The Leader Newspaper 18 November 24 – Edition 1050
Residents of the Orihuela Costa are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress under the new PP-Vox coalition government. Despite the creation of a specific council for the Coast, headed by Manuel Mestre (Vox), the area continues to feel neglected.
Decades of rapid urban development have not been matched by adequate investment in services and infrastructure, leaving residents feeling abandoned.
That sentiment was amplified at last Thursday’s annual meeting of Unidos por la Costa, the primary neighbourhood association, with over 900 members and 10,000 followers on Facebook.
The association and many residents are calling for greater autonomy for the coastal area, which, despite being part of Orihuela, feels distant from the municipality's decision-making processes.
They believe that a significant budgetary boost, along with additional human, technical, and material resources, is necessary to address the area's needs.
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UNIDAS POR LA COSTA
At the meeting, Tomas Moreno, a long-time advocate for the coastal neighbourhoods, was re-elected as its president. This experienced leader, with his history of local activism, remains committed to championing the interests of residents.
Moreno outlined his ambitious plans for the coming year, including expanding membership of the association, establishing specialised working groups to tackle key issues, and maintaining a strong presence in local government bodies.
“The association”, he said, “is committed to actively engaging with residents through surveys and community discussions, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed”.
He also expressed his frustration with the slow progress of the local authority in addressing pressing issues. He criticised the council's budget management and its alleged censorship of the association's concerns during plenary sessions.
The association spoke of "the authoritarian drift of the two-party system, which is increasingly annoyed by the fact that residents are showing an interest in many issues, to the point of censoring the questions that are being asked in the plenary sessions, or not granting them access to the files that are requested."
Moreno emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability in local government. He criticised the council's lack of responsiveness to residents' concerns and its failure to deliver on promised projects. The association remains committed to using all available channels, including social media, public meetings, and legal action, to advocate for the rights of residents and ensure that their voices are heard.
As such, Unidos Por La Costa remains steadfast in its efforts to hold the council accountable and push for the realisation of essential projects, such as the eco-park, new schools, and improved infrastructure.
As Unidos Por La Costa continues to grow and advocate for the needs of Orihuela Costa residents, its leadership under Moreno is poised to drive positive change and ensure a brighter future for the community. The association's unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement has earned it the trust and support of its members.
Moreno's vision for the association includes fostering a sense of community among residents, promoting sustainable development, and advocating for policies that improve the quality of life in Orihuela Costa. By working together,
the association and its members are intent on creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous community for all. For residents, the accumulated delays in the implementation of major contracts or management orders is alarming: "The approved budget for the 2024 financial year has still not been implemented, and many of the unexecuted investments will have to be re-included in the 2025 financial year, which is currently being drawn up but whose content is unknown to us at the moment," Moreno explained.
He concluded by encouraging all Orihuela Costa residents to join Unidos Por La Costa to amplify their collective voice.
In expressing hope for significant infrastructure improvements in 2025 Moreno indicated that the association may consider extraordinary measures, including a demand for more self-governance, particularly if these are not forthcoming.
So, if you too feel that the coast is being ignored by the authorities in Orihuela City and would like to add your voice to the calls for better facilities and infrastructure, then you should definately consider joining ‘Unidas por la Costa’.
It is a non-political organisation and it is free to join. Simply follow the link on the Facebook page: unidosxlacosta or email: avocaorihuelacosta@gmail.com for information.
WITHOUT THE WILL TO LIVE
It was snowing very heavily
And settling on the ground
A thick white coat of coldness
That fell fast without a sound
Whilst looking picture perfect
Sat behind a window pane
An elderly ex serviceman
Faced winter once again
This time without his benefit
Of winter fuel relief
Already wrapped in blankets
As well as being lost in grief
His wife had died that summer
Leaving him to fend alone
Now the icy chills of winter
Had him freezing to the bone
He'd fought to help his country
Now felt he had been betrayed
His pension hardly stretching
To the bills that he had paid
So food was at a minimum
Just beans and breakfast oats
And his bedroom cold and soulless
On his bed four winter coats
For heating was impossible
And way beyond his means
Not the life he had envisaged
As a soldier with his dreams
Now a number past it's sell by date
With no regard or worth
Was it time to die in poverty
Leaving one less man on Earth
Was that what those in power
Have in mind for O.A.P's
Drain their money, drain their lives
Bring them all down to their knees
He stared at the snow falling
Shivers running down his spine
A hot water bottle comforting
But only for a time
So this is what he fought for
This is what life had in store
He picked his soldiers medals up
And threw them on the floor
It was dark outside and inside too
No light to fill the room
Just moonlight casting shadows
In the cold and draughty gloom
He saw some children playing
Throwing snowballs having fun
But he was lost in such despair
What had his life become
A daily chore, a living hell
No tunnel with a light
An ex serviceman who lives alone
Without the will to fight.
by David Whitney c 2024
San Miguel de Salinas F San Miguel de Salinas F aces aces
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as Builder Seeks to Increase Builder Seeks to Increase A A partment Count partment Count
an Miguel de Salinas, Spain: A local developer's plan to significantly increase the number of apartments in the SUS-A plan, Los Invernaderos de San Miguel de Salinas, has sparked widespread concern among residents.
The San Miguel Arcangel Residents' Association has voiced strong objections to the proposed modification, which would see the number of apartments rise from 1,582 to 2,204.
They argue that the influx of an estimated 5,510 new residents would severely strain the town's already limited infrastructure, including education, waste management, healthcare, and sewage treatment.
as
unchanged, opposition councillors and residents alike express deep concern about the potential negative impacts on the town's quality of life.
The Residents' Association has called for a strategic environmental assessment to be conducted, arguing that the scale of the proposed development necessitates a thorough evaluation of its environmental implications.
“The developer has already begun construction on one of the eight-story buildings, despite the fact that the necessary planning permission has yet to be granted.”
The developer has already begun construction on one of the eight-story buildings, despite the fact that the necessary planning permission has yet to be granted. This has led to questions about the legality of the project and the role of local authorities in overseeing development.
Local politicians are divided on the issue. While the mayor claims that the building capacity remains
The future of the project hangs in the balance, with the outcome of the upcoming plenary session determining whether the developer's plans will be approved or rejected.
Bienvenida Campillo, the councillor from Izquierda Unida (IU) who is part of the PSOE government team that is processing the modification, has announced that she will vote against it in the plenary session. The PSOE (with six councillors) will need at least the abstention of Vox (two) or PP (four) to push the project through. T
Currently, two opposition councillors work for the main company supplying construction materials for the development.
DOUBLE THE MOTORING AT IFA-FIRA ALACANT
From 22nd to 24th November, the unmissable event for motoring enthusiasts returns with many great new features.
Fira Alacant is hosting the 52nd edition of FIRAUTO, the New and Second-hand Car Show, and the 20th edition of ON 2 WHEELS, the Motorcycle Show, from 22nd to 24th November.
This consolidated event has become a benchmark for motor lovers, where the main models of vehicles and motorbikes come together.
Attendees will have the opportunity to find out about the latest developments in the sector and benefit from exclusive promotions.
The event will fill the entire IFA-FIRA ALACANT facilities and will bring together more than 140 major exhibitors including car dealers, motorbike brands, accessories and mobility-related services.
During the weekend, visitors will be able to explore the latest electric, hybrid and combustion vehicles, as well as motorbikes and accessories for all tastes.
Professionals from the sector will be on hand to inform interested parties, offering
personalised advice and exclusive financing conditions for visitors to the fair.
At Firauto, more than 2. 500 new and used vehicles from more than 37 brands will be on show, including: Audi, BMW, DFSK, Mercedes, Mini, Skoda, Citr?en, Cupra, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Leapmotor, Lexus, MG, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Nissan, Omoda, Jaecoo, Opel, Peugeot, Renault, Dacia, Ssang Yong, Seat, Suzuki, Subaru, Toyota, Volskwagen, Aixan, and Volvo, among others.
At Sobre2ruedas, meanwhile, there will be around 600 motorbikes from the most prestigious brands in the sector: Harley Davidson, BMW, Daelin, Derbi, Ducati, Indian, Kawasaki, Kymco, Qj, Peugeot, Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, SYM, Suzuki, Triumph, Yamaha, Vogue, Riya, Super Soco, Zontes, and Victory, among others.
