The Leader in Spain 25 April 2022 - Edition 916

No 916 Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

office@theleader.info

637 227 385

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

C L A RO D O E S N O T S U P P O R T M O T I O N OF CENSURE

C.L.A.R.O. does not support the motion of censure which will be voted on today(Monday, 25 April) and which is intended to bring about a change of government in Orihuela.

C.L.A.R.O. considers that the political manoeuvres to install a PSOE and Ciudadanos coalition government represent political opportunism.

Until a week ago, Ciudadanos had been in Popular Party - Ciudadanos governments for 7 years.

However, nationally, they, are in serious danger of political extinction.

Ciudadanos Orihuela (opposed by their own provincial political authorities) have seized the opportunity to change partners and keep the same basic government responsibilities, in order to avoid their extinction locally.

The present PSOE leadership in Orihuela, meanwhile, by achieving the position of Mayor, are trying to avoid an internal challenge which could see their senior members replaced by others who would head the party

in next year’s local elections.

As to Cambiemos, who support the motion of censure but who will not be present in the new government, their motives are less clear.

They have chosen, however, to break the coalition with C.L.A.R.O. They signed the proposed motion of censure in the name of Cambiemos-Unidas Podemos, not CAMBIEMOS ORIHUELA CLARO: UNIDAS PODEMOS, the name of the coalition which contested the elections in 2019.

C.L.A.R.O. did not participate in the negotiation of the proposed motion of censure and we were given a minimum of information about developments. On a matter of such fundamental political importance C.L.A.R.O. was excluded by its coalition partner.

The coalition is therefore de facto ended.

Perhaps Cambiemos were told that C.L.A.R.O’S participation was vetoed as, apparently, Cambiemos’s inclusion in the new government was vetoed. Whatever, by their choice the Cambiemos-Claro coalition is ended.

PAGE 2

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

FROM PAGE 1 Motion of Censure ADVERTISING SALES

637 227 385 sales@theleader.info PROPERTY

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.

C.L.A.R.O’S decision not to support the motion of censure was carefully deliberated and is not based on the grounds of its treatment by its former coalition partners.

As far as we know, the proposed agreement negotiated by Cambiemos and PSOE (we do not know to what extent it is agreed by Ciudadanos) contains too little of interest for Orihuela Costa. As to be expected, there are many items of specific interest to Orihuela city and surrounding villages.

On Cala Mosca, the vital environmental issue on which C.L.A.R.O and Cambiemos have cooperated so fully in the past, the commitment is vague and conditioned, amounting to little more than good intentions.

Knowing that Ciudadanos, who would remain in charge of Urbanismo and who are in favour of building the 2,200 new houses and apartments on Cala Mosca, this is not perhaps surprising but nonetheless disappointing.

A commitment on decentralisation and enabling more services to be managed on the coast is similarly little more than an expression of good intentions.

The one specific point of interest for

PRESS RELEASE the coast is the agreement to construct a Library and multi-use (cultural) centre. But of course, this is a Popular Party proposal negotiated carefully with interested associations on the coast, including C.L.A.R.O. and which is in advanced stage of preparation.

The Ciudadanos Executive has notified the five Orihuela councillors who are supporting the motion of censure that they have now launched a formal investigation which could lead to their expulsion from the Party.

Their decision is expected by Monday, when the proposal to remove Emilio Bascuñana (PP) from the Mayor's Office and hand over to Carolina Gracia (PSPV) will be voted on.

Another specific point is the announcement of an action plan (plan de choque) on street cleaning and infrastructures (presumably mainly parks and gardens) BUT ONLY IN

Cambiemos will support the coalition led by Carolina Gracia (PSOE) and Jose Aix (C’s) Orihuela Costa on the non-coastal side of the N332. As if the streets and parks and gardens on the coastal side of the N332 were impeccable.

There is no commitment on budgetary resources to finance such an action plan and the councillor in charge of infrastructures remains the same. However, C.L.A.R.O has a fundamental objection to dividing Orihuela Costa in terms of policy.

It is very dangerous to the strength and cohesion of Orihuela Costa and our potential to right the wrongs which we all face, and which can only be solved at the level of the municipal government. We believe this divisive proposal is politically

By Andrew Atkinson EXCLUSIVE Investigations are taking place after forged tickets for the Centro Solidario Benijofar star studded charity show in June went on sale.

The show is taking place in Benimar on behalf of Centro Solidario Benijofar, who represent all underprivileged families in Benijofar.

"We sold out tickets for the Centro Solidario Benijofar charity show on the first day of sale," Tommy's Bar owner Tom told The Leader. “Im a little bewildered”, The Blues Brothers are headlining the show in Benimar on the town's car park, in situ across from Tommy's Bar, along with other establishments, after gaining permission from the Town Hall, the mayor is guest of honour.

"Tommy's Bar announced a special charity event was taking place in June and we have been granted permission from the Town Hall to use the car park, so all our entertainers can perform outside," said Tommy.

POETRY

CORNER

Fraudsters Cash in on Charity Show

“COL OUR MY WORLD” by Nina Saunders- April 2022 Colour fills our lives every day, Making it bright in every way.

The sunshine throws It's yellow rays Upon sunbathers, on their holidays.

Tears shed their leaves, in autumn season, Nature works with rhyme and reason, On the branches, shades of green, Upon the ground, brown blanket seen.

Wild flowers in the forest, some large, some small, Such beauty and colour, there to see, for all, Pink, mauve, yellow and white, Their colours blend, a beautiful sight.

"Red sky at night, Shepherd's Delight ", An old saying now, is it true, is it right?

The sky can be orange, spit dirty rain, Making us clean our terraces again.

The deep blue sea, the light blue sky, Fluffy white clouds, floating by, Galloping horses, hooves pounding, fly, Bay, chestnut, strawberry roan, tails high.

A rainbow we see, after the rain, Or "Arco Iris", as they say in Spain.

Perhaps we'll find our pot of gold, Before we end up really, really old.

So colour my world With your crayons so bright, Make me feel happy, Make my heart light.

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

motivated.

Because of the opportunist motives of the political parties involved and the inadequacies of the proposed programme of government, C.L.A.R.O does not support the motion of censure to change the government of Orihuela, to be voted on 25 April.

If any benefits do result for Orihuela Costa, they will, of course, be welcomed. But at the moment for Orihuela Costa the prospects seem to be a case of the more it changes, the more it stays the same.

Except, a positive coalition between Cambiemos and C.L.A.R.O has become a victim of the manoeuvres to bring it about.

"The Blues Brothers will arrive in their magnificent car, so people can have photographs taken," said Tommy.

"There will be raffles with prizes, Big FM will also be there to broadcast the event. All our top entertainers are going to perform, free of charge.

"It's going to be a fantastic day. The charity is for Centro Solidario Benijofar, who represent all underprivileged families in Benijofar.

"The Mayor will open the proceedings, with Project Duo starting the show," said Tommy.

The Blues Brothers, Project Duo, Jimmy McMail, Elvis and Big FM are appearing at the show on June 28.

Tickets went on sale at e10 and sold out within 24 hours which lead to the production of fake tickets.

"We are investigating all these tickets, as we do not recognise anyones names," said the show organiser.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022 Members of the group shown around the centre by the mayor

MAYOR HOSTS EMERGENCY CENTRE TOUR The La Zenia Emergency Centre has now been opened. The Mayor of Orihuela, Emilio Bascuñana, hosted a guided tour around the centre on Saturday morning, with only The Leader Newspaper representing the press.

Although all of the offices are still empty of personnel they are gradually being equipped, many already fitted with furniture, computers and servers.

The mayor explained that the centre will accommodate representatives of the Civil Guard (complaints office), National Police and Immigration, Local Police, Civil Protection, Firefighters and Forest Guard, SVB and Red Cross.

The Protección Civil were the first service to take up occupancy as a group of about twenty volunteers were provided with their own tour by the councillor for emergencies, Víctor Valverde. It is understood that many of the other public services will start moving to on Monday (25 April).

The main ground floor of 1,500 square meters will provide most of the public services with reception and offices for all the services listed above. There are also changing rooms and training rooms, a basement of 1,900 square meters with parking, archives, cells and a gymnasium. The top floor is still a building site, however but when completed it will likely host a SAMUR unit.

The Security and Emergency Centre is one of the historical claims of the residents of Orihuela Costa but since its construction was first announced in 2009, this vital infrastructure has been paralysed because of the bankruptcy of the original contractor, a lack of political interest by the Orihuela municipal government, combined with difficulties with successive governments in Valencia.

Outside the building there is public parking for in excess of 50 vehicles and a helipad which can be used as required.

In 2019, the Mayor of Orihuela had to demand that the Generalitat release their promised funds so that the new tender could be carried out. At the end of 2019, the new tender was finally approved and in April 2020 the works were awarded to the Orihuela based company DOALCO, SA, at a cost of 2,064,690.11 euros During the trip around this very impressive centre, which should make life much easier for emergency services and the residents of Orihuela Costa, the mayor was accompanied by the councillors for emergencies and health, Víctor Valverde and José Galiano.

The mayor with Bob Houliston and Antonio Cerdan of CLARO

A comprehensive selection of photographs can be seen on the Leader website at: www.theleader.info

www.theleader.info

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

FULLY CHARGED ‘LIVE’ IN FARNBOROUGH

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

through Fully Charged LIVE is truly fantastic. Electric vehicles sales are rocketing, clean energy homes are moving to the mainstream and I feel we’re now at a turning point for our society. I’m confident that our visitors will leave the Farnborough show with 'greater knowledge, passion and the tools to live cheaper and cleaner.”

Major attractions at the event include the UK public debut for the all-new Kia Niro EV, the highly anticipated Volkswagen ID Buzz, luxurious Genesis GV60, classically-inspired Nobe 100 GT, and compact Chinese EV, the Ora Cat. Elsewhere at Fully Charged LIVE, visitors can take part in thousands of test drives with dozens of different electric vehicles to choose from. Popular drives are sure to include the best-selling Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y, plus the Kia EV6 and Nissan Ariya, which debuted at the show in 2021.

