The Leader Newspaper in Spain – 9 May 22, Edition 918

No 918 Monday 9th - Sunday 15th May 2022

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Keeping people safe and informed for over 18 years - The Costa Blanca’s oldest ‘FREE’ English language newspaper

STAGE SET FOR STUDIO32 PRODUCTION OF ‘GUYS AND DOLLS.’ S32 Musical Theatre Company are proud to present our production of Guys & Dolls which will be showing at the Cardenal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio and will run from Wednesday 18th of May through to Saturday 21st May. Doors open at 7:00pm.

Guys and Dolls is a musical romantic comedy involving the unlikeliest of Manhattan pairings: a high-rolling gambler and a puritanical missionary, a show-girl dreaming of the straight-and-narrow and a crap game manager who is anything but.

Set in the Manhattan of Damon Runyon’s short sto-

ries, Guys and Dolls tells of con-man Nathan Detroit’s efforts to find new life for his illegal, but notorious, crap game.

When their trusty venue is found out by the police, Nathan has to find a new home for his crap game quickly - but he doesn’t have the dough to secure the one location he finds.

Enter Sky Masterson, a highrolling gambler willing to take on any honest bet with a high enough reward attached.

Nathan bets Sky that he can’t take the “doll” of Nathan’s choosing to Havana, Cuba, with him on a date.

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FROM PAGE 1 Guys and Dolls ADVERTISING SALES

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637 227 385 E-mail office@theleader.info Website www.theleader.info Journalists 600 228 616 office@theleader.info The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.

When Sky agrees to the bet, Nathan chooses uptight Evangelist Sergeant Sarah Brown, head of Broadway’s Save-a-Soul Mission. Sky think she’s been duped, but he’s in for even more of a surprise when his efforts to woo Sarah are so successful that he falls in love with her himself! Guys and Dolls takes us from the bustle of Times Square to the dance clubs of Havana to the sewers of New York City as it demonstrates the great lengths to which a guy will go when he truly falls in love with a “doll.”

Guys and Dolls features some of Frank Loesser’s most memorable tunes, including the hilarious “Adelaide’s Lament,” the romantic “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” the exuberant “If I Were a Bell,” and the classic “Luck Be

a Lady.”

The pièce de résistance is what is described in the world of musicals as the 11 o’clock number. This is a theatre term for a big, show stopping song that occurs late in the second act of a two-act musical in which a major character, comes to an important realisation.

This comes in the form of one of the most iconic numbers ever sung in a musical, ‘Sit Down you’re Rocking the Boat’ sung by the character Nicely-Nicely Johnson.

When Guys and Dolls first appeared on Broadway, four encores were written into this number.

Studio 32 believes that they have assembled one of the best vocal casts that they have ever had for this performance and don’t want anybody who enjoys musicals to miss out on seeing this fantastic show.

Moroccan connection to bugging of Prime Minister’s phone The National Intelligence Center (CNI) has said that it found there was a network of Moroccan secret agents deployed in La Rioja in May 2021, at the time when the mobile phones of Pedro Sánchez and Margarita Robles were infected with Pegasus spyware.

At that time, Spain had welcomed Brahim Ghali, president of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), to a hospital in Logroño.

The Prime Minister’s mobile phone was breached twice in May 2021, and Defense Minister Margarita Robles’ device was targeted once the following

POETRY

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For this reason they are offering groups of 20 or more who book on our website online booking service for Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th performances, a discount of e24 which will be refunded on the night of the performance on production of the ticket receipt at front of house.

There will also be a complimentary drink on arrival and at the interval.

To book tickets online visit www.studiothirtytwo.org and for further information and advice on how to use our online booking service email: tickets@studiothirtytwo.org.

TICKETS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR ON THE NIGHT OF THE PERFORMANCE. For further information call 679 062 272 or 636 020 547.

The PM and the Minister of Defense

month.

The breaches, which resulted in a significant amount of data being copied, were not authorised by the Spanish courts, which is a legal requirement for national covert operations, Bolaños said at a hastily convened news conference in Madrid.

CORNER

THE WORLD THROUGH THE EYES OF A TOY

by Nina Saunders April 2022 The world is full of foolish people, That's what I tell myself, From my vantage point in the nursery, As I sit upon the shelf.

We toys, well we know better, To play is our only aim, We don't take life too seriously, To us it's just a game.

I listen, I look, I take it all in, But they don't realize, I hear it with my ears, I see it with my eyes.

But humans are so greedy, They think, "money, money, money", They believe it will solve their problems, They really are so funny!

They worry about the future, Try to re-create the past, When all that matters is day-to-day, Nothing's guaranteed to last.

Sometimes I feel so sorry, They make the same mistake, They push themselves on constantly, Never give themselves a break.

Oh, humans are so silly, They seem to waste each day, Just talking, thinking and analyzing, The stupid things they say.

But toys, we live forever, Because we're made with love, So I'll sit upon this nursery shelf, Watching life from up above.

If you would like to see your poem published on this page send to: office@theleader.info

The Bobbysox Girls played by Ashelie Oxley and Lee Charleton “We have no doubt that this is an unauthorized intervention,” Cabinet Minister Félix Bolaños said.

“It comes from outside the state and it didn’t have judicial authorisation.”

The initiative to welcome Ghali to Spain, where he is said to have received medical attention, was interpreted by Morocco as a frontal attack. This caused Mohamed VI to remove his ambassador from the country resulting in a break in diplomatic relations. In fact, the crisis ended with the dismissal of Arancha González Laya, then Minister of Foreign Affairs, who argued that Ghali’s reception was a “humanitarian task”.

Although Bolaños refused to speculate who might have been behind the Pegasus breach, nor what might have prompted it. The National Court has now opened an investigation while a parliamentary committee on intelligence has also been established to look into it.

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The luxury development of Altea Hills is a favourite for many ‘well-heeled’ Russians

RUSSIAN OLIGARCH HAS 4 PROPERTIES SEIZED IN PROVINCE Arkady Nikolaevich Ponomarev is one of the richest of the state Duma deputies in the Russian region of Voronezh. He is a member of United Russia, Vladimir Putin’s party, and the founder of Molvest, one of the country’s largest dairy product companies. Ponomarev has an income of 199.49 million roubles – about 2.6 million euros a year.

Ponomarev is one of the seven Russian politicians and businessmen with properties in Spain who have been sanctioned by the European Union for their links with the Kremlin. The Spanish daily newspaper “El País”, has linked the deputy to four properties in Alicante, which he has not been able to access since 23 April, for having voted in favour of the resolution with which Russia recognized the provinces of Donetsk and Lugansk as independent, the two areas that make up the Donbas A few weeks ago, Arkady Ponomarev himself acknowledged in the Russian newspaper, the Daily Storm, that he had been sanctioned by the EU preventing him from accessing his homes in Just one of Ponomarev’s properties

Spain. Despite everything, the deputy and businessman is not at all concerned.

Ponomarev told the Daily Storm that he did not even know the condition of his properties, whose ownership he declared to the Voronezh Duma. He claimed that he acquired the properties only two years ago, so, according to the Russian media outlet, he is not bothered if the Spanish government finally decides to “expropriate” them.

“A similar apartment in Moscow or Sochi is much more expensive,” Ponomarev told the Daily Storm. And even if I lose my properties in Spain, I will still vote the way I voted. This is not a vital issue for me. It’s the same as if someone damages my car, it’s a shame, but so what?

Alicante is said to be the second province with the most properties affected by the sanctions on their Russian owners. The province with the most blocked properties -eleven- is Girona, eight of which belong to the stepdaughter of Sergei Chemezov, director of the Russian state arms corporation Alicante, and the Costa Blanca in particular, is one of the favourite places for Russian citizens to settle in Spain. In fact, in the province there are about 25,000 of it’s citizens registered.

They can be found in luxury developments such as Altea Hills, an urban conservation community where it is estimated that around 25% of the residents are of Russian nationality.

Among his neighbors is a senior official from the most important gas company in Russia and the daughters of the former Russian president, Mikhail Gorbachev. In 2019, a television program claimed that the president of Russia himself, Vladimir Putin, also has a home in this area where he previously spent his summer months.

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FEATHERS, FLAMBOYANCE AND FANFARES IN CABO ROIG nder clear, blue, skies, just two days before European Day Celebrations, the very first International Parade was held in Cabo Roig, on Orihuela Costa, a day full of fun and activities arranged for the young and old alike.

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Organised by members of The Cabo Roig Business Association and OC Avanza, who also fundraise and arrange the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Cabo Roig each year, following cancellation of the 17 March event for the third consecutive year, the management committee decided that enough was enough. After coronavirus and the weather had wrecked their three previous events something was needed to lift the gloom and bring a little joviality back into the area.

Hence, just six weeks ago, the committee took the decision to seek permission from the town hall to arrange the first every International Parade Extravaganza in the area.

Orihuela Costa has probably the most diverse mix of nationalities in Spain with over 100 nationalities living and registered in the municipality so the idea of an International Parade, a non-political, non-religious, non-ideological day of fun and celebration, gained almost immediate and extremely popular support.

Almost as soon as it was announced the entries for the Parade filled up and within just a few days the maximum number of floats was reached.

The Ayuntamiento were also quick to provide their support so road closures, medical and police support, were all obtained well in advance of the scheduled date. On the day, however, it was disappointing that not a single council official attended.

Nevertheless, with almost 20 groups on parade, led as ever by the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums, the spectacle was as colourful as it was energetic, with feathers, frills and all the fun of the fair for the people who lined the route. As crowds flocked into the area it also boosted the area’s economy, proving to be a most welcome shot in the arm following the disappointment of recent years.

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Second new school for Gran Alacant

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Tabarca Featured on Correos Stamps The Spanish post office, Correos, has issued a stamp featuring the island of Tabarca.

The stamp, which has been issued as part of the ‘Naturaleza’ series, with a value of 2.70 euro, has a horizontal format of 74.6 by 28.8 millimetres where the island can be seen from an aerial view.

The stamp is a limited-edition release, with a total of 135,000 units being issued.

The Mayor of Santa Pola, Loreto Serrano, and the Councillor for Education, Trini Ortiz, attended a meeting in Valencia last week with the General Director of Infrastructures, Victor García i Tomás, to deal with the problems relating to educational centres in Gran Alacant.

The good news that came out of the meeting, according to Trini Ortiz, is that “the Ministry has confirmed that during this month of May the tender for the second school in Gran Alicante will take place. The regional government told us of the problems they have had due to the rise in raw materials, so it has been necessary to recalculate the costs, a job that has now been done. We trust that it will be tendered in the coming weeks, and we will not have to suffer any more delays”.

