trucks has been providing a quality service on the Costa blanca for 22 years

THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO GEORGE MICHAEL

Carlton

entertainments presents GM Live, The Ultimate tribute to George Michael.

This joyous new show celebrates the music of one of the most iconic and best singer songwriters of all time, the incredible George Michael.

This ultimate tribute concert features full live band and is a heartfelt and authentic tribute that takes audiences on a musical journey of George's greatest hits and high energy Wham tracks.

The show is based on George's 25 Live tour and audiences are treated to stunning musical arrangements and exciting versions of songs such as Fastlove, Faith, Careless Whisper, Outside and Freedom.

Join us for an unmissable evening as we pay homage to one of the most loved artists of our generation.

Book online via the QRCode above or at: www.carltonentertainment.co.uk/

With the Torrevieja Pipes & Drums, the Costa Blanca Int Concert Band. Soloists Rebecca Holt and Stevie Spit

CARLTON ENTERTAINMENTS PRESENT

HOSPITALS TO LOSE ALMOST300 BEDS DURING HOLIDAYS

Hospitals in the province of Alicante will close 285 beds in July, 296 in August and 285 in September, a total of 866 throughout the summer compared to 679 in 2023. This is a measure that is taken every year and that is always controversial with, in some cases, entire floors being closed.

This year's move by the Ministry of Health represents a 21 percent cut of the 4,100 units for hospitalised patients in the province. Throughout the Community it affects 23%

2,088

hospital beds: 2,713 will be closed, compared to

last summer season.

Body found in Torre Pacheco canal

The Civil Guard has found the body of a man in the Trasvase canal, that runs through Torre Pacheco. In the area known as Los Tarquinales, in the municipality of San Javier, a vehicle had driven into the canal which the Local Police found to be empty.

However, later in the day a cyclist who was traveling along the service road, alerted the police to a body floating in the canal. Firefighters subsequently removed the body which was eventually identified as that of a 55 year old local man. The matter is now the subject of a Guardia Civil investigation.

SOCIAL MEDIA AGE COULD BE RAISED TO 16 IN SPAIN

The Government has approved the Draft Law for the protection of minors in digital environments, a document that raises the age to register an account on a social network from 14 to 16 years. The objective of this rule, is to guarantee the rights of minors in the digital sphere, especially the right to privacy, and their own image, as well as the right to the protection of their personal data and access to content appropriate for their age.

Goat raped in Vets Clinic may need psychological help

Clara, the goat raped by a cleaning worker in a veterinary clinic at Madridís Complutense University, has been returned to her owner, Francisco JosÈ Gonz·lez, at the Dharma sanctuary where the animal lives. "I notice that she was very distant, although I couldn't say if anything has changed in her," her owner said.

Francisco has not ruled out

that the goat "needs psychological help." "This could change her life and she may suffer a trauma," he added, stating that he found out about the attack when he went to "deliver another animal that had to be castrated."

He added that he does not blame the university, but he will be making a private prosecution against the person responsible, who was reported

to the authorities by a student and subsequently arrested by the National Police.

Problems with Pilar de la Horadada beach bars

Pilar de la Horadada awarded contracts to run beach bars on its beaches. However, there are difficulties in opening them this summer season.

Firstly, there were no bids for some beach bars, and secondly, some successful bidders are struggling to meet a requirement to renovate the facilities before opening. They requested using the old ones this summer and renovate by next year, but the City Council insists on new

facilities as per the contract.

This situation could leave a significant number of beach bars closed for the summer. The council will launch new tenders for the empty lots, but these new bars won't be operational this season due to administrative procedures.

WHERE WILL THE NEW RADARS BE LOCATED?

The new cameras are likely to be positioned around road works

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has acquired a new batch of “superradars” to add to the arsenal of tools the Guardia Civil traffic officers have to monitor and deal with speeding vehicles, and these radars will be positioned in more places than ever before, to try to reduce one of the increasingly worrying contributors to road traffic collision and fatalities.

According to data provided by the DGT, the number of serious incidents caused by inappropriate speed has increased. For this reason, new measure to combat the problem are being implemented,

including a new location for mobile radars.

This new location for the DGT mobile radars joins another decision announced by the Minister of the Interior, Fernando GrandeMarlaska, which consists of the installation of 95 new fixed speed control radars on Spanish roads, of which 60 percent will be section radars.