SALE OF TICKETS
Tickets for FIRAUTO and ON 2 WHEELS are available in advance on the Fira Alacant website at the cost of 4 euros and can also be purchased at the mainl ticket office during the days of the exhibition at a price of 7 euros.
Opening hours : Firauto and Sobre2ruedas opening hours are from 10:00 to 21:00.
Tuesday, October 29th, 2024, will go down as one of the saddest chapters in the history of Spain.
That day the great Dana hit the Valencia region with such catastrophic results, causing widespread destruction and a tragic death toll.
It is impossible not to be emotionally moved when watching the scale of destruction - homes gone, complete roads washed away, historic bridges, railway lines and long stretches of motorways all destroyed, but as the tragic loss of life continues to grow, the questions as to how this was this allowed to happen need urgently to be answered.
We are in the 21st century, with weather warnings, storm alerts, emergency messages sent direct to your phone, so should the authorities have been better prepared?
Even today we still remember, locally, the Dana of 2019, which caused a considerable amount of damage here on Orihuela Costa - but it was nothing compared to Valencia.
In my opinion our damage was caused by several factors, but mainly as a result of the kind of construction we have here. What I mean is that building takes place at such a pace, without any forward planning regarding infrastructure; particularly where the rain goes when it does come.
Construction - all that cement and bricks - creates a canal, diverting water away from its natural course, the barrancas.
We estimate that about a third to a half of all natural barrancas have been taken out of use because of all that construction, so water has no choice but to find another course.
You cannot play with nature, it will find a way, and with the climate changing as it is, storms could become more frequent and more intense, so there needs to be far more forward planning.
Our town hall needs to be much more
PLANNING STILLTAKES ABACK SEAT TO CONSTRUCTION
astute, putting people’s lives before allowing more and more construction, just to grease the palms of sweaty builders, or we could become the next Valencia.
Instead of putting proper appropriate planning first, there still is a mad scramble to construct housing on every parcel of spare land, without due consideration to even the most basic needs of people who might end up living in those newly completed houses. How many of the potential purchasers of these newbuilds really closely examine what the area has to offer?
Are potential homeowners and likely future residents blinkered by the wonderful weather, the glimmering outdoor swimming pool, the glorious beaches and the facilities in towns like Torrevieja?
How many purchasers research the education provision or investigate the services they may need in the future, when they are considering making Orihuela Costa their permanent residence?
Often, it is only when you are living in an area that the structural and funda-
mental inadequacies become apparent. The old saying, ‘prevention is better than a cure’ still has relevance today. Remember, It is better and easier to stop a problem from happening than to stop or correct it after it has started. Is it not time for the council to look at dredging many of the ramblas/barancas to make them deeper and wider, clearing them of any debris?
Maintenance of the Rio Nacimiento in Dehesa De Campoamor needs urgent attention. It needs clearing and cleaning, a task that has been so badly neglected for far too long with mud and overgrowing reeds hindering waterflow. What we seem to have is a “Mexican stand-off” between Orihuela and CHS in determining the responsibility.
We don’t want to see the results when we get hit by the next Dana - so, instead of arguing as to who is responsible, get the job done and then debate.
IMPROVED TUNNEL SAFETY AT PILAR
The Ministry of Transport has awarded the contract to Constructora San Jose, SA to modernize and improve the energy efficiency of the Pilar de la Horadada tunnel. The bid was valued at 3,539,273 euros (VAT included), a 20% discount from the base budget of 4,405,798.47 euros. The project, approved last April, has an expected execution period of nine months.
Located at kilometre 772 of the Crevillente-Cartagena section of the AP-7, the modernization aims to improve tunnel safety and reduce energy consumption through efficient
LED lighting management. Improvements include power supply, emergency lighting, public address systems, ventilation, fire detection cameras, and more.
The project is funded by the European 'Next Generation' funds, part of a 302-million-euro investment in sustainability and energy efficiency. The Pilar de la Horadada tunnel, a critical point for summer traffic, has previously faced flooding issues, notably during the 2019 DANA.
TORREVIEJA’S IMMACULATE CONCEPTION RECOVERS IT’S OLD BELLS AIRPORT APPROACHES 16 MILLION PASSENGERS
Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport has set a new annual passenger record, reaching over 15.8 million passengers by October 2024. This marks a significant growth, with a 13.3% increase in October compared to the same month in 2023.
The airport outpaced other major Spanish airports, including MadridBarajas, Barcelona-El Prat, Palma de Mallorca, and Malaga-Costa del Sol in growth rate, although it still lags behind in absolute passenger numbers.
The record growth is primarily driven by international traffic, with passengers from the UK, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and Norway leading the influx. Domestic traffic also saw a rise of 10.4%.
The airport handled 11,243 flights in October, a 13.1% increase from the previous year. With a total of 15,891,921 passengers handled from January to October 2024, the airport has already surpassed its total for 2023, growing by 16.5%.
The bells that once sat in the western tower of the Church of the Immaculate Conception will ring out again as they have done for almost a century.
Parish priest, Jose Antonio Gea, blesses the 3 bells on their return
The parish priest,Jose Antonio Gea, received the bells at the doors of the church after meticulous restoration work by Murcian bell ringers.
The three bells,known as the "hour
FORMER TORREVIEJA COUNCILLOR IN COURT
Former Torrevieja councillor for Contracting, Carmen Gomez Candel (PP), stood trial on Thursday for alleged irregularities in contracting materials for a park in the La Siesta urbanisation.
Summoned alongside the director of the Mediterranean VIII Employment Workshop, Gomez faces charges of prevarication for allegedly deciding unilaterally which companies would provide services, splitting and dividing service costs into multiple invoices to bypass public procurement laws.
The events occurred in 2015 during Mayor Eduardo Dolon's first term.
bells",had to be removed in 1998 due to their deterioration. Afterwards,due to lack of funds, they were left outdoors in a courtyard for 26 years.
Originating from the beginning of the 20th century,he bells are cast in iron.The wooden supports had to be replaced because the originals were unrecoverable.The tower also underwent works that were completed in 2018.
On Wednesday the bells were blessed by the parish priest who is also dean of the Cathedral of Orihuela.Immediately afterwards,a crane lifted them up to the tower, where they have been placed in their original position,ready to call the people of Torrevieja to the Eucharist once again.
The Council, under a five-party coalition led by former mayor Jose Manuel Dolon, took the complaint to court. The Prosecutor's Office seeks 11 years of disqualification.
Worship and be wary of the sun in equal measure
In a dejected world, barely a ‘wouldya-wouldya’ away from another world war, people more than ever are entitled to seek out the pleasures of the planet. Few things on earth give a greater simple pleasure than basking in the sun. This week we shall dwell for a few moments on the sun; marvel at its blessed benefits, but also cast our beady eye on its dangers.
Writing about the sun at this time of year - far removed from the planning of summer holidays; might give readers a cooler head in considering the damage of over-exposure to the sun in say July and August. But before that, let us look at the
pleasures, the benefits, and the health-giving elements we derive from the glorious sun.
Sunshine makes people feel more alive and in a better mood. It has been proven that a lack of sun can trigger depression –so conversely, we understand that sun brings with it a feelgood factor.
Getting out in the sun relieves stress; improves sleep pattern and provides us with our greatest source of vital Vitamin D. But like most good things in life; moderation is the key word here when it comes to exposure to the sun. Something which sustains all of life and is such a part of good health and
longevity can also be a killer. According to WHO, 60,000 people die from sun exposure every year. Two people die every hour in the United States from sun-related causes. Most of them are fair skinned folks like us.
This week’s offering comes from the fact that I recently had a health scare attributed to sun damage. Thank God, this one is OK, but some years ago it took 32 stitches in my forehead to cover the removal of skin cancer.
I spend a lot of time in the sun through necessity, but whether at home or abroad, I plaster on the Factor 50, wear a cap and don’t shed any more clothes than I have to! That’s enough about me, but I need to let you know I am familiar with both the upside and the downside of sunshine. You cannot be too careful.