The second school will be located in the Monte Faro urbanisation and the construction will last approximately 18 months.

However, the council must undertake the

construction of the roads and the urbanisation of the area, once the school has been built.

The centre is expected to have classrooms for reception, Infants and for primary education.

Among the services, there would be a dining room, library and gym, as well as classrooms for pedagogical support and for subjects such as music or computers.

During the meeting the problems relating to other educational centres were discussed.

Ortiz said that "with respect to the CEIP José Garnero we are going to carry out a study so that the Directorate can assess whether the centre can be refurbished or if it is necessary to build a new school."

A further report will be prepared on the comprehensive refurbishment of the CEIP Cervantes, while the CEIP Ramón Cuesta is requesting new school bathrooms, and the CEIP Azorín several actions, including the removal of the asbestos.

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Alicante City Council has provided the image taken by the photographer José Benito Ruiz and the text that will appear in the annual publication.

The stamp includes a beautiful aerial image of its entire heritage, both of the inhabited and fortified historic nucleus as well as its marine environment.

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TWO ARRESTED FOR STEALING TANGERINES IN SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS

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MOTHER AND SON HELD IN ELCHE FOR EXPAT MURDER

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Santa Pola parking app for the disabled Santa Pola Car Parking app for People with Reduced Mobility Santa Pola town hall has made an important commitment to accessibility, by actively participating in a pilot car parking project coordinated by INVATTUR, called PARK4DIS. INVAT-TUR is a public centre specialising in the generation and transfer of information, through the development of research, development and innovation (R+D+i) activities in tourism.

The Guardia Civil has arrested two people during a routine roadside check for allegedly stealing tangerines from a farm in the town of San Miguel de Salinas.

When they checked inside the car they found a number of boxes containing tangerines of dubious origins.

With the occupants not being able to prove the legitimate origin of the fruit, it was soon found that all the tangerines had been stolen minutes before from a farm in the town of San Miguel de Salinas.

The two men,, one Spanish and the other Cuban, 48 and 30 years old respectively, werearrested for questioning about the alleged theft of more than 175 kilos of tangerines, valued in the current market at more than 500 euro.

The tangerines were donated to a Torrevieja charity.

SAT ANIMAL RESCUE Beauty looking for her beast!

Is it you??

For more info 966710047 (leave a message) / info@satanimalrescue.com

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46 year old woman and her 16 year old son have been arrested by the National Police for the murder of an 80-year-old woman in her villa in Torrellano, close to Alicante-Elche airport, where she had lived for 20 years.

Early reports stated that the dead woman, identified as Monica W, was British, although more recent accounts are now suggesting that, although she held a British passport, she was a German national, the widow of an Englishman who passed away several years ago, since which time she had been living in the e400,000 property alone.

The National Police considers the mother to be the perpetrator of the crime while her son helped her to move the body and eliminate evidence. The arrested woman practices sports shooting and owned a 22-calibre Beretta pistol which was found at the scene of the crime.

The motive for the crime has not yet been clarified, but it is not thought to have been robbery. It was confirmed that the detained mother knew the vic-

SAN ANTONIO FLOUR MILL AND IRON BRIDGE The San Antonio Flour Mill and the Iron Bridge in Guardamar del Segura sits in a picturesque area of the Vega Baja.

The historic flour mill and weir was constructed in the 14th century, with renovations undertaken in the 18th century.

In the 20th century the mill underwent additional renovations for its preservation.

The historic Iron Bridge, inaugurated on August 11,

tim, so it is assumed that her intention was to obtain some type of economic benefit before the crime.

Monica was killed by three shots at her home in the Torre Azul urbanization, close to AlicanteElche airport.

Earlier on Wednesday evening a plumber was called to Monica’s house to carry out some emergency repairs but when she failed to open the door he raised the alarm.

Local residents, including the plumber, reported sightings of ‘two people dressed in black’ fleeing the 80-year-old woman's house.

One eye-witness saw a man and woman drive off in a black car and both were hooded and wore face masks.

The National Police detained the minor at the Elche Police Station, while the mother is being held in the cells of the Alicante Provincial Police Station. Both were remanded in custody on Saturday morning.

1929 costing 139,152.90 pesetas, is constructed in wrought iron with riveted trusses, based on masonry work that enabled road traffic of the national highway 332 to cross the Segura riverbed.

The bridge replaced the baroque bridge, constructed in 1755, destroyed by a flood at the end of the 19th century.

PARK4DIS is a technological platform whose main objective is to help people with reduced mobility find parking, thus solving a problem that affects more than 15 million people in Europe, and more than 6 million in Spain, from various angles and with 360º vision.

With this tool, users can download a free application that shows them both the location of the PMR (reduced mobility) spaces and the local regulations regarding PMR parking. In addition, the app allows the user to contact the Local Police to report any incident that may arise during parking, such as the space being occupied by vehicles that are not PRM. The Councillor for Tourism in Santa Pola Council, Julio Miguel Baeza, said that "we are focused on accessibility as one of our greatest challenges, and since we are at level 3 of the Invattur DTI network, we have tried to find formulas to improve the everyday situation of all those people with any type of disability. This is a pioneering initiative and will be of great help for people with reduced mobility, and for Santa Pola it is a way of positioning itself by supporting innovation”.

Carlo Castellano said that "this tool makes it possible to effectively resolve the fraudulent use of European cards, facilitates accessible tourism and favours the environment, thus complying with several of the SDGs of the 2030 Agenda, through the use of innovative technology based on sensors and other wireless devices of the IoT type”.

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FEAR OF LAN DI NG J U ST ABOUT ANYWH ERE? pilot remembered which pedal was the footbrake.?

he pandemic removed and justified my fear of air travel by the simple expedient of making it well-nigh impossible to fly anywhere safely. Now all that remains is my fear of landing.

T

When Alan Whicker confessed he always shut his eyes when landing in Hong Kong, the pilot said, "So do I." ?

The first flight I ever took was a joyride around Blackpool Tower in England when I was a schoolboy.? The plane had propellers and the experience left me feeling somewhat queasy, or perhaps it was the stick of rock I had consumed before take-off. However did they get the word 'Blackpool' printed throughout a sweetmeat??

In later life, my expatriate existence often saw me perched precariously on an airborne bucket seat bound for destinations I never really wanted to visit. ?Dropping into rainy Dacca to refuel, the pilot warned of potholes on the tarmac, thereby adding fear of landing to my fear of flying.? Eerily, that was one destination where no one got off or boarded.? A teeth-rattling pit stop.

In old Hong Kong, planes came down in the middle of the city, so close to high-rise buildings that they helped to dry the washing hanging out on pulleys.? In those days Kai Tak Airport was described officially as "technically demanding" for pilots.? It featured an exciting runway that ran out at the water's edge and it was interesting, as certain death approached, waiting to see if the

All of us are accustomed to delayed flights, of course, for which a blameless member of the ground staff always has to apologise: "The pilot was worried by a noise in the engine and it took us a while to find a new pilot."

My last sortie abroad involved an interview in London and I flew from Dundee in Scotland to London City Airport, a bit reminiscent of coming in to land in the centre of Hong Kong, which was where I was headed if I got the job.?

The propellers at Dundee made me think of that first jaunt in Blackpool and I felt I had come full circle.?

Nowadays I am strictly an armchair traveller, flying by the seat of my pants.?

My head may still be in the clouds but both my feet are firmly on the ground, which is where I plan to stay, my days as a hedge-hopping Scotsman now long gone.?

Meanwhile, I wish you blue skies and soft landings.? I'd steer clear of Dacca, though, if I were you, unless you can find a bus to take you. And as for the words in a stick of rock, don't even go there.?

CONSUMER GROUPS BLAST SUPERMARKET ‘PRICE HIKES’ ONLINE PRICES in the main supermarket chains have risen by 9.4% on average between 20 March 2021 and 8 March 2022, according to a price study by the Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) on 156 food, hygiene and drugstore products in ten Spanish cities.

Carrefour accumulates a rise of 12.1% in the last 12 months and Mercadona 11.4%, while in El Corte Inglés and Hipercor the rise has been 7.7%.

worrying", since, if maintained, they will mean an

However, both Mercadona and Carrefour continue to be among the cheapest national chains, along with Alcampo.

in the shopping basket of an average family.

Specifically, the consumer organisation, which describes this price increase as "worrying", has explained that it responds to different factors such as the rise in prices of energy and raw materials, such as fertilizers, wheat or oil, that tax the production and distribution of agricultural and livestock farms, as well as the impact that the war in Ukraine is having.

Concerning rises in prices of Own Label goods

The study shows that not all supermarket chains have increased their prices in the same way. Thus,

There have been price increases on 84% of the products analysed, especially food.

Thus, among the most affected are oils, which have shot up an average of 34%, fish (16%), packaged foods (11%) and dairy products (11%).

The OCU warns that the increases are felt especially in “own label” products, since they start from lower prices and describes them as "very

increase of more than 500 euro a year in products

Concerning rises in prices of Own Label products

Faced with this difficult situation for Spanish households, the consumer organisation has asked the Government to articulate measures to protect the most economically vulnerable households.

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FEDERATION OF NATURISTS JOIN IN WITH CALA MOSCA PROTESTS The Spanish Federation of Naturism gathered in Cala Mosca last Sunday to show their rejection at the urbanisation project in which is planned to build more than 2,200 homes along the last virgin stretch of the Orihuela coastline.

The group has repeatedly spoken out against the construction project by the company Gomendio. The platform criticises the plan, calling it “absolutely savage” for three reasons.

First of all, they say, because of the environmental impact, since, the cove is inhabited by a number of protected species such as the endemic snail and the cat-head sturgeon, in addition to the beetle, the terrestrial hedgehog and the red dragonfly.

Second, because with the buildings “the area would be devalued and quality of life would be lost”, as the area, as they say, is already saturated with concrete and residents suffer from a lack

of services.

And last but not least, their traditional naturist coves would be lost for ever.

This action was organised by the artist Pablo Rubio in support of the demands of the Salvemos Cala Mosca Platform.

At the end of March, the organisations Amics dels Aiguamolls del Sud de Alicante (AHSA), Amigos de Sierra Escalona, Salvemos Cala Mosca and the San Miguel Arcángel residents’ association of Sant Miquel de les Salinas filed an appeal before the Orihuela Council to reverse the decision, against the modification of the partial plan of sector D-1 Alameda del Mar, which will affect 44 hectares of first line rural land in the cove of La Mosca and the protected marine area of Cap Roig.