In relation to the new location of the speed radars, the director of the DGT, Pere Navarro, was in charge of making the announcement during the Road Safety Commission of the Congress of Deputies.

As Pere Navarro has pointed out, the Traffic Agency is working to place the mobile radars in a new location where, until now, they have never been located. Furthermore, the director of the DGT has indicated that they want to implement this measure in the summer, so special care will have to be taken since it would affect the holiday trips.

One of the areas where a focus will

take place is in sections of roadworks. Traffic is generally slowed down in roadworks partly due to the changed dynamics of the road, but also to protect the workers operating on the stretch, and yet, so many people ignore the restrictions, almost with blatant disregard for the lives of others.

There will also be a greater intensity of checks on motorways, as previously announced, and a continuation of checks in high-risk areas. It is worth remembering that the locations of fixed cameras are published by the DGT, but, as we have mentioned a couple of times recently, the sharing of temporary radars is not allowed. Moreover, the use of radar detectors which can alert drivers to the presence of these devices is prohibited, not only by their use, but simply by owning one.

The most important thing to remember is that speed limits, wherever they might be, are maximums, never a target, and the prevailing conditions could dictate that you should drive slower.

Urgent Third Costa School will not be ready for September

Orihuela Costa’s third school, which was intended to be established in portacabins for the current year, but wasn’t, will still not be ready for the next academic year in September, according to the councillor for education, Vicente Pina. Continual changes and problems with the suitability of the plot meant that the portacabins rented by the education department a year ago couldn’t be installed, indeed many problems are still not resolved, and so the centre will once again not be available for the next school year.

The centre was intended to reduce the numbers in existing schools, which have dramatically increased from housing a combined total of 760 students to 1,503 this year.

The new Orihuela government team, after taking office 12 months ago, once again changed the site on which the portable school was to be sited. Since then, only the plot has been cleaned, with the

removal of debris.

A contract still needs to be put out to tender for the works to modify the plot.

Now, however, a contract still needs to be put out to tender for the works to modify the plot, the installation of the sanitation network and other necessary works.

Already, this is a contract that has encountered numerous problems, from the lack of budgetary credit to the many technical difficulties themselves.

So while our elected councillors continue to dither, Orihuela Costa is facing an unprecedented educational crisis, a situation that directly affects the school community, all caused by poor decisions made the PP/Vox coalition and their predecessors. The education of our children cannot continue to be a victim of incompetence and lack of planning. The Oriolanos living on the coast need and deserve quality education, and it is the duty of our leaders to ensure that this can be fulfilled.

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 used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See page 5.

Mondays and Thursdays, Wednesday 2pm - 5pm.

More info from Eva or Norah. in the cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.com

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

AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENTGROUP. Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887. Everyone is welcome. Los Alc·zares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details. COMMUNITYCARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 3 times a week for a programme of English speaking activities, support, information and advice with the support of Orihuela Council. Anyone wanting to join CCAsocial activities can pop along. Open 2pm -6pm

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help with well being for the over 50ís. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team to visit a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. Call into our centre in La Siesta , ring 966 786 887 or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 5pm at the Lakeview bar, Quesada. For

more info contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on +44 7576 117 222, Secretary Steve Hemingfield 0n Mob/Whats 711 011 373

The RAFACosta Blanca RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Assn. Contact is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

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New restaurant area launches in La Zenia Boulevard

Further additions to the range of cuisine will continue to be added during the year

La Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre, managed by Nhood and owned by Ceetrus and CBRE Investment Management, has opened a restaurant area

Qualitur Flags for Orihuela

Orihuela's beaches have been awarded Qualitur Flags, a distinction recognizing quality, sustainability, & accessibility. The ceremony was held in Altea and included representatives from 39 Valencian municipalities.

with four renowned leaders: The Fitzgerald, El Kiosko, Casa Carmen and Taco Bell.

Occupying an area of 1,500 sq mtrs, there is a spectacular terrace, which looks

Orihuela received 7 Qualitur Flags, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining clean water, caring for the sand, and providing surveillance, hygiene services, and accessibility.