You don’t have to go abroad to fall victim to sun damage; and with climate change now with us, we may experience hotter days than ever before. Back in the day many of us got burned on the bog or in the hayfield of the long ago. But then, nobody knew of the damage or the long-term effects of sunburn.
My mother used to skim the cream from the crock of churn milk to sooth our soreness and I can still remember it’s cooling, calming sequel to our suffering.
Overexposure to the sun’s UVR, not only causes sunburn, but carries with it the risk of the aforementioned skin cancer. Obviously the more exposure, the greater is the risk. Wrinkles, dehydration and heat rash are also related to the dark side of the sun. We associate the old wrinkly face as a consequence of aging, but being out in the sun is a significant factor in the development of said same wrinkles and how early they appear.
UV light damages collagen and elastic tissue in the skin, so it becomes ‘saggy’ and does not spring back into shape.
Some of us will get white cysts or blackheads; or dark spots on the skin due to damaged surface cells on the skin.
Another few negatives while we’re at it. The eyes and lips can be easily damaged from unprotected exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun, because obviously sun cream doesn’t work as well here.
The retina at the back of the eye can be affected and the risk of cataracts is increased.
Don’t underestimate the harm that heat exhaustion can cause. The symptoms include; headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, heavy sweating and elevated body temperature. At this point you stand danger of the heat exhaustion leading to heat stroke.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and can be life-threatening.
Symptoms include confusion and slurred speech. Medical attention should be sought at this stage, because if left untreated, heat stroke can cause permanent disability or even death.
I hope that we have not spoiled your sun holiday with this reminder that the sun can be your enemy as well as your friend.
As the police sergeant in ‘Hill Street Blues’ used conclude his summary with; ‘be careful out there!’ And as we said at the beginning, this is the best time of year to be thinking about it and adjust your mindset. Worship and be wary of the sun in equal measure …
DON’T FORGET
Common sense is something you want the other fellow to show by accepting your ideas and conclusions.
The fish storage area where the anchovy was found
2 TONS OF IMMATURE ANCHOVY SEIZED IN SAN PEDRO
The Civil Guard has denounced the master of a fishing boat for allegedly marketing two tons of immature anchovy, a practice that violates the regulations of sustainability of marine species.
The master, who now faces a fine of 60,000 euros, marketed the catches in San Pedro del Pinatar after they were rejected in the port of Torrevieja.
Last Tuesday, Seprona environmental officers received a warning about a possible discharge of immature fish in the Torrevieja auction. Upon the arrival of the agents, the boat attempting to discharge the cargo had already left the port after the auction refused to accept the goods, because it did not comply with the marketing regulations.
According to a witness, the boat's skipper headed towards the fish market in San Pedro del Pinatar.
The agents travelled to San Pedro where, in
collaboration with the inspector of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Service of the Region of Murcia, they were able to inspect the cargo.
During the inspection, a closed storage chamber containing seven buckets of anchovy without documentation was found.
A worker reported that the fish belonged to the boat being investigated and that, as they were below the minimum size, they were intended for the production of fishmeal.
A sampling of the catch showed that the average was 146.7 specimens per kilogram, exceeding the permitted limit of 125 specimens per kilogram. In total, 1,901 kilograms of immature anchovy were seized, the largest seizure of this type of fish in the province of Alicante by the Civil Guard.
The catches were immobilized and removed for destruction. In addition, the boat's employer will now face a fine of up to 60,000 euros.
HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR DANA
The government will establish a High Commissioner to expedite the reconstruction of areas affected by the Dana, particularly in Valencia.
Announced by Minister Angel Victor Torres, the role will have a specific structure for prompt res-
RAMRAIDERS ARRESTED AFTER LOSING MOBILE IN GUARDAMAR ROBBERY
The Civil Guard arrested three Spaniards, aged 19, 27, and 30, for eight robberies across Alicante, Murcia, and Castellon.
One thief's lost mobile phone during an attack on an optician's in Guardamar del Segura helped dismantle the gang. The robbers targeted opticians, perfumeries, gambling houses, and pharmacies in Guardamar del Segura, Orihuela Costa, Torre Pacheco, Burriana, Cabanes, and La Vall d'Uix?.
They travelled from Madrid, stole high-end vehicles for their raids, and sprayed the interi-
ponses, similar to the efforts in La Palma.
The High Commissioner will join an inter-ministerial commission and internal working groups to oversee the reconstruction, with approval pending from the Council of Ministers.
A
ors with fire extinguishers to cover traces.
The men face charges of belonging to a criminal group, forceful theft, vehicle theft, and property theft.
One detainee is under pretrial detention as ordered by the Torrevieja court.
ramraided optician in Guardaamar
Door to door rubbish collection provides better value
Daya Vieja is increasing its waste tariff by 16.66 euros (16%) from 102 euros to 118.66 euros per year to comply with state regulations requiring public contribution to the real service cost. The price hike, based on 2023 data and following the introduction of a door-to-door collection service, affects its small population of under 800 residents. Conversely, nearby Dolores is decreasing its garbage tariff by nearly 10 euros, from 138.89 euros to 129.40 euros annually, also due to the door-to-door collection service.
According to Mayor Jose Vicente Fernandez, the adjustment ensures municipal costs are not in deficit as well as providing a far better service to the public.
SAT ANIMAL RESCUE
Clover is a 5.5-year-old medium crossbreed, who arrived very nervous but now is a confident loving dog.
For more info WhatsApp 688792515 or at: info@satanimalrescue.com
BONOS CAMPAIGN OF LITTLE BENEFIT TO ORIHUELA COSTA BUSINESSES
An investigation into the BONOS ORIHUELA 2024 discount voucher campaign, aimed at encouraging local shopping, has found that only 3 out of nearly 200 participating businesses are located in Orihuela Costa. The campaign, funded by 320,000 euros from the Orihuela and Alicante Provincial Councils and organised in collaboration with FACPYME, has notably excluded many small businesses in Orihuela Costa. Consequently, residents need to go to Orihuela City to benefit from the discounts.
Furthermore, a second 400,000 euro promotion, set to launch in December and funded by the Alicante Provincial Council, will focus on boosting the Orihuela Christmas campaign, once again excluding coastal businesses.
ORIHUELA COSTA SENIORS ON THE MARCH
Councillor Agustina
Rodriguez announced the third edition of ‘Mayores en Marcha’ in Orihuela Costa on 27 November at 10:00, starting at Playa Flamenca esplanade. Organized by the Department of Social Welfare and supported by the Department of Sports,
Jacarilla Mayor Imprisoned
The Provincial Court sentenced former Jacarilla mayor Jose Manuel Galvez Ortuño (PP) to 8 months in prison and 4 years of disqualification from public office for fraud against the Administration.Galvez modified the location of a sewage treatment plant in 2006 to benefit a builder, bypassing administrative procedures.The court acquitted him of passive bribery, reducing the sentence sought by the Public Prosecutor's Office.Builders Joaquin Grau Roch, Cristina Bernabe, and Victoriano Bernabe received 4 month prison sentences.The complaint, filed in 2015 by former mayor Pilar Diez (PSOE), led to Galvez and others paying 27,000 euros in civil liability.The treatment plant, built in 2011, remains unused, with wastewater still untreated.
the event features a twokm walk for 400 seniors from Orihuela. Post-walk, participants will enjoy refreshments and activities like dance, yoga, and gerontogymnastics.
The event ends at 13:30. Seniors over 60 should contact their Senior Citizen Centres to register.
UPGRADED CAMERAS
Pilar de la Horadada has upgraded its video surveillance with 23 new cameras, focusing on coastal access points. Councillor Nieves Moreno announced the budget of 263,000 euros, increasing the total number of cameras to 55, highlighting the Council's commitment to improving safety. The next phase includes installing license plate detection equipment. Funded by the Plan to Promote Innovative Territories, these efforts aim to enhance urban safety. In 2022, the Council invested 170,000 euros to expand the system, adding 31 digital cameras with advanced features like license plate readers and 360degree vision with artificial intelligence.
Six ficticious policemen arrested after Guardamar robbery
Six men were arrested for a violent robbery in Guardamar del Segura, where they had posed as police officers.
The suspects were found refuelling a vehicle in La Nucia and were carrying fake police badges and firearms used to intimidate and rob their victims.