Spain’s Naturists show their support for Salvemos Cala Mosca

However, the Prosecutor’s Office decreed that “no breaches have been identified in the phase prior to the execution of the works, having carried out several studies associated with the possible impact on protected species” and therefore they denied that environmental regulations have been breached.

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Let’s hear it for the Humble Hen …! have stopped beating myself up over which comes first, the chicken or the egg. There is however, a related conundrum which might keep me awake at night if I wasn’t in the habit of tiring myself out so much during the day.

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How could my father have hated hens so much and yet loved eggs? I guess it had much to do with the fact that any bit of garden Daddy took a notion to sow, was quickly ripped up by hens doing their thing.

Mammy came up with an ingenious plan one time. She made boots for the hens by cutting up an old coat and sewing cloth covering onto the sharp claws. It didn’t work: The fowl called foul and kicked off their boots before resuming the excavation in the garden. Daddy went to the pub …..

Pat Harris was known to be a wise man. I heard him say once that if a hen lived to be 100, she still wouldn’t have paid for herself! The poor humble hen got bad press from all the men back in the day – but not so with the womenfolk.

All fowl was both the property and the responsibility of Bean TÍ. She reared hens and maybe geese, ducks and turkeys; collected the eggs and sold the surplus to an egglar like Kit Fagan in Collinstown.

One of the longest memories I have is of my granny in Ballinock bringing me out to the barn to gather the eggs, which she collected in her apron. I suppose I was around three years old and remember Granny letting me put my little hand on a warm egg taken from underneath a Bernie.comaskey@gmail.com *Author, entrepreneur and newspaper columnist, Bernie Comaskey, now spends most of his time on a farm in Ireland; but he retains his strong links with the Costa Blanca.

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hen which didn’t even move.

As we say, the family’s feathered friend did not get her due appreciation until recent years. Not only that, but the hen egg was thought of as a poor man’s meal – when, as we now know, the egg is the only complete meal. It has not only loads of protein, but essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. Egg consumption builds muscles, grows strong hair and nails and helps fight infections.

Come to think of it, I seem to recall my mother using the white of an egg with a squirt of vinegar to wash her hair?

I worked in England for a time from 1965 – ’66. It seemed to me then that the UK was gone egg mad. ‘Go to work on an egg’, was the slogan of the day. TV adverts, huge advertising hoardings, and even painted on the sides of buses. This egg campaign is regarded as being the most successful sales slogan of all time.

At twenty years of age I regarded the whole egg thing as a con job. I reckoned that the landladies of England were in cahoots with the egg marketing board in a ploy to deny a hard-working Irish lad the rest of his breakfast!

To me at that time an egg was only added to brighten the plate of hairy bacon and Donnelly’s sausages. Only now do I know that I was wrong and going to work on an egg (well, at least a pair of them!) was going to work on a complete meal.

I still enjoy the ‘full Irish’, courtesy of Mrs Youcantbeserious every Sunday morning, or for a treat the mornings I go to town. But now that I know the true value of the egg, the egg-cup gets full use in our house.

I appreciate nothing more than a toasted friedBernie has published four books; ‘If Ever a Man Suffered’, ‘The Best of Bernie’, ‘The Team’, and ‘Just Between Ourselves’. Bernie’s books are available at half price, on sale from either Spanish Solutions or ‘The Leader.’ Call 637 227 385 for info.

GARDEN FELIX - Decorative foliage of Eucalyptus Eucalyptus or gum tree is a fast-growing evergreen tree that looks attractive all year round, thanks to its decorative foliage and bark.

Its ornamental leaves are large, waxy, lance-shaped, which are grey-green or blue-grey in colour and aromatic when crushed.

The bark naturally sheds every year to create attractive snakeskin patterns on the trunk, in colours that vary from white, cream and shades of grey, sometimes with pink or orange tints.

Mature trees may also produce clusters of petalless flowers in summer.

Plant in spring or early summer in a sunny, sheltered spot protected from cold winds. Strong, cold winds are likely to damage and scorch leaves.

Ensure the top of the rootball is level with the

egg sandwich as a snack at any time and a nicely made omelette is truly a meal for any time of the day.

translated so that the girl could get on with her job, but ‘nicely done’ has since become the Comaskey calling card!

And speaking of ‘nicely made’ reminds me of an ongoing ‘slag’ in our family, at the expense of our brother, Sean.

I cannot eat a soft egg, so my instruction when ordering is that ‘the egg had better not move on the plate ‘til I touch it!’

Sean was on a trip to Canada. Over there, going out for breakfast is the ‘done thing’. The Canadians love their breakfast and all the different restaurants and coffee-shops have their own speciality. ‘How would you like your egg’, is the standard ceist after giving your order. The waitress, pen waving, awaits the instruction of ‘easy over’, ‘sunny side up’, or ‘over hard.’ This is where Sean came up with the classic which threw the waitress into a tailspin of confusion.

In the belief that it would turn me into a hurler, I forced myself to swallow raw eggs from the shell when I was in my teens. This was before I took a career-break from hurling in order to concentrate on my drinking career! I couldn’t manage to do that now (no, the raw egg, Lads!) but what I can still do, is go to work on an egg!

“Ah, nicely done!” sez he. Another brother surrounding soil, firm in and water well. Secure the tree with a short stake and a tree tie.

The soil needs to drain freely, as they won’t thrive in moisture-retentive ground and water during dry spells for the first growing season. Once established they are drought tolerant.

Eucalyptus are trouble-free and needs virtually no maintenance, once established.

If you're growing eucalyptus as a shrub, hard prune the whole plant in early spring. Otherwise no regular pruning is required apart from removing any dead or damaged branches in early spring.

Soil that is too moist causes discoloured, weak growth and the tree may ultimately die.

DON’T FORGET Having no food to eat will take your mind off all other troubles.

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BRITISH COUNCILLOR RESIGNS IN LOS ALCAZARES Joanne Scott, the los Alcazares councillor for Foreign Residents has announced her immediate resignation.

ing team lead by Mario Pérez Cervera keeps everything going.

Following a bout of covid, from which she has failed to fully recover, she feels that her performance as a councillor is being affected and her memory is not as it was pre illness.

It was an amazing experience and hopefully I’ve paved the way for someone else to take up the reins. Since having Covid-19 my memory is not as it was and the job of a local councillor needs you to be on top form.

She explained that she has been left with consequences that are not compatible with the job of a councillor, and has therefore tendered her resignation to mayor Mario Pérez Cervera.

In a statement issued on her facebook page Joanne, who is also the proprietor of La Zona Terraza in the town, said, “With a heavy heart I officially resigned as a local councillor from Los Alcázares town hall yesterday. I’ve had such a fantastic year, learning so much and seeing how the hardwork-

Los Alcázares to open first Mar Menor Dog Beach Los Alcázares will have the first dog beach in the Mar Menor this summer. It will be located on the Salinas beach and will be about 140 metres long. The area that dogs can use will be marked by a fence and will also be equipped with an access walkway, shower area for dogs and litter bins.

"We want the dogs in the area to have a new

I don’t have the mental agility that I had pre covid and the brain fog persists. My family responsibilities also need more of my attention, as does my business. So I’m back at the bar.”

Joanne added that she will continue to help local residents as she always has and for anyone with whom she has unfinished business she asked that they call into La Zona Terraza and she will try to resolve their outstanding issues.

area where they can cool off and escape the heat, and where owners can enjoy beach time with their pets," explains the Councillor for Animal Welfare, Antonio López Campoy.

vide a boost to tourism in the municipality as it will become the first beach for pets in the Mar Menor.

These areas dedicated to pets are subject to certain rules so as to guarantee the correct coexistence of all users.

The idea of adapting a municipal beach for the use of pets rose after a public consultaThus, the owners are obliged to have their tion where the council was able to gather pets controlled at all times and to collect their together he wishes of many residents who droppings and deposit them in the enabled wanted to have a space to enjoy the water bins. The owners, in addition, must carry the with their dogs. “The area to be covered by Members of theOur Salvation Armydocumentation, Save a Soul Mission, animal's and are General responsible the project is currently being fine tuned.

(Lonee Hopwood) Peggy O’Neill). for and any Granma damage that their(Judith pets may cause. intention is to start itCartwright up this summer”, explains Antonio López Campoy.

Potentially dangerous dogs using these faciliThe start-up of this dog beach will also pro-

ties will be required to wear a muzzle.

Joanne has resigned because of ill health

PAGE 12

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entered the UK charts eight times and spent a total of 165 weeks on the UK chart.

2000 - Thieves stole the gates to Strawberry Fields the Merseyside landmark immortalised by The Beatle’s song. The 10' high iron gates were later found at local scrap metal dealers in Liverpool.

2001 - Travis played a gig at singer's Fran Healy's local primary school at Weston Park, Crouch End, London. The 150 crowd paid a £1 entry fee to the summer fete.

1957 – Elvis Presley was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital after swallowing a porcelain cap from one of his front teeth, which then lodged itself in one of his lungs.

1964 - During a UK tour The Rolling Stones were refused lunch at The Grand Hotel, Bristol, where they were staying because they were not wearing jackets and ties. The following day the Daily Express ran the story with the headline, 'The Rolling Stones gather no lunch.'

1971 - On his 21st birthday Stevie Wonder received all of his childhood earnings. Despite having earned $30 million so far, he received only $1 million.

1981 - Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley died aged 36. He had the 1981 single 'No Woman No Cry', plus over ten other UK Top 40 singles. In 1990, the 6th February was proclaimed a national holiday in Jamaica to commemorate his birth.

The Cilla Black Show

1998 - American singer and actor Frank Sinatra died at the CedarsSinai Medical Center, Los Angeles aged 82, after suffering a heart attack. He had his first hit in 1940, working in the Swing era with Harry James and Tommy Dorsey, won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in the 1953 film 'From Here to Eternity'. He went on to score over 25 Top 40 singles including the 1966 No.1 'Strangers In The Night'. His 1969 single 'My Way', re-

2002 - The musical ‘We Will Rock You’ opened in London at the Dominion Theatre.

The musical was written by comedian and author Ben Elton in collaboration with Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor. The musical tells the story of a group of Bohemians who struggle to restore the free exchange of thought, fashion, and live music in a distant future where everyone dresses, thinks and does the same.

in 2005 and had become a tourist destination and landmark since then.

2007 - Brian May was under 24-hour security watch after a deranged man announced he was setting off to murder him - then disappeared. Police were hunting for a schizophrenic who left a letter behind at his home blaming the Queen guitarist for his illness.

In it the man - said May was an "impostor" and that HE was the real rock star. He signed the letter "Brian May." 2013 - Two men were arrested in Dublin after the city centre statue of Phil Lynott was pushed over and seriously damaged.