This award reinforces Orihuela's position as a tourist destination with highquality beaches.

towards the sea, where customers can comfortably enjoy the atmosphere of the shopping centre. This space has been transformed into a new restaurant area with the aim of providing customers with a modern, fresh and familiar area with the installation of the giant “Flamenco” slide.

According to Cristina Ros, Director of Zenia Boulevard, “with these four restaurants we try to offer a varied range of cuisine: Mediterranean (Casa Carmen), Mexican (Taco Bell), American (The Fitzgerald), and fusion (El Kiosko). We are going to continue working on the shopping centre’s gastronomic choices with Carls Jr, Da Favola and Popeyes also opening since the beginning of the year.”

In addition, Zenia Boulevard is working on a new decoration of the current Food Xperience to create a new identity in the restaurant area so that customers can enjoy a unique experience.

QUIZ FROM P 14:

1.The Dutch Royal Family, Orange-Nassau. (HRH Princess Margriet).2.All Creatures Great And Small.3.Answer d.Germany.4.Georgia.5. Sinclair played 331 football matches for Canada, during which she scored 190 international goals. 6.Answer c.India.7.Rubens (Rubenesque).8. Marta.9.David Cronenberg.10.a.Against The Wind (Bob Seger), b.Dust In The Wind (Kansas), c.Wind Of Change (Scorpions).11.Bugsy.12. Ruritania.13.Indonesia.14.Rhea or Weka.15. Pancho (from the song 'Pancho and Lefty').16. Europol.17.Blue whale and Fin whale (Finback whale).18.Chess.19.Monsters, Inc.20.Hotel California (Eagles)

FAILING BRITAIN

After a 1,900km drive from Spain, we’re finally back at our summer home in the UK and within two days of our arrival we were suffering from severe hay fever.

We exchanged living in what is becoming a semi desert in our part of Spain, to the UK which has “enjoyed” rain on most days during the winter, and temperatures above normal have resulted in a huge growth of grass, weeds, tree and bush branches.

So if you are planning a return to the UK in coming weeks, be prepared for horrible hay fever symptoms. We’ve never experienced anything like it.

As for what we have found so far in the UK, I am saddened. Britain is fast looking like a Third World country! Potholes in some roads are dreadful. Lack of maintenance of grass verges has resulted in grass going to seed everywhere and grass and weeds several feet high.

And it’s just plain bonkers to let this happen on the approach to roundabouts, restricting visibility, allowing foliage to grow over road signs and also signs not to be cleaned for months so they have green algae covering them. It’s examples of the financial cuts which has damaged Britain so badly. And I must share this with you. We saw a refuse lorry emptying bins in a public car park and then saw men having a drink before setting off elsewhere. But surrounding them, on the ground, were piles of rubbish that had fallen out of the bins. We assumed that would be cleaned up before the men left. But no, when we returned to the car park the dustcart had gone, but not the rubbish. I suppose it’s the age-old nonsense “not our job mate!”

Oh, and the standard of driving? I thought Spain was bad, but it seems Britain has sunk to new depths. For example, we followed a car which indicated in the opposite direction on every roundabout. We finally managed to overtake, to see two young women in the front seats chatting away.

Oh, and as a final shot on this – guess how long it takes to get a doctor’s appointment in the UK? My wife has been told she will have to wait 5 weeks! Yesterday she went for a hearing test and was told she had an ear infection, perhaps brought on by the hay fever, and was advised to see a doctor. Yes, that’s a joke. Welcome back to a failed Britain.

Tony Mayes Rant

PETTY FRENCH

Watching the recent 80th anniversary remembrance of D-Day was extremely moving, and particularly so the parachutists depicting dropping behind enemy lines, a reenactment of what actually happened. What I learned next really angered me –because all those parachutists had to carry their passports with them and show them at a desk in a French field and presumably to have them stamped!

I then imagined an alternative version of what happened 80 years ago. Instead of all the horror on the beaches, when the troops landed they were greeted by rows of German customs and passport control jobsworths checking all the “invaders’” documents!

If those servicemen men could see 80 years into the future and see all the ridiculous nonsense we are now having to live with, they wouldn’t believe it.

Thank you so much Farage and all the Brexit campaigners who have helped ruin Britain.

LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE OF THE SAME!