The Home Energy Advice Team is a new feature for 2022. Visitors can access free, independent advice from 20 industry experts covering topics from energy efficiency and electric car charging to heat pumps and zero emission boilers. Having understood the potential clean energy options, the wealth of home energy exhibitors will help make visitor’s home improvements a reality.

The Fully Charged team of presenters, including Robert Llewellyn, Helen Czerski and Jack Scarlett will be joined by industry experts and famous faces including Philippa Forrester, Jordan Rand and Quentin Willson, in more than 50 live theatre sessions. Topics covered vary from choosing an electric car, and ditching boilers to engaging youngsters in clean living, and the future of electric flight.

This month (29 April to 1 May) the UK will host the world’s biggest EV and clean energy show – Fully Charged LIVE. Held at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre, the three-day event will welcome in excess of 20,000 people looking to make the shift to clean mobility and more sustainable lifestyles.

Fully Charged LIVE is the biggest of its kind in the world, with every type and size of electric vehicle including more than 100 electric cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles and mopeds, bicy-

cles, trikes, scooters, skateboards, classics, and concepts on show.

Visitors to the show can also take part in thousands of test drives; soak up knowledge from an independent team of home energy advisors; and enjoy more than 50 live clean living theatre sessions.

Robert Llewellyn, Fully Charged joint CEO: “Public demand for cheaper and cleaner ways to live and get around has never been stronger, so the fact we’re able to deliver almost every clean energy technology and electric vehicle to thousands of people

Beyond the wealth of clean-living exhibitors, electric cars, vans, trucks, buses, electric motorcycles, e-bikes, e-scooters and classics, there is a wide array of other attractions. These include the Electric Education Zone, Family Fun Zone, Electric Picnic, Used Electric Vehicle Zone, Future of Flight Zone, Commercial Vehicle Zone, and Business Zone.

Fully Charged LIVE runs on 29 April, 30 April and 1 May 2022 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

Those after more information or tickets to the show should go to www.FullyCharged.LIVE.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

www.theleader.info

PILAR DE LA HORADADA PROMOTING CYCLING

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

Former King cancels his trip to Spain

The presentation was opened with representatives of the Senate, the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda (Mitma) and the Network of Cities for Bicycles.

The RCxB is chaired and led by the Barcelona which has become a benchmark for sustainable mobility in Spain and Europe.

SAT ANIMAL RESCUE CAYETANO is a happy, 3-month-old large crossbreed.

For more info 966710047 (leave a message) / info@satanimalrescue.com Whastapp 688792515

Prime Minister Sánchez furious on return from Ukraine Despite a very successful trip to the Ukraine, during which Pedro Sánchez held talks with Volodymyr Zelensky, the PM was said to be furious with the Ministry of the Interior on his return to Spain.

Prior to the visit the entire Spanish delegation had been issued with bulletproof vests by the National Police. However, it appeared that the vests issued were only suitable as safeguard against small calibre pistols and would have been completely useless in protecting against impacts from assault rifles or fragmentation explosives.

Pilar de la Horadada Councillors Pedro Miguel Moya and Marina Sáez, together with the Local Police Inspector, Jesús Navarrete, attended the “Bicicleta, ciudad y estrategia” (Bicycle, city and strategy) conference organised by the Senate and the Network of Cities for the Bicycle (RCxB) in the Upper House of Parliament in Madrid.

The event dealt with the issue of the urban bicycle with the aim of putting it at the centre of the mobility policies of all public administrations and institutions, and promoting it in a coordinated way as a regular means of urban travel in the municipalities of Spain. The distribution of goods by bicycle, cycling logistics, was also addressed.

office@theleader.info

King Juan Carlos has decided to cancel the trip to Spain after the Government forbade him to take up accommodation in the Palacio de la Zarzuela.

The cancellation of this trip occurs after Moncloa and Zarzuela reached an agreement on the date, scheduled for the last weekend in April. Now the trip is postponed and, for the moment, no alternative date has been arranged.

On his first trip to Spain after his self-imposed exile in August 2020, over allegedly improper business deals in Saudi Arabia the former monarch wanted to make it a family affair with whom he planned to focus on making up for lost time.

However, more recently he considered the idea of traveling to Barcelona to visit his great friend, Josep Cusí, who has been seriously ill for several months.

Náutico, owned by another friend, the mariner Pedro Campos.

But when the King found out that he would not be able to set foot in the Palacio de la Zarzuela, he is said to have been very angry.

He called his daughters, who had already agreed to spend a few days with him at Easter and asked them, instead, to travel to Abu Dhabi with his grandchildren.

In mid-March, when the Supreme Court Prosecutor closed the investigations into the monarch’s financial dealings, the Royal House published a statement signed by King Juan Carlos announcing that he would continue to reside in the United Arab Emirates but that he would also travel to Spain sporadically.

There was also the possibility that he would travel to Sanxenxo to take part in regattas at the Club

In the current political climate that still, however, might not be for some time.

FACE MASK RULE RELAXED

past two years and it will no longer be obligatory.

Spain has relaxed its indoor face mask policy for the first time in nearly two years.

“They will continue to be with us as an element of protection, particularly for the most vulnerable.”

As of last Wednesday, people no longer need to wear face masks in the majority of indoor public areas including bars, restaurants, shops and cinemas.

Although they are no longer compulsory, masks are still encouraged in enclosed public spaces, at large events and around people who are clinically vulnerable.

However, masks remain mandatory on public transport, as well as in hospitals, medical centres, nursing homes and care homes – although patients are not obliged to wear them.

Health Minister Carolina Darias said: “The mask has been one of the most identifiable measures over the

The AVCRL Asociación de vecinos Cabo Roig y Lomas have produced an excellent graphic on their Facebook page which can be accessed at: https://www.facebook.com/avcrlorihuelacosta

Nevertheless the PM was criticised by the JUPOL police association who could not understand why members of the delegation had received the protective vests when there are so many members of the police working in Spain without them.

Effects of Ukraine invasion on food security The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, has said that the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) must address the implications for food security and world agriculture derived from the aggression of Russia against Ukraine.

According to data from the latest FAO Food Price Index Report, food prices hit another all-time high in March, up 12.6% from the previous month.

Planas said that the European Union must guarantee affordable food prices to all within the community.

In Spain 8.4 million adults and 1.5 million children are obese Obesity is one of the most prevalent and least diagnosed diseases that affects 8.4 million adults and 1.5 million children in Spain and by 2030 it is expected to reach 30% of the adult population, according to endocrinologists and heads of hospital obesity units.

At the launch of Open Spain, a coalition of the global Obesity Policy Engagement Network, the endocrinologist Susana Monereo stressed that obesity is a "chronic and recurrent disease, which overloads all organs and invades them of fat and is the cause of the most prevalent diseases", and yet 73% of adults with the disease do not perceive themselves as obese.

It is associated with over 200 health problems including many types of cancer.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

LET'S HOPE IT DOESN'T RAIN TOMORROW here is no substitute for information. Information is neutral, it doesn't take sides, or play to the gallery. Information doesn't show off. It is modest, unlike inexperience, which is rarely useful, especially in large doses.

T

When planning picnics or barbecues, people tend to pay attention to a weather forecaster's guesswork: "It might not rain tomorrow." Except in the Middle East, where the prerecorded forecast is, "It won't rain tomorrow." Told the weather will be blisteringly hot, holidaymakers buy sun cream and widebrimmed hats, or go to Scotland instead.

Oddly, some people who believe weather forecasts don't believe in vaccination.

Most soldiers accept conscription into armies to defend their country in times of war. Imagine a squaddie saying, "Listen, Sergeant Major, I'd rather not do that, if you don't mind, I didn't join the army to peel potatoes." His spud-bashing would soon become square-bashing, every day at dawn. And he would quickly learn not to hesitate when ordered to "Present arms."

Or a police recruit not feeling up to walking the beat because his new shoes were pinching his feet -- he would be told toot sweet to roll up his sleeves and start pinching villains and feeling collars. Perhaps also to get a jab while his sleeves were rolled up.

Have I belaboured the point laboriously

enough? Which is, that vaccination is similar to a gun, insofar as it is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. Certain freedoms come at a price, even in a democracy, but of course we live in a world where scepticism and demur are endemic.

Hardly surprising, when it is estimated that on an average day all of us accept without question at least 10 things that are untrue.

"You're sure my new Bermuda shorts don't look ridiculous?" (men) and "You really think these black shoes are slimming?" (women).

Help is at hand, from the past, as usual. The philosopher Immanuel Kant believed that reason was the source of morality, and there were moral laws all persons must follow. His famous one was that you should behave in such a way that your actions could be taken as a universal rule. "If you kill me, I'll kill you," sort of thing, although perhaps that's not a very good example.

When it comes to vaccine-acceptance, the whole band must be playing the same tune or the result will be a racket, as if the strings were rendering 'In the Mood' (or 'In the Arm') and the drummer was beating out the closing credits from 'Live and Let Die.' Somebody might even shoot the piano player by mistake. Which would really rain on his parade. Except in the Middle East. drove was done through Dunecht Car Sales, Range Rover specialists, who asked Smart Refinishers of Dyce to do the sign. I was the guy who did their signwriting," said Mike.

Scottish comedian Connolly, 77, TV travelogue veteran, has been fascinated by the Tibet home of exiled Buddhist spiritual leader Dalai Lama, since reading about it as a school boy at Partick Library in Glasgow.

"The best times of my life were spent in Partick Library and I became besotted with Tibet, having read a book Seven Years In Tibet and that lead me into Budhissm," said Connolly.

A LIFETIME IN ILLUSTRATIONS Monte Azul based Freelance Illustrator Mike Jenkins talks exclusively to Andrew Atkinson about his career, with commissions from Billy Connolly, Richard Branson and the Sultan Of Brunei.