The life-size bronze sculpture was unveiled

Phil Lynott fronted Dublin Rockers Thin Lizzy

2020 – Little Richard died of bone cancer at the age of 87. He had his biggest hits in the 1950s and was known for his exuberant performances and flamboyant outfits. With the likes of Chuck Berry and Elvis, he was one of the handful of US acts who mixed blues, R&B and gospel that led to the evolution of rock 'n' roll. He sold more than 30 million records worldwide with hits including 'Good Golly Miss Molly', 'Lucille', 'Tutti Frutti' and 'Long Tall Sally'.

DEMANDS TO RE-OPEN SANTA POLA AQUARIUM The Compromís political group is leading demands to reopen the Santa Pola aquarium, following it’s closure when the state of alarm was decreed in March 2020.

The group are denouncing the "neglect" of the municipal council for not having reopened the facilities at the same time that the rest of the municipal facilities and accuses the Partido Popular of "wanting to kill off" the aquarium.

“We have listened to their excuses for more

than two years. First, they needed a contingency plan against Covid, and it was the only municipal areas that did not have one. Then the access doors broke due to lack of maintenance, and we are still waiting for them to be fixed, more than a year later."

"The feeling is that they are telling us lies and making excuses because they have no intention of opening", said Anna Antón, spokesperson for the formation.

However, the Mayor, Loreto Serrano, recently announced several short term investments, among which were actions to reopen the aquarium.

The spokeswoman for Compromís per Santa Pola, Anna Antón, complained that "they absolutely don't care if it's open or not and they're not doing anything to fix the situation."

The Comprimis spokeswoman said they understand that Santa Pola is a municipality with a long fishing tradition "and the aquarium is a

symbol and an element of our roots. The behaviour of the municipal government is very sad".

Santa Pola’s municipal aquarium was opened in 1983 and is the oldest at the regional level. It has a system for capturing water directly from the sea and has historically received many visits throughout the year, from school excursions to tourists and visitors curious about the native marine species. Unfortunately nobody has been able to access the facilities in the last two years.

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 916

ACROSS 1.

Attestation (9) 8.

Rabble (3) 9.

Embargo (11) 11. Glint (7) 12. Goes listlessly (5) 13. Toxin (6) 15. Blanch (6) 17. Map (5) 18. Lack (7) 20. Indecorum (11) 22. Tenanted (3) 23. Oriental (9) CAN YOU MASTER THE SUDOKU CHALLENGE? Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

Solution on Page 23

DOWN 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

10.

11.

14.

16.

19.

21.

Distant (3) Imbibe (5) Spoken (6) Victory (7) All-powerfulness (11) Homage (9) Inventiveness (11) Characteristically (9) Eightfold (7) Renowned (6) Wait on (5) Bind (3)

QUICK ACROSS: 7 Remark; 8 Course; 10 Grapple; 11 Flood; 12 Lull; 13 Phase; 17 Lucid; 18 Brew; 22 Wreck; 23 Unravel; 24 Relish; 25 Motive.

DOWN: 1 Fragile; 2 Amiable; 3 Crypt; 4 Confuse; 5 Proof; 6 Ready; 9 Technique; 14 Puckish; 15 Prevail; 16 Swollen; 19 Swarm; 20 Reply; 21 Crook.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC Across: 7 Punter; 8 Set out; 10 Coinage; 11 Lucre; 12 Eyed; 13 Ruins; 17 Smash; 18 Rear; 22 After; 23 Valises; 24 Partly; 25 Galore.

DOWN: 1 Apaches; 2 Infidel; 3 Texas; 4 Sealing; 5 Pouch; 6 Steep; 9 Repulsive; 14 Emerald; 15 Tea-shop; 16 Dresser; 19 Lamps; 20 Store; 21 Clear.

ACROSS 1. Industrial locations for the factory dances! (9) 8. Help one in the present time (3) 9. Having a great desire to keep going on (5-6) 11. Give one the right to name a book (7) 12. He gives a fellow gold (5) 13. Firmly fastens up potato stores (6) 15. Support the Spanish drive (6) 17. They should be known to sailors and boxers (5) 18. Yes, acts in variety will produce great delight (7) 20. No storms are disturbing the space students (11) 22. A great age for a Scotsman, we hear (3) 23. Divert to subsidiary racecourse (4-5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. The name of which toy translated means "come come"?

2. Too-Too, Dab Dab and Chee-Chee are some examples of what?

3. The song title 'Go West' has been a hit for which two bands?

4. What tasty name did Captain Cook give the Hawaiian Islands in 1778?

5. 'Rich Uncle Pennybags', a round old man in a top hat, serves as the mascot for what?

6. During the 1920s, Big Bill Tilden was the dominant figure in which sport?

7. The cooking term 'Roux' is a combination of which two ingredients?

8. Who played the drums in Band Aid's 1984 Christmas hit, 'Do They Know It's Christmas?'?

9. Naja Naja is the scientific name for which animal?

10. The 1934 Hollywood film 'It Happened One Night' was the first film to win the 'Big Five' (Academy awards for best picture, director, actor, actress and writing). Name the other two films that have accomplished this feat.

11. The scientific world has been turned on its head recently with the discovery that what may be capable of travelling faster than the speed of light?

DOWN 2. Frequently expressed in poetry (3) 3. Didn’t save an animal shelter in the street (5) 4. Not in the coterie for a start (6) 5. More reliable plumber (7) 6. Happening to be catching flat-fish, I hear (6,5) 7. The board in charge of movements in the main (9) 10. Spirit level, theosophically speaking! (6,5) 11. In the finish the ring is surrounded (9) 14. A fluctuation in foreign currency could be seen as steep (7) 16. He?s active between rounds for a short time (6) 19. Pot a small propagated plant (5) 21. Fabulous winger right on course, initially (3)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 12. In meteorology, which term means 'the boy'?

13. Which David Bowie song has both Lulu and Nirvana covered?

14. Winston Smith is a central character in which book and film?

15. Which two bands had a hit with the song 'Venus'?

16. Which five letter word that stems from Arabic, means "opposite of the zenith"? (first letter 'N') 17. Which film features the ill-fated ship 'Andrea Gail'?

18. In which sport did the 'Czech Locomotive' Emil Zatopek excel?

19. The words 'Electricity' and 'Electron' both stem from the Greek word for which well known tree resin?

20. Which Irish actor was nominated eight times for an Oscar and never won, a record?

21. Measured in kilometres from the nearest human being, who was the most isolated person in history for a few hours in the summer of 1969?

22. Complete the names of the following famous or infamous ships. a.

Amoco, b. Admiral Graf, c. Exxon, d. HMS Compass, e. Rainbow, f.

Edmund 23. The horse Khartoum plays a very deciding role in which Oscar-winning film?

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aware. www.Saltchurchspain.

Facebook SaltChurchSpain International Christian Assembly, Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday service 11a.m.; Sunday school; Prayer meetings; craft and computer clubs. Ladies Bible Study: Thursday 11a.m.

Church Bible Study: Thursday 1.30p.m. House groups in Torrevieja, La Siesta – Contact: 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. Phone: 966 799 273 / 966 752 543 / 617 215 463. www.icatorrevieja.org

CHURCHES AND SERVICES The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints in Torrevieja meet at 10.00 each Sunday in their chapel at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia, 104. All Welcome. Phone or whatsapp the missionaries on 659 016 733 La Siesta Evangelical Church, Torrevieja is a friendly, English-speaking church. We currently hold services at 11.15am on the 2nd and 4th Sundays each month (and the

5th Sunday when there is one). For more info about our church, please see our website at www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org For info see www.lasiestaevangelicalchurch.org 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, Polígono Ind. Levante 11, 03187 Los Montesinos. We are a lively, friendly church and look forward to meeting you. (Covid-

CAR SALES The Car of the Month at Automoviles Crespo is a 2019 Ford Focus ST_Line Auto which is on Special Offer priced at just 19,500 euro.

Come along to our showroom in Elche and see our vast range of new and used cars or call 96 666 22 60 for all our latest offers. The biggest and best for price, choice and quality. ENGLISH SPOKEN

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MUSICIANS WANTED Come Join The Band' The Royal British Legion Concert Band Spain is looking for a second violin player of any nationality to join our growing group of musicians. Please contact Graham Robinson at email by phone on 658 663 846 or by email at: robinsongraham256@ googlemail.com

SOCIAL AND CLUBS The May Meeting of the Royal British Legion Orihuela Costa and District Branch will be held at 7 for 7.30 pm on Thursday 19 May at the Olympia Pool Bar in Mil Palmeras. Guest speaker.

Everyone welcome, incl non members. Call Jean on: 630 28 08 99.

The RBL Torrevieja Branch Meets at the Oasis, formerly the Casa Ventura, San Luis on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6.30 pm for 7pm start. New members are always welcome.

SHARE THE COST OF BUYING AN APARTMENT I am looking for someone to share the cost of buying a 2 bed apartment in Los Alcazares.

Total cost is 100k so 50k each.

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You do not have to be ex-services. For info please contact:Torrevieja.secretary@rbl. community Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur is here to help you with problem solving and well being for the over 50’s. We need volunteer Drivers and people to join our Home Visiting Team. to visit people in a Residential Home, and take them out for a coffee. If you think you can help call into our centre at C/Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta 03184 Torrevieja or ring 966 786 887. Or email: costablanca@ageconcern.org.es Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch now meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 1700 (5pm) at CHE

Royal Air Force Association Costa Blanca Registered Members Group: The RAFA Costa Blanca RMG replaces the RAFA Costa Blanca Branch 1359 which is now closed. The RMG is a social group of caring people and remains affiliated to the parent Association. Contact with the RAFA and the RMG is via the RAFA website rafa.org.uk.

Tel:0044 800 018 2361.

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Oasis San Luis hosts RBLDistrict Events he Oasis in San Luis hosted two Royal British Legion events on Tuesday, the District Chairman’s Biannual Seminar and a course for branch standard bearers.

T

Overseas Representative Fi, who frew out from UK to be with us, who spoke of her role and of all the new initiatives being considered for Spain North.

The conference was an opportunity for branch chairmen and officers to meet, to discuss put forward ideas and help to formulate policy in the District, an area from the border with France in the north, down to northern Granada in the south, including the Balearic Islands, in the coming months.

The standard bearers course was organised by the newly appointed Parade Marshall, Terry Murphy, a member of the Murcia Branch, who now has this first course under his belt.

It was so pleasing to see 12 of the 14 Branches represented at the Seminar and to chat with our

It was held both as a refresher for current branch standard bearers and for those wishing to qualify.

We look forward to seeing them all perform at the many ceremonial events that will be held across the District during the coming months.