They were apprehended as they were refuelling their vehicles with a jar in a municipal parking lot.
The police found multiple vehicles, weapons, and police paraphernalia, linking them to the robbery.
The stolen items, including e5,256 in cash, were recovered and returned to the victim.
The six suspects, aged 24 to 50, with criminal records, were arrested for robbery, illegal possession of weapons, and criminal group membership. The investigation is ongoing.
A 57-year-old Irish man, wanted by Czech authorities for drug trafficking and organized crime, was arrested in Orihuela Costa.He was identified after driving a suspicious right-hand drive car with Spanish plates.Subsequent checks revealed an active European Arrest Warrant against him.The man, suspected of being part of an international drug trafficking ring operating across several countries, was arrested outside his home.
AUTOPSY RETURNS VERDICT OF NATURAL CAUSES
Following the discovery of the body of a 66-year-old British man in the Transfer Canal in Orihuela Costa an autopsy revealed no signs of violence, confirming that the cause of death was natural.
The deceased was a cycling enthusiast who frequently used the track parallel to the canal. While there was initial speculation of foul play, the evidence suggests that he may have suffered a medical emergency and accidentally fell into the canal.
TORREVIEJA ANIMAL SHELTER COSTS
The renovation of Torrevieja's animal shelter has been delayed due to new Animal Welfare Law regulations.
These regulations require a phased approach, increasing the cost by 130,638 euros and extending the timeline by two months.
The City Council is committed to improving the shelter and ensuring animal welfare, despite the challenges.
Garbage tax to increase more on Pilar coast
Pilar de la Horadada is increasing its garbage tax to comply with new regulations.
The annual tax will rise to 152.97 euros on the coast and 147.13 euros in the urban center. The increase is based on a study that considers factors like cadastral value and constructed surface. Coastal properties, often second homes, will face higher rates as they are deemed to generate more waste. The new rates will take effect on January 1st, 2024.
Is Torrevieja’s Christmas Spending Out of Control?
The City of Torrevieja is currently allocating significant funds for its La Purisima and Christmas festivities. The total budget, not including last-minute concert expenses, stands at 1,500,000 euros.
The Council has tendered nine public contracts for various items and events, such as costumes and accessories for the Queen of the Salt and her Ladies, costing 13,000 euros, and the Diego Ramirez Pastor Award Gala, priced at 17,477 euros.
In addition, the lighting for festivities and Christmas alone costs close to half a million euros.
Further expenses include organising and producing Christmas activities (200,000 euros), La Purisima patron saint festivities (208,373 euros), and assembling of the municipal nativity scene (80,000 euros). The Salt Queen Gala costs 46,451 euros, while the Three Kings Parade will set us back in the region of 237,000 euros.
A concert by Lori Meyers Granada, costing 160,000 euros, will also be approved by the Council soon. Other events, like Halloween and this weekend’s gastronomic festival, further add to the spending, with the latter budgeted at 69,271 euros.
The question arises as to whether this extensive outlay is justified, considering the current economic situation of many residents and the significant amounts of taxpayer money involved, or whether the Christmas spending of Torrevieja City Council is simply spiralling completely out of control.
LET US HAVE YOUR OPINION ON THE VALUE OF TORREVIEJA’S CHRISTMAS SPENDING
Email us at: office@theleader.info
Council to spend e31,000 on New Year Partyin Orihuela City
Orihuela's Council is planning a New Year's Eve celebration at the Glorieta in the city centre, with a budget of 31,218 euros.
The event will run from 11:00 p.m. on 31 December to 6:00 a.m. on 1 January.
The Youth Council, led by Councillor Anabel GarcIa (Vox), will oversee the event, which includes a large marquee, DJ table, high-resolution LED screen, festive decorations, professional sound and lighting, and three DJs. Security and cleaning teams will ensure the event's smooth operation.
Additionally, another New Year's Eve party organised by Moorish and Christian groups will take place on Calle Extremadura in the city from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
QUICKIE CROSSWORD
ACROSS ACROSS
7.Comment (6)
8.Direction (6)
10.Wrestle (7)
11.Inundate (5)
12.Soothe (4)
13.Stage (5)
17.Transparent (5)
18.Concoction (4)
22.Destroy (5)
23.Disentangle (7)
24.Enjoy (6)
25.Reason (6)
CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE?
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. Solution on
18 and 19Dn. They donít provide illumination in the van! (4-5)
22.Giving chase at a later date (5)
23.The luggage is found in the lowlands (7)
24.Not entirely left in a political group (6)
25.Plenty with a different role after the end of casting (6)
LEADER TRIVIA QUIZ
1. During their first American tour of the US in 1964, the Rolling Stones were the opening act for which 14 year old musician?
2. In film and literature, which titular character's name translated means "white skin" in the Mangani language?
3. The film title to which movie starring Jack Nicholson refers to a book of uncomplicated piano lessons?
4. In the song "Good Golly Miss Molly", in which house does Molly do her rocking and rolling?
5. Horvat is the most common surname in which European country? a. Bulgaria b. Poland c. Albania d. Croatia.
6. Which Aramaic word meaning "a skull" is the name of the place outside of Jerusalem where Christ was crucified?
7. The ichthyologist Matt Hooper is one of the central characters in which 1975 Hollywood blockbuster?
8. In which city is the world-famous Uffizi Gallery?
9. Bunny chow is a popular fast-food dish in which country?
10. The following lyrics are all from songs with the word "Good" somewhere in the song title. Can you name the song? a. I hear a lot of stories, I suppose they could be true, all about love and what it can do for you. b. Got a picture of you beside me, got your lipstick mark still on your coffee cup. c. In the
DOWN DOWN
1.Thugs making a wild chase round Pennsylvania (7)
2.He doesnít believe I fled in disguise (7)
3.State of a hatchet thatís turned up in back-street (5)
4.Filling up the cracks at the top of the room, we hear (7)
5.Joeyís resting-place (5)
6.Peteís very much inclined to get upset (5)
9.To pulverise in this way is disgusting (9)
14.Greenstone (7)
15.To phase out a place of refreshment (3-4)
16.One who puts clothes on a sideboard (7)
19.See 18 Across.
20.Some of the supplies to restock the shop (5)
21 and 12Ac. Describing bright pupils (5-4)
(Answers on
page 23)
days of my youth I was told what it means to be a man
11. With 161.5 m in height, in which country is the tallest church in the world? a. Germany b. England c. Ivory Coast d. France
12. In which sport is 'Bonk' (or bonking) a term used for mental and physical exhaustion?
13. Measured in metres above sea level, in which four countries would one find the highest capital cities?
14. Brian Cohen is a central figure in which controversial 1979 film?
15. Named after their first Prime Minister, what is Israel's busiest airport?
16. Name the films in which Bob Hoskins played each of the following roles. a. Nikita Khrushchev. b. J. Edgar Hoover. c. Eddie Valiant
17. With 5,109 m (16,763 ft), Mount Stanley is the third highest mountain on which continent?
18. Which British author is featured a record 10 times in the original "1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die"?
19. Which band performed "Brain Salad Surgery"?
20. The psychiatrist Dr. Sidney Freedman was an occasional character in which popular US television series?
Show a leg for a Christmas Charity with the Pink Ladies
MARIA AND THE PINK LADIES annual Santa Walk will be held on Sunday 8th December.
Once again, the walk will begin and end at the stage in Zenia Boulevard, starting at 11.00 hrs. registration is only ˇ5 and all monies raised will be donated to AACC to help with the Early Detection Program and in the fight against cancer.
Come along, bring the family, bring your friends, even bring the family pet. It's for a great cause as cancer now affects almost 1 in 2 of us.
Just turn up on the day, dress up in your Christmas jumper, Santa hats, Reindeer headgear or anything festive, register and join in and let’s get the Christmas festivities off to a great start.
The Local Police will be in attendance keeping us all safe and sound during the walk of approximately 5km.
There will be festive entertainment on the stage hosted by Simon Morton of Sunshine FM.
Once again, we will be collecting
items for those less fortunate than ourselves and passing them on to Reach Out, they require items such as dried food, sanitary items such as shampoo, toothpaste soap etc
Torrevieja to Monitor Mosquitoes and Pests with Drones
The project aims to tackle pest infestations effectively and improve residents' quality of life.