FOLLOWING a lifetime of work, that includes commissioning of some of the world's biggest names, Mike Jenkins remains a leading illustrator having moved to Spain.

"I started singwriting and commercial vehicle finishing at Portsmouth College of Art, and that lead to a natural progression to do painting," said Mike.

"I had a chat with the art tutor at school and want-

ed to do commercial work, but that meant moving to London, aged 18.

"So, I choose to do singwriting and undertook a five year apprenticeship," said Mike.

Mike, 72, who did art at school getting an 'O' Level, said: "One of my heroes was Norman Rockwell from America."

Rockwell, who died in 1978 aged 84, awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, was a painter and illustrator, famous for the cover illustrations of everyday life he created for The Saturday Evening Post magazine over nearly five decades.

Mike, who lived in Aberdeen for 20 years, got a plethora of commissions, including one for Billy Connolly.

"Billy was doing a TV series in Ireland. The Ohm sign (hindu symbol) on the bonnet of the car he

*Mike Jenkins talks about Richard Branson and the Sultan Of Brunei in Part 2 of a Leader Exclusive next week.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 9

LOCAL HEALTH CENTRES TREAT 664 PATIENTS A DAY OVER EASTER he procedures put in place by the Torrevieja Health Authority during Holy Week, enabled the 24-hour opening 6 Continuous Care Points (PAC) over the holiday period, resulting in the delivery of urgent treatment to a total of 3,318 emergencies, an average of 664 patients per day, with an average waiting time of less than 15 minutes.

T

The numbers show a substantial increase in medical care, with 1,000 more patients attending than those seen during the same period in 2019, just before the pandemic. The integration of primary and specialized care allowed the PACs to be connected to Torrevieja hospital, so that users could have their health problems treated closer to home, without any undue delays.

Following the transfer of the authority back into public management by the Ministry of Health, a significant shortage of professionals was observed, however, this was resolved during Easter

with the recruitment of 64 new professionals who were incorporated into the Nursing Department. The centres also increased the number of doctors with by 10 medical professionals and Primary Care paediatricians by 3.

Improving the working conditions of emergency staff has been a priority. The Emergency Service has recruited professionals in all categories: 38 more nurses, increasing from 21 to 58, 8 more Auxiliary Nurses, going from 15 to 23, and 4 additional guards, going from 17 to 21. In addition, during the Holy Week period, two extra guards were employed.

The Emergency Service has also recruited 2 additional administrators, going from 6 to 8 staff.

In total, the workforce of the Torrevieja health department has now grown by 750 professionals in the last six months.

There was 24 hour access to six Medical Centres in the Health Authority over Easter, the busiest of which was La Loma

But still the data provided by the Ministry of Health contrasts enormously with the complaints coming from the unions that represent the staff in the Emergency Department of the University Hospital, the head of which resigned in the middle of Holy Week as the delays of treatment to patients continued to increase.

PAGE 10

www.theleader.info

If there’s no Hell, there’s no Justice … t’s been a long time since I have thought as much about hell as I have been doing over the past month or so. In fact, I haven’t ruminated so much about hell since those fire and brimstone two-week parish missions of my youth.

I

The first week of the mission left no doubt but that all testosteronally driven young bucks like me were already booked into the deepest depths of hell. The two priests played ‘bad-cop … good cop’ with us and the nicer priest gave us hope of avoiding the drop over the course of the second week.

Hell has been around for a very long time, but in recent years the numbers who believe in its existence has plummeted. But let the word go out from the pulpit of YCBS that we need hell – and we need it now like seldom before.

Nowadays it seems as if nobody can ever be wrong. Rules – whether they be Church or State don’t matter and every individual has the right to do as they please. In the words of the old hippy motto; ‘if it feels good do it!’

Many Christians do put forward a reasonable argument against the existence of hell. Their principle reservation about the place is that they cannot reconcile the idea of a just and loving God condemning billions of people to eternal punishment and torment in a fiery hell.

This would make God a bloodthirsty vengeful monster, according to some believers. Whatever 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.

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

is your own view on the matter, dear reader, please stay with us for another few moments.

So why has this humble scribe being dwelling on hell’s dungeon for the past month, I hear you ask. The short answer to that one is Vladimir Putin.

There has to be a hell for Putin and I wonder if there is any corner of hell hot enough for this sadistic Russian monster? The indiscriminate slaughter of innocent men, women and children in Ukraine cries out to the heavens for a payback. Rape, torture and genocide are regarded as legitimate weapons to be used against a civilian population.

Putin’s henchmen look into the TV cameras at home and seek to defend the indefensible with a litany of outrageous lies. The parallels with Hitler’s Germany are truly frightening.

Propaganda has no boundaries. Putin surrounds himself with psychopathic monsters who see mass murder as nothing more than a strategy.

The reason that there has to be a hell is because Putin will not face a court of justice in this life. This is not Putin’s first foray into mass murder – or indeed the spectacular killing of dissenters in other countries through poisoning and chemical elimination. He got away with it – and he will get away with this one too.

They are talking of charging the Russian tyrant and his henchmen with war crimes. What a waste of time …. History is written by the victors and only the losers it seems are culpable for breaking the Geneva Convention. Putin will not lose this war. He may be charged with war crimes ‘in his absence’, but he will never face a Bernie 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 - ROCKROSE, BEAUTIFUL AND DELICATE FLOWERS Commonly used in informal hedgerows, as ground cover plants, or for erosion control.

Shrubs are hardy and low-maintenance that reward you with a show of beautiful, delicate flowers throughout early Spring and summer.

Each flower blooms for a couple of hours, before dropping and making way for the next group of flowers.

While the flowers are unscented, the foliage of the rockrose is aromatic, much like other Mediterranean herbs such as lavender and rosemary.

Plant rockrose shrubs in a location that receives full sun several hours a day, as they will not survive in shady locations.

Rockrose is a flowering, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region able to withstand severe heat, strong winds, drought, and salt spray.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

Rockrose plants grow well in poor quality soils, as long as it's well-draining.

When choosing a location for your rockrose, choose a spot with deep soil, so that it can esta-

prosecutor or pay any penalty in this life. This is why there just has to be an afterlife – and more especially, a hell. If there is no hell, there will be no justice.

If hell does exist, well then doesn’t fairness demand that there be different categories of prisoners down there? The punishment must fit the crime. Would it be fair to lump the mortal sins of say, the guy who executed a successful grope in the back seat of a car with the crimes of Putin, Hitler or Pol Pot? Some bad things have been done to most of us at one time or another; mainly through dishonesty, slander and the likes. Guys who ‘pulled a stroke’ and got away with it. But I don’t wish anybody ever to go to hell on my account.

Same as I don’t expect the sins I have committed to warrant the ‘be gone from me you cursed into everlasting flames’ of my school catechism.

I think I remember reading somewhere that in the earliest years of Christianity, hell was portrayed as a state where the wicked were punished long enough for their souls to repent and be restored to their original state of purity.

Now, that system sounds fair to me. Your case might come up for parole every few years and there would always be the hope of getting out of the joint.

None of this leniency will apply to Putin. He deserves to roast into eternity and without ever having any possibility of parole: He should remain there ‘until hell freezes over!’

Now you can see why we need the existence of hell: Because without a hell to go to, there will be no justice….

Don’t Forget Hell is heaven’s junkyard.

blish deep and spreading roots. Rocky and sandy environments are fine.

Generally drought tolerant, that do not require watering outside of regular rainfall. However, during the first growing season plants should be watered weekly, to help them mature and establish healthy roots.

When watering ensure to provide a deep, thorough watering that drenches the entire root ball to encourage strong growth.

Rockrose plants do not require regular fertilising, except during the first growing season to help getting established.

Fertilise once in early Spring with general-purpose, slow-release fertiliser. Once established they never need fertilising.

They require occasional minimal light pruning after flowering, to keep them compact and healthy. They do not tolerate heavy pruning.

In Spring they may need pruning, to help remove winter damage and correct the shape, done conservatively.

Branches on a rockrose plant should never be pruned below the last leaf, as they will be unlikely to recover.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 11

GUYS AND DOLLS A TIMELESS TALE OF SAVVY, AMBITION AND SELF MADE LUCK In New York, a gambler is challenged to take a cold female missionary to Havana, but they fall for each other, and the bet has a hidden motive to finance a crap game.

this week's incarnation of "The Oldest Established Permanent Floating Crap Game in New York;" the only problem is, he needs $1000 to get the place.

All the hot gamblers are in town, and they're all depending on Nathan Detroit to set up

Studio 32 believes that they have assembled one of the best vocal casts that they have

ever had for this performance and they don’t want anybody who enjoys musicals to miss out on seeing this fantastic show.

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.

For further information call 679 062 272 or 636 020 547.

To book tickets online visit our website at www.studiothirtytwo.org and for further information and advice on how to use our online booking service email: studio32shows@gmail.com

PAGE 12

www.theleader.info

1956 - Johnny Cash released his classic song, 'I Walk the Line'. The unique chord progression for the song was inspired by backwards playback of guitar runs on his tape recorder while he was in the Air Force stationed in Germany.

1966 - Dusty Springfield was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me'. When recording the track, she was not satisfied with her vocal until she had recorded 47 takes.

1967 - 32 year old Elvis Presley married 21 year old Priscilla Beaulieu.

The wedding ceremony took place at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas and although the marriage license was only $15, the wedding cake cost $3,500. The couple divorced after five years of marriage on October 9, 1973. In the same year Sandie Shaw was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Puppet On A String', her third UK No.1 and the Eurovision Song Contest winner that year.

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

1978 - P.J. Proby was sacked from his role in the London stage musical Elvis after repeatedly changing his lines from the script. He had been playing the oldest of three Presley's in the play.

1981 - Ringo Starr married actress and one time 'Bond girl' Barbara Bach. The pair met while filming the movie, Caveman, with Dennis

The Cilla Black Show

1976 - After a gig in Memphis Bruce Springsteen took a cab to Elvis Presley 's Graceland home and proceeded to climb over the wall. A guard

office@theleader.info

took him to be another crank fan and apprehended him.