Thanks to the District Committee for running the Seminar and the course and to Torrevieja Branch and the Oasis Bar & Restaurant for their hosting.

Representative from 12 branches attended the seminar held at the Oasis

PAGE 18

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96% SUPPORT RE-OPENING BLACKPOOL AIRPORT FOR COMMERCIAL PASSENGER FLIGHTS - By Andrew Atkinson

Come fly with Me he choice on television in real terms is extremely limited if one does not want to spend a small fortune on buying videos or signing contracts for streaming services, then the content seems to be mainly repeats or soaps. We won’t mention the BBC (although I just did) which seems to think that we are all into cooking or gardening.

T

For some time, we were watching ‘Challenge’ programmes until recently when it started to be repetitive, schedules, similar to the ‘Chase’ which has been running with various repeats for the last fifteen years or so, becomes tedious.

We changed to the ‘Really’ channel - still repeats but different ones. Just recently they have been showing a rerun of the ‘Antique Road Trip’ based on celebrities buying antiques and selling them at auction.

rate of climb, it is difficult to argue against the design.

I had applied for a PPL (Private Pilot’s License) and took the course at the famous airfield, at that time it was still partly used by the military, a left over from the war where it had been in the forefront of the conflict with fighter planes taking off from its runways to attack the German invaders in the sky.

It was an interesting period, a time to relax away from the pressure of a busy business life, by being involved in something exciting and different.

The course is forty hours long and all aspects are included, as one would expect, to become proficient at handling the plane in flight.

There are not many thrills that can compare with speeding down a runway, feeling the harshness of the ground beneath the wheels, pulling the stick back and the smoothness of

Tangled and Green Living in the valleys with the rustle of the trees and the fresh air is invigorating and generally there is very little noise as the population goes gently about its business.

Normally traffic levels are very low, that is until holiday time and weekends when visitors arrive, none of that is a problem and brings some life to the village and keeps the bars and restaurants busy.

On the whole motorists respect the lanes with their twists and turns. On a regular basis, various groups of motorcyclists visit the area to soak up the ambiance that is normally on a Sunday or holidays.

Most drive with care but then there are others who see the lanes as a challenge to use their powerful two-wheel devices to see how fast they can go through the curves and bends of the country roads, some lean over so far that half their torso is over the white line as they hurtle round the network. Over the years this has resulted in serious accidents.

Once more this Sunday in late morning with a roar of exhausts motorcycles hurtled down the hill into the village. However, behind them on the road from Albatera leading to the mountain pass a motorcyclist, no doubt with the needle on his speedometer reaching its high echelons, went round a blind bend and hit an immovable object. As there were no skid marks on the road the rider did not have time to brake.

Whereas the programmes travels around the country seeking interesting things to buy, as an aside they call in at places of interest, one of them this week was a visit to a flight museum where a ‘Lightning’ jet fighter was on display.

This specific version of the fighter plane, as the name was used for other varieties, was developed just after the Second World War in 1947 by the English Electric Company and at ‘’mack two’ was four times faster than the famed ‘Spitfire’ of that period, it was also the quickest aeroplane built at that time throughout the world.

At one time there was one on show or at least parked at Biggin Hill during the late sixties, a beautiful looking aircraft with an odd layout of the two engines as they were aligned vertically, one over the other, different but with an ability to go faster than any other flying machine at that time with the rapidest

the wings as they give lift and very quickly becoming airborne as the earth drops away.

Biggin Hill at that time, although I see it has since changed, at the end of the main runway the land dropped away and there was a steep incline.

When landing; as the pilot approaches to bring the aircraft into land it was necessary to increase power, an odd feeling, to counter the downdraft of the wind and being sucked into the side of the hill.

The story went that a few fighter planes based there were lost during the conflict when the pilot did not react quickly enough to the down draft.

Flying for pleasure was fun, even a jolly to go to France for lunch, or on other occasions using the facility for business meetings, all very necessary as keeping up flying hours is essential and important.

A needless depressing affair with three ambulances, police and breakdown vehicles at the scene for over an hour, after which the remains of the speeding device, an unrecognisable pile of tangled green metal lay at the scene very different to what it had been. A sad epitaph for the rider.

Parliament Gates While the horror of the war in Eastern Europe continues with cities being destroyed our politicians are busy with their gates – Party gates - Beer gates - discussions about a quick drink breaking the law.

Then out of the blue we have a new situation, an MP, who has resigned over looking at tractors in the Commons, or was it a Combined Harvester he wanted to buy which appearing on it was a naughty piece - I suppose this is called Blue gate. Take care

www.facebook/percy chattey My range of thrilling books available on Amazon.

Hopes for Blackpool Airport re-opening to commercial flights including to Alicante-Elche airport remain in the air.

As reported by The Leader hopes had resurfaced with a possible move by Government funding to aid the once thriving airport to re-open.

Since closing in 2014 a poll of approaching almost 8,000 Blackpool residents revealed 96% supported re-opening Blackpool Airport for commercial passenger flights.

In 2019 an historic occasion at Blackpool Airport saw the official transfer of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) licenses back into the name and control of Blackpool Airport Operations Limited (BAOL).

Following a lengthy review and intensive work behind the scenes by the Airport and Blackpool Council transition team, the UK Civil Aviation Authority issued an Aerodrome Licence and Air Navigations Service Provider (ANSP) Certification to BAOL, a wholly owned subsidiary of Blackpool Council.

The award of the CAA licences to BAOL allows the Company to take direct control of the Airport management.

The airport’s long-term goals are to maximise opportunities for growth as part of the Enterprise Zone.

Achieve a greater level of direct operational control and flexibility, taking sound investment decisions; be more efficient and cost effective; and ensure a long-term, sustainable future for one of England’s oldest airports and a key strategic asset for the Fylde Coast.

Holding licences in the name of the Airport company, in contrast to a management contractor, brings Blackpool Airport into line with others in the sector.

At the time Cllr Campbell, Chair of the Board at BAOL said: “We set off on this journey recognising the size and complexity of the task ahead.

“Blackpool Airport is back in control of its own destiny and we’re excited to be at the threshold of a new era where we can build a bigger, brighter, more profitable future.”

Blackpool Council reacquired Blackpool Airport from Balfour Beatty in September 2017 for £4.25m, via its ownership of Blackpool Airport Operations Ltd and Blackpool Airport Operations Ltd and Blackpool Airport Property Ltd. The move was to save it from the risk of permanent closure with Blackpool Council investing £2m in the upgrade and maintenance of essential infrastructure, with further investment planned.

The airport was bought after being temporarily closed, due to mounting debts, and had been run by Stratford-based Regional and City Airports, part of the Rigby Group, which owned four airports and had licences to run two others, including Blackpool.

Coun Gillian Campbell, chairman of the Board at BAOL, said: “We set off on this journey recognising the size and complexity of the task ahead.

“The purpose of the event was to say Blackpool Airport is back in control of its own destiny and we’re excited to be at the threshold of a new era where we can build a bigger, brighter, more profitable future.”

However, Council leader Coun Lynn Williams said investment was being made at the airport, adding: “There is not going to be a re-opening to commercial airlines.

"Unless someone is going to come along and foot the £2m a year pre pandemic losses, it’s unworkable and we aren’t going to put the council at financial risk.”

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Obituary Vi Turner The Pint Depot Queens received the sad news last week that one of their founding members, Vi Turner had passed away suddenly on Sunday 24th April.

Vi, who had lived in Spain in the Villamartin area for over 20 years was a much loved team player but more importantly was a close friend to

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PAGE 19

each one of the girls. Her affectionate nick name was Polly Pocket.

Her friendship and her presence in the team will be sorely missed and irreplaceable. Vi was also previously a member of the Gap Ladies darts team and enjoyed many other social gatherings, as well as accompanying her partner Ray on his golf trips.

Due to her warm, kind, fun

loving nature she was much loved and her loss will be felt throughout the area.

Semi Finalists

VE N U E - D OM I NOS B AR he final proved a credit to Ladies darts in Spain. Team mates on a Monday evening, rivals when it comes to O.W.S. Thursday arrows, both Bliss Wright and Chelsea Campbell, would have made worthy champions, but someone had to lose. After a wobbly semi against Simone de Lacy,( a last dart D10 failed to stick ) Wright showed some real class in the best of 5 final. Although the record books will show a 3-0 outcome it was far from easy. Wright's 4x 80+, 100,121, were matched by Milo's Campbell scores of 5x 80+, 100,124, the difference being Wrights Bliss-tering finishing. Clinical outs on D8,D12 and D20 gave her the championship.

T

The champ didn't have an easy ride to the final, in the group stage newly crowned Pairs champion Sharon Frain, took Wright to a deciding 3rd leg, Frain hitting 124,121 in the last leg, Wright finding D20. She also needed a win against Karen Raffell to avoid a qualifying countback to progress. No problem, 2 massive outs of 102 and 90, secured a semi place to face Tiara - De Lacy, who had qualified by overcoming Jane Wills and the favoured Yvonne Rouffignac, At one apiece, the champ in waiting outscored her opponent but failed to convert. Many throws SHARPSHOOTERS: Chelsea Campbell, Milos, 4x100, 124,140, Amanda Skinner, Boris Bears, 3x100, 121, 125, 140. Bliss Wright, Gap, 2x100, 121, 140. Sharon Frain, Freakies, 121, 124. Jean Randell, Dannys, 2x100.

Total of - 71 scores of 80+ TOP GAME SHOTS Bliss Wright, 102 ( T20, S6, D18 ) & 90 ( S4, T18, D16 ) Amanda Skinner 68 ( S5, S13, Bull)

later de Lacy had 1 dart in her hand for victory, it found D10 but bounced out, leaving Wright to finally and deservedly find D1, for a place in the final.

Campbell won through to the semi without dropping a leg, the best of which, a 2-0 defeat of Pat Schofield, to include a 140,95100,D8 leg.

Outstanding!!! Her semi opponent Amanda Skinner, was in great form, easing past Mitch Halliday, with a 100,85,121,100,D4 winning leg, plus a cracker versus Jean Randell, where she needed two 68 outs, one on the Bull.

Skinner's form eluded her in the semi and although taking the 1st leg on a 60 out, Campbell proved too strong, opting for D5 in both winning legs.

Runner Up - Chelsea Campbell

AUCTION FOR THE RBL

Winner - Bliss Wright

VENUE- LOS CUCALOS Thursday 19 May, Doors open 7-00pm.

Guests must be seated by 7-45pm for dinner.

Presentation, Raffle, Auction of Phil Taylor artwork, Music until late from the renowned Dan Davey.