Torrevieja will use drones to monitor mosquitoes and pests under a new service awarded to CTL, costing 725,395 euros over five years.
The Mayor and Councillor for Health and Pest Control announced the service, which includes new vehicles and drones
to combat insects and rodents.
CTL will provide various vehicles, including drones for inspection and product application, with an annual expenditure of 145,079 euros.
The service targets rodents, cockroaches, and mosquitoes, which
can transmit diseases and cause allergies. The strategy focuses on controlling larval foci and using adulticidal products when necessary.
The service also includes disinfection in public facilities and control of the processionary caterpillar in parks and schools.
Another Year, Another Panto for ADAPT
We’re selling out fast for this year’s ADAPT pantomime “Snow White and the 7 guiris”so if you still haven’t got your ticket, please phone Eric on 656 361 098 or email: ericberg2@hotmail.com as soon as possible!
The fun-packed performances are at the Casa de Cultura, San Pedro del Pinatar on 28th, 29th and 30th November at 7 p.m.and
1st December at 12 midday although there is already a waiting list for the Sunday performance!
Tickets are just 4ˇ and all proceeds go to charity.Looking forward to seeing some of you there and many thanks to those who have supported us this time and over the years.
The Church of JESUS CHRISTof Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733
Join us at the SALT CHURCH Sundays at 10.30 am. We are a friendly church, bible centred in our teaching and informal in our worship. Meets at Calle Daya Nueva 12, PolÌgono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We look forward to meeting you. www.Saltchurchspain.
Facebook SaltChurchSpain
International Christian Assembly, Calle Beniajan 14, Torrevieja -Evangelical Church. Sunday Service 11 a.m.; - Contact 966 799 273 / 660 127 276. Evangelical non-denominational church. www.icatorrevieja.org
The Car of the Month at AUTOMOVILES CRESPO is an attractive 2019 Ford Ecosport at just 21,900e Come along to our large showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. See page 5. We can assure you of the biggest and best choice of new and used cars in the area for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN
AGE CONCERN BEREAVEMENTGROUP.
Have you lost somebody close to you? Are you finding life difficult after a bereavement? Come along and chat to other people in the same situation. Starting on October 10th, then every Tuesday from 2-4pm at the Age Concern Centre, Calle Paganini, La Siesta, Torrevieja. 96 678 6887. Everyone is welcome. Los Alc·zares Digital Camera Club. Interested in photography? We invite you to come and join us at our twice monthly meetings. Please contact coordinatorladcc@ gmail.com or see http://www.los-alcazarescamera.club/ for details.
COMMUNITYCARE ASSOCIATION (CCA) Open to residents of Orihuela Costa over 60 years of age. Located at the Centro Civico Alameda del Mar. Open 2 times a week for a programme of English speaking activities, various Spanish lessons including Games & Quiz on Mondays. Art sessions and Easy Conversation on Wednesdays. Information and advice regards living in Spain. Anyone wanting to join CCAsocial activities can pop along between 12pm Mondays and Wednesdays for more info from Eva or Norah in the Cafe area. Email: oc.communitycare@gmail.co m Social Activities: Spaces available now. Mondays.
Spanish Level 2. Spanish Games & Quiz. Wednesday. Easy Spanish Conversation. 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.
SEADOO WAKE PRO 215 - 2017.2 keys. Wake board carrier attachment and Trailer. Pontoon at Campoamor PLUS RENAULT MEGAN CONVERTIBLE 2000 with tow bar. 100,000km.New ITV from 15 July 24. Dry storage available if needed (optional extra). Currently SSR registered but was previously Spanish registered.
Ill health forces sale of this popular Health and Beauty Salon which is sold with all the fixtures and fittings. 6 seats for attending hairdressing clients, an
and pedicures, a
INDICATORS
There are many things we could repeat on a daily basis and the message would still not get through, and the use of indicators is one of those. Not using your indicators, or using them incorrectly, could land you with a fine, and yet, all too often, drivers just don’t bother. You must use the indicators to signal any manoeuvre that implies a lateral movement, such as making a turn, a change of direction, overtaking, parking, joining, taking an exit... These orange flashing lights, mandatory on all motor vehicles, are the means that a driver has to indicate intention to other road users. Its operation, which only requires raising or lowering the corresponding lever located behind the steering wheel with one finger, is important to avoid a traffic incident or collision.
Despite being a key element in terms of safety, there are still drivers who choose not to use them, which increases the risk to road users.
It wasn’t too long ago that both the DGT and Guardia Civil trying a different approach to get the message across. Humour! The DGT pointed out that "they are easy to use and do not wear out with use", the Guardia Civil
went further and, humorously, says "More than 32 million vehicles circulate in Spain, and all of them left the factory with indicators.
Don't tell us yours didn’t! If so, auction it off, you're going to make a fortune because it's a unique and unknown jewel. Instead, now we need to use it (the tick-tock is cool)”.
The General Traffic Regulations, they are mandatory to inform other road users about the manoeuvre that is going to be carried out.
In any case, activating them does not give full priority or right of way to carry it out.
First you have to make sure that it can be done without hindering the progress of other motorists or compromising road safety.
To do this, it is necessary to observe the traffic well through the mirrors and looking around.
After making sure that we can complete the move without incident, we proceed to signal the action.
There are multiple traffic situations in which it is necessary to use them to indicate what action we are going to carry out with our vehicle. Such is the case of the incorporations in a road, either from stopped or in movement when we access a motorway; changes of direction, in which vehicles traveling in the
You must use the indicators to signal any manoeuvre that implies a lateral movement
opposite direction must also be watched; parking or stopping; overtaking and lane changes; as well as the exits of a roundabout, for example.
In the extraordinary event that they do not work, the indication of the change of direction must be indicated with the left arm: in a horizontal position with the palm of the hand extended downwards, if the movement is going to be towards the side indicated by the hand, left; or bent upwards, also with the
The General Circulation Regulation establishes that a turning, change of direction or overtaking manoeuvre carried out "without warning the rest of the users with the mandatory signals, without sufficient notice" is considered a serious infraction sanctioned with a fine of 200 euro. Likewise, any failure of the indicators will result in a failure at the ITV inspection.
palm of the hand extended, if it is going to be the other way, right.
CHURCH IN CRISIS
To say that the sickening cover-up by the hierarchy of the Church of England over the appalling physical, sexual and spiritual abuse by barrister and leader of evangelical summer camps for boys, John Smyth, is an abomination, is frankly an understatement.
A report, just published, revealed that the Church of England covered up Smyth’s abuses for decades.
Smyth QC, who died, aged 77, in Cape Town, in 2018, before he could be brought back to the UK for trial, was accused of attacking boys at his Winchester home who he had met at a Christian summer camp in Dorset during the 1970s and 1980s.
An investigation found Smyth identified pupils from leading public schools including Winchester College and took them to his home where he carried out lashings with a garden cane in his shed.
It said eight of the boys received a total of 14,000 lashes, while two more received 8,000 strokes between them over three years.
Smyth is said to have subjected more than 130 boys and young men over more than 30 years to traumatic physical, sexual, psychological and spiritual attacks, permanently affecting their lives.
The abuses have been described as "horrific" but the claims were not reported to police until 2013 - more than 30 years later.
And now the Church hierarchy are accused of covering up the abuses so that the church would not be stained and lose followers.
I applaud the fact that finally the Archbishop of Canterbury has resigned. It is apparent he knew of the complaints and did nothing to actively report and stop it at a time when he should.
I think that not only he but all other church leaders who knew what was going on and did nothing, should be excommunicated and never allowed to preach from the pulpit again.
The damage that so called religious people can do to vulnerable people is enormous and anyone suspected of doing such things should be immediately investigated. And anyone responsible for any cover-up should be prosecuted. We have heard for decades about abuses Roman Catholic priests carried out on children and teenagers, and also about abuses by nuns. It would be unfair to suggest that the majority seeking work in a religious setting are doing it for selfish, sexual or sadistic reasons, but it is obvious that someone with that bent would look on such a career as a golden opportunity to find people easy to manipulate and control. It is down to the government to now introduce legislation to make illegal, with substantial sentences, any attempt to cover up wrongdoing,
Tony Mayes Rant
whether it be within the police, armed services, councils, government, hospitals, or anywhere else, and especially within religious settings, where there are so many young, and vulnerable people.