Quaid and Shelley Long.

In attendance at the wedding were George Harrison and Paul McCartney.

1968 - BBC TV launched ‘The Cilla Black Show’ making Cilla the first British female performer to have her own TV show. The theme song, 'Step Inside Love', was written by Paul McCartney.

637 227 385

One of the most popular British films of the 1990’s, The Krays, starring Martin and Gary Kemp

1990 - The British film drama ‘The Krays’ opened. Based on the lives and crimes of the English gangster twins Ronald and Reginald Kray, the film starred Spandau Ballet’s Gary Kemp as Ronnie Kray Martin Kemp as Reggie Kray.

2001 – Rod Stewart asked for a change in wedding vows bringing them up to-date and to be treated like a dog license. Stewart said 'a change is needed because they've been in existence for 600 years when people used to live until they were only 35'.

2002 - TLC member Lisa Lopes was killed in a car accident in La Ceiba, Honduras, aged 30.

2007 - American singer Bobby "Boris" Pickett died of leukemia at the age of 69. He performed the Halloween anthem 'The Monster Mash' in 1962.

The song had been banned by The BBC in the UK, deemed offensive and wasn't a hit until 1973. It was a spoof on the dance crazes popular at the time, including the Twist and the Mashed Potato.

2009 - An anonymous Queen fan won a two hour one to one guitar lesson with Brian May, after bidding £7,600 at a private charity auction. The auction, in support of the Action for Brazil's Children Trust, was held at the exclusive Cuckoo Club in London.

HOLLY BANNIS TO STAR IN WEST END AS PART OF EUROPEAN TOUR

BY ANDREW ATKINSON LEADER EXCLUSIVE Holly Bannis, daughter of Murcia based former Hot Chocolate lead singer Greg, is set to star in the West End as part of a European tour.

"I am thrilled I will be joining two incredible Theatre shows as a backing vocalist and understudy in May, touring across the UK/Ireland and Europe!," Holly told The Leader.

Holly, who exclusively spoke to The Leader after appearing as Tina Turner on TV show Starstruck this year, said: "I’ve signed the contract - I'm in! I feel truly blessed by this opportunity.

"I cannot wait to perform at some incredible theatre venues

and arenas - including the West End theatres and beyond. I am so excited."

Greg, lead singer of Hot Chocolate during 1992-2010, told The Leader: "This is the same way that Hot Chocolate found me when they were looking for a replacement for Errol Brown MBE. "A friend of theirs saw me on TV show 'Stars In Their Eyes' and contacted me - the rest is history."

Greg, who began touring a Bob Marley Tribute show across the Costa Blanca, Greece and the UK after leaving Hot Chocolate, said: "Holly was the same. Someone saw her, and recommended her to the Theatre and West End touring group and auditioned her.

"They liked what they saw and signed her up. I told her 'now the hard work begins', but I think she will cope."

Holly added: "The shows are 'What's Love Got To Do With It' - a tribute to Tina Turner; and 'Whitney, Queen Of The Night' ".

Holly's busy schedule comes on the back of a stay in Murcia this month: "I had a brief stay having flown into Alicante-Elche to spend a few days with my dad," said Holly.

Holly signs contract to star in West End as part of Euro tour.

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

QUICKIE CROSSWORD

ANSWERS Week 915

ACROSS 1.

Trench (5) 4.

Overwhelmed (7) 8.

Sports-ground (7) 9.

Devout (5) 10. Kiln (4) 11. Creed (8) 13. Poke (4) 14. Remain (4) 16. Taciturn (8) 17. Mica (4) 20. Angry (5) 21. Blame (7) 22. Balcony (7) 23. Live (5) 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 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

12.

13.

15.

18.

19.

Upsetting (13) Deal (5) Welcome (4) Call up (6) Desire (8) Wonder (7) Insolent (13) Solid (8) Snare (7) Vigour (6) Unaccompanied (5) Rushed (4)

QUICK ACROSS: 3 Depressed; 8 Then; 9 Silliness; 10 Result; 11 Freed; 14 Often; 15 Robe; 16 Tress; 18 Room; 20 Tense; 21 Notch; 24 Depict; 25 Throw over; 26 Shun; 27 Adversity.

DOWN: 1 Starboard; 2 Cessation; 4 Exit; 5 Ruler; 6 Singer; 7 Easy; 9 Slant; 11 Fresh; 12 Downright; 13 Repentant; 17 Steer; 19 Morose; 22 Cross; 23 Shed; 24 Deft.

CRYPTIC CRYPTIC ACROSS: 3 Premature; 8 Eels; 9 Magazines; 10 Unfair; 11 Ashen; 14 Agnes; 15 Rose; 16 Tears; 18 Lass; 20 Patio; 21 Score; 24 Sublet; 25 Recollect; 26 Sign; 27 Enclosure.

DOWN: 1 Reputable; 2 Bluffness; 4 Rear; 5 Means; 6 Toiler; 7 Reed; 9 Midst; 11 Amaze; 12 Nostalgic; 13 Reporting; 17 Spout; 19 School; 22 Rules; 23 Sewn; 24 Scar.

ACROSS 1. Some A-Z on established areas (5) 4. A welcome surprise as dogs run to the finish (7) 8. Graduate is next to learner on the way to the city (7) 9. Waste first discovered by singer Diana (5) 10. About 14 at the end of the prayer (4) 11. These motives might be to rule riot out-of-order (8) 13. A god’s back in Egypt (4) 14. Intend to be tight-fisted (4) 16. Man got sent out somehow and laid low (8) 17. Sign that the captain’s back (4) 20. Perfect! I’m the banker! (5) 21. Some kangaroos terrify a bird (7) 22. Mr. Kelly’s is the first book (7) 23. Some meagre bed for a bird (5)

L EA D E R T R I V I A Q U I Z 1. Video sharing website YouTube debuted in which year?

2. The pyramids excluded, what was the tallest man made structure in the world in 1889? (For an extra point, what was the tallest man made structure in the world in 1886?)

3. Juno was one of the five what?

4. Name the only three time winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

5. Which fictional character, played in film by Kevin Spacey, Gene Hackman, John Shea and others, is said to own Beethoven's 10th Symphony, a full-body portrait of the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milos' arms ?

6. In 15th and 16th century Europe, objects that were considered sinful were often burnt in public places. What name was given to this show of destruction?

7. In which films are the following rooms a hellish place to visit? a. Room 101. b. Room 237 8. Name the hit song from each of the following with a Spanish song title. a. Simon and Garfunkel. b. Madonna. c. Coldplay 9. The Irrawaddy is the longest river in which Asian country?

10. The name for which popular portable device stems from the Latin word for "vaulted room"?

DOWN 1. Robin’s crazes for changing note discovered on the road (5,8) 2. Jack, the French Duke perhaps (5) 3. Sailor’s treaty (4) 4. Somehow get Len to become amiable (6) 5. Comedian Ken had English wine and moved unsteadily (8) 6. Making noise or wearing away (7) 7. She visits the sick to tend Sir Curtis somehow (8,5) 12. He’s cruel to upset the labourer (8) 13. Doctor has a boneless fish (7) 15. Brides tidy up the rubble (6) 18. A crook might be near this joint (5) 19. Leaving without accepting one’s medal (4)

( A n s we r s o n p a g e 2 3 ) 11. Literally translated, the name for which kind of street means 'the arse of a bag'?

12. Udon and soba are both tasty examples of what?

13. Which nickname was given to enormous Hughes H-4 Hercules plane?

14. There is a village in France near the Somme which has a one letter name. Which letter is it?

15. Name the seven Brad Pitt movies with a number in the film title.

(Please note, the following non credited roles, voice parts and television series are excluded: Less than Zero, Happy Feet Two, Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas, 21 Jump Street) 16. What is a Pademelon? a. an Italian musical instrument. b. an exotic fruit. c. a small marsupial. d. a straw hat worn by gauchos 17. The name of which troubled country in the Horn of Africa is the Greek word for the Red Sea? 18. Name the five Germans who have won the 'European Footballer of the Year' award.

19. How many candles does the The Hanukkah menorah have?

20. What do both Vito and Michael Corleone have in their hands moments before they die?

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 15

FORMER KING CANCELS HIS TRIP TO SPAIN KING JUAN CARLOS has decided to cancel the trip to Spain after the Government forbade him to take up accommodation in the Palacio de la Zarzuela.

The cancellation of this trip occurs after Moncloa and Zarzuela reached an agreement on the date, scheduled for the last weekend in April. Now the trip is postponed and, for the moment, no alternative date has been arranged.

On his first trip to Spain after his self-imposed exile in August 2020, over allegedly improper business deals in Saudi Arabia the former monarch wanted to make it a family affair with whom he planned to focus on making up for lost time.

However, more recently he considered the idea of ??traveling to Barcelona to visit his great friend, Josep Cusí, who has been seriously ill for several months.

There was also the possibility that he would travel to

Sanxenxo to take part in regattas at the Club Náutico, owned by another friend, the mariner Pedro Campos.

But when the King found out that he would not be able to set foot in the Palacio de la Zarzuela, he is said to have been very angry.

He called his daughters, who had already agreed to spend a few days with him at Easter and asked them, instead, to travel to Abu Dhabi with his grandchildren.

In mid-March, when the Supreme Court Prosecutor closed the investigations into the monarch’s financial dealings, the Royal House published a statement signed by King Juan Carlos announcing that he would continue to reside in the United Arab Emirates but that he would also travel to Spain sporadically.

In the current political climate that still, however, might not be for some time.

**TICKETS AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR**

PAGE 16

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

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

GENERAL Builder, remodelling,kitchens, extensions, we beat most

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

quotes. Call Andy 697 834 934.

Cremation plan.2575 euros.One time payment. Full paperwork.

Call 697 834 934.