So much has been said and written about Rishi Sunak’s decision to quit the D Day remembrance in northern France and return to the UK early for rather spurious reasons. I must agree with Nigel Farage (wow! that’s a first!) when he says that the prime minister's action showed he was "disconnected by class [and] by privilege" from ordinary people, and that he did not understand British culture.

Firstly, I do question whether non British people should be in leading roles in parliament or at local level. But apart from that, Sunak’s decision was simply crass. He should have worked out that it would not be accepted kindly by British people. His failure to do that demonstrates to me he is not a fit and proper person to be Prime Minister. And also, it demonstrates to me the Tories, from top to bottom, are totally devoid of common sense, they are a party of self-interest, favouring and looking after the rich and to hell with the poor. That’s why the rich are richer and the poor poorer in Britain after 14 years under Tories and why so many people are now looking forward to change.

Right wing Truss economics which wrecked Britain like nothing else, demonstrates this so well. Her nonsense suggested if you make the rich richer their extra wealth will trickle down to the poorer. If you believe that you will believe anything. Reality is that multi millionaires and billionaires have an obsession to get ever richer and then employ an army of financial advisers to not only protect their wealth but to save themselves from paying tax on it.

So any political party which protects them has my total contempt. The Tories will suffer huge losses in the election. Serves them right – and one of the first thing they will do is to get rid of Sunak – just like they did with total

ruthlessness to Churchill after he won the war for Britain. To call the Tory party as the nasty party is no exaggeration.

Now let me turn to Labour. It looks like they are in line for a massive victory next month –some predict up to 147 seat majority.

That will be as much of a disaster as the huge Tory majority in 2019 which allowed the Tories to lurch to the right and all the crass decisions since.

The last thing Britain now needs is a massive Labour victory and which could result in the country being inflicted to a huge lurch to the left. Do we really want is for trade unions to have such a say as to alter politics to benefit their members to the detriment of everyone else? As a journalist I was constantly having to cope with left wing know it all oiks from universities in our newsrooms trying to promote their views. I still view left wing trade unionists as those people who want to earn far more for doing far less. For example, how crass is it that train drivers are still pressing for big pay rises when they earn 60,000 pounds plus?

Now let me turn to Reform and the snake in the grass Nigel Farage. He is playing the immigration card as hard as he can, because he knows that there are huge numbers of Brits extremely worried about the massive “invasion” of immigrants arriving illegally on British shores.

Many are economic migrants, many have paid 2,000 pounds plus to gangs to get on a boat from France. Where on earth did they get that money? Criminality? But we don’t know who they are, whether they have committed offences in their own countries...etc etc.

Of course, the do gooders rally around to try to help these “desperate people” without understanding that probably, for very genuine asylum seeker there are ten more on the bandwagon.

Farage and co are extremely clever and he is extremely astute. He comes over as very plausible, but he is almost as far right as you can get, and the last thing Britain needs now is yet another dose of right wing politics.

He calls his party the Reform party. Very clever name, because I want to see reform as millions of other Brits do – but not Farage’s idea of reform.

Now let me turn to the Lib Dems who want reform too – but their reform is to finally get proportional representation, to put an end to the two party system. I really hope that people wake up and vote for a centerist party which really could promote change, a change in the correct right direction.

A party which will make social care as front and centre of its policy, so that people can, once again, do not have to worry about care in their old age, can get care at home, releasing blocked hospital beds helping the desperate NHS, and boosting child care to release mums to earn money in work and helping the failing British economy.

Sadly Lib Dems don’t get a fair crack of the whip. Newspapers and TV news outlets ignore Lib Dems, concentrating on what the two main parties have to say. That puts the third alternative at a huge disadvantage and why its leader, Sir Ed Davey has had to go to extraordinary lengths, clowning about on water and in theme parks to gain attention. Thank goodness it’s working and Lib Dem profile is rising.

Carp-R-Us Angling & Social Club

Carp-R-Us fished the final round of their Spring series at El Bosquet. After two days of heavy rain the venue was quite muddy but at least the match was fished in pleasant conditions. Clear winner, from peg 1b, was Paul Burton with 17.02kg caught on pole and bread.

Second, from the other end peg (peg 6 on this occasion) was Steve (I need a new top 3) Higgins with 11.41kg on pole and pellet.