People who regularly read my articles will know I have fallen out with religion. It happened after I heard a pastor say from the pulpit that if a baby is born with a medical or physical condition it is God’s wrath because of the baby’s parents’ wrong-doing. These kinds of comments coming from the pulpit causes such anguish and people holding such ridiculous views should be condemned. There should be far more control over such comments.
Here are some thoughts for you.
* There are 4,000+ religions in the world and all think they are right and every other is wrong. Some are even prepared to kill for their religion – and does a god stop it? No. Look what’s going in the Middle East, with thousands of deaths - all because of religion. Think about it!
* Every living thing on this planet has to live off another living thing. Some species inflict intense pain and suffering on another, eating their prey alive. Does a god stop this abomination? No. Or if you were god, and created the universe, couldn’t you come up with something far better than that? Think about it!
*A million Jews were sent to the gas chambers in WW2. Did any god stop it? No. Think about it!
So, my advice to all who go to any church to ‘praise and worship’ this, in my view, non-existent god – have a long, hard think about what you are doing!
Perhaps some of you who have read this may be upset, but there are a growing number of people who question religion and think as I do.
Hopefully there will come a time when the emphasis in every church, mosque or synagogue will be on caring for people - as the Salvation Army does - and not on dogma and all the nonsense associated by the multitude of religions.
Is it not time that people questioned everything that every church leader, from whatever denomination, says and no longer accepts it without question? Because if people started questioning thoroughly, we might get a better world.
DENTAL DISARRAY
Britain’s dental services are in total disarray and have been for several years. People have been left unable to get dental treatment unless they can pay privately for it.
But there is anger from people to hear that prisoners, including murderers and rapists in high-security jails, can access dental care as quickly as the same day, and are also exempt from paying.
Quite rightly there are questions why inmates are receiving better access to treatment than law-abiding citizens. It is clearly totally unacceptable.
RACKING UP THE POINTS
And this is going to anger many law abiding and careful drivers.
A 26-year-old man with 176 penalty points on his driving licence is allowed to get behind the wheel of his car in the UK, official data has revealed.
More than 50 people in Britain hold valid driving licences despite racking up at least 30 penalty points, prompting calls for repeat offenders to undertake mandatory retraining.
Three male licence holders have more than 100 points, while a 50-year-old woman continues driving despite having 96.
Some 53 people in the country have at least
30 penalty points each while a total of 10,056 motorists hold a valid licence despite having at least 12 points on their records, official figures revealed.
It seems that too many magistrates have not disqualified offenders because they have pleaded “exceptional hardship”.
Exceptional hardship means a driver’s loss of licence would not only affect them but others who depend on them, for example by being driven to and from work or medical appointments.
I have written before about magistrates and judges in the UK are far too soft. Perhaps soon they will get into the real world, and put the safely of other road users first.
JUSTIN WELBY ‘A profound sense of shame’.
GREENLANDS BOWLS
Greenlands Maples were away at Quesada and achieved a Great result of 10-2 so well done.
The Elms played host to a new team back in the league Phoenix and they proved to be a challenging team and lost 4-8 so better luck next game.
The Gladiators in the winter League played El Rancho this week and were back to winning ways and had an 8-2 result so keep it going now.
The Oaks were definitely up for their game against San Miguel and proved it with 12-0 win, great result congrats to the team.
The other teams had no games this week PEARL HOUGHTON
EMERALD ISLE
BY ELWYN MORRIS
The Emperors started the week by playing the rearranged Winter League game at Greenlands and they came away with a fine 7-3 Aggregate of 69-60. Winners M Oakley S Elvin J Taylor M Dyer 24-13, N Prior P Riley I Grimshaw C Lindgren 22-18, J Holmyard A Pridmore M Harley D Mooney got a 13-13 draw
Titans were at home against San Miguel Orcas and they won by 8-4, aggregate of 84-66, S Ellis S Marks R Marks 23-8, R White B Kavanagh M Harley 17-9, M Oakley M Ellis M Dyer 16-10
Moonrakers played away at San Miguel Stingrays and they got a fine win by 8-4
Aggregate of 82 -78, A Westwater J Ingleton M Peaper 21-10, D Clark J Forrest A Forest 20 -14
A Malcolm J Speedie M Raine 17-11
Emperors played at Country Bowls in the Winter League and they were beaten 2-8
Aggregate 63-71 N Davis P Riley S Marks R Marks 20-14
Cavaliers played at home on Friday against San Miguel Apaches, and they got a great win by 10-2 Aggregate of 114-61, P Coffey R White J Tayloe 31-10, I Laverick S Elvin I Grimshaw 257, D Jones B Kavanagh C Lindgren 25-15, M Oakley N Prior M Harley 18-10. Outlaws were at San Miguel Cherokees, and they were beaten 2-10, Aggregate 65-99, A Westwater J Ingleton M Peaper 25-14
SAPS is on at 12-15 on Saturdays. Two hours bowling with Coaching Shoes and Bowls if needed plus a bar all for only 5 Euros
San Luis Bowls
By Sheila Cammack
SOUTH ALICANTE LEAGUE: Monday 11th
SL Klingons had a good result at home v La Marina, 8 points-4, 84 shots-70. Winners: Margaret Morrison, Derek Biggs, Neil Morrison 17-9, Chris Jackson, Noel Morrisroe, Barbara Louis16-11, Judy Carroll, Gordon Patton, David Blackie 22-12.
SL Romulans were away v Vistabella Drivers and had a good result, 8 points-4, 87 shots74. Winners: Chris Phillips, Keith Phillips, Carolyn Harris 25-10, Sheila Cooper, Jim Gwynn, Mike Wyatt 22-12, Pauline Johnson, Fran & Neil Cox 19-7.
SL Trekkers BYE.
WINTER LEAGUE: Wednesday 13th San Luis
travelled north, managing to avoid much of the storm problems, to get to Bonalba for a close fought game against the Broncos. San Luis won 6 points-4, 68 shots-72. Winners: Sandra Burrows, Bill Webb, Noel Morrisroe, Scott Malden 22-19, Peter Ayres, Gordon Paton, Keith Phillips, Dave Webb 21-10, Jane Hamill, Barbara Louis, Stewart Hamill, Ian Kenyon 18-17.
SOUTHERN LEAGUE: Friday 8th SL Lions were at home to Quesada Swallows and had a great result 10 points-2, 116 shots-53. Winners: Neil Burrows, June Jones, Scott Malden 26-10, Margaret Morrison, Mike Veale, Neil Morrison 24-7, Dee Hoey, Peter Ayres, Dave Webb 23-11, Stuart Wilson, Carol & Gary Thorpe 30-11.
SL Leopards were away v Vistabella
EL RANCHO BOWLS CLUB
Monday found the Raiders playing their postponed match at home against Country Bowls Seahawks, on a lovely morning with a cool breeze. Both sides played some good bowls, but sometimes you don’t seem to have the run of the green. The Seahawks took the rinks 3-1 with the other drawn and also took the overall shots, but hey it’s only a game.
Ann Abbott, Sheila Cox and Mike Cox 18-18. Val Ryder, Judy Foley
SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB
By Barry Jones
On Monday San Miguel had three teams in action. The Stingrays were home to Emerald Isle Moonrakers, where they lost 4 - 8, 74 shots to 82. The best winning triple were Pat Luijk, Gill Bromley and Ken Guiney 25 -14.
The Orcas were away to Emerald Isle Titans where they also lost 4 - 8, 66 shots to 84. The best winning triple were Ann Taylor, Paul Hayward and Mike Douglas 18 - 10.
The Dolphins were also away playing Greenland Maples, they also lost 4 - 8, 83 shots to 103. The best winning triple were Mary Whitelock, Steve Parr and Gail Willshire 18 - 15.