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 March 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 on Cooking Curries. 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.

Please contact Fintan on +353 86 878 1317

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

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.

PERSONAL

Do massage erotic with hapy

Rocio, 40, Argentinian, sweet, qualified massausse. Big, natural breasts. House 75. La Zenia. 672 872 050.

Mery... 35 sweet Polish girl.

Beautiful body. Complete attention. Maximum privacy in Campoamor. Fantasies.

Tel. 672 539 332 TORREVIEJA MIRIAM Brazilian lady blond 59 year.

end. Speak good english. Call

LOCO bar/restaurant, El Chaparral urbanisation, Torrevieja. For more information please contact Chairman Tony Jenkins on 693 866 709, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 71 6274 or Margaret Forshaw on 966 92 1966.

604 382 799 Torrevieja, Valentini, Brazilian lady, 35. Erotic massage with complete satisfaction. Good time guaranteed. 688 340 708 Norma... Russian lady, mature, big breasts. Torrevieja. Tel. 665 056 834

NADIA...

SO SWEET MONDALVIAN (31) Turquesa St. La Zenia.

Tel. 643 276 205

LUNA 30 EX MODEL. Brasilian. Slim.

Beautiful body. Elegant.

Very private in La Zenia.

Casa 77 (close to Consum).

Tel. 604 111 457

ANA SEXY AND ELEGANT Spanish lady. Punta Prima.

Private house. Erotic massage.

All services. From €40.

Call Ana on 657 603 495.

Speaks English.

HELEN...

LATINA WITH SKIN OF CINNAMON. Fantasies. Private.

La Zenia. Casa 77 (Close to Consum).

German spoken.

Tel. 665 736 488

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 17

Santa Pola Asks for Exception to Remove Algae from Beaches he Mayor of Santa Pola, Loreto Serrano, has asked the Regional Government to provide an exemption on the collection of posidonia oceanica that will come into force in May, which restricts the collection of the seaweed from all the beaches for five months a year and on urban beaches from October 15 to March 15.

amount of natural sand due to the large amount of algae that comes from Tabarca.

T

In addition, as the beaches are partially-closed, the algae cannot return to the open sea due to the force of the tides, so there is so much more deposited on the urban beaches of Santa Pola, and it affects the sand only minimally. Shortly after this, the vast majority of this sand returns to the beaches.

The mayor said that Santa Pola should be allowed to remove the algae throughout the year because the town receives the most algae by far within the entire Valencian Community because of it’s proximity to the Tabarca Island nature reserve.

Along with this, the mayor said that in Santa Pola there are companies that reuse the large amounts of algae extracted for the production of fertilisers, natural substrate and even applications of algae for animals.

These deposits of posidonia protect the beach against low intensity storms. In addition, they bring sand to the beach and to the dunes.

Serrano wanted to emphasise that the removal of algae in Santa Pola does not cause the beaches to reduce their In Santa Pola there are companies that reuse large amounts of algae for the production of fertilisers and soforth.

PAGE 18

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

BITES Valencian Community Falls to Fourth Place in Export Ranking

The Bucket List The New Dress ometimes, and this is one of them, a story pops up that is so over the top that it makes me think it is too late for the world as it has already gone crazy especially, where such insignificant events can bring down the excessively heavy hand of the law.

S

This is another story about the U.K. Police using disproportionate ‘manpower’ – I think everybody understands what that means, but to bring it up to date ‘personpower’.

Let me introduce you to Darrell Meekcom, he is a fifty-five-year-old man with a terminal illness which includes Parkinson disease. He is a professor and taught medicine at Birmingham University, he has limited mobility using a Zimmer frame to get about and sometimes is confined to a wheelchair.

Not many people know of Charlie and yet he has changed the way a large organisation, with one hundred and eighty stores, manages their function. Charlie is an active young man and well known in the West Midlands, as he is ‘chair’ (In the old days that used to be ‘chairman, it was changed but it still means the same), of the local Young Liberal.

He is also very active in promoting ‘trans gender’ groups.

For you see Charlie has a disability, although he may not see it as that, and although I do feel extremely sorry for him, as I do with other people who have a similar problem, it is not life threatening. He still has all of his faculties, arms and legs etc, so it is not comparable to many others who must live a life with severe incapacities; brain damage or the loss of mobility, but nevertheless, it is a problem for him.

Charlie is eighteen years old, he has a lot of ‘welly’ and he does not believe in people being referred to as him/her; he prefers to call them they/them, and he refers to himself as ‘Pansexual’ whatever that means. Perhaps he likes brooms.

As I just said he is not at all shy, even though he is different in thought to most, although he does not see this as a problem, and he is determined that the world should know all about it and change to his way.

Charlie, to repeat, is the controlling influence for the local Young Liberals and as a side he is also the spokesman – or should that be ‘spokesit’ - for a ‘trans persons group’.

What causes Charlie’s problem, I do not know, but we all have our little foibles, however, maybe it is something that happened prior to his earlier development, before he was born. On the other hand it is possible, I suppose, that his mother wanted a girl and brought him up in that regard, and perhaps one moonlit night he will discover soft delights and discover he has been wrong.

The power of Charlie's thoughts took him to the doorstep of ‘Monsoon’ the women's fashion chain which, as I said, has multi stores.

Charlie, who I have also said is not shy, is no flower, in fact he is a powerful man – sorry pansexual – certainly not a follower, he is determined to change the way we all think. He went into the shop and bought an article of clothing and then proceeded to the changing rooms.

It is now obvious he/she/it wanted to make a strong point as he/she/it could have selected many different stores, but Monsoon have a common changing room policy so there are no booths.

The staff in Monsoon’s politely told him that men are not allowed to try their clothes on, and they turned him away.

Charlie hit the social media button amongst his followers which it is alleged sent shock waves in the direction of the Board of Directors at Monsoon.

As with many other people Darrell has a bucket list to complete, and after being caught speeding on an empty road, a few miles per hour over the limit, his wish was to moon a traffic camera to show his displeasure.

They were not concerned, so the story goes, about the privacy of hundreds of thousands of their clientele in their changing rooms. It appears that they were more interested in cowing to the trans group lobby which is a very small percentage of the population

Sadly, as the diagnosis of his illness had become terminal, he thought he would wipe one of the items off his bucket list and moon the speeding camera that was parked in a van at the side of the road.

An instruction was immediately issued, so my information goes, that their changing rooms are now open to all, and as compensation to Charlie, they gave him a new dress. There is nothing in the report that tells us if he is wearing it.

It would seem that the Police officer in the van, this time he is a man, had no sense of humour, as he reported him.

Five hours later, whilst Professor Meekcom is in his garden, six police officers arrive. His wife is filming the event, as the police kick the garden gate down, wrestle him to the ground, handcuff him and charge him with resisting arrest.

In former times we simply had a local beat police officer who would have had a quiet word. In the meantime, however, while terminally ill Darrell is being arrested for little more than an innocent prank, and occupying the activities of six police officers, the crime rate in Birmingham is at 130% of the National average.

So once again we see the confused thinking amongst the powers that control the land, that just one complaint–a single criticism - is enough to change the way we live.

All export sectors of the Valencian Community recorded increases in the first two months of the year, according to the latest Foreign Trade report from the Ministry of Industry, but the region has dropped to fourth place nationally.

Catalonia, which accounts for almost a quarter of Spanish exports, was at the top of the rankings with 13,7 billion euro. In second position was Madrid with a share of 13.6% and foreign sales of 7,6 billion euro, then Andalusia and the Valencian Community recorded market shares of 11.2% and 11% respectively.

Tourism recovers pre-pandemic employment levels Employment in tourism touched the pre-pandemic level in March, with 2,388,910 Social Security affiliates, representing 99.4% of the numbers registered in the sector in the same month of 2019, according to data published by Turespaña.

Affiliates in tourist activities account for 12.1% of the total number of those employed in the national economy.

Guardia Civil boost in fight against gender violence The Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has said that "with the recent creation of 233 new VioGén teams, we have doubled the number of officers to almost 1,300 who are dedicated to combating the scourge of sexist violence".

Grande-Marlaska referred to the increase during the opening of the Guardia Civil's main barracks in Puente Genil (Córdoba), which has one of the 62 VioGén teams coperating in Andalusia. The event was also attended by the Government delegate in Andalusia, Pedro Fernández and the director of the Guardia Civil, María Gámez.

'Our shared goal is to end HIV as a public health problem' The Minister of Health, Carolina Darias, has said that "our shared objective is to end HIV as a public health problem".

Her announcement was made during an event held on Saturday in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, that was attended by different social and health groups linked to the fight against HIV stigma.

Darias highlighted the progress made by Spain in HIV research, since it is already a chronic disease, with a life expectancy similar to that of the general population. In addition, the minister underlined the importance of municipalism and the involvement of local groups working in collaboration with the National Health System in this common goal.

Our Lady of Elche Exhibition "Our Ladies" of the Royal Order of the Lady of Elche is being held at the Las Clarisas Cultural Centre in Elche, on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the discovery of the Lady, on view until May 7.

So, in future it would seem that when women and young mothers with their darling little offspring daughter are down to their delicate smalls in Monsoon, and Charlie walks in with a glint in his eye, it has nothing to do with being surrounded by partial nudity as he is there to try on his new dress.

Los Alcázares Salinas beach will be adapted with a fence to enable dogs to bathe with their owners.

Take care.

The initiative has been undertaken, in an attempt to attract additional tourism to the municipality.

www.Facebook.com/percy chattey all my work is available on Amazon and Kindle.

Los Alcázares will open the Las Salinas, Los Narejos beach section this summer, under the City Council jurisdiction.

Los Alcázares to open first dog beach in Mar Menor

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

Salt was eventually to become the only opponent winning a leg from the champion. He qualified from board 3, containing a who's who of Costa darts.

Sam’s victims included Olly Walker, Nigel Justice and Andres Llamazares, other board 3 fallers, James Brown, Mark Ellis and Bob Smith. What a team that would make. lt was definitely the most difficult board for qualification.