OWS Finalists

Support Thursday week’s auction of this painting of Phil Taylor entitled "The Power and the Glory" by Chelsea.

Proceeds will be donated to the Royal British Legion Any individual or bar wishing to bid prior to the event may do so to Paul Durrant on 966 18 19 47.

PAGE 20

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Monday 9th - Sunday 15th May 2022

Country Bowls Club by Peter Dix Country Bowls Club had their first touring team visit for several years and the team from Auriol Park, Worcester Park, Surrey had an enjoyable day at our friendly club.

The conditions caused a few problems with very gusty winds, but the sun was shining, and new friends were made.

The Bluebirds entertained El Rancho in the summer Harrier Division, all games were very competitive and close scores, but the Bluebirds held out for a good 8 to 4 win. Winning rinks were Christine Hughes. Dave Smith, Ray Robson 16-12, Wendy Splevings, Daniel Verrial, George Burrage 18-14, Michael Jordan, Craig Dyson, Peter Robins 17-16.

The Koalas continued their winning ways in the VCL league, travelling to play La Siesta Hoopoes they soon adapted to the away green and came away with maximum points. Rink scores Singles Alison Robson 21-18, Men’s Singles Ray Robson 21-16, Pairs Del Gunning, Peter Whitehall 21-11, Triples Keith Holliman, Derek Lewis, Graham Richardson 22-11, Fours Sheila Whitehall, Save Belton, Darron Reynolds, Barry Evans 19-9. This was the last match in the league, the Koalas remained undefeated with 48 points winning the league by a large margin.

The Red Kites entertained Quesada Lancasters in the summer league and

LLB South Alicante Spitfire Div. A: Monday 2nd May Wellingtons were away at Quesada v the Blenheims. Unfortunately it was one of those days and they just came back with the pips, 2 points-10, 76 shots-116. Winners: Helen Hammond, Phil Lockley, Scott Malden 23-20.

Hurricane Div B: Hercules, were home to the Greenlands Gladiators and after a hard fought match, came away with 4 points-8, 74 shots-88.

Well done to: Chris Jackson, Ralph Jones, Lyndon Johnson 15-14, Brian White, Bob Bromley, Derrick Cooper 17-13.

VCL Southern Div A: Falcons match away v Vistabella Saxons was postponed because of the rain.

VCL Southern Div B: on Wednesday 4th the Hawks were at home v La Marina. The rain wasn’t too bad to start with but gradually got

The Bluebirds made the long trip north to La Marina and found it hard going against the home team but put up a great fight only losing by a small margin 79 - 87. Winning on 2 rinks, Ben Noke, Daniel Verrells, Ray Robson 17-9, Carole Donnellan, Phil Newham, Keith Miller 22-21.

Pleased to advise 2 of our members Steve & Della Wailes are now qualified markers after attending the recent twoday markers course.

worse as the morning went on, I think all the players did a great job just carrying on for 18 ends. There were some really close games, but La Marina just managed to edge ahead at the end. Hawks 2 points-10, 83 shots-91. Well done to Jane Hamill for winning the ladies singles, 21-6.

There are no scheduled matches next week, good bowling and good luck to everyone playing in the National Singles Championships.

Next Saturday 14th May, 1:30/2:00, we are hosting a team from Almeria clubs in a friendly match.

Our internal summer leagues start June 7th & June 9th, all information is in the office.

San Luis BC welcomes new & experienced members, we hope they would be willing to sign up before the end of August, so we can plan how many teams to enter for 2022/23 season. For more information, come along to watch or contact Club Captain June Jones: keithjones81@hotmail.com / 691 903 773.

We received pre course e-mails from Gail with guidance and encouragement regarding reading the law book and links to videos on guidance with marking techniques along with links to the CBUMA website for some home study too.

On the first Saturday morning 4 hours were spent in the classroom discussing the best way to use the red Bowls Law book and we

Willey, Ian Kenyon 18-18, Lynne Bishop, John Goddard, Martin Foulcer 16-16, Shots 85-84, Points 8-4.

LA MARINA BOWLS

we ended up with 10 points, although very wet but happy players.

11-21 down 3 ends to go, so where's the excitement. Ask Mo Kidd, Cliff Rawlinson and Mike Smith and they will tell you there is always hope. Pick up 6 on the 16th end, 4 on the 17th and drop 1 on the 18th to lose 21-22, such a shame.

Bowls is basically a simple game, get closer to the jack than your opponent but like all life it cannot proceed without rules/laws.

Anyone can play without being questioned on their knowledge of the rules but to be an official you have to have knowledge and capabilities assessed.

This all happened on Monday 2nd May at home against Country Bowls where we lost 2 trips and won 3 plus a overall shot difference of 87-79 to secure a 8-4 win.

Wednesday 4th and we find ourselves at St Louis in the rain. If the conditions are too bad after 2 thirds of play the result can stand, at 2 thirds we would have secured 2 points, but the decision was to carry on and

After Lunch we returned to the bowls green where we took turns to act as Markers in various scenarios set up by the 12 umpires that we could expect to encounter and have to mark at some point.

There were 26 people on the course from 8 different bowls clubs.

Course organisers Fred and Gail discussed various laws which was done in a well-structured manner with a bit of humour thrown in as well.

In the afternoon, we went outside to the bowls green where there was a total of 12 umpires that set up various scenarios to practice our marking and measuring techniques.

It was interesting seeing and using the various measuring devices under the guidance of the

with Brian Zelin

Monday 2nd May, Vistabella Fairways Division A, were Away to Emerald Isle Vulcans, a very good result for Vistabella Winning on 2 Rinks and Drawing on 2 Rinks, Janet Parr, Eric Bishop, Maggie Furness 16-13, Paul Durham, Barbara Brown, Arthur Brown 25-11, Kath Reid, Freddie

On the second Saturday 30th April, we had an exam in the morning going through various question on the laws and rules of bowls.

You get 3&1/2 hours to complete the exam which is plenty of time to answer the questions, write down the corresponding law number and check over your answers.

I have been bowling now for 4 years and I recently put my name down to attend a bowler’s Marking course at San Luis with 2 other bowlers from the La Marina Bowls Club, Trevor Stemp and David Southwell.

Home League game versus Quesada

Vistabella Bowls Club

umpires.

LLB MARKERS COURSE by Norman Ship

The course was well run by Gail & Fred Willshire who had clearly put in a lot preparation for the two consecutive Saturdays 23/30 April between 10.00am & 4.30pm.

office@theleader.info

were in good form and soon took advantage of the home surface setting up a good victory 10-2. Winning rinks were Del Gunning. Rob Hallam. Neil West 2512, Linda Ponsford, Trish Dix, Gary Ponsford 19-12, Shaun Devine, Allan Lever, Keith Holliman 21-10, Brenda Jiggins, Derek Jiggins, Graham Richardson 26-13.

SAN LUIS BOWLS CLUB - Sheila Cammack Thankfully the threatened 3 days of rain were condensed into Wednesday, so we only have one match to re-arrange and hopefully “normal” weather will be resumed, so keep the suncream handy.

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I know that Trevor, David and myself found the course very useful and it has certainly given us all a better understanding of the game of Bowls and I would encourage anyone that has not yet attended a markers course to keep an eye out for any future courses as they are certainly well worth attending.

Good luck to Gail & Fred and their team of umpires as they set up the next course in the 14th May at Javea, I trust the new students have been reading their Red Law Book .........

Wednesday 4th May, in the VCL Vistabella Saxons Division A, were at Home to San Luis Falcons, Due to rain the Match was postponed.

Fred and Gail Wiltshire (in this area), take their own time and effort to ensure we have plenty of umpires and markers available.

With this in mind they have recently run a markers course to which we sent 3 members to become qualified markers. Read Norman Ship's report on the experience below.

Dave Hadaway

El Rancho Bowls Club

O

n Monday the Buckskins entertained La Siesta Hornets, played in good weather, positively hot once the clouds cleared.

Though there were some score differences, most rinks were close in play, as often happens. But the Hornets went away with 4 rinks and the overall shots. But always remember that success on the rink at our age should be measured in smiles and jokes shared.

Brian Gilham, Pam Harris and Brian Harris 9-21.

Janet Wright, Diane Yates and David Wright 1415. Sheila Cox, Malc Sykes and Mike Cox 13-25.

Sheila Millward, Ron Greenstreet and Jim Eastwood 12-30. David Baker, Peter Blackburn and Keith Longshaw 17-15.

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

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PAGE 21

LA SIESTA BOWLS (Members Run Club) by Alan Carr Quesada Bowls Club by Steve Hibberd Hurricane Division The Wasps welcomed Emerald Isle Victors to La Siesta and continued their good run by winning on all rinks with a bit in hand which is reflected in the overall (Shots 115-68) result 12-0, which has now placed the Wasps in the top slot. Team winners were; Dawn & John Taylor with Harold Charleton (24-9). Martin Harley, Brian Pocock & Karen Kirk (26-11. Ramsay Sinclair, Peter Ayres & Derek Biggs (22-16). Jan Pocock, Dave Collins & Dave Blackie (23-17). Brian Gardiner, Wendy & Alan Ralph (20-15).

Harrier Division La Siesta Hornets travelled to EL Rancho for their game which saw the team move up to second spot in their division for winning convincingly and taking four rinks to win 10-2 with the overall (Shots 106-65).

Winning rinks were; Janet Doel, Joan & Mike Inns (30-12). Tracey Paffett, Ken Stringfellow & Ken Barber (25-13), who bagged eight on one end and missed out on a Hot Shot. Anthony Pridmore, Derek Barker & Dave Giddings (219). Irene laverick, Pat Moore & John Skipper (15-14).

VCL The Hoopoes had a rearranged home game

SAN MIGUEL BOWLS CLUB

and played Emerald Isle Earls on another wet Wednesday but had to be played being the last VCL game of the season.

La Siesta won on one rink to collect 2 points courtesy of Mike Inns (21-14) who played the Gents singles game. The Ladies singles game finished very close but got nowhere near on the other rinks. Result 2-10 (Shots 55-80).

La Siesta Bowls Club are holding a one-day Open Trips Competition on Saturday 28th May 2022 if any bowlers wish to enter a team contact the Match Secretary Dave Giddings on 711006723 who will be pleased to register your team and give you further information.

Interested in joining La Siesta members run Bowls Club, there is always something going on with plenty of social events, at the club we have league/casual bowling which includes Chicken and Egg every Wednesday with George 1.30 for 2pm, and organised roll ups every Saturday with Graham & Mike 9.30 for 10am where prizes are awarded. Just pop in or call the President George 865772498 or the Captain Wendy 633068399 who will be pleased to give you any further information you may require.