TORREVIEJA DARTS LADIES ORGANISATION
12th November Founders Format Week 7
Gap Girlz8 - 1Friendly Temps
CK1 Ladybirds5 - 4Tipsy Tigers
Dolly Mixtures4 - 5Whacky Chicas
Primadonnas 17/12Tipsy Tigers
LEAGUE TABLEPPts
Gap Girlz645
CK1 Ladybirds634
Tipsy Tigers527
Wacky Chicas (*Corrected)624*
Friendly Temps617
Dolly Mixtures617
Primadonnas516
Hot darts Week 7 - Chelsea Campbell (GG) 140, 100 x2, Dons Ralph (LB) 140 x2, Sue Wade (FT) 140, 124, Pat Schofield (TT) 123, 104, Diane Burns (DM) 119, 100, Chris Greenwood (WC) 114, 105, Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 133, Rhianna Marshall (GG) 125, Linda Curdy (WC) 120, Angie Mullen (LB) 116, Helen Bushell (WC) 112, Sharon O’Rourke (LB) 111, Sarah Greg 101, Ellie Attwood (FC) 100, Jane Kelly (FT)100, Bliss Wright (GG)
Conquistadors and had some close fought games but finished 4 points- 8, 49 shots-108. Winners: Oyvind Lund, Derrick Cooper, Mike Wyatt 13-10, Lesley & Wayne Howlett, David Whitworth 16-15.
SL Tigers BYE
San Luis is a friendly club, but we are also competitive, with teams in all leagues. We welcome new players; those who have already played competitively and want to continue, or those who want to try out this “new” sport and above all enjoy the game. If you wish to find out more about bowling, or San Luis BC, please come along to Oasis to watch, maybe to enjoy a drink or a snack and give yourself a chance to have fun and meet new friends, by joining in the Open Roll-Up 9:30/10:00 on Saturday mornings.
and Henry Ryder 26-14. Rose Passmore, Keith Longshaw and Jim Eastwood 16-24. Tony Abbott, Sue Ziepe and Steve Ziepe 3-28. Chris Ziepe, Derek Barker and John Ziepe 14-23.
On Wednesday morning after heavy overnight rain, the Rustlers were at Greenlands playing their Gladiators. As results go it wasn’t great for the Rustlers, coming away with just the one rink, but sometimes you are up against a stronger team, but all that really matters is that you enjoy the bowls and company. Bowlers of all levels are welcome at El Rancho. Contact secerbc@gmail.com
On Friday all four teams were in action with mixed results.
The Cherokees were home to Emerald Isle Outlaws winning 10 - 2, 99 shots to 75. The best winning triples were Cheryl Sleath, Colin Fowler and Dave Homer 27 - 8.
The Navajos were away to Greenland Oaks where they lost 12 - 0.
In the afternoon the Apaches were away to Emerald Isle Cavaliers where they lost 2 - 10, 61 shots to 114. The winning triple were Pat McEwan, Dori Svanbergsson and Steve Cantley 19 - 15.
The Comanches were away to Quesada Swifts where they won 10 - 2, 104 shots to 59. Best winning triple were Graham Richards, Adam Ingram and Keith Brimley 28 - 6.
A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pm - ˇ5 for an afternoon’s bowling with shoes and bowls available to borrow. Due to the popularity of the Wasps, first time bowlers are asked to attend an initial coaching session on Tuesday afternoons, starting at 1.45pm, by appointment ONLY. To book, please call Dave or Lynn Greenland on +34 667 207 508.
We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique 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
QUESADA BOWLS CLUB with Chrissie Edwards
Quesada Swans were away to San Miguel Apaches,the game was a tight one,4 out of 5 teams from the Swans were leading with 4 ends to play,but at the end of the game just winning on 2 rinks.
The winning teams were Dorothy Benson,Peter Farrell, Abby Benson 15 - 13,Ken Gordon,Dave Collings,Trevor
Voisey 18 -17.Overall shots 94 -73,8pts - 4 in San Miguel's favour.
Swallows,were at home to Emerald Isle Cavaliers,as it turned out it was not a good day for the Swallows,winning on 2 rinks,losing on 3 rinks.
Winning teams were George Carnell,Claire Dye,Peter Morgan 22 - 13,Graham Phillips,Carol Lowry,Keith Lowry,14 - 13,shots 74 to Quasada,99 to Emerald Isle also gaining 8 pts to Quesadas 4.Swifts had a bye. 11 Nov Pearls were at home to Country Bowls Flamingoes,winning on 3 rinks,losing on 2 rinks,the winning teams were Graham Phillips,Mark France, Jason Prokopowycz 20 - 14.Brian Trinder,Trish Ward, Mel Ward 22 - 11,George Kershaw Claire Dye,Peter Morgan,15 - 11.
Rubies had an afternoon match away to San Miguel Marlins,a friendly game ensued with the Rubies only managing to win on 2 rinks,winners were Sandra Johnson,Carl Evans,Meurig Thomas 24 - 5,John Cleal, Max Holmes,Richard Lerwin 28 - 11,just missing out by 4 shots were Alan Johnson,Ray Phillipson,Barry Martyn ,shots were 76 - 91 in Rubies favour,with both teams raining 6 pts.Well done Rubies. The Diamonds had a bye.
SAN MIGUEL GS AT FONT DE LLOP
“Head to the airport and swing a left… that’ll get ya there”.
Font del Llop Golf (“Wolf’s Watering Hole”), a wellestablished course nestled within a steep-sided valley with very differing holes blended beautifully into the rocky landscape.
The small river that runs through the course was once used in local beer production – this now feeds five small irrigation ponds.
Well, what’s happened this week?
Not a lot but a lot at the same time!
The morning started with a phone call – “No buggies today” – not surprising after the deluge of the day before and the
Yellow Rain Forecast.
A hasty email managed to catch people before they set off. A much smaller field than normal took a chance and nine walkers set off ensuring no slow play! “Millionaire’s golf” they said.
BUT WAIT!! Whilst a formal competition didn’t happen today the holy grail of golf did occur with Michael Leonard scoring a Hole in One on the 17th.
What a day to have it though with a much smaller audience. Well done, Mick! High odds with only a 12,500:1 chance of that.
Back south again next week with hopefully a full field to play at Mar Menor.
Pictured: Lee Eastman (Captain), Mick Leonard and Peter Turbefield.
EUROGOLF DONATION
On Thursday 7th November after a Texas Scramble game Eurogolf held a lunch at Maritaos Kitchen to commemorate Poppy day, with a raffle and auction raising €654 for the RBL.
The service was organised by Eurogolf Vice Captain and ex Navy Duncan Roberts plus other ex-military members proudly wearing their medals.
Member Alan Shand played a Lament making the event very emotional plus candles were lit in remembrance of Eurogolf members who had passed away in the last year.
After the service everyone enjoyed a
For
members who have passed away since the group's founding in
Prizes were awarded for various achievements, including best net score on Hole 13 to Nick Oldfield, and overall winner to Dan Jones with 44 points.
charitable element, with a €1,571 fund for Help at Home. An additional €347.35 was raised for the RBL poppy appeal. The next match is scheduled for 28th November at Mar Menor Golf Resort.
sumptuous meal and had a lovely time.
more information on Eurogolf please go to the website my-eurogolf.eu
Thirty-five AGS members attended the annual Memorial Competition at Saurines de la Torre Golf Resort this month. The event honored past
2008.
Other winners included Tim Davidson, Paul Ralston, Martyn Johnston, Geoff Kite, Ian Archer, Mike Leyland, and Martin Armstrong. The competition also featured a
Alfies Golf Society @ Saurines Del La Torre
MATCH RESULTS
14 NOVEMBER 2024
DIVISION 1
CK1 Chuggers9-3Illy's Oldies
Domignomes8-4Toppers
Hub Hyenas6-6Fire Station
Milo's0-12Mind The Gap Leeson St Trotters9-3Tipsy Cow
180: Andres Liamazares x2, Ricardo Perez, James Brown, Che Liam
Most 180's:Sam Salt x3, Paul Christopher, x3, Steve Monk-Dalton x3
High Finish'sThisWeek: Tim Clarke110
Current High Finish: Ashton Williams 130
DIVISION 1
C.K.1 CHUGGERS V ILLIES OLDIES
Both triples and pairs were won by the hosts for a 4-2 half time lead.140's from Oldies Steve Parkin and Alan Fleming, none from Chuggers, but Steve Dalton hitting 3 tons.