Salt's semi opponent, teammate Gordon Cowan, was just edged out 3-1, Cowan taking the 3rd leg.

180's - Andres Llamazares, Sam Salt, John Rodford.

Phil " The Power " Taylor Having recently commissioned local darts supremo and artist Chelsea Campbell to reproduce a family photo onto canvas, l thought a canvas of my old pal Phil might go down well in an auction and what better occasion on which to hold it than our OWS darts presentation in May. All proceeds will be donated to the Royal British Legion of which the

PAGE 19

High Finish - Andres Llamazares - 91, Che Liam 95, Suso Madrid - 128 ( 60-18-Bull ) Just 2 competitions remain this season. Ladies Pairs at C.C.'s on 28th April and Ladies Singles on 5th May at Dominos Bar. The league concludes with a presentation at Los Cucalos restaurant on May 19th. Tickets available through Simone de Lacy on 600 980 744 or e registered playteam captains. Guest tickets 10e ers free.

A meal is followed by presentation of prizes and plenty of lively music. Los Cucalos are providing their excellent house wine at a very reasonable e.

6e

Leader's editor Kevin Reardon is a member of the National Committee and Chairman the Orihuela Costa and District branch.

Chelsea has done a great job of reproducing one the many special moments in the " The Power's " career and more importantly Phil has given the painting and the auction a big " thumbs up ".

Any individuals or bars wishing to bid prior to the presentation may do so to Paul Durrant on 966 18 19 47.

VE N U E - N EW TA TAVE R N - SAN SAN M IG U E L he Hub's John Rodford went one better than last weeks pairs finalist, by taking the coveted Singles title in a thrilling final against the Gap's Sam Salt. lt was a real cracker, requiring all 7 legs to determine the champion.

T

Salt won the bull for 1st throw and opened with a 16 dart leg, despite Rodford's 3 tons. Against throw Salt closed on D10 for a 2-0 advantage. Two tons a 180 and D7 from Rodford reduced the deficit. Salt's response a 137,100,81,135,S8,D20, 14 dart leg, Wow!!!

Winner - John Rodford

The score now 3-1 to Salt, Rodford needed to dig deep and dig he did. The Hubber posted a 5th leg 17 darter, to include 2x100 and 140, the 6th so nearly a 12 after 85,140,140, to leave 136. His 1st two arrows found T20, the 3rd wiring D8, eventually nailing D2 for 3-3. lt was nip and tuck in the 7th and decider, Rodford using just 2 darts for a 56 out on tops and the championship. Match stats : Salt - 6x100, 135,137,2x140, 11x80+. Rodford 12x100,120,3x140,180,2x80+.

Rodford's route to the final included victories over Matt Smith, Raul Rocamora, Steve Lumb and Che Liam, in the semi, all matches by a 2-0 scoreline.

Liam was in fine form having earlier disposed of the dangerous Vycka Bobinas 2-0 with a 15 darter and 95 out, the 2nd leg a 70 out.

Board winners - Che, John, Sam and Gordon

Gordon and Alex Sam and Andres

Runner Up - Sam Salt

Vycka and Che Steve and John

PAGE 20

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

San Luis Bowls Club

by Sheila Cammack

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

This has been a very tiring week for our teams, trying to catch up with previously washed out matches. We managed the re-arranged matches but had to move the planned VCL matches!! This spring weather has been so strange & probably more surprises to come.

LLB South Alicante Spitfire Div. A Monday 18th April Wellingtons away v San Miguel Christians had a draw; 6pts-6, 71shots-81. Well done: Tricia Reilly, Phil Lockley, Pat Reilly 19-13, Kevin McKenna, June & Keith Jones 1613, Janet & Bill Webb, Dave Webb 18-12.

Hurricane Div B Hercules, home v Emerald Isle Victors, had some close finishes but just finished 2pts-10, 75shots-105. Winners: Tony Campbell, Jane & Stewart Hamill 21-19.

Thursday 21st April (re-arranged from 4th April) Wellingtons home v EI Vulcans had a hard fought match, finishing 5pts-7, 82shots-103. Winners: Mary Lockley, Vic Mahomet, Scott Malden 25-16, Janet Webb, Bill Webb, Dave Webb 19-19, Margaret Morrison, Phil Lockley, Neil Morrison 13-12.

VCL Southern Div A home match Tuesday 19th April (re-arranged from 23rd March) Falcons v VB Saxons, had a great result 10pts-2, shots 116-62. Winners: Bill Webb 21-19, June & Keith Jones 22-10, Margaret Morrison, Dave Webb, Neil Morrison 28-5, Tricia Reilly, Phil Lockley, Pat Reilly, Scott Malden 30-7.

A fun end to a busy week with an informal St George’s Day competition

VCL Southern Div B Hawks away v Q Tigers (also a rearranged match) had a good result: 6pts-6, 70shots-73.

Winners: Jane Hamill 21-4, Pauline Johnson, Stuart

office@theleader.info

Wilson, Steve Penfold 18-14, Les Shannon, John Dowell, Carolyn Blay, Terry Baylis 18-11.

Thursday 21st April (re-arranged from 6th April) Hawks away v GL Jasmin had a really tough day at the office, 2pts-10, 59shots-108. Winners: Pauline Johnson, Stuart Wilson, Lyndon Johnson 21-14.

Both Falcons & Hawks VCLeague matches scheduled for Wednesday 20th April were cancelled because of bad weather, to be replayed on Friday 29th April.

For a FUN end to the week, those people who still had some energy (or hadn’t already played 3 matches) joined in the celebrations for St. George’s Day, organised by Dee. It was a challenge for us all, as every shot counted, initially within 1metre (measured by the stick) and halfway through the game that shrank to ? metre – OOPS!! It didn’t matter who won, it was just an excuse to get together in mixed up teams, followed by lots of chat with new members, while enjoying some tasty sandwiches.

COUNTRY BOWLS CLUB - Peter Dix Country Bowls Club are finally getting back on track with fixtures and competing in the Champion of Champions in all disciplines.

The Red Kites travelled to play San Luis Hercules on 7th April and put in a good performance in the Hurricane League, coming away with a 10-2 victory. Winning rinks were Sheena Mallet, Denis Wade, John Mallet 30-13, Sheila Whitehall, Alan Lever, Peter Whitehall 17-16, Val Lever, Keith Holliman, Barry Evans 23-12, Brenda Jiggins, Derek Jiggins, Graham Richardson 18-15.

The Koalas playing catch up in the VCL League entertained La Siesta Hoopoes on Friday 8th April and soon took advantage of the home green. Winning the Ladies Singles, Brenda Jiggins 2115, Pairs, Peter Whitehall, Del Gunning 22-10, Triples, Christine Hughes, Derek Lewis, Ray Robson 34 5, Fours, Sheena Mallet, Dave Belton, Derek Jiggins, John Mallet 28-11, to secure a 10-2 victory overall.

The Bluebirds travelled to play La Siesta Hornets on 18th April and a very close game ensued with the overall drawn 6 points each, only winning on 2 rinks but a big win

by Graham Richards, Della Wailes,

The highlight for the club was Graham Richardson being crowned Champion of Champion’s in the Men’s Singles Steve Wailes 28-15 secured the bonus 2 points by 2 shots , 86 84. The other winning rink was Dave Smith, Christine Hughes, Ray Robson 18-13.

The Red Kites played La Siesta Wasps on the 18th April in the Hurricane League at home, as they say “A bad day at the Office” getting well beat only winning on one rink, Val Lever, Keith Holliman, Barry Evens 20-11.

In the Champion of Champions, we had a strong entry in all disciplines competing against the very best player champions from the other LLB clubs, putting in some very good performances. The highlight for the club was Graham Richardson reaching the final of the Men’s Singles, supported by 20 plus members he romped home to be crowned champion in a thrilling contest 21-18.

QUESADA BC ROUNDUP

BY STEVE HIBBERD The week started superbly, as Lancasters posted a fine 12-0 home victory over Greenlands Gladiators in the South Alicante summer league Hurricane div. Wins on all 5 rinks for the blue shirts - S Johnston, R Lewin, A Johnston 33-6. I Everett, S Hibberd, A Reid 32-6. C Bowles, D Gould, P Bradbury 19-11. C Lowry, S Jakeman, K Lowry 15-11. J Cleal, P & B Rees 20-16.

Not to be outdone, Blenheims also had a victory last Monday. Wins for these 3 rinks over at Emerald Isles, ensured an 8-4 victory against the Vulcans - M Highland, B Elliott, T Voisey 24-18.

C Highland, C Brazier, P Farrell 19-14. G Kershaw, M France, J Pitt 19-16. They only went and did it again 3 days later, in their rearranged match at San Miguel. This time, 2 wins and a draw, were enough to beat the Moors 7-5. Well done - M Highland, T Morgan, T Voisey 25-7. G Carnell, V Campbell, F Roberts 23-17. G Kershaw, B Elliott, J Pitt 15-15.

Although bad weather put paid to Wednesday's VCL matches, Tigers did manage to fit in their rearranged home match against San Luis Hawks the day before. A Reid won his mens singles 214, also C & K Lowry won their pairs match 23-2.

Thanks to these emphatic victories, overall shots of 73-70 went Quesada's way, meaning that a score of 6-6 was the final outcome.