Steve had a reminder that you should make sure your pole sections are securely pushed in when he lost some of his to a carp!

Third was Jeremy Fardoe with 10.83kg

San Miguel Bowls Club

By Mary Whitelock

On Saturday 8th June the Marshalls played a rescheduled VCL game against Country Bowls Meerkats but came away with only 2 points thanks to Mark Westmoreland’s singles win of 21-16. The overall shots were 65-99.

On Monday the Moors travelled to Greenlands where it was a 6-6 draw keeping them 5 points above Greenlands and a great win from Allan Patterson, Lee Sinclair and Lynn Greenland securing the shots for the Moors and winning 33-10. Overall shots were 89-88.

The Christians were at home to Country Bowls where they managed to win 4 points losing 8-4 with the shots 51-84. Best win came from Stan North, Ian Hope and Rab Harvey winning 19-12.

The Sheriffs played their match against Country Bowls Foxes a day early on Tuesday 11th June Where they won 11-1, 113 shots to 55.

The highest win came from Gail Willshire in the Ladies singles winning 21-4 with the rinks team of Dave Homer, Sue Gell, Steve Cantley and Fred Willshire winning 29-12. On Wednesday the Deputies played San Luis

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS

BY ELWYN MORRIS

Dukes became VCL South Div A League Winners after beating their close Rivals Greenlands in a great winner takes all game at home. The Isle finished up 8-4 Aggregate of 87-84 winners. N Prior D Mooney 19-14, N Davis S Marks R Marks

from peg 3, Jeremy fished pole and switched baits regularly.

Fourth was Tony Flett (peg 1) with 7.30kg, just piping Willy Moons (peg 5) who had 7.15kg.

This was our first series decided using section points rather than over all position points with total weight caught deciding the outcome if there was a tieÖand there was, with Paul Burton just pipping Willie Moons. Congratulations to Paul and Willy. Information about the club can be found on its website www.carp-r-us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp-R-Us

Fishing Costa Blanca

Next matches: 20 June Bigastro

27 June Eden 2/3

4 July Pairs Cup - El Bosquet

Hawks and won 7-5. 87 shots to 84 with the best result coming from the pair of Stan North and Jack Jackson 22-9.

The Marshalls were away to Greenlands Titans but lost 10-2, 60-105 with the pair of Dave Sceal and Phil Broadhurst winning 2212.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.3 0pm for 2.00pm - 5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow. WASPS will close for the summer on 26th June and recommence on Wednesday 4th September.

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. Coaching will finish for the summer on Tuesday 25th June and recommence on Tuesday 10th September. After the game on Wednesday 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

19-15, S Kavanagh M Harley B Kavanagh C Lindgren 15-13

Victors started the week off playing Bonalba and they slipped to a 012 Aggregate

Lords played at home against San Luis Pythons and not a good day losing 2-10, Aggregate of 59-102. M Oakley E Bennett S Elvin 16-11. RIP David Laverick who passed away this week

Elwyn Morris

Quesada Bowls Club

By Chrissie Edwards

With only one result this week the Lions were away to San Luis Falcons, it was not the result the Lions was hoping for. With only one rink winning with Gary Thorpe in the singles, the Falcons were runaway winners with 100 shots to 53 and 10pts to 2

LA MARINA BOWLS CLUB BY DAVE HADAWAY

Monday 10th June our penultimate game of the season, and Country Bowls last game. They are one shot in front of us at 56-55, and a good win for either or a big loss could be the decider.

Country Bowls were away to San Miguel and we are away to Montemar, I am sure that both would rather be at home for such a crucial game, however this is how it works out.

Country Bowls will away 8-4, putting them 9 points ahead, and we win at Montemar 10-2, giving us the guaranteed top spot by 1 points with still a game in hand.

Whilst giving our sincere congratulations to

the whole squad, our winning rinks at Monte mar were:

Steve Wright, Shirley Hadaway & John Rae 22-17, Margaret Sadler, Margaret MacLaughlin & Garth Slater 25-10, David & Lesley Joynes & Len Daniels 22-19, and Anne Stone, Norman Ship & Barry Robers 36-6. Giving a overall shot difference of 117-71. Well done all – 1 game to play just go and enjoy.

Enjoy the summer and look forward to the challenage of a new division next year.