Dons Ralph 140 and Glen Delaney got Chuggers to 6
and a point, before Craig Miller added a 3rd win for Oldies over Reg Christopher.Colin Gregory, Dalton (77out) and Paul Tollafield 2x140 taking the remaining 3, for Chuggers.Tollafield - Miller - POTM.
DOMIGNOMES V TOPPERS
As expected, a real cracker from 2 formidable sides. Toppers held an early advantage, winning 2 of the 3 available triples, only for Gnomes to take all 3 pairs, the visitors managing just one leg.That from Dave Askew and Pete Spencer.A 66 out from Ricardo Perez, Oscar Lopez going one better on 67.Perez's 1st half score tally including 6x90+, plus 134 and 3x140.
Askew 4x100 made it 4-3 to open the singles, Mark Farmer restoring the hosts lead with a 2-0 win over the very capable Wayne Houson.Spencer kept Toppers in the match, needing 3 legs in his defeat of Dava Wharton (4x100).Perez added 2 more 140's and a 180 overcoming Paddy Moran for Gnomes 6th leg.
Olly Walker and Matt Smith added 2 more wins for Gnomes to remain unbeaten and joint top with Gap. POTM - Perez - Askew.
HUB
HYENAS V FIRE STATION
Despite a personnel shortage on both sides, there were numerous highlights, the best of which a George Larkin bust on 138.His opponent Tim Clarke taking the 3rd leg on D20, after a 2nd leg 110 out on the Bull.
Luke and Robbie Monks enjoyed a 19 dart 601 in the pairs, the former outing on D13, then nailing a nice 85 singles out.Dave Rollinson claimed D16, for a reasonable 19 dart singles and POTM.Robbie Monks hitting 7 tons or more for Station's POTM. Rollinson and Jason Blackburn unbeaten throughout.
MILOS V MIND THE GAP
An excellent effort from Milos Cain Garcia deservedly earned him his sides POTM.Six 80+, 3x100, 113, 140 and their lone winning leg taken from the formidable James Brown, who had earlier notched up a 180.Che Liam also claimed a maxi in the closing singles.
None however were a patch on Andres Liamazares 4x80+,3x100,121,123,140 and 2x180.Not forgetting a 15 dart 501 singles and a 76 out.
Decent supporting roles from Paul Moody 4x100,2x140, Sam Salt 3x100,2x121,140 and Brown with 4x100+ and his maxi.Good Gap effort, Milos will be more comfortable in the 2nd half of the season and will surprise a few.
LEESON ST.TROTTERS V TIPSY COW
Despite 1st half 3 figure scores being similar on both sides, Trotters held a 5-1 scoreline at sustenance time.Phil de Lacy 132 and both outs with partner Billy Dolling in the 2nd pairs.Simon Perryman nailing Cow's only point on D16.
Five of the singles went to 3 legs, it was that close, Trotters however managing to nail the all important double.Yvonne Rouffignac POTM took the 1st singles with 4X95, 2X133, opponent John Giggs 3x85 and 3 tons.Alex Nikolov made it 7 for the hosts, with a 3 leg win over Steve Lumb.Perryman POTM 125,135,140 needed 3 legs to subdue a lively Dolling 2X100,140, Murray Macleod taking the 12th over de Lacy, both players recording 3 tons or over apiece.
DIVISION 2
TIPSY COW ARCHERS V CC BEES
A good all round Bees performance keeps them firmly at the summit of Div.2.A 0-6 advantage at "sarnie time" was increased to 7 by Bruce Admiral in the 1st singles, Steve Collins and Paul Raffell finally getting the Archers going.But Greg Annuik claimed POTM. Jeff Saunders banged in a couple of tons and outs for POTM.Good support from Bees Liam Lumb, Paula Henman and Simon Bantleman.Crunch time on December 12th when Bees entertain Fallen Angels, or will Dartagnans (Freakies) be the downfall of Angels this week?
PINT DEPOT QUEENS V FALLEN ANGELS
Three figure scores from POTM Debbie Wright and Jamie Ferguson were Depot's best of the night, plen-
ty of scoring support but no doubles.Certainly an improvement on the inner scoring ring, the outer, more practise girls.
Surprisingly 5 singles were finished on D1, the other on D2, nearly a "full house".Andy Forrest banged in 3 tons and a couple of outs, John Eyre 100,132, but Mike Tierney won POTM with just one 3 figure score and a sackload of 80+'s, more importantly 3 outs.
TIPSY TOAD TIARAS V HUB HELLRAISERS
Tiaras claimed their 1st points of the season after being 4-5 down with 3 to go.Wins from Lisa Ivill, Sharon Crane and Mrs reliable Pat Schofield, upsetting the "applecart".
In fact the Raisers were 2-4 up at the tea break, Sue Spiers excelling with plenty of scores, plus 3 outs meritng POTM.Lesley Dolling 104,D16 was Raisers sole singles winner.Nina McGuiness gave a solid "darts demo" for Tiaras POTM.
ILLIES IDOLS V CK1 TORNADOS
What a turn round this match was.Idols zoomed into a 5-0 lead before losing the 3rd pair prior to the break.Tornados then reeled off ALL six singles for both points, Kirsty Green finding D15 in the 12th. Idols Sharon Williams was outstanding with 3X80+, 2x100,135,140 and 2 outs, for POTM, Henni Oortwijn adding 2 more outs, Maria Ross top scoring with 162, yes you read it right 162.Tornados Gena Wood earned POTM with 2 outs, Paul Green ensuring the draw in the 11th leg.Steve Mullen CK.1's three figure scorer.
DARTAGNANS P-P DOMINOS DESPERADOS
Aston, Simon &Luke Birthday Boy Greg
Birthday Girl Carol
POTMRobbie &Dave
COSTA BLANCA OVER 60’S WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE
FORMENTERA 8 - 0 HONDON VALLEY
After both teams showed their respect with a minute’s silence on Remembrance Sunday, Formentera set about claiming the 3 points as they put Hondon under pressure for large parts of the game. The one opportunity for the visitors, a penalty awarded for four non-walking offenses, was saved superbly by the Formentera keeper.
A red card in the third quarter hindered Hondon’s chances as the home side ran out comfortable winners.
Rumours Bar provided post-match hospitality, with both teams now looking forward to the rematch.
LA ROMANA 4 – 4 LOS MARINOS
Following a minute’s silence, CF La Romana’s inaugural match in the Over 60s Costa Blanca League saw them host Los Marineros in a thrilling encounter. The match began with Los Marineros taking an early lead, scoring two goals within the first six minutes. However, La Romana fought back, with Mick the Pieman scoring two goals, including a penalty, to level the score at half-time.
The second half continued the intense back-and-forth action, with both
teams exchanging goals and penalties. La Romana briefly took the lead, but Los Marineros equalized late in the game to secure a 4-4 draw. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit of the league, with both teams showcasing skill and determination. The game was also notable for the introduction of the new four walking offences rule, which led to several penalty decisions. The referee, Dave Richardson, was also praised for his excellent performance. After the game everyone retired to the bar to enjoy pie and chips. Underlining the friendly atmosphere in which the game of walking football is played. Los Marineros would like to thank Los Romanos and the bar staff for their hospitality.
SUDUK SUDUK O
QUIZ FROM P 14:
1. 'Little' Stevie Wonder, 2. Tarzan, 3. Five Easy Pieces, 4. The house of blue lights, 5. Answer d. Croatia, 6. Golgotha, 7. Jaws, 8. Florence, 9. South Africa, 10. a. A Good Heart (Feargal Sharkey), b. Back For Good (Take That), c. Good Times Bad Times (Led Zeppelin), 11. Answer a. Germany (Ulm M?nster), 12. Cycling, 13. Four answers. Bolivia, Ecuador, Bhutan and Colombia. 14. Monty Python's Life Of Brian, 15. Ben Gurion Airport, 16. Three answers. a. Enemy at The Gates, b. Nixon, c. Who Framed Roger Rabbit, 17. Africa, 18. Charles Dickens, 19. Emerson Lake and Palmer, 20. MASH
Formentera and Hondon Valley observing a minute’s silence