Emerald Ise Bowls Club

S

with Elwyn Morris

unday 17th brought the Champion of Champions competition to a close and after a great couple of weeks bowling by all contestants the finals saw the Emerald Isle produce three champions. Fantastic for the club

had a fine 10-2 Aggregate of 105 -75 win, J Mulloy L Ponsford G Ponsford 30-12, M Oakley K John E Sheppard 20-9, A Forest C Wilson P Willicott 18-16, J Forest S Johnson K Jolliffe 1817

LADIES SINGLES WINNER

Vulcans play at San Luis Wellingtons in rearranged game in Trips league and had a good win 7-5 Aggregate 103-82. D Jones S Marks R Marks 33-11, N Prior A M Gerrard D Gerrard 23 -14, G Wallis C Smyth J Smyth drew 19-19 all

Ann Marie Gerrard LADIES PAIRS PAIRS WINNERS Caroline Smyth and Linda Ponsford TRIPLES WINNERS A M Gerrard, Drew Gerrard and Colin Lindgren The Summer league resumed with Emerald Isle Vulcans playing at home against Quesada Blenheims and slipped to a 4-8, Agg of 80-82

Friday saw the Victors entertain Greenlands Gladiators at home in the trips league and it turned out to be an away win by 0-12 Aggregate 65-117

G Wallis C Smyth J Smyth 17-10, N Prior AM Gerrard D Gerrard 15-10

Tuesday the Highjackers played at the Isle where the game finished 3-3 and Emerald Isle took the Aggregate 98-90

Victors played away at San Luis Hercules and

SAPS now on Sat mornings at 9-30am

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

PAGE 21

LA SIESTA BOWLS (Members Run Club) by Alan Carr El Rancho Bowls Club The Champion of Champions came to a close which saw some great bowling by all who were involved, well done to all our players who done so well to get there and were well supported by our members for every game throughout the week.

Good play by Alan Ralph & Noel Morrisroe (Men’s pairs) who made it to the semi-final’s stages and Ann Taylor (Ladies singles) as the finals runner-up.

Hurricane Division An away game for La Siesta Wasps their hosts being Country Bowls Red Kites which resulted with wins on four rinks together with the overall (Shots 79-72) and the game finished achieving a fantastic result of 10-2. Rink winners being; Jan Pocock, Norman Adcroft & Dave Blackie (24-13) Dave Collins, Brian Pocock & Karen Kirk. (14-11).

Ramsay Sinclair, Noel Morrisroe &

Alan Ralph (14-13). Dawn & John Taylor with Harold Charleton (16-15).

Harrier Division La Siesta Hornets home game was against Country Bowls Bluebirds where some of the games could have gone either way but ended with wins on three rinks by; Janet Doel, Joan & Mike Inns (22-9). Irene Laverick, Alan Carr & Stan Dibble (19-17). Maxine Wright, Tracey Paffett & Ken Barber (15-14).

The overall (Shots 84-86) went to the visitors but was very close, making the result 6-6.

our rinks, the teams being; Janet Doel, Joan & Mike Inns who were miles behind for most of the game but wouldn’t except defeat and went on to win (21-19). Tracey Paffett, Derek Barker & Ken Barber’s team played really well to get the winning shot on the last end to secure the other two points (17-16).

Another one of our teams just missed out by a single shot. Result 4-8 (Shots 86-101).

La Siesta Hornets also played a rearranged game on Tuesday and welcomed Monte Mar Torros, as the game progressed no one could have predicted which team would come out on top as most of the games were so close.

VCL games The Koalas at Country Bowls was the venue on a very wet day for the Parakeets who managed to win on two rinks but were unable to muster any other points. Winning teams were; Trips- Tracey Paffett, Alan Ralph & Jean Cooper (24-8). Pairs – Ramsay Sinclair & Karen Kirk (15-14).

Result 4-8 (Shots 60-89).

The game finished with wins on two of

Hoopoes game postponed.

TORREVIEJA DARTS LADIES ORGANISATION Memorial Blind Triples Competition, Tuesday 19th April, Friendly Bar This year’s blind triples competition was held in memorial to June Howarth and Joy Don who both played for the Friendly Bar, Citrus Centre.

Friendly Temps provided 10 or more awesome prizes for the raffle and raised 260 euros for Motor Neurone Disease Charity in honour of their late captain and founder, June.

H

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

VISTABELLA BOWLS CLUB by Brian Zelin Hi all, Hope you all had a great Easter and have not eaten too many Chocolate Eggs.

Back to the day job this week after the Champion of Champions. Have to say a big well done to Sandra Burrows and Maggie Furness in getting to the Final of the Ladies Pairs.

Monday 18th April in the South Alicante Summer League, Vistabella Fairways Division A, were at Home to San Miguel Moors, Winning on just 2 Rinks, Denise Howell, Mo Foulcer, Martin Foulcer 27-13, Janet Parr, Maggie Furness, Eric Bishop 14-13, Shots 75-107 Points 4-8.

Tuesday 19th April, in the VCL, Vistabella Saxons Division A, were Away to San Luis Falcons, Winning on just 1 Rink, Ladies Singles, Maggie Furness 21-15, Shots 62-116. Points 2-10.

San Miguel Bowls - Barry Jones

Mixed Pairs - Noel Davis and Mary Dyer (who reached the final) Mixed Trips - Noel Davis, Stuart Hemmings and Mary Dyer (reached the Semi-final), Mixed Rinks - Gail Willshire, Lynn Greenland, Fred Willshire and Steve Cantley (reached the Semi-final) On Monday San Miguel Christians were home to San Luis Wellingtons, where they shared the points 6 - 6, 81 shots to 71. Best winning triple were Stuart (Rab) Harvey, Sandi Hannan and Bob Donnelly 23 - 9.

ABOVE - Winners: Simon Lumb with Sharon Marshall (TT), Ann Bartlett (FT) & Donna Ralph (LB). BELOW - Finalists: Sarah White, Pat Schofield, Sue Casey

Also Monday San Miguel Moors were away to V/bella Fairways winning 8-4, 107-75 shots. Best winning trip Ken Hope, Lee Sinclair and Steve Cantley.

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 & a club fee & 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

A big thank you to all who attended, organised and assisted, the evening was a great success.

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

Brian Gilham, Pam Harris and Brian Harris 12-19. Dolly Ford, Diane Yates and Richard Lee 19-10. Sheila Cox, Malc Sykes and Mike Cox 20-24. Bob Day, Kevin Henry and Jim Eastwood 13-25. Dave Baker, Ron Greenstreet and Keith Longshaw 13-23.

Ladies Singles - Gail Willshire, Mens Pairs - Fred Willshire and Noel Davis

Together with Simon, they laid on a buffet spread to rival that of Fortnum and Mason, with all team members contributing to the scrummy homemade fayre.

Mike Probert talks Golf

Montemar turned in a strong team and took the rinks 4-1 and the overall shots, though good shots were played on all rinks.

Firstly, I would like to say well done to all our members who took part in last weeks Champion of Champion Competition.

Simon Lumb reserved the bar for our darts function, and together with the Friendly Temps, hosted a fabulous evening with buzzing atmosphere and great darts.

48 lady darters came together from across the 8 league teams to be drawn into groups of 3 for a 4- round Knock-Out competition of 501, best of 3 across 4 boards, supported by TDLO President Pam Horton, spectators and hubby chalkers.

On Monday the Buckskins entertained Montemar and what a splendid morning we had, a slight breeze giving a good variation on width of line.

all of our readers and run our golf competitions.

DO SOME GOLF HOLES HAVE 2 GREENS? The Zozo Championships were previously held in Japan and rather uniquely some of the holes have two greens and in the pre-tournament skins game it was left to the player to decide which green they played to.

This is apparently a common occurrence on Japanese courses because their summers are hot

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

and humid and their winters cold so they would have Bermuda grass for the winter greens and Bent grass for the summer greens therefore allowing almost all year round uninterrupted golf.

If you think about it there are a number of good reasons to have double the greens in that there is only half of the wear and tear and no need to reduce and discount prices during hollow tining periods and frees up one green per hole for reno-

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

vation or maintenance and provides variation for the members not playing exactly the same hole each time.

There is of course a down side because double the number of greens means twice the maintenance which in turn increases the costs for the golf course owners.

Still it is good to see someone trying something different.

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

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR ORIHUELA COSTA SKATE PARK The skate park constructed last year in La Aparecida

La Manga despatched despite 82 runs from Paul Hennessy Madrid CC started the 2022 season’s league campaign with back-to-back wins against LaManga Torrevieja CC and Torre Pachecho CC at Bonalba.

Paul Hennessy hit 82 in LMTCC defeat

by Madrid CC.

Madrid defeated LMTCC having won the toss and electing to bat. Madrid, not utilising their full quota of balls posted 274 all out, in 37.2 overs.

Sumon Hossein hit 88 runs from 47 balls, including four fours and 10 sixes, supported by Imran Siddique (39), Galileo Finlayson Ble (29) and Richard Wilson (22).

In one of the last actions of the PP council the Councillor for Sports, Víctor Bernabéu, has announced the award of a contract, divided into two lots, for the construction of two Skate Parks, one on the Orihuela Costa and the other in the town centre. Following the construction of a similar park last year in La Aparecida that will bring the number of parks in the municipality to three.

The Orihuela Centro Skate Park will be located on a site attached to the ring road by the Ociopía Shopping Centre while the park on the Orihuela coast will be located in the Municipal Sports Centre.

The cost of the two contracts is 130,136.28 euros, VAT included, with a term of completion of two months, for each of them.

La Manga Torrevieja CC's Danny Everett returned an excellent five over spell of bowling, with 5-32.

In reply LMTCC reached 39 in the sixth over, before losing captain Adam Alger, with Charlie Hunt soon following.

Paul Hennessy (82) and Ravi Panchal (47) kept LMTCC in contention, prior to the fall of the wicket of Hennessy, at 168-5, when a batting collapse ensued.

The final five wickets posted only 28 runs, with LMTCC all out for 196 in the 33rd over.

Madrid CC captain Galileo Findlayson-Ble took seven LMTCC wickets for 51, including key wickets of Hennessy and Panchal.

Jassie Singh, single handedly performed against the Madrid bowling attack, returning an unbeaten 64 in Torre Pacheco's total of 116 all out, with Imran Siddique and Akshay Sharma taking four wickets each for the hosts.

TORRE PACHECO HUMBLED IN LOSS TO MADRID

With Torre Pachecho bowled out inside 23 overs, Madrid went out to bat before lunch and had little trouble in chasing down the total.