New members always welcome, and coaching is available.

San Luis Bowls Club with Dee Hoey

Saturday 8th San Luis hosted “The Fun Day Challenge” organised by Dave Louis. A mix of bowlers together with staff & friends of The Oasis. The day was a great success, non bowlers said how much they enjoyed it.

Thank you to the Oasis staff, Barbara Louis, Stuart Hamill and Viv Paterson for their help. A fantastic morning, thank you all for joining in. The results: 3 Rinks each 58 shots each, what a game.

Monday 10th Wellingtons v Q Blenheims, the wind made it an interesting game. Wellingtons gained 4 pts. Winners: Catherine Morrisroe/Noel Morrisroe/Jim Gracie 28-18.

Kath Reid/June and Keith Jones 22-9.

Hercules v VB Greeners: A hot and humid morning with strong winds made the game difficult.Greeners winning three rinks, two of them by one shot! The Hercules claimed the overall so a drawn game 6 points each a very enjoyable morning. Winners: Kevin McKenna/Jane Hamill/Stewart Hamill 30-14.

Mary Lockley/Phil Lockley/Dave Webb 27-9.

Wednesday 12th Falcons had a good day claiming 10 pts and 100 to 53 at home v Q Lions. Winners: Ladies Sgls-Kath Reid 21-4. Pairs-June and Keith Jones 26-11. Trips-Pat Reilly/Sandra Burrows/Scott Malden 14-12. Rinks-Mike Veale/Tricia Reilly/Jim Gracie/Neil Morrison 22-5. Kestrels battled hard for 2 pts away v CB Meerkats. Winners:

Trips-Pauline Johnson/Terry Baylis/Gordon Paton. Hawks flew to San Miguel and came away with a credible result.Mens singlesIan Kenyon 21-16. Ladies Singles-Mary Lockley 21-15.Pairs- Phil Lockley/Vic Mahomet had one of those days when nothing went right for them losing 8-22.TripsChrissy Jackson/Ralph Jones/John Skipper went into the last end all square but came away 1 shot down from the opposing skips last wood.Rinks-Stuart Wilson/Peter Ayres/David Whitworth/Dave Webb again dropped a shot on the last end but ended up with a credible draw. Final outcome 5 points to the Hawks, 7 to SM Deputies who took the shots by +4.

Friday 14th Pythons had a great win claiming 10 points and 102 shots to 59 away v EI Lords. Winners: Neil Burrows/Sandra Burrows/Scott Malden 23-13. Mary Lockley/Bill Webb/Jim Gracie 17-14. Kath Reid/June Jones/Keith Jones 26-7. Dee Hoey/Peter Ayres/Ian Kenyon 25-9. Cobras played at home v Greenlands Dragons the match was a draw, with Cobras winning on three rinks and the Dragons winning the shots 87 to 71. Winners: Leslie Howlett/Wayne Howlett/Dave Webb 17-16. Jim Gwyn/Maxine Wright/Ken Stringfellow 16-13. Jan Pocock/Gordon Paton/David Blackie 14-12.

GREENLANDS BOWLS CLUB

Gladiators made the trip to Emerald Isle hoping to secure the points to win the league but alas the Isle had other ideas and they achieved 8-4 victory so hard luck

The Warriors travelled to Country bowls hoping also to gain points but there were some really tight games that could have gone either way alas they went to Country Bowls winning 12-0 this score does not truly reflect the games but never the less the win went to Country Bowls

The Titans were up against San Miguel this week and they really had an exceptional game running out 10-2 which gives them 3rd place in the VC L. so well done on your win keeping the green flag flying high.

Greenlands Goannas in the 2 wood Triples league played hosts to Country Bowls Eagles and really performed extremely well gaining an 11-1 victory so well played everyone

Greenlands Dragons were away to San Luis Cobras and played very well gaining a 6 all draw. Congratulations must go to Dave Mandy Kerry who achieved a Hot Shot and a good win on their rink. Well done. Thank you all for your performances. Pearl Houghton

Orihuela coach, Sergi Guilló, to leave club

Orihuela football club has announced that their Ilicitan coach, Sergi Guilló, has decided not to renew his contract after leading the scorpions to a Primera RFEF playoff final in which they fell to Barakaldo. Although it is not known what the new venture might be it is understood that it will be with a higher placed club. The club issued the statement last Saturday, through its official channels, in which it expressed disappointment that the young Ilicitan technician has not accepted the offer of another season.

However the club also said that it was most grateful to Sergi for all that he has given to the club since he arrived and we wish him the greatest of luck. We know that the decision has not been easy and

La Marina GS at Lo Romero

The members of the La Marina Golf Society gathered at the splendid golf course at Lo Romero this week for their usual Stapleford competition.

While the players eagerly took to the impeccably maintained course, the weather overhead was very dark and cloudy, and they wondered if they would get a full game in.

However, within an hour the usual blue sky appeared, and the sunny Spanish weather resumed.

will always be a scorpion.

They added that in the next few days they will publish details of the new coach, for their ambitious project, with the aim of competing, once again, for promotion.

The members gathered at the clubhouse, after the game, sharing refreshments and celebrating the day's achievements.

Lesley Cullen won the day with a score of 38pts, just slightly ahead on countback with Gordon Thursfield taking second place and Sarah McCabe in third place with a score of 37 points.

The nearest the pin winners were as follows: Hole 5 Graeme Buchanan, Hole 7 & 15 Garry Garbett and Hole 12 Sarah McCabe. No one managed a 2 so the two’s pot will be rolled over to the next game. Well done to all of the day’s winners.

‘BAR NEXT DOOR’ COMPLETE HISTORIC GRAND SLAM

The ‘Bar Next Door’ pool team from Via park 3 have completed a never been done achievement by winning a complete whitewash in this year's Orihuela winter pool league. A feat never achieved by any team on the costa.

A few new additions at the start of the season saw three new players arrive from the bars former team in the Torrevieja team which gave a great mixture and strength in depth that surprised many of our opponents during the season

After a steady start to the season with 8-1 and 9-0 victories.The team hit top spot after four games and remained there all season,producing double victories over four out of their five main rivals during the season.This resulted in finishing as division one league champions by 14 points. In the leagues cup competition,again competing against

LO CRISPIN GOLF

SOCIETY @ RODA

At Roda Golf on the 12th. June, 26 members and 2 guests 'teed it up' to compete for the Society's Committee Trophy. Although the threatened thunderstorms did not materialise, there was the odd rumble of thunder in the distance. The rain did come and go for the best part of three hours. Despite the rain of recent days the course was generally in good condition, but failed to dampen the enthusiasm and spirits of most players. Following the game most of us, as usual, returned to the Lo Crispin Tavern where the day's prizes were distributed and welcome Tapas was supplied.

Gold Division

1st Place - Dean Astley 36 pts off 19

(Winner of the Committee Trophy)

2nd Place - Andy Quinn 32 pts off 8 on count back

3rd Place - Steve Price 32 pts off 19

Silver Place

1st Place - Paul Flanaghan 32 pts off 29

2nd Place - Keith Rennison 28 pts off 28

3rd Place - Jerry Baker 27 pts 20

N.T. P. on Par 3s

Hole 2 - Nobody

Hole 7 - Steve Price

the other forty teams in the league.Tough draws in the quarter and semifinals saw the team progress to the final versus Moons Bar.a 5-2 win in the final saw them complete a glorious double

The singles competition saw Robbie Richardson win the Division one Title to progress to the Grand Final.Robbie was victorious again making him the standout player within the league.

In the doubles competition the team entered the pairings of Drew Gerrard and Derek Hutton,along with Paul Lock and Robbie Richardson.Both pairs overcame some very good opposition playing away at bars with some very par-

tisan support.Both pairs recorded victories which resulted in an all ‘Bar Next Door’ final.Robbie and Paul winning the final.

This completed the never been done before achievement of one bar/ team winning every trophy up for grabs in the league.

The team Captain George has said throughout the season the togetherness of the team,has shone through,giving us a bond and camaraderie he'd not seen before.

An outstanding performance from every player and something they should all be very proud of.

Hole 11 - Andy Quinn

Hole 13 - Gordon Campbell

Nobody achieved a 2 so the 2s pot will be rolled over to 26th June.

The Free Game Draw was won by Carl Rodel. Our next game is an inter Society match against Quesada Golf Society at Vistabella on 19th June.

Steve Harrington (Membership Secretary)