By Barry Jones

On Friday, 29th April, San Miguel Deputies were away to San Luis Hawkes where they played a re-arranged game. San Miguel shared the points 6 - 6, 82-76 shots.

Margaret Patterson lost 11-21 in the Ladies Singles, Mike Douglas won 21-11 in the Gent’s Singles. Sandi Hannan and Dave Champion lost 14-17 in the pairs, Allan Patterson, Don Darby and Bob Donnelly won 227 in the Triples, Jack Jackson, Pete Masters, Stan North and Alan Campbell lost 14-19 in the Rinks.

Monday saw the second Local Derby of the Spring/Summer League, where San Miguel Moors were home to San Miguel Christian, where the Christians came out on top winning 7 - 5, 98 shots to 92. Best winning triple for the Moors were Anita Brown, Paul Hayward and Steve Cantley 24 - 22. The best winning triple for the Christians were Bob Hanton Frank Scotthern and Bob Donnelly 19 - 11.

Mike Probert talks Golf ere on the Costa’s golf is one of the biggest leisure time activities for both tourists and resident alike and with this in mind we have secured the services of Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services to provide a weekly round up of local golfing events and topics and in conjunction with us at THE LEADER will provide discounted golf prices to all of our readers and run our golf competitions.

H

THE GREAT TEE DEBATE I recently read an article in the National club

A combination of bad weather and a free week, meant that there was very little competitive bowling for QBC lads and lassies. On Monday in the South Alicante league, Blenheims hosted San Luis, a match which they emerged victorious by 10 points to 2. Here's details of the 4 winning trips - C Highland, C Brazier, P Farrell 26-15. M Highland, B Elliott, T Voisey 24-17. G Carnell, V Campbell, F Roberts 25-14. G Kershaw, A Linley, J Pitt 21-7. Only the team of C Lowry, S Jakeman, K Lowry 22-18, emerged with points, as Lancasters went down 10-2 at Country Bowls.

VCL side Tigers, had a rearranged game on the Tuesday. Over at Greenlands against the Jasmins, Irene Everett, who won her ladies singles match 21-20, earned points in a 10-2 defeat.

The following day, Lions VCL match was a victim of the very unseasonal weather (that's an understatement), whilst Tigers had a free week.

QBC were scheduled to host the nationals singles championships from 7-9 May.

EMERALD ISLE BOWLS by Elwyn Morris The Vulcans started the week off with a home game against Vistabella Fairways, and the visitors won 4-8 Aggregate of 84-85. N Prior M Ellis B Kavanagh 26-11, D Jones S Marks R Marks 18-18, C Thomas A M Gerrard M Odell 16-16

On Wednesday San Miguel Deputies were away to Greenland Jasmins where they lost 10 - 2, 89 shots to 42. In the Ladies singles Jan Farmer lost 12 - 21. In the Mens singles Bob Donnelly lost 3 - 21. In the Pairs Bob Nesbitt and Dave Champion lost 8 - 21. In the Triples Rab Harvey, Sandi Hannan and Mike Douglas lost 7 20. In the Rinks Pete Masters, Don Darby, Jack Jackson and Alan Campbell won 12 - 6.

A reminder that the Wasps sessions take place on Wednesdays 1.30pm for 2.00pm start. 5 euro 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.

We welcome all bowlers who would like to join San Miguel B.C. as we are a unique club, we only pay owner fees and a club fee and NO LEAGUE RINK FEES. For further information on San Miguel B.C. please contact club secretary Barry Jones on 602 504 905 or club president Alan Campbell on 606 676 118

We at THE LEADER are committed to providing to our golfing readers affordable golf without the need to join a club or apply for a card but simply contact the number below to have instant access to discounted golf prices, many of which are exclusive to us: The deals shown in the table are some of the best prices currently available to you: Course Price Comments Alenda €150 2 Green Fees & Buggy Alicante €100 2 Green Fees & Buggy (1.04pm) Altorreal €120 2 Green Fees & Buggy Bonalba €136 2 Green Fees & Buggy Campoamor €158 2 Green Fees & Buggy

Don Cayo (Altea) El Plantio El Valle Font Del Llop Hacienda Del Alamo La Finca La Marquesa La Serena La Torre Las Colinas Las Ramblas Lorca

€110 €100 €44 €158 €57 €163 €64 €110 €44 €85 €109 €100

80-55 win, S Elvin 21-19, M Riley G Dyer 144, J Mulloy M Ellis P Willicott 16-6, J Ball S Ellis C Wilson E Sheppard 15-5.

Nearest the pin on hole 3, Gary Garbet, there was no winner on hole 8 and Elspeth Craig for hole 12, Gary Garbet won for hole 16.

Our next game is at El Plantio, where the

You have paid your money so you should be able to play off whichever tees suit your abilities on non-competition days.

This all seems very fair because in many ways the

VCL game and had a good 10-2 Aggregate of

The Plaza 39 Trophy was won by Alan Craig with 40 pts and second place was the Social Secretary Lesley Cullen with 35 pts. Gerry McCabe with 33 pts took the third prize.

The majority of the arguments were around the use of the back tees or ‘tips’ as they used to be called and there were three main points raised, namely:

Red Tees – Ladies and Junior golfers

Earls played away at La Siesta Hoopoes in a

The course was challenging and the weather was warm which made for a pleasant day out all around. In the evening all the members and their partners met up at Plaza 39 for a lovely dinner and Club Captain Jeff Wiszniewski presented the various prizes.

Here in Spain for example it is not uncommon to have white, yellow, blue and red tees which tend to be used as follows:

Blue Tees - Older and Adolescent golfers

off with a 0-12, Aggregate 65-115 scoreline.

The venue for the La Marina Golf Society was Font Del Llop Golf Course on Thursday 05 May 2022. This week's match was for the” Plaza 39 Trophy” and was sponsored by John and Sue from Plaza 39.

tee used reflects the ability, capabilities and the distance the players generally hit the golf ball and none of us want to go on the golf course and struggle to reach the fairways with a good shot.

Yellow Tees – General Play

not a good day with home advantage paying

LA MARINA GOLF

Golfer magazine in respect of the continual debate of which tees should be used by golfers and in particular should the ‘back tees’ only be used for competitions.

White Tees – Major Competitions only

Victors travelled to La Siesta Wasps and it was

Golf can become boring playing the same tees on the same course every time you play.

2 Green Fees & Buggy 2 Green Fees & Buggy (1.04pm) Single Green Fee (from 3pm) 2 Green Fees & Buggy Single Green Fee 2 Green Fees & Buggy (3.30pm) Single Green Fee 2 Green Fees & Buggy (3.30pm) Single Green Fee (from 3pm) Single Green Fee (from 4.30pm) 2 Green Fees & Buggy (3.30pm) 2 Green Fees & Buggy

members of the Society will be competing for the Roger & Colin Memorial trophy, which has been sponsored by their wives Eileen and Linda.

If you’re looking for a friendly golf society to join, why not check out our website: www.lamarinagolfsociety.es

Golfers need to be careful not to push their golfing abilities to the limit by playing the ‘longest track’ possible.

I am sure this is a debate held on a regular basis with golf club memberships and societies and I am sure that we all have our own opinions on the subject.

My own personal opinion is that when you have paid an annual subscription or green fee, none of which are cheap these days, then you should have the right to play off whatever tee you feel best suits your golfing abilities, without your ego getting in the way.

Lo Romero Mar Menor New Sierra Golf Puig Campana Roda Saurines Villaitana Levante Villaitana Poniente Villamartin Vistabella

€89 €60 €82 €124 €140 €57 €102 €71 €133 €164

Single Green Fee Single Green Fee 2 Green Fees & Buggy 2 Green Fees & Buggy 2 Green Fees & Buggy (3.30pm) Single Green Fee Single Green Fee Single Green Fee & Buggy 2 Green Fees & Buggy (3.30pm) 2 Green Fees & Buggy (3.30pm)

For Bookings/info Mike at info@costa-blanca-greenfees.com quoting reference LEADER or tel on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

PAGE 22

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Spain Womens National Cricket squad.

HISTORIC T20 FOR WOMEN’S NATIONAL CRICKET SQUAD LaManga Torrevieja CC star Elspeth Fowler appointed Spain Womens National Cricket Captain for historic T20 International tour 'It is a great moment for Cricket España to have a National women’s team. I am honoured to be the first female captain to represent Spain in the historic tour' - Elspeth Fowler Spain have assembled a Womens National Cricket squad for the historic T20 International four nations tour currently taking place in France where Spain, Austria, Jersey and France will compete in the competition.

On arriving in France, captain, LaManga Torrevieja CC's Elspeth Fowler said: "It's great that we are all here. "There are no expectations of us, so the main thing is to enjoy it. It is an honour to play in the first cricket match for the Spanish national women's team.

"It's very exciting and a great honour. The most important thing is to do our best and hope we win. We will enjoy every moment."

The majority of the Spain squad are Barcelona based, representing three of the clubs in the inaugural Women’s league in Cataluyna, along with Fowler and Amy Brown-Carrera of Wrenthorpe Ladies, Yorkshire.

The squad was accompanied by team coach Neil Brook and team manager Nadim Aseq A Arman, Maria del Sol Carrera Vivar, and two members from FEEB (Fundació per l’Esport L’Educació de Barcelona) Carla Burriel Carranza and Ana Villalobos Jiménez as official members of the party.

"One thing I’ve learnt about this group of girls is how much it means to them as individuals and as a team.

"The girls are ready to take this fantastic opportunity and the huge challenge ahead of them”.

Team manager, Nadim Aseq A Arman said: "I am so excited to be part of this historic moment for Spanish cricket. All the girls have worked hard and never lost hope, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

"Thanks to Cricket España for giving the team this opportunity."

The Spain National squad departed from Barcelona to Paris on May 4 to play Jersey, France and Austria, with fixtures taking place at Dreux cricket ground where they met Austria on May 5, Jersey on May 6, and Austria on May 7. Spain’s tournament culminated with a fixture against hosts, France on May 8, prior to the squad flying back from Paris to Barcelona. *Exclusive interview with Spain captain Elspeth Fowler in next week's Leader.

Neil Brook said: "There are exciting times ahead for the Spanish National women’s squad. The group have shown so much enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

"They deserve this opportunity to play at an international tournament in France.

"Nadim and Shahbaz have worked so hard putting this group together, under very difficult circumstances and are a credit to cricket.

"For most of the girls it will be their first full competitive matches, but they’re ready to take up the challenge.

Carp-R-Us Angling with Roy Dainty Carp-r-Us fished the final match of its 2021/22 Winter-Spring Series on Thursday 5th May at El Bosque Animado, colloquially known as 'The Pond', situated on the N332 between Guardamar and La Mata.