Madrid CC defeated Torre Pachecho, with Pachecho winning the toss and electing to bat, losing a wicket on the first ball, being 3-2 at the end of the first over.

An unbeaten 60 by Adam Langhans and an additional 24 not out by Sumon Hossein, in an unbroken partnership of 79, saw Madrid CC home, with eight wickets to spare.

Competition winners

LA MARINA COMMITTEE TROPHY This week, Bonalba was the venue for the” La Marina Committee Trophy” where Members of the La Marina Golf Society met to compete for various prizes. The course was as challenging as ever and the rain stayed away which made for a pleasant day all round.

The Committee Trophy was won ironically by our Treasurer Roy Harris with 41 pts and second place was the Handicap Secretary Dave Slightam with 36 pts. Lynn Leigh with 35pts

on countback took the third prize.

Vic Captain, Iain Lyall won the twos pot and also won nearest the pin on hole 4, with Marco Eckart winning on hole 8 and Birgit Eckart for hole 11, Les Pirie won for hole 14.

Our next game is at Font del Llop, where the members of the Society will be competing for the Plaza 39 trophy, which has been sponsored by the owners' Sue and John. The day will be rounded off by a meal in the evening at their restaurant.

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

Copa de la Reina Rugby Sevens Saturday 30th April and Sunday 1st May at Villajoyosa Rugby Stadium. Free Entry Teams competing include: Arquitectura Madrid Hortaleza Madrid VRAC Valladolid Shamrock Mallorca Jabatos Mostoles Madrid Getxo Vasque Country Sevilla University Costa Blanca Alicante This thriving event is supported by Generalitat Valenciana, Villajoyosa Council, Diputacion de Alicante and Patronato Turismo Costa Blanca Facilities at the ground include Bar, DJ Music, food stails, catering area, souvenir shop and Free parking area Anyone wishing to come along will find Villajoyosa Rugby Stadium is situated at Carretera El Pantano, Villajoyosa.

Just take the motorway AP-7 exit Nº 66 (Villajoyosa). At the first roundabout head for the mountain. It is about 1 km from the Motorway exit nº 66.

Or take the Villajoyosa by-pass, and take the middle exit, at the first roundabout, bear right towards the motorway entrance and at the second roundabout bare left towards the mountain.

Make a date and mark off your diary for the Saturday 30th April and Sunday 1st May If you need more information please contact Ignacio Davila 608 068 208, email info@benidormsevens.com

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

www.theleader.info

RAFA SHINES IN MASSIVE WIN FOR PLAY OFF CHASING THADER FB Redovan..........0

In the very first min, Thader captain Lloyd tried his luck, blasting a 30 yard free kick goal bound, which required immediate action from keeper Miki.

Manager Raul Mora had the luxury of choosing from a full squad, with the exception of suspended keeper Amine. Redovan picked up the days first booking for a cynical foul on Dani Lucas, but it was far from the last that an overworked ref dished out. The bumper crowd of almost

1,000 were noisy from the offset, growing in volume when Thader's front man Pedro received a yellow card, to match the colour of his shirt.

On the half hour mark, Fran came close to opening the deadlock, but his header from a corner agonisingly missed the target. Four minutes later, the same man should have done better when through on goal, but from only 10 yards out, he slammed his shot straight at Redovan's keeper.

Thader were now piling on the pressure, at one stage they had 3 consecutive corners, although all came to nothing. But on 38 mins, Rafa picked up a loose ball some 25 yards from goal, then rifled an unstoppable drive through a sea of legs, into the far corner of the net. Quino had half a

guessed correctly to make a good save.

Next it was the turn of Redovan's bench to incur the ref's wrath. This time it was an unused sub who spoke out of turn, receiving first yellow, then a red card.

Miguel made a last-ditch goal line save on 68 mins to deny a certain goal, as Redovan hit back. Shortly afterwards, Redovan appealed for another penalty, but although they did look to have a case, the ref was again unimpressed.

Chema produced a breath-taking save from Ismail on 82 minutes, who could not believe that he had not scored.

CD Thader ...........1 This local derby promotion battle, was definitely not one for the faint hearted. Although slow to get going, both sides gave their all in this no holds bar humdinger. What this result means, is that Thader stay in 3rd place, now 2 points ahead of CFI Alicante (who drew 1-1 with leaders Ibense), and crucially 4 points ahead of Redovan.

With only 3 matches now remaining, the race for the last play off place looks certain to go down to the wire.

PAGE 23

To rub salt into the wound, from the rebound, Redovan did at last put the ball in the net, only for a lineman's flag to come to the visitor's rescue. With time ticking away, penalty appeal number 3 was also dismissed, leading to more yellow cards being shown in the direction of Redovan players. chance to double his sides lead just before the interval, but unfortunately the ball got stuck under his feet close to goal, and the moment was lost.

Tempers rose as the 2 benches were trading insults to each other, culminating in a booking for a Thader official.

As expected, Redovan were attacking in numbers, forcing Chema into

another important save on 55 mins.

From the next attack they had strong appeals for a penalty waved aside.

Calderon had only been on the pitch less than a minute (sub for Quino), when he was unceremoniously bundled over in the box on the hour mark. Although Lloyd hit the resultant penalty firmly enough, Miki

High flying Crevillente are the next opponents for Thader Rojales, when they arrive at Moi Gomez stadium on Sunday 1 May, ko 1130.

Not only is another victory vital for Thader's ambitions, but revenge is very much on the agenda, as pay back for the narrow defeat suffered away at Crevillente last December.

Badia and Tete Morente all but secure Elche’s LaLiga status Real Betis 0 Elche CF 1 With only five matches still to play, it is now virtually certain that Elche will survive. Only an absolute disaster would now prevent Francisco's team from lining up in La Liga next season.

TORRY BOOST WITH BENIJOFAR WIN

Against Real Betis, even though they were always on the back foot, Elche were much more ‘worldly wise’ in their management of the game. They knew how to play the game, and they knew how to strike at the decisive moment.

The Illicitanos were solid in defense, playing with direction, endeavour and unity.

Edgar Badia, not for the first time this season, was superb in goal at key moments and in the 82nd minute, Josan, who was a thorn in the Verdiblanco’s side during the second half, put an acrobatic centre to the near post, where Tete

SUDUKO SOLUTION

Morente, who had also come on in the second half, stabbed the ball into the back of the net.

It was a goal that leaves the path very clear and one that rewards the good work that the Elche team has produced in recent months.

Despite the fact that the Verdiblancos had the clearest opportunities in the first half and in most of the second, they have lacked the goal that would have made the difference, a lot of which had to do with the form of Badía in the Elche goal, who’s three excellent saves were the key.

Betis fortunes were dealt a second blow, forcing them to play the final minutes with ten men after Paul Akouokou was sent off for kicking out at Olaza.

Now nine points clear of relegation with five games remaining, it seems that Elche have finally secured their LaLiga status for another season?

TRIVEA QUIZ FROM PAGE 14: 1. 2005 (February). The service was created by three former PayPal employees.

Google bought the site in November 2006 for US$1.65 billion. 2. The Eiffel Tower (for the extra point, The Washington Monument). 3. Allied landing beaches on D-Day. List of landing sites: Juno, Sword, Utah, Omaha, Gold (some Historians also

SC Torrevieja defeated CD Benijofar 3-1 in the Valencia 1st Regional Group 9 on Saturday, with goals from Àngel, Cristian and Gonzalo to keep their promotion hopes alive.

CD Benijofar took the lead before Àngel netted on 38 minutes to level at 1-1.

Cristian put Torry ahead on the stroke of half-time (44) to lead at the interval 2-1. Gonzalo got amongst the goals, when netting Torry's third to wrap up all three points.

Torry sit in second place on 43 points, behind leaders Atletico de Catral on 55 points.

Pinoso CF A lost 2-0 away at CD Montesinos, with Monte going sixth on 34 points. CD Cox defeated Alguena CF 3-2 on Friday.

In the 2nd Regional Group 16

include "Pointe du Hoc" in this list too). 4.

The International Committee of the Red Cross. The humanitarian institution's cofounder Henry Dunant won the first-ever Peace Prize in 1901. 5. Lex Luther. 6. A Bonfire of the Vanities (Italian: Falò delle vanità) is a burning of objects condemned by authorities as occasions of sin. 7. a.

1984, b. The Shining. 8. a. El Condor Pasa,

UE Crevilente FB A kept their promotion bid on track in a 2-0 away win at Bigastro CF, topping the table on 62 points.

CD Horadada defeated FB Redován CF away 2-3 in a five goals thriller. Formentera CF took a point in a 1-1 home draw against third place Monovar Atletico A.

Athletic Club Torrellano B hit five in a 5-1 thumping against visitors Callosa Deportiva CF. Guardamar Soccer CD sit in second spot after an avalanche of goals, in a 9-0 hiding away at Elche Dream CF B. *Sunday's results will appear online at www.theleader.info

SC Torrevieja line-up against CD Benijofar.

b. La Isla Bonita, c. Viva la Vida. 9.

Myanmar (Burma). 10. Camera. 11. Cul-desac. The earliest example was unearthed in the El-Lahun workers' village in Egypt, which was built circa 1885 BC but it was in the UK that the cul-de-sac street type was first legislated into use, with The Hampstead Garden Suburb Act 1906. 12.

Japanese noodles. 13. Spruce Goose. 14.

Y. 15. Seven, 12 Monkeys, Seven Years in Tibet, Oceans 11, Oceans 12 and Oceans 13. 12 Years A Slave. 16. c. a small marsupial. 17. Eritrea. 18. Gerd Müller, Franz Beckenbauer, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Lothar Matthäus, Matthais Sammer. 19.

Nine (Four on each side and one in the centre). 20. An orange.

PAGE 24

www.theleader.info

Monday 25th April - Sunday 1st May 2022

ADVERTISING HOTLINE

637 227 385

office@theleader.info