The weather did not live up to the forecast sunshine and 24C. Instead, the morning of the match was fished under heavy cloud and a cool wind that chopped and changed direction between West, North and East.

Only late in the afternoon did the sun decide to show itself.

The match was split into a morning and an afternoon session so that lunch could be taken between sessions. El Bosque Animado is unusual in that it is principally a restaurant.

Anglers are charged e10 to fish but can redeem this for food and drink; hence the lunchtime break.

The fish remained shy during the morning session with only a few carp being caught. Will Moons on peg 3 fishing method feeder with pellet was in the lead with two at the break with each of the other

anglers on his side of The Pond having one carp apiece. Only sunfish had been caught on the opposite bank.

Things improved marginally during the afternoon session. Willy caught more carp, the best around 3kgs, and came out clear winner with 12.19 kgs. Doug Hornblow on peg 5 alternating between pole and feeder with maggot came second with 7.78 kgs. Alan Davies on peg 7 was third with 2.65 kgs.

The opposite bank failed to produce any carp. Ian Brown on peg 12 decided to fish for sunfish and weighed in around one hundred for 2.20kgs to win his section.

This being the last of the WinterSpring Series, the overall winner was Steve Fell who chalked up 5 wins and 2 seconds with Willy Moons not far behind with 4 wins and 1 second. Tony Flett was third.

Next Thursday, the 12th May is a pleasure day at El Bosquet with tutelage being offered to members who wish to learn or improve their pole fishing. This will be followed by a BBQ.

Torrevieja Ladies Darts SPAIN KICKED OUT OF Diana Lloyd Memorial 2023 RUGBY WORLD CUP Semi Finals 3/5/22 Hi Life Tipsy Toad

By Andrew Atkinson Spain have been kicked out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup after fielding an ineligible player, allegedly with the help of a forged passport, in qualifying.

Spain qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1999 after a dramatic win over Portugal in March, however, a 10 points deduction has lead to them missing out on the 2023 tournament in France.

An independent disciplinary panel appointed by World Rugby said that the South Africa-born prop Gavin van den Berg appeared for Spain in two matches, against the

Netherlands in 2021 and 2022, without having qualified on residency grounds.

The panel ruled that Spain should be docked five points a match and fined £25,000. Romania will replace Spain.

This is the second consecutive World Cup that has been dogged by problems over ineligible players - with Spain also caught up in the controversy surrounding the 2019 tournament when they were given a £50,000 suspended fine, for which they are now liable.

Romania join South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and most likely Tonga in pool B at France 2023.

Friendly Chicas 2 - 7 Tipsy Tigers Dolly Mixtures 1 - 8 Gap Girlz

HOT DARTS: Yvonne Rouffignac (GG) 180, 128, 100 x3, Diane Burns (DM) 134, 123, June Hawkins (FC)132, 111, Selma Dyer (DM) 125, Sharon Crane (TT) 121, 118, 101, Chelsea Campbell (GG) 121, 100, Simone de Lacy (TT) 117, 112, Pat Woods (DM) 115, 100, Cath Carter (DM) 109, Lisa Ivill (TT) 107, Helen Bushell (FC) 101, 100, Amanda Skinner (GG) 101, 100, Elizabeth Cowan (TT)101, Bliss Wright 100 x 4 HIGHEST CHECK-OUT: Bliss Wright (GG)100

New carpets for Rhythmic Gymnastics Torrevieja’s Councillor for Sports, Diana Box, has purchased new sports equipment for rhythmic gymnastics and swimming activities.

This included two new 14x14 metre carpets, approved for the development of rhythmic gymnastic competitions, which are now available to the municipal school and local rhythmic gymnastics clubs so that they can continue developing their activity in the best conditions.

In addition, the indoor municipal swimming pool has new anti-wave lane ropes, guaranteeing a top quality service for users and athletes from municipal schools and clubs.

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PAGE 23

THADER ARE NOW JUST ONE STEP AWAY FROM THE PREFERENTE PLAYOFFS Carrus UD Illic .....1 CD Thader ...........4 which probably coincided with multiple substitutions that Mora chose to make.

our goals to the good inside the 1st half against Carrus, put Thader in the driver's seat, a position from which they never really took a foot off the pedal.

F

Knowing that only a victory would suffice, this victory inside Enrique Cervera Stadium (Elche) last Saturday evening, was a giant step towards play off qualification. The mathematics are now simple - beat Rayo Ibense next week, and the objective will have been achieved.

With one game to play in Preferente division, group V, Thader sit in 3rd place on 59 points, Redovan now occupy 4th place on 57 points, whilst CFI Alicante lie a point behind in 5th position.

Manager Raul Mora and his assistant were both serving a one match ban, electing to make their decisions from a seat in the stand just in front of me.

Also serving a ban was striker Pedro,

Amongst those was Edu, a recent youth team signing from Kelme. He certainly impressed and will be one for the future. Also arriving from Kelme youth, is keeper Emi, who has been on the bench whilst Amine is serving a 3match suspension. Possibly the best chance for Thader to extend their lead came on 70 mins, but Ruben well and truly messed up a great opportunity presented to him. Content to play out the remaining minutes, both Thader players and fans wildly celebrated the ref's final whistle, knowing that an extension to the season was now very much a reality.

Next Sunday could prove to be Thader’s biggest game of the season so Mora decided to start with Konate, also Quino was preferred to Calderon.

It took the big number 9 only 11 minutes to make his mark. An exquisite cross from the left by Rosquin, found Quino lurking with intent inside the box, then from 5 yards he buried his shot into the back of the net.

Only a fine save by keeper Iker denied Quino a 2nd goal on 20 mins, but less than 5 mins later, Fran dou-

bled his sides advantage. Ruben delivered his corner with such accuracy, that Fran's powerful header at the far post, was headed into his own net by a desperate defender. Dani Lucas provided a delightful flicked assist to Quino, who with just the keeper to beat, cheekily chipped the ball inside the cross bar.

So, with only 28 mins played, a 3goal lead was just the tonic a noisy set of Thader fans needed to pump up the volume. They got even louder

when a through ball by Lloyd found Dani Lucas, who coolly placed a shot off the far post into the net. Even though Pablo Lopez reduced the arrears just before half time, Carrus never really looked likely to pull off a shock.

And so it proved in the 2nd half.

Pablo Lopez should have extended his Carrus goal tally, but shot wide from close distance on 50 mins. Carrus substitute David missed a sitter 3 mins later, as Thader were riding their luck,

Moi Gomez Stadium, Rojales, will be the place to be next Saturday 14 May, ko 6pm. For that's when Thader will host Rayo Ibense, in what can only be described as a massive game, which promises to be nothing short of a nail biter!!

LATE DEFENSIVE ERRORS COST ELCHE AT EL NUEVO MIRANDILLA CADIZ 3 ELCHE CF 0 Three defensive errors, two by keeper Egdar Badia, cost Elche a point against relegation threatened Cadiz at el Nuevo Mirandilla on Saturday.

Landslide win for Torrellano

With the game seemingly heading for a goalless draw two unlikely mistakes from Badia, so often Elche’s hero this season, handed victory and three much needed points to the hosts, which could finally prove to be their salvation.

As Badia seemed to have Negrado’s 80th header under control the keeper lost his footing, slipping away from the ball, and with it handed Cadiz their opening goal.

If that weren’t bad enough, just three minutes later Badia failed to clear a harmless punt upfield allowing Sobrino to nudge the ball over his flaying arms

SUDUKO SOLUTION

and into the back of the net. All Elche’s good defensive work had been outdone.

The third goal came from a Pedro Bigas mistake in the dying seconds of the game when he let Choco Lozano slip a ball through his legs, but at that stage the damage had been done with Elche resigned to leaving in defeat.

This win could prove even more important to Cadiz’ salvation following Mallorca’s hammering by Granada as it takes Spain’s westernmost La Liga Club two points clear of the drop zone with just 3 matches remaining.

And while Elche are still not mathematically safe, with a 7 point gap that they have over the bottom three it will need a most unlikely run of results to stop them playing in La Liga next season.

TRIVEA QUIZ FROM PAGE 14: 1. Yo yo which was first made popular in the 1920s, yo-yoing remains a popular pastime of many generations and cultures. 2.

Animals in Dr. Dolittle which first appeared in the author's illustrated letters to children, written from the trenches during World War I when actual news, he later said, was

Orihuela CF B defeated Alguena CF 3-2 in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 9 on Saturday in a five goal thriller.

League leaders Atletico de Catral host lowly CD Benijofar on Sunday evening, with CD Montesinos and Racing San Miguel meeting in a local Derby, and CD Cox travelling to Sporting Dolores.

In the 2nd Regional Group 9 Formentera CF moved up to fifth place following a 31 away win at Bigastro CF on Saturday.

Athletic Club Torrellano went fourth following a 7-0 landslide win against at home against UD la Coca Aspense B.

Alicante.

Thader, however, have the upper hand, but they must beat 2nd placed Rayo when he two teams meet next Sunday. With 11 wins, 2 draws and a single loss in their last 14 games played, the best record in the Preferente during the second half of the season, they will need to be at their very best if they are to end the season on a high. *Sunday's results round-up will be online at www.theleader.info.

Meanwhile in Preferente Grupo 5, with just one game remaining, anyone of 3 teams can join Crevillente and Rayo Ibense in the playoffs to Tercera, Thader, Redovan or CFI

either too horrible or too dull. 3. The Village People and The Pet Shop Boys. 4.

Sandwich Islands. 5. The game Monopoly.

6. Tennis. He is often considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, becoming World No. 1 for six years from 1920 through 1925. He won 15 Major singles titles including ten Grand Slam events. 7.

Flour and fat (butter). Used in thickening a

sauce. 8. Phil Collins. 9. Indian Cobra, also known as the spectacled cobra, Asian cobra, or binocellate cobra. 10. One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest and The Silence Of The Lambs. 11. Neutrinos. 12. El Nino.

13. The Man Who Sold The World. 14.

1984. 15. Shocking Blue and Bananarama.

16. Nadir, the lowest or most unsuccessful point in a situation. 17. The Perfect Storm.

18. Long distance running. 19. Amber. 20.

Peter O'Toole. 21. Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins. Collins was at times 5,456 km (3,400 miles) from his colleagues Armstrong and Aldrin, 22. a. Amoco Cadiz, b. Admiral Graf Spee, c. Exxon Valdez, d.

HMS Compass Rose, e. Rainbow Warrior, f. Edmund Fitzgerald,

PAGE 24